Special thanks to Loke Thye Kee for extending this food review invitation.
Update: This business has ceased its operations.
Loke Thye Kee (乐台居) is a historical building at the intersection of Penang Road (Jalan Penang) and Burmah Road (Jalan Burma). Built a century ago, this heritage building is among the oldest surviving ones in Penang.
The original building is attributed to Khoo Sian Ewe, a prominent businessman and philanthropist at the turn of the 20th century. Originally a three-floor Hainanese restaurant, Loke Thye Kee (as it was called then) served as Penang’s prime spot for social events. An adjacent street, Jalan Khoo Sian Ewe, still bears the founder’s name.
Although having lost its prominence in recent times, Loke Thye Kee was given a new lease of life in 2012. The new owners undertook an ambitious project to restore the building to its former glory. Craftsmen of woodwork, tiling and wall finishes took great care to preserve authentic elements of the building.
At present, a Hainanese coffeehouse occupies the ground floor of the restored Loke Thye Kee building. To invoke nostalgia of traditional coffee shops, the eatery is called Kopitiam, which literally means “coffee shop”. Meanwhile, the second floor serves as events space for rent, while the rooftop terrace provides great view of the George Town’s cityscape. Adjacent to the main building are 5 luxurious hotel suites that were restored from former shophouses.
Kopitiam’s menu covers Hainanese snacks and other local food which most Penangites are fond of. Also included are elements of Western cuisine like sandwiches and salads. Despite the eatery’s upscale ambience, the pricing here is quite affordable. It is noteworthy to mention that Kopitiam is a halal-certified restaurant.
The signature delicacy at Kopitiam is the Hainanese Chicken Pie (RM7.90). Baked daily by an in-house pastry chef, the pie follows a secret recipe and is exclusively available at Loke Thye Kee only. For just RM3.00 more, a pot of tea is included. Choices of tea are Ceylon, Jasmine, Earl Grey and Camomile.
The pastry puff of the Hainanese Chicken Pie is light on the mouth and void of any oily sensation. Meanwhile, the fillings have delectable creamy texture that pleases the palate. This Hainanese Chicken Pie is highly recommended. Due to overwhelming demand, the pies may be sold out early. Advanced booking is recommended for large orders.
Another popular choice for light meals is the Hainanese Set (RM6.50). Several slices of toasted Hainanese bread are spread with kaya (coconut jam) and butter. Also included is a bowl of soft-boiled eggs and a hot cup of Kopi (coffee). The price is simply too affordable for a complete meal!
Nasi Lemak (RM3.90) is back by popular demand. Rice is cooked with coconut milk in order to infuse appealing aroma as well as to give slightly oily sensation. Another key component is the sambal (chili paste), whose spicy and savory flavor helps to induce appetite. Served on a banana leaf, other ingredients are anchovies (ikan bilis), hard-boiled egg and cucumber.
Alternatively, customers can opt for sandwiches in the form of croissants, baguettes, wraps or sliced white bread. Our first choice is Chicken Ham Croissant (RM10.50). Cut into halves, the croissant is stuffed with chicken ham, cabbage, tomato and onion. The croissant is nice on its own; I enjoy its soft, buttery texture.
The Tuna Mayonnaise Baguette (RM10.00) is a decent choice too. Tuna and mayonnaise are sandwiched between cut halves of a toasted baguette. The baguette is firmer than croissant, resulting in more filling sensation.
If tortilla holds a special place in your heart, Chicken Mayonnaise Wrap (RM11.30) is a good call. Slices of chicken ham and assorted fresh vegetables are densely sealed within a tortilla wrap. Since my previous trip to the United States, I have developed an affinity for Hispanic food.
Should customers prefer to go meatless, Egg Mayonnaise Salad (RM11.40) is one way to go. Fresh iceberg lettuce is mixed with hard-boiled eggs, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, onion and mayonnaise dressing.
White Coffee (RM4.00) is one of the popular drinks in traditional Hainanese coffee shops. Using coffee beans roasted with butter, this satisfying drink is known for its sweet honey-like aroma as well as substantial dose of caffeine.
Looking for a quick remedy to alleviate thirst? Ambra + Sour Plum (RM4.50) is the answer. Meanwhile, Wake Up Call (RM10.50) is derived from celery and honeydew. Finally, Brain Booster (RM13.50) comprises of celery, pear and apple. The fruity scent and natural sweetness of fruits are splendid.
Between 18 June 2016 and 30 June 2016, buy any sandwich at Kopitiam and get the second one for free! Both sandwiches needs to have the same bread and filling. To qualify, customers just need to “Like” Kopitiam’s Facebook page.
Name: Kopitiam
Address: 2, Jalan Burma, 10400 George Town, Pulau Pinang
Contact: 04-264-1919
Business hours: 8:00am-4:30pm
Website: https://www.facebook.com/Kopitiam-at-Loke-Thye-Kee-610232382356876
Coordinates: 5.41709 N, 100.32986 E
Directions: Loke Thye Kee is located at the intersection of Penang Road (Jalan Penang) and Burmah Road (Jalan Burma). From Burmah Road, turn right to Transfer Road (Jalan Transfer), and then take the next right to Jalan Phee Choon. Follow the road as it curves right to Jalan Khoo Sian Ewe. Street parking is available on Jalan Khoo Sian Ewe and Jalan Phee Choon.