TeoChew Nang Cafeteria

In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in genealogy among the public, leading to the emergence of numerous heritage themed restaurants. One such restaurant that we introduce today is the “TeoChew Nang Cafeteria.” Teochew is actually Chaozhou’s dialect.

TeoChew Nang Cafeteria opened on 17 December 2022. This cafeteria has two floors: the first floor is a restaurant, and the second floor is a cultural center. However, almost every corner of the building has TeoChew people’s cultural relics and antique daily necessities.

A Culinary Tribute to TeoChew Heritage

Step into TeoChew Nang Cafeteria, and you’ll find yourself immersed in the traditions of TeoChew. The restaurant’s name, “TeoChew Nang,” refers to people of Chaozhou descent. Their mission is to pay homage to TeoChew culture, and they’ve chosen to do it through food as well.

TeoChew Nang Cafeteria offers a delectable array of Chaozhou dishes. One of the highlights is Chaozhou congee, known as “muay.” The Chaozhou people have their own unique way of enjoying rice porridge by adding various ingredients, giving birth to dishes like “yu muay,” a fish congee that is a standout in the restaurant’s offerings.

But that’s not all; the menu features a variety of Chaozhou specialties. The Chaozhou Congee Platter pairs plain congee with an assortment of side dishes. The Chaozhou Fried Congee, a local innovation, takes plain congee and fries it with additional ingredients and soy sauce to create a distinctive flavor.

TeoChew “Lo” Platter and Muay

The restaurant also offers a selection of braised dishes, a hallmark of Chaozhou cuisine. While these dishes may not be as heavy as their Fujian counterparts, they are known for their balanced and nuanced flavors. Think braised duck, eggs, pig ears, and tofu – all with a delicious braising sauce. To enjoy them fully, cut these items into slices, drizzle them with the sauce, and garnish with coriander. A dipping sauce made with white vinegar adds the perfect zing.

Teo Chew Kuey Chap

Kuey Chap or Kway Jap is another TeoChew classic on the menu. With braised ingredients and a ladle of braising sauce, the savory flavors of the braising sauce complement the fragrant rice noodle rolls perfectly.

TeoChew Rice Kueh

由于馅料有糯米，故名《饭粿》；因形似红桃，所以也有人称之为《红桃粿》

The dessert section offers a delightful selection that includes Mung Bean Jelly and You Tiao (Chinese crullers), TeoChew Taro and TeoChew Sweet Potato Soup among others. Additionally, there’s a variety of Cantonese dim sum, freshly baked bread, and egg tarts hot from the oven.

Echoes of the Past

Dedicated to preserving and promoting cultural heritage, every corner of the TeoChew Nang Cafeteria invites in-depth exploration.

The building – 1916 陈泉美 Tan Chaun Bee

Tan Chaun Bee arrived in Malaya from China in the early 19th century, built his fortune as a businessman, and acquired the building. The Chen family resided here for four generations until the property was eventually sold. However, during the renovation of the TeoChew Nang Cafeteria, they chose to preserve most of the original structure.

Snapshot of the Era

The cafeteria portrays snippets of life from a bygone era, offering the younger generation insights into the lives of their elders.

Ang Thau Tsung

The “Red Head Junk” or “Ang Thau Tsung” is a story about a merchant ship that was involved in ocean trade in Chaozhou, China during the Qing Dynasty. The ship was named after the red brush on its bow. It is an important symbol of the Chaozhou community and was once a vital link between China and the rest of the world for economic and cultural exchanges.

TeoChew Opera

TeoChew opera is known for its unique singing style. Unfortunately, as proficiency in the Chaozhou dialect has waned, understanding Chaozhou opera has become less straightforward.

Every family’s ancestry is worth exploring, as our present is shaped by the past. So, if you’re interested in TeoChew culture, consider paying a visit to the TeoChew Nang Cafeteria and unlock the doors to a world of knowledge.

As always, if you have any questions, feel free to reach out to Foodveler on WhatsApp!