Enjoy the Rich Flavors of Malaysia [12 Best Asian Restaurants You Must Try!]
One evening, I ventured out with the simple goal of finding a cozy spot for dinner—nothing elaborate, just a quiet meal to end the day. But what started as a casual search turned into a delicious adventure.
Let me tell you, Malaysia is an absolute paradise for Asian cuisine lovers. Whether you’re after authentic street food, traditional Malaysian fare, or indulgent fusion dishes, the hardest part isn’t finding great food—it’s narrowing down where to begin.
So, here I am, ready to be your guide through Malaysia’s vibrant food scene—from savory noodles to spicy curries, these Asian restaurants are guaranteed to excite your taste buds. Here are the must-try spots you can’t afford to miss!
Din Tai Fung at Pavilion KL
— Media credit: dintaifungmy
Address: Lot 6 .01.05, Pavilion Kuala Lumpur, 168, Jln Bukit Bintang
Contact details: +60321488292
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 11 AM to 9:30 PM
- Saturday to Sunday – 1030 AM to 9:30 PM
Cost: $$$$
Din Tai Fung at Pavilion KL is a fantastic stop for anyone craving expertly crafted dim sum and Taiwanese delicacies. Known for its consistently delicious offerings, this spot serves up everything from delicate dumplings to flavorful wontons.
The pork xiao long bao is a crowd-pleaser, with a perfect balance of juicy filling and delicate skin, but don’t overlook their spicy shrimp wontons—they offer a punchy, satisfying heat without overwhelming your palate.
Din Tai Fung has a vibrant interior, offering a bright and welcoming dining atmosphere that enhances the overall experience. Whether you’re visiting for lunch or dinner, the setting adds to the enjoyment, and the service is always prompt and friendly.
Pro tip: Head there right at opening time or just before lunch to avoid the inevitable rush. And for a sweet finish, don’t miss out on their unique chocolate xiao long bao!
FOOK
— Media credit: loofutureplanning
Address: 19, Jln Sultan Ismail, Bukit Bintang, 50250 Kuala Lumpur
Contact details: +60321483700
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Friday – 12 to 2:30 PM | 6 to 11 PM
- Saturday to Sunday – 5 to 11 PM
Cost: $$$
FOOK is a culinary experience that blends art and flavor in a stunning setting. Offering a modern twist on Asian fusion, the restaurant is a must-visit for those who appreciate creative dishes that deliver both in taste and presentation.
Their menu is a balance of traditional Asian flavors with a contemporary flair, making each plate a delightful surprise. The starters—especially the platter and the mini burgers—are great for sharing, making them ideal for those who enjoy multiple dishes.
While the food is undoubtedly the star, don’t miss out on their cocktails, which are crafted to match the sophistication of the space. Just be aware that cocktails may slightly vary in taste between rounds, so feel free to try different options.
Pro tip: For an unforgettable evening, book a table in the ‘glass balcony’ for a private, upscale dining experience with a great view!
Knowhere Bangsar
— Media credit: knowherebangsar
Address: 50, Jalan Maarof, Bangsar, 59100 Wilayah Perseketuan
Contact details: +60102202358
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 4 PM to 1 AM
- Friday to Sunday – 12 PM to 1 AM
Cost: $$
Knowhere Bangsar is the kind of place where flavors and atmosphere come together to create a memorable dining experience. Whether you’re out with friends, family, or enjoying a relaxed evening, the eclectic menu has something to delight everyone.
Start off with fusion tapas like the ulam pesto pasta or the rich onion soup paired with soft, addictive pita bread—perfect for sharing or as a satisfying starter. For something more substantial, their mutton pizza and mutton biryani are absolute standouts.
The pizza brings a creative twist to familiar flavors, while the biryani is packed with savory depth, both served in generous portions. It’s easy to see why this place has loyal regulars!
Pro tip: Visit on a Sunday evening for a relaxed vibe, great music, and fewer crowds. And don’t miss out on pairing your meal with their refreshing lemonade for a perfect balance!
Little Yum Yum
— Media credit: littleyumyum.kotadamansara
Address: F-50-G, Jalan Teknologi 3/9, Kota Damansara, 47810 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Contact details: +60162008964
Operating hours: Monday to Tuesday, Thursday to Sunday – 11:30 AM to 3 PM | 5 to 9:30 PM
Cost: $$
Little Yum Yum is a fantastic spot for those craving authentic Nyonya cuisine with a modern twist. Their menu offers a delightful variety of traditional dishes, but the standout has to be the Nyonya fish—perfectly cooked, with a rich blend of spices.
Don’t forget to pair it with their refreshing chia seed lemongrass drink for a meal that’s both flavorful and satisfying. The fragrant gula melaka, combined with fresh ingredients, delivers a perfect balance of sweetness that will leave you craving more.
Whether you’re dropping by for a quick bite or a leisurely dinner, the atmosphere is warm and welcoming, with attentive staff and speedy service. For those looking to try something new, the creamy basil chicken is an interesting fusion dish worth sampling.
Pro tip: Order the Nyonya fish and Cendol together—the richness of the fish pairs wonderfully with the light sweetness of the dessert for a well-rounded meal!
KO Restaurant & Bar
— Media credit: ko.restaurant
Address: 10a, Jalan Datuk Sulaiman, Taman Tun Dr Ismail, 60000 Kuala Lumpur
Contact details: +60142120829
Operating hours:
- Monday, Wednesday – 12 to 10 PM
- Thursday, Sunday – 12 to 11:30 PM
- Friday – 12 PM to 12 AM
- Saturday – 12 PM to 1 AM
Cost: $$
KO Restaurant & Bar offers a delightful mix of Taiwanese-inspired dishes and a relaxed, aesthetic vibe that makes it perfect for a casual evening out. The decor is charming and thoughtfully designed, creating a cozy yet stylish atmosphere.
On the menu, their Taiwanese fried chicken stands out—crispy, flavorful, and perfectly seasoned. It’s a dish you’ll want to savor, especially paired with their yummy cocktails.
For noodle lovers, the beef soup noodles have a satisfying bite and a subtle herbal broth that’s both comforting and hearty. The scallion pancakes are also worth a try, especially when dipped in their black bean chili paste.
Pro tip: Don’t skip the cocktails! Their unique creations are a perfect complement to the meal, and try to visit during the quieter early evening hours for a more laid-back dining experience.
Penang Lang Cuisines
— Media credit: penanglangcuisines
Address: 61, Jalan PJU 5/21 The Strand, Sunway Damansara, 47810 Petaling Jaya
Contact details: +60126959379
Operating hours: Tuesday to Sunday – 8 AM to 3 PM
Cost: $$
Penang Lang Cuisines delivers an authentic taste of Penang right in the heart of KL, with a menu packed full of classic favorites that are bound to satisfy any craving for bold, flavorful dishes.
Whether it’s the fragrant, rich broth of their Hokkien Mee or the indulgent flavors of their white curry mee, the attention to authenticity shines through in every bite. For those who love hearty soups, the kuey teow soup is a must-try.
And while the prawn paste chee cheong fun brings that iconic Penang flavor, the char kuey teow (CKT) is another standout—though timing is key, as it can get busy, and the wait for freshly fried CKT can stretch a bit.
Pro tip: To avoid the weekend lunch crowd, visit just after lunch hours for quicker service and freshly prepared dishes without the wait. Don’t forget to customize your order if you’re not a fan of items like pig skin or congealed pig blood!
Chuan Yue De Cuisine
— Media credit: chuanyuedecuisine
Address: A-GF-12 Sunway Nexis, Jalan PJU 5/1, Kota Damansara, 47810 Petaling Jaya
Contact details: +601152983232
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 11 AM to 10 PM
- Friday to Sunday – 11 AM to 12 AM
Cost: $$$
Chuan Yue De Cuisine is a go-to spot for anyone looking to dive into authentic Sichuan flavors with a wide array of dishes that cater to both spice lovers and those who prefer milder fare.
Their mapo tofu is a standout dish, offering the perfect balance of numbing Sichuan spices and a rich, savory flavor that isn’t overpowering. The extensive menu is filled with flavorful options, each dish offering its own unique profile.
What’s impressive here is the speed and attentiveness of the service, making it an ideal choice for larger groups. Private rooms are available, which is great for a more intimate dining experience.
Pro tip: When dining with a group, opt for the private rooms, but request one without karaoke for a quieter experience. And don’t be afraid to experiment with their wide menu—you’ll likely discover a new favorite!
Lai Po Heen
— Media credit: mo_kualalumpur
Address: Kuala Lumpur City Centre, 50088 Kuala Lumpur
Contact details: +60323808888
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 12 to 2:30 PM | 6 to 10:30 PM
- Saturday to Sunday – 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM | 6 to 10:30 PM
Cost: $$$
Lai Po Heen at the Mandarin Oriental is a masterclass in refined Chinese halal dining, offering a menu that dazzles both in flavor and presentation. While the prices reflect the premium ingredients like abalone or truffle, the overall quality justifies the splurge.
The dim sum selection is particularly impressive, with items like the delicate “Black Swan” dim sum and colorful xiao long bao that are as beautiful to look at as they are delicious.
Don’t miss their signature durian pancake, a dessert that perfectly balances the strong, creamy durian flavor with a light, crispy texture. Another standout is the wok-fried radish cake, an expertly executed dish with a satisfying balance of texture and flavor.
Pro tip: If you’re dining with a larger group, book a table by the window for a stunning view of KL’s skyline. And for the best dim sum experience, visit during lunch hours when the dim sum offerings are freshest and most varied.
Shang Palace in Shangri-La Hotel
— Media credit: babyliciousmich
Address: 11, Jln Sultan Ismail, Kuala Lumpur
Contact details: +60327862378
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM | 6:30 to 10:30 PM
- Sunday – 10:30 AM to 2:30 PM | 6:30 to 10:30 PM
Cost: $$$
Shang Palace at the Shangri-La Hotel serves a refined dining experience, perfect for those who appreciate meticulously crafted Chinese cuisine in a luxurious setting. Though the restaurant is pork-free, the dim sum is nothing short of exceptional.
One standout dish is their Peking Duck, a favorite that lives up to its reputation, offering a rich, crispy, and flavorful experience. Another highlight is the Yee Mian, a must-try for first-timers—its delicate texture and rich flavor make it a dish you’ll want to savor.
For those looking to dine in privacy, the restaurant offers private dining rooms, although they are often in high demand. It’s worth asking to be placed on the waiting list if reservations are full, as the staff is very accommodating.
Pro tip: The dim sum menu shines during lunchtime, so book ahead to enjoy it at its best. And don’t leave without trying the Yee Mian—it’s a dish that will make you want to return for more!
YEN, W Kuala Lumpur
— Media credit: yen_wkualalumpur
Address: Level 11, W, 121, Jln Ampang, Kuala Lumpur
Contact details: +60123479088
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Friday – 12 to 2:30 PM | 6 to 10 PM
- Saturday to Sunday – 11 AM to 2:30 PM | 6 to 10 PM
Cost: $$$
YEN elevates the Cantonese dining experience, where every dish is as visually stunning as it is delicious. This fine-dining restaurant is perfect for those seeking not just a meal, but a true culinary experience.
The signature golden roast duck is a must-try. It’s not just the unique flavor that impresses, but the whole presentation, with the duck carved tableside in a visually dramatic fashion, often accompanied by the theatrical use of dry ice or smoke.
For seafood lovers, the Pulau Ketam salted egg prawn is another standout, with its creamy sauce. The vegetarian dishes here are worth noting—like the braised tofu with crab meat sauce and mixed vegetables with glass noodles.
Pro tip: For the best experience, opt for a private dining room, complete with its own washroom. It adds an extra layer of luxury and comfort, perfect for special occasions or intimate gatherings.
Samira by Asian Terrace
— Media credit: samirabyasianterrace
Address: 268 Jalan Strachan, Off, Jln Ipoh, Sentul West, 51100 Kuala Lumpur
Contact details: +60340423880
Operating hours: Monday to Friday –
Cost: $$$
Samira by Asian Terrace delivers a serene dining experience that feels like a retreat from the hustle of the city. When it comes to food, they provide well-executed Thai and Asian fusion dishes.
The flowing noodles are not only unique but also refreshing, making for an interesting starter. You should also order the clear tom yum that has the right balance of sour and spicy, while the pucuk paku (stir-fried fern) and basil chicken are packed with flavor.
Desserts here shine, with the Red Ruby ice cream being a delightful treat that rounds off the meal perfectly. So far, the overall quality and service here are highly commendable!
Pro tip: For a special occasion, book a table by the pond for the best views and a tranquil atmosphere.
Elegant Inn Hong Kong Cuisine
— Media credit: elegant.inn
Address: Kuala Lumpur, 50450 Kuala Lumpur
Contact details: +60320709399
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 12 to 2:30 PM | 6 to 10:30 PM
- Sunday – 10:30 AM to 2:30 PM | 6 to 10:30 PM
Cost: $$$
Elegant Inn Hong Kong Cuisine specializes in Cantonese delicacies and this cozy restaurant offers a selection of dim sum and traditional dishes that are consistently well-executed. The soft shell crab and signature fried rice stand out as must-try items.
Though the restaurant is small, it offers private rooms for more intimate gatherings, making it an excellent choice for both casual dining and special occasions. The attentive staff are quick to refresh your plates and make sure that your meal flows seamlessly.
Dim sum here is top-tier, but note that the pricing reflects the premium ingredients and craftsmanship. For those who enjoy personalized service and thoughtfully prepared Cantonese dishes, this restaurant is well worth a visit.
Pro tip: Make a reservation ahead of time, especially on weekends or for larger groups. And for a more diverse meal, try going with a bigger party to sample a wider variety of dim sum offerings!