Shun Fa Ba Kut Teh (Gelang Patah): Overpriced, Tough Meat, and Lingering MSG Aftertaste

Visited Shun Fa Ba Kut Teh in Gelang Patah, Johor, hoping for a hearty bak kut teh experience, but left thoroughly disappointed. Opted for their premium spare ribs, priced higher than standard portions, only to find the meat tough and chewy, lacking the tender fall-off-the-bone quality expected of a good bak kut teh. The broth was passable—mildly herbal—but overwhelmed by a sharp, artificial aftertaste that hinted at heavy MSG use, leaving me thirsty long after the meal. Worse yet, the restaurant had an unpleasant stale odor upon entry during my late afternoon visit, likely from poor ventilation or uncleaned tables, which dampened the appetite further. For the steep prices charged, the overall quality felt glaringly mismatched. While bak kut teh spots in Johor often pride themselves on robust flavors and value, Shun Fa misses the mark. Save your ringgit—not worth the hype or the cost. Plenty of better options in the area to satisfy your bak kut teh cravings.