By Wilfred Pilo
KUCHING, Sept 3: Nestled in the heart of the bustling Taman Desa Wira commercial centre is Ho Pheng Corner, a cafe managed and owned for the past eight years by the friendly 55-year-old Chan Ho Pheng.
“If you’re a steamed chicken rice aficionado, you’ll find our succulent and flavourful dishes, served with fragrant rice, hard to resist,” Chan told DayakDaily.
He not only manages the cafe but also fulfils his promise to the retiring vendor by continuing her two decades of delicious steamed chicken rice recipes.
According to Chan, the former vendor stopped operating to care for her ailing husband.
“She was already in her late 60s and could have continued if not for her husband, who needed her care,” he said.
“Despite my own culinary experience with Kueh Chap, I had to learn quickly from her. The chicken dishes looked simple, but achieving the right taste was challenging. After several attempts, I finally got it right and felt confident serving them to our patrons,” he added.
Chan revealed that they use free-range chickens from a local poultry farmer, ensuring the birds are the right age and size.
“This gives the meat the right texture, which makes a big difference in taste. Consistency is key, and that is why our chicken rice stands out from other vendors. Of course, it also makes our dishes competitive,” he chuckled.
He hopes his chicken rice dishes will gain recognition and attract more customers.
“Our chicken dishes are not only tasty but also affordable at RM7 per plate, compared to other cafes. Nearby residents know me, and our competitive pricing keeps them coming back.”
Chan said he enjoys sharing good food, in line with the wishes of the former vendor.
“I always remember her advice. It is good for a cafe owner like me, and it keeps my business going.”
He proudly noted that even local public figures from Peninsular Malaysia have visited his cafe and enjoyed his dishes.
“They all enjoyed my food, and that is good enough for me. It boosts my confidence.”
Before venturing into chicken dishes, Chan had already earned a reputation in the area for his Kueh Chap.
He said he learned the popular dish from a friend and has been serving it for a decade.
“This is one of the scrumptious dishes we serve here, giving patrons more choices. We will definitely continue offering it.
“My hope is to also introduce city folks to my Kueh Chap, as it suits their palates too.
“In this area, it needs no introduction, we have already built a loyal customer base,” he added.
Chan shared that his cafe serves food familiar to locals while preserving authentic local flavours.
He emphasised the use of simple, genuine ingredients in most dishes.
“That is why our menu also includes Kolo Mee, Sarawak Laksa, fried noodle dishes, as well as steamed buns and dumplings,” he revealed.
Chan said he still has the energy and passion to run his cafe. He is grateful that his family helps out to keep the place running smoothly.
“I know for now I have dishes that will keep people coming. Every day, I see familiar faces, and I thank these regulars for their support and love for our food.
“We also hope more people from other parts of Kuching will come try our dishes, especially the steamed chicken rice and, of course, my Kueh Chap.
“You never know, you might just enjoy the succulent taste and discover a new favourite cafe to bring family and friends,” he said.
Ho Pheng Corner is located at No 18A, Jalan Desa Wira, Taman Desa Wira. It is open daily from 6am to 2pm, except Mondays. For inquiries, call 010-236 4756. — DayakDaily
