I didn’t think I’d be updating this list so soon, but after a mind blowing meal in Langkawi I am forced to add to my list of my best ever meals, making it a top 8, rather than top 7. You can read the full list here.
This legendary no-frills seafood restaurant just off of Pantai Cenang beach takes your order of fish and shellfish then leads you to the fresh seafood to make your selection by weight.

Orkid Ria Restaurant, Pantai Cenang, Langkawi
The butter prawns are out of this world, huge and perfectly cooked with a buttery, cereal mix coating them. The fried rice is impeccable (I had the beef) and gets some garlicky greens to accompany your food.
It’s not cheap due to the quality of the seafood, but still only around £25 per head for more seafood than you can possibly eat.
Service is helpful and efficient, although not exactly cheerful. The place itself is on the shabby side and there are fans rather than aircon in the covered outdoor eating area, but you’re not going to notice once your food arrives. Get stuck in with your hands and thank me later.

Delicious butter prawns at Orkid Ria