Joloko at Jalan Kamunting is definitely not the type of restaurant that gets into fame out of sudden and then fade of, but certainly one that can withstand the competitive F&B scene, keeping up their reputation through very unique concept, cuisine, interior – to remain partially “secretive” as a tropical escapade for city peeople in the concrete jungle and travellers, for food connoisseur – IYKYK style.
And this is not too wrong, right from identifying the location of Joloko. Instead of a bright, stylish shop sign written with JOLOKO, look for a little yellow heritage house with huge coconut trees greeting you right from the storefront, somewhere near Hotel Stripes Kuala Lumpur. Not hard to spot, not hidden, just easy to miss out if you are not paying attention.
We are glad that we finally paid this place a visit. Have been eye-ing on Joloko for few years, and decided that we should give it a try as we pass by Joloko again last week after having brunch at Bricks and Bread, which is also another worthwhile cafe by famous Dough & Dolce TTDI, situated within the vicinity. Seems like we have been missing a lot about Jalan Kamunting and The Row as the streets continuously flourished with various dining spots such as the Kooky Plate, 103 Cofee House, Kingu Kongu, Osteria Gamberoni, etc.
Guess we will never get enough with the lively, colourful vacation-vibes in Joloko. Every corner is Instagram-worthy, high ceiling, thoughtfully designed that we feel like we have been transported to an ultimate picturesque getaway in sky-blue Carribean, enjoying sun-basking, island breeze and warm blue ocean. Even the washroom is photo-worthy.
What else makes Joloko a must-visit restaurant? – the captivating cuisine. Joloko churns out a wonderful selection of Afro Caribbean style BBQ from the grill – Jamaican Jerk Chicken with Mango Relish, Pork Ribs Marinated in Berbere Spices, Dry Aged OP Rib, Bone-in Lamb Rack wtih African Peanut Sauce, Hay Smoked US Hanger Steak with Chili and Seaweed Rub – you named it. These delicacies are great with finely selected natural wines, mezcal and tequila, and handcrafted cocktails. We had the Mezcal Margarita and Bouchon Pais Veijo – that is fresh, sweet and light, by glass. Top up on second glass? Yes we did. Haha.
Since main courses in Joloko serves mainly 2-3 persons, we narrowed down our options to “Pickings” selection to avoid food wastage. They are more like snacks at bar or as starters – bite size, big flavours. They are very thoughtful too by highlighting this on the menu (some written with weight of meat) for mains, so that diners can order accordingly. We really want to try out the Pork Ribs in Berbere Spice and Apricot Blatjang and US Hanger Steak from the main menu, but we will return again with friends to share these signature dishes together. This round, we went for smaller portions – Grilled Goat Ribs, Pork Carnitas, Chilaquiles for savories.
Seriously love the Grilled Goat Ribs (RM55), it is so good. Charred grilled at the edges for wonderful burnt aroma, tender and juicy meat, rubbed with spices. Good on its own, more flavours with homemade shatta sauce.#ChefKiss
Pork Carnitas (RM32) is another highly recommended dish. It may look like just another standard-portion appetizer, but quite filling. Slow-braised till fork tender, texture added with crispy chip serves aside. Almost deserve a place as one-pax main course if paired with a side of carbs.
Beautifully presented Chiquiles (RM28) that stacks nachos, cheese, runny egg, tomato sauce and salsa verde. Polish clean everything in a jiffy. Nice. Other food selections you can have in Joloko include Deep Fried Creole Spiced Brococoli, Grilled Okra with Palaver Sauce, Spicy Chicken Tenders, Bajan Salte Marinated MAckerel, Guava Glazed Prawn Tostadas (star dish), Crispy Pomfret with Pineapple Salsa, and the food list goes on. One visit is never enough.
End our meal with JOLOKO Famous Chili Cheesecake. Very subtle chili taste. Not sure if it is meant to be so, but we like the thick, dense texture of the cheesecake. On a side note, you may walk to Joloko’s sister’s cafe Licky Chan Ice Cream for get the 20 culinary & surprising ice cream flavours. Bring along your JOLOKO receipt and enjoy a 15 % discount (valid on the same day).
JOLOKO
Address:
43, Jalan Kamunting,
Chow Kit, Kuala Lumpur.
Opening hours:
Mon-Fri 5PM-1AM
Sat- Sun 12PM -1AM
