Best Restaurant To Eat - Malaysian Food Blog: Chef’s Table with Papa Jo at Thyme Out Café Hi Tea Buffet

Friday, August 28, 2026

Chef’s Table with Papa Jo at Thyme Out Café Hi Tea Buffet - AICB Kuala Lumpur

Chef’s Table with Papa Jo at Thyme Out Café Kuala Lumpur

Looking for a special way to celebrate Merdeka and Malaysia Day with good Malaysian food? From 17 August to 16 September 2026, Thyme Out Café at the AICB Centre of Excellence in Kuala Lumpur is hosting Chef’s Table with Papa Jo, featuring renowned Malaysian chef Johari Edrus, affectionately known as Papa Jo and recognised as a MasterChef Malaysia judge.

The month-long culinary showcase brings together familiar authentic Malaysian favourites with Papa Jo’s modern culinary flair, making it a great opportunity for families, friends and colleagues to gather over the flavours that Malaysians love.

A Taste of Papa Jo’s Signature Malaysian Creations

Chilean Black Mussels with Chocolate Sambal

We started with the Chilean Black Mussels with Chocolate Sambal, a creative combination of fresh mussels paired with Papa Jo’s rich, sweet and spicy chocolate sambal. The unexpected pairing worked beautifully, giving the mussels a bold Malaysian-inspired twist.

Daging Salai Cendawan Sisir Masak Lemak

The Daging Salai Cendawan Sisir Masak Lemak brought together smoky smoked beef with Cendawan Sisir (Splitgill mushroom), cooked in a rich and spicy coconut gravy. This traditional Malay village dish is known for its chewy mushrooms, creamy coconut milk and comforting spicy flavours.

Nasi Bakar Pandan Kangkung Sambal Belacan

Next was the Nasi Bakar Pandan Kangkung Sambal Belacan, featuring fragrant pandan-infused grilled rice served with kangkung and the unmistakable punch of sambal belacan. It was a lovely combination of aroma, texture and classic Malaysian flavours.

Lempeng Durian Chocolate Pistachio

To finish, we had the Lempeng Durian Chocolate Pistachio, a delicious dessert combining creamy durian with chocolate and pistachio. The familiar richness of durian paired nicely with the sweetness of chocolate and nutty pistachio for a memorable ending.

Chef’s Table with Papa Jo: What to Expect

The special promotion offers two dining options depending on the day.

Monday – Thursday Chef’s Table Set RM28+ per set Chilled Juice OR Iced Lemon Tea

Friday – Saturday Buffet RM69+ Buffet dining

The weekday set is a convenient option for a casual lunch, while the Friday and Saturday buffet is ideal for families, groups of friends and colleagues who want to enjoy a wider selection of Malaysian dishes.

Meet Chef Johari Edrus “Papa Jo”

One of the highlights is the opportunity to meet Papa Jo in person, watch him in action and interact with one of Malaysia’s recognisable culinary personalities.

The special Dine & Meet Papa Jo sessions are scheduled for:

17 August | 12.00pm – 3.00pm

21 August | 12.00pm – 3.00pm

22 August | 12.00pm – 3.30pm

28 August | 12.00pm – 3.00pm

5 September | 12.00pm – 3.30pm

16 September | 12.00pm – 3.00pm

The 16 September session is particularly meaningful, as it falls on Malaysia Day, making it an ideal date to celebrate Malaysian food and culture.

Malaysian Favourites with a Modern Twist

What makes this Chef’s Table experience interesting is Papa Jo’s interpretation of authentic Malaysian favourites. Rather than moving away from traditional flavours, the concept brings familiar local dishes together with his distinctive modern touch.

Malaysian cuisine is all about bringing people together. From rich spices and fragrant herbs to comforting rice dishes, curries and local favourites, food has always played an important role in Malaysian celebrations. This Chef’s Table experience continues that tradition while giving diners a chance to experience these flavours through a chef’s perspective.

A Merdeka Celebration Through Food

Merdeka and Malaysia Day are perfect occasions to celebrate Malaysia's diverse food culture. With different communities, regions and traditions contributing to Malaysian cuisine, food is one of the easiest ways to bring everyone together.

Chef’s Table with Papa Jo captures that spirit by putting Malaysian flavours at the centre of the celebration. Whether it is a weekday lunch, a weekend buffet or a special Dine & Meet session, the experience offers a chance to enjoy Malaysian food with family, friends or colleagues.

Visit Thyme Out Café Kuala Lumpur

The event takes place at:

Thyme Out Café

AICB Centre of Excellence

No. 10, Jalan Dato Onn

50480 Kuala Lumpur

For reservations and enquiries:

Tel: +603-2602 4200

Mobile: +6011-3532 4120

Email: thymeout@stfresources.com

Thyme Out Café is located within the AICB Centre of Excellence and offers a range of Asian and Western dining options, making it a convenient Kuala Lumpur venue for lunch and group gatherings.

Why You Should Try Chef’s Table with Papa Jo

If you enjoy Malaysian food, celebrity chefs and unique dining experiences, this limited-time Chef’s Table is worth adding to your food calendar.

The RM28+ weekday set makes it accessible for a casual lunch, while the RM69+ Friday and Saturday buffet offers a more relaxed experience for families and groups. Those who want to meet Papa Jo can also plan their visit around one of the six Dine & Meet dates.

Most importantly, the event brings together good food, Malaysian culinary heritage and the Merdeka and Malaysia Day spirit in one dining experience.

Conclusion

Chef’s Table with Papa Jo at Thyme Out Café runs from 17 August to 16 September 2026, offering diners the chance to enjoy Papa Jo’s take on authentic Malaysian favourites with a modern twist.

With prices starting from RM28+ per set, a RM69+ Friday and Saturday buffet, and selected opportunities to meet Papa Jo in person, it is a great excuse to gather your family, friends or colleagues and celebrate Malaysia through food.

If you are planning a Merdeka or Malaysia Day food outing in Kuala Lumpur, this is one culinary experience to put on your list.