This beloved Bukit Damansara restaurant, led by chef Siva, transports diners to the coasts of Sri Lanka with its fresh seafood and fragrant spices. The Aliyaa Experience brings out the best of the cuisine in one meal with the sweet appam promising a sweet ending.

OUR REVIEWER SAYS: "Expect warm hospitality at Aliyaa, with a crew that knows their way around the menu. The food comes in hot and tickles one’s senses in every good way. Service at the restaurant is excellent—with attentive staff who check in on guests frequently, and are familiar with the menu. Notable dishes include the crab curry, which can be served in five styles and flavours. We choose to have it Jaffna style, which proves spicy but delectable. The tiger prawn curry is also spot-on and worth a try. With the wide selection of dishes, diners are spoilt for choice. With its consistent quality, this is an amazing experience that will please most Malaysian taste buds."

See also: A quick guide to Sri Lanka's signature dishes

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Despite being housed in a smaller space, Back Alley Pasta goes big with its flavours and innovation. This intimate eatery led by chef Jay churns out plates of pasta that brings complementary flavour profiles from Asian cuisines to the Italian staple.

OUR REVIEWER SAYS: "Literally a hole in the wall in a tiny alley, it makes up for its small size with a big personality that includes its delightful co-owner/chef Jay. He has a knack for taking a bold and innovative approach in his creations. For instance, the potato gnocchi is matched with miso bechamel and yuzu brisket for an absolutely divine dish. The charred cauliflower with pesto diavola and pecorino Romano is another standout, so is the Hokkaido scallop with truffle beurre blanc and ikura. Its ever-changing specials are usually quite dependable too."

Helmed by chef Raymond Tham, Beta KL takes you through the best ingredients, produce, and flavour profiles this nation has to offer. Its two degustation menus aim to tell the stories of the land, combining textures, flavours, and techniques into whimsical plates.

OUR REVIEWER SAYS: "Visit Beta KL for a gastronomic journey around Malaysia. The theme at the restaurant is fusion Malaysian, and every dish is creative in concept and presentation, combining local ingredients and modern cooking techniques. The bubur cha cha-inspired dessert is experimental yet anchored to local flavours. Savoury highlights from the tasting journey include the scallop, cod and lamb dishes. Wait staff is hospitable, courteous and knowledgeable. Overall, the menu is well-executed and worth the price tag."

Don't miss: The best chicken rice in Malaysia, according to chefs

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This Taman Tun Dr. Ismail mainstay was conceptualised by newly Michelin-starred chef Darren Chin, who is known for his refined cooking. Today, Bref by Darren Chin is led by chef Lim Wei Han who maintains an elegant simplicity in every dish he puts out with his team. 

OUR REVIEWER SAYS: "While fine dining can be a stuffy experience for some, Bref by Darren Chin completely blows this out of the water as its casual-fine menu is approachable and has something for everyone. From Hokkaido scallop with a stuffed sweet pepper to Australian Wagyu MB7 with celeriac cream, the meal is a well-executed experience. Credit should go to the kitchen team who operates with impressive efficiency. If you have room in the stomach, add an order of its capellini that features some of the freshest Japanese seafood ever tasted. The meats are also packed with flavours."

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This humble eatery in the heart of Chinatown in Kuala Lumpur is what happens when innovation meets heritage on a plate. Chef Mui Kai Quan and his team at Chocha Foodstore add humble modernity to classic Malaysian nosh that aims to bring people together.

OUR REVIEWER SAYS: "Chocha Foodstore’s approach to contemporary Asian cuisine makes for a memorable occasion. Curious epicureans will enjoy a varied mix of local culinary influences with international nuances sprinkled in. The grilled ikan baung, cooked with zesty petai miso and served with compressed cabbage, is a melange of simple ingredients cooked exceptionally well. To really extend that seafood-rich flavour profile, it’s best paired with salted sinsilog noodles that feature a mix of salted fish crackers and local herbs. Take advantage of the robust list of wines to complement the meal; just ask the friendly staff for recommendations. However, if wine pairing isn’t your cup of tea, Chocha offers a selection of craft beers, locally inspired cocktails, and homemade sodas as alternatives."

See also: Shhhbuuuleee's chef Mui Kai Quan is a devoted master of offal

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Located in the luxurious One&Only Desaru Coast, Ember Beach Club is a barbecue-centric hangout that infuses Asian flavours into everything on its menu. Chef Andrew Walsh’s culinary creations are the perfect companions for a laidback dining experience in this setting.

OUR REVIEWER SAYS: "Casual and cosy, Ember Beach Club boasts a breathtakingly serene view of the open sea. With a beautifully designed interior and a spacious dining commune, the open kitchen concept allows diners to view the team in action. Servers are incredibly friendly, knowledgeable and accommodating. A vast range of seafood is available; not to be missed is the whole Australian rock lobster, which is fresh and grilled to perfection. The chilli crab served with a bun is also highly recommended—the tantalising spices and juiciness from the crabmeat are perfectly balanced."

This rooftop alfresco hangout is a favourite for those who love to dine with a view and sharing plates. Fuego’s menu is filled with Latin staples and the execution of its dishes consistently impresses.

OUR REVIEWER SAYS: "Fuego is justifiably a mainstay on Kuala Lumpur’s dining circuit. Start the night with tapas or the sapid guacamole to be scooped up with vegetable crisps. And while Latin American cuisine might make you think of beef, they also do great seafood as evident in the Seafood Mocequa comprising a juicy snapper, brown clams, tiger prawns, and flavourful Brazilian rice. End the night with Fuego’s signature churros, but we’d also recommend the beautifully flaky Pineapple Empanada stuffed with pineapple and shredded coconut that evokes pleasant memories of Chinese New Year pineapple tarts."

See also: 5 stunning rooftop bars we love in Kuala Lumpur

You’ll embark on a journey through chef-owner Johnson Wong’s fondest childhood memories during your dining experience at Gēn 根. Dishes at this Modern Chinese-Malaysian restaurant feature local ingredients that are revamped and cooked to perfection.

OUR REVIEWER SAYS: "Gēn 根 is so much more than a restaurant. It’s a culinary heritage trail preserving the best of Penang. Each dish, from the Ayer Itam ginger to the kurau fish, brings up fond memories. This is especially true if a diner is rooted in the same cultural inheritance as the team (chef Johnson Wong is from Johor while his sous chef is from Kedah) but no less enjoyable for anyone else new to Malaysian ingredients. The menu is divine, the service is impeccable, and the experience is priceless."

Inspired by the flavours and techniques of northern Italy, Gooddam produces inventive dishes that feature hints of Asian influences throughout. Headed by chef Daniel Yap, who owns the eatery with business partner Miki Lie, Gooddam is a gem in our local culinary industry.

OUR REVIEWER SAYS: "Gooddam dishes out fine and delicious modern Italian cuisine that transports you to various regions in Italy. Its seasonal menus change quarterly and the one we try is Sicilian-inspired. Other regions the menu is shaped around include Piemonte, Tuscany and Emilia-Romagna. Having booked our slot on a Sunday evening, we are lucky enough to have the entire restaurant to ourselves. We opt for one meal with wine pairing and another without, and try one of the cocktails. Everything is cooked to perfection, and our favourite dish of the night would be the uni pasta. Don’t miss dessert, which in our case is a mini cake, the perfect end to a lovely meal."

See also: Where & what to eat: The Hub SS2

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Gordon Ramsay Bar & Grill KL was one of the most highly-anticipated openings on the scene. As the first outpost of the brand outside London, the restaurant had a lot to live up to, and it executed its mission perfectly.

OUR REVIEWER SAYS: "For classic, familiar dishes perfected over time, visit Gordon Ramsay Bar & Grill. From the Caesar salad and Beef Wellington to the steak tartare, each course is executed excellently with fine ingredients, refined culinary skills and attention to detail, turning the seemingly ordinary extraordinary. Desserts such as the apple tarte Tatin and chocolate tart are also fabulous choices. Dishes are not overly extravagant gastronomic creations, rather the menu is one of familiar flavours and substantial portions paired with warm service. Waitstaff are instinctively present when needed and can expertly explain the menu. Enjoy also the gorgeously gilded setting and stunning bar as you immerse yourself in this truly British experience."

Hide KL is the culmination of the best that all cuisines have to offer. With Ng Yi Shaun's creativity and his team’s technical skill, each meal here promises to be precise, balanced, and exciting with its playful plating and inventive flavour combinations.

OUR REVIEWER SAYS: "With a menu presented to you in a folded envelope sealed with crimson wax, dining at Hide KL is no ordinary experience. The tasting menu starts with dreamy appetisers that range from ikura and mud crab tarts to Brazilian-inspired Uni Dadinhos. For the mains, one of the highlights is the dry aged, Scottish Silver Hill Duck. But the highest compliment is reserved for the reimagined Malaysian desserts that recall flavours from patisseries in Melaka and France. Suffice to say, Hide KL pushes the envelope when it comes to food."

See also: Hide KL’s chef-owner Shaun Ng on balancing fatherhood and running a restaurant

Kayra brings the complexity and punch of authentic Kerala cuisine to the Bangsar neighbourhood. Consistency, sincerity, and execution are at the heart of what head chef Sal Sabeel and his team do with dishes that are equally delightful as they are visually exciting.

OUR REVIEWER SAYS: "Kayra brings the complexity and punch of authentic Kerala cuisine to the Bangsar neighbourhood. Consistency, sincerity and execution are at the heart of what head chef Sal Sabeel and his team do with dishes that are equally delightful as they are visually exciting. Visit Kayra for authentic Kerala dishes in a vibrant setting with friendly service. Fresh ingredients are used in highlights such as the Fish Moilee Biryani, Prawn Mango Curry and Chicken Putu. Don't miss also one of the appetiser stars, the Dahi Puri shots—crispy rice shells packed with tapioca in a tamarind and sweet yogurt sauce to be chased down with a tomato rasam shot. The menu has something to offer for meat lovers, vegetarians and vegans, and the restaurant provides a great atmosphere for couples or for a group of friends."

This neighbourhood Thai restaurant is the image of authenticity and soulfulness. A favourite of many, La Moon Thai offers both lesser known dishes and staples that are perfect for gatherings.

OUR REVIEWER SAYS: "La Moon serves authentic Thai food in a vibrant and friendly environment—the owner often makes a point to go around the tables to personally welcome everyone. The menu is composed of favourite staples such as pomelo salad, crispy chicken wings, and pineapple fried rice, all executed splendidly. Also not to be missed are the tom yum goong, the Thai omelette with crabmeat, and the beef panaeng curry. The meal is made better with expert hospitality from staff; more often than not, a server will detail the specials of the day, giving guests a detailed rundown of dishes. La Moon also has a selection of beer to go with the hearty meal."

See also: 10 most stylish Thai actors to follow on Instagram

Venetian traditions and Mediterranean flavours take the front seat at the Mandarin Grill with chef Marco Caverni at the helm. His extensive experience is apparent in the menu and the delivery of delicious Italian fare.

OUR REVIEWER SAYS: "You’re in for an exquisite gastronomic feast when dining at Mandarin Grill. With a contemporary dining room, the interior sets the tone for the magnificent meal ahead. Highlights from the modern Italian menu include the grilled octopus, a standout starter with a subtle charred smokiness to it that is also accompanied with turmeric-flavoured potato. The Wagyu carpaccio is another signature dish, served with cured egg yolk and a generous garnishing of black truffle. A firm favourite with regulars is the squid ink tagliolini—this is served with charred lobster that complements the pasta perfectly. If you’re looking for a night out with exquisite Italian dishes in a classy setting, look no further."

Nadodi combines tasteful modernity with the traditions of Indian cuisine, bringing together symphonies of flavours that are exquisitely plated and presented. The restaurant presents a multi-dimensional look at the beauty of the cuisine.

OUR REVIEWER SAYS: "Refining Indian cuisine, one of the world’s most ancient, and presenting it to diners with a creative flair is what separates Nadodi apart. Incorporating modern techniques, Nadodi elevates humble dishes by intensifying flavours and creating depths to present a tantalising culinary journey that traverses the lands of India and Sri Lanka. The Nadodi Globe is the restaurant’s signature biryani that has a wonderful combination of flavours. Visiting the restaurant is sure to result in a memorable outing."

See also: The ultimate guide to vegetarian fine dining in Malaysia

The recently Michelin-starred George Town restaurant is the brainchild of Kim Hock Su, who, along with his young team, delivers picture perfect food with harmonious flavour combinations and intelligent inventiveness.

OUR REVIEWER SAYS: "Pushing boundaries and setting standards, Restaurant au Jardin redefines the ceiling for culinary experiences in Penang. The focus at the restaurant is on the sourcing of the produce, from pickled Cameron Highlands chayote to local duck. The experience is world-class, from the dishes and the wine list to the service. Restaurant au Jardin truly shatters expectations of what food in Penang is and more importantly, what it could be."

Sushi Kazu stays true to the art of sushi, embracing simplicity and highlighting fresh ingredients. Sushi master Norikazu Shibata displays his knowledge, finesse and precision in every piece of sushi he serves, which are accompanied by other heartfelt warm Japanese dishes on the menu.

OUR REVIEWER SAYS: "One of Kuala Lumpur’s favourite sushi masters, Norikazu Shibata, is at the helm here. The no-frills restaurant offers one of the most affordable omakase dining without compromising on plating, pacing and taste. Omakase is all about seasonal ingredients and Sushi Kazu presents them in the most elegant fashion. The sushi is fresh and made with incredible finesse. Be sure to reserve a seat at the sushi counter, touted as the longest in the city."

See also: 5 things you probably didn't know about sushi

Its reputation as a neighbourhood restaurant becomes apparent with the warmth and sincerity of its food. With a focus on comfort food, Table & Apron is a go-to place for those who want a soulful meal.

OUR REVIEWER SAYS: "The service is top-notch, the prices reasonable, and the food generally sublime. The tomato butter alone—to be spread on toasted sourdough bread—is reason enough for a return visit. Its creative spin on Malaysian food is deservingly lauded. The paku paku vegetables with peanuts and dried shrimps and a dressing of tamarind and chilli sauce is incredibly appetising. Alas, the popular buckwheat fried chicken is a tad underwhelming after reading all the enthusiastic reviews. Nevertheless, we have two ravishing mains: the pork ribs and nasi ulam. The former is comfort food du jour, spiced with sweet caramel and chilli, and brilliantly cooked till the tender meat falls off the bones easily. The latter is a nutty rice dish that brings on a wave of nostalgia."

The Regent Chinese Cuisine serves up classic Hong Kong food in the heart of Mont Kiara. With a vast menu, one visit is not enough. 

OUR REVIEWER SAYS: "Located in a prime position at the entrance of Plaza Mont Kiara, The Regent Chinese Cuisine offers authentic Chinese dishes—elevated to suit the tastes of its discerning clientele in the affluent neighbourhood of Mont Kiara. More importantly, it serves up quality consistently. Whether it’s signature dishes like Wagyu beef and double-boiled soups or under-the-radar favourites, each dish is impeccably prepared and cooked to perfection every single time. Paired with the family-friendly atmosphere that owners Frankie Tan and Kim Leong have retained over the last five years since they moved to Mont Kiara, there is no doubt why The Regent Chinese Cuisine has become the go-to destination for every occasion, from quick lunches to elaborate dining parties."

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