Without an apparent signboard, Syarikat.Co is most probably the only cafe in Penang that uses the backdoor entrance in a hidden alley. It has added a mysterious touch as it requires customers to put a little effort to look for the hidden gem. Syarikat.Co is a cafe situated in a neighbourhood.
The co-founders of Syarikat.Co, Jolene and William, are also co-founders of a wedding photography & cinematography studio. In order to create a space for meeting clients and also to spark the employees’ creativity, Jolene and William decided to relocate the working studio to upstairs and the cafe business occupies the space downstairs.
The word “Syarikat” means company in Malay. A company usually consists of workers from different races and backgrounds.
“Yet, ‘Kita semua anak-anak Malaysia.’ Through the name, we hope to build a multi-racial community – a place where everyone can gather and eat together.”
Co-founders of Syarikat.Co, Jolene and William
The Interior
The first thing that comes into view after sliding the black gate is a self-decorated wall. In particular, the zinc plate wall is fully covered with pieces of hand-teared traditional lunar calendar. The shop is designed in a retro office theme. The co-founders put a lot of effort to collect and even purchase the antiques, especially the typewriters from all over Malaysia. Besides the hue of neon lighting, every detail from decor to furnishings create a flashback to the 80s and 90s.
Using office desks and chairs as dining tables, Syarikat.Co creates a strong feeling for diners as if they are eating in an office. Each corner is very Instagramable as they are decorated accordingly to the theme.
The Menu
Syarikat.Co emphasizes on the concept of interracial harmony, integration and unity. Hence, they made some modifications on Nasi Lemak and Ramen by adding elements of Malaysian food. For instance, the signatures include Nasi Syarikat (Malay fragrant rice dish cooked in coconut milk and pandan leaf, sweet sambal, crispy fried chicken), Cheesy Kappa Ramen (Signature crafted soft noodles, fresh clams, Nanyang dried shrimp chilli paste, full cream cheddar, soft boiled egg), and Nanyang Milk Coffee.
Born as Malaysians, they embrace the Malaysian spirit throughout their dining menu. Besides the food, Syarikat.co also provides a strong vintage ambience with a classic oldies playlist. With the price ranges between RM3.00 to RM16.90, it is a great spot to experience “time travelling”.
Watch the full video to see how Syarikat. Co started!
The Info
Address: 96, Medan Lim Cheng Teik, 10250 Pulau Tikus, Penang.
Business hours:
Sunday & Tuesday – Thursday 12.00pm – 8.00pm
Friday & Saturday, 12.00pm – 10.00pm (Closed on Monday)
