Selangor, known for its vibrant food culture, is home to several vintage restaurants that have been serving traditional and timeless dishes for decades. These eateries not only offer delicious food but also carry a sense of nostalgia, preserving the charm of old Malaya. From classic Chinese coffee shops to long-standing Malay restaurants, here’s a list of the top vintage restaurants in Selangor where history is served on every plate.
1. Loke Yun Chicken Rice
- Location: Ampang, Selangor
- Cuisine: Chinese, Malaysian
- Highlight: Chicken Rice, Roast Chicken
Loke Yun Chicken Rice, established in the 1950s, is a beloved vintage spot located in Ampang. Known for serving one of the best chicken rice dishes in Selangor, Loke Yun has maintained its retro charm with old-school décor and wooden chairs. The chicken, roasted to golden perfection with crispy skin and tender meat, paired with fragrant rice and house-made chili sauce, continues to win over generations of diners.
2. Restoran Yut Kee (PJ)
- Location: PJ Old Town, Selangor
- Cuisine: Hainanese, Malaysian
- Highlight: Hainanese Chicken Chop, Kaya Toast
A branch of the iconic Yut Kee from Kuala Lumpur, this vintage restaurant in Petaling Jaya preserves the original flavors and recipes that have made it a household name since 1928. The restaurant’s signature Hainanese Chicken Chop, served with a tangy sauce, and their famous Kaya Toast continue to attract customers who seek a taste of tradition. With its simple yet nostalgic setting, Yut Kee in PJ is a wonderful spot for a classic meal.
3. Restoran Kong Heng
- Location: Klang, Selangor
- Cuisine: Chinese, Malaysian
- Highlight: Char Siew, Roast Duck
Restoran Kong Heng, operating for over 60 years in Klang, is a family-run establishment famous for its succulent roast meats. The Char Siew (barbecue pork) and Roast Duck are the star attractions, drawing regulars who have been frequenting this vintage restaurant for decades. The rustic décor, complete with wooden furniture and tiled floors, gives it an old-world charm that adds to the dining experience.
4. Restoran Chong Kok Kopitiam
- Location: Klang, Selangor
- Cuisine: Chinese, Malaysian
- Highlight: Kaya Toast, Hainanese Coffee, Nasi Lemak
Restoran Chong Kok Kopitiam, a staple in Klang since the 1940s, is one of the oldest coffee shops in the area. Famous for its kaya toast and rich Hainanese coffee, this kopitiam also serves a delightful nasi lemak that has become a local favorite. The old-world ambiance, with its marble-top tables and antique signage, offers diners a nostalgic experience reminiscent of classic Malaysian coffee shop culture.
5. New Apollos Restaurant
- Location: Petaling Jaya, Selangor
- Cuisine: Chinese, Malaysian
- Highlight: Mixed Rice, Chicken Curry
New Apollos Restaurant, operating since the 1960s, is a nostalgic favorite in Petaling Jaya. Known for its traditional Chinese mixed rice dishes, where diners can choose from an array of freshly cooked dishes like chicken curry, stir-fried vegetables, and more, this vintage restaurant has retained its old-school cafeteria charm. The retro décor and friendly service make it a cozy spot for a hearty, affordable meal.
6. Kedai Makanan & Minuman Ah Kow
- Location: Serdang, Selangor
- Cuisine: Chinese, Malaysian
- Highlight: Hokkien Mee, Fried Rice
Kedai Makanan & Minuman Ah Kow, established over 50 years ago, is a hidden gem in Serdang. Specializing in traditional Hokkien Mee and Fried Rice, this humble eatery is a go-to spot for locals looking for comfort food. The restaurant’s simple décor, complete with vintage posters and wooden stools, takes diners back to a simpler time when street food was the heart of Malaysian dining culture.
7. Raju’s Restaurant
- Location: Petaling Jaya, Selangor
- Cuisine: Indian, Malaysian
- Highlight: Banana Leaf Rice, Roti Canai
Raju’s Restaurant is an iconic banana leaf rice restaurant in Petaling Jaya that has been serving its patrons since the 1960s. Known for its generous portions of rice, curry, and flavorful side dishes, Raju’s also serves one of the best roti canai in the area. The restaurant’s casual, open-air setting, with classic rattan furniture and ceiling fans, adds to the nostalgic charm, offering a laid-back dining experience.
8. Loong Foong Seafood Restaurant
- Location: Taman Paramount, Selangor
- Cuisine: Chinese, Seafood
- Highlight: Roast Duck, Steamed Fish
Loong Foong Seafood Restaurant has been a popular destination for roast duck lovers since the 1970s. The restaurant’s signature roast duck, with its crispy skin and tender meat, is a must-try for visitors. The vintage atmosphere, coupled with a menu that also features fresh steamed fish and other seafood delicacies, makes it a favorite for family gatherings and casual dining.
9. Restoran Pan Heong
- Location: Batu Caves, Selangor
- Cuisine: Chinese, Malaysian
- Highlight: Sang Har Mee (Freshwater Prawn Noodles)
Restoran Pan Heong, a family-run eatery located near Batu Caves, has been serving locals for decades. Known for its Sang Har Mee, a dish featuring large freshwater prawns in a savory noodle soup, the restaurant offers an authentic vintage dining experience. The simple décor, with its communal tables and traditional kitchen setup, adds to the nostalgic vibe of this classic spot.
10. Kedai Kopi Khoong
- Location: Tanjong Karang, Selangor
- Cuisine: Chinese, Malaysian
- Highlight: Nasi Lemak, Fried Noodles
Kedai Kopi Khoong, a vintage coffee shop in Tanjong Karang, has been a local favorite since the 1950s. Famous for its nasi lemak and fried noodles, the restaurant is a relic of old Malaya, with its wooden interior and traditional setup. The no-frills dining experience, combined with the flavors of home-cooked meals, makes this kopitiam a nostalgic stop for both locals and visitors.
Selangor’s culinary scene is rich in history, and these vintage restaurants are living examples of that heritage. Each of these establishments offers more than just food—they provide a glimpse into Malaysia’s past, where time-honored recipes and retro ambiances create a memorable dining experience. For those who appreciate the charm of old-school eateries and the comfort of traditional flavors, these vintage restaurants in Selangor are must-visit destinations.
