Spice Up Your Day: Top Rendang Places in Kuala Lumpur
Kuala Lumpur/ Delish/ Restaurants

Craving Rendang? Here are 5 Spots You Can Visit in Kuala Lumpur

Instagram Bijan Bar and Restaurant Photo by Instagram/Bijan Bar & Restaurant

The heart of Malaysian cuisine beats strongest with its rich and flavorful dishes, the top spot often attributed to Rendang. Known for its tender, slow-cooked meat steeped in coconut milk and a variety of herbs and spices, the complexity of this dish perfectly represents Malay’s iconic culinary traditions and treasured heritage.

In Kuala Lumpur, Rendang can be found in a variety of settings, each place offering its own unique twist on the iconic dish. Whether you’re in search of a high-end dining experience or a relaxed adventure through the local food markets, we’ve got you covered. Here are the top places where you can indulge in the best Rendang in KL:

Restoran Rebung Chef Ismail

RENDANG PUCUK UBI Rendang pucuk ubi amat popular di Negeri Sembilan. Ada yang dimasak kering, ada yang dimasak lembab,...

Posted by Restoran Rebung Chef Ismail on Monday, October 30, 2023

Located in Perdana Botanical Garden, Restoran Rebung Chef Ismail is recognized for its authentic and delectable buffet spread consisting of Malaysian culinary classics. Walking into the place is like stepping into a stylish home, where the elegant decor and homey ambiance combine to create a dining experience that is both refined and comforting — a family-oriented restaurant often packed with locals and tourists alike. The restaurant offers many different varieties of Rendang (their menu rotates regularly), but the Rendang Pucuk Ubi stands out.

Instead of beef or other traditional meats, Rendang Pucuk Ubi has sweet potato shoots as its main ingredient, infused with a rich blend of spices and coconut milk. It is deeply rooted in celebrity chef Dato’ Chef Ismail Ahmad’s Negeri Sembilan heritage, as are most of the dishes in his restaurant. According to him, Rendang Pucuk Ubi is best enjoyed with hot white rice or eaten on its own.

Dato’ Chef Ismail is often found at the venue, welcoming customers as though they are his long-time friends. His pleasant, vivacious presence is a key factor in the restaurant's success, often cited in reviews alongside the outstanding food. Indulge in a culinary journey at Restoran Rebung Chef Ismail, where each exquisite dish is served with a side of neighborly warmth.

Location: Restoran Rebung Chef Ismail, 5-2 Cascade Parking Bukit Aman, 1, Jalan Tanglin, 50480 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Village Park

If you’re looking for a laid-back local eatery, Village Park is the place to be. Nestled in the bustling Damansara Uptown, they are famous for their array of authentic Malaysian dishes, mainly their Nasi Lemak. However, it should definitely be tried on the side with their Ayam Rendang — a true hidden gem. The slow-cooked chicken falls apart at the touch of a fork. Each bite is a burst of balanced spices with a tinge of sweetness that offers a flavorful kick without being overwhelming.

Village Park is the definition of Malaysian community flavors. They consistently deliver dishes that exceed expectations, and the casual dining atmosphere definitely adds to the experience, especially for those looking to go on a KL food trip. However, its popularity often results in crowds, making it challenging to secure a table. If you prefer a more intimate dining experience or wish to avoid long lines, it is recommended to explore their delivery options (even their sidewalk is lined with waiting riders!) and enjoy their hearty specialties from the comfort of your home.

Location: Village Park Restaurant, 5, Jalan SS 21/37, Damansara Utama, 47400 Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia 47400

Bijan Bar & Restaurant

Rendang is prepared in a variety of delightful ways throughout the city, and the Rendang Udang Nogori at Bijan is just one of many great options. The use of shrimp adds a unique coastal taste and texture. It is cooked to perfection, tender, and flavorful, while the rendang sauce is rich, aromatic, and packed with spices.

Situated in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, Bijan Bar & Restaurant is known for their elevated take on Malaysian cuisine. The restaurant caters mainly to “discerning palates,” offering a refined dining experience that is sure to satisfy even the most sophisticated tastes. Complete with an elegant, upscale ambiance and attentive staff, the place is ideal for special occasions and intimate gatherings.

Bijan Bar & Restaurant was awarded as the Best Malay Restaurant in 2004, and has been consistently recognized as such in many other publications and dining guides. Reserve a table and see why they’re celebrated among the best!

Location: Bijan Bar & Restaurant, No.3, Jalan Ceylon, Bukit Ceylon, 50200 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Old China Café

Committed to honoring Southeast Asian and Chinese heritage, Old China Cafe dives deep into history to offer a taste of tradition. Each dish on the menu is a testament to the centuries-old recipes and cooking techniques that define the region’s exceptional cuisine, showcasing dishes like the classic Beef Rendang which has been praised as the best Rendang in Malaysia and regarded by customers as a must-order.

Tender chunks of beef are simmered to perfection in a fragrant Rendang sauce which is completely homemade with coconut milk and Malay herbs. The whole dish is complex yet comforting and bold yet balanced. Served with fluffy white rice, it is nothing short of outstanding.

As a bonus, Old China Cafe is extremely Instagrammable. With antique decorations adorning the nostalgic backdrop, every corner transports you into the set of an old movie. Step into this time machine of a cafe and go on a food trip through history!

Location: Old China Café, 11, Jalan Balai Polis, City Centre, 50000 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Petaling Street

No Malaysian culinary adventure is authentic without savoring the delights of street food.

Petaling Street, a bustling thoroughfare at the heart of the city, is a sensory feast that captivates both locals and tourists from all walks of life. Stalls abound, selling everything under the sun (or beneath canopies and lanterns). The market is alive with the chatter of shoppers and hagglers, punctuated by the occasional call of a vendor promoting their goods. Amidst the bargaining, various aromas waft from the many food carts where you can watch delicacies get cooked over open flames. One common delicacy is, you guessed it — Rendang.

The meat and sauce are poured over steamed rice, usually with cucumbers, sambal, and other toppings on the side. Some vendors also offer it as a filling in sandwiches or wraps. No matter how it's served, Rendang is sure to be a highlight of any visit to the street food stalls of Petaling Street, offering a taste of Malaysia in every bite.

Location: Jalan Petaling, City Centre, 50000 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

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This Week's Events In Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur/ Delish/ Cafes

Kuala Lumpur’s First Tim Hortons Signature Store Offers Unique Brews

580667 TH Sunway Pyramid 9 JPG Photo by Tim Hortons Malaysia

Coffee lovers in Malaysia, get ready for some fresh brews, fresh vibes, and a “Sip, Savor, Repeat lifestyle” like no other!

Tim Hortons, Canada’s iconic coffeehouse, has just opened their first signature store at Sunway Pyramid in Kuala Lumpur. This is their fourth store in Malaysia, and the first-ever Tim Hortons Signature Store is now offering Malaysians an elevated, premium coffeehouse experience complete with delicious, freshly prepared food and specialty beverages.

What Makes the Signature Store Special

The Tim Hortons Signature Store promises to deliver an unparalleled, elevated in-store experience, combining their Canadian heritage with the warmth and hospitality that Tims is known for.

Some of the food and drinks offered at the newest Tim Hortons Signature Store at Sunway Plaza, Kuala Lumpur
Courtesy of Tim Hortons Malaysia

Tim Hortons offers artisanal sourdough melts, comforting pasta bakes, and their signature Timbits, everything pairing perfectly with their signature beverages.

  • Signature Lattes and Iced Capps: Maple Cinnamon Latte, Maple French Vanilla, Dark Chocolate Cream Chip, Strawberry Cream (RM13.00 to RM19.00)
  • Sourdough Melts: Maple Chicken Deli & Cheese, Grilled Cheese & Caramelized Onion, Pesto Chicken & Mozzarella (RM16.00 to RM19.00)
  • Pasta Bakes: Classic Aglio Olio, Truffle & Smoked Chicken Carbonara, Pesto Cream Chicken & Mozzarella, Beef Ragu Bolognese (RM16 to RM19)
  • Donuts and Timbits (starting from RM1.50)
  • Malaysian Specials: Butterscotch Ondeh-Ondeh Iced Capp, The Tarik Tribute Iced Capp, Sambal Chicken Grilled Cheese Wrap (RM12.00 to RM15.00)

The Tim Hortons Signature Store also offers a Craft Bar, where guests can enjoy exclusive brewing methods such as the Kyoto Drip, Chemex, and V60 Pour Over made with 100% premium Arabica beans. They also feature Single Origin beans like Colombian and Mexican Light beans, making every sip unforgettable and distinctive for coffee lovers.

Tim Hortons also has their Tims Rewards Program, where members get to earn one (1) point for every RM1 spent, skip the lines and get their coffee through pre-orders and pickup, and enjoy other exclusive member privileges.

Grand Opening Promotions from Dec. 20 to 22, 2024

Tim Hortons is offering exciting promotions for their members from Dec. 20 to 22, 2024, in celebration of their newest Signature Store:

  • Complimentary Latte (S) weekly for 6 months for the first 100 customers with any purchase
  • 1-for-1 Large Maple Cinnamon Latte
  • Exclusive Tim Hortons Keychain with a minimum spend of RM50

Tim Hortons’ menu is made of ingredients carefully sourced from Halal-certified suppliers, ensuring that no pork, lard, or alcohol are served at their establishments.

Tim Hortons Malaysia is also partnered with Mercy Malaysia through the “Tims for Good MY” Initiative, as part of the company’s mission to make a positive impact in the community. For every Kaya-Filled donut sold, 100% of the proceeds go to Mercy Malaysia.

For more updates, follow Tim Hortons Malaysia on their Instagram and TikTok pages.

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Kuala Lumpur/ Delish/ Happenings

Tea Lovers, Rejoice! Chinese Tea Brand NAIXUE Is Now in Kuala Lumpur

Tea Lovers Rejoice Chinese Tea Brand NAIXUE Is Now in Kuala Lumpur Photo by Instagram/NAIXUE Hong Kong & Macau

Wanna know what’s the latest tea (literally)? Premium Chinese tea drink brand NAIXUE has arrived in Malaysia!

Located at The Exchange TRX in Kuala Lumpur, NAIXUE opened their very first outlet in the country last Dec. 13, bringing its wide range of freshly made, tea-based beverages and scrumptious pastries.

At the store, tea lovers can get their hands on the brand’s zero-sugar-added drinks, such as the best-sellers PRO Triple Grape Oolong Tea-0 Cane Sugar, PRO Kale Kiwi Chia Jasmine Tea-0 Cane Sugar, and PRO Triple Berry Jasmine Tea-0 Cane Sugar. There’s also their Fresh Fruit Tea series, composed of drinks like Orange Jasmine Tea and PRO Cheese Cream Triple Grape Oolong Tea, among others.

Sweet-toothed foodies can also order some of the brand’s popular desserts and baked goods, such as the Strawberry Magic Wand, Oreo Magic Wand, Cheese Cream Horns, and Matcha Cream Horns.

According to a press release by NAIXUE, the store’s menu items are also made of halal-friendly ingredients, with respect to the country’s local dietary preferences.

To celebrate the opening, the store is offering a slew of giveaways and promos for its customers, including a free limited-edition tote bag and a half-price discount for any second item. For more information on their opening deals, visit their Facebook page.

Founded in 2015, NAIXUE has become popular among tea lovers with their handmade beverages, original-leaf tea-made drinks, and European-style bread. Today, the brand has about 1,800 stores in 230 cities worldwide, including Bangkok and Singapore.

Check out what NAIXUE Malaysia has in store for you by following them on Facebook or Instagram!

Location: NAIXUE, C.11.0-C.12.0, Persiaran TRX, Tun Razak Exchange, Kuala Lumpur

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Kuala Lumpur/ Delish/ Happenings

Enjoy a Starlit Festive Celebration at Trace Restaurant and Bar

Untitled design 2024 12 13 T161333 967 Photo by Facebook/ Element Kuala Lumpur

This holiday season, let the twinkling city lights of Kuala Lumpur be the perfect backdrop for unforgettable festive feasts at Trace Restaurant and Bar’s "Starlit Festive Celebration."

Located on the 40th floor of Element Kuala Lumpur, the restaurant offers special buffets and an afternoon tea experience throughout December.

Festive Buffets specials include the Festive Lunch on Saturdays and Sundays, priced at RM138 nett per person, or the Festive Dinner on Fridays and Saturdays, RM168 nett per person.

chimchurri chicken
Instagram/ Element Kuala Lumpur

These buffets feature signature grilled dishes like the delicately tender Harissa Lamb Shoulder, Chimichurri Chicken, Citrus-Marinated Fish, and Barbecue Minute Steak, alongside slow-roasted BBQ Beef Ribs, Baked Seabass, and Hyderabadi Lamb Biryani. Sweeten the meal with crepes, Mini Berry Pavlova, and more.

Elevate your Christmas by indulging in Trace Restaurant & Bar's Christmas Eve & New Year offerings, such as the Christmas Eve & New Year’s Eve Dinner for RM188 nett per person, and Christmas & New Year Lunch, priced at RM168 nett per person.

Holiday menus spotlight a Traditional Roast Turkey with Orange and Cranberry, Australian BBQ Prime Rib, fresh seafood on ice, and indulgent desserts like Yule Log Cake.

afternoon tea
Facebook/ Element Kuala Lumpur

If you’re looking for a relaxed afternoon, indulge in the Twinkle Treats Afternoon Tea, perfect for a relaxed afternoon with breathtaking city views, offering seven sweets and six savory bites, including Green Tea Cheesecake, Cured Salmon Roulade, and Chunky Seafood Pie. Available daily from 1 PM to 5 PM until Jan. 1, 2025. This treat is priced at RM168 nett for two people.

Click here to make reservations. For more information, visit this website, or follow Element on Instagram and Facebook.

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Kuala Lumpur/ Delish/ Happenings

Tealive Launches New Collab Beverages With Netflix's 'Squid Game'

Tealive Launches New Collab Beverages With Netflixs Squid Game Photo by Instagram/Tealive Asia

Ready for the riveting return of “Squid Game?" Before you camp on your couches and binge-watch the thriller-survival series’ sequel on Dec. 26, why not sit back and sip into these new, equally thrilling beverages first?

In collaboration with Netflix, Malaysian milk tea chain Tealive has launched a new beverage collection to make the countdown to “Squid Game 2” more exciting! The collection consists of three drinks, made with a sweet, creamy, and frothy Honey Toffee Cream Cloud — an ode to the series’ iconic dalgona challenge scene.

One of these beverages is the Honey Toffee Macchiato (RM12.90), made with rich espresso and milk, and topped with a Honey Toffee Cream Cloud.

For those who are looking for a non-coffee option, the milk tea shop also offers the Honey Toffee Signature Coco (RM9.90), made with decadent chocolate and chewy pearls, as well as the Honey Toffee Signature Milk Tea Smoothie (RM10.90), a refreshing milk tea beverage blended with sweet honey toffee.

Prices for these drinks, however, may vary depending on the outlet location.

To complement these drinks, Tealive has also launched a merchandise collection inspired by “Squid Game,” which includes a cooler bag, a T-shirt, a sticker pack, and a tote bag.

This is your green light to get your hands on these Tealive x Squid Game drinks and merchandise before they’re gone! Visit any Tealive store near you or order yours via the Tealive app.

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Kuala Lumpur/ Delish/ Happenings

Savor Indian Delights at Le Méridien & MAS' Dining Event This Deepavali

Savor Indian Delights at Le Meridien MAS Dining Event This Deepavali Photo by Website/Malaysia Airlines

Deepavali, the vibrant festival of lights, comes alive as luxury hotel Le Méridien Kuala Lumpur and Malaysia Airlines (MAS) come together to delight travelers with a curated menu that celebrates the flavors of Indian cuisine.

At the culinary event, happening from today until Nov. 6, MAS’ Golden Lounges at the Kuala Lumpur International Airport will transform into a festive dining venue. These are the Satellite Golden Lounge, the Regional Golden Lounge, and the Domestic Golden Lounge.

The menu will feature the creations of Chef Thinesh of Le Méridien Kuala Lumpur, who will showcase his expertise in Indian cuisine.

Some of the menu’s highlights include flavorful dishes such as Aloo Gobi, Murgh Tandoori, Fish Ambhedi Tikka, and Goa Fish Curry, as well as fragrant fares like Mattar Jeera Pulao, Palak Gosht, and Tomato Shorba all of which perfectly capture the essence of Deepavali.

The menu will also be available at Le Méridien’s buffet restaurant, Latest Recipe, from today until Nov. 3. To book a table, click here or send them a message through their social media page.

The Golden Lounges will also be decorated with traditional kolam art, a colorful and intricate design made from colored rice and Indian beadings, which symbolizes prosperity and good fortune.

Drop by MAS’ Golden Lounges at KLIA’s Terminal 1 and join in on the celebration!

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Kuala Lumpur/ Delish/ Happenings

Enjoy Sumptuous Hotpot at the Genting Secret Garden Hotpot from RM38

Enjoy Sumptuous Hotpot at the Genting Secret Garden Hotpot from RM38 Photo by Resorts World Genting

Craving hotpot? Why not feast on hearty soup while enjoying a breathtaking view?

This is what Genting Secret Garden Hotpot, Resorts World Genting’s hilltop hotpot place, is offering diners. And to make things more exciting, the restaurant is also offering two new set menus that will delight foodies in the city.

The set menus start at RM38 per person, which includes chicken and goji berry broth with luscious poultry and pork slices, along with a selection of pork cocktail sausages, squid balls, and luncheon meat. Customers can also choose between rice, glass noodles, dried noodles, or udon to match their hotpot.

Genting Secret Garden Hotpot RM38 and RM58 Set Menu Promo
Courtesy of Resorts World Genting

If you love vegetables, the set menu also includes a variety of these, such as the Genting Secret Garden lettuce, some cabbages, pumpkins, lotus root, pak choy, baby romaine, shiitake, enoki, and shimeji mushrooms, as well as beancurd skins and white corn — sourced from the restaurant’s own greenhouse.

For extra toppings, you can also opt for the other set menu, priced at RM58. This menu offers everything from the RM38 set (except pork cocktail sausages), plus additional servings of pork balls, homemade pork dumplings, sea prawns, and toman fish slices.

More ingredients can also be added for as low as RM5 nett, plus you can choose from over 12 types of sweet, savory, and spicy dipping sauces.

Of course, visitors can also indulge in all of these while basking in Genting Secret Garden’s charming and lush botanically-inspired space.

For more information on Genting Secret Garden Hotpot offerings or to book your table, visit Resorts World Genting’s website.

Location: Level 2, Highlands Hotel, Resorts World Genting, Genting Highlands, Bentong, Malaysia

Operating hours: 5 PM to 11 PM (Sunday to Thursday), 5 PM to 1 AM (Friday, Saturday, and eve of public holidays)

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Kuala Lumpur/ Delish/ Happenings

Dive Into Hennessy's 300-Year Legacy at the 'Crafted' Exhibition

Dive Into Hennessys 300 Year Legacy at the Crafted Exhibition Photo by Website/Hennessy

Beloved cognac house Hennessy is inviting connoisseurs to celebrate the brand’s 300th anniversary with its first-ever immersive exhibit in Asia!

To take place from Oct. 25 to Nov. 3 at The Exchange TRX, the “Crafted, By Hennessy” exhibition will showcase Hennessy’s unrivaled mastery in crafting cognacs, featuring immersive experiences and exclusive offerings, including five different rare pieces that will be showcased in Malaysia for the first time.

Hennessy Cognac Collection
Photo from Facebook/Hennessy

The exhibition will also feature seven curated spaces, dedicated to showcasing the brand’s unique heritage. This includes “Foundation of a Legend,” which will delve into Hennessy’s vibrant history and its 155 years of presence in Malaysia; “Global Icons,” which features the brand’s influence on art, music, and pop culture; and “Wonders of Creation,” which will showcase limited-edition pieces that embody Hennessy’s commitment to innovation.

There’s also the “Excellence by Nature” space where guests can dive into Hennessy’s cognac-making process; “Inside Cognac,” where they can learn more about double distillation, the secret behind Hennessy’s masterful cognac creation; and “The Art of Hennessy,” where they can witness Hennessy’s Master Blenders’ expertise through interactive displays.

Crafted, by Hennessy Masterclass Poster
Photo from Website/The Good Stuff

Visitors will also be able to join a guided tasting of Hennessy’s most iconic creations, including the Hennessy Paradis, X.O, V.S.O.P, and the Hennessy Master Blender’s Selection No. 5, and immerse in the brand’s exceptional craftsmanship and artistry at the "Hennessy Masterclass" session. To register for the tasting, click here.

While Hennessy has been around for 300 years, its entry to Malaysia dates back to 1868 when the brand made its inaugural shipment of cognac to the region. Since then, Hennessy has become an integral part of Malaysian culture by launching exclusive limited-edition collections and celebrating the country’s festive seasons.

To experience “Crafted, By Hennessy,” register through this link.

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