Drink like a local: Kuala Lumpur with Angeline Tan

Explore Kuala Lumpur with Angeline, to discover the fascinating juxtaposition of ancient traditions and modern aspirations, wander through bustling markets filled with a symphony of flavors, and experience the energy of the city’s vibrant nightlife.

Amidst lush greenery and soaring skyscrapers, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, is a vibrant tapestry of cultures and experiences. The city’s rich history intertwines seamlessly with its modern spirit, evident in its iconic landmarks like the Petronas Twin Towers and bustling street markets. As you explore this dynamic metropolis, you’ll encounter a harmonious blend of Malay, Chinese, and Indian influences, reflected in its diverse cuisine, architecture, and traditions. Angeline Tan, a passionate local is our guide to the city. Angeline’s intimate knowledge of the city’s hidden gems and cultural nuances will enrich your experience, ensuring you uncover the true essence of Kuala Lumpur.

Angeline Tan is currently the Bar Operations Manager of Three x Co in Kuala Lumpur. She has been in the FnB industry since 2012. After an advertising career in Beijing, she returned to her family business in 2009. Driven by her passion for FnB, she ventured into food court management in 2010 to gain operational experience. Over the years, she has owned cafes and restaurants, including Three X Co. Angeline has always been involved with charities supporting women and children. In 2016, she launched a Facebook marketplace for mothers to start online businesses, which now boasts almost 50k members. She also dedicates her Saturdays to teaching and managing programs pro-bono under the Code Red Program, providing additional tuition to students from lower-income families in a local government school.

Currently, She is one of the founding members of Kuala Lumpur Cocktail Week alongside owners and bar managers from Penrose, Reka, Trigona, JungleBird and Tipple.my. Their vision for KLCW is to unite the bar community and showcase Kuala Lumpur’s vibrant cocktail culture to the world.

Big picture

Kuala Lumpur, a vibrant metropolis in Malaysia, is a melting pot of cultures, where the rhythm of street vendors harmonizes with the pulse of bustling markets and towering skyscrapers. The city’s narrative is a rich tapestry woven from threads of tradition, innovation, and the vibrant hues of everyday life.

In Kuala Lumpur, the bar and nightlife scene caters to a wide spectrum of tastes. World-class cocktail bars stand shoulder to shoulder with traditional watering holes pouring local brews. Whether you’re seeking the sophistication of craft cocktails or the energy of live music, the city’s eclectic atmosphere has something to offer every night owl.

Socializing is an integral part of Malaysian culture, and sharing food and drinks is a common way to connect and bond. Every meal becomes an opportunity to strengthen relationships and celebrate the simple joys of life. In Kuala Lumpur, weekdays see a lively crowd of working professionals unwinding after hours, while Sundays are typically reserved for quality time with family.

The food

In Kuala Lumpur, the culinary landscape is exciting and diverse. Food is not just sustenance here, it’s a celebration of heritage and a source of communal joy. From bustling street food stalls to elegant restaurants, the city offers a symphony of flavors that tantalize the taste buds and nourish the soul.

For a true taste of Kuala Lumpur, venturing into the world of street food is essential. Nasi Lemak, the fragrant coconut rice dish with its array of accompaniments, is a national treasure. Succulent satay skewers, grilled to perfection, offer a savory delight. And don’t miss the Lok Lok cart, a mobile steamboat truck where you can customize your own hot pot experience.

While food and drink have traditionally been enjoyed separately in Malaysian culture, a gradual shift is underway. Malaysians, renowned for their love of food, often embark on culinary pilgrimages, seeking out establishments celebrated for their specific specialties. However, a growing trend towards pairing food and drinks is emerging, creating new and exciting gastronomic experiences.

Before bidding farewell to Kuala Lumpur, there are three culinary experiences you simply cannot miss. Indulge in the comforting warmth of Bak Kut Teh, a flavorful herbal soup brimming with tender pork ribs. Savor the aromatic Hokkien Mee, stir-fried noodles infused with wok hei, the essence of a well-seasoned wok. And of course, no visit would be complete without savoring the iconic Nasi Lemak, a dish that encapsulates the essence of Malaysian cuisine.

The drinks

In Kuala Lumpur, the drinking culture is a fascinating blend of tradition and modernity, reflecting the city’s diverse influences and evolving tastes. While traditional beverages like Tuak (fermented rice wine) and Todi (fermented coconut juice) hold a special place in the hearts of locals, the city’s drinking scene has expanded to embrace a wide array of choices, from classic favorites to innovative concoctions.

When it comes to popular drinks, certain staples transcend neighborhoods and generations. Teh Tarik, the frothy pulled tea, and Milo Ice, a chilled chocolate malt beverage, evoke a sense of nostalgia for many Malaysians, having been a part of their childhood. Iced Chinese tea, another beloved classic, offers a refreshing respite from the tropical heat. In more urban areas, the younger generation has also developed a taste for specialty coffee, frequenting trendy cafes that serve expertly crafted brews.

For visiting bartenders seeking a unique perspective on Kuala Lumpur, the city offers a plethora of inspiring destinations. Batu Caves, a limestone hill housing a Hindu shrine, is a sight to behold, its colorful steps and majestic surroundings providing a sense of awe and wonder. KLCC Park, nestled at the foot of the iconic Petronas Twin Towers, offers a tranquil oasis amidst the urban bustle, with its beautifully landscaped gardens and mesmerizing light shows. The Bird Park, one of the world’s largest free-flight aviaries, is a haven for nature lovers, showcasing a stunning array of feathered friends in a lush tropical setting. And for a glimpse into the city’s political and historical heritage, a visit to the KL City Parliament House and National Monument is highly recommended.

The big list

BARS

Coley

Concubine

Here & Now

Joloko

JungleBird

JWC Cabinet 8 KL

Penrose

Rakh

Reka

Terumi

Three X Co

Trigona

RESTAURANTS/CAFES

Jus at APW for casual charcoal open fire 

Wong Ah Wah, their chicken wings – the best!

Ah Sang Bak Kut Teh (for morning/brunch)

Kwong Wah Ice Kachang (for local dessert)

O&S Kopidiam (for all the breakfast classic food like curry noodles, asam laksa etc)

SS 2 night market (only on Monday)

ICC Pudu foodcourt (for early breakfast in the city)

Oriental Group of Chinese restaurants (for Malaysian Cantonese/Chinese food)

Chef Wan for Malaysian Malay food

Kanna Curry House, Section 17

Sri Nirvana Banana leaf, Bangsar

Kayu Nasi Kandar, Bangsar

Village Park Nasi Lemak

Fifty Tales (for elevated malaysian chinese comfort food)

Dou Dou Bake for croissant and coffee 

Pulp cafe for coffee

Chocha Food Store – modern Malaysian cuisine at Chinatown

Merchant’s Lane Cafe at Chinatown

Breakfast Thieves Cafe

Hungry Tapir (vegan food)

Kumi Malaccan Portuguese/nyonya food, Damansara Heights

NIGHTCLUBS

Desire

Kokomo

Ms Bianca

Pitt Club KL

Spark Club KL

---

Tips & phrases

Tipping: Tipping is not compulsory. It is however nice to give a tip if you think you have received great hospitality to reward the staff

Getting around: Getting around KL is super easy. The LRT and MRT trains are fast, cheap, and great for getting to the main spots. For a fun experience, try the free Go KL buses. Or, grab a taxi or use Grab for quick trips or late nights.

Drinking age: The legal drinking age in Kuala Lumpur is 21 years old.

Where to stay: If you’re on a budget and want to be in the heart of the action, Chinatown and the areas around it are perfect spots to stay in KL. Hotels are pretty cheap, and you’ll be surrounded by cool cultural stuff, awesome markets, and amazing street food. Plus, you’ll be close to all the main touristy things!

Cheers: Cheers or yumyumyumseng

Thank you: Terima Kasih/thank you/xie xie

Hi: Hi/Hello/Apa khabar

Nice to meet you: Have you eaten?

Goodbye: Jumpa lagi (see you next time)/goodbye