This Fantasy Rice speciality spot in Klang will make you forget the existence of Bak Kut Teh

Bold statement to make, huh? Klang is undoubtedly a local area dominated by the iconic and beloved Bak Kut Teh, but Hon Kei Kopitiam dares you to shift your taste buds in a whole new direction. It is a contemporary kopitiam that serves modern takes on old-school dishes.

Based on reviews, it’s gained quite a loyal following. With a decent rating of 4.4 stars from over 800 reviews as of this article’s writing, this casual spot is redefining comfort food and offering a fresh perspective on the traditional kopitiam dining experience.

At Hon Kei, nostalgia meets modernism with dishes like their signature Fantasy Rice.

What is Fantasy Rice?

Image Credit: Ricky Tong on Google Review (left), Deep Memoir (right)

So, what exactly is this dish we’re claiming as a worthy rival to bak kut teh?

Fantasy Rice is essentially a fusion of a pork poke bowl and a traditional bowl of lu rou fan, reimagined with more of an Asian twist. Does it resemble bak kut teh in any way? Not at all, but it just might spark a craving that leaves you debating which pork and rice dish you want more.

The dish features a bowl of white rice topped with crispy pork lard, tender slices of freshly roasted BBQ pork, a runny egg, shredded seaweed, and a generous toss of chopped spring onions. At first glance, it may seem simple and unimpressive, but let’s not forget that bak kut teh also has its understated charm too.

When you mix all these toppings together, you are treated to a hearty bowl brimming with flavour and savoury pieces of pork. Each porky spoonful delivers a blend of textures and tastes, making this a pork dish that could easily steal the spotlight. Sound familiar?

Must-try dishes

Image Credit: Zi Yun Charlotte on Google Review (left), KL Yong (right)

While the menu is packed with enticing and creative options, a few dishes are absolute must-tries.

Their Curry Laksa sports a rich curry broth that is both aromatic and packed with robust flavours. One review even goes so far as to declare the broth “slurp-worthy,” a testament to its irresistible creamy goodness. The curry is expertly crafted, made fresh daily, and pairs beautifully with the bouncy egg noodles.

You have the option to choose from three delicious meat varieties to accompany your laksa: white chicken, char siu, and siew yok. For only RM12.90, you can indulge in a bowl of curry laksa topped with all three varieties of meat.

This significantly enhances the dish’s complexity and flavour profile. It is only slightly more expensive than what you’d typically get at your average kopitiam hawker stall. Yet, it maintains generous portions and intense flavours, a true standout on the menu.

Of course, no visit to a kopitiam would be complete without nasi lemak. Hon Kei’s Signature Nasi Lemak (RM15.90) comes with a massive fried chicken leg, deep-fried twice for an extra crispy coating that adds an irresistible crunch.

Image Credit: Tee Thye on Google Review (left), Zi Yun Charlotte (right)

They elevate the national dish by using fragrant blue pea coconut rice, which adds a pretty hue to the santan infused rice. Each plate comes with all the typical condiments: crispy anchovies, crunchy peanuts, a perfectly halved boiled egg, and their house-made sambal.

The best part? They offer a variety of options to cater to different preferences, including chicken, pork, prawn, and vegetarian selections.

Other popular orders include the Wantan Mee (RM9.90), Chee Cheong Fun (RM9.90), BBQ Rice (RM12.90), and the Dry Chili Pan Mee (RM13.90).

Kopitiam-style sweet treats

Image Credit: Mei Yin on Google Review

Coffee enthusiasts cannot leave without trying their recommended iced Salted Kopi (RM4.30) or the classic Kopi, available hot or cold. Hon Kei is proud of the aromatic and robust brew they offer. This results in a rich, satisfying cup of coffee, perfectly suited to enhance any local meal.

Multiple reviews highlight the iced Salted Kopi as a must-try. The drink features a creamy layer of salted cream that perfectly balances out the coffee’s inherent bitterness. This bubble tea inspired twist adds a lovely richness to the drink, leaving a lasting impression.

Beyond the kaw coffee, this modern kopitiam also has a couple of irresistible sweet treats. Their Mini Portuguese Egg Tarts (RM3.30) are a particular standout—perfectly bite-sized with a crumbly crust that encases a soft, creamy custard, baked to perfection with a gooey centre. These tarts have gained a reputation among regulars, who often find themselves returning for just one more mini tart.

If you’re not a fan of egg tarts, try their Mini Kaya Puff, a flaky pastry filled with fragrant coconut jam, or their Mini Siew Bao. These nostalgic treats pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea, sparking fond memories of these same traditional snacks many of us enjoyed growing up.

Image Credit: Giselle Lim on Google Review (left), William Lim (right)

**The modern kopitiam experience**

What sets Hon Kei Kopitiam apart is its ability to blend the traditional kopitiam experience with modern sensibilities. They strive to provide their customers with fresh, high-quality ingredients and the opportunity to enjoy classic Malaysian dishes in a more modern and comfortable setting.

In an area where bak kut teh reigns supreme, this non-halal eatery challenges the kopitiam status quo, intriguing potential customers. So, the next time you find yourself in Klang, step away from the familiar and indulge in some Fantasy Rice or other dishes that Hon Kei Kopitiam has to offer.

You might just find your new favourite spot, leaving the herbal aroma of bak kut teh in the rearview mirror.