Welcome to World of Phalaenopsis, the largest grower of this genus of orchid in Malaysia. Executive director Darren Yeo tells FMT the café is located in what was once a greenhouse, “which is why it is cool here, even on a hot day”.
Nearby is a pond adorned with water lilies, complete with an adorable flock of ducks.
Inside the café, rustic wooden tables await larger groups, comfortable couches welcome those who prefer curling up with a good book, and Japanese-style floor seating beckons those who are more flexible.
With such a cosy environment, what’s the verdict on the food and drinks?
The nasi lemak with rendang chicken is a local favourite done right. The rice is fluffy and fragrant, while the sambal – often deemed as the make-or-break component – has just the right amount of spice.
The real star of the dish, however, is the chicken itself: the meat is tender and falls off the bone, while the gravy simply bursts with flavour.
The asam laksa is another must-try. The gravy accompanying the rice noodles is thick, flavourful and tangy, with a generous amount of fish flakes.
Topped with pineapple, cucumber and onions, among others, this hearty dish tastes as good as it looks.
If you’re a fan of satay, then the satay chicken chop is for you. Like the rendang, the smoky meat is tender and juicy – and true to its name, it tastes exactly like the classic Malaysian skewers everyone knows and loves!
The dish is served with the usual satay sidekicks: ketupat (rice cakes), cucumber in the form of acar, and delicious peanut sauce.
For afters, you can’t go wrong with the banana crumble with ice cream. It is absolutely delightful: buttery pastry topped with a generous serving of chocolate ice cream; rich and moist with pleasant hints of spice.
Alternatively, the chocolate mousse, pistachio ganache, or lemon meringue will certainly satiate your sweet tooth.
How about enjoying these desserts with a hot latte? The brew here is creamy but not overwhelmingly strong.
Instead of the usual biscotti, the beverage is given a Malaysian twist as it is served with “roti kok” – crunchy bread that is sure to evoke fond memories as you dip it into your coffee.
Other beverages include cappuccino, mocha, caramel latte, hot and iced chocolate, as well as a selection of teas.
According to Yeo, the food selections at The Florescence are composed of “family specialities” gathered from employees.
“We try to keep the price competitive and accessible,” he says, adding that he hopes visitors “can be themselves” when they visit the café.
“This is a place where they can relax and feel right at home.”
For more information, visit The Florescence’s Facebook and Instagram profiles.
The Florescence @ World of Phalaenopsis
Lot 1017, Kampung Sungai Kamin
Ulu Yam Baru
44300 Batang Kali, Selangor
Contact: 03-60751133
Business hours: 9am to 5pm daily