It was not until recently that this writer discovered Happy Mansion, a gastronomic heaven that offers everything from good slices of pizza to refreshing bowls of cendol to keep you cool on hot Malaysian days.
For those unaware, Happy Mansion is hidden away in Section 17, Petaling Jaya, a sleepy neighbourhood made of sundry shops, laundromats, and old but well-maintained flats. There are three unassuming blocks of apartments, where the ground floors offer a bevvy of restaurants, cafes, and stalls that’ll satisfy even the fussiest of foodies.
Here is where you’ll find some of the most diverse, best-kept dining secrets. Only those in the know will vouch that eating at any restaurant here will turn you into a loyal devotee.
1. Dough! Bakery & Cafe
If you’re craving artisanal loaves of bread and pancakes as soft as pillows, look no further than Dough!, tucked away in the heart of Petaling Jaya at Happy Mansion. Renowned for using quality ingredients matched with traditional baking techniques, this bakery/cafe serves all the carbs you can imagine.
Waffles? Yes. Pancakes? Hell yes. Sourdough sandwiches? Mmm, yeah! However, what we found most unique was their Duck Pizza, which was flavourful and generous enough to share. Their selection of sourdough loaves is also worth peeking at and taking away. Their pavlovas are easily one of the prettiest we’ve ever seen, thanks to the sprinkling of edible flowers.
Address: B-G-7, Block B, Happy Mansion, Jalan 17/13, Seksyen 17, 46400 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Contact: +6016 647 2775
2. Sistars Kitchen
For inexpensive and flavourful Malaysian delights, Sistars Kitchen is very unlikely to disappoint. Its casual and open-air kopitiam concept makes it hard to miss, and the crowd (likely loyalists and not too overwhelming) will pique your curiosity.
The menu here is simple, and we assume it’s on purpose to save time on what to order. The Chee Cheong Fun is SO GOOD and will change the minds of those who don’t naturally gravitate towards this unassuming dish. Sistars’ version is doused in sauce and topped generously with fried shallots, and Chinese preserved radish (also known as choy poh).
The nasi lemak ayam rendang will have your heart racing, and don’t make the mistake of not ordering their shaved iced desserts––ABC and cendol; either one is just as good as the other.
Address: CG5, Happy Mansion, Block C, Jalan 17/13, 46400 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Contact: +6017 332 4338
3. Jane’s Nem
For some, the idea of a bowl of pho is just noodles swimming around in broth. For a true foodie, a bowl of this Vietnamese staple is meant to be hearty and comforting and knows how hard it is to come by. If you have been searching for authentic Vietnamese cuisine, consider your arduous search over because Jane’s Nem is where you’ll find all the robust flavours.
No hate to Super Saigon because we do love convenience, but the pho here will knock your socks off. Meek in appearance, its taste excels beyond your wildest expectations. It’s clear that recipes have been perfected before serving to restaurant patrons. Of course, don’t skip their banh mi and spring rolls either.
Address: Happy Mansion, AG5, Block A, Jalan 17/13, 46400 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Contact: +6012 331 1835
4. Pizza Mansion
Pizza lovers will know of Pizza Mansion; if they didn’t, they’d want to. As the name suggests, this eatery offers all kinds of pizzas, and while they have swanky, new outlets at The Five and Bukit Bintang, this flagship location remains a fan-favourite. Expect classics of Italy’s favourite carb with the Holy Pepperoni or Hey Margherita.
Want some proper meat on your slices of joy? Try the Silence Of The Lambs or Carbonara. There is also pasta available here if you’re not in the mood for pizza, and trust us when we say you should end your meal with their famed Brownies And Ice Cream.
Address: BG3, Block B, Happy Mansion, Jalan 17/13, Seksyen 17, 46400 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Contact: +6016 388 5365
5. FEEKA
Those who brunch will be very familiar with FEEKA. Founded over a decade ago, the brand now has three outlets and a slew of brunch fans who swear by its menu. With laid-back vibes and quality brews, it’s genuinely a comforting choice for those who need to be caffeinated, and you’ll rarely hear complaints about their food, from savoury choices like their Salt Beef Sandwich and Chicken Parmigiana to sweet options like pancakes and the outlet’s Dark Chocolate Brownie.
Address: Happy Mansion, BG1, Block B, Jalan 17/13, Section 17, 46400 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Contact: +603 7931 2308
6. Good Blue Men
For the perfect blend of Western and Asian fusion, Good Blue Men is the place to go. Tucked away in Block A of Happy Mansion, this restaurant deserves all the praise it gets, and plating is its speciality here. Their other speciality is hot sandwiches, and with generous portions, you’ll be having thoughts about seconds.
The Sirloin Pineapple Sandwich will have you sacrificing your daily caloric intake. While their slices of carbs are all the rage, that’s not to say you shouldn’t try their light bites, like the Sweet Potato Chips or Sarawak Laksa Pasta; on Tuesdays, you get 50% off your second plate.
Address: AG-01, Ground Floor, Block A, Happy Mansion, Jalan 17/13, Seksyen 17, 46400 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Contact: +603 7499 7394
7. Tanah dan Air
Welcome to your thirties and beyond, where the idea of a tea bar excites you as a nightclub once would in your twenties. Started in 2018, Tanah dan Air is the first-ever tea bar in town and the brainchild of artist Siow Fei.
Their purpose goes beyond just serving freshly brewed tea in Klang Valley; they also educate the community about the world of tea and the art of brewing. Tanah dan Air also hosts classes where participants get first-hand experience in the intricate world of tea.
You can also shop for tea-riffic items like tea leaves, cups, and teapots from their online store.
Address: CG3b Happy Mansion, Jalan 17/13, Seksyen 17, 46400 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Contact: +6011 6396 6086
8. Hideaway Cafe
If you’re looking for a cosy spot to enjoy a variety of cakes and hot meals, Hideaway Cafe at Happy Mansion is the place to be. They serve some of the best cakes in town, and their scones are truly exceptional. The cafe exudes a relaxed, slow-living vibe, making it an ideal location for remote working.
We recommend the Blueberry Yogurt and Pandan Coconut cakes for something sweet. The Aglio Olio with Ham is delicious if you’re in the mood for a hearty meal. And if you’re not a coffee drinker, their Iced Chocolate is sure to impress.
Address: AG7, Block A Happy Mansion Section, 17, Jalan 17/13, 46400 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Contact: +603 7491 7383
9. Frame Thai
When it comes to Thai restaurants, Klang Valley is filled with them, and we Malaysians have a great passion for Thai food. That’s why Happy Mansion has included a Thai restaurant among its eateries. Frame Thai offers an authentic experience and is a must-visit for any true foodie who loves Thai cuisine.
One dish you can’t miss is the braised pork leg rice; it’s a generous serving, so small eaters should be aware. Other standout dishes include green curry and Pad Thai. If you’re looking for light bites, their marinated meat skewers are perfect and will quickly satisfy your cravings.
Additionally, the restaurant serves as a mini-mart for Thai products, allowing you to stock up on your favourite goods to take home after your meal.
Address: AG-3, Ground Floor, Block A, Happy Mansion, Jalan 17/13, Seksyen 17, 46400 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Contact: +603 7954 4688
