Who doesn’t enjoy cafe hopping to discover new locations and delectable food? With the right company, delicious yet picture-perfect meals, and aesthetic surroundings, it’s no wonder why most Malaysians would say this fun and easy-going activity sits at the top of their list of weekend activities.
Of course, picking the right place is also crucial – so for those who enjoy nature, we’ve curated this list of rustic restaurants and picnic spots all around Malaysia for you to eat at and explore.
1. Dusun OpenHouse
Bangsar, Kuala Lumpur
Channelling rustic vibes with its naturalist decor is Dusun OpenHouse! Located within Bangsar Shopping Centre, this hideaway cafe serves as an awe-inducing spot to dine for shoppers and foodies alike. Besides its unique interior design, this place is known for serving classic Malaysian flavours with a twist.
You can expect to find various flame-grilled and wood-smoked eats that will leave you wanting more; the Neraka Tiger Prawn is a must-try! There are also some Western options available.
Address: G9A Bangsar Shopping Centre, Jalan Maarof, 59000 Kuala Lumpur
Contact: +603 2011 8988
2. KafeBali
Puchong, Selangor
Set your next ngopi session at KafeBali, a cafe with beautiful Bali-themed decorations in Puchong. This intimate space is perfect for those seeking to treat their taste buds on a cultural trip with cafe-style food – artisanal coffee, buns, mains, salads, pasta, and dessert with a Balinese twist.
Address: 16 Persiaran Puteri 1, Bandar Puteri, 47100 Puchong, Selangor
Contact: +603 8052 4675
3. The Acre by Farm Fresh
Serdang, Selangor
Ever wanted to have a picnic with an idyllic view of cows grazing on verdant fields and a striking red barn in the distance? You can do so at The Acre by Farm Fresh, a cafe operated within the grounds of Farm Fresh at Universiti Putra Malaysia.
Despite its small menu, all dairy used is sourced directly from the farm, guaranteeing ultimate freshness in whatever they whip up! Do note that to dine in at The Acre, you’ll need to purchase an entry ticket priced at RM15 for adults or RM10 for kids and senior citizens. Non-Malaysians are chargeable at RM35 for adults and RM25 for kids and senior citizens.
Address: Farm Fresh @ UPM (Industry Centre of Excellence, ICoE), Jalan Maklumat, 43400 Serdang, Selangor
Contact: +6016 206 7133
4. Nada Natural Farming
Balik Pulau, Penang
Nada Natural Farming champions the concept of slow living through enjoying sustainable dining (locally-sourced and chemical-free ingredients) and reconnecting with nature.
Situated on a plantation 40 minutes from the mainland, sustainable-chic decor is the vibe here – you’ll dine within a vine-covered shed and enjoy mountainous views. Their handmade pasta and homemade kefirs are a definite must-try, and your furry friend can even accompany you to dine in!
Address: Lot 646 & 647, Jalan Kuala Sungai Burung, Kampung Sungai Burung, 11000 Balik Pulau, Penang
Contact: +6013 403 0988
5. The Lemuni
Bentong, Pahang
Be transported back in time at The Lemuni, which houses three exact replicas of traditional Terengganu palaces and hides a weekend brunch spot. Lemuni Cafe offers a delectable buffet breakfast featuring all-time Malaysian favourites, traditional Malay cuisine lunch sets, and an unbeatable view of the Lentang Forest Reserve. Breakfast with an elevated view atop a kampung-style stilt house can’t get any better than this!
Address: Lot 9756, Kg Chemperoh, Kampung Janda Baik, 28750 Bentong, Pahang
Contact: +6012 326 5966
6. A Little Farm On The Hill
Bentong, Pahang
Located just a 40-minute drive from Downtown KL, A Little Farm On The Hill, true to its name, is a private space for those looking to wind down and dine amidst nature. On weekends, the farm is open to the public for communal lunches (known as the Farmer’s Lunch Club), where you can enjoy farm-to-table dining with organic ingredients sourced on the farm grounds. We recommend making a booking prior to your visit as the spots are taken up quickly.
Address: Lot 161 Tanarimba, Persiaran Enderong, Kampung Janda Baik, 28750 Bentong, Pahang
Contact: +609 233 0194
7. Hill & Heal
Kluang, Johor
If you prefer camping to be a day-trip affair within nature but minus the fuss of pitching a tent at a campsite, Hill & Heal is your answer! Nestled in Gunung Lambak, this serene cafe offers the beautiful view of a mist-shrouded stream after a brisk walk on beginner-friendly nature trails.
Sip on coffee and nibble on finger food on camping chairs and take it all in – don’t forget to bring a hand fan and mosquito repellent, as you’re quite literally dining within a forest!
Address: Gunung Lambak, 86000 Kluang, Johor
8. Dusk by Mok Mok
Johor Bahru, Johor
Of sand-toned walls, hanging macrame, rattan decor, and bursts of greenery – Dusk by Mok Mok is an oasis for dessert lovers in Johor. Lounge on the swinging hammock or sit under the fairy lights as you dine. Here, whimsy meets rustic chic to encapsulate a tranquil vibe for those seeking respite and nourishment.
The boho chic-inspired cafe’s signature desserts are the Little Mermaid Smoothie Bowl and Kumo Ultimo pancakes, but they also serve hot food, if you’re looking to have a fulfilling meal.
Address: 49, Jalan Perang, Taman Pelangi, 80400 Johor Bahru, Johor
Contact: +6019 771 0068
9. Taman Saujana Hijau
Putrajaya
Last but not least, this scenic park in the Putrajaya precinct is well-known for its overarching views of gardens, divided in three different sections: European, English, and Oriental, all with landscaping that will leave you in awe. Entry to Taman Saujana Hijau is free, so pack your favourite picnic-friendly meals and grab your best buds for an unforgettable rustic picnic experience.
Address: Jalan P11, Presint 11, 62000 Putrajaya, Wilayah Persekutuan Putrajaya
