Merah

Merah in Northcote has been my spot for over a year now, and let me tell you, it's a Malaysian food haven that never disappoints.

The star of the show for me? The Vegan Laksa. It's not just tasty; it's a flavor explosion. And here's the secret – they'll spice it up for you if you ask. Trust me; it takes the deliciousness up a notch.

Now, let's talk about the Vegan Bao. Tasty doesn't quite cover it; it's a delightful combo of flavors that keeps me coming back for more. A must-try if you swing by.

The vibes at Merah are on point too. The ambiance adds that extra touch to the dining experience, making it more than just a meal. And shoutout to the servers – friendly, on the ball, and always ready with a recommendation or a smile.

Service? Check. Ambiance? Check. Flavor-packed Malaysian goodness? Double-check. Merah in Northcote ticks all the boxes for a solid dining experience. If you're in the mood for Malaysian delights served up with a side of friendly vibes, this place is the real deal. Can't wait for my next flavor-filled visit!

We got the $40 feed me option with 4 of us which got us 4 entrees, 4 mains & 3 sides and loved every single dish we got. Stand outs were the plum fried chicken, seafood rice, chicken bao & chilli oil dumplings. Already recommending this place to all our friends & we’ll definitely be back ❤

Delicious. Friendly staff took care of us the entire time we were there. Awesome vibe from the restaurant and the food is on another level. The soft shell crab bao is the best we've ever had as well as the dumplings. When we want to show off Melbourne food. This will be where we go. 10/10 will be back for sure

Read so many reviews about this place so decided to try it out. It is Malaysian cuisine with some modern twists and innovations. Instead of all the conventional Msian taste we are used to we find the spices to be abit milder but still surprisingly well balanced. It was a good night out and a great feast. We hope to be back soon. Yum!

Loved the modern fitout of this restaurant in Northcote! The cocktails were excellent, we had the margarita and the passion ginger martini. The food was also great - seafood laksa had a wonderful mix of spices and was very creamy (not sure if I could taste truffle though). The tofu nuggets were amazing, we could have eaten a bucket. Fried chicken had a delicious spiced coating. We also really enjoyed the house made sambal on the side!

We had an absolutely amazing meal here a few weeks ago. Everything was delicious (the roti was honestly the best I've ever had), portion sizes were great, and service was wonderful! Had the soft shell crab bao, chilli oil dumplings, and beef rendang curry with a side of coconut rice, and of course that amazing roti! Will definitely be returning in the near future!
There's also a great selection of vegan friendly options which I'll definitely be bringing some friends along to try!

Found on the High Street of Northcoote, Merah delivers high quality Malaysian dishes. My friends and I visited and stumbled acrosd a very picture-esque restaurant and decided to try it. The Tofu entree bites were amazing and we even ordered another plate! It was coated in a cruchy crumb served with chipotle mayo to match. I ordered their braised pork bowl lunch special and it was delicious, pork was so tender it melts in your mouth, would definately recommend adding a soft boiled egg to elevate your experience if you chose to order it. If you are craving Malaysian food with a twist, definately come and enjoy at Merah!

Took my wife here for her birthday. Great food, great service, we had a great time. Will come back for the Laksa next time.

First time visit and we loved it. Quality dishes and full of flavor! Had Beef rendang, pork mee goreng, and vege laksa. Also tasting platter!

Really delicious meals and the staff were amazing, really set the vibe for our Saturday evening. Really nice to see a restaurant playing music that isn’t house on a Saturday! Thanks so much team.

Had a great meal in a nice spot down the back. Apart from a small music hiccup it was a great meal, if I write a review useually it’s the night I eat but it popped into my head after because we got a cool waiter named Jess or Jessie who when I said what I felt like gave me the perfect reccomendation of a dish loaded with veg which hit the spot. I’ll definitely be going back for a follow up meal, nice to see someone who clearly loves what they do.

Don't come here expecting authentic traditional Malaysian food. It's more of a Malaysian fusion place. And the flavours did not disappoint. Get the squid ink laksa. It is quite rich, so if you're getting it for yourself, it's honestly all you need. We got a laksa each AND the tofu nuggets to share. I left feeling overly stuffed but regret absolutely nothing. Will be back.

Cafe style restaurant. Small. With limited seating. Excellent food. Good variety.

I would like to convey my sincere appreciation to today's chef and the entire team for presenting an exquisite taste of authentic Malaysian cuisine. The flavors were truly exceptional, and I thoroughly enjoyed every dish. Moreover, the prices were quite reasonable. Today's culinary experience stands as one of the most memorable and delightful I've ever had, and I eagerly anticipate the opportunity to return to Merah in the near future.
Thanks all again
JC
10.10.23

Had the most amazing Laksa of my life!! My partner and I ordered the Vegan Laksa and the Pork Laksa and they were both amazing. They both had so much flavour and depth to them. The staff were lovely and friendly. We’ll be back every week!

I love the story behind the Merah's Sambal and how it's used in quite a lot of the dishes to bring them to life. Chilli oil dumplings were delicious, I could eat about two servings to myself. Pearl dumplings are very different and a must try. I love veggies so the Kangkung is sooo good. Chilled place to have dinner with good friends.

The vegan laksa was divine, playlist rocked, and we loved the fit out! Beautiful!

Proper Malaysian food in Northcote. Did not think I would find this north of the city. Seriously, roti to die for. Everything was delicious, I would definitely return. Try the chicken too!

What a meal! The best Pork Laksa I’ve had in Melbourne. I also have to add how impressed I was with the service by Jesse, I was never without a drink in my hand and a smile on both mine and my friends faces. Great food accompanied by great service by Jesse

Jesse was a proper good sort! A little too enthusiastic but he made up for it with several absolutely awesome drinks!
Just tell him what spirit you want and he’ll sort you out. I just said double vodka and he whipped something up and it was delicious! It didn’t even have a name
What a gc