Merchant's Lane @ Jalan Petaling, Petaling Street - Of Vintage Charms

The tricky hassle of seeking for a new and hidden cafe - you'd be running a maze without proper directions, or on the promising side, you will be in for a treat!

Merchant's Lane

Getting there - input Advance Tertiery College (ATC) and Waze-it. You won't be able to pinpoint Merchant's Lane on the maps just yet. The cafe is located on Petaling Street itself, at one end of the corner, and on the right hand side of ATC. Not to worry, there're plenty of parking spaces available.

You're on the right track if you see this traditional Chinese mirrored signboard with a staircase leading up to the second floor. Be prepared for a realm of vintage and hippie surprise!

"We close at 6. Drinks are still served though," the girl behind the counter said.
"Ohh," I muttered silently but was screaming NOOOOO inside me. I came all the way and no dinner?
"Unless you want some food? We'd have to reopen the kitchen," she responded quickly.
"Yes please," I replied calmly but in my heart I was cheering YESSSSS!

There goes my entry into Merchant's Lane.

Huge fan of their vintage menu. How often do you find countertop menu like these? On the downside, there's only one menu and its small. You'll only get a good look at it when its your turn to order.

Mimi's Handcrafted Tea. Rm15.

I'm sure you'd be able to find Mimi here somewhere. The Mimi Handcrafted Teas are a fusion of different teas and spices in a pot. We had the Charcoal Roast Oolong Tea with Crysanthymum and Cinnamon.

Now, if you love milks, do order the Rose Honey Milk, one of the specialities here. Both of us weren't exactly milk-friendly, tea was the way to go.

South China Sea. Rm24.

Clearly - you won't see much details from the picture. But boy, this was scrumptious. Grilled salmon on golden brown hash and two poached eggs. The mishmash of textures and flavors worked! We polished it up in minutes.

Eat Die Me. Rm26.

The crispy hash and sauteed mushrooms were the highlights for me. It packed a flavorful punch. However the cream corn seemed a little out of place, and really, it needed only a sprinkle of salt.

Overall Rating: 7/10. The food at Merchant's Lane felt like comfort food, best enjoyed on a rainy day. My pick would have to be the South China Sea, without a doubt. I also adore the vintage charm of this cafe - a little different; a little more interesting. The downfall however would be its location. Though parking are an abundance, it's rather far-out from PJ, and no one likes being a maze runner, especially amidst the Petaling Street havoc. Thankfully for the friendly and energetic owners, we were the last to leave that evening, we enjoyed our quick bite and returned home, somewhat satisfied.

Merchant's Lane is located at:

Address: No.150, Jalan Petaling, Petaling Street, 59000 Kuala Lumpur.

Phone: 012-6396386

Opening Hours: 10.30am - 6pm (Timing may change post grand opening - call to enquire)