Syarikat Cafe @ Medan Lim Cheng Teik, Penang

Syarikat is an abandoned office turned cafe in a neighbourhood area in Pulau Tikus. We got to know its existence after seeing repeated visit by our friends to here. It appeared to be very popular since its inception due to its rustic Instagrammable ambiance, along with some nice pasta and desserts. However, we were surprised when we went on a Friday's lunch hour and the cafe was almost empty. The menu was rather petite and a lot of nice food mentioned by my friend was not seen in the menu, and the pasta did not impress too. On the other hand, the cakes were good. Food price here is on a higher side too.

Gula Melaka Doppio (RM 12) & Cocoa (RM 14)

Creamy Sambal (RM 33)

Beef Ragu Pasta (RM 38)

There is only one page dedicated for food in the entire menu with less than 10 pasta to offer but they do come out with interesting choices such as Creamy Sambal (RM 33) and Beef Ragu Pasta (RM 38).

Considering the serving portion and ingredients used, we felt both are quite expensive. The creamy sambal pasta was not really spicy and did not feel like sambal at all. It is then topped with some smoked ducks and grated cheese. Overall, it was a rather average pasta.

On the other hand, the Beef Ragu Pasta left us a bolder impression. I think the stewed beefs topping the pasta is nicely cooked and well marianted, but the taste is too bold for our likings. Coupled with the sauce, it renders the entire pasta a strong odour that we did not enjoy.

Overall, both the pasta were not our favourites. Perhaps we prefer classical type pasta. The coffee and chocolate drinks here are not impressive neither.

Matcha White Chocolate (RM 17)

Belgian Dark Chocolate (RM 17)

On the other hand, the cakes here are good though expensive. I like the consistency of the cakes, which are creamy and silky smooth, and it comes with rich flavour that matches the names' description.

The portion of the cakes well justified its premium price tags also.

Perhaps instead of coming to Syarikat to enjoy its food, it is more to having a nicely baked slice of cakes and enjoy the unique ambiance here.