Sweet vs Savoury Cakoi — Which Should You Try First?

At Soooka Cafe, we see customers freeze when they reach the counter. This particular choice between sweet and savoury cakoi seems to stump even the most decisive foodies.

We believe the “right” choice actually depends entirely on your mood and the time of day. Most regulars eventually develop a specific strategy for ordering based on their cravings. But for first-timers, we have created this guide to our signature cakoi menu to help you navigate the options.

We will break down the flavour profiles, the ingredients, and the best pairings for each style.

The Savoury Side

Chili Prawn Stuffed Cakoi

This dish has become our defining savoury offering. We start with our artisanal cakoi which is fried to a specific golden hue that balances crunch with chewiness.

The filling is where the magic happens. We pack the hollow centre with a robust, house-made chili prawn paste that draws inspiration from traditional yong tau foo but adds a crispy twist.

This paste is crafted from fresh prawns, dried chillies, garlic, and a hint of belacan for that essential Malaysian depth. The result is a filling that delivers a “bouncy” texture against the shattering crispness of the dough.

Insider Tip: Eat this immediately while it is hot. The contrast between the steaming, savoury filling and the crispy skin is at its peak within the first five minutes of serving.

Savoury Dipping Platters

We know some customers prefer to control their own flavour ratios. Our dipping platters allow you to dunk the plain, airy dough into sauces that pack a punch.

The curry dip is a rich, coconut-heavy sauce that mimics the comfort of a good laksa broth. We find this appeals to those who usually crave a hearty breakfast like roti canai.

For a sharper kick, our sambal kicap sauce offers that classic Johorean flavour profile of sweet soy sauce spiked with bird’s eye chili (cili padi). It cuts through the oiliness of the fried dough perfectly.

Who Should Start Savoury?

We recommend the savoury route if you are looking for a substantial meal rather than a treat. This option is effectively a lighter alternative to a full plate of Nasi Lemak (which can easily exceed 600 calories).

It satisfies that craving for umami and heat without weighing you down for the rest of the afternoon.

Feature	Savoury Stuffed	Savoury Dipped
Flavour Profile	Spicy, Briny, Umami	Rich Curry or Sharp Soy
Best Drink Pairing	Cold Brew Kopi	Teh O Limau
Texture	Crunchy & Bouncy	Crispy & Saucy

The Sweet Side

Coconut Ice Cream Cakoi

This pairing has exploded in popularity across social media for a reason. We serve the piping hot cakoi next to a scoop of premium coconut ice cream.

The science behind this pairing is the “hot-cold” contrast that excites the palate. We use ice cream made with real santan (coconut cream) rather than just dairy milk.

This ensures the flavour is intensely nutty and floral rather than just sugary. As the ice cream melts into the porous dough, it creates a creamy sauce that softens the crunch just enough.

Kaya and Pandan Dip

We take great pride in our traditional kaya. This custard jam is made from eggs, sugar, and coconut milk infused with fresh pandan leaves.

The secret to our kaya’s texture is the double-boiling method. We cook it gently over indirect heat for hours to prevent the eggs from curdling.

This patience yields a silky, lump-free spread that glows with a natural amber colour. It offers a nostalgic taste that rivals any classic kopitiam experience in town.

Gula Melaka Drizzle

We often recommend this for customers who want sweetness with complexity. Our Gula Melaka (palm sugar) is sourced for its specific smoky, butterscotch notes.

Did You Know? Gula Melaka has a lower Glycemic Index (around 35) compared to standard white sugar (around 65). It delivers a slower energy release along with trace minerals like potassium.

This makes it a slightly smarter indulgence for those watching their sugar spikes.

Who Should Start Sweet?

We suggest the sweet options if you are visiting for afternoon tea or a post-meal treat. If you have a sweet tooth or want to introduce a friend to Malaysian flavours, the Coconut Ice Cream Cakoi is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

The Verdict: Why Not Both?

We honestly believe the best way to experience Soooka is to treat it like a two-course meal. The “Soooka Strategy” is simple and effective.

Order the savoury chili prawn cakoi first to stimulate your appetite with spice and texture. Then, share a portion of the coconut ice cream cakoi as a palate-cleansing dessert.

This progression mimics the natural flow of a complete meal. It allows you to enjoy the full spectrum of flavours we offer without having to choose just one.

Come Explore the Menu

We invite you to test this strategy for yourself. Our signature cakoi menu is ready for whatever mood you are in.

You should definitely pair your choice with one of our specialty coffee drinks to round out the experience. We personally love the cold-brew kopi with the savoury items and a hot latte with the sweet ones.

Visit us at our Malaysian fusion cafe in Petaling Jaya — Damansara Perdana. We are open daily (except Wednesdays) from 10am to 10pm, and from 8am on weekends. Come hungry.