A Vegetarian’s Guide to Kuala Lumpur: Hidden Gems & Authentic Eats
I lived in Kuala Lumpur for two years, and during my time there, I discovered that the best food often isn't found in the typical tourist traps. If you are a vegetarian—or just someone who appreciates authentic flavors—this guide is for you.
Here is a breakdown of my favorite, non-touristy spots to grab affordable and delicious vegetarian food in KL.
1. City One Plaza / City Mall Area (Masjid India)
The Spot: Lahore Foods (2nd Floor)
This is a hidden gem for authentic Pakistani food.
- The Vibe: It’s a mixed environment (they serve meat), but if you are comfortable dining with non-vegetarians, it is worth the visit.
- Best Time to Go: Mornings.
- What to Order: Not really , it's a bufe of unlimited Chole and halwa, The Halwa Puri breakfast. It usually comes with Chana (chickpeas) and Halwa.Try Curd with sugar , there
- Price: Extremely cheap—around 2 Ringgit per paratha., Alu Paratha 5 ringgit including Curd with Sugar
2. Brickfields (Near the Hanuman Temple)
The Spot: Vishal Food & Catering
Located right in front of the Hanuman Temple, you will actually find two spots named Vishal.
- My Pick: I prefer the one slightly farther back (the "father" shop).
- Verdict: Both are good, but the original feels more authentic to me.
- What to Order: The Puri Bhaji or the Idli Sambar. They serve typical Chettinad-style meals on banana leaves.
3. The "Station" Area (KL Sentral / Brickfields)
If you head towards the area popularly known as "The Station" (near the Monorail/transit hub), you will find excellent North Indian options.
- The Vibe: Authentic Punjabi food.
- Recommendation: Look for Singh Chapati House. There is a row of 2-3 good restaurants here that serve excellent South Indian snacks and North Indian chapatis.
4. Masjid India Area
The Spots: Sangeetha Vegetarian Restaurant & Adyar Ananda Bhavan (A2B)
These are two heavy hitters for pure vegetarian food.
- Sangeetha: I won't recommend it for being expensive but it's a good option for pure vegetarian people.
- It is popular among tourists and a bit more expensive.
- Tip: Stick to their South Indian food (Dosain, Idli). They maintain the taste well. I don't recommend ordering North Indian dishes here.
- Adyar Ananda Bhavan (A2B): To be honest, I am not a huge fan of their main meals, but they have specific items that are amazing.
- What to Order: Chole Bhature and their Ice Cream.
5. Khan Dhaba (Khan 1, 2, 3)
There are three branches of this Pakistani chain in KL.
- The Food: While their vegetarian savory options are limited, you go here for the sweets.
- Why Go: If you are looking for that specific North Indian taste—Gulab Jamun and Barfi—this is the place. You won't find this level of authentic sweetness in standard South Indian shops.
6. ABC Bistro Near Masjid Jamek)
The Vibe: Open 24 Hours.
This is the beauty of Kuala Lumpur—you can find good food at any hour.
- Why Go: I usually go here late at night. It is very cheap and the quality is consistent. It’s a great spot for a late-night roti canai or teh tarik.
7. Biryani house near Petronas Towers (KLCC)
The Spot: 1947 Namaste India / Biryani House
- What to Order: The Veg Biryani. It is easily the best item on the menu. If you are sightseeing near the towers, this is a convenient stop.
8. Lebuh Ampang (Near the Sai Baba Temple)
There is another branch of Vishal Food & Catering here.
- Location: In Lebuh Ampang (often pronounced locally like 'libam-punk'), near the Shirdi Sai Baba Mandir.
- Verdict: It provides the same tasty quality as their original branch in Brickfields.
A Note on Traveling in Malaysia
One of the best things about Malaysia compared to neighboring countries like Thailand or Cambodia is the food accessibility. In other Southeast Asian countries, finding authentic Indian vegetarian food can be a struggle (and often lacks "taste").
However, in Malaysia, even if you go to a small village or a city outside of KL, you will almost always find a "Mamak" stall or a Tamil-run shop providing comfort food. You are never far from a good vegetarian meal here!
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