Aroi Mak Mak @ Section 17, Petaling Jaya

Thai people are not only famous for their warm and friendly hospitality, but also their amazing food.
So far, I haven’t heard of anyone who doesn’t enjoy Thai food or Thai dessert at least. The distinct
flavours and exotic spices used in Thai dishes really do thrill your taste buds. As a Malaysian, I could
easily relate my love for Thai food because Thailand and Malaysia are neighbouring countries. Some
of the food served in local restaurants are somewhat an influence of Thai cuisine. My
ultimate favourite has to be Tom Yum. Any Thai restaurant that serves awesome Tom Yum, I’m sold.
Oh, not to mention it’s a great hangover remedy too! My other favourites also include Pad Thai, Som
Tam, Massaman Curry, Moo Ping, Mango Sticky Rice, etc… OMG! I’m salivating already!

When it comes to Thai restaurants, my brother seems to be more familiar and he explores way more
than I do. Since the whole family loves spicy food, the big brother of mine took us all to a restaurant
he frequents in P.J. called Aroi Mak Mak, which literally translates to very delicious in Thai.
Aroi Mak Mak is a casual dining restaurant. It looks like a well-renovated canteen I would say. If you
are looking to pair your food with a glass of Pinot Gris, this is not the place. However, it is for those
who are up for a simple, delicious, fuss-free, comfort meal. Don’t worry, it’s air-conditioned.

We had some Prawn Cakes (RM20++) to start which I find very tasty. They were firm and the batter
wasn’t thick. There’s no need for dipping sauce lah this one.

The Pomelo Salad (RM25++), my mom’s favourite, was very refreshing. It looked so pretty too.
Apparently, my big brother had tapao (takeaway) this for us a few times already. If you enjoy sourish
food, their Papaya Salad (RM20++) isn’t too shabby either.
Are you the clear or thick Tom Yum soup person? I definitely favour the thick one anytime. We
ordered both Tom Yum Clear Seafood (RM30++) and Tom Yum Thick Seafood (RM30++). The clear
one was actually good too, but the thick one was wayyyy better. Gives you that kick you need for
sure! I wouldn’t mind if they made it more fiery though.

Their Fern with Belacan (RM15++) was pretty standard. But we do need that fiber in every meal,
right?

Their BBQ Pork Neck (RM25++) was the reason Mr Gadget claimed Aroi Mak Mak to be his favourite
Thai restaurant in Klang Valley. Well, because pork is his favourite meat and Aroi Mak Mak did it
right. I would say this was one of their best dishes. So flavourful, and no dipping sauce needed
either!!
The only dessert you should order here is Mango Sticky Rice (RM12++). You can forget the rest. See!
They even heart-shaped this dessert. So pretty… How to tahan (resist) lah??

There are a few items on the menu I wouldn’t recommend. I’d say you should give their Pineapple
Curry Chicken (RM23++) a pass. It was almost watery and tasteless. The Egg Omelette Plain (RM10++)
was super oily. For dessert, Red Ruby (RM7++) and Cendol (RM7++) are a no-no for me.

It was still a great meal overall. I left with a happy belly for sure!

Aroi Mak Mak’s Details:

Address: No. 1 Jalan 17/45, Seksyen 17, 46400 Petaling Jaya
Tel: +603 7954 2281