Burrowed in the villages of Kayu Ara, Lala Chong needs no introduction. This rustic outdoor restaurant has long made its name for dishing out delicious, pork-free seafood, so make your way here when in need for a good for groups destination. Ordering lala is a no-brainer, and a prime pick is the Xiong Tong Lala (Clams in Superior Soup, from RM18). While traditionally cooked in Chinese rice wine, chefs here are happy to change that for their Muslim regulars. The clams are fresh, fleshy and doused in a flavourful, gingery broth, which is great with rice. Couple the clams with Crabs (from RM40) — both the salted egg yolk and chili are terrific, but we'll take the chili crabs anyday for its sweet-spicy sauce streaked with eggy bits. Top that order off with the Deep-Fried Mantou (RM10 for 6) that are soft inside and crisp golden outside — perfect for dunking into the sauce! The place gets packed with a '1Malaysia' crowd every evening so it's wiser to either do lunch or have an early evening feast.
*Pork-free.
*Serves alcohol.
Avg price per person: RM50