Bukit Tinggi, Colmar Tropicale: A Picture-Perfect Letdown

Nestled in the heart of Bukit Tinggi, Pahang, Colmar Tropicale is a charming French-themed village that promises visitors a slice of Europe right in the middle of Malaysia.

With its cobblestone streets, pastel-colored buildings, stunning mountain views, and cool weather, it's the perfect spot for an Instagram-worthy getaway.

(Entrance of Colmar Tropicale, Image by author)

While the village is visually captivating and very old school, but sometimes we have to live up to the fact that the food doesn’t live up to the ambiance. As others may present, looks can be charming—unfortunately, this wasn't the case with Le Poulet Roti—one of the restaurants that I was particularly excited to try.

I had high hopes for a satisfying meal after a day of wandering around the picturesque village. The peaceful environment, cool mountain air, and the cozy setting of the restaurant seemed promising, though the dining area felt a little cramped. However, the food, sadly, didn’t match the lovely setting.

 (Outside Le Poulet Roti, Image by author)

 (Outside Le Poulet Roti, Image by Internet)

Review

I decided to order Nasi Lemak Ayam—a beloved Malaysian dish that’s known for its flavorful and fragrant components.

Unfortunately, what I received was quite underwhelming. The sambal, which should be rich, spicy, and bursting with flavor, was disappointingly bland. The rice, too, was a letdown. Instead of the fragrant coconut-infused rice typical of nasi lemak, it was dry and lacked any distinct flavor. It felt like I was eating basic white rice instead of a dish with deep cultural significance. It wasn’t nasi lemak—it was plain, boring rice that could have come from any generic dish.

For a place that charges premium prices, this was a major letdown. The portions were average at best, leaving me questioning whether it was worth the cost. Spoiler: it wasn't.

(Nasi Lemak Ayam Goreng, Image by author)

That being said, it’s hard to completely dismiss the experience when the surroundings are so beautiful. The restaurant is nestled among lush hills, offering stunning views of the vibrant village and the surrounding nature.

But be warned—the outdoor seating area isn’t as idyllic as it seems. Bukit Tinggi’s weather is unpredictable, with rain showers that can strike out of nowhere. I found myself dodging sprinkles of rain while trying to eat, making the experience more frustrating than relaxing.

(Outside Le Poulet Roti, Image by author)

Final Verdict

Le Poulet Roti offers a dining experience that thrives more on atmosphere than on culinary excellence. If you’re visiting for the picturesque views, the cool breeze, and the Instagrammable setting, you won’t be disappointed. But if you're visiting for the views and some fresh air, you'll be pleased. But if you're coming with high expectations for a great meal, be prepared for a letdown. Let’s just say, your stomach might not be as happy as your camera roll! 

Keep in mind, this was just one restaurant among 30 others in the village, so there are still plenty of dining options to explore.

Have you been to Le Poulet Roti? Share your thoughts in the comments below, or let me know if there's another hidden gem in Bukit Tinggi I should try!

Stay tuned for my next blog as I explore more culinary delights around Malaysia