At the risk of exposing too much about myself, ever since moving to Kelana Jaya last year, I’ve been feeling like there are not a lot of places to hang out for coffee or makan around here unless it’s at Paradigm Mall. 🙄
Imagine my delight when I discovered a few cafes in the area (some new, some not so new) that inspired me to write this article. Check out these 7 cafes/eateries for hang out sessions if and when you are in Kelana Jaya:
1. Guan’s
Guan’s is the new kid on the block – although not entirely new as they are the third outlet, the first and second of the same name can be found in Kota Kinabalu. Giving off a traditionally modern vibe, Guan’s is a blend of the classic kopitiam with modern café culture. And I’ve got to say, they have hit it right on the nail. I visited on a weekday for lunch, and it was bustling with people. I especially loved the way they have opened the space up so that the light gets in and the furniture are so pretty! I ordered their OG nasi lemak ayam rendang and Guan’s white coffee – both of which I enjoyed very much. I foresee myself heading back to try their croissants next. 😋
Address: 29, Jalan SS 4c/5, Taman Rasa Sayang, 47301 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Operating hours: 8am – 5pm (Tuesday to Sunday)
2. Drift Coffee
It might be an odd place to find a café as Drift Coffee is surrounded by car repair shops and electrical supply shops, but I guess that’s its charm as well. Drift Coffee definitely stands outs with their shop aesthetic that is inspired by Scandinavian functionality and Japanese minimalism. Founded by the Ng siblings who grew up in the same neighbourhood, Drift Coffee makes for a cosy place to hang out with a cup of specialty coffee and some sweet treats. Parking might be a little difficult to find, so do take note of that.
Address: 6, Jalan SS 2/3, SS 2, 47300 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Operating hours: 9am – 6pm (except Monday)
3. Otherwise Cafe
I found out about Otherwise Café before I moved to Kelana Kaya, which is probably why it’s my go-to place whenever I want to work away from home. The café is quite secluded – it’s located within a row of shop lots in the middle of a housing area. The best way to describe the café is quirky, retro, and charming. Some of the tables are refurbished from old sewing machines – you know, the kind with pedals at the bottom! It’s a nice and quiet place to work in or to spend a chill afternoon with family or friends. Other than the usual coffee and tea options, they also serve cakes and light bites such as waffles.
Address: 6, Ground Floor, Jalan SS 4d/14, Ss 4, 47301 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Operating hours: 10am – 7pm (except Monday)
4. RCDMCAFE
I learned about the RCDMCAFE when I wrote an article titled “Do A Good Deed – Give Back To Society When You Purchase From These Places!” – it’s a café run by deaf staff who have been trained to manage every aspect of the business. Officially launched in 2018 by RC Deaf Missions, the RCDMCAFE can be found in the row of shops opposite the Kelana Jaya LRT station. The café also serves as a store selling merchandise and a centre to learn Malaysian Sign Language (BIM). There are tons of reviews that have raved about their food, particularly the curry laksa!
Address: 55-Ground Floor, Jalan SS 25/2, Taman Bukit Emas, 47301 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Operating hours: 9am – 6pm (Monday to Saturday)
5. Rhythm Specialty Coffee Bar
A tiny and cosy café where you can go to grab amuch-needed dose of caffeine and some desserts, Rhythm Specialty Coffee Bar is helmed by veteran barista Cheryl Lee. As they specialise in a quick grab and go concept, the café may not be suitable for hanging out, but you can definitely count on getting quality coffee. They also do drive-through, and you can order your coffee via the link on their Instagram account.
Address: Zenith Corporate Park, Pinnacle Kelana Jaya, G-01, Jalan SS 7/26, SS7, 47301 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Operating hours: 8.15am – 4.30pm (Tuesday to Saturday)
6. Monster Forest Cafe
As I was having my lunch at Guan’s, I noticed Monster Forest Café which is located on the opposite side of the road. I decided to walk over and check it out after my lunch. They have the cutest monster as their logo! They serve a variety of Chinese and Western cuisines, and it turns out that they serve a really good bowl of Mummy’s Secret Recipe Black Vinegar Pork Knuckle. I found this out later while I was doing my research, so I will be heading back to get a taste of that. The space is quite big which makes it the ideal spot for events such as birthday celebrations as evidenced by the pictures on their social media. A no-frills and comfy place to hang out, especially if you are craving for some vinegar pork knuckle!
Address: 12A, Jalan SS 4c/5, Taman Rasa Sayang, 47301 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Operating hours: 9am – 5pm (closed on Sunday)
7. The Humble Food Company
I was introduced to The Humble Food Company by my sister when she found out they have opened a new outlet in Kelana Jaya. I have already been there a few times, for lunch and dinner as they serve affordable and most importantly, delicious pasta options. Most recently, I tried their Humble Mac (which is basically mac and cheese) and it was surprisingly really good! They have also been expanding their menu and there are a lot more choices for patrons to choose from lately. I can already see the Kelana Jaya outlet becoming one of our regular spots for when we are craving for Western food.
Address: 15, Jalan SS5B/6, Ss 5, 47301 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Operating hours: 11am – 10pm (daily)
Check out where to find delicious food in Bentong here:
