Besties Stir Up Unique Drinks at Their ‘Papercup’ Stall
A Passion Project Born from Friendship and Struggle
AMPANG JAYA: Cool nights, a view of KLCC’s sparkling skyline, and drinks that hit the spot. That’s the essence of Papercup, Ampang Jaya’s charming evening hangout by the roadside. This humble food and drinks stand is the passion project of best friends Yuganvarma Ramasamy and Heshvindran Murugayah.
FMT Lifestyle caught up with the duo as they were setting up their stand, perched on a slight hill, ready to start serving at 7pm.
A Tale of Unlikely Friendship
"We got to know each other from secondary school at SMK Jalan Tiga Bandar Baru Bangi," Yuganvarma said. They shared that while their friendship blossomed naturally, becoming business partners was entirely unexpected. While both pursued different careers – Yuganvarma earned a degree in chemical engineering while Heshvindran worked in the film industry – their bond remained strong.
However, during tough times, they decided to create something meaningful together. “We both had different stories but the same problem: financial issues,” revealed Heshvindran. With Yuganvarma struggling to find work and Heshvindran seeking a career break, they launched Papercup. “He loves to experiment with coffee, while I’m a chocolate lover,” shared Heshvindran. Yuganvarma added: “We didn’t want to go the stereotypical route of serving Indian masala tea. We wanted to try out something unique.”
Unique Drinks That Set Them Apart
And that’s exactly what makes Papercup special. Their line-up of specialty drinks – tea, coffee, and chocolate-based creations – boast unique flavors and combinations. And there’s one ingredient found in many of their drinks that adds a unique twist. "We use jaggery instead of normal white sugar. Jaggery in Tamil is called ‘nattu sakkarai’ and its taste is different from basic brown sugar," said Yuganvarma.
Common in India and South Asia, jaggery is an organic, unrefined sweetener made from sugarcane or palm sap, with a caramel-like flavor. FMT Lifestyle sampled their bestselling Dirty Ube Latte – a blend of coffee foam and milky ube or purple yam – and let’s just say, it’s a game changer. Not too sweet, perfectly smooth, and easily a contender against any top coffee chain in Malaysia.
A Taste of Home
If you’re in the mood for something warm, their thick and creamy jaggery tea won’t disappoint. You can also opt for their Iced CocoJag, a refreshing mix of coconut, jaggery, and milk tea which is absolutely lip-smacking. Other drinks include Iced Choco Bomb and Koko Kahwin Mocha for chocolate enthusiasts.
A Home Away from Home
Every drink was created, and then mastered, by the duo. You’ll see them taking turns while the other relaxes, or working side by side, chatting and giggling as they serve eager customers. Heshvindran and Yuganvarma first set up shop in Bukit Bintang in November 2023 but were forced to relocate. In their present spot, Papercup has built a loyal following.
FMT Lifestyle spoke to 26-year-old Lava Nisha, a regular since their early days in KL. “When I went through their Instagram, I came to know that they shifted to Ampang Jaya. I have been coming here quite often now, and weekends for me are always at Papercup.”
A Conclusion and Call to Action
Yuganvarma expressed: "We don’t see our customers as just customers. Somehow, they turn into our friends." And it’s easy to see why – the duo’s passion, creativity, and dedication to their craft have earned them a devoted following. So, if you’re in the area, be sure to stop by and experience the unique flavors of Papercup for yourself.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the business hours of Papercup?
A: 7pm-11pm (Wednesday and Thursday), 7pm-12am (Friday, Saturday, Sunday). Closed on Monday and Tuesday.
Q: What is the address of Papercup?
A: Saga Suria Apartment, Jalan Taman Saga, Taman Saga, 68000 Ampang Jaya, Selangor.
Q: How can I follow Papercup on social media?
A: Follow Papercup on Instagram.
Q: Can I pre-order food items?
A: Yes, for limited quantities of their vegetarian nasi lemak with fried oyster mushrooms. Please contact them in advance to place your order.