The small café that brought her home to Melaka

Former banker Emily Wee has transformed the culinary landscape of Melaka with LōuKót Café, a quaint eatery offering a taste of Kashmiri biryani and chai. Perched on Harmony Street, the café occupies a former Dutch home, surrounded by pots of greenery that nearly conceal its entrance. Inside, wooden tables, a patterned wall covering, and chalkboards adorned with handwritten messages from patrons create a charming atmosphere.

Wee's journey to LōuKót began when she left her two-decade career in banking at the age of 51. Seeking a slower pace of life, she embarked on a world tour, immersing herself in yoga and spiritual talks in Rishikesh, Nepal, and leading private tours in India. During her travels, Wee discovered the value of contentment in simplicity.

In 2020, Wee partnered with a Kashmiri businessman to open LōuKót, inspired by the café's small size. The name "LōuKót" means "small" in Kashmiri. While initially expecting the café to be temporary, Wee soon found herself with a loyal customer base and has chosen to keep the doors open.

LōuKót's menu features a mix of Kashmiri dishes, including biryani, chapati, poori, pulao, butter chicken, thali set, and more. Despite not competing with existing Peranakan eateries in Melaka, Wee aimed to offer a unique experience. Her in-house kitchen prepares all the food, and a baker friend provides the sugee cake. Wee's own artwork adorns the café's walls, lending a personal touch to the space.

Visitors to LōuKót rave about the warmth and friendliness of the establishment. Wee's own paintings, floral patterns, and vivid portraits contribute to the welcoming ambiance. The café offers a respite from the hustle and bustle of daily life, allowing patrons to connect with friends and strangers alike. After retiring from banking, Wee had no idea where she would end up. But now, six years later, LōuKót remains her home, with friends who know they are always welcome.