As Langkawi’s tourism scene continues to flourish, a new dining destination has emerged to welcome both travellers and locals alike. Jati Garden Cafe, located in the heart of Padang Matsirat, is the latest addition to the island’s vibrant food scene—offering comforting flavours, warm hospitality and the personal touch of a seasoned hotel chef.
Helmed by Executive Chef Anuar James, fondly known as Chef Benny, Jati Garden Cafe brings together Western, Fusion and Asian cuisines designed to please an international palate. With over 34 years of experience in five- and four-star hotels and resorts across Malaysia, as well as a stint at a health club in Singapore, Chef Benny blends professional finesse with homestyle warmth in every dish.
Among the café’s signature highlights are the rich and aromatic Portuguese Chicken Debal Curry, a creamy and indulgent Tiramisu, and a crowd favourite—Grilled Chicken with Chimichurri, a must-try for first-time visitors. The menu reflects Chef Benny’s journey, combining classic hotel-quality cooking with approachable flavours loved by locals and tourists.
Jati Garden Cafe caters to everyone, from Langkawians looking for a relaxed dining spot to tourists seeking a satisfying meal after a day of island exploration. Its strategic location—opposite the popular Atma Alam Batik Village—makes it an ideal stop for visitors already exploring one of Langkawi’s key cultural attractions. The café is also just five minutes from Langkawi International Airport and offers ample free parking, making it highly convenient for travellers.
The inspiration behind Jati Garden Cafe began humbly. In June last year, Chef Benny started a small home-based delivery business, JL Food Services, cooking and delivering meals across Langkawi. His food quickly gained loyal followers, including staff from Tanjung Rhu Resort, department heads from Hilton Burau Bay, health-conscious professionals, and close friends. When the opportunity arose to open a physical café, Chef Benny seized the chance to serve the wider Langkawi community and its growing number of visitors.
Chef Benny is joined by his share partner Mohd Saiful Salay, also known as Glen Salay—a well-known entertainer with 40 years of experience in the music industry, having performed with legendary bands such as Alleycats. Glen continues to perform across Langkawi, Penang and Kuala Lumpur, and brings not only entertainment flair but also a genuine passion for cooking to the café’s concept.
Together, they have created a space that blends good food, island charm and heartfelt hospitality—making Jati Garden Cafe a welcoming stop on any Langkawi itinerary.
JATI GARDEN CAFE – 373, Kedai – Kampung Atas, (Opposite Atma Alam Batik Village), Padang Matsirat, 07000 Langkawi, Kedah
Business Hours: 12.00pm – 10pm. Open: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday & Sunday. Closed: Tuesday
Contacts James (Chef Benny): 012-412 8989 / Glen: 016-385 6907
