By Viktor Chong, Hakim Hassan, and Kevin Eichenberger

Eat, drink, play, learn, and bond at the Golden Triangle

There's so much more to the centre of Kuala Lumpur than record-breaking property values – so much happens here that these few lines may only represent a glimpse into the area known as the Golden Triangle. Get the full review of Kuala Lumpur's most valuable district here.

Recharge at Perdana Botanical Garden

The lake at Perdana Botanical Garden in Kuala Lumpur after its rehabilitation, rising to Class II from Class III, making it safe for various water activities and family enjoyment.

The Perdana Botanical Garden is a green oasis in the bustling metropolis of Kuala Lumpur. Within the 91.6 hectares are attractions such as a deer park, bird park, a sunken garden as well as an orchid and hibiscus garden. It’s the perfect escape for city dwellers and their families.

Tech up at Low Yat Plaza

If you can’t find it there, you won’t find it elsewhere! That’s the promise from Plaza Low Yat, reputedly one of the oldest specialised shopping centres (for IT and electronic products) in Malaysia. From handphones, gizmos, and computers to software and cameras, almost anything tech- related can be found under one roof. This is the ultimate hideout for computer geeks, and therefore the place to find tech experts who will happily fix your gadgets at a reasonable price.

Out and about on a car-free day

Individuals of varying ages and races, and families of different forms, came together for a celebration of diversity, getting to know their community and just a little bit of fun on the deserted streets at the first Kuala Lumpur Car-Free Morning for the year.

Time: The first and third Sunday of every month

Besides reducing the carbon footprint in KL, the car-free day provides a safe zone for people to play and relax. Participants and the general public can enjoy cycling, jogging, walking or even skating along major streets of the Golden Triangle.

Volume up at KL Street Jam

Time: First Saturday of every month

Local celebrities and musicians get together to put on a show at Medan Pasar. The event is usually complemented by an array of food trucks that indulge visitors. Organised by DBKL and Karyawan, the street jam offers food for the heart and soul.

Malay cuisine with a modern twist

Bijan Bar & Restaurant

Proudly serving patrons for the past 15 years, Bijan Bar & Restaurant offers the foodie who craves for authentic Malay dishes. Common folk, royalty and foreign dignitaries have all walked through its doors. In the menu are such dishes as Opor Rusuk (pictured), Ayam Masak Kuzi, Sotong Hitam Manis, Masak Lemak Ikan Kurau with Pisang Kapas, Pucuk Paku Goreng Tahi Minyak, and Pandan Pudding.

Dining with panoramic views

Roofino Skydining and Bar, a creation by Bob Wong.

A fabulous view of the cityscape can act as a catalyst to build an appetite. Roofino provides all the ingredients necessary for this to happen, and more.

The menu includes the Frutti deMare (pictured), aptly named as it overflows with the fruits of the sea –octopus, prawns and an assortment of shellfish.

Other sumptuous dishes served are Black Angus Beef Tenderloin with Torched Signature Butter on AngelHair Pasta, Mango Mirror cake, and Classical Crêpe Suzette.

Immerse in heritage vibes

Merchant's Lane Cafe.

Surrounded by pre-war colonial buildings, the Merchant’s Lane Cafe is more than just a place for fine dining. It also stands as a lesson in history. The Kalau Aku Kaya by Merchant’s Lane is a dish composed of fried brioche-style bread balls served with tangy lemon ice-cream and kaya sauce.

Other dishes include Cow Food, South China Sea, Butter Chicken Pasta, Rose Honey Milk and Mimi’s Handcrafted Tea.

Late-night indulgence at Jalan Alor

Crowds enjoying the food offered along Jalan Alor.
FAIHAN GHANI/The Star

Most street foodies are familiar with Jalan Alor, and for good reason. Chinese, Thai or Vietnamese cuisine, the crowd is spoilt for choice. The variety of street food covers ice-cream, seafood, dim-sum, juices, fried noodles and more. Nearby shop lots sell merchandise such as white coffee, durian biscuits, ice-cream potong, and other authentic Chinese kuih.

Satisfy your street food cravings

Bazaar Baru Chow Kit.

Sometimes, the best fares are not found in glitzy restaurants with leather-bound menus. Bazaar Baru Chow Kit is defined by its narrow streets and pot-holed walkways that would turn many refined diners away. However, behind its shady appearance is a haven for local Malay cuisines.

At the bazaar, you will enjoy the food and atmosphere as an inextricable bundle, and the dishes are authentic and cheap.

What locals say about the Golden Triangle

Ken Ho Kok Hoong

Age: 37
Occupation: Cafe owner
Length of stay: 23 years
Likes: Conducive place for young professionals.
Dislikes: Traffic jams.

Waqas Noor

Age: 30
Occupation: IT Technician
Length of stay: 9 years
Likes: Extensive network of public transportation, incredible food choices.
Dislikes: Traffic jams, lack of cleanliness in certain parts of the city.

Nadhyrah Rosenita Noordin

Age: 33
Occupation: Administrative officer
Length of stay: 10 years
Likes: Great job opportunities and a variety of food.
Dislikes: Too many shopping complexes, very few libraries.

Zharif Zaini

Age: 26
Occupation: Public relations officer
Length of stay: 26 years
Likes: Ease of connectivity in terms of public transportation and road networks, diversity of dwellers.
Dislikes: Crawling traffic and the high cost of living.

Read more about what makes the Golden Triangle special here, or sign up for the full Best@Golden Triangle here.