New Restaurants, Cafés And Bars in KL: May 2017

From the same people who brought you Troika Sky Dining comes this picturesque penthouse for dinner and drinks. Inside the new restaurant at WOLO Hotel, the tastefully done interior features classy furnishings with a playful touch. A champagne bathtub by the bar and the painting of an empress holding tequila and tacos are eye-openers to look out for. Mr Chew's Chino Latino boasts a premium menu, so round up the gang to splurge a little for what may be KL's finest new venue yet. To sample Mr Chew's greatest hits, order a bunch of small plates for sharing. Already a favourite since the restaurant opened last week, the Nori Taco (RM28) is a must-order. The sushi rice and salmon belly encased in a crispy, deep-fried seaweed sheet showcases an ingenious play on textures. Next up, the Century Egg Somen (RM18) also impresses with the smooth noodles enveloped in an explosive Szechuan sauce. From the fryer, the dangerously addictive Mr Chew's Famous Fried Chicken Ribs (RM28) are not to be missed. Finally, have your drink to-go — Mr Chew's 'Take-away' G&T (RM42) comes in a takeaway box, which Tastemaker Melanie calls "extra and hipster" but loves all the same!
Avg price per person: RM120
Photo by Burppler Amayzing

The way to RAY is up, that is, up the spiral staircase in Petaling Street's Chocha Foodstore. Though very much hidden, this bar feels less like a speakeasy than it does a clandestine nook for pre-dinner drinks. Come by in the evening, when the sunset rays stream into the leafy second floor to create the perfect setting to kick back with a few friends. Drinks are anything but conventional, as the bar pioneers KL's first cocktails on tap. Delight in the Not A Bitch (RM28), a mini highball juggling Carpano Bianco vermouth with coconut, passionfruit, citric acid and sugar. Coy name aside, we love this one for its tangy and refreshing flavours — especially good on a hot day. Those who prefer their drinks potent won't be disappointed with the Rum Negroni (RM28), a triple whammy of Guatemalan rum, vermouth and Aperol. Served with a large block of ice, the drink trickles slowly for an enjoyably strong sip. While in anticipation for a more substantial bar snacks menu slated to launch in coming days, munch on their complimentary bowls of rempeyek or murukku.
Avg price per person: RM30
Photo by Burppler Rueann Dass

After a sell-out streak at several pop-ups last year, Makirito has built a permanent spot perched atop 52 Barbers in APW. These guys dole out Japanese makis shaped like burritos, hence their name! It sounds deceptively simple, but according to co-founder Kent, months of experimentation have gone into perfecting these six-inch makis. The result is in the roll. Try the Signature Salmon (RM16), which melds fresh salmon, masago (capelin roe) and chuka wakame (seasoned seaweed) with a shoyu mayo sauce. Its no-frill flavours satisfy with freshness and a sound ratio of fillings. Also a top dish is the Spi-Seafood (RM15) that features salmon with jellyfish, crab salad, pineapple and masago. The hit of heat comes from chili flakes and its distinctive flaming mayo sauce. In case fish doesn't appeal to you, there are options for Teriyaki Chicken (RM13) and Spicy Tofu (RM10). The joint caters primarily to grab-and-go customers, but there are three small tables, as well as an al-fresco seat in the balcony, for dining in. Make this your next stop for quick lunches with a friend!
Avg price per person: RM15
Photo by Burppler Rueann Dass

For DC Mall-goers, this casual restaurant decked out in rattan chairs and pillows offers a relaxing respite amidst the office blocks. Grain bowls are what to come for, whether you're with a group of colleagues or a few friends. To begin with, choose from 10-grain rice, couscous, or quinoa with pearl barley for a base. If you enjoy the prominent flavours of Middle Eastern spices, go for the couscous alongside Moroccan Lamb Tagine (RM25). The lush lamb tagine and chickpeas blend well with fine couscous for flavourful mouthfuls, and the occasional burst of juicy pomegranate seeds gives the dish an uplifting edge. A crowd favourite here is the Korean Spiced Beef (RM22), best paired with 10-grain rice. Redolent of sesame fragrance, the bulgogi-like dish is balanced with pickled carrots, cucumbers and a fried egg to boot. For now, lunch comes with a complimentary iced tea. Expect service to be warm and friendly, as the founders man the counter to offer their own recommendations!
Avg price per person: RM30
Photo by Burppler Erica Jioe

For an easy entry into healthy eating, Fittie Sense ticks all the right boxes. The restaurant tucked away above Telawi's buzz in Bangsar makes fit food tasty with a nod to wholesome ingredients. Bring your gym buddy for this guilt-free treat after a workout! Right off the bat, the Green & Yellow Zucchini 'Zoodles' (RM17) wins our vote. Seasoned well with garlic, tomato, chili, capers and lemon, the crunchy zucchini spots a spicy, saltish zing. If there is still a need for meat, get the Harissa Chicken Kebabs with Lebanese Slaw & Sumac Salsa (RM24). The flavoursome meat skewers rest on a bed of spice-laden greens, all moderately portioned to fill you up without excess. Dessert and drinks are as exciting! Try the Fittie Coffee (RM14), fair trade organic black coffee with a touch of coconut oil. Also a gut bar, Fittie Sense serves kefir, a fermented milk drink packed with probiotic benefits. The selection of Kefir Sodas (RM12) and Kefir Smoothies (from RM12) are yummy enough to order just for the taste. Don't leave without an order of Nice Cream (RM8), dairy-free, pure fruit ice-cream made from a banana base.
Avg price per person: RM40
Photo by Burpple Tastemaker Melanie Yu

Hailing from Busan in Korea, Outdark's first flagship here is housed in a conspicuous two-storey corner lot in SS15. Dimly lit and sporting a modern wood-and-steel setting, this bustling spot with seats aplenty is made for gatherings. The queues are for their Originate Chicken (from RM39, good for two), tender, boneless fried chicken tossed in a basket with criss-cut fries and French fries. If you like chicken nuggets, this is like hitting the jackpot with a supersized, real-meat version. Order it in the crispy Original or glazed in the sweet-sticky Honey Garlic sauce — side sauces are supplied for an extra flavour boost. For a more holistic experience, share the Outdark Platter (RM88) between two to three. The set comes with fried chicken, seafood pancake, japchae (glass noodle salad), grilled rice cake, kimchi as well as DIY rice balls to keep you busy between bites. On the more exotic end, there is also a dish of Stir-Fried Chicken Feet (RM38) served on a half-and-half bed of seaweed rice and gooey cheese.
Avg price per person: RM40
Photo by Burppler Rueann Dass

After five years in the breakfast business at a secluded Bandar Utama location, J&D Espresso ups their game with this outlet in Pavilion Elite. The seventh floor shop is accessible only through a narrow entrance, which gives the space within a cosy, intimate feel — great for celebrating occasions or for quiet breakfasts with a friend. Classic meets modern in their Australian-inspired menu, with items like the Big Aussie Brekky (RM34) and a Pad Thai Linguine (RM29) sharing the spotlight. When here, try the Seafood Squid Ink Pasta (RM39) that comes steeped in a piquant seafood bisque. While it sounds like seafood overload, the delicious flavours are surprisingly balanced with a rich finish. Following the seafood streak, order the Oyster & Spinach Gratin in Baguette (RM34). The medley of spinach and fresh oysters bound by a creamy, cheesy sauce sits in a hollowed-out baguette that stays delightfully crisp. Bolster breakfast with a Flat White (RM11), lest the hearty meal sends you back into slumber.
Avg price per person: RM45

This restaurant and bar set along TTDI's busiest stretch is worth a visit, especially if you love yourself a meaty affair. Sporting walls painted in royal blue and cream-coloured cushion seats, here's a modern venue for lunch with your colleagues. Alternatively, make it here for an after-work dinner and bring your own bottles — there's no charge for corkage! If you're here in the day, look to the affordable lunch deals, priced from RM10 for a main and a fizzy drink. The Char Siew & Pork Belly On Rice (RM18) promises comfort — the meaty duo comes doused in lots of flavour-packed 'zhup' to go with rice. For dinner, the focus turns to their Western pork-laced dishes instead. Order the Hog's Chop (RM29) that features a whopping 500g slab of premium chop, pan-roasted with herbs and black pepper. Otherwise, try the Fortune Fettucine (RM19), little ribbons of pasta lusciously coated in a salted egg yolk sauce with bacon bits.
Avg price per person: RM30
Photo by Burppler Erica Jioe

When in Sunway Nexis, you won't miss Ziffy. The cafe stands out with its large geometric ceiling design, and its inviting vibes call out to those working in the area to set up camp here instead. Come with a colleague for the RM20 set lunches (available from 12-2pm) and stay on for a cuppa. There is value for money in the Seafood Paella, slightly spicy and served with prawns, mussels and squid in an iron-cast casserole. If you prefer noodles, the Seafood Spaghetti presents similar flavours beefed up in a bolognese sauce. Expect your set order to come with an iced peach tea and a soup of the day. From the ala carte menu, spot a Krabby Patty (RM32) that sees thin buns sandwiching a ginormous deep-fried soft shell crab. A velvety spread of guacamole and tangy salsa make it easy to bulldoze through the sizeable burger. Have coffee after; the Iced Black (RM10) is gentle on the palate and a great pick for those who opt to sit outdoors.
Avg price per person: RM30
Photo by Burppler Rueann Dass

Channelling an all-day cafe and bar concept, The Good Batch has long been a prime place to spend long, languid afternoons with your close friends. The space is snazzy, the drinks are delicious and the menu is never boring. This season sees fun, new favourites added, including tacos, breakfast French toast and a handful of Bloody Mary selections cheekily named Bloody Good Marys (from RM33). The Chicken & Pancakes (RM29) is a foolproof dish of tasty buttermilk pancakes stacked with grilled chicken, hashbrown and a fried egg. On Taco Thursdays, all tacos come with a free side of onion rings! Take advantage of this deal and order our favourite taco of them all: the Masala Shrimp Taco (RM23) with mouthwatering five-spiced prawns. The cafe also isn't too late to the salted egg yolk trend. Their Soft Shell Crab Pasta (RM37) hits all the right notes of a rich salted egg yolk pasta, buoyed by a whole soft shell crab and crispy crumbs.
Avg price per person: RM40