Picture a night that is bella notte, as the Italians say, lulled by the gentle breeze and starry skies, a candlelit table, and soft music accompanied by the crickets’ song. The waiter walks over with your dinner, and for a moment, all your worries melt away. The appeal of al fresco dining spaces is that they feel relaxing, breaking away from the usual formalities of indoor dining. Its romantic notion is perfect by itself, but being surrounded by nature puts the cherry on top. Here are restaurants where you can dine under the open skies as the sunshine, breeze, and cool nights beckon you to a table outside.
1. Tamarind Springs, Ampang, Selangor
Tamarind Springs oozes elegance and sophistication. Close to the city of Kuala Lumpur, this Asian fusion restaurant set in the surrounding natural jungle landscape invites guests to escape the rush of the city. While the kitchen provides excellent and authentic Mekong meals from Northern Thailand, Laos, and Cambodia, the bespoke dining experience takes you to a different place and time. It is a great spot for celebrating special occasions or when you are looking for a quiet getaway from the daily hustle.
Address: Jalan 1, Taman Tun Abdul Razak, 68000 Ampang, Selangor
2. The Lemuni, Bentong, Pahang
Janda Baik is known for its beautiful outdoor spaces. Being close to the city, it is the perfect spot for day trippers and weekends away. Housed in traditional Malay-style houses, The Lemuni specialises in traditional Malay cuisine, offering a variety of dishes for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The restaurant is surrounded by hills and views of the jungle, with outdoor decks and plenty of tables to enjoy your meal as you take in the views of the Malaysian kampung. Make a reservation to secure your table!
Address: Lot 9756, Kg Chemperoh, Kampung Janda Baik, 28750 Bentong, Pahang
3. Ekues Cabin Cafe, Putrajaya
Breakfast, coffee, and horses – ah, yes! The morning routine of dreams. Ekues Cabin Cafe is part of the Putrajaya Equestrian Park, the horse riding school where locals practice, go on leisurely rides or spend time touring the stables and meeting the horses. The atmosphere is immaculate, and the food is delicious. You’ll find getting a table here quite the challenge, so try and get there early. If you do find yourself waiting in line for a table, fret not. You can watch the horses train on the field while waiting.
Address: Ekues Cabin Cafe, Taman Ekuestrian, Jalan Kandang Kuda, Presint 5, 62000 Putrajaya
4. Out of Africa Restaurant & Kudu Bar, Petaling Jaya, Selangor
If you are looking for an outdoor dining space you can enjoy with children, consider Out of Africa Restaurant & Kudu Bar. Located at PJ Palms Sports Centre in Petaling Jaya, the restaurant has been around since 1995 and is still a favourite amongst local residents. Dine in the garden by the pool or on the terrace. There is also an outdoor play area the kids can enjoy while you have your meal. The restaurant has a no-smoking policy, making it a lovely spot for families with young and older members. Order a variety of African dishes from their menu and enjoy drinks at the Kudu Bar while enjoying the football match on the large screen.
Address: PJ Palms Sports Centre (old), 1, Lorong Sultan, Pjs 52, 46200 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
5. Le Mirch, Kuala Lumpur
Fancy a rooftop dining experience right in the heart of Kuala Lumpur city? Head to Le Mirch, a contemporary Indian restaurant and bar known for its decadent Indian dishes and delicious cocktails. “Ooh” and “Ahh” at plates of food celebrating vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes from all over India. Dazzle in an evening of pure sophistication and a feast for the senses while taking in the views of KLCC. Both indoor and outdoor seating accommodate large parties; private dining rooms for intimate gatherings are also available.
Address: Level 4, on Rooftop, Above, Avenue K, 156, Jln Ampang, Kuala Lumpur City Centre, 50450 Kuala Lumpur
6. The Farm Restaurant at The Sphere, Kuala Lumpur
The farm-to-table experience is still well and truly alive, and The Farm serves up just that. With dishes made of the freshest ingredients grown and harvested in their own urban farming lab, most ingredients go from the farm to the kitchen and then to your plate the same day. What is not harvested on-site is sourced from the best local vendors. Dine in the indoor, outdoor, or conservatory dining space amidst lush greens.
Address: Unit G-01 & G-02, Level Ground, The Sphere Bangsar South City, 59200 Kuala Lumpur
7. Little Salty Cafe, Ampang, Selangor
Take a trip off the beaten path to Little Salty Cafe, a cosy restaurant cafe perched up in the hills of Ampang. Bask in gorgeous cityscape views as you sip on a cup of joe and indulge in a sweet treat. Their waffles are a highly raved item on the menu. The menu is fairly small, and tables are limited, so you might want to get there early for a table outside. But, it is worth the trip for a quiet meal not too far from the city.
Address: Lot 9270 Bukit Ampang Permai, Bukit Ampang, Off, Jalan Hulu Langat, 68000 Ampang, Selangor
