Looking for a rad retro cafe that’s not just a treasure trove for vintage fashion but also serves up some seriously delish burgers? This is Shimokita Space.
Granted, it’s located in the ever-packed SS15 but, it is worth the trip. Let’s dive into why this spot should be on your radar for your next OOTD thrift session and burger date.
First things first, let’s talk about the hype of this spot. At the time of writing, it has an awesome 4.6-star rating from over 250 reviews, it’s clear that this cafe is winning the hearts of its patrons.
Regulars rave about the nostalgic ambience and the unique combo of eating and thrifting—both of which are kinda trendy these days. So, slay?
Interior: Retro wonderland? Um, yes!
Image Credit: Aqilah Akhmal on Google Review
Step inside, and you’ll feel like you’ve travelled back in time to a super cool record or video store straight out of an old sci-fi movie. Well, something along those lines. Honestly, the interior here is hard to pin down.
Tucked away on the second floor of a shop lot, the cafe is decked out in a retro, hippie-chic style that gives off major teenage basement hangout. Not in a creepy way, I can assure you.
The walls are plastered with posters, including some of the iconic Takuya Kimura, adding to the Japanese retro flair. There are also old TVs and radios scattered around, which might make you feel like you’re in a sci-fi flick where everything is a bit worn, but it actually adds to the cosiness of the space.
Image Credit: George Ng on Google Review (left), Irsyad Qisti (right)
During the day, tons of natural light streams in through the many windows. The space is compact with limited seating, but there’s enough room to chill and soak in the energy. Did we mention it’s air-conditioned? Yay.
Image Credit: Ivan Sam on Google Review (left), Deepa Nair (right)
Grunge & glam
Now, let’s talk about all things thrifting! The cafe’s thrift section is in a separate area, so you can browse without interrupting anyone’s munching bliss.
Image Credit: Vincent Tan on Google Review
While the selection isn’t massive, it’s certainly curated with care. The racks feature pre-loved items straight from Japan. Most items are priced at RM50 and above, so I’d say be prepared to invest in some unique finds.
If grunge and vintage are your jam, then you’re in luck. The assortment does lean towards men’s clothing, but ladies, you’ll definitely find something you love in the mix. Alongside the clothes, Shimokita Space also has a selection of jewellery, hats, shoes, and bags, neatly arranged for you to browse.
This thrifting section feels like a pre-loved minimart, perfect for those who love scouring for that one-of-a-kind piece to amp up their fit.
Just a heads-up: all items are non-refundable, so make sure you’re totally vibing with what you pick.
Smash burgers and non-alcoholic butterbeer
Image Credit: George Ng on Google Review (left), Alysha Koay (right)
Now onto the main event: the burgers!
This spot keeps it simple but oh-so-delicious with a menu focused solely on burgers: two beef and two chicken options, ranging from RM8 to RM18.
For an extra few ringgit, you can even go for double or triple patties with all the burgers if you’re feeling extra carnivorous.
If burgers aren’t really your thing, they serve wings in options of 8, 12, or 20 pieces (RM18 to RM43), with choices of spicy garlic or sweet teriyaki sauce. To level up your meal, opt for the combo (an additional RM7 to RM12), which includes fries and a drink.
Apparently, you can’t leave without trying their special twist on butterbeer which they affectionately call Bata Biru.
Image Credit: @cahayaillusi_ on Instagram
Based on reviews, it is a non-alcoholic butterbeer that sports a smooth, creamy texture. Each sip is an indulgent blend of rich, buttery sweetness with a subtle caramelised flavour.
It has a generous layer of frothy and silky foam on top, adding a velvety richness. It is a crowd favourite that is the perfect sweet treat to wash down your meal.
MFT’s review
Image Credit: @darenfoo2020 on Instagram (left), @hr_journal (right)
The reviews have nothing bad to say about the burgers here, so out of sheer curiosity, we had to check it out ourselves.
When you order, they give you this giant poker card as your order card, which adds a fun little touch.
My colleague quickly decided on the Classic Smashburger with a single patty for RM9, and of course, we got their butterbeer. While I couldn’t try the burger myself, she can definitely vouch for it!
Image Credit: @darenfoo2020 on Instagram (left), @fjaka.jpg (right)
To this day, she raves about how delicious and unique it is. The sweet milk bun stayed super soft and flavourful even after it cooled down, which is a rarity. The patty was crispy and savoury. A burger worth every ringgit, in her books.
The butterbeer was equally delicious. Earning a solid 10/10 from us, it strikes the perfect balance between cream and soda. The reviews were right, you can’t leave without trying their Bata Biru.
Image Credit: Hiroaki Takayanagi on Google Review (left), Sya Znl (right)
We learnt that the seating area is divided into two sections: a regular area and a quirky “classroom” setup.
The classroom section somewhat resembles those we see in American movies, complete with a chalkboard, desks, and chairs, creating a fun and chill vibe for diners.
Old-school hangout spot
What are you waiting for? The vibes here are perfect for a squad catch-up. Grab your friends, and make a day of it at this unique concept cafe.
Image Credit: Fattyboy_69p2 on Google Review
It’s not just a place to eat and thrift, but a must-have experience for all to appreciate the thought put into the design and decor of the space. Get ready to thrift, munch, and yap at Shimokita Space in SS15. Enjoy some creamy Bata Biru and take a few OOTD photos with the retro atmosphere as your backdrop—your Instagram feed will thank you.
Overall, we can attest that this place flawlessly serves awesome 90s Japan, and it’s located near the LRT so you don’t have to worry about parking.
Shimokita Space
Address: 94, Jalan SS 15/4b, Ss 15, 47500 Subang Jaya, Selangor
Opening Hours: Tuesday – Sunday, 3:00pm – 11:00pm
Halal Status: Pork-free | Alcohol-free
You should also check out: Thrifting is all the rage now so here are 6 local thrift stores in KL & PJ that are ‘giving’
Feature Image Credit: William Ng on Google Review (left), Shimokita Space on Instagram (right)
