I had high hopes for Ipoh Kopitiam as a fellow Malaysian having Malaysian food after 8 months but my dining experience left me thoroughly disappointed. Firstly, the nasi lemak rice served was shockingly cold, a complete deviation from the warmth and fragrance that defines this beloved Malaysian dish. It felt like a culinary betrayal and completely lost the essence of this Malaysian delight. What further aggravated my disappointment was the extremely limited menu options. Not only did they lack variety, but they also failed to cater to vegetarians in any meaningful way. It's 2023, and a restaurant should be inclusive and considerate of all dietary preferences. I completely understand that Malaysian cuisine traditionally leans towards being meat-heavy, but it's not impossible to make it vegetarian-friendly. In fact, many Malaysian dishes can be wonderfully adapted to cater to various dietary preferences, including vegetarianism. What added to my disappointment at Ipoh Kopitiam was that they offered a dish named "nasi lemak kosong," which, by its name, should have been devoid of meat. However, it was quite the opposite. This deviation from the essence of the dish was frustrating, especially since it was my first Malaysian meal after eight long months. It left me more disappointed than ever, as I had been eagerly anticipating a taste of home, only to be let down by a lackluster and inauthentic experience. To top it off, the service was abysmally slow, and the staff were far from attentive. It's disheartening to see a place trading on the reputation of Malaysian cuisine fall so short of expectations. Ipoh Kopitiam needs a serious overhaul if it hopes to win back the hearts of discerning Malaysian diners like myself. They had a peculiar take on nasi lemak by mixing the anchovies directly into the sambal. This not only altered the traditional flavor but also further limited options for vegetarians, as the anchovies should typically be fried and served on the side with the peanuts. It's a fundamental aspect of nasi lemak preparation, and such deviations from tradition can be jarring for those who hold this dish close to their hearts. Ipoh Kopitiam's reinterpretation missed the mark on authenticity and left me longing for a true taste of Malaysian cuisine. Sadly, Ipoh Kopitiam was not only subpar in terms of food and service but also overpriced for what was offered. The hefty bill at the end of the meal felt like a slap in the face, considering the quality of the experience. To add to the list of disappointments at Ipoh Kopitiam, I must mention the kaya toast. It was a letdown of epic proportions. Instead of the delightful balance of creamy kaya and butter, what we received was essentially 90% butter with a mere hint of kaya. However, I must admit that there was a small saving grace - the presence of Malaysian soda, 100 Plus, on the menu. Sipping on it did bring back some nostalgic childhood memories, and it was a comforting touch. But, it's not enough to redeem the overall dining experience. Ipoh Kopitiam needs to improve significantly in multiple areas to justify its prices and meet the expectations of Malaysian diners. read more

Nestled in the heart of Alhambra, Ipoh Kopitiam stands as a beacon of Malaysian culinary excellence, inviting patrons on a journey of unforgettable flavors and aromas. At Ipoh Kopitiam, each dish is a testament to the rich tapestry of Malaysian cuisine. Among the many delights, the Nasi Lemak with Curry Chicken steals the spotlight with its fragrant coconut rice, succulent curry chicken, and vibrant array of accompaniments. This signature dish encapsulates the essence of Malaysian comfort food, leaving taste buds longing for more with every bite. For lovers of street food, the Char Kuay Teow offers an authentic taste of Malaysia's bustling culinary scene. Stir-fried to perfection, this dish combines flat rice noodles, plump prawns, Chinese sausage, and a symphony of aromatic sauces, creating a medley of flavors that transport diners to the streets of Kuala Lumpur. Equally enticing is the Hainanese Chicken Rice, a beloved classic that epitomizes Malaysian comfort cuisine. Tender poached chicken, fragrant rice infused with chicken broth, and zesty chili sauce come together in perfect harmony, delivering a taste of home for Malaysians and a culinary revelation for newcomers. Situated in Alhambra, Ipoh Kopitiam not only tantalizes the taste buds but also offers a warm and welcoming ambiance that makes every visit a memorable experience. The attentive staff, well-versed in Malaysian culinary traditions, ensure that diners feel right at home as they embark on their gastronomic journey. For those seeking an authentic taste of Malaysia in the heart of Alhambra, Ipoh Kopitiam is a culinary destination not to be missed. Whether indulging in the aromatic Nasi Lemak, savoring the smoky Char Kuay Teow, or relishing the comforting Hainanese Chicken Rice, every visit promises a culinary adventure like no other. read more

Ipoh Kopitiam has officially secured a top spot on my list of favorite eats! Every visit keeps getting better, and this time, I took things up a notch Roti Canai This was hands-down the star of the show! Perfectly flaky and golden, the *Roti Canai* had that ideal crispy-yet-buttery texture. But what really stole the spotlight? The insanely good curry sauce--rich, fragrant, and generously portioned, making sure every bite was drenched in flavor. No skimping here, and I loved every second of it! Nasi Hainam - Still a Winner As always, the *Nasi Hainam* delivered. Fragrant rice, tender chicken, and those amazing dipping sauces came together for a simple yet satisfying meal. The generous portion was a bonus, making it a go-to comfort dish. Char Kway Teow This dish remains a solid favorite. Packed with smoky *wok hei* goodness, plump prawns, and perfectly cooked noodles, it's a flavor-packed bite every time. Ipoh Kopitiam doesn't mess around when it comes to this Malaysian classic. Malaysian Milk Tea - Small but Mighty Creamy, aromatic, and just the right touch of sweet--this *Malaysian Milk Tea* is a dream. My only complaint? I wish the serving size was bigger because it's *that* good. Service - Friendly & Efficient The team here is always on point--friendly, attentive, and quick. Their warm hospitality just adds to the charm of the place. Final Verdict Ipoh Kopitiam nails it every time with flavorful dishes, big portions, and top-notch service. Adding *Roti Canai* to my order was a total game-changer, and it's now a must-have for me. If they ever upsize the milk tea, it'd be perfection! If you haven't been here yet, you're seriously missing out. read more

Ipoh Kopitiam is a fantastic restaurant that offers some of the best authentic Malaysian cuisine in Alhambra. From the moment you step into the restaurant, you're transported to a different world with its cozy atmosphere, beautiful decor, and friendly staff. The food is exceptional, and there's something for everyone, no matter what your taste buds crave. The menu offers a variety of traditional Malaysian dishes, including their famous nasi lemak, curry laksa, and char kway teow. Each dish is cooked to perfection with fresh, high-quality ingredients, and the flavors are so authentic that they will make you feel like you're in Malaysia. The restaurant's staff is incredibly friendly and knowledgeable, always willing to offer recommendations or make suggestions. They create a warm and inviting atmosphere that makes you feel right at home. The service is prompt and attentive, ensuring that your dining experience is enjoyable and stress-free. In addition to the delicious food and wonderful service, the prices at Ipoh Kopitiam are very reasonable, making it an excellent value for money. The portions are generous, and the quality of the food and service make it worth every penny. The only downside is they dont have big of space to accomode more customers, it can get pretty packed, so I would recommended getting there as early as possible to bear the rush. It is an excellent choice for anyone who appreciates delicious food, great service, and a welcoming atmosphere. A five-star rating is well-deserved for this amazing restaurant. read more

If you are looking for a traditional and delicious Malaysian-style meal, Ipoh Kopitiam is the place to go. The restaurant is located at 1411 S Garfield Ave, Ste 104, Alhambra, CA 91801, and is well-known for its signature dish, Hainan Chicken Rice. From the moment you step in, the cozy atmosphere and the friendly staff make you feel right at home. One of the standout features of Ipoh Kopitiam is the consistency in the quality of its food. Whether you are visiting for lunch or dinner, the food is always top-notch, and the taste is consistently excellent. Their Hainan Chicken Rice is a must-try and is what they are well-known for. The dish features juicy and tender chicken pieces served with flavorful rice cooked in chicken broth. The dish is a perfect combination of flavors and textures that is both comforting and satisfying. In addition to the Hainan Chicken Rice, there are plenty of other mouth-watering options on the menu, and vegetarians will be able to find some great choices too. The restaurant also offers high tea options, which are perfect for those looking to try out some of their snacks and desserts. Overall, Ipoh Kopitiam is a gem of a restaurant that is worth the visit. With its delicious food, warm atmosphere, and friendly staff, it's the perfect place for a family dinner or a casual lunch with friends. So, if you want to indulge in some traditional Malaysian cuisine, head over to Ipoh Kopitiam today for a meal you won't forget! read more

I had to make another trip to Ipoh Kopitiam, and boy, it did not disappoint! Of course I had to utilize their Yelp waitlist, which is an absolute game-changer. No more aimlessly waiting around; I joined the list and was promptly seated upon arrival. This time, I decided to indulge in the roti canai and the nasi lemak paired with rendang beef. The roti canai was light, flaky, and had that perfect crispy edge. Dipping it into the accompanying curry sauce was a sublime experience, with each bite better than the last. But the real star for me was the nasi lemak with rendang beef. The coconut-infused rice was fragrant and fluffy, the perfect counterpart to the spicy, rich, and deeply flavorful rendang beef. The beef was tender, well-seasoned, and the rendang sauce was a delightful dance of flavors on my palate. Every dish seemed to sing its own unique song, yet together they harmonized beautifully, creating an orchestra of flavors that was nothing short of amazing. It's clear that the chefs at Ipoh Kopitiam are dedicated to their craft and pour love into each dish. If you haven't been here yet, make sure to join the Yelp waitlist for a seamless experience. Ipoh Kopitiam has solidified its spot on my list of must-visit places. Highly recommended and can't wait to be back! read more

I finally made it to this Michelin-starred, hole-in-the-wall spot, and it didn't disappoint! After my first visit, I've already returned twice. The first time, I arrived at 10 a.m., only to learn lunch wouldn't be served until 11:15, so I opted for breakfast. As expected, it's always packed--even when arriving early. The service is efficient, almost too much so. The moment I sat down, a server appeared within seconds, which, as a first-timer, felt a bit rushed. I quickly ordered the curry noodle soup, fried bean curd-wrapped fish cake, Hong Kong-style bun, and Roti Canai with curry chicken. The food came out almost instantly, and though the waitstaff hovering nearby added to the feeling of hurry, the dishes were fantastic! I devoured everything but didn't feel comfortable ordering more. The entire experience was wrapped up in 30 minutes. By my second and third visits, I knew what to expect. I tried the Singapore Curry Laksa, Nasi Lemak with Beef Rendang, and Char Kway Teow--all exceptional. However, like before, I felt rushed, with the cramped space adding to the sense of urgency. While the food is phenomenal, I wouldn't give this place five stars due to the hurried atmosphere. Still, with so many dishes left to try, I'll definitely be back! read more

Before your visit, ensure you've added your name to the waitlist on Yelp, and then proceed to check in with the cashier upon arrival. Failure to do so might result in your name not being called. Ample parking is available, including Level 3 charging stations for electric vehicles, conveniently located on the 2nd floor of the underground parking garage. While this establishment has garnered quite the reputation, I found that the culinary experience didn't quite match the hype. On a scale of 1 to 5, I would rate the food a 3. I sampled the Hainan Chicken rice, roti bread, and Nasi Lemak. The Hainan chicken, although satisfactory, had an abundance of chicken fat infused into the rice. It's not an ideal choice if you're prone to heartburn, but the dish boasted impressive flavor profiles. The Nasi Lemak curry, however, left much to be desired in terms of its curry flavor, lacking the expected robustness. Nevertheless, the spice level was tolerable. Strangely, the dishes arrived cold, a puzzling inconsistency. Remarkably, my order was delivered merely 2 minutes after placing it--an astonishing feat. The service is prompt and accommodating, although be prepared for a potential 30 to 45-minute wait during lunch hours on weekends. read more

Ipoh Kopitiam is a Malaysian restaurant in Alhambra, CA that serves authentic and delicious Malaysian food. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a taste of Malaysia. Here are some of the positive aspects of Ipoh Kopitiam: The menu is extensive and features a variety of Malaysian dishes, including Hainanese chicken rice, roti canai, beef rendang, and more. The service is friendly and attentive. The staff is always happy to help customers choose the right dishes and make recommendations. The prices are reasonable. You can get a delicious and filling meal at Ipoh Kopitiam without breaking the bank. I recently had the pleasure of dining at Ipoh Kopitiam and I was very impressed. I ordered the Hainanese chicken rice and it was absolutely delicious. The chicken was tender and juicy, and the rice was flavorful and fragrant. I also tried the roti canai, which was flaky and buttery. The beef rendang was also excellent. The meat was tender and flavorful, and the sauce was rich and creamy. Overall, I had a wonderful dining experience at Ipoh Kopitiam. The food was delicious, the service was excellent, and the prices were reasonable. I highly recommend this restaurant to anyone looking for a taste of Malaysia. read more

Ipoh Kopitiam offers an enchanting escape to the vibrant flavors of Malaysia. Amidst the bustling streets, this culinary gem stands out for its remarkable dishes and inviting ambiance. The Hainan Chicken Rice steals the spotlight, surpassing nearby competitors with its succulent chicken and aromatic rice, delivering a taste that lingers long after the meal. Equally tantalizing is the Nasi Lemak, a symphony of coconut-infused rice and flavorful sambal, accompanied by an array of delectable sides. Yet, what truly sets Ipoh Kopitiam apart is its charming ambiance. Stepping inside feels like entering a Malaysian kopitiam, with its cozy seating and warm lighting creating an inviting atmosphere. Whether you're indulging in a leisurely lunch or enjoying a dinner date, the restaurant's ambiance enhances the dining experience, making every visit memorable. Ipoh Kopitiam is more than just a dining destination; it's a culinary journey that transports you to the heart of Malaysia. With its exquisite dishes and charming ambiance, it's no wonder this establishment has become a favorite among locals and visitors alike. read more

Coming here, want to first note that the parking is a bit tight but there is an underground parking so there is more space in the back. Also be prepared to wait for a while because the line often extends for more than an hour so make sure to join the waitlist when you can. We tried a lot of their popular items like their Hainan chicken, their toast with butter, their Roti, their wontons, and their Dry noodles with Curry chicken. My personal favorites were the Hainan chicken, Roti, and the toast with butter. The Hainan chicken whenever I get at other restaurants always feel a bit too dry but this place was so juicy and the sauces they provided I just kept going for. The Roti was nice and crispy and loved the curry that went with it. My favorite favorite was the toast and butter. Idk what is the cream that they put in it but its so sweet and tasty, could eat so many of those. If I come back I would just get those three. The other two were alright but nothing too particularly special to write home about. But definitely would love to come back and try other popular items. read more

Ipoh Kopitiam in Alhambra is a great place to enjoy authentic Malaysian food. The restaurant has a cozy ambiance that makes it perfect for a casual meal with friends or family. I particularly enjoyed the roti canai, kopi o, and kaya toast. The roti canai was crispy on the outside and, the curry dipping sauce was flavorful and aromatic. The kaya toast was sweet and creamy, and the kopi o had just the right amount of bitterness to balance out the sweetness of the kaya toast. The service at Ipoh Kopitiam was friendly and efficient, and the staff was knowledgeable about the menu. I appreciated their willingness to explain the different dishes and make recommendations. The only downside to the restaurant was the limited seating space, which can make it difficult to find a table during peak hours. Additionally, the prices were slightly on the higher side compared to other Malaysian restaurants in the area. Overall, I would recommend Ipoh Kopitiam to anyone who is looking for authentic Malaysian cuisine in Alhambra. The food is delicious, and the service is excellent. read more

Let me tell you about this awesome dinner I had with my dad recently. He's been hyping up this chicken and rice spot ever since his Singapore trip, and guess what? It totally lived up to the buzz! We swung by around 5:30 on a Sunday night, and man, was it packed! Lucky for us, we scored a seat just in time. So, we dove right in and ordered their famous chicken and rice, plus some roti on the side. And oh boy, was it good! The chicken? Juicy. The rice? Aromatic and full of flavor. And those sauces? They hit just the right spot. The roti was another winner - flaky, buttery, and perfect for scooping up that delicious curry. Pro tip: Get there early. We wrapped up just as a huge line was forming outside. Those folks were in for a bit of a wait! Parking's a breeze, thanks to a garage in the building. The service is quick, and the menu's straight to the point - just how I like it. Bottom line - this place is a must-try. I'm already planning to go back for more of that amazing chicken and rice. See you there? read more

7 visit this year from Northern Cali, and Ipoh in the sgv is still my LA dining highlight and favorite restaurant. The $12.95 breakfast combo is unheard o and can't beat the taste and price. The springy noodles in tasty broth, sticky rice wi the rich Malaysian/chinese tamale flavors , pandan pastry is perfect, and drinks are amazing . The white coffee is velvety, and the milk tea according to my husband, who drinks one every day, is the best he's ever had. We often start from breakfast and eat until 11am so we can order laksa,the aromatic broth and layers of spice, better than what we've had in Singapore or Malaysia. Service, led by Tina at the front desk, is exceptional warm, efficient, and deeply knowledgeable about the menu, the staff are super busy but they will explain in detail about each dish and food allergies to us making every visit feel like both a feast and a welcome home. The owner is such a nice and social person. We have a blast from the past talking and eating with her in the past. read more

I wanted to try Malaysian food. So why not? I got the Roti. The Roti was really good. This is cantonese malaysian food. I really can't tell whose malay or actually cantonese because we all speak the same language. -_- I think the Roti sauce would go really well with nan bread. The two indian restaurants in main street are not as good as this one. Char kway teow it's similar to beef chow fun. Similar to madewithlau version toisanese version. But my people made ctowns all over the planet including malaysia. My mom said Char Kway teow was fake chinese food. I was like uh chinese in malaysia made it when they moved during the great chinese wars. Of course the OG version is better. But sometimes you have to try different foods. But cantonese will like it because it's chinese kou wei. Now cantonese are all overseas. I don't even know what is authentic chinese food or it's just plane ole American food now. As uncleroger always says HAIYAAA! read more

If you're in the mood for Malaysian delights, this place is a must-visit! Our dining experience was fantastic! FOOD (5/5): I got the Singaporean Curry Laksa, Roti Canai, and Hokkien Prawn Mee Soup. The dishes were spot on - each one met and exceeded our expectations. Both noodle soups were packed with flavor and had perfect amount of spice. The roti was fluffy and paired perfectly with the curry. Even as someone who typically isn't a fan of okra, I found its blend in the curry tasty! SERVICE (4.5/5): Despite the crowd and waitlist of 15 groups ahead of us, we were seated within 25 minutes. The service was efficient and accommodating, with friendly and communicative staff to ensure we had a great experience. PARKING (5/5): There is plenty of parking spaces in the plaza since it has an underground garage. Overall, I'm planning to come visit again to try other items on their menu. This place delivers on both taste and service - no regrets! read more

There's nothing special about this restaurant. Don't let the 5 star reviews fool you. I waited about 30 minutes to be seated and it wasn't worth it. This restaurant doesn't even deserve a star yet alone a Michelin star. The ambiance wasn't the greatest. I wished they would space out the tables a little further away. It felt like I was having lunch with the table next to me. My friend is a Malaysia native and I trust her opinion and judgement when it comes to Malaysian food. I got the beef rendang and it was so dry. I let my friend have a taste and she said that it lacks flavor. The service was TERRIBLE. I was ignored multiple times for a cup of water. The lady working the register in the front looked mad when I left less than 18% due to the poor service I've received. She wasn't too thrilled about it and she demanded more. So I gave her $2 in cash. Tip is optional. I'm only responsible for the bill. I won't be coming back. read more

A gem in San Gabriel! The food here is so incredibly authentic that it feels like someone transported an entire Malaysian hawker center right to Southern California. Every dish bursts with the bold, rich flavors you'd expect from the bustling food stalls of Malaysia. From the fragrant, perfectly spiced nasi lemak to the savory char kway teow, every bite took me back to Malaysia. The satay was tender and grilled to perfection, paired with a peanut sauce that had just the right balance of sweetness and spice. And the laksa--wow. The broth was deep, flavorful, and exactly what you'd expect if you were walking the streets of Kuala Lumpur. The portions are generous, and the ingredients taste fresh and high-quality. It's clear the chef puts a lot of care into each dish, capturing the true essence of Malaysian street food. If you're craving a taste of Southeast Asia without the plane ticket, this place is a must-visit. read more

I recently visited Ipoh Kopitiam, and let me tell you, it was a fantastic experience! As soon as I walked in, I was hit with the warm, inviting aroma of coffee and spices. The vibe is super cozy, and it felt like stepping into a little piece of Malaysia. I ordered the Singapore Curry Laksa, and wow! The toast was perfectly crispy, and that kaya spread was pure bliss. It paired so well with the coffee--it really hit the spot. I also tried the curry laksa, and I was blown away by how rich and flavorful it was. Just the right amount of heat! The staff were really friendly and happy to chat about the menu, which made the experience even better. It's a great place to relax and enjoy some good food. Overall, if you're looking for authentic Malaysian cuisine, Ipoh Kopitiam is definitely worth a visit. I can't wait to go back and try more dishes! read more