It’s the holiday season and we have come up with a list of top things to do in Chinatown KL (Petaling Street). From hipster cafes to speakeasy bars, markets to art exhibitions, we’ve got you covered with activities.
Cafe Hopping and Restaurants
In recent years there has been a growing number of cafes and restaurants in Chinatown. Whether you are after the most instagrammable cafe in town or a place serving great local food with a modern twist, you will not be disappointed with the wide array of offerings available here. A lot of these chic cafes and restaurants are renovated from old heritage buildings, giving the place an ultra-cool vibe that is uniquely Chinatown. A photoshoot paradise for any vintage lovers!
Digital Media Art Exhibition at REXKL
Catch Sensorium of Inversion/Immersion (SENSORii) at REXKL, a month-long media art showcase from December 1st to 28th, 2021. Featuring the work of local multimedia artists, SENSORii explores the notion of inverting our sensorial perception, divesting internal and external complexities. Immerse yourself in a 40-minute long magical world of music accompanied light projection artworks. Admission is free and there are 7-8 sessions available from Tuesday – Sunday (check their Instagram for details and updates!). Walk-ins are allowed but you will need to register at least 15 minutes prior to the show. While waiting for the show to begin, you can check out BookXcess located upstairs, another IG-worthy spot popular for its maze-like, floor to ceiling bookshelves.
REXKL is a two-minute walk from The 5 Elements Hotel.
Street Food and Central Market
A visit to Chinatown KL would not be complete unless you’ve tried the street food in Petaling Street! A few of our favourites are Kim Lian Kee Hokkien noodles, Madras Lane Hawker Curry Laksa and Hon Kee porridge. If you like arts and crafts, walk over to Central Market which is just a 5-minute walk from Petaling Street. This blue art deco building boasts over 350 shops and kiosks selling food and malaysian arts and handicrafts. Events and festivals are also held during the weekends at Central Market including Pesta Kopi and Tempatan Kitchen in December.
Petaling Street is just a stone’s throw away from the hotel (everyday is a food paradise!).
Christmas Shopping
If you are looking for christmas gifts or decorations, there are shops in Chinatown that might just have what you are looking for. These shops are adorned with Christmas decorations you can’t miss it. Great place to start for anyone looking to throw a last minute Christmas party!
Kwai Chai Hong
Kwai Chai Hong (鬼仔巷) is a must-visit if you have never been to Chinatown KL. In this quaint little laneway, visitors will be taken on a nostalgic walk down memory lane with interactive murals depicting the life of local Chinese settlers back in the 1960s. A great family bonding activity and a lovely addition to anyone’s instagram feed! If you are feeling hungry or just need a place to chill after a long day of walking, there are IG-worthy cafes and bars right here, including the famous Bunn Choon and Concubine KL.
Time to ring in 2022 with an awesome Chinatown staycation!
