When traveling to Malaysia, immersing yourself in the local culture is one of the best ways to enrich your experience.
Learning some basic Malay phrases, especially for dining out, can help you connect with locals, show your respect for their culture, and make your trip even more memorable.
From learning how to order food with Boleh pesan? (Can I order food, please?), specifying your dietary requirement with Kurang pedas (less spicy), expressing your opinion about the food by saying “Sedap!” (delicious), to asking Boleh berikan saya bil? (Can I have the bill, please?) when you’re ready to settle the bill.
In this blog, we’ll explore essential Malay vocabulary for the restaurant, ensuring you feel confident while dining in Malaysia.
We’ll guide you through everything you need to know to navigate menus, place your order, and communicate your preferences.
Stay tuned until the end of the post as we will also share tips on some must-visit restaurants in Kuala Lumpur that will make your trip even more unforgettable! Let’s go!
Table Of Contents
Malay Vocabulary For The Restaurant
| English | Malay |
|---|---|
| Restaurant | Restoran |
| Order | Pesan |
| Price | Harga |
| Menu | Menu |
| Delicious | Sedap / Lazat |
| Spicy | Pedas |
| Food | Makanan |
| Eat | Makan |
| Add | Tambah |
| Less | Kurang |
| Rice | Nasi |
| Noodles | Mee |
| Fried noodles | Mee Goreng |
| Fried rice | Nasi Goreng |
| Soup | Sup |
| Curry | Kari |
| Flatbread | Roti |
| Chicken | Ayam |
| Beef | Daging |
| Egg | Telur |
| Lamb | Kambing |
| Nasi Lemak | Nasi Lemak |
| Flat & Crispy Flatbread | Roti Canai |
| Marinated Meat Skewers | Satay |
| Malaysian-style Stir Fried Noodle | Char Kway Teow |
| Malaysian-Style Curry Noodles | Laksa |
| Hainanese Chicken Rice | Nasi Ayam Hainan |
| Malaysian-Style Shaved Ice With Red Beans And Pandan Strips | Cendol |
| Rendang | Rendang |
| Kandar Rice | Nasi Kandar |
| Mixed Rice | Nasi Campur |
| Stuffed Flatbread | Murtabak |
| Mee Rebus | Mee Rebus |
| Briyani Rice | Nasi Briyani |
| Net pancake | Roti Jala |
| Nasi Ayam | Chicken Rice |
| Grilled fish | Ikan Bakar |
| Fish Curry | Kari Ikan |
| Soto | Soto |
| Can I order food, please? | Boleh pesan? |
| What’s the menu for today? | Apa menu untuk hari ini? |
| I want to eat nasi lemak. | Saya nak makan nasi lemak. |
| Which food is famous here? | Apa makanan popular kat sini? |
| How much is the total? | Jumlah berapa? |
| How much is the price for all these foods? | Semua ini berapa? |
| Can I please have the bill? | Boleh berikan saya bil? |
| Do you have vegetarian food? | Ada makanan vegetarian tak? |
| Is this spicy? | Ini pedas ke? |
| Can I get some water? | Boleh bagi saya air? |
| What’s this dish called? | Apa nama hidangan ini? |
| I’m allergic to nuts. | Saya alah pada kacang. |
| I don’t want it too oily. | Saya tak nak minyak banyak. |
| Can you make it less spicy? | Boleh kurangkan pedas tak? |
| Where is the restroom? | Tandas mana? |
| Can I have extra rice? | Boleh tambah nasi tak? |
| What’s the best thing to order here? | Apa yang paling sedap kat sini? |
| Can I take this to go? | Boleh bungkus tak? |
| I’m full, thank you. | Saya kenyang, terima kasih. |
Additional Notes:
- Nasi Lemak is one of Malaysia’s national dishes, consisting of rice cooked in coconut milk served with sambal (chili paste), fried anchovies, and boiled eggs. It’s often paired with fried chicken or a hard-boiled egg.
- Roti Canai is a Malaysian roti flatbread, crispy on the outside and soft inside, commonly enjoyed with dhal curry or sugar.
- Satay are skewers of grilled meat (usually chicken or beef) served with a peanut dipping sauce.
- Laksa is a spicy noodle soup with various regional variations, typically featuring either a coconut milk base or a tamarind-based broth.
- Nasi Kandar is a popular dish of rice served with a variety of curries and side dishes, often found in Penang.
- Murtabak is a stuffed flatbread, usually filled with minced meat, onions, and eggs, then fried until crispy.
Malay Vocabulary For Local Coffee Shops
| English | Malay |
|---|---|
| Coffee Shop (local) | Kopitiam |
| Coffee with condensed milk | Kopi |
| Black coffee (no milk or condensed milk) | Kopi-O |
| Coffee with tea and condensed milk | Kopi Cham |
| Coffee with evaporated milk and sugar | Kopi-C |
| Hot black coffee with no sugar | Kopi-O Kosong |
| Coffee with sugar and water | Kopi-O Po |
| Coffee with less condensed milk | Kopi Siew Dai |
| Strong coffee with condensed milk | Kopi Gau |
| Coffee with extra condensed milk | Kopi Gah Dai |
| Iced coffee with condensed milk | Kopi Peng |
| Iced drink (general) | Peng |
| Diluted coffee | Po or Chniah (in Penang) |
| Strong or thick | Gau |
| Milk | Susu |
| Sugar | Gula |
| Sweet | Manis |
| Hot | Panas |
| Cold | Sejuk |
| Iced | Ais |
| A glass | Segelas |
| Tea | Teh |
| Frothy Pulled Milk Tea | Teh Tarik |
| Frothy Pulled Milk Coffee | Kopi Tarik |
| Water | Air |
| Milo (Chocolate Malt Drink) | Milo |
| Horlicks | Horlicks |
| Apple Juice | Jus Epal |
| Orange Juice | Jus Oren |
| Rose Syrup Drink | Sirup Bandung |
| Iced Lemon Tea | Teh-O Ais Limau |
| Can I order drinks, please? | Boleh pesan minuman? |
| How much is this? | Ini berapa? |
| Can I have a glass of water? | Boleh saya minta segelas air?) |
| Can I have the bill? | Boleh berikan saya bil? |
| What’s the special today? | Apa menu special hari ini? |
| Can I have it less sweet? | Boleh kurang manis? |
Additional Notes:
- Kopi Peng refers to iced coffee with condensed milk, and Peng indicates that the drink is served cold or with ice. If you’re ordering an iced version of another drink (such as tea), you can just add “Peng” at the end, like Teh Peng (iced tea).
- Kopi-O Kosong is the black coffee without sugar (Kosong means “empty”), so it’s essentially just coffee with no additives. Perfect for those who prefer their coffee simple and without sweetness.
- Kopi-O Po is for those who enjoy their coffee with sugar and water, a local twist for a refreshing drink.
- Kopi Gau is a strong and thick coffee, which is perfect for those who love a rich and intense coffee flavor. It’s a great option for coffee lovers who want to experience a stronger brew in Malaysia’s traditional style.
- When you’re ordering Kopi Cham, it means a blend of coffee and tea with condensed milk – a very popular local favorite!
- Milo is a popular chocolate malt drink, and Iced Milo is a refreshing favorite in the hot Malaysian climate. It’s commonly found in kopitiams.
- Teh-O Ais Limau is iced lemon tea, which is perfect for those who enjoy something refreshing and tangy. The “Limau” refers to lime or lemon in Malay.
- Sirap Bandung is a drink made from rose syrup, often combined with milk. It’s sweet, refreshing, and unique to Malaysia.
- Horlicks is a malted drink, and it’s especially popular in Malaysia as a hot drink, perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack.
Tips: 7 Must-Go Restaurants In Kuala Lumpur
Embarking on a culinary journey through Kuala Lumpur offers a rich tapestry of flavors and cultural experiences.
To enhance your dining adventures and connect deeply with the local culture, consider these seven places:
1. Savor Grilled Fish At Ikan Bakar Jalan Bellamy
Visit Ikan Bakar Jalan Bellamy, a hidden gem near Istana Negara (the King’s Palace), famous for its freshly grilled fish marinated in fragrant Malay-style spices.
The fish is wrapped in banana leaves and grilled over charcoal, creating a smoky, slightly charred flavor.
Served with a side of sambal belacan (spicy shrimp paste), this dish is a must-try for seafood lovers.
Dining here offers a taste of authentic Malay cuisine, and the open-air, no-frills setup provides a truly local experience.
2. Relish Nasi Lemak At Nasi Lemak Tanglin
Indulge in Malaysia’s national dish at Nasi Lemak Tanglin, which has been serving this beloved meal since the 1940s.
Nasi lemak consists of coconut-infused rice, sambal (spicy chili paste), crispy anchovies, boiled egg, peanuts, and cucumber.
Tanglin is known for its flavorful sambal, which strikes the perfect balance between sweet and spicy.
You can also customize your meal by adding fried chicken, beef rendang, or sambal sotong (spicy squid).
This is a must-try dish for anyone visiting Malaysia.
3. Delight In Fish Head Dishes At Restoran Mun Kee
For a unique culinary experience, visit Restoran Mun Kee Steam Fish Head, a spot renowned for its Chinese-style steamed fish head.
The fish, typically freshwater carp, is steamed to perfection and topped with soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and fragrant scallions.
It’s a delicate, healthy dish that emphasizes the freshness of the ingredients.
Engage with the staff by asking, Hari ini rekomen ikan apa? (“What fish do you recommend today?”) to show interest in their specialties.
The restaurant also serves other seafood and Cantonese-style stir-fried dishes, making it a great place for those who enjoy light yet flavorful meals.
4. Savor Fish Head Curry At Tugu View Cafe
Experience the bold and spicy flavors of Malay-style fish head curry at Tugu View Cafe.
Unlike the Chinese version, Malay fish head curry is richer and more aromatic, infused with coconut milk, lemongrass, and tamarind for a perfect balance of creaminess and tanginess.
The dish is prepared using red snapper, known locally as ikan merah, and is served with rice and side vegetables.
Enhance your meal by requesting Boleh kurangkan pedas tak? (“Can you make it less spicy?”) if you prefer milder dishes.
The casual, open-air setting makes it a comfortable place to enjoy a hearty meal while taking in the sights and sounds of Kuala Lumpur.
5. Explore South Indian Cuisine At Sri Ganapathi Mess
For an introduction to authentic South Indian cuisine, head to Sri Ganapathi Mess, a humble banana leaf restaurant tucked away in Petaling Jaya.
This restaurant is famous for its banana leaf rice, where fragrant rice is served on a banana leaf alongside a variety of vegetable curries, pickles, crispy papadam, and a choice of protein like fried chicken or mutton curry.
Eating with your hands, a common practice here, enhances the experience by allowing you to fully enjoy the textures and flavors of the food.
The warm hospitality and flavorful dishes make this a must-visit spot for Indian cuisine lovers.
6. Experience Traditional Cooking At Heun Kee Claypot Chicken Rice
Dine at Heun Kee Claypot Chicken Rice, where every dish is prepared over a traditional charcoal fire, infusing the rice with a unique smoky aroma.
This hearty Cantonese dish features chicken, salted fish, Chinese sausage, and fragrant soy sauce, all slow-cooked in a clay pot for maximum flavor.
Each order is made fresh, so expect a short wait, but the crispy, caramelized rice at the bottom of the pot makes it well worth it.
The Michelin-recommended status of this eatery ensures a high-quality dining experience.
7. Enjoy Breakfast At Mansion Tea Stall
Start your day at Mansion Tea Stall, a famous local eatery that serves classic Malaysian breakfast fare.
This no-frills eatery is beloved for its crispy roti canai, a flaky, buttery flatbread served with dhal (lentil curry), fish curry, or sambal.
Pair it with teh tarik, Malaysia’s signature frothy pulled tea made with condensed milk.
While the tea is sweet, the strong brew balances the flavors perfectly.
If you’re looking for an authentic Malaysian street food experience in Kuala Lumpur, this is a great place to soak in the morning hustle and bustle.
How do you say restaurant in Malay?
In Malay, the general word for “restaurant” is restoran. However, depending on the type of dining establishment, there are different terms used:
- Kedai makan – A casual eatery or small food stall, often family-run.
- Warung – A roadside stall or small café, common in rural areas or street markets.
- Gerai – A hawker-style food stand, usually part of a larger food court.
- Medan selera – A food court with multiple food vendors selling different types of cuisine.
- Kopitiam – A traditional Chinese-Malaysian coffee shop serving local breakfast and simple meals.
Wherever you dine, using simple Malay phrases to greet the staff and place an order will be appreciated by locals!
Frequently Asked Questions About Malay Vocabulary For the Restaurant
How to order at a Malay restaurant?
Ordering food at a Malay restaurant is quite straightforward, and using basic words and phrases in Malay can make your experience smoother while showing respect for the local culture.
Here’s how you can do it:
- Get the server’s attention – Politely say Maaf (Excuse me) or Saya nak pesan. (I want to order)
- Ask for the menu – Boleh bagi saya menu? (Can I have the menu?)
- Order food in Malay– For example:
- Saya nak satu nasi lemak. (I want one nasi lemak.)
- Kurang pedas, boleh? (Can you make it less spicy?)
- Tambah telur, boleh? (Can you add an egg?)
- Ask for drinks – Saya nak teh tarik, kurang manis. (I want a pulled milk tea, less sweet.)
- Confirm your order – Itu saja. (That’s all.)
If you want to practice Malay, the locals will appreciate the effort and might even teach you new phrases!
How to ask for the bill in Malay?
When you’re ready to pay, here are a few polite ways to ask for the bill:
- Boleh bagi saya bil? – Can I have the bill?
- Minta bil, boleh? – Can I get the bill, please?
- Semua berapa? – How much is the total?
You can also use a simple and natural local gesture if you’re at a casual eatery or hawker stall.
Just say Kira (which means “calculate” or “total up”) while pointing to your food with your index finger and making a small circular motion in the air.
Locals often do this instead of calling the waiter over!
You might need to pay at the counter at some places, especially self-service spots.
Just walk up and say Nak bayar (I want to pay), and they’ll tell you the total.
A friendly Terima kasih (Thank you in Malay) before leaving is always a good way to show appreciation!
What is Malaysian breakfast called?
Malaysia doesn’t have just one type of breakfast—it has many!
Breakfast is an exciting part of food culture in Malaysia, influenced by Malay, Chinese, and Indian cuisines.
Some common names for Malaysian breakfasts include:
- Nasi lemak – Coconut rice with sambal, anchovies, peanuts, and egg. A must-try!
- Roti canai – Flaky Indian flatbread served with dhal or curry.
- Kaya toast & soft-boiled eggs – A classic kopitiam breakfast with butter and coconut jam toast.
- Chee cheong fun – Steamed rice noodle rolls, often eaten with sweet sauce or curry.
- Dim sum – A popular choice for Chinese-Malaysians, with dumplings and buns.
- Tosai (Dosa) – A crispy, thin pancake made from fermented rice and lentils, served with chutney.
No matter where you go in Malaysia, breakfast is a delicious and social experience.
Join the locals at a kopitiam or warung, order in Malay, and enjoy the warm hospitality that makes Malaysian food culture so special!
You’re Ready To Dine Like A Local
Mastering a few Malay phrases can transform your dining experience in Malaysia.
From learning essential Malay Vocabulary For The Restaurant to navigating a local coffee shop like a pro, every word you pick up helps you connect with locals and show appreciation for the culture.
If you’re looking for the best spots to try, our Tips: 7 Must-Go Restaurants In Kuala Lumpur will guide you to unforgettable meals.
For any lingering doubts, check out our Frequently Asked Questions About Malay Vocabulary For The Restaurant.
Our guide on How To Order At A Malay Restaurant has got you covered, and when you’re ready to settle the bill, knowing How To Ask For The Bill In Malay will make you feel even more confident.
Keep practicing, and who knows? This trip might just be the first of many!
You’ve Discovered The Flavors Of Malaysia—What’s Next?
Ready to make the most of your Malaysian adventure?
Learning the local language is a great way to connect with the culture and its people.
This blog introduced you to over 100 useful Malay vocabulary for the restaurant to help you navigate restaurants with ease.
Now, take it a step further—Learn Malaysian with the Ling app!
It’s designed to help you pick up essential vocabulary and confidently engage with locals.
Whether you’re in a restaurant or a hotel, you’ll have all the tools to immerse yourself in Malaysia’s vibrant culture.
Download the Ling app today and start your language journey!
