IT was a bustling and busy Saturday morning when I arrived at The Foxhole Cafe in SS18, Subang Jaya. This Australian-inspired cafe, popular for its hearty English breakfast, savoury waffles and homemade cakes, has been operating in this quiet little neighbourhood for several years now.
Scanning the scene in front of me, I spot a group of three already seated outside at the designated waiting area in front of the cafe. Thankfully, I'm only here with one other person, which makes it easier for the service crew to find a vacant table for two.
A sheepish smile on her face, I'm duly informed by the friendly wait staff that it's quite typical for the cafe to get busy over the weekends and public holidays. Weekdays are better and less harried, she tells me, especially if you're looking for a quieter dining experience.
As I wait for my table to be served, I can't help noticing that there's always a constant queue of people sitting or standing outside at the front, waiting patiently to be ushered in.
WHAT'S ON THE MENU
As with many urban cafes that I've had the chance to check out, The Foxhole also offers a staple fare of the breakfast platter, pasta options, sandwiches and salads. But are they any good here, I wonder quietly to myself.
Browsing through the menu, I and my friend opt for the items called the Farmer's Plate and also Lumberjack. The former is a hearty platter comprising sliced lamb sausage served on a slice of focaccia bread with caramelised onions and a sunny-side up, together with fresh rocket leaves and sweet potato fries.
My personal favourite is the Lumberjack. You're given two choices: waffle or croffle. I opt for the latter just because I wanted to try something different. The Lumberjack is a sweet and savoury combination of a sausage and eggs, croffle and a camarelised banana, served with butter and maple syrup. It's delicious and I note with delight just how well the combination works.
Pastry lovers will also love this cafe as there's actually a varied selection of freshly baked pastries to choose from, which is on display at the front counter. Much as I wanted to sample a few, the filling brunch, which I've tucked into reminds me that I'm truly full. Perhaps on the next visit, I muse, as I drag my mind reluctantly away from the thought.
GOOD VIBES, GOOD SERVICE
With no sign of demand waning, one of the surprising things to note about this cafe is its relaxed and chilled vibes. The wait staff are constantly walking the length and breadth of the premises, gladly taking orders, clearing tables and serving the customers.
The service definitely cannot be faulted. The staff are friendly and attentive, and appear genuinely eager to be of assistance. When I signalled for extra tomato sauce to go with my sweet potato fries, they responded calmly, attending to my request almost right away.
Knowing that it's going to be a long day, I decide to order some coffee. Unfortunately, the latte (which I eventually opted for) is a tad on the weak side. While I'm not normally adverse to a cuppa that has a slightly milkier taste, this one lacks the nutty flavour that makes for the perfect pick-me-up.
Oh well, I guess it's not possible to have everything perfect! Latte aside, I can understand why this cafe, despite having been on the scene for several years, is still able to pull in the crowd. With a good food selection, great vibes and commendable service, it has definitely got all the right ingredients for longevity.
The Foxhole Bakery Cafe
WHERE: 33, Jalan SS18/1B, Subang Jaya, Selangor
OPERATING HOURS: 9am to 9pm (daily)
Check out IG @thefoxhole_subang.
