​​​​​​​Kakatoo Brings “Warisan Nyonya” to Ramadan with First Iftar Buffet at Quill City Mall

Kakatoo F&B Group is marking Ramadan 1447H with its first-ever Iftar buffet at its Quill City Mall outlet, offering what it describes as a curated “Warisan Nyonya” experience that blends heritage Peranakan flavours with the spirit of togetherness that defines the holy month.

The Ramadan initiative was introduced during a special luncheon hosted exclusively for DagangNews, where Kakatoo F&B Group CEO Joyce Chong said the brand wanted to provide Muslims with an authentic Nyonya dining experience without the need to travel to heritage food destinations.

“I believe that at Kakatoo, you can try authentic Nyonya food without having to travel to Melaka or Penang,” Chong said.

“Sometimes you don’t have enough time to travel just for the food. Here, you can still experience the taste of Melaka in Kuala Lumpur.”

For the first time, the Ramadan buffet will be available exclusively at Kakatoo’s Quill City Mall outlet, while its other 11 outlets across Klang Valley and Putrajaya will continue offering specially curated Ramadan family sets for four and six persons.

Priced at RM99++ per person, the buffet features approximately 80 dishes curated under the direction of Chef Bob, Kakatoo’s Chef Ambassador with more than 30 years of culinary experience.

The spread highlights kampung-style and modern Nyonya cuisine, built on the balanced flavours of lemak, pedas, masam, and manis that define Peranakan cooking.

Signature Dishes and Highlights

Among the must-try dishes highlighted by Chong are Kakatoo’s signature Curry Kapitan, fish head curry, and Rendang Tok. “Our Curry Kapitan is one of the best,” she said. “And our Rendang Tok has been very well received. Some guests even suggested we pack and sell it during Ramadan.”

Chef Bob has curated several live cooking stations at the Quill City Mall outlet, including a live Nyonya curry station, ayam bakar grill, carving station, and ice kacang dessert station, set up at the Fresco area. Guests can move between the main buffet spread and interactive stations throughout the evening.

With more than three decades in the culinary industry and credentials including Certified Continental Judge by the World Association of Chefs Societies (WACS), Chef Bob said preparations began early in anticipation of strong demand.

“Masakan Nyonya has a balanced taste profile and uses fresh ingredients,” he said. “After a long day of fasting, food that is not overly heavy but rich in flavour is very satisfying. It is easier to digest and comforting.”

Corporate and Group Bookings

For corporate and group bookings, Kakatoo is introducing block booking arrangements for the first time. Organisations, ministries, agencies, and private companies may reserve the Quill City Mall outlet exclusively for up to 120 guests at RM15,000 per session, or RM120 per person. The restaurant can also arrange a religious talk before berbuka if requested.

“We are limiting it to 120 guests — not too big, not too small,” Chong explained. “We want it to be comfortable. Ramadan is not about excess. We do not want food to become something that is just displayed but wasted. We want guests to enjoy the dishes in a calm and meaningful environment.”

All food served at Kakatoo outlets is Halal-certified by the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM), reinforcing its commitment to Muslim diners during the fasting month.

Heritage and Culinary Roots

Kakatoo’s Ramadan offerings reflect the historical roots of Baba-Nyonya cuisine, which dates back to the 15th century when Chinese traders settled in Tanah Melayu and blended their cooking techniques with local Malay ingredients such as serai, lengkuas, kunyit, belacan, and santan. The resulting layered flavours remain widely appreciated across communities today.

Chef Bob highlighted Ayam Panggang, Nyonya Curry Noodle, and Terung Beladoh as key selections this Ramadan, alongside traditional bubur and Nyonya kuih desserts prepared nightly.

Chong advised customers to make reservations early, noting that Ramadan evenings tend to fill up quickly. “We are excited to take part in Ramadan again this year,” she said.

“If you want to experience Nyonya heritage cuisine in a relaxed and meaningful setting, Kakatoo is ready to welcome you.”

Part of the proceeds from the Ramadan programme will be channelled to charitable causes, reflecting the spirit of giving during the holy month. - DagangNews.com