Best Banana Leaf Restaurants In Kuala Lumpur And Petaling Jaya:
Picture this: a vibrant green banana leaf laid out before you, acting as your plate.
As you settle down at the table, a warm aroma of spices fills the air. Soon, an enthusiastic server brings a bowl of fresh rice and tangy curry to your table.
Sounds like the start of a delightful feast, doesn’t it?
If you’re a foodie, there’s one dish that should be on the top of your bucket list – banana leaf rice! From crispy papadums to tangy pickles, from flavourful curries to crispy fried items, there is so much to be had with this simple yet iconic meal.
And mind you, it is best savoured with your hands!
In South India, food, especially rice, is usually had on a banana leaf. With a thriving South Indian population in Malaysia, the tradition of banana leaf rice came here too. It is a must-have especially if you are headed to Kuala Lumpur and Petaling Jaya.
Without further ado, get your taste buds ready and let us dive into the best banana leaf restaurants in Kuala Lumpur and Petaling Jaya.
Ask any local for the best banana leaf rice spot in town and chances are, you’ll be pointed to Devi’s Corner.
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This place has been serving banana leaf rice for decades.
Known for its vibrant curries, fragrant rice, and an array of side dishes, it will leave you spoilt for choice!
Crowd favourites include Devi’s banana leaf set (RM 9.8), Kerala fish curry (RM 15) and Mysore chicken (RM 15).
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How to get there: It’s an 18-minute walk from Bangsar, it’s better to take a cab from there.
Opening hours: Open daily, 7am to 1am
Address: 9, Jalan Telawi 2, Bangsar, 59100 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia (map)
| Address: |
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| 9, Jalan Telawi 2, Bangsar, 59100 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia |
The name says it all!
This cosy Indian restaurant in KL is best known for its lobster biryani (RM 320).
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If you are up for a challenge, order their massive Banana leaf set which comes with 16 dishes (RM 190)!
Other worthy contenders on the menu are mutton biryani and butter paneer.
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How to get there: It’s a 5-minute walk from Bangsar
Opening hours: Mon to Sun: 11.30am to 3pm, 5pm to 10pm; closed on Tues
Address: 16, Jalan Kemuja, Bangsar, 59000 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia (map)
This is one of the best banana leaf restaurants in Bangsar.
From crispy papadums to finger-licking curries, Bala’s delivers a satisfying meal that will keep you coming back for more.
Head here for their super yummy mutton varuval (RM 10), chicken 65 (RM 9) and fried sotong (RM 9). Don’t miss this local favourite!
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How to get there: Take bus 822 to KL1761 Bangsar Village (Selatan), and walk for 4-minutes
Opening hours: Open daily, 8am to 9pm
Address: 25, Lorong Ara Kiri 1, Bangsar, 59100 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia (map)
This humble eatery offers a homely traditional banana leaf rice experience with all the essential dishes.
It is one of the most popular Indian restaurants in PJ.
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For an authentic and no-frills experience, which won’t break the bank, try their banana leaf meal (RM 10.5), taufu sambal (RM 4) and couple it with crab rasam (RM 3).
Trust us, you’ll feel right at home.
How to get there: Take bus PJ01 to Mahkamah Syariah and walk 6-minutes
Opening hours: Mon: 11am to 3.45pm, Tues to Sun: 11.15am to 3.45pm
Address: 47, Jalan 1/10, Seksyen 1, 46000 Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia (map)
This hidden gem is a game-changer in the banana leaf scene.
With mammoth-sized banana leaves and mouth-watering curries that pack a punch, it’s a belly-filling delight.
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Don’t miss their crispy fried chicken and sambal belacan for an explosion of flavours.
In addition to their banana leaf platter, try their fried squid (RM 14.5) and tenggiri sambal (RM 15.9).
How to get there: It’s a 20-minute walk from Phileo Damansara, so it’s better to take a cab from there.
Opening hours: Open daily, 11am to 10pm
Address: 600-GF, Jalan 17/12, Seksyen 17, 46400 Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia (map)
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| 600, Jalan 17/12, Seksyen 17, 46400 PJ |
If you’re craving authentic Chettinad cuisine in Malaysia, look no further than Annapuurnam Chetinad Restaurant.
This popular Indian restaurant in KL serves up lip-smacking South Indian flavours with a casual vibe.
Get ready to dig into their spicy mutton curry (RM 25), or the vegetarian set with coconut chutney.
How to get there: It’s a 15-minute walk from Bangsar.
Opening hours: Open daily, 7am to 9pm
Address: 74, Lrg Maarof, Bangsar, 59000 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia (map)
At this cosy Indian restaurant that serves banana leaf rice, seeing strangers sharing a table over food is a common sight.
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It has been around since 1994 and is one of the best curry houses in KL.
Here, an authentic banana leaf set will cost you RM 15, and other must-haves include spicy fried squid and crab curry.
How to get there: Take the train to Mutiara Damansara station. It is a 10-minute cab ride from there.
Opening hours: Open daily, 7am to 9.30pm
Address: 32, Jalan Tun Mohd Fuad 1, Taman Tun Dr Ismail, 60000 Petaling Jaya, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia (map)
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| 32, Jalan Tun Mohd Fuad 1, Taman Tun Dr Ismail, 60000 Petaling Jaya, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur |
Known for its traditional and authentic South Indian flavours, Vishal Food & Catering is a favourite among locals in Brickfield’s, Kuala Lumpur’s Little India.
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The banana leaf rice here is accompanied by an impressive spread of curries, ranging from mutton varuval, stir-fried banana flower, and a generous serving of prawn sambal.
How to get there: Take the train to Pasar Seni station. It’s an 8-minute car ride from there.
Opening hours: Mon to Fri: 11am to 9.30pm, Sat & Sun: 7.30am to 9.30pm
Address: 22, Jalan Scott, Brickfields, 50470 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia (map)
Kanna Curry House is another gem place to eat in PJ at night.
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Their banana leaf rice, being served since 1976, comes with a medley of curries bursting with flavours.
Some of the menu highlights include thosai, ayam perathal, and ikan tenggiri goreng.
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Opening hours: Varies according to outlet.
Address: Multiple outlets including Jalan Gasing (map) and Taman Mayang (map)
Sri Nirwana Maju is a bustling banana leaf restaurant that never fails to impress.
It’s the perfect place for travellers seeking an authentic taste of Malaysian Indian cuisine.
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Their banana leaf rice is accompanied by an irresistible banana leaf-wrapped fried chicken, which is a local favourite.
Don’t forget to try their legendary bitter gourd fritters for a complete experience!
How to get there: Take the train to Bangsar. It’s a 8-minute cab ride from there.
Opening hours: Open daily, 11.30am to 11pm
Address: 43, Jln Telawi 3, Bangsar, 59100 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia (map)
Puchong Chettinad Mess is a local favourite known for its flavoursome offerings.
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Dig into their signature banana leaf rice topped with an assortment of curries and side dishes.
Think beetroot poriyal, mango patchadi, and vazhapoo poriyal.
Do yourself a favour and go heavy on the papadam – perfectly crisp and wonderful when it comes to mopping up the curry-drenched rice.
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How to get there: Take the train to Puchong Prima LRT Station. It’s a 13-minute cab ride from there.
Opening hours: Tues to Sun: 11am to 2.30pm; closed on Mon
Address: 11, Jalan Puteri 7/9, Bandar Puteri, 47100 Puchong, Selangor, Malaysia (map)
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| 11-2, Jalan Puteri 7/9, Bandar Puteri, 47100 Puchong, Selangor, Malaysia |
Acha Curry House in Damansara Utama will leave you craving for more.
Their banana leaf rice comes with a generous serving of curries, vegetables, and crispy papadam.
Don’t miss their tenggiri fish (RM 5) and mutton bone marrow (RM 6). It’s worth every penny!
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How to get there: It’s a 4-minute walk from Taman Bahagia.
Opening hours: Open daily, 10.30am to 4.30pm
Address: 42, Jalan SS 2/4a, SS 2, 47300 Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia (map)
For a unique twist on the traditional banana leaf rice experience, head to BananaBro.
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Located in Berjaya Times Square, this hip halal-certified spot offers a modern take on the classic dish.
Customise your meal with their wide range of curries and sides, including options like chicken 65 (RM 8.9) and fried squid rings (RM 11.9)
How to get there: Take the train to Bukit Bintang. It’s a 9-minute walk from there.
Opening hours: Open daily, 10am to 9pm
Address: LG-59B, Berjaya Times Square, Jln Imbi, Imbi, 55100 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia (map)
Mollagaa Restaurant is another hidden gem for banana leaf rice lovers.
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Their authentic banana leaf rice with flavourful curries will leave you satisfied.
Try their famous fish podimoss (RM 18.95) and nattu kozhi perattal (RM 16.95).
How to get there: Take the train to Pasar Peni station. It’s a 13-minute walk from there.
Opening hours: Open daily, 11am to 10pm
Address: 50A, Lebuh Ampang, City Centre, 50100 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia (map)
Craving banana leaf rice while shopping at The Curve?
Make Macha & Co your go-to spot.
Their good old banana leaf rice set is always a crowd-pleaser.
But if you want other solid menu items, check out the biryani meals, or the naan pizzas, perfect for an extra kick.
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How To Get There: It’s a 4-minute walk from Mutiara Damansara.
Opening hours: Open daily, 10am to 10pm
Address:The Curve, G41, Street Mall, Jalan PJU 7/2, Mutiara Damansara, 47820 Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia (map)
Tips To Eat On A Banana Leaf
Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a curious traveller, these banana leaf restaurants in Kuala Lumpur and Petaling Jaya are a must-visit.
So, grab your group of friends, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to savour the rich flavours and vibrant spices that make banana leaf rice a cherished tradition in Malaysia.
Bon appétit!
Pro tip: If it is your first time eating banana leaf rice, remember that it is best savoured with your fingers.
Traditionally, you should eat the rice with your right hand.
But even if you are a leftie, don’t fret; as long as your hands are clean, dig right in!
Once you are finished eating, fold the banana leaf towards you. This shows an appreciation for the cook or host.
Bonus: Other Cool Activities to Explore KL Like a Pro
Malaysia offers you a world beyond food. Book a 24-hour pass on Kuala Lumpur’s Hop On Hop Off bus. From Bukit Bintang to KL Tower, see everything in the city from this double-decker delight!
Indian culture permeates many aspects of Malaysia, beyond the banana leaf rice experience. Batu Caves in Kuala Lumpur is one such place that takes you very close to an authentic Indian experience. With a height of 140ft, these natural limestone caves boast the tallest statue of Lord Murugan which shimmers in bright golden colour. From there, you can climb 272 steps for an Instagrammable view. Other attractions here include Ramayana Cave, Art Gallery Cave and Museum Cave.
When the day is done, head to the quaint fishing village in Kuala Selangor, where you can have a date with fireflies on a unique boat ride at Kampung Kuantan. Sounds tempting, right?
There is one thing that is definitely a must in Kuala Lumpur – an after-hours Vespa ride to explore how this city comes alive just as the sun goes down. Stop at Brickfields, also called Little India, for a Malaysian Indian food experience before zipping off on your adventure.
The best part about travelling is sharing that experience with your family and friends. On that note, make sure to opt for a Malaysia e-sim when you are here. You’ll not only save on expensive roaming charges on your calls but can discover all the information you’ll need right in the palm of your hand.
Commonly Asked Questions
What is banana leaf rice?
It is a traditional Malaysian meal where a freshly washed banana leaf serves as a plate. Steaming rice, curries, vegetables, pickles, and fried items are served.
Why is banana leaf rice served on a banana leaf?
The banana leaf is used as it is considered to be more healthy and an organic option. It enhances the flavours of the food as well.
What is the etiquette for eating banana leaf rice?
While there are no strict rules, it is common practice to eat with your hands when enjoying banana leaf rice.
Is banana leaf rice vegetarian or non-vegetarian?
It can be enjoyed in both vegetarian and non-vegetarian variations.
Can I customise my banana leaf rice meal?
Absolutely! One of the joys of banana leaf rice is the ability to customise your meal according to your preferences. You can choose from a variety of curries, vegetables, and fried items to accompany your rice.
