By V. Sivaji
Famed as the cafe in Penang to serve coffee made from authentic Brazilian coffee beans for the discerning is the Bricklin Cafe Bar By Rasta Brew Co.
Located at the popular Hin Bus Depot along Gurdwara Road in Georgetown, coffee lovers will surely get their well deserved “fix”.
Their hot seller, the unique Rasta Cold Brew (original black or with milk) is always in great demand.
Owner, Rizal Shamsuddin is the barista on a roll as he maneuvered his coffee making machine with ease and also attended to his customers.
“My Brazilian coffee is well accepted by regulars as it is a single origin Brazil, Minazul, Minas Gerias. medium Roast brand. I am the only outlet using this brand so far.
“The taste is mildly acidic with a mild spice note finish,” he added.
Rizal has been running the outlet for about seven years and like everyone, he was also badly affected by the Covid-19 pandemic and lockdowns.
“We resorted to minimizing costs and overheads to survive. Other operational costs were also slashed. We did a lot of food promotions and instagram postings on coffee beans sales too.
“We also did free delivery to Tanjung Bungah and Batu Maung to ensure sales,” said Rizal.
They also offer other varieties of coffee like the Piccolo Latte, Coffee Mocktails, and cold brew. As for diners, their popular spread are the beefy slutty sandwich, Shakshuka, Aroy Mak Thai, Mr Burger and Banzai Hotdog.
As business is almost back to normal now, he plans to expand his business by opening more outlets on the island.
“We are also open to offers for joint ventures with interested parties to open in other states. If it is a win-win situation, then why not,” quipped Rizal.
The cafe is open everyday from 9am to 7pm except Tuesdays.
Check out Bricklin Cafe Bar if you are around the area. Call Rizal at 017-457-0813 for more details.