The foods we loved in 2024
From Dubai chocolate to loaded nachos - Malaysia's love affair with food will never end.
If 2024 taught us anything, it’s that food isn’t just for eating—it’s for trending. Thanks to TikTok and Instagram, this year’s tastiest creations weren’t just meals; they were moments. Foodies everywhere turned their plates into social media gold.
What made these bites blow up? Who joined the hype? And how did Dubai chocolate end up stealing our hearts (and taste buds)?
Here's a recap of some of the foods that kept us talking and buzzing!
FUIYOH! IT'S UNCLE ROGER
Uncle Roger, a beloved Malaysian comedian and YouTube sensation, launched his first restaurant, FUIYOH! It’s Uncle Roger, which quickly became a viral hit. Known for his comedic critiques of Asian cuisine, particularly fried rice, Uncle Roger's restaurant features dishes that celebrate Malaysian flavours with a humorous twist.
The menu prominently includes egg fried rice, infused with MSG—an ingredient he famously champions for enhancing flavor.
Uncle Roger's massive online following and comedic persona drew significant attention to the restaurant. Teasers on platforms like Instagram created anticipation among fans eager to taste his signature dishes. The combination of humor and food resonates well with both local and international audiences, making it a must-visit spot.
DUBAI CHOCOLATE
The Dubai chocolate craze has made waves globally and influenced Malaysian food trends in 2024. This chocolate bar is filled with aromatic pistachio cream and crispy kataifi (shredded phyllo pastry), creating a unique texture and flavor profile that has captivated chocolate lovers everywhere.
With hashtags like #DubaiChocolate generating over 93,000 posts on Instagram and counting, the trend exploded as influencers showcased their taste tests and unboxing experiences. Food personalities have praised its delightful aroma and stunning presentation, further driving interest.
Originally hard to find outside Dubai, variations of this treat have begun appearing in specialty shops worldwide, including Malaysia.
LOADED NACHOS
Loaded nachos have taken the Malaysian street food scene by storm this year, with roadside stalls offering customisable nacho packs becoming the latest viral sensation.
Customers can build their dream nachos by choosing from an array of toppings such as minced chicken, beef, fresh tomatoes, bell peppers, lettuce, jalapeños, and a variety of sauces, including tangy salsa, creamy cheese, and smoky barbecue.
Videos of people assembling their loaded nachos and the sight of long queues waiting for their turn to indulge have flooded social media platforms.
These nacho stalls have quickly become a must-visit destination for street food enthusiasts, with customers willing to wait in line for hours to savoUr their personaliSed nacho creations.
QUE SITTERS AT SUKIYA
Steamboat dining, also known as hot pot, continued its reign as a beloved communal food experience in Malaysia in 2024, with new viral twists elevating its popularity.
Among the must-visit eateries are Sukiya and BBQ Town, both offering unique dining experiences that foodies can’t get enough of. These spots are known for their interactive, themed dining setups where diners get to play chef for a day.
Whether it’s Sukiya’s comforting hotpots or BBQ Town’s sizzling grills, the highlight is creating your own personalised dipping sauces to pair with a mouthwatering spread of ingredients.
From tender beef and lamb to fresh seafood and more, diners can cook their favorites in flavorful broths or on a hot grill, making every bite a perfect balance of taste and creativity.
Out of Malaysians' love for Sukiya, a quirky trend was born—hiring “queue sitters” to secure a spot at the ever-popular eatery. With long lines being a daily norm, getting a table feels like a challenge only the most patient can endure.
But thanks to this creative solution, die-hard Sukiya fans can skip the wait and dive straight into their favorite hotpot.
CRAZE OVER MATCHA CONTINUES
Matcha, the vibrant green powdered tea, reached new heights of popularity in 2024, particularly in Malaysia, where it became a star ingredient in desserts and beverages.
From matcha mille crepe cakes to bubble tea with matcha-infused pearls, the obsession with this earthy, umami-rich flavor seemed unstoppable.
Matcha cafés and pop-ups offering high-quality Japanese-grade matcha products thrived while matcha-making workshops gained traction among tea enthusiasts seeking an authentic experience.
