food

Exploring the Best Chinese Food in Kuala Lumpur: A Culinary Journey

Exploring the Best Chinese Food in Kuala Lumpur: A Culinary Journey

Kuala Lumpur (KL) is a paradise for food lovers, especially when it comes to Chinese cuisine. From bustling hawker stalls to elegant Cantonese restaurants, the city offers a rich tapestry of flavors. In this review, we dive into some of the must-try Chinese eateries in KL that cater to every palate.

1. Liao Fan Hawker Chan – Michelin-starred Delight

If you’re craving the legendary soy sauce chicken rice that took Singapore by storm, look no further than Liao Fan Hawker Chan. This affordable Michelin-starred eatery serves tender, flavorful chicken paired with perfectly cooked rice.

What to Order:

  • Soy Sauce Chicken Rice – Signature dish with succulent chicken.
  • Char Siew Rice – Sweet and smoky barbecued pork.
  • Soya Sauce Noodles – A lighter option with the same rich flavors.

Price Range: $$

Expect to pay around RM12–RM20 per meal.

Verdict:

A great option for budget-friendly Michelin-starred Chinese food, but expect long queues during peak hours.

2. Restaurant Sek Yuen – Timeless Cantonese Cuisine

For an authentic old-school Cantonese dining experience, Restaurant Sek Yuen is a must-visit. Established in the 1940s, this legendary spot still prepares dishes over charcoal fire, ensuring rich, smoky flavors.

Must-Try Dishes:

  • Pei Pa Duck (琵琶鸭) – Crispy-skinned duck with a juicy interior.
  • Stir-fried Crab with Ginger and Scallions – Fresh, sweet crab meat enhanced with aromatic spices.
  • Eight Treasure Duck (八宝鸭) – A classic, labor-intensive dish filled with glutinous rice and chestnuts.

Price Range: $$$

Dishes start from RM30, but expect to spend around RM60–RM100 per person for a full meal.

Verdict:

A nostalgic dining experience with some of the best traditional Cantonese flavors in KL.

3. Kim Lian Kee – Iconic Hokkien Mee

When it comes to KL-style Hokkien Mee, no place is more famous than Kim Lian Kee in Petaling Street. This stall has been serving wok-fired noodles since the 1920s, known for their deep, smoky wok hei (wok breath) flavor.

Highlights:

  • Hokkien Mee – Thick noodles fried in dark soy sauce with crispy pork lard.
  • Wat Tan Hor – Silky smooth Cantonese-style flat rice noodles in egg gravy.
  • Loh Mee – A thick, starchy noodle soup with deep flavors.

Price Range: $$

A plate of Hokkien Mee costs around RM12–RM18.

Verdict:

A must-try for lovers of bold, smoky flavors. Best enjoyed with a cold glass of herbal tea.

4. Lot 10 Hutong – A Food Court with Heritage Recipes

If you prefer a variety of legendary Chinese street food under one roof, Lot 10 Hutong is your best bet. This curated food court houses some of the best Chinese hawker stalls in Malaysia.

Top Picks:

  • Hon Kee Porridge – Smooth Cantonese porridge with century egg.
  • Sungei Wang Fried Kway Teow – Stir-fried flat noodles with shrimp and Chinese sausage.
  • Ho Weng Kee Wantan Mee – Springy egg noodles with barbecued pork.

Price Range: $$

Expect to pay around RM10–RM20 per dish.

Verdict:

Perfect for those who want to try multiple iconic dishes in one location without hunting around KL.

Final Thoughts

Kuala Lumpur’s Chinese food scene is as diverse as it is delicious. Whether you’re in the mood for classic Cantonese roasts, smoky wok-fried noodles, or Michelin-approved hawker fare, the city has something to offer.

Have you tried any of these places? Let us know your favorite Chinese restaurant in KL!