Things to do at REXKL in Kuala Lumpur
You might just walk past REXKL and not even realise it when in Kuala Lumpur. Just a stone’s throw from Petaling Street, the arts and culture hub is nestled inside a time-worn building that blends seamlessly with the surrounding shophouses. But venture inside, and it’s a whole different story.
We explored the local eateries and retail brands operating from REXKL to bring you this guide on things to do and food options here.
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What is the history of REXKL?
REXKL’s history goes way back – all the way to 1947.
The original REX Theatre, under Shaw Brothers Studio, opened that year and became one of the few spots in KL to watch movies on the big screen. But it was forced to close in 1972, when a fire broke out and burned the place down. Four years later, Golden Communications – now Golden Screen Cinemas – took over and reopened the place as a single-screen theatre with 1,100 seats.
Image credit: REXKL
The theatre operated under GSC with fancy upgrades like a digital sound processor (DTS) and computerised ticketing, until another fire broke out in 2002, forcing it to close permanently. In 2007, Red Dragon Hostel briefly welcomed backpackers to stay at its hostel space, only to have a third fire close down the building that same year.
Image credit: Stellar
Fast forward to 2019, and this history-laced, 60,000sqft site reopened to the public as an arts and culture hub. New life has been breathed into the building’s halls thanks to the diverse array of shops, eateries, and cultural events that now call the space home.
– Things to do at REXKL –
KL is pretty impressive when it comes to shopping and food, and a walk through REXKL will show you just what locals mean by this. From thrifting for vintage goods and chomping down on New York-style pizza, to exploring a maze-like bookstore and a digital art gallery, the hub has a lot more to offer than your average shopping mall.
1. BookXcess
A maze-like bookstore for photo ops
Image credit: @bookxcess via Instagram
Some would say that it’s not a trip to REXKL without checking out the Labyrinthian BookXcess outlet here. It’s a popular spot for photos in the city, with towering bookshelves arranged in a maze-like layout.
Not all just for show, the shelves are filled with a wide genre of books, ranging from children’s literature to art and design. Take your time to peruse their collections while relaxing in nooks tucked between the bookshelves.
Image credit: @bookxcess via Instagram
Just watch your head in this snug space, as it once housed first-class seats and the projector room, lending it a slightly cramped – or rather, ‘cosy’ – atmosphere that’s a big part of the bookstore’s unique charm.
Opening hours: 10am-10pm, Daily
Contact: BookXcess Instagram
2. RXPKL
A digital art gallery with immersive shows
Image credit: @darwisyahkhair via Instagram
REXPERIENCE, or RXPKL, is a newer addition to the building, having opened in 2023. Going beyond frames on gallery walls, the permanent digital art space hosts immersive, multi-sensory shows that let you sit back on bean bags and chairs to revel in fascinating displays of vibrant shapes and designs with larger-than-life projections.
Image credit: @rxp.kl via Instagram
Twilight, currently on show, comprises three segments: Hanya Batik, a stunning ode to local batik and a celebration of Malaysian culture; Geometry Of Emotions, which presents organic and geometric shapes to symbolise different emotional states; and Escape, which synchronises a dancer’s fluid movements with the digital projections.
The gallery space at REXKL requires an entry fee, with special rates for MyKad holders and concessions available. We broke the ticket prices down below:
- MyKad holders: RM40/adult | RM20/child (7-12 years old) | RM28/pax for students, senior citizens, and persons with disabilities
- Standard tickets: RM60/adult | RM30/child (7-12 years old) | RM42/pax for students, senior citizens, and persons with disabilities
You can purchase tickets online on RXPKL’s website or at their box office.
Opening hours: 10am-10pm, Daily
Contact: RXPKL Instagram
3. Mentor Bookstore
A trove of eclectic goods
Image credit: @hellorexkl via Instagram
Mentor Bookstore has ‘bookstore’ in its name, but it’s more than just a bookstore. Tucked away on the 1st floor, without any proper signage, the shop boasts an eclectic array of distinctive keepsakes, books, and preloved clothing.
The space allures with the nostalgia of vintage toys and memorabilia up for sale. Classic Power Rangers action figures and retro TV game consoles will transport you to a bygone era, when the joy of play had a distinctly different charm.
Image adapted from: @hellorexkl via Instagram
Hidden in the depths of the store are an assortment of jackets, kimonos, and vintage blouses, with most going for RM60 and above. Not all just about clothing and accessories, have fun sifting through an assortment of household items and a captivating collection of antique finds – we spotted Japanese-Russian nesting dolls in various sizes.
Opening hours: Tue-Sun 11am-6pm (Closed on Mondays)
4. Bang Bang Vintage Stores
Image adapted from: @hellorexkl via Instagram
Aficionados of thrifted fashion can check out the veritable treasure trove that is the collection of preloved and vintage apparel at BangBang Vintage Stores’ outlet at REXKL. The store carries plenty of goods for every occasion, with everything, from perfect date-night dresses and metallic micro skirts to 2010s chunky bangles and distressed denim jackets.
Image credit: @hellorexkl via Instagram
Opening hours: 12pm-9pm, Daily
Contact: Bang Bang Vintage Stores Instagram
5. Bila Bila Mart
A modern kedai runcit
Image credit: Yusintha
For on-the-go snacking or thirst-quenching pit stops, look no further than Bila Bila Mart. This quirky convenience store puts a cultural twist on your typical snacking experience, being reminiscent of our beloved childhood-time kedai runcit.
Image credit: Yusintha
Browse through an enticing array of snacks, which includes everything from flavourful tempeh bites in various flavours, to kerepok lekor conveniently packed in ziplock bags for maximum crunchiness.
Or, quench your thirst with their unique beverage selection, which features gems like jamu kunyit for aiding digestion and boosting blood circulation, alongside a refreshing variety of locally made teas to keep you cool in the sweltering Malaysian heat.
Opening hours: Sun-Thu 10am-10pm | Fri & Sat 10am-12am
Contact: Bila Bila Mart Instagram
– Food options at REXKL –
Image credit: @hellorexkl via Instagram
Food is an essential part of any adventure, no matter the time or day. And luckily, REXKL has you covered with Food Fiction, a food hub nestled on the mezzanine floor of the building that has eateries huddled together and live music performances to entertain diners on selected days.
6. Raijin Ramen
Tonkatsu ramen and skewered sides
Image credit: @raijin_ramenbar via Instagram
Raijin Ramen has become a popular spot in the city to get bowls of slurpy, no-frills tonkatsu ramen, all priced at RM25 a bowl. They have just a handful of bar seats in light wood tones, set partially indoors and outdoors, but you’ll get to peer at chefs whipping up noodles while having a meal here.
Image adapted from: @raijin_ramenbar via Instagram
Their recommended dish to order is the Shiro Ramen, a classic that has a pork broth boiled for 10 hours. For a kick of spice, go for the Aka Ramen which is further flavoured with numbing peppercorns and Japanese sansho. Pair these with skewered sides, such as pork belly and enoki (RM5.90) and grilled shiitake (RM3.90).
Opening hours: Tue-Sun 12.30pm-3.30pm & 5.30pm-10pm (Closed on Mondays)
Contact: Raijin Ramen Instagram
7. shhhbuuuleee
A rooftop bar with skyline views
Image credit: @shhhbuuuleee via Instagram,
Venture up to the rooftop of REXKL to discover shhhbuuuleee and some of the best views of KL’s glittering skyline in the house. The modern restobar operates from an open-air space, to make the most of its location in the building and views from higher up.
Their menu focuses on natural wines, sakes, and highballs, to pair with an East Asian-skewed menu of snacks like Mala Cauliflower (RM24) and Chicken Poppers (RM26) perfect for social noshing.
Opening hours: Mon, Tue, Thu & Fri 5pm-12am | Sat & Sun 12pm-3pm & 5pm-12am (Closed on Wednesdays)
Contact: shhhbuuuleee Instagram
8. Stellar Coffee
Speciality and unique coffee drinks
Image adapted from: @coffeeineseeker via Instagram
For coffee lovers, make a pit stop at Stellar Coffee. Cosy up on benches indoors or take a seat outdoors to soak in the bustling energy of the streets – all while enjoying a delightful selection of speciality coffee and freshly baked pastries.
Image credit: @stellarcoffeee via Instagram
Savour rich coffee blends here, including Arabica, Single Origin, and Light Roasted. Or treat yourself to more unique concoctions such as the Pandan Coffee Tonic (RM18), which boasts a refreshing burst of pandan-infused goodness, or the tantalising Black Coconut (RM16), which blends tea-like flavours with the exotic essence of coconut.
Opening hours: Mon-Fri 8.30am-7.30pm | Sat & Sun 8.30am-8.30pm
Contact: Stellar Coffee Instagram
9. Biang Biang Noodle Bar
Pork-free hand-pulled noodles
Adding to its roster of outlets in SS2 and Cheras, Biang Biang Noodle Bar has a third branch at REXKL. Popular for their pork-free menu, with thick, hand-smacked noodles the star, this cosy spot offers the perfect respite for a hearty lunch or dinner after a day of exploring the hub’s treasures
Dive into their signature dishes to fuel up with, such as the Mala Biang Biang (RM16.90), featuring hot mala sauce generously ladled over your choice of meat, or the Pickled Mustard Patin Fish Soup Biang Biang (RM19.90) consisting patin fish slices in a flavourful broth with a side egg.
Opening hours: Tue-Fri & Sun 12pm-3pm & 5pm-9.30pm | Sat 12.30pm-3pm & 5pm-9.30pm (Closed on Mondays)
Contact: 012-239 9854
10. Phil’s Pizza
New York-style pizza by the slice
Pizza aficionados should not miss Phil’s Pizza for a slice of literal heaven. Whether you’re dining with a group or enjoying a solo outing, this pizza joint has something for everyone. Indulge in their delectable slice pizzas (from RM13) or opt for a whole pie in 12 or 18 inches (from RM44).
We recommend their signature Pineapple Sugus Pizza to start, which features a mouthwatering combination of cheese, pineapple, and duck for a sweet and savoury explosion with every bite.
Also don’t miss their best-selling Pepperoni Pizza, a classic favourite topped with gooey cheese and tangy tomato sauce, guaranteed to satisfy your pizza cravings.
Opening hours: 11am-10pm, Daily
Contact: Phil’s Pizza Instagram
How to reach REXKL by public transport?
To get to REXKL by public transport, you’ll need to alight at Pasar Seni Station, with both LRT and MRT lines stopping here. The station is about a 7-minute walk away, down Jalan Tun Tan Cheng Lock and towards the building.
Where to park at REXKL?
If you do opt to drive to REXKL, do note that there are no parking bays at the building. It’s recommended to park at the nearby Kotaraya Complex, just a 2-minute walk away. When you exit the mall, take a left towards Jalan Pudu and then cross the road to head down Jalan Sultan – REXKL will be on the right side of the street.
Parking rates are RM3.50 for the first hour, and RM2.50 for every subsequent hour. There’s a flat rate of RM4 for entries after 6pm.
Things to do and where to eat at REXKL
In a city like KL that never sleeps, the thrill of uncovering new spots to explore never goes away. And places like REXKL, which seamlessly blends the past and the present, will surely inspire you to discover an even more colourful side of the city, often hidden in plain sight.
Address: 80, Jalan Sultan, City Centre, 50000 Kuala Lumpur
Opening hours: Mon-Thu 8.30am-10pm | Fri-Sun 8.30am-12am
Contact: REXKL Instagram
You might also want to discover these other spots in KL:
Cover image adapted from: @shhhbuuuleee, @bookxcess, @raijin_ramenbar via Instagram