Best-of Guides Malaysia

The Best Places in Malaysia for Indian Food

8 Restaurants
Indian cuisine is ubiquitous in Malaysia, offering diverse options from traditional to contemporary styles, each with its own unique charm. Here are some MICHELIN Guide-recommended Indian restaurants, renowned for their delicious dishes that ensure a memorable culinary experience.
Updated on 24 May 2024

Malaysia boasts a plethora of culinary delights, with Indian cuisine holding a significant place among its diverse offerings. This culinary influence can be traced back to the colonial history shared between Malaysia and India under British rule. During this period, the British government facilitated the migration of a substantial number of Indian labourers to Malaysia to support its development efforts. Over time, these Indian immigrants established roots in Malaysia, eventually evolving into one of the country's prominent ethnic communities alongside the Malays and Chinese.

India's expansive landscape and abundant resources give rise to a diverse culinary tapestry, with each region boasting its own unique food culture from north to south. With the migration of populations, this rich culinary heritage found its way to Malaysia, enriching the local gastronomic scene with a variety of flavours and dishes. Indian cuisine permeates every corner of Malaysia, offering a spectrum of options ranging from traditional to contemporary interpretations, and from northern to southern styles, each with its own distinct appeal. Below are Indian restaurants recommended by our MICHELIN Guide inspectors, renowned for their tasty dishes that promise a culinary journey worth experiencing.

Kuala Lumpur:

Roti by d'Tandoor
82 Jalan Damai, Off Jalan Ampang, Kampung Datuk Keramat, 55000 Kuala Lumpur
$$ · Indian

Situated within a residential enclave, Roti by d'Tandoor is part of a renowned local catering brand, famous for its expertise in North Indian cuisine and masterful use of herbs and spices. The Butter Chicken Masala is a standout dish, meticulously seasoned to achieve a perfect balance of spiciness and sweetness. Paired with soft and chewy naan, the flavours meld harmoniously, resulting in a truly indulgent culinary experience. Be sure not to overlook the Indian ice cream, Kulfi, available in an array of mouthwatering flavours, to conclude your dining journey on a sweet note.

Sri Nirwana Maju
43 Jalan Telawi 3, Bangsar Baru, 59100 Kuala Lumpur
$$ · Indian

For an authentic Indian dining experience, Bib Gourmand eatery Sri Nirwana Maju is unparalleled. Specialising in set meals served on large banana leaves, the restaurant offers fragrant curries, rice, and a variety of add-ons like vegetables and chicken, each contributing a distinctive flavour profile. With an extensive selection of curry flavours and varying levels of spiciness, there's something to whet every palate and leave you craving more. Given its popularity, the restaurant is often bustling, especially during lunch hours, so it's advisable to plan your visit during off-peak times to avoid long waits.

Frangipaani
The Republik, Lot No.M.03, Mezzanine Floor, Jalan Medan Setia 1, Bukit Damansara, 50490 Kuala Lumpur
$$ · Indian

The interior décor, predominantly adorned in warm wood tones and complemented by leather seats, exudes a timeless elegance reminiscent of a retro Western restaurant. Enhanced by soft lighting, the ambiance at Frangipaani is inviting and refined. Additionally, the restaurant offers a spacious and comfortable terrace, providing patrons with an alternative dining experience. Helmed by a team of talented chefs from India, the menu showcases a diverse range of North and South Indian cuisine. Notable dishes include the Vegetable Samosa Chaat, featuring a medley of vegetables paired with yogurt infused with aromatic spices, resulting in a delicious and unique flavour profile.

Jwala
E-02-01, Block E, The Five@KPD, 49 Jalan Dungun, Bukit Damansara, 50490 Kuala Lumpur
$$$ · Indian

The restaurant draws its name from the Sanskrit word for "fire," reflecting its emphasis on grilled cuisine rooted in ancient Indian tradition. Known for its mastery of grilling, guests can witness the chef's expertise firsthand from the open kitchen. Utilising a special tandoor oven, the chefs skilfully grill an array of meats, seafood, and bread, meticulously adjusting temperatures to achieve a perfect balance of crispiness and tenderness, infused with irresistible aromas. A standout recommendation is their signature bread, the Tandoori Croissant. Additionally, their curries, prepared with locally sourced fruits and aromatic spices, tempt the taste buds with a unique blend of flavours, leaving a lingering aftertaste that beckons for more.

Passage Thru India
4 Jalan Delima, Off Jalan Bukit Bintang, Imbi, 50400 Kuala Lumpur
$$ · Indian

Passage Thru India's artistic interior design stands out as a defining feature. Adorned with paintings by the owner, the walls and ceilings breathe life and character into the space. The menu offers a diverse array of traditional Indian dishes, including Tandoori specialties, Naan, and Roti, all expertly grilled in a tandoor. Their curries, crafted with a blend of aromatic spices, promise to delight even the most discerning palates with their rich and satisfying flavours. Don't miss out on the fragrant biriyani, a dish that's sure to leave a lasting impression.

Qureshi
GF, East Lobby, TPC Kuala Lumpur, 10 Jalan 1/70D, Jalan Bukit Kiara, 60000 Kuala Lumpur
$$ · Indian

Nestled beside the lush greenery of the golf course, Qureshi offers picturesque views through its windows, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the serene surroundings. Inside, Indian elements seamlessly blend with modern aesthetics, reflected in the vibrant colours and intricate patterns that adorn the space. The menu boasts a selection of dishes rooted in traditional North Indian flavours, catering to both individual diners and those looking to share. For an authentic Tandoori experience, the Murgh Peshawari Tikka comes highly recommended, exuding an aroma that captivates the senses. With tender, juicy chicken that melts in your mouth, each bite delivers an explosion of flavour that lingers on the palate.

Penang:

Sardaarji
6 Lebuh China, 10200 George Town
$$ · Indian

Specialising in Punjabi cuisine from North India, Sardaarji offers an exotic dining experience complemented by captivating wavy curtains cascading from the ceiling. A must-try dish is the rich and flavourful Sardaaji Dal Makhani, which pairs perfectly with naan or roti. Adding to the ambiance, the restaurant occasionally transforms into a performance venue, treating guests to live Indian music and instruments, enhancing the dining experience with lively entertainment.


Bite N Eat Dindigul Biriyani
43 Lebuh Penang, 10200 George Town
$$ · Indian

Bite N Eat Dindigul Biriyani boasts a minimalist layout with warm brown hues, creating a cosy atmosphere that envelops guests upon entry. Specialising in South Indian cuisine, the focus here is on using spices to enhance the natural flavours of the ingredients. A standout dish is the signature Biriyani, renowned for its fragrant aroma and tender texture. Each grain of rice is infused with a medley of spices, offering a unique and enticing taste profile. Pair it with the Kadai Vegetables for a harmonious blend of flavours. Another must-try is the Kongu Nadu Kozhi Fry, a specialty delicacy from the southern state of Tamil Nadu. With its crispy skin and rich flavour, this fried chicken dish promises a memorable culinary experience.