Joanna James
Among Ipoh's culinary gems are its traditional kopitiams—local coffee shops that serve up some of the most beloved breakfasts in Malaysia. If you’re planning a vacation in this city, here are six famous Kopitiam breakfasts you must try during your visit.
Start your day with a classic Ipoh white coffee paired with kaya toast. This iconic breakfast features a smooth, aromatic coffee with a unique roasting process that gives it a distinctive taste. The kaya toast, made with thick slices of bread, is spread with kaya (a sweet coconut and egg jam) and butter. It’s a delightful combination that perfectly captures the essence of traditional Malaysian breakfasts. During your staycation in Ipoh, this dish will offer a genuine taste of local flavour.
The Hainanese chicken chop is a hearty breakfast choice consisting of tender chicken pieces coated in a crispy batter and served with a rich, savoury sauce. Accompanied by mashed potatoes and vegetables, this dish is a comforting and satisfying option that highlights the fusion of flavours popular in Ipoh's kopitiams.
Nasi lemak is widely celebrated as Malaysia’s national dish and a beloved breakfast staple in Ipoh. This iconic meal is much more than just a plate of rice; it embodies the rich flavours and cultural diversity of Malaysian cuisine. At its core, nasi lemak features fragrant, coconut-infused rice, which is cooked to a fluffy texture and infused with the creamy richness of coconut milk. This aromatic rice is typically accompanied by a generous serving of sambal, a spicy and tangy chilli paste that adds a vibrant kick to each bite.
Chee Cheong Fun, or steamed rice rolls, is another popular breakfast choice. These soft, silky rice rolls are served with a choice of sauces such as sweet soy sauce and chilli sauce. The dish can be topped with various accompaniments, making it a versatile and flavourful option.
For those craving something spicy, Ipoh curry mee is a fantastic choice. This dish features yellow noodles in a rich, aromatic curry soup, often accompanied by tofu, chicken, and bean sprouts. The combination of flavours in this dish highlights the bold and vibrant taste that is characteristic of Ipoh's cuisine.
Roti bakar, or toasted bread, served with half-boiled eggs, is a simple yet satisfying breakfast that perfectly captures the essence of traditional Malaysian mornings. The bread, typically made from white or wholemeal varieties, is toasted to a golden crisp, creating a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy toppings. It is then generously spread with a layer of butter, which melts into the warm toast, and kaya, a sweet and aromatic coconut and egg jam. This combination of buttery richness and the sweet, fragrant kaya makes each bite a comforting treat.
After indulging in these local delights, consider staying at Travelodge Ipoh, conveniently located just a 5-minute drive from Medan Selera Stadium, where you can continue to explore and enjoy a variety of local breakfast options.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
