WHERE THE LOCALS EAT BANANA LEAF

There are no shortages of options when it comes to Banana Leaf in KL. Every city block has some form of curry house slinging out delicious piles of fluffy rice, dal and meat curries to loyal customers. Whilst the general standard is remarkably high (you can get a superb late night curry-rice plate at ABC, for instance), there are a few spots that locals flock to praying the tourists don't find out.

Well, the games up! Here they are, in photographic order and with google map links to take you direct to the doorstep. Some of them require waiting in line, some are hidden in bizarre leafy suburbs scattered around town, but all of them are utterly delicious.

PURE SAIVA

#THEMOUTHSCHOICE

The Petaling Jaya branch is the one to hit, and fill up on the most flavourful, clean, delicious South Indian vegetarian thali in Malaysia. Unreal how good this place is!

ACHA CURRY HOUSE

Located at a new spot in Petaling Jaya, this wildly popular place tests your patience before bestowing you with riches. The line at peak times can be killer, but stay positive and wait for whats coming because its damn well worth it!

Tip: Their anchovy sambal is legit.

ERODE AMMAN MESS

A relative newcomer to the Brickfields banana leaf crew, this corner restaurant has a line every day, excellent service and phenomenally fresh and tasty food. Consistently great, highly worth a trip!

SRI GANAPATHI MESS

Housed in a literal HOUSE, this bizarre curry pantheon knocks out amazing curries to fawning fans. BE SURE TO ORDER THEIR CRAB SOUP!

VISHAL FOOD & CATERING

Located slightly behind the main fanfare of Brickfields, Vishal Food & Catering (not to be mistaken for Vishalaytchis a couple doors down), serves up a dynamite banana leaf experience. Sit at one of the long communal tables and let the finger dipping commence!

MOLLAGAA

Top notch Keralan fare at this upstairs restaurant just off Leboh Ampang. Expect crowds and the constant murmur of satisfaction. 

Tip: Everything is great, but the banana leaf is a chance to taste a few different curries without breaking the bank.

CHAKRA PUCHONG MESS

Perhaps the most authentic banana leaf house in KL, shoes are removed at the entrance, stairs navigated, room entered with long tables of feasting faces, waiters arrive promptly to pile rice and curries and pappadoms and pickles on your banana leaf until you raise your hand in surrender.

The vibes are as legit as you'll find outside of Tamil Nadu, the food is great, this is a true experience that few will find in KL.