New Restaurants, Cafes And Bars in KL: December 2015

Derived from the word lepak – which means “to hang out” – this is just the place for a leisurely catch-up with friends. The unassuming facade reveals a gorgeous space with floor-to-ceiling windows bathing the interiors with plenty of natural light – it’s almost unbelievable to find such a zen gem just a few minutes from Changkat! The menu sees familiar dishes such as Chicken Roulade (RM29) and Grilled Saba Fish (RM29) to calm your rumbling tummies. Up for a real twist? Go for their intriguing Nasi Lemak Cheesecake (RM16) with the same familiar elements – coconut, (glutinous) rice, peanuts, cucumber and chilli flakes – but in dessert form!

Gather fellow Jap food lovers and have a feast at Tsubohachi Izakaya with its array of popular dishes from Japan (particularly Hokkaido). Go crazy with the starters and order the Chicken Skin Skewers (RM7.80) and Deep-Fried River Shrimp (RM14.90) for a crunchy start, plus the Ramen Sarada (RM16.90), a cold ramen salad to get your appetite going. Do not miss out on their Poteto Mentaiko Yaki (RM13.90), a potato hot plate seasoned with the best things in life (think cod roe, mayonnaise and cheese)! If you’re a Japanese living in Malaysia or if your little ones are tagging along for a meal here, then the Nagashi Somen Setto (RM27.90) would be THE item for you to order. This fishing ‘game’ for children in Japan (to practice using chopsticks) will double up as a refreshing, cooling dish for the family on hot summer days.

Not too fond of dense, doughy taiyakis? Maybe the croissant version of the fish-shaped Japanese snack might float your boat instead! Now available from a humble little store in SS15 right opposite Asia Café, you can get sweet ones with more traditional fillings like Red Bean for RM6, as well as savoury flavours like Ham & Cheese (RM7) and Curry Chicken (RM6). Each taiyaki croissant is made to order, so be prepared to wait a couple of minutes – it’ll be worth it! They sprinkle sanding sugar before it goes into the pan resulting in crisp caramelised edges that are just a delight to nibble on!

There’s nothing like munching on a box of crispy fried chicken to get your day going, eh? 4 Fingers Crispy Chicken, founded in Singapore, has made its way to Kuala Lumpur at Mid Valley Megamall. These MSG and preservative-free chickens are made fresh and come in wings, drumsticks or a mix of both, served with either soy garlic, hot sauce or both. Prices vary from RM15.90 to RM57.70, depending on how many pieces you order and if you choose to have them as a set with drink and fries. Other items on their menu include rice boxes, sandwiches, salads and even crispy calamari and battered shrimps! Visit this place with a group of friends for a fun crispy chicken party and some hands-on fun!

It seems like there's no stopping Damansara Uptown from breeding new soft serve ice cream places this year. Hail's currently has two flavours: Pink Peppercorn (a berry-like flavour with a minty-peppery finish) and Black Sesame at RM8.50 each. Alternatively, go for one of their quirky combos like Nyonya Delight (RM14), where you basically "cendol-ize" your soft serve — a great option for those who prefer a local touch! Come here with foodie friends who are up for exploring something sweet and new in town.

Tired of looking for a place to grab drinks with your late-night company right smack in KL city? Head over to Bangsar instead, where this pop-up cocktail bar has returned from its time at The Row. Currently residing at a favourite neighbourhood cafe, DR.inc, 44 Bar brings exciting Tiki cocktails (RM38) this time around. Go for the Baba Banana, which comprises rum and brandy complimented with tropical flavours like banana and ginger. 44 Bar also serves whacky alcoholic desserts — think luxuriously-spiced coconut rum ice cream with ginger flower-infused mango espuma, served on crispy rice pops in a coconut shell. Amazing.

Located just a stone's throw away from The Curve, Closer Kitchen & Espresso Bar could be your next lunch spot with your colleagues if you're based in the Damansara region. At just RM21 for TWO courses at lunch, you are able to choose between two types of main courses and desserts — think pastas or chicken chop for mains, and desserts like panna cotta. Top up another RM8 for a drink, perhaps their Winter Citrus Lemonade for something refreshing. This crazy good deal is available only on weekdays, check their Facebook page for the menu of the week before you plan your trip down!

Tame your wild waffle-and-ice-cream cravings at this new dessert bar in Taman Paramount. Fluffed Cafe is open from noon right up till 11pm (except Mondays) to cater to the waffle-crazy who enjoy these sweet treats post-dinner, or as a sinful supper. Go for Pooh Bear's Favourite (RM18)—also the favourite of most who frequent this spot—for waffles topped with Hokey Pokey ice cream, honeycomb, salted caramel sauce, and complimented with fresh fruits like strawberries and blueberries. For something different, order Alice in Wonderland (RM19) which comes with lavender blueberry ice cream, butter crumble, and fresh fruits. Now you know where to go after dinner!

Another cafe hits the OUG area, where you can sit down for a cuppa after shopping at the morning market down the road, or for a cafe-hopping trail with your friends. This menu boasts a wide variety of Western mains, and cakes to please the sweet tooth — but one should visit for their amazing coffee. From black or white espresso-based classics (RM8-12) to filtered coffees (RM12-30) to cold brews, coffee lovers are spoiled for choice. Ask the baristas to recommend a drink to suit your taste!

The Forum KL, from the same folks who brought you Proof Cafe & Sky Dining Lounge upstairs, adds a twist to the scene in Desa Sri Hartamas. With high ceilings and storey-high glass walls, this is the perfect place to dine in for an intimate conversation. Try the Shimeiji Mushroom Risotto (RM24.50) for a creamy, Parmesan-cheesy decadence that's somehow not too filling. Finish off with a Zucchini Lime Cake (RM13.90) for something interestingly refreshing with its zesty cream cheese frosting. As for drinks, don't miss the Prana Chai (RM16), sourced all the way from Melbourne, perfect for rainy days!

Run by the founders of Coffee Elements in Penang, The Prep Room is a great place to go with a group of family or friends for an affordable meal. Their menu, full of watercolored illustrations of the dishes to spark your cravings, is one of huge variety. From breakfast classics to pastas, soups, salads and more, you will be spoiled for choice. Go for their Spicy Thai Seafood Spaghetti (RM18.50) for to awaken your tastebuds. For a simple breakfast, order the bircher muesli (RM12-13) and finish off with a cuppa (all standard coffees are below RM10!) to fuel your day.