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Welcome to Banana Leaves Asian Cafe

At Banana Leaves Asian Cafe, the essence of Malaysian culinary traditions blends seamlessly with flavors from Chinese and Japanese cuisines. Situated in Rockville, MD, this family-run gem creates a casual yet classy dining atmosphere. Known for its authentic Malaysian dishes, including fragrant curries and savory fried rice, the cafe also offers an array of vegetarian options. Patrons rave about specialties like Nasi Goreng and the rich, coconut-based Malaysian red curry paired with soy-based meats. With accommodating services like delivery, catering, and outdoor seating, Banana Leaves invites you to experience heartfelt, home-cooked flavors that transport you to Southeast Asia.

Banana Leaves Asian Cafe: Reviews & Ratings

Leila D.
Leila D.

Nasi Goreng is my go to every time! Always good! Have picked up and used delivery service. Either works and food is delicious. You can eat outside if you want at this location but I'd rather enjoy in the comfort of my home.

Michael A.
Michael A.

5 stars as a MALAYSIAN / VEGAN restaurant. Banana Leaves is a mom n pop takeout spot in the backest-back corner of the lower level of Congressional Plaza. It's run by a Malaysian family that makes any & all Americanized Chinese, Thai & Vietnamese dishes many people think about when they get an Asian food takeout or delivery craving. Frankly, there are better actual Chinese, Thai & Vietnamese restaurants to be had in Rockville. But this Malaysian family also just sprinkles their Malaysian dishes in the menu, not always specifically highlighting the Malaysian ones, AND they have a whole veggie fake meats based section of all the assorted Asian takeout items. The Malaysian curries, noodle soups & noodles & fried rice are legit AF on point, somebody's Malaysian mom made you her home cooking, and they'll happily throw the veggie meats in there too. So just recalibrate y'all thinking a little bit. This is a mom n pop MALAYSIAN restaurant that in order to get business is selling other countries' food because their customers are more familiar with those other countries' food. Malaysian food is tasty itself and frankly as a veggie food nerd, I'll put the Malaysian red curry with the veggie fake chicken up there in my favorite coconut based curries in Rockville regardless of national origin. AND they give you a whole quart of it no skimping like the Thai places sometimes do. If you trying to fulfill you general tso chicken cravings or whatever, maybe this ain't the best spot. Hit up the nice Malaysian family for THEIR food and you can't go wrong.

Location

Welcome to Banana Leaves Asian Cafe, a hidden gem nestled in Rockville, Maryland, that celebrates a rich blend of Malaysian, Chinese, and Japanese culinary traditions. If you're searching for a spot that puts authenticity and flavor at the forefront, look no further.

Located at 160 Congressional Ln Apartment 1619, this cozy cafe is run by a Malaysian family who takes pride in offering a menu that reflects the vibrant and bold flavors of Southeast Asian cuisine. With options for everyone—from traditional Malaysian dishes to Americanized versions of beloved Asian classics—Banana Leaves Asian Cafe caters to all tastes.

  • Extensive Menu: Start your meal with delightful Cold Appetizers like the Asian Chicken Salad or the Seaweed Salad, perfect companions to the cafe’s invigorating ambiance.
  • Dim Sum Delights: Savor the flavors of their scrumptious Juicy Chicken Soup Dumplings or the delectable Vegetarian BBQ Pork Bun—each bite transporting you straight to the heart of Malaysia.
  • Signature Entrees: Do not miss the renowned Rendang Beef, a dish that marries tender beef with aromatic spices and rich coconut milk, or the inviting Banana Leaves Rice, served with grilled chicken satay and a hearty curry soup.

The ambiance here strikes a perfect balance between casual and classy, making it ideal for both a lunch outing with friends and a cozy dinner with family. The outdoor seating extends an invitation to enjoy the fresh air, while the option to take advantage of delivery or takeout ensures that you can savor these flavors at home. And for those mindful of dietary preferences, the cafe proudly offers vegan options that do not skimp on taste.

Customer reviews such as those from Leila D. and Michael A. highlight the cafe's commitment to authentic dishes and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Leila celebrates the Nasi Goreng as her staple, noting its consistent deliciousness whether enjoyed on-site or comfortably at home. Michael raves about the quality of the Malaysian food, lauding the cafe for its genuine offerings in a market crowded with Americanized Asian cuisine.

Banana Leaves Asian Cafe is more than just a restaurant; it's a culinary journey to Malaysia right in Rockville. With excellent service and the ability to cater to groups and families, it's an ideal choice for your next meal. So why not visit or order today? You’ll discover a world of flavors that beckons you to return.

For more information, you can reach them at (301) 477-8207. Experience the inviting atmosphere, taste the exceptional dishes, and immerse yourself in the delightful offerings of Banana Leaves Asian Cafe.