In light of the upcoming Independence Day and Malaysia Day, Atas Modern Malaysian Eatery at The Ruma Hotel & Residences presents its first ever collaborative effort with none other than Chef Melba Nunis, celebrity chef and award-winning cookbook author. The collaboration is an extension of Atas’s appreciation for local provenance as guests are invited to an exceptional culinary journey which showcases the increasingly rare Kristang cuisine.
The traditional Kristang cuisine carries numerous influences from the Portugese, Chinese, Indians, Malays and Peranakan, forming complex flavours steeped in culture and heritage. Local ingredients and spices fused with Portugese and Dutch techniques form the basis of Kristang cuisine. Chef Melba who is of Malaccan-Portugese lineage has been actively championing the spirit of Kristang cuisine through her award-winning cookbook and supper club.


For two nights only on the 4th and 5th September 2019, Atas’s executive chef Tyson Gee will present a specially curated 5-course menu inspired by Chef Melba’s fare. The recipes bear the hallmarks of Chef Melba’s unique flavours yet presented in Chef Tyson’s interpretation with an elevated style. Graze on an array of light bites such as Crisp Seabass inspired by Papa Vincent’s Fish Cutlet and Soy Glazed Chicken, inspired by the traditional Seybak, washed down with a glass of Prosecco. Those who require a more spicy kick to their meal will be delighted to learn that Chef Melba’s homemade sambal will served together.
“Papa Vincent my grandfather used to serve Seybak the traditional way with pigs’ ears tossed with chilli sauce as an appetiser with drinks,”
Chef Melba
Traditional Kristang dishes such as Chef Melba’s popular Squid Ink Sambal, King Mackerel with Vinegar Sambal and Slow Cooked Chicken with Buah Keluak will also be showcased on the set menu. “Perhaps just a pinch of rice on the King Mackerel will complete the dish,” Chef Melba remarks with a twinkle in her eye. To end the meal with a sweet touch, Chef Tyson keeps things simple with Glutinous Rice served with Kaya and Tapioca with Palm Sugar. And of course, Chef Melba will be present at Atas during both nights, regaling you with tales of her childhood, her family’s treasured recipe and she may even oblige for a selfie.

Atas Modern Malaysian Eatery @ The RuMa Hotel and Residences
Jalan Kia Peng, Kuala Lumpur, Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Official Website
+603 2778088