103 Coffee Chow Kit, Cafe Kuala Lumpur

103 Coffee Chow Kit 

Words: Nichole Ong
Photos: Rich Callahan

Newly opened 103 Coffee is already bustling with life at Chow Kit. Such energy reflects the excitement attributed to its internationally award-winning baristas whipping up classics such as artfully foamed lattes to creative concoctions that reinvent the humble coffee bean. 

The ambience at 103 Coffee is beautiful, with geometric lines and plenty of natural light among tastefully placed greenery. We soon found the food to be just as appealing, delighting in brunches, mains, and desserts. 

Drinks Menu – 103 Coffee Chow Kit

On first sip, it is easy to see the passion and skill that led 103 Coffee baristas to victory at the Malaysian Brewers cup this year. We tried the House Latte (RM 15.90), opting for oat milk, and found it to be nicely balanced and not overly acidic or bitter – while retaining a kick. 103 Coffee Chow Kit has blends catering to all coffee drinkers, with one being chocolatey and nutty and another being more acidic and fruity. The World Latte Art Champions enraptured us with their foamy masterpieces, first presenting an intricately detailed pegasus, then a bear holding a fish. 

103 Coffee Chow Kit describes their coffee creations as reimagining black liquid. We tried the Strawberry Latte (RM 18.90) worked surprisingly well. The frozen strawberries fashioned a unique pairing with the coffee, looking visually impressive as they were combined and also adding sweetness and acidity. 

The Sunrise Coffee (RM 18.90), my favourite, combined citrus with coffee in a light and zesty brew reminiscent of the energising freshness of a new day. With all the acidic flavours, the coffee still retained some nuttiness, making it a perfect balance and a testament to the team’s creative genius. 

In keeping with the sunny theme, the Beach Runner (RM 18.90) looks just like a cocktail to be sipped at the beach. Its taste is reflective of such a pleasure, being fruity and sweet due to the combination of the coconut and lychee blending together harmoniously. 

As a non-caffeinated option, we enjoyed the Kombucha (RM 19), which is naturally fermented with a strong bite. Its sourness offsets the rich intensity of our endeavours in the food menu. It is a worthy addition to a hearty meal – possibly also considered a palate cleanser between bites. 

Brunch at 103 Coffee Chow Kit

Where there is coffee, there are brunch foods. 103 Coffee Chow Kit has a tantalising array of them, available all day. We revelled in a Malaysian classic, Tosuto and Eggs (RM 13.90), which served fluffy toast alongside perfectly cooked half-boiled eggs seasoned with chives. Of course, this came with an ample portion of kaya and butter which we happily lathered over the crispy exterior of the bread and enjoyed when dipped in the egg. 

For those looking for a more uncommon way of serving brunch, the Bacon Egg Taco (RM 16.90) is sure to satisfy those cravings. Its fluffy egg served with savoury, crispy bacon and cheese is perfectly suited for the morning alongside a cup of coffee. 

As a vegetarian option, the Coconola Bowl (RM 22.90) will not disappoint. It is loaded with homemade coconut granola, greek yoghurt, a variety of berries, and banana. The dish is a wonderful array of textures, with both chewiness and crunch, providing a sweet and fruity taste that is the perfect way to start the day. 

Speaking of berries, Peter’s Toast (RM 22.90) is stacked with them, perfectly accompanying the thick, fluffy pan-fried French toast. The berries and the strawberry compote make a perfectly sweet dish with an irresistible tartness that is soaked up well by the toast. 

Mains

We absolutely loved the Mushroom Udon (RM 22.90), another fantastic vegetarian option. The portion is extremely generous, probably enough for two. Still, udon lovers may be surprised at how fast the dish is consumed as the lightly savoury-sweet broth keeps them coming back for more. The vast variety of mushrooms in this dish gives an earthy sweetness, while the leeks complement the udon delightfully with their occasional crunchiness. Definitely, a must-try. 

The Thai Salad with Turmeric Barramundi (RM 39.90) is inspired by Chef Peter’s childhood favourite of crispy fish marinated with turmeric powder and salt. The vibrant tartness from the asam java, synergising with the sweetness from the maltose sugar alongside the spiciness of the chilli, is a clearly inspired homage to Thai Cuisine, which deliciously pairs with the superbly seasoned fish. I particularly enjoyed the fresh sourness from the tomato and the occasional nuttiness from the cashews. 

Dessert

We were enchanted by the Rum & Raisin Cake (RM 18.90) as its smooth and decadent texture made it so that one bite was never enough. The rum in the cake gives it a delightful booziness, while the raisin adds pops of sweetness atop a simple but tasty biscuit base. 

The Oatmilk Panna Cotta ( RM 18.90) is a fabulous vegan dessert option, taking the classic Italian Panna Cotta and incorporating oat milk to give a nice nuttiness as a base to the sweet lychee. This dessert is a light and refreshing end to a lovely meal. 

103 Coffee Chow Kit Review 

103 Coffee Chow Kit lives up to its quest to reimagine black liquid by masterfully creating visual and gustatory delights in a cup. On top of these, their brunches, mains, and desserts are done to amazingly high quality, leaving visitors wanting nothing but another bite. 

Reasons to visit 103 Coffee Chow Kit: award-winning baristas; unique and attractive setting; beautiful latte art; great brunches, mains, and desserts. 

103 Coffee Chow Kit
9, Jalan Yap Ah Shak,
Chow Kit, 50300 Kuala Lumpur
Instagram: @103coffee_official
+6 012 950 1353

103 Coffee Chow Kit Opening Hours
Monday to Sunday, 8 am- 9 pm (last order: 8:30 pm)
Reservations available on weekdays

Find more of our favourite cafes here and stay up to date with the latest gourmet happenings around Malaysia here and here.