Much as we embrace modernity in the form of new fangled devices, I think that many of us (especially older folk) have a yearning for the days of yore, items and objects that remind us of simpler days in our childhood decades ago. This is where cafes that give a nostalgic vibe have a special appeal. Tingkap Cafe at Old Town PJ (you can’t miss it as it’s on the main road as you enter Old Town, situated along Jalan 1/14) on the same row as Burger King). Parking is a challenge in this area no matter what time of day you visit. I was there mid-afternoon and even then had to park some distance away. It’d be even more impossible in the morning, I reckon.
It’s not that there are no other cafes serving good old fashioned fare like nasi kerabu/nasi lemak/nasi dagang but generally those that do charge quite a bit, like RM15 per dish. At Tingkap Cafe, you can get a packet of such delicious fare (it’s direct from Kelantan every morning) for around RM7.50 but if you get there by lunch time which is to say after 11am, you won’t find a single packet left as they sell faster than hot cakes.
Just to try something, I ordered Hot Tea which came in a bigger than expected mug but the water was not hot enough and it wasn’t “kaw” enough either. The Roti Jala came in 6 small rolled up pieces. While the curry chicken was good, it wasn’t exceptional. It’s just not something I would want to order again.
The staff are all very nice and friendly, one of them even gave me her number so that I can whatsapp her if I want to reserve any of the hot-selling packets which arrive daily from Kelantan. I don’t think I can get there by 8am in order to get my hands on any of those delicacies as traffic to Old Town on a weekday is too heavy and as the staff said, they have an even bigger crowd on weekends so by the time I get there on any morning, I might also face the same scenario – all sold out.
As you enter the cafe, take a glance at the “Welcome” signboard above in our local languages. It’s very inclusive and shows a “muhibbah” spirit. We are all united by food regardless of race, religion or gender.
