Ah Hin, Ah Leong, Ah Seng…. these are the common names for kids who were born in the 60’s – 80’s, in which I am one of them having this common name. In those days these names were so popular that when you called out the name there would be at least one person on the street having that name. It is until the 90’s when people started to feel these names are too common and slowly these names have become less common or non-existent now.
As years passed by, the almost “extinct” name “Hin” has just gotten a boost in reputation, thanks to Hin Bus Depot. Hin Bus Depot was formerly known as “Hin Company Ltd.” The place was abandoned for decades since Hin Bus ceased its operations until recently it has been revived into an art and cafe center.
The art center itself is known as “Art is Rubbish is Art” and is Luthuanian artist Ernest Zacharevic’s first solo exhibition.
This place has many wall murals, 3D arts and paintings. It also hosts the weekly Sunday Pop up Market.
What makes Ernest’s artwork special is he likes to convert scrap metals or materials into beautiful art pieces.
These are among his exhibition artworks.
The exhibition is sandwiched between 2 cafes, which are Bricklin and Tavern In The Park. The overall concept is very different. You may come to Hin Bus Depot to admire Ernest’s artwork and at the same time indulge into the cafes for a relaxing break.
Bricklin is the place to have good coffee. They serve other beverages as well. The cafe is the previous office of Hin Company Ltd and has been converted into a cosy cafe.
They serve light snacks such as cakes and pastries. Patrons at Bricklin may also order food from the opposite Tavern In The Park to dine here and vice versa. However, payment must be done at the respective cafe.
As you can see from my pictures below, the barista was very dedicated to his job. He was fully concentrating in completing my coffee art.
Cuppuccino – RM10 with a very nicely done coffee art.
When I was almost finishing my cappucino, the rabbit still remained in my cup. I have been told that only real coffee art will remain till the end of your coffee.
Tavern In The Park, on the another hand is the place for good food.
The hut looks contemporary-classic with see-through glass windows and doors to remind you are surrounded by beautiful artwork.
The exterior seating area is a good spot for you to admire its surroundings.
The bar which is situated outdoor.
Crostini (1 set) – RM18, there were several toppings for you to choose from. For a set of crostini you are allowed to choose 3 different toppings.
We selected Chicken Pesto, Crostini – Smoked Salmon and Crostini – Blueberry & Strawberry which were recommended by the staff. The breads which were used as the base were made from multi-grains and seeds. The grains and seeds were in abundance and the bread texture was very crispy. For the chicken pesto, pesto sauce was used as the base and then topped with chicken tenders and tomato cubes. The rich-taste smoked salmon topping was also balanced off with refreshing cucumber slices. Lastly, fresh strawberries and blueberries as toppings of the bread.
Overall, this place is worth a visit. It is a family-friendly place and also a great place to enjoy Ernest’s collection of artworks. The coffee and crostini were good. The drawback is the crostini is a bit pricey and only good as a snack or light meal. It is also difficult to find a proper parking space in front Hin Bus Depot. Remember to display your parking coupons whenever you park nearby.
Editor’s Review (5 Stars Rank):
| Taste |  |
| Price (more stars, more reasonable) |  |
| Food Presentation |  |
| Service | |
| Overall | |
Quick Facts:
| Family Friendly |  |
| Parking |  |
| Pork Free | |
| Alcohol | |
| Credit Card | |
| Smoking | |
| Reservation | |
| Private Room (Private Area) | |
| WIFI Available | |
Operation hours: Mon – Thurs 10:00am – 10:30pm; Friday – Sunday 10:00am – 11:30pm
Contact: 04-218 9394
Address: 31, Jalan Gurdwara, George Town, 10300 George Town, Malaysia
GPS: 5.412371,100.328195