When Port Dickson and Batu Ferringhi are too crowded for your tastes, it may be time to start looking eastwards for a seaside getaway. Cherating is always an inviting spot, especially when you can rest and dine at Ombok, one of Pahang’s chillest cafes.
Welcome to Ombok!
Image Credit: Salihin Rahman on Google Review (Left), Ain on Google Review (Right)
Overlooking the South China Sea, Ombok Cherating Surf Cafe is the definition of a laidback place. The beachside retreat started off in 2010 as a surf gallery, founded by surfers from KL and Terengganu.
In 2015, Ombok relaunched as a full-fledged cafe meant to cater to surfers, tourists and locals alike. It’s no surprise there’s a surfing school right next door where you can learn to ride the waves. And after a lesson in getting wet, what better way to juice up than a warm meal?
Mix of East & West
Ombok’s menu is a mix of Malaysian and Western cuisine. It is something of a compromise that caters to both local and international customers.) Thankfully, both halves of the menu are worth checking out in their own right.
If you are visiting in the morning, Ombok will have classic English breakfast sets for you to try. They’re served alongside options like fried rice and sandwiches. Ombok’s menu items are largely cooked using locally-sourced ingredients, so that’s something neat to know.
Fruity cheesecake
Image Credit: Hidayah A on Google Review
Among the items worth mentioning is the Mango Cheesecake. The cheesecake is soft and creamy, and that’s before it is doused in mango sauce. It is a sweet little treat, made even better with that fruity twist.
American-style pancakes
Image Credit: Sujata Navaratnam on Google Review (Left), Fatin Nurafiqah on Google Review (Right)
If you like fluffy pancakes, you are going to love Ombok’s American-style pancakes. These are often drizzled with maple syrup and a zesty slice of lime. You would think you were dining in an American-style diner rather than a seaside cafe in Pahang!
Fish & chips, Brit-style
Image Credit: Human Tan on Google Review (Left), Tan W. on Google Review (Right)
The Brits may have sailed back home decades ago, but we Malaysians still love their Fish & Chips. Ombok uses well-battered tempura, which is carefully cooked until the flesh is tender and flaky. Shout-out to the hand-cut fries, which are seasoned with a dash of salt and pepper.
Look around you
Image Credit: Izzatul Arisya on Google Review (Left), Aleena Izwan on Google Review (Right)
When you are not stuffing your face with food, maybe take a look around the cafe. Ombok itself is housed inside a wooden shack built with recyclable materials. When the owners said they wanted a sustainable surf cafe, they meant it.
The cafe itself has eco-friendly policies, so don’t expect plastic straws with your drinks. As previously mentioned, Ombok works with local suppliers, supporting the local community in that way. Needless to say, supporting Ombok is supporting the good folk of Cherating.
Worth your time
With warm hospitality, generous portions and chill vibes, Ombok is definitely worth a visit if you are in town. Whether you’re relaxing after your first surfing lesson or just want a sunrise latte, this place is just right for you.
Ombok Cherating Surf Cafe
Address: No 1006-1, Kedai Jalan Kemaman, Jalan Kampung Cherating Lama, 26080 Kuantan, Pahang
Opening Hours: 10 am – 5 pm daily | Closed on Tuesdays
Contact: 09-5819488
Halal Status: Muslim-owned
You should also check out: Where can you find this private beachside hotel with white sand, blue sea just 3 hrs from KL?
Feature Image Credit: Paul Moloney on Google Review (Left), Sarah Azam on Google Review (Right)
