HoLai - Petak Enam
好来 👌🏻
an invitation to try out some Peranakan food located in Petak Enam. During this pandemic I think it’s safe to say that we can’t (well or we chose to just because we feel it’s not safe..yet) travel overseas.. anddd it’s freaking hard when you’re craving for a specific type of food but ya gotta stay put.
I’ve always been a big big fan of Peranakan Food- and that’s when Holai came along. Holai focuses on Peranakan Fusion food that is unique and ugh - unforgettable (yes, even though it’s a NO PORK, NO LARD).
Holai opened its first outlet in Kemanggisan and they recently opened their second one in Petak Enam, Glodok. First of all - the place itself is actually quite small with no seats inside; but worry not! Because outside of their shop, there are plenty of seats in the middle. Petak Enam literally reminds me of Singapore’s Hawker Center that I truly truly miss! Their shop is too cute to be true - especially their they have this one photo spot that you can take picture ;)
Let’s talk about their FOOOOD!
Food Rundown:
Prawn Laksa: Laksa broth with prawn, tofu, bean sprout, fishcake, chili oil, sambal belacan and creamy coconut topped with half-boiled egg.
HOLD! hold on, what is this?! Hold. your. thought. Honestly, I am not a huuuge fan of Laksa but this bad boys right here? oh dear - can’t stop, won’t stop. The creaminess of the laksa broth, the prawn - it literally blows ma mind. I absolutely love the thickness of the broth and how all are mixed together really really good! This deserves a 9/10!
Kwetiaw Gosong: Wok-Hay char kwetiaw with chicken lapchiong, shredded chicken, bean sprout and chives.
okay, okay - this kwetiaw is indeed not the same as the usual kwetiaw that you find. There’s a hint of ‘burned’ taste in a good way. I feel that the chicken lapchiong is perfect to top it all because the saltiness of the kwetiaw tastes absolutely perfect when you eat it together with the chicken lapchiong.
Peranakan Chicken Wing: Peranakan-inspired marinated chicken wing fried to crispy with a hint of curry leaf.
I think it’s safe to say this is pretty good.. the saltiness of the chicken is just right, they are perfectly crispy and it leaves a good impression in the end. pretty good, pretty good.
Overall, I think Holai gives an amazing impression - especially with the O-M-G- Laksa!! Literally it’s a MUST ORDER FOOD! I can honestly say they deserve a 8.5/10 for the authenticity, the Peranakan dishes aaaaand the simple yet memorable food! Can’t wait to try their other dishes!
