For my Ipoh makan trip, we spent a huge amount of time visiting more hawkers than usual, and hence the time spent in cafes are much lesser. Plus some cafes are closed on Mondays and Tuesdays which make it harder to visit. But it is obvious that many cafes have sprung up along the old streets and shop houses. Some locals have taken this opportunity to turn abandon or vintage shops to boutique cafes.

When I go to a foreign country to do a mini food guide, I really spend alot of time and stomach space to eat. But not all of them are worth the calories. So when I do a compilation, it is the process of eliminating and only presenting what is really good. You may notice, the past few food guides had a title starting with “must try…” because I really stand by it (not for the SEO). It’s a long and tedious process because lots of elements are taken into consideration – ambience (if any), concept, food and service.

During this trip, I visited 5 cafes in Ipoh. Some has very nice ambience but not very good food. So I don’t really want to add the words “must try”. I will definitely be back to try more cafes before offering a more complete guide. If you have any good recommendations, do drop me a comment. Meanwhile, enjoy reading and happy Monday!

Tucked away in one of the back lanes, Ben & Lynette Maison Patisserie is run by the same group that manages Secret Garden and MyGopeng Resort. Housed in a colonial mansion, it serves all day-breakfasts, pasta, pizzas, pastries, cakes, cofee and with a pick-your-own salad bar.

The cafe has a minimalist decor with vintage items and mono-toned furnitures. Signature dishes include Sandwich Train and Charcoal Burger, big enough for 2-3 people to share. But upon arrival, we we were mesmerized by their cake offerings so we decided to just have Tiramisu (RM12.90) and Strawberry Tart (RM8.90) instead. Tiramisu in a cup is not too bad even though I wish they have stronger espresso. Not a fan of their strawberry tart as the fruit is too sour for my liking and the crust is not buttery enough.

BEN & LYNETTE

Address: No. 42, Lorong Cheah Cheang Lim
Tel: +60 1-700-81-7773
Opening Hours: 9am – 12.30am daily

Among the 5 cafes which I have been to, Missing Marbles (same owner as Burps 7 Giggles) is my favourite. I have seen many cafes in modern decor and I have eaten so many cafes serving typical breakfast set such as eggs benedict or omelette. But I have seldom enter into a cafe like Missing Marble. This place used to be an optical shop. The owner kept the original facade and yellow signboard, but converted into a old school playground concept with childhood toys like marbles, bicycles and origami fortune tellers around the cafe. It definitely brought back so much memories.

Missing Marbles’ menu is all on the wall, offering Asian flavours like Ramen Hakata, Dry Ramen, Mee Siam, Mushu Lamb, Calrose Rice and more. I ordered a plate of mee siam which came in a generous portion. Tart and tangy are the two main flavours that make a good plate of mee siam. I think they have clearly achieved that. It’s tangy and spicy and paired well with Funny Mountain soya bean drink.

MISSING MARBLES

Address : 99 Jalan Sultan Yussuf
Tel: +60 5 241 1564
Opening Hours: 8.30 am – 8.30 pm. Closed on Tuesdays.

Came here on Monday when they were closed, so I visited the second time on Tuesday. Unlike many other cafes, this romantic white cafe located beside Adonis bridal shop has so many beautiful English decorations and sweet floral motifs that will make many girls (including me) go wow.

The Smoked Duck Spaghetti was recommended by our friends but I am not a fan of smoked duck from the beginning. So I went for their Chicken Chop instead. Simple offerings but the chicken meat is well marinated which retains its juiciness and the sauce is rich in flavour.

POTPOURRI HOUSE CAFE

Address: No. 2, Jalan Woodward
Tel: +60 5 254 6886
Opening hours: 11am – 10.30pm. Closed on Mondays

This used to be an old furniture warehouse that has been abandoned for years. Plan b took advantage of the architecture and turned it into a modern cafe with industrial elements. Extremely beautiful interior and I love how they incorporate Yasmin Ahmad’s words on the wall. Definitely didn’t feel like Ipoh at all and be sure to explore the surroundings for photo opportunities. The style of food at Plan B is Aussie-meets-New York deli (but pork free), with contemporary flavours, comprising of salads, sandwiches, pastas and a huge variety of cakes.

Our breakfast was nothing out of the box nor unique. I ordered a French Toast which was too oily for my liking. The saving grace is my cup of cappuccino. It is smooth and robust, definitely a booster for my early morning of waking up. Plus point is, they did such a cute latte art. How not to love to my coffee?

PLAN B

Address: No. 75, Jalan Panglima
Tel: +60 5 249 8286
Opening Hours : 9am – 10pm daily

Set in a majestic colonial-style bungalow in Ipoh, Indulgence is not a stranger to many. Owner Julie Song started a cakes & coffee join in 1996 in Canning Gardens which was a hit, and then opened Indulgence in 2005. In fact, they are probably one of the first few to have their F&B establishments in Ipoh.

Dining in the huge bungalow is rather relaxing as the space is huge and you can have some quiet corner by yourself. Honestly speaking, I categorize them as a restaurant instead of cafe because they offer an extensive array of modern European cuisine. We ordered a Boxy (RM 26) for breakfast which comes with poached egg on crisp bread with wild mushrooms, smoked salmon & roe. Presentation was excellent and it was slightly different from the usual poached egg brunch. Love the smoked salmon and roe!

INDULGENCE

Address: Indulgence Restaurant & Living @ 14, Jalan Raja Di Hilir
Tel: +60 5 255 7051
Opening hours: Wednesday to Sunday, 9am to 11.30pm