Inside 7 The Exchange TRX cafés and restaurants that redefine dining by design

From the rustic staircase to the carefully curated natural elements, every detail in Amazonas contributes to a sensory experience that transports diners to the heart of South America.

Designed by Seshan Design, the restaurant and bar draws inspiration from the lush Amazonian jungle, incorporating vibrant colours and textures evoking the region’s rich flora and fauna.

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Solid merbau with bevelled edges or red clay brick veneer line the flooring for a rustic finish, while walls transition from charred solid pine wood panelling to rusted mild steel panels and granite strips. Additionally, patina textures and gold leaf effects add depth and luxury to the ambience.

At the heart of Amazonas is the custom-made Parilla Grill, embodying the essence of South American cuisine. This focal point serves as a culinary playground for Executive Chef Shaun Lazaroo and his team, who craft flavourful dishes from across Latin America, with specialties like the Guajillo roast chicken, charcoal-fried steaks, and a selection of tacos using soft corn tortillas.

Located at PL.09, Park Level

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The Paris-meets-Tokyo lifestyle brand made its debut in Kuala Lumpur with a 196 sq ft combo store that integrates French-Japanese influences with Malaysian cultural elements.

Divided into two distinct areas for Maison Kitsuné and Café Kitsuné, each with its own entrance, the café’s interior, designed by the Kitsuné in-house architect team, features notable cane weaving alongside a burnt orange ceramic wall arranged in a herringbone pattern behind the white oak wood and brushed stainless-steel bar counter.

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In the seating area, with jade green walls and vibrant green plants echoing the city’s tropical climate, patrons can savour freshly roasted Arabica beans sourced from Brazil and Guatemala with notes of chocolate and cherry. 

These can be paired with savoury pastries, eggs and chicken sandwiches, and the iconic Fox-shaped shortbread in three flavours.

Located at G.77, Ground Floor

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Matthew Lim Associates (MLA) turns towards the artistry of bagel-making when shaping an environment that is both warm and inviting for the bakery cafe and celebrates simplicity and craftsmanship.

The light beige-dominated colour palette evokes the golden hues of freshly baked artisan bagels. Mirroring the smooth exterior and intricate crumb of the baked goods, the blend of smooth and subtly textured materials used was chosen for its ability to age gracefully and develop character over time.

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The central aesthetic of curved forms and organic lines symbolises the pliability of dough in an artisan baker’s hands. These sinuous shapes create a natural fluidity within the space, fostering an atmosphere of relaxation and grounded elegance.

The seating areas are thoughtfully arranged through elegant, layered curves, forming a series of intimate nooks, communal gathering spots and relaxed lounging areas to enjoy the cafe’s fresh, high quality pastries and hand-rolled bagels.

Located at L2.70.0, L2.71.0 and L2.72.0, Second Floor

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Designed by Studio Bikin Architects, the Kenny Hills Bakers outfit at The Exchange TRX is an urban retreat blending culinary excellence with industrial charm.

Within a semi-industrial concrete structure, the timber truss ceiling creates a welcoming atmosphere while providing dynamic illumination. Beneath, a pizza oven island crafted from oxidised steel mesh anchors the space, its surrounding ceiling doubling as shelving for woodfire logs.

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Meanwhile, visible through a glazed frontage, the bakery showcases the in-house baking process, enticing passersby with fresh goods.

Upstairs, a green marbled coffee bar maintains similar materiality, where the aroma of freshly brewed coffee wafts to the alfresco dining terrace with views of the park through a veil of greenery, providing both shade and privacy.

Located at PL.04, PL.05 and PL.06, Park Level

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Drawing inspiration from French Baroque artist Diego Velázquez’s iconic 1656 masterpiece of the same name, Las Meninas captures the essence of a bustling Barcelona tapas bar, with an interior design that celebrates the vibrant Spanish heritage.

A nod to the country’s national colour, dominant red hues create an energetic ambiance throughout the space, balanced masterfully with the warmth of mahogany wood accents on walls, ceilings and furnishing.

This results in an inviting and intimate social sanctuary where conversation flows as freely as the refreshing Sangria De La Casa served in the premise, alongside signature dishes like Gambas Al Ajillo (sizzling garlic prawns) and Croquetas Mushroom (creamy mushroom croquettes), and the must-try Paella de Marisco (seafood paella).

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The crown jewel of Las Meninas is the captivating mural behind the bar—a stunning visual narrative that embodies the love, longing and vibrant spirit intrinsic to Spanish culture. 

It features two flamenco dancers, whose passionate movements are captured in vivid reds and warm tones, amidst a backdrop adorned with roses that adds a touch of romance and depth to the composition.

Located at L2T.07 and L2T.07E, Dining Terrace, Second Floor

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Inspired by the Los Angeles-established brand’s bean-to-cup philosophy, Reborn Coffee’s outlet at The Exchange TRX fuses bold sophistication with comfort.

Designed by Studio Bikin Architects, the pièce de résistance is a coffee bar with a long, curved stainless steel ceiling that draws attention to an edgy yet balanced setting, contrasting with warm terracotta and walnut tones.

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Soft ambient lighting illuminates a carefully curated palette of materials—glass blocks, leather, and stone, counterbalancing the custom-designed walnut furniture that provides natural warmth and enhanced functionality.

Patrons can nestle into comfortable dining areas or take a seat at the bar while savouring Reborn Coffee’s array of artisanal coffee and tea, paired with panini sandwiches and toasted bagel sandwiches.

Located at L2.62, Second Floor

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