If you grew up in a traditional Indian home, you’ve probably heard one of your relatives mention the many health benefits of using a banana leaf as a plate. The natural aroma of the banana leaves will automatically whet your appetite and keep you coming back for more.
Eating on a banana leaf is a novelty here in Malaysia brought on by South Indians, a culture that has been celebrated thoroughly because it has something to do with food. If there’s one thing that brings us Malaysians together, it’s the food. Here’s a list of KL Banana Leaf Restaurants you have to visit if you’re in the mood for Indian food.
1. Aunty Manju’s Home Of Banana Leaf
Known best for their generous portions, Aunty Manju’s gives you the best value for your money. Many suggest trying out their mutton varuval, a curry of sorts that pairs well with their home-made rasam that will most definitely give you your fill of Indian cuisine. Before you leave, be sure to try their Indian coffee with milk to taste the creamy caffeine concoction.
Location: 18 Jalan Tun Mohd Fuad 1, Taman Tun Dr Ismail Kuala Lumpur, 60000, Malaysia
Hours: 7.00 AM – 12.00 AM
2. Restoran Devi’s Corner
If you’re suddenly in the mood for Indian food at 3 in the morning, head on over to Devi’s Corner as they are open 24/7. While you’re there give their Kerela fish curry a try and pair your meal with fried tenggiri. You’ll be blown away by the combination. On the other hand, if you’re not a fan of fish try out any of their chicken dishes. They make the best tandoori in Bangsar.
Address: 14, Jalan Telawi 4, Bangsar, 59100 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur
Hours: 12.00 AM – 12.00 A.M
3. Indian Spices Village
Particularly known for their thali serving where you’d get a large round platter to eat from, Indian Spices Village also serves on banana leaves upon request. Try their creamy butter chicken, flavourful lamb briyani and mushroom kaadai are definite must-haves here. This restaurant also serves rare delicacies including fired mutton brains and Chettinad spiced mutton liver among other dishes. For the adventurous souls, be sure to ask the waiter for these exotics.
Address: 86, Lorong Maarof, Bangsar, 59000 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur
Hours: 9.00 AM – 11.00 PM
4. Bala’s Banana Leaf
Boasting a large crowd of loyal customers, getting a seat in Bala’s restaurant can sometimes be a little hard. Their food and customer service are so good so much so many of the patrons visit Bala’s a few times a week. Their fish dishes, including the fish head curry and fried ikan bulus will leave you in awe. A secret menu item you should try is the mango lassi, a creamy, fresh concoction.
Address: 21, Lorong Ara Kiri 1, Lucky Garden, 59100 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur.
Hours: 11.00 AM – 11.00 PM
5. Sri Nirwana Maju Restaurant
Championed by its patrons to have the best fried bitter gourd in KL, this much-frequented neighbourhood joint is regularly visited for its banana leaf options. They’re also known for their generous portions that will make you tapau your leftovers. While you’re there, give their tandoori chicken a try! Don’t forget to check out their dessert options too.
Address: 43, Jalan Telawi 3, Bangsar, 59100 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur
Hours: 11.00 AM – 1.00 AM
6. Annapurnam Chetinad Restoran
This hidden of a gem restaurant is located on the end lot of a 2 storey shophouse, housing one of the warmest service and delicious food you’ll ever find in Bangsar. Annapurna serves a good variety of vegetarian dishes which tasty and well worth the visit. If you’re not vegetarian, try their famous fish cutlets and mutton curry. It might be an odd combination to some, but it’s a fantastic pairing.
Address: 74, Lorong Maarof, Taman Bangsar, 59000 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur
Hours: 7.00 AM – 11.00 PM
Hopefully, this list didn’t overwhelm you with too many banana leaf restaurants in KL. If it did, then we suggest you try each and every one of them. These restaurants are known for their crowds, so if you’d like to avoid them, head on over to the foodpanda app and have hot meals delivered to you.