A TikTok clip by @thefat.burger has gone viral after the seller claimed to offer the world’s first pastrami roti john, igniting a heated discussion among Malaysians online.
The video has garnered over 50,000 likes, nearly 10,000 shares, and more than 900 comments. In it, the seller demonstrates how he assembles the sandwich, layering thick 150g slices of pastrami along with sauces and other ingredients inside the bread.
However, it was the RM88 price tag for 150g of pastrami that drew the most attention, with many netizens arguing the dish was overpriced for a street-food style item.
Kenji commented, “You are selling it far too overpriced. The mark-up is too high.” A.D added, “Only 150g of pastrami? Overpriced.” Another user compared it to other options, saying, “I’d rather buy Alif Burger — 100g of wagyu is RM12 and tastes better than pastrami.”
Hamizan Shafiq650 criticised the pricing further, warning that endorsing such prices could influence other roadside stalls to follow suit. “It’s not even a restaurant experience, just roadside food to eat at home. Stop pretending,” he wrote.
Not everyone shared this view, with some praising the seller’s concept. WanEyla commented, “Good business idea, different from others. The name is already there — business people understand the pricing. Wishing you success, insyaAllah.” Similarly, P u t r a I q b a l 97 said, “If you think it’s expensive, just don’t buy. Simple.”
Others offered a more balanced perspective. TikTok user snappyvish wrote, “I support you and wish your business the best. But it feels slightly overpriced. Maybe start at RM50 as a promotion to see the support, like Katz Deli — 300g there costs around USD30 (RM120).”
The viral post highlights the challenge of pricing unique street-food creations while managing public perception in a competitive market.
