Weekend Guide KL
You already know KL for its lip-smackin’ good food, but this modern city has more to offer than roadside chow and glitzy shopping malls. From traditional arts to kampung life in the heart of town, KL is a hub of activity that’s always worth another weekend gander.
Eat
Locals will tell you not to leave KL without trying their black noodles, also known as Hokkien noodles (not to be confused with the Singapore noodles we all know and love). True to the name, this dish is served black, glossy (from pork lard), and best along a main road. We kid you not! Everyone has their faves, but try Restoran Ahwa (66 Jalan 14/48, Petaling Jaya, behind the Shell Station at Jalan 222) and Restoran Aik Yuen (Jalan Sarikei, behind Tawakal Hospital).
PJ (Petaling Jaya) is always a great bet for food. Head to Raja Restaurant (27 Jalan CHantek 5/13, off Jalan Gasing) for Indian food served in traditional banana leaves
Jalan Alor is popular with both tourists and locals alike, testament to the excellent food they put out. This food strip serves quintessential Malaysian food at street prices.
Bijan is one of the few Malay fine-dining places. The food is unpretentious and delicious – definitely worth a visit. We suggest dining al fresco.
Have Sunday dimsum at Grand Imperial Restaurant; we like the Bangsar Shopping Centre branch for its consistently delicate dimsum.
Do
Find out more about old KL by taking a free heritage trail. The guide is conducted everyday. Call (603) 2032 1031 or 017 989 1031 for details.
Visit KL’s oldest mosque, Masjid Jamek, and be bowled over by its quiet grace and beauty.
For another place away from the touristy hum of the city, check out Kwong Tong cemetery, which is actually near Bukit Bintang and the Golden Triangle. Shutterbugs will like the views of the cityscape framed by the lush cemetery greens.
Need to knead out those shopping knots? Try the Blind Master Massage Centre (Jalan Tun Sambanthan 4, opposite YMCA in the Little India district), which employs blind therapists. Entirely affordable rates range from anywhere between RM10-50.
Drink
Rooftop bars always offer the best vantage points in every city. We like SkyBar at Traders Hotel for its close proximity to the twin towers, but make sure you call ahead for reservations.
Another popular option is Luna, a poolside rooftop bar at the top of Pacific Regency.
Stay
Keep in mind that KL traffic can get really bad so you’ll want to stay somewhere central.
The Majestic Hotel KL is centrally located right outside the major shopping belt and offers both a complimentary shuttle bus and a car service to get to where you want to go. They have a Majestic wing (all colonial suites with no kids allowed) and a more modern hotel tower for families. Make sure to try the fab hotel buffet – the dessert bar is sublime.
Want a view of the twin towers? Book a room at The Westin Kuala Lumpur. Bonus: you have immediate access to the city’s greatest shopping spots.
If you’re looking for a vacay getaway that’s distinctly un-KL, give Carcosa Seri Negara a spin. This historical heritage mansion has stately suites that are comfortably outfitted with modern amenities. Sister hotels The Saujana Hotel and The Club Saujana Resort are located close to Sunway Lagoon, Kidzania, and two championship 18-hole golf courses – great options if you’re on a family holiday.
Shop
Central Market is a Malaysian institution. To get a feel of the local art scene, head to Annexe Gallery at Central Market, or stroll along Kasturi Walk to pick up some souvenirs and knick-knacks. The arts and crafts bazzar at Annexe Gallery will be the highlight of your trip.
Peter Hoe (No. 145, Jalan Tun HS Lee) is a sprawling 8000 sq feet boutique and café near Chinatown. You’ll find local designs by Malaysian wonderboy, Justin Yap, alongside updated batik apparel and traditional silverware from the SEA region. There’s also furniture and homewares, and a café for much-needed refueling. This one’s even made The New York Times!
Vintage shopping is still under the radar here, but root around and you never know what you might unearth. The Curiosity Shop at trendy Mont Kiara has a great selection of vintage furniture and homewares but if it’s apparel you’re after, hit up Never Follow Suit and Buntil. Buntil has been around the longest and is somewhat nondescript from the outside, so you’ll need to hunt for your treasures.
Scoop is a great place for designer bargains. This consignment store also lets you trade in your old designer stuff for some extra cash.
It’s worth heading to Bangsar for a day of shopping – this trendy, upscale neighbourhood houses many well-stocked boutiques and cafes for a charming day out.
Flea markets are becoming increasingly popular in KL. Our top picks include the Sunday flea at Amcorp Mall, Sogo’s Sunday flea (Sogo Pernas Department Store), and BSC’s Saturday flea. The Fuyoh Art Bazaar at the newer Publika mall has plenty of gourmet sweets, homemade homewares, and locally crafted accessories.
Tips
KL is in the valley so it gets oppressively hot and humid in the afternoon. Schedule outdoor activities in the morning or evening.
Although the public transport infrastructure is improving, you’re better off navigating the city by taxi. Be warned that the traffic situation in KL is pretty bad and worsens during peak hour (early morning from 7-9am and evening from 4-7pm) so factor in time allowance. Go by the meter.
Thanks to our friends at AirAsia, Mel took the 1140am flight to KL. Why limit yourself to just KL? Explore more destinations with AirAsia’s handy downloadable guide to Malaysia. It’s free!
This travel guide was brought to you by AirAsia.