Bold and strong, Kopi Tenggek holds its own amidst rise of modern cafés
JOHOR BAHRU : Despite facing competition from modern coffee brands and international franchises, Kopi Tenggek, a local favourite known for its distinctive character, continues to hold a special place among coffee aficionados who appreciate its preparation and flavour.
Kopi Tenggek is traditionally served using a small metal filter containing 10g of coffee powder, perched on the rim of a glass. Hot water, heated to 97°C, is then carefully poured into the filter, allowing the rich coffee to slowly drip, drop by drop, into the glass below.
Despite the rapid rise of modern cafés across the state, this unique preparation method remains captivating for both local and international coffee lovers alike.
Coffee lover Rafidah Jaes said she likes the taste of Kopi Tenggek because of its simplicity and authenticity, adding that the aroma and 'kaw' boldness of Liberica coffee give its fans a 'different' experience.
'The taste of this coffee is not too 'fancy', and the way it drips into the cup makes us appreciate every sip more. It is not too bitter, not too sweet, perfect for hardcore coffee lovers,' the 43-year-old told Bernama.
Kopi Tenggek is well-loved among coffee enthusiasts for its simplicity, authenticity, rich aroma and bold flavour. (Bernama pic)
For Mazlan Aliman, a former adviser to the National Association of Felda Settlers' Children, Kopi Tenggek is more than just a drink – it is a cherished memory.
'It reminds me of my late father, the village stall, and that laid-back kampung atmosphere,' the 59-year-old shared. 'Modern machines sometimes strip away the natural oils from the coffee. This one feels authentic.'
Meanwhile, 33-year-old Hazim Salim said he prefers Kopi Tenggek not only because it is more affordable, but because he enjoys its distinctive balance of bitterness, sweetness, and aroma.
Kopi Tenggek Tanjung Piai business owner Ghazaley Ayiub, 58, said he was inspired to run a coffee business following a visit to Saigon, Vietnam, where he had observed motorcycle vendors selling coffee using a similar method.
However, what sets Kopi Tenggek Tanjung Piai apart is its use of Johor-grown Liberica coffee beans, roasted in-house at carefully controlled temperatures.
Proprietor Ghazaley Ayiub was inspired to start his own business after having observed vendors in Vietnam selling coffee using a similar method. (Bernama pic)
'We blend Liberica with Arabica to create a balanced flavour between medium and dark roast. Liberica has a slightly fruity taste, some say it is like mango. That's what keeps people coming back,' he said when met at the opening of his second outlet in Larkin here recently.
The Pontian native shared that the first branch in Kampung Serkat, Tanjung Piai attracts between 1,000 and 1,500 visitors every weekend.
Among Ghazaley's most treasured memories is the honour of receiving visits from Yang di-Pertuan Agong Sultan Ibrahim, who has stopped by his shop three times, and Regent of Johor Tunku Mahkota Ismail, who has visited twice with the Johor Darul Ta'zim football team.
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