KL Coffee Culture
Cafe hopping may sound like an exciting adventure but with the unpredictable traffic in KL and the ever changing roads, you’ll definitely want to do a bit of research before heading out.
To avoid heartbreak and a potential mental breakdown due to subpar food/coffee that do not live up to their glorified Instagram versions, we’ve decided to round up a list of XX of the best cafes in KL that are worth the drive and the occasional hangry moments, so you can bid goodbye to an underwhelming cuppa joe’s once and for all!
1. Aether Cafe
This one is for all you health-conscious, clean-eating fanatics out there who tire of doing their own meal prep. Well give your grill a break and head on over to Aether cafe, where you’re bound to be pleased by their take on healthy eating.
The tropical themed menu is meat-free and features adventurous twists on clean eats, so don’t expect to find any deep fried dishes here. The wooden decor almost instantly leaves you feeling calm and at peace, making this place a sanctuary after a long day at work.
Signature desserts include the red velvet waffle and the Nutella crepe cake, which won’t leave you reeling with guilt afterwards.
Address: Unit G1, Pusat Kanak-Kanak Tuanku Bainun, 48 Jalan Tun Mohd Fuad, Taman Tun Dr.Ismail, Kuala Lumpur
Phone Number: +603-28560416
Website: Here
Opening Hours: 10:00 am – 10:00 pm daily, closed on Tuesday
2. Acme Bar and Coffee
Located in the heart of KL, this is the place to be if you’re looking to pamper yourself. Nestled directly underneath the skydining hotspots of KL, Acme is the ideal place for a delectable weekend brunch.
Not only is the decor instagram-ready, they also have an alfresco dining area where you can experience the sights and sounds of KL, all from the comfort of your own seat. There is also ample parking available, which is a crucial factor for a no-fuss dining experience.
They are famous for their sizzling brownie, a genius play on the hot and cold elements of the dish. Another crowd favourite is the duck breast pasta. This unlikely combination is perfected by the balanced creaminess of the sauce and the succulent slices of duck breast.
Acme welcomes walk-ins but considering how quickly tables fill up especially on weekends, we suggest making reservations, just to be safe.
Address: The Troika, Persiaran KLCC, 50450 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Phone Number: +603-2162 2288
Website: Here
Opening Hours:
Monday to Thursday: 11:00 am – 12:00 am
Friday: 11:00 am – 1:00 am
Saturday: 9:30 am – 1:00 am
Sunday: 9:30 am – 12:00 am
3. The Owls Cafe
The waffle-craze has taken KL folks by storm and here at Owls Cafe, you’ll understand what the hype is all about.
Their menu is divided into savoury waffles and sweet waffles; best sellers include the Sally Salmon (RM24) from the savoury selection and Rebecca (RM18) from the sweet selection.
Portions are generous which allow for sharing, hence making room for some of the gorgeous looking cakes on display. Parking is free but very limited on weekdays and while bookings are not necessary, you do want to get there early to avoid waiting!
Address: 12-1, First Floor, Block 5, Jalil Link, Jalan Jalil Jaya 6, Bukit Jalil, 57000 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Phone Number: +603-9543 9828
Website: Here
Opening Hours:
Tuesday to Thursday: 10:00 am – 7:00 pm
Friday to Saturday: 10:00 am – 11:00 pm
Sunday: 10:00 am – 7:00 pm
Closed on Monday.
4. Huckleberry Food and Fare
Food is cooked just right at this bakery cum cafe hidden away in Damansara Heights. Though it has only been a few months since Huckleberry opened its doors, the place is bustling with patrons and there seems to be a sense of excitement in the air.
Some of the best-selling pastries include the Kouign Amann (RM4.90) and the Apple Turnover (RM7.90). The cakes are equally as popular – crowd favourites are the Carrot Pecan (RM14.90) and the Lemon Strawberry Coconut (RM13.90).
Address: 2G & 4G Medan Setia 2, Plaza Damansara, Damansara Heights, Kuala Lumpur
Phone Number: +603-2098 7933
Website: Here
Opening Hours: 7:30 am – 6:00 pm daily, closed on Tuesday
5. Antipodean Cafe
Antipodean is a household name in the KL cafe scene and to date, they have already established 3 branches around KL itself!
Antipodean stands out from other cafes simply because they are able to execute simplicity in their dishes flawlessly. The Big Breakfast (RM19) and All-Day Breakfast (RM19) may at first glance look like your regular hearty American breakfast, but take a bite and you’ll know this breakfast is anything but regular.
For those who want to opt for a lighter meal, their Banana pancake with butterscotch (RM16) is sure to please. Be sure to get your hands on their lattes and flat whites, which happen to be one of the best in the area.
Locations:
Bangsar
Address: 20, Jalan Telawi 2, Bangsar Baru, 59100 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur
Phone Number: +603-22820411
Opening Hours:
Sunday to Thursday: 8:00 am – 10:00 pm
Friday to Saturday: 8:00 am – 11:00 pm
Menara Tan & Tan
Address: No 207, Menara Tan & Tan, Jalan Tun Razak, 50450 Kuala Lumpur
Phone Number: +603-21610752
Opening Hours: 7:30 am – 5:00 pm daily
Mid Valley Megamall
Address: GE-011 (A), Ground Floor, Mid Valley Megamall, Lingkaran Syed Putra, 59200 Kuala Lumpur
Opening Hours:
Sunday to Thursday: 7:30 am – 11:00 pm
Friday to Saturday : 7:30 am – 12:00 am
Visit their website here.
6. Bad Cafe by Wood and Steel
A sister branch of the popular Wood and Steel Cafe in Kota Damansara, Bad is making waves of its own on the cafe scene. Despite its name, you won’t find a bad cup of coffee here because the baristas are well-trained in ensuring a perfect pour each time.
They also serve up a mean Big Breakfast and a selection of tantalising cakes. Our pick would be The Malaysian Cake (RM12) – a light, spongy pandan cake with gula melaka (coconut palm sugar).
Locations:
Hartamas
Address: B-G-10, Galleria Hartamas (Jalan 26/70A), 50480 Desa Sri Hartamas, Kuala Lumpur
Opening Hours:
Monday to Thursday: 10:00 am – 10:00 pm
Friday to Sunday: 10:00 am – 12:00 am
Closed on Wednesday
Publika
Address: A1-G1-06 Publika, Solaris Dutamas, Kuala Lumpur
Opening Hours: 10:00 am – 12:00 am daily, closed on Monday
Visit their website here.
7. Rimba And Rusa by Wondermilk
The newly built Sunway Nexis is already becoming the talk of the town thanks to the addition of this quaint cafe on its premises. Instagrammable from every angle, Rimba and Rusa is the brainchild of the cupcake experts over at Wondermilk Cafe in Damansara Uptown.
The food menu is equally as breathtaking as the decor, with three different sections – Breakfast, Main Suspects (12pm onwards) and Italian Job (12pm onwards). The Shakshouka Baby (RM18) and Suka Dukkah Meatballs (RM24) are a hit with the crowds while the Beautiful Soft Shell Crab Linguine (RM34) will have even the pickiest of pasta fans singing praises. Rimba and Rusa also boasts a delightful array of sweet treats – be sure to try their Choco Crunch Cake (RM12) and their exciting selection of cupcakes.
Note: Parking at Sunway Nexis is free of charge until 30th September 2015.
Address: D-GF-01, Sunway Nexis, Persiaran Surian, Tropicana, 47410 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Phone Number: +603-6151 4022
Website: Here
Opening Hours:
Tuesday to Sunday: 8:00 pm – 11:00 pm
Wednesday: 4:00 pm – 11:00 pm
Closed on Monday
8. Feeka Coffee Roasters
Tucked away along Jalan Mesui, Feeka is a coffee lover’s haven. Rustic contemporary hues make for a peaceful and calm environment – a momentary reprieve from the bustle of the city centre.
True to its name, Feeka (Swedish for ‘a welcome pause as part of a productive day’) is deeply passionate about its coffee and strives to serve the perfect cuppa every time. You can also find light meals such as daily-made pastries, cakes and sandwiches to go with your coffee. Whether meeting up with friends or unwinding after a long day, Feeka is exactly what you need.
Address: 19, Jalan Mesui, Bukit Bintang, 50200 Kuala Lumpur
Phone Number: +603-21104599
Website: Here
Opening Hours:
Monday to Thursday: 9:00 am – 10:00 pm
Friday to Sunday: 9:00 am – 11:00 pm
9. Sitka Restaurant
One of the more upscale restaurants nestled along a row of humble shop lots, Sitka exudes a dark and cool vibe as you step inside, a huge contrast to the vibrant and exotic dishes offered.
A look at the menu and you’ll find yourself spoilt for choice with the various types of tacos and rolls. The Mushroom Soft Taco (RM21) is a combination of panko fried mushrooms with soy and truffle dressing, while the Fried Chicken Bao (RM18) which is brilliantly dressed in sriracha sauce is ideal for those who prefer a more Asian-flavoured dish.
Their satiating salads also deserve a mention. The Green Vegetables with Soft Herbs (RM18) is a healthy plate of peas, sugar snaps, and long beans with quinoa and yoghurt dressing. Do leave some room to try their best-selling cake, the Chocolate Mousse Meringue Raspberry (RM15).
Address: 8-6, Jalan Batai, Bukit Damansara, 50490 Kuala Lumpur
Phone Number: +603-20111117
Website: Here
Opening Hours:
Monday to Sunday: 9:00am – 6:00 pm
Friday to Saturday: 9:00 am – late
10. Yellow Brick Road Cafe
It was only a matter of time until KL had its very own pancake parlour and here at Yellow Brick Road’s Wicked Pancake Parlour, you’ll find all sorts of pancakes that will tickle your fancy.
From cheesy, pizza-ish pancakes like Let’s Salsa to locally inspired pancakes like Apom Terbalik, Wicked has something for everyone. Located just two doors away from Sitka, Yellow Brick Road is quickly rising to become a new hotspot in the quiet Bukit Damansara neighbourhood.
They also have pastas and breakfast food on the menu so if you’re not too keen on having pancakes, give The Impasta or Beef Rendang Cottage Pie a go. Most importantly, do not pass up on their coffee because Yellow Brick Road is home to the Malaysian Barista Champion. They don’t take reservations on weekends so do get here early to avoid the masses.
Address: 8-7, Jalan Batai, Bukit Damansara, 50490 Kuala Lumpur
Phone Number: +603-20355922
Website: Here
Opening Hours:
Monday to Thursday: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Friday to Saturday: 9:00 am – 10:00 pm Sunday: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
11. Thursdvys
This hipster joint is well loved by all, from chill vibes to good music – Thursdvys (pronounced Thursdays) is the place to be if you’re looking for a quiet space to do some reading or to enjoy your lazy afternoon.
Coffees are top-notch, our favourite being the Iced Mocha. They also have small bites and complete meals such as pastas and sandwiches but do keep in mind that the kitchen closes at 7pm daily.
Address: 22, Lorong Datuk Sulaiman 1, Taman Tun Dr Ismail, 60000 Kuala Lumpur
Phone Number: +603-77336722
Website: Here
Opening Hours:
Monday to Wednesday: 10:00am – 11:00am
Friday to Saturday: 10:00am – 12:00am
Sunday: 10:00am – 11:00pm
Closed on Thursday.
12. PULP by Papa Palheta
This background has seen countless OOTD shots over the past year so you’ve probably seen it making its rounds on your social media feeds. However, don’t be fooled by its minimalistic exterior because PULP means serious business when it comes to their coffee.
Besides serving amazing coffee, they also run workshops, professional training and cupping sessions. Hidden in the quieter parts of Bangsar, this place is a real treat for coffee enthusiasts as they also have a sales and service centre for coffee gadgets.
PULP is run by Papa Palheta, a Singaporean independent coffee boutique with unique brewing and roasting techniques. Be sure not to miss their cold brew and hot chocolate!
Address: 29-01 Jalan Riong, 59100 Kuala Lumpur. (beside NSTP)
Phone Number: +603 2201 3650
Website: Here
Opening Hours:
Tuesday to Friday: 9:00 am – 7:00 pm
Saturday to Sunday: 9:00 am – 10:00 pm
Closed on Monday.
13. Podgy and The Banker
Located in Desa Sri Hartamas, Podgy and The Banker has found a spot in the hearts of KL-ites and it’s not only because they have a cute name. The coffee here has a real kick and the friendly baristas are more than obliging when it comes to personalizing orders.
If you’re into green tea, their Matcha Latte (RM11) will definitely be your new favourite. Their sandwiches are visually appealing and our pick would be the Chicken Avocado Sandwich (RM16). Generous chunks of avocado and chicken stuffed between two slices of wholemeal bread, this is the dream breakfast-to-go.
Address: 2, Jalan Sri Hartamas 8, Sri Hartamas, 50480 Kuala Lumpur
Phone Number: +603 2201 3650
Opening Hours: 9:00am – 12:00 am daily, closed on Tuesday.
14. Artisan Roast
Established 4 years ago, Artisan Roast has made a name for itself in cafe scene for its excellent service and impeccable attention to detail. Here, you won’t find a single sour face as baristas are ever ready to attend to your needs and requests. They even offer a choice of soy milk for an extra RM1 and you can also ask for an extra hot cuppa so it will still be warm by the time you get to work.
Their Signature Cheesecake (RM12) which has a glorious layer of dark chocolate between the cheese and biscuit base is by far one of the best we’ve had. Artisan also serves breakfast (8am to 3pm) and lunch (11am to 3pm) daily.
Address: 4, Lorong Rahim Kajai 14, Taman Tun Dr Ismail, 60000 Kuala Lumpur
Phone Number: +603-77336397
Website: Here
Opening Hours: 8:00 am – 12:00 am daily
15. Three Little Birds Coffee
A pretty cafe situated in what seems like a secret garden, Three Little Birds is a branch of the famous Artisan Roast, so you know a trip here won’t leave you disappointed. Though their coffee and cakes are up to par with the former, when it comes to ambience – Three Little Birds definitely has an edge over Artisan.
The droopy vines and outdoor seating makes you feel as if you’re having a picnic, making your morning coffee that much more enjoyable. The nature-friendly concept is a hit with the masses and with a photo-op at every corner, it’s no surprise that this place is a local favourite.
Address: D7 Jalan Sentul, 51000 Kuala Lumpur
Website: Here
Opening Hours:
Monday to Thursday: 8:00 am – 11:00 pm
Friday to Saturday: 8:00 am – 12:00 am
Sunday: 9:00 am – 10:00 pm
16. Bingsu Cafe
Bingsu is the newest addition to the cafe scene and as their name suggests – they specialise in making Bingsu, a milk snow ice Korean dessert.
Here, you’ll find that they’ve put a modern twist on this traditional dessert by incorporating a combination of fruits, premium Korean ingredients and delectable fruit-based ice creams. Their menu is made from only the freshest ingredients, with no preservatives added.
Unlike other bingsus available in KL, Bingsu Cafe succeeds in perfecting the fluffy snow ice, complementing the various toppings like a match made in dessert heaven. Crowd favourites are the Mango Cheese (RM16.90) and the Durian Mango (RM18.90). If you’re looking for a more traditional version of the bingsu, their Injeolmi (korean rice cake) bingsu (RM12.90) has been said to be one of the best around.
Address: 28 Jalan SS21/35 Damansara Utama, 47400 Petaling Jaya
Phone Number: +603-77333086
Website: Here
Opening Hours: 12:00 pm – 12:00 am daily
17. VCR
Another gem in the heart of KL, VCR is a two storey cafe in a converted house along Jalan Galloway. Serving up no-fuss single origin coffee, this is the go-to cafe among the working crowd in Bukit Bintang and its surrounding vicinity.
Most patrons opt to park by the street but do beware of the occasional run-in with DBKL officers. Cakes sell quickly here and their best seller is The King, a homemade chocolate banana cake topped with peanut butter frosting. If you’re looking for a bit more to bite, try their potato waffles topped with sauteed mushrooms, tomato puree and poached eggs.
Address: 2, Jalan Galloway, Bukit Bintang, 50150 Kuala Lumpur
Phone Number: +603-21102330
Website: Here
Opening Hours: 8:30 am – 11:00 pm daily
18. Coffee Stain by Joseph
This is the kind of place that will brighten up anybody’s day – if the thought of regular coffee isn’t enough to perk you up, perhaps you should shake things up and head to Coffee Stain. They specialise in 3D coffee art, which proves there really is no end to the wonderful things you can do with milk foam. The art is delightful to look at and you can’t help but feel a childlike-wonder as you watch your coffee smile back at you.
Address: D4-G3-01, Solaris Dutamas, 50480 Kuala Lumpur
Phone Number: +603-62112022
Website: Here
Opening Hours:
Monday to Thursday: 9:30 am – 11:00 pm
Friday to Sunday: 9:30 am – 12:00 pm
19. Ministry Of Coffee
Boasting a brand new revamped menu, Ministry of Coffee or MOC as they are affectionately known, serves natural, organic coffee and strives to provide patrons with the best of the Doi Chaang experience. Their dishes are also pro-organic, in line with their beans which make any trip here a wholesome one. MOC is also home to the Naanwich (RM20-RM21), where their sandwiches are made with the naan flat bread. The selection of milkshakes and teas are also set to impress – they have fancy teas like acai pomegranate vanilla (RM9) and indulgent milkshakes such as the salted caramel (RM16).
Address: J-G-09, SohoKL, Jalan Solaris, Solaris Mont Kiara, Mont Kiara, 50480 Kuala Lumpur
Phone Number: +603-62115531
Website: Here
Opening Hours:
Monday to Thursday: 8:00 am – 11:00 pm
Friday to Saturday: 11:00 am – 1:00am
Sunday: 8:30 am – 11:00 pm
20. Rekindle Cafe
The folks at Rekindle really go above and beyond to ensure that their customers are always spoilt for choice. The moment you step into the cafe, you won’t be able to take your eyes off the drool-worthy display of cakes that spread from one end of the countertop to the other.
They are famous all over for their booze-infused cakes like the Tiramisu Kahlua, Chocolate Baileys and Salted Caramel with whiskey, all priced at RM16. Rekindle also offers a killer cheesecake; so good that it has been named after them – Rekindle Cheesecake (RM15.90).
Booze-free favourites include Red Velvet and Chocolate Salted Caramel Cookies, both at RM11.90. While you’re here, don’t miss out on their one-of-a-kind Butterscotch latte (RM12 – hot, RM14 – iced).
Address: 4 Jalan SS21/35, Damansara Utama, 47400 Petaling Jaya
Phone Number: +603-77329738
Opening Hours:
Sunday to Thursday: 12:00 pm – 12:00 am
Friday to Saturday: 12:00 pm – 1:00 am
Closed on Wednesday
21. League of Captains
League of Captains or LoC is run by the folks over at Pestle and Mortar Clothing, a homegrown brand. This boutique cafe is a unique concept which marries the love of coffee and clothing all under one roof.
Clothes for sale are displayed at the upstairs alfresco dining area, so you can browse through brands such as Dr Denim, Bellroy and Hypergrand – all while sipping on your coffee. This intriguing space along the Asian Heritage Row also serves Crazypuffs and a variety of cakes from The Accidental Bakers, making it a triple threat amongst its competitors.
Address: Lot 42-50 The Row, Jalan Doraisamy, 50300 Kuala Lumpur
Phone Number: +6019-2117234
Website: Here
Opening Hours: 8:00 am – 11:00 pm
22. Brewmen
Ever wondered what ice cream, waffles and coffee would taste like together? Although we haven’t found that exact combination just yet, we did manage stumble upon something that’s pretty close – the Waffogato.
Available only at Brewmen, this is a dreamy combination of waffles, ice cream and Rooibos tea in place of the usual espresso shot. Other house specialties include the Oreo Waffle and the S’more-Ffle, a genius pairing of s’mores and chocolate waffles.
Address: No.6, Jalan Solaris 4,Solaris Mont Kiara, 50480 Kuala Lumpur
Phone Number: +603-62118829
Website: Here
Opening Hours:
Tuesday to Thursday: 10:00 am – 11:30 pm
Friday to Saturday: 10:00 am – 12:00 am
Sunday: 10:00 am – 11:30 pm
Closed on Monday.
21. League of Captains
League of Captains or LoC is run by the folks over at Pestle and Mortar Clothing, a homegrown brand. This boutique cafe is a unique concept which marries the love of coffee and clothing all under one roof.
Clothes for sale are displayed at the upstairs alfresco dining area, so you can browse through brands such as Dr Denim, Bellroy and Hypergrand – all while sipping on your coffee. This intriguing space along the Asian Heritage Row also serves Crazypuffs and a variety of cakes from The Accidental Bakers, making it a triple threat amongst its competitors.
Address: Lot 42-50 The Row, Jalan Doraisamy, 50300 Kuala Lumpur
Phone Number: +6019-2117234
Website: Here
Opening Hours: 8:00 am – 11:00 pm
23. The Grumpy Cyclist
One look inside this place and you’ll be able to tell the person running this place is an avid cycling enthusiast. Besides the giveaway name, the entire interior decor is cycling inspired – with bicycles mounted on the walls and cycling jerseys framed under the tables. However, rest assured The Grumpy Cyclist isn’t exclusively for cyclists but for everyone looking for some good food and coffee!
The coffees and cakes here are loved by all, noteworthy cakes include the Salted Caramel and the Red Velvet. You can also expect a menu comprising of hearty breakfast choices such as The Gran Fondo which are meant to refuel cyclists after their morning trail but hey, even if you skipped that morning workout you still gotta eat, right?
Address: 36, Jalan Datuk Sulaiman, Taman Tun Dr Ismail, 60000 Kuala Lumpur
Phone Number: +603-77311400
Website: Here
Opening Hours: 8:00 am – 11:00 pm daily, closed on Tuesday.
24. Kenny Hills Bakers
Home to one of the best croissants in KL, Kenny Hills Bakers sure know their breads and pastries. On top of that, they serve up an amazing cuppa – smooth and full bodied, just the way we like it.
The folks here also like to keep things interesting by changing up the menu every now and then – they’ve recently started to offer a variety of chia puddings which are gluten-free and vegan. The indoor seating is limited, so you can opt for a table outside to be more comfortable. The place does get quite crowded on weekends so be sure to set your alarms!
Address: Lot I-1A, Taman Tunku, Bukit Tunku, 50480 Kuala Lumpur
Phone Number: +603-62064111
Website: Here
Opening Hours: 8:00 am – 7:00 pm
Best Cafes in KL
So there you have it – a comprehensive guide to the finest cafes in and around KL for all your cafe-hopping needs. Whether for a pick-me-up coffee, weekend brunch or a mid-day indulgence, these cafes are perfect for any time of the day. Always remember to take some time out every now and then and that a happy tummy is a happy you!
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