FoodMalaysia

Dining and Local Food Options around Bukit Bintang, Kuala Lumpur

1. What are some popular local dishes around Bukit Bintang that tourists should try?

Some popular local dishes around Bukit Bintang that tourists should try include:

1. Nasi Lemak – a fragrant rice dish cooked in coconut milk and served with various accompaniments such as fried chicken, crispy anchovies, roasted peanuts, and sambal chili paste.

2. Char Kuey Teow – a stir-fried noodle dish cooked over high heat with prawns, cockles, Chinese sausage, bean sprouts, and eggs.

3. Roti Canai – a flaky flatbread usually served with dhal curry or chicken curry for dipping.

4. Satay – skewered and grilled meat (usually chicken or beef) served with peanut sauce and cucumber chunks.

5. Beef Rendang – a rich and spicy slow-cooked beef dish in coconut milk commonly served during special occasions.

6. Hokkien Mee – yellow noodles stir-fried with pork belly, prawns, squid, and vegetables in dark soy sauce.

7. Cendol – a shaved ice dessert topped with green rice flour jelly, red beans, coconut milk, and palm sugar syrup.

8. Apam Balik – a crispy pancake filled with sweet corn kernels or peanut filling.

9. Bak Kut Teh – a herbal soup dish made with pork ribs simmered for hours to release its flavor and nutrients.

10. Banana Leaf Rice – white rice served on banana leaves with an assortment of vegetable curries and side dishes such as fried fish or chicken masala.

2. Are there any vegetarian or vegan dining options in the Bukit Bintang area?


Yes, there are several vegetarian and vegan dining options in the Bukit Bintang area. Some popular choices include:

1. Sala KL: This restaurant serves a mix of local and international vegetarian and vegan dishes, with options like paneer tikka masala, fried tempeh and quinoa salad.

2. Simple Life: This casual restaurant specializes in organic and healthy vegetarian and vegan dishes such as tofu curry laksa and brown rice sushi rolls.

3. VCR Cafe: While not a fully vegetarian restaurant, this cafe has a variety of delicious vegan options including avocado toast, chickpea curry, and rainbow soba noodles.

4. RGB & The Bean Hive: Another cafe that offers multiple vegetarian and vegan choices such as vegetable tagine with couscous, falafel wrap, and pumpkin risotto.

5. LN Fortunate Coffee: A popular spot for coffee lovers which also has vegetarian options like veggie burger sliders and mushroom pasta.

6. Annalakshmi Vegetarian Restaurant: This Indian restaurant serves authentic South Indian vegetarian meals on a banana leaf.

7. VegeTown Food Restaurant: Located inside Berjaya Times Square Mall, this restaurant offers Chinese-style vegetarian cuisine ranging from dim sum to hotpot dishes.

8. BMS Organics: This health food store has a cafe section serving nutritious meals based on organic ingredients such as spinach cheese lasagne, almond milk noodles, and zucchini spaghetti.

9.Model Malaysian Meals (MMM): Specializing in plant-based versions of traditional Malaysian dishes such as nasi lemak with soy-based rendang chicken or mutton curry made from jackfruit.

10.An Xin Vegan Kitchen: Serving tasty Chinese-inspired vegan dishes like stir-fried eggplant with chili basil sauce or spicy Sichuan tofu.

3. Where can I find the best street food stalls in Bukit Bintang?


Here are some of the best spots to find street food stalls in Bukit Bintang:

1. Jalan Alor: This popular food street has a wide variety of street food stalls serving Malaysian, Chinese and Thai dishes.

2. Hutong Food Court: Located on the lower-ground floor of Lot 10 Shopping Center, this food court houses a selection of famous hawker stalls from all over Malaysia.

3. Changkat Bukit Bintang: This bustling street is known for its lively nightlife, but it also has some hidden gems when it comes to street food vendors serving Malaysian dishes like satay and seafood.

4. Lot 88 Night Market: This open-air market sells a range of local snacks, fruits, and drinks that you can enjoy while strolling around.

5. Imbi Market: Also known as Pasar Baru Bukit Bintang, this market offers a mix of Asian and Western street food options at affordable prices.

6. Jalan Padang Walter Grenier: This small side street off Changkat Bukit Bintang is home to a few popular Malay food stalls serving delicious traditional dishes.

Always be cautious when trying new foods from street stalls and make sure they are cooked fresh before consuming.

4. What is the best place to go for a traditional Malaysian breakfast in Bukit Bintang?


Jalan Alor is a popular street food destination in Bukit Bintang that serves traditional Malaysian breakfast dishes such as nasi lemak, mee goreng, and roti canai. Other options include Restoran Yut Kee, which is known for its Hainanese-style breakfast, and Yap Hup Kee, which offers a wide variety of Chinese breakfast dishes.

5. Are there any must-try delicacies in Bukit Bintang that are unique to the area?


Yes, there are a few popular delicacies in Bukit Bintang that are unique to the area. Some must-try dishes include:

1. Ramly Burger – This is a street food burger that originated in Malaysia and can be found at various stalls in Bukit Bintang. The patty is made of meat or chicken and topped with egg, sauces, and vegetables.

2. Nasi Lemak – This is a fragrant rice dish cooked with coconut milk and pandan leaves, served with fried anchovies, peanuts, cucumber slices, hard-boiled eggs and sambal (a spicy sauce).

3. Char Kway Teow – A stir-fried noodle dish made with flat rice noodles, prawns, cockles, bean sprouts, Chinese sausage and chili paste.

4. Hokkien Mee – Another popular stir-fried noodle dish that is made with thick yellow noodles and served with prawns, squid, pork slices and vegetables.

5. Cendol – A shaved ice dessert that consists of green rice flour jelly noodles in coconut milk along with red beans or sweet corn kernels.

6. Durian – Known as the “King of fruits” in Southeast Asia, durian is a must-try for adventurous foodies. You can find vendors selling this spiky fruit on the streets of Bukit Bintang.

Remember to try these delicacies from reputable vendors to ensure their quality and authenticity.

6. What is the average price range for meals at restaurants in Bukit Bintang?


The average price range for meals at restaurants in Bukit Bintang is between RM20 to RM50. However, some upscale restaurants may cost more than RM50 per meal.

7. Is it safe to consume tap water in Bukit Bintang, or should I stick to bottled water?


It is generally safe to consume tap water in Bukit Bintang. However, it is always recommended to stick to bottled water for drinking purposes as it is safer and avoids any potential risks.

8. Where can I find the freshest seafood options near Bukit Bintang?


There are several seafood restaurants that are known for serving fresh seafood in Bukit Bintang, such as:

1. Seafood Market Restaurant – a popular restaurant with a market-style concept, where you can handpick your seafood and have it cooked to your preference.
Address: LG 55 Lower Ground Floor Sungei Wang Plaza, Jalan Sultan Ismail, 50250 Kuala Lumpur

2. Shucked Oyster & Seafood Bar – a casual dining spot known for its variety of fresh oysters and other seafood dishes.
Address: P1-17 TREC KL, 438 Jalan Tun Razak, 50400 Kuala Lumpur

3. Sumptuous Seafood Co. – a cozy restaurant specializing in Malaysian-style seafood dishes made with freshly caught fish and shellfish.
Address: 22C & 24C, Jalan Berangan, Off Jalan Nagasari, Bukit Bintang, 50200 Kuala Lumpur

4. Fatty Crab Restaurant – a well-known local establishment serving up delicious crab dishes along with other fresh seafood options.
Address: Greetings From The Ocean Lots (T), Lorong Kampung Datuk Keramat (Off Kinabalu), Ampang Waterfront,, 54000 Kuala Lumpur

5. Red Lobster – an international chain restaurant known for its selection of fresh seafood dishes.
Address: Lot C4.03.01 & C4-E2-02 Pavillion Shopping Mall No., 168 Jalan Bukit Bintang, 55100 Kuala Lumpur

9. Which restaurants in Bukit Bintang offer a great view while dining?


1. Atmosphere 360, Kuala Lumpur Tower
2. Marini’s on 57, Petronas Towers
3. Dinner in the Sky, KLCC Park
4. Bridge Bar, G Tower Hotel
5. Fuego at Troika Sky Dining, The Troika
6. Stratosphere, The Roof
7. Cantaloupe at Troika Sky Dining, The Troika
8. THIRTY8 at Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur
9. Nobu Kuala Lumpur at Menara 3 PETRONAS

10. Are there any rooftop bars or restaurants with city views near Bukit Bintang?

– One option is SkyBar at Traders Hotel Kuala Lumpur, which offers stunning views of the city skyline from its rooftop location. Another option is Marini’s on 57, located within the iconic Petronas Towers and offering both indoor and outdoor seating with panoramic views of the city. Other rooftop bars and restaurants in Bukit Bintang with city views include Fuego at Troika Sky Dining, Cantaloupe at The Troika, and Mantra Bar & Lounge at Bangsar Village II.

11. Can you recommend any hidden gems for affordable and delicious local food around Bukit Bintang?


One hidden gem for affordable and delicious local food around Bukit Bintang is Restoran Yut Kee. This family-run restaurant has been operating since 1928 and offers a variety of tasty Malaysian dishes at reasonable prices. Some must-try items include their signature Hainanese chicken chop, curry laksa, and kaya toast. Another hidden gem is Bijan Bar & Restaurant, which serves traditional Malay cuisine in a cozy setting. Their set lunch menu offers great value for money, and their nasi lemak, beef rendang, and pandan coconut rice are all highly recommended.

12. Is halal food readily available in the dining options around Bukit Bintang?


Yes, halal food is readily available in the dining options around Bukit Bintang. The area is known for its diverse selection of restaurants and dining options, including many that serve halal food. Some popular halal restaurants in Bukit Bintang include Nasi Kandar Pelita, Siti Khadijah Hawker Center, and Madam Kwan’s. Additionally, many international fast food chains also have halal options available in this area.

13. Are there any fine dining restaurants with a modern twist on Malaysian cuisine in the area?


Yes, there are a few fine dining restaurants in the area that specialize in modern Malaysian cuisine:

1. Bijan Bar & Restaurant – This restaurant serves refined versions of traditional Malay dishes with a contemporary twist, using fresh and local ingredients. Located in Damansara Heights.

2. Dewakan – Located in Taman Botani Negara, this restaurant offers creative and innovative dishes inspired by Malaysian flavors, using seasonal produce and cooking techniques.

3. Babe – This modern tapas-style restaurant presents Malaysian ingredients and flavors in an elevated and experimental way, all while maintaining a relaxed atmosphere. Located at Clearwater Damansara Heights.

4. Sitka Studio – This intimate dining experience features a seasonal tasting menu that highlights local produce and traditional cooking techniques fused with modern elements. Located at Plaza Batai, Damansara Heights.

5. Beta KL – Specializing in contemporary Malaysian cuisine, this restaurant offers unique dishes inspired by traditional Malay recipes but presented with a modern twist. Located at Fraser Place Kuala Lumpur.

14. Do any restaurants offer cooking classes or demonstrations of local food preparations near Bukit Bintang?


Yes, there are a few restaurants in Bukit Bintang that offer cooking classes or demonstrations of local food preparations. Some options include:

1. Enak KL – This restaurant offers cooking classes where you can learn how to make traditional Malay dishes such as rendang and satay.

2. Bijan Bar & Restaurant – They offer cooking demonstrations on weekends, showcasing the preparation of traditional Malaysian dishes.

3. Chinoz on the Park – This restaurant holds regular cooking classes for both adults and kids, focusing on Malaysian delicacies like nasi lemak and laksa.

4. Passage Thru India – Besides serving delicious Indian dishes, this restaurant also offers hands-on cooking classes where you can learn how to prepare popular Indian dishes such as butter chicken and biryani.

5. Jibby & Co – This cafe holds monthly baking workshops where you can learn to make local desserts like pandan chiffon cake and kuih lapis.

It’s always best to check with the respective restaurants for class schedules and availability.

15. Where can I find authentic Malaysian desserts and sweets in and around Bukit Bintang?

You can find authentic Malaysian desserts and sweets in various locations in Bukit Bintang such as street markets, traditional food stalls, and specialty dessert shops. Here are some recommendations:

1. Jalan Alor – This famous food street is known for its wide variety of local dishes and desserts. Try the cendol or ais kacang, a popular shaved ice dessert with syrup, coconut milk, and toppings.

2. Central Market – The market is a great place to find traditional Malaysian sweets like onde-onde (glutinous rice balls filled with palm sugar), kuih ketayap (pandan crepes filled with grated coconut), and pulut inti (rice cakes topped with sweet coconut filling).

3. Haji Shariff Cendol – Located in Imbi market, this stall serves up delicious cendol with generous servings of coconut milk and gula melaka (palm sugar).

4. Makan Kitchen at DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Kuala Lumpur – This restaurant offers a wide selection of Malaysian desserts, including durian ice cream, onde-onde cake, and more.

5. Baba Nyonya at Lot 10 Hutong – This food court features many famous Malaysian hawkers under one roof, including Baba Nyonya which specializes in authentic Peranakan desserts like kueh bingka (tapioca cake) and sago gula Melaka (sago pearls in palm sugar syrup).

6. Fuyong Dessert House – Located in Sungei Wang Plaza, this dessert house offers a fusion of Malaysian and Hong Kong-style desserts such as mango pomelo sago and durian glutinous rice balls.

7. Tapak Urban Street Dining at Tiffin Food Court – This food court features various food trucks serving up unique local delights including inventive takes on traditional Malay desserts like pandan panna cotta and banana fritters with salted caramel sauce.

16. Are there any recommended night markets near Bukit Bintang for trying local snacks and street food?


Yes, some popular night markets near Bukit Bintang for trying local snacks and street food are:

1. Jalan Alor Food Street
2. Kampung Baru Night Market
3. Taman Connaught Night Market
4. Petaling Street Night Market (also known as Chinatown)
5. Imbi Market
6. Changkat Bukit Bintang Hawker Stalls
7. Chow Kit Market
8. Jalan P Ramlee Food Trucks
9. Medan Selera Wawasan
10. Imbi Market (located inside the Berjaya Times Square Shopping Mall)

17. What is the best time of day to visit street food stalls and night markets for optimal freshness and variety?


Generally, the best time of day to visit street food stalls and night markets is during the evening. This is when vendors are likely to have freshly prepared food and a wide variety of options available. Additionally, the atmosphere is typically livelier and more bustling at this time, making for a more enjoyable experience.

18. Do many restaurants offer outdoor seating or al fresco dining options around Bukit Bintang?


Yes, many restaurants in Bukit Bintang offer outdoor seating or al fresco dining options. This is particularly popular along Changkat Bukit Bintang, where there are numerous bars and restaurants with outdoor seating areas. Other areas that may have outdoor seating options include Jalan Alor and the outdoor food courts at various shopping malls such as Pavilion or Lot 10.

19. Can you suggest any good spots for a romantic dinner with a view in Bukit Bintang?


1. Marini’s on 57: Located on the 57th floor of Petronas Tower 3, this restaurant offers stunning views of the city skyline and serves delicious Italian cuisine.

2. Strato at Troika Sky Dining: Enjoy an intimate dinner with a view at this Italian restaurant located on the 23rd floor of The Troika building.

3. Atmosphere360 Revolving Restaurant: Experience a panoramic view of Kuala Lumpur while dining in this rotating restaurant located on the 41st floor of the Menara Kuala Lumpur Tower.

4. Nobu Kuala Lumpur: Located on the 56th floor of Menara 3 Petronas, this upscale Japanese fusion restaurant offers breathtaking views and a romantic ambiance.

5. Fuego at Troika Sky Dining: Situated on the 23rd floor, this Latin American eatery offers an alfresco dining experience with gorgeous views of the city.

6. Vertical KL at Banyan Tree: This rooftop bar and grill located on the 58th floor offers spectacular views of KLCC Park and serves delectable international cuisine.

7. The Whisky Bar & Steakhouse: Enjoy a romantic dinner with fantastic views of Petaling Jaya from their alfresco dining area located on the rooftop of G Publika Mall.

8. Heli Lounge Bar: This unique rooftop bar is situated on a helipad and offers stunning views of both KL Tower and Petronas Twin Towers.

9. Luna Bar: Located on the top floor of Pacific Regency Hotel Suites, this popular rooftop bar features breathtaking views of KL City Center and serves Asian-inspired cocktails and tapas.

10.Bridge Bar at G Tower: Experience fine dining with mesmerizing vistas from one side overlooking KLCC Park and from another side overlooking Genting Highlands at this elegant terrace bar located on level 28.

20. Are there any food tours or guided culinary experiences in the Bukit Bintang area that you would recommend?


Yes, there are several food tours and guided culinary experiences in the Bukit Bintang area that I would recommend:

1. Kuala Lumpur Food Tour: This tour takes you on a 4-hour gastronomic journey through the streets of Bukit Bintang, tasting the best local dishes and learning about Malaysian culture.

2. Taste of Asia Street Food Tour: This tour includes visits to various street food stalls and restaurants in Bukit Bintang, where you can sample delicious Malaysian, Chinese, and Indian dishes.

3. KL Foodie Culture Experience: This half-day tour offers a cultural immersion into Malaysia’s diverse food scene, with stops at food markets, street vendors, and specialty restaurants in Bukit Bintang.

4. Private Hawker Center Food Tour: This tour allows you to explore the vibrant hawker centers of Chinatown and Bukit Bintang with a local guide who will show you their favorite spots for authentic Malaysian cuisine.

5. Malaysian Cooking Class: For those interested in cooking their own Malaysian dishes, this cooking class in Bukit Bintang is a must-try experience. You’ll learn how to make traditional recipes and enjoy your creations afterwards.

6. Kuala Lumpur by Night: Foodie Adventure: This evening tour takes you through the bustling streets of Bukit Bintang to try some of the best local foods while also exploring the vibrant nightlife scene of this popular district.