By Anne Das
If you’re searching for a dining experience that fuses local flavours with rich cultural history, Kong Fu Kopitiam in Ipoh Old Town is where you need to be. Not just your typical kopitiam, this cosy eatery sits within the Kwan Tak-hing Memorial Hall, offering delicious Malaysian favourites with a side of martial arts heritage.
As you enjoy dishes like the Kong Fu Curry Mee or Kong Fu BBQ Chicken Rice, you’re surrounded by an atmosphere steeped in history, with martial arts memorabilia, lion dance heads, and relics from the life of Kwan Tak-hing—a legendary actor and martial artist who is best known for portraying Wong Fei Hung in over 80 films.
But the experience doesn’t end with the meal. After dining, you can head upstairs to the Kwan Tak-hing Memorial Hall, where the life and legacy of this martial arts icon are on full display. Opened in September 2024, the hall houses over 40 martial arts weapons, costumes, and more, giving visitors a fascinating look into both Kwan’s cinematic career and his contributions to martial arts.
Inside Kong Fu Kopitiam, you’re greeted by a blend of traditional kopitiam décor and martial arts memorabilia. From marble-top tables to lantern-lit interiors, the space is filled with nostalgic charm, while lion dance heads and kung fu relics bring the martial arts heritage to life. Diners can enjoy their meals while soaking in the history of this legendary figure.
The menu at Kong Fu Kopitiam keeps things simple and comforting, featuring local kopitiam favourites with a twist. The Kong fu Curry Mee (RM13.90) stands out with its rich, creamy broth and is packed with prawns, cockles, and bean curd puffs. For those craving a classic, the Kong Fu BBQ Chicken Rice (RM13.90) offers tender chicken seasoned with five-spice powder, soy sauce, and served with steamed vegetables and a fried egg.
Another favourite is the Nasi Lemak (RM8.90), a traditional Malaysian dish served with fragrant coconut rice, sambal, crispy anchovies, and boiled eggs. For diners in a hurry, the set lunches (RM10.90 to RM15.90) are a great option and include Kong Fu Bottled Coffee or Tea, a popular takeaway beverage for just an additional RM1.
After enjoying your meal, take a trip upstairs to the Kwan Tak-hing Memorial Hall. This free-to-enter exhibition space showcases relics from Kwan’s illustrious career. Visitors can view traditional martial arts tools like the 3 Chain Whip and the Iron Wire Fist, as well as costumes worn during his films. One of the interactive highlights is the Wooden Kung Fu Dummy, where visitors can try their hand at martial arts techniques.
The memorial hall is a truly unique and captivating space, offering something for visitors of all ages. Beyond its historical displays, it hosts creative workshops such as stone art and painting classes. Whether you’re a history buff, a martial arts enthusiast, or simply someone looking for an interactive cultural outing, the memorial hall has something to spark your interest.
For locals, it’s an opportunity to rediscover the flavours of traditional kopitiam dishes while connecting with Ipoh’s cultural legacy. For out-of-town visitors, it offers a unique blend of culinary and martial arts heritage that’s hard to find anywhere else.
Whether you’re there for a hearty plate or to explore the life of a martial arts icon, Kong Fu Kopitiam delivers an experience that goes beyond the ordinary.
Location : 39, Jalan Panglima, Ipoh,30000
Operation Hours : 8.30am – 4.30pm (closed on Wednesdays)
Contact : 016-883 5715
Socials : https://www.facebook.com/KongFuKopitiam/
Memorial Hall Admission is currently Free and Open to the Public.
