Shang Pim Bak Kut Teh @ Kepong

December 13, 2016

5657

** Update June 2017: Shang Pim has shifted to Taman Kepong. New address: No. 13, Jalan Development, Taman Kepong. **

Shang Pim is the latest bak kut teh restaurant to open in Kepong recently. I was apprehensive about it at first, but the moment I knew it is the branch of Heng Bak Kut Teh Delight’s, all my hesitation faded away.
FYI, Heng Bak Kut Teh Delight’s used to operate in Taman Kepong but they went missing for a while before re-emerging as TNT Bak Kut Teh next to The Challenger Sports Centre. They also have another branch in PJ Old Town known as Kepong Heng Bak Kut Teh.

The names are kind of confusing so I am not really sure how to address their business now. Besides, there are plenty of other bak kut teh restaurants in Kepong with the name ‘Heng’ as well. So it’s not surprising that people would think they are all owned by the same family or relatives. Regardless of whether they are the same, they all share the same clear style bak kut teh which leans towards sweet and fragrant herb taste.
Besides great soup, meat quality is another thing that set Heng’s bak kut teh apart. If you love pork ribs and want to try a similar but better cut, try the Emperor Ribs @ RM13/pax. The meat has a smoother and tender texture. Other places might offer the same cut, but the way it’s cooked is totally different resulting in a different experience.

The dry bak kut teh @ RM15/pax is also a must try. It’s excellently prepared with loads of ingredients and they don’t take short cut or cut cost by substituting the dried chilies with bird’e eye chilies. The flavor is as good as it gets and reminds me fondly of what Hing Kee across the road used to serve during their best time. Too bad their quality has dropped so much that I stopped going there.

Shang Pim is probably the best bak kut teh restaurant along this main road in Kepong. Another equally good option is Kai Tian but they are not so generous with the serving size. If you can’t make it here at night, your alternative would be Heng Kee Hock Kien Klang Bak Kut Teh at Menjalara. I told you there are many Hengs around.