Frisco x Ho Liao
Iconic Malaysian flavours will take gelati form at this inventive pop-up, from the country's version of a hedgehog slice to its savoury national dish.
Overview
Yes, a classic chocolate scoop is a safe bet. But when Malaysian favourites like pandan kaya toast or even nasi lemak get churned into artisanal gelati, risks must be taken.
Known for churning globetrotting flavours that rotate monthly, Caulfield gelateria Frisco is bringing a lineup of Malaysian-inspired gelato to Ho Liao – the rooftop beer hall crowning Junda Khoo's Ho Jiak – this weekend to mark Malaysia's Independence Day. Naturally, Ho Liao diners with Malaysian passports can flash it for a complimentary scoop.

Chef Ralph Kwan has reimagined the quintessential Malaysian breakfast of pandan kaya toast into a pandan scoop swirled with kaya and toasted bread. Frisco's fridge will also be stocked with scoops playing with Musang King durian, coffee-crusted buns from Malaysia's beloved bakery Rotiboy, and a dessert glutinous rice called pulut.
Meanwhile, Khoo will be pulling up a hyper-realistic nasi lemak gelato sandwich. The playful riff on Malaysia's national dish stars coconut rice gelato hiding a salted duck egg core, encased in a peanut snap shell. The sandwich comes with traditional nasi lemak sides – sambal-coated peanuts and anchovies – for a savoury kick.

And in a fun cross-continental collab, a trio of flavours from Kuala Lumpur's Piccoli Lotti will also be available over the weekend: chrysanthemum and cacao nib; batik cake, the Malaysian version of an Aussie hedgehog slice; and pink guava sorbet. Plus, a limited-edition pozzetti remixing Aussie Tim Tams and Malaysia's soy bean pudding, topped with brown sugar ginger syrup.
The Frisco x Ho Liao pop-up will run on Saturday, August 29 and Sunday, August 30. A minimum spend of $69 is required for complimentary scoops, which excludes the Musang King durian flavour.
Frisco is also hosting its own Independence Day celebration on Friday, August 28. Check out its socials for more details.
Images supplied.