6-7-2024 (KUALA LUMPUR) Nigel Ng, the Malaysian comedian better known as his alter ego ‘Uncle Roger’, has sent fans into a frenzy with a casual announcement about his plans to open his first restaurant in Malaysia. The revelation came during a recent YouTube video, where the 33-year-old social media sensation was reacting to footage of the late Anthony Bourdain sampling street food in Penang.
Ng, who shot to global fame with his comedic critiques of Western attempts at Asian cuisine, dropped the news with his characteristic blend of humour and nonchalance. “Uncle Roger gonna open my very first restaurant there. Fuiyoh!” he exclaimed, using one of his trademark expressions of approval.
The announcement was nestled within a video where Ng, in character as Uncle Roger, was commenting on an episode of Bourdain’s ‘No Reservations’. After lamenting the difficulty of finding authentic Malaysian ingredients abroad, he segued into the restaurant reveal, framing it as a “little secret” for his loyal followers.
Details about the upcoming establishment remain scarce, with Ng offering no information about the concept, location, or menu. However, given Uncle Roger’s well-documented love for MSG and Asian flavours, fans are speculating about what culinary delights might be in store.
This move into the restaurant business marks a significant expansion of Ng’s brand, which has already seen success in the food industry. The comedian currently collaborates with Chinese-American brand MiLa on a frozen Creamy Chili Crab Pasta, marketed as a high-quality, restaurant-grade product for home cooking.
Ng’s rise to fame has been meteoric since his 2020 viral video critiquing a BBC Food egg fried rice recipe. His YouTube channel now boasts over 9.35 million subscribers, with fans tuning in for his comedic takes on food and culture, delivered in a mock Cantonese accent.
The timing of this announcement is particularly intriguing, coming as it does when many in the restaurant industry are still grappling with the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. Ng’s venture suggests a confidence in the recovery of Malaysia’s dining scene and the pull of his personal brand.
Food critics and industry watchers are keen to see how Ng’s online persona will translate into a brick-and-mortar establishment. Will the restaurant embody the comedic spirit of Uncle Roger, or will it showcase a more serious culinary side of Ng?
As news of the planned restaurant spreads, it’s clear that Ng’s fanbase – whom he affectionately refers to as “niece and nephew” – are eagerly anticipating more details. The announcement has already sparked discussions on social media, with supporters speculating about potential menu items and locations.
For now, Ng seems content to let the anticipation build. In true Uncle Roger fashion, he’s treating the news as a playful secret shared with his audience, even as it makes headlines. “Shhhh niece and nephew. Remember to don’t tell anyone the little secret I mentioned in middle of weejio,” he commented under his video, fully aware of the buzz he was creating.
As Malaysia’s food scene continues to evolve and attract international attention, the addition of an ‘Uncle Roger’ restaurant could potentially become a new culinary landmark. Whether it will live up to the hype remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: Ng’s foray into the restaurant business will be watched with keen interest by fans and foodies alike.
For now, food enthusiasts and Uncle Roger devotees will have to wait patiently for more information. As the comedian himself might say: “Haiyah! Just wait and see, lah!”
