Where to Eat in Indonesia and Malaysia: 10 Restaurants You Can’t Miss

Indonesia and Malaysia boast vibrant culinary scenes blending rich traditions with modern innovation. From street-inspired flavors to world-class fine dining, these countries offer unforgettable meals. Here are 10 must-visit restaurants across both nations that showcase the best of local and elevated cuisine.

Indonesia Highlights

1. Kaum (Jakarta)
This restaurant celebrates Indonesia’s diverse regional dishes in a stylish setting. Try the creamy beef rendang or spicy soft-shell crab in Padang sauce — a perfect introduction to the archipelago’s bold flavors.

2. Syrco BASÈ (Ubud, Bali)
Led by Michelin-decorated chef Syrco Bakker, this sustainable gem in a regenerative garden focuses on order.chuanfurestaurant.com seasonal, farm-fresh ingredients. It’s a culinary think tank redefining modern Indonesian fine dining.

3. Apéritif (Ubud, Bali)
A top-rated fine-dining spot offering progressive European-Indonesian fusion tasting menus. Expect innovative dishes and exceptional wine pairings in an elegant atmosphere.

4. Sangsaka (Seminyak, Bali)
Modern Indonesian cuisine shines here with creative tasting menus highlighting local produce and bold techniques — a favorite for contemporary food lovers.

Malaysia Highlights

5. Dewakan (Kuala Lumpur)
Malaysia’s only two-Michelin-star restaurant (as of recent guides) celebrates indigenous ingredients through inventive dishes. Chef Darren Teoh’s storytelling approach makes it a pinnacle of Malaysian gastronomy.

6. Hide (Kuala Lumpur)
This intimate counter-seating spot blends contemporary techniques with fresh Malaysian flavors. Expect sophisticated, inventive plates in a minimalist setting.

7. Nadodi (Kuala Lumpur)
A highly acclaimed venue pushing boundaries with innovative Malaysian-inspired cuisine — perfect for those seeking bold, boundary-pushing experiences.

8. Au Jardin (Penang)
This Michelin-starred gem in Penang offers refined, creative dishes using local ingredients, blending tradition with modernity in a charming heritage setting.

Must-Try Street-Inspired Gems

9. Jalan Alor Street Food (Kuala Lumpur)
For authentic Malaysian vibes, dive into hawker stalls offering satay, char kway teow, and fresh seafood. It’s bustling, flavorful, and quintessentially KL.

10. Classic Nasi Padang Spots (Various in Indonesia)
No trip is complete without a traditional Nasi Padang meal — rice with an array of curries, rendang, and sambals served family-style. Iconic and delicious!

These restaurants capture the essence of Southeast Asian cuisine, from humble roots to haute innovation. Whether in bustling Jakarta, serene Bali, vibrant Kuala Lumpur, or historic Penang, you’re in for a memorable feast. Bon appétit — or selamat makan!