Sambal Hijau

Amazing, amazing Malay food — whenever I’m visiting KL, I make it a point to detour to this place. It’s a bit of a hike from the city center, but once you’re here (if you can find it), it’s so worth it. Everything is delicious and the a la carte items always impress me. I’ll usually do one round of the buffet line, getting a little bit of everything, and then get an order of ikan bakar (sambal stingray). I’ve had the stingray three times already, and every time it was just perfect. As for the buffet, the namesake is one of the highlights — the green sambal is unlike what you’ll find elsewhere and definitely packs a punch. The rendang has such a strong flavor and it seems like the meat has been slow-​cooked for days — yet it falls apart with just a fork. All the veggies are usually crispy and flavorful, as well as the other meats and curries.
I really eat too much whenever I’m here. After you sit down with a massive plate of food, a staff member comes by and totals you up — you literally cannot eat 30rm worth of food, and I challenge you to do so. The teh tarik is not as good as a place that specializes in it, but who cares. This place has some of the best Malay food I’ve ever had, a good selection of desserts, and a la carte barbeque choices. Best time to come is mid morning or mid afternoon, because otherwise you WILL NOT get a seat.
Come here with an empty stomach and thank me later.

I love Sambal Hijau for the sheer variety of food they offer. Tray after tray of curries, veggies and meats are displayed, which makes for a unique lunch every time even if you frequent this place. I especially like the sambal tempe with ikan bilis, kuah daging manis and the various ulams. The marinated ikan bakar pari is quite a treat too.
At weekday lunch time, the space gets really crowded so I suggest you get there around 11 to guarantee yourself a seat. You run don’t face the risk of the food running out. Parking too is a bit of a hassle, but with food this comforting, it’s worth the trouble.

This is the best restaurant to get your Malay Rice Buffet (aka Nasi Campur). The wide range of dishes they put out during lunch is massive! And if you’re into Malay food, this is like the haven of Malay food. They have dishes from the different states in Malaysia and my favorite would have to be their Ayam Masak Cili Api which is a dish from Negeri Sembilan! (that’s where my parents are from) If you come during lunch, be sure to reserve a spot first before you attack the Malay Rice buffet! I’m always satisfied every time I come here!