Seemor
Roti King WaterlooB+Worth Trying
97 Lower Marsh, London SE1 7AB
· Malaysian restaurant
· 4.6/5 Google (893 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout
Lively Malaysian spot for excellent roti and fast, flavorful plates; great value on-site, but portions feel small to some and delivery experiences are inconsistent.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Roti King Waterloo delivers excellent Malaysian comfort food anchored by standout roti canai and genuinely friendly, efficient service. However, quality variation in curried meats and tight, shared seating prevent grade A territory. Strong value and loyal following make it a solid neighborhood destination for bold, fast Malaysian flavors—just manage expectations on protein tenderness and arrive early to avoid crowds.
Restaurant Summary
The room feels warm and bustling with quick-moving servers and the aroma of curry and fresh roti in the air. Guests describe the roti as “crispy-edged and soft inside,” and plates tend to land within minutes of ordering. Expect lines at peak times and a compact layout that can feel a bit tight when the room is full. The cooking leans classic Malaysian comfort rather than fusion fireworks. Roti canai and char kuey teow draw the loudest praise, while beef rendang wins on flavor but sometimes loses on tenderness. Portions are modest for central London pricing but still fair, especially when you build a meal around roti. This suits diners seeking bold, familiar Malaysian flavors served fast, not those chasing elaborate tasting menus or fine-dining theatrics. Families do well here thanks to kid-pleasing roti, fried chicken sides, and approachable noodles; spice can creep up, so choose dhal roti or milder dishes for younger palates. There is a vegan shiitake rendang and several vegetarian choices, but shrimp paste appears in some items and seafood is common, so allergy communication with staff is essential.
At a Glance
- Roti canai is a standout—flaky, buttery, and widely praised
- Fast ticket times and energetic, friendly service
- Beef rendang texture can be tough; portion sizes feel small to some
- 12.5% service charge plus additional tip prompt surprised diners
- Delivery experiences are inconsistent compared to dine-in
What Sets It Apart
- hand_stretched_roti_focus
- speed_of_service
- central_waterloo_location
What People Love
- Flaky roti with rich curries
- Speedy arrival of hot plates
- Authentic flavors that feel transportive
- Lively, buzzing atmosphere
Points of Concern
- Rendang and mutton tenderness inconsistent across visits (medium frequency)
- Compact seating; some guests feel cramped at busy times (medium frequency)
- Service charge plus additional tip prompt can feel sneaky to some diners (multiple recent mentions)
- Delivery orders show more issues than dine-in, including missing items and perceived small portions (multiple mentions)
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost£20-28 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Lead with Roti Canai + Dhal for value and balance
- Choose Char Kuey Teow or Kari Laksa as your main if you prefer consistent wins
- Vegan diners: Pulled Shiitake Rendang paired with rice offers a complete plant-based option
Perfect For
- A quick, flavorful Malaysian meal before or after a show
- Casual group dinners near Waterloo
- Roti cravings and comfort-food nights
- Families seeking approachable dishes with mild options
Location Insights
Area: Central, busy mixed-use street near Waterloo Station with a blend of offices, arts venues, and tourist footfall.
Safety: Generally safe, well-trafficked day and evening; occasional crowding typical of central transport hubs.
Nearby: Close to Waterloo Station, Lower Marsh market, South Bank attractions and theaters; steady flow of commuters and visitors.
LambethA dynamic urban neighborhood with a mix of historic and modern architecture, featuring a bustling street-level dining and retail scene with eclectic dining options and casual eateries.
Lower MarshA charming street with a historic market atmosphere, featuring independent shops, casual dining establishments, and a vibrant street food scene.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday11:30–22:00
Tuesday11:30–22:00
Wednesday11:30–22:00
Thursday11:30–22:00
Friday11:30–22:00
Saturday11:30–22:00
Sunday11:30–22:00
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout
View full analysis on Seemor →