By Wilfred Pilo
KUCHING, Oct 6: Steak House—being the only Western food stall at Petanak Market—has been serving Kuchingites for almost 40 years with simple and affordable dishes.
Its operator, 70-year-old Jong Mui Ted from Asajaya, has shown resilience since his youth, as he did not let the lack of formal training stop him and instead gained knowledge by working in Singapore, Brunei, and Taiwan.
“Thirty-seven years ago, I secured a stall at Petanak Market and began putting my knowledge of Western cuisine into practice. Thanks to the support of Kuching City South Council (MBKS), I’ve been able to earn a decent livelihood,” he told DayakDaily.
Jong takes pride in his Western offerings, with over 20 different dishes that have consistently drawn patrons to his stall throughout the years.
“I’m not exactly sure what draws people to my dishes, but I believe it’s because they suit our local palates. Western food tends to be savoury, buttery, and earthy in flavour, and I think those flavours pair well with sauces.
“Since day one at my stall, I’ve always served dishes with tomato-based sauces—either sweet or spicy—and locals seem to like it that way. I suppose it suits their taste,” he said.
Jong explained that it’s the simplicity of his Western dishes, paired with familiar sauces, that keeps customers coming back.
“Of course, prices have gone up over the past three decades, but compared to other eateries, mine are still very reasonable and affordable.
“I believe the simple, delicious flavours and affordable pricing play a big role in keeping customers coming back. If you’ve got a big appetite, I’d recommend our mixed grill,” he chuckled, adding that they serve a variety of meat such as mutton, chicken, and pork.
Jong remains optimistic and content with how well his Western dishes are doing, and he hopes the stall’s success will continue if his children eventually take over.
“Two of my three children help me at the stall, while my eldest daughter runs her own Western food stall at an eatery in Sungai Moyan, on the outskirts of Kuching.
“My daughter and son, both in their 30s, have been making these dishes with me for over a decade, and I’m confident they know exactly what to do.
“We all help one another and enjoy each other’s company while serving our customers,” he added with a smile.
Jong and his family are content with running their current stall at Petanak Market and have no immediate plans to expand.
“It’s up to my children—they’re experienced and mature in the culinary trade I started,” he said with a smile.
The Steak House is located at Stall No. 12, First Floor, Petanak Market, and operates daily from 4.30pm to 10pm. For more information, call 014-692 9195. — DayakDaily
