Ayam Kicap Meletop, Gombak: A Johor Family Recipe Handed Down

Some days you don't need some weird viral dish, just a plate of rice with something that tastes like mum's cooking. That's why we stopped by Ayam Kicap Meletop by Atip's Kitchen in Taman Gombak Jaya, a shop that made its name with ayam kicap (soy sauce chicken) based on a family recipe from Johor.

Unlike the dry ayam kicap we usually find, the version here is cooked with gravy. The chicken is tender, the soy sauce gravy is thick, and the sweetness and spiciness are well balanced, so it suits the whole family, including those who can't take much heat. For extra fire, order sambal jiwa kacau or sambal gepuk on the side.

The other dishes are just as tempting. The ayam gepuk here is served with crispy fried spinach, a pairing we rarely come across. The ayam bakar (grilled chicken) is marinated with spices that soak right through and leave a smoky aroma. We also tried the fried tilapia, and for other options there's ikan kembung (mackerel), keli (catfish) and chicken. Fans of saucy dishes can order the asam pedas ikan pari (stingray in sour-spicy gravy), which packs a real tangy, spicy punch.

Prices are wallet-friendly. Based on the menu listed on delivery platforms, the Johor-style ayam kicap set starts at around RM14.90, the ayam bakar set at RM15.90, while sambal jiwa kacau can be added for RM3.90. Dine-in prices may differ slightly.

The business started as a small stall in front of the current premises before growing into a shop. The area is popular with residents and students around Gombak and Setapak, especially at night. For those too lazy to go out, online orders are also accepted and the service is fast.