Ah... the wonders of Indian cuisine.

It's the way the cumin seeds pop and turn fragrant. Or how the shallots are sliced to the perfect thickness. No matter how simple or complex the dish is, attention is being put into every aspect of preparing it for a delicious, memorable meal that tunefully brings together colors, flavors and blissful varieties.

To absolutely master the art of Indian cooking may take years to hone and refine, but those looking to satisfy their cravings can find quick solutions by eating out. Most Indian restaurants do not serve pork and offer alcohol on their menu, but they source their meat from halal certified suppliers. Listed below are just a few of the best Indian restaurants in Malaysia!

Best Indian Restaurants in Kuala Lumpur & Petaling Jaya

Nadodi Kuala Lumpur

Treat your taste buds to artisan Southern Indian creations warm-heartedly prepared using fresh, exclusively sourced ingredients, using recipes originating from Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Sri Lanka. Recommended: Nomad's Globe & 11-Mile Journey

Photo credit: Nadodi Kuala Lumpur

Nadodi Kuala Lumpur
Lot 183, 1st Floor, Jalan Mayang, Off Jalan Yap Kwan Seng, Kuala Lumpur.
Website: https://www.nadodikl.com
Phone: +603 2181 4334
Email: info@nadodikl.com

Qureshi Restaurant

The international chain of Qureshi restaurants are known for the old-world Dum cuisine - the forgotten cuisines of the Nawabs of Awadh. It features a unique glass-enclosed Tandoor area that welcomes gazes and admiration from observing spectators.

Photo credit: Qureshi Restaurant Kuala Lumpur

Qureshi Restaurant
Ground Floor, East Wing, TPC Kuala Lumpur No 10, Jalan 1/70D, Kuala Lumpur.
Website: https://www.qureshi-intl.com
Phone: +603-2011 1007
Email: info@qureshi-intl.com

Betel Leaf

Experience the very best of Nattukottai Chettiars - a Tamil caste from Tamil Nadu known for their warm hospitality and exceptional cuisine. Betel Leaf stands in a class by itself by rearing its own livestock such as goats and rabbits, as well as growing its own produce at a dedicated farm in Mantin, Negeri Sembilan.

Photo credit: Betel Leaf Kuala Lumpur

Betel Leaf
77A Leboh Ampang, Kuala Lumpur.
Website: http://www.betel-leaf.com/
Phone: +6012-3992312
Email: info@betel-leaf.com

Annalakshmi Brickfields

Established in 1984, this decade-old restaurant begun with an initiative to empower and unite housewives and mothers through their precious culinary skills, consistently honed through tradition, patience and practice.

Photo credit: Annalakshmi Brickfields

Annalakshmi Brickfields
The Temple of Fine Arts, 116, Jalan Berhala, Brickfields, Kuala Lumpur.
Website: http://annalakshmi.com.my/
Phone: +603 2274 0799
Email: annalakshmikul@yahoo.com

The Ganga Cafe

Vegetarian Gujarati cuisine is said to be one of the oldests culinary treasures of India, and you can devote yourself to immersing in it at The Ganga Cafe - a cosy neighbourhood eatery that runs its own farming and serves pure and organic Jain & Buddhist food. No MSG and colouring used!

Photo credit: The Ganga Cafe Bangsar

The Ganga Cafe
19, Lorong Kurau, Taman Bukit Pantai, 59100,Kuala Lumpur.
Website: https://theganga.com.my/
Phone: +03 2284 2119
Email: meeta.sheth@cleveredge.com.my

Saravana Bhavan

Priding itself on being one of the largest South Indian restaurant chain in the world, Saravana Bhavan serves vegetarian, Ayurveda-compliant food that is packed with nutritional values best enjoyed by the entire family. Recommended: Banana leaf meals, mini tiffins and masala dosa.

Saravana Bhavan Malaysia

Saravana Bhavan
52, Jalan Maarof, Bangsar, Kuala Lumpur.
Website: http://www.saravanabhavan.com/
Phone: +603-22871228
Email: sa2bhavan@gmail.com

Kayra Authentic Kerala Cuisine

With a name that means coconut palm trees in Malayalam, Kayra started off as a gathering point for Keralites to keep them connected with their roots and cultures. Kerala food is distinct thanks to its extensive use of coconut, be it in vegetarian or non-vegetarian dishes.

Kayra Authentic Kerala Cuisine, TTDI

Kayra Authentic Kerala Cuisine
46 Jalan Tun Mohd Fuad 1, Taman Tun Dr Ismail 60000 Kuala Lumpur.
Website: http://www.kayra.com.my/
Phone: +603 7732 2009
Email: kayrakeralacuisine@gmail.com

Malabar Palace Sri Hartamas

Malabar Palace consciously prepares nutritious, healthy food by generously incorporating herbs and spices in the cooking. It promotes food with healing properties through classical Indian and Pakistani cuisine without denying good taste.

Photo credit: Malabar Palace Sri Hartamas

Malabar Palace Sri Hartamas
Ground 8B&9, Hartamas Shopping Centre, Kuala Lumpur.
Website: http://www.malabarpalace.com/
Phone: +603-6206 2310
Email: info@malabarpalace.com

Passage Thru India

A one-stop eatery for all lovers of Indian food, Passage Thru India carefully handpicked the most popular dishes from regions across India while preserving their authenticity and merging them with age-long traditions.

Photo credit: Passage Thru India

Passage Thru India
4 Jalan Delima, off Jalan Bukit Bintang, Kuala Lumpur.
Website: https://www.passagethruindia.com
Phone: +603-2145 0366
Email: info@passagethruindia.com

Sagar Restaurant

Quality above all is a principle held closely by Sagar Restaurant over the years. The satisfaction of their customers is their main priority, and they ensure it by cooking up tasty and hygienic authentic Northern Indian fares.

Photo credit: Sagar Restaurant Kuala Lumpur

Sagar Restaurant
4, Lorong Maarof, Bangsar, Kuala Lumpur.
Website: http://www.sagarrestaurant.com
Phone: +603-2284 2532
Email: sagar.restaurant@gmail.com

Delhi Royale

With an interior bedazzled with gleaming gold, you are invited to dine like a royal at Delhi Royale where well thought out flavors and aesthetic pleasures come together.

Dehli Royale Kuala Lumpur

Delhi Royale
Lot No. 2 & 3, Wisma Longrich 33 Jalan Yap Kwan Seng, Kuala Lumpur.
Website: http://www.delhiroyale.com
Phone: +603-2165 1555
Email: info@delhiroyale.com

Moghul Mahal

Moghul Mahal pronounced as ‘Moghul Mahal’ means Moghul Palace which is A perfect place to dine with comfort with all the Authentic north Indian cuisine that comes from home cooked style at affordable price at Brickfields, commonly known as Little India in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, is full of India’s cultural diversity.

Photo credit: Moghul Mahal Kuala Lumpur

Moghul Mahal
UG-06 & 07, Menara Kuala Lumpur.
Website: https://www.moghulmahal.com.my/
Phone: +6016-3765825
Email: info@moghulmahal.com.my

Namaste India

Transforming simple dishes into exotic cuisine is the strong suit here, made possible by chefs from India as well as the use of assorted, authentic and rustic spices. Recommended: Hara Bhaara Chaat & Dhal Makhni.

Photo credit: Namaste India Hartamas

Namaste India
11 Jalan Sri Hartamas 7, Kuala Lumpur.
Website: http://namasteindia.com.my/
Phone: +603-6206 3538
Email: namasteindiahartamas@gmail.com

Malgudi Indian Cuisine

Malgudi serves both northern and southern Indian food prepared using traditional ways by an experienced team of chefs from India.

Malgudi Indian Cuisine Petaling Jaya

Malgudi Indian Cuisine
Lot 17 Lorong Universiti C, Seksyen 16 Petaling Jaya.
Website: https://www.facebook.com/malgudirestaurant/
Phone: +603-7931 2556
Email: malgudirestaurantpj@gmail.com

The Sultani

Specialising in Mughlai dishes - the traditional cuisine of subcontinent Pakistan and India, The Sultani allows its patrons to enjoy a hearty meal in a traditional setting accompanied by music and Sharbat. Recommended: Butter chicken, Fish Kasoori, Chicken Tandoori and Raan E Akbari.

Photo credit: The Sultani Ampang

The Sultani
Level 5, Hotel Flamingo Tasik Ampang, Jalan Hulu Kelang, Ampang.
Website: http://www.sultani.com.my
Phone: +603-4251 7360
Email: sultanshah@sultani.com.my

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Jeff’s Cellar, Ipoh

International, Pork-Free

With a setting within a limestone cave, Jeff Cellar’s isn’t just Malaysia’s most unique wine bar - it is also the best of its kind globally. You are invited to immerse your palate in the exotic flavors of organic and rare wines within the confines of chill, intimate cave interiors and refreshing natural coolness.

Unique wine and dine experience at Jeff’s Cellar, Ipoh. Photo by The Banjaran.

Jeff’s Cellar
1, Persiaran Lagoon, Sunway 3, 31150 Ipoh.
Website: https://www.thebanjaran.com/cuisine/jeffs-cellar/
Phone: +605-210 7777
Email: tbhr.pomelo@sunwayhotels.com

Pia’s The Paddy, Langkawi

Local, Western, North Indian, Halal

Located in the scenic Ulu Melaka and overlooking the paddy fields fronting the majestic Gunung Raya, this uniquely beautiful dining spot serves everything from Western, Northern Indian to local fares and dining experience is heightened through its open-air seating.

Dine in a unique Kampung setting at Pia’s The Paddy, Langkawi. Photo by Pascal1812.

Pia’s The Paddy
Jalan Ulu Melaka, Kampung Padang Gaong, 07000 Langkawi, Kedah.
Website: https://www.facebook.com/pg/Pias-The-Padi-185372104940500
Phone: +012-493 3713

Dining In The Dark, Kuala Lumpur

Western, Pork-Free

Located along the vibrant Changkat Bukit Bintang, Dining In The Dark aims to elevate the appreciation for food through a unique approach: dining without sight. This enables the taste, smell, touch and sound senses to be more acute. Employees here are visually impaired and menu will not be revealed until after the meal is served, hence the name “Surprise Menu”. The varying taste and texture will definitely delight your mind and palate.

Drop by and dine in total darkness for a memorable sensory experience!

Enjoy a meal in total darkness at Dining In The Dark, Kuala Lumpur. Photo by Dining In The Dark.

Dining In The Dark KL
50A Changkat Bukit Bintang, 50200 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Website: https://dininginthedarkkl.com
Phone: +603-2110 0431
Email: customerservice@dininginthedarkkl.com

BBQ Lamb KL Kemensah, Ampang

Asian, Arabic, BBQ, Halal

Experience a different kind of dining here, where you are invited to soak your feet in the river and breathe fresh forest air as you dine. Famous for its smoked duck and set lunch, you are encouraged to make your reservation one week in advance. Ps. ATV or quad biking is also available nearby!

Dip your feet into the water as you dine at BBQ Lamb KL Kemensah, Ampang. Photo by hannadarwish87.

BBQ Lamb KL Kemensah
Jalan Taman Zooview, Ampang 68000 Malaysia.
Website: https://www.facebook.com/pg/Bbqlambklkemensah
Phone: +60 12-211 4100

Dinner In The Sky, Kuala Lumpur

Western, Halal

As suggested by its name, DInner in the Sky allows diners to enjoy their meal while being lifted 50m up in the air by a crane. Strapped to a seat on a suspended platform, treat your palate to five-course meal prepared by the chefs at Hilton Kuala Lumpur and treat your sight to the Kuala Lumpur city skyline.

Dining on a suspended platform? Yes, please! Photo by Dinner in The Sky Malaysia

Dinner In The Sky
231, Jalan Bukit Bintang, Imbi, 55100 Kuala Lumpur.
Website: https://www.dinnerinthesky.my/
Phone: +016-299-1396
Email: info@dinnerinthesky.com.my

Plane In The City, Kuala Lumpur

Fusion, Pork-Free

You can now be hungry and adventurous at the same time! Board the Boeing 737 for a remarkable 90-minute journey where you get to wine and dine, stick your head out of the Pilot’s cockpit, tread across one of the wings, and spend precious time with your loved ones.

Plane In The City
231, Jalan Bukit Bintang, Imbi, 55100 Kuala Lumpur.
Website: https://www.planeinthecity.com/
Phone: +03-2282-6413
Email: info@planeinthecity.com

Le Petit Chef, Kuala Lumpur

Italian, French, Steakhouse, Southwestern, Pork-Free

Le Petit has chosen Malaysia as its first base in Southeast Asia, where it present its innovation dining experience through 3D project mapping technology. You can watch a small animated chef captivatingly preparing your meal on a plate placed in front of you. The meal is a harmonious combination of sight, sounds and taste - brought to you by Michelin-starred chef, Jeff Ramsey.

Let the world's smallest chef prepare your meal for you at Le Petit Chef, Kuala Lumpur. Photo by Le Petit Chef.

Le Petit Chef - Elements
Hive, Unit H-G-11, Trec, 438, Jalan Tun Razak, Kuala Lumpur.
Website: https://www.elements.my/le-petit
Phone: +03-2282-6413
Email: info@elements.my

Whimsy, Kuala Lumpur

Fusion, Pork-Free

Whimsy is the first-of-its-kind multi-sensory fine-dining experience, giving Malaysia’s culinary landscape a rare, unique touch. Bringing together award-winning chefs from across the globe, it incorporates 360 projection technology for creative culinary like never before.

Excite your senses at Whimsy Malaysia! Photo by Whimsy Malaysia.

Whimsy Malaysia
Skyland, 231, Jalan Bukit Bintang, Imbi, 55100 Kuala Lumpur
Website: https://whimsy.com.my/
Phone: +6016-2991455
Email: info@whimsy.com.my

Nam Heong, Ipoh

Chinese, Non-Halal

Have you ever been served by a mechanical waitress? You can now, at Nam Heong! Robots are programmed to transfer food to the tables on designated tracks, and you will be required to pick the dishes from the tray. They are also able to greet customers in both English and Cantonese, and their purpose is mainly to improve efficiency while cutting waiting time. Nam Heong currently has 8 robots in its Ipoh branch and 2 at Da Men Mall, Selangor.

Let these robotic waitresses serve you at Nam Heong. Photo by Nam Heong.

Nam Heong Ipoh
Block B, 2-15, Ipoh Soho, Jalan Sultan Iskandar, Ipoh.
Website: http://www.namheongipoh.com/
Phone: +05-246 0521
Email: customerservice@namheongipoh.com

Ice Cafe, Penang

Dessert, Halal

How does dining in Malaysia's first ice-themed cafe sounds to you? Said to be kept at a temperature of between 8°C to 10°C, the cafe comes with igloos and ice beds, and features an ice-themed menu such as its signature snowflake ice bowls. Drop by if you need a break from the heat!

Have you eaten in the cold? You can now! Photo by Ice Cafe, Penang.

Ice Cafe, Penang
193 Lebuh Victoria, George Town, Penang Island.
Website: https://www.facebook.com/pg/IceCafe17
Phone: +04-262 1193
Email: info.icecafepg@gmail.com

Atmosphere 360

International, Buffet, Halal

A revolving restaurant 282m above ground level, Atmosphere 360 is located at the top of Southeast Asia’s tallest tower - Menara Kuala Lumpur. Its modern atmosphere comes with a starry fiber optic illuminated ceiling and offers a breathtaking view over the KL city. Staffed by seasoned culinary artists, this unique dining spot in Malaysia serves both buffet and ala carte items, as well as specialty cocktails.


Atmosphere 360
Menara Kuala Lumpur, 2, Jalan Puncak, 50250 Kuala Lumpur.
Website: http://atmosphere360.com.my/
Phone: +03-2020 2121
Email: info@atmosphere360.com.my

Heli Lounge Bar

Bar Snacks, Pork-Free

The Heli Lounge Bar might look ordinary at first glance, but get ready for a whole new experience when you order a drink and climb a few short flights of stairs to reach the very top - the helipad. Here, you will be greeted by the amazing and uninhibited 360° view of the city skyline - the perfect vantage point to witness firework displays on special occasions, or just to get a bird's-eye view of the flashing city lights on a typical working day.

Climb onto a helipad in the heart of KL. Or better, dine on it! Photo by CNN.

Heli Lounge Bar
34th Floor, Jalan Sultan Ismail, Kuala Lumpur 50450, Malaysia.
Website: https://www.facebook.com/Heliloungebar
Phone: +03-2110 5034
Email: ask@helikl.com

Veg Fish Farm Thai Restaurant, Ampang

Thai, Pork-Free

Rejoice in authentic Thai cuisine prepared by experienced Thai chefs  in an unusual but fascinating lush, cool forest setting. The restaurant serves organic vegetables and spring chickens that they cultivate on their own in order to ensure that diners consume only safe, clean and pesticide-free produce. Your only worry is deciding if you'd prefer to dine under the stars, by the pond or at the hut!

Beautiful, serene lake setting makes the perfect dinner spot. Photo by Veg Fish Farm Thai Restaurant.

Veg Fish Farm Thai Restaurant
KM4, Jalan Hulu Langat, 68000 Ampang, Selangor
Website: http://vegfishfarm.com/
Phone: +6016-293 6493

The Restaurant at The Lakehouse, Cameron Highlands

Continental, Buffet, High-Tea, BBQ, Steamboat

Go back in time into the Old World when you visit this charming restaurant located in the soaring highlands (at 1,000m above sea level to be exact) of Pahang. Whether you are indulging in its semi-continental buffet for breakfast, ala carte and tea for lunch, or steamboat or BBQ or dinner, you will definitely enjoy this relaxing oasis in the midst of a lush green haven.

Cool weather, good food. Photo by The Lakehouse, Cameron Highlands.

The Restaurant at The Lakehouse
30th Mile Ringlet, 39200 Cameron Highlands, Pahang.
Website: https://lakehouse-cameron.com/restaurant/the-restaurant
Phone: +605-495 6152
Email: info@lakehouse-cameron.com

13 Must-Try Food in Sri Lanka

Sri Lankan cuisine is indeed different.

Its components carry influences from the colossal Indian subcontinents as well as traces of Dutch origins, and its preparation is ceaselessly being molded by the different cultures it comes in contact with. When observed closely, you will discover that the staples of Sri Lankan cuisine are coconut milk, rice and spices, while the most important Sri Lanka spices are Ceylon cinnamon (better known as real cinnamon), black pepper, cardamon, clove, nutmeg and turmeric.

Planning a visit to the famed island nation in the Indian Ocean? Be sure to indulge your palate with the most popular Sri Lankan dishes. Here is everything you need to know about traditional Sri Lankan food!

13 Must-Try Food in Sri Lanka

Egg Hopper

Hopper or Appam is a type of pancake made from fermented rice flour and yeast. It has a distinct, almost paper-thin thickness and is shaped like a bowl as it is cooked in a appachatti. Neutral in taste with the smallest hint of sourness, they are served with condiments and curries.
The preparation of egg hopper is similar to plain hopper, except an egg is broken into the centre as it cooks.

Egg Hopper in Sri Lanka

Watalappan

Have a sweet tooth? You’ll love watalappan! Prepared using condensed coconut milk, jaggery, egg, cashew nuts and spices such as vanilla pods, nutmeg, clove and cardamom, this coconut custard pudding is a favorite during social celebrations and religion festivals.

Watalappan in Sri Lanka

Lunumiris

A popular wet and hot sambal condiment in Sri Lanka, Lunumiris is made by grinding black pepper, salt, chili pepper, red onions, lime juice and umbalakada (or Maldive fish - the Sri Lankan equivalent of Southeast Asia’s dried shrimp) in a grindstone. A vegetarian version is also possible, simply by removing Maldive fish from the recipe.

Lunumiris in Sri Lanka

Curd & Treacle

Everything in Asia has two versions: streetside and gourmet, and curd and treacle - a popular dessert in the southern part of Sri Lanka, is one such dish. The palm treacle is extracted by tapping the sap of the kithul palm inflorescences in a process known as Kitul Peni tapping - a 2,000 year-old affair in the country. Mee Kiri, on the other hand, is a traditional curd made using buffalo milk.

Curd & Treacle in Sri Lanka

Pol Roti

A rustic flat bread prepared using grated coconut, flour, green chilies and onions, this signature Sri Lankan roti taste fantastic when eaten with curry and sambol.

Pol Roti in Sri Lanka

Kiribath

This traditional rice cake dish is prepared by cooking white short grain rice in thick, fragrant coconut milk, salt and water. It is most commonly eaten during breakfast (especially during the first day of every new month) and also during auspicious events throughout the year.

Kiribath in Sri Lanka

Rice

Basmati may be popular in India, but in Sri Lanka, it is the Nadu and Samba rice that reign. According to studies conducted, parboiled rice (nadu) has the lowest GI, followed by samba and basmathi. The locals are also huge fans of red rice, which comes with a more starchy and corny flavor.

Rice & Curry in Sri Lanka

Masala Vadai

Snacks are loved by all here. They are bought by the dozen (or more) and devoured anytime of the day, whether at tea shacks or during commute. Masala vadai remains the local favorite, often eaten while they are still hot, crunchy and fresh out of the wok. Delicious on its own but even tastier when dipped in chutney or sambar, this oval-shaped lentil patties is a must-try on this island.

Masala Vadai in Sri Lanka

Kottu Roti

Known as “chopped bread” when translated literally, this everyday food item hailing from Batticaloa is prepared by stir-frying shredded godamba roti (Sri Lanka’s version of paratha), eggs, vegetables, and spices. Meat and cheese are optional but highly encouraged.

Kottu Roti in Sri Lanka

Malu Mirisata

A prefered fish dish by the locals, this spicy fish curry takes on a hotter flavor as it is cooked without any coconut milk - a very unusual method in Sri Lanka. It is always accompanied by freshly steamed rice or Idiyappam (refer below), but also yummy when dipped with crusty garlic bread.

Malu Mirisata in Sri Lanka

Thembili

King Coconut is a variety of coconut native to Sri Lanka, where it is fondly known as Thembili. The tree is relatively shorter as compared to regular coconut trees, whereas its water is slightly sweeter. This exquisite natural drink plays an important role in Ayurveda, where it has been used for healing and nourishing purposes for centuries.

King Coconut in Sri Lanka

Idiyappam

String hopper or Idiyappam is a rice noodle dish which originated from the Indian subcontinent. It is simply ragi flour (finger millet flour) shaped into long strings and steamed until a whitish translucency is achieved. This dish is usually served as the main course alongside curry and chutney.

Idiyappam in Sri Lanka

Curry

Curries prepared in Sri Lanka differs from the Indian variation: Although both having similar cooking styles, the execution is highly dissimilar. The primary dissemblance lies in the addition of coconut milk in Sri Lankan curries, which duly give it a thicker consistency, milder flavor and a creamier texture.

Curry in Sri Lanka

It is important to note that eating beef is highly discouraged in Sri Lanka as it is predominantly a Buddhist country, while mutton dishes are generally pricier and harder to find.

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Be ready to be swept off your feet, as you are invited to a feast for your senses with unique, unfamiliar architectures and a landscape too beautiful and surreal.

Giant Prayer Wheel, Guishan Park

Closely located to the old town, the 10-meter giant Tibetan prayer wheel is a sight not to be missed (technically you won't be able to miss it either, because it's huuuuge). To get there, you'd need to climb the stairs and be sure to join in the fun and spin the wheel (clockwise and in odd numbers) for an unforgettable experience! In the evening, the park will come to life with music and dances by a merry crowd made up mostly of beautiful, pink-cheeked women and children.

Photo by by Benoit Demers

Songzanlin Monastery

Songzanlin is the biggest Tibetan Buddhism monastery in Yunnan, spanning across 30 hectares and located on a mountain 5km from the town centre. Similar to the architecture of Lhasa's famed Potala Palace, this breathtaking complex consists of Tibetan watchtowers soaring five levels above ground storey and is home to over 700 lamas and monks. Visitors need to climb 146 steps at 3,300m above sea level before arriving at the main prayer hall - the very same pilgrimage route taken by generations of pious Buddhists.

Songzanlin Monastery, Yunnan, China