If you’re visiting Kuala Lumpur, you simply must dive into the glorious world of local Malaysian food! After all, what better way to get to know a culture than by indulging in its cuisine?
In the bustling heart of Kuala Lumpur, you’ll discover a host of incredible restaurants serving up the very best of Malaysian gourmet cuisine. If you’re looking to experience the rich, delicious and unique flavours Malaysia has to offer in a more refined setting, but you’re not sure where to begin — then this guide is just for you.
Dewakan
When talking about local gourmet or fine-dining restaurants in Malaysia, you absolutely cannot miss Dewakan. Helmed by the brilliant Chef Darren Teoh, Dewakan currently holds the prestigious honour of being the only restaurant in Malaysia with two Michelin Stars. It also proudly boasts a Michelin Green Star, a testament to its unwavering commitment to sustainability.
Located on the 48th floor of Naza Tower, Dewakan is definitely the place to go for unique and exceptional Malaysian flavours. Chef Darren Teoh and his team champion indigenous and locally-sourced ingredients, carefully gathered from Malaysia’s farms, jungles, mountains, and seas. You can expect fascinating ingredients like kelulut honey, banana leaf transformed into ice cream, and incredible meats and fish sustainably sourced from different corners of the country. Dewakan’s menu is a seasonal tasting journey that creatively reinterprets local ingredients, often featuring items that are fermented or dry-aged in-house. Since the menu changes with the seasons, you’ll never get the exact same experience twice. But one thing is for sure: you will undoubtedly get to celebrate the authentic tastes and flavours of Malaysia here.
Getting there:
ATAS
Next on our list is ATAS at The RuMa Hotel and Residences. This stunning restaurant has a strong focus on a modern reinterpretation of Malaysian cuisine. The talented chefs at ATAS draw inspiration from Malaysia’s diverse culinary heritage, using local and heirloom ingredients, but they present them with contemporary flair and sophisticated European cooking techniques. A delicious signature dish you simply have to try is the incredible Rendang Tok. Because, of course, when in Malaysia, you absolutely must try rendang! You can also expect more familiar local flavours to make an appearance, such as itik salai, ayam percik, otak-otak, and even a delightful onde-onde ice cream for dessert. Yum!
Getting there:
Akar Dining
Tucked away in Taman Tun Dr Ismail (TTDI), Akar Dining is a celebrated restaurant that has skilfully made a name for itself by blending Malaysian culinary roots with modern European and Japanese techniques. The creative force behind Akar is Chef Aidan Low, who draws on his training in both Japanese and French techniques to forge a truly unique culinary style. His passion lies in exploring the potential of native Malaysian ingredients, including gula apong, engkabang butter, and a variety of wild herbs and vegetables. He collaborates closely with local suppliers to ensure a seasonal and ever-evolving tasting menu that promises a delightful surprise with every visit.
Getting there:
De. Wan 1958
When you mention celebrity chefs in Malaysia, the name Chef Wan is usually the first that comes to mind for many. And his restaurant, De. Wan 1958, is a true reflection of his culinary legacy. It’s a place that serves up authentic, nostalgic, home-style Malaysian cooking, but with a premium twist. The moment you step inside, you’re transported to a quintessential Malaysian home, with the warm, comforting scent of traditional spices wafting through the air. You can kick off your meal with a classic favourite like cucur udang (prawn fritters) as an appetiser. Then, prepare to feast on a rich and creamy Masak Lemak Cili Padi — a fiery coconut milk curry with a generous punch of bird’s eye chillies — or the aromatic Daging Kurma, featuring tender beef stewed in a flavourful, mild gravy (among many other menu items, of course!)
It currently has 3 outlets. The Linc KL, Bangsar Shopping Centre, and Bangi Resort Hotel.
Getting there (The Linc KL outlet):
Beta
At Beta, you’ll find exquisite local Malaysian cuisine presented with a contemporary twist. Situated in Cormar Suites, Kuala Lumpur, the dishes here truly celebrate Malaysia’s rich heritage, utilising smart techniques to elevate traditional recipes we all know and love. But it’s not just about the food — Beta has crafted an atmosphere that’s just as delightful. It all comes together to create a truly special dining experience.
Getting there:
