News of Tim Hortons‘ expansion into Malaysia has been circulating the internet for a while now, but in case you haven’t heard, yes, it’s happened. The popular Canadian coffee chain with over 5,000 outlets worldwide has arrived on Malaysia’s shores.
And on August 13, we got to be some of the first in Malaysia to get a preview of what the menu will look and taste like.
A premium vibe
Maple leaves. Maple leaves everywhere.
One of Tim Horton’s very first Malaysian homes is Sunway Velocity Mall in KL, which was where their media preview was hosted.
Facing Jalan Cheras, the interior of the store features a minimalistic but cosy atmosphere complete with beige wooden tones and, as mentioned, motifs of maple leaves. Not only is the Canadian emblem featured on the products, it can also be found on tables, on the ceilings, and in the gorgeous mural wrapping around the accent column.
On that note, Tim Hortons actually engaged with Malaysian artist Lakar by Mekar to create beautiful murals inspired by local and Canadian motifs. So far, the artist’s work has been confirmed to be featured in two outlets.
The store also offers merchandise, mainly comprising of tumblers and cups. There’s plenty of seating areas, as well as an al fresco area. Overall, it feels like quite a premium and welcoming vibe.
Localised offerings
Tim Hortons is a coffee house at its core, so what of its coffee offerings?
To start, let’s talk about two different blends featured at the store. One is the original blend which is used for the house brew coffee. This one has a more acidic flavour profile. Even as someone who doesn’t drink my coffee black, this brew tasted mellow and fruity—delicious, in other words.
Meanwhile, the espresso blend removes all that acidity and instead has a more bitter kick, making it absolutely delicious for drinks like americanos and lattes. The fresh milk used for the latte was very rich, which is wonderful for a milk lover like myself. Those looking for non-dairy options can rest assured that they carry oat, almond, and soy milks.
Personally, I think the Double Double (RM13 for a small) is going to be a huge hit with Malaysians. Featuring double sugar and double cream, the drink reminded me of sweet, creamy coffee offerings such as a Spanish latte. If you have a sweet tooth, this is a must try.
Another great option we tried was the Maple Cinnamon Latte (RM16 for a small). The cinnamon is not too strong, but definitely lends an interesting, spicy touch to an otherwise classic drink.
As for the iconic Tim Hortons Ice Capps (which are essentially ice blended drinks), there are two exclusive Malaysian flavours. They are the Teh Tarik Tribute and Butterscotch Ondeh Ondeh (RM15 each for a small).
Both of these are quite desserty flavours, with the Butterscotch one more so than the Teh Tarik option. I quite liked the Butterscotch Ondeh Ondeh, though—it tasted like the kuih but in an icy, liquid form.
Non-coffee drinkers can enjoy the tea refreshers instead. This includes the Iced Peach Tea and Iced Raspberry Tea (RM13 each for a small). Both are on the sweeter side, but not overly so.
Food galore
To pair with your coffee, Tim Hortons has an array of yummy doughnuts. Classic flavours like Boston Cream and Chocolate Glaze are present, alongside Matcha Crumble, Strawberry Dazzle Dream, and Pineapple Filled. My favourite was the Maple Biscoff, though.
Prices range from RM3.50 to RM6.50. You can also purchase the doughnuts in boxes of six, either in classic (RM21) or assorted (RM28).
And of course, the iconic Timbits! I absolutely love the Kaya Filled ones, and if you’re a true-blooded Malaysian, I’m sure you will too. Other flavours are the Classic Glaze, Cinnamon sugar, and Birthday Cake. They’re priced at RM2.50 each, but can be purchased in a box of 10 for RM15.
The melts we got to try were the Maple Chicken Deli and Cheese Sourdough Melt as well as the Sambal Grilled Cheese Sourdough Melt. The sourdough bread is toasted to perfection and offers that mouthwatering cheese pull. Both go for RM19.
As you might expect, the sambal offering is a little spicy, while the maple chicken one tastes very classic and fresh. Both were great, and made me want to come back to try the other offerings, such as the Truffle Mushroom and Cheese Sourdough Melt.
The Pasta Bakes were great too. Flavours include the Beef Ragu Bolognese and the Pesto Cream Chicken & Mozzarella. I enjoyed the pesto flavour. It’s not too basil-forward, but tastes quite refreshing amid the cream and cheese. And that cheese crust on top? Chef’s kiss. These also cost RM19.
Of course, this is our review based on what they offered to the media. Whether the Malaysian public will enjoy Tim Hortons’ full range of offerings, only time will tell. Overall, its pricing is on the higher side of things, but hopefully the quality lives up to it in the long run.
To new openings
Although the media preview was hosted at Sunway Velocity Mall, the first Tim Hortons will open on August 15 at 4PM at IOI City Mall in Putrajaya.
Meanwhile, the Sunway Velocity Mall location will open on August 17.
The team seems to already have plans of launching numerous other locations in Malaysia.
With Malaysia already being home to some coffee giants—including both local and global names—we’re excited to see how Tim Hortons might shake things up and position themselves in the market.
- Learn more about Tim Hortons Malaysia here.
- Read other articles we’ve written about F&B businesses here.
