Criss-crossing PJ to check out two new cafes that feature plenty of personal touches, starting with The Augmented in SS2.
The Augmented is a labour of love that took Siew Geok & her husband Moon Ho nearly a year to create. Facing a row of terrace homes, it's the kind of suburban neighbourhood hangout that's instantly likeable, with a casual, come-right-in vibe.
Right past the entrance, The Augmented's tree sculpture is a striking representation of strength & hope - two virtues that every new cafe founder will require. The Augmented opened on the weekend before Christmas, & sure enough, customers who pose for photos beside the tree will currently spot some presents beneath it.
The Augmented - the name reflects its founders' ambition to cultivate a place that's more than a cafe - hopes to serve as a showcase for work by artists & photographers, with themes that'll change through time. We like these pieces now on display.
The Augmented offers cakes by home baker Anne of 126 Kitchen, whose speciality is an irresistibly rich, creamy-soft BCGT (Belgian Chocolate Ganache Tart) with dulce de leche. Pastries are now also available, but The Augmented's kitchen is only expected to kick in next month, with inventive pastas poised to take centre stage.
Hold a conversation with Siew Geok & Moon Ho, & you'll realise they care a lot about what they serve here. Coffee beans currently come from both Beans Depot & Papa Palheta, but if you're on a caffeine fast, there's cold-pressed orange juice too.
Another pleasant new place: Kelvyna Cafe, a spacious stop, beautifully decorated, at Kelana Jaya's PJ5 Soho suites.
'Angelic' could be one description for this cherubic cafe; there's also a photo opp here - stand in front of the wings on the wall.
For a teatime treat or supper snack (this friendly hangout stays open till pretty late): Green tea & white chocolate cakes, as well as cookie dough cakes, partnered with piccolo lattes & flat whites.
The Augmented
149 Jalan SS2/6, Petaling Jaya, Selangor. Open 1030am-10pm, closed Thursdays. Tel: 03-7865-0728
Kelvyna Cafe
PS-G-03, Wisma PJ5 Soho, Jalan SS5D/6, Kelana Jaya, Selangor. Sunday-Thursday, 10am-10pm; Fri-Sat, 10am-11pm
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