Some cafés are made for studying, some for quiet conversations, and then there are cafés built for pure chaos. 2bloc Café is new board game spot in Seksyen 7 leans into the last one. Open until 12am with shelves full of games, it is designed for long nights, loud laughter, and the occasional friendship-ending move.
Located on the first floor, 2bloc Café is cosy with soft seating and rows of games lining the walls. When I dropped by, most tables were already filled with students. Some were deep in competitive card battles while others were simply catching up over drinks. It has that easy, lose-track-of-time atmosphere that makes a night out simple and fun.
The shelves are stocked with an easy mix of games. There are fast card games for chaotic rounds, casual party games for bigger groups and a few strategy options if you are ready to settle in for something longer. Most people were hopping from Uno to Cluedo to Monopoly Deal and more, which shows how accessible the selection is. Everything is free to play, so you can turn it into a full game night without spending extra.
Background of the owner
Image Credit: @2bloc.cafe on Instagram
The café is run by 27-year-old Muhamad Hazerul Dashreen. He used to work as a property agent before deciding that to build something more personal. Food, he felt, was the direction he wanted to pursue, so he took the leap.
“I knew I had potential to turn my passion into something meaningful, so I had to try.”
The journey has its challenges. His biggest struggle is staffing, particularly because most of his employees are students.
“Sometimes they cannot commit when exams are near, so they resign with very short notice. I need to improve this fast so I am better prepared next time,” he added.
Despite the hurdles, you can tell the space is intentionally designed for students. It is affordable, laid back, and you can sit for hours without being pressed to leave.
Eats & drinks while plotting your next move
The menu leans towards uncomplicated, comforting dishes, the kind that are easy to enjoy while you are mid-strategy or waiting for your turn. Everything is straightforward and unfussy, which suits a space designed for long conversations and extended game sessions.
The Aglio Olio (RM15) comes with seafood and has a pleasant garlic aroma. The pasta is cooked to a firm bite and has enough flavour to stand on its own without being oily or overly seasoned.
The Ayam Kicap with Steamed Rice and Sambal Gesek (RM13) delivers that local flavour profile that most students would gravitate towards. The chicken is coated in a slightly sweet soy-based sauce, the rice is warm and fluffy and the sambal adds a clean, sharp heat. For the price, it’s a solid, no-nonsense meal that fills you up without weighing you down.
Their chicken tenders come in two versions. The Habanero (RM15) carries a bold heat that builds after each bite, while the Classic (RM13) is mild and easier to pick at throughout the night. These are the kind of snacks that work well alongside games because you can nibble on them without breaking focus.
The Tiramisu (RM17) has a soft, creamy texture and balanced sweetness. While it isn’t the most unique of desserts, it offers a pleasant end to the meal if you are craving something familiar.
Image Credit: @2bloc.cafe on Instagram
We ordered the Strawberry Matcha (RM18), Tiramisu Latte (RM18), and Watermelon Soda (RM10). The Tiramisu Latte was the most interesting of the three, with a richer and more layered flavour than I expected. The Watermelon Soda is refreshing and light, making it a good palate cleanser between bites; while the Strawberry Matcha offers a gentle sweetness without tipping into anything overly creamy.
A meeting point for gamers, students and night owls
As the night went on, more people walked in. Some were locked into competitive rounds of board games, others were studying and a few were simply unwinding with their drinks. It is the kind of place that fills a gap in Shah Alam’s night-time scene, somewhere you can hang out without needing a mall or a long drive.
The affordability is a key part of its appeal. You can get a proper meal, play a few games, stay for hours and still remain within budget. For students, this matters.
Dash’s vision for 2bloc Café is straightforward. He wanted a space where people could relax and enjoy themselves without pressure. From what I experienced, he has achieved that. And if the momentum continues, his hopes of expanding the café one day does not seem far-fetched.
2bloc. Cafe
Address: 37-A, Jalan Plumbum R 7/R, Seksyen 7, 40000 Shah Alam, Selangor
Opening hours: 5pm –12am (Daily)
Status: Halal
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Feature Image Credit: @2bloc.cafe on Instagram
