A Culinary Adventure Around KSL, Johor Bahru
This article documents a food-filled day exploring diverse eateries near KSL City Mall in Johor Bahru (JB), Malaysia. From comforting Hainanese porridge to innovative charcoal-grilled dishes, this culinary journey offers a taste of local flavors and hidden gems.
Hainanese Porridge at Multimat Copy
The first stop is right in front of KSL, at Multimat Copy, for Hainanese porridge. Unlike Cantonese porridge, which is known for its smooth texture, Hainanese porridge tends to be slightly more grainy. A bowl without egg costs RM$8, while one with egg is RM$9. The porridge features a generous serving of sliced meats, making it a popular and comforting breakfast choice. The reviewer notes that the kopitiam was filled with people enjoying the porridge, highlighting its local appeal.
Just Mix: A Rainy Day Branch
The second stop is Just Mix, specializing in "lei cha". The reviewer loves the mix of different "lei cha" ingredients coming together. They also mention the availability of "tau kee" to soak up the flavors. It's suggested as a perfect meal for a rainy day in JB. The reviewer acknowledges the humid weather.
Hi Lai Lai: Mahjong Paradise & Michelin Bib Gourmand
This stop is a cafe called Hi Lai Lai, described as a "mahjong paradise", and known for drinks and snacks.
Hi Lai Lai has received the Michelin Bib Gourmand for three consecutive years. The reviewer ordered the signature mixed sauce dry noodles, opting for the popular "wantan" noodles. The dish is generously loaded with seafood, including prawns, clams, and fish balls.
Side Dishes at Hi Lai Lai
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Homemade Prawn Fritters: Each fritter contains a small shrimp, making it crispy and addictive.
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Ice Plant Jelly: A refreshing dish, similar to local "rojak" but featuring ice plant instead of other ingredients.
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Tao Pie (Seafood Soup): Diners can choose from various soup bases. The reviewer selected the "mian xian" soup.
The reviewer highly recommends Hi Lai Lai and plans to revisit it on future trips to JB.
Grind: Coffee and Cats
Needing a good cup of coffee, the reviewer googled nearby cafes and found Grind, about 800 meters away. Grind offers homemade bakes, coffee, tea, and is also home to several cats.
Hidden Gem: Nyonya Snacks
The next stop is located in a residential area, seemingly at the backyard of someone's house. The reviewer humorously recounts almost ringing someone's doorbell by mistake. They were hoping for "otak-otak" but it's unavailable. They try "popiah" and "nyonya kuih" instead.
Fried Nyonya Kuih
Fried "nyonya kuih" (glutinous rice cake) is a dish traditionally enjoyed during Chinese New Year, evoking nostalgic memories. The reviewer finds it enjoyable to have it outside of the festive season.
Flame Cafe: Open Fire Cooking
The final stop is Flame Cafe, where open-fire cooking is the central theme. The reviewer praises the restaurant for elevating classic brunch items with charcoal grilling.
Recommended Dishes at Flame Cafe
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Lamb Rib
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Grilled Tiger Prawns
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Ugly Olo (Aglio Olio): The smokiness from the grilled prawns creates a fragrant and aromatic dish.
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Beef Bacon Toast: Comprising sliced beef bacon, toast, egg, and truffle ham.
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French Toast: Made with homemade brioche bread, served with Nutella sauce, torched bananas, and strawberries.
Flame Cafe is recommended for brunch, lunch, or dinner.