Licky Chan & The Poke Guys, KL

Boozy ice cream, anyone? 

Licky Chan & The Poke Guys is located along Jalan Yap Ah Shak, at one of the old pre-war shop lots in downtown KL. Its facade is hard to miss, with the clean white facade splashed with bright orange geometric, Licky Chan definitely stood out from its neighbours (you'll see a tailor shop to the right of it, and an insurance agent shop to the left).

As you can see from the photo above - the outdoor seating area is a popular photo-op spot, like the rest of the shop. Owned by the same company as Botak Liquor, JOLOKO, and you can order drinks from Botak Liquor here too! 

We came here after a lovely meal at JOLOKO, it is just a short ~ 3 minutes walk, and you get 15% off for your ice-cream if you can show them your receipt from JOLOKO! (As of April 2021!)

Upon stepping into Licky Chan, you'll be greeted by the warm orange hue, that may or may not be too electrifying to your eyes

Licky Chan serves both boozy (cleverly named "cone-tails") and non-boozy ice-cream flavours, which you may sample before making your purchase. Prices for boozy ice cream begins from RM14.80, whereas the non-alcoholic selection begins from RM9.80. And as always, the price for a second scoop is much affordable.

Their ice-cream menu for your reference - had so much trouble picking out which flavour I'd like to try because they all seem so interesting!

We came on a Sunday night and the place was busy, seatings might seem limited but fret not, the shop actually stretches in quite deep, and there are also plenty of seats upstairs. 

The little staircase that leads upstairs

View from upstairs - on the right side, there is a weird TV room that looked as though it came out from a movie (you'll have to see it yourself :p), and to the left, there is a room filled with playpens balls, which seemingly is a popular Instagram spot. Decided to stay put downstairs because it was seemingly more crowded upstairs, with the Instagram crowds :P #penjarakansocial yo!

The random blobs of blocks at the seating area downstairs.

Rum Rhapsody (+ RM2 from base price) & Lickin' on Gin & Juice (+ RM1.50 from base price). RM27.50

A little pricier than your usual ice cream but it was good! My favourite would be Rum Rhapsody, with the nutty taste of pistachio and ice cream laced with rum. Jia Qi approves. The only qualm is that their ice cream was seemingly melting rather fast!

Each ice cream comes with a fortune cookie...which, I'm not sure if all the content would be this random :p 

In case you're wondering why it's called "The Poke Guys"...it's because "The Poke Guys" is the tattoo shop nestled in the same shop lot as Licky Chan! And silly me thought that it is because they serve poke bowl as well :P

Licky Chan & The Poke Guy

24, Jalan Yap Ah Shak, 

Chow Kit, 50300 Kuala Lumpur, 

Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur

Instagram: @lickychan

Website: https://www.lickychan.com/

Business Hours:

11am-8pm, Tuesdays-Sundays

Closed on Mondays

Florescene Cafe @ World of Phalaenopsis, Hulu Yam Baru

Side blurb: it's lockdown again and I know we won't be able to visit here anytime soon, but it's good to build up our....post-MCO bucket list now and visit them when MCO is lifted, or find ways we can support businesses during this trying time :) 

World of Phalaenopsis is one of the largest orchid growers/supplier in Malaysia. They have been around since 2006, and you might have walked past their shops, Orchid Culture at Bangsar Shopping Centre and The Gardens Mall :D. 

Their farm in Hulu Yam is open for all to visit and there's even a little cafe there! I've been intending to blog about this place since my first visit in 2019 (& subsequent visit in 2020), but somehow I've successfully procrastinated till 2021. Oh well better late than never. The part in which I procrastinate is selecting and uploading photos of this place because during every single visit, I'd have taken one too many photos at this place :p You'd have understood why as you read along! 

I made my third visit to World of Phalaenopsis in April. Again, really? I enjoy visiting this place - it is a lovely place to have a cup of coffee and feast my eyes on the lush plants and myriad flowers. Different plants on are put on display during every visit, which makes every visit refreshing :) 

Located about an hour's drive from KL, World of Phalaenopsis is tucked in Hulu Yam. Chances are you probably think you're on the wrong track while navigating to World of Phalaenopsis, as you'll turn into a sort of residential area, but fret not, keep going on and you'll eventually reach World of Phalaenopsis! Parking is available, albeit limited, and it is shaded! 

Upon entering, you'll be greeted by overhanging ferns that forms an arc-like shape.

There's a cute little cafe, Florescene Cafe, tucked in the middle of World of Phalaenopsis. The cafe is located on the right side from the entrance, you'd see the red/fuchsia coloured circles leading your way into the cafe.

The cafe - I'll just let the pictures do the talking :) 

Beautiful isn't it :) You'd be spoilt for choices choosing where to seat too, as every seat provides a different view/backdrop :p 

I went there on a Monday morning and it was empty-ish. However, on weekends, be prepared to have people photobombing your photoshoots :P

The cafe operates on self-service basis, head to the counter to place your orders once you're ready. They serve the usual cafe staples like English breakfast and a selection of desserts, as well as some local dishes such as Nasi Lemak, Yam Cake etc. Prices are surprisingly quite okay given the environment you're in! 

Long Black RM9

Served with a Roti Kok

Apple Crumble RM12

Served with a scoop of ice cream. 

Yes, you may purchase orchids there too :D Their orchid comes in a range of prices, from as low as RM10, all the way to triple-digit, depending on the type of orchid and the maturity level (I believe). There are a few orchid conservatories there too but photographs are not allowed there. 

 Besides orchid, they also sell other common houseplants at their farm :) 

Can't wait to visit them again when lockdown is lifted :) Do prepare to spend at least an hour, or more if you're someone who really appreciates plants :) 

Do pay attention to their social media page as they offer plants for sale occasionally, and sometimes they'd throw in some offers too :D 

World of Phalaenopsis

1017, Jalan Batang Kali - Hulu Yam Bharu, 

Kampung Sungai Kamin, 

44300 Batang Kali, Selangor

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/worldofphalaenopsis/

Instagram: @worldofphalaenopsis

Chica Bonita, Publika

I have heard many good things about Chica Bonita from friends and social media, which has piqued my interest to visit them. This place has been on my to-visit list since last year, and I've had quite a bit of trouble making a reservation on weekends night - they seem to always be fully booked (disclaimer: it is also my fault for not placing the reservation early).

I was over the moon when I (finally) managed to get a booking on a Monday night. A huge sense of relief descended upon me when I got the booking confirmation. Finally, not a rejection! Oh, the excitement! The anticipation! The longing! 

Located at The Square, just right next to The Social, Chica Bonita is hard to miss with the kaleidoscope of colours - the chairs were all painted in splashes of colour - orange & blue, green & yellow. 

Look up at the ceiling and you'll see colourful paintings even on the ceiling. The colours I need in my life right now. :p

The place was relatively empty when we visited on a Monday night. The food was served rather promptly - less than 5 minutes after ordering :O (or at least it felt so). Was expecting that the starter will be served first, followed by the mains but the food was served all at once - perhaps because they're very used to fast services on busy nights/lunch hours.

Quesadillas La Diva (Chicken) RM23

Grilled flour tortilla with your choice of filling (choose from chicken, beef, chicken & beef, pumpkin or mushroom), cheese, pico de gallo and salsa roja on side. The prices differ according to the filling you choose. 

La Bomba Nachos RM30

Corn chips topped with grilled cheese with salsa. You may choose from chilli con carne (beef) or pollo (chicken) for the topping. Opted for the beef topping for this. 

I've seen photos of this dish making its round on social media with a carpet of oozing cheese, but unfortunately, we did not get that D: Perhaps because the cheese was at the bottom of the pile of beef. But I can't help but feel a little disappointed. 

But that aside - the portion of this was huge. Loved how generous they were with the chilli con carne. This is good to share with a group - we (two of us) struggled to finish it!

Sangria Roja (Pitcher) RM120

The Sangria served at Chica Bonita is different from what I'm used to - it seems like the fruits have been blended together with the alcohol. A refreshing drink that is great for unwinding on a hot day. 

Overal...It was not bad. Food was decent. But perhaps it was the hype that heightened my expectations, I somehow felt that I was expecting "more" or some "wow factor". (EXPECTATIONS always ruin things!) Would definitely return if I'm around the area and craving some Mexican food. Wished that the food was served in phase/a little slowly so that we could better enjoy the dishes though!

Chica Bonita

Lot 34, Level G2, 

Block C5 Publika Shopping Gallery, 

Solaris Dutamas, 50480 Kuala Lumpur

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chicabonita.publika

Instagram: @chicabonita.publika

Cafe Deli by El Meson, Desa Park City [Non-Halal]

When it comes to Spanish food, El Meson/Cafe Deli has always been one of my personal favourites. The food never disappoints, and I love the Sangria there!

(Note: Cafe Deli is a spin-off from El Meson - both are under the same umbrella company & have the same menu, but the vibes I get at Cafe Deli is more chill and laid back, more "cafe-like")

There are three Cafe Deli/El Meson branches in Klang Valley - Bangsar, Desa Park City & Kiara 163. I've been to the one in Bangsar & Desa Park City and the food & service at those two branches are on par & equally good. But if I were to choose which branch I prefer, it'd be the Desa Park City branch. The outdoor seating deck overlooks the park & the lake, where you can see doggies running about with their owners :)

The outdoor seating of Cafe Deli, Desa Park Branch.

On weekdays between 11:30am to 3:00pm (excluding Public Holidays), Cafe Deli offers a two-course set lunch for RM25+. You may choose either a tapas and a main, or a drink and a main. I find this a really good deal, as the portion of the main course is the same as their ala-carte portion! 

You may refer to the full menu with the prices on their website.

Red Sangria (Jug) RM85

If you know you'll be drinking quite a bit, get the jug. One jug could serve around 7/8 glasses (refer to the picture above for the size!) 

[Tapas] Albondigas con patatinas

Pork and beef meatballs in tomato sauce with fried potato cubes served with slices of bread. The meatball was tender and flavourful, I like :) 

[Tapas] Jamon serrano on tomato bruschetta

The size of the tapas when you order from their lunch menu is seemingly smaller from their ala carte tapas portion size - I'd say it is a decent size...because their mains are full-sized and can be really filling! 

Ultimate Pork Burger

Pork burger served with a side of fries. The ala carte price for this burger is RM21. 

Ah, a bite into happiness. The burger was simple but satisfying, the patty was juicy, and there was nothing too fancy, but good enough for me :) By the end of the meal, I felt utterly stuffed.  

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I've paid a separate visit to Cafe Deli on a weekend to try out their breakfast menu, which is available daily until 3pm. You may refer to the full breakfast menu on their website. The lunch menu definitely offers a better value for money, understandable as it is only available on weekdays. 

Breakfast Butty with Pulled Pork RM24

I can't help but feel a little disappointed when the dish was served - because the portion feels small, perhaps due to the planting. I thought the breakfast butty looks lonely on this plate, with some cherry tomatoes on the sides. Having some fries on the sides would be great BUT then again, it is breakfast food, and fries aren't your typical breakfast food. 

Taste-wise was fine. The pulled pork was yummy, but I think I was influenced by the appearance & plating of this dish, and was really hopping for fries ;P

Mumbai Eggs Kejriwal RM23 (Vegetarian) 

Brown toast topped with spiced scrambled eggs with sliced chillies & chilli flakes and a sunny side up egg, served with avocado and spicy brinjal.

The plating of this dish was certainly more "vibrant" compared to the breakfast butty. Loved how flavourful the dish was - with the myriads of colour and spice. Be warned though that the chili is a bit spicy!

Truffle Fries RM24

Served with shaved parmesan. Was feeling peckish and in need of fries after the breakfast butty, we ordered a side of truffle fries to complete the experience. 

If you want a hearty, yet value-for-money lunch, go for their weekdays set lunch! Though beware of post-lunch food coma :p 

Be sure to make a reservation on weekends, especially if you'd like the outdoor seatings, as they get pretty crowded on weekends! 

CAFE DELI BY EL MESÓN (Desa Park City Branch)

Lot GF-05,

The Waterfront@Parkcity,

No.5, Persiaran Residen,

Desa ParkCity, 52200

Kuala Lumpur

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elmeson.my/
Instagram: @cafedeli.my

Website: https://elmeson.com.my/

Contact Number: +603 6263 6227

Business Hours

Weekday: 9am-10pm 

Weekend: 8am-10pm

Planter Chin x Taman Hati. Jalan Kemuja, Bangsar

Taman Hati has a special place in my heart (pun intended!), as I bought my very first houseplant there - a Fittonia, back in February 2020 in their old space along Lorong Maarof. And since then, my love for houseplants just started sprawling.  

Fast forward to today, Taman Hati has moved to a new location @ Jalan Kemuja, which is not too far from their old location. and has collaborated with Planter Chin to set up a cafe in the same space. I have been wanting to visit this space, but have been putting off any attempt to visit this place due to its location, which is notoriously known for limited parking spots especially on weekdays.

Was really excited to finally pay the new spot a visit on a Sunday afternoon! Was also able to find a carpark, albeit quite a bit of walking distance away, around that area :) 

Search for the little pink Sakura plant and the number 6a for the entrance (refer to picture above).

Upon going out the stairs, you'll be greeted by the lovely sight of plants sprawling all over and sunshine trickling in through the ceiling.

It was rather packed on a Sunday afternoon, even though it was Ramadan month during my time of visit. - it was nearly a full house. I'll let the picture do the talking. 

I love the use of different furniture in the space - some of the potting benches is seemingly made out of chest of drawers, mounted with a countertop! 

There is long corridor at the back of the space that leads to the toilet, with different plants (predominantly cactuses) lined up on the ledge. Such a cute sight! 

You may order coffee & some cakes from Planter Chin while taking in the lovely ambiance at Taman Hati. :) They serve black & white coffee as well as some selection of cakes at a decent price. 

Black Coffee RM10

Definitely, this is a lovely space for coffee, and to feast your eyes with plants. This place is like my #housegoals - I aspire to have such a beautiful space with this much natural daylight streaming in for my plants :) 

If you're seeking to get some houseplants but don't know where to start, I do recommend dropping by Taman Hati! Jan is a very knowledgeable lady about houseplants so this is definitely a great place to start if you want to get into houseplants, as she'd be able to give recommendation on what type of houseplants you should get.

Planter Chin x Taman Hati

6a, Jalan Kemuja, Bangsar, 

59000 Kuala Lumpur, 

Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur

Business Hours:

10am-5pm, Tuesdays-Sundays

Closed on Mondays

Instagram: @tamanhatijz