Ask any Malaysian over 25 about “ice cream soda” and you’ll probably hear about sarsi with a scoop of vanilla. It’s a classic kopitiam and birthday-party treat. Our Sarsaparilla Cloud brings it back with a creamy soft serve float.
What is sarsaparilla?
Sarsaparilla (or “sarsi”) is a soft drink originally flavoured with the root of the sarsaparilla plant, with a taste similar to root beer: sweet, herbal and a little like liquorice. In Malaysia and Singapore, it’s a nostalgic favourite.
The Malaysian float tradition
For decades, “ice cream soda” or “sarsi float” has meant fizzy soda poured over vanilla ice cream, served at kopitiams, A&W-style outlets and family celebrations. The magic is the foam: the fizz reacts with the ice cream to create a creamy, bubbly top.
What the Sarsaparilla Cloud tastes like
- First sip: herbal, fizzy sarsaparilla.
- Then: the soft serve cloud starts to melt, adding creaminess.
- Finish: a frothy, sweet, creamy float.
It’s one of five Clouds; see Cloud Drinks Explained. The others are Coke, Cold Brew, Floral Brew and Thai Milk Tea.
Is it caffeine-free?
Sarsaparilla drinks are generally caffeine-free, which makes this a popular pick for kids and evening visits. (The Coke Cloud contains caffeine.) See Kid-Friendly Dessert Stops in Klang and Evening Dessert in Klang.
How to order it
- Ask for the Sarsaparilla Cloud.
- Choose ice: 100%, 50% or 0%. We suggest 50% so the fizz stays strong.
- Adjust sugar if needed.
More in How to Customise Your Drink.
Sarsaparilla Cloud vs Coke Cloud
| Sarsaparilla Cloud | Coke Cloud | |
|---|---|---|
| Flavour | Herbal, root-beer-like | Classic cola |
| Caffeine | Generally none | Yes |
| Vibe | Kopitiam nostalgia | Fast-food float classic |
Perfect for
- Hot days: see Beat the Heat.
- Kids’ treats and family outings.
- Anyone who misses childhood ice cream soda.
- Celebrations: see Celebration Treats in Klang.
Tips
- Drink it quickly for maximum fizz.
- Spoon some cloud first before it melts.
- Pair it with a small cup of Pistachio if you’re sharing.
Visit Alpacco Ice Cream
- Where: Jln Laksamana 6, Taman Desa Idaman, 41200 Klang, Selangor. Directions on our Locations page.
- When: 10:30am–8:30pm, every day except Tuesday (closed Tuesdays).
- Menu: soft serve in Pistachio (top seller), Milk (Farm Fresh), Belgium Chocolate and limited-time Soya, plus toppings, coffee, non-caffeine drinks and the Cloud series. See the Ice Cream Menu.
- Muslim-friendly menu.
- Updates: follow @alpacco_icecream on Instagram.
Plan your visit on our Ice Cream page → Sundae Funday every day!
Key takeaways
The Sarsaparilla Cloud is Malaysia’s beloved ice cream soda, reimagined with a soft serve float. It’s herbal, fizzy, creamy and generally caffeine-free. Order it with 50% ice for maximum fizz.
FAQ
What is a Sarsaparilla Cloud?
Sarsaparilla soda with a soft serve float on top.
Is sarsaparilla like root beer?
Yes, the flavour is similar.
Is it caffeine-free?
Sarsaparilla is generally caffeine-free, unlike the Coke Cloud.
Is it good for kids?
Yes, it’s a favourite.
What other Clouds are there?
Coke, Cold Brew, Floral Brew and Thai Milk Tea.