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One of the most attractive things when traveling to Malaysia is not only the brilliant check-in locations, but also the diverse Malaysian cuisine, which is a blend of Chinese, Malay and Indian cultures. Whether you are walking in the old town of George Town, wandering through the night market in Kuala Lumpur or relaxing in the middle of the Genting Highlands, delicious food in Malaysia is always a memorable experience not to be missed.

If you are wondering what to eat when traveling to Malaysia , below is a list of attractive dishes that will make you "fall in love" at first taste.

Nasi Lemak – The national soul of Malaysian cuisine

Nasi Lemak – A must-have dish when traveling to Malaysia. (Photo: LE)

In the list of delicious dishes in Malaysia, Nasi Lemak is always at the top. This is considered a "national" dish and is the most popular breakfast for locals.

The rice is cooked in fragrant coconut milk, served with crispy fried anchovies, roasted peanuts, boiled eggs and cucumber, highlighted by the spicy and authentic Malay sambal sauce. Nasi Lemak is not only delicious but also represents the sophistication of traditional Malaysian cuisine.

Satay – The Enchanting Grilled Skewers of the Malays

Satay – A typical grilled dish often seen when traveling to Kuala Lumpur. (Photo: Collected)

If you are a fan of grilled food, Satay will make you crazy. This is a grilled meat dish (chicken, beef, lamb…) marinated with traditional spices, grilled over charcoal and served with smooth peanut sauce, cucumber and compressed rice cakes.

Whether you visit night markets, roadside stalls or high-end restaurants, Satay is present as an indispensable highlight in Malaysian cuisine .

Char Kway Teow – The Essence of Chinese Fried Noodles

Char Kway Teow – A Chinese specialty not to be missed when exploring Malaysian cuisine. (Photo: Collected)

One of the most popular Malaysian dishes of Chinese origin, Char Kway Teow is a large rice noodle dish stir-fried over high heat with prawns, clams, eggs, bean sprouts and a rich sauce. The aromatic flavour of the burnt soy sauce, combined with the chewy texture of the noodles and the freshness of the seafood, makes this dish a hit.

Especially, when traveling to Kuala Lumpur or Penang - you will easily find Char Kway Teow in food courts or street food carts.

Roti Canai – Indian Flavors in Malaysian Cuisine

Roti Canai – A simple, cheap but extremely delicious dish in Malaysia. (Photo: STAR)

Roti Canai is a typical Malaysian Indian flatbread. It is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, and is often eaten with chicken curry, fish curry or dhal (mashed lentils). This is a familiar breakfast dish, popular in every corner of Malaysia. This is also a great choice if you are looking for a simple but filling breakfast when traveling to Malaysia.

Teh Tarik – Cool After-Meal Drink

Teh Tarik – A typical national dish, a must-try when visiting Malaysia. (Photo: Collected)

A list of must-try dishes when traveling to Malaysia would be incomplete without Teh Tarik – the legendary pulled milk tea. The mixture of tea and milk is “pulled” back and forth between two cups many times, creating a characteristic smooth foam.

Teh Tarik is not just a drink but also a part of Malaysian culture, especially at mamak (Indian eateries).

Some other dishes worth trying if you have time

Nasi Kandar. (Photo: Collected)

In addition to the classic dishes mentioned above, if you have time, don't miss dishes like:

Laksa Penang – spicy and sour noodle soup with minced fish and herbs
Cendol – dessert with shaved ice, red beans and coconut milk
Hokkien Mee – Chinese style stir-fried black noodles
Nasi Kandar – Indian style curry rice popular in Penang and Kuala Lumpur