Nasi Kandar Pelita Ampang
149 Jalan Ampang
Pelita is set inside a white- washed house - a rustic, nostalgic reminder of Malaysia's colonial past. At lunchtime, the 24-hour curry joint overflows with loyal customers, plus those queueing for kari ayam - fragrant chicken curry spiced with herbs and spices - and other tongue-burning dishes such as kari kepala ikan (fish-head curry). Tasty, filling dishes are reasonably priced, starting at M$5 ($10). It's possible to feed a hungry family of four for just M$25 - and that includes fresh fruit juices and some deep-fried treats.
Tiffin Bay
Starhill Gallery Explore floor, 181 Jalan Bukit Bintang
Tiffin Bay has to be the smartest tea and cocktail lounge in Asia, bar none. Its colourful interior (right), created by a Japanese designer, fuses Scandinavian fabric influences with a British sense of humour to create a whimsical play on size and proportion. Curvy, outsized sofas printed with fancy coloured floral prints blend with a multi-patterned block-printed carpet. A 52-metre, fibre-optic curtain provides a subtle backdrop by day, and at night transforms into a glittering light display. More than 15 varieties of milkshake (M$5) are available, as well as rich chocolate cakes, scones and traditional Malaysian tea specialities such as curry puffs. At night, martinis and less calorific bar food are served.