Bo Laksa King Time!

Bo Laska King
2546 East Hastings Street, Vancouver, BC
Phone: (604)568-4593

Laksa, a noodle in a spicy soup base originating from Southern Asia, is a popular dish which is offered in various Malaysian, Singaporean and even Chinese restaurants here in Vancouver. Having caught word of a little "hole in the wall" restaurant which makes possibly the best Laksa in the city, it was decided that I must try it for myself.

The said restaurant is Bo Laksa King; they have two locations in Vancouver, one sharing a storefront with a grocery store on Joyce, and another full-out restaurant establishment on Hastings Street. Now, I had actually attempted to visit the Bo Laksa King on Hastings twice; unfortunately, an unhelpful handwritten sign was posted on the door the first time, informing me that they were closed for the day. The second visit proved to be the charm, however, and I was able to order a takeout of Laksa. Now, you may wonder why I chose not to eat in, and this was simply because the restaurant itself was rather empty and I felt a bit uncomfortable being in a quiet business on Hastings Street late at night.

I ordered a Laksa along with Roti, which is a croissant-like pastry which comes with a side of curry sauce for dipping. The food is very inexpensive; the Laksa is under $8. I must say that the staff were very friendly, and promptly prepared my order and packed the soup separately from the Vermicelli noodles and the toppings (which I understand, is customary). At home, I unpacked my order by placing (noodles first!) into a big bowl, and carefully pouring in the Laksa soup, which is a mixture of curry and a spicy broth flavored with coconut. Bo Laksa King is rather generous with their toppings, which include fish balls, sliced meats, and tofu. The soup, however, is the true deal-breaker, and this one really did not disappoint. It consistency is somewhat creamy with coconut and curry undertones which are not too overpowering and has a good amount of a spicy "kick" to it. The roti pastry itself was good, but not special, and the curry dipping sauce was nowhere near as good as the Laksa soup.

Overall, I would definitely recommend this place, for takeout at least.

Rice Meter: 4