I discovered Kopitiam, this hidden gem, during one of my walks in Chinatown. It’s a small “stop and go” place that serves typical Malaysian dishes for breakfast and snacks. It’s run by a Malaysian family, and their kitchen is the size of my bathroom…Tiny! Resourceful, creative…their food has to be authentic and good. I made a mental note to return.

I went back and fell in love with the place. My prior thoughts were also correct. This is now one of my top 10 places in Chinatown.

Sticky rice, wrapped and steamed in pandan leaves, are a typical breakfast dish. I ordered the Sticky Rice with Shrimp. It was wrapped perfectly. My mom’s speciality is Sticky Rice, and she would approve of the wrapping.

Unwrapping the leaves, I felt like a kid at Christmas. As I broke the sticky rice in 2 parts, I could see the steam from the rice and smell the familiar, amazing aromas.

Once I took a bite, I couldn’t stop and finished the entire thing. (The thought to eat first part now and save the rest for tomorrow went out the window). The shrimp and Sambal mixed with the rice – delicious and perfection. The Sambal was key. If it was terrible, the whole thing would be. But this was clearly the opposite.

Kopitiam is also known for its coffee, tea and desserts. More the reason for me to come back!

All images and content © 2016 Carol Vu.