Malaysian comedian, content creator and now restaurateur Uncle Roger (Nigel Ng) brings his first UK restaurant to Chinatown London with the launch of Kawan by Uncle Roger. Opening on Macclesfield Street, this lively new pan-Asian concept sees Ng team up with hospitality veteran Keng Yew (YiQi, SanHao, Dozo, The Eight) and acclaimed Malaysian chef Daren Liew, whose pedigree spans Nanyang Blossom, San Hao and the Hakkasan Group.
Set across 1,600 sq ft with around 60 covers, Kawan blends Asian culinary traditions with a modern British sensibility. Rather than chase strict regional authenticity, the menu focuses on generosity, flavour and comfort, drawing on influences from across East and Southeast Asia. Fried rice sits at the heart of the offering - a playful nod to Uncle Roger’s global fame - but the broader menu explores a vibrant mix of Asian–British hybrid dishes, all shaped by contemporary London tastes and produce. Expect familiar techniques, bold seasoning and family-style plates designed for sharing.
True to Ng’s personality, the restaurant aims to be warm, sociable and a little bit cheeky. 'Of course there will be fried rice,' he says, 'but with Chef Daren Liew, there’s going to be so much more - can’t wait to show you what we’ve been working on.' The team hints at a playful, welcoming atmosphere with plenty of character.
The name Kawan, meaning 'friend' or 'companion' in Malay, reflects the ethos behind the project: an inclusive, relaxed space shaped by the multicultural energy of Chinatown London. Interiors will lean into that spirit, creating an informal, buzzy dining room suited to office workers, neighbourhood regulars, tourists and the wider ESEA community who treat Chinatown as a home-from-home.