Kuala Lumpur has always been known for its legendary street food scene. But beyond the smoky stalls and late-night kopitiams, KL also plays host to a world-class fine-dining scene that can hold its own against Singapore, Hong Kong, and even Paris.
In 2025, the city’s fine-dining landscape is more exciting than ever, because of Michelin stars, sky-high restaurants with unbeatable views, and chefs redefining what it means to eat in style.
Whether you’re planning a romantic evening, a big celebration, or just want to treat yourself, these five restaurants are KL’s absolute best bets for a fine-dining experience you’ll never forget.
1. Dewakan – Malaysia’s Michelin Superstar
Michelin rating: Two stars
Location: Naza Tower, Platinum Park
If Malaysia had a culinary crown jewel, Dewakan would be it. Sitting high on the 48th floor of Naza Tower, Dewakan combines jaw-dropping city views with some of the most imaginative plates you’ll ever taste. Chef Darren Teoh isn’t just serving dinner he’s rewriting the story of Malaysian ingredients.
From forest-foraged herbs to rare fruits like buah kulim, each dish tells a tale of Malaysia’s biodiversity. And it’s not just for show, Dewakan is also the country’s only restaurant to hold both two Michelin stars and the Michelin Green Star, awarded for sustainability.
2. DC by Darren Chin – French Elegance in TTDI
Michelin rating: One Star
Location: Taman Tun Dr. Ismail (TTDI)
Chef Darren Chin’s flagship, DC, is a temple of French fine dining with a Malaysian heartbeat. Spread across three floors, each level offers a different experience, from an elegant main dining hall to a private Louis XIII-themed chamber (yes, named after the cognac).
The tasting menus (ranging from four to seven courses) showcase refined French techniques sprinkled with Japanese influence. Think buttery wagyu, delicate seafood, and a cheese trolley that will test your willpower.
3. Beta – Malaysian Flavours, Remixed
Michelin rating: One Star
Location: Fraser Place, Jalan Perak
If Dewakan is the philosopher and DC is the gentleman, then Beta is the cool kid of the KL fine-dining scene. Here, Chef Raymond Tham takes Malaysian flavors and reimagines them with bold creativity.
Expect familiar tastes like laksa, rendang, sambal but transformed into elegant works of art that make you say, “Wait, that’s nasi lemak?!”
In 2024, Beta proudly stepped up from Michelin Selected status to earning its very own star, cementing its place among the city’s elite.
4. Cantaloupe at Troika – Dinner With a View
Michelin status: Not starred, but a KL institution
Location: Troika Sky Dining, Persiaran KLCC
When it comes to skyline dining, Cantaloupe at Troika is a KL classic. Perched above the city, this modern restaurant serves contemporary international dishes with finesse. But let’s be honest, the star attraction is the view.
Imagine sipping wine as the Petronas Twin Towers glow outside your window. Whether it’s a romantic dinner or a chic celebration, Cantaloupe offers the kind of atmosphere that instantly elevates the night.
5. Nobu Kuala Lumpur – The Global Icon
Michelin status: Not starred, but globally acclaimed
Location: Four Seasons Place
You can’t talk about fine dining without mentioning Nobu. This Japanese-Peruvian powerhouse is a worldwide sensation, and KL is lucky to have its own branch.
From the iconic Black Cod Miso to the delicate Yellowtail Jalapeño, Nobu’s dishes are legendary. Add sleek interiors and skyline views of KLCC, and you’ve got a restaurant that’s as much about prestige as it is about food.
Where to Book First?
- For culinary storytelling & prestige: Dewakan.
- For romance & elegance: DC by Darren Chin.
- For adventurous local flavors: Beta.
- For the skyline: Cantaloupe.
- For global glamor: Nobu.
So the next time you’re in Kuala Lumpur and want to dine like royalty, you know where to book your table.
Shahriena Shukri is a journalist covering business and economic news in Malaysia, providing insights on market trends, corporate developments, and financial policies. More about Shahriena Shukri.
