If you like the herbal duck in Dian Xiao Er, you have to give this one in Johor Bahru a try.

Yeah, I know it’s kinda far but I think it’s worth it. I loved the one in Dian Xiao Er. I loved this one in JB more, although my perception could be a bit warped since the last time I ate at Dian Xiao Er was about 2005 or thereabouts.

 

 

The story I’m hearing is that Dian Xiao Er bought the recipe from this Malaysian franchise which, according to its name card, has eight outlets in the country and claims to be “The First & Original Herbal Roasted Duck”.

But Dian Xiao Er might have a better version with its Ten Wonder Herb Roast Duck.

The difference, I think, is that the JB version is drier and comes across as more crispy. It’s awesome.

There are five different flavours. I tried the Tang Gui and liked it so much I think I might just forgo trying the other flavours next time I visit.

 

 

The sauce has a sweet, herbal infusion which teases the tongue quite palatably. It’s also on the salty side, so it’s a good idea to eat it with rice. The meat is pretty tender and has a nicely roasted taste.

At RM22-RM24 for half a duck, it converts to just under S$10, which is pretty reasonable.

 

 

Of course, the travelling will be a bit of a hassle.

The outlet I went to is just past the immigration building at the Woodlands checkpoint. Walkable distance. You’ll pass through Johor Bahru City Square (the mall) and then cross a few streets to get there.

 

 

 

Maybe I’ll go try the Dian Xiao Er duck again and see if it’s gotten better after all these years.

Here’s the address for the JB one if you’re around the area and want to search for it.

Restorn Hao Bi
31 Jalan Meldrum
80000 Johor Bahru
Johor, Malaysia
Tel: 07-222 5591