Update: This business has ceased its operations.
Das Rad Cafe is located at King Street (Lebuh King), directly behind Gem Restaurant. Opened earlier this year, this restaurant is operated by a couple of German-Malaysian heritage. “Das Rad” means “the bicycle” in German, which is befitting as the proprietors are cycling enthusiasts themselves.
Located within the heritage zone of George Town, Das Rad Cafe retains most of the building’s original facade as well as its quaint partitions and backdrops. There are several bicycles on display to reaffirm the proprietors’ passion towards this competitive sport.
At this point, it should not come as a surprise that Das Rad Cafe serves German food. Familiar dishes such as schnitzel (boneless meat) and bratwurst (German sausage) make their mark at this restaurant. The presence of Das Rad Cafe is certainly welcoming as there aren’t many German restaurants in Penang.
My choice for lunch is the Pork Schnitzel With Potato Salad (RM25.00). The platter includes a pair of pork cutlets with matching paprika sauce, potato salad and salad greens on the side.
To prepare pork schnitzel, pork cutlets are beaten to make them tenderer. Next, the cutlets are coated with crispy breading made from crumbs, eggs and flour. The cutlets are immersed in hot oil and fried to golden perfection.
Pork schnitzel is often enjoyed with paprikaschnitzel, a condiment made from paprika, bell peppers, tomatoes and onions. Eaten with the cutlets, each bite presents a unique sense of savoriness with mildly sour undertones.
Potato salad is nicely prepared. Seasoned with salad dressing and chopped coriander, the diced potato cubes are in agreement with my palate.
A cup of latte (RM11.00) comes with a piece of breadstick. The coffee drink itself is quite enjoyable. The latte presents milky composition which soothes the throat during every sip.
Although the food menu is not as full-fledged as other German restaurants, Das Rad Cafe provides a reasonable compromise under casual dining setting.
Address: 10B, Lebuh King, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinang
Contact: 017-570-1839
Business hours: 10:00am-6:00pm (Tuesday-Friday), 9:00am-6:00pm (Saturday-Sunday), closed on Mondays