Almost every Malaysian has fond memories of piercing the soft, silky top off of tau fu fa, but what if I told you your nostalgic childhood tong sui has a spicy, alcoholic twin? One that, if my traditional Chinese grandmother saw me indulging in such, would make her weep.
We found (and tried for ourselves) the viral alcoholic tau fu fah hidden right next to myPizzaLab in Desa Sri Hartamas, located in Sanctuary 38. So what do we think of this controversial dessert: Culinary sacrilege? Or a stroke of devious ingenuity?
The star of the show
With a pale mint glint that winks cheekily through the swirling layers of syrup and rum, the Pandan Tau Fu Fa (RM18) shines. Carefully layered slice by slice with a ladle and delicate touch, a cocktail of muscovado syrup and Captain Morgan rum is poured over the top.
There is a distinct pandan aroma that pairs fantastically with the spiced rum and toasty muscovado.
Even smoother than your neighborhood soybean truck uncle’s best offering, the pandan tau fu fa has a silkiness that melts on the tongue.
As for the technique behind this creation? That remains a mystery. Despite my relentless questioning, the bar’s owners kept their secrets tightly guarded.
For those new to boozy desserts, you’re in luck! Though rich in flavour—especially from the spiced rum—there’s no harsh alcoholic burn. Your throat stays cool, free from any fiery heat, just pure, indulgent enjoyment!
More boozy tong sui
This bar takes a unique spin on traditional tong sui with two standout offerings.
First, there’s the Sago Gula Melaka (RM18), featuring double-boiled sago cooked in creamy santan and rich gula melaka. A boozy twist comes from the addition of coconut liqueur and spiced rum, giving it more depth. The warm sago pearls offer a satisfying mouthfeel, while a sprinkle of desiccated coconut on top adds a delightful crunch.
Another must-try is the Ai Yu Jelly (RM18), made in-house from ai yu jelly figs. This refreshing dessert is elevated with a splash of spiced rum, and further enhanced by a blend of nutmeg syrup, house-infused sour plum gin, and Penang’s signature phat pho herbal syrup.
The result is a refreshing and tasty treat, with sea coconut adding a fun variety of textures.
More, more boozy tong sui?
If you’re craving more alcoholic tong sui, you’ll be happy to hear that Sanctuary 38’s sister bar, Soma, offers its own selection of boozy desserts!
At Soma, you’ll find their signature Tau Foo Fah (RM15) made from plain soybean, sharing the same recipe as Sanctuary 38. They also offer creative options like the alcoholic Guilinggao (RM18), giving a fresh, spirited take on traditional desserts.
Pet-friendly, and cosy ambiance
Sanctuary 38 has two selling points. Besides the alcoholic desserts and customisable cocktails, the bar is also pet-friendly.
Your furkids can enjoy the ambience with you, but certainly not the booze!
The bar’s concept is all about a relaxed, laid-back atmosphere, where you can chat with the bartender as comfortably as you would with a close friend or confidant.
Their customisable cocktails are a standout feature, offering more than meets the eye. These signature drinks often incorporate funky, house-infused liquors, with layers of flavour that unfold beautifully on the palate, one after the other.
Sanctuary 38
Address: 38-1, Jalan 27/70a, Desa Sri Hartamas, 50480 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur
Opening hours: Sunday – Thursday, 5pm – 12am | Friday – Saturday, 5pm – 1am.
Halal status: Non-halal
You should also check out: Craving something spicy at 2am? Try this late-night Sichuan mini bowl spot in Puchong.
