New Restaurants, Cafes and Bars in Kuala Lumpur: November 2019

Fans of family-style restaurant Table & Apron — get excited about their sister bakery-cafe that just opened next door! The star here are the freshly baked breads, which is best enjoyed in the simple Country Sourdough set (RM6). Expect two thick slices of bread served with luxurious French butter and sea salt. For something more filling, turn to the Hummus and Tomato Tartine (RM11) – topped generously with hummus and juicy tomatoes. Also good is the Ricotta and Avocado (RM15) that comes drizzled with sweet gula Melaka. Pro tip: Bring enough Ringgit as Universal Bakehouse only accepts cash at the moment!
Photo by Burppler Po Po

If you've missed X Coffee previously located in Isetan Japan Store, you'll be pleased to know that these coffee maestros have found a new home in TTDI. Spot the green signboard along Jalan Burhanuddin Helmi, and head up to the first floor to find the coffee lounge. Inside, the coffee bar takes centre stage with its sleek wood finishing and bar stools. Have a Filter Coffee (from RM18) made with beans carefully sourced and roasted by the famed Maruyama Coffee in Japan. Expect a wide range of fruity and acidic options that come served with notes about the beans and farmer. The Long Black (from RM5) and Iced Latte (RM10) will also satisfy. Ps. A wide selection of brewing equipment from Japan including coffee beans and ceramic cups are available for purchase.

This cool spot in Damansara Kim will quench your thirst all day long – with caffeinated drinks to fuel you or boozy one to relax you. The creative team here make almost everything from scratch including the drink infusions and ice. For a non-alcoholic option, try the coffee-based Tropical Express (RM18) that sees a blend of pink grapefruit, citrus, rosemary and kaffir leaves. Otherwise, get the Too Gouda To Be True (RM32), a sweet-savoury concoction featuring coffee liqueur, vanilla and white peach dressed generously with shaved Gouda cheese – different and delicious. Boba lovers, have the sweet Brown Sugar Milk Tea (RM10.90) with chewy housemade pearls. Pro tip: Outside food is allowed, so pack some snacks before you pop in for a drink!

This Vietnamese newbie in Bangsar receives high praise from the community for their delicious grub. The kitchen focuses on hearty, comforting pho and crowd-pleasing sides like spring rolls and salads. Burppler Serena Ho recommends the GS Pho Beef Special (RM27) chock-full with beef slices, tendon and more. Expect a darker and more robust broth than the usual. Ps. They also do a veggie-only pho, so bring your vegetarian friends along! Order for the table the sweet, spicy and sour Mango Salad (RM14) that sees shredded green mangos and fresh herbs.
Photo by Burppler Serena Ho

Devoted fans of Jay Chou might recognise this Taiwanese milk tea brand from his latest music video. Highly recommended is the Fresh Strawberry Milk with Panna Cotta (RM19), which Burppler Jesuis Enamourez enjoyed for the soft panna cotta that compliments the sweet milk. Ps. The panna cotta drinks are served in an adorable bottle which you can take home with you! Another crowd-favourite is the Cheese Foam Black Tea (RM15) that features a wonderful blend of sweet and salty, thanks to the rich cream cheese topping. The unique drinks and minimalist space make this place a popular one, so come early!
Photo by Burppler Jesuis Enamourez

Find crunchy and finger-licking good meals at this pretty-in-pink spot in TTDI. Come on a weekday and order from their pocket-friendly Indo-Asian set lunch menu featuring dishes like What's The Mattah (RM15) that sees a fried chicken fillet served with Balinese-style sambal and rice. Each set also comes with a glass of iced tea – score! Come dinnertime, the kitchen switches things up and serves Southern-style fried chicken. Burppler Catherine Yee recommends going for the Spicy Drumsticks (RM22) which she acclaims is super 'shiok', and best had with a side of potato salad.
Photo by Burppler Catherine Yee

Working folks at 1 Utama Shopping Centre, listen up! Find good cups of coffee at this little kiosk tucked in the intersection between One World Hotel and the mall. On sleepy mornings, the dark Americano (RM5) will provide that essential caffeine jolt. Otherwise, swing by for an after-lunch treat and sip on the Bang Bang Pearl Matcha Soy (RM8) with chewy pearls, or have the rich Sea Salt Chocolate (RM6). Pro tip: Swap regular milk for oat milk at no additional cost!
Photo by Burppler Rachel Yong

Head to the buzzy SS15 to find Taiwan's popular fried chicken brand, Monga. Expect piping-hot, XL-sized fried chicken cutlets that are twice-fried to ensure crispy skin. There are a range of flavours to choose from, including The King (RM14.90) that comes simply seasoned in salt and pepper. For something spicy, have the Hot Chick (RM14.90) that comes in dusted in housemade chilli powder. An additional RM9 gets you a side of chips and a soft drink.

Spotted along Jalan Panggong is this beautiful kopitiam housed in a decades-old building. Come for breakfast and dig into the Luckin Toast (RM12.90), where five slices of Hainan toast are served with spreads like peanut butter and kaya, alongside soft-boiled eggs. For lunch, opt for the Indo Mee (RM5.90) with a choice of protein, of which the chicken karaage and buttermilk chicken stand out. Look out for other unique dishes on the menu like the Seafood Mala Hot Pot (RM28.90) that's only available after 5pm.
Photo by Burppler Sok Chien Lim

From the same team behind Pokok, Daun is the chic sibling offering baked goods, cakes and coffee. The space is made for the 'gram – think clean white walls, hanging plants and rattan furniture. The selection of cake flavours are inspired by Malaysian delights, as seen in the Apam Balik Cake (RM15) and toothsome Sirap Bandung Cake (RM15). For simpler flavours, have a slice of buttery Lemon Poppy Seed Cake Loaf (RM6) drizzled with a sweet lemon glaze. Pair the desserts with a velvety cup of Flat White (RM9) and you're set for a chill afternoon! Pro tip: Find Daun on the second floor of MAHSA Avenue, located within the premises of KEDAI, an artisanal marketplace.