Buzz
Tasting the local cuisine is an essential part of any trip to Malaysia. Discover the famous Malaysian night markets with Mytour Vietnam and dive into the vibrant food scene!
Malaysia is a multi-cultural country with countless exciting tourist destinations. To truly understand the essence of its culture, you must visit its lively night markets, known as Pasar Malam.
These markets typically open in the evenings, drawing both locals and tourists to shop, savor local dishes, and enjoy the lively atmosphere. Here, you'll experience the fusion of Malaysian, Chinese, Indian, and Southeast Asian cultures through unique dishes found only in Malaysia.
Don't miss out on the famous Malaysian night markets you should visit on your next trip!
1. Chinatown Petaling Street - Kuala Lumpur
- Address: 18, Jalan Persiaran Barat, Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Kuala Lumpur
- Operating Hours: 9:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Located in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, Petaling Street Market, also known as Chinatown, is a renowned destination where culture, food, and shopping blend seamlessly. Established in the 1870s, the market stretches for nearly a kilometer and is famous for its grand entrances, golden tiled roofs, and striking dragon statue.
The market's signboard is written in three languages: Malay, Chinese, and English, reflecting the rich cultural fusion. For those on the lookout for affordable items such as bags, clothing, keychains, and souvenirs, this is the place to be! A little tip: bargaining is part of the experience, so don't hesitate to haggle for your favorite items at a better price.
Petaling Street isn't just about shopping; it's also a haven for street food lovers. The market offers a wide variety of dishes, including Hokkien Mee, roasted duck, Hon Kee porridge, tofu pudding, beef noodles, and traditional delights like sour-spicy asam laksa and nasi lemak. Not to be missed is the famous bakkwa, a Chinese delicacy of dried pork that can be found throughout the market.
2. Chow Kit Night Market - Kuala Lumpur
- Address: Jln Raja Alang, Kampung Baru, 50300 Kuala Lumpur
- Operating Hours: Monday, 6:00 PM - 11:00 PM
Located to the north of Jalan Tunku Abdul Rahman, Chow Kit Market is a prominent spot in Kuala Lumpur offering a vibrant experience with a mix of Malay, Indonesian, and Chinese cultures. The market is divided into two main sections: the dry market and the wet market.
The dry market features an array of fresh fruits, vegetables, tofu, and various spices. Additionally, there are stalls selling fabrics, CDs, and other clothing items. The wet market, on the other hand, is filled with meat vendors offering fresh fish, chicken, beef, pork, lamb, and goat. Despite the strong odor, the quality of the meat and reasonable prices attract many customers.
Chow Kit Night Market also has convenient food stalls and even dinner stalls serving steamboat-style meals. Some other snacks worth trying here include buttered sweet corn, cendol, durian, and a variety of fresh fruits. The market operates from morning to noon every day, but the night market is only open on Mondays.
3. Jalan Alor Food Street - Night Market in the Heart of Kuala Lumpur
- Address: Jln Alor, Bukit Bintang, 50200 Kuala Lumpur
- Operating Hours: 2:30 PM - 3:00 AM
If you're a food lover, the Jalan Alor Night Market is a must-visit when in Kuala Lumpur. Situated along Jalan Alor, parallel to the famous Jalan Bukit Bintang, this market is considered a food paradise with an abundance of tempting dishes.
Here, you can enjoy a wide variety of traditional Malaysian dishes such as Satay skewers, Nasi Lemak, Nasi Goreng, and Teh Tarik. In addition, the market also offers a selection of flavors from Vietnam, China, Thailand, and India. The prices are reasonable, ranging from 10 to 15 RM per dish (around 55 to 70 thousand VND).
The market is open all day, but there are fewer stalls in the morning and afternoon. The busiest time is from late afternoon until early morning, with the most vibrant atmosphere starting around 9:00 PM. Choose the right time to fully enjoy the lively atmosphere and delicious food at the Jalan Alor Night Market.
4. Pasar Malam Taman Connaught - Kuala Lumpur
- Address: Jalan Cerdas, Taman Connaught, 56000 Kuala Lumpur
- Operating Hours: Wednesday, 5:00 PM - 1:00 AM
Pasar Malam Taman Connaught is the longest night market in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, offering a rich variety of food and a distinct Chinese atmosphere. Known as a 'mini Chinatown' in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, the market boasts over 300 stalls stretching nearly 2 kilometers.
This market features a wide range of traditional Malaysian dishes, street food, and Chinese delicacies. Some highlights include bao buns, dim sum, stir-fried noodles, fried rice, a variety of desserts, and popular snacks like spring rolls, fried pastries, and Vietnamese spring rolls. The food here is not only delicious but also affordable, making it accessible for many.
In addition to its food offerings, Pasar Malam Taman Connaught is also an ideal spot for shopping for souvenirs, clothing, accessories, and household items. It's important to note that this market is only open on Wednesdays, so make sure to plan your visit accordingly if you want to experience both shopping and sightseeing!
5. Batu Ferringhi Night Market - Penang
- Address: Jalan Pantai Batu, Taman Pantai Batu, 11200 Tanjong Bungah, Pulau Pinang
- Operating Hours: 7:00 PM - 11:00 PM
Stretching along Batu Ferringhi's main road, the Batu Ferringhi Night Market is the perfect destination for food lovers and those interested in exploring the local culture. Initially a small gathering of local traders, the market has grown into a bustling area, attracting both domestic and international visitors.
This lively outdoor market features hundreds of stalls offering a wide range of products from clothing, souvenirs, and handicrafts to tempting street foods. The fusion of various cultures, including Malay, Chinese, Indian, and European, creates a unique and vibrant atmosphere for the market.
Here, visitors can easily enjoy Penang's local specialties such as char kuey teow, ais kacang, satay, and other traditional dishes. Additionally, locally made products like batik, handmade jewelry, and other crafts are available for sale, meeting the shopping needs of both local and international tourists.
6. Kimberley Street Night Market - Penang
- Address: 1, Jalan Sungai Ujong, George Town, 10100 George Town, Pulau Pinang
- Operating Hours: 17:00 - 23:00
The Kimberley Street Night Market is a must-visit spot for food lovers, with a wide variety of street food on offer. Every evening around 5 PM, Lebuh Kimberley street comes alive, bustling with numerous street vendors and carts. This night market is famous for four signature dishes, known as the "Four Heavenly Kings", which are Kway Chap noodles, Koay Teow Soup, Char Koay Teow fried noodles, and Si Koh Soup dessert.
The market also offers a range of local delicacies such as lok lok, Penang laksa, Hokkien mee, loh bak, and fried rice cakes. There are also several dessert stalls specializing in traditional Chinese sweet soups, known as 'tong shui'.
A small note is that most of the food stalls here are just pushcarts, lacking seating arrangements. If you wish to dine in, it's advisable to stop by a nearby cafe or restaurant and order drinks to have a seat.
7. Farlim Wednesday Night Market - Penang
- Address: 27-75, Medan Angsana, Bandar Baru Ayer Itam, 11500 Ayer Itam, Pulau Pinang
- Operating Hours: Wednesday, 17:00 - 23:00
The Farlim Wednesday Night Market takes place every Wednesday evening, where you can dive into the lively atmosphere of Penang. Located in the Air Itam area, Farlim Market attracts both tourists and locals with its wide variety of stalls.
The tempting aroma of traditional Penang dishes like char kway teow, asam laksa, satay, along with modern favorites like bubble tea and Korean fried chicken, will make it hard to resist. Farlim's night market also draws dessert lovers with treats such as ice kacang, apam balik, and various types of kuih-muih.
In addition to food, the Farlim Night Market is an ideal place to shop for souvenirs and affordable household items. You'll find fashion apparel, accessories, shoes, electronics, toys, and a variety of home goods. A visit to the market offers a glimpse into the daily life of Penang residents and the richness of the local culture.
8. Jonker Street Night Market - Malacca
- Address: Jalan Hang Jebat, 75200 Melaka
- Operating Hours: Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, 18:00 - 24:00
Located in the heart of Malacca city, the Jonker Street Night Market is a popular destination thanks to its lively atmosphere and rich cultural heritage. Known as the 'heritage street,' Jonker Street has a long history, once being a bustling trade route for the Chinese and Portuguese. Today, it attracts many visitors due to the Jonker Street Night Market.
This night market is renowned as a food paradise, offering a variety of traditional Malacca dishes such as Chicken Rice Balls, Nyonya Laksa, and tempting desserts like Cendol, Kuih Kapit, and Otak-Otak.
As you stroll through the Jonker Street Night Market, you'll encounter an array of finely crafted products, including antiques, ceramics, jewelry, and traditional batik fabrics. The market tends to be very crowded on weekends, so #teamMytour should aim to arrive around 6 or 7 PM to enjoy shopping and savoring the unique foods in peace!
9. Api Api Night Food Market Gaya Street - Kota Kinabalu
- Address: Jalan Bandaran, Pusat Bandar Kota Kinabalu, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
- Operating Hours: Friday and Saturday, 18:00 - 24:00
Open on Friday and Saturday nights, the Api Api Night Market attracts visitors with its vibrant atmosphere, delicious food, and charming craft stalls. Famous for its vast array of traditional Sabah dishes such as hinava (raw fish salad), tuhau goreng (fried sago cakes), and modern fusion delicacies, this market offers an exciting culinary experience.
In addition to its rich cuisine, you will discover a variety of traditional handcrafted products from the people of Sabah. Displayed are intricately woven palm leaf baskets, hand-painted batik fabrics, and finely carved wooden items, showcasing the local craftsmanship and cultural spirit.
The Api Api night market also serves as a cultural hub, providing you with a deeper understanding of the people and lifestyle of Kota Kinabalu. The sounds of music, laughter, and conversation between vendors and visitors create a lively atmosphere. Families gather around small dining tables to share stories, couples stroll hand in hand, and everyone enjoys the romantic ambiance. It’s a place to meet, interact, and savor the joys of life together.
10. Jesselton Artisan Market - Kota Kinabalu
- Address: Jalan Riverson 1, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
- Operating hours: Every two months, 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
The Jesselton Artisan Market is housed in a commercial-style building in Kota Kinabalu, offering an ideal destination for lovers of handcrafted arts. Held bi-monthly, it provides an excellent opportunity to explore and purchase exquisite products from across Sabah.
Here, a variety of handcrafted items such as lamps, jewelry, artworks, decorations, handbags, umbrellas, and more are on display. Each booth reflects a unique creative flair, showcasing the talents of local artisans. After shopping at the market, be sure to stop by the food stalls to indulge in delicious pastries and savor the tempting local dishes.
The market frequently changes its theme and the types of stalls, offering a new experience every time you visit. If you are lucky enough to travel during its open period, make sure to take the chance to explore and shop for many adorable souvenirs!
A trip to Malaysia wouldn't be complete without experiencing its distinctive cuisine. The Pasar Malam night markets are well-known for being the perfect place to sample delicious local dishes.
In addition to food, the night markets also hold many cultural and historical values. Immersing yourself in the crowd, admiring unique products, tasting mouthwatering dishes, and mingling with the locals will make your Malaysian trip even more memorable.
For more fascinating destinations in Malaysia, as well as useful travel tips, take some time to check out the articles on the Mytour Blog: 5 Days 4 Nights Kuala Lumpur Itinerary with Friends, 7 Days 6 Nights Sabah Itinerary for Island Lovers, Art & Symphony Exhibition, Trendy & Artistic Spots in Malaysia, 12 Famous Tourist Spots in Ipoh in Malaysia, 5 Days 4 Nights Singapore & Malaysia Itinerary for DIY Travelers, 17 Famous Restaurants in Penang with Authentic Local Flavors,...
Prepare your 'hungry stomach' and schedule your food tour at the night markets in Malaysia now!
