Tell me which KL native does not know the famous Jalan Ipoh Road Yong Tau Foo?
Nestled along Jalan Ipoh and just down the road from Segambut Yong Tau Foo, this YTF shop used to be a humble shack many years back.
Managed by different family members from Segambut Yong Tau Foo, both shops have their distinct appeal and weaknesses, making either one a good option. Whether it's availability of space, parking density, what you’re craving, and even who you’re dining with, Ipoh Road Yong Tau Foo is a worthy contestant in the YTF competitive landscape.
If you find yourself in a lengthy debate on which yong tau fu shop is the best in KL, read on as we dissect every culinary aspect and why Ipoh Road Yong Tau Foo should be considered.
About Ipoh Road Yong Tau Foo
As one of the early pioneers in the Yong Tau Foo scene, Ipoh Road Yong Tau Foo started as a little shack occupying the space where Segambut YTF is today.
In 2019, Ipoh Road Yong Tau Foo vacated its original location, paving the way for Segambut Yong Tau Foo to set foot.
The former moved from the pre-war bungalow shop house to a spacious venue almost 4 times its original size. In addition, it boasts ample parking space approximately 1 and half times the size of a football field.
Located within walking distance from Cairnhill Hotel, Ipoh Road Yong Tau Foo is now a popular breakfast hotspot among tourists and locals craving authentic yong tau fu.
Accessibility
The MRTs and LRTs in Klang Valley do not connect to Jalan Ipoh, So your best bet of getting here is to drive or hail a Grab ride.
The ample parking space here instead of Segambut Yong Tau Foo marks the end of parking woes.
Ambiance
For some reason, I prefer the old-school charm of the prehistoric bungalow that it used to occupy. Indeed the dining area is wider and bigger, making it more capable of meeting the burgeoning lunch and dinner crowd.
But it lacks the rustic charm of the prehistoric home.
Just like Segambut YTF, Ipoh Yong Tau Foo is non-air conditioned. But it has high ceiling fans and portable fans that blast cool air in warmer areas.
Some diners move from Segambut to Ipoh Yong Tau Foo when they find the former out of parking space. Aside from its vastness, Ipoh Yong Tau Foo lacks the character of its sibling outlet.
Service at Ipoh Yong Tau Foo
Predominantly manned by foreign waiters, service upon arrival is prompt and our orders were taken fast. However, should you need subsequent top-ups, grabbing the waiter’s attention will require some effort.
There are additional bowls, plates, and cutleries placed close to the counter area for customers to self-serve when need be.
Food
To start with, Ipoh Yong Tau Foo’s gravy is more diluted and watery. If you prefer a thicker consistency with more robust flavors, then let’s just say the gravy here tastes milder.
Each yong tau foo is at least half the size bigger than Segambut Yong Tau Foo. If 8 pieces of dumplings at Segambut keep you just satiated, your tummy will feel full to the brim with 8 pieces.
Furthermore, their fish balls are positively one of a kind. Shaped to an almost perfect circle, this bouncy ball of fish goodness is comparatively huge and well complemented by their tasty soup.
Fans of lady's fingers rave over their succulent vegetable that is juicy, tender, and bigger here.
The fish paste yong tau fu is springy, tasty yet firm, and does not fall apart easily. The yong tau foo is served with a compliment bow of curry, which goes well with Chee Cheong Fun.
As for these rice noodles, the ones served to us were overly cooked and mushy.
Another plus point is their secret chili recipe, which packs a spicy punch and enhances the flavor of the meat dumplings.
The fu chok (fried bean curd sheets) breaks to a delightful crispy crunch. The bitter gourd was ok while fried dumplings can be slightly more generous with the fish paste.
You’ll also find other side dishes like Cendol, rojak, and popiah. The crispy cracker is a must-have with the rojak, while the seaweed popiah roll showcases a good balance between crunchy fried bits and a tasty dressing stuffed with julienned veggies.
The pork bun here is nowhere close to Segambut Yong Tau Foo. Though it tastes delicious while hot, the bun hardened and dries up if you eat it the following day.
As for the paper chicken, we found it a tad too oily for our liking but it was well-seasoned and aromatic.
Pricing
The average price per yong tau fu is RM2.10 per piece and it is comparable to Segambut Yong Tau Foo. So if you’re pining for a filling meal, Ipoh Yong Tau foo offers better bang for your buck as the size of each yong tau fu is bigger here.
Conclusion
If comfort, ease of parking and not having to wait to be seated is your top priority, Ipoh Yong Tau Fu checks all right the boxes.
This fish-based yong tau foo serves decent dishes and mouthwatering seaweed popiah roll that is better than their sibling located further up.
Personally, I prefer the ambiance and food at Segambut Yong Tau Foo. Nevertheless, to each his own and both outlets have a strong appeal as evidenced by an endless crowd during weekdays and weekends.
Address: 478, Jln Sultan Azlan Shah, Jalan Ipoh, 51200 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur
Business Hours: 9 am – 5 pm (Closed on Monday)
Contact: 017-634 4052
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