Kuala Lumpur foodguide: 25x Kuala Lumpur Where to eat
Kuala Lumpur is Buzzing with great restaurants! From trendy coffee shops to the most delightful satay on the streets, Kuala Lumpur has its own irresistible charm. While this dynamic Asian metropolis may not have the picturesque allure of Rome or the colonial splendor of Paris, believe us, Kuala Lumpur has its own, undeniable allure.
Food here is simply a SENSATION! Especially the satay is unparalleled, a taste explosion that you absolutely must experience. With a diverse mix of cultures, you’ll find kitchens from around the world: Chinese, Indonesian, Indian, Malaysian, Western, and much more. It’s a true paradise for foodies! And we? We have gathered the crème de la crème of restaurants in Kuala Lumpur and the ultimate street food for you. So sit back, relax, and discover the best places to eat of Kuala Lumpur!
In this article:
- The Best Places for Street Food in Kuala Lumpur
- The Coolest Restaurants
- Breakfast, Lunch, and the Coolest Coffee Shops
- Must-Visit Skybars
- The Coolest Places for a Beer
- The Most Beautiful Hotels in Kuala Lumpur
Kuala Lumpur best places to eat in a Nutshell:
The Tastiest Street Food in Kuala Lumpur
- Cing Kei Prawn Mee, China Town
- Famous Fried Rice (Ray Power Corner), China Town
- Sin Kiew Yee Shin Kee Beef Noodles, China Town
- Mahir Satay Jalan Alor
- Restoran Sai Woo, Jalan Alor
The Coolest Restaurants in Kuala Lumpur
- FOOK
- Indian Empire
- The Hungry Tapir
- Dao Bao
- Halab KL or Halab Castle
Breakfast, Lunch, and Trendy Coffee Shops in Kuala Lumpur
- VCR
- The Hungry Tapir
- Wizzards
- Feeka Coffee Roasters
- The Rabbit Hole
- Broom
- Yew Yew Coffee
The Most Beautiful Sky Bars in Kuala Lumpur
- Helipad Lounge
- Fuego at Troika Sky Dining
- Sky51 Sky Bar
Nice Places for a Drink
- The Attic
- REXKL
- School of Animals
- Kapitan Haus
- Coupe De Vin
Street Food in Kuala Lumpur
Kuala Lumpur is known for its diverse and tasty street food scene, with several neighborhoods offering delicious options. Here are some of the best areas for street food in Kuala Lumpur + the best street food restaurants:
Jalan Alor
Jalan Alor is simply a must-visit. It may be a bit touristy, but it’s the place to taste street food. Sit on a colorful chair along the street and create your own delicious meal. The interesting part is that all the stalls collaborate. Order satay at one stall, a drink from the neighbors, and tasty noodles across the street. Just stay seated, as they bring the food and drinks to you. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and delicious dishes without getting up. We tried about 4 dishes (costing between 1 and 2 euros per dish) and spent about 10 euros, including drinks. This is the number one place for dinner!
Chinatown (Petaling Street)
Backpackers often settle in Chinatown, and rightfully so! The food here is not only super affordable but also delicious. We enjoyed Peking Duck and a flavorful Claypot with chicken and rice. And, although some eateries don’t serve alcohol, you can simply grab a beer at the supermarket and enjoy it on the terrace. Very convenient! A very lively and fun neighborhood where you should definitely try Wonton noodles, dim sum, and claypot rice!
- Cing Kei Prawn Mee, China Town
- Famous Fried Rice (Ray Power Corner), China Town
- Sin Kiew Yee Shin Kee Beef Noodles, China Town
Petaling Street
Another food paradise in Chinatown is Petaling Street. Here, you’ll find a mix of street food and local eateries. Try the local favorites, such as Char Kway Teow and Hainanese Chicken Rice. Also, the durian stalls are interesting to see (and smell), even if you’re not a fan of this ‘king of fruits.’ The area is bustling with activity, especially in the evening. If you’re into photography, come here during the blue hour for some stunning shots of the illuminated Chinatown. A must-visit!
Restaurants in Kuala Lumpur
In addition to street food, Kuala Lumpur offers a diverse range of restaurants catering to various tastes. Whether you’re a fan of Asian cuisine, Western dishes, or fusion delights, Kuala Lumpur has it all. Here are some recommended restaurants in the city:
FOOK
Located in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, FOOK is a modern Asian restaurant that blends traditional flavors with contemporary twists. The restaurant’s stylish and vibrant ambiance adds to the overall dining experience. With a menu featuring dishes from different Asian cultures, FOOK is a great place for those looking to explore diverse flavors in one setting. From dim sum to sushi, the menu caters to a wide range of preferences.
Indian Empire
For those craving the rich and diverse flavors of Indian cuisine, Indian Empire is a top choice. The restaurant offers a menu filled with authentic Indian dishes, from flavorful curries to tandoori specialties. The warm and inviting atmosphere makes it a great place for a casual meal or a special celebration. Whether you’re a vegetarian or a meat lover, Indian Empire has options to satisfy every palate.
The Hungry Tapir
With its quirky and laid-back vibe, The Hungry Tapir is a popular spot for those looking to enjoy a casual meal or a cup of coffee. The menu features a mix of Western and Asian-inspired dishes, and the cozy interior makes it a great place to unwind. Whether you’re stopping by for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, The Hungry Tapir’s diverse menu has something for everyone.
Dao Bao
For fans of Chinese cuisine, Dao Bao is a must-visit. This restaurant specializes in modern Chinese dishes, offering a contemporary twist to traditional favorites. From dumplings to stir-fried delights, Dao Bao’s menu showcases the diversity of Chinese culinary traditions. The chic and stylish setting adds to the overall dining experience, making it a great choice for a memorable meal.
Halab KL or Halab Castle
For a taste of Middle Eastern cuisine, Halab KL, also known as Halab Castle, is a fantastic choice. The restaurant offers a variety of dishes inspired by the rich culinary heritage of the Middle East. From kebabs to mezze platters, the menu is a delightful journey through Middle Eastern flavors. The warm and welcoming ambiance makes Halab KL an excellent venue for both casual outings and special occasions.
Restaurants in Kuala Lumpur still on the must-visit list:
- UpperDeck KL
- Crane KL
- Biang Biang Noodle Kiosk (PORK FREE) REXKL
- V88 Chinatown | Vintage 1988
- Claypot Sifu Restaurant
- GUI GUI BBQ
- Vermut Restaurant and Bar
The Best Coffee Shops in Kuala Lumpur
Craving a good espresso, a tasty smoothie bowl, avo with eggs, or an irresistible latte? We totally get it! Fortunately, Kuala Lumpur has a vibrant coffee culture with numerous trendy coffee shops. Read on for our favorite spots in Kuala Lumpur.
VCR
One of our favorite spots for a delightful breakfast and a good espresso, because my day can’t start without one. This cozy coffee shop is located just outside Bukit Bintang.
Location VCR: View on Google Maps
BROOM
A few buildings down from VCR, you’ll find another trendy coffee shop in Kuala Lumpur: BROOM! This is the place for delicious pastries and croissants. It doesn’t get hipper and cozier than BROOM. A definite recommendation.
Location BROOM: View on Google Maps
Yew Yew Coffee
A cute, cozy, and super hip coffee shop in China Town. Here, you can enjoy excellent coffee along with delicious waffles.
Location Yew Yew Coffee: View on Google Maps
The Hungry Tapir
The Hungry Tapir was mentioned earlier in this article because, in addition to good coffee and delicious lunch dishes, you can also enjoy fantastic dinners here. The Hungry Tapir is open from 12:00 pm to 12:00 am, making it a great tip for hungry people in the afternoon as well.
Location The Hungry Tapir: View on Google Maps
The Rabbit Hole
The Rabbit Hole is located at the end of Bukit Bintang and is light and open. Here, you can drop by all day for a nice croissant, coffee, but also pizza and burgers. It’s a great place to relax when you’re near the bar street of Bukit Bintang.
Location The Rabbit Hole: View on Google Maps
Discover these amazing coffee spots and savor the diverse flavors that Kuala Lumpur has to offer!
The Most Beautiful Skybars in Kuala Lumpur
Sipping on an overly expensive cocktail at a fancy skybar in Kuala Lumpur – it’s just a must! The skyline of Kuala Lumpur is breathtaking, and you definitely want to admire it from great heights. A visit to a skybar in Kuala Lumpur is simply a must.
Heli Pad Lounge
It takes some effort to find (even for seasoned taxi drivers), and yes, it’s a bit more expensive than you’re used to, but believe us, HELI PAD LOUNGE is a pleasant surprise! This old helipad has been transformed into a skybar. The bar itself may not be much, but the 360-degree view truly makes up for it. During the day, entry is free, but in the evening, you’re required to pay an amount that you can use for a few drinks.
Sky51 Sky Bar
This skybar is relatively new and offers one of the most beautiful views of the city. You can gaze directly at the Petronas Towers and also admire the radio tower. There is, as with most skybars, a dress code. No flip-flops, sandals, or shorts allowed.
The Best Places for a Drink in Kuala Lumpur
It’s no secret that we’re fans of craft beers or just a good beer. Despite beer not being particularly cheap in Kuala Lumpur, we always enjoy stepping into the pub. These are our favorite places for a drink in Kuala Lumpur.
Bukit Bintang
Although it’s a bit touristy and noisy, Bukit Bintang remains the place where everyone goes for a beer. It’s one street full of pubs, ranging from Irish pubs to Mexican themes. It may be a bit sleazy and intense, but a beer in Bukit Bintang is definitely a must.
The Attic
When we were looking for a cozy place for a drink in China Town, we accidentally discovered The Attic. This quaint bar is hidden above a hostel. Once past the reception and the spiral staircase, you’ll find a cozy bar with a balcony. We thought this was a fantastic place to sit.
REXKL
This cultural center in China Town is definitely worth a visit. Inside, you can play table tennis, order noodles, buy trendy items, and much more. For a drink, we recommend ordering a beer at the outdoor bar at the end of the day and enjoying the chaos in China Town.
School of Animals
Craft beer enthusiasts, pay attention! This might be the most spectacular and cozy place to hang out in Kuala Lumpur, and there’s definitely no shortage of craft beer here. Choose one, sit comfortably on a stool or chair outside, and enjoy the atmosphere.
Kapitan Haus
Above Bao Ban, you’ll find the cocktail bar Kapitan Haus. After your Bao bun, you can head directly to this cozy place. It’s a small, intimate, super trendy cocktail bar with the tastiest cocktails.
Coupe De Vin
Craving some wine? Then this is the place to be! This wine bar in China Town has an extensive wine list with quite a few affordable options. Plus, you can sit outside, something that’s a bit hard to find in Chinatown.
Let yourself be enchanted by the irresistible flavors and lively atmosphere of Kuala Lumpur! Whether you’re indulging in street food in China Town, dining at trendy hotspots like FOOK, or enjoying a delightful espresso at VCR, our ultimate Kuala Lumpur Food Guide guarantees a culinary adventure. Discover the charming mix of cultures that gives this city its unique character. Let yourself be guided to the most delightful experiences and taste the best that Kuala Lumpur has to offer. Join us on a gastronomic journey and explore the hidden gems of this vibrant Asian metropolis!
What are nice places to stay in Kuala Lumpur?
Ontdek naast de beste restuarants van Kuala Lumpur ook de beste hotels van de stad om te verblijven. Deze stad biedt een scala aan accommodaties die jouw verblijf onvergetelijk maken. Van luxueuze vijfsterrenhotels tot charmante boetiekopties, Kuala Lumpur heeft voor elk wat wils.
