by HIDAYATH HISHAM
SOMETIMES, the best meals come from the places least expected.
In this week’s Makan Street issue, this writer veered off the well-trodden path to find a hidden gem that manifests the true concept of Makan Street.
Quietly existing in the vibrant neighbourhood of Ara Damansara, Selangor, JUE is a humble quaint stall that has won the hearts and taste buds of burger enthusiasts and night owls alike.
Driving through the busy streets, an eye-catching sign promoting burgers for just RM6 caught his attention.
Located under the warm glow of street lights, this food stall beckons passers-by with its bright neon sign and an array of delectable options.
Its menu skillfully balances variety with affordability — a remarkable feat for such a modest establishment.
At the heart of their offerings are burgers featuring patties made from 100% halal Australian beef, celebrated for its rich flavour and tender texture.
These generously sized patties are grilled to perfection, ensuring each bite is juicier than the last.
The burgers are served on soft, fluffy buns, lightly buttered to add a touch of richness without overpowering the meat’s natural flavours.
What sets JUE apart in the typical burger market is its homemade patties, a rarity among burger joints offering such economical pricing.
The honey mustard sauce offers a unique blend of mild heat and sweetness, enhancing the overall taste, while caramelised onions add a hint of sweetness and texture, perfectly complementing the beef.
JUE’s special sauce, generously slathered over the burgers, introduces a rich, savoury element that pairs wonderfully with the crispy edges of the beef patties.
Considering the quality and taste, the burgers are essentially underpriced for what is offered similarly in the market nowadays, making them an accessible option for a satisfying meal any day of the week.
The “Value Set” or “Set Jimat” is a hit among budget-conscious foodies, offering a choice of burger or hot dog coupled with French fries and canned drinks — a fulfilling meal without breaking the bank.
Chicken lovers are not left out either, with options like the ayam krispi (crispy chicken patty) and ayam panggang (grilled chicken patty).
Burger choices range from the classic single patty with caramelised onion and pickles at RM6 to the indulgent double patty with egg and cheese at RM13.
For those looking to add a little extra, each variety can be customised with additions like eggs, cheese or extra patties.
Pairing with these mouth-watering burgers are sets that include fries and a drink, offering great value starting from RM11 for the basic set to RM18 for the double patty with all the trimmings.
On the side, JUE also offers an assortment of drinks and sides to complement the main course.
From refreshing canned drinks at RM2.50, flavourful real milkshakes at RM7.50, to hearty sides like medium fries at RM4, mozzarella cheese sticks at RM6 and additional beef or chicken slices at RM4 each.
The cook behind the counter serves each customer with a smile, adding a personal touch to the fast-paced food service.
As he flips burgers and wraps up orders, the air fills with enticing aromas, drawing more curious and hungry onlookers to the stall.
While the parking situation can be a bit challenging due to the stall’s location being right beside the road near a corner, the exceptional taste and value offered by JUE’s burgers make any extra effort to get there worthwhile.
With its quality ingredients, homemade touches, and friendly service, JUE provides a burger experience that’s hard to match, making it a must-visit for anyone looking for top-notch burgers at wallet-friendly prices.
Rating: $
Value for money: Yes
- This article first appeared in The Malaysian Reserve weekly print edition
