Delicacies off Campus: Limp shrimp and daring brews at Killiney Kopitiam

“Delicacies off Campus” critiques meals close to Stanford’s campus. We think about what issues to school college students: how shut is the restaurant? How costly is the meals? And, most significantly, how tasty is it? We hope that can assist you discover your subsequent favourite spot!

A cute cafe-restaurant hybrid, with shiny gentle shining by way of its home windows, Killiney Kopitiam feels inviting. Although we didn’t love all of our meals, some issues had been fairly satisfying. With scholar reductions and a handy Palo Alto location, Killiney Kopitiam wouldn’t be our first advice, however it could have what you’re on the lookout for. 

The chain’s flagship location, which opened in 1919, boasts the title of the oldest Hainanese espresso store in Singapore. Killiney Kopitiam Palo Alto is the one location in america, although they’ve virtually 30 places throughout the globe. Their Palo Alto operation sits on Waverly Road, subsequent to Tai Pan, a dim sum restaurant. It has a fast-casual really feel, with easy tables and an ordering counter. 

One in every of us is a passionate espresso fan, so the prospect of a superb cup of joe was thrilling; sadly, the Kopi C at Killiney Kopitiam didn’t match the invoice. Described as espresso with evaporated milk and sugar cubes, the drink was too sturdy, tasting virtually bitter. The depth of the espresso wasn’t satisfying, however as a substitute felt overwhelming. 

The Teh drink was equally overwhelming, although a fan of bitter black tea might need higher appreciated it. The condensed milk did little to chop the bitterness, however added depth to the flavour of the drink, giving it a pleasing silky texture. 

To begin our meal, we break up a potato curry puff. It had a satisfying, flaxy texture, contrasted with the nice and cozy, interior softness of the potato. The starch and curry mixture was traditional. As an appetizer, it was filling and scrumptious. 

The mee siam — a noodle dish served with tamarind gravy, shrimp, tofu and various greens — packed a flavorful punch. The lime added simply the proper trace of citrus to the sauce, which had a satisfying sourness. The tofu that topped the dish was texturally glorious. Sadly, the shrimp fell quick by way of freshness, however the dish may simply be loved with out them. 

The hen curry, in contrast to the mee siam, didn’t have a saving issue. Although it was a beneficiant, filling portion, it had a grainy texture and one-dimensional taste profile. It learn as generically seasoned, missing any defining standout flavors. The dry texture of the hen did little to assist.

Many of the dishes had been round $20, although among the vegetarian choices had been a bit cheaper. A draw of the restaurant is their scholar low cost; Killiney Kopitiam provides a 15% low cost to any Stanford college students who convey their scholar ID. The restaurant is a 12-minute bike trip from suites on west campus or from EVGR A, Duan Corridor on east campus.

When you like sturdy espresso and know tips on how to make good menu picks, Killiney Kopitiam could also be for you. Nevertheless, with options like Kali Greek Kitchen and So Gong Dong Tofu Home close by, it might not be your greatest lunch possibility. 

Editor’s Be aware: This text is a assessment and contains subjective ideas, opinions and critiques. When you’ve got restaurant options for this column to assessment, electronic mail arts ‘at’ stanforddaily.com.