KL Tower nasi kandar fest gets thumbs up for ‘authentic’ gastronomic experience

KUALA LUMPUR – Attendees at the Surrr! in the Sky Nasi Kandar Festival at KL Tower praised the event for providing an “authentic” gastronomic experience.

Thousands of visitors flocked to the landmark building to sample the famous nasi kandar cuisine, which is more commonly served in the country’s northern regions.

Visitors were spoilt for choice with 10 renowned restaurants, all specially brought in from Penang for the two-day event.

The lineup included acclaimed establishments such as Hameediyah, Kapitan, Hussain Pasembor Padang Kota, Line Clear, Ais Tingkap, Jamal Mohamed (Ketapang), Kudu, and others.

Syukri Ahmad Tasnim, 35, raved about his visit to Hameediyah, where he enjoyed nasi kandar with deep-fried squid. 

“As a Penangite, I found the nasi kandar to be truly authentic. For those in KL or Selangor, this place is a must-visit,” he said.

A 46-year-old Czech tourist who only wanted to be known as Petra said she stumbled upon the event while planning a visit to the KL Tower. 

She tried the lamb shank nasi kandar and expressed her delight, describing it as a pleasant surprise.

“I came here to see the KL Tower, but when I saw so many people lining up and buying food from these stalls, I decided to try whatever they were buying,” she said.

“I tried the lamb shank nasi kandar, and it was amazing. I’m so glad I stopped to try this dish.”

James Tan, 36, acknowledged the slightly higher prices but insisted they were worth it. 

“The nasi kandar kari kambing from Hameediyah was RM 22, which was a little expensive for me, but once I started eating it, I forgot about the price,” he said.

The festival’s highlight, according to the organiser, was the unique opportunity for patrons to feast at the tower’s Sky Deck, which provided breathtaking views of the KL city skyline from 8pm to 11pm.

Menara Kuala Lumpur Sdn Bhd chief executive Encik Nazli Saad said this was the first time KL Tower brought more than 10 nasi kandar vendors for a single event.

He said the event was organised in collaboration with Nasi Kandaq Hunters and Nasi Kandaq Transporter.

“We are thrilled to organise such events at KL Tower and aim to bring people together through the joy of food and cultural experiences,” he said in a press release.

“Don’t miss the chance to indulge in the authentic flavours of Malaysian cuisine here at the nasi kandar festival.”

KL Tower is offering RM60 for a family of two adults and two children to dine at the Sky Deck, or RM20 per person.

Aside from the nasi kandar feature, the organiser is also hosting the Cabaran Teh Tarik @ KL Tower competition from 2pm to 5pm on both days.

The competition features 50 contestants competing to show off their creative skills by “pulling” the local tea in the air.

The final round will take place on the Sky Deck, where they will be judged by three professional judges.  

The first prize winner will receive RM5,000, while the second and third winners will receive RM3,000 and RM2,000, respectively. – January 27, 2024