For the uninitiated, TOKB Cafe looks like any normal cafe from the outside. One would hardly expect Kelantanese dishes to be served in this cafe located in the commercial section of Petaling Jaya’s Section 13. But that’s exactly what this military-themed cafe is well-known for: authentic and affordable Kelantanese fares cooked by Puan Norma Salleh from Kota Bharu, fondly known as “Kak Ma”.
Short for “Taste of Kota Bharu”, TOKB is unique, being the first ever military concept cafe serving affordable Kelantanese dishes. The founders of the cafe want to preserve history and highlight the role Kota Bharu played in the early days of World War II.
Dining in this part cafe-part-viewing-gallery, diners will get some fascinating insights of the turbulent period from the many wartime memorabilia decorating TOKB. It’s also a way of paying tribute to war heroes who lost their lives in the tragic war.
The tempting dishes cooked up by Kak Ma are from traditional recipes passed down through generations from her ancestors. Using mostly ingredients sourced from Kota Bharu, the Nasi Kerabu, Laksam, Ikan Keli Paprik and Nasi Dagang are dishes that Kak Ma proudly declares as her heritage.
Among these, the Nasi Dagang is my favourite. The generous portion of fragrant rice with ayam goreng, kerisik sambal ikan, solok lada, salted egg, herbs and vegetables, budu and sambal belacan is bound to satisfy any cravings.
Do try the Laksam – flat rice noodles in creamy white fish and coconut broth with aromatic herbs, vegetables and sambal belacan. It’s the Kelantanese version of “chee cheong fun” with very diversified condiments!
Another typical dish from the East Coast is Rice with Ikan Keli Paprik, Acar & Sambal Belacan.
Nasi Rocket with Fish or Beef Serunding with layers of gulai ikan tongkol, gulai udang, fish serunding and fried chicken. Traditionally known as nasi tumpang, Kelantanese women often pack rice and curries in cone-shaped packages using banana leaves for their menfolk when they go to work.
There are some western items on TOKB’s menu though and one that stands out is the Soldier Teriyaki Burger. The ensemble consists of a a charcoal bun holding a piece of grilled boneless chicken teriyaki, fried egg sunny side up, cheese, pineapple and gherkins served with crispy fried onion rings on the side.
Teh Atom, which is widely popular in Kota Bharu is available in TOKB Cafe. It’s essentially teh tarik with honey, pulled till so foamy that the foam somehow stiffens and stick down the glass!
If you are craving for some Kelantanese fares or just want to chill-out in a cool unique venue, this 6,000sq ft spacious cafe with a semi-outdoor are for alfresco dining is worth a visit.
TOKB CAFE
Ground Floor, Menara Inspiration
Avenue D’Vogue
3A Jalan 13/2, Section 13
46100 Petaling Jaya
Tel: 03-7624-5787
Open 12pm-9pm (Sunday-Thursday) & 12pm-12am (Friday-Saturday)
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