“It’s unexpected, so when you spot one, you might think ‘it’s an odd day!’” the 39-year-old told FMT Lifestyle with a smile.
“I discovered that there are a lot of people in Malaysia who don’t really understand specialty coffee. I thought that the best way to introduce it is in a place like this. It’s vibrant and filled with patrons of different races,” he added.
The hawker centre is clean and comfortable, with various stalls selling Indian, Malay and Chinese food. It is hard to miss “Oddday” with its distinctive wooden bar counter and the tantalising aroma of coffee brewing.
Founded by Tok in Dec 2022, the stall draws both young and old: there are senior citizens who stop by after shopping or exercising, and office workers in need of a caffeine fix.
“I made a lot of friends here. The bar setting allows customers to ask us anything they’re curious about. We share stories, talk about how I make coffee, and it’s easier to get their feedback,” said Tok.
So, what’s the verdict? The flat white, made using Arabica beans, is smooth and strong. It’s the perfect way to kickstart your day or beat the mid-afternoon energy slump!
Other items on the menu include the standard espresso, long black, latte and cappuccino. For each cup, Tok shared, the coffee beans are carefully measured and ground upon order to ensure quality and taste.
The menu has an “odd and special” section, where one would find a beverage called “ospresso.” A combination of espresso and fresh orange juice, it is admittedly a strange concoction, and you may find yourself thinking that calling it “oddpresso” would be more apt!
But don’t strike it off too quickly: the beverage is surprisingly pleasant and has a lovely balance between strong coffee and tangy orange juice.
Other “odd & special” items include “coco-ffee,” which is made with coconut water and espresso. Customers also have the option of adding gula Melaka to their drink.
There is also “sweet sour syok,” a refreshing beverage made with ice cream soda, asam boi, lime and mint syrup.
If you’re looking for a non-coffee beverage, the decadent hot chocolate is a good option. Made with cocoa powder and chocolate chips, each sip is creamy, luxurious and comforting.
Although there are only two types of cakes here – the original and matcha burnt cheesecake – both are delightful treats made by Tok himself.
The original version has a sweet, silky mousse-like texture that beautifully complements the slightly bitter “burnt” exterior. The matcha version has a slightly nutty, umami flavour that isn’t too overwhelming and blends nicely with the crust.
All in all, with its selection of good quality beverages and decadent cakes, you’ll find that there won’t be anything odd with a visit to “Oddday” – instead, it might just make your day more pleasant!
Oddday
Stall 18, Atria Damansara Jaya SS22 Hawker Centre
Jalan SS22/25
Damansara Jaya
47400 Petaling Jaya
Selangor
For location, click here.
Business hours: 7am–4pm (Closed on Sunday)
Learn more about Oddday on Instagram.