School’s Out, Flavour’s In: Ampang’s Hottest Dining Playground
Once filled with school bells and classroom chatter, The Campus Ampang—formerly ISKL—has traded textbooks for coffee cups, creative spaces, and a whole lot of flavour.
The charm is in the contrast. Walk through the familiar corridors and you’ll find cafés where classrooms once stood, the buzz of students now replaced with the hum of espresso machines and the clinking of cutlery. Nostalgia lingers in the architecture, but the energy is fresh, lively, and full of new stories waiting to unfold.
This isn’t just a repurposed building—it’s a reimagined space that’s fast becoming one of Ampang’s most exciting dining and lifestyle hubs. From specialty coffee and artisanal gelato to modern Chinese bites and warm Indonesian street food, The Campus is where locals gather, ideas spark, and good food brings everyone together.
And the best part? It’s just getting started.
Image credit : Picollo Lotti
Piccoli Lotti
Craving something sweet? Piccoli Lotti’s got you covered. From creamy soft-serve gelato topped with all the fun extras to cakes that’ll have you coming back for more, this spot is pure dessert magic. Every bite is a little moment of happiness — and yes, it’s totally Instagrammable
Image credit : Taffy Gelato
Taffy Gelato
Born from the founder’s lifelong love for dessert—passed down from her grandfather and great-grandfather—Taffy Gelato is all about slow-churned, dense and creamy scoops made with heart. Think Lemon Bluepea Gelato using flowers from her own garden, or a Pistachio Kunafa Croissant that blends indulgence with invention. With a balance of classic and seasonal flavours, every bite pays tribute to a family legacy of sweetness.
Image credit : QRA
QRA
More than just a neighbourhood grocer, QRA is where wellness and convenience live side by side. Stepping inside feels like entering a thoughtfully curated space that blends wholesome living with good design—sleek aisles, sun-drenched corners, and a cafe that smells like fresh bakes and roasted coffee.
You’ll find organic produce, sustainable pantry staples, and hard-to-find health-conscious brands all under one roof. But QRA isn’t just about shopping—it’s about slowing down. Grab a seat by the window and enjoy a nourishing grain bowl or a cold-pressed juice, maybe even answer a few emails if you’re in no rush.
Image credit : Jibby Chow
Jibby Chow
At Jibby Chow, familiar Chinese flavours get a refresh—with bold reinterpretations and a proudly Malaysian twist they like to call “Uncle Chow’s signature touch.” This isn’t your typical Chinese restaurant; it’s a halal-friendly spot where tradition meets creativity, perfect for when you’re craving comforting classics with a little surprise.
Think crispy duck with a local sambal spin, silky egg tofu layered with umami, and crowd favourites like salted egg dishes that hit all the right notes. The menu is designed to be shared, making it ideal for family feasts or laid-back catch-ups with friends.
Image credit : Universal Bakehouse
Universal Bakehouse
The new Universal Bakehouse is everything we love about a great cafe, bright, spacious, and built for the hustle. If you’re after the perfect coffee to start your day or a warm pastry to brighten up your afternoon, this is your spot. The minute you step in, you’re greeted by the irresistible smell of freshly baked croissants, golden loaves, and the unmistakable warmth of a true bakery.
With its sleek, modern space designed for both quick grabs and long pauses, Universal Bakehouse has made it easier than ever to enjoy an artisanal treat. Whether you’re grabbing a buttery almond croissant to-go or taking a moment to sip on one of their perfectly brewed coffees, you’ll always find something to make your day a little sweeter.
Image credit : Chunky
Chunky
Born out of a pandemic side hustle, Chunky Cookies has become a local favourite at The Campus Ampang. Known for their thick, gooey cookies packed with flavor, like Sea Salt Chocolate Chip and Raspberry White Chocolate, they’re the perfect treat for any time of day.
From humble beginnings in a home kitchen to a thriving cafe, Chunky’s growth is proof that passion and perseverance pay off. Swing by and enjoy a bite—these cookies are more than just a sweet treat; they’re a story of success.
Image credit : Eg’s Wok Kitchen
Eg’s Wok Kitchen
Focuses on customizable Asian wok-fried dishes, offering a wide variety of ingredients and sauces for you to create your own meal. They’ve got your usual noodles and rice, but also some interesting options like kothu paratha as a base. You pick your carbs, your protein, your veggies, and your sauce, so it’s all about getting exactly what you’re in the mood for.
Image credit : Tetangga Kita
Tetangga Kita
Tetangga Kita serves up Indonesian martabak in the best way possible. Whether you’re craving sweet (Nutella cheese, PB & jam) or savoury, they’ve got it all. The sweet martabak is thicker, bouncier, and has that mouth-watering honeycomb texture you won’t find elsewhere. For something lighter, they even offer a thinner version.
On the savory side, they’ve perfected the martabak with deep-fried skin for that extra crunch. The Ramli Burger Martabak is a must-try, offering a crispy twist on the classic burger. It’s a whole new level of delicious.
Image credit : Yaki Yaki
Yaki Yaki
YakiYaki at The Campus Ampang brings a burst of fun to the classic Korean-Japanese BBQ scene. With bold marinades and creative seasonings on quality meats and seafood, it’s far from your average yakiniku experience. The vibrant atmosphere and fusion menu make it the perfect spot for anyone craving a unique and lively BBQ adventure.
The Campus Ampang
Lot 7706, Jalan Kolam Air Lama,
Mukim, Hulu Kelang, 68000 Ampang, Selangor
10am – 10pm, daily
For more information, visit their website and instagram
