Food drinks and dining in Kuala lumpur, Malaysia

Malaysia's capital, Kuala Lumpur (KL), has diverse cuisines to suit its diverse population. The food scene in KL is influenced by Malay, Chinese, Indian, and Indigenous cultures. Whether you're a visitor or a local, food and drink tours are an excellent opportunity to discover the city's modern and authentic cuisine.

Top 5 Iconic Malaysian Dishes to Try in Kuala Lumpur

1. Nasi Lemak

The national cuisine of Malaysia is made with coconut rice, sambal, boiled eggs, fried anchovies, and peanuts. It is frequently wrapped in banana leaves.

2. Satay

Meat skewers, typically chicken or beef. Grilled and served with peanut sauce. 

3. Rendang

A spiced and coconut milk-based stew rich, soft, and slow-cooked for beef or fowl.

4. Ikan Bakar

Spicy chilli paste sambal served with charcoal-grilled fish.

5. Roti Jala

A pancake that resembles lace, typically paired with curries.

Top 5 Local Drinks to Explore in Kuala Lumpur

1. Teh Tarik

The unofficial national drink of Malaysia. It is a frothy, sweet and hot milk tea made of condensed milk and strong black tea poured between cups to produce a frothy top.

2. Kopi O

Served at traditional coffee shops, kopi O is a strong black coffee that has been sweetened with sugar. There is no added milk or condensed milk. 

3. Ipoh White Coffee

A popular coffee drink originated in Ipoh, Malaysia named one of the top three coffee twins by Lonely planet. The coffee beans are roasted with palm oil margarine and served with condensed milk. 

4. Air Bandung

It is a hot pink milk drink popular in Malaysia. The beverage has a sweet, rose flavor that is typically served chilled and goes well with spicy meals.

5. Sugarcane Juice

Freshly squeezed sugarcane is one of the popular beverages at the markets and hawker stalls of Kuala Lumpur. 

The 5 Popular Street Food Market in Kuala Lumpur 

1. Chinatown

• Description: The hotspot for Chinese street cuisine, Chinatown is a must-see location for dim sum and noodles. 

• What to Expect: Street vendors are selling Chinese food like Wanton mee, roasted duck, and herbal teas. 

• Top Dishes: Char siu (barbecued pork), claypot chicken rice and egg tarts. 

Book  Here >> KL Chinatown: Treats and Michelin Ears and Kuan Di Temple Guided Tour.  

2. Little India

• Description: Little India also known as Brickfields is the hub for Indian food that includes tandoori, curries, and food served in banana leaves. 

• What to Expect: The area is filled with fragrant aroma of sandalwood, spice and garlands. 

• Top Dishes: Dosa, Idle, curry and South Indian dishes. 

3. Jalan Alor

• Description: It is one of the most well-known food lanes, particularly the evening market in Kuala Lumpur. It offers a varied selection of street food options and a lively night market ambience. 

• What to Expect: An array of street food stalls offering traditional Malay food, grilled seafood, and stir-fried noodles. 

• Top Dishes: Satay, grilled squid, dim sum, ice kacang 

4. Kampung Baru

• Description: One of the oldest neighbourhoods, Kampung Baru, serves traditional Malay food in an authentic ambience—a conventional Malay neighbourhood known for authentic Malay food offerings. 

• What to Expect: Mix of street food stalls and family-owned restaurants serving Malay dishes. 

• Top Dishes: Nasi lemak, Ayam Percik, and Kerabu 

5. Pasar Malam (Night Market) 

• Description: Pop-up markets throughout Kuala Lumpur offering fresh local street food. 

• What to Expect: Local Experience where you can sample various snacks, fried foods and traditional desserts. 

• Top Dishes: Apam balik, puffs and satay

High-end Dining in Kuala Lumpur 

1. Marble 8 Steakhouse & Fine Dining Restaurant

Location: Level 56, Menara 3 Petronas, Persiaran KLCC, Kuala Lumpur City Centre, 50088 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

2. Dining in Dark Kuala Lumpur

Location: 50A, Changkat Bukit Bintang, Bukit Bintang, 50200 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

3. Fuego at Troika Sky Dining

Location: Level 23A Tower B, The Troika, 19, Persiaran KLCC, Kuala Lumpur, 50450 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

4. Cielo Rooftop

Location: 23-01, 1D, Vida, 1D, Jalan Ceylon, Bukit Ceylon, 50200 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

5. NADODI

Location: Level 7A, Four Seasons Hotel, Jln Ampang, City Centre, 50450 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Tips for Locals and Tourists Opting for the Food Tour

Timing

To take advantage of Kuala Lumpur’s vibrant night markets, many culinary tours happen in the evening. However, morning trips may feature breakfast staples like dim sum and nasi lemak.

Dietary Restrictions

It's vital to let the tour operator know ahead of time if you have any dietary requirements, such as vegetarian or halal alternatives, as many culinary excursions can accommodate them.

Clothes

Many culinary trips include wandering through congested marketplaces and hawker centres, wear light clothing and comfortable shoes.

Group Size

More individualized experiences and better opportunities for interacting with regional chefs and suppliers are offered to smaller groups. You can opt for the Private Kuala Lumpur Night Market and Food tour package. 

What Makes redBus Kuala Lumpur Food Drinks and Dining Tour Special

Cultural Understanding

Eating is a fundamental aspect of Kuala Lumpur’s history, and trying out various cuisines is one way to get a hands-on experience of the culture.

Huge Variety 

In the city, you can experience a wide range of food starting from gourmet dining to street food.

Expert Guide

The culinary tour is guided by knowledgeable locals who share their knowledge of the origins, components, and cooking techniques of each dish.

Convenience 

redBus has curated food tours, which are hidden gems and challenging to find alone. This helps the travellers to save time and effort. 

Budget Friendly Deals 

Currently, redBus is offering up to 24% off on food, drinks, and dining tours in Kuala Lumpur. New users can get up to 10% off by applying the “TRYNEW10” coupon code. 

The food, drink and dining tour in Kuala Lumpur provides an amazing experience, regardless of whether you're a visitor keen to discover Malaysia's diverse food culture or a local hoping to rediscover Kuala Lumpur’s culinary gems. 

From the scorching woks of Jalan Alor to the refined plates of fine dining establishments, the city’s food culture is as diverse as its population. A food tour across Kuala Lumpur, with its abundance of offerings, is a sensory experience that opens doors to the essence of Malaysia's colourful culture.