5 sky-high restaurants in Kuala Lumpur that elevate fine dining to new extremes

In a city where rooftop establishments are a dime a dozen, what makes one stand out above the rest? When not just one, but all aspects of a dining experience are perfected. From mouth-watering menus to inspired aesthetics and breathtaking views to match, these five luxurious sky-high venues take elevated dining to new heights. Pop by for lunch and a slice of sunshine in the afternoon for a breezy escape, or enjoy an intimate evening of food and drinks after a long day. Perfect for celebrations, date nights, or when you simply want to indulge, these high-altitude spaces are a great way to see the city’s sights while you wine and dine.

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Dinner in The Sky

When it comes to enjoying a meal with a view, who says you have to do it within the confines of windows and walls? The sky’s the limit at Dinner in The Sky, where the open-air restaurant is hoisted 50 metres above the ground by a crane to offer an elevated dining experience. This set-up offers unobstructed views of the city centre, including the stunning Exchange 106, Malaysia’s newest and tallest skyscraper that surpasses the Petronas Twin Towers at 106 floors.

With your body comfortably strapped in and feet dangling in the air, you will be feted to a three-, four-, or five-course meal, depending on whether you’ve opted for the economy, business or first class menu, all designed by Elements KL. With the dishes’ main components prepared before lift-off, the chefs will then plate each dish in full view of the guests and serve them fresh up in the air. Naturally, there are some theatrics that come with the thrilling experience. Dessert is served alongside a liquid nitrogen show, creating a spectacular cool and misty ambience as you devour the delightful assembly of passion fruit popcorn, yuzu coconut marshmallow and crispy raspberry meringue.

Address: 231, Jalan Bukit Bintang, 55100

Blackbyrd

When you arrive at the lobby of the Naza Tower at Platinum Park, don’t be intimidated by the hosts who speak into walkie-talkies before tagging you through the gates and escorting you up to the 50th floor, where the aptly named Blackbyrd presides and offers a bird’s-eye view of the city. Inside, the ambience is warm and welcoming, with ample natural light streaming through the glass windows to brighten up the sophisticated setting and highlight the beautiful wooden furnishings.

At Blackbyrd, the imaginative, Asian-inspired menu of colourful comfort food takes centre stage. The avocado quinoa salad is sizeable and packs a flavourful punch with the chunky dates providing sweetness, beetroot slices an earthiness, and pomegranate a refreshing zing. The honey wasabi-glazed salmon with roasted nori is tantalising and filling, while the succulent, melt-in-your-mouth Wagyu beef satay speaks for itself. This hotspot opened to much fanfare in April 2019 and shows no signs of slowing down. Reservations are recommended for dinner.

Address: Platinum Park, Level 50, Naza Tower, 10, Persiaran KLCC, 50450

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Sabayon, EQ 

Elegantly perched on the highest floor of the five-star hotel EQ, Sabayon is one of the newest rooftop restaurants in the city, yet its name will spark a feeling of cherished nostalgia in the hearts of locals. Inspired by the popular “dancing dessert” called Sabayon Du Chalet, which was once served in the former Hotel Equatorial’s Chalet, Sabayon is the modern reincarnation of the beloved establishment, where countless celebrations were held and unforgettable memories made. Boasting grandiose views of Kuala Lumpur’s skyline from the 51st floor, Sabayon strikes awe with its sweeping glass windows and plush decor accented by bronze and copper, attracting well-heeled guests to this luxurious venue.

The contemporary European menu is dreamed up by Michelin-starred chef Hans Boren, who creates gastronomic delights using premium imported ingredients and local artisanal Malaysian products. Each of the three- to seven-course menus are designed to take you on a culinary journey, offering a nouvelle take on Old World favourites complete with amuse bouche, granita and mignardises. Highlights include the seared yellowfin tuna loin with soy tapioca pearls and deliciously flaky 41°C Chilean sea bass served over a frothy clam espuma.

Address: Sky51, EQ, Equatorial Plaza, Jalan Sultan Ismail, 50250

Nobu

Since its 2014 launch, Nobu has become a mainstay in Kuala Lumpur’s rooftop dining scene. It was the first Nobu restaurant to open in Southeast Asia, and was one of the swankiest places to dine, thanks in part to its prestigious location on the 56th floor of Menara Petronas 3. Offering 360 degree views of the city that also bring patrons up close and personal with the Petronas Twin Towers, Nobu’s famed reputation carries on today, with many visiting and returning for Michelin-starred chef Nobuyuki Matsuhisa’s innovative take on Japanese cuisine. It’s no wonder they do, as there is always something new at Nobu. The latest Noon at Nobu lunch menu introduces a variety of fresh new dishes created by executive chef Philip Leong, each featuring Nobu’s signature Japanese touch and Peruvian influences, such as the lobster wasabi pepper, cauliflower steak with corn salsa, and umami chicken karaage.

Address: Level 56, Menara 3 Petronas, Persiaran KLCC, 50088

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Horizon Grill, Banyan Tree

Located on Banyan Tree’s level 58 roof terrace, Horizon Grill’s place above the clouds has patrons flocking from all over the city for its sensational views. With indoor and alfresco dining spaces available, guests can soak up the skyline and enjoy the breeze while they indulge in a hearty breakfast, executive lunch, or gourmet dinner. Here, fresh seafood and premium steaks are the main attraction, ranging from Boston lobster to Kyushu Japanese beef, all grilled to caramelised perfection on a Santa Maria oak pit grill. The open-kitchen concept offers guests a visual and olfactory treat while their meal is fired up by a skilful team headed by chef de cuisine Daniel Wong. One starter stands out: the pan-seared French foie gras with sultana purée, chestnut jam, crispy quinoa, and butter fried brioche is decadent and delicious, and worth coming back for on its own. If you’re not ready for the evening to end come dessert, head up the escalator to Vertigo rooftop bar for even more dizzying sights and solid cocktails.  

Address: Level 58, Banyan Tree Kuala Lumpur, 2 Jalan Conlay, 50450

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