One of the things I love doing whenever I’m in a foreign country is try good, affordable local food. Preferably right at the sidewalks, at hawker stalls, at karinderyas, at local food markets. I’m not saying, though, that swanky restaurants don’t offer good food. I just think that a lot of unique, flavorful, delectable dishes can be found at simple, often unexpected places.
This is exactly what happened when Ryan and Scott, my two very well-traveled, now Kuala Lumpur-based friends, took me and co-Malaysia Social Media Week 2014 speaker from the Philippines Anton Diaz to a special food trip night at Jalan Alor. Actually, they did more than just take us. They generously treated us and I must say, I felt really touched and grateful 🙂
Jalan Alor at Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia is a certified food paradise. Jalan is a Malay word that means “street” and Alor means “small stream.” Located right next to Bukit Bintang (Kuala Lumpur’s shopping capital), Jalan Alor, which, according to Ryan, used to be recognized as a red light district, turns into a busy food street by night. I think some stalls are open during the day, too, but it’s best to visit after sundown – when everyone – locals and tourists alike – trek to this food haven. Do take note, however, that most, if not all, of the food choices here are non-Halal.
Since there are LOTS of stalls along Jalan Alor (both sides of the street), a one-time visit just isn’t enough.
This is what they call cat eye’s drink. Really refreshing!
If you see these pork jerkies, you MUST buy one. So good!
Satay heaven!
Yes, those are veggies on sticks 🙂
Anton held this menu. As you can see, there are Chinese translations of the menu choices. You can also ask the server for recommendations.
A must try: bak kut teh!
Ryan and Scott insisted that this was real good beer. I agree!
One of my favorites – salted egg pork. Yum!
Crispy fried egg. Delicious!
Tofu that’s sooo good!
That Jalan Alor food experience was truly one of the highlights of my most recent Malaysia trip, much thanks to Ryan and Scott! I truly appreciate the warm hospitality 🙂
Just in case you guys need a foodie guide in Kuala Lumpur, too, do contact my friends! They’re the best company, trust me. Contact Scott and Ryan here or you can also leave a comment below.
Are you flying to Kuala Lumpur soon and do you want to stay near the Jalan Alor area? Find hostels / inns / hotels here.
Map of Jalan Alor:
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Mindanaoan is a multi-awarded blogger, content creator, seasoned social media strategist and publicist with undeniably successful track record. 2012 International Visitor Leadership Program (for global leaders) alumnus and O visa grantee (for people with extraordinary skills and who have risen to the top of their field). Avid traveler and a proud relief operations volunteer. Regular resource person for social media, blogging and content creation. Available for work and travel – [email protected]
