The food at Istana Restaurant was delicious, and the service was excellent! A great experience overall. My only slight criticism is that it's a bit on the pricey side, but the quality makes it almost worth it.
Overview
If you're looking for a dining experience that blends rich flavors and a welcoming atmosphere, Istana Restaurant located at 15/230 Pennant Hills Rd, Thornleigh NSW 2120, Australia, is a destination worth considering. This charming spot has become a local favorite for those craving authentic Malaysian and Asian cuisine, offering a range of dishes that highlight the diverse culinary traditions of the region.
From the moment you walk in, you’re greeted by the aromas of freshly cooked dishes that promise an unforgettable meal. The restaurant’s modern yet cozy decor sets the stage for a relaxed dining experience, perfect for both casual meals and special occasions. Whether you're coming for a quick lunch or an evening out with friends and family, Istana Restaurant makes you feel at home with its warm hospitality.
The menu is a true highlight of Istana Restaurant, with a range of dishes to suit every palate. For starters, the roti canai is a must-try - light, flaky, and served with a delicious dhal curry. It’s the perfect way to kick off your meal and get a taste of the restaurant’s commitment to authentic flavors. For those who enjoy a bit of spice, the nasi lemak is a standout dish, served with fragrant coconut rice, sambal, and crispy anchovies. It’s a beloved Malaysian classic that Istana nails perfectly.
If you’re a fan of seafood, the sambal prawns should definitely be on your list. The prawns are tender and infused with a rich, spicy sambal sauce that brings just the right amount of heat. The char kway teow, a popular stir-fried noodle dish, also delivers on flavor with its combination of smoky stir-fried noodles, prawns, eggs, and bean sprouts. It's hearty, satisfying, and full of vibrant taste.
The variety of flavors is what really sets Istana apart from other local eateries. The balance between sweet, savory, spicy, and sour is masterfully achieved, providing a true reflection of the Malaysian palate. Whether you’re enjoying a bowl of laksa with its creamy coconut broth or sampling the crispy fried chicken, each dish is crafted with attention to detail and high-quality ingredients.
Service at Istana is another reason it’s a go-to spot. The staff is friendly and attentive, always ready to help you navigate the menu and recommend dishes based on your preferences. Their knowledgeable staff ensures you have a seamless dining experience, whether you’re a first-time visitor or a regular.
Istana Restaurant also stands out for its reasonable pricing, offering great value for the quality of food and service you receive. It’s a great option for both casual dining and larger gatherings, making it easy to enjoy delicious meals without breaking the bank.
Customers who have visited Istana Restaurant consistently rave about the food, atmosphere, and exceptional service. Reviews frequently highlight the authentic flavors, particularly the depth of spice in the dishes, and the generous portion sizes. The restaurant has cultivated a loyal customer base, thanks to its consistent quality and dedication to providing a memorable dining experience.
With its inviting atmosphere, diverse menu, and commitment to excellence, Istana Restaurant is undoubtedly a hidden gem in Thornleigh. It’s a place where you can enjoy a relaxed meal with family and friends while exploring the bold and exciting flavors of Malaysian cuisine. Whether you’re in the mood for something comforting or adventurous, Istana’s offerings are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Good to know
Service options
✓ Delivery ✓ Takeaway ✓ Dine-inPopular for
✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner ✓ Solo diningAccessibility
✓ Wheelchair-accessible car park ✓ Wheelchair-accessible seatingOfferings
✓ Alcohol ✓ Beer ✓ Spirits ✓ WineDining options
✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner ✓ Dessert ✓ Seating ✓ Table serviceAmenities
✓ ToiletAtmosphere
✓ CasualCrowd
✓ GroupsPlanning
✓ Dinner reservations recommended ✓ Accepts reservationsPayments
✓ Credit cards ✓ Debit cards ✓ NFC mobile payments ✓ Credit cardsChildren
✓ Good for kids ✓ High chairsParking
✓ Free of charge street parking ✓ Free parking lot ✓ ParkingPhotos
1 / 4
Location
Reviews
- No ratings yet 541 reviews
Took my parents here after hearing from a friend that this place serves old-school Chinese-Malay dishes. I was a bit nervous at first because I read some reviews saying people were charged for tea without being told, so I made sure to decline the tea when we arrived. We ordered the kangkung belacan, hawker style pipis, ikan bawang, and black pepper beef. The kangkung belacan was a hit, my husband loved it! You could really taste the fried shallots and ebi (dried shrimp), super flavourful. I personally loved the ikan bawang. The fish was generous in portion and well-cooked. My husband usually doesn’t like fish, but he actually enjoyed this one. The pipis reminded me of a childhood dish, so nostalgic and comforting. The only downside was the black pepper beef, which was too salty for my taste. Portions were generous, but the place is a bit pricey. Four dishes and Hainan rice for four people came to $186.
Food - excellent, definitely not bland nor salty or oily as per some of the recent reviews I read. Kids of our friends are not easy to please when it comes to food and to see them helping themselves to the array of food and have 3rd helpings are proof that the food served at Istana is scrumptious. Service - friendly, attentive and helpful. It was a full house turnout and yet the wait for food was quick and food was served warm. Again, contrary to the reviews I read. Atmosphere - old school, the way we like it. Non-pretentious and clean.
We went here for dinner tonight for the first time and had a lovely meal and a great time. The amazing staff greet you as soon as you walk in and look after you the whole time. Seriously the friendliest staff ever. We had a nice selection of dishes and it was normal pricing
First time visit this Malaysian restaurant. Food amazing delicious. Food from order to table very quick. Portion medium. Yummy king prawns sambal. Hai nan chicken and rice cook perfect. We all enjoyed very much. You should try.
Family staple of the area. Quality service and authentic food. Place to be for those malaysian cravings.
Best Hainanese chicken in Sydney in my opinion. Curry fish head was great but not amazing. Could use more spices. Meals are a little bit on the pricey side but the portion is very big.