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As KL evolves into a modern metropolis, it still cherishes its long standing stalls and shops tucked away in the bustling cityscape. Each of these establishments has its own rich history and tale to share, and Kei Suk Wantan Mee is no exception.
Nestled within an unassuming coffee shop in Pudu, you’ll discover a stall that has been serving patrons since 1962. With over 6 decades of history behind it, Kei Suk Wantan Mee has earned a loyal following of regular customers.
A notable feature of this establishment is the noodle chef himself. It was a momentous occasion for me to witness the skilled hands that tirelessly serve countless plates of wantan mee to the locals.
Despite my early arrival in the morning, the coffee shop was already bustling with patrons, necessitating a wait for a seat. The auntie who took my order informed me that I would have to wait 40 minutes for my wantan mee.
What I tried at Kei Suk Wantan Mee
Needless to say, I waited for the Wantan Mee (RM9). The noodles were accompanied by tender slices of char siew, minced meat, and some vegetables. The presentation appeared a bit hurried; maybe the uncle was rushing to fulfil all the orders.
Famished after the long wait, I eagerly dug into the noodles. They were expertly prepared, boasting just the right texture. However, I detected a distinct bitterness from the dark sauce, which detracted from the overall enjoyment. A milder bitterness and a touch of sweetness would have enhanced the dish significantly (in my humble opinion).
After enjoying the noodles, my focus shifted to the char siew, which featured a balanced blend of fat and lean meat. Expertly roasted, it emanated a subtle sweetness from the roasting process and offered a wonderfully tender texture.
The dish was accompanied by a bowl of soup containing 3 pieces of wantan. The broth exuded a rich flavour and was refreshing. When paired with the noodles, it provided a lighter balance to the meal, enhancing its overall appeal.
The wantan was meticulously made, with thin, delicate skin wrapping around a flavourful filling. It was incredibly smooth, allowing for effortless slurping.
Final thoughts
To be frank, I came to this stall with lofty anticipation spurred by its glowing online reviews. However, my dining experience didn’t quite meet those expectations, leaving me somewhat disappointed. The sauce of the noodles could definitely benefit from being less bitter.
Despite the snaking queue, I found it to be somewhat overrated. Perhaps the stall didn’t meet its usual standard on that particular day in contrast to its usual performance on other occasions. So, I might give it another try next time I’m in the Pudu area. Do note that the opening times are not fixed, so you have to depend on your luck when you’re planning to visit!
Expected damage: RM9 – RM12 per pax
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