A full plate of savory indulgence, Nasi Lemak has always been the number one comfort food for most locals in Malaysia. It is so beloved that you can easily find the dish in almost every corner of the city. Whether at a street hawker stall or an upscale restaurant, Nasi Lemak has many variations, each is interesting to try. Here are some of the most recommended places to taste it:

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1. Nasi Lemak Burung Hantu

source: Official Facebook Page of NL Burung Hantu

True to its name, Nasi Lemak Burung Hantu (“owl”) is there to cater to all the night owls in Kuala Lumpur. With its outlet open until midnight, anyone craving comfort food late at night can enjoy this hearty Malaysian meal. One of its six outlets is even open for 24 hours!

The eatery is quite popular especially for young adults to hang out with peers. The modern minimalist interior with humble plastic seating creates a sense of friendliness. All outlets are spacious with plenty of seating tables available. No need to worry about not getting a space when visiting without booking it first.

source: Official Facebook Page of NL Burung Hantu

Using basmati rice, their Nasi Lemak has such a perfect texture. A series of side dishes and add-ons are ready to cater to different cravings. Chili lovers will find this place intriguing for offering so many options of sambal.

Price: Around MYR 20 – 40 / person

Halal Status: Yes

Address:

19, Lorong Rahim Kajai 13, Taman Tun Dr Ismail, 60000 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
44, Ground Floor, Lorong Rahim Kajai 14, Taman Tun Dr Ismail, 6000 Kuala Lumpur
No 1-G, Wisma CKL Jalan 22A/70A, Desa Sri Hartamas, 50480 Kuala Lumpur
2, Jalan 51A/225, Seksyen 51A, 46100 Petaling Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan
GF-07, Ground Floor, Semua House, Jalan Bunus 6, 50100 Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur
26,Jalan SS15/8B, SS15 47500 Subang Jaya, Selangor

Opening Hours:

Outlet TTDR I: Monday – Sunday 12.00 pm – 1.00 am
Outlet TTDR II: Monday – Sunday 5.00 pm – 4.00 am
Outlet Hartamas: Monday – Sunday 24 hours
Outlet PJ: Monday – Sunday 4.00 pm – 2.00 am
Outlet Semua House: Monday – Sunday 8.00 am – 10.00 pm
Outlet Subang Jaya: Monday – Sunday 12.00 pm – 4.00 am

Other Popular Items: Ayam Goreng Berempah, Sambal Sotong, Sambal Udang Petai

2. Blue Boy Vegetarian Food Centre

source: Official Facebook Page of Blue Boy Vegetarian FC

While most people love Nasi Lemak with chicken or any other meat on the side, it doesn’t mean that vegetarians should skip this dish altogether. Come visit Blue Boy Vegetarian Food Centre, where you can get a fulfilling serving of this Malaysian dish sans the meaty sides.

Similar to the other versions elsewhere, this restaurant’s version also presents multiple dishes on a plate. Aside from the rice itself, there are also peanuts, tofu, an egg, crispy potato, cucumber slices, long beans, and sambal. The menu also has other tasty options of dishes that are worth trying.

source: Official Facebook Page of Blue Boy Vegetarian FC

Dominated with white tiles and walls, this restaurant offers a simple comforting vibe to enjoy a hearty meal without a fuss. It is so humble and unpretentious with the concept of an open kitchen and serving station.

Price: Around MYR 10 – 20 / person

Halal Status: Yes

Address: Lorong Pudu 4, Jln Tong Shin, Bukit Bintang, 50200 Kuala Lumpur, Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday 8.00 am – 4.00 pm

Other Popular Items: Ayam Laksa, Char Kuey Teow, Curry Mee, Popiah

3. NALE The Nasi Lemak Company

For those seeking the ultimate delight, NALE The Nasi Lemak Company is where to go. Interestingly, they have three outlets in Malaysia, all in strategic locations. One of them is right inside a mall, making it a perfect station to refuel your energy while you are shopping around.

The restaurant commits to bringing the traditional cuisine to a whole next level with meticulous exploration of local ingredients and some modern twist. Aside from the classic options, the menu also offers a series of premium plates. Several side dishes in shared portions are also available for extra indulgence.

While the prices might be higher than average, most customers agree that the satisfaction is worth every ringgit spent. Dining in makes the experience even more wholesome, thanks to the inviting ambiance. With ornamental faux leaves and earthy furnishings, it’s an ideal spot for a warm family gathering or entertaining guests.

Price: Around MYR 20 – 40 / person

Halal Status: Yes

Address:

G(E)-013, MIDVALLEY MEGAMALL, Lingkaran Syed Putra, Mid Valley City, 59200 Kuala Lumpur, Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Lot 1.36.00, Level, 1, Pavilion Damansara Heights Rd, Damansara Town Centre, 50490 Kuala Lumpur, Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
LG34-B Central i-City No1 Persiaran Multimedia i-City, Seksyen 7, 40000 Shah Alam, Selangor, Malaysia

Opening Hours:

Outlet Midvalley: Monday – Sunday 11.00 am – 10.00 pm
Outlet Damansara: Monday – Sunday 10.00 am – 10.00 pm
Outlet Central Icity: Monday – Sunday 10.00 am – 10.00 pm

Other Popular Items: Salmon NALE, Beef Rendang, Ayam Bakar Sambal Hijau, Gulai Grilled Chicken Rice

4. Nasi Lemak Peel Road

source: Official Facebook Page of NL Peel Road

With Malaysia’s large Chinese community, it’s no surprise that there’s a Chinese-style version of Nasi Lemak. One of the most popular ones is on Nasi Lemak Peel Road. Tucked away in a bustling area, this humble eatery is almost packed with a hungry crowd.

And yes, the foods are non-halal here. Aside from the usual side dishes, this restaurant also offers pork luncheon, sausage, and wild boar. Some guests may prefer to order the signature fried rice instead. The options for beverages are more varied than the foods with some of the typical Chinese-style refreshments.

source: Official Facebook Page of NL Peel Road

The spacious eatery has been in business since 1970, yet it shows no sign of fading away. While it has no frills in its interior, you can feel how vibrant it is in both the outdoor and indoor seating areas. Lightweight tables with plastic chairs are easily movable to facilitate customers in large groups, which happens very often.

Price: Around MYR 10 – 20 / person

Halal Status: Non-Halal

Address: 92, Jalan Peel, Maluri, 55100 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Opening Hours: Friday – Wednesday 11.00 am – 8.00 pm, Thursday Closed

Popular Items: Signature Fried Rice, Wild Boar Curry, Luncheon Meat, Mutton Curry, Fried Rice

5. Nasi Lemak Shop

source: Official Facebook Page of NL Shop.

If you want a tasty serving of Nasi Lemak with a fancy aesthetic in Petaling Jaya, Nasi Lemak Shop is the one to go. It is a place that provides a savory delectation with a pleasant vibe. Located near a business area, this trendy restaurant is popular for workers looking for a quick fulfilling meal, locals hanging out with friends, and even tourists trying to enjoy their moment.

Of all the items on the menu, the star of the show here is the Ayam Goreng (Fried Chicken). It is topped with crushed spices, which adds extra layers of flavor to every bite. A selection of noodles here is also worth trying as an alternative menu. People also love the choices of snacks, add-ons, and beverages here.

source: Official Facebook Page of NL Shop.

The concept of contemporary minimalism is another thing that makes dining more enjoyable. Well-arranged seating with a row of individual stools on a counter makes the place comfortable and neat. An accent of brick-exposed walls and rattan light fixtures boost the cozy aesthetic, making the place Instagram-worthy.

Price: Around MYR 20 – 40 / person

Halal Status: Yes

Address: G10, Oasis Business Center BU4, Changkat Bandar Utama, Bandar Utama, 47800 Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia

Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday 11.30 am – 10.30 pm

Popular Items: Ayam Goreng Berempah, Curry Chicken, Mee Siam, Thai Tea Bingsu

6. Village Park Restaurant

source: Official Facebook Page of Village Park

Village Park Restaurant is so famous that almost everyone in Malaysia knows this place. Not only is it known for the most authentic and delightful Malaysian cuisine, but the prices here are affordable. Even most tourists will come to this place if they are eager for an ultimate culinary adventure in this country.

While the restaurant has a Chinese-style cuisine, all foods are guaranteed halal. Other than many versions of Nasi Lemak, the menu also covers several other dishes and snacks. Many people especially love their sambal for it has a satisfying savory flavor and a decent kick of spiciness.

source: Official Facebook Page of Village Park

Similar to other places, this one also has a simple yet inviting charm. The place can be bustling and crowded during meal hours, especially on the weekends. However, the laid-back vibe makes the whole experience enjoyable for every visitor.

Price: Around MYR 10 – 20 / person

Halal Status: Yes

Address: 5, Jalan SS 21/37, Damansara Utama, 47400 Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia

Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday 6.30 am – 5.30 pm

Popular Items: Ayam Goreng Crispy, Ayam Goreng Berempah, Singapore Mee Rebus, Sambal Sotong

Nasi Lemak often comes as a highlight of Malaysian culinary heritage. Any tourist who wants a taste of this country will most likely never skip this item on their must-try list. Many of them even rent a hotel room at hourly rates on Flow, only so they can reach their desired restaurant more easily.

F.A.Q

Is Nasi Lemak Healthy?

The typical serving usually contains several elements. Yet, unfortunately, a full plate of this dish usually has imbalanced portions of nutrition. Therefore, eat it mindfully. The rice is cooked in coconut milk, making it high in calories. Not to mention how most side dishes are deep-fried. However, thanks to the dish’s versatility and many options of side dishes, it is not difficult to arrange your meal to have complete and balanced nutrition.

What Drinks in Malaysia Pair Well with This Dish?

For a full package of authentic cuisine exploration, you can drink local beverages such as Malaysian coffee, teh tarik (frothy milk tea), or Bandung (rose) syrup. Fresh coconut water is also a popular choice of beverage considering Malaysia is a tropical country.

Our reviews and recommendations are honest and not influenced by compensation or sponsorship. Unless stated otherwise, we do not receive payment or free products for positive reviews. Any compensation or products received for reviews will be disclosed in the relevant post.

6 Recommended Nasi Lemak Places to Get the Best Malaysian Authentic Delight