Roti Bakar and Teh Tarik in Kuching: Joo Seng Cafe's 1960s Breakfast Rhythm
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When a Kuching morning starts before traffic builds at Jalan Rock, I would choose a breakfast still made with a little intention. Joo Seng Cafe's familiar order is roti bakar with teh tarik; the telling detail is that the toast is oven-baked until golden instead of relying on a toaster machine.
That choice connects the present shop to a longer story. Joo Seng has been part of Kuching's breakfast scene since the 1960s, founded by Mr Foo Siang Swee and his family. Its menu also brings together Sarawak laksa, mee jawa and fried chicken rice, so a mixed group can share a table.
The teh tarik is poured between cups to build a fine froth. Public customer notes also single out the cold milk tea, buttered toast and hearty Mee Jawa Special. I would start with toast and teh tarik, then choose mee jawa if breakfast must carry into lunch; it is the fuller option and may come with satay and fried chicken.
Joo Seng Cafe is at No. 125, 1½ Miles, Jalan Rock, Kuching, open about 5:30am–5pm. It is often busy, so arrive early. Open in Google Maps
For a first Kuching breakfast, it works when one person wants toast and another wants a local meal. Would you keep it classic, or go straight for mee jawa?
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