10 best dishes in the Klang Valley you should chomp on to beat the heat
As the scorching heat continues to grip Malaysia, many Malaysians are seeking refuge indoors, relying on the cool comfort of air conditioning to survive the relentless sun. With weather experts predicting that the hot and dry weather will persist until the middle of March 2025, people have been advised to minimise their exposure to the harsh rays by staying indoors as much as possible.
During this sweltering period, it’s best to indulge in cold dishes to beat the heat without incurring exorbitant electricity bills. Malaysians have always found solace and joy in their diverse culinary offerings, and this time is no exception.
To help fellow Malaysians combat the intense heat and avoid sunstroke, here are 10 delicious dishes you can find in the Klang Valley that are not only satisfying, but also provide respite from the scorching temperatures.
1. Fatty Loong ABC – Ais Kacang
One of the best ways obviously is by chomping on some ice kacang! It has every quintessential item you need to beat the heat; shaved ice, syrup and nuts. If you’re in the Klang Valley on the lookout for some good ice kacang, where else but Fatty Loong ABC Ice Kacang in Kepong?
Fatty Loong has been a crowd favourite for its exceptionally smooth ice and special Gula Melaka. Apart from the traditional components like red beans and grass jelly, Fatty Loong takes their ABC to the next level by incorporating distinctive additions such as cendol and Nata de coco jelly.
These unique fillings infuse the dessert with a playful and invigorating twist, elevating its overall flavour profile. The combination of various textures and a symphony of flavours culminate in a gratifying and delightful dessert, making it the ultimate antidote to combat the relentless heat.
Kepong Baru, 52100 Kuala Lumpur, Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur
+6016 606 1566
Daily: 4.30pm – 10.30pm
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2. The Table, iSetan – Cold Soba
Cold soba noodles have a high water content, which helps in beating the heat and keeping you cool. Staying hydrated is crucial during hot weather as it helps regulate body temperature and prevents dehydration.
If you happen to be in Kuala Lumpur and are looking for a delectable cold soba noodle experience, iSetan’s The Table Restaurant is highly recommended. iSetan is renowned for its exceptional culinary offerings, and its cold soba noodles stand out for their superior quality and taste. What makes them even more remarkable is that they are meticulously made from scratch in-house, ensuring freshness and authenticity.
At iSetan, the chefs take great pride in the art of soba–making. They skillfully craft the soba noodles using traditional techniques and top-quality ingredients. The result is a satisfying bowl of cold soba noodles with a delightful texture and flavour that is sure to please any palate. Whether you’re a soba aficionado or someone who simply appreciates a delicious and refreshing meal, iSetan’s cold soba noodles are a must-try culinary delight in Kuala Lumpur.
Lot 10 Shopping Centre, ISETAN The Japan Store 4th Floor, 50 Jalan Sultan Ismail, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
+603 2141 7777
Daily: 11am – 11pm
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3. Thai Co – Watermelon Salad
While Thai food is known for its bold, spicy, and tangy flavours — often not the best choice in hot weather — Thai salads are a refreshing exception. Enter Thai Co, a new gem that opened in late 2024 at The LINC KL and is quickly earning a reputation as one of the best Thai restaurants in town.
A must-try dish is Tang Moo Pla Hang (RM26), better known as Watermelon Salad. This dish features honey-infused watermelon cubes, topped with dried salted salmon, salmon roe, crispy fried shallots, and fresh coriander. It’s a perfect balance of sweet, salty, and umami flavours — light, juicy, and chilled to keep you refreshed.
While the Watermelon Salad steals the spotlight, Thai Co’s dessert selection is also worth exploring, especially if you’re looking for something sweet and cooling to beat the heat. Such selections include Coconut Soft Serve in different flavours like Red Ruby, Mango Sticky Rice, and Thai Pandan Mousse — priced at RM14 each.
LOT No,1-11 & 1-11-AF, First Floor, The Linc, 360, Jln Tun Razak, Taman U Thant, 50400 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur
+6011 1168 0999
Daily: 11am – 10pm
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4. Kung Jung Korean Restaurant – Bibim Naengmyeon
For the unversed, Bibim Naengmyeon is a Korean dish consisting of cold, chewy buckwheat noodles topped with a spicy sauce, julienned vegetables, and a boiled egg. It is a popular choice during hot summers in Korea and provides a flavourful and cooling experience.
There’s no dearth of good Korean food in the Klang Valley but bibim naengmyeon can be a slightly tough find. Well, turns out this humble little restaurant located in Jalan Brinjal is exceptionally famous for their Bibim Naengmyeon! Kung Jung Korean Restaurant, besides its authentic Korean BBQ, also prides itself on its niche Korean cuisine.
Kung Jung Korean Restaurant has earned its reputation as a go-to spot for Korean food enthusiasts seeking an authentic and satisfying dining experience. While their Korean BBQ steals the spotlight, it’s their dedication to serving Bibim Naengmyeon that has garnered significant attention.
With a deep understanding of the dish’s traditional flavours and preparation techniques, the skilled chefs at Kung Jung Korean Restaurant ensure that each serving of Bibim Naengmyeon is a harmonious symphony of taste and texture.
Lot No 3.1 Level 3 PNB Perdana, Jln Binjai, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
+603 2166 7181
Mon to Sat: 11.30am – 2pm & 5.30pm – 9.30pm
Closed on Sun
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5. PAAN KL – Gado-gado
Nestled along the vibrant streets of Changkat, Bukit Bintang, PAAN KL is a spot renowned for its diverse selection of Pan-Asian cuisine. While the restaurant is best known for its authentic and flavourful Sri Lankan dishes, the option perfect for beating the heat is its Indonesian Gado-Gado (RM25).
This refreshing dish features a medley of lightly cooked or raw vegetables, making it both cool and easy to digest — ideal for warm weather. Imagine a bowl brimming with crisp cucumber and jicama, paired with golden-fried tofu and tempeh, and complemented by crunchy emping crackers. The dish is then generously drizzled with rich, nutty peanut sauce, tying all the flavours together for a satisfying yet refreshing bite.
51-A, Changkat Bukit Bintang, Bukit Bintang, 50200 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur
+6014 652 5100
Sun to Thu: 12pm – 11pm
Fri & Sat: 12pm – 12am
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6. Chilled Tofu – DIY
Who doesn’t love a good, soft tofu right? So, chilled tofu is such a simple dish to help you beat the heat, we’d recommend you to DIY them at home (more reasons to avoid the heat!).To make the best-chilled tofu, start by draining a package of soft tofu and placing it on a plate. In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, sugar, and grated ginger to create a flavourful dressing.
Pour the dressing over the tofu, ensuring it covers the entire surface, and then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavours meld and the tofu chill. Before serving, garnish with sliced green onions, toasted sesame seeds, or chopped cilantro for added freshness.
Enjoy the chilled tofu as an appetiser or side dish, and consider pairing it with steamed rice for a more substantial meal. This simple recipe allows you to recreate the delicate and satisfying experience of chilled tofu in your own kitchen, avoiding the summer heat while indulging in its creamy goodness.
7. An Viet – Bún Chả
When it comes to Vietnamese dishes, we usually associate it with pho or banh mi but bún chả is a true hidden gem. This dish features grilled pork served with cold rice noodles, fresh herbs, and a tangy dipping sauce. It’s a light and flavourful dish that is commonly eaten in Vietnam during hot weather.
To find yummy bún chả in the Klang Valley, we’d recommend you to try An Viet. Said to be the “closest to the one they’ve tasted in Vietnam”, this Vietnamese restaurant serves Viet food that has also been catered to the Malaysian palette. Best part? You don’t have to worry about travelling to an obscure location to secure your bún chả. An Viet has outlets across Klang Valley from The Gardens Mall all the way to Paradigm Mall.
Click here to find out the nearest outlet’s location, opening hours and contact details!
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8. Dindigul Thalappakatti Restaurant – Raita
Briyani on a hot day might be a little out there but you know what isn’t? Briyani’s best friend, raita! Raita is a yoghurt-based side dish or condiment made with grated cucumber, tomatoes, mint, and spices, aka the perfect dish to beat the heat!
You can typically find this at any Indian restaurant that serves briyani but hey if you’re searching for the best raita, you might as well search for the best briyani. Dindigul Thalappakatti Briyani has been serving special briyanis in Brickfields since 1957, so safe to say, they know what they’re doing.
130, Jalan Tun Sambanthan, Brickfields, 50470 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur
+603 2272 1500
Daily: 10.30am – 11pm
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9. Rojak & Cendol Mustaffa – Cendol
Ok Penangites, we get it, the best cendol is in Penang but that doesn’t mean those living in the Klang Valley need to drive down every time they crave a bowl of cendol. There’s an abundance of cendol options right around your neighbourhood!
Rojak & Cendol Mustaffa has been a crowd favourite for years in PJ. In the 1980s, Mustaffa’s humble beginnings can be traced back to a small roadside stall. However, due to its popularity and growing customer base, the thriving stall expanded and now operates out of 2 food trucks in the area.
Jalan 17/41, Seksyen 17, 46400 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
+6016 266 6456
Daily: 11.30am – 5.30pm
10. Restaurant Xun Qin Ji – Liang Pi
Literally called “cold sesame noodles”, Liang Pi is made from wheat or rice flour and served with a flavourful sesame sauce, cucumber, bean sprouts, and sometimes chilli oil.
Xun Qin Ji Restaurant in Puchong has gained a well-deserved reputation as the go-to place for handmade Biang Biang noodles and a variety of other mouthwatering dishes that showcase the unique flavours of the region.
The star of the menu is undoubtedly the Biang Biang and Liang Pi noodles. These wide, hand-pulled noodles are made with precision and care, resulting in a satisfyingly chewy texture. Tossed in a savoury sauce and garnished with fragrant spices, green onions, and other delectable toppings, this dish helps you beat the heat while also being both comforting and incredibly flavourful.
58, Jalan Puteri 2/4, Bandar Puteri, 47100 Puchong, Selangor
+603 8066 2110
Daily: 11am – 10pm
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