Step Into History at Antong Coffee Mill
Step into the heart of Taiping, Malaysia, and uncover the enduring charm of Antong Coffee Mill—a hidden gem for coffee lovers since 1933.
This historic establishment blends rich tradition with nostalgia, offering an aromatic journey through time with every brew.
On our return trip from Gopeng to Penang, Irene, April, and I detoured to Antong Coffee Mill.
April’s promise of the finest charcoal-roasted coffee in Taiping convinced us, despite the heavy rain and our exhaustion.
Energized by the thought, we eagerly agreed to her suggestion.
A Perfect Stopover on Your Journey
Driving from Kuala Lumpur to Penang?
Taiping makes an excellent midway stop on this scenic 4-hour, 355-kilometer drive.
Just a short 10-minute detour off the North-South Expressway, Antong Coffee Mill offers a refreshing break to stretch your legs and enjoy a cup of authentic Malaysian coffee.
Make this charming stopover part of your itinerary to experience the heritage, aroma, and tradition of Malaysia’s oldest coffee roaster.
It’s the perfect way to break up your road trip while immersing yourself in a unique slice of history.
A Glimpse Into Tradition
Antong Coffee Mill defies the modern coffee craze.
Instead of sleek espresso machines, it roasts beans over a wood-fired stove, blending them with sugar and margarine.
The result is a bold, caramel-rich coffee that outshines anything you’d find at a chrome-plated café.
This mill isn’t just about coffee.
It’s a living piece of history. Since its founding in 1933 by Tiah Ee Mooi, Antong has grown into a landmark in Taiping.
It remains the oldest coffee mill in Malaysia, now run by the third generation of Tiah’s family.
Visitors can immerse themselves in traditional coffee-making, from roasting beans to savoring freshly brewed cups.
Antong also offers a variety of over 20 unique coffee-based beverages, including crowd-pleasers like golden coffee and durian white coffee.
Antong Coffee Immersive Experience
At Antong Coffee Mill, the journey begins with the intoxicating aroma of freshly roasted beans.
The historic villa, once the home of Chen Cuifen—a revolutionary figure linked to Sun Yat-sen—adds a layer of intrigue.
Inside the Changchun Garden, antique treasures offer a glimpse into the past, while the coffee mill’s traditional methods captivate every visitor.
The mill invites guests to watch its meticulous process: roasting, husk removal, and mixing.
The result is a rich, coarse coffee that’s distributed to local shops.
You’ll even find an inviting spot to enjoy a classic Hainanese breakfast, featuring toast dipped in freshly brewed coffee.
Unforgettable Moments
Although we missed the coffee-making demonstration due to our Sunday visit, we indulged in a unique treat: Antong Creamy Coffee Ice Cream.
This triple-shot espresso delight was smooth, perfectly balanced, and not overly sweet.
Its bold flavor lingered long after the last bite, leaving us in awe.
While the ice cream is no longer part of Antong’s offerings, we still reminisce about its decadence.
April, in particular, fondly recalls how it perfectly complemented the mill’s charm.
Why You Should Visit
Antong Coffee Mill is more than a coffee roaster; it’s a journey through history.
Every corner of this iconic mill whispers tales of tradition, revolution, and the timeless art of coffee-making.
For coffee enthusiasts and curious travelers, it’s a destination worth exploring.
So, if you’re driving to Penang, make Antong Coffee Mill your stopover.
It’s a delightful detour that brings together history, tradition, and coffee into one unforgettable experience.
Antong Coffee Mill
Address: 8A, Jalan Asam Kumbang, Kampung Asam Kumbang, 34000 Taiping, Perak, Malaysia
Hours: 8:30 AM–5:30 PM Daily
Add Antong Coffee Mill to your Penang road trip itinerary. Take a break from the road and enjoy a taste of Malaysia’s coffee heritage that’s been brewing since 1933!