Inanam Cakoi Kopi Madras

Dropped by Inanam Kopi and while ordering some cakoi, I spotted something you don’t usually see on a typical kopitiam menu in Sabah – Kopi Madras. Intrigued, I gave it a try, and I’m glad I did.

Kopi Madras traces its roots to South India, particularly Chennai (formerly Madras), where it’s more commonly known as filter coffee. Traditionally, it’s brewed using a metal filter and blended with hot milk, often served in a metal tumbler and dabara (bowl). The style has inspired variations across Southeast Asia, and what I had at Inanam Cakoi was clearly a local interpretation, but a well-made one at that.

The cup I had came with a velvety smooth texture, the coffee and milk harmoniously blended, and best of all, the less sweet version I requested was executed perfectly. Still full-bodied and rich, but without that overpowering sugar rush you sometimes get.

I also tried their cakoi, but it didn’t quite hit the mark. It had gone cold, and while the texture was still passable, it lacked the light crispiness and fluffiness that makes a cakoi memorable.

If you’re in Inanam and want to try something different from the usual kopi or kopi o, their Kopi Madras is worth a try. Just maybe skip the cakoi unless it’s freshly fried.