makan

12 Cafes To Check Out The Next Time You're In Or Near Petaling Street

More than just an avenue of shopping, these cafes make a great pit-stop when you're wandering throughout Petaling Street.

Cover image via @bubblebeemy (Instagram) & @minglecafekl (Instagram)

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The Chinatown of KL has long been a hotspot for tourist and locals alike for shopping, but what about food?

Rustic and timeless, Petaling Street has a special place in all Malaysians' hearts as the hub of bustle and scurry in KL. 

While it may be unassuming at times, there's tonnes to offer on this street on a day out.

Here are 12 cafes along and around Petaling Street that would make a perfect brunch or tea-time spot.

1. Luckin Kopi

Focusing on traditional Asian cuisine, Muslim-friendly Luckin Kopi brings an amalgamation of fresh ingredients and traditional recipes to this heritage restaurant just around the corner of Petaling Street.

With an outdoor tank of koi fish, and an indoor setting with various vernacular upholstery pieces, Luckin Kopi has successfully created a modern environment for the every day person while maintaining its old-fashioned magnetism.

Address:
14, Jalan Panggong, City Centre,
50000 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan.

Operating hours:
9am-9pm (Mondays to Fridays).
8.30am-9pm (Saturdays and Sundays).

2. The Hungry Tapir

Just as tasty as all the other food on the list, The Hungry Tapir is known for serving up some of the best vegan and vegetarian options in Petaling Street.

From all day breakfast options, salad bowls, and even sharing platters for big groups, there are even gluten-free and keto-friendly options for those taking extra precaution when it comes to their diet.

Catering to more intimate outings as well, The Hungry Tapir has a full serviced bar if you want to have wine, beers, or kombucha.

Address:
135, Jalan Petaling, City Centre,
50000 Kuala Lumpur, WPKL.

Operating hours:
12pm-10pm (Tuesdays to Thursdays, & Sundays).
12pm-12am (Fridays and Saturdays).
Closed on Mondays.

3. Merchant's Lane

In what used to be a pre-war shophouse, Merchant's Lane is a hidden cafe frequented by locals and foreigners alike.

The addition of protruding plants at every corner, coupled with the delicate rattan dining features, elevate this cafe while simultaneously maintaining the rustic feel of its surroundings.

Address:
150, Jalan Petaling, City Centre,
50000 Kuala Lumpur, WPKL.

Operating hours:
11.30am-9pm (Weekdays).
10.30am-9pm (Weekends).
Closed on Wednesdays.

4. Wildflowers

As one of the more elegant restaurants on the list, Wildflowers doubles as a restaurant and bar. The result of such duality has made it popular among locals as a great lunch spot or date-night option in the city.

Serving up a variety of cuisines including Mexican, French, Thai, and Japanese, this is a restaurant we'd suggest you make reservations at in advance to avoid long waiting lists.

Address:
153, Jalan Petaling, City Centre,
50000 Kuala Lumpur, WPKL.

Operating hours:
5pm-10pm (Tuesdays to Thursdays).
3pm-11.30pm (Fridays).
12pm-11.30pm (Saturdays).
12pm-10pm (Sundays).
Closed on Mondays.

5. Mingle Cafe

Describing themselves as the first and only cake cafe in Chinatown KL, Mingle Cafe's charming design is matched by the decadent and rich sweets served to patrons looking for their next dessert shop.

With a cosy environment and delicious food, stop by for brunch on a hot Saturday afternoon, and stay for the fudge brownies, apple pies, and rich cheesecakes after the meal.

Address:
55, Jalan Sultan, City Centre,
50000 Kuala Lumpur, WPKL.

Operating hours:
11am-10pm (Mondays to Fridays).
8am-10pm (Saturdays and Sundays).

6. Bubble Bee Cafe

Cute and creative, it's hard to imagine Bubble Bee Cafe without its staple little girl literally heading the cafe.

Known for their desserts and all-day brunches, Bubble Bee is nestled just behind Kwai Chai Hong lane, enhancing the exclusivity, and strategically placing it as an ideal location among the plethora of cafes in Petaling Street.

Address:
139, Jalan Petaling, City Centre,
50000 Kuala Lumpur, WPKL.

Operating hours:
9am-6pm (Wednesdays to Mondays).
Closed on Tuesdays.

7. Vintage 1988

Classic on the outside and retro on the inside.

Colourful food, bright lights, and a quaint location to take a break if you've been walking around Petaling Street.

Known for their light snacks and an assortment of brunch options, grab a quick treat before you head out the door or stay for an afternoon to appreciate the vintage motif that has become a staple for Vintage 1988.

Address:
34, Jalan Sultan, City Centre,
50000 Kuala Lumpur, Selangor.

Operating hours:
10am-10pm (Daily).

8. Mary Jane KL

If you're looking for Barbie's dream house, it's in Petaling Street.

Mary Jane KL presents you a lush pink wonderland with a mysterious and vibrant twist. While the second floor is colourful, get a seat downstairs if you prefer the hand painted jungle-themed interior that's also right next to the bar!

With a long and descriptive menu, and a high tea selection to die for, the versatility of Mary Jane will have you ordering a Ribeye steak if you're feeling fancy, or a grilled cheese sandwich if you want something light.

Address:
106, Jalan Petaling, City Centre,
50000 Kuala Lumpur, WPKL.

Operating hours:
12pm-10pm (Tuesdays to Thursdays, & Sundays).
12pm-12am (Fridays and Saturdays).
Closed on Mondays.

9. ChoCha Foodstore

If you're looking for a two-in-one when it comes to meals and alcohol, this one is for you.

ChoCha Foodstore is a quaint cafe serving modern and elevated Malaysian cuisine. Adhering to strict COVID-19 protocols, we'd suggest you make a reservation before heading to this eatery before it gets crowded.

Once you've finished your meal, head on to their Botakliquor Bar and enjoy some of their unique spirits and botanicals, open from 6pm to 12am every day, except Mondays.

Address:
156, Jalan Petaling, City Centre,
50000 Kuala Lumpur, WPKL.

Operating hours (ChoCha Foodstore):
5pm-12am (Wednesdays to Fridays).
12pm-3.30pm; 5pm-12am (Saturdays and Sundays)
Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

10. Light Capture Café by H.Ö.N

Occupying three floors with an archaic design similar to a chic abandoned warehouse, Light Capture Café has all the proper lighting for Instagramable pictures.

Adding modern fixtures and maintaining the historic layout of this structure, stepping into this cafe will transport you to central Brooklyn for an afternoon.

With live music every Saturday evening, come for the lunch and stay for the music as a casual and laidback afternoon around the corner of Petaling Street.

Address:
81 & 83, Jalan Tun H S Lee,
City Centre, 50000 Kuala Lumpur,
WPKL.

Operating hours:
12pm-10pm (Tuesdays to Fridays).
11am-10pm (Saturdays and Sundays).
Closed on Mondays.

11. Lim Kee Cafe

Described as a neighbourhood-friendly cafe, Lim Kee Cafe is the coffee addicts go-to cafe. With a simple yet sophisticated menu, there's a variety of coffee and tea options for you to kickback and try for the afternoon.

If you're feeling a little peckish, curry puffs, cakes, and other snacks are available for a light nibble. For those looking for an extra kick, they have alcohol infused cakes as well.

Address:
66-68, Jalan Sultan, City Centre,
50000 Kuala Lumpur, WPKL.

Operating hours:
9.30am-6pm (Daily).

12. Leaf & Co.

Standing the test of time, Leaf & Co. Cafe has preserved every aspect of this building since the 1990s. From the unconventional cement wall to vintage-looking light fixtures, you won't want to miss a photo-op at this cafe.

Known for providing Asian and Western cuisines alike, the cool surrounding of this bucolic structure is a great spot for a casual lunch on a carefree day.

Address:
53, Jalan Sultan, City Centre,
50000 Kuala Lumpur, WPKL.

Operating hours:
10am-9pm (Daily).

Did we miss any great cafes in Petaling Street? Let us know!

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