Essential Kuala Lumpur Travel Guide for Locals

Singer Yuna on the Top Curry Houses and Music Spots in the Malaysian Capital

Date: 3 September 2021

Kuala Lumpur Malaysia City Center skyline.
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Yuna is a Malaysian R&B and pop singer-songwriter who started writing her own songs at the age of 14. Initially aspiring to be a lawyer, she gained popularity after winning a spot on a local talent show and building a strong following on MySpace. Today, she owns her own record label, iBestTravel Room Records, where she manages and supports local indie artists, including collaborations with renowned musicians like Pharrell Williams and Usher.

The Emerging Malaysian Music Scene

The Malaysian music scene is vibrant and evolving. Yuna expresses excitement about the new generation of musicians in Malaysia who are incredibly talented. Many are producing high-quality music from the comfort of their homes. Notably, Malaysian youths are experimenting with a fusion of traditional and contemporary elements, proudly reflecting their heritage while keeping their sound modern.

What Makes Kuala Lumpur Unique?

Kuala Lumpur is a bustling city filled with stories waiting to be discovered. From durian stalls to street-food vendors, temples, and fashion vendors, each corner holds a narrative that reflects the city’s rich culture.

Hidden Music Venues in Kuala Lumpur

For those looking for unique music venues, Yuna suggests starting with No Black Tie for open-mic events. Additionally, Safehouse is popular among young hip-hop acts, while Atas by Bijan Fx serves as a stage for indie bands. Each venue offers a distinct atmosphere, making them appealing to various music tastes.

Best Places to Hang Out

Kuala Lumpur boasts several intriguing boutique hotels, particularly around Changkat Bukit Bintang, which is conveniently located near restaurants and cafés. A standout option is KLoé Hotel, renowned for its unique charm. Recently, Yuna enjoyed a delightful birthday dinner at Concubine KL, a hidden gem known for its fantastic cuisine and inviting ambiance.

Favorite Dining Spots

While Yuna appreciates upscale restaurants, her heart belongs to street food. She recommends various seafood restaurants on Jalan Alor, famous for their lively atmosphere. One dish that stands out for her is the banana-leaf rice from Kanna Curry House. This traditional meal features white rice served on a banana leaf, accompanied by a choice of chicken, mutton, or fried fish curry. Enjoying this meal outdoors under the trees, sipping iced tea, is truly an experience to cherish.

Returning Home Rituals

After returning from a trip, one of Yuna’s unique habits is to indulge in her favorite banana-leaf rice. If she lands in the afternoon, a visit to Kanna Curry House is almost guaranteed!

Connect with Yuna

For more updates from Yuna, follow her on Instagram: @yuna.


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