Located in the heart of Southeast Asia, Malaysia is home to many wonders of nature – glistening oceans, high mountains and tropical rainforests. However, amidst the exotic nature boasting hundreds of species of flora and fauna, the country is also buzzing with tall skyscrapers brimming with city lights which light up the night sky.
Just as there will be days where you feel like dressing up for the scenic view of the city there will be times when you want to get away from the hustle and bustle to restore your soul with nature. In either case, these are just ten of the most scenic places in Malaysia to get luscious food for the eye, body, and soul.
1. Fuego @ Troika Sky Dining
Named after the Spanish word for ‘fire,’ Fuego offers South American flavors made by a team of Guacamole chefs who elevate dining to a new level. The sky-high restaurant provides a sparkling, scenic panorama of the iconic twin towers in the beaming city life. Notably, highlights from the menu involve their signature ‘smoking’ technique, one of which is their Smoked Snails in a Jar.
Enclosed in a jar, the grilled snails on a bed of parsley salsa, pickled garlic and chips are smoked to perfection. With good food, good company and good view, let Fuego do the resto of the magic.
M: +603 2162 0886
FB: https://www.facebook.com/FuegoatTroikaSkyDining/
A: Level 23a, Tower B, The Troika, 19 Persiaran KLCC, 50450 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
O: 6.30 pm – 10.30 pm daily
2. The Orchid Conservatory
This beautiful glass atrium is filled with stunning blooming orchids making you feel you are in a botanical garden. Furthermore, diners can enjoy their afternoon tea surrounded by diverse shades of orchids in a re-creation of their natural habitat. As if it could not get any better, their afternoon tea offers 3-tier tray featuring desserts, scones, sandwiches and warm savories.
You can pair the freshly baked scones accompanied by clotted cream and homemade strawberry jam, with selected premium Twining’s tea.
M: +603 2785 8000
FB: https://www.facebook.com/majestickl/
A: The Majestic Hotel, 5, Jalan Sultan Hishamuddin, 50000 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
O: 10.00 am – 10.00 pm daily
3. Tamarind Springs
Only minutes away from town, Tamarind Springs offers rejuvenation to your exhausted soul. Beneath the lush tropical trail of the natural rain forest, the award-winning restaurant offers flavoursome yet healthy Indochinese cuisine. The restaurant is designed with elegant rustic furniture and Asian sculptures to add to the warm, scenic ambience.
As a start, you can go with their signature Vietnamese pan-fried pesto and end your palate with the divine durian cheesecake. A jungle in the heart of the city offering a gastronomic experience. Escapism at its best.
M: +603 4256 9300
FB: https://www.facebook.com/TamarindSprings.KL/
A: Jalan 1, Taman Tun Abdul Razak, 68000 Ampang, Selangor, Malaysia
O: 12.00 pm – 3.00 pm, 6.00 pm – 11.00 pm daily
4. Uncle Zack by The Beach
With pristine views of Batu Ferringhi beach and beyond, Uncle Zack by the beach has a reliable alfresco dining right on the inner edge of the wooden pier. Whether you would like to treat yourself to a buffet or a romantic oceanfront candlelight dinner, their food will not disappoint.
From locally inspired tapas, fresh, diverse seafood to luscious desserts, you can enjoy bits and pieces of everything while enjoying the beautifully gradient sunset view. To make it more fun, you can even make your own pizzas from a variety of toppings you can choose from!
M: +604 881 1133
FB: https://www.facebook.com/parkroyalpenangresort/
A: Jalan Batu Ferringhi, 11050 Batu Ferringhi, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
O: 6.30 pm – 10.30 pm daily
5. A Little Farm on The Hill
Situated in the idyllic, scenic serenity of Janda Balik, A Little Farm on The Hill believes that soil is the great connector of lives – both the source and destination of all. So, they grow more than 90 varieties of vegetables, herbs, and fruits organically on their 6-acre piece of land. Unlike many others, they promote a farm-to-table philosophy where they invite diners to grow, cook, eat and share their rustic yet sophisticated flavours of the world.
Even though their menus vary seasonally, they are always be happy to serve your favourite speciality salads and meltingly tender smoked meats. Make sure to book in advance to avoid (unwanted) disappointment!
M: +609 233 0194
FB: https://www.facebook.com/alittlefarmonthehill/
L: Lot 161 Tanarimba Janda Baik., Persiaran Enderong, 28750 Bentong, Pahang, Malaysia
O: Subject to booking
6. BOH Tea Plantation
Arguably the most breathtaking restaurant in Cameron Highland, BOH Tea plantation caters to all tea enthusiasts with their contemporary interior design and panoramic green rolling hill views. The restaurant sits right on top of the scenic, tranquil hills with a breeze of cool fresh air.
In any case, you can enjoy a cup of their wide selection of teas from their garden with fluffy blueberry scones. Although the drive may be quite an adventure, rest assured that it is definitely worth it!
M: +605 496 1288
FB: https://www.facebook.com/BohTeaMalaysia/
A: 39100 Brinchang, Cameron Highlands, Malaysia
O: 9.00 am – 4.30 pm, Tuesday to Sunday. Closed on Monday.
7. Sunset Bar at Shangri-La’s Tanjung Aru Resort & Spa
With an open patio that overlooks the Sunset Beach, the bar allows you to witness the understated breathtaking view of the sunset with your naked eyes. Although it is undeniable that their allure is due by their unique location on a private island, the excellent service is an intangible proof to its reputation.
Under a native Borneo-inspired roof, you can enjoy their Sunset Bar Satay – succulent, tender and seasoned beautifully. In addition, you can sip your favourite drink as you chatter around with the crowd. A true definition of a beautiful day.
M: +608 8327 888
FB: https://www.facebook.com/ShangrilaTAH/
A: 20 Jalan Aru, Tanjung Aru, Sunset Bar, Shangri-La’s Tanjung Aru Resort & Spa, Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia
O: 10.00 am – 11.00 pm daily
8. Pia’s The Padi
Although Langkawi island is renowned as the Jewel of Kedah for their turquoise sea, this tropical island quietly hides a picturesque paddy field. Pia’s the Padi, formerly known as Jimmy’s café, offers a diverse range of northern Indian, Malay, Chinese and western cuisines.
The open-air dining concept overlooks the island’s highest peak, Gunung Raya, and green paddy field. Jimmy, the restaurant owner, is more than happy to engage in a conversation with the diners while suggesting their signature seafood masala and free-flow drinks. It may not be your typical dining experience in Langkawi, but it sure will be a memorable one.
M: +601 2493 3713
FB: https://www.facebook.com/Pias-The-Padi-185372104940500/
A: Jalan Ulu Melaka, Kampung Padang Gaong, 07000 Langkawi, Kedah, Malaysia
O: 12.00 pm – 11.00 pm
9. The Pomelo
With its name acquired from our very own famous citrus fruit, Pomelo features flavourful yet healthy dining options. Moreover, the calm setting of the open-air venue with sunlight dappling through the green leaves will provide serenity to your soul.
As the light reflects gently in the lakes and ponds, you can also take the time to consult with the Executive Chef and Spa and Wellness Director. They will be more than happy to make meals specially personalised to suit your wants and needs. You will leave as a renewed, different individual.
M: +605 210 7777
FB: https://www.facebook.com/banjaranhotsprings/
A: The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat, No 1, Persiaran Lagun Sunway 3, Ipoh, Perak, Malaysia
O: 7.00 am – 11.00 am, 12.00 pm – 3.00 pm, 6.00 – 10.00 pm daily
10. River View Café Melaka
Explore the retro style, casual vibe and breathtaking view of the UNESCO World Heritage area. It’s a great place to dine in this quaint city. As you sit on the deck, watch the lively cruise boats sailing across the scenic river towards Java Village shacks.
Indulge in the local Malaysian favourites, mouthwatering Western food or even a fusion of both. The locals’ favourite nasi lemak, is one of their most sought-after dishes. Perhaps, you should also give it a try!
M: +6012-380 7211
FB: https://www.facebook.com/River-View-Cafe-Melaka-591086837688334/
A: 82 Jalan Kampong Pantai, Malacca, Malaysia
O: 8.00 am – 10.00 pm daily. Closed on Wednesday
Now that you know, you can now plan your special weekend itinerary. In fact, pick up your phone and call to book a table as it can get quite packed on the weekend. It does not matter whether you are coming with your loved ones or going solo – after all, you should always treat yourself to delicious food with a view.
