Top 8 places to get the best bak kut teh in Kuala Lumpur

Herbal Goodness: 8 Best places to get mouthwatering bak kut teh in Kuala Lumpur

huibing

07 Jul 2017

1/8
Hong Bee Bak Kut Teh Restaurant
For impressive bak kut teh with good service, Hong Bee Bak Kut Teh will hit the right spot. Absolutely tempting, their tantalising bak kut teh with generous portions makes it highly affordable as well. To ensure that you get a taste of what they are known for, pre-order the claypot bak kut teh so they can prepare it beforehand. Pro tip: add parsley to your meal for a little extra kick, and try the mushroom and pork soup as well.

Batu 3 3/4 No. 613 Jalan Ipoh, Kuala Lumpur 51200, Malaysia

Photo: @gluttons_fooddiary
2/8
Kedai Makanan Ban Lee
Kedai Makanan Ban Lee is also known simply as Ban Lee Bak Kut Teh, but what is most known about this place is how scrumptious their dishes are. This is where they serve up some true-blue Kuala Lumpur style bak kut teh, which differs from the thick Klang style. Its original flavour makes this an absolute gem. It has been around for years, and the quick service and impeccable food has left enough of an impact to have a rotation of regulars — which only certifies how good it is.

222, Jalan Sultan Azlan Shah, Jalan Ipoh, 51200 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Photo: @williamsoh93
3/8
Ka Ka Bak Kut Teh
When the sun goes down and the stars comes out, Ka Ka Bak Kut Teh comes alive. Admittedly, Kepong isn’t the most accessible place if you aren’t driving, but this is totally worth the hassle. The taste is hard to describe but it is indescribably good, making this a popular place for many to visit. If you aren’t one for the typical, the claypot pork curry would definitely be a refreshing choice as well.

Jalan Kepong, Taman Kepong, 52100 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Photo: @bill902304
4/8
Kheong Kee Bak Kut Teh
For a milder take that is sure to please more people, Kheong Kee Bak Kut Teh is the way to go. This place serves up authentic bak kut teh that isn’t too overwhelmingly herbally (perfect for first-timers), and is paired perfectly with salted vegetables and soft tofu. This place, like many others that serve impressive food, is always overflowing with people, so visit during off-peak hours for the best experience.

2 Jalan Pandan Indah 4/10, Kuala Lumpur 55100, Malaysia

Photo: @amanda900820
5/8
Restoran Bak Kut Teh Yik See Ho
Yik See Ho is one of the best places to get this amazing dish, not just in Kuala Lumpur, but in general. While not as immensely populated by tourists, the broth here provides an unexpected sweet kick because of the addition of cabbage while boiling. The large order is extremely generous as well, with fried beancurd skin and vegetables added as a bonus. Did we mention that the meat is tender while maintaining that signature chewiness? Delicious!

20, Jalan Landak, Pudu, 55100 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Photo: @widyalie
6/8
Sun Fong Bak Kut Teh
When it comes to bak kut teh in the area, Sun Fong has been lauded as a must-visit restaurant for many tourists. Sure, it might be most frequented by locals, but that doesn't mean the meal here isn’t good. This place is perpetually packed, so come early to avoid the crowds if you want a taste of this aromatic peppery and herbal broth or their mixed claypot bak kut teh.

37, Medan Imbi, Pudu, 55100 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Photo: @5516_____
7/8
Fatty Bak Kut Teh & Fish Head
No, don’t worry, the name does not refer to the broth. Instead, it is a reference to the owner’s name. With a free-flow broth that is accompanied with delicious pork, you cannot go wrong with Fatty Bak Kut Teh & Fish Head. And, as per its name sake, definitely try out their fish head too for a little breather in between the savoury and herbal broth. Open till 4am, this is the place to head down to satisfy that late night craving.

5, Jalan Klang Lama, Pusat Dagangan 3rd Mile Square, 58100 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Photo: @immilu2
8/8
Restoran Yu Yi
There’s a no-frills approach when it comes to serving up delectable bak kut teh here at Yu Yi, making this a popular spot for locals. And, of course, when locals visit, you know it’s good. While running a bit lighter compared to other bak kut teh places here, the flavour still packs a punch. Go for the claypot bak kut teh and the steamed fish for an infallible combination that will leave you wanting more.

53, Jalan Barat, Pudu, 55100 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Photo: @meecomm

Bak kut teh may have its roots in Klang, but Kuala Lumpur is putting up a strong fight!

Bak kut teh, also known as “meat bone tea” in Hokkien, is no stranger to Malaysia. Though its origins aren’t clear, it’s pretty much accepted that it was brought over from Fujian in China, before setting up its roots here. In general, there are two types bak kut teh that you can find. One is the Teochew style, which has a peppery and garlicky broth that is clearer – it is more commonly found in Singapore. The other is the Klang style, with a darker soup made with plenty of herbs, giving it that sharp medicinal taste. Dry bak kut teh has also been hitting the streets, with its delightfully thick sauce (made from reducing the broth), so you’ll always be spoilt for choice! But, you might ask, where exactly can you relish in this delight in Kuala Lumpur?

Sure, Klang might be known as bak kut teh central, with many claiming it to be the founding place of this dish. But Kuala Lumpur is certainly no slouch either! We’ve rounded up 8 of the best places you can indulge in this delicious local dish. Head up to the gallery to take your pick!

Lee Hui Bing

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