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Experience Bold and Savoury Flavours with These 15 Must-Try Nasi Lemak Spots in Malaysia!

One day, I found myself craving something that was both comforting and packed with flavour. I set off on what I thought would be a quick hunt for a familiar favourite, but little did I know, I was about to dive deep into the rich, aromatic world of nasi lemak.

As I ventured from one spot to the next, each nasi lemak seemed to tell its own story: creamy coconut rice, crunchy fried anchovies, spicy sambal, and perfectly fried chicken—each bite offering a new experience of flavour.

So, let me take you on a journey across Malaysia, where nasi lemak spots promise to satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more. Whether you’re after the traditional or a modern twist, these are the places where you’ll find the best of this iconic dish!

Nasi Lemak Alor Corner

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Address: Changkat Bukit Bintang, Bukit Bintang, 50200 Kuala Lumpur
Contact details: +60173117449
Operating hours: Tuesday to Sunday – 8 AM to 11:30 AM
Cost: $
Website

Nasi Lemak Alor Corner is one of those places where the long queues speak for themselves. The fragrant coconut rice pairs perfectly with their mild sambal, making it a hit even if you’re not a fan of overly spicy food.

Plus, you can add extras like rendang, fried chicken, and paru (beef lung) to make your plate as hearty as you want. Despite the crowd, the service here is quick and efficient, so you won’t be waiting too long.

Most people opt for takeaway, but if you’re lucky, you can snag a table and enjoy your meal on the spot. It’s the kind of place where you can keep things simple or go all out with add-ons without breaking the bank.

Pro tip: Don’t skip the fried squid—it’s crispy, flavourful, and pairs amazingly with the rice. If you’re in the mood for something sweet afterward, check out their kuih selection for a quick dessert fix!

Nasi Lemak Wanjo Kampung Baru

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Address: 8, Jalan Raja Muda Musa, Kampung Baru, 50300 Kuala Lumpur
Contact details: +601163361963
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 6 AM to 12:30 AM
Cost: $
Website
Menu

Nasi Lemak Wanjo Kampung Baru is a staple stop for anyone craving a hearty Malaysian breakfast or late-night supper. The sambal strikes the right balance between sweet and spicy, while the fried chicken comes out crispy and full of flavour.

With a variety of side dishes like paru, rendang, and tempe, you can customise your plate to match your appetite. Despite the long queues, the fast-moving line and attentive staff make it a smooth experience.

Whether you’re dining in or taking away, the large seating area offers plenty of room to enjoy your meal. Plus, their drink options, including refreshing iced tea and fresh juices, are great add-ons to cool down after the sambal heat.

Pro tip: Drop by during non-peak hours, especially mid-afternoon, to skip the long queues. If you’re a fan of crunchy bites, their fried paru is a hidden gem that pairs perfectly with the rice and sambal.

Nasi Lemak Tanglin

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Address: Kompleks Makan Tanglin, Gerai, No. 6, Jalan Cenderasari, Wilayah Persekutuan, 50480 Kuala Lumpur
Contact details: +60172773176
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 7 AM to 12:30 PM
Cost: $
Website
Menu

Nasi Lemak Tanglin has been serving up traditional flavours for decades, making it a go-to spot for both locals and tourists. The sambal has just the right kick, striking a perfect balance between sweet and spicy.

With a variety of side dishes like sambal sotong and beef rendang, you’ll have plenty of options to build your perfect plate. This place is especially popular in the mornings, so getting there early means shorter waits and fresher servings.

The portions are generous, and the prices are wallet-friendly, which makes it even more worth your visit. Don’t forget to grab their ikan bakar if you’re stopping by for lunch—it’s smoky, tender, and full of flavour.

Pro tip: Arrive before 8 AM to skip the crowd and have access to all the lauk options before they run out. If you’re planning to pack some for later, their takeaway packaging keeps the sambal and rice from getting soggy.

Nasi Lemak Place

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Address: B-272/D GROUND FLOOR, LORONG AIR PUTIH 1, JALAN BESERAH, 25300 Kuantan
Contact details: +60129396009
Operating hours: 

  • Monday to Friday – 9 AM to 2:30 PM
  • Saturday – 8 AM to 2:30 PM

Cost: $
Website
Menu

Nasi Lemak Place offers a flavour-packed experience with plenty of lauk options to satisfy your cravings. The sambal lempung berlado stands out with its rich, spicy kick, while the beef dendeng adds a sweet and savoury twist to your plate.

If you’re into bold flavours, the ayam goreng berempah is a must-try with its crispy, fragrant coating. The portion sizes are satisfying, making it great for a hearty lunch or dinner.

The sambal sotong, made from dried squid, pairs beautifully with the creamy coconut rice and crunchy anchovies. With affordable prices, you’ll find yourself coming back for more.

Pro tip: If you’re visiting during lunch hours, head there a bit earlier to grab a seat, as it can get packed quickly. Don’t miss out on their coffee, which pairs surprisingly well with the nasi lemak if you’re looking to balance out the spice.

Nasi Lemak Peel Road

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Address: 92, Jalan Peel, Maluri, 55100 Kuala Lumpur
Contact details: +60126985122
Operating hours: Monday to Wednesday, Friday to Sunday – 11 AM to 8 PM
Cost: $
Menu

Nasi Lemak Peel Road brings a Chinese-style twist to Malaysia’s iconic dish, making it a standout spot for nasi lemak lovers. The fragrant coconut rice pairs perfectly with their tender rendang mutton, which is rich, flavourful, and melts in your mouth.

If you’re feeling adventurous, the wild boar curry is another hit with its bold, aromatic spices. The sambal strikes a nice balance between sweet and spicy, complementing the crunchy fried anchovies and peanuts.

For something a little different, you can add luncheon meat or curry chicken to your plate—both are popular picks here. With generous portions and reasonable prices, you’ll walk away full and satisfied.

Pro tip: Arrive early, especially on weekends, as this place fills up quickly. If you’re not a fan of long queues, consider takeaway options and enjoy your meal at home without the wait.

Restoran Nasi Lemak Bamboo

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Address: 69, Jalan 3/62a, Bandar Menjalara, 52200 Kuala Lumpur
Contact details: +60122887984
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 9 PM
Cost: $
Website
Menu

Restoran Nasi Lemak Bamboo serves up a unique twist on Malaysia’s favourite dish with its fragrant rice steamed in bamboo. The rich aroma of coconut milk blends beautifully with the smoky hint from the bamboo, making every bite flavourful.

Their ayam rendang is a standout, tender and perfectly spiced to complement the nasi lemak. For seafood lovers, the bamboo seafood set combines shrimp and squid, served with sambal that hits the right balance of sweet and spicy.

If you’re in the mood for something different, the nasi goreng lemak set comes with satay and eggplant, adding variety to your meal. Don’t forget to end your lunch with their refreshing cendol—it’s the perfect way to cool off.

Pro tip: If you’re dining in a group, order a few sets to share so you can try more dishes without missing out on their top picks. Also, grab a seat near the kitchen if you enjoy watching the bamboo rice preparation in action!

Nasi Lemak Bumbung

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Address: 6, Jalan 21/11b, Sea Park, 46300 Petaling Jaya
Contact details: +601123113576
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 4 PM to 12 AM
Cost: $
Menu

Nasi Lemak Bumbung is tucked away in a lively back-alley setting that adds to its charm and character. The fragrant rice paired with their crispy fried chicken and spicy sambal hits all the right notes for a satisfying meal.

It’s the kind of spot that feels effortlessly local, perfect for late-night cravings. You’ll love how fast the food comes out, especially when you’re hungry and in need of comfort food.

The fried meehoon is a surprise winner with its mix of spicy and tangy flavours, making it a solid backup if you’re not in the mood for nasi lemak. They even have extras like burnt cheesecake and mango sticky rice if you’re in for a sweet finish.

Pro tip: Go slightly earlier before closing time to avoid the late-night rush and secure a table, as it’s usually packed right up until the shutters come down. Don’t forget to ask for extra sambal if you like your nasi lemak with a fiery kick!

Nasi Lemak Burung Hantu

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Address: 19, Lorong Rahim Kajai 13, Taman Tun Dr Ismail, 60000 Kuala Lumpur 
Contact details: +60132232808
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 12 PM to 1 AM
Cost: $
Website
Menu

Nasi Lemak Burung Hantu is the ultimate late-night go-to spot when your cravings hit after hours. The fragrant basmati rice cooked with coconut milk and pandan feels light yet indulgent, making it hard to stop at just one plate.

The sambal brings the heat, adding that extra punch that keeps you coming back for more. If you’re a fan of crispy fried chicken, the ayam berempah is a must-try—hot, flavourful, and freshly fried to perfection.

They even throw in fried kangkung alongside the usual cucumber for an extra layer of texture and flavour. With plenty of parking available and a laid-back setup, it’s easy to drop by for a quick fix anytime.

Pro tip: Since the fried chicken can sell out fast, come earlier in the night or call ahead to check availability—you won’t want to miss out on this crunchy favourite!

Nasi Lemak CT Garden

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Address: Jalan Datuk Abdul Razak, Kampung Baru, 50300 Kuala Lumpur
Contact details: +60126222228
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 6 PM to 3 AM
Cost: $
Website

Nasi Lemak CT Garden is a late-night favourite that keeps things simple yet satisfying. The banana leaf wrapping adds a subtle fragrance to the rice, making every bite feel special.

You can stick to the classic combo of sambal, boiled egg, and crispy ikan bilis, or load up with extras like fried chicken and sambal sotong. The sambal here strikes a perfect balance between sweet and spicy, pairing beautifully with the fluffy coconut rice.

What really stands out is the affordable price, giving you great value without skimping on flavour.

Pro tip: Since it’s only open at night, it’s perfect for supper runs—but the crowd builds up fast, so arrive early if you want a wider selection of side dishes!

Botak Nasi Lemak (Sea Park)

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Address: 10, Jln 21/19, Sea Park Complex, 46300 Petaling Jaya
Contact details: +60197007928
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 6:30 AM to 11:30 PM
Cost: $
Website
Menu

Botak Nasi Lemak is a must-try spot for anyone craving a hearty plate of Malaysian comfort food. The coconut rice is fragrant, and the sambal packs just the right amount of heat to keep you reaching for more.

Their fried chicken is crisp on the outside and tender inside, making it a popular pick to pair with the nasi lemak. If you’re in the mood for variety, you can mix things up with add-ons like ayam rendang or sambal kerang.

The portions are generous, and while prices might be slightly higher, the flavours definitely make up for it. It’s also pork-free, so it’s a great option if you’re dining with a group that has mixed preferences.

Pro tip: Drop by on weekends when parking is free, and don’t skip the sambal kerang—it’s a crowd favourite and pairs perfectly with the rich coconut rice.

Kam’s Nasi Lemak

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Address: G Tower, Level LG, 199, Jln Tun Razak, Kuala Lumpur
Contact details: +60122601113
Operating hours: Monday to Friday – 9:30 AM to 3:30 PM
Cost: $
Website
Menu

Kam’s Nasi Lemak is a hidden gem that delivers big on flavour, especially if you’re a fan of rich, aromatic curries. The ayam berempah is crispy, juicy, and pairs perfectly with the creamy coconut rice.

Their sambal leans towards the milder side, but it’s packed with enough flavour to keep you going back for more. If you’re in the mood for something different, the beef rendang is a must-try—it’s tender and drenched in a thick, savoury sauce.

They also serve mee siam if you’re craving something tangy, and the portions are generous enough to keep you satisfied. Drinks like their cham ice hit the spot, balancing bold coffee and tea flavours without being too sweet.

Pro tip: Don’t miss out on their homemade dessert selection, especially the sticky rice kuih, which is the perfect sweet bite to round off your meal.

Nasi Lemak Padu Merindu MekSu

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Address: 6, Jalan Telawi 5, Bangsar, 59100 Kuala Lumpur
Contact details: +60173714363
Operating hours: Tuesday to Sunday – 7 PM to 1 AM
Cost: $

Nasi Lemak Padu Merindu MekSu lives up to its name with bold flavours and unforgettable aromas. The fried chicken is crispy on the outside and tender inside, making it a perfect match for the fragrant coconut rice.

The sambal has just the right balance of sweetness and heat, giving you a satisfying kick with every bite. You’ll love the variety of side dishes, from rich beef rendang to spicy sambal sotong and crispy paru.

The portions are generous, and the sambal ties everything together beautifully. It’s a fantastic spot for late-night cravings, especially since it stays open well into the night.

Pro tip: Don’t leave without trying their fried chicken fresh off the wok—it’s even better when eaten hot, so skip takeaway if you can and enjoy it on the spot!

Daun Pisang Guys 

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Address: 36, Ground Floor, Jalan Datuk Sulaiman, Taman Tun Dr Ismail, 60000 Kuala Lumpur
Contact details: +60377337695
Operating hours: 

  • Monday to Saturday – 12 to 10 PM
  • Saturday to Sunday – 11 AM to 10 PM

Cost: $
Website
Menu

Daun Pisang Guys brings a fun twist to traditional Malay food with its banana leaf serving style. The nasi lemak here comes with fluffy, fragrant coconut rice paired with a variety of rich, flavourful side dishes.

You can’t go wrong with their crispy ayam goreng berempah or the salted egg sotong for an extra punch of flavour. What makes this spot stand out is its hearty portions, perfect for satisfying big appetites.

The daging dendeng is tender and savoury, pairing wonderfully with their spicy sambal. Plus, the vibrant presentation on banana leaves gives your meal an authentic and visually appealing touch.

Pro tip: If you’re visiting during lunch, be prepared for a crowd—come early or during off-peak hours for faster service and easier parking options nearby.

Serunai Nasi Lemak

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Address: 43, Jalan SS 23/15, Taman Sea, 47400 Petaling Jaya
Contact details: +60102276885
Operating hours: 

  • Monday to Friday – 11 AM to 10 PM
  • Saturday to Sunday – 10 AM to 10 PM

Cost: $
Website
Menu

Serunai Nasi Lemak offers a satisfying take on Malaysia’s favourite dish, with fragrant coconut rice and sambal that packs a savoury punch. Their ayam goreng berempah is crispy, juicy, and flavourful—perfect for pairing with the soft, fluffy rice.

You can also load up your plate with extras like rendang chicken and crispy tempeh for even more variety. The sambal here leans slightly salty rather than sweet, making it a great match for rich side dishes like potato berlado and sambal cockles.

The open-air setup gives you plenty of space to sit back and enjoy your meal without feeling cramped. Service is quick, and the staff is attentive, adding to the laid-back dining experience.

Pro tip: If you’re in the mood for something sweet after your meal, don’t skip their cendol—it’s refreshingly creamy and pairs perfectly with the spicy sambal.

Nasi Lemak Pak Aji

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Address: 4, Jalan Raja Muda Musa, Kampung Baru, 50300 Kuala Lumpur
Contact details: +601151111991
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 6 AM to 2 AM
Cost: $
Website
Menu

Nasi Lemak Pak Aji is the kind of spot that instantly feels like a hidden gem the moment you dig into your first bite. The rich and fragrant coconut rice pairs beautifully with their standout curry smoked beef, creating a combination that’s creamy and spicy.

Add the crunchy peanuts, crispy anchovies, and fresh cucumber, and you’ve got a dish that hits all the right notes. You’ll love how the sambal strikes the perfect balance between sweet and spicy—it lingers just enough to keep you wanting more.

Their side dishes, or lauk, offer plenty of variety, so you can mix and match flavours to suit your mood. Whether it’s the rendang, fried chicken, or squid sambal, everything feels like a home-cooked treat.

Pro tip:  If you’re not into spicy food, ask for a milder sambal option—they’re happy to accommodate. Don’t skip their telur mata kerbau (sunny-side-up egg) for that extra creamy texture to balance the heat!