When it comes to Italian food, there’s nothing like finding the most authentic and original restaurants.
Therefore, we’re seeking out the best Italian restaurants in Kuala Lumpur that serve authentic classics, like unpretentious pasta and pizza. They also have contemporary Italian dishes that whet your curiosity.
Additionally, these establishments import the best Italian deli favourites and use them in their cooking, so you get a taste of Italy right here in bustling Kuala Lumpur.
Pomod’Oro
Located in the upscale neighbourhood of Bukit Damansara, Pomod’Oro offers some of the Klang Valley’s most original Italian creations. Take for instance their house special Chitarra Pomod’Oro with homemade chitarra pasta, porcini mushrooms, truffle oil and homemade sausage.
Additionally, you can treat yourself to their very creative selection of antipasti or starters, like Caprese salad, Crema di ceci con gamberi saltati (sautéed prawn on chickpeas cream) and Antipoasto misto di salumi (a generous selection of Italian cold cuts)
Address: 20-G, Jalan Medan Setia 2, Bukit Damansara, 50490 Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur
Website: https://www.pomodoro.com.my/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Italianrestaurantkl/
Opening hours: 11:30 a.m. to 12:00 a.m.
Halal status: Non-halal
Ciao Ristorante
Ciao Ristorante is a rather upscale Italian restaurant that’s perfect for dates and special occasions.
Firstly, the restaurant is on spacious grounds amidst a lush garden and a lake. Here, you’ll be treated to an extravagant menu, consisting of pasta, Risottos, pizza, seafood, meats and appetizers.
If you’d like, you can also choose to have their set menu with a soup, salad, appetiser, main dish and dessert. Some of the highlights here include, for example, Stinco di agnello brasato (slow braised lamb shank with mashed potatoes), Branzino al cartoccio (garlic and herb baked Seabass), Gnocchi al gorgonzola (potato dumplings in Gorgonzola sauce) and Ravioli Pesce (Ravioli with tiger prawns).
Address: 20A, Jalan Kampung Pandan, Off, Jln Tun Razak, 55100 Kuala Lumpur
Website: https://ciao.com.my/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Ciaorestaurantkl
Opening hours: 5:00 p.m. to 12:00 a.m., Closed on Mondays
Halal status: Serves alcohol, pork-free food
Portofino
There are currently two Portofino outlets—one in Lucky Garden, Bangsar and the other in Bangsar South.
It offers casual dining vibes with a touch of elegance. A large part of their menu consists of familiar Italian favourites, but they’re not afraid to go bold and introduce certain modern twists.
For example, you’ll find items like Squid Ink Spaghetti, and Buffalo Pizza using Italian buffalo mozzarella. Do try their Truffle Ravioli pasta stuffed with truffles and Ricotta cheese too, especially if you’re a vegetarian.
Address: Two branches, refer here for addresses
Website:https://www.portofino.my/portofino
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/portofino.malaysia/
Opening hours: 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.
Halal status: Pork-free. Halal-certified meats, serves alcohol
Luce Osteria Contemporanea
Nestled in the culinary hub of Old Malaya on Jalan Raja Chulan is Luce, which serves wood fired pizza.
Additionally, you’ll be able to enjoy one of the Italian restaurants in Kuala Lumpur that’s located in a historical building. Luce Osteria serves both classic and contemporary Italian dishes, complete with a full bar.
Their pizza selection is pretty extensive, with about 25 selections. The menu lists out each pizza’s toppings in detail. For instance, you can try their Kikki pizza with a topping of tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese and French fries.
Additionally, another interesting pizza is the Pescatora topped with seafood including black mussels, white clams, tiger prawns, squid, baby octopus and scallop.
Address: No. 10, Old Malaya, Jalan Raja Chulan, 50250, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur
Website: https://www.luceosteria.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/luceosteria/
Opening hours: Tuesdays to Sundays, 12:00 p.m. to 12:00 a.m., Mondays, 4:00 p.m. to 12:00 a.m.
Halal status: Non-halal
Positano Risto
Positani Risto is a Muslim-owned establishment located in Publika.
It has everything you’ll expect to find in an authentic Italian establishment and more. Their Fresh Boston Lobster Thermidor, topped with parmesan cheese, garlic and shallots, is one menu item that stands out.
Additionally, you’ll find other interesting items on their menu including the Wild Truffle Mushroom pizza and Super Supreme Calzone.
Address: Block C1, Lot 2, Level G3, Publika Shopping Gallery, No. 1, Jln Dutamas 1, Solaris Dutamas, 50480 Kuala Lumpur
Website: https://positanoristo.com.my/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/positanoristopublika/
Opening hours: 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Halal status: Halal and Muslim-owned
Deliziosa Italia
In short, no matter where you choose to have your Italian meal in Kuala Lumpur, you can’t really go wrong. It’s always warm and welcoming, with flavours that are elegant yet familiar. Kuala Lumpur is truly an Italian food lover’s paradise with so much to discover and offer. Did we also mention that all the restaurants above have vegan or vegetarian friendly menu items? Yes, they’re all very inclusive as well.
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