Top Malaysian restaurants to impress your international friends
With an incredible array of dining options, from Malaysian classics to Western favourites like Italian and French, as well as Asian, Korean and Indian influences, it’s no wonder our food scene is as diverse as our culture.
Malaysia is a true food haven, celebrated for its mouthwatering fusion of traditional and global flavours.
With an incredible array of dining options, from Malaysian classics to Western favourites like Italian and French, as well as Asian, Korean and Indian influences, it’s no wonder our food scene is as diverse as our culture.
So, when your overseas friends visit Malaysia, you may find yourself wondering where to take them for the ultimate dining experience.
As a local, it’s our mission to introduce them to the very best of Malaysia’s homegrown, authentic heritage cuisine—places that’ll leave a lasting impression.
Here are some fantastic restaurants that are definitely worth considering!
1. RESTORAN REBUNG
Restoran Rebung is dedicated exclusively to traditional Malay cuisine.
Co-owned by renowned chef Ismail Ahmad, this restaurant offers an incredible buffet experience, priced between RM40 and RM60, allowing guests to embark on a delicious journey through a wide variety of authentic Malay dishes.
Located in the heart of Kuala Lumpur in Perdana Botanical Garden, Restoran Rebung serves up a feast of traditional delicacies.
Some of the must-try dishes include Daging Salai Masak Lemak (smoked beef cooked in coconut milk), Pari Asam Pedas (spicy tamarind stingray), Patin Tempoyak (fermented durian catfish), Dodol (sticky toffee-like dessert), Wajik (sweet glutinous rice), Serawa Durian (durian coconut milk dessert), Pisang Goreng (banana fritters), and many more traditional recipes.
Additionally, there’s another branch located in Lebuh Gemilang, Putrajaya, which operates from 9 am to 9.30 pm.
2. NASI KANDAR PELITA
Nasi Kandar Pelita is a popular chain that specialises in Nasi Kandar, a delicious dish consisting of rice served with a variety of curries and meats, including fried chicken, fish and mutton.
Located on Jalan Ampang in Kuala Lumpur, a visit to this restaurant also offers the perfect opportunity to take a short stroll to the iconic Petronas Twin Towers.
Other branches can be found in Jalan Telawi, Bangsar Baru, and Desa Sri Hartamas and many more locations.
Nasi Kandar is a quintessential Malaysian dish with deep historical, cultural and culinary roots, shaped by the diverse influences of Malaysia's multi-ethnic society.
In addition to Kuala Lumpur, Nasi Kandar Pelita also has a presence in Penang—ideal if you're planning a trip to Penang with your international friends.
Pelita is renowned for preserving the authentic taste of Nasi Kandar while catering to local preferences, making it a favourite choice not only for Malaysians but also for visitors.
The restaurant operates 24 hours a day, ensuring you can enjoy a satisfying meal at any time.
3. NASI LEMAK TANGLIN
Nasi Lemak Tanglin is one of the oldest nasi lemak stalls in the city centre, with a history dating back to the 1940s.
It specialises in Nasi Lemak, a beloved Malaysian staple, where the dish features fragrant coconut rice paired with sambal, anchovies, boiled eggs and other traditional accompaniments.
The stall has built a loyal following thanks to its traditional preparation and the nostalgic value it offers with every bite.
Among its store locations are Bukit Aman, Bukit Damansara, Taman Tun Dr Ismail, Jalan Tun Perak, Uptown Damansara, Kepong, and Batu Caves.
Nasi Lemak Tanglin is open daily from 7.30 am to 12.30 pm.
4. KELANTAN DELIGHTS
Kelantan Delights offers a time-honoured taste of the northeastern state's bold and flavorful dishes, bringing the essence of Kelantanese food to the heart of Kuala Lumpur.
Serving authentic Kelantanese cuisine, the restaurant captures the distinctive balance of sweet, savoury and spicy flavours that are the hallmark of Kelantanese food.
Among the popular dishes served at the restaurant are Nasi Kerabu (blue rice served with sides such as fresh herbs, sambal, and salted egg), Nasi Dagang (fragrant rice steamed with coconut milk, served with fish curry), Laksam (flat rice noodles with creamy fish-based gravy and herbs), traditional Malay desserts like Tahi Itik (egg yolk and coconut dessert), and many more.
The restaurant is open daily from 6 pm to 11 pm, while its other branch at Citta Mall, Selangor, operates from 12 pm to 10 pm daily.
These establishments preserve the essence of Malay culinary heritage, staying true to authenticity not just through their dishes, but also by reflecting Malay culture, hospitality, and tradition.
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