Coronavirus forces Sambal Shiok to open… then close NASI

HALAL STATUS Fully Halal

This new opening editorial is a first in that we report on the opening of a new Halal takeaway and its sudden closure all within a week.

Successful Malaysian restaurant Sambal Shiok recently expanded with the launch of its sister site NASI Economy Rice next door on Holloway Road in North London.

But the outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic across the UK forced owner Mandy Yin to announce that she will be “closing both businesses down”.

Ms Yin’s decision comes soon after UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s policy update yesterday where he asked entire households to isolate themselves for 14 days if any member showed coronavirus symptoms.

“Now is the time for everyone to stop non-essential contact with others and to stop all unnecessary travel,” Johnson urged.

In response Ms Yin posted on NASI’s Instagram account: “So earlier today, I spoke to many of my staff about closing both businesses down soon due to the massive uncertainties the world at large is facing. That time has come much sooner than I had anticipated. Boris Johnson has this afternoon advised against all non-essential travel. For people to avoid pubs and offices. I cannot with a clear conscience say that travelling into work for me is in any way essential. I am closing both Sambal and Nasi effective immediately. At this time I have no idea when we will be able to reopen. Look after yourselves and your loved ones and hopefully see you on the other side.”

While having been briefly open, NASI was serving affordable build-your-own lunch boxes where you choose a rice or salad base before picking a dish with some extras.

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NASI Economy Rice
169 Holloway Road, London N7 8LX.

Opening Hours: Mon-Fri 12:00-21:00