Newly Opened Restaurants & Cafés in KL This December 2023
Kuala Lumpur/ Delish/ Happenings

Newly Opened Restaurants and Coffee Shops in Kuala Lumpur in December 2023

Newly Opened Restaurants and Coffee Shops in Kuala Lumpur in December 2023 Photo by Instagram/Ora Dining

Discovering new flavours in Kuala Lumpur is always a fulfilling experience. If you’re on the lookout for fresh food spots this December, you’re in for a treat as The Beat Asia has explored the city for hidden gems and newly opened restaurants to add to your next food adventure. Whether you're in the mood for authentic Malaysian delicacies, want to sample international cuisines, or craving caffeinated drinks and delectable pastries, these dining places will make your boiling bellies happy!

Ora Dining

Welcome the month of December by indulging in European cuisine at Ora Dining. Situated in the heart of Lorong Datuk Sulaiman 7, this newly opened restaurant takes pride in its delicious handmade pasta selections, mouthwatering grilled dishes, and tasty appetisers and desserts.

For starters, order the flavourful Wagyu Beef Tartare with Crumpets (RM58) or the buttery Cured Salmon (RM58). Feeling adventurous? Try out the Grilled Seabass with Scallops (RM135). As for desserts, order the chocolatey Black Forest Tiramisu (RM38) or the sugary Vanilla Miso Parfait (RM28). Peep the menu here. For reservations, click here.

Location: Ora Dining, 29, Lorong Datuk Sulaiman 7, Taman Tun Dr Ismail, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia 60000

Plump Opens Second Outlet in KL

‘Tis the season to rejoice as Plump opens its second branch in Kuala Lumpur! Nestled in Taman Tun Dr Ismail, this fresh outlet serves the same delectable offerings that captured the hearts of coffee lovers throughout the years.

If you’re craving a classic cup of joe, order the aromatic Long Black (RM10). Want to try something different? Get the roasted Hojicha Latte (RM15). Non-caffeinated drinks, such as the sweet Strawberry Soda (RM18) and the healthy Freshly Squeeze Orange Juice (RM12), are also available for non-coffee drinkers to enjoy. For more options, click this link.

Location: Plump, 29-1 First Floor, Lorong Datuk Sulaiman 7, Taman Tun Dr Ismail, Kuala Lumpur 60000

Minus Plus Coffee

Perfect for social gatherings and intimate events, Minus Plus Coffee is the newest hip café to tap into Malaysia's hankering for coffee. The shop’s extensive menu features a variety of beverages, including the iced Seasalt Genmaicha Latte (RM14) and the tangy Yuzu Expresso Delight (RM16). Customers who can’t drink coffee without sweets will be happy to know that the establishment serves pastries like the fluffy Houjicha Choux (RM9). Check the full menu here.

Location: Minus Plus Coffee, 82-B, Jalan Radin Anum 1, Bandar Baru Sri Petaling Taste Buds Solutions PLT, Kuala Lumpur

Terra Dining Hits KL

On the hunt for a swanky restaurant to treat your family this December? Look no further than Terra Dining. Under the helm of Chef Chong Yu Cheng, this newly minted restaurant offers a specially crafted tasting menu that consists of the tasty Tiger Prawn, the protein-filled Duck Breast, and the flavorful Masala Chai Mung Bean Cake, to name a few. The best part? The restaurant uses only organic ingredients, ensuring that every plate served is fresh and healthy even for the pickiest eater. Price is RM398+ per pax.

Location: Terra Dining, 91, Jalan Aminuddin Baki, TTDI, Kuala Lumpur 60000

Butter Kaya Kopitiam

Situated on Petaling Street, Butter Kaya Kopitiam is a recently established coffee shop that caters to both tourists and the working community of Kuala Lumpur. Operating from 8 AM-4 PM daily, this café serves flavourful coffees crafted using top-quality Robusta and Liberica beans. If you’re dropping by, order the Signature Kopi, a modern Malaysian drink that has a rich aroma and smooth taste.

Location: Butter Kaya Kopitiam, 64-66-68, Jalan Petaling, City Centre, W.P Kuala Lumpur 50000

Valentina

Fancy Italian food? Book a table at Valentina. Dedicated to preserving the essence of traditional South Italian cuisine, the recently launched high-end dining establishment offers an extensive array of pasta dishes, including the tangy Ravioli del Pastore (RM63) and the rich Linguine al Pesto (RM55). Valentina also serves Napoli-style pizzas, such as the mozzarella-filled Margherita (RM39), the nutty Focaccia al Rosmarino (RM25), and more. For reservations, call +012 679 3860.

Location: Valentina, Rooftop (Level R), M-1, Pusat Perdagangan Bandar, Persiaran Jalil 1, Bukit Jalil, 57000 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur

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Kuala Lumpur/ Delish/ Happenings
Ministry of Crab Makes Debut in Kuala Lumpur
Untitled design 2025 02 07 T112829 033 Photo by Ministry of Crab/Website

Calling all seafood lovers and culinary adventurers — brace yourselves! The world-famous Ministry of Crab, celebrated as one of Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants, is setting its claws in Kuala Lumpur.

If you’ve been dreaming of succulent mud crabs, juicy freshwater prawns, and a dining experience that’s nothing short of legendary, your wait is almost over!

Nestled in the heart of Lalaport BBCC’s chic lifestyle hubTUAH 1895, Ministry of Crab promises to bring its A-game to KL, after a smashing debut in Singapore last July

Debut KL
Instagram/Ministry of Crab Kuala Lumpur

Ministry of Crab was born in 2011 as a tribute to Sri Lanka’s legendary seafood, combining Japanese, Sri Lankan, and Mediterranean influences. Co-founded by self-taught chef Dharshan Munidasa and cricket icons Mahela Jayawardena and Kumar Sangakkara, this restaurant has caught the attention of seafood lovers around the globe

Known for their colossal mud crabs that weigh from 500 g up to 2 kg, including their jaw-dropping Crabzilla mud crab, among other signatures paired with a symphony of flavors, such as the Dashi-based Pepper Crab to the fiery Garlic Chilli Crab, every dish will have you licking your fingers and begging for more.

crab
Website/Ministry of Crab

With locations in Colombo, Singapore, Bangkok, Shanghai, and beyond, Kuala Lumpur is the latest gem in their crown, a win for foodies and seafood enthusiasts alike.

Location: Ministry of Crab, GF-03 M-02, TUAH 1895, 2, Jln Hang Tuah, Bukit Bintang, 55100 Kuala Lumpur 

Opening Hours: Daily, from 5.30 PM to 10:30 PM

For more updates on the Ministry of Crab, visit their website, or go to their Facebook and Instagram

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Kuala Lumpur/ Nomads/ Explore
The TUAH 1895 is Kuala Lumpur’s Newest Lifestyle Spot
20250128 TUAH Photo by TUAH 1895

This is the spot you should be heading to if you’re on the lookout for the hottest places in town.

The TUAH 1895, a new lifestyle and dining hub just opened at the former site of the former Bukit Bintang City Centre (BBCC) sales gallery last Jan. 24, 2025. Nestled along Jalan Hang Tuah and at 45,000 square feet, the TUAH 1895 houses two levels of culinary and lifestyle delights, including a fountain plaza, mezzanine floor, and basement parking.

“The opening of TUAH 1895 aligns with BBCC’s vision of becoming a dynamic urban hub. TUAH 1895 is more than just a place to dine, it is a space where people come together to enjoy exceptional food, connect with one another, and experience the vibrant energy of Kuala Lumpur. This opening is a significant milestone as BBCC continues to redefine urban living and lifestyle,” said BBCC Development Sdn Bhd CEO Sri Ram Sivasambu.

Here are the places you should check out when you’re at TUAH 1895:

Ministry of Crab (Halal)

The Ministry of Crab Kuala Lumpur serves Sri Lankan seafood royalty and is part of Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants List. Experience an unforgettable dining experience with a taste of the finest mud crabs and freshwater prawns paired with Japanese culinary philosophies and iconic recipes.

AS I AM (Halal)

Created by Michelin-starred Chef Ton, AS I AM is where modern Thai cuisine meets vibrant entertainment. Expect to be taken on a culinary journey with innovative dishes inspired by traditional Thai recipes paired with a vibrant dining ambiance.

The restaurant is set to open in April 2025.

Ting Shan (Non-halal)

Savor Chuan Yue cuisine in Ting Shan, with delicacies like dim sum, handcrafted noodles, and their signature 42-day farm-raised Peking Duck on the menu. Celebrate exquisite Chinese gastronomy with your loved ones in a lively dining atmosphere.

Chef Kecik (Halal)

This boulangerie offers delectable pastries and an all-dining experience with pasta, sandwiches, and Shakshuka worth trying out. It’s signature charm? The café’s entrance keeps the historic Pudu Jail main entrance.

Hock Kee Kopitiam (Halal)

Top local eatery Hock Kee Kopitiam is what you’re in for if you’re looking for a taste of home. Their signature dish? The Nasi Lemak Banjir.

Pak Tok Signature (Pork-Free)

A fresh spin on Malaysian comfort food and Nyonya cuisine, Pak Tok offers a rich dining experience with a variety of local dishes. They focus on high-quality ingredients that enhance the authentic flavors of the dish.

Crafty’s Bar & Lounge

The newest must-visit rooftop bar at TUAH 1895, Crafty’s Bar & Lounge has a chic and relaxed ambiance catering to intimate evenings, lively gatherings, and private events. You’re in for a treat if you’re looking for the perfect blend of craft, culture, and breathtaking views.

MORPH by Kamileon

A boutique fitness studio and the go-to place for HYROX race training and functional fitness in Kuala Lumpur. It’s equipped with everything you’ll need for your next race or to just level up your fitness game.

TUAH 1895 @ Bukit Bintang City Centre is more than just a destination; it’s a whole lifestyle! Don’t miss out on the vibes and follow the TUAH 1895 @ Bukit Bintang City Centre on their Facebook and Instagram pages. For more updates, check out their website.

Location: PLAZA TUAH 1895, No. 2, Jalan Hang Tuah, Bukit Bintang, 55100 Kuala Lumpur

Opening Hours: 10 AM to 10 PM (Monday to Friday), 10 AM to 12 AM (Saturday to Sunday)

Public Transport: Hang Tuah Station (Monorail and LRT), Merdeka Station (MRT)

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Kuala Lumpur/ Delish/ Happenings
Gordon Ramsay Bar & Grill Embraces Prosperity with Chinese New Year Menu
20250121 Gordon Ramsay CNY Photo by Gordon Ramsay Bar & Grill/Website

The Gordon Ramsay Bar & Grill at Sunway Resort makes its foray into the flavorful world of Chinese-Western cuisine fusion with their 2025 Chinese New Year menu. The menu is offered for a limited-time period from Jan. 17 to Feb. 12, 2025, made for an intimate group of up to four people.

Here is what you can expect from this exciting and inviting new offer from the Gordon Ramsay Bar & Grill at Sunway Resort:

An Exclusive Lunar Celebration at the Gordon Ramsay Bar & Grill

The Chinese New Year menu uses classic ingredients with sophisticated techniques. The core of the menu is the Steamed Turbot on the Bone, a delicate dish elevated with spinach, oyster leaf, lemon, and a rich sauce américaine. The plat du jour honors the traditional symbolism of fish for abundance and exudes refinement. It is priced at RM1,188.

The Truffle Roasted Chicken is a must if you are seeking comfort and indulgence. This dish is priced at RM580, richly layered with sweet potato, garlic confit, foie gras, and black truffle, and is both satisfying and elegant.

The Slow Roasted Lamb Leg, a nod to slow-cooking perfection, is priced the same and comes with salsa verde, fine beans, and rosemary jus. It is priced at RM680.

A Gordon Ramsay menu wouldn’t be complete without an ode to quality beef, and the Wagyu Ribeye on the Bone is what rounds it all up. This stunner is priced at RM980, paired with roasted potatoes, watercress, and a luxuriously flavored bordelaise jus, and was absolutely meant to steal the spotlight at any festive gathering.

Every item is served with a traditional yee sang, a symbol of abundance, prosperity, and vigor, and three expertly made side dishes of one’s choice.

Delight yourselves with this exclusive Chinese New Year experience and secure your table at the Gordon Ramsay Bar & Grill at Sunway Resort!

For more information, check out the Gordon Ramsay Bar & Grill website, Facebook, and Instagram pages. Reserve your table here.

Location: Gordon Ramsay Bar & Grill Sunway City, Lobby Level, Sunway Resort Hotel, Persiaran Lagoon 47500 Subang Jaya

Opening Hours: 7:00 AM to 10:30 AM (Breakfast), 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM (Lunch), 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM (Afternoon Tea), 5:00 PM to 10:30 PM (Dinner), 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM (The Lounge & The Bar)

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Kuala Lumpur/ Delish/ Openings
South Korean Bakery Tous les Jours to Re-Enter Malaysia in 2025
20250114 TLJ Photo by CJ Newsroom

After its abrupt closure of all four Tous les Jours branches in Malaysia in 2017, the French-Asian-inspired bakery is making its comeback.

South Korean artisanal bakery chain Tous les Jours is set to re-enter Malaysia, opening five new stores by the end of 2025. Its parent company, CJ Foodville, has signed a master franchise deal with local distributor Stream Empire Holdings.

The first store, set to open in the second quarter of 2025, will be at Sunway Pyramid Mall, while the second branch will be at Sunway Velocity Mall. According to Stream Empire Holdings’ General Manager Ho Soo Ling, “The third one is almost secured, and we are sourcing locations for the fourth and fifth, which are still under negotiation.”

CJ Foodville said that they will use the supply chain and knowledge gained from operating in Indonesia, a country requiring halal-certified catering, to boost its expansion in Malaysia and the rest of Southeast Asia.

Tous les Jours first opened in Kuala Lumpur in June 2013. After only four years, the South Korean bakery chain announced the closure of all its branches in Malaysia in 2017. Currently, Tous les Jours operates more than 500 outlets internationally, including branches in the United States, Canada, China, Singapore, Indonesia, and the Philippines.

Tous les Jours offers a selection of “French-Asian-inspired” pastries, baked goods, and beverages, originating from South Korea.

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Kuala Lumpur/ Delish/ Happenings
Usher in the Year of the Snake with Style at Four Seasons Hotel KL
Untitled design 2025 01 09 T124919 267 Photo by Four Seasons Hotel Kuala Lumpur

Celebrate the Year of the Snake with a feast for the senses at Four Seasons Hotel Kuala Lumpur, where tradition meets innovation across a series of curated dining experiences. From Jan. 6 to Feb. 12, 2025, the hotel invites guests to embark on a culinary journey filled with good fortune, prosperity, and unforgettable flavors.

At Yun House, Michelin-selected Chef Jimmy Wong presents five decadent Lunar New Year set menus, from RM328 to RM1288 per person.

Combining classical Cantonese recipes with bold ingredients, dishes like Five Head Abalone with Sun-Dried Oyster, and Fish Maw Dumpling with Cordyceps Flower and Black Garlic take center stage. The signature Yee Sang salad is elevated with salmon belly and ikura caviar, ensuring your prosperity toss is both festive and flavorful.

Black garlic
Courtesy of Four Seasons Hotel Kuala Lumpur

For those craving variety, head to Curate for the Flavors of Fortune Buffet. This lavish spread features everything from traditional Chinese delights like Steamed Peking Duck with Egg Roll and Fried Golden Tail Wonton, to global favorites like Indian curries, Arabic kebabs, and Italian pastas.

Lunch at Curate is priced at RM188+ per person and dinner is RM238+ per person. Don’t miss the chance to toss your way to luck with their premium Yee Sang, made fresh to order.

Curate
Courtesy of Four Seasons Hotel Kuala Lumpur

Looking for an elevated reunion dinner? The Lunar New Year Reunion Buffet at Curate offers a luxurious twist on beloved Chinese dishes, including Braised Wagyu Brisket with Daikon and Lobster Fried Rice & Jumbo Asparagus. This bountiful spread also features roasted duck, premium seafood, and Asian street food for a festive, family-style feast. Buffet prices range from RM268+ per person to RM238+ per person.

Cap off your celebration with the Bountiful Blossoms Afternoon Tea at The Lounge, where Executive Pastry Chef Yann Roumanille will be crafting themed sweet treats like the Red Snake and Emperor’s Treasure, paired with unique scones and culturally inspired savory bites.

Location: Four Seasons Hotel Kuala Lumpur, 145 Jalan Ampang, Kuala Lumpur 50450

For more information, visit Four Seasons on their website, or follow them on Instagram and Facebook.

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Kuala Lumpur/ Delish/ Happenings
Welcome the Lunar New Year with Shangri-La’s Festive Collection of Gifts
Untitled design 2025 01 02 T104646 623 Photo by Facebook/ Shangri-La Kuala Lumpur

Ring in the Year of the Snake with Shangri-La’s vibrant, carefully curated array of festive offerings.

From elegant hampers and refined gift sets to premium yee sang and timeless Lunar New Year delights, these selections are designed to spread joy, prosperity, and abundance to loved ones and business partners alike.

Choose from a variety of hampers tailored to suit different preferences. The Luxe Prosperity hamper (RM1,944.80) is an elegant choice for those wanting to go all out, featuring an assortment of exquisite items such as Tempus Two Shiraz Red Wine (750ml), a fish-shaped coconut Nian Gao, premium 6-head Abalone, Emperor Red Dates, Hokkaido Dried Scallops, and a selection of mushrooms and sweets. For more budget-friendly options, consider the Jade Fortune (RM1,264.80) or the Golden Dynasty (RM669.80).

Celestial Gift Set C
Website/Shangri-La Kuala Lumpur

Gift sets also offer a thoughtful way to celebrate the season. The Celestial Gift Set C (RM346.80) includes a healthy selection of Charcoal Coconut Kuih Bangkit, Peanut and Sesame Brittle, Shang Palace XO Sauce, and Assorted Pralines. Other variations of the Celestial Gift Set, such as Set D and Set E, are priced similarly at RM346.80.

For a touch of sweetness, the Chocolate Ingot & Chocolate Slab with Cookies (RM193.80) is a delightful choice, or the Four-Happiness Gift Set A for RM176.80, consisting of walnut cookies, dragon beard cookies, green pea cookies, and almond cookies.

Orders are open until Feb. 12, 2025, with a special 15% discount on Chinese New Year retail items available when shopping at the Shangri-La Boutique.

You can purchase your gifts now at this website, or follow Shangri-La on their Facebook and Instagram for more information.

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Kuala Lumpur/ Delish/ Restaurants
Your Guide to the Best Places to Get Fried Rice in Kuala Lumpur
Your Guide to the Best Restaurants to Get Fried Rice in KL

Malaysian cuisine revolves around rice, a staple as versatile as it is essential. From Nasi Goreng at bustling food markets to Nasi Lemak wrapped in banana leaves, every plate tells a story of heritage and flavor. Even with Uncle Roger’s fried rice drawing attention, KL’s food scene continues to surprise with its endless takes on this crowd-pleaser.

Here are some of the best restaurants in Kuala Lumpur where you can get fried rice.

N97

If luxury and indulgence are your thing, N97 is the place to be. Known for its upscale vibe, this restaurant elevates fried rice to a whole new level with its Wagyu Fried Rice. While it’s typically served as a side with their Signature Wagyu Tomahawk (starting from RM928 for 1.6 kg), the fragrant rice, cooked with wagyu fat and loaded with juicy wagyu chunks, often steals the spotlight.

At their newer Ampang outlet, standalone dishes like the Pulled Beef Fried Rice (RM32) and Soft Shell Crab Fried Rice (RM32) offer the same delicious flavors in more accessible portions.

Location: N97, 9, Lorong Kurau, Bangsar, 59100 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur

Jibby Chow

Specializing in Chinese cuisine, Jibby Chow’s Duck Meat & Salted Egg Yolk Fried Rice (RM25) is a must-try. This dish combines the savory richness of salted egg yolk with tender duck meat for a bold flavor profile. Other standout fried rice options include Kam Heong with Prawns (RM28) and Cantonese Crab Meat Fried Rice (RM30).

For a splurge-worthy experience, try the Live River Lobster Fried Rice, available seasonally.

Location: Jibby Chow, 4, Jln Telawi 4, Bangsar, 59100 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur

Paradise Dynasty

Famed for their xiao long bao, Paradise Dynasty impresses with their fried rice offerings. The Fried Rice with Crispy Pork Chop (RM28.90) is a highlight, featuring tender, well-seasoned pork chop atop egg fried rice.

If you’re after something more classic, the Fried Rice in Yangzhou Style (RM22.90) pairs seamlessly with any dish from their extensive menu.

Location: Paradise Dynasty, Lot 2F-17, Bangsar Village ll, 2, Jalan Telawi 1, Bangsar, 59100 Kuala Lumpur

Aunty Nat

Aunty Nat goes beyond traditional kuih-muih and curries with their crowd-favorite Sambal Belacan Fried Rice with Beef (RM15). This flavorful dish combines juicy beef slices, egg chunks, and crunchy long beans, all elevated by the bold, spicy sambal belacan.

The menu also features other delectable fried rice options, including Spicy Petai Fried Rice, Thai Fried Rice, and Chinese Fried Rice, all priced at RM15.

Location: Aunty Nat, 7, Jalan Sri Hartamas 7, Taman Sri Hartamas, 50480 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur

Ray Power Corner

Located near KL’s iconic Petaling Street, Ray Power Corner is a bustling roadside gem offering over 30 goreng dishes perfect for dinner or late-night cravings. With neatly arranged blue tables and a lively crowd, this stall is famed for its Malay-style fried rice, including favorites like Nasi Goreng Kampung (RM10) with chicken or seafood (RM15), packed with anchovies and chili for a flavorful kick.

Other must-tries include the Nasi Goreng Cina (RM10) and the tangy Nasi Goreng Tomyam (RM15).

Location: Ray Power Corner, No 868, 5, Jalan Sultan, Township, 50000 City, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur

Uncle Soon Fried Rice

Uncle Soon Fried Rice is a well-known staple in the Kuala Lumpur food scene, popular for its affordable and no-frills fried rice that delivers big on flavor. Their signature Egg Fried Rice & Egg (RM7) may look unassuming, but it’s packed with bold umami and a distinct wok hei aroma. Served with a side of sambal belacan that’s tangy with tamarind and mildly spicy, every bite will satisfy your cravings.

Location: Uncle Soon Fried Rice, Subang Square Shopping Mall, Ss 15, 47500 Subang Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia

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