Take a walk around and you’ll spot interesting items on display, like a 2.1m British analogue mixing console from the mid-1980s. A sign at the console reveals that Sharifah Aini, XPDC, Amy Search and Ning Baizura were among the artistes who used this console for recording their songs.
There is even a multitrack tape recorder. And at this point, you’ll be wondering what the story is behind this place.
Wong Mei Fhong, 45, one of the café’s founders, revealed that the spot was formerly the vinyl pressing plant of King Musical Industries. In fact, the console and recorder still belong to the previous owners.
King Musical Industries once manufactured vinyl records, duplicated cassette tapes and provided recording and mastering services. Even international artistes recorded at King Studio – Hetty Koes Endang and the timeless Teresa Teng among them!
The studio, which is presently rented out to various tenants, is located right next to the café. Wong shared that they started the eatery in 2019 and opened a second outlet in JioSpace, Petaling Jaya last year.
Another thing that patrons can look forward to here? Good coffee. “We use specialty-grade coffee. It’s usually a blend of Brazilian, Ethiopian and Columbian beans,” said Wong.
A highlight on the menu, she added, is the siphon coffee that is brewed using a device that looks like it belongs in a chemistry lab. Fun fact: Regine Wai, another founder of the café, was the first runner-up in the 2016 World Siphonist Championship and the second runner-up in the next two years.
So, how did the coffee fare? It was smooth, thick, strong and perfect for those who need a jolt during a mid-afternoon slump!
The dirty latte, a rich, creamy beverage that begs to be savoured slowly, is another delightful option.
And what can be more quintessentially Malaysian than pairing your coffee with soft-boiled eggs and toasted bread filled with butter and kaya. The latter, Wong added, is made by her sister, so you know that you’re in for a treat!
For something heavier, do try the Fishie Bowl. Patrons can look forward to a heaping bowl of rice, smoked salmon, edamame, mushrooms, sauteed capsicum and broccoli pesto.
The smoked salmon is delightfully fresh and best when savoured with some ebiko. But the star of the dish is the broccoli pesto. Made in-house, it is creamy, flavourful and ties the dish together.
For something homey and comforting, the Japanese curry rice will hit all the right spots. The curry, Wong shared, is made from scratch. It’s a tantalising combination of spicy and sweet when enjoyed with a heaping spoonful of rice, juicy chicken and an egg done sunny-side up.
End your meal with a slice of banana pound cake or burnt cheesecake, both made in-house. There are more choices, so look around first before settling on one. There are also alcoholic cakes such as kahlua tiramisu and rum raisin.
Overall, whether you’re looking for a spot to enjoy some me-time, catch up with friends or get some work done, Kings Hall by Cafe In A Box is certainly a grand choice.
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Kings Hall by Cafe In A Box
Lot 5, Jalan 13/2,
46200 Petaling Jaya
Business hours:
8am-5pm (Mondays-Fridays)
9am-5pm (Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays)