Back for its third edition, this year’s listing features 143 entries for both the cities of Kuala Lumpur and Penang – an increase from the 127 entries in the 2024 edition. Held this morning (November 14) at the Mandarin Oriental Kuala Lumpur, the highly anticipated MICHELIN Guide ceremony shines a spotlight on the country’s finest gastronomic experiences and introduces new award categories emphasising sustainability, innovation, and culinary excellence.
“As we reveal the third edition of the MICHELIN Guide Kuala Lumpur & Penang 2025, we are truly impressed by the remarkable progress of Malaysia’s culinary landscape. It’s inspiring to see two new restaurants earn one MICHELIN Star, and the addition of 12 new Bib Gourmand establishments showcases the rich diversity of local flavours. From preserving cherished family recipes to embracing sustainability with our first MICHELIN Green Star restaurant, these establishments reflect the heart and soul of Malaysia’s culinary heritage,” says Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of the MICHELIN Guide.
Without further ado, here are the new winners, retained stars, and highlights of the MICHELIN Guide Kuala Lumpur & Penang 2025.
One Michelin Star
All four restaurants on the 2024 list have successfully retained their stars for another year, with two additional names joining the flock. This includes Chim by Chef Noom, offering innovative contemporary Thai cuisine with creative twists and stylish plating; and Molina, recognised for innovative dishes that blend French techniques, Nordic sensibility, and Asian twists.
The six one-MICHELIN-starred restaurants in Malaysia now include:
- Restaurant au Jardin (George Town, Penang)
- Auntie Gaik Lean’s Old School Eatery (George Town, Penang)
- DC Restaurant (Kuala Lumpur)
- Beta (Kuala Lumpur)
- Chim by Chef Noom* (Kuala Lumpur)
- Molina* (Kuala Lumpur)
*new entries
Two Michelin Stars
Dewakan, the renowned contemporary Malaysian restaurant in Kuala Lumpur, retains its two MICHELIN Stars for the second year. Helmed by distinguished Chef Darren Teoh, it stands as the only restaurant in Malaysia to be awarded two stars to date.
Michelin Green Star
Aside from keeping its two stars, Dewakan has made history by being the first restaurant in Malaysia to receive the prestigious MICHELIN Green Star for its commitment to sustainability. The introduction of this award in Malaysia reflects the growing importance of sustainability in the culinary world, demonstrating how great food should not only excite the palate but also benefit the community and the planet.
Michelin Selected
This year’s MICHELIN Selected list includes 80 establishments, including 10 new additions. These restaurants range from street food stalls to steakhouses and innovative kitchens, offering diners a wide assortment of culinary experiences. Among the notable newcomers include open fire specialists Atelier Binchotan and Bar Kar, contemporary French restaurant Potager, and contemporary Malaysian venue Terra Dining. In Penang, the Austrian dining room Christoph’s, Italian trattoria Jaloux, and innovative kitchen Lucky Hole have also been added to the list.
The 10 newly-added Michelin Selected establishments are:
- Atelier Binchotan
- Bar Kar
- Blanc
- Christoph’s
- Firewood
- Jaloux
- Lucky Hole
- Nyonya Willow
- Potager
- Terra Dining
Special Awards
The Special Awards category of the MICHELIN Guide highlights exceptional individuals who elevate Malaysia’s dynamic dining scene. The 2025 edition continue this tradition, recognising top talents in Service, Sommelier, Young Chef, and Opening of the Year categories – all of which play an integral role in shaping the destination’s gastronomic landscape. This year’s Special Awards recipients consist of:
- Opening of the Year Award: Mr. Guillaume Depoortere, Molina
- Service Award: Mr. Azmi Ahmad Kamal, Chim by Chef Noom
- Sommelier Award: Mr. Han Lai, Terra Dining
- Young Chef Award: Mr. Waymann Cheong, Lucky Hole
Bib Gourmand
In this year’s Bib Gourmand category are 12 new eateries, recognised for their high-quality and affordable dining experiences. An important establishment to note from the total of 56 entries is BM Yam Rice, which has graduated from the MICHELIN Selected list last year. Popular for its rich and flavourful broth served with savoury yam rice, this beloved establishment in Penang has earned a deserving spot among the country’s most notable affordable dining options.
The five new names from Kuala Lumpur consist of:
- Coast by Kayra
- Foong Lian
- Leen’s
- MTR 1924
- Sin Kiew Yee Shin Kee Beef Noodles
As for Penang, the seven new additions include:
- BM Yam Rice
- Laksalicious
- Lum Lai Duck Meat Koay Teow Th’ng
- Ravi’s Famous Apom Manis,
- Serabai Istimewa
- Super Star Koay Teow Soup
- Winn’s Cafe
For more information about the Michelin Guide, click here.
Read more dining news and stories here.
