Auckland's culinary landscape is about to lose a beloved gem. For three decades, Sri Pinang, a Malaysian restaurant on K' Road, has been a cornerstone of the Auckland food scene, celebrated by locals as the best Malaysian food spot in town. The warm smile of owner Ange Siew has greeted countless customers, creating a sense of community and belonging. But now, after years of dedicated service, Ange and her chef husband Kun are closing their doors.
So, why would the owner of such a successful and cherished establishment choose to close up shop instead of selling? Siew's answer is simple yet profound: "Maintain my name, my baby. I want to keep Sri Pinang for myself only." She has poured her heart and soul into this restaurant, and it's a legacy she wants to preserve.
Opening in 1991, Sri Pinang has reached its 35th year in business. Siew shared that witnessing generations of families visit her restaurant was a highlight. She watched couples start dating, marry, have children, and then those children bring their own partners to the restaurant. She fondly recalls one family that would visit Sri Pinang to celebrate their grandmother's birthday. "They still remember me, they call me aunty," Siew says. "When someone calls you aunty, it means they are accepting you as part of the family. So I’m so pleased." It's clear that Sri Pinang was more than just a restaurant; it was a place of connection and cherished memories.
But here's where it gets controversial: The decision to close wasn't easy. Telling her customers was emotional, but family comes first. The restaurant is closing due to her husband's health issues. "Of course I will miss the restaurant, but the most important thing is that he gets well soon. Recover, and then we can plan what we want to do," Siew explains. "Health is more important; we make sure that he’s got good health, and then we can do something. At this stage, he needs time to rest at home."
Kun's passion for cooking started at a young age. He experimented with different cuisines and attended numerous classes. Siew describes him as someone who "likes to challenge himself, likes to try all the new things until he gets it right. That’s why he loves cooking, non-stop." He always used fresh ingredients and never felt the need to adapt his Malaysian food to suit a Kiwi audience, maintaining the authenticity of the cuisine. This dedication to his craft is a testament to the quality of the food and the restaurant's success.
For Siew, the restaurant has been her life, a place where she spent most days from 10 am until 11 pm. Closing down the restaurant she has loved so much will undoubtedly be difficult. "I'll really miss this spot. I love this restaurant so much."
What do you think about Ange's decision to close Sri Pinang? Do you think she made the right choice prioritizing her husband's health and preserving her legacy? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
