Dine to Your Heart’s Content at These Spots in Town for Chinese New Year

Ready your empty stomachs.
chinese new year 2024 dining guide kl

The Year of the Dragon is upon us. And aside from another well-deserved long break and the grand family reunion, we’re looking forward to what the city has to offer. And no, we’re not talking about which lion dance will be the best in town. Instead, we turn our attention to the best of Chinese New Year 2024 dining.

Who are we kidding? Food can really make or break the festive season, and this year, the spread is looking very jubilant. And while it’s super to have home-cooked delights, nothing beats the glamour of getting dolled up for the new year and the ease of whisking yourself and your loved ones to one of the hottest spots in town to ring in the new year. Plus, there’s nothing like a good meal to pair with the conversational dishes everyone will be serving at the family reunion.

So why not do yourself a favour, book a table (or two or more if you have a huge family) and let the gastronomic masters of KL serve up their best to wow your tastebuds, be it through a magnificent multi-course dining experience, or decadent buffets. One thing is for sure: this year’s reunion dinner is about to be one for the books.

The Best Restaurants to Go to for Chinese New Year 2024

Sunway Resort Hotel

Over at Sunway Resort Hotel, they are celebrating the new year across the property. But what perks our ears is the Emperor’s Banquet at the Sunset Terrace. Just as the title suggests, you’ll be embarking on a dining journey that’s fit for royalty. The buffet is available for both lunch and dinner bookings. The chefs have prepared both traditional Chinese dishes as well as original recipes, from Golden Bean Curd to Oyster with Fresh Peppercorn in Pumpkin Gravy. Aside from the succulent main offerings, you should also keep an eye out for their dessert counter, where a stash of Pineapple Tarts, Mandarin Chocolates, and more await.

Date: 15 January to 24 February 2024

Address: Sunway Resort Hotel, Persiaran Lagoon, Bandar Sunway, 47500 Petaling Jaya, Selangor

Price: from RM158 per adult, and from RM68 per child

InterContinental Kuala Lumpur

If you’re looking for a restaurant that can cater to a variety of dietary needs, head on over to Tao Chinese Cuisine at the heart of town—it’s awarded the best Muslim-friendly Chinese restaurant. Head Chef Tommy Choong has successfully pulled a wondrous stunt, preparing not only one or two but six eight- to nine-course set meals for you to choose from. So what seasonal delights, pray tell, are available here? You can expect Steamed Live Dragon Grouper with Wan Fungus; Double-boiled Chicken Soup with Dendrobium Orchid; Kirin-style Roasted London Duck and Mandarin Orange, and more.

Date: 15 January to 24 February 2024

Address: 165, Jalan Ampang, 50450 Kuala Lumpur

Price: from RM988+ per table of four persons

Fifty Tales

Known for their “Cincai Dinner” menu, Fifty Tales is swapping that with a special, Chinese New Year-themed menu for the Year of the Dragon. Expect classic homecooked-style dishes, but elevated. In the menu, you’ll find tasty dishes to celebrate family with such as the Wensi Tofu Oyster Soup, Claypot Glutinous Rice, Pumpkin and Salted Egg, and Smoked Corn-Fed Chicken. The last one, in particular, borrows Taiwanese and North China influences on smoked chicken during the winter season. Fifty Tales then gave it their take with ginseng sauce, goji berry jam, and Szechuan pepper salt on the side. Of course, no CNY dinner is complete without some yee sang, and Fifty Tales will also have a yee sang dish that needs to be pre-ordered.

Date: 4 January to 26 February 2024

Address: 19, Jalan 21/11b, Sea Park, 46300 Petaling Jaya, Selangor

Price: from RM26 per dish

Four Seasons Hotel Kuala Lumpur

Want to wow your guests? Then book a table at the opulent Yun House at Four Seasons Hotel Kuala Lumpur—stat. It is, after all, a Michelin-selected restaurant in 2023 and 2024. The a la carte option is amazing, but why not experience the full meal deal, just as the restaurant’s Executive Chef Jimmy Wong intended you to? Each option comes with its own version of Yee Sang, and every element of the menu will be different, too. One thing stays the same across the board, and it’s the Yun House Deep-Friend Rice Cake, which we’re sure will please pretty much anyone.

Date: 8 January to 24 February 2024

Address: 145, Jalan Ampang, 50450 Kuala Lumpur

Price: from RM598 per person

Four Points by Sheraton Chinatown

Ready to dance with the dragon in Chinatown? Then Four Points by Sheraton, Chinatown has just the deal for you. Aside from the must-have Golden Prosperity Yee Sang, we highlight the Bountiful Blessings Buffet at Quan’s Kitchen. Featuring your usual Chinese New Year dining suspects, this is a magnificent spread of culinary delicacies that you don’t want to miss. Plus, when the dinner (or lunch!) is over and done with, you can always head over to Jann to sip on Chinatown-inspired drinks. The spot is, editor-approved, after all.

Date: 27 January to 24 February 2024

Address: 2, Jalan Balai Polis, 50000 Kuala Lumpur

Price: from RM158+ per person

W Kuala Lumpur

Music to the ears: a table decked out with no-frills, good old Cantonese dishes. To start the auspicious year, YEN laid out a series of crafted menus, ala carte specialities and a variety of Yee Sang, and yes, they have something for the vegetarians too. A specific dish that tops our list has to be the double-boiled chicken soup, served with fish maw, morel mushroom and Hokkaido scallop that enhances the taste of the hearty dish—name us a better way to start the Chinese New Year if not a hot bowl of soup. One thing about these set menus is that they are usually meant for a bigger group but if you are looking for a cosy table for two, YEN offers four different menus for two, priced from RM 248++ per person.

Pre-payment and pre-order are required at the point of reservation.

Date: 2 January to 24 February

Address: 121, Jalan Ampang, 50450 Kuala Lumpur

Price: from RM1388+ per table of 5 persons

Mandarin Oriental Kuala Lumpur

If you want sumptuous, Lai Po Heen at Mandarin Oriental Kuala Lumpur will give you sumptuous. Go all out with the Chinese restaurant’s MO Signature Yee Sang, which comes with Australian lobster and caviar, alongside the usual traditional yee sang ingredients. Start your night with that, and then continue with one of their five set menus, aptly named Seasons Peace, Wealth, Prosperity, Fortune, as well as a Vegan menu. For a change in pace, why not try dim sum for a CNY meal instead? Lai Po Heen has always been known for their dim sum prowess, and the Happiness Dim sum set menu just so happens to make a return for the festivities, albeit only for lunch.

Date: 28 January to 24 February

Address: Kuala Lumpur City Centre, P.O. Box 10905, 50088, Kuala Lumpur

Price: from RM228+ per person

Pavilion Hotel Kuala Lumpur

Some restaurants may offer just one variant of yee sang, but at Jade Pavilion, the Cantonese restaurant at Pavilion Hotel Kuala Lumpur, there are six to choose from—all filled with “prosperous” ingredients such as Alaskan scallops, abalone, and hokkigai (arctic surf clams). Then, there’s The Prosperity Set Menu, which offers nine courses of sumptuous Chinese dishes in a banquet-style. Every dish in the course is chosen with mindful intention of the festivities. Take the first three seafood dishes, for example, which signify abundance and good luck. If you want to bring in good fortune with luxurious ingredients, there’s also The Fortune Set, which has six courses but serves all the good stuff like bird’s nest, Australian lobster, abalone, and more.

Date: 2 January to 29 February

Address: 170, Jln Bukit Bintang, Bukit Bintang, 55100 Kuala Lumpur

Price: from RM358.80 nett per person

The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur

Here’s a little something that diverges from the rest of our Chinese New Year dining suggestions—an afternoon tea at The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur. With four options to choose from, each afternoon tea set promises to be a splendid treat to the tastebud. In the mix are the hotel’s iconic scones, traditional Chinese tidbits, as well as exclusively-curated festive delights. Perfect for a mother-daughter outing, or even a casual hang with your best girlfriends, the tea is an ideal option for when you want something lighter compared to the rest on this list.

Date: 19 January to 25 February 2024

Address: 5, Jalan Sultan Hishamuddin, Tasik Perdana, 50000 Kuala Lumpur

Price: from RM88 per person

EQ Kuala Lumpur

Missed out on the Golden Phoenix experience in years past? Well, this is your chance, because the pop-up is making a return by the end of January. Regarded as one of the hottest spots to go to for Chinese New Year dining, the restaurant will be situated at Level 1, dishing out lunch and dinner for excited patrons. Featuring recipes that originated 50 years back, you get to choose between the set experience or go at it on your own with a la carte options.

Date: 29 January to 24 February 2024

Address: EQ, Equatorial Plaza, Jalan Sultan Ismail, 50250 Kuala Lumpur

Price: from RM198 per person for the sets

Shangri-La Kuala Lumpur

We get it—we all go a little overboard with the festive cuisine sometimes. But here to balance out that scale is Shangri-La Kuala Lumpur’s fusion of Asian and Western cuisine at Lemon Garden. Of course, a staple at any table that’s marking the occasion, you’ll be getting Yee Sang, no matter if you choose a lunch or dinner buffet option. Whether you’re planning to fill up on the fresh sushi and sashimi here, or chowing down some quintessential Chinese flavours, a trip here is definitely one for the books come the festive season.

Date: 10 January to 24 February 2024

Address: 11, Jalan Sultan Ismail, 50250 Kuala Lumpur

Price: from RM118 per person

M Resort & Hotel Kuala Lumpur

Thinking of showering the fam with true opulence? Then head on over to M Resort & Hotel Kuala Lumpur and get yourself a whole table. There are three variances to choose from, and each come with a 9-course set menu that pays homage to the delightfully auspicious occasion. Available for both lunch and dinner service, the Feast of Fortune features delicacies that showcase traditional flavours as well as festive symbolisms. Dishes include Steamed Tiger Grouper with Scallion and Chinese Parsley with Chef’s Superior Sauce “Hong Kong” Style; Wok Fried King Tiger Prawn with Scallion; Braised Fish Maw with Bai Ling Mushroom and Broccoli with Superior Sauce topped with Truffle Oil; and more.

Date: now to 24 February 2024

Address: Jalan Damansara, Bukit Kiara, 60000 Kuala Lumpur

Price: from RM2,588 for 10 persons

Crowne Kuala Lumpur City Centre

Experience the ‘Symphony of Abundance’ at Crowne Kuala Lumpur City Centre, a celebration of Malaysia’s diverse cultures through a rich array of flavours. Their uniquely sized Prosperity Set Lunch and Dinner cater to smaller, intimate CNY gatherings, featuring dishes inspired by Chinese, Nyonya, and Thai traditions. Explore innovative fusion creations like the Smoked Salmon Yee Sang and Wok-fried Seabass with Nyonya Sauce, showcasing a vibrant tapestry of culinary traditions. Depart from the usual CNY fare and indulge in a star-studded lineup of dishes, don’t forget to get your 20% discount by booking before 2 February 2024!

Date: 25 January to 24 February 2024

Address: 22, Menara 8, Jalan Yap Kwan Seng, Kampung Baru, 50450 Kuala Lumpur

Price: from RM398

The Chow Kit Kitchen and Bars

Celebrate the onset of the Lunar New Year in style at The Chow Kit – An Ormond Hotel, where an exquisite three-course menu awaits. Begin your culinary journey with the delectable Golden Prosperity Yee Sang, featuring local julienned fruits like pegaga and ulam raja, paired with wild-caught smoked salmon, pomelo, jackfruit, and dragonfruit, all crowned with cassava chips and a honey lemon dressing. For the main course, savour the choice between the ‘Wok Hei’ Cod or Wagyu fried rice, accompanied by tenderstem broccoli and a spicy tomato sambal. Conclude the feast on a high note with the Panna Cotta & Lucky Longan, a festive favourite. They also have The Taste of Reunion set priced at RM218++, which caters to 2-3 individuals looking to share a delightful array of savoury dishes.

Date: From now to 25 February 2024

Address: 1012, Jln Sultan Ismail, Chow Kit, 50100 Kuala Lumpur

Price: from RM188 per person

MeatMore

Indulge in the Year of the Dragon with flair at MeatMore! Immerse yourself in a celebration of prosperity and delectable moments with their exclusive Chinese New Year Menu, savour the richness of premium ingredients like Roasted Whole Herb Chicken, Grilled Whole Snapper Fish, Grilled Prawns, and a delightful twist to the traditional prosperity toss: Wagyu Beef Yee Sang! For an added touch of opulence, enhance your festivities with an extra 600g of succulent Roast Beef, available for just RM228. Join us for a feast that combines style, taste, and abundance!

Date: from 15th to  25 February 2024

Address: Next to Gold3 Boutique Hotel, Lot B2, B3, B4, 1st Floor, Fahrenheit88 Block B, 179, Jln Bukit Bintang, Bukit Bintang, 55100 Kuala Lumpur

Price: from RM788

SHIN’ LABO

The new energy of the dragon is palpable, as Shin Labo by James Won ushers this spirit with a robust celebration of flavours, ingredients and zesty storytelling through the culinary language that has become the forte of Malaysia’s award-winning restaurant. Marking the occasion of a new year with a new vibe, diners can experience family and corporate celebrations for the upcoming Chinese New Year with the Celebrate The Dragon menu hand-crafted and curated for festivities at Asia’s only KRUG CHEF’S TABLE. The luxurious 12-course menu priced at RM888++ per guest offers two complimentary bottles of the Krug Grand Cuvee upon reservations of 10 guests or more. They also have 2 other new menus to let you usher in the new year.

Date: from now to 25 February 2024

Address: 2, Jln Hang Tuah, Bukit Bintang, 50450 Kuala Lumpur

Price: from RM888

Ignis

Ignis is thrilled to introduce its exclusive Lunar New Year menu, celebrating the Year of the Dragon! The Charred Whole Sea Bass is a culinary masterpiece, featuring locally sourced sea bass with a contemporary twist by Chef Chong—charred to perfection, lightly seasoned, and enhanced with Japanese White soy sauce, this dish is a fusion of local freshness and Chinese culinary heritage. Also, In homage to Peking Duck, Ignis presents the Aged Duck Crown, showcasing a week of in-house aging for crispy skin, tender meat, and flavorful explosions. Served with in-house pancakes, hoisin sauce, soy sauce, offering a balance of tradition and innovation. Ignis completes the experience with two Chinese New Year cocktails, Prosperi-Tea and Love Bite, providing a delightful start to the new year.

Date: from now to 24 February 2024

Address: G-02A, Ground Level, The Sphere, No. 1, Avenue 1, Bangsar South City, 8, Jalan Kerinchi, 59200 Kuala Lumpur

Price: from RM98

Sichuan Kitchen

Savour an authentic Sichuan experience at Sichuan Kitchen’s Chinese New Year feast, featuring bold flavours crafted by its native chef in a vibrant and ageless setting. The restaurant offers a diverse range of seating options, including five private dining rooms, perfect for gatherings of any size. Whether you choose the cult-favourite ‘hot pot’ set or the traditional set, shared moments are guaranteed during the festive season. For more choices, indulge in a la carte selections like Salmon Yee Sang starting from MYR 118 nett or the Poon Choi Treasure Pot priced at MYR 888 nett, offering two delectable styles to suit your preferences. Enjoy the festivities in a relaxed yet stylish atmosphere at Sichuan Kitchen.

Date: from 19 January to 24 February 2024

Address: Level 1, Four Points By Sheraton Kuala Lumpur, City Centre Corner of Jalan Sultan Ismail, Jln Ampang, 50450 Kuala Lumpur

Price: from RM158

The LIBRARI at The RuMa Hotel and Residences

Celebrate the auspicious Year of the  Dragon this Chinese New Year by savouring the delightful flavours of Red Lantern Delights and treating yourself to an exclusive afternoon tea experience at The LIBRARI. Infused with both tradition and taste, each dish in the Chinese New Year-themed afternoon tea set carries significance. Indulge in the prosperity symbolised by the wonderfully savoury king fish pie tee, embrace love and romance with the delicate entremets lychee, and invite good luck with the traditional pineapple tarts. This unique and meaningful culinary journey at The LIBRARI is a perfect way to usher in the new year with style and flavour.

Date: from 4 January to 3 March 2024

Address: 7, Jalan Kia Peng, Kuala Lumpur, 50450 Kuala Lumpur

Price: from RM118 per person

THIRTY8 at Grand Hyatt

Savour a Feast of Abundance at THIRTY8, where culinary excellence takes centre stage, blending authentic Chinese treasures with global flavours for a symbolic and indulgent feast of prosperity. Chef Danny, with his wealth of experience, expertly combines traditional Chinese elements with modern tastes in specially crafted menus. The Yee Sang toss, a customary start to Chinese New Year meals, signifies the beginning of a year filled with fortune and joy. THIRTY8’s Chinese New Year Set Menu offers a well-balanced composition of flavours, featuring golden snapper, 10-head abalone, and more, ensuring a delightful and harmonious dining experience.

Date: from 7 to 11 February 2024

Address: Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur, 12, Jalan Pinang, 50450 Kuala Lumpur

Price: from RM228 per person

A Li Yaa

A Li Yaa, the renowned Sri Lankan restaurant in Kuala Lumpur, is set to enhance Lunar New Year celebrations with its distinctive Yee Sang. Diverging from tradition, A Li Yaa’s Yee Sang promises an extraordinary culinary journey, combining diverse flavours and distinctive ingredients for a unique festive experience. Ideal for celebrating with loved ones, this special offering introduces an abundance of tastes to the festive table. The delightful addition features a unique ensemble, including Fish Sambol, Vallari Sambol, Eggplant Sambol, Potato Poriyal, Seeni Sambol, Coconut Sambol, Katta Sambol, Green Sambol, Deep-fried Sea Crab, and Papadam.

Date: from 1 to 12 February 2024

Address: Aliyaa Kuala Lumpur, No 8 G&M, Jalan Medan Setia 2, Bukit Damansara, 50490 Kuala Lumpur

Price: from RM88