Honest Bao

In the second instalment of my Jewellery Quarter deep dive we’re swapping Italian pasta for the bold, punchy flavours of Southeast Asia. Kopitiam (which literally means "coffee shop" in Hokkien) is tucked away on a quiet side street where you’d sooner expect to find a metal workshop than a world-class meal. It’s a humble, family-run gem where the owner’s kids are often seen playing—a true "neighbourhood" spot that feels like stepping into a kitchen in Kuala Lumpur. The service can be a bit "hit and miss"—if the small team gets slammed with orders, your patience will be tested. But let me tell you, the food is worth every second of the wait. Everything is cooked to order, and the authenticity beats every high-street Malaysian or Thai chain in Birmingham city centre. The Star of the Show: Chicken Leg Nasi Lemak My favourite dish - Chicken leg Nasi Lemak You cannot visit without ordering the Nasi Lemak. Often called Malaysia’s national dish, it has a rich his...