Must-Try Foods In Central Market (Kuala Lumpur) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

Food History of Central Market, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

The Central Market in Kuala Lumpur, a heritage building, dates back to 1888 and originally served as a wet market. Over the years, it has evolved into a cultural hub, symbolizing the multiethnic tapestry of Malaysia. Today, it offers an array of both traditional and modern Malaysian cuisine, representing the diverse culinary heritage of the Malay, Indian, Chinese, and other ethnic communities within Malaysia. The food landscape here is a testament to the country's rich history of trade, migration, and colonial influences, all of which have left an indelible mark on the flavors and dishes found in this bustling marketplace.

Must Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Central Market for Tourists

1. Nasi Lemak - Often considered Malaysia's national dish, this fragrant rice dish is cooked in coconut milk and pandan leaf, served with sambal, anchovies, peanuts, and boiled egg. (Non-Veg)
2. Roti Canai - An Indian-influenced flatbread, crispy and fluffy, often served with dhal (lentil curry) or other types of curry. (Vegetarian)
3. Char Kway Teow - A popular noodle dish stir-fried with shrimp, bloody cockles, Chinese lap cheong (sausage), eggs, bean sprouts, and chives in a mix of soy sauce. (Non-Veg)
4. Laksa - A spicy noodle soup that comes in various regional varieties, the most famous being the Penang Laksa. (Non-Veg)
5. Ais Kacang - A dessert made of shaved ice, red beans, sweet corn, grass jelly, and various toppings, drizzled with evaporated milk or coconut milk and syrups. (Vegetarian)
6. Hokkien Mee - A hearty noodle dish braised in a soy sauce-based gravy with pork, squid, and fish cake, though the Central Market might offer chicken as an alternative. (Non-Veg)
7. Popiah - Fresh spring rolls filled with thinly sliced tofu, vegetables, and sometimes shrimp or egg, all wrapped in a soft, thin pancake. (Vegetarian with non-veg options)
8. Chendol - A beloved dessert with pandan-flavored jelly, coconut milk, shaved ice, and gula Melaka (palm sugar syrup). (Vegetarian)
9. Apam Balik - Also known as "turnover pancake", this fluffy pancake with a crispy edge is filled with crushed peanuts, sugar, creamed corn, and sometimes coconut. (Vegetarian)
10. Murtabak - A stuffed pancake/pan-fried bread which is commonly filled with minced meat, garlic, egg and onion, and is served with curry sauce. (Non-Veg)

Top Famous Restaurants in Central Market, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

• Precious Old China
  Address: Central Market Lot M2, Mezzanine floor of Central Market
  Famous Food: Nyonya Laksa (Non-Veg)
• Old Town White Coffee
  Address: Lot FK 6, 1st floor, Central Market
  Famous Food: Nasi Lemak (Non-Veg) and Traditional Toast (Vegetarian)
• Ginger Restaurant
  Address: First Floor, Lot M20, Jalan Hang Kasturi, Central Market
  Famous Food: Tandoori Chicken (Non-Veg) and Paneer Butter Masala (Vegetarian)
• Annalakshmi Vegetarian Restaurant
  Address: Lot 29-31 Central Market Annex, Jalan Hang Kasturi
  Famous Food: Thali Meal (Vegetarian)