Indians

The horror of their parking situation stops none of Betel Leaf's regulars from showing up religiously, and it shouldn't stop you either. For a (comfortable) spot at this Chettinad stalwart, come either during off-meal hours or make a trip on the weekends. Their broad menu encompasses many things, from the standard Butter Chicken (RM15) to the unusual tiffin offering of Prawn Dosai (RM18). But making the most out of your perilous journey here means focusing on the simpler stuff done well — no doubt thanks to the use of fresh produce sourced from its proprietor's farm. Heed Burpple Tastemaker Alyssia Yu's recommendation for North Indian Vegetarian Thali (RM16), inclusive of three sabzi (vegetables), dhal, raita (yogurt), payasam (sweet rice curd), naan, rice and papadam. Apart from the sheer variety, the thali exceeds expectations when it comes to pronounced flavour. What's more, rice is refillable so none of those delicious dips go to waste. Here, we also found one of our favourite renditions of Gobi Manchurian (RM11), deep-fried cauliflower glazed in a sweet, tangy gravy done Indian-Chinese style. Chances are, you won't notice you're missing a meat dish but in case you do, we recommend the expertly-marinated Rabbit Masala (RM18), another positively delicious result from the farm!
Avg price per person: RM20
Photo by Burpple Tastemaker Alyssia Yu

This restaurant tucked far north to the city centre is worth the trek, especially if you enjoy your North Indian food. Black marble tables and cushioned chairs give the interior an almost classy feel, but it is mostly homely vibes we feel in here next to the many groups of families dining in. Unlike what its name suggests, Tasty Chapathi's best trait is not its chapati, but rather their Special Dum Biryani (from RM17.90). Only available for lunch, we advise having this on the holidays — the impending food coma does not bode well with work days. Basmati rice is cooked in an earthen pot with spices and meat (chicken, fish, mutton or prawns), emerging flavour bombs that balance the spice-savoury and meaty profiles. Try the mutton for deeply flavoured, melt-in-your-mouth chunks! For add-ons, get some gravy-laden sides, great for sopping up rice and bread (if you're ordering any, it should be the Onion Kulcha or onion-stuffed, layered bread at RM6.50). The Chana Masala (RM11.90) sees perfectly tender chickpeas swirled in decadent masala sauce — the same for their Bhindi Masala (okra, RM13.90), so it really depends if you prefer beans or greens. The sweets counter sports colourful variety but after that feast, it's safest to go with a light, sweet tea. The restaurant serves a specialty Punjabi Tea (RM3.50), a slightly spicier version of the usual Masala Tea (RM3.50).
Avg price per person: RM25