Jalan Alor
This is the one place you can’t miss when traveling in Kuala Lumpur. Jalan Alor, which you’ll find on the way up to Bukit Bintang and Changkat (two of the most-visited spots in urban Malaysia) is the perfect spot to ease into the atmosphere of roadside dining, should you be unfamiliar with the concept. The entire road forms an unbroken river of delicacies, so take your pick and immerse yourself in a truly authentic street-food scene.
Taman Connaught
Formerly one of the longest night markets in Malaysia before being one-upped by Setia Alam. This two-kilometer (1.2-mile) stretch is everything you’d expect to see in a pasar malam, and will take at least an hour to explore properly. With more than 700 stalls selling cheap goods and food from all over the continent, it will be crowded, so be prepared to persevere with squeezing through, as the market is only open once a week on a Wednesday from 5.30pm to midnight. Taman Connaught is also known for being one of the few night markets that have Thai vendors, further diversifying its attractions.
Hutong Lot 10
A food paradise tucked in the basement of Lot 10 shopping center, Hutong is a maze of food wonders featuring some of the country’s most beloved heritage dishes. With more than 34 food stalls, Hutong gives customers a street-food setting away from the hot sun and inside the cool embrace of air conditioning. There are plenty of open tables available, so you don’t have to worry about eating elbow-to-elbow with strangers. Highlights here include Ho Weng Kee’s wantan mee, Soong Kee’s beef noodles, and Chua Brothers' char kway teow.
Tapak Urban Street Dining
Tapak Urban Dining gathers some of the best food trucks in the Klang Valley all in one spot. Located near KLCC and the Golden Triangle, you will find everything from coconut shakes to soft-shell crab burgers. Take time to explore the 30+ food trucks stationed here, with must-tries such as kimchi quesadillas, colorful frappes, ayam penyet, and pizza. Gather your best buds and grab a meal on wheels to enjoy some of KL’s most innovative food ventures under the stars.
Petaling Street Market
Nowadays, Chinatown is synonymous with cheap goods you’d bulk buy as souvenirs, from bags and purses to shoes and perfume. However, the area still houses some of the oldest street-food stalls in Malaysia. Among them are Sze Ngan Chye Salted Roast Duck, Madam Tang Mua Chi Stall, Hon Kee Porridge and Koon Kee Wantan Mee. These stalls have maintained their quality over the years, drawing crowds from near and far. So head there before peak hours (or after, whichever you prefer) if you like to take your time enjoying the classic flavors of this country’s diverse cuisine.