
Pause Café: A Decade-Long Journey of Authentic French Cuisine in Kuala Lumpur
Pause Café: A Decade-Long Journey of Authentic French Cuisine in Kuala Lumpur
From humble table d'hôtes beginnings in 2014 to becoming KL's beloved French crêperie - discover Chef Nathalie's inspiring 10-year culinary journey in Malaysia.
When Chef Nathalie Saclier first opened her doors as a table d'hôtes in her own home in 2014, few could have predicted that this intimate French dining experience would evolve into one of Kuala Lumpur's most authentic French restaurants. Today, Pause Café stands as a testament to passion, perseverance, and the power of authentic cuisine in Malaysia's diverse culinary landscape.
The Humble Beginning: Table d'Hôtes (2014-2015)
The story of Pause Café begins in 2014, when French chef Nathalie Saclier started serving intimate meals at her home in Kuala Lumpur. Operating as a table d'hôtes - a traditional French concept where guests dine in the chef's home - Nathalie welcomed food enthusiasts into her personal space to experience authentic French cuisine.
What is Table d'Hôtes?
A traditional French dining concept where guests eat in the chef's home, creating an intimate, family-style atmosphere that's more personal than a typical restaurant experience.
"I came to Malaysia in 2014 and wanted to share my passion for French cooking," recalls Nathalie. "Starting from my home allowed me to create that intimate, authentic French dining experience that you'd find in a family home in France."
For two years, this unique dining concept allowed Nathalie to build a loyal following of customers who appreciated her gluten-free galettes from Brittany, traditional sweet crêpes, and other French specialties prepared with imported ingredients.
First Commercial Venture: BSC Bangsar (2016-2017)
The success of her home-based table d'hôtes led to the next chapter in 2016, when Pause Café opened its first commercial location at BSC Shopping Center in Bangsar. This move represented a significant transition from intimate home dining to a more accessible restaurant format.
The BSC location, situated in the shopping center's food court, introduced Pause Café to a broader audience while maintaining the authentic French flavors that had made the table d'hôtes so popular. During these three years, Nathalie refined her menu and operations, building the foundation for what would become her signature restaurant.
BSC Era Highlights
Built loyal customer base, refined authentic French recipes, and established the galette-focused menu that would define Pause Café's identity.
Learning & Growth
Three years of valuable operational experience that prepared Pause Café for its next evolutionary step into a standalone restaurant.
Plaza Mont Kiara every thursday And catering services (2017-2018)
Finding Home at 28 Dutamas (2018-2025)
continuing catering services, online shop and ordering system add a bit more and ephesis aboutn this
In 2019, Pause Café made its most significant move yet - relocating to its current home at 28 Dutamas Condo, Jalan Dutamas Raya in Segambut. This location has allowed the restaurant to flourish as a full-service French crêperie and café.
Why the Dutamas Location Works
The Segambut location offers several advantages that have allowed Pause Café to thrive:
- Accessibility: Easy parking and convenient location for both locals and visitors
- Ambiance: Ground floor space allows for a more intimate café atmosphere
- Community: Strong local following in the residential area that appreciates authentic cuisine
- Authenticity: Quieter setting perfect for the traditional French café experience
What Makes Pause Café Unique in KL's French Dining Scene
Authentic Galettes from Brittany
Pause Café's signature galettes are made with buckwheat flour imported directly from Brittany, France. These savory crêpes are naturally gluten-free and prepared using traditional techniques that Nathalie learned in France.
Did You Know?
Galettes are traditionally from Brittany, France, and are naturally gluten-free because they're made with buckwheat flour instead of wheat flour. This makes them perfect for those with gluten sensitivities.
Traditional French Specialties
The menu extends beyond crêpes to include authentic French favorites:

Authentic Escargot
Prepared in the classic French style with garlic and herbs, offering a true taste of traditional French cuisine.

French Cheese Selections
Imported directly from France, featuring authentic varieties that pair perfectly with our French breads.

Croque Monsieur
Made with traditional ham, cheese, and béchamel sauce - a classic French bistro favorite.

Sweet Crêpes
Both classic and innovative fillings, from traditional Nutella to seasonal fruit combinations.

Raclette Cheese
An authentic Alpine experience with melted raclette cheese served in traditional French style.

Cold Cut Platters And Cheese
Featuring French charcuterie with carefully selected meats and french cheese.
Chef Nathalie's Personal Touch
Unlike many restaurants, Pause Café maintains the personal connection that started with the table d'hôtes concept. Nathalie is often present in the kitchen and dining area, ensuring each dish meets her exacting standards for authenticity.
The Evolution of French Dining in Kuala Lumpur
Pause Café's 10-year journey reflects the growing appreciation for authentic international cuisine in Malaysia. From the intimate table d'hôtes to a beloved neighborhood restaurant, the evolution shows how genuine passion and quality can build a sustainable business in KL's competitive food scene.
Building Community Through Food
The restaurant has become more than just a dining destination - it's a community hub where French expatriates find comfort food and Malaysian food lovers discover authentic French flavors. Regular customers often become like family, reflecting the French tradition of the neighborhood café.
Community Impact
Pause Café has become a cultural bridge, introducing Malaysians to authentic French cuisine while providing French expatriates with a taste of home in the heart of Segambut.
Awards and Recognition
Over the years, Pause Café has built a strong reputation through word-of-mouth and positive reviews:
- Featured in local food blogs and lifestyle magazines
- Consistently high ratings on TripAdvisor and Google Reviews
- Regular mentions in "Best French Restaurants in KL" lists
- Strong social media following with loyal customer testimonials
- Recognition for authentic gluten-free options in Kuala Lumpur
The Journey Continues
As Pause Café enters its second decade, Nathalie remains committed to maintaining the authenticity that has defined the restaurant's journey. Future plans include:
- Expanding the menu with seasonal French specialties
- Continuing to source the finest ingredients from France
- Maintaining the intimate, welcoming atmosphere that customers love
- Possible cooking classes to share French culinary traditions with the community
In Nathalie's Words
"My goal has always been to bring a piece of France to Malaysia. After 10 years, I'm proud that we've created a space where people can experience authentic French cuisine in a warm, welcoming environment that feels like home."
Why Visit Pause Café Today
Whether you're seeking gluten-free dining options, craving authentic French crêpes, or simply want to experience a genuine French café atmosphere in Kuala Lumpur, Pause Café offers an unparalleled experience. The restaurant's decade-long journey from table d'hôtes to established café demonstrates a commitment to quality and authenticity that's rare in today's dining scene.
For food lovers seeking an authentic taste of France in the heart of Segambut, Pause Café represents not just a meal, but a cultural experience that has been refined over 10 years of passionate dedication to French culinary traditions.
Visit Pause Café today and experience a decade of authentic French culinary excellence in the heart of Kuala Lumpur.