12 New Restaurants, Cafés and Bars in Malaysia to Try in December 2022

Kuala Lumpur has a new food and drinks collective and it's located in the Kampung Attap neighbourhood. The community consists of Triptyk, a low to zeroproof bar, run by industry mainstay Angel Ji, and Corridor, the food half of the team run by the people behind the famed Back Alley Pasta.

Expect perfectly mixed cocktails at Triptyk and well-executed Indochine grill and tapas foods at Corridor. 

Triptyk and Corridor | 88, Jalan Tuba, Kampung Attap, 50460 Kuala Lumpur | Wednesday-Friday, 5pm-10pm; Saturday-Sunday, 5pm-11pm

The team from well-known bakery Kooky Cream is now serving up breakfast and brunch at its new outlet, Kooky Plate, in the heart of Kuala Lumpur. The well-lit and fresh space is the perfect spot to kickstart your day and get in an Instagram or two. 

Apart from mains such as scallop aglio alio and beef ramen, you can grab a bite of its signature desserts and colourful drinks.

Kooky Plate | No.16, Seksyen 41, Jalan Yap Ah Shak, Chow Kit, 50300 Kuala Lumpur | Tuesday-Friday, 11am-10pm; Saturday-Sunday, 8:30am-10pm

See also: 8 Airlines With the Best In-Flight Dining

Joining the line-up at hot new location Bamboo Hills is Nok Yung, serving up delicious Thai cuisine in a breezy and bright setting. You'll find Thai classics like pad thai goong and khao pad poo (Thai crab fried rice) on the menu, developed by executive chef duo Ponsit Inpang and Somsak Polsik.

The restaurant offers private rooms, outdoor seating, and even a karaoke set-up, so it can cater to any occasion.

Nok Yung | P02-01, Taman Bukit Bambu (Bamboo Hills), Off DUKE, Taman Bamboo, 51200 Kuala Lumpur | +6017 994 7686 | Monday-Sunday, 12pm-2:30pm & 6pm-10pm

Also in Bamboo Hills, Botanica+Co opens its third outlet. Unlike its two sisters, this new flagship outlet is serving up bolder flavours with a revamped menu. The lush space is ideal to kick back in and enjoy a delicious meal amongst the greenery. 

Make sure to order one of its pastas and the scallops.

Botanica+Co at Bamboo Hills | P-09, Taman Bukit Bambu, Off Lebuhraya Duta - Ulu Kelang, Taman Bamboo, 51200 Kuala Lumpur | +6017 659 1838 | Tuesday-Friday, 12pm-4pm & 6–10pm; Saturday-Sunday, 12pm-10pm

See also: 15 Local Food Instagram Accounts to Whet Your Appetite

Serving up a contemporary Malaysian-inspired menu is UpperDeck, located in the busy and hip Petaling Street. At Upper Deck, you'll find elevated and modified dishes that are presented in imaginative ways, such as the Lemak Risotto that is inspired by our national dish, nasi lemak.

Also don't miss its cappelini with buah kulim oil and scallop carpaccio served with a coconut sauce. 

UpperDeck | 158-1, Jalan Petaling, City Centre, 50000 Kuala Lumpur | +6017 600 1581 | Tuesday-Sunday, 11am-10pm

If you're a fan of camping and cocktails, this one's for you. Rimbar KL is the city's first camping-themed bar, serving up vibrant cocktails and bar fare. Its name is a play on the words "rimba", which means "jungle' in Malay, and "bar", bringing a sense of playfulness to the Jalan Tun H.S. Lee row. 

Tables are set in tents so you'll get a sense of privacy on top of the novelty.

Rimbar KL | 198, 1st Floor, Jalan Tun H.S. Lee, City Centre, 50000 Kuala Lumpur | Sunday-Thursday, 5pm-1am; Friday-Saturday, 5pm-2am; Closed Mondays

See also: 12 Craft Beer Bars to Know in the Klang Valley

Bringing you Japanese-inspired pastas and natural wines is Taverna by The Tokyo Restaurant in The Gardens Mall. Its appetisers, such as the carpaccio and dashi tomato, are delightful and refreshing, and its pastas are equal parts satisfying and delectable. 

For your mains, include one of its two capelinnis and an order of crab tomato pasta. 

Taverna by The Tokyo Restaurant |  Level 3, Isetan, The Gardens Mall, Lingkaran Syed Putra, Mid Valley City, 59200 Kuala Lumpur | +6012 678 2563 | Thursday-Monday, 11am-3pm & 5pm-11pm

Uroko Private Dining serves elegant and refined Japanese omakase. Its minimalist and tasteful decor offers a relaxing and cosy environment to enjoy your meal in.

Despite being an omakase experience, which usually comprises morsels, servings here are generous, making each meal hearty. Don't miss its selection of sakes while there.

Uroko Private Dining | G-18, Nova Saujana, Jln Lapangan Terbang Subang Bandar, Saujana, 40150 Shah Alam | +6017 242 1218 | Tuesday-Sunday, 12pm-2:30pm & 6pm-10:30pm

Another newcomer to the local omakase landscape is Sushi Sora, which will open its doors. Located sky high at the top of Naza Tower, this incredibly exclusive restaurant by The Curate Group is only accessible by invitation or referral. 

Sushi Sora | 10, Persiaran KLCC, Kuala Lumpur City Centre, 50088 Kuala Lumpur | +6013 203 3824 | Monday-Saturday, 6pm-10:30pm

See also: 6 Omakase Experiences You Must Not Miss in Kuala Lumpur

From the coffee experts of well-known boutique roastery Beam is Good Stvff in Bandar Sri Damansara. As one would expect, the coffee here is expertly made with freshly roasted beans from its own roastery and of course, you can buy some beans to bring home. 

Good Stvff | 28, Jalan Gangsa SD5/3B, Bandar Sri Damansara, 52200 Kuala Lumpur | +6010 378 8696 | Wednesday-Monday, 10am-5pm

Get your dose of flames and char at Firewood in George Town, Penang. Its menu is filled to the brim with char-grilled meats and packed with flavours. You have to try the char-grilled aged duck breast pasta that is served with duck broth and cordyceps flower.

Make sure to pay attention to the chalkboard that lists the cuts and seafood specials available for each day, so you can get the perfect slab of steak and serving of fish for your meal. 

Firewood | 15, Jalan Masjid Kapitan Keling, 10200 George Town, Penang | +6017 989 9246 | Tuesday-Sunday 12:30pm-2pm & 5:30pm-10pm

See also: The Most Expensive Afternoon Tea Experience Is in New York City

IGNIS

Powered by wood-fire and focused on grilled foods, Ignis is a new restaurant run by Willow KL alumni, Lroy Lim. Located in the Bangsar South neighbourhood, the restaurant also doubles as a bar and serves cocktails that pair well with the grilled dishes on its menu.

Highlights include its Chitose corn with shio kombu and citrus sauce, cured lamb loin in spicy mango relish and creamy mint sauce, and s'mores constructed with Altara dark chocolate and orange marshmallows.

Ignis | G-02A, Ground Level, The Sphere, No. 1, Avenue 1, Bangsar South City, 8, Jalan Kerinchi, 59200 Kuala Lumpur | +6012 343 9566 | Monday-Thursday, 11:30am-3pm & 5:30–10pm; Friday, 11:30am-3pm & 5:30pm-11:30pm; Saturday, 11:30am-11:30pm; Sunday, 11:30am-10pm

See also: What Cocktails Do These Local Bartenders Order?

QUIN

Bukit Damansara’s latest newcomer is Quin, short for "quintet". It is part of the Tinkerman restaurant group, which is also responsible for Vintry and Proof.

Led by two female chefs called Whye Whye and Kelly, who have stints at some of the finest restaurants including Macau's Michelin-starred Robuchon au Dôme and Nobu KL under their belts, it serves modern French with touches of Asian influences. Try the five-course menu that puts the spotlight on Saint Jacques scallop with coconut leek sauce, chives and ginger as well as an aged duck breast served with cherry port sauce, sour squash, and broccolini.

Quin | Ground Floor, The Five, Jalan Dungun, Damansara Heights, Kuala Lumpur | +603 2011 0220 | Wednesday-Monday, 12pm-3pm & 6pm-11pm

JUS

Jus has just joined the F&B line-up at APW. A Lebanese-inspired bar and grill brought to you by the same people behind Atelier Binchotan and Wholly Spirits, come for the laidback vibe but stay for its hearty grilled meats such as the chicken wings on smoky muhammara and Iberico pork ribs with mala spices.

If you're looking for something special to wash them down with, we suggest either the Shokugeki or the Xiao Long Nu cocktail.

Jus | B-04, 29, Jalan Riong, APW Bangsar, 59100 Kuala Lumpur | +6012 978 2390 | Wednesday-Friday, 6pm-12am; Saturday-Sunday, 12pm-12am

See also: Meet the Man Behind Unwined KL, a Purveyor of Natural Wines in APW Bangsar

AO OMAKASE

Bringing Japanese fusion to Taman Tun Dr Ismail [TTDI] is Ao Omakase. Each omakase meal, ranging from RM388 - RM1,288, comprises elegantly executed dishes brimming fresh flavours from the Japanese seas.

Ao Omakase | Level 2, Bangunan Ahp, L-2, 2, Jalan Tun Mohd Fuad 3, Taman Tun Dr Ismail, 60000 Kuala Lumpur | +6010 508 3311 | Monday-Sunday, 11:30am-2:30pm & 6-10:30pm

See also: Are Japanese Wines Worth It?

TBC

Also new in TTDI, TBC is short for The Burger Chef. Named after its chef’s previous gig as a pop-up chef famous for his burgers, TBC serves contemporary European fare incorporated with local and international seasonal produce.

Menu highlights include Bichotan-grilled Cameron Highlands white corn with harissa butter and pecorino cheese, Tansho-grilled Australian Wagyu served with a pomme purée and Cameron Highlands vegetables, and warm uni capellini with a creamy abalone emulsion and chive oil.

TBC | 125, Jalan Aminuddin Baki, Taman Tun Dr Ismail, 60000 Kuala Lumpur | +6017 304 7851 | Tuesday-Sunday, 6pm-10:30pm

LEEN'S

Yet another new kid on the TTDI block, you might know Leen’s from its pop-up kitchen at Tiffin at the Yard. The Middle Eastern restaurant serves such must-try dishes as crispy Syrian rice, Mariah Pide, and of course, falafel.

Leen’s | 136, Jalan Burhanuddin Helmi, Taman Tun Dr Ismail, 60000 Kuala Lumpur | +6018 577 7381 | Monday-Sunday, 6pm-12am

See also: Plant-Based Burgers To Fulfil Your Fast Food Fantasies

ZEN BY MEL

From the team behind CC by Mel is Zen by Mel, a modern fusion omakase dining experience in Bukit Jalil that launched on November 1, 2022. With its sleek and minimalist interiors, Zen by Mel can only accommodate a maximum of 20 guests at one time. Heading the kitchen is Michelin-trained chef Jordan Yap whose 10-course menu serves as a terrific introduction to the restaurant's fusion concept.

Zen by Mel | F-10-01, Pusat Perdagangan Bandar, Persiaran Jalil 1, Bukit Jalil, 57000 Kuala Lumpur | Monday-Sunday, 6:30pm-10:30pm

ZUI MA TOU HOTPOT

Just a stone’s throw from Zen by Mel is Zui Ma Tou Hotpot. This futuristic hot pot restaurant is a safe bet for those craving spice and broth.

Serving a variety of fresh ingredients and hearty broths, the menu teems with signature Sichuan fare and classic hot pot must-haves. If you’re a meat and heat lover, try the Double-Beef Pepper.

Zui Ma Tou Hotpot Pavilion Bukit Jalil | Level 4 [Orange Zone], Lot 4.87.00 Pavillion Bukit Jalil, Persiaran Jalil Utama, Bandar Bukit Jalil, 57000 Kuala Lumpur | +6010 286 0805 | Monday-Sunday, 11am-10pm

See also: Guide to the Best Hot Pot Restaurants in the Klang Valley

BENANG

Tucked away in Bukit Damansara under the guise of a thread shop, Benang The Second Chapter the sister bar to The First Chapter in TTDI. Recommended cocktails include Mango Brulee, the Butterfly Effect, and the Guilty Pleasure.

Benang The Second Chapter | Jalan Medan Setia 2, Bukit Damansara, 50490 Kuala Lumpur | +6011 1400 9621 | Wednesday-Saturday, 5pm-12am

TAP TAP

Tap Tap has revealed its cave-themed bar in Hartamas. Wallet-friendly and refreshing, the cocktails—some of which available on tap—are just as stunning as its interiors. For a nostalgic night, don’t miss a glass of the Kat Chai Fizz and the Very Ong.

Tap Tap Hartamas | 76, Jalan 27/70a, Desa Sri Hartamas, 50480 Kuala Lumpur | Monday-Sunday, 12pm-2am 

See also: 6 Trendy Bars in George Town, Penang for a Cocktail

ASA

Joining the ranks of One Half, Broom and Fluffed in the Taman Paramount is Asa, which means "morning" in Japanese. Asa, Aside from trendy breakfast fare like avocado on toast, it also serves okonomiyaki fries, kimchi udon and unagi don.

Asa | 19, Jalan 20/7, Taman Paramount, 46300 Petaling Jaya, Selangor | Wednesday-Monday, 8am-5pm

FLY ME TO KL

Fly Me To KL cafe has made its way north to George Town in Penang, which fittingly dropped "KL" in its name. Reservations are required through November 10.

Fly Me To KL | Level 37, Madison Block, Regalia Serviced Apartments, No.2, Jalan Anjung Putra, Off Jalan Sultan Ismail, 50480 Kuala Lumpur

See also: 7 Best Rooftop Bars in Bangkok With Spectacular Views

BHC CHICKEN

You might have seen them in your favourite South Korean mukbang-ers’ YouTube videos. Famed for its mouth-watering crispy fried chicken, signature Bburinkle Chicken, and cheese balls, South Korean fried chicken franchise BHC has finally landed in Malaysia.

BHC Chicken | 1F-06, 8, Jalan Kiara, Mont Kiara, 50480 Kuala Lumpur | Monday-Sunday, 11am-10pm

PABLO'$

George Town’s taco hotspot has finally made the move from its airstream food truck to a brick-and-mortar location in Bishop Street. Its menu features a ton of punchy and appetising tacos, pastas, and nachos.

Don’t miss its Swim Shady tacos if you love fish tacos, the Dirty Nacho$ for some pico de gallo, and the What the Duck pasta.

Pablo’$ | 49, Bishop St, Georgetown, 10200 George Town, Penang | +6011 3383 6802 | Wednesday-Monday, 1pm-11pm

See also: A Food Lover’s Guide to George Town, Penang

RAW KITCHEN HALL, ELSE RETREATS KUALA LUMPUR

Set in the dreamy design-centric Else Kuala Lumpur boutique hotel, this modern eatery is a must for creative and comforting Latin-Asian bites. Its starter plates are the real stars here, with punchy flavours aplenty. Must-try dishes include the tuna tartare, prawn toasties and pak kra pao croquettes.

For mains, get a plate of the crab meat tagliatelle and match it with the Warung Wagyu Beef Brisket. The dishes here are meant for sharing, making it the perfect spot for celebrations or a family dinner. 

Raw Kitchen Hall | Else Retreats Kuala Lumpur, Ground Floor, 145, Jalan Tun H S Lee, City Centre, 50000 Kuala Lumpur | +6014 267 2887 | Monday-Sunday, 12pm-10pm

BURGER & LOBSTER KLCC

The famed seafood and meat restaurant lands in Kuala Lumpur this month with its first outpost in Suria KLCC. Other than its classic lobster rolls and burgers, we recommend The B&L Burger which combines the best of both worlds, marrying succulent lobster meat with scrumptious beef made even more irresistible with its tarragon and truffle sauce.

Burger & Lobster | Lot G46, Suria KLCC, Kuala Lumpur City Centre, 50088 Kuala Lumpur 

See also: What's Cooking & Brewing at Artisan's Playground by Cookhouse

POKOK LALAPORT

Known for its lush greenery, Pokok has set up shop on LaLaport's rooftop garden, marking the opening of its second outlet, the first being at Mahsa Avenue. Pop into this plant haven for a brunch with friends or a leisurely afternoon coffee.

The restaurant serves run-of-the-mill brunch fare like aglio olio, avocado toast, and steak and eggs. Don't miss its selection of pastries and desserts too, especially its range of pavlovas.

Pokok LaLaport | Lalaport BBCC, Lot L4-04C, Level 4 Mitsui Shopping Park, Jalan Hang Tuah, Bukit Bintang, 55100 Kuala Lumpur | +6016 406 5218 | Monday-Thursday, 10am-8pm; Friday-Sunday, 10am-10pm

KENNY HILLS BISTRO, FOUR SEASONS PLACE

The popular bakery chain has opened its first casual contemporary bistro, located at the Shoppes At Four Seasons Place. With a bar, an al fresco dining area facing the Petronas Twin Towers, and a spacious dining room with a view of the kitchen, Kenny Hills Bistro is proving to be great for hanging out with friends and family.

Unlike its sister outlets, the bistro's menu comprises more European-inspired fare such as spinach and ricotta-filled tortellini, charred Basque-style Spanish octopus, seared scallop ceviche, and beef wellington. 

Kenny Hills Bistro | Shoppes at Four Seasons Place, G-07 (B), Ground Floor, 145, Jln Ampang, 50450 Kuala Lumpur | +6017 230 8081 | Monday-Sunday, 10am-10pm

See also: Where to Go For Beef Wellington in the Klang Valley

NIPPORI CAFE PUBLIKA

Nippori Café has opened its second outlet in the city at Publika Shopping Gallery, specialising in Japanese home-cooked fare and other creative Asian-inspired dishes like Korean spaghetti with spicy Korean miso paste.

Nippori Café Publika | Lot 58, Level G2, Publika Shopping Gallery, 1, Jalan Dutamas 1, Solaris Dutamas, 50480 Kuala Lumpur | +6010 226 8592 | Monday-Sunday, 10am-10pm

See also: 11 Minimalist Cafés in the Klang Valley to Visit

COMMONS KL

Right across from Plaza Low Yat is Commons KL, a new food haven currently housing a handful of cafes and restaurants such as Thai seafood Aodeedee; Morning Wood, a trendy coffee hangout; and Pots and Trays, a pizza and craft beer venue. You can also bring along your furry friends to Commons KL as its outdoor seating is pet-friendly. 

Commons KL | 55, Jln Bukit Bintang, Bukit Bintang, 55100 Kuala Lumpur

See also: Un-fur-gettable: 13 Pet-Friendly Cafes in the Klang Valley

CRISPY PORK NOODLES SOUP

The name may sound generic but its offerings certainly are not. Specialising in pork dishes of Southeast Asia, standout dishes include Balinese Babi Guling that is grilled with 10 types of herbs to crispy, juicy perfection and the Thai crispy pork glass noodles in a peppery broth.

Crispy Pork Noodles Soup | Opposite Selangor Complex, 54, Jalan Sultan, City Centre, 50000 Kuala Lumpur | +6010 289 6188 | Sunday-Thursday, 11:30am-9pm; Friday, 11:30pm-9:30pm; closed on Tuesday and Saturday

A LITTLE BUD

Expanding from its initial florist space, A Little Bud bloomed in early September, expanding its offerings to include dainty pastries, aromatic coffee, and fruity artisanal teas. Located in Taman Tun Dr Ismail, its rustic and cosy space is decorated in pastel-coloured flowers.

A Little Bud | 24, Persiaran Zaaba, Taman Tun Dr Ismail, 60000 Kuala Lumpur | +6012 322 2703 | Tuesday-Friday, 11am-7pm; Saturday-Sunday, 10am-6pm

See also: 7 Coffee Trucks and Stands to Visit in the Klang Valley

LAST PROJECT

Hand roll and yaki bar Last Project is a pork-free eatery serving such comforting morsels as maki rolls, kushiyaki, rice bowls, and other sharing plates. The Wagyu Off Cut roll is among the standouts. Pair your meal here with an ice cold mug of beer or natural wine.

Last Project | 11-B1, Lorong Kurau, Bangsar, 59100 Kuala Lumpur | +6017 527 7285 | Tuesday-Sunday, 5:30pm-12am

MAILLARD GRILL

It opened a couple months ago, attracting a steady stream of diners with its expertly grilled meats, especially its specialty butter-aged steaks. Complement its signature beef wellington and steaks with tri-coloured corn, triple-cooked fries, and creamed baby spinach.

Maillard Grill | G05, Ground Floor, Republik, Jalan Medan Setia 1, Bukit Damansara, 50490 Kuala Lumpur | Tuesday-Sunday, 6pm-11:30pm

See also: 8 Tips for the Best Instagram Food Photos

ROCKAFELLERS BUKIT DAMANSARA

This new bar allows you to build your own charcuterie board with its vast selection of cheeses. Or satisfy your inner carnivore with its selection of steaks or iberico pork platters. 

Rockafellers Bukit Damansara | Block 15-G, 17-G & 19-G, Jalan Medan Setia 1, Bukit Damansara, 50490 Kuala Lumpur | +6017 761 4088 | Monday-Friday, 2pm-1am; Saturday, 10:30am-2am; Sunday, 10:30am-1am

JULIET WINE BAR

With its motto, "Great grapes and tasty plates for good mates or chill dates" in mind, this minimalist wine bar also boasts its own sommelier to guide you through its extensive list of wines.

Juliet Wine Bar | Level 1, 18A, Jalan Bangsar, Bangsar, 59100 Kuala Lumpur | +6011 1136 0168 | Wednesday-Monday, 5pm-late

See also: By the Glass: Bernice Liu, Celebrity and Wine Entrepreneur

8055 COFFEE: BEANS & EQUIPMENT

If you're looking for a new place for coffee, try 8055 Coffee: Beans & Equipment along Jalan Tun H S Lee. Apart from pour-over and filtered coffee, it also sells coffee products and beans. 

8055 Coffee: Beans & Equipment | 34, Jalan Tun H S Lee, City Centre, 50100 Kuala Lumpur | Saturday-Thursday, 11am-8pm; Friday, 11am-12:30pm & 2:30-8pm; closed Wednesday

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