1. What are some popular local dining options in Petaling Jaya?
Some popular local dining options in Petaling Jaya include:
1. SS2 Hawker Center – a bustling hawker center known for its wide variety of affordable Malaysian street food.
2. Aunty Christina’s Sarawak Laksa – famous for their flavorful Sarawak laksa made with seafood and spices.
3. MyBurgerLab – a trendy burger joint that offers delicious gourmet burgers with unique flavors.
4. PappaRich – a popular chain restaurant serving authentic Malaysian cuisine, from roti canai to nasi lemak.
5. Restoran Selvam – an Indian restaurant known for their banana leaf rice, tandoori chicken and biryani.
6. Kanna Curry House – another well-known spot for Indian cuisine, particularly their banana leaf rice and fish head curry.
7. Village Park Restaurant – a must-visit spot for locals and tourists alike, known for their famous nasi lemak and fried chicken.
8. Fisherman’s Cove Seafood Restaurant – a seafood restaurant that serves fresh catch of the day cooked in various styles.
9. Caffe Bene – a Korean-inspired café offering bingsu (shaved ice with toppings), coffee, and waffles.
10. Menya Zenmai Ramen Bar – a cozy ramen bar offering delicious bowls of ramen with various toppings and broths to choose from.
2. Are there any must-try local dishes in Petaling Jaya?
Some must-try local dishes in Petaling Jaya include Nasi Lemak, Char Kuey Teow, Roti Canai, Satay, Bak Kut Teh, and Banana Leaf Rice.
3. Can you recommend a good place for seafood in Petaling Jaya?
There are plenty of seafood restaurants in Petaling Jaya, so it ultimately depends on your personal taste and budget. However, some popular options among locals include:1. Fatty Crab – famous for its delicious and messy chili crab
2. Pantai Seafood Restaurant – known for its fresh and affordable seafood dishes
3. The Ocean Green Seafood Restaurant – offers a variety of seafood options cooked Chinese-style
4. Shell Out – a casual dining spot where you can enjoy fresh shellfish boiled in hot bags of herbs and spices
5. Soul Fish Seafood Restaurant – specializes in traditional Chinese-style steamed fish dishes
4. How is the street food scene in Petaling Jaya?
The street food scene in Petaling Jaya is vibrant and diverse, with a wide range of local and international cuisines available. There are many street food stalls and hawkers operating along main roads, night markets, and food courts. Some popular street food options in Petaling Jaya include satay (grilled meat skewers), nasi lemak (coconut rice dish), char kuey teow (stir-fried noodles), roti canai (flaky flatbread served with curry), and cendol (shaved ice dessert). The variety of street food in Petaling Jaya reflects the multicultural society of Malaysia, making it a food haven for locals and tourists alike.
5. Is there a particular night market or food center that’s worth visiting for its local food offerings?
One highly recommended night market for its local food offerings is the Chinatown Night Market in Singapore. This outdoor street market is known for its diverse array of authentic Chinese and Asian street food, including satay, dumplings, noodles, and exotic fruits. It’s a great place to sample various dishes at affordable prices and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of bustling stalls, street performers, and local entertainment.
6. Where can one find the best traditional Malay dishes in Petaling Jaya?
The best place to find traditional Malay dishes in Petaling Jaya would be at local Malay restaurants or authentic street food stalls. Some popular locations include:
– The famous Jalan Alor food street in the Bukit Bintang area, where there are many stalls serving traditional Malaysian dishes
– Restoran Rebung Chef Ismail, a famous restaurant known for its authentic and high-quality Malay cuisine
– Kampung Baru, a traditional Malay village in the heart of Kuala Lumpur that has various roadside stalls and restaurants offering delicious Malaysian dishes
– Gerai Makanan & Minuman Saudagar on Jalan University, a popular eatery for its delicious nasi lemak and other traditional Malay dishes.
7. Are there any fusion restaurants that combine local and international flavors in Petaling Jaya?
1. The Good Batch – Offers a unique fusion of Australian and Asian flavors in their dishes.2. Kedai Kopi Kaiju – A cozy cafe that serves a mix of local Malaysian favorites with Japanese influences.
3. Strangers at 47 – A charming cafe that serves delicious fusion cuisine with a twist of Malaysian flavors.
4. Teo Chew Meng Restaurant – A popular spot for Thai–Chinese fusion dishes in Petaling Jaya.
5. Yeast Bistronomy – A modern European bistro that infuses local flavors into its dishes.
6. Anne Elizabeth – A contemporary American restaurant that incorporates Malaysian ingredients and techniques in its menu.
7. Food Garage PJ – This hidden gem offers a creative fusion of Western and Asian dishes, including good ol’ burgers with a local twist.
8. What are some unique restaurants or cafes with a strong local identity in Petaling Jaya?
1. Wooden Restaurant
2. Ali, Muthu & Ah Hock Eatery
3. Limapulo: Baba Can Cook
4. Chui Ling Dim Sum
5. The Gastro Project
6. Bumbu Bali Restaurant
7. Food Foundry
8. Rendez-vous Bar & Bistro
9. Fat Butter Cafe
10. Cheero’s Café PJ Trade Centre
9. Are there any vegetarian or vegan-friendly options available at local restaurants in Petaling Jaya?
Yes, there are several restaurants in Petaling Jaya that offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly options on their menu. Some popular options include:
1. Simple Life – a Malaysian restaurant that serves vegetarian and vegan dishes made with organic ingredients.
2. Beyond Veggie by Secret Recipe – a chain restaurant offering a variety of vegetarian and vegan options.
3. RGB & The Bean Hive – a cafe serving vegan and vegetarian food made with locally sourced ingredients.
4. Sala Vegan Restaurant – a Chinese-style vegan restaurant with a menu featuring dishes like soy protein rendang and vegetable curry.
5. Aenon Health Kitchen – a health food restaurant specializing in vegetarian and vegan options, including salads, soups, and sandwiches.
6. Original Vegetarian Restaurant – an all-vegetarian Taiwanese restaurant known for its mock meat dishes.
7. Kind Kones – an ice cream shop offering dairy-free, plant-based ice cream made from natural ingredients.
8. Loving Cafe – a Japanese-inspired cafe serving vegetarian and vegan sushi rolls, ramen, and rice bowls.
9. Pink Sage – a trendy cafe offering healthy options for vegetarians and vegans, including smoothie bowls, salads, and sandwiches.
These are just some of the many restaurants in Petaling Jaya that cater to vegetarians and vegans. It is always advisable to check the menu beforehand or inform the staff about your dietary restrictions to ensure that you have sufficient options available to you.
10. Are there any rooftop bars or restaurants with great views of the city’s skyline while enjoying local cuisine?
1. Skye Bar & Restaurant at Hotel Indonesia Kempinski Jakarta2. Lara Djonggrang at Jalan Cikini Raya No. 4, Central Jakarta
3. Henshin at The Westin Jakarta, Jl. HR Rasuna Said Kav C-22, South Jakarta
4. Cloud Lounge & Living Room at The Plaza Office Tower, Jl. MH Thamrin Kav 28-30, Central Jakarta
5. Le Meridien Rooftop Lounge at Le Meridien Jakarta, Jl Sudirman Kav 18-20, South Jakarta
6. Altitude Grill at The Plaza Office Tower Lt 46, Lift Lobby Zone B, Central Jakarta
7. Loewy Altitude at The Plaza Office Tower Lt 46 Lift Lobby Zone B and Altitude Retail zone Jalan MH Thamrin Kav S28-30 – Level 41
8. K22 Bar and Restaurant at Kosenda Hotel, JlKH Wahid Hasyim No 127, Central Jakarta
9. SKYE Garden in Menara BCA
Note: As of January 2021, some of these restaurants may be temporarily closed or operating with restricted hours due to COVID-19 restrictions in Jakarta. It is recommended to check the official websites or social media pages of these establishments for updated information before planning a visit.
11. Is it safe to try street food vendors or should I stick to established restaurants for hygiene purposes?
It is generally safer to stick to established restaurants for hygiene purposes. Street food vendors may not always have access to proper storage and hygiene facilities, so there is a slightly higher risk of foodborne illness. That being said, it is always a good idea to use your best judgement and observe the cleanliness of the vendor and their cooking area before making a decision.
12. Can you recommend a good spot for a traditional Malaysian breakfast in Petaling Jaya?
One popular spot for a traditional Malaysian breakfast in Petaling Jaya is Restoran Nasi Lemak Saleha. They are known for their flavorful nasi lemak and other classic breakfast dishes such as roti canai, kaya toast, and mee goreng. The restaurant has a casual atmosphere and is often filled with locals enjoying their morning meal.
13. What are some popular desserts or snacks to try in Petaling Jaya?
1. Cendol – a popular dessert made with shaved ice, coconut milk, palm sugar, and green rice flour jelly.
2. Pisang Goreng – fried banana fritters often served with a drizzle of sweetened condensed milk.
3. Apam Balik – a crispy, pancake-like snack filled with sweet corn, crushed peanuts, and sugar.
4. Ice Kacang – also known as ABC (Ais Batu Campur), this colorful shaved ice dessert is topped with various syrups, fruits, and beans.
5. Kuih lapis – a layered steamed cake made from tapioca flour and coconut milk.
6. Curry Puffs – flaky pastry filled with spicy potato and chicken or sardines.
7. Roti canai – flaky Malaysian flatbread served with a variety of savory or sweet dips such as curry or condensed milk.
8. Bubur Cha Cha – a traditional Nyonya dessert consisting of sweet potatoes, yams, tapioca pearls, and coconut milk in a thick soup.
9. Popiah – soft spring rolls filled with stir-fried vegetables and minced meat or shrimp.
10. Nasi Lemak – fragrant rice cooked in coconut milk and pandan leaves, usually served with fried anchovies, peanuts, cucumber slices, sambal chili paste, and hard-boiled eggs.
14. Are there any dining options that cater to specific dietary restrictions, such as halal or gluten-free, in Petaling Jaya?
Yes, there are a variety of dining options in Petaling Jaya that cater to specific dietary restrictions, such as halal and gluten-free. Some examples include:
1. Nando’s – This popular chain restaurant offers halal-certified grilled chicken dishes and also has gluten-free options.
2. PappaRich – A Malaysian franchise known for its traditional dishes, they have a halal menu and offer gluten-free options upon request.
3. Salad Atelier – This salad bar offers vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options with customizable salads.
4. La Juiceria Superfoods – A health-conscious café that offers a wide range of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options on their menu.
5. Rebels Brasserie – This restaurant serves modern European cuisine with halal-certified options available.
6. Yoshinoya – A Japanese fast-food chain with a halal menu option for their beef bowl dish.
7. Real Food Mont Kiara – This vegetarian restaurant uses organic and plant-based ingredients in their dishes and also offers gluten-free options.
8. Omakase + Appreciate – A speakeasy bar that specializes in cocktails made with locally-sourced ingredients including vegetarian and gluten-free options.
9. Garage51 – Known for its novelty milkshakes, this café also has a halal menu and offers some gluten-free options as well.
10.Digi Chicken Delight TTDI – A popular South Indian Muslim restaurant known for its biryani rice served in banana leaves catering to both halal and vegetarians
11.Samira by Asian Terrace – Serves authentic Thai cuisine with halal certified ingredients also offering vegetarian & Gluten free dishes
12.Basket Brothers – Serves delicious burgers using only preservative free meat which are priced at RM14 above catering to Halal consumers only
13.Ultimate Circle KL – Offers a Korean BBQ experience like no other where all meats are served Australian free-range and Organic chicken spent raised in a friendly environment catering to Halal consumers
14.Carey Island Seafood Restaurant – Specializes in serving fresh seafood where dishes order are to be shared as family style with no pork but only available for Muslims.
15. Is there a particular neighborhood known for its diverse range of dining options in Petaling Jaya?
The neighborhood of Damansara Utama, also known as SS2, is renowned for its diverse range of dining options. It has a large selection of restaurants and cafes serving a variety of cuisines such as Chinese, Malay, Indian, Western, Japanese, Korean, and more. This area is popular among foodies and is often called the “foodie haven” of Petaling Jaya.
16. Can you suggest a good place for authentic Chinese cuisine in Petaling Jaya?
One popular place for authentic Chinese cuisine in Petaling Jaya is Restoran Peng Heong Hakka Paikut in Section 17. They specialize in Hakka-style cooking and their pork ribs dish is highly recommended. Another option is Canton Kitchen at Sunway Mentari, which offers a wide range of Cantonese dishes and dim sum. For Szechuan cuisine, visit Restoran Sze Chuan Pandan Jaya for their spicy and flavorful dishes.
17. Are there any Michelin-starred restaurants or high-end dining experiences available in Petaling Jaya’s local food scene?
Yes, there are several Michelin-starred restaurants and high-end dining experiences available in Petaling Jaya’s local food scene. Some popular options include:– Babe: Gastrobar run by celebrity chef Jeff Ramsey, serving modern Japanese cuisine with a creative twist.
– Nadodi: Michelin-starred restaurant offering innovative and refined interpretations of South Indian cuisine.
– Entier French Dining: French fine dining restaurant known for its seasonal menus featuring locally-sourced ingredients.
– Dewakan: Contemporary Malaysian restaurant that has been named one of Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants.
– Cilantro Restaurant & Wine Bar: Award-winning restaurant offering modern European cuisine and an extensive selection of wines.
These restaurants may be pricier compared to other local food options in Petaling Jaya, but they offer a unique and elevated dining experience. It is recommended to make reservations in advance, as these restaurants tend to be popular among both locals and tourists.
18.Speaking of drinks, where can I go to try some locally-brewed beers or spirits?
You can try visiting a local brewery or distillery. Some popular options in San Francisco include Anchor Brewing, Speakeasy Ales & Lagers, and Seven Stills. You can also check out bars and restaurants that specialize in craft beers and cocktails made with local spirits, such as Bar Agricole, Comstock Saloon, and Novela.
19.Can you suggest a good cooking class where visitors can learn how to make traditional Malaysian dishes?
One good option is the Cookery Instructors Club (CIC), located in Kuala Lumpur. They offer hands-on cooking classes that cover a range of traditional Malaysian dishes, such as nasi lemak, satay, and rendang. The classes are taught by experienced local instructors who will not only teach you how to cook these dishes but also provide insights into the culture and history behind the cuisine. Additionally, CIC offers a variety of time slots and customizable classes to suit different schedules and preferences.
20.Are there any hidden gems or lesser-known spots for amazing local food in Petaling Jaya?
1. Medan Selera PJ Old Town – This food court in PJ Old Town is a popular spot for local hawker fare such as assam laksa, nasi lemak, and rojak.
2. Sin Kee Restaurant, Section 17 – A family-owned Chinese restaurant that serves up delicious and affordable dishes like Hokkien mee and steamed fish.
3. Wai Kei Claypot Chicken Rice, Taman Mayang Jaya – This hidden gem is known for their claypot chicken rice, served with a generous amount of savoury sauce and tender chicken.
4. Skippy’s Pizza & Pasta Café, Section 16 – A cozy Italian restaurant that offers wood-fired pizzas and homemade pastas at affordable prices.
5. Zheng Cookhouse, SS2 Mall – This eatery specializes in Hakka cuisine and serves up authentic dishes like abacus seeds (yam gnocchi) and tin gai (braised pork belly).
6. Gerai Makan Japanese BBQ Tepanyaki & Noodle House, Taman SEA – Affordable Japanese barbecue dishes cooked right in front of you on a flat-top grill.
7. Crabs Unlimited Seafood Restaurant & Bar, Sea Park – Known for their delicious seafood dishes like butter crab and spicy salted egg yolk squid.
8. The Humble Pie Co., Damansara Perdana – A quaint bakery that serves up some of the best pies in town including sweet options like apple crumble pie and savory options like shepherd’s pie.
9. Warung Pak Din Satay Power, Taman Tun Dr Ismail – A casual outdoor eatery specializing in satay skewers made from succulent chicken or beef.
10. Little Korea BBQ Buffet, Kelana Jaya – A popular spot for endless Korean-style barbecue where diners get to grill their own meat at their table.