Where to find the best, wholesome Malaysian restaurants outside of KL, according to Tatler Best 2025
Whether it is a beachside getaway or a cool weather retreat, your travel itinerary is not complete without a memorable Malaysian meal. Across Penang, Langkawi, Sarawak, and Sabah, these standout restaurants—featured in Tatler Best 2025—are bringing contemporary Malaysian cuisine to the forefront. From elegant takes on family recipes to inventive menus that blend nostalgia with modern technique, these dining spots prove that good Malaysian food is not only found in KL.
Each of these restaurants also celebrates the distinctive character of its home state, offering a culinary experience that reflects the local flavour, ambiance, and cultural sensibilities. In Penang, expect layered heritage influences and bold street-inspired flair elevated with finesse. Langkawi delivers breezy island luxury with dishes rooted in tradition, while Sarawak and Sabah bring the flavours of East Malaysia to the table—earthy, soulful, and deeply personal. Their regional signatures not only distinguish them from the rest, but also preserve the culinary memory of the communities they represent.
Perfect for food-loving travellers, these restaurants bring together memory, innovation, and cultural pride in every bite. Some have even earned a coveted place in our Tatler Best 20 and Best in Class honours for the year—further reason to make that foodie road trip happen. So, if you are planning a staycation or a spontaneous weekend escape, make room in your itinerary (and your stomach) for these must-visit gems.
See also: 8 of the best, most authentic Italian restaurants in Klang Valley, according to Tatler Best 2025
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Where to find the best, wholesome Malaysian restaurants outside of KL, according to Tatler Best 2025
Planning your next local escape? Whether it is a beachside getaway or a cool weather retreat, your travel itinerary is not complete without a memorable Malaysian meal. Across Penang, Langkawi, Sarawak, and Sabah, these standout restaurants—featured in Tatler Best 2025—are bringing contemporary Malaysian cuisine to the forefront. From elegant takes on family recipes to inventive menus that blend nostalgia with modern technique, these dining spots prove that good Malaysian food is not only found in KL. Each of these restaurants also celebrates the distinctive character of its home state, offering a culinary experience that reflects the local flavour, ambiance, and cultural sensibilities. In Penang, expect layered heritage influences and bold street-inspired flair elevated with finesse. Langkawi delivers breezy island luxury with dishes rooted in tradition, while Sarawak and Sabah bring the flavours of East Malaysia to the table—earthy, soulful, and deeply personal. Their regional signatures not only distinguish them from the rest, but also preserve the culinary memory of the communities they represent. Perfect for food-loving travellers, these restaurants bring together memory, innovation, and cultural pride in every bite. Some have even earned a coveted place in our Tatler Best 20 and Best in Class honours for the year—further reason to make that foodie road trip happen. So, if you are planning a staycation or a spontaneous weekend escape, make room in your itinerary (and your stomach) for these must-visit gems. See also: 8 of the best, most authentic Italian restaurants in Klang Valley, according to Tatler Best 2025
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