Kuala Lumpur, a bustling capital city of Malaysia, boasts of a thriving cafe culture. From specialty coffee shops to unique themed cafes, the city is home to a plethora of options for coffee lovers. Let’s take a closer look for you to find the best cafe in KL.
The Vibrant Scene: Best Cafe in KL
The cafe scene in Kuala Lumpur is lively and diverse, catering to a variety of tastes and preferences. The city’s cafe culture has evolved rapidly in recent years, offering unique blends of coffee, inventive brews, and an assortment of sweet and savory delicacies. Whether you’re looking for a spot to work or catch up with friends, the city’s cafes are perfect for a cozy and relaxed experience.
A Brief History of Cafes in the City
The cafe culture in Kuala Lumpur dates back to the colonial era when it was introduced by the British. The first cafes in Kuala Lumpur were established in the early 1900s and were mainly frequented by British expatriates. These cafes were designed to provide a space for the British to socialize and relax while enjoying their favorite beverages.
Over the years, the city’s vibrant cafe scene has evolved, with cafes shifting their focus from serving traditional coffee to specialty coffee and offering a variety of food to complement their drinks. Today, cafes in Kuala Lumpur are not just places to grab a quick cup of coffee, but also serve as cultural hubs where people come together to discuss art, literature, and current events.
The Growing Popularity of Specialty Coffee
In recent years, specialty coffee has gained immense popularity in Kuala Lumpur. Cafes that specialize in high-quality coffee have emerged throughout the city, offering a unique and flavorful coffee experience to locals and tourists. These cafes often source their beans from different parts of the world, providing coffee lovers with a diverse range of blends to choose from.
One of the most popular specialty coffee cafes in Kuala Lumpur is Artisan Roast Coffee. This cafe is known for its unique blends of coffee, which are sourced from different parts of the world, including Ethiopia, Colombia, and Brazil. The cafe also offers a variety of pastries and cakes that perfectly complement their coffee blends.
Another popular specialty coffee cafe in Kuala Lumpur is VCR Cafe. This cafe is known for its minimalist decor and serves a variety of coffee blends, including pour-over, espresso, and cold brew. The cafe also offers a variety of brunch dishes, including avocado toast, eggs benedict, and pancakes.
In conclusion, the cafe scene in Kuala Lumpur is vibrant, diverse, and constantly evolving. Whether you’re a coffee aficionado or just looking for a cozy spot to relax, Kuala Lumpur’s cafes offer something for everyone. From traditional coffee to specialty blends and a variety of food options, the city’s cafe culture is definitely worth exploring.
Top KL Cafes for Specialty Coffee Lovers
VCR Cafe
VCR Cafe is a must-visit coffee shop in Kuala Lumpur, known for its specialty coffee blends and delicious food. The cafe offers a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, making it a perfect spot to relax and unwind. The menu features a range of pastries, sandwiches, salads, and cakes, all of which are baked on-site. The espresso drinks are expertly crafted and made with high-quality beans sourced from various parts of the world.
Pulp by Papa Palheta
Pulp by Papa Palheta is another popular coffee shop in Kuala Lumpur, renowned for its exceptional brews and unique decor. The cafe aims to provide an immersive coffee experience that engages all the senses. The baristas at Pulp are highly trained and skilled, delivering perfectly brewed coffee consistently. The cafe also features a retail section where you can purchase coffee equipment and beans.
Artisan Roast Coffee
Artisan Roast Coffee is a specialty coffee shop that roasts its coffee beans on-site, providing customers with a unique and fresh coffee experience. The cafe has a cozy and inviting ambiance, making it a perfect spot to enjoy a cup of coffee or catch up with friends. Apart from the delicious coffee, the cafe also offers a range of sandwiches, cakes, and pastries, all made in-house.
Best Cafes for a Scenic View
Heli Lounge Bar
The Heli Lounge Bar is a unique and scenic rooftop bar in Kuala Lumpur that offers stunning panoramic views of the city. The bar has a helipad that transforms into a lounge bar at night, providing a one-of-a-kind experience. The drinks are reasonably priced, and the atmosphere is perfect for a night out with friends or a romantic evening with your partner.
Cantaloupe at Troika Sky Dining
Cantaloupe at Troika Sky Dining is an exquisite restaurant and bar situated on the 23rd floor of The Troika. The bar offers a breathtaking view of the city’s skyline, along with a wide selection of wine, cocktails, and champagne. The menu features contemporary European cuisine, ensuring that there is something to cater to everyone’s taste.
Fuego at Troika Sky Dining
Fuego at Troika Sky Dining is another unique restaurant and bar located on the 23rd floor of The Troika. The bar offers a stunning view of the Petronas Twin Towers, providing a perfect backdrop for the delicious food and drinks. The menu features a blend of South American and Mediterranean cuisine, along with a variety of cocktails and mocktails.
Unique Themed Cafes to Explore
The Owls Cafe
The Owls Cafe is a charming and whimsical cafe in Kuala Lumpur, known for its owl-themed decor and delicious food. The cafe’s interior is adorned with owl-related decor, giving it a cozy and enchanting ambiance. The menu features a range of comfort food and desserts, all of which are perfectly complemented by a cup of coffee or tea.
The Library Coffee Bar
The Library Coffee Bar is a unique and cozy cafe situated in Old Town Kuala Lumpur. The cafe’s decor is reminiscent of a library, with books lining the walls and cozy armchairs providing a comfortable and relaxed setting. The menu features a range of coffee, tea, and light bites, making it a perfect spot to enjoy a book or catch up with friends.
Jao Tim
Jao Tim is a quirky and vibrant cafe in Kuala Lumpur, inspired by traditional kopitiams. The cafe’s decor is bright and colorful, featuring nostalgic items such as old school posters and traditional biscuit tins. The menu features a range of local and international delicacies, providing customers with a unique and flavorful experience.
In conclusion, Kuala Lumpur’s cafe culture is thriving, with cafes catering to a range of tastes and preferences. Whether you’re looking for specialty coffee, a scenic view or a unique themed cafe, the city has a cafe for everyone. So, next time you’re in Kuala Lumpur, be sure to check out some of these cafes for a memorable coffee experience.
