Here’s where you can find them, and why they’re worth visiting the next time you have a free morning or evening.
1. Tanaair, Taman Paramount
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After a year-long closure, Tanaair has reopened with a fresh direction. The Taman Paramount restaurant now offers modern Peranakan dishes such as Ikan Assam Pedas and Kerabu Kacang Botol Sotong.
The menu is designed for sharing, making it best enjoyed with a group and an open mind to try different dishes. The kitchen remains Muslim-friendly, making it a convenient option for groups with varying dietary needs.
Address: 35, Jalan 20/13, Taman Paramount, 46300 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday – 11am to 10pm | Closed on Mondays
Contact: 010-656 9889
2. Unstable Concoction, Sri Hartamas
Unstable Concoction lives up to its name with drinks you probably won’t find anywhere else in the city, and the Apple Pie is a great place to start. If you’re not feeling adventurous, the menu also has plenty of classic cafe options.
Inside, you’ll notice a well-chosen vinyl collection, fun decor, and a friendly team that makes you feel at home. The outdoor seating is especially nice when the air cools off after an afternoon rain.
Address: 32-1, Jalan 27/70A, Desa Sri Hartamas, Taman Sri Hartamas, 50480 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur
Opening hours: 7:51am to 6:02pm daily
3. TomtomClub, Chinatown
TomtomClub adds a personal touch to hotpot by giving each diner in its Chinatown dining room their own pot. This small change makes the meal more relaxed and something to enjoy slowly.
The mala bean soup is a good pick if you prefer less spice, and the creamy tofu stands out for its pleasant texture. Plus, with unlimited rice, everyone leaves satisfied.
Address: 141G, Jalan Petaling, City Centre, 50000 Wilayah Persekutuan, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur
Opening hours: 11am to 2am daily
4. Buttermood, Mont Kiara
The salt bread is reason enough to visit, and it’s so good you’ll want more than one. Be sure to try the madeleines too – the lemon and coffee flavours are surprisingly rich for their small size.
Seating is limited right now, but sandwiches and Korean-roasted coffee will be available soon, giving you even more reasons to stay longer.
Address: 5, Gateway Kiaramas Residence, A-P6, 02, Jalan Desa Kiara, Mont Kiara, 50480 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur
Opening hours: Wednesday to Sunday – 10am to 6pm | Closed on Mondays & Tuesdays
Contact: 03-5020 7704
5. Avosome, Ampang
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Avosome has just opened its first cafe in Ampang, and every menu item includes avocado. The idea works well because the flavours are familiar, but the avocado shows up in unexpected ways.
Nowhere is this more apparent than in the Nasi Ulam with Avocado Confit Tomato Toast, which showcases just how versatile avocado can be in a classic Malaysian dish.
Even the shelves follow the theme, offering avocado soaps and jewellery made from parts of the fruit that most kitchens would usually discard.
Address: A-8-G, Merdeka Place Jalan MPL 3, Off, Jalan Merdeka, 68000 Ampang, Selangor
Opening hours: Thursday to Friday – 9:30am to 5:30pm
Contact: 011-1293 1489
6. Azusa Ramen, Damansara Perdana
This small ramen shop overlooks the neighbourhood playground in Damansara Perdana. The Kuro Ramen stands out for its rich broth, springy noodles, and tender, flavourful chashu.
Order the Truffle Meatball on the side for something different. The Oolong Highball is a welcome surprise – unexpectedly, it could be the most memorable part of your meal.
Address: First floor, The Club, Empire Residence, Jalan PJU 8/1, Damansara Perdana, 47820 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday – 11:30am to 10pm | Closed on Mondays
Contact: 013-655 6800
7. AiFOKATO, The Exchange TRX
Making its Malaysian debut at The Exchange TRX, Korean dessert brand AiFOKATO brings a menu focused on all things affogato.
You can customise your order by pairing one of four diamond-shaped gelato flavours with espresso, matcha, or chocolate.
For something equally creative on your first visit, try the standout −86 Frozen Dirty Latte, which beautifully balances super-chilled milk and hot coffee in every sip.
Address: The Exchange TRX, Persiaran TRX, Tun Razak Exchange, 55188, Malaysia
8. Hahasard Bakeri, Petaling Jaya
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Hahasard is still working on its bakery-cafe, but for now, the small team has set up a takeaway counter where they bake everything fresh daily. Shio pan and bagels lead the lineup, joined by matcha and hojicha drinks.
They bake in small batches, so to make sure you get your favourite, it’s best to order ahead before you visit.
Address: 121, Ground Floor, Block B1, Leisure Commerce Square, Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Opening hours: Wednesday to Thursday – 8am to 4pm & Monday, Tuesday and Friday – 12pm to 4pm | Closed on weekends
9. CHA:COAL Brews, The Gardens Mall
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While The Gardens Mall has no shortage of matcha, Cha:coal Brews is building a reputation that warrants a detour – delivering a brew that is rich, smooth, and balanced without being overly sweet.
Pair the Pistachio Cloud Coconut with a handmade hotteok (a chewy Korean pancake), and you have a good excuse to pause your shopping.
Address: 3rd Floor, The Gardens Mall, Lingkaran Syed Putra, Mid Valley City, Kuala Lumpur
Opening hours: 10am to 10pm daily
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Photos courtesy of respective establishments unless otherwise credited