Welcome to Ampang, a vibrant district within both Kuala Lumpur and Selangor, where culinary adventures await at every corner. Beyond its famous attractions like Zoo Negara and the unique Korean neighbourhood, you may be surprised that Ampang is also a food lover’s paradise, offering a kaleidoscope of flavours that have captured the hearts of locals and visitors alike.
This time we’re back with more places to explore and treat your tastebuds to. OG enthusiasts, this listicle is for you; classic and authentic flavours, traditions, and recipes, these eateries have it all. Delivering time-honoured dishes and drinks, you won’t want to waste any more time checking them out.
1. Suzi’s Corner
Honestly, Ampang wouldn’t be Ampang without Suzi’s Corner. Tucked away in the tail-end corner of the ever-busy Jalan Ampang, this unassuming eatery is cherished by both locals and expats alike, who flock here for a taste of their mouth-watering, juicy meats without the hefty price tag. It’s also a famed dinner and late-night eats spot.
At Suzi’s Corner, the spotlight shines on their renowned Steak Hut, an integral part of the establishment, where succulent pieces of lamb chop, grilled salmon, steak (of course), and more tempt diners with their delightful flavours. The Steak Hut’s moderate prices make it a favourite among those looking for good food without breaking the bank.
But it’s not just a Western fare at Suzi’s corner. After all, it is a mamak, and their local dishes like nasi goreng kampung, chicken tandoori, cheese naan, and so much more, are just as good!
Address: Jalan Ampang, Kampung Berembang, 55000 Kuala Lumpur
Contact: +6016 448 4322
2. Om Burger
Located in Ampang Jaya, Om Burger has been a beloved staple for over 24 years, earning its reputation as an iconic burger joint within the Klang Valley. Operating daily, this long-standing stall, run by a friendly pak cik, has attracted a loyal following of late-night food enthusiasts seeking their greasy goodness fix.
Taking immense pride in his burgers; only quality ingredients are used, especially on the butter and mayonnaise front, which he believes are crucial to crafting the perfect burger. His dedication to quality is evident in every bite, as he uses Kraft cheese and meticulously prepares an average of 250 to 300 burgers daily.
Om, which means ‘uncle’ in Javanese, is a fitting name for this eatery, where patrons can indulge in a variety of satisfying burgers, including the famous Ayam Special, a delectably messy creation oozing with juicy goodness, cheese, mayonnaise, and chilli sauce. Whether you’re a Ramly burger fan or just a regular burger enthusiast, a visit to Om Burger promises a delightful and mouth-watering experience.
Address: In front of 7-11 Jalan Ayer Kerja Lama, 68000 Ampang, Selangor
Contact: +6018 975 7554
3. Home Town Yong Tau Foo
When you think of Ampang, one of the first things that comes to mind is yong tau foo. Home Town Yong Tau Foo is not only for those who have a hankering, but also the perfect place for those searching for halal options. As Malaysia’s first halal Chinese restaurant to introduce the delicious Hakka yong tau foo to Muslim diners, it has become an institution.
You can find a delectable array of dishes, but their signature you tiao, or char kway stuffed yong tau foo is a must-try. The you tiao is pan-fried twice, creating a delightful crunchy texture that enhances the dish’s overall taste. What sets the char kway apart is that it serves as a crispy wrapper for the savoury fish paste inside, making for a unique fusion of flavours. If you’re looking to savour authentic halal yong tau foo in Ampang, Home Town Yong Tau Foo is the place to be.
Address: 47, Jln Memanda 9, Taman Dato Ahmad Razali, 68000 Ampang, Selangor
Contact: +6012 682 7627
4. Loke Yun Chicken Rice
If you’re on the hunt for the best Hainanese chicken rice in Ampang, look no further than Loke Yun restaurant. The family’s chicken rice expertise traces back to the renowned Kim Hing coffeeshop in Jalan Bandar in Downtown KL.
What sets Loke Yun apart is their steamed chicken, which has been meticulously prepared with a healthier approach. Unlike other places with thick layers of skin and fat, Loke Yun uses a very thin layer of skin and almost non-existent fat, making it a top choice for health-conscious diners.
The restaurant’s long-standing reputation and commitment to quality have made it a go-to destination for those seeking the most flavourful and wholesome Hainanese chicken rice experience in town.
Address: 158 Jalan Besar, Pekan Ampang, 68000 Ampang, Selangor
Contact: +603 4291 9884
BONUS
Street-eat splurge
5. Back Alley Pasta
Okay, while this may not be a roadside eatery, we feel as though Back Alley Pasta definitely has that street-edge feel to it. Tucked away in one of Ampang’s smaller lanes — a literal back alley — Back Alley Pasta is a hidden gem delighting guests with its Italian and Japanese-inspired dishes, all made with artisanal pasta.
Initially a small premise accommodating only eight to nine people, this food spot has now expanded with a back room to cater to bigger groups. Despite the expansion, reservations still come highly recommended well in advance due to its high demand. The dining hours are strictly adhered to based on your reservation slot.
Back Alley Pasta’s menu features delectable offerings such as the Charred Cauliflower with Pesto Diavolo and Pecorino Romano, Burrata Cheese with Asparagus Coilis and Grilled Carrots, Tagliatelle in Nori and Roasted Garlic Butter with Grilled Kurobuta Collar Steak and Pesto Diovola, and Potato Gnocchi with Miso Bechamel and Yuzu Briskey, to name a few.
With a combination of Italian flavours and Japanese influences, it promises a unique and delightful culinary experience that keeps diners coming back for more.
Address: No 8, Jalan 1/67b, Off, Jalan Mengkudu, 55000 Kuala Lumpur
Contact: +603 2856 3065