Shimokita Space
Japan is known for its thrift shops where you can get just about anything. One spot in Subang Jaya that’s reminiscent of those hip stores in Tokyo with their racks of cheap pre-loved apparel is Shimokita Space. This hidden gem is a thrift shop with an aesthetic retro interior – the entire space is basically one big photo spot. There’s also an in-house cafe that serves lip-smacking burgers and butterbeer – you can head here when you’re done sifting for new finds.
A retro thrift shop & cafe in SS15
Shimokita Space is a thrift-shop-cum-burger-joint that operates on the 2nd floor of a shophouse in Subang Jaya’s ever-bustling SS15. The store can be a tad tricky to locate as they don’t have a signboard. But here’s a tip: make your way to a 7-11 outlet across Subang Square, and navigate your way up to Shimokita Space via a narrow set of stairs on the left.
Once you step into Shimokita Space, you’ll be greeted with a space decorated with old-school items such as stereo sets, arcade machines, a box TV, and a rotary dial phone. When night falls, there are neon lights that add an even more nostalgic feel to the whole space.
The retro interior of the shop and cafe will make you feel like you’ve stepped into a trendy thrift store in Japan.
It’s no surprise that many Subang-ites have been flocking to the store for its plethora of photo-worthy corners – including a classroom area complete with school desks and a chalkboard. This is actually a dining area, where patrons can dine on the in-house cafe’s selection of burgers and thirst-quenchers.
A thrift shop with pre-loved & vintage pieces
Image credit: @jasmine_khek via Instagram
Cafe-goers and thrift-shoppers alike can find a collection of pre-loved apparel for a fraction of their retail price. Take a stroll through the racks of clothes to find unique vintage dresses, jackets, jeans, and more, which are carefully inspected before being sold. There is also a fitting room so you can try on your new finds before deciding to bring them home.
A variety of jewellery pieces at Shimokita Space’s thrift shop.
Image credit: @kameliachrf via Instagram
Smashburgers and butterbeer
Besides shopping for preloved goods and snapping plenty of photos, you can fill your tummy at Shimokita Space’s in-house cafe with a no-frills menu – find a selection of burgers priced affordably.
There’s the Classic Beef Smashburger priced from RM8, depending on whether you’re going for a single, double, or triple patty, and the Shimokita Spicy Chicken Burger (RM14) that’s nicely spiced. Make it an even more filling meal by adding on a side of fries and coke for RM7.
Not to be missed out on is the cafe’s Bata Biru Butterbeer (RM10), a signature non-alcoholic beverage comprising thick, creamy foam on sweet ice cream soda.
A retro thrift shop and cafe in Subang Jaya
Visiting unique cafes can be one way to spend time with our friends and family. If you happen to be in Subang Jaya, consider visiting Shimokita Space – its retro vibes, numerous photo spots, and affordably priced food and apparel will appeal to foodies, shutterbugs, and thrifters.
Address: 94, Jalan SS 15/4b, SS 15, 47500 Subang Jaya, Selangor
Opening hours: Tue-Sun 3pm-11pm (Closed on Mondays)
Contact: Shimokita Space Instagram
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Cover image adapted from: The Smart Local Malaysia, @jasmine_khek via Instagram
Photography by Dennis Kong & Xinyee Goh.
This article was first published on 25th March 2023, and updated on 9th August 2023.