New Restaurants in KL 2024
Kuala Lumpur’s dining scene is constantly evolving, with exciting new restaurants continually popping up. This listicle highlights some of the most buzzworthy newcomers in 2024, from trendy cafes to innovative fine-dining establishments. Here’s our list of Best New Restaurants in KL in 2024. (Click on the title links for full details)
New Restaurants in KL 2024
Reasons to visit Mesa on 51: sophisticated dining experience high above Kuala Lumpur; breathtaking panoramic views of the city; modern design, divided into three distinct spaces (the relaxed Terrace Bar, the exclusive Nikkei Lounge, and the opulent Spanish Restaurant); perfect spot to take visitors for cocktails, tapas or a more substantial meal. My favourite dish was the Maki Spicy Tuna Maki, Monica enjoyed the Montadito, Han Sen gave a thumbs up to the Paella, and Ivan approved of the cheesecake.
The Rebel Penguin of Whimzy Town
Reasons to visit The Rebel Penguin of Whimzy Town: unique cocktails, cosy location, wide selection of drinks, intimate and personalised bar experience, fun, fun, fun!
Reasons to visit Barra KL: tapas prepared by an ace Spanish chef; compact but well-chosen wine list; stylish digs; must try the Arroz Meloso, Spanish Suckling Pig and finish with a slice of Basque Cheesecake.
Reasons to visit Inoha Café: Japanese fusion dishes, meticulously prepared ingredients, locally sourced specialty coffee, and beautiful calming interiors punctuated by plants and elements of Japanese interior design. Our fave dishes were the Mushroom Medley Omelette, Beeto Hummus Avo Smash and Basil BLT Tartine.
Reasons to visit Torito KL: Although it’s an increasingly crowded field, Torito is currently serving what may be the best Piscos in the city; you’ll have to come along and find out if you agree. Take in the breathtaking views over the KLCC skyline while enjoying your drink, and order at least one serving of Monica’s fave, the Aguacate. I loved the Arroz Negro, and the rest of the team was battling forks over the delicious Arroz Con Pato. Everyone screams, order a whole Pan de Yuca just for you!
Reasons to book a dining experience with JustGood Private Dining: take out all the stress of organising a dinner party by hiring Chef Malcolm and his team; completely customisable menu including vegan, gluten-free, or whatever other dietary needs you might have; fine dining using fresh and local ingredients in the privacy of your own home or whatever location you choose.
Reasons to visit Dot’s Café: Delicious Kristang cuisine that is artfully designed and plated, heartwarming stories from Chef Brandon and his family, and a beautiful open setting with cosy nooks accentuated by warm wooden accents, vibrant plants, and plenty of natural light.
Reasons to visit Ichi-u Japanese Dining: Fresh seafood, attractive presentations, friendly service, and a pretty semi-alfresco patio surrounded by greenery.
Reasons to visit Fari & Ali’s Kitchen: authentic, hearty Persian-inspired fare made with love (and imported Iranian ingredients); incredible small-batch bakery; delicious deli selection with home-cooked-style hot food options (Friday & Saturday only); lots of vegetarian options; casual, cosy cafe setting, perfect for a slow morning, with traditional decor and relaxing ambience; great service.
Reasons to visit Bistro Léa, Sri Hartamas: wholesome, unembellished take on French cuisine; the pricing is excellent value, considering nearly everything is made from scratch in-house; the wine list offers value-for-money options, starting at a tiny RM125 per bottle. Pet-friendly outdoor seating; ample street parking; cosy setting with a pretty green outlook.
Reasons to visit Pícaro Kitchen Party KL: a fun night out with loads of positive energy, entertainment and great food; excellent location for celebrations; our favourite orders were the Ceviche, Pan-roasted Cauliflower, Jerk Chicken Leg and Crab Paella Roja.
Reasons to visit The Oriental Park KLCC: Whether you’re unwinding with colleagues over cocktails, enjoying a relaxed family lunch, indulging in a romantic dessert date, or catching up with friends over coffee, The Oriental Park is a welcoming destination. Its cosy seating and panoramic view of KLCC Park provide a serene backdrop. The Pan-Asian fusion menu draws from the vibrant flavours of Japanese, Thai, Vietnamese, and Malaysian cuisines, offering a wide range of dishes to satisfy any palate. Daily happy hour from 11 am – 7 pm.
Reasons to visit Upper House KL: restaurant and bar with the best view in Chinatown; DJ spinning on their outer rooftop on the weekends; creative menu inspired by Petaling market’s most treasured dishes; fun and fresh cocktails to enjoy on a night out.
Reasons to visit Roots Bangsar: chic setting and happy vibe; must try the Signature Laksa Angel Hair, Five Cheese Pizza, hand-made pasta dishes and give the Nasi Lemak Risotto a go!
Reasons to visit Hora Feliz Kitchen & Bar: an exciting and expertly crafted Latin American-inspired menu; a good-looking setting – both the indoors and the covered patio are very pleasant places to dine; great craft cocktails; several delicious wines by the bottle; must-order the Honey Burrata, Tuna Tataki Tacos, Duck Croquettes; can’t go wrong with any of the mains.
Reasons to visit TOKIOTONIC: a great corner lot on Changkat perfect for enjoying a night out with friends or people-watching as the evening unfolds; variety of seating – we like the front patio in the cooler evenings; highball specials are refreshing and well-priced – give the Salty Samurai and Kobe Velvet a try; if you’re a beef eater you can’t go wrong with the Angus Shoyu Ramen and the Udon Carbonara is an intriguing take on the Italian classic.
Reasons to visit Amazonas KL: Delicious, well-crafted South American-inspired cocktails. Catch happy hour with a few small plates of food. I loved the Mexican Prawn Esquites, but if you’re in the mood for a steak, Chef Shaun, working that wonderful Parilla grill, is turning out some of the best in the city right now.
Reasons to visit The Hidden Plate: an unforgettable evening set amidst a vibrant hydroponic farm with incredible city skyline views; the free-flow beverage package is a steal!; exceptional omakase; a fantastic booking for special occasions; limited to eight seats only; and oh, that cheesecake!
Reasons to visit Feliz KL: authentic Peruvian cuisine; great signature cocktails; an extensive wine and spirits menu; beautiful setting with an upbeat playlist, vibrant mosaics, and alfresco dining options; not one, but three (!) Peruvian chefs.
Reasons to visit Brasa KL Grill and Wine Bar: The Wagyu Ravioli was terrific. Chef Diego makes the best tomato-based sauces in the city, and the vibrant arrabbiata sauce coating the pasta here is no exception. Order another basket of focaccia to mop up every last drop. While most customers will come for the steaks, don’t miss the lamb rack. It’s a masterclass in lamb cookery. Forget the overcooked, fatty versions you might have encountered elsewhere. The lamb is cooked to juicy perfection, boasting a beautiful pink centre and a touch of char.
Reasons to visit N.I.C.E Bistronome: Gorgeous, intimate setting with loads of natural light above the kitchen during the day and a warm glow in the evenings; exceptional service; must-try the Niçoise Salad, Burrata with Figs and Hazelnut Crumble, and N.I.C.E. Tortellini.
Reasons to visit Valentina Cucina E Bar: lovely dining setting with stylish indoor or poolside seating; authentic Italian cuisine with flavours from the south; value-for-money house-pouring wine; gracious service; try the Valentina Experience Menu to take the hassle out of choosing.
Reasons to visit Brella Bakehouse: a charming spot with welcoming vibes and French ambient music, good coffee, great sourdough bread and pizza. I’m returning for the Pain Au Suisse – Ham & Cheese, Butterfly Pea Yuzu Soda and Oolong Panna Cotta.
Sōfte – Ice Cream & Dessert Bar
Reasons to visit Da Fu Di: excellent Chinese fine dining that prioritises both quality and sustainability through traditional techniques and locally sourced ingredients; varied menu that celebrates the eight major Chinese cuisines, with a nod to modern sensibilities such as avoiding unnecessary MSG, sugar and salt; exceptional cooking skill on display, with expertly and thoughtfully prepared dishes; luxurious but unpretentious ambience — elegant, not excessive! Also, three cheers for refusing to sell shark fin!
Reasons to visit Asador V: some of the best steak in Kuala Lumpur, expertly and uniquely prepared; an exceptional culinary display throughout the menu, creatively combining the finest ingredients with innovative expression; excellent service; premium wine and liquor list; a gorgeous, memorable restaurant in the heart of the city.
Reasons to visit Elementary restaurant and bar on the Dining Terrace, The Exchange Mall, TRX: versatile spaces with naturally lit alfresco areas, more intimate booths and bar seats; traditional British pub food; good fun vibes; must try the pies, pea cappuccino, sticky toffee pudding and be sure to check out the cocktail list.
Pizza Roma The Original Malaysia @ D’Rapport Ampang
Reasons to visit Pizza Roma The Original @ D’Rapport Ampang: At breakfast time, they serve the fluffiest scrambled eggs in Ampang, if not the whole of KL; at lunchtime, they serve the best sandwiches; trust me and try my favourite Tuna sandwich, my mouth is watering thinking about it. In the evenings, their fresh pasta with punchy, vibrant sauces was a revelation and didn’t break the bank, and of course, their delicious Pizza! All with free parking.
Reasons to visit Miss Coco cafe: high-quality coffee roasted in-house (it might be one of Mon’s favourite cups in the city); award-winning chocolate; Venezuelan arepas and tequenos; Venezuelans should politely ask Ms Farah (and tip her well) for a surprise performance.
Not New But New Location
Reasons to visit Skillet KL: exceptional seasonal menu, carefully and sustainably curated; premium and locally sourced ingredients giving a unique Asian edge to a classically European menu; beautiful restaurant with a great ambience and open-plan kitchen concept; thoughtful wine pairing with an extensive menu available for alternative choices; warm, knowledge and attentive service.
Reasons to visit OpenHouse Conlay: Malaysian heritage cuisine; rustic recipes using ingredients from orang asli communities; impressive heritage-led project that celebrates Malaysian cultural and culinary conservation.
How many of these new restaurants in KL have you been to in 2024? Let us know your other loves and the ones we’ve missed in the comment box below.
Find more of our favourite restaurants in Kuala Lumpur here, and stay up-to-date on the latest gourmet and travel happenings around Asia via The Yum List on Instagram and The Yum List on Facebook.