5 Casual Eats in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Kuala Lumpur’s food scene is a dynamic mix of cultural influences, bold flavours, and comforting local favourites. Whether you’re craving spicy noodles, crispy fried chicken, or hearty broths, the city offers countless laid-back spots that deliver on taste without the fuss. Here are five casual eats to try on your next visit.

1. 🍜 Lai Fong La La Noodles (Noodles)

2. 🥥 Village Park Restaurant (Nasi Lemak)

3. 🍜 Mee Tarik Restoran (Noodles)

4. 🍲 Yik See Ho Bak Kut Teh (Bak Kut Teh)

5. 🍛 Coast by Kayra (Keralan Cuisine)

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Lai Fong La La Noodles

🍜Noodles┆China Town

• Description: Famous for their umami-rich lala (clam) broth, Lai Fong is a KL staple where seafood lovers gather for comforting bowls of noodle soup and sizzling claypot dishes

• Recommendations: Lala Noodle Soup, Prawn Claypot Glass Noodles

• Reservation: Walk-in only

• Information: Instagram ┆Google Maps

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Village Park Restaurant

🥥Nasi Lemak┆Damansara Uptown

• Description: A go-to for locals and tourists alike, Village Park is best known for their iconic nasi lemak, crowned with crispy-on-the-outside, juicy-on-the-inside fried chicken

• Recommendations: Nasi Lemak Ayam Goreng

• Reservation: Walk-in only

• Information: Instagram ┆Google Maps

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Mee Tarik Restoran

🍜Noodles┆Jalan Sultan

• Description: This humble noodle house specialises in hand-pulled noodles made fresh to order. Their beef daoxiaomian noodles delivers chewy noodles and rich, savoury broth

• Recommendations: Beef DaoXiao Noodle

• Reservation: Walk-in only

• Information: Instagram ┆Google Maps

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Yik See Ho Bak Kut Teh

🍲Bak Kut Teh┆Pudu

• Description: For herbal, soul-warming bak kut teh, Yik See Ho is a classic. Their mixed claypot version comes packed with pork, tofu puffs, and mushrooms, perfect for sharing

• Recommendations: Mixed Claypot Bak Kut Teh

• Reservation: Walk-in only

• Information: Google Maps

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Coast by Kayra

🌊Keralan Cuisine┆Bangsar Shopping Centre

• Description: A coastal spin on South Indian cuisine, Coast by Kayra offers fresh seafood-forward dishes in a breezy, modern setting—casual yet elevated

• Recommendations: Chicken Tikka

• Reservation: via Website or TableApp

• Information: Google Maps

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Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants 2025: A Grand Celebration

The much-anticipated Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants 2025 awards ceremony took place on March 25th, 2025, at the Grand Hyatt Seoul, in the heart of South Korea’s vibrant capital. Organised by The World's 50 Best Restaurants and proudly sponsored by San Pellegrino and Acqua Panna, this prestigious event brought together culinary visionaries from across the continent to celebrate gastronomic excellence.

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Honouring Asia's Finest Culinary Talents

The ceremony was a spectacular affair, with some of the best chefs and restaurants in the region receiving well-deserved accolades. The night was filled with moments of inspiration as winners took the stage to accept their awards, showcasing the talent and innovation that define Asia’s dynamic culinary landscape.

Team Japan’s Achievements

Team Japan at Asia's 50 Best Restaurants 2025 Ceremony in Grand Hyatt, Seoul

A strong presence was felt from Japan, with multiple restaurants securing spots on the list:

• 4. SÉZANNE (Tokyo, Marunouchi)

• 6. La Cime (Osaka)

• 8. NARISAWA (Tokyo, Aoyama)

• 17. Florilège (Tokyo, Azabudai)

• 22. Den (Tokyo, Gaienmae)

• 30. Crony (Tokyo, Higashi-Azabu)

• 33. Sushi Saito (Tokyo, Roppongi)

• 34. Sazenka (Tokyo, Minami-Azabu)

• 36. Goh (Fukuoka)

• 43. MAZ (Tokyo, Nagatacho)

• 45. Myoujyaku (Tokyo, Nishi-Azabu)

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Exclusive Collaboration Events Across Seoul

Leading up to the awards, Seoul played host to an array of exclusive collaboration dinners and networking events, where top-tier chefs came together for once-in-a-lifetime culinary experiences.

Ando x Crony x Restaurant Allen x Respiración

📍 Restaurant Allen, Seoul

A remarkable 11-course tasting menu brought together Michelin-starred restaurants from Hong Kong, Tokyo, Seoul, and Kanazawa.

The highlights included:

• Torigai Clam Chawanmushi with Kombu & Caviar (Crony)

• Scallop with Piparras, Celtuce & Avocado (Ando)

• 21-Day Dry-Aged Duck with Mini Cos Lettuce (Allen)

• Dessert Inspired by Noto Cedar Tree (Respiración)

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JL Dessert Bar x Rosewood Hong Kong

📍 JL Dessert Bar, Seoul

A decadent afternoon tea featuring Jonathan Soukdeo from Rosewood Hong Kong and Justin Lee from JL Dessert Bar.

Standout dishes included:

• Brioche with Lime Ice Cream, Caviar & Bonito Flakes

• Yukhoe Bibimbap Tart with Incheon Rice

• Ginger & Yogurt Gelato with Earl Grey & Grapefruit Sauce

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Grand Majestic Sichuan x The Great Hong Yuan

📍 The Great Hong Yuan, Seoul

An unforgettable dinner that fused bold Sichuan flavours from Grand Majestic Sichuan (Hong Kong) with The Great Hong Yuan (Seoul).

Highlights included:

• Hanwoo Beef Short Rib in a Sea of Chilli

• Sichuan Fried Chicken

• Sichuan Peppercorn Ice Cream

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The Gimbap Sisters Networking Event

📍 Narang, Seoul

A unique outdoor spring picnic celebrated women in the culinary industry, focusing on food writers, marketers, and influencers. The spotlight was on gimbap with a twist, featuring creations inspired by cities around the world, proving that traditional Korean rice rolls can take on a global identity.

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A Night to Remember

The Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants 2025 ceremony at Grand Hyatt Seoul was not just a celebration of fine dining but a powerful testament to the diverse and evolving nature of Asia’s culinary scene. With high-profile networking events and exclusive collaborations, Seoul reaffirmed itself as a gastronomic hub that continues to captivate food lovers worldwide.

Huge congratulations to all the winners and nominees for their incredible achievements - here’s to another year of groundbreaking culinary artistry across Asia!

Numazu Club: A Hidden Gem by Suruga Bay, Shizuoka

Located near the tranquil shores of Suruga Bay in Shizuoka, Numazu Club offers an unparalleled retreat where heritage meets contemporary luxury. This intimate hideaway, recognised with One Michelin Key, seamlessly blends history and modern comfort, making it a perfect escape for those seeking serenity and refinement.

A Historic Experience & Exclusive Accommodations

With only eight exclusive rooms, Numazu Club ensures an intimate experience surrounded by towering pines and an immaculately kept Japanese garden. The property is anchored by a beautifully preserved Meiji-era sukiya-style teahouse, which has been thoughtfully restored to retain its historical charm, while a modern annex provides sleek and understated accommodation. Every detail has been meticulously curated to evoke a sense of calm, from the traditional wooden architecture to the lush green surroundings.

The tranquil gardens within Numazu Club

Relax & Rejuvinate at the Refined Retreat

For those seeking relaxation, the outdoor bath and stone sauna offer a therapeutic escape, with open-air soaking experiences that allow guests to unwind amidst nature. The bath facilities at Numazu Club receive high praise, making it a destination worth visiting for those who appreciate the art of bathing.

The relaxing outdoor bath with an open roof

Gastronomic Delights at Chatei

Dining at Chatei, the hotel’s Chinese-inspired restaurant, is a highlight of the stay. Overseen by Ichirin-Hanare, a celebrated restaurant from Kamakura, the menu features a thoughtfully curated selection of seasonal delicacies. The dinner experience includes specialties such as drunken Shanghai crab, spicy "yodaredori" steamed chicken and delicately spiced mapo tofu, showcasing refined flavours with an elegant presentation. Breakfast continues this theme of sophistication, offering an array of local seafood, dim sum, and finely prepared small dishes, making each meal an experience to remember.

Drunken Shanghai crab, marinated in sweet Shaoxing wine

For a refined and tranquil retreat combining historical charm with modern luxury, Numazu Club stands as an exceptional hidden gem. Whether soaking in an outdoor bath, strolling through the pristine gardens, or indulging in an exquisite dining experience, every moment here is designed to be savoured.