Kedai Makanan Ah Soon - 50 Years of Charcoal Bak Kut Teh in JB

Tucked away in Taman Sri Tebrau, Johor Bahru, Kedai Makanan Ah Soon stands as one of the city’s most beloved culinary institutions. With over 50 years of heritage, this humble eatery has become synonymous with authentic Malaysian-style bak kut teh, drawing crowds of devoted locals and cross-border food enthusiasts from Singapore.

What sets Malaysian-style bak kut teh apart from its Singaporean counterpart is the broth itself—while Singapore’s version is peppery and light, Malaysian-style BKT is herbal-forward and richer in flavor. At Ah Soon, this tradition is honored through careful preparation and charcoal cooking methods that lend the soup its distinctive character.

The restaurant’s signature dish arrives in a steaming claypot, filled with tender pork ribs swimming in a golden-brown herbal broth. The soup is described as flavorful but not overly herbal, striking a balance that appeals to both traditionalists and those new to this style of bak kut teh.

Ah Soon’s signature bak kut teh is prepared using traditional charcoal fire, which imparts a subtle smokiness and creates what regulars describe as a “lighter” yet deeply flavorful broth. The soup base features a blend of herbs including tong kwai (Chinese angelica root), resulting in a clear, golden broth that’s peppery with herbal undertones—aromatic enough for purists but approachable for newcomers.

The tender pork ribs are accompanied by soft tofu puffs (tau pok) that absorb the flavorful broth, enoki mushrooms, and bean curd skin. Adventurous diners can request additions like pork liver and “rou gen” (meat tendons). The dish arrives piping hot in its claypot, best enjoyed with steamed white rice and you tiao for dipping into the rich, herbal soup.

While the bak kut teh takes center stage, Ah Soon’s menu boasts several standout dishes that have earned their own loyal following:

Sesame Oil Chicken: This signature dish, served in a claypot, is consistently praised by reviewers for its fragrant preparation and tender meat. The sesame oil imparts a rich, nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with steamed rice.

Braised Tofu: Made from scratch daily, the braised tofu is ultra tender and moist, absorbing the flavors of the braising liquid beautifully.

Salted Vegetables: The pickled vegetables (kiam chai) are a customer favorite, offering a tangy, salty counterpoint to the richness of the meats.

You Tiao: These deep-fried pieces of dough are airy and crispy, perfect for soaking up the sesame gravy or herbal broth.

Location: 141, Jalan Keris 1, Taman Sri Tebrau, 80050 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia

Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM (Closed Mondays)

Contact: +60 16-773 1262

Getting There: The restaurant is approximately a 13-minute drive from the JB customs checkpoint, making it accessible for day-trippers from Singapore.

Kedai Makanan Ah Soon represents a slice of authentic Johor Bahru food culture. For those seeking an introduction to Malaysian-style bak kut teh that also appeals to fans of the Singaporean version, this is an ideal starting point. While it may not be the cheapest option in JB, the quality, heritage, and consistent flavors keep customers returning generation after generation.

Whether you’re a bak kut teh aficionado or a curious first-timer, Ah Soon offers a satisfying glimpse into one of Malaysia’s most cherished culinary traditions. Just remember to bring your appetite—and perhaps some antacid for the garlic-heavy aftermath that’s part and parcel of the bak kut teh experience.