Malaysians have a special relationship with food, and when it comes to eating, there is (almost) nothing we won’t try and stand in line for. Social media is no longer just a platform to share bits and pieces about our lives, but it has also become the place where we get our news, our source of laughter (we’re looking at you, Tiktok), and a place teeming with food inspiration.
Like with all trends, some food trends come and go (unless you’re making a lifestyle change or necessary dietary overhaul) such as going gluten-free, vegetarian, exploring the resistant starch versus starch diet, or going ketogenic among others. But ultimately, comfort and fun food will always prevail! More often than not, there will be a particular spot or dish that goes viral, and everyone makes a bee-line for it, so here are six of our top picks of food that’s gone viral in Malaysia worth leaving home for.
1. Kunafa Crisp, Kuala Lumpur
One of the recent food spots to have gone viral of late is none other than Kunafa Crisp, a Turkish dessert shop located in Bukit Bintang. Since its presence on social media blew up, many Malaysians have spent an hour or two lining up in the queue to get a taste of the many variations of kunafa, also known as knafeh in most Middle Eastern countries.
If you’ve got the patience to spend time in line, and it’s always busy, even on weekdays, we recommend trying their Crisp Cheese, Creamy Kunafa, and the Crisp Kunafa Slice. While they’re most well-known for their kunafa, it wouldn’t be a Turkish sweet shop without some baklava and Turkish tea, so give those a try when you’re there.
Finish strong with the Honey Crisp Pistachio Ice Cream – have it there, or to-go as you explore the streets of Bukit Bintang.
Address: 51, Jalan Sultan Ismail, Bukit Bintang, 50250 Kuala Lumpur
Contact: +60 11-5155 9488
2. Don Don Donki Wagyu Skewers, Kuala Lumpur
Everyone is familiar with Wagyu beef, even those who aren’t particularly avid meat-eaters. Known to be one of the best beef in the world for its marbling, thanks to the unique genetics of the cows, Wagyu is often a little higher on the price ladder. So, if you don’t mind forking out RM28.80 for two Wagyu skewers, we say run to Don Don Donki, like, now!
It took us two hours on the weekend to get our hands on these delicious snacks, and while in line, we met someone that came all the way from Kedah to try these skewers out. Talk about dedication! So, if you’re a Wagyu lover, make a bee-line to Don Don Donki in Lot 10, and while you’re there, why not shop for some Japanese goods?
Address: Ground Floor, Lot 10, Shopping Centre, G8-G11, 50 Jalan Sultan Ismail, Bukit Bintang, 55100 Kuala Lumpur
Contact: +603 2303 1211
3. Sundaydo baby pancakes, Selangor
While it may not be a typical breakfast staple for Malaysians, pancakes still need no introduction. What’s not to love about these bouncy and fluffy things – both kids and adults love ‘em, and Sundaydo knows this.
Levelling up the local pancake game, Sundaydo went viral on social media for their sinful but oh-so-delicious Lotus Biscoff pancake. If you’re not a fan, give their other flavours a go like Milo Tabur, Oreo, Chocolate, and Fun Pack — all worth the calories, we promise. They also offer delicious cakes like red velvet, mango cheesecake, chocolate, banana, and pavlova.
Operational hours may vary, so follow them on social media to keep up!
Address: No 2, Jalan H 3, Taman Melawati, 68000 Ampang, Selangor
Contact: +6011 1141 6674
4. Street English Breakfast at breakfast.co, Kuala Lumpur
Ah, the English breakfast. Who can resist? With so many components and a rare delicacy in Malaysia (especially decent ones), this breakfast dish often comes with a hefty price tag in Kuala Lumpur, but not if you head to Breakfast Co.
For RM17, you’re guaranteed to have your big appetite satiated with sausages, omelette, bacon, hash browns, and toast on the side. Got a hankering for something carby? Give their cream cheese bagel or focaccia cheese toastie a go too. Set your alarm clock for this one, as they’re often sold out by 10am.
Address: Foodtruck Taman Melawati, Taman Melawati, 53100 Kuala Lumpur
5. Roti Canai Pelangi, Selangor
Kuala Selangor is known for its unique scenery and now has another attraction to add to its long list of attractions — Roti Canai Pelangi, which in Bahasa Malaysia translates to rainbow bread, and we certainly love some colour (and bread) in our lives.
If you’re wondering how these rotis get their colourful hues, then wonder no more, because it’s all natural from using colourings from fruits. Pair your colour roti pelangi with some chicken curry, and you’ll have the quintessential Malaysian breakfast. They also have fried noodles, nasi lemak, and some kuih muih (Malaysian confectionery).
Address: Lot 2430, Batu 3 Kampung Sungai Yu 1, Kampung Sungai Yu, 45000 Kuala Selangor, Selangor
Contact: +6012 234 8627
6. Roti John Paroi Lavender, Negeri Sembilan
Malaysians love all things Korean, and this includes K-drama and Korean Cheese. The latter is what makes this version of roti John so popular. For just RM10, you’ll get a generous serving of your meat of choice and all the condiments that typically accompanies this dish.
We also love how they are with the egg and vegetable toppings, and for those who can take the heat, you’ll appreciate the spicy Korean sauce. Not in the mood for roti John? Opt for the standard burger or oblong one instead.
Address: 37 Jalan KLS 2, Taman Lavender Heights, 70400 Seremban, Negeri Sembilan
Contact: +6019 848 2622
