Best Ayam Masak Merah in KL

JM Bariani House started out as husband and wife business partners offering authentic Johor briyani rice from a family heirloom recipe to family and close friends. Word spread and soon enough they decided to launch a restaurant. Their ultimate dish to try is the briyani rice with Ayam Masak Merah. The chicken is cooked in the typical Masak Merah style with the addition of coconut cream and fresh herbs for its distinctively rich and flavoursome gravy. Raisins and cashew nuts dot the bright auburn tones of the briyani rice, drawing a fine balance of sweet and savory. Accompanied by vibrant fruit acar (pickled stone-fruits) and dhalca gravy, it is nothing like other briyani rice you have had before. Being in the business for over 20 years, the duo has developed more dishes to intensify the Johorian food experience and to spread the southerly love across 17 outlets in the Klang Valley.

Situated in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, the newly revamped Silka Maytower has been a prominent landmark for tourists and locals in the area. This year, they will be serving a Ramadhan Iftar Special until the middle of July. Their reputable Ayam Masak Merah is served together with 12 other dishes. However it is this dish which has been voted as the most favourite dish among customers as it complements scented briyani rice and a mix of curry gravy. The poultry is first fried to give it that crisp exterior while the sauce is made from a blend of chili, tomato paste and selected spices to give that audacious bang diners normally anticipate. With an interior cheerfully decorated in batik prints and twinkling lights, this Ayam Masak Merah will make you feel like you’re back in your kampung.

A dialect of Urdu origin, the word ‘mahbub’ directly translated means ‘dearly beloved’, and oh how dearly it is to the loyal customers this beloved restaurant is. Unlike any other typical mamak shop, the restaurant has gained a following from all over the Klang Valley since the 70’s. Famous for the Nasi Briyani Ayam Merah Bermadu (Honey glazed chili chicken briyani rice) served with pickled cucumbers and turmeric dhalca gravy. The basmathi rice is cooked to a perfect fluff and lightly spiced with several classic Indian seasonings and onions. The Ayam Merah Bermadu starts off with a dip in a seasoned batter which is then deep-fried. It is then slathered with a chili based gravy that is balanced with oodles of honey and more Indian spices. Be ready for a sticky situation as it is only satisfactory to dig in with your hands! Some say bungkus or take-away is the way to go as the gravy is well infused in the rice during the journey home (or maybe it’s just the comfort of your own home). Over the years, the restaurant has expanded their menu and serves more Indian dishes to complement their briyani rice. Other food served are rojak and all kinds of roti for the breakfast and supper crowd. A second outlet is available in Damansara Damai.