IT Roo’s Hainanese chicken chop was one of the first posts in Johor Bahru, way back in 2011. We’ve been back a few times since then, and this is an update. Overall, the signature chicken chop has not changed much except that it’s a bit more greasy nowadays.
IT Roo cafe was as busy and popular as ever. The little air conditioned shop is usually packed during lunch time. The decor was probably hip for its time in the 60s/ 70s, but today it has an air of nostalgia.
Kopi and Teh while waiting for our orders of their signature chicken chop and hor fun (Cantonese kway teow). Can’t remember much of their kopi as it was average – slightly bitter sweetened with sugar served in glasses.
The slab of chicken came heavily battered with biscuit crumbs in true Hainanese fashion and was fried to a golden brown crisp outside. It was dressed with old school mushroom sauce and served with fried potato wedges and coleslaw.
The slab of flattened chicken thigh was relatively thick. The boneless slab was tender and moist, and had a bit of natural sweetness.
The batter was, however, a bit too salty and it masked the delicate fresh chicken flavour. It was also more greasy.
The savoury mushroom was nice and creamy.
IT Roo is one of JB’s iconic heritage Hainanese coffee shops. IT Roo still serves authentic Hainanese chicken chop.