Trying the Kuala Lumpur food scene is an adventure everyone needs to experience (honestly, weโve never met anyone who could resist!).
As Malaysia’s food capital, Kuala Lumpur has one of Southeast Asia’s most diverse and exciting food scenes.
Influenced by Malay, Chinese, and Indian cuisines, Kuala Lumpur offers a wide variety of flavors that you simply can’t miss. You can’t visit the city without trying its famous dishes.
Below, check out a list of the top 10 must-try dishes in Kuala Lumpur (many of which are loved throughout Malaysia).
Are you ready to dive into the vibrant flavors of Kuala Lumpur food? Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
1. Curry Laksa: One of the Best Kuala Lumpur Food Delights
Curry laksa unquestionably secures the top spot on our list of exceptional Kuala Lumpur food.
It stands out as the most remarkable dish we’ve had the pleasure of experiencing, not just in Kuala Lumpur, but across Malaysia.
This aromatic and spicy soup is crafted from a harmonious blend of red chili paste and coconut milk.
It’s typically served with noodles (either yellow or vermicelli) and accompanied by shrimp, tofu, calamari, fish pieces, mung bean sprouts, or dried shrimp.
Curry laksa represents a phenomenal culinary creation that encapsulates everything we cherish about Kuala Lumpur food and Asian cuisine.
You simply must try it! For the ultimate curry laksa experience in Kuala Lumpur, head to Limapulo Baba Can Cook.
2. Wantan Mee
Wantan Mee is another fantastic dish from Kuala Lumpur that you simply must try.
This delectable creation features noodles bathed in a rich mushroom sauce and topped with vibrant greens.
It’s complemented by additions like grilled pork barbecue char siu and wontonsโdelicious dumplings stuffed with a combination of pork and/or shrimp.
For the ultimate Wantan Mee experience in Kuala Lumpur, consider visiting Yulek Wan Tan Mee or Koon Kee Wan Tan Mee.
Alternatively, like us, you can indulge in it at the basement of Lot 10 shopping center.
3. Beef Noodles: Among the Must-Try Kuala Lumpur Food
No visit to Kuala Lumpur would be complete without savoring its culinary delights, especially the iconic beef noodles.
This beloved dish features a delightful blend of minced beef and pork, cooked with garlic and soybean paste to create its distinct flavor and color.
Beef noodles are available in both traditional ‘dry‘ form and as a hearty soup with beef slices and meatballs.
During our visit, we had the pleasure of trying both variations, and each was exceptionally tasty.
For the ultimate beef noodle experience in KL, Soong Kee comes highly recommended.
4. Hokkien Mee
Hokkien Mee, a delectable Kuala Lumpur dish, has its roots in the 1920s, crafted by a Chinese immigrant from Fujian.
Its composition varies regionally; in Kuala Lumpur, it features soy sauce complementing chicken, pork, or squid.
Conversely, in northern regions like Penang and in Singapore, shrimp takes the spotlight.
Whichever rendition you savor, it promises to tantalize your taste buds ๐
For an authentic KL experience, head to Kim Lian Kee or Ming Hoe for a delightful serving of Hokkien Mee.
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5. Hainan Chicken Rice: An Iconic Dish in Kuala Lumpur’s Food Scene
Initially skeptical about Hainan Chicken Rice, a renowned Kuala Lumpur delicacy, we were swiftly won over by one bite of its perfectly velvety and juicy chicken.
Originating from Chinese immigrants from Hainan Province, this dish features delicately steamed chicken served with aromatic rice soaked in broth, fresh cucumber, and a hint of soy sauce.
It’s a flagship Malaysian dish that’s truly a must-try. For the best rendition in KL, head to Nasi Ayam Hainan Chee Meng or Seng Kee to savor this delightful dish.
6. Char Kway Teow: A Signature Kuala Lumpur Food Delight
Char Kway Teow, another Malaysian national dish, stands out among the diverse array of Kuala Lumpur’s culinary offerings as a must-try.
This dish showcases fried rice noodles tossed in soy sauce, paired with shrimps, egg, Chinese sausage, bean sprouts, and chives.
In our exploration, we found the best Char Kway Teow in all of Kuala Lumpur at Penang Famous Fried Kway Tiao & Prawn Mee, located in the basement of the Lot 10 shopping center. Don’t miss the chance to experience it for yourself!
7. Popiah
The seventh spot on our list highlights Popiah, a flavorful Malaysian spring roll that draws inspiration from China’s Fujian province.
Typically filled with vegetables and/or prawns, for a unique and slightly different twist, don’t miss Campbell Mini Popiahโa delightful Kuala Lumpur food experience awaits you there.
8. Nasi Lemak: A Culinary Icon and the Most Popular Kuala Lumpur Food
Nasi Lemak, a renowned Malaysian dish, requires little introduction as it stands among the country’s most belovedspecialties, enjoyed throughout the day.
At its core, Nasi Lemak features rice cooked in coconut milk and pandan leaves, typically served with a hard-boiled egg, crispy anchovies, and cucumber slices.
Its hallmark flavor comes from the spicy sambal sauce.
For a more elaborate experience, it can be served as a set meal with options like fried chicken (ayam goreng), fish, or beef stewed in coconut milk and infused with spices like chili or turmeric (rendang).
Locals swear by the exceptional quality of Nasi Lemak at Village Park Restaurant.
9. Ais Kacang
Ais Kacang stands out as one of the most uniquely delightful desserts we’ve encountered in all our travels.
It features a ‘mountain‘ of shaved ice adorned with distinctive additions such as red beans, sweet corn, grass jelly, sea coconut, various fruits, raisins, or peanuts.
Occasionally, this refreshing dessert is accompanied by a scoop of ice cream, perfect for the Malaysian heat.
Our first experience with ais kacang was at Oriental Dessert in Lot 10, but, in fact, this treat is available everywhere. Don’t miss the opportunity to give it a try!
10. Durian Ice Cream
The last, but equally intriguing, item on our list is durian-flavored ice cream, featuring the taste of the king among fruits.
Durian, beloved by the inhabitants of Southeast Asia and often disliked by others due to its distinctive smell and taste, surprises in the form of ice cream.
Contrary to popular belief, durian ice cream offers a surprisingly delightful experience, with a taste reminiscent of caramelized onion, a flavor we personally enjoy.
We remain puzzled as to why the durian chips we brought home did not captivate our friends and family. For the best durian ice cream, head to Lot 10and visit Durian Lagenda.
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Summary
Kuala Lumpur boasts a splendid cuisine, influenced by various corners of Asia. Whether you prefer dishes with noodles, rice, or unique desserts, Kuala Lumpur food is sure to satisfy your taste buds.
What dishes do you recommend in Kuala Lumpur? Any favorites? Let me know in the comments below! If you enjoyed this article, please feel free to share it with your friends!
OMG! Love it! I wish I can try all af them!
You should visit KL or try some of them at home. Most of them are pretty easy to prepare ๐