Whether you’re craving Chinese-style desserts, chunky cookies, or snow ice, it’s safe to say that weekend trips across the causeway are becoming sweeter and sweeter over time.
Here’s an piece of news that’s sure to whip fans of Cantonese pastries into a frenzy: iconic Hong Kong sweet shop Kwan Kee Store has opened its first outlet in Johor Bahru.
Having been recommended by the Michelin Guide for six consecutive years (2016–2021), it’s no wonder that this humble eatery, with over 60 years of history, constantly draws in the crowds.
They’re conveniently located inside Holiday Villa Johor Bahru, right across from KSL City Mall, so you can easily pop by after getting your hair or nails done.
The only downside? Be prepared to brave the queues, even on weekdays.
Kwan Kee specialises in pastries that are traditionally made using freshly milled rice, and not ready-made glutinous flour, yielding that highly-coveted “old school” taste.
You’ll notice an extensive variety of Steamed Cakes, such as the classic Red Bean (S$1.98, RM6.90); it’s smooth, silky, and pleasantly chewy, with a natural sweetness from red beans. Other flavours include the likes of Hawthorn (S$2.26, RM7.90), Almond (S$2.26, RM7.90), and Black Sesame (S$1.98, RM6.90).
Another popular dessert is the White Sugar Sponge Cake (S$1.40, RM4.90), a light and fluffy steamed sponge cake made with naturally fermented ground rice milk paste. You may notice its unique honeycomb texture reminscent of kueh (bika) ambon.
One of the more interesting menu options is the Rice Bowl Cake, or put chai ko, a sweet and chewy street snack typically made with White or Brown Sugar (S$1.40, RM4.90), studded with red beans, and enjoyed on skewers.
There’s even a version with Yam & Purple Sweet Potato (S$1.98, RM6.90), which boozes a molten “lava” centre fans of taro are sure to go crazy over.
Those who live and breathe all things mochi will adore the Sticky Rice Rolls that come in flavours like Peanuts (S$1.40, RM4.90), Banana (S$1.40, RM4.90), and Mango Sago Pomelo (S$1.98, RM6.90).
Durian lovers mustn’t miss out on the Malaysia-exclusive Musang King (S$2.26, RM7.90), filled with rich and decadent Mao Shan Wang durian pulp.
Last but not least, you might wanna cool down with dessert-inspired drinks like Red Bean Ice (S$2.58, RM9) and Mango Sago Pomelo (S$4.85, RM16.90) after all that queuing.
If you’re looking to get gifts for the entire family, load up your bags with a selection of baked items like Wife Cakes (S$8.59, RM29.90) and Phoenix Egg Rolls (S$8.59, RM29.90).
Will you be popping by Kwan Kee for a taste of +852?
Kwan Kee Store Johor Bahru 坤记糕品
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📍 Ground Floor Shop 7, Menara Malpakat, Holiday Villa, 260, Jalan Dato Sulaiman, Taman Abad, 80400 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
🕜 11am—sold out (Daily)
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I'm always feelin' either boozy or boujee ✨