When it comes to the restaurant business in Malaysia, things can be rather cutthroat. Just look at how many cafes and restaurants shutter just after a month of operations. However, Sek Yuen is definitely not one of these short-lived establishments, having survived for 77 years now.
Located on Jalan Pudu, this pre-Merdeka restaurant is hard to miss. Its building is a standalone structure, and its architecture screams old-world vibes. Just driving past makes you feel like you’ve had a glimpse into history itself!
The story of Sek Yuen
Image Credit: Mi O on Google Review (Left), Kelvin Tan on Google Review (Right)
Speaking of history, what’s the story behind Sek Yuen? The story starts with the three Phang brothers, Phang Chew Kan, Phang Meng Yun and Phang Shue Tang, who decided to start a venture together. Their first venture saw them selling wan tan mee from a pushcart in the 1940s.
After the Second World War ended, the Phangs decided it was time to grow the business. In 1948, the restaurant as we all know and love was established in its current location. The name itself was an auspicious one, with “Sek” meaning “cosy” and “Yuen” meaning “garden”.
Since its establishment, Sek Yuen has barely changed over the years. In terms of appearance, the only major change was that of the cement floor being tiled. The restaurant also bought over a modern shoplot next door, which has air-conditioned dining areas.
Popular venue & famous guests
Due to its local prominence, Sek Yuen is a popular spot for many Chinese families living in KL. To this day, Sek Yuen remains a frequent wedding banquet venue. It also receives high-profile guests occasionally, in the form of actors, politicians and tycoons.
Unique Cantonese dishes
But what makes Sek Yuen so popular? It can’t just be its vintage vibes, can it? There’s more than just history drawing people here, as the restaurant is also known for its delicious and unique Cantonese dishes.
Pei Pa Duck
Image Credit: Dale Mac on Google Review (Left), Jerica Yap on Google Review (Right)
Of these, the Pei Pa Duck is likely the most famous item on the restaurant’s menu. While similar-looking to Peking Duck, Pei Pa Duck is its own thing. It’s named after its resemblance to a Chinese stringed musical instrument, the pipa.
In terms of taste, the Pei Pa has delightfully crispy skin and a rich flavour. Its meat is super tender and falls off the bone quite easily. The meat goes well with the accompanying plum sauce, made inhouse. Because of its complexity, the duck must be pre-ordered.
Eight Treasure Duck
Image Credit: John D’Cruz on Google Review (Left), Moss Lee on Google Review (Right)
Another dish that you have to pre-order is the restaurant’s Eight Treasure Duck. This duck is truly a treasure chest, loaded with gingko nuts, mushrooms, lotus seeds, chestnuts, yam and pork. Only whole chickens are ever used for this dish, so don’t order this without a group!
Jelly with… chicken?
Image Credit: Chee on Google Review (Left), Timmy Chan on Google Review (Right)
One unusual dish that Sek Yuen is famous for is the Cold Jelly Chicken with Jellyfish. This dish is hard to find anywhere else in the Klang Valley. Basically, instead of a fruit, you have jelly… with chicken, topped with a secret savoury sauce.
Don’t knock it before you try it though! This delicacy is actually perfect to beat the typical Malaysian heat. The jellyfish is also incredibly crunchy, giving you texture to enjoy together with the mix of flavours of jelly and meat.
Worth coming here?
When it comes to old-school vibes, there really is no beating Sek Yuen. The next time you are taking your folks out, maybe consider dining here! Who knows, maybe your parents ate here during their childhood. It’s not impossible!
Sek Yuen
Address: 313, Jln Pudu, Pudu, 55100 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur
Opening Hours: 11 am – 2.30 pm, 5 pm – 9.30 pm daily | Closed on Tuesday
Contact: 03-92229457
Halal Status: Non-halal
You should also check out: Like old-school, classic restaurants? We found these 5 eateries which are older than Malaysia
Feature Image Credit: Whisky Dev on Google Review (Left), Wan Ying on Google Review (Right)
