Tucked away in the bustling neighborhood of Permas Jaya, Johor Bahru, lies a culinary gem that has captured the hearts and appetites of locals and visitors alike. Restoran Shi Wah (古来世华肉骨茶) isn’t just another eatery—it’s a destination where tradition meets flavor in every steaming bowl of their signature Bak Kut Teh.
The Story Behind the Soup
Photo Credit: Facebook / Restoran Shi Wah Permas
Restoran Shi Wah brings the authentic Kulai Sze Hwa style of Bak Kut Teh to the more accessible Permas Jaya area. While the original Sze Hwa outlet is in Kulai district, Shi Wah’s Permas Jaya branch has become a local champion in its own right, earning a devoted following among JB food enthusiasts.
What Makes Shi Wah Special?
The Iconic Blue Pots
Photo Credit: Google Review - Parsley Warrior
As soon as you step into Shi Wah, you’ll notice the restaurant’s signature large blue enamel pots bubbling away—a nod to traditional cooking methods. The pork is pre-cooked in these iconic vessels, then finished in smaller pots over gas stoves before being served in charming old-school ceramic bowls that add to the nostalgic dining experience.
The Broth That Keeps People Coming Back
The broth at Shi Wah is distinctive—a beautiful tea-colored concoction that strikes a perfect balance between savory and herbal. Unlike the peppery Klang-style or heavily herbal varieties, Shi Wah’s Johor-style broth leans toward a gentle, salty-savory profile with subtle herbal notes and a hint of garlic spiciness. It’s light enough to not induce thirst, yet complex enough to keep you sipping until the last drop.
What to Order
Pig Tail (猪尾) - The undisputed star of the menu! The combination of tender, chewy skin, soft fat that melts like “a warm sweet juicy pear,” and succulent meat makes this an absolute must-order. Nibbling the meat off the tail bone is both fun and incredibly satisfying.
Photo Credit: Google Review - Parsley Warrior
Cartilage Cuts (软骨) - These pieces offer a delightful textural contrast with tender meat wrapped around crunchy cartilage. The satisfying crunch adds an extra dimension to every bite.
Photo Credit: Google Review - Parsley Warrior
Pork Ribs - Classic choice featuring fresh, firm meat that falls off the bone with minimal effort. The natural sweetness of the pork shines through.
Photo Credit: Google Review - Junius Sim
Pig Trotter - Available with or without vinegar. The vinegar version offers a light, tangy flavor without overwhelming acidity, while the regular version showcases the pork’s natural flavors.
Photo Credit: Google Review - Merryheart
Sides That Complement:
• You Char Kueh (Fried Dough) - Dunking these crispy sticks into the broth is a textural delight
Photo Credit: Google Review - xaxxolonch
• Salted Vegetables - Sweet, sour, and refreshingly crunchy
Photo Credit: Google Review - Parsley Warrior
• Braised Eggs and Tofu - Soak up all those wonderful flavors
Photo Credit: Google Review - Lennox Cheok
Practical Information
Location: 6, Jalan Permas 9/5, Bandar Baru Permas Jaya, Johor Bahru (near AEON Permas/Jusco)
Operating Hours: 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM (Closed on alternate Mondays)
Contact: 012-732 8336
Price Range: Approximately RM23-25 per person for a satisfying meal
Getting There: From JB Sentral, take myBAS T21 to Permas Jaya and alight at AEON Mall Permas. The restaurant is a short walk from the mall’s northern entrance.
The Verdict
Restoran Shi Wah represents everything that’s wonderful about Malaysian hawker culture—authentic flavors, honest cooking, and a genuine passion for the craft. While it may not win any awards for ambiance, the soul-warming Bak Kut Teh more than compensates. The fresh pork, carefully balanced broth, and those iconic blue pots create an experience that’s both comforting and memorable.