Guide to Ben's Independent Grocer at IPC Shopping Centre

This Melbourne-based eatery has found its way into Ben’s Independent Grocer, offering pho and other classic Vietnamese dishes. Pho options here come in three varieties – beef, chicken and vegetarian; but it’s the beef soup that’s the crowd favourite. Throw in condiments such as chilli oil, fish sauce and soy sauce to add some kick, and don’t skip on the Vietnamese drip coffee – available hot or cold, it’s made using a Vietnamese coffee drip and thickened with sweet condensed milk.

What is now the place to go for oyster-lovers in KL had its humble beginnings in BIG Publika, offering freshly shucked premium oysters alongside other cooked-to-order seafood items. And it’s no surprise that the new BIG in IPC Shopping Centre has a Shucked oyster bar as well. As standard across all Shucked outlets, oysters come by way of raw or cooked Australian, New Zealand and European variants.

Located next to Independent Coffee is Crumbs, a simple bakery stall that doles out an array of freshly baked goods. Expect to find items such as cinnamon rolls, cupcakes, scones, baguettes and more. Keep an eye out for promotions that let you get a cuppa from the coffee bar next door and a pastry for cheap; because what’s better than hot coffee and cinnamon rolls in the morning to get your day going.

Taps Beer Bar’s latest outlet caters to the growing craft beer fan base. What you’ll find here is a list of imported brands such as Hitachino Nest (Japan), To Øl (Denmark), Rogue (USA) and more. The bar only sits about four people; you’re meant to get your beer to go and have it with your meal from any of the other eateries (we suggest pairing with the pho). Remember to check the chalkboard behind the counter for daily beer promos.

This coffee bar is BIG’s attempt to meet the needs of their caffeine-loving customers. On the menu, you’ll find a compact selection of espresso-based coffees such as macchiato, long black, piccolo and more. The bar uses an in-house blend of Ethiopian and Guatemalan beans, resulting in strong and rich-tasting coffee – a perfect pick-me-up for those lazy afternoons. On the counter, you’ll also find desserts such as brownies, cookies and cakes if you’ve got a sweet tooth to satisfy.

Just because this outlet of Inside Scoop is part of BIG, that doesn’t mean it lacks in terms of options – you get to choose from around 17 flavours (which come in their signature flavours like Musang King, salted gula Melaka, cendol and more) and either have it in a cup or a cone (vanilla or chocolate). Looking to splurge? Get the buttermilk or charcoal waffles with either  single, double or triple scoops of ice cream.

Set behind the dining area, The Grocer’s Kitchen offers an extensive selection of dishes such as pizza, sandwiches, steaks, salads and more. If you look over the counter, you’ll see the chefs making the pizza and sandwiches from scratch. If you’re here with your pals, get yourselves a pizza, which are available in several flavours such as Margherita, pepperoni and quattro formaggi. Or if you’re just looking for a grab-and-go meal, head straight for the ready-to-go sandwiches.

If you’re a fan of the this Japanese eatery, you’ll be glad to know that you don’t have to travel to BIG Publika for a taste of their food anymore; Tsukijiya’s new outlet in BIG IPC doles out the familiar offerings of pre-made rice bowls and sushi – think chirashi don, California rolls, nigiri, sashimi and more; all made fresh daily. For a more substantial meal, take your pick from the list of bento sets, udon and ramen.