If you're searching for the best restaurants in Kuala Lumpur, you won't be disappointed. Start with Lafite for modern European fine dining or Cilantro for a French-Japanese fusion. Bijan Restaurant offers exquisite Malay dishes, while Dewakan features a creative tasting menu on the 48th floor. For a casual vibe, head to Jalan Alor Food Street for local street food. Don't miss Li Yen's authentic Chinese cuisine at the Ritz-Carlton, or try Tamarind Springs for a unique Thai-Indochinese experience. Each spot has something special to offer, and there's even more to discover about these culinary gems. If you’re willing to explore beyond Kuala Lumpur, the best restaurants in Bangkok also promise an unforgettable gastronomic adventure. From Michelin-starred hotspots to bustling street food markets, Bangkok’s culinary scene caters to every palate. Whether you’re indulging in authentic Thai fare or sampling innovative international cuisine, the vibrant food culture in this bustling metropolis is sure to impress.
Key Takeaways
- Dewakan Restaurant: A Michelin-starred venue known for its innovative tasting menu featuring local Malaysian ingredients, located on the 48th floor of Naza Tower.
- Bijan Restaurant: Offers fine Malay cuisine with modern twists, recognized in the Tatler Dining Guide 2025, and serves halal meat.
- Cilantro Restaurant: Distinguished for its French cuisine with Japanese influences, emphasizing seasonal produce, and offering private dining rooms.
- Jalan Alor Food Street: A vibrant culinary hub known for authentic Malaysian street food, including barbecue chicken wings and grilled fish, popular among locals and tourists.
- Li Yen at Ritz-Carlton: A MICHELIN Selected restaurant specializing in authentic Chinese cuisine and dim sum, featuring private dining options.
Lafite
Lafite is a modern European fine dining restaurant that specializes in classic French cuisine with creative twists. Known for its exquisite Seafood Degustation Menu, which features a variety of seasonal produce across five courses, Lafite also offers a Wine & Degustation dinner menu that pairs three courses with carefully selected wines.
Diners can enjoy an a la carte menu, as well as an elaborate 6-course Explorer menu that showcases the culinary team's innovative approach to traditional dishes. Additionally, the restaurant boasts an impressive selection of fine wines, making it a perfect destination for wine enthusiasts and those looking to celebrate special occasions. The restaurant is wheelchair accessible and offers valet parking for guests, enhancing convenience for all diners. Furthermore, Lafite was located in the Golden Triangle of Kuala Lumpur, an area known for its vibrant dining scene.
Situated at the Lobby Level of 11 Jalan Sultan Ismail in Kuala Lumpur, Lafite presents an elegant ambiance characterized by a luxe setting and ceiling-to-floor windows that provide stunning views of a lush garden.
The restaurant's design creates a sophisticated atmosphere, ideal for intimate dining experiences or special events. The interior styling combines modern elements with classic touches, enhancing the overall dining experience for guests seeking both comfort and luxury.
While Lafite is currently closed until further notice, it has been noted for its excellent service and remarkable dishes, such as the duck breast, lamb, and porcini soup with Hokkaido scallop. However, in recent years, there have been some reports of slow service, which the restaurant has been working to address. As a renowned dining establishment, Lafite has made a mark in Kuala Lumpur's culinary scene, making its temporary closure newsworthy for local food lovers and patrons.
- Address: Lobby Level, 11 Jalan Sultan Ismail, Kuala Lumpur
- Hours: Closed until further notice
- Phone: 1300-88-7388
Cilantro
Cilantro is a distinguished fine dining restaurant in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, renowned for its exquisite French cuisine infused with Japanese influences. The culinary creations are the brainchild of Chef Takashi Kimura, who focuses on seasonal produce, ensuring that only the freshest ingredients are used in the dishes. Guests can indulge in a range of sophisticated offerings, including poached lobster with endive salad and artichoke and mushroom soup accompanied by summer truffles. The use of fresh, locally sourced ingredients enhances the flavors and quality of each dish, which is further complemented by the restaurant's commitment to air quality improvements within its dining environment.
The restaurant also features private dining rooms, accommodating intimate gatherings of 6 to 20 guests, making it an ideal choice for special occasions. Situated within the MiCasa All Suite Hotel, Cilantro boasts an ambiance that's both simple and sophisticated, providing an intimate setting for diners. The decor is refined yet understated, allowing the culinary masterpieces to take center stage. Notably, the restaurant's commitment to quality and seasonal ingredients aligns with its reputation, similar to the focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients seen in other top dining establishments in Kuala Lumpur. Additionally, Cilantro's location in KLCC ensures that diners are in the heart of the upscale dining scene.
The restaurant's interior is designed to create a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for a romantic dinner or a celebratory meal with friends and family. The scenic surroundings of Kuala Lumpur add to the dining experience, offering a delightful escape from the bustling city.
Cilantro's reputation extends beyond just its culinary offerings; it has garnered acclaim from royalty and celebrities alike, solidifying its status as one of the premier dining establishments in Kuala Lumpur. The restaurant's commitment to quality and seasonal ingredients has earned it several awards, reflecting its dedication to providing an exceptional fine dining experience.
With Chef Takashi Kimura at the helm, Cilantro continues to push culinary boundaries, making it a noteworthy destination for food enthusiasts and connoisseurs.
- Address: Part of MiCasa All Suite Hotel, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Hours: Check the restaurant's official website for days and times
- Phone: Refer to the restaurant's official website for contact details
Bijan Restaurant
Bijan Restaurant is a distinguished establishment in Kuala Lumpur that specializes in fine Malay cuisine with a modern twist. This restaurant prides itself on serving traditional Malay dishes crafted from high-quality ingredients, ensuring an authentic culinary experience. Guests can indulge in a variety of delectable offerings, including signature dishes such as Otak-Otak, Opor Rusuk, and Rendang Itik, as well as delightful desserts like the steamed Gula Melaka Cake and chocolate durian cake.
The restaurant also features a degustation menu and promotes traditional sharing style meals, making it a perfect dining option for both intimate gatherings and larger groups. Notably, Bijan Restaurant has been recognized in the Tatler Dining Guide 2025, highlighting its excellence in modern Malaysian cuisine.
Nestled at No 3, Jalan Ceylon, Bijan Restaurant boasts a chic and cosy ambiance that enhances the dining experience. The elevated setting provides a sophisticated backdrop for enjoying traditional Malay cuisine, while the attentive and courteous service adds to the overall warmth of the atmosphere. In addition, the restaurant has received praise for its service quality, with staff frequently checking on guests to ensure a pleasant dining experience.
The interior design reflects a blend of modern elegance and cultural heritage, inviting diners to immerse themselves in a refined yet comfortable environment.
One notable aspect of Bijan Restaurant is its commitment to hospitality, which is evidenced by the attentive staff and the ownership of The Good Food Trio: Yuen Sze To, Lissa Yeoh, and Way Cheng Yeoh. The kitchen is led by Sous Chef Shawal Basri from Kedah, who brings his expertise to the menu.
Additionally, Bijan offers a unique wine pairing experience specifically curated to complement the rich flavors of Malay cuisine. The restaurant serves halal meat, ensuring that it caters to a diverse clientele, while also providing alcohol on the premises.
- Address: No 3, Jalan Ceylon, 50200 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Hours: Monday to Sunday: 4:30 pm to 11:00 pm
- Phone: +603 2031 3575
Jalan Alor
Jalan Alor
Jalan Alor is a vibrant food street in Kuala Lumpur that showcases a plethora of culinary delights, making it a must-visit destination for food lovers. Among the many food stalls and restaurants, Wong Ah Wah stands out with its renowned barbecue chicken wings, stir-fried lao shu fen noodles, skewered satay, and grilled fish.
The lively atmosphere draws in both locals and tourists, eager to indulge in delectable dishes that capture the essence of Malaysian street food. As a culinary paradise, Jalan Alor serves as a melting pot of Malaysian, Chinese, Thai, and Indian culinary influences, with many stalls offering must-try dishes that reflect the rich diversity of the region.
Located in the Bukit Bintang area, Wong Ah Wah is situated at No 1, Jln Alor, offering a bustling atmosphere filled with the aroma of grilled meats and spices. The street is lined with colorful stalls and restaurants, creating a feast for the senses.
As the sun sets, the area transforms into a vibrant culinary hub where patrons can enjoy their meals under the twinkling lights, adding to the charm of the outdoor dining experience.
One notable aspect of Wong Ah Wah is its popularity among food enthusiasts and influencers, often featured in various food blogs and travel guides. The restaurant has cultivated a dedicated following, with many visitors returning for its signature dishes.
The lively ambiance, coupled with the delicious offerings, makes it not just a place to eat, but a memorable dining experience where guests can socialize and relish authentic Malaysian flavors.
- Address: No 1, Jln Alor, Bukit Bintang, 50200 Kuala Lumpur, Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur
- Hours: Monday to Saturday (4 pm – 2 am), Closed on Sundays
- Phone: Not provided
Tamarind Springs
Tamarind Springs is a distinguished dining establishment that specializes in traditional Thai and Indochinese cuisine, which includes the rich flavors of Khmer, Laos, and Vietnamese dishes. The menu features an array of delectable options such as Tom Yum soup, Lemongrass Chicken, Tamarind Prawn, Grilled Eggplant Salad, and the exquisite Steamed River Lobster with Grilled Vegetables. For those with dietary restrictions, the restaurant also offers gluten-free and vegan options upon request, ensuring that all guests can indulge in the culinary delights offered.
Nestled in the serene Taman Tun Abdul Razak area of Selangor, Malaysia, Tamarind Springs is set against a lush natural forest reserve, providing a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. The restaurant's open-walled pavilion is adorned with elegant teak furniture, striking Asian sculptures, and rich carvings, all complemented by deep red walls. This unique setting enhances the dining experience, making it ideal for romantic evenings and special events. Additionally, guests can make reservations online on Theworldkeys.com, ensuring their spot in this popular dining venue.
Guests can enjoy picturesque views overlooking palm tree-flanked fairways of the KDE Golf Club and dense jungle, enhanced by candlelit pathways, running water sounds, and charming Chinese lanterns, creating an enchanting dining atmosphere.
Tamarind Springs has earned accolades as one of the best restaurants in Malaysia, thanks in part to its attentive and knowledgeable staff and the culinary expertise of Chef Somkuhan Wandee, a pioneer of the Tamarind Restaurants brand. The restaurant boasts an extensive selection of handcrafted cocktails and fine wines, offering over 20 wines by the glass and a remarkable 16 pages of varietals.
Guests can also indulge in traditional Thai desserts and unique fusion options like the Pandan Creme Brulee, making for a memorable dining experience.
- Address: Upper Level, Jalan 1, Taman Tun Abdul Razak, Selangor, Malaysia
- Hours:
- Lunch: 12pm – 2:30pm
- Dinner: 6pm – 10:30pm
- Phone: +6 03 4256 9300
Restoran Wong Mei Kee
Restoran Wong Mei Kee specializes in exquisite roasted meats, particularly renowned for its *siew yoke* (roast pork), *char siew* (BBQ pork), and succulent roasted chicken. The establishment has gained a loyal following for its high-quality offerings, with the *siew yoke* being a standout dish that features a perfect golden-brown crackling skin, melt-in-your-mouth fat, and tender lean meat.
The menu also includes a delightful trio combination of *char siew*, roasted chicken, and *siew yoke*, served alongside their flavorful oil rice, making it a must-visit for meat lovers.
Nestled at 30, Jalan Nyonya in Pudu, Kuala Lumpur, Restoran Wong Mei Kee presents a bustling yet cozy atmosphere that reflects the vibrancy of local dining culture. The restaurant's location is characterized by its accessibility to the busy streets of Kuala Lumpur, though it's notorious for difficult parking, especially during the popular lunch hours.
The interior, while simple, is filled with the tantalizing aroma of roasting meats, creating an inviting environment for patrons eager to indulge in a hearty meal.
An interesting highlight of Restoran Wong Mei Kee is its owner, Wong Peng Hui, affectionately known as the "Maestro Roast Master." With over 30 years of experience in perfecting the art of roasting meats, he's earned a Datukship for his culinary expertise, leading to the affectionate nickname "Datuk roasted pork."
The restaurant has also achieved Bib Gourmand status in the Michelin Guide, a testament to its exceptional quality and dedication to the craft of roasting. Customers often start lining up as early as 11:30 AM to ensure they can savor Wong's hand-prepared meats, which are selected personally by him, before the restaurant sells out by 2:00 PM.
- Address: 30, Jalan Nyonya, Pudu, 55100 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
- Hours: Open for lunch only, from 12:30 PM to 3:00 PM.
- Phone: No phone number provided.
Li Yen at Ritz-Carlton
Li Yen at The Ritz-Carlton, Kuala Lumpur, is a premium dining establishment specializing in authentic Chinese cuisine, with a notable focus on Hong Kong dim sum. The restaurant offers a delightful array of traditional dishes, including the renowned Peking duck with its aromatic crispy skin, baked crispy BBQ pork pancakes, and roasted crispy pork. Guests can also savor the exquisite chicken simmered in bouillon and an assortment of signature desserts.
Additionally, Li Yen occasionally features special dishes, such as the premium Macao chicken, known for its natural sweetness and rich flavor, providing a unique culinary experience for patrons.
Nestled within the luxurious Ritz-Carlton in Kuala Lumpur, Li Yen boasts an elegant ambiance that resembles a blossoming garden, creating a warm and inviting dining atmosphere. The restaurant's design reflects a harmonious blend of elegance and seasonal beauty, making it an ideal setting for both casual and formal dining.
With seven private dining rooms available, it caters to special occasions and business entertainment, allowing guests to enjoy their meals in a more intimate setting while surrounded by refined decor.
Li Yen has earned recognition as a MICHELIN Selected restaurant, highlighting its commitment to delivering exceptional Chinese cuisine. This esteemed accolade underscores the restaurant's dedication to quality and authenticity, making it a noteworthy destination for both locals and visitors alike.
The combination of its exquisite menu, elegant surroundings, and recognition in the culinary world makes Li Yen a must-visit dining spot in Kuala Lumpur.
- Address: The Ritz-Carlton, 168 Jalan Imbi, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, 55100
- Hours: Monday to Saturday: 12:00 pm – 3:00 pm, 6:30 pm – 10:00 pm; Daily: 6:30 pm – 10:00 pm
- Phone: +60 18 623 0038, +6018-646 8033
Dewakan Restaurant
Dewakan Restaurant offers a unique fine dining experience that highlights local and indigenous Malaysian ingredients. With a creative tasting menu, the restaurant showcases the diverse bounty of Malaysia's farms, mountains, and seas, while drawing inspiration from the culinary traditions of its indigenous peoples and the childhood memories of chef Darren Teoh.
Each dish is meticulously crafted to not only tantalize the palate but also to tell a story about the rich cultural heritage of Malaysia.
Situated on the 48th floor of Naza Tower in Platinum Park, Dewakan boasts breathtaking views over KLCC Park through its floor-to-ceiling windows, creating a bright and luxurious atmosphere for its diners. The elegant decor and smart casual dress code contribute to an upscale ambiance that encourages meaningful connections with the culture represented in each ingredient.
Guests are invited to savor their meals while enjoying the stunning skyline of Kuala Lumpur.
Dewakan made waves in the culinary world as the first Malaysian restaurant to be included in Asia's 50 Best Restaurants and earned a prestigious Michelin star in December 2022. The restaurant's name, a blend of the Malay words "dewa" (God) and "makan" (food), reflects its dedication to celebrating Malaysian cuisine while emphasizing sustainability through sourcing from local farms and small-scale businesses, as well as reducing waste.
- Address: Level 48, Skyviews, Naza Tower, Platinum Park, No. 10 Persiaran KLCC, 50088 Kuala Lumpur
- Hours: Monday – Saturday: 6:30–11:30pm
- Phone: +60 12 789 6720
Frangipani
Frangipani is a renowned fine dining restaurant in Kuala Lumpur, offering an exquisite Modern French cuisine experience. With a carefully curated A la Carte menu featuring first, second, and third courses priced at RM30, RM45, and RM60 respectively, diners can indulge in a three-course meal for RM120, or opt for a tasting menu with seven smaller courses for RM158, which can be paired with wine for an additional RM100.
The restaurant is celebrated for its luxurious ambiance and attentive service, often compared to one and two-star Michelin restaurants, making it a go-to destination for both locals and visitors seeking an upscale dining experience.
Located at 25 Changkat Bukit Bintang, the restaurant boasts a Moroccan-style interior that captivates guests with its creamy white walls, towering rectangular columns, and a striking black pool.
The luxurious space is designed with romantic nooks, perfect for intimate dinners, while the bar area, open until 1 AM, adds a vibrant touch to the venue. The scenic setting in the heart of Kuala Lumpur's bustling nightlife district further enhances the dining experience, providing a unique atmosphere that beautifully blends elegance and comfort.
One notable aspect of Frangipani is its owner-operated model, led by Eddie and chef partner Chris Bauer, which ensures a personal touch and high-quality service.
The restaurant has established a loyal following over its seven years of operation, receiving rave reviews for its exceptional attention to detail, including special care for children.
This commitment to service and quality has solidified Frangipani's reputation as one of the finest dining spots in Kuala Lumpur, making it a must-visit for those looking to indulge in modern French cuisine.
- Address: 25 Changkat Bukit Bintang, 50200 Kuala Lumpur
- Hours: Tuesday to Sunday: Bar open from 6 PM, dinner from 7:30 PM, bar open until 1 AM. Closed on Mondays.
- Phone: +60 3 2144 3001
Johnny's Steamboat
Johnny's Steamboat
Johnny's Steamboat is a delightful restaurant specializing in authentic Thai cuisine, with a particular focus on steamboat dishes. The menu features a variety of options including Steamboat Sets, Family Sets, Rice, Noodles, Ala Carte, Beverages, and Desserts. Some popular items on the menu include the Seafood Set 2, Ball Set 1 and 2, Chicken Tom Yum, BBQ Chicken with Noodle, and Pad Kra Paw, all made with fresh ingredients and no preservatives.
Diners can enjoy the unique experience of cooking their meals in individual steamboat pots, allowing them to indulge in the vibrant flavors of Thai cuisine right at their table.
With multiple locations in Kuala Lumpur, Johnny's Steamboat offers inviting environments for guests to enjoy their meals. The restaurants are designed to create an interactive dining experience, where customers can immerse themselves in the process of cooking their food in a visually engaging setting.
Each location boasts a welcoming ambiance, enhanced by the sight of bubbling pots filled with fresh seafood and meat options like crispy squid, oyster meat, hotate scallop, and tiger prawn, all waiting to be cooked to perfection.
Johnny's Steamboat is particularly notable for its commitment to serving fresh and tasty Thai food without preservatives, making it a go-to destination for health-conscious diners. The restaurant's unique offering of a Special Thai Dip Sauce and the choice between chicken or tom yum soup adds to the allure of the dining experience.
This interactive approach not only allows diners to customize their meals but also enhances the overall enjoyment of Thai cuisine, making it a memorable outing for friends and family alike.
- Address: LG-58-1 & 2, Lower Ground Floor, Jalan Imbi, Kuala Lumpur.
- Hours: 10am – 9pm.
- Phone: 012-564 6038.
- Address: Lot G33, Aeon Cheras Selatan, Balakong, Selangor.
- Hours: 10am – 10pm.
- Phone: 011-7008 5646.
- Address: Lot 3-17, Third Floor, Jalan Cheras, Kuala Lumpur.
- Hours: 10am – 10pm.
- Phone: 011-7004 5646.
- Address: Lot L3-26, Jalan Bandar Melawati, Pusat Bandar Melawati, Kuala Lumpur.
- Hours: 10am – 10pm.
- Phone: 012-5646 032.
- Address: Lot F13, First Floor, Jalan Jejaka, Taman Maluri Cheras, Kuala Lumpur.
- Hours: 10am – 10pm.
- Phone: 011-7011 5646.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Best Vegetarian Options in Kuala Lumpur Restaurants?
If you're looking for the best vegetarian options in Kuala Lumpur, you've got some fantastic choices.
Try Simple Life for delicious Thai and Chinese fusion, or head to Nature's Vegetarian for unique dim sums.
Don't miss The Ganga Cafe's all-you-can-eat Indian buffet on Sundays.
For vegan delights, Kusa serves high-quality Japanese dishes, while Hijau offers a fun, relaxed atmosphere.
Each spot guarantees tasty meals that'll leave you satisfied!
Are There Any Kid-Friendly Dining Spots in the City?
If you're looking for kid-friendly dining spots, you've got some great options.
Lai Foong Lala Noodles serves delicious clam noodle soup that kids usually love.
At Restoran Wong Mei Kee, you can find tasty roast pork in smaller portions for little ones.
The House & Co offers a variety of Malaysian dishes, including Nasi Lemak, while Dolly Dim Sum features kid-friendly dumplings.
Grand Imperial also has a wide range of dishes that appeal to children.
What Is the Average Price Range for Dining at These Restaurants?
When you consider dining options, the average price range varies widely.
For fine dining, expect to spend between MYR 150 to MYR 500 per person.
Casual spots usually cost around MYR 10 to MYR 70 per dish.
If you opt for street food, you'll find prices as low as MYR 5 to MYR 20.
Specialized and ethnic restaurants typically range from MYR 10 to MYR 50 per person, depending on the cuisine you choose.
Do Any of These Restaurants Offer Gluten-Free Menu Items?
You'll find that most of the restaurants mentioned don't specify gluten-free options on their menus.
While some casual spots like ALTA Café might've a few choices, it's not guaranteed.
Fine dining establishments like Cilantro and Li Yen also lack clear gluten-free offerings.
If you're looking for gluten-free meals, it's best to contact the restaurants directly to inquire about their options or modifications that can accommodate your dietary needs.
Are Reservations Recommended for Popular Restaurants in Kuala Lumpur?
Yes, reservations are definitely recommended for popular restaurants in Kuala Lumpur.
By booking in advance, you'll secure your spot and avoid disappointment, especially during peak hours or weekends. Many top places experience high demand, so it's wise to plan ahead.
If you're dining with a larger group or celebrating a special occasion, reservations become even more crucial.
Take advantage of online booking systems to make the process easier and ensure a smooth dining experience.
Giovanni is our Chief Tasting Evangelist and the charismatic face of Mad Tasting. He inspires a sense of culinary wonder in all who encounter our brand. With boundless enthusiasm for the art of tasting and a gift for captivating audiences, Giovanni leads our immersive tasting experiences and workshops. He empowers food enthusiasts to discover the true depth and complexity of the flavors we celebrate. Whether he’s guiding a private group through a blind tasting or hosting a masterclass on the art of pairing, Giovanni’s infectious passion for the culinary world is the driving force behind our mission to share the extraordinary.
