KEN HUNTS FOOD: Mimi's SL Coffee House @ Wisma Central, Macalister Road, Penang.

Saturday, August 3, 2013

Mimi's SL Coffee House @ Wisma Central, Macalister Road, Penang.

Hidden in one of the buildings at Macalister Road, Mimi's SL Coffee House is rather obscure to the public due to its hidden location. One might not even realize that there's such an eatery set within the building. Mimi, the lady owner of the eatery, has many years of experiences in cooking some of their infamous Nyonya dishes namely Assam Laksa, Nasi Ulam and Assam Pedas with Nasi Ulam and Assam Pedas being some of the popular choices by regulars. The availability of the few special dishes changes daily; due to the high demand and low quantity, reservation is strongly recommended to avoid disappointment. Wisma Central is the building beside New Lane and opposite to Lye Peng Travel Agency. To reach Mimi's SL Coffee House, walk in from the front entrance of Wisma Central and turn left on your first turning, walk straight and proceed with a left turn followed by a right turn. You should be able to see some tables around the area, Mimi and her staff will attend to you shortly.

One shall not miss their Nasi Ulam (Rm 4) which comes in generous amount of ingredients, particularly the Dried Shrimps which further enhance the flavor of the dish; best complemented with their specially made Sambal Belacan to give an extra kick. The subtle and aromatic Nasi Ulam consists of Torch Ginger Flower, Carrots, Dried Shrimps, Kaffir Lime Leaves, Laksa Leaves, Turmeric Leaves, Wild Betel Leaves, Galangal Leaves etc... this is definitely one of the best that you could possibly find in town. Their Nasi Ulam is only available on every Friday.

The best complement to Nasi Ulam will be their well-executed Assam/ Tamarind Pedas (Rm 2.50); the flavors were so intense and delicate, with a right balance of sweet, sour and spiciness infused within the soup, together with Mackerel (Ikan Kembung) and Pineapples; it was truly an appetizing soup for a perfect plate of Nasi Ulam. Assam Pedas is only available on every Friday, do hop over there or make an early reservation with Mimi as it tends to be sold out before noon!

The appetizing and addictive Assam Laksa (Rm 3.50) will only be available on every Monday. The rich and flavorful soup has the right balance of sour and spiciness, together with the generously added chunks of fish and the extra touch of Belacan (Shrimp Paste), the pleasingly piquant flavor will linger and tickle your taste buds asking for more. What makes this even more unique is the use of Vermicelli Noodles instead of the usual fatter version of Noodles used in Assam Laksa but of course, some might prefer the texture of the latter one.

Their lip-smacking Tom Yum Noodles (Rm 4.50, available all-day long) is something shall not be missed by Tom Yum fans, the hot-spicy Tom Yum was pulsating with flavors. No the Tom Yum Soup was not as watery as you think and in fact, it was thick and rich. It comes with some minced Pork, Choy Sum and a couple of some plump and succulent Shrimps. The original Tom Yum Noodles come with Instant Noodles/ Maggi Mee but I had opted for this "Emperor Noodles" instead. The Tom Yum Noodles might be overly spicy for some but as for those who wish to savor a bowl of spicy yet savory Tom Yum, you might want to hit this place up!

The Hawthorn-Green Apple with Rock Sugar (Rm 2/ cup) was a huge surprise, the drink was more to the sour side and extremely appetizing with an extra hint of aroma from Green Apples. We had it warm but it should fare better if its served cold. I was skeptical to try the drink as I was thinking whether it was too sweet nor sourish but shockingly, it was just perfect. A decent drink to quench your thirst and boost your appetite under a hot and humid day!