As our country continues to evolve and thrive, it is important to embrace and preserve the essence of Malay heritage cuisine. These establishments in KL and PJ serve as a reflection of the archipelago’s soul, encapsulating our rich history, cherished traditions, and unwavering passion for exceptional food.
Bijan
Located at the heart of KL city centre, this exquisite restaurant is the go-to place for Malay fine dining. Bijan stands apart from its peers with its dedication in creating a unique Malaysian dining experience by pairing wines and traditional Malay recipes with unique modern ingredients. Some must-try dishes at Bijan include the tantalizing Gulai Lemak Daging Salai dengan Jantung Pisang, the delectable Kek Kelapa Kukus with Mostaco, and the beloved Rendang Itik Bijan.
Address: No.3, Jalan Ceylon, Bukit Ceylon, 50200 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur
Operating Hours: 4.3pm to 11pm, daily.
For more information, click here.
De. Wan 1958
Led by Malaysia’s renowned celebrity chef, Chef Wan, De.Wan is a restaurant that reflects his vibrant and straightforward personality. The name De.Wan is a play on words, meaning “hall” in Malay and “The One” in English. The cuisine here is unapologetically traditional, but Chef Wan adds a subtle touch of luxury with premium ingredients.
This culinary excellence has been recognized by the first Malaysian Michelin Guide and earned a coveted spot on the inaugural Bib Gourmand list in 2022, thanks to its mouthwatering dishes like Udang Masak Lemak Nyonya Nenas, Kerabu Pucuk Paku, and Ikan Asam Pedas.
Address:
The LINC KL: Lot 2 – 2, Level 2, No.360, Jalan Tun Razak, 50900 Kuala Lumpur.
Bangi: Bangi Resort Hotel, Off Persiaran Bandar, Bangi Golf Club, 43650 Bandar Baru Bangi, Selangor.
Bangsar Shopping Centre: F1 & F6, Level 1, Bangsar Shopping Centre, 285, Jalan Maarof, Bangsar, 59000 Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Kuala Lumpur.
Operating Hours: 11AM to 3.30PM | 6PM to 9.30PM daily.
For more information, click here.
OpenHouse
OpenHouse is dedicated to preserving national heritage recipes through its partnership with Jabatan Warisan Negara. By collaborating with the Orang Asli community and sourcing produce from the jungle, the restaurant ensures that traditional flavours are not lost. A standout dish is the Masak Lemak Jeruk Maman, which combines Malaysian flavours in a unique and harmonious way. This dish, featuring coconut milk and preserved pickled lime, offers a refreshing twist that is a must-try for all.
Address:
Bangsar Shopping Centre: G9A Bangsar Shopping Centre, Jalan Maarof, 59000 Kuala Lumpur.
KLIA: Level 5, Terminal 1, Kuala Lumpur International Airport, Kuala Lumpur International Airport, 64000 Sepang.
Operating Hours: 12PM to 10PM daily.
For more information, click here.
Dusun OpenHouse
Dusun Open House is a sister to OpenHouse. The restaurant is housed in an al fresco space adorned with a vibrant green canopy of flora, drawing inspiration from the Malay notion of a “dusun” or orchard. The culinary offerings here feature an extensive range of Malaysian delicacies, both classic and contemporary street food favourites such as Ulam Ulaman, Nasi Lemak, Sotong Panggang, and Satay.
Address: G9A Bangsar Shopping Centre, Jalan Maarof, 59000 Kuala Lumpur.
Operating Hours: 11AM to 11PM daily.
For more information, click here.
Congkak Nusantara
Experience the authentic flavours of Malaysia and Indonesia at Congkak Nusantara, where traditional cuisine is served to evoke a sense of nostalgia. The highlight of the menu is the Nasi Ambeng platter, featuring a variety of 18 sides surrounding a mound of rice, perfect for sharing. According to Congkak’s executive chef, Firdaus Daud, Nasi Ambeng symbolises unity, harmony, and togetherness, as communities gather around the tray and partake in the flavourful array of dishes. It truly represents the rich cultural tapestry of Malaysia.
Address:
Bukit Bintang: 24, Jalan Beremi, Off Jalan Sultan Ismail, Bukit Bintang 50200 Kuala Lumpur.
The Curve: G51, The Curve, Mutiara Damansara, Petaling Jaya, 47800 Selangor.
Operating Hours: 12PM to 10PM | Closed on Mondays.
For more information, click here.