Despite its tongue-twisting name, Play Klang C³afe’s motto is pretty simple: “Now everyone can enjoy bak kut teh!”
Pork-free, their version of this dish, said to have originated in Klang, is also wildly adventurous as the bak kut teh is offered in the form of pasta and even ice cream – yes, you read right!
Set in a 100-year-old pre-war shop lot across from the Klang KTM station, Play Klang C³afe – the “C cubed” standing for culture, creativity, connection – is all about celebrating the town’s rich history in the most delicious way.
Founder Jomy Yaw, an avid traveller, said that when he turned 30, he came to the realisation that it was time to showcase the beauty of Klang to the world.
Every corner inside the café tells a story of Klang’s vibrant past. You’ll find art installations of iconic landmarks like the Kota Bridge, or historical events like the Battle for Klang in the 1800s.
Of course, the heart of this café is its bak kut teh.
Try the bak kut teh carbonara, complete with a poached egg and chicken chunks, or the creamy and savoury bak kut teh risotto, which is so good, you’re guaranteed to clean your plate.
Both dishes pack the signature bak kut teh punch, but the herbs aren’t overpowering. The creaminess combined with the bold spices make for a winning combo.
Jomy, 37, shared the inspiration behind his daring decision to reinvent the classic bak kut teh. “Many tourists from Muslim countries like Turkey who visit Malaysia cannot eat the bak kut teh here. But bak kut teh is a very important part of the culture in Klang.”
That’s why they’ve created international fusion dishes to introduce a milder version of this herbal soup to visiting foreigners. In fact, they’re currently working on packaging their signature bak kut teh sauce so that tourists can take a taste of Klang home with them.
Many of their dishes are inspired by recipes shared by tourists, like the bak kut teh poğaça, a soft, buttery Turkish bread.
And let’s not forget their boldest creation: bak kut teh ice cream. Inspired by Japan’s soy sauce ice cream, this creamy vanilla-based dessert has been causing quite a stir.
“Not everyone can accept it, while others will take on the challenge. Some people really like it and will order more ice cream or add more soup,” Jomy revealed.
FMT Lifestyle says it’s definitely worth a try! The first bite might be confusing, but as you eat on, the taste becomes enjoyable – almost like a sweeter, colder version of bak kut teh.
On the drinks menu, each cup is printed with sketches of Klang’s historical landmarks and features QR codes that provide audio-visual guides in six languages. So, while you sip, you can become an expert on this city’s rich history.
Try the “Hello Yappy” – a sparkling coffee infused with grapefruit for a refreshing zing – or the “Crow Signature,” a nod to Klang’s crow population, featuring herbal-tea ice cubes with honey and lemon.
The café has also teamed up with local schools to preserve Klang’s heritage through artwork created by children.
In the upstairs dining area is an exhibit of Klang’s future featuring luxury stores and skyscrapers, created by children using cardboard boxes.
Jomy expressed his pride in sharing the love for his beloved town with the world. “It makes us feel very happy that Klang is growing and becoming a tourist spot.”
In their eyes, everyone is a Klang ambassador.
Play Klang C³afe
28, Jalan Raya Timur,
Kawasan 1, Klang, Selangor
Business hours
10.30am-6pm (Mondays-Thursday)
10.30am-11pm (Fridays-Sundays)