Pandan Leaf Malaysian Restaurant

Pandan Leaf Malaysian Restaurant brings the vibrant, aromatic flavors of Malaysia to the Belconnen Fresh Food Markets. Situated at T13/10 Lathlain Street in Belconnen, Australian Capital Territory, this casual dining spot has become a local favorite for authentic Malaysian cuisine. The restaurant is known for its use of pandan leaf, a fragrant tropical plant that infuses many dishes with a subtle, sweet aroma—a hallmark of Southeast Asian cooking. With a 4.0-star rating from over 117 Google Maps reviews, Pandan Leaf has built a reputation for delivering rich, comforting meals that showcase the depth of Malaysian culinary traditions.

The restaurant operates within the bustling Belconnen Fresh Food Markets, offering a unique dining experience where guests can enjoy freshly prepared meals amidst a lively market atmosphere. Pandan Leaf provides multiple service options, including dine-in, takeaway, and delivery, making it a versatile choice for market shoppers, local workers, and families looking for a convenient yet flavorful meal. The pricing is moderate, with most guests reporting a cost of $20–40 per person, reflecting the restaurant's commitment to quality ingredients and generous portions.

Menu Highlights at Pandan Leaf Malaysian Restaurant

Pandan Leaf's menu centers on classic Malaysian dishes that highlight the country's multicultural influences, blending Malay, Chinese, and Indian flavors. Google Maps reviewers frequently mention a handful of standout items that have become customer favorites. The dry Wagyu laksa is often cited as a must-try, with one reviewer calling it "the absolute highlight" and describing "a rich, spicy coconut paste coating tender noodles and delicate Wagyu beef, while tofu puffs soaked up the full flavor." This dish alone draws repeat visits from locals and visitors alike.

Other popular menu items include the Hainan chicken rice, a comforting dish of poached chicken served with fragrant rice and chili sauce, and the Char Kway Teow, a stir-fried flat noodle dish with seafood and a smoky wok hei aroma. Roti with chicken (dish code R1) and chicken noodles (N2) also receive regular praise for their authentic, home-style taste. The restaurant's satay—skewered and grilled marinated meat served with peanut sauce—appears prominently in photos and reviews, reinforcing its role as a signature offering. For dessert, the pandan pudding provides a sweet, creamy finish that showcases the namesake ingredient.

The Dining Experience at Pandan Leaf

Dining at Pandan Leaf is an informal, welcoming experience. The restaurant's location within the Belconnen Fresh Food Markets means the atmosphere is bright, bustling, and energetic—perfect for a quick lunch or a relaxed dinner after shopping. The space is suited for small groups and couples, with a practical, no-fuss setup that lets the food take center stage. Dine-in service is available, and the restaurant also accommodates takeaway and delivery orders, giving guests flexibility depending on their schedule.

The team at Pandan Leaf receives consistent compliments for their friendly and attentive service. One reviewer noted, "Every time I visit Pandan Leaf Restaurant in Belconnen, I'm delighted. The food is fabulous and the staff are simply charming. Chef Lim is passionate and goes to great effort to create dishes." This personal touch helps elevate the dining experience beyond a typical market eatery, making guests feel genuinely welcome. Reservations can be made through the restaurant's website for those who prefer to secure a table in advance, especially during peak market hours.

Customer Reviews & Ratings

Pandan Leaf holds a 4.0-star rating on Google Maps based on 117 reviews. The feedback reveals several recurring themes that define the restaurant's strengths. First, the authenticity and depth of flavor are repeatedly mentioned, with reviewers highlighting the laksa, Hainan chicken rice, and char kway teow as standout dishes. Second, the quality of ingredients, particularly the Wagyu beef and fresh produce, stands out in many reviews. A third common thread is the warm, genuine service from the staff and chef, which creates a loyal customer base.

Specific reviews offer valuable insight. Maria Rajput, a Local Guide, described her visit as "a pleasant surprise" after trying roti with chicken, chicken noodles, and pandan dessert pudding. She emphasized that each dish was delightful in its own way. Ulric Bailey, another reviewer, simply stated, "Every time I visit Pandan Leaf Restaurant in Belconnen, I'm delighted. The food is fabulous and the staff are simply charming." The overall review sentiment suggests that Pandan Leaf outperforms expectations for a market-based restaurant, delivering restaurant-quality Malaysian food in a casual setting.

Pandan Leaf Malaysian Restaurant in Belconnen

Pandan Leaf Malaysian Restaurant is located at T13/10 Lathlain Street, inside the Belconnen Fresh Food Markets in Belconnen, ACT 2617. The Belconnen Fresh Food Markets are a well-known community hub in the Belconnen district, drawing shoppers from across the ACT. The restaurant's position within the markets offers easy access for visitors already there for groceries or specialty foods, and the ample market parking makes it a convenient destination even if dining is the primary goal.

The area is a busy commercial and retail zone, with a mix of fresh produce stalls, specialty shops, and casual eateries. Pandan Leaf benefits from the foot traffic of the markets while maintaining its own distinct identity as a Malaysian restaurant. The restaurant is accessible within the market's layout, and the address is easy to find for anyone familiar with the Belconnen Fresh Food Markets. For those using public transport, the Belconnen bus interchange is a short walk away, connecting the area to central Canberra and surrounding suburbs.

Hours, Reservations & Contact

Pandan Leaf Malaysian Restaurant operates with split hours to serve both lunch and dinner crowds. The restaurant is open from 10:30 AM to 2:30 PM and again from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM on most days. Weekend hours are adjusted slightly, with Saturday service from 10:30 AM to 3:00 PM and Sunday from 11:00 AM to 2:30 PM and 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM. The restaurant is closed on Mondays. These hours accommodate market shoppers looking for a mid-morning meal, as well as evening diners seeking a casual dinner option.

Reservations can be made directly through the restaurant's website, pandanleafcbr.com, where guests can select party size, date, and time. For inquiries or large group bookings, the restaurant can be reached by phone at +61 415 979 491 or via email at pandanleaf25@gmail.com. Takeaway and delivery options are also available, with online ordering accessible through the website. The restaurant also accepts card payments, adding convenience for all transactions.

Common Questions

What type of cuisine does Pandan Leaf Malaysian Restaurant serve?

Pandan Leaf serves authentic Malaysian cuisine, featuring dishes like laksa, Hainan chicken rice, char kway teow, satay, and roti with chicken. The food reflects the multicultural flavors of Malaysia, combining Malay, Chinese, and Indian influences.

Does Pandan Leaf offer delivery and takeaway?

Yes, Pandan Leaf Malaysian Restaurant offers dine-in, takeaway, and delivery services. Online ordering is available through their website, and delivery is provided to local areas around Belconnen.

What are Pandan Leaf's opening hours?

Pandan Leaf is open Tuesday through Friday from 10:30 AM to 2:30 PM and 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM, Saturday from 10:30 AM to 3:00 PM, and Sunday from 11:00 AM to 2:30 PM and 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM. The restaurant is closed on Mondays.

Where is Pandan Leaf Malaysian Restaurant located?

Pandan Leaf is located at T13/10 Lathlain Street inside the Belconnen Fresh Food Markets in Belconnen, ACT 2617. It's easily accessible from the Belconnen bus interchange and has ample market parking available.

Does Pandan Leaf accept reservations?

Yes, reservations can be made online through the restaurant's website at pandanleafcbr.com. Guests can select their party size, preferred date, and time to secure a table.

What is the average cost per person at Pandan Leaf?

According to Google Maps data, the average cost per person is between $20 and $40, making it a moderately priced dining option for Malaysian cuisine in Belconnen.

Does Pandan Leaf have vegetarian or special-diet options?

While the menu prominently features meat and seafood dishes, Malaysian cuisine often includes vegetable-based and tofu options. Contact Pandan Leaf directly to inquire about specific dietary accommodations and vegetarian choices.