Muhammad Aliff Feroz, the phenomenal founder of Madras Darbar Restaurant has had a fascinating journey from the field of marine engineering to the world of fine dining. In a recent interview with Top 10 of Malaysia, Aliff shares his inspiring story of passion, dedication, and the pursuit of culinary excellence.
Aliff’s journey began at sea. Having studied marine engineering and worked as a seafarer for several years, he traversed the seven continents before ultimately deciding to follow his true passion—food. With a deep-rooted love for authentic South Indian cuisine, he embarked on a mission to bring the rich flavours of India to Malaysia. Thus, Madras Darbar was born.
Originally established in India, Madras Darbar expanded its reach by launching its first Malaysian branch in July 2024. “Madras Darbar was born out of a desire to bring authentic South Indian cuisine right from India all the way to Malaysia,” says Aliff. The grand opening was a momentous occasion, attended by celebrity guests from India, marking the beginning of a new chapter for the brand. From the outset, Aliff and his team made it clear that their restaurant would offer more than just traditional Indian cuisine. Instead, they introduced a unique “multi-background cuisine” concept, blending Indian authenticity with Western and Malaysian influences to create a diverse and exciting dining experience.
“Customer satisfaction is our top priority,” For Aliff, authenticity is paramount. He takes great pride in ensuring that Madras Darbar serves high-quality, genuine Indian cuisine while also catering to a wider audience by incorporating elements from other culinary traditions. To achieve this, he personally selects top chefs from India, training them to adapt their expertise to Malaysian palates without compromising on authenticity. This meticulous approach has set Madras Darbar apart from other establishments, earning it a reputation for excellence.
The foundation of Madras Darbar’s success lies in its commitment to quality, ambiance, and customer satisfaction. The restaurant’s fine-dining concept offers an elegant setting where guests can enjoy a holistic dining experience—exceptional service, a warm and inviting atmosphere, and, most importantly, a feast of exquisite flavours. “Everyone can feel the richness of India through our place,” he adds. Aliff’s vision is to create a brand that is not only well-known but also deeply respected for its integrity and dedication to culinary excellence.
Leadership, for Aliff, is about collaboration and inclusivity. He fosters an environment where his team feels empowered and encouraged to innovate. He believes in open communication and mutual respect, values he cultivated during his time as a seafarer. This disciplined approach to management ensures that every aspect of the business—from kitchen operations to customer service—functions seamlessly. Most importantly, he emphasises the significance of customer satisfaction, striving to provide not just food but an experience that leaves a lasting impression.
Looking ahead, Aliff envisions a bright future for Madras Darbar. “I envision Madras Darbar spreading its wings locally and internationally,” – His five-year plan includes expanding the restaurant both locally, with new outlets in Sabah and Sarawak, and internationally, building on the brand’s presence in India. His goal is to continue innovating while maintaining the rich heritage of South Indian cuisine.
Aliff has these words of wisdom to share with aspiring entrepreneurs, “Stay true to your vision, work hard, and embrace challenges as learning opportunities. We all have the same 24 hours in a day. It’s about how we choose to spend each moment,” he advises. Through his own journey, he has proven that passion, perseverance, and trust in one’s team can turn a dream into reality. According to him, “A challenge is always a lesson”.
With Madras Darbar, Muhammad Aliff Feroz has not only brought a taste of India to Malaysia but has also created a brand that stands for excellence, authenticity, and innovation. As he continues to push boundaries and redefine culinary experiences, there is no doubt that his restaurant will leave an indelible mark on the F&B industry.