Insta-worthy Cafes in Kuala Lumpur For Your Next Meal

It’s no secret that Kuala Lumpur is home to delectable street food, thriving nightlife and beautiful architecture. But did you know that the Malaysian capital also has a top-notch cafe scene? Indeed, cafe-hopping is a popular local pastime, with diners constantly seeking out new places to relax over a cup of joe. Here are our top cafes in Kuala Lumpur for creative dishes, decadent desserts and, of course, excellent coffee.

Tip: Make your base at Capri by Fraser, Bukit Bintang, a design-led apart-hotel that’s a short taxi ride from most of these cafes.

Merchant's Lane

Undoubtedly one of the most popular cafes in Kuala Lumpur, Merchant’s Lane’s rustic Chinatown space is decked out with custom furniture, including wooden tables, rattan chairs and even benches crafted from old staircases. Its menu spotlights creative Asian fusion fare, with satisfying plates such as nasi lemak pancakes (coconut pancakes with a dry chicken curry, sambal chilli, a fried egg and anchovies) and Ramly Burger wontons (dumplings stuffed with hamburger filling). 

Jibby & Co

Inspired by executive chef Najib Hamid’s experiences in Australia, this light-filled, plant-festooned café in Kuala Lumpur is big on Melbourne flair. Patrons flock to Jibby & Co for its extensive menu of mouthwatering dishes like the soft shell crab burger and the 300g Australian rib-eye steak, and linger over coffee that’s expertly brewed using exclusive house blends.

Lisette’s

With three locations and counting across the Klang Valley, Lisette’s dishes out meals made from natural, organic ingredients where possible. While plenty on the menu is healthy and wholesome – think nasi lemak (coconut rice) made with black rice, chunky cauliflower soup and a spicy laksa noodle dish derived from konjac (a starchy root vegetable) – there’s also an indulgent cake and pastry selection that will satisfy anyone with a sweet tooth.

Kenny Hills Bakers

Ask locals about their favourite cafés in Kuala Lumpur and odds are Kenny Hills Bakers – which has six locations across the city – will feature on their list. Serving top-notch coffee, wood-fired pizzas, brunch classics, organic bread and delicious pastries, it’s a popular brunch hangout. Top food picks include the salted egg yolk pasta with smoked duck, the crabmeat and avocado salad, and the truffle mac and cheese.

Elephant Republic

With its stylish wood-clad interior and laid-back vibe, Elephant Republic in the trendy Bukit Bintang neighbourhood is the perfect place to while away a lazy afternoon. There’s plenty to graze on – menu highlights include a ham-and-cheese croissant sandwich and a smoked duck and mango pizza – but the real star of the show is the refreshing iced coconut latte, which is made with coconut milk and topped with coconut flakes.

Feeka Coffee Roasters

Relax and unwind at Feeka Coffee Roasters, which is set in a converted townhouse on Changkat Bukit Bintang. The beans that bring each cup of java to life here are sourced from top local roasters – order a classic flat white or go for the sticky bun latte (caramel syrup, double shot of espresso, milk, whipped cream and salted caramel sauce). There’s also plenty to enjoy from the kitchen, such as Swedish meatballs with potatoes and a creamy barley risotto. Be sure to save some space for dessert – the house-made mille crepe is a must-try.