Malaysians love food, and it goes without saying that our hearts yearn even more for street food. In the city of Kuala Lumpur (KL) and Petaling Jaya (PJ), the choices are abundant, and one of our many favourites is cendol. Considering our tropical climate, it’s no wonder we love this shaved ice delicacy so much. Traditionally topped with rice flour jelly, then drenched in coconut milk and plenty of palm sugar syrup, it’s as addictive as it is refreshing.
So, where exactly can you get a fix of this cold, sweet dessert? Read on to find out about Zafigo’s top picks around KL & PJ.
1. Big Baba, Taman Desa
Big Baba is a family-run restaurant that serves meals, including peculiar (but delicious) dishes such as Chilli Garam Prawns, Ayam Buah Keluak, and Itik Tim. But their version of the famous ais kacang or cendol is worth ordering and raving about — simple, and it hits the spot. The restaurant also serves gula Melaka on the side so that you can douse your cendol with it to your heart’s content.
Address: 34 Jalan 2/109E, Taman Desa Business Park, 58100 Kuala Lumpur
Contact: +603 7987 7755
2. Nyonya Cendol, multiple locations
At Nyonya Cendol, it’s all about better bites and textures with their delicious, velvety cendol strands and their incredibly creamy homemade coconut milk. What a perfect pairing! Everything is handmade here, and ingredients are free of artificial colouring or preservatives, so you can indulge with peace of mind.
Extra toppings are available, too, like sweet corn and ice cream. Currently, they have four outlets in Selangor: Tropicana Gardens Mall, Summit USJ, Main Place Mall, and their latest one in Paradigm Mall.
Address: Multiple locations, click here
Contact: +6011 2314 1220
3. Cendol Durian Kampung Baru
Cendol and durian? Talk about every Malaysian’s dream come true. This combo, while sinfully delicious, is not for the faint-hearted. It takes a real foodie to give this one a go! The restaurant gets especially packed during weekends, so be sure to time your visit wisely.
Their services are also available for delivery and takeaway, so no matter where you are, you can get your fix of this dessert, especially on a sweltering hot day!
Address: 47B, Jalan Raja Alang, Kampung Baru, 50300 Kuala Lumpur
Contact: +6014 264 4441
4. Cendol Durian Runtuh, Danau Kota
Another spot for those who can’t resist the mouthwatering combo of cendol and durian is Cendol Durian Runtuh. Located in Danau Kota, this spot offers a large bowl of cendol topped with thick, juicy slices of durian and sweet corn. Incredibly flavourful and generously served, you’ll find yourself returning for more.
Address: Starparc Point, Danau Kota, 53100 Kuala Lumpur
Contact: +6011 2106 1685
5. Ah Keong’s ABC & Ice Cendol Stall, Brickfields
Ah Keong’s ABC & Ice Cendol stall has cult-like loyalty from its committed customers and is undoubtedly one of the greatest venues to acquire both cendol and ais batu campur (ABC). The stall is located directly beside the YMCA of Kuala Lumpur Hostel, adjacent to a 7-Eleven. Make your way there early because the cendol always sells out.
Address: 21A, Jalan Padang Belia, Brickfields, 50470 Kuala Lumpur
Contact: +6012 319 6656
6. Rojak & Cendol Mustaffa, Petaling Jaya
The famed Rojak & Cendol Mustaffa is located along Jalan 17/21 in Section 17 of PJ and has quite a loyal fan base too. It’s no wonder why though, as their cendol packs a real punch and is the perfect treat on a hot Malaysian day. We suggest you ask for extra glutinous rice. Trust us, you won’t regret it.
Address: Jalan 17/41, Seksyen 17, 46400 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Contact: +6016 266 6456
7. Kwong Wah Ice Kacang, Petaling Jaya
Kwong Wah Ice Kacang is nestled in Happy Mansion, a few minutes away from Rojak & Cendol Mustaffa. This well-known cafe uses actual gula Melaka in their ABC, a secret family tradition passed down for generations. Their famous cendol contains heaps of jelly and adzuki red beans. Those closer to the city centre can check out their outlet in Pavilion Kuala Lumpur.
Address: 627 Jalan 17/8, Seksyen 17, 46400 Petaling Jaya
Contact: +6012 550 0975
8. Gerai Minum Weng Kee, Petaling Jaya
Gerai Minum Weng Kee is a famous stall in the quiet neighbourhood of PJ Old Town, especially among those who live in and frequent this area. Here, you can enjoy both ABC and cendol, which both have their own loyal following. What’s not to love with years of consistency in their bowls of concoctions?
Address: Medan Selera, Jalan Othman, PJ Old Town, 46050 Petaling Jaya
