Kuantan happens to now be one of my favourite local travel destinations, coming in a close second to Penang. As such, we’re always keen to explore new food places to keep things interesting – and Muar E Kopitiam was recommended by a friend who’s a local.
Fuss-free setup at Muar E Kopitiam
Muar E Kopitiam is a local kopitiam specialising in coffee, tea, breads and goreng-goreng (Kuantan style). We were told it’s super packed on weekends but fortunately, the kopitiam wasn’t too crowded on a weekday.
Crowd favourites include the tepung goreng, nasi lemak, nasi goreng kampung, bihun Siam and kaya toast. We ordered those, and picked a curry puff and pulut panggang from the display at the counter.
Tepung Goreng
I was really curious about tepung goreng (RM10.90) as it was highly recommended on Google – it also took the longest along our orders to arrive. This is essentially stir-fried pan mee (mee tepung lol), and a tasty one at that. It’s hearty and comforting to eat, and the handmade noodles were cooked al dente. The kids loved this.
Bihun Siam
Not tangy enough, but decent to eat.
Our friend claims the Bihun Siam (RM9.90) at Muar E Kopitiam is his favourite but I personally find this just alright. While it’s cooked nicely, this lacked tanginess from the lime, which is important when it comes to mee or bihun Siam. Still, fairly enjoyable if you’re not too nitpicky.
Kopi Ais
Coffee at Muar E Kopitiam is quite decent. Adequately thick with a rich, malty taste and good caffeine kick. In terms of “kau-ness”, I wouldn’t rank it high up as it’s quite balanced and wouldn’t make you feel like an energizer bunny later on. Just the right amount of caffeine for me, especially since we were there for a late lunch.
Nasi Goreng Kampung Telur Mata
Nasi Goreng Kampung (RM9.90) comes with a fried egg on top and plenty of crispy ikan bilis. Mildly spicy with a whiff of wok hei, this was enjoyable. Even our little girls enjoyed this as they can take spicy food to a certain extend.
Nasi Lemak Telur Mata
Muar E Kopitiam serves nasi lemak biasa or bungkus. You’ll need to add on your lauk as an ala carte – they have kari ikan tongkol, ayam goreng or rendang ayam. We opted for Nasi Lemak Telur Goreng (RM5.50) which comes with what seems like too little sambal tumis, but don’t be a hero and ask for more. This small dollop is spicy enough to make you sweat.
Bun bakar and roti stim, both with kaya and butter.
Kopitiam staples. Their barli ais is surprisingly good.
We had the Bun Bakar with kaya and butter (RM3) and Roti Stim with kaya and butter (RM4.80); I enjoyed the steamed bread more as it’s fluffy and lightly chewy. The bun bakar is just your standard toasted bun.
Pulut panggang and karipap
Soft and chewy texture
I like the pulut panggang (RM2.80) here as the glutinous rice is soft and chewy. We didn’t get to try the curry puff (RM2.90) as May Anne inhaled it on her own. I believe it must have been good.
Service at Muar E Kopitiam was quick and pleasant when we went, but I reckon not as friendly if things are more chaotic. Overall, a good place for coffee, snacks or a simple meal. Check them out if you’re visiting Kuantan.
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Ambiance: 5.5/10
Price: 6.5/10
Food: 6/10 (halal)
Verdict: A good hangout spot in Kuantan. Try the tepung goreng and iced coffee.
Do you have a food recommendation? Tell us!
Muar E Kopitiam
A643, 2, Jalan Beserah,
Kampung Alor Akar,
25300 Kuantan.
Tel: 011-2576 8100
Business hours: 7.30am till 5pm
(daily)