9. Ali's Bar

Johoreans love our food and where better than to find local delicacies, especially wonderful dishes from the Malay Archipelago. In a back lane, in the quaint town of Kluang, sits Ali's Bar. Don't fret associating a Muslim name with something less than halal. This cafe is fully halal and serves food will leave you craving second helpings.

The short and sweet menu holds treasures waiting to be uncovered by the discerning diner. Prices are also reasonable.

The menu at Ali's Bar.

I had Soto Noodles (RM6.50), a Johorean dish that can warm the cockles of your heart. Just like the Western chicken soup to nourish an individual, the Soto is the one locals hunt down to slurp. The soup was not too oily and had a rich savoriness that gets imprinted on the tastebuds. A spicy soy sauce was served alongside that added extra kick to this soupy delicacy.

Soto Noodles (RM6.50)

The next dish I tried was Nasi Ayam Penyet (RM9.90). This rice dish, which has its roots in Indonesia, is very famous in Malaysia. A piece of smashed fried chicken thigh is served alongside nasi uduk (coconut milk rice), fried tofu strips, cucumber and a really mean sambal. 

Normally the fried chicken for this dish is brittle as a bone. This chicken was crisp on the outside yet juicy on the inside, a revelation among the many versions of nasi ayam penyet. The sambal was another highlight of the dish, piquant and tangy, flavours dancing on the tongue. I enjoyed every last lick of it.

Nasi Ayam Penyet (RM9.90)

Even the drinks were good, the Teh Ais especially sweet and creamy on the palate. The experience dining semi al-fresco with such good food created a memorable dining memory that will last in the heart of this Kluang-ite. Drop by for a taste of hearty Malay cooking.

Address: 15, Jalan Ismail, Kampung Masjid Lama, 86000 Kluang, Johor