15 Best Cafes in Kuala Lumpur That Will Light Up Your Socials

It’s no secret that Kuala Lumpur is one of the most vibrant cities in Malaysia. After all, it is the capital city and arguably the most densely populated area in the country. In short, Kuala Lumpur is the epitome of a metropolis, filled with glitzy skyscrapers, a plethora of cultural attractions, and more shopping malls than one could ever ask for. It is also home to some of Malaysia’s most iconic and Insta-worthy landmarks. 

But beneath the shadow of the majestic Petronas Twin Towers are many alluring cafes that are tucked away from the busy streets. These quaint hangouts are Insta-worthy locations in their own right, and often the focal point of youth culture in the city. If you’re ever in the city and you love ambient cafes, you should definitely check out these top cafes in Kuala Lumpur! 

1. Urban Daybreak

With wide open spaces, pastel decor and ambient lighting, Urban Daybreak is one of those perfect locations for a weekend brunch gathering. Housed in a quaint shoplot in Bangsar, this famous cafe in KL is an absolute hit among the locals. 

While the look of Urban Daybreak is certainly pleasing to the eyes, it is the food that truly grabs your attention. This popular brunch cafe literally serves up artistry on a plate. Sometimes, the food looks so good that you might even spend more time feeding your camera than yourself! Some of their must-try items on the menu include their fried chicken waffles and smoothie bowls. 

Address: 11, Jalan Telawi 5, Bangsar, 59100 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur

Operating hours: 8.00am – 7.30pm daily

2. Merchant’s Lane

Another must-visit aesthetic cafe would have to be Merchant’s Lane, tucked away on Petaling Street. This cafe bears industrial interiors complemented by modern bohemian furniture — a combination of local charm and current culture. 

Feast on scrumptious food and desserts while getting your IG snaps for the day! They offer a range of light meals from Malaysia and beyond, best paired with their selection of coffees and teas. Indeed, it’s the perfect addition to the local coffee scene in KL’s Chinatown.

Address: 150, Jalan Petaling, City Centre, 50000 Kuala Lumpur

Operating hours: Tuesday to Friday, 11.30am – 8.30pm; Saturday to Sunday, 10:30 – 8.30pm

3. Botanica + Co

One look at Botanica + Co and you’ll immediately notice the stark contrast in ambience between this lovely cafe and the concrete jungles of Kuala Lumpur. Offering a unique garden dining experience, Botanica + Co features floor-to-ceiling windows which open up to lush greenery on all sides, almost like a glasshouse. The interior is also adorned with plenty of decorative plants, offering patrons a temporary escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. 

Of course, this elegant cafe isn’t all just about looks, it also serves up an appetising array of delicious food. These range from cocktails, coffee, and light bites to proper main courses and desserts. With such tantalising food and beautiful scenery to match, you’ll be hard-pressed to find any other aesthetic cafe in KL that compares to Botanica + Co! 

Address: 8, Jalan Kerinchi, Bangsar South, 59200 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur

Operating hours: (Mon-Thurs) 11:30am – 10pm ; (Fri) 11:30am – 12am ; (Sat) 9:30am – 12 am ; (Sun) 9:30am – 10pm

4. Lisette’s Café & Bakery

Adding to the impressive list of best cafes in KL is Lisette’s Cafe & Bakery, a humble establishment tucked away in a quiet corner off Jalan Kemuja. Featuring retro-inspired decor, this cafe and bakery is a true underrated gem that’s deeply adored by the locals. However, the most Insta-worthy backdrop lies in the garden just outside the entrance. 

Filled with colourful blooms, the entrance to Lisette’s Cafe & Bakery is just as enticing as the delicious pastries on offer. I highly recommend the peach crumble which is my personal favourite. The combination of sweet peaches and flaky puff pastry is simply divine, especially when it’s just fresh out of the oven! 

Address: 8, Jalan Kemuja, Bangsar, 59000 Kuala Lumpur

Operating hours: 8am – 6pm daily

5. Therefore Cafe

Therefore Cafe in Petaling Jaya is easily one of the most recognisable establishments on social media. Featuring bright pink walls and glimmering, golden door frames, this cafe fits the profile of Insta-worthy cafes perfectly. There are even potted plants and chairs at the entrance to further entice visitors to whip out their cameras and start clicking! 

And, as you might expect, the food is equally fantastic. However, unlike most of the other cafes on this list, Therefore Cafe features a distinctly Asian Fusion menu. Even western classics are given an Asian twist here. One particular item I quite liked was Sambal-dy’s Big Breakfast, which is also one of their signature dishes. As the name suggests, it is an Asian twist on the classic breakfast combination with homemade sambal for an added kick. 

Address:  Lot 02-G, Menara Symphony, No, 5, Jalan Professor Khoo Kay Kim, Seksyen 13, 46200 Petaling Jaya, Selangor

Operating hours: (Sun, Tues – Thur) 11am – 6pm; (Fri – Sat) 11am – 9pm

6. Hide and Seek

If a cafe were a contemporary art museum, it would most definitely be Hide and Seek — a hidden gem in Malaysia’s coffee scene. Their unconventional and mix-matched furniture brings a pop of colour to its rather bare walls and floors, perfect for your IG stories. 

Take delight in their speciality coffee, homemade desserts, and Japanese-inspired munchies like charsiew rice bowl and chicken karaage. Non-coffee drinkers can also enjoy decaf drinks like matcha lattes and ice-cold lemonades. When evening rolls in, Hide and Seek doubles as a cocktail bar where handcrafted booze and live music await you! 

Address: 33-A, Jalan 20/16, Taman Paramount, 46300 Petaling Jaya, Selangor

Operating hours: Sunday to Monday,  11am – 10pm; Wednesday to Saturday, 11am – 10pm

7. Lim Kee Cafe

While we often think of cafes as meeting points for youngsters, Lim Kee Cafe certainly breaks the stereotype. Featuring rattan chairs, tiled floors and colonial decor, a visit to Lim Kee Cafe is a refreshing experience for some and a walk down memory lane for others. Resembling an old school Hong Kong coffee shop, Lim Kee Cafe is a real hit, even among some senior citizens! 

As you might expect, the food here is also a throwback to the good ol’ days, featuring timeless Malaysian classics like kaya toast and half-boiled eggs. Of course, you can still order your frappucinos and whatnot, but if there’s any message Lim Kee Cafe conveys clearly, it’s that nostalgia never goes out of style. 

Address: 66-68, Jalan Sultan, City Centre, 50000 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur

Operating hours: 9:30am – 6pm daily

8. Feeka Coffee Roasters

Housed in an old villa in Bukit Bintang, Feeka Coffee Roasters is an ambient cafe surrounded by lush greenery. Taking inspiration from the Swedish word “Fika” which means a “time of rest,” this rustic cafe offers visitors the chance to truly relax and unwind with good food and even better scenery. 

We recommend that you plan your visit at night to best enjoy the lighting of the cafe. In terms of food, take your pick from a wide range of delectable delights, from simple cakes and pastries to mouthwatering western cuisine. Of course, don’t forget to wash it all down with a freshly-brewed cuppa! 

Address: 19, Jalan Mesui, Bukit Bintang, 50200, Kuala Lumpur

Operating hours: 8am – 11pm daily

9. The Hungry Tapir

The Hungry Tapir is one of the newer cafes in Kuala Lumpur featured on this list, but rest assured, it has more than earned its place. Like Therefore Cafe, the main colour scheme of The Hungry Tapir is pink with a touch of natural greens. However, what sets this little gem apart is the flooring, which projects a distinct Balinese ambience. 

Keeping up with global food trends, the menu at Hungry Tapir is fully vegan, ready to convert even the most arduous of carnivores. Apart from scrumptious vegan and vegetarian cuisine, the cafe also offers a variety of coffees, teas, and cocktails to complement your dining experience (and to give you more content for your Instagram feed!). 

Address: 135, Jalan Petaling, Chinatown, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Operating hours: (Wed – Fri) 12:00pm – 10:00pm; Weekends 11:00am – 12:00am; closed on Mondays and Tuesdays

10. Brew & Bread

Brew & Bread is a boutique roaster dedicated to serving top grade coffees and beautifully handcrafted pastries. It’s not only one of the best cafes in KL, but is also a globally-renowned company in the coffee scene. Apart from afternoon coffee delights, savour brunch meals and pasta dishes to appease your hunger. Can’t get enough of the cafe experience? Take your pick among coffee gift sets and assorted tart boxes that you can enjoy from the comfort of your home! 

Address: Wisma Mca, Suite G-03, 163, Jln Ampang, 50450 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Operating hours: 7.30am – 7:30pm daily 

11. Bukku Cafe

If you’re a fan of all things Muji, you’ll love Bukku Cafe! While not an official affiliate of Muji, it’s easy to see the brand’s influence on the minimalist decor, white-toned walls and wooden furnishing in this Japanese-style cafe. 

There’s also a  backyard where outdoor seating is offered. We recommend going for this option if you’re visiting during the night as the lighting outside is absolutely magical. And, as you search for your zen in this ambient space, feel free to also enjoy a nice cup of coffee or tea as well. Indeed, one of the best cafes in Kuala Lumpur for some much-needed alone time! 

Address:  Jalan Singgahsana 4A/KU5, Bandar Bukit Raja, 41050 Klang, Selangor

Operating hours: 8:30am – 11:30pm daily

12. Pokok KL

Treat yourself to mouth-watering food and unmatched ambience over at Pokok KL: a famous cafe in KL for food and architecture. This glass box cafe nestled among lush foliage treats you to a calm dining atmosphere. Relish in food that feeds the soul — dishes made with the freshest seasonal ingredients. If you’re looking for an Instagrammable cafe in KL for a coffee run or family brunch, there’s no better place than this one! 

Address: MAHSA Avenue (Jalan Universiti Campus), Block B, Level 1 Jalan Ilmu, off, Jln Profesor Diraja Ungku Aziz, 59100 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Operating hours: 10am – 9pm daily 

13. La Fluer Cafe

In search of the best cafes in Kuala Lumpur to celebrate any occasion with your girlfriends? Look no further than La Fluer Cafe! If I had to describe the look and feel of the place, I’d sum it up using three words: pink, rainbows, and unicorns. When I say everything here is decorated in pink, I’m not overexaggerating in the slightest! It even has a pit of pink balls you can dive into for some fun shots for the ‘gram! 

This La La Land-esque cafe specialises in rainbow and unicorn cakes, which are themselves too good to eat. However, you’ll likely be spending more time trying to get that perfect shot than doing anything else. Don’t worry if you want a wefie with your friends though, because the staff are always on hand to help! 

Address: 01, E1, 02, Jalan Lagoon Selatan, Sunway Geo Avenue, 47500 Subang Jaya, Selangor

Operating hours: (Mon – Thurs) 12 pm -12am; (Fri – Sun) 10am -1am

14. Kopenhagen Coffee

As you might have guessed from the name, Kopenhagen Coffee introduces visitors to Danish cafe culture. Owned and managed by a Dane, the cafe is a major favourite of all coffee lovers in the city, adored for its good coffee and impeccable ambience. Featuring monochromatic tones and high panel windows, Kopenhagen Coffee embodies the meaning of simple elegance. 

It is also often a quiet cafe, making it the best cafe in KL to catch up with old friends or to get some work done. While I’ve never been to this establishment myself, my friends tell me that, from the very moment you set foot in the cafe, your sense of smell will be blessed with the fragrance of freshly ground coffee beans. And that alone is enough to win me over! 

Address: Vista Kiara, 3, Jalan Kiara, Mont Kiara, 50480 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur

Operating hours: (Mon-Fri) 9am – 7pm;  (Sat & Sun) 7am – 7pm

15. Elephant Republic

Last but not least would be Elephant Republic — a quaint cafe specialising in coconut coffee and tea. If there’s anything you might confuse this Instagrammable cafe in KL for, it would most definitely be an interior design catalogue. Their carefully curated decor and modern furnishing, make for trendy photos to share on your social media feed. Otherwise, simply enjoy handcrafted beverages that will surely keep conversations going! 

Address: 7, Jalan Rembia, Bukit Bintang, 50200 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur

Operating hours: 8.00am – 7.30pm daily

Also read: 9 Best Kuala Lumpur Shopping Malls for Avid Shopaholics

Have a cuppa on me

And there you have it, the best cafes in Kuala Lumpur that you really should visit the next time you’re in town. Of course, Kuala Lumpur has a multitude of cafes that spring up every other day, so if I missed some of your favourites, do let me know about it — and I shall hit up the place soon myself!

Until then, relax, unwind and enjoy a cup of coffee at these beautiful cafes. Go on, you deserve it!