EAT DRINK KL: 100 FAVOURITES

100 Good Places For Food & Drinks

Jul-Sep 2014

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A Pie Thing
We're fans of A Pie Thing's savoury selection,
stuffed with chicken, lamb or chili con carne, with
hot, creamy toppings of mashed potatoes, mushy
peas & gravy. The kitchen relies on shortcrust
pastry, prudently shunning puff pastries. Sweet
pies with Nutella, lemon curd, Belgian chocolate or
roasted marshmallows are available too.
128, Jalan SS21/35, Damansara Utama
Tues-Sun, 4pm-11pm

Acme Bar & Coffee

This captivatingly constructed two-level venue,
inspired by restaurants in Vancouver & Seattle,
embraces patrons with comfort cuisine that spans
parmesan pot chicken pies to truffle-tinged aglio
olio angel hair pasta with pan-seared scallops.
G1, The Troika, Persiaran KLCC
03-2162-2288
Daily, all day long

Arata Udon
Fresh wheat-flour noodles reign supreme at Arata,
where ramen & soba are banished. The housemade udon is firm but not too chewy, coupled
with five-vegetable tempura & braised chashu.
Dip the noodles hot or cold in pork-filled sauce for
sheer slurp-worthy savouriness.
72, Jalan SS21/35, Damansara Utama
03-7732-4088. Lunch & dinner, except Mondays

Ante Kitchen & Bar

Pork enthusiasts, find your way back to Ante: The guys who brought us
their signature char-grilled pork steak, roast pork belly with caramel sauce
and the 'Real Bacon Carbonara' have upped the ante by launching new
dishes that further define Ante as a destination for epicures seeking
porcine perfection. la minute cooking is showcased with finesse for
tender cuts of premium pork shoulder, while the classic Steak Dian is
revived with a sherry wine reduction sauce. Other refinements across the
menu include varied cooking methods like braising, oven-baking & confit.
A full bar menu boasts boutique wines, cocktails and quality beverages.
What others say:
"If you love pork, you'll love this! We had a lot of dishes ... I would
heartily recommend this restaurant." - Foodie1978, via TripAdvisor
"Everything was amazing! Good service too!" - Sher Sah, via Foursquare
A2-G1-09, Solaris Dutamas, Kuala Lumpur
Open daily, 11:00 am - 1:00 am. Tel: 03-6206 3364

Ashley's by Living Food

Ashley's cuisine is tricky to categorise _ not exactly health food, but more
of fare that's constructed with meaningful, mindfully sourced ingredients
with true ties to farms, the land & the sea. It's nourishment to restore
both body & spirit, underscored by recipes like raw strawberry gazpacho
with cucumber, tomato, herbs & chia, topped with strawberry confit, or
wild-caught prawn ceviche in a zesty marinade with hot chili oil. The
restaurant's name is a nod to its chef; paper placemats proclaim the
prodigious powers of Ashley, while other members of the Yiin clan,
including health consultant patriarch Philip & his daughter Phoebe,
comprise the other crucial components of this family-run eatery's engine.
What others say:
"Ashley, the chef, has a wonderful imagination and her creations are a
delight to eat." - Mark F, via TripAdvisor
11, Jalan Telawi 3, Bangsar Baru
Mon-Fri, 11am-11pm; Sat-Sun, 8am-11:45pm
Tel: 03-2202-2778

Awesome Canteen
Outfitted with salvaged-wood tables & 20th-century
relics like rotary phones & typewriters, Awesome
Canteen specialises in delicious burgers, sandwiches
& pastas. Try the chicken burger with house-made
sambal & anchovies in a fluffy-light poppy-seed
bun. 'Paleo Diet' menus are offered too.
19, Jln 20/13, Paramount Garden, Petaling Jaya
03-7865-8048
Open 11am-10pm, except Mondays

BAD by Wood & Steel

The folks behind Kota Damansara's Wood & Steel
have helped to create a new cafe with a name that's
determined to raise eyebrows. Coffee conversations
come alive in a place where the walls pay homage to
Monroe, Brando & Dean, while strikingly beautiful
windows show Presley & Marley staring down the
upstart likes of Kutcher & Kunis.
Glomac Galleria, Galleria Hartamas,
Desa Sri Hartamas

Barn Thai
Barn Thai dishes out Thai tapas that the after-work
crowd will be chuffed to share, from basil chicken
wraps to corn fritters & cups of sweet-&-sour crunchy
vermicelli. Come for 'molecular cuisine' cocktails too,
comprising components like popcorn & peanuts.
Ground Floor, Plaza 33, Jalan Kemajuan,
Petaling Jaya
Daily, 5pm-1am. Tel: 03-7932-2233

SPICY SALADS,
SUMPTUOUS CURRIES
5, JLN SS 20/11, DAMANSARA KIM
PETALING JAYA
TEL: 03-7731-9256

OPEN DAILY
1130am-3pm, 630-1030pm

Bangoya

With a tantalising tagline that promises "Grilling Under The Stars," this
alfresco izakaya on an atmospheric rooftop evokes a sake-garden
setting. Kushiyaki skewer-grilled & Yakiniku barbecued meat represent
the terrific temptations of Bangoya, which translates into "night hut,"
run by the masterminds behind Kissaten. Snatch a seat at a recycled
pallet table & let the evening heat up with sticks of chicken liver,
bishop's nose, gizzard, wings, skin & meatballs, salted or teriyaki-style,
plus pork belly & prawns, all irreproachably prepared.
What others say:
"Love the rooftop dining experience. Great for hanging out with a few
good friends." - Reeve T, via Facebook
"Enjoy BBQ with beers. Do try their BBQ pork neck ... and also buttered
scallops with mushrooms ...Thumbs up!" - Kiki O, via Foursquare
L12A-1-1, Palm Square, Jaya One, Petaling Jaya
Daily 6pm-midnight. Tel: 03-7954-1990

This casual, charming bistro located in Medan Damansara is one of KLs hidden gems. Offering a menu of
bistro classics and dishes inspired by cuisines of Europe, Asia and Mediterranean countries. Its a relaxed
and cosy spot to enjoy a meal with friends over some wine. Youll even find theres valet parking available
for customers.
For lunch specials on Friday and Saturday - Mezze offers a variety of pocket-friendly set menus with hearty
sandwiches, burgers and its popular Vietnamese beef noodles. While the dinner menu includes
mouthwatering all-time favourite pastas of olio bacon, carbonara classic steaks and burgers. For dessert,
dont pass up their chocolate fondant, served with an artisan vanilla bean ice cream, while the sticky toffee
pudding and pavlova are also tempting offerings.
All food is complemented by the extensive wine list at Mezze, where the resident sommelier is on hand to
recommend the best pairings for your meal. For an evening drink, head up to the Mezze Lounge upstairs.
Relax at the bar with a range of cocktails, beer on tap and a selection of over 100 single malt whiskies.
Mezze is also the place to be for live music in KL, with Friday and Saturday nights seeing local and
international jazz, blues and world musicians playing in the lounge upstairs. Keep an eye out for some of
their other exciting activities, such as whiskies and wine tastings. Check their website (www.mezze.my) or
www.facebook.com/mezzebarbistro regularly to make sure you dont miss out.

Mezze Bistro, Wine Bar & Lounge

No, 132, Jalan Kasah, Medan Damansara, Kuala Lumpur (+603 2095 0122) Email: [email protected]
Opening hours for Bistro: 3pm-1am (Mon-Thurs) 12noon-1am (Fri-Sat)
Opening hours for Lounge: 4pm-1am (Mon-Sat) CLOSED ON SUNDAYS

Barbecue Garden

Perched on Life Centre's rooftop, this is a leafy outdoor oasis where

customers feast on grilled meat & seafood in the shadow of the Kuala
Lumpur Tower. Arrestingly atmospheric, the alfresco area is among the
city's most unique dining venues, ideal for chilling out on breezy nights.
It's a DIY barbecue with an a la carte menu that supplies a sweeping
selection at fair prices. The best bets include lemongrass-marinated wild
boar (RM14+) & five-spice venison (RM18+), both packing plenty of
flavour, as well as beef-wrapped sugarcane & Vietnamese-style braised
eggplant, the latter a nod to the roots of the Barbecue Garden
franchise, which has multiple branches in Ho Chi Minh City. What makes
Barbecue Garden extra-worthwhile is that its food is not only unique but
undeniably tasty, beautifully marinated with lovely nuances.
Level 3 Rooftop, Life Centre, Jalan Sultan Ismail, Kuala Lumpur
Daily, 11am-2pm, 5pm-midnight. Tel: 03-2181-8226

Bistro a Table
One of the Klang Valley's most thrilling chefs,
Isadora Chai calls her cooking adaptive
French cuisine," but that barely hints at the
breadth of the menu's imagination in this
stylishly comfy suburban restaurant. A fun
way to experience Bistro Table is through its
occasional degustation dinners, when a theme
like "Alice in Wonderland" springs mad-hatter
surprises like confit of chicken testicle with
duck tongue & sweetbread in Cognac veloute.
If the pavlova of Pakistani mango with bitter
lime rind & white chocolate is in season, try it.
6 Jalan 17/54 Petaling Jaya
03-7931-2831. Dinners, except Monday

Bistro Richard
Lakeside dining with French & European
flavours. Nighttime's the best time to
savour the serenity here; begin by nibbling
on escargot before moving to the star
attractions: Coq au vin, veal Milanese or
beef with truffle-tinged mashed potatoes &
ratatouille in a Cognac-laced morel sauce.
Bring the curtain down with chocolate
chantilly mousse or crepe suzette.
Cocktails play a pleasant supporting role
too, with a repertoire ranging from White
Russians to Dry Martinis.
268 Jalan Strachan, Off Jalan Ipoh
Beside KLPac. 03-4041-3277
Noon-11pm, Tuesday-Sunday

TRY THESE?
Moroccan whole
roast chicken,
French onion soup,
Durian mud pie
FUN FACT:
Huck is a
self-taught chef
who initially
honed his craft by
cooking for his
children
PRICE
POSSIBILITY:
Starts at RM88
nett per person for
a set meal

BEST FOR :
Friendly
gatherings

HUCK'S CAFE
22, Jalan Abdullah,
Off Jalan Bangsar
Booking instructions:
Facebook at Huck's Cafe
03- 2282 2126
Dinner, Tues-Sun

ENJOY THE BEST URBAN

EATERIES AT LIFE CENTRE

Whether you enjoy Local, Western,

Chinese, Japanese or Latin American
cuisine, Life Centre has it all.
Ah Yat Abalone Seafood
dr. Cafe Coffee
Kingyo Japanese Cuisine
La Boca Cafe
Serai @ Life Centre
Barbecue Garden
Check out the latest
happenings at KL Live Event
Hall and luxurious new cars
at Lexus Center.

Special car park rate for diners after 6pm. T&C apply.

For Life Centre Leasing & KL Live Event Enquiries, Call 03-2162 2570
20 Jalan Sultan Ismail, 50250 Kuala Lumpur
Tel: 03-2162 2570 www.lifecentre.com.my

/LifeCentreKL

Brasserie Enfin
Storming the Bastille of Oasis Ara
Damansara, Brasserie Enfin heralds a fullfledged French revolution in this
neighborhood, liberating patrons from the
tyranny of second-rate escargot. The
menu's extensive; some specialities might
require advance ordering (24-hour brineprepared whole duck, vinegar-sauteed
rabbit, herb-roasted Dorper lamb leg with
anchovies), or opt for red-wine-poached
duck egg & grilled Wagyu flat iron steak.
Lot R-07, 1st Floor, Central Piazza,
Oasis Square, Ara Damansara.
Tel: 03-7832-2969
Open for dinner, except Mondays

Buns
One of KL's most ambitious burger joints,
Buns is the brainchild of Aaron & Angela,
whose cross-border search for the
world's tastiest burgers has spurred them
to open a place that seeks to offer not
only luscious burgers but tempting tapas
too. The memorable chicken burger
comes with a slice of thigh fried in lemon
& thyme, topped with crunchy crackling
skin (the piece de resistance), arugula &
garlic-rosemary mayo.
148, Jalan 27/70A, Desa Sri Hartamas
Open Tues-Sun, 12pm-11pm

Charcoal
From beef, lamb & chicken to fish, prawns,
Sri Lankan crabs & scallops laid out on ice,
nearly everything at Charcoal is destined
for char-grilling; it's a premise that's
promising, particularly for customers who
cherish smoky tastes & textures. Start with
'sotong sumbat,' the classic squid stuffed
here with spiced minced chicken & served
with flavoursome sambal mangga, sambal
cili hijau & chilli garlic sauce.
Saujana Resort, Jalan Lapangan
Terbang SAAS, Shah Alam
Daily, all day long (last orders at 10pm)
Tel: 03-7843-1234

Chuup
This vividly colourful cafe celebrates a
well-curated selection of crowd-pleasing
local fare in a fun & friendly suburban
setting. Rice-lovers will likely be heartened
by Chuup's nicely executed nasi lemak
(RM14.90), tastily complemented with
pork rendang, as well as Hainanese
chicken rice with super-smooth fowl &
kitchen-made chili dip. Can't fault
"Grandma's pork chuup" either (RM18.90):
shallow fried, marinated loins with spinach
& potato carrot ragout.
40, Jalan SS22/25, Damansara Jaya
Open Wed-Mon, 1130am-10pm
Tel: 03-7733-6673

Crab Factory
The Big Easy has roared into PJ's SS2,
courtesy of Crab Factory, opened by a
merry band of Malaysians who once
swung through southern Louisiana on a
summertime road trip spiced up by Creole
& Cajun cooking & swore to bring home
their tastiest recollections of the bayou.
Gather here elbow-to-elbow for fun feasts
evocative of The Deep South's seafood
boils in a setting enlivened by a
soundtrack that's suitably heavy on
Louis Armstrong & Harry Connick Jr.
21, Jalan SS2/64, Petaling Jaya
11am-11pm, Fri-Sun, 3pm-11pm
other days. Closed Tuesdays

Crazy Fish
Crazy Fish's tanks are flooded with all
manner of creatures, brought in by friendly
couple Albert & Anne Kim, who cater to
Koreans in KL who miss the fish markets of
Seoul & Busan. The highlight might be
'sannakji,' a small octopus that's plucked
out live from the water before being swiftly
slain, sliced & served with sesame oil, with
the severed tentacles still squirming &
slithering on the plate, thanks to twitching
from residual nerve activity.
9-G, Jalan Solaris 3, Solaris Mont Kiara
Daily for lunch & dinner
Tel: 03-6211-7313

Daikanyama

It's not the most hype-hungry hotspot at Changkat Bukit Bintang. It's
not the most conspicuous outlet, certainly far from the loudest. But
now that this street has become a bar-infested shadow of its former
self, Daikanyama serves as a potent reminder of a time when
Changkat was KL's exuberant playground for foodies, when it housed
only restaurants that matter. And Daikanyama continues to dish out
hope that maybe someday, that's what Changkat can be once more.
Don't miss the quarterly experimental menus that meld Japanese
flavours with Hawaiian, Mexican, Swedish or even Nepalese recipes.
What others say:
"Menu is really interesting with delicious mixes of ingredients. Staff was
very friendly and customer focused." - Christeene818, via TripAdvisor
"Nothing I ordered disappointed me. Just be adventurous and go
ahead and order anything." - Alvin W, via Foursquare
42, Changkat Bukit Bintang. Daily, 6pm through late

Ecole P
This cafe shoots straight to the top of the class
with a back-to-school vibe that's colourfully
charming & whimsically evocative. Top marks
must be handed to the food; try the fried rice
with salted egg yolk crumble, green peas &
deliciously juicy chicken chop.
First Floor, 19, Jalan SS21/37,
Damansara Utama. Tel: 03-7732-9711.
Open 11am-10pm, except Thursdays

Encore Patisserie
Encore taps the recipes of Australian-based pastry
chef Barry Symington to blast out sweet treats
like the St Honore dessert of puff pastry with
chiboust cream, as well as slices of lusciouslooking mille-feuille, almond meringue tortes,
vanilla eclairs & rum-tinged mud cakes.
1, Jalan Bukit Desa 5, Taman Desa
Open 10am-10pm daily

Exhibit Cafe
Exhibit's food represents what the cafe's owners
want to eat: Wholesome fare that tastes as fresh
& natural as imaginable, noticeably low in sugar
& salt, exemplified by tuna sandwiches in
baguettes that are par-baked in France before
being finished off at Exhibit.
86A, Jalan Burhanuddin Helmi
Taman Tun Dr Ismail
Open 11am-8pm, except Wednesdays

Fatboy's The Burger Bar

A fun way to enliven burger-eating,
Fatboy's enables customers to build their
own burgers; contemplate the cafe's list of
buns, patties, toppings & sauces to
combine them in whatever fashion your
heart desires (lamb with curry remoulade
& mango chutney in a honey-oat bun?).
Or take the easy route & order the
signature Fat Basterd, with two juicy
patties gratuitously turbocharged with
pork bacon, cheddar cheese & fried egg.
Klang Valley branches in Publika,
Avenue K & One City USJ Subang
Tel: 03-6206-1352 (Publika)

Fiercer
Fierce's brilliantly chosen name was the
hook that stirred initial curiosity in its
original Bangsar venue, but the knockout
rice recipes were what turned so many
into biryani addicts, returning month after
month for more of the beastly-good menu.
Fierce's spin-off, Fiercer, opened more
recently at Solaris Dutamas, bolstering the
brand's reputation for sterling service &
heaps of business savvy with a sleeker
setting & attractive wine options.
D1-G3-5, Solaris Dutamas
Daily, 11am-11pm
(1am Friday & Saturday)

FIQ's Gastronomy
Food, Innovation, Quality: FIQ's
Gastronomy lives up to its acronym, with
a bustling open kitchen that serves betterthan-average cafe fare while still
preserving suburb-suitable prices.
Highlights include spinach risotto with
carrot puree, crispy brined chicken & fried
onions (RM22+), roasted potato gnocchi
with mushrooms, herb-tinged walnuts &
caper-raisin emulsion (RM18) & tagliatelle
with duck confit, basil-laced melted butter
& veggies (RM24+).
34 Jalan SS19/1D, Subang Jaya
Tues-Sun, 12pm-1030pm.
Tel: 03-5613-0473

Frisky Goat
Radiating plenty of positive vibes, this
bakery-cafe serves excellent baked eggs,
Belgian waffles & French toast for brunch,
with a European-focused dinner menu
that ranges from Mediterranean seafood
soup to Salad Lyonnaise, plus an
extraordinarily soft, sumptuous espresso
creme brulee.
72, Jalan Burhanuddin Helmi,
Taman Tun Dr Ismail
Open 8am-1030pm, closed Mondays
Tel: 017-881 0251

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For Goodness Cakes

Powered by mothers who've banded together to birth
their own cafe, For Goodness Cakes is a tasty
testament to how _ when it comes to whipping up
nourishing food & serving with heaps of heart _
moms know best. From roast chicken to beautifully
baked bread & cakes, this is a labour of love.
36, Jalan 27/70A, Desa Sri Hartamas
Mon-Fri, 8am-630pm; Sat, 11am-4pm
Tel: 03-6211-6782

Fuego
Some of KL's most cunningly creative tapas &
cocktails take centrestage on the upper reaches of
Troika Sky Dining, with no fewer than five types of
guacamole prepared fresh to order & other treats
like smoked quail eggs on crispy nests of seaweed
strips & veggies.
Level 23A, The Troika, Jalan Binjai
Tel: 03-2162-0886

GO Noodle House
Bottles of Chinese cooking wine line the entrance
of GO Noodle House; no mere ornaments, these
three-year-aged & five-year-aged bottles come in
handy for customers to splash a spoonful of wine
into their broths of Yunnan-style mixian rice
noodles with fish belly, pork & prawns.
61-P1, The School, Jaya One
Tel: 03-7499-1126

Ganga Cafe
Fans of fulfilling weekend feasts flock to
Ganga for its Sunday buffet brunch that
celebrates interesting vegetarian Gujarati
fare. At only RM16 per adult & teenager,
gobble up 'hara bhara kabab' (crispy
patties of spinach & potatoes),
'khandvi' (scrolls made with gram flour &
yoghurt), 'dudhi chana' (mild squash curry
with chickpeas) & freshly prepared, crispycolourful salads, served with pride by
owners Meeta & Prabodh Sheth.
19 Lorong Kurau, Bangsar
Tel: 03-2284-2119
Open 830am-930pm, except Mondays
Buffet brunch on Sundays only

Gyukingu
Gyukingu claims it's the best yakiniku
restaurant in town. That could be true;
don't be cowed by the thought of
braving traffic to Kota Damansara, not
when what's waiting at the finish line is
a fine feast of brilliant beef. Gyukingu's
piece de resistance would be Miyazaki &
Saga beef, seasonally available, not for
the fat-fearing. The Miyazaki's extremely
rich; two small slices, grilled lightly &
lovingly, feel sufficient.
28-2, Jalan PJU 5/17
Kota Damansara
Tel: 03-6143-7750

Hanare

In a city of limitless Japanese eateries, Hanare ranks among KL's Top

10, possessing the potential to beguile even sashimi-satiated patrons.
Luscious cuts of seafood are picked by Hanare's affiliates at
Tokyo's Tsukiji fish market & flown to this sleek restaurant to be tackled
by Japanese chefs with decades of experience. It's a bounty of
sparkling-fresh seasonal delicacies that can span fleshy fugu to creamy
cod milt. Hanare's weekend buffet brunches also attract legions of fans.
What others say:
"Visited on 8th March 2014 for hubby's birthday. Booked one week in
advance, and waited with very high expectations. I was not
disappointed at all. ." - Diane729, via TripAdvisor
"One of the best Japanese restaurants I know. A little pricy, but the
quality of the food is up to par.." - Omnomnomnivore, via TripAdvisor
Ground Floor, The Intermark, Jalan Tun Razak.
Daily, lunch & dinner. Tel: 03-2164-2133

Haru
Specialising in omakase-style dining that showcases
imagination & craftsmanship, Haru serves courses
that include grilled prawn with salmon belly & flying
fish roe, prepared by a head chef who honed his
skills in Tokyo, Osaka & Hokkaido.
124A, Jalan Kasah, Medan Damansara
Tel: 03-2011-8783
Lunch & dinner, Tuesday-Sunday

Hotshots Coffee & Tea

One of Solaris Dutamas' hot spots, Hotshots is a
strong bet for Belgian waffles with pitted cherries,
coffee made from freshly roasted beans & some of
the richest hot chocolate in town. The cafe also
sells coffee machines, grinders & roasters.
A2-UG1-07, Solaris Dutamas, Kuala Lumpur
Tel: 1300-888-138 or 03-6207-9908
Mon - Fri: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm

Huck's Cafe
One of the Klang Valley's private-kitchen pioneers,
Huck Seng serves guests in a spacious, gorgeously
furnished bungalow with heartfelt hospitality & hearty
cooking that flows with creative, personal touches
inspired by his travels & experiences; try the
Moroccan whole roast chicken, French onion soup or
Durian mud pie. Fun fact: Huck's taught himself
cooking by preparing food for his children.
22, Jalan Abdullah, Off Jalan Bangsar
Dinner, Tues-Sun. Bookings at 012-604-8719

Ippudo Ramen

Nearly three decades after Ippudo's first stronghold unfurled in

Fukuoka, followed by an outpouring of outposts worldwide, the fabled
ramen chain sailed into KL, buoyed by mighty winds of anticipation,
with three types of tonkotsu pork bone broths to choose from: classic
Hakata-style white 'shiro,' the 'karaka' spicy interpretation, plus redhued 'aka' augmented with miso paste, garlic oil & sumptuous pork
belly that comes perilously close to melting on the chopsticks. Try the
prawns with chili mayo dip, steamed pork cha-shu bun & hot stone pot
tofu with pork too.
What others say:
"This is a regular lunch event for me. The broth is spectacular & the
noodles and blend of other ingredients are perfect." - Klinsy, via
TripAdvisor
"My most favorite ramen in malaysia!" - Ses R, via Foursquare
Branches: Pavilion, The Gardens Mall & Bangsar Shopping Centre

Jac's On The 8th

It's easy to spend a happy afternoon here,
kicking back with your buddies & enjoying
tasty, wholesome fare that ranges from
egg-&-eggplant sandwiches, spaghetti
with Chilean blue mussels & free-range
chicken tenderly stewed with pumpkin &
carrots to rum-&-raisin cheesecakes &
stacks of cranberry-walnut pancakes
showered with honey. Jac's regards coffee
seriously, so order a cup, pour-over,
siphon, French press or ice drip.
G-G-8, Jalan PJU 1A/20A,
Dataran Ara Damansara.
Tues-Fri, 8am-6pm, Sat-Sun,
8am-430pm. Tel: 03-7734-3638

Jam & Kaya Cafe

Jam & Kaya represents the friendship of
Janice & Karen, who studied in Melbourne
& left with the dream of running the kind
of cafe they cherished there. Janice's
subsequent stint learning the art of pastrymaking at Le Cordon Bleu Paris supplied
the culinary foundation for the two to open
Jam & Kaya. Brunches are a treat; the
Eggs Royale feature irresistible poached
eggs resting atop thick slices of smoked
salmon & crisp leaves in a croissant.
PJ Palms Sports Centre. By the pool.
Tues-Sun, 10am-10pm

Jump Cafe
The Singaporean invasion advances:
Sarnies, a sandwich-&-coffee specialist in
the southern city-state, has pounced into
the Klang Valley, opening Jump Cafe at
Jump Street Asia (Malaysia's first indoor
trampoline park). Meticulously selected
single-origin beans are roasted at Sarnies'
Singaporean site & sent over to PJ.
Sandwiches include a combo of Cajunspiced roast chicken, cheddar, mozzarella
& guacamole.
Jump Street Asia, Jalan 13/6,
Section 13, Petaling Jaya
All day long, everyday
At least between 10am-9pm

Kesom
Traditional kampung flavours are in vogue
at Kesom, a stylish cafe that showcases
rice-heavy recipes beloved in Kelantan &
Terengganu. Kesom's Nasi Kerabu meets
the mark, tastily built with blue-tinged
basmati rice, partnered with the
prerequisite pickles, ulam, fish crackers,
salted duck egg & sambal belacan.
Specials are sometimes available; think
laksa kelantan, khao jam & sambal paru.
46 Jalan PJU 1/45, Aman Suria
Damansara, Petaling Jaya
Open Monday-Saturday, 10am-8pm
Tel: 03-7880-7022

Kompassion

Thai temptations take on tantalisingly triumphant twists at KomPassion,

which showcases the swoon-worthy skills of longtime chef Nikom "Kom"
Uatthong. The restaurant's setting & service sparkle with both soul &
sheen, easing customers effortlessly into the uncertainties of a unique
menu that juggles influences from as far as Japan, South Korea & Italy,
all while remaining true to fundamental Thai flavours. Start with chilled
octopus sliced with herbs, chili & lime & move on to crispy pork green
curry, otak-otak lasagna or linguine, Pad Thai-style.
What others say:
"I love love love this place. Best Thai food ever, very different! The chef
& staff are great." - Chris C, via Facebook
"Excellent food preparation. done with style and passion. Environment
also very cool." - Eddie C, via Facebook
5, Jalan SS20/11, Petaling Jaya
Daily, lunch & dinner. Tel: 03-7731 9256

Kinme
Order the chef's specials at this sparkling Japanese
restaurant to try an ever-evolving selection of
showstoppers, such as tuna belly anointed with
fermented mushroom puree or a king's ransom of
scallops crowned with sea urchin.
67, Jalan Medan Setia 1, Damansara Heights
Lunch & dinner, Tuesday-Sunday
Tel: 03-2093-8153

Killer Gourmet Burgers

KGB lives up to its murderously wicked name,
serving delicious burgers handcrafted from ground
steak & fresh-baked buns tattooed with the cafe's
initials. Try the Bobcat burger with grilled grass-fed
beef, roasted green chili, Provolone cheese &
jalapeno mayo.
23, Jalan Telawi 2, Bangsar Baru
Mon, Wed, Thurs: Dinner
Fri-Sun: Lunch & dinner

La Mexicana
Mexican-Italian chef Carmela's passion & prowess for
the cooking she was raised on radiates through this
colorful restaurant. La Mexicana takes patrons on a
gastronomic journey, from starters of imported cactus
leaves with guajillo chili & chilled beetroot soup with
crispy fried tortilla chips to a sweet finish of a nuttyfruity chocolate cake with a hint of dried chili passilla.
Terrace at Hock Choon, Off Jalan Ampang
Tel: 03-4253 5251

La Vie En Rose

A bungalow on a hill slope, transformed into KL's most immensely

charming French restaurant, where strains of Edith Piaf's signature song
waft across the romantic setting in the evening. Dine at the alfresco
terrace or in the candelabra-lit dining hall; owner Jean-Michel Fraisse
promises meals of 'honest French food' inspired by time-honoured
recipes. Pt en crote, traditional onion soup, foie gras crme brle,
coq au vin, bouillabaisse & steak with Bordelaise sauce are all offered.
What others say:
"We are expats living in KL, and came here for dinner with our family
for a special occasion. It is defiantly a hidden gem and we felt like we
weren't even in KL!" - Natalie A, via TripAdvisor
"I've been a few times now and each time it is fantastic. If you want a
French experience visit here. Sit outside and take on the surroundings
and view." - PeterS6, via TripAdvisor
39, Jalan Raja Chulan, Kuala Lumpur. Tel: 03-2078-3883
Lunch & dinner, Tuesday-Saturday. Brunch, Sundays

Laguna Mabuhay
The Philippine clientele, especially strong
on Sunday afternoons, indicates which
cuisine is offered here. Laguna Mabuhay
strives for absolute authenticity; its menu
lists dishes in Tagalog without English
translations. Bring a Filipino friend to help
explain that "morcon" means pork rolls
stuffed with hard-boiled eggs & carrots.
Order "Sisig" _ pork ears & jowl, cooked
with calamansi & flooded with egg _ &
"Kinilaw" _ a ceviche-like mix of fish,
salted egg & pork _ or "Kare-kare" _
stewed beef & veggies in peanut sauce.
3, Jalan Gereja, Kuala Lumpur
Daily, 11:30am-9:30pm

Le Rozell
A creperie run by a true-blue
Frenchwoman in Kota Kemuning? Maryam
lived in Brittany, the region most linked to
crepes, for part of her life, so she knows
these traditional thin pancakes well. The
restaurant's name signals what it serves:
'Rozell' is a batter ladle for preparing
crepes. Savoury ones are made here with
buckwheat flour imported from France.
Crisp but fluffy, fully loaded with warm,
creamy stuffing, such as shredded duck
confit, pan-seared mushrooms & honey.
35-1, 8 Jalan Anggerik Vanilla BE, 31/
BE Kota Kemuning, Shah Alam
Wednesday-Monday, lunch & dinner

LOKL Coffee Co
A spirit-soothing retreat, LOKL brims with
character & charm. Sip on coffee done
"the local way," hand-filtered & coupled
with condensed milk, served by a team of
people who seem to genuinely love what
they do. Perk up the afternoon with a mix
of Mandarin oranges, lettuce & honeycoated almond slices, or munch on
meatloaf _ fluffy bread fried to a golden
crunch with chicken, chestnuts & prawns.
30 Jalan Tun HS Lee, Kuala Lumpur
Tel: 03-2072-1188
Open Mon-Sat, 730am-5pm

Makishima
An oasis with a zen garden-inspired
setting, concealed on Sheraton Imperial's
second floor (note however, Makishima is
a stand-alone venue that operates
independently of its host hotel). Avocado
admirers will adore the 'avocado sashimi;'
the fruit is bountifully served, both sliced
& mashed, for double the delight.
Sweetly fleshy tarabi kani (Hokkaido king
crab legs) is enjoyable but expensive.
2F Sheraton Imperial Hotel,
Jalan Sultan Ismail
Lunch & dinner, Monday-Friday
Dinner only, Saturday
Tel: 03-2602-3288

ACROSS
Across the Road concentrates on quality, tasty food made with fresh
ingredients and a lot of passion. Our food is based on traditional British pub
grub but with the extra flair of elegance and flavour.
We offer a formal dining area with a pleasant ambience for all occasions.
Accompanied by a well-lit bar to sit and catch up with friends and colleagues
or choose our outside decking area for some al-fresco light bites and drinks.
Were not just a bar..were the alternative! #iloveatr

Across the Road, Jln Bangsar Utama 1

Tel: 03 22013453
www.across-the-road.com
SPONSORED BY [YOUR ORGANIZATION]
AT [LOCATION]
[ADDRESS] | [CITY, ST]

Makan Kitchen

The flagship restaurant of DoubleTree by Hilton hums with the bustle of

open kitchens that showcase the rich diversity of Malaysia's gastronomic
traditions; enjoy everything from the most beloved Malay, Chinese &
Indian recipes to the mouthwatering flavours of Kristang, Peranakan &
Iban cooking in a comfortable, colourfully intriguing setting that even
includes Sarawakian longhouse seating. There's everything from sup
kambing mamak, Hainanese chicken rice & beef satay to tandoori
chicken, oven-roasted duck & aloo gobi.
What others say:
"The food was the most stunning cross-section of cultures & cuisine.
The staff were a treat to experience." - Robnhuzy, via TripAdvisor
"Six of us went for dinner and none of us came away disappointed.
There was really good variety for both mains and sweets, as well as
great atmosphere." - Tomandben, via TripAdvisor
DoubleTree by Hilton, The Intermark,
Jalan Tun Razak, Kuala Lumpur

DTKL MakanKitchen EatDrink KL AD 2014.indd 1

12/31/13 1:39 PM

Maruhi Sakaba
Part of Sanuki Udon creator Seiji
Fujimoto's empire in Taman Desa, Maruhi
Sakaba _ loosely translated as
"secret drinking place" _ specialises in
"kushi" skewers of pork belly, shoulder &
tongue to chicken skin, gizzard & liver.
For the adventurous, there's pork liver
sashimi, plus pork intestine carpaccio with
raw egg yolk. Comfort food comes in the
form of rice with fresh kampung egg & a
nourishing bowl of pork intestine stew.
6A, Faber Plaza Jalan Desa Jaya
Taman Desa
Open 6pm-1030pm, except Mondays

Mediteca

This Mediterranean wine & tapas bar captures the heady flavors of
southern Europe & transports them into KL's city centre; one of our
best bets for eating well, with light, rustic lunches of smoked cod liver
& warm veal tongue for the adventurous or a delicious dinner of crispy
piglet & whole-baked grouper for the hungry. Finish with some churros
& sip on a thoughtfully selected range of wines. Watch for monthly
promotions & set lunches that delve deep into national cuisines like
Croatia's strukli with polenta or Tunisia's tajine of lamb, plums &
almonds. Saturday buffet brunches are a highlight here too.
What others say:
"A fantastic dining experience! Great food, wine, decor, music and
service with a smile." - GangWan1978, via TripAdvisor
"Best wine and food pairing in KL" - Giana Z, via Foursquare
Fraser Place, Jalan Perak, Kuala Lumpur
Tel: 03-2181-2426. Open Mon-Sat: 1130am-late

Mezze

The sort of bistro that KL could use more of, Mezze hums with life &
vigour, illustrated in both the let-your-hair-down energy that throbs
through this warm, welcoming space & the hearty, flavourfully punchy
recipes _ mostly European-inspired _ that emerge from its kitchen. It's
stylish enough to fit into the most sophisticated city street but
casual enough to belong perfectly at home in the Bukit Damansara
suburb. Temptations range from rustic pork shoulder stew, San Daniele
ham with rock melon & eight-hour braised oxtail pappardelle to lamb
pilaf pie & sticky toffee pudding, perfect for a long Friday night feast.
What others say:
"Went for dinner with my friends. The restaurant was full but service
was attentive. Everybody had a good time." - 18SHL, via TripAdvisor
"The service crew is amazing and the sommelier is excellent with his
selection of wines." - Wymann L, via Facebook
132, Jalan Kasah, Medan Damansara. Tel: 03-2095-0122
Mon-Thurs: 3pm-1am; Fri-Sat: noon-1am

Ministry of Coffee

Comfortably cavernous, with a distinctive decor & an obliging service

team, Ministry of Coffee specialises in Doi Chaang single-estate organic
Arabica coffee, shade-grown, hand-picked & sun-dried, with profits
shared fairly with thousands of indigenous Akha farmers in
mountainous, ecologically sustainable Thai plantations. The food here
ranges from eggs partnered with organic baby spinach, melted cheese
& toasted focaccia to beetroot pancakes with maple syrup.
What others say:
"The latte and meal I ordered were good. Overall a good place to hang
with friends, chill alone or get some work done." - Ana R, via Facebook
"Loved the coffee and your beautiful Chicken and Pineapple
Sandwich! :) The ambience is amazing." - Vanessa J, via Facebook
J-G-09, Soho KL, Solaris Mont Kiara, Kuala Lumpur
Tel: 03-6211-5531. Daily, 9am-11pm

Miss Ellie Tea House

Its calm facade makes Miss Ellie Tea House
look like a charming Cameron Highlands
cafe, but mercifully, this hidden gem is
only a half-hour from KL's centre, nestled
on a suburban street where parking's
aplenty. Family-run & fabulously friendly,
it's a spot we'd recommend unreservedly
for brunches & brief getaways. Chef Justin
Wong whips up some of the Klang Valley's
best pastries & sweet treats, including
pandan panna cotta & creme brulee made
with real vanilla pods.
7 Jalan H3 Taman Melawati
Tel: 03-4162-0113
Tues-Sat, 10am-7pm

Monkey Garage
Thousands of motorists drive past
Maarof's Regal Valet auto specialist
centre everyday, but few would peer
deep within & realise that something
surprising has stirred to life here.
Monkey Garage, a sanctuary inspired by
its co-founder Farah Janis' travels,
serves daily specials (come on Tuesday,
when a lip-smacking Laksa Johor is
available) plus desserts & coffee.
Inside Regal Valet, Jalan Maarof,
Bangsar Tel: 03-2282 1282
Weekdays 930am-7pm,
weekends 930am-5pm

Muugu
The hidden bungalow restaurant near Bukit Bintang
serves crowd-pleasing classics in a spacious
sanctuary of calm amid the clamour of the city.
Muugu specialises in seafood & steaks; pan-seared
scallops crowned with quail eggs & partnered with
sweet corn cream & beetroot mousse (RM23)
might deservedly prove a favourite for customers.
32, Jalan Jati, Off Jalan Bukit Bintang
Lunch & dinner, daily
Tel: 03-2110-3603

MyBurgerLab
Ruthless perfectionism & trail-blazing creativity
have revolutionised the Klang Valley's burger
scene & inspired a new generation of F&B
entrepreneurs. It's not merely memorably
mouthwatering meals that the MyBurgerLads &
Ladies are making; it's history.
14, Jalan 21/22 Seapark Petaling Jaya
Tuesday-Sunday 5pm-10:15-pm

Nepal Himalayan Cuisine

From momo (steamed meat dumplings stuffed
with seasoned cilantro chicken) to chataamari (rice
batter crepes topped with egg, minced chicken,
tomatoes & spring onions), Nepal nails the
mainstays of its South Asian nation namesake.
F-0-6, Plaza Damas,Sri Hartamas
Daily starting lunchtime;
last orders at 930pm.

Nexo

There's consistent cause for celebration whenever a Spanish restaurant

opens in KL, especially one that ventures beyond the staples of
meatballs, olives & button mushrooms. Nexo operates all day long
throughout the week, so customers can stroll in at 4pm on a Wednesday
& still be able to order everything from gazpacho to leche frita. Try the
tapas: Nexo's aforementioned pig's head emerges in fine, fried form,
essentially fleshy croquettes coupled with pickles & garlic aioli (RM17
before taxes). An acquired taste, but all offal is, after all. For folks
strictly NOT on a diet, there's the suckling pig confit (RM52), as fatty as
imaginable, with pork jus & a carb-laden potato gratin. Nexo has both an
air-conditioned interior & a shaded alfresco area that's breezy enough
for Bangsar South's after-work crowd.
G-13, Ground Floor, Nexus, Bangsar South, Jalan Kerinchi
Daily, noon through late
Tel: 03-2242-2226

Old China Cafe

One of KL's most atmospheric restaurants,
Old China Cafe oozes enough charm to bowl
over tourists & locals alike curious to sample
Nyonya favorites. The menu's extensive &
pours over with pork, boasting the likes of
siew yok devil's curry, pork pongteh,
pie tee, ju hu char, stuffed tauhu, pork lor
bak, itik tim, kari kapitan, udang petai, chap
chai, telur cincalok, sago gula melaka &
bubur pulut hitam (whew!). Wine's available
by both the bottle & the glass, not to be
taken for granted at Nyonya eateries.
11, Jalan Balai Polis, Kuala Lumpur
03-2072-5915. Last orders at 10pm daily
Reservations recommended

Old Tricycle
An outdoor venue that serves Hakka yong
tau foo uniquely smoked over charcoal grills;
it also features a mural of its founder's
father that's destined to become the focus of
a thousand Instagram snapshots. The
selection comprises slices of fish-&-pork
paste with bacon, brinjal, bitter gourd, okra
& more, coated in hickory barbecue sauce.
Most cost RM1.30 each, all cooked at the
customer's table. Also addictive: Slippery
chee cheong fun, served with the likes of
fried pork skin, curry & sambal (RM2.90).
Faber Plaza, Jalan Desa Jaya,
Taman Desa, Kuala Lumpur
Open 6pm-midnight, closed Tuesdays

Pantrie

One of Ara Damansara's most pleasant restaurants, with a satisfying

selection of well-executed fare, from salmon carpaccio with truffle
dressing to spicy duck pasta to herb-crusted chicken confit.
What others say:
"Had my wedding dinner at Pantrie and Alice and her team made my
wife and I, together with my guests happy with the food and service.
Reasonably priced and the servers were attentive to my guests. The
crispy duck is a must try!" - Larryng, via TripAdvisor
"The food is fresh & well prepared by the friendly & cute chef Ms Alice,
most importantly you can get all this fine dining at an affordable price.
Highly recommended." - Barry K, via Facebook
Celebrated hubby's birthday at Pantrie ... loved the cod with wasabi
mayo, lovely!" Felicia S, via Foursquare
D-G3A, Block D, 2, Jalan PJU1A/7A,
Oasis Square, Ara Damansara.
Tues-Sun, 1130am-1030pm. Tel: 03-78599920

Pisco Bar

One of KL's most invigorating hangouts, Pisco Bar supplies the sort of
nightlife this city needs more of, sleaze-free but still certain to be heaps
of hot-blooded fun. Come hungry & thirsty to sample as much
as possible from the tapas menu (everything from tangy-fresh tuna
ceviche to comfort-food mashed potato causitas) & the cocktail selection
(the Chilcano de Pisco packs a pleasurable punch).
What others say:
"This place has the best food that I have ever eaten. We recommend
the ceviche, the meatballs (drooling just thinking about them), the
eggplant parmesan, the cheese platter, stir fried beef and grilled
chicken with rice. The atmosphere is great."- NainTrain, via TripAdvisor
"Pisco Bar is the best place to spend Friday night. Tapas are awesome,
beer is rightly chilled, drinks are just perfect!" - Cesar L, via Tripadvisor
29 Jalan Mesui, Kuala Lumpur
Tues-Sun, 5pm through late. Tel: 03-2142 2900

PULP by Papa Palheta

Resting in the shadow of Bangsar's Balai Berita
building, PULP occupies a site that was once the papercutting space for a nearly 50-year-old printing plant.
Run by Singaporean coffee boutique Papa Palheta, it's
a welcoming cafe that's also a centre for coffee
gadgets & a space for training & cupping sessions.
29-01, Jalan Riong, Bangsar
9am-7pm weekdays (except Mondays) &
9am-10pm on weekends. Tel: 03-2201-3650

Roast FactorGlee
Don't stop believin' that riveting new caffeine bars can
still storm the Klang Valley: Run by a Malaysian who
cultivated a passion for beans while she was working in
Panama, Roast FactorGlee has the X-Factor to help it
stand out. Head here in the afternoon & be welcomed
by the buttery scent of hot scones fresh from the oven
& brioches paired with kitchen-made jams.
G06, Village Shops, The Club, Persiaran Bukit
Utama, Bandar Utama. Tel: 03-7732-2893

Rondaevoo
Rondaevoo stresses wholesome, nutritious recipes; its
'burger' comes in the form of a house-made prawn
patty with chopped avocados, crisp veggies & roasted
potatoes at a wallet-pleasing price of RM14.80 before
taxes. Rondaevoo's pastas comprise whole-wheat
spaghetti, while its Malaysian-style 'bee hoon' vermicelli
is built with red rice.
Block A, Ativo Plaza, Jalan PJU 9/1, Bandar Sri
Damansara. Daily, 930am-10pm

Ril's

Stylish soulfulness at a two-storey Telawi establishment: Ril's streetlevel restaurant captures a sense of classic elegance long lacking in
this neighborhood, while the curtain-cloaked bar upstairs boasts sexy
theatricality that forms a luxurious backdrop for live music &
flamboyant cocktails. The food's good too, featuring steakhouse
staples as well as reinvented recipes (love the sweet potato & corn
croquette with beetroot compote, lemon creme fraiche & quail egg).
What others say:
"I come to Ril's all the time for the steak. Its always really good. Never
lets me down. Bar upstairs is cool and the drinks are creative. Staff are
friendly and attentive." - Robert_Stark, via TripAdvisor
"Everything here was great. The service was spot on, the atmosphere, the
wine and the steaks were all fantastic." - kaz999Malaysia, via Tripadvisor
No 30, Jalan Telawi 5, Bangsar Baru
Mon - Sun: 10:00 am - late. Tel: 03-2201 3846

Salad Atelier
Ready to turn over a new leaf? Healthy eating in the
city can now be easier, thanks to the wholesome
nutrition at this cheerfully colourful cafe that caters for
customisation: Patrons can choose a base (the likes of
fresh lettuce, radicchio & oak leaves), then pile on
toppings that range from cucumber to carrots,
Parmesan to Swiss cheese, beef salami to smoked
salmon, mint yoghurt to sauteed garlic dressing.
Ground Floor, The Weld, Jalan Raja Chulan,
Mon-Fri, 8am-9pm, Sat 8am-2pm

Samba Churrascaria
Samba revives churrascaria-style dining in KL's city
centre; for RM89++ each evening, feast to your
stomach's content on grilled meat served by waiters
who move from table to table, slicing enormous slabs
of beef, lamb, chicken & seafood from skewers & piling
them onto your plate the Brazilian way. For lunch,
Samba serves a pizza buffet for RM29++.
Level 3, Avenue K, Jalan Ampang
Tel: 03-2181-8601

Sevencups
A sanctuary that deservedly draws doe-eyed, coffeedesirous devotees. Savour light, easy-drinking Five
Senses coffee here. And if Sevencups' innate
cheeriness isn't sufficient to sweeten your day, its
pineapple cheesecake & carrot cake should. The cafe
is spare & distraction-free, a reminder to remove
physical & emotional clutter from our lives.
G-25, Empire Damansara, Damansara Perdana
1030am-7pm, except Tuesdays. Tel: 03-4065 0037

Simply d
An inventive spin-off of The Delicious Group, Simply
d's forte is noodles & pasta that can be mixed &
matched with various bases & broths to an
extraordinary extent. Enjoy everything from fusilli with
salted egg & pumpkin to pho-style flat white noodles
with salmon in Vietnamese-inspired broth.
G9, Nu Sentral, KL Sentral
More branches upcoming at Avenue K, The
Curve & Tropicana City Mall

Sitka
From noontime treats of beef tacos & crispy liver
submarine sandwiches to upcoming plans for evening
temptations of goat's milk panna cotta with bananachocolate wontons, Sitka is a Malaysian-Scottish
collaboration that's determined to deliver innovative
cooking fuelled by local produce.
8-5, Jalan Batai, Damansara Heights
Daily, 9am-6pm. Dinner sessions planned soon
Tel: 03-2011-1117

Standing Theory
A cafe that aims to challenge how coffee can be
roasted, brewed & served for maximum satisfaction,
exploring everything from temperatures to
methodologies. The food's fab; try the "V.D. Roll"
sandwich with a pork patty tinged with cili padi,
liver pate & crisp veggies, or the BBC Waffle with
house-cured bacon, bananas & cornflake ice cream.
Jalan SS2/103, Petaling Jaya
Tues-Sun, 11am-11pm

Simply Mel's

Simply Mel's unabashedly bears the name of its chef, a remarkable

woman whose cooking is heartfelt & honest, whose commitment to
making her customers happy is pure & genuine. Call it our imagination,
but sometimes you can almost taste the love in each luscious mouthful
of Mel's ayam buah keluak. Snack on the freshly picked crab meat,
prawns & minced chicken stuffed in a crab shell or have the succulent
chicken sehbah, braised in a slightly sweet, mildly spicy sauce.
What others say:
"Had a delightful dinner here. The dishes were tasty and authentic, the
staff attentive." - Wonderinggourmet, via TripAdvisor
"To add to the perfect food, are the perfect hosts and dining ambience.
Auntie Mel, her daughter and restaurant manager Cheryl, and the crew
will make you feel relaxed and at home." - Rudy138, via TripAdvisor
First Floor, The Sphere, Bangsar South, Jalan Kerinchi
Mon - Fri: 10 am - 10 pm, Sat - Sun: 12 pm - 10 pm
Tel: 03-22414525

Soba Kuroha
Soba Kuroha serves intriguingly tasty
temptations; Begin with 'nama hamu' _
luscious prosciutto, delicately sliced &
topped with paper-thin radish strips,
consumed with wasabi for a fun kick. Try
the grilled cod fish too, seasoned with
'sake kasu,' the residual lees left over from
sake production, for a singularly pungent
flavor. Kuroha also makes its own soba;
we might not be major fans of these
buckwheat noodles, but it's worth ordering
them when they're this well-prepared.
7-G, Jalan 19/70A, Desa Sri Hartamas
03-6201-6882
Open for dinner, except Sundays

Sushi Hinata
The amiable Oritsuki Hideaki,
a sushi chef for three decades, delivers
season-bound sacraments of
succulence at this first foreign offshoot
of a Sushi Hinata in Nagoya City.
Sushi can be served in thematic sets:
a trio of tuna, presented in different cuts,
or even vegetarian sushi topped with
mushrooms, asparagus & radish sprouts.
A-0-1, St Mary Residences, Jalan
Tengah, Off Jalan Raja Chulan
03-2022-1349
Lunch & dinner, Monday-Saturday

Swich

One of the coolest cafes in Publika, serving thoughtfully conceived

recipes that range from salads of walnuts, figs & pears to a succulent
slow-cooked beef burger to butter soft-shell-crab pasta with salted egg
yolk; the savory selection is superb, but what's truly divine are the
desserts. It's worth ordering a whole carrot-&-walnut cream cheese
cake, jam-packed with cranberries, or even avocado sponge with
avocado chantilly cream & pistachios, to bring home & enjoy slowly.
What others say:
"The Durian Mud Pie is the bomb!! Comfy chairs and lovely natural light
makes Swich my natural choice to have meetings over cake and hot
chocolate." - Waterfall Yin, via Facebook
"Cempedak cake is to die for!" - Wei Wei W, via Foursquare
Publika, Solaris Dutamas, Kuala Lumpur
Mon - Sun: 10:00 am - 8:30 pm

The Grind Burger Bar

A casual diner-style setting where family
& friends can feast on a wide-ranging
menu of burgers with a patty to please
everyone: peppercorn-crusted pork,
teriyaki-basted chicken, hand-pressed
Aussie beef or balsamic-infused
portobello. Highlights include the Grind
House Burger, featuring a freshly
ground beef patty topped with
egg, pork bacon, caramelized onions &
cheddar cheese in a house-made brioche
with a secret "Dracula Sauce."
7, Jalan 17/45 Petaling Jaya
Tel: 03-7932 3883
Tue - Sun: 12pm - 3pm, 5pm - 10pm

The Beato Steakhouse

Dry-aged steaks steal the spotlight at
one of Bangsar's friendliest restaurants;
have a hearty, 400-gram slab of rib-eye
beef (RM38 per 100 grams) & feel all
your carnivorous cravings instantly
fulfilled by the meat, which balances the
fine line between being supremely
tender while still supplying a pleasurable
chew, with a crisp exterior that shows
off the kitchen's careful expertise.
24-1 Jalan Telawi 3, Bangsar Baru
Tel: 03-2202-2405
Weekdays : 5:00PM - 12:00AM
Weekends : 12:00PM - 12:00AM

The Humble Pie Co

Proudly run by magazine-editor-turnedbaker Eugene Ng & former banker (now
pie princess) Angela Tan, the speciality
here is the the 3.5-inch banoffee pie,
worth every sen of its RM13 price, with
chunks of nicely ripe bananas, bought
fresh from the market, doused in toffee
sauce, dressed up in vanilla whipped
cream & dusted with coffee powder. We
also love the Dufee (Durian-Toffee) pie
(RM15 for a 3.5-inch, RM88 for a seveninch), built atop a buttery-crunchy crust.
11, Jln 17/45, Sect 17, Petaling Jaya
Tues-Fri, 1130am-10pm; Sat-Sun,
11am-1030pm. Tel: 03-7932-1793

The Kitchen Table

The Kitchen Table is a name that's
already synonymous with Marcus & Mei
Wan, two partners who may become
poster children for the future of
Malaysia's restaurant entrepreneurs.
Come in the morning for fresh cakes &
cookies, linger for lunches of pulled pork
with crunchy carrot-beet slaw, then
return for dinners of Malaysian-produced
mozzarella with tomato jam, vivacious
Thai basil pesto & crisp shaved zucchini.
23, Jalan SS20/11, Damansara Kim,
10am-1030pm (with 530pm-630pm
break). Closed Mondays

The Point

One of the newest restaurants on Medan Damansara's Kasah row stands

out with a menu of elaborate recipes that showcase admirable ambition,
from brunch offerings of poached eggs with jamon iberico cured ham &
truffle-scented hollandaise sauce on English muffins to dinner delights
of ginger-cured hiramasa kingfish sashimi with prawn remoulade.
What others say:
"Great place. Love the ambience. Serves good Aussie brunch." Leonard C, via Facebook
"Super good food ... especially the lamb and tapas.." - Sarah Y, Facebook
"Good food quality and rawkin' cocktails." - Christopher W, via Facebook
No. 122, First & Second Floor, Jalan Kasah, Damansara Heights
Tel: 03-2011-8008
Brunch served Wednesdays-Saturdays, 11:30am-2:30pm
Dinner served Mondays-Saturdays, 5pm through late

The Red Beanbag

A crowd-pleaser of a cafe, The Red Beanbag sets a strong standard for

how things can be done. It's an Aussie-inspired space where hopefully,
someone who comes in feeling a little worn out by life can leave an hour
later recharged by RBB's optimistic energy & of course, its excellent
eggy brunches, fantastic French toast & thoughtfully made coffee.
What others say:
"Nice place to dine and to chit chat." - Andrew W, via Foursquare
"The rum and raisin mille crepe cake gives you a glimpse of heaven." Ming Jie, via Foursquare
"The breakfast selection was pretty good with a wide variety to choose
from. The portion is huge, the juices are nice." - JustSB, via Tripadvisor
"Had a lovely evening at Red Beanbag. Lovely people, unpretentious
food and a great concept." Andy P, via Facebook
A4-1-08, Solaris Dutamas, Kuala Lumpur
Tel: 03-6211 5116. Tuesday-Sunday 10am-midnight

Thirty8

In a city where sky-high restaurants have become increasingly trendy,

THIRTY8 towers above its peers, presiding over the soaring
spaciousness of the Grand Hyatt's entire 38th floor, showcasing a 360degree view of KL's skyline & exuding a calm, confident elegance
underscored by the work in its open kitchens. Quantity AND quality
both reign here, with a menu that features Western fine-dining,
reinterpreted Chinese classics & fresh cuts of Japanese sushi &
sashimi. Irresistible indulgences include afternoon Valrhona chocolate
buffets & Sunday champagne brunches.
What others say:
"The view of KL city from Thirty8 is spectacular. On the dining
experience side, the desserts are certainly one of the best I have
ever had." - RaymondYkChoong, via TripAdvisor
"Comes with the most amazing view to accompany the amazing
food. Duck confit is superb." - Madir M, via Foursquare
Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur, 12, Jalan Pinang. Tel: 03 2182 1234

Thursdvys
One of KL's most handsomely designed
caffeine bars, serving blends from
Singapore's Common Man Coffee Roasters.
The coffee's nice & nuanced here;
alternatively, beat the heat with a peach
cooler mocktail or an iced latte. Thursdvys
(pronounced 'Thursdays') is a friendly
place where customers can linger & chat;
perfect for the suburbs.
22, Lorong Datuk Sulaiman 1,
Taman Tun Dr Ismail
Open 9am-10pm, closed Thursdays

Thirdwave
Thirdwave, run by three brothers & their
sister, is serious about its coffee,
ensuring its Ethiopian Yirgacheffe,
Kenyan AA & Tanzanian single-origin
beans receive loving treatment from a
Chemex coffee-maker, Coffega cold-drip
system & Kalita 102 ceramic dripper.
Come for the food too; inventive brunch
fare, pastas & sandwiches are available.
1-11, Level 1, Nexus,
Bangsar South, Kuala Lumpur
10am-10pm daily

Topshelf

The kind of place that makes admirers wonder, why can't there be
more neighborhood bistros like Topshelf? Casual but classy, refined but
unpretentious, Topshelf stands out amid TTDI's sea of pubs & cafes for
its easy, welcoming charm & its more-than-respectable range of French
fare (with some Italian flourishes) at suburb-suitable prices. Julia Child
would likely have approved. Speciaities include French onion fondue,
baked halibut with celery and melon concasse, and apple tarte tatin.
What others say:
"Food is good and affordable, ambiance is incredibly comfortable and
the Parisian music on the background simply completes our date night."
- Jacquelinesiow, via TripAdvisor
"The tarte tatin is amazing and well worth the try. Thank you chef." Yasmin H, via Facebook
61 Lorong Rahim Kajai 13, Taman Tun Dr Ismail
Tel: 03-7727 7277. Mon - Sat: 4:00 pm - 12:00 am

Torii
Get acquainted with the inventiveness of
a kitchen that hatches steamed duck egg
custards with foie gras, shrimp & salmon
roe _ a memorable chawanmushi. Or try
the Torii 'burger,' comprising Wagyu
mini-patties crowned with liver, spinach &
caramelised onions, a melt-in-the-mouth
stuffing in a sliced scone.
18 Lorong Datuk Sulaiman 1,
Taman Tun Dr Ismail
Open 5pm-late, except Sundays.
Tel: 03-7733-9309

Uokatsu
Sashimi lovers, here's some fishy business
for you: This lunch-only outlet named
Uokatsu, translated by its owners into 'fish
victorious,' slices up a smorgasbord of
sensibly priced seafood, brought into KL
by Masamichi Tomono, who reputedly
hails from a Hokkaido-based family of
fishermen, & his Malaysian wife Winnie.
Bonito sashimi is one of Uokatsu's
specialities (RM26).
B-0-7, Plaza Damas 3, Sri Hartamas
Tel: 03-6201-0339
Kitchen opens 12pm-3pm, Tues-Fri;
10am-3pm, weekend/public holidays

Urbean
The small but smartly outfitted Urbean
serves wholesome temptations like a salad
of grilled chicken, pumpkin, dried
cranberries, red onions & green leaves in a
sweet vinaigrette dressing, plus nutritious
pastas such as linguine with smoked
salmon, tarragon & peas tossed in light
creme fraiche & fresh lemon sauce, all at
wallet-friendly prices, well-partnered with
blends by Common Man Coffee Roasters.
Lower Concourse, Avenue K,
Jalan Ampang, Kuala Lumpur

VCR
Run a team of collaborators who are
intensely driven over how coffee is
prepared & served, this long-gestating
caffeine bar, which finally opened in late
2013, is one of the most swoon-worthy
spaces in this part of KL. On a dead-end
street of decades-old houses near Pudu,
VCR is the closest thing this city has to a
coffee ashram. Come on a calm weekday
afternoon & meditate on how coffee can
inspire beauty & change lives.
2, Jalan Galloway, Off Jalan Pudu
Daily, 830am-11pm

WA Cafe
Serving the most satisfying coffee at the Pavilion mall.
Colombian Arabica beans form the foundation for WA's
lovable iced latte, but there's more than coffee here.
Try the hot matcha latte, potently aromatic with topflight green tea, & a deeply enjoyable roasted almond
hot chocolate. The cafe even makes its own ice cream,
a true treat.
Center Court, Level 6, Pavilion

Whimsical
Whimsical lives up to its name: Ong Kee Win, the Mad
Hatter behind Cielo Dolci, has unveiled a new
wonderland of frozen fantasies in Solaris Dutamas,
where adventurers can revel in tea parties of gelato
served in curiouser & curiouser combinations. This is a
full-fledged cafe where ice cream made in the
traditional Italian fashion is imaginatively infused into
the menu. Basil gelato becomes a cooling, who-needspesto-sauce dressing for this tomato salad with
Japanese cucumber strips, lettuce, chives, goat's
cheese & balsamic reduction. Beef bacon gelato (with
bits of seared meat in a luscious fior de latte base)
revolutionises would otherwise be a run-of-the-mill Big
Breakfast of scrambled eggs, beef sausage &
pancakes. Cotton candy affogato is another only-atWhimsical delight.
D2-G3-05, Solaris Dutamas (outside/behind the
main Publika building)
Open nearly daily, except Tuesdays.
Tel: 03-6419-0966

Wondermama
Backed by a colourfully intricate, nimbly
nostalgic setting, Wondermama serves
continent-hopping comfort food with deep
Asian roots; greatest hits from past &
present include naan showered with goji
berries & truffle oil, otak-otak cheese
sandwiches, soft-shell crab nasi lemak,
nachos with cili padi-tinged minced beef &
Maggi Mee with salmon & sausages.
G6, Ground Floor, Bangsar Village
Tel: 03-2284 9821

Zenzero
This understated, unfussy outlet nurtures
a placid presence; it's casually elegant,
maintaining the spotlight on enjoyable
food served by a hardworking team. Our
top pick's the Ancona-style brodetto, a
seafood soup that brims with fresherthan-expected octopus, mussels, clams,
fish & shrimp.
A-0-9, St Mary Place,
Jalan Tengah, Kuala Lumpur.
Lunch & dinner, Tues-Sun.
Tel: 03-2022-3883

NAME
A PIE THING *
ACME BAR & COFFEE
ANTE KITCHEN & BAR
ARATA UDON
ASHLEYS *
AWESOME CANTEEN
BAD *
BANGOYA
BARBECUE GARDEN
BARN THAI
BISTRO A TABLE
BISTRO RICHARD
BOAT NOODLE
BRASSERIE ENFIN
BROOKLYN B
BUNS *
CHARCOAL *
CHUUP
CRAB FACTORY
CRAZY FISH *
CULTURA
DAIKANYAMA
ECOLE P
ENCORE PATISSERIE
EXHIBIT CAF
FATBOYS THE BURGER BAR
FIERCER
FIQS GASTRONOMY
FOR GOODNESS CAKES *
FRISKY GOAT
FUEGO *
GANGA CAF
GO NOODLE HOUSE *
GYUKINGU
HANARE
HARU *
HOT SHOTS COFFEE & TEA
HUCKS CAF
IPPUDO RAMEN
JACS ON THE 8TH
JAM & KAYA CAF
JUMP CAF *
KESOM*
KINME
KILLER GOURMET BURGERS
KOMPASSION
LA MEXICANA
LA VIE EN ROSE
LAGUNA MABUHAY
LE ROZELL *

NEIGHBOURHOOD
DAMANSARA UTAMA
CITY CENTRE
SOLARIS DUTAMAS
DAMANSARA UTAMA
BANGSAR
PARAMOUNT GARDEN
SRI HARTAMAS
JAYA ONE
LIFE CENTRE
JAYA 33
SECTION 17
SENTUL
DAMANSARA PERDANA
ARA DAMANSARA
SUBANG
SRI HARTAMAS
SUBANG
DAMANSARA JAYA
PETALING JAYA
SOLARIS MONT KIARA
BANGSAR
CHANGKAT BUKIT BINTANG
DAMANSARA UTAMA
TAMAN DESA
TAMAN TUN DR ISMAIL
PUBLIKA
SOLARIS DUTAMAS
SUBANG
SRI HARTAMAS
TAMAN TUN DR ISMAIL
CITY CENTRE
BANGSAR
JAYA ONE
KOTA DAMANSARA
CITY CENTRE
MEDAN DAMANSARA
SOLARIS DUTAMAS
BANGSAR
PAVILION
ARA DAMANSARA
PETALING JAYA
PETALING JAYA
AMAN SURIA
BUKIT DAMANSARA
BANGSAR
DAMANSARA KIM
AMPANG
CITY CENTRE
CITY CENTRE
KOTA KEMUNING

CUISINE
WESTERN
CONTEMPORARY
WESTERN
JAPANESE
FUSION
FUSION
COFFEE
JAPANESE
ASIAN
THAI
FRENCH
EUROPEAN
THAI
FRENCH
WESTERN
BURGERS
WESTERN
MALAYSIAN
SEAFOOD
SEAFOOD
WESTERN
JAPANESE
FUSION
DESSERTS
COFFEE
BURGERS
INDIAN
CONTEMPORARY
WESTERN
WESTERN
WESTERN
INDIAN
CHINESE
JAPANESE
JAPANESE
JAPANESE
COFFEE
FUSION
JAPANESE
FUSION
WESTERN
WESTERN
MALAY
JAPANESE
BURGERS
THAI
MEXICAN
FRENCH
FILIPINO
FRENCH

LOKL COFFEE CO
MAKAN KITCHEN
MAKISHIMA *
MARUHI SAKABA
MEDITECA
MEZZE
MINISTRY OF COFFEE
MISS ELLIE TEA HOUSE
MONKEY GARAGE
MUUGU
MYBURGERLAB
NEPAL HIMALAYAN
NEXO
OBANHMI
OLD CHINA CAF
OLD TRICYCLE
PANTRIE
PISCO BAR
PULP BY PAPA PALHETA
RILS
ROAST FACTORGLEE
RONDAEVOO
SALAD ATELIER
SAMBA CHURRASCARIA
SEVENCUPS
SIMPLY D *
SIMPLY MELS
SITKA *
SOBA KUROHA
STANDING THEORY
SUSHI HINATA
SWICH
THE BEATO STEAKHOUSE
THE GRIND BURGER BAR
THE HUMBLE PIE CO *
THE KITCHEN TABLE *
THE POINT *
THE RED BEANBAG
THIRDWAVE
THIRTY8
THURSDVYS
TOPSHELF
TORII
UOKATSU *
URBEAN
VCR
WA CAF
WHIMSICAL *
WONDERMAMA
ZENZERO

CITY CENTRE
CITY CENTRE
CITY CENTRE
TAMAN DESA
CITY CENTRE
BUKIT DAMANSARA
SOLARIS MONT KIARA
TAMAN MELAWATI
BANGSAR
OFF BUKIT BINTANG
PETALING JAYA
SRI HARTAMAS
BANGSAR SOUTH
DAMANSARA UTAMA
CHINATOWN
TAMAN DESA
ARA DAMANSARA
MESUI
BANGSAR
BANGSAR
BANDAR UTAMA
BANDAR SRI DAMANSARA
THE WELD
AVENUE K
DAMANSARA PERDANA
NU SENTRAL
BANGSAR SOUTH
DAMANSARA HEIGHTS
SRI HARTAMAS
PETALING JAYA
RAJA CHULAN
PUBLIKA
BANGSAR
PETALING JAYA
PETALING JAYA
DAMANSARA KIM
MEDAN DAMANSARA
SOLARIS DUTAMAS
BANGSAR SOUTH
CITY CENTRE
TAMAN TUN DR ISMAIL
TAMAN TUN DR ISMAIL
TAMAN TUN DR ISMAIL
SRI HARTAMAS
AVENUE K
PUDU
PAVILION
SOLARIS DUTAMAS
BANGSAR VILLAGE
CITY CENTRE

FUSION
MALAYSIAN
JAPANESE
JAPANESE
EUROPEAN
EUROPEAN
WESTERN
WESTERN
MALAYSIAN
WESTERN
BURGERS
NEPALESE
SPANISH
VIETNAMESE
NYONYA
CHINESE
WESTERN
SOUTH AMERICAN
COFFEE
WESTERN
WESTERN
WESTERN
SALADS
BUFFETS
COFFEE
FUSION
KRISTANG
FUSION
JAPANESE
FUSION
JAPANESE
FUSION
WESTERN
BURGERS
WESTERN
WESTERN
FUSION
WESTERN
WESTERN
CONTEMPORARY
COFFEE
EUROPEAN
JAPANESE
JAPANESE
WESTERN
COFFEE
COFFEE
FUSION
FUSION
ITALIAN