Siong Tong Gai - Steamed Live Fish in 30-Year Secret Broth

When you’re hunting for authentic KL-style steamed fish without crossing into Kuala Lumpur, Siong Tong Gai in Johor Bahru delivers exactly that. This Puchong-born restaurant chain brought their famous live fish concept to JB with two convenient locations, making it a perfect pitstop after clearing customs or during your IKEA shopping spree.

What sets Siong Tong Gai apart is their signature superior broth—a closely guarded recipe that’s been perfected over three decades since the restaurant’s founding in 2008. This isn’t your typical steamed fish preparation. The broth combines fresh ingredients with the founder’s secret formula, creating layers of savory depth with hints of Chinese wine, natural sweetness, and subtle herbal notes. It’s served bubbling hot over a tabletop gas stove, keeping your meal piping throughout dinner.

The restaurant’s name translates to “Superior Stock Street,” and they’ve built their entire reputation on this one dish. Fresh, live fish swimming in tanks greet you at the entrance—pick your catch, and watch it transform into a restaurant-worthy masterpiece minutes later.

Steamed Three Treasures with Live Fish

The star attraction starts at approximately RM60 for the complete experience. You choose from freshwater options like Patin (catfish), Jade Perch, or Red Tilapia, or go for saltwater picks like Soon Hock, Grouper, or Sea Bass. The “Three Treasures” addition (RM48++ for two persons) loads your steaming pot with fresh prawns, squid, lala clams, and optional enoki mushrooms—all swimming in that signature superior broth.

The Patin fish stands out for its buttery, succulent flesh interlaced with fats that melt in your mouth. The broth cleverly masks any muddy earthiness often associated with freshwater fish, replacing it with savory umami from the seafood and aromatic kick from generous amounts of chopped raw garlic, red chili, and scallions. As everything continues cooking at your table, the flavors intensify and the broth gets richer—perfect for dunking your rice.

The Jade Perch (RM98++ per kilo) offers a different experience with its white, soft flesh and gentle squeaky bite. Its slightly earthy taste balances perfectly with the broth’s natural sweetness, while the fish belly’s smooth, sweet fats provide the most indulgent bites. Salted

Fish with Pork Belly (RM26.80++)

This quintessential zi char classic gets elevated here. Fresh pork belly slices come with just the right fat-to-lean ratio, cooked in robust dark soy sauce with salted fish that provides intense savory depth. The fermented fish cuts through the pork’s natural sweetness, creating an addictive combination that disappears quickly from the table. It’s the kind of dish that has you scraping the plate for every last piece.

Sweet and Sour Pork (RM26.80++)

While many versions of this dish fall flat, Siong Tong Gai nails it with lean pork slices that are lightly battered and deep-fried to a satisfying crisp. The sauce strikes the right balance—savory-sweet with just enough tang to cut through the richness. Though some might prefer fattier pork cubes, the crispy coating and flavorful sauce more than compensate.

Steamed Kampung Chicken (RM49.80++ for half bird)

Free-range kampung chicken means leaner, springier meat with distinctive layers of fat and lean that stay tender through steaming. The herbal stock infused with subtle Chinese wine adds aromatic depth while the chicken’s natural juices melt into the broth below. Golden hues of chicken essence flavor the soup base, creating a comforting, nourishing dish that’s perfect for sharing.

For regular JB visitors tired of the usual suspects, Siong Tong Gai offers something genuinely different—that KL-style superior broth you won’t find elsewhere in JB. The live fish concept ensures maximum freshness, while the theatrical tabletop cooking adds an interactive element to your meal. It’s particularly suited for families or groups who can share multiple dishes and appreciate traditional Cantonese zi char done well.

The R&F Mall location’s proximity to the checkpoint makes it a strategic first or last meal on your JB trip. No need to navigate far into the city—just clear customs and you’re practically there.

Siong Tong Gai - R&F Mall

Address: G-150 & G-151, Ground Floor, R&F Mall, Johor Bahru

Contact: +6013-876 8048

Operating Hours: 10:00am - 10:00pm (Daily)

Siong Tong Gai - Toppen Shopping Centre

Address: Level 1, 13A Toppen Shopping Mall, Taman Desa Tebrau, Johor Bahru

Contact: +6017-239 0388 / +6017-479 7368

Operating Hours: 11:00am - 9:30pm (Daily)