Thai food is just about everywhere in America by now. But Malaysian food, now that’s a little harder to come by. Milpitas’s well-reviewed Banana Leaf aims to redress that unbalance by offering a diverse menu of specialties from both countries, showcasing the powerful, diverse flavors of this pocket of Asia. While both Thai and Malaysian cuisines feature curries, there are some significant differences in flavor and texture between the two. Malaysian curries are often used to dip the fluffy flatbreads known as roti, and Banana Leaf shines with their roti prata, in many ways the restaurant’s signature dish. Traditionalists will love the pad thai, which many argue is the best in the Bay Area. The Siam salmon is also a go-to dish for fish lovers, bursting with flavor and impeccably prepared. Finish with the fried mango ice cream for a sweet treat. Service is great, but be prepared—the wait for a table can be long, especially on weekends when the place is packed for hours.

Banana Leaf
182 Ranch Drive
Milpitas, CA 95035
(408) 719-9811
www.bananaleaf-usa.com