Tatler Dining Guide 2024: The best contemporary Asian restaurants in Malaysia

Step into Bol and immerse yourself in the restaurant’s design, which is a beautiful, modern interpretation of a traditional Peranakan house. The menu also mirrors the interior of the restaurant, with familiar yet intriguing modern Asian creations with Nyonya influence. Pair a meal here with the selection of cocktails which complements the experience.

Communal Table by Gen 根 showcases Malaysian food culture and produce through strong, funky, zesty flavours. It executes its fine-casual food well and is good value for money. Must-try dishes include the pork collar skewer, crudités, and Bidor duck. The restaurant has a great team atmosphere with an open kitchen, and the staff are knowledgeable and hospitable.

Local ingredients and sustainability are at the forefront of Ember’s operations. Dishes are consistent, and signatures include the smoked beef tartare, the two-week-dry aged duck breast with seasonal vegetables, and the coconut kerisik ice cream with kuih and bunga kantan.

Ember Beach Club is known for its Asian-inspired barbecue offerings. Signature dishes include the cured hamachi with coconut ash, the torched cassava cake with kaya ice cream and wax apple, and the signature confit chicken, the latter of which is accompanied with sago, kailan, and rich percik-style sauce.

Fun and unique, modern East-Asian izakaya Shhhbuuuleee is helmed by head chef and co-founder Mui Kai Quan. With a relaxed ambience and great, progressive sharing dishes, the restaurant also has a good range of sake, highballs, and wines. Try the duck breasts brined in a Chinese herbal tea as well as the oolong ice cream served with winter melon cooked in a tea broth.