If there’s a place that serves a selection of delectable dishes that really hits the spot, why not tell everyone about it? This time, I’d like to introduce you to a restaurant known for its traditional Malay side dishes that are sure to fulfil your hunger. Chef Ismail’s Rebung Restaurant in Taman Botani Perdana, Kuala Lumpur, is what I’m talking about.
Restoran Rebung Chef Ismail sits on the top level of a multi-story vehicle lot with clear signage, close to the Perdana Botanical Gardens. There are five levels of multi-story parking accessible, so you won’t have to worry about finding a parking spot. Upon arriving, simply go in a few steps until you see a lift. Go to the second floor and you’ll be greeted with colourful, stunning decor with a nostalgic “kampung” feel on the building’s rooftop!
In Malaysia, the name Chef Ismail is well-known. His name is already associated with famous figures such as Chef Wan. As a result, a restaurant bearing his name requires no further explanation. Rebung Restaurant was founded by Dato’ Chef Haji Ismail Ahmad, Celebrity Chef, and Datuk Dr. Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor Al-Masri, Malaysia’s first astronaut, and each dish it serves was inspired by Chef Ismail. The goal was to make sure that everyone can have a delicious meal while remembering the nostalgic, good old days at Rebung Restaurant.
Now, let’s go in! The inside is modest, with a spacious, clean, and inviting feel. There was nothing to dislike, especially after the focus switched to the delectable cuisine. Managers and waiters are also friendly to customers, offering minor assistance to those unfamiliar with Malaysian food.
Knick knacks and memorabilia of the type prevalent in Malay households can be found on the walls and around every corner. This immediately provides guests with clues and views into the homeowner’s private life and family. Being in the environment made me feel as if we were invited into the owner’s personal space, and I felt at ease.
Obviously, the first thing to focus on is the food. Despite the fact that Malaysia has a majority of Malays, real Malay cuisine is difficult to come by, especially in Kuala Lumpur. Rebung Restaurant, on the other hand, has a wide range of traditional Malay foods that pleased me. Rebung Restaurant is the perfect choice for those of you who want to introduce friends from overseas to real Malay cuisine.
While dining at Rebung Restaurant, you will be reminded of your time in any kampung. The atmosphere, as well as the food, are perfect for those who miss their hometowns because it feels like you’re eating right at home.
I love how there are more than 100 types of food to choose from. As usual, being skeptical about what I eat and the place, I thought this was just some regular Malay cuisine restaurant. But, to my surprise, the food was quite good. Not to mention, there were lots of drinks and desserts, which was my absolute favourite part of dining there.
And, here’s the fun part, if you’re lucky (like I was! ), Chef Ismail will greet you while you’re dining. This is, without a doubt, exciting. You can not only eat at a restaurant run by a celebrity chef, but you can also take photos with him. I also love how jovial and chit-chatty he was with his guests.
While you enjoy the delicious food, you will be delighted with a Ghazal performance by the Rojer Malay Orchestra for an ear-pleasing dinner.
There is however, one thing that I find inconvenient – and that is the restaurant’s location. The 5th floor of the Bukit Aman multi-storey car park, Jalan Tanglin, Taman Botani Perdana, houses the Rebung Restaurant. It’s a long way from the nearest LRT stop. So, it’s a long walk. As a result, those who wish not to drive there will find it easier to get there by Grab. Of course, your ride’s not gonna drive into the parking space. I got down outside the multi-storey car park and had to walk futher in till I found the lift. Plus, when it’s nighttime, the road gets kinda quiet and spooky. So, I’d suggest you not go alone if you’re going at night.
Other than that, the food, the service and the vibe were all enjoyable and I really had a good time there. If you wish to head there, this would be the best time because they have Ramadan deals.
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For more information, visit Restoran Rebung’s Instagram and Facebook pages, or make a reservation by calling 03-22763535 / 2525
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