Ipoh is a popular day trip destination from Kuala Lumpur. This Old Town that flourished through mining is a two to three-hour drive from Kuala Lumpur. Ipoh White Coffee may be commercially known and widely available but it is only in the old town of Ipoh where one can take sample a favorite delicacy the local hor fun (kuey teow), taugeh (beansprouts) and Hainanese-style steamed chicken. There are a couple of restaurants to go to but a lot of locals pointed us to Onn Kee Restaurant.
Onn Kee Restaurant
The family-run Onn Kee Restaurant has been in operation for 44 years. Founded by the now 76 years old Leet Hoo, the secret family recipe which they have used during their hawker stall days has been passed on to her children. We had the pleasure of meeting Leet Hoo who still stays around the restaurant to oversee operations of her children. They now have two restaurants close to each other.
We dined near their competitor Lou Wong. It’s a typical Chinese style eatery with basic tables and chairs and a busy kitchen. You don’t go here for the ambiance but for the food. It is a pretty popular place so table turnovers are fast with a line of guest waiting especially at peak hours. Though at one of the walls are several photos with prominent personalities that have dined in the resto.
Signature Hor Fun
What I like about restaurants like Onn Kee is the simplicity of the menu. There’s only a few choices but those where they are good at. Their signature hor fun noodles are thick but silky smooth. The broth is also kept simple and clear, spiced with spring onions and not overly seasoned. Their taugeh is humongous compared to our local beansprouts in the Philippines. I don’t know what made these mutant beansprouts but it may also be about the high PH levels found on the waters of Ipoh. A factor which makes their broth more flavorful, noodles silkier and beansprouts more plump.
We also had the tender Hainanese-style chicken which I heard they use free range chicken. The pork barbecue is also savory and flavorful. Meatballs is a filling companion to the soup. All these you can have for around RM 30 when sharing with friends or a simple solo meal for RM 30.
Onn Kee Taugeh Chicken
51 Jalan Yau Tet Sin
30300 Ipoh, Perak
Open: 10AM to 12 MN.
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