Sydney institution The Malaya reopens in new location

The Malaya, one of Sydney’s longest-operating family run restaurants, has reopened in George Street after 23 years at King Street Wharf.

The restaurant first opened its doors to the public in 1963 at 787 George Street, the same street it has now returned to.

The Malaya is a family-run restaurant that has been in business for more than 60 years. Wong Tai See first opened the eatery in Sydney, which saw Sydneysiders introduced to flavours and dishes that were unfamiliar to many guests at the time.

Second-generation owners Lance and Givie Wong continued the legacy, which is now being carried on by their children Duan and Isabella, who are ushering the venue into its next chapter.

“Being in a more dynamic CBD hub feels like the right next step,” says Duan Wong. “We’re surrounded by some of the city’s best hotels, and there’s a steady stream of foot traffic from Circular Quay down George Street. It brings new energy to the restaurant — and to our team.”

The restaurant was a pioneer of South East Asian food in Sydney, delivering Malaysian, Indonesian, and Nonya cuisines to the city.

The new venue has 180 seats across two levels, with space for an additional 60 on the outdoor terrace.

Many of the restaurant’s beloved dishes are still present on the menu, including the coconut beef rendang, the original Malaya curry, and the laksa.

See the full menu here.