Note: Showcase at TTDI is now closed.
Nicolas and Freddie wanted to start a café, but they needed an attraction factor – something to really make the place stand out. Freddie suggested that his business partner display his Avengers and Iron Man collectibles to lure in avid collectors and comic fans in addition to the regular coffee addicts, and it worked. Now there are approximately 100 figurines displayed in two neat rows of glass cases lining the café, including characters from Batman, Ghost Rider, GI Joe, Terminator and Alien versus Predator. They’re astoundingly lifelike, with multiple joints that allow wrist rotation and eyeball rolling, and detailed facial expressions and skin textures.
These are no mere boys’ toys – the collectibles are on average priced RM800 and above, bought from Hot Toys Limited, a Hong Kong brand established in 2000 that specialises in designing and producing authentic-looking collectibles. They aren’t just for show, either. Collectors who spot a desired figurine or have a specific collectible in mind can contact Showcase via the Facebook page or call Nicolas (019 327 9874) to make arrangements for a purchase.
Drinks here are the usual offerings of coffee, smoothies, fruit juices and a selection of mocktails; for something less common, there’s the cappuccino freddo (RM12.90). It’s presented cold sans ice cubes so as not to dilute the drink, and the top layer of skimmed milk isn’t mixed in with the coffee – and stays that way, no matter how much you stir it. As a result the caffeine kick maintains its strength, down to the last sip.
Healthy food is the main focus at this cosy café, in the form of hearty portions of comfort dishes and Western meals cooked oil-free using a combi oven, which uses steam and the circulation of hot air in various combinations to re-heat, roast, bake and ‘air fry’ while preserving much of the ingredients’ nutritional content. The menu is still being finalised, but at the moment you can order mains such as the signature pesto grilled salmon (RM24.90) and grilled Australian striploin (RM29.90), both served with a small heap of firm, buttery mashed potato and fresh spring vegetables. For dessert, there’s homemade pavlova and cakes.
A variety of breakfasts, salads, burgers, pizzas, hotdogs and pastas will follow in the coming weeks. For now, you have an excuse to snack on a basket of oil-free – and guilt-free – French fries (RM5.90) whenever you like, while admiring the fine details on those superhero figurines.