Best Ayam Masak Merah in KL

Kak Taim is the name of the owner of this mobile stall which has never relocated as she aims to cater to the people in the area. Providing only take-away service or as we Malaysians call it bungkus, this roadside food vendor has been operating over eight years and is renowned for its superb Nasi Tomato and selection of Malay dishes. Like a flower crowning the dish, the Ayam Masak Merah is a perfect pairing, with large caramelized onion rings, green peas and julienned spring onions adding contrast to the rich red gravy beneath. The meat is cooked tender and seasoned with a robust flavour from the spice mix including cardamom, cinnamon and star anise. A perfect balance of hot and spicy emanates from the blanched dried chilies blended to a paste, while the pleasant tang from canned tomato paste gives the dish its distinct identity. When served together with the fragrant and fluffy Nasi Tomato, you know it’s worth the travel to seek this alley despite the lunch hour traffic and the beeline.

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.