The super-fresh, beautifully cleaned squid was cooked to springy succulence and its sambal, different from the sweeter lontong version, packed a powerful kick. In my mouth, an umami party was happening as the seafood flavours of squid mingled with ikan bilis and dried shrimp.
Excellent quality, fantastic flavours and affordability were clearly the secrets to Java Corner’s popularity. Customers stopping by for excellent kopi from the drinks stall run by the coffeeshop’s owners added to the bustling atmosphere. By 10am, the cosy space was getting crowded with diners and those ducking in from the rain for a takeaway.
I overheard an elderly gentleman telling the staff that he had forgotten to bring his wallet. “Never mind, hutang (Malay for debt)!” came the cheerful reply. He was obviously a regular customer and their easy exchange added to the authentic, old-school kopitiam experience.
When Agus proclaimed “I love the place! Nothing to explain, just eat!”, I understood. We didn’t need more words. Just the knowledge that lontong and sotong were the perfect breakfast combo to chase the storm clouds away.
Java Corner is located in Khong Guan Restaurant, 49 Stirling Road, Singapore 141049. It’s open Mondays to Fridays, 7.30am to 4pm, closed on weekends and public holidays. Catch Makan Kakis with Denise Tan every Thursday from 11am on Mediacorp GOLD 905.