15. Growing Up in Taiping: Food Memories (Part 3 - Kakak's Kai Si Mee)

Kakak's Kai Si Mee

This is the final post of a 3-part series on the food memories of a schoolboy fromTaiping - of simple dishes in simple stalls, but remembered for a lifetime.

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Along Jalan Lim Teong Chye between Kota Road and Market Road, two stalls stood on opposite sides of the street. Both sold the same simple dish, kai si mee. The first stall was run by Kakak, fortunately positioned in the shade from the morning sun.

In contrast, the other stall was exposed. It was run by a couple whose voices carried farther than their food. Husband and wife, both stubborn, were known as much for their quarrels as for their kai si mee.

Customers often exchanged amused glances as they ate, wondering if the arguments were part of the show. Both stalls’ noodles came with a broth that was light but fragrant, shredded chicken tender, topped with fried shallots and homemade chilli sambal.

Each had its own reputation and loyal following. But my preference was for Kakak’s stall. The kai si mee from both stalls was equally delicious, but sitting under the hot sun with the sound of bickering in the background made the other stall less enjoyable.

Restoran Kakak at Jalan Pasar

Kakak, in later years, became more successful and operated from a shophouse in Market Road. The Kakak shop is still there, though Kakak herself has retired. Rumour has it the new operator paid Kakak RM1 million for her recipe and goodwill.

In time, the business changed hands and the recipe found a new home. The present operator runs it as a proper eatery not far from the old Market Road site. While the menu now includes extra dishes, the kai si mee remains the main draw. Regulars still come for the same light broth, tender chicken, and sambal that made Kakak’s stall so popular.

Looking back, those flavors were more than food. They were the taste of nostalgia, of school friends, and of the rhythm of a town. For many like me, it is less about chasing new tastes and more about holding on to familiar ones, like Kakak’s Comfort Food - The Kai Si Mee.

Wong Chee Wah

9th September 2025