Alain Tan (left) and Leo Seow are the co-founders of Little Heritage House. (Moganraj Villavan @ FMT Lifestyle)

PETALING JAYA: The Peranakan Chinese are descendants of Chinese migrants who made their home in this country and married local women, resulting in a vibrant hybrid heritage that includes some seriously tasty food.

If you’re craving delicious Nyonya fare, make your way to Little Heritage House in Section 17 here.

Charm begins at its entrance – there are exquisite tiles, lovely lanterns, and even a trishaw. It feels like you’re stepping into a Peranakan home from a bygone era.

Inside, the space is warmly lit and inviting. Intricately carved cabinets, a vintage rotary telephone, and an old-fashioned cash register add to its nostalgic charm.

The first and second floors, both opulently decorated, offer a more private setting and can be reserved for special occasions, corporate functions, photo shoots and other events.

The upper floors also showcase a fascinating array of items that reflect the beauty of Peranakan culture – from intricate kebaya to beaded shoes and more. There’s even a striking grandfather clock and a century-old gramophone!

“We want every guest to feel like they’re not dining in a restaurant but in a Peranakan home,” said Leo Seow, who co-founded Little Heritage House with Alain Tan in 2012.

The cosy ground floor makes patrons feel like they’re enjoying a meal in a real Peranakan abode. (Moganraj Villavan @ FMT Lifestyle)

Seow and Tan – both Peranakan Chinese from Penang – started the restaurant in the hope of preserving their heritage and sharing its unique charm.

“Our culture isn’t just rich, it reflects unity and tolerance. How many cultures can blend together so seamlessly? That’s what today’s society lacks,” Tan opined.

The dishes served here are based on his aunt’s recipes, which have been carefully passed down from one generation to the next.

“Almost everything – from spice pastes to sauces – is handmade in our kitchen,” he added.

It’s tempting to have more than one pie tee, but save room for other dishes! (Moganraj Villavan @ FMT Lifestyle)

Kick off your meal with the pie tee: crispy shells filled with a well-seasoned mix of shredded turnip, carrots, cabbage and finely sliced cuttlefish.

Every bite is a lovely contrast of textures – a light crunch on the outside and savoury goodness within – making this a wonderful start to the meal.

Another highlight is the steamed otak-otak. Made with tenggiri (mackerel), it’s smooth in texture and fragrant, pairing beautifully with fluffy white rice.

The assam tumis red snapper, which has a tangy and sweet gravy, is a flavour-packed dish. (Moganraj Villavan @ FMT Lifestyle)

The assam tumis red snapper bursts with bold flavours, its gravy striking the perfect balance between sweet and sour, delightfully complementing the fresh, delicate meat.

Another standout is the assam tamarind prawns. Like the fish, the seawater crustaceans are fresh and tender, their delicate flesh soaking up the sweet and tangy sauce beautifully.

Forget the cutlery – these assam tamarind prawns are worth getting your hands messy for. (Moganraj Villavan @ FMT Lifestyle)

The Inchi Kabin, or deep-fried chicken, is a Peranakan favourite done right here. Juicy and flavourful, it’s served with a punchy mix of Worcestershire sauce and cili padi. Finger-licking good!

For this writer, the Nyonya grilled brinjals are a standout – and that’s saying something, considering she’s never been a fan of them (brinjals, not Nyonyas!).

You won’t be able to resist a second or third helping of these Nyonya grilled brinjals. (Moganraj Villavan @ FMT Lifestyle)

Cooked to tender perfection, the brinjals soak up a piquant sauce made with tamarind paste, onions, capsicums, chicken stock and other tasty ingredients.

Then there’s the kerabu paku, or fiddlehead fern salad – another must-try. The ferns are tossed in a fragrant mix of sambal, onions, dried shrimp and more – resulting in a dish that’s light, refreshing and bursting with flavours.

The kerabu paku tastes as good as it looks. (Moganraj Villavan @ FMT Lifestyle)

The nasi ulam is equally delightful – the rice is soft and fragrant, with dried shrimp and salted fish adding depth to its light flavour.

As a sweet and satisfying finale, indulge in tantalising desserts like cendol, ABC, sago gula melaka, or pulut hitam (black glutinous rice) with dried longan.

Overall, a meal at Little Heritage House promises to be a memorable experience – one that leaves you with a deeper appreciation for the rich beauty of Peranakan culture.

Little Heritage House

No 23, Jalan 17/56,

Seksyen 17, 46400

Petaling Jaya, Selangor

For location, click here. Prefer not to drive? The Phileo Damansara MRT station (entrance A) is only about a 12-minute walk away.

Business hours: 11.30am-10pm (daily)

Contact: 012-304 6181 / 03-7932 1810