[2025 Sekudai Restaurant] Travel Guide for Ke Ren Lai (Updated May)

#johorbahruguide During my Johor Bahru trip, I made another stop at Ke Ren Lai to try something new—their grilled salted fish meat patty set. The dish was served with brown rice, a light soup, and blanched greens on the side. Everything came neatly arranged on a wooden tray, giving a very homely and balanced feel to the meal. The meat patty was incredibly fragrant, soft on the inside with a light crisp on the outside. That hint of salted fish really brought out the umami flavour, making each bite super satisfying. The side vegetables were fresh and drizzled with sesame dressing, adding a nice contrast. If you're craving authentic, comforting food that warms both the belly and the heart, this set definitely delivers!

#johorbahruguide Ke Ren Lai was one of the most memorable food stops during my Johor Bahru trip. This Hakka-style restaurant blends tradition with a modern touch. The decor felt minimal yet inviting, with a rustic wall design and hanging birdcages that added charm to the whole vibe. I had their signature minced meat noodles paired with a tasty meat skewer and soft-boiled eggs. It was hearty and satisfying. But the highlight was definitely their chili paste—bold, fiery, and full of umami. I loved how it brought the whole dish to life. If you're a chili lover or just looking for a local food spot that hits the spot, you’ll love this place!

#favouriteitinerary Thunder Tea Rice, also known as Lei Cha, a traditional Hakka dish. It consists of rice topped with various vegetables, nuts, seeds, and tofu, accompanied by a green "tea soup". Origin:It is a specialty of the Hakka people from Guangdong Province, China. Salty fish minced meat, also known as steamed minced pork with salted fish, is a popular dish in Chinese cuisine Abacus Seeds, a Hakka Chinese dish. It's made with: Taro: The "seeds" are made from taro, giving them a chewy texture. Ground pork: Provides a savory element. Dried shrimp and mushrooms: Add umami flavor.