Selangor, Malaysia’s most populous state, offers a vibrant food scene that blends traditional flavors with contemporary culinary trends. From humble street stalls to fine dining establishments, the food culture in Selangor is as diverse as its people. Here’s a guide to some of the top restaurants in the state that cater to a variety of tastes and budgets.
1. Serai
- Location: Multiple outlets (Paradigm Mall, Empire Shopping Gallery, etc.)
- Cuisine: Malay, Asian Fusion
- Highlight: Nasi Kerabu and Pandan Banana Fritters
Serai is a homegrown chain that serves an eclectic mix of traditional Malay cuisine and Asian fusion dishes. The Nasi Kerabu—a blue rice dish served with grilled chicken, herbs, and sambal—is a signature must-try. For dessert, their Pandan Banana Fritters are a crowd favorite.
2. Bijan Bar & Restaurant
- Location: Jalan Ceylon, Kuala Lumpur (near Selangor border)
- Cuisine: Fine Malay Dining
- Highlight: Rendang Tok, Durian Cheesecake
Located just near the border of Selangor, Bijan offers an elevated Malay dining experience. This restaurant is known for its authentic dishes like Rendang Tok, a slow-cooked beef stew rich in spices, and their signature Durian Cheesecake, which is a unique blend of traditional flavors and modern flair.
3. Restoran Fatty Crab
- Location: Taman Megah, Petaling Jaya
- Cuisine: Seafood
- Highlight: Chili Crab, Fried Chicken Wings
For seafood lovers, Fatty Crab is a household name in Petaling Jaya. This no-frills seafood spot is famous for its Chili Crab—a dish with succulent crab meat doused in a tangy, spicy sauce. Pair it with their Fried Chicken Wings for a complete meal.
4. Sekinchan Ikan Bakar
- Location: Ampang and other branches
- Cuisine: Malay, Grilled Fish (Ikan Bakar)
- Highlight: Grilled Stingray (Ikan Pari)
Sekinchan Ikan Bakar specializes in grilled fish and seafood, cooked to perfection over an open flame. Their signature dish, Grilled Stingray, is served with a zesty sambal sauce and goes perfectly with steamed rice.
5. Copper Mansion
- Location: Petaling Jaya
- Cuisine: Chinese, Banquet Dining
- Highlight: Peking Duck, Dim Sum
Copper Mansion is well known for its luxurious Chinese banquet-style dining. With an extensive menu that includes delicacies such as Peking Duck and a wide variety of Dim Sum, this restaurant is perfect for special occasions and family gatherings.
6. Kayra Authentic Kerala Cuisine
- Location: Bangsar Village II
- Cuisine: South Indian, Kerala
- Highlight: Fish Molee, Appam
Kayra brings the flavors of South India to Selangor with its authentic Kerala dishes. Known for their Fish Molee—a coconut milk-based curry with tender fish—and Appam, a soft rice pancake, Kayra offers a unique dining experience for those craving traditional South Indian food.
7. Betel Leaf
- Location: Lebuh Ampang
- Cuisine: Chettinad, Indian
- Highlight: Mutton Varuval, Nandu Masala (Crab Curry)
Betel Leaf focuses on Chettinad cuisine from South India, known for its spicy and flavorful dishes. Their Mutton Varuval is a standout, offering tender chunks of meat in a fragrant, spicy gravy. For seafood lovers, the Nandu Masala, a spiced crab curry, is a must-try.
8. Rata Subang
- Location: SS15, Subang Jaya
- Cuisine: Modern Malaysian
- Highlight: Laksa Risotto, Beef Short Rib
Rata offers a modern twist on classic Malaysian flavors with creative dishes like Laksa Risotto, a fusion of Italian risotto with the bold, spicy flavors of the iconic Malaysian laksa. Their slow-cooked Beef Short Rib is another popular dish, cooked to tender perfection.
9. Mei by Fat Spoon
- Location: Desa Sri Hartamas
- Cuisine: Modern Asian
- Highlight: Ulam Fried Rice, Miso Pasta
Mei by Fat Spoon brings together traditional Asian flavors with a modern, creative twist. The Ulam Fried Rice, mixed with fresh herbs and served with a variety of sambals, is a favorite among locals. Their Miso Pasta, a fusion dish with umami-rich flavors, is equally well-loved.
10. Genji Japanese Restaurant
- Location: Hilton Petaling Jaya
- Cuisine: Japanese
- Highlight: Sushi, Teppanyaki
For a top-notch Japanese dining experience, Genji at Hilton PJ is a go-to spot. Their menu boasts a variety of sushi, sashimi, and teppanyaki options, all made with the freshest ingredients. Whether you’re craving a sushi platter or a teppanyaki set, Genji delivers an authentic Japanese dining experience.
Whether you’re in the mood for traditional Malay cuisine, fresh seafood, or modern fusion dishes, Selangor offers an impressive variety of dining options that cater to every palate. These restaurants are just the tip of the iceberg in a state that truly embodies Malaysia’s rich culinary heritage.
