DatKhachSan.Com
June 3, 2026 • 3 min read
Explore Ho Kow Hainan Kopitiam, renowned for its nasi lemak and kaya toast in Kuala Lumpur's Chinatown. Is this eatery worth the long lines of eager customers?
Introduction to Ho Kow Hainan Kopitiam
Growing up in Kuala Lumpur, Chinatown (or Petaling Street) was never my favorite destination. It's mainly a hotspot for tourists, showcasing the rich culinary tapestry reflective of Malaysia's diverse culture. While some might argue that Chinatown isn't worth a visit, the truth is, you can't truly explore everything in just one day. During my culinary adventures, I stumbled upon a special gem: Ho Kow Hainan Kopitiam.
Established in 1956, Ho Kow Hainan Kopitiam is located on Jalan Balai Polis, just a stone's throw away from Chinatown. The café only opens until the afternoon and always has long queues forming from early morning, starting at 7:30 AM. I arrived at 10 AM and was pleasantly surprised to find that most of the patrons were international travelers, with few locals around.
Signature Dishes at Ho Kow Hainan Kopitiam
To kick off my meal, I ordered the Butter & Kaya Toast (RM4), a must-try here. This delightful dish features two slices of toasted white bread, filled with fragrant kaya (coconut jam) and soft butter. What impressed me was how the bread was soft on the inside yet perfectly crispy on the outside. Each bite, paired with the kaya and butter, offered a delightful experience.
However, what I was really hoping to savor was the Nasi Lemak Ayam Goreng (RM17.30). Nasi lemak at kopitiams often strikes a balance between elegance and comfort. On my first taste, the sambal was rich and flavorful. The coconut rice seemed a bit dry, but a small spoonful revealed the creamy essence of the coconut milk. I do wish the rice had a fluffier texture.
✈️ Tìm chuyến bay giá tốt
Đặt vé ngay với giá ưu đãi từ các hãng hàng không
The anchovies, peanuts, and cucumber were fresh and crunchy. Unfortunately, I was disappointed with the chicken, as I had to leave a quarter of the chicken thigh uneaten due to its unappealing taste. The skin was crispy, but the meat was a bit dry and had an odd smell. I had heard many prior complaints about the meat quality here, but I didn't expect to encounter it myself.
Final Snack
To cleanse my palate, I tried the Cheese Beancurd (RM5.60). This dish consists of three cheese-filled tofu balls, sweet in flavor and wrapped in a soft tofu skin. However, I found the accompanying chili sauce a bit thick, making it hard to cling to the dish.
Final Thoughts
As I left Ho Kow Hainan Kopitiam, I felt conflicted. The kaya toast truly was one of the best dishes I had ever tasted. Yet, the unsatisfactory chicken experience left a sour note. Is Ho Kow Hainan Kopitiam worth the long lines? Taste is subjective, but for me, the allure wasn't strong enough. If you find yourself in Kuala Lumpur and wish to sample the cuisine, do stop by, but be cautious with the chicken.
Helpful Information for Vietnamese Travelers
To reach Ho Kow Hainan Kopitiam, you can fly from Vietnam to Kuala Lumpur via Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA or KLIA2). The flight duration is approximately 3-4 hours. Vietnamese travelers do not need a visa for short-term stays (under 30 days). The local currency is the Malaysian Ringgit (RM), with the current exchange rate being around 1 RM to 5,500 VND. Once in Chinatown, you can easily get around by taxi or public transport. Make sure to have some cash on hand for your meals here!
Article referenced and edited from: Seth Lui Food
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