SABAK BERNAM: Life can get overwhelming at times. So, when you’re looking for a quick escape, how about driving down to Sungai Besar in Sabak Bernam, Selangor?
Approximately 120km from the Kuala Lumpur city centre, travelling the distance is worth the effort if only because of one picturesque café here called Kopikupi Kampung.
The café is essentially a double-storey wooden “kampung” house that is bound to charm you on first sight because of its rustic beauty.
The peace and quiet of the surroundings, free from the grating sounds of revving engines and honking motorists, make the rustling of the leaves and cooing of birds all the more soothing.
Speaking of birds, egrets, kingfishers, and black-naped orioles are easily spotted here, rare sightings in the city, that’s for sure.
But the highlight of this location is the expansive paddy fields opposite, easily making you feel like they can’t wait to enjoy their coffee while drinking in the scenic view as well.
Customers are required to remove their footwear before entering the café much like you’d do when popping into a friend’s house for a cuppa. It’s all these experiences that make Kopikupi Kampung a memorable spot, even before you order your beverage.
The café was opened in October 2021 by Mohd Fauzi Azmi. Speaking to FMT, the 53-year-old shared, “I originally built this house for my family and I to stay when we ‘balik kampung’. But after I started a coffee business in Johor, my friends from Selangor encouraged me to start another business in the state. So, I decided to open a café in this house.”
Customers can opt to sit indoors or outdoors. According to Fauzi, the view of the paddy fields is exceptionally beautiful during the harvest season. “So, when customers sit upstairs, they can really take in its beauty.”
The café is managed by his niece and nephew as he lives in Johor, where he oversees the roasting of the coffee beans, which are then delivered to the café by courier.
“The beans are roasted at 219°C because I find that at this temperature, the bitterness of the coffee is not too overpowering,” he said, adding that he uses beans from Brazil, Guatemala and sometimes Ethiopia and India.
“I hope that my customers will enjoy a good cup of brew and the beautiful scenery in front of them,” he said.
Tasting notes
Served in a vintage cup and saucer set that are commonly seen in kopitiams, the kopi kampung is thick and strong. A no-frills beverage, this is still a lovely pick-me-up with a ‘kick’ and perfect for those who travelled far to get to the café.
Another beverage with a ‘kick’ is the Vietnamese drip coffee. Rich with just the right balance of creaminess, each sip is delightful. It is also a luxurious experience to watch the coffee slowly drip through the filter as one basks in the tranquil surroundings.
Go ahead and try the biscoff latte if you’re looking to indulge. The beverage is creamy and the Biscoff spread adds a sweetness with a pleasant hint of spice. Absolutely delicious!
Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, how about giving the banana latte a try? Admittedly, the combination of banana and coffee can seem a little odd at first. However, the banana syrup blends surprisingly well with the coffee without being too overpowering.
Other beverages on the menu include standard fare such as cappuccino, mocha, and caramel macchiato.
Also, how about pairing your cuppa with some kek batik? Made from biscuits and chocolate, kek batik is simple yet delicious and it can be hard to stop at just one slice. Alternatively, the establishment also serves other light snacks such as toast and nuggets.
So, if you’re craving for a good cup of joe and a sweet respite, head over to Kopikupi Kampung!
Learn more about Kopikupi Kampung on Facebook and Instagram.
Kopikupi Kampung
Simpang 3, Loji Sungai Limau
45300 Sungai Besar, Selangor
Business hours: 12.00pm–9.00pm (closed on Tuesday)
Public holidays: 8.00am–10.00pm