The best contemporary European and fusion restaurants in the city centre, according to Tatler Best 2025

At Fritz, European cuisine is redone in the heart of KL, against the backdrop of the city skyline. Elegance is prominent in everything from the menu to the decor, as well as in the intricacy of their dishes. Chef Christian Bauer is the co-founder and the executive chef of Troika Sky Dining, with many of KL’s favourite restaurants under his belt. With Bauer’s keen eye for detail, Fritz presents dishes such as the Poulet Grand Mere, Tournedos Rossini, and Crème Brûlée Glace Flambee.

With meticulous attention to detail, Hide KL is known for its sophisticated and inventive contemporary dishes. Chef-owner Shaun Ng’s identity is present on every plate, and his young yet well-trained team, which includes chef de cuisine Eason Cho, is personable and energetic. Raising the fine dining scene to greater heights, Hide KL has remained one of the city’s most elegant restaurants with its minimalist interior dominated by a single, marble counter that seats just 10. The progressive restaurant, one of the best in town, is ideal for impressing on special occasions and ensures a memorable experience with the seafood-focused tasting menu. 

Known for its innovative approach to European cuisine, Molina serves a five to seven-course tasting menu that shines a light on fresh vegetables and seafood. Located in the heart of the city, Molina is helmed by renowned chef-owner Sidney Schutte. Elegant dishes such as the cream of caramelised sunchoke with Brussels sprouts and sea urchin as well as the glazed sepia (cuttlefish) with marinated blueberry topped with goat cheese have quickly made Molina the restaurant to turn to for one of the most impressive dining experiences in town. 

Parked in The Troika, home to many other wonderful dining offerings, Mr Chew’s Chino Latino Bar is an amalgamation of extensive travels around the world. Honing in on the spirit of adventure, they aim to create a fun, youthful environment with a playful menu to entice all. Their inventive fusion menu blends textures and flavours across cultures, including unmissable items like the Salmon Nori Taco, Barbacoa Bun, and souble-cooked lamb ribs. 

An unexpected fusion of Spain and Japan, Palillos brings the vibrant energy of a Spanish tapas bar to the artistry of Japanese yakitori. This intimate hideaway specialises in skewers cooked over binchotan charcoal, unlocking deep, charred flavours with every bite. Signature dishes like Iberico pork ribs, ox tongue, and shishito peppers wrapped in bacon strike the perfect balance of savory and umami-rich notes. A carefully curated selection of saké, Spanish wines, and artisanal cocktails round out the experience, making Palillos a one-of-a-kind dining destination where East meets West over the grill.

Comfort food that pays homage to European cuisine takes centrestage at Peaches & Cream. In this contemporary brasserie focused on feel-good fare, dining experiences uncover the well-loved classics and lesser known dishes of France, Italy, Spain, and the British Isles. Its menus change with the seasons, bringing traditional flavours to life with contemporary flair in soulful dishes designed to be shared. 

On the first floor of a charming three-story building laden with history in Chinatown is Pickle Dining, an intimate eatery that shines a light on local produce and age-old techniques like smoking, curing, and open-fire cooking. Helmed by Danial Thorlby, the restaurant offers a curated “Feed Me” menu that is fun, affordable, and rooted in sustainability. Try the Sunchoke Espuma, a nutty and luxurious dish of Jerusalem artichokes with pear compote, as well as the Cinnamon Beignet, an indulgent dessert served with honey sourced from local beekeepers. 

A vibrant meeting point of Asian and Latin influences, Raw brings bold flavours and lively energy to the heart of Else, a boutique hotel in Kuala Lumpur. The menu is an ever-evolving showcase of refined yet comforting dishes, where global inspirations blend seamlessly with thoughtful techniques. From brunch through dinner, each plate is crafted to spark conversation, best paired with modern-classic cocktails and a curated selection of natural wines. Whether for an intimate date night or a lively gathering, Raw Kitchen Hall offers a dynamic space where food, music, and great company come together in perfect harmony.

Perched atop EQ Kuala Lumpur, Sabayon offers a fine dining experience that matches its breathtaking skyline views. Led by a talented Malaysian culinary team, the restaurant presents exquisitely crafted degustation menus that highlight seasonal ingredients sourced from around the world. Each dish is a showcase of artistry, where refined European techniques meet the best of local produce. A curated wine selection, expertly paired by sommeliers, enhances the experience, while private dining options cater to special occasions. Whether indulging in the signature Sunday Sky Brunch or an intimate dinner, Sabayon promises an elevated dining journey in an elegant, contemporary setting.

Since 2015, Skillet KL has been delivering contemporary European cuisine in the heart of Kuala Lumpur. Seasonal European and locally sourced ingredients take precedence here, with each incarnation of the restaurant’s menu evolving to reflect the bounty of every season. Dishes here are crafted with precision yet do not shy away from experimental and unfamiliar flavour profiles to challenge convention when it comes to refined cuisine. 

A fusion of Peruvian-Japanese cuisine is the driving force behind this vibrant gastronomic hub. The culinary mastermind behind Torito is chef Ivan Casusol, who hails from Lima, Peru. His passion for cooking is inspired by the women in his family, and he took that passion to Southeast Asia where he honed his skills. Torito is paying homage to Torito de Pucará, a beloved symbol of prosperity and protection from the Andean highlands. Try their signature dish the Stone Ceviche, that combines barramundi, prawn, squid, and scallop served on a hot stone to amplify its natural flavours. 

Yellow Fin Horse brings a refreshing take on Middle Eastern-inspired dining to the city centre, pairing bold flavours with a sleek, inviting space. Meals here begin with an enticing selection of dips, from labneh layered with sweet strawberries to smoky babaganoush infused with curry leaf oil—perfect for tearing into with pillowy challah and warm flatbread. For mains, the tender beef cheek skewers with crispy quinoa are a standout, especially when paired with the balsamic tomato pide. The restaurant’s recent redesign has introduced a relaxing lounge area, making it just as tempting to linger over post-dinner cocktails and desserts as it is to savour the meal itself.