New cafes & restaurants in July 2024
It’s officially the month of July. While some of us might be scratching our heads, wondering how on earth it’s already the middle of the year, it’s also the best month to restart and feel refreshed – that mid-year slump is #real after all.
Having good grub in aesthetically pleasing places never fail to give us a dopamine boost, for sure. So, here are 10 new cafes in KL and PJ to visit to bring out the happy hormone.
Table of Contents
1. Absorb Sunlight
Variety of freshly baked pastries
Image adapted from: @vivianssf via Instagram
We can never have enough spots to get our hands on crumbly pastries in KL. For those living in and around Taman OUG, Absorb Sunlight is the new place in town to grab great coffee and delicious carbs.
Image credit: @absorb_sunlight via Instagram
The coffee shop serves freshly-baked goods from within a shared space with local fashion brand, Rotten Paradise. It’s set to also offer hot food from the kitchen soon, but if you want to be ahead of the cafe-hopping game, head here to try the pastries first.
You’ll have your pick of croissants like Ham & Cheese (RM15) and Pistachio (RM19), as well as Cinnamon Rolls (RM12/each) and Sausage Rolls (RM15/each).
Image adapted from: @josephcshong via Instagram
Address: 51, Jalan Hujan, Taman Overseas Union, 58200 Kuala Lumpur
Opening hours: 10am-7pm, Daily
Contact: Absorb Sunlight’s Instagram
2. Bijou
A 2-storey glasshouse cafe
Image credit: @sophhdrinkscoffee via Instagram
Bijou is a name that those in the Ara Damansara area are likely familiar with. If not, the cafe in a tiny all-white glasshouse might help ring a bell. This cosy establishment has since moved to a bigger glasshouse, just a stone’s throw from its previous location.
Different seating arrangements are set out on both the first and mezzanine floors of the new space, so patrons can dine indoors while enjoying a flood of natural light.
Image credit: @jd_chang via Instagram
The menu at the cafe remains unchanged. Though the new place is still in its soft launch phase, it offers a variety of pastries, speciality coffee, and mocktails to enjoy with a side of Vitamin D.
Image adapted from: @parisz via Instagram
Address: 1, Jalan PJU 1A/42A, Ara Damansara, 47301 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Opening hours: 8am-12am, Daily
Contact: Bijou’s Instagram
3. Lad & Fry
No-frills fish & chips specialist joint
Image credit: @aimaris via Instagram
Singaporean gastropub Lad & Dad has landed on our shores with its spin-off Lad & Fry, which offers signature scrumptious deep fried fish. At the latter’s no-frills outlet in Wisma Cosway, only one main flies out the service window: fish and chips. But it’s exactly what patrons are here for.
Image credit: @ladandfry.kl via Instagram
At just RM38, crispy-battered perch fish is served with mushy peas, gherkin tartar sauce, and thick-cut fries. During lunch hour between 12-2pm, you can enjoy the establishment’s well-loved main with a side of the day and refillable lemon juice.
Opt to bump up your sides with Extras such as purple coleslaw (RM9.80) and butter corn with pickled cucumber (RM7.80).
Address: Ground Floor, Wisma Cosway, 88, Jalan Raja Chulan 50200 Kuala Lumpur
Opening hours: Tue-Sat 12-2pm & 5-9pm (Closed on Mondays & Sundays)
Contact: Lad & Fry’s Instagram
4. Mun-Chi Sandwiches
Speciality cafe with wagyu beef & tamago crab sandwiches
Image credit: @vivianssf via Instagram
Level up your regular egg and mayo sandwich from the convenience store with the sammies at Mun-Chi Sandwiches, a new Muslim-friendly, sandwich-speciality cafe in PJ. No pork, lard, or alcohol is served here.
Image credit: @munchi_sandwich via Instagram
Thirteen types of sandwiches are currently featured on the menu, including tamago crab (RM18.90), Australian beef (RM20.80), and avocado chicken ham (RM22.90), as well as more premium ones such as wagyu beef (RM28.90) and prawns (RM27.90).
You can further amp up your sandwich with extra ingredients such as hash browns (RM3) and kenkori egg (RM1.50).
Address: No. 35-G Jalan SS21/56b Damansara Utama 47400 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Opening hours: 8.30am-4pm, Daily
Contact: Mun-Chi Sandwiches’ Instagram
5. Fishing Day
Neighbourhood cafe with cakes of the day
Image adapted from: @fishingdaycafe via Instagram
Fishing Day is the kind of place to head to if laidback and chill are the keywords for your next pick of cafe. Picture kicking back in a slowed-down environment like you’ve gone out of KL on a fishing trip – but with the addition of coffees and cakes, and sans having to deal with baiting worms, of course.
Sharing a space with arts and crafts store, Kumpul, the cafe has couches overlooking the quiet streets below, forming a cosy “living room” setup.
Image credit: @fishingdaycafe via Instagram
As for food, the pork-free cafe’s highlight is its selection of cakes of the day, with options often including the classic Cheesecake (RM15) and Genmaicha Pound Cake (RM10).
Image credit: @sancafehop via Instagram
Address: 30b, Jalan Awan Hijau, Taman Overseas Union, 58200 Kuala Lumpur
Opening hours: Thu-Fri 11am-6pm | Sat-Mon 11am-7.30pm (Closed on Tuesdays & Wednesdays)
Contact: Fishing Day’s cafe
6. Cliff & Max
A wellness store with a tea room
Image credit: @mielifestyles via Instagram
There seems to be a running theme with the new cafes opening in Klang Valley this month. Another spot that shares four walls with a retail space is Cliff & Max, a wellness store with a tea room serving Japanese tea and desserts.
If zen is the vibe you’re going for after a long week, that’s exactly what you’ll get here. The space is charmingly minimalist – think sleek concrete and wood surfaces, with just a handful of tasteful decor items so you can experience the cafe’s food in full glory without any distractions.
Image credit: @twenty_minutesss via Instagram
Only operating on the weekends, the tea room serves tea sets for parties of two at the main table in the store. You can sip on Japanese and Chinese tea with different tasting notes, while munching on delicate Japanese desserts.
Image credit: @twenty_minutesss via Instagram
There’s the recommended Ukino Set (RM60) that comes with a tea of your choice and a Yokan set of omija, matcha, shiro, and azuki jellies.
To ensure all patrons can dine without feeling cramped, there’s a 90-minute dining time limit. While the tea room allows walk-ins, avoid disappointment by reserving a dining spot prior to your visit, here.
Tea Room
Address: 18, Jalan PJU 1A/42B, Ara Damansara 47301 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Opening hours: Fri-Sun 11.15am-6pm
Contact: Cliff & Max’s website
7. Unsalted Butter
A whimsical cafe with cakes, coffee & gelato
Image adapted from: @alex_yap via Instagram, @eejoeyy via Instagram
A spin-off of Shaun Teo Creations, Unsalted Butter has partnered with Gelato Creations (GLTC) to soft launch a new cafe in Ara Damansara this July. It is whimsical in its cake and interior designs – think ribbons and roses on delicate desserts, and creamy white tones and charming mismatched chairs in the dining space.
Image credit: @alex_yap via Instagram
Not to mention, the gelatos – mouthwatering flavours like Pistachio and White Tea Lychee are served from an ice cream stand at the front of house.
Image credit: @eejoeyy via Instagram
With baking extraordinaires running the cafe, it’s needless to say that you should try the sweet treats here. There are options such as earl grey scones, green tea yuzu cake, and espresso cookies to tantalise any tastebud.
Address: AG01-11, Eve Suites, Jalan Pju 1a/41 Ara Damansara 47301 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Opening hours: Tue-Sun 11am-10pm (Closed on Mondays)
Contact: Unsalted Butter’s Instagram
8. Alluring
Variety of dons, udons, and doughs
Image credit: @parisz via Instagram
It’s hard to deny the allure of the wide variety of dons, udons, and doughs at Alluring. This new cafe in Cheras serves all of the above in a minimalist space filled with a good number of tables and seats, and just a handful of tasteful wall decorations.
Image credit: @vnic__ via Instagram
As for the dons and udons, have your pick of unique ones such as Gochujang Katsu Don (RM25) – yangnyeom-doused fried chicken over calrose rice – and Chashu Carbonara Udon (RM25), juicy char siew with creamy, herb butter-infused carbonara udon.
Image credit: @weichunnn_125 via Instagram
If you’ve been eyeing the pastries from tagged posts of the cafe on social media, these in-house baked menu items change on a weekly basis. But you can always expect to find cronigiris, croffins, bagels, pretzels, and more during your visit.
Address: G12, Residensi Majestic Maxim, 45, Jalan 9, Taman Bukit Cheras 56000 Kuala Lumpur
Opening hours: Thu-Tue 11am-9pm (Closed on Wednesdays)
Contact: Alluring’s Instagram
9. Basil Store
Italian food and grocer with focaccia sandwiches
Image credit: Basil Store via Facebook
Basil Store may be small – it’s a cosy Italian food and grocery store with just five seats – but there’s nothing small about the wide selection of dishes here or their flavours.
Image credit: @basilgourmetstore via Instagram
The menu here features 12-inch sourdough pizzas (from RM29) such as Calabrese Salami and Pistachio Mortadella, and pastas (from RM18.50) including Bacon Bolognese and Curry & Tomato.
You can choose the type of pasta to go with the sauces – spaghetti, fettuccine, mezzi gomiti, or casarecce.
Image credit: @chloehomj via Instagram
Else, go for the seriously stacked focaccia sandwiches. Variations include Guanciale Pepe (RM35.90) with rocket salad and tender pork cheek, and Beef Salami Milano (RM38.50) that comes with sliced beef salami and ricotta cheese.
Address: No.37, Jalan Kuchai Maju 6, Kuchai Entrepreneurs Park, 58200 Kuala Lumpur
Opening hours: Wed-Mon 12pm-8.30pm (Closed on Tuesdays)
Contact: Basil Store’s Instagram
10. Soulyard
Homely cafe with comfort Chinese food
Image credit: @terrencechng318 via Instagram
Soulyard joins the list of aesthetically pleasing cafes to visit in Taman OUG for brunch. Serving comfort foods from its homely space, this spot soft launched early in June with 11 mains and 13 drinks.
Image credit: @vivianssf via Instagram
Beyond the classic Western fare, Soulyard also serves Chinese food to warm the soul, such as hearty Braise Pork Knuckle (RM18), Mapo Tofu (RM17) and Dan Dan Mee (RM20).
Address: No. 31, Jalan Perisa 2, Taman Gembira, Jalan Kuchai Lama 58200 Kuala Lumpur
Opening hours: Tue-Sun 12pm-10pm (Closed on Mondays)
Contact: Soulyard’s Instagram
June
Another month, another new batch of cafes and restaurants emerged. If you consider cafe-hopping a serious sport, you’d need to know the best cafes and restaurants to visit as June 2024 is here.
From a pastry shop that serves ang ku kuih resembling sushi to a cave-themed cafe-bar with speciality coffee and infused wines, take your cafe-hopping excursions to these 8 new cafes and restaurants in KL and PJ.
1. Neighbour Club
A cafe in the front & a secret bar at the back
Image adapted from: @weichunnn_125 via Instagram
Don’t be fooled by Neighbour Club’s shopfront. It may look like a local barbershop that gives the best ear-cleaning services, but trust us, you’ll be getting something entirely different here. It’s actually JWC’s latest spinoff in Pasar Seni: a cafe in the front with a secret bar hidden behind the wall shelf.
Image adapted from: @weichunnn_125 via Instagram, 我是咖啡控 CONNIE LAI via XiaoHongShu
The cafe offers coffee (from RM7), aoarashi matcha (from RM12), and JWC’s signature drinks (RM12) such as Kaya Butter and Juicy Summer.
If you’re feeling peckish, there are bread, cakes, and snacks such as sourdough crackers and pre-packed dried meat to munch on.
Image adapted from: @l_khaisin via Instagram, @jwc.neighbourclub via Instagram
We don’t encourage day drinking, but it also serves draught cocktails straight out from the tap.
The mixologies (RM50/glass) at the cocktail bar are so unique that they are borderline bizarre. The Double Special comprises Maggi seasoning and onions, while umami-rich shrimp paste is a key ingredient in the Way To George Town.
Address: 70, Jalan Sultan, City Centre, 50000 Kuala Lumpur, WPKL
Opening hours: 10am-10pm (cafe) 7pm-12am (bar), Daily
Contact: Neighbour Club’s Instagram
2. Floccus Floccus
Sushi-like ang ku kuih & duck-egg kaya
Image credit: @weichunnn_125 via Instagram
Floccus Floccus is the kind of place to bring your parents to if you want to impress them.
Nestled above Fung Wong Biscuit in Pasar Seni, this pastry shop gives traditional Chinese kuih a fresh look with its Sushi Angku (RM10 for 2 pieces) and Kingu Chai Kuih (RM15 for 3 pieces).
The typical oval-shaped ang ku kuih resembles sushi topped with “tamago” and “salmon”, while the chai kuih switches out its dumpling skin for a goldfish suit.
Image credit: @floccusfloccus via Instagram
Besides the sweet bites, the cafe also has Siew Bao (RM6) shaped like a teddy bear, Yam Cake (RM8), and Kuang Chiang (RM12) that’s fried till golden brown and crispy. These savoury delights are perfect for breakfast or tea time.
Image credit: @floccusfloccus via Instagram
Before you leave, grab a jar of the homemade Duck Egg Kaya (RM18) – it is not to be slept on. Unlike the typical kaya made with chicken eggs, the duck egg version imparts a creamier texture and a richer taste.
Address: 85-1, Jalan Sultan, City Centre, 50000 Kuala Lumpur, WPKL
Opening hours: Tue-Sun 9am-5pm (Closed on Mondays)
Contact: 011-6201 2850 | Floccus Floccus’ Instagram
3. People’s Park
Brunch spot with a view of a park
Image adapted from: @davinzi_code via Instagram
If you’re looking for a serene brunch spot to dine solo, People’s Park in Damansara Jaya is the place to go. Its solo seating area looks out onto a serene park, letting you soak in the greenery while enjoying its Western-Asian cuisine.
There are pastas (from RM26), rice dishes (from RM27), all-day breakfasts (from RM28), and sandwiches (from RM25) on the menu, infused with the chef’s unique flair.
Image adapted from: @davinzi_code via Instagram, Jesslyn Ho via Google Review
The Home Benedict (RM28) features house chicken meatloaf instead of the typical crispy bacon. English muffins are swapped out for Japanese milky bread, resulting in a fluffy texture and a subtly sweet taste.
Another must-try is the Salmon Chazuke (RM27).
It’s a Japanese version of Chinese leicha, where hot umami broth is poured over the mound of rice, torched salmon, and sauteed vegetables to be enjoyed.
Address: 35, Jalan SS22/19, Damansara Jaya, 47400 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Opening hours: Thu-Tue 8.30am-5pm (Closed on Wednesdays)
Contact: 012-835 3516 | People’s Park’s Instagram
4. Yum Yum Seng Seng
Japanese resto-bar with live band performances
Image adapted from: @yumyum_sengseng via Instagram, @vivianssf via Instagram
You can go to Yum Yum Seng Seng for a catch-up with your buddies or a nerve-wracking first date – it hardly matters. The resto-bar’s dimly lit interior with old-school decor, coupled with live band performances, altogether create a relaxed atmosphere that naturally invites any sort of conversation and story-sharing.
To catch the live performances, drop by the restaurant on Mondays to Saturdays, from 7pm to 11pm.
Image adapted from: @yumyum_sengseng via Instagram, @jasmine_at_work via Instagram
The restaurant’s menu is Japanese-accented, but you can expect fusion flavours in dishes such as Szechuan Dry Ramen (RM25) lubricated by tongue-buzzing chilli oil and Thai-style Eggs With Prawn Don (RM28).
It also serves salmon done in several ways, including Salmon Dragon Ball With Mentaiko Sauce (RM30), Salmon Tataki (RM28), and Salmon Mentaiko Don (RM28).
Image adapted from: 梁梁梁绮 via XiaoHongShu
Be careful when you share the Mini Seafood Pizza (RM24) with your companions – you might just end up fighting over the last paiseh piece. Each cracker-like pizza base is topped with prawn, salmon, baby octopus, and tobiko, followed by a squeeze of garlic aioli sauce. Every bite sings the brininess of the sea.
Your meals should also include cocktails (RM25/glass) and draught beers (from RM16/glass), or wines (from RM118) to make it fancy. But, if you insist on staying sober to avoid oversharing secrets, order coffee (from RM8) or a pop drink (RM10).
Address: B.Land Bunch, 2, 51A, Jalan 51a/225, 46100 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Opening hours: Mon-Fri 11.30am-11pm | Sat & Sun 10.30am-11pm
Contact: 017-928 8924 | Yum Yum Seng Seng’s Instagram
5. M5 Coffee
Mount Kinabalu coffee & cookie cup latte
Image adapted from: 爱美的Colie在创业中 via XiaoHongShu, Terrence318 (立鞍 . 莊）via XiaoHongShu
The famous Taipei-grown coffee chain, M5 Coffee, has recently entered the Malaysian cafe scene, now brewing coffee and tea at the TTDI area.
Image adapted from: 爱美的Colie在创业中 via XiaoHongShu
You can find M5 Coffee’s OG drinks on the menu, such as the Coastal Range Coffee (RM16) with blue-hued jellies made from butterfly pea, and Oatmeal Cookie Cup Latte (RM16) where even the cup is edible.
Image adapted from: @nikkotan0701 via Instagram
But we know your Anak Malaysia spirit won’t want you to miss out on Mount Kinabalu (RM18), which is a Malaysia-only special. The bold and citrusy mix of the shop’s premium coffee blend and orange juice is topped with frothy milk.
An espresso ice cube is added to the drink to intensify the coffee flavour as it melts.
Image adapted from: Hehe一起吃火锅吗 via XiaoHongShu, 爱美的Colie在创业中 via XiaoHongShu
While the cakes and croissant sandwiches are good, you should get the croffles (from RM24.90). Available in chocolate, matcha, and berry flavours, each croffle is treated to a duvet of cream and finished with a drizzle of chocolate sauce or sugary syrup.
Address: 39, Jalan Tun Mohd Fuad 3, Taman Tun Dr Ismail, 60000 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur
Opening hours: 8am-12am, Daily
Contact: 011-1308 5036 | M5 Coffee’s Instagram
6. Yellow Bake Day
Pistachio & green grape chiffon cakes from Johor
Image adapted from: @mielifestyles via Instagram, Peg馋嘴美食记 via XiaoHongShu
Do not go to Yellow Bake Day in SS2 if you are on a diet. The chiffon cakes here are so tempting, you’ll find yourself repeatedly reaching for another forkful, and even boxing up a few slices to take home.
The cafe is Johor-grown, serving chiffon cakes that give no boring flavours. The best-selling Pistachio Lemon (RM20) boasts layers of pistachio chiffon cake, zesty lemon curd, and nutty pistachio cream.
Image adapted from: @mielifestyles via Instagram, @kahkkkay via Instagram
The cafe also enjoys experimenting with various teas and fruits, creating cake flavours such as Jasmine Green Grapes (RM19) and Mango Passion Oolong (RM19).
Yet, their Tiramisu With Rum (RM17) is the slice of cake that’ll wake you up. It combines deep cocoa and coffee flavours with a kick of liquor from the rum.
Get a coffee (from RM8) or tea latte (from RM13) to balance out the sweetness. We recommend trying the signature Hawthorn Apple Black Tea (RM14) for a robust tea taste that intertwines with the tartness of hawthorn.
Address: 50, Jalan SS2/24, SS2, 47300 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Opening hours: Wed-Sat 10am-7pm | Sun & Tue 11am-7pm (Closed on Mondays)
Contact: 016-807 3212 | Yellow Bake Day’s Instagram
7. Here In Haven
A cave-themed cafe & bar with speciality coffee & infused wines
Image adapted from: @josephcshong via Instagram
A trip to Here In Haven is a contemporary cave exploration, with the air smelling like coffee, wine, and croissants. The igloo-like interior of the cafe cum bar is sectioned into cosy corners with couches for groups and high tables for patrons dining alone or with just a couple of friends.
Image adapted from: 嘉泋探店记 via XiaoHongShu
The drink selection spans coffees (from RM10), matcha (from RM17), cold-pressed juices (from RM16), and in-house infused wines. The baristas here also mix coffee with cocktails, sparkling water, and fruits.
You can also indulge in pastries by Flaaah Bakery at this cafe-bar. The pastry menu varies daily, but you can expect to find a spread of croissants, danishes, and tarts.
Image adapted from: @hereinhaven via Instagram
Infused wines are Here In Haven’s strong suit, available by the bottle or per glass. The Inspiration To Text Your Ex sounds like a risky choice, but hey, this sweet blend of strawberry and honey is simply here to remind you of the good ol’ times.
On the contrary, if you are mustering the courage to confess your feelings to your crush, consider the You Spice Up My Life as your opening act. It is a warm and spicy blend of lychee and pink peppercorn – just like how your crush makes you feel.
Address: 76, Jalan 27/70A, Desa Sri Hartamas, 50480 Kuala Lumpur, WPKL
Opening hours: 10am-5pm, Daily
Contact: 011-5433 7405 | Here In Haven Cafe’s Instagram
8. The Eighth Cafe
A cafe-bar with Malaysian delights & cocktails
Image adapted from: Jamie via XiaoHongShu, @yvonnesoo via Instagram
Soak up plenty of Vitamin D at The Eighth Cafe, where the sunlight shines through the ceiling windows and onto the tables. But of course, you should also visit for its modern Malaysian fare and cocktails.
The cafe serves up Nasi Lemak (from RM18.90) with a deep-fried chicken drumstick or curry chicken, topped with a sunny side up egg. If you’re just looking for a snack, opt for the Cucur Udang (RM13.90) with a tangy dip on the side, or the Satay (RM18.90) with gourmet peanut sauce.
Image adapted from: @yvonnesoo via Instagram, @fanny_ho3021 via Instagram,
Malaysia’s sweltering weather makes the Ice Kacang (RM14.90) and Cendol (RM11.90), which come in elegant Nyonya bowls, particularly irresistible.
The tiramisu-based drinks (RM20) such as Tiramisu Latte and Matcha Tiramisu, are also well-worth a try.
Image adapted from: @theeighthcafe via Instagram
The cocktail list (from RM40) has classics that run the gamut, including Yuzu Mojito, Whiskey Sour, and Long Island Iced Tea. Alternatively, there are alcohol-free, but just as fun, mocktails (from RM18) such as Yuzu Sour and Peach Fizz.
Address: 33A, Jalan Kubis, Taman Goodwood, 41200 Kuala Lumpur, WPKL
Opening hours: Sun-Thu 10am-8pm | Fri & Sat 10am-10pm
Contact: The Eighth Cafe’s Instagram
May
Having nasi lemak and roti bakar daily is never a problem for us Malaysians because tasty food will never lose its appeal. But like every relationship that falls into a routine, a bit of novelty is needed to keep things fresh and exciting for our palates.
From breakfast to-go spots to backyard coffeehouses, discover these 8 new cafes and restaurants in KL and PJ in May.
1. Butter & Spice
Truffle taco-croissant & matcha flan
Image adapted from: @foongpc via Instagram, Lim Kee Kiat via Google Review
Butter & Spice in SS2 has a Japanese-Italian food menu that can feed anyone’s carb-calling hunger.
One of its specialties is the Tacro (from RM24), which is a marriage of a croissant and taco. Imagine a taco that hits the gym – the traditional thin tortilla is transformed into a buff-looking shell with a croissant-like flaky texture.
Image adapted from: Kee Hemtee via Google Review, @makcj via Instagram
The shop also makes Sourdough Bread (from RM29) and Sourdough Pizzas (from RM39). The Mentaiko Sambal Potato Chicken Pizza, in particular, merges Malaysian, Japanese, and Italian influences. It features shrimp sambal, mentaiko sauce, and Mozzarella cheese.
For pastries, delve into the best-selling Charcoal Matcha Flan (RM11). As you run your knife across the tar-black crust, watch as the custardy matcha sauce gushes out into a puddle of green on the plate. The flans are also available in hojicha and chocolate flavours.
Address: 53, jalan SS2/30, SS2, 47300 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Opening hours: Tue-Thu 8.30am-5.30pm | Fri-Sun 8.30am-9.30pm (Closed on Mondays)
Contact: 011-2625 6063 | Butter & Spice’s Instagram
2. Pucks Coffee
Work-friendly coffeehouse opens till midnight
Image adapted from: @jd_chang via Instagram, @pucksandfriends via Instagram
Pucks Coffee is like the Gen Z within the cafe scene at Petaling Street. A mishmash of comfy couches, chairs in various styles, and tables of all shapes and sizes occupy random corners of the space.
In short, there are no rules to the cafe layout.
The laidback and eclectic charm also makes Pucks Coffee an ideal spot for remote workers seeking a change of scenery from their home offices. The plentiful space between seats further ensures a comfortable work setting.
Image adapted from: @pucksandfriends via Instagram
As for food and drinks, the cafe serves coffee (from RM10) and pastries (from RM8), with occasional kitchen takeovers by homegrown eateries. Past takeovers have featured dishes such as pizzas, croffles, and pies – you can certainly expect more exciting takeovers to come.
Theoretically, you shouldn’t have coffee at night to avoid a restless sleep. But again, at Pucks Coffee, conventional mindsets can take a backseat. The cafe opens until midnight, beckoning patrons to drop by for a cuppa even after work.
Address: Back Portion, 180, Jalan Tun H S Lee, City Centre, 50000 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur
Opening hours: 12pm-12am, Daily
Contact: 011-2625 6063 | Pucks Coffee’s Instagram
3. Early Bird
Breakfast to-go spot for the office workers
Image adapted from: Inn Qing via Google Review, @gominhyeong_cups via Instagram
Early Bird is bound to be the breakfast to-go spot for office workers in the Damansara Utara area. It opens as early as 7.30am on weekdays.
Coffee (from RM8) and croissants (from RM10) are the shop’s interpretation of a delightful breakfast combo. The cafe’s coffee list is built around the familiar such as espresso, Americano, and flat white.
Meanwhile, the croissant repertoire has over 10 options, including Pain Au Chocolate, Cheezy Roasted Chicken, Egg Mayo, and Triple Mushrooms.
Image adapted from: Tan Miao Zhi via Google Review, @earlybird.uptown via Instagram
A one-page section on the menu is dedicated to pastas (from RM13) and rice bowls (from RM13), available from 10.30am to 4pm. There are Aglio Olio, Mushroom Pesto, and Salted Egg Chicken Rice Bowl.
Address: 101, Uptown 2, 2, Jalan SS21/37, Damansara Utama, 47400 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Opening hours: Mon-Fri 7.30am-5pm | Sat 9am-5pm (Closed on Sundays)
Contact: Early Bird’s Instagram
4. YOD Milk Shop
Bagels from RM1.80 & homemade ice cream
YOD Milk Shop in Taipan is a quaint hole-in-the-wall establishment. It also make carbs with a hole in the middle – better known as bagels.
You can savour the Original or Cranberry Bagels (from RM4.80/each) plain or with a myriad of sweet and savoury fillings, sold separately from RM1.80. Popular options among patrons are taro, almond honey cream cheese, and matcha.
Image adapted from: @dingdong.fresh via Instagram, @yodmilk.shop via Instagram
Fruit-based ice Creams (from RM7.80) and milks (from RM14.80) are also the shop’s forte. With 24 ice cream flavours available, such as Musang King and Cempedak, you can indulge in a different flavour every day for three weeks straight – which sounds like an amazing recurring plan to us.
Address: 54, Jalan USJ 10/1B, USJ 2, 47620 Subang Jaya, Selangor
Opening hours: Mon-Sat 7am-4pm (Closed on Sundays)
Contact: 011-5639 5389 | YOD Milk Shop’s Instagram
5. Grumpy Bagels
Muslim-friendly bagel sandwiches with buttermilk chicken
Image adapted from: @mielifestyles via Instagram, @vivianssf via Instagram
Grumpy Bagels settled down at what was once an abandoned house. While the bare brick walls and unpolished concrete floor remain, the restored space now smells like fresh bread and butter.
Image credit: @mielifestyles via Instagram
This Muslim-friendly homegrown bagel house serves classic bagels (from RM7.50/each) – such as Sesame Bagel and Everything Bagel – as well as bagel sandwiches (from RM30).
Like toasts with jam, these fat cousins of doughnuts find their match in cream cheese spreads. The shop’s cream cheese spreads come in six sweet and savoury options, including blueberry, maple walnut, scallion, and garlic herb.
Image adapted from: @vivianssf via Instagram, @rodsandcones_studio via InstagraM
Signature Satay Bagel (RM34) highlights the best of Malaysian flavours. The buttermilk fried chicken is dressed in housemade peanut mayo, akin to the duo of satay and kuah kacang.
B.E.C Bagel (RM32), on the other hand, lets you have a taste of New York. Crafted with streaky beef bacon, scrambled eggs, and melted double cheddar cheese, this iconic American breakfast can keep you full all day.
Address: 5, Jalan Kamuning, Off, Jalan Imbi, 55100 Wilayah Persekutuan, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur
Opening hours: Wed-Mon 9am-5pm (Closed on Tuesdays)
Contact: 011-1113 4985 | Grumpy Bagels’ Instagram
6. Chunky x Los Tacos
Soft cookies & Mexican tacos
Image adapted from: @breakkiesisters via Instagram, @lostacosmy via Instagram
Chunky x Los Tacos is the latest cookie-taco joint in Taman Paramount, rendering as a one-stop destination to get hearty Mexican food and sweet snacks.
Image adapted from: @chunky.my via Instagram
Chunky’s stuffed cookies (from RM9/piece) are all made using halal ingredients. Each piece promises a soft and chewy texture, coupled with a rich buttery taste. Among the variety of options, don’t miss out on their hot-selling Smores, Reese’s Peanut Butter, and Red Velvet Cream Cheese.
Image credit: @lostacosmy via Instagram
Los Tacos, on the other hand, lets you feast on an array of authentic Mexican street food – tacos (from RM16 for two pieces), quesatacos (from RM22 for two pieces), and burritos (from RM14.90).
The Beef Birria Taco comes recommended. It is filled with shredded beef slow-cooked in a blend of spices. While this taco is already a flavour bomb on its own, you should try it with their special birria soup for an elevated experience.
Address: 57, Jalan 21/12, Taman Paramount, 46300 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Opening hours: Tue-Thu 12pm-10pm | Fri 12pm-1pm, 2pm-10pm | Sat & Sun 12pm-10pm (Closed on Mondays)
Contact: 019-224 7363 | Chunky x Los Tacos’ Instagram
7. Betterdays
Backyard coffee bar that opens till midnight
Image credit: Betterdays Slow Coffee Bar via Google Review
Betterdays is another place you and your friends can lepak at after work. The coffee bar takes up the backyard of a double-storey Semi-D that operates as a creative studio, brewing coffee from 9pm to 1am.
The largest piece of furniture at Betterdays is the bar counter, while the rest of the space is adorned with old-school patio chairs and stools. Yet, the clever use of colour adds a dose of playfulness to the shop.
Image adapted from: Betterdays Slow Coffee Bar via Google Review
While the coffee shop serves black coffee and flat white, you should try the signature Aren Latte and Fatty Latte – each priced at RM15.
For sweet bites, Lupis (RM8) will be a perfect match for black coffee. The traditional Indonesian sweet cakes are sprinkled with coconut shreds and doused in brown sugar sauce.
Address: 58, Lorong Maarof, Bangsar, 59000 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur
Opening hours: 9pm-1am, Daily
Contact: Betterdays’ Instagram
8. Sōfte
Toasted rice ice cream sprinkled with black pepper
Image credit: @carol.eats via Instagram
Ice cream is Sōfte’s love language. Nestled within Ilham Tower, this dessert bar is also where you should spend your quality time on a scorching afternoon.
Crafted by Chef Elwyn Boyles, the former executive pastry chef from a three Michelin-starred restaurant in the USA, the ice cream (from RM15/scoop) from Sōfte comes in a variety of unique flavours such as Pink Guava Sorbet, Butter Pecan, and Chai.
Image credit: @rir_bim via Instagram
Those who enjoy a combination of ice cream and soft serve should also give the sundae (from RM27) a try. Each cup of this frozen dessert looks so visually appealing that you might just hold back your spoon.
Image adapted from: @rir_bim via Instagram
The Everything Rice Sundae pays homage to Malaysian culinary culture with rice. It features toasted rice ice cream, puffed black rice, vanilla soft serve, and miso caramel sauce.
Meanwhile, the Pink Cow Sundae is what you should order on a date. The pink guava sorbet comes under a thick dollop of whipped milk and is sprinkled with crushed meringue, which is also pink in colour. In short, the sundae is adorable.
Address: Ground Floor, IB Tower, 8, Jalan Binjai, Kuala Lumpur, 50450 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur
Opening hours: Wed-Thu 11.30am-9pm | Fri-Sat 11.30am-10pm | Sun 11.30am-9pm (Closed on Mondays & Tuesdays)
Contact: 012-694 9114 | Sōfte’s Instagram
New cafes & restaurants to visit in KL & PJ in 2024
The culinary scene in Klang Valley is constantly evolving, with new cafes and restaurants sprouting up fast like mushrooms after rainfall in KL and PJ in 2024. So, bookmark this article so you’ll know where to head to each month.
For more food guides, check out these 8 best burger joints in KL and the 8 cheap eats in Petaling Street.
Cover image adapted from: @sophhdrinkscoffee via Instagram, @aimaris via Instagram, @munchi_sandwich via Instagram, @mielifestyles via Instagram, @twenty_minutesss via Instagram, @eejoeyy via Instagram, @alex_yap via Instagram
This article was published on 6th May 2024, and was updated on 3rd June 2024. Last updated on 3rd July 2024.