It’s hard to imagine a time when dining out wasn’t part of everyday life. Yet, in today’s fast-moving world of trends and reinventions, many restaurants struggle to survive more than a few years. The food scene is constantly evolving—what’s hot today might be forgotten tomorrow. Younger generations are always on the lookout for the next viral spot, the latest café aesthetic, or a new twist on tradition.
But amid all this change, a handful of restaurants across Malaysia have stood the test of time—quietly, consistently, and with grace. These eateries, founded long before the country gained its independence in 1957, have weathered economic shifts, world wars, changing tastes, and generational transitions. Their resilience is not just a matter of nostalgia; it’s also a testament to strong culinary traditions, family legacies, and community support.
Some of these places are still buzzing with life today—not only for their food but also for the stories they carry. Stepping into one of these restaurants can feel like stepping back in time.
Here, we highlight a selection of Malaysia’s oldest restaurants—founded before Merdeka—that continue to serve generations of loyal customers.
Yut Kee Restaurant 镒记茶餐室 (1928)
A cornerstone of KL’s kopitiam culture, Yut Kee is beloved for its traditional Hainanese dishes—roast pork roll, roti babi, chicken chop, kaya toast, and more. Opened by Hainanese in 1928, the restaurant is now run by the third generation and continues to draw both locals and tourists alike.
1, Jalan Kamunting, Chow Kit,
50300 Kuala Lumpur.
Sek Yuen Restaurant (1948)
Tucked away in Pudu, Sek Yuen is one of the few restaurants in the city that started its business before Merdeka. Known for its classic Cantonese banquet-style dishes, it preserves the spirit of post-war KL with retro interiors and timeless flavours.
313, Jalan Pudu, Pudu,
55100 Kuala Lumpur.
品泉 Bunn Choon Restaurant (1893)
More than a century old, Bunn Choon started as a humble pastry shop and is most famous for its egg tarts, mooncakes and traditional Chinese pastries.
Before moving to this current spot, they were once at Imbi Wet Market until it was demolished.
3, Jalan Balai Polis, City Centre,
50000 Kuala Lumpur.
Soong Kee’s Beef Ball Noodles 颂记牛丸粉 (1945)
Founded just after World War II, Soong Kee has long been a local favourite for its springy beef noodles and hand-rolled beef balls. The modest shop has grown over the decades but still stays true to its original recipe.
86, Jalan Tun H S Lee, City Centre,
50050 Kuala Lumpur.
Ho Kow Hainan Kopitiam (1956)
Ho Kow began as a roadside stall and blossomed into a full-fledged kopitiam, cherished for its strong Hainan coffee, soft-boiled eggs, and toasted buns. A nostalgic breakfast destination in the heart of the city.
1, Jalan Balai Polis, City Centre,
50000 Kuala Lumpur.
Hamideeyah Restaurant (1907)
Established more than a century ago, Hameediyah is Penang’s oldest nasi kandar restaurant. Known for its deeply spiced curries, it remains an iconic stop for generations of Malaysians and tourists.
164A, Lebuh Campbell, 10100
George Town, Penang.
Tho Yuen Restaurant (1935)
A vintage Cantonese dim sum restaurant with marble-top tables and heritage interior, Tho Yuen brings a charming old-world feel to Penang’s George Town. Locals love its dim sum and fried noodles.
92, Campbell Street
George Town, 10100 Penang.
Lor San Restaurant 卢山茶室 (1925)
38, Persiaran Sultan Abdul Hamid,
Taman Pesisiran Tanjung Chali,
05050 Alor Setar, Kedah.
Noodle Descendants 麵家湯 (1957)
188, Jalan Padungan, 93100
Kuching, Sarawak.
Durbar at FMS (1906)
Originally known as the FMS Bar and Restaurant, this colonial-era establishment served British officers during the early 1900s. Recently restored and rebranded as Durbar at FMS, it offers a blend of heritage décor and Anglo-Malay cuisine.
2, Jalan Sultan Idris Shah,
30000 Ipoh, Perak.
Low Yong Moh Restaurant (1936)
32, Jalan Tukang Emas,
75200 Melaka.
Kek Seng Coffee Shop (1906)
A classic coffee shop best known for its durian ice cream and local hawker delights. Kek Seng has remained a local favourite for more than a century, tucked into the heart of George Town.
382 & 384, Jalan Penang, 10000
George Town, Penang.
Sai Kee Coffee 434 (1953)
121, Jalan Maharani, Taman Sri Emas,
84000 Muar, Johor.
Website | Instagram | Facebook
Yuit Cheong Coffee Shop (1896)
50, Jalan Pantai, Pusat Bandar Kota Kinabalu,
88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah.
Why These Places Matter
More than just places to eat, these restaurants are part of Malaysia’s living history. They have seen the country evolve—from colonial rule to independence, from kampungs to megacities—and have served generations of Malaysians from all walks of life.
In a landscape that’s always chasing the next new thing, these eateries remind us that sometimes, the best things don’t change. They age gracefully, carry stories in every plate, and offer comfort that transcends time.
So the next time you’re exploring Malaysia, consider skipping the trendy cafés for a day—and step into one of these legacy establishments. You’ll not only enjoy a good meal, but also a slice of history.
