Restoran New Teo Chew brings Teochew-style ‘bak kut teh’, braised fish, ‘kuih’ and more to Damansara Jaya

Restoran New Teo Chew, nestled in the square of shops surrounding Atria Shopping Gallery, offers a unique experience for those seeking Teochew cuisine. Known for its lighter herbal version of Teochew bak kut teh, the restaurant has been serving up its distinct take on the dish since 1983 when it was named Papajoo Teochew Bak Kut Teh. Initially a small stall at the OUG market, it later moved to Happy Garden, PJ's SS2, and now resides in its current location.

One of the standout dishes is the Teochew-style Hometown Stir-fried Fish, featuring a rich and thick sauce made with leeks, dried chilies, lard fritters, and sliced bird's eye chilies. While some may find the pepper punch too intense, this version offers a more balanced sweet and savory flavor, with a light herbal scent that prevents an oily aftertaste. Portions of this dish can be enjoyed in the lunch set for RM18.80 or as a standalone course priced at RM35.

The restaurant boasts a diverse menu, including a variety of home-style cooked dishes that bring out the essence of Teochew flavors. Some notable items include the silver silago fillet, or ikan bulus, served deep-fried in a light, crispy batter; dry bak kut teh; braised pork; stomach pepper soup; and a vege bak kut teh. The spare ribs pot, a signature dish, requires advance reservation and is cooked upon order.

Additionally, the eatery offers a selection of Teochew-inspired home-style dishes, such as the Teochew-style steamed fish, stir-fried fish with curry powder and ham choy, and the Teo Chew Style Hometown Stir Fried Fish. Butchered meats and offals are cooked until tender and retain their shape, ensuring a satisfying dining experience.

For dessert, homemade Teochew kuih, crafted by the family's matriarch in small batches, includes options like peach-shaped glutinous rice kueh and cai kueh, both filled with a tantalizing mixture of shrimp, cabbage, carrot, dried tofu, and yam bean.