Enjoy authentic Johor-Malay food at Warung PagiPagi

Enjoy authentic Johor-Malay food at Warung PagiPagi

Located in Bukit Persekutuan, this popular eatery has even attracted a visit from the Yang di-Pertuan Agong Sultan Ibrahim.

Warung PagiPagi offers a variety of family-style Malay dishes. (Tinagaren Ramkumar @ FMT Lifestyle)
KUALA LUMPUR:
Craving authentic Malay flavours? Pay a visit to Warung PagiPagi in Bukit Persekutuan here.

Since opening in March, this family-run eatery has become a neighbourhood gem, with locals unwinding here and enjoying everything from simple nasi lemak to indulgent siakap asam pedas nyonya.

The heart and soul of this venture is 42-year-old Sabrina Suhaimi, who hails from Johor.

The space they operate from was once a souvenir shop for Galeria Sri Perdana. After the museum closed for renovations, Sabrina and her family saw an opportunity to transform the vacant spot into something they missed from their hometown: a humble warung.

In May of this year, the family operating Warung PagiPagi was stunned when the Yang di-Pertuan Agong Sultan Ibrahim came to eat there. (Warung PagiPagi pic)

Warung PagiPagi took off so quickly that it even caught the attention of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong Sultan Ibrahim, who paid a surprise visit in May!

Speaking to FMT Lifestyle, Sabrina’s 17-year-old daughter, Nur Qistina Auzani, recounted how she received an early morning call from the Istana. “When we got the call, we all thought, ‘No way, it’s just a joke.’”

However, they quickly realised it was no prank when a group of men with snipers arrived at the warung to scout the area.

To their astonishment, the Agong arrived in his Proton Satria and stayed for about two hours, savouring several dishes and even covering the bill for all the other customers that day.

“The Agong’s visit was very special to us because we had only been operating for two to three months when he came,” Qistina said.

Warung PagiPagi owner Sabrina Suhaimi (left) and her daughter Nur Qistina Auzani. (Tinagaren Ramkumar @ FMT Lifestyle)

Notably, the Agong praised their soto ayam. And FMT Lifestyle agrees: it’s a warm and hearty bowl of comforting flavours.

Sabrina, who loves to bake and cook, shared: “I grew up eating dishes like lontong and soto that my mother used to make, so I wanted everyone in KL to experience them as well.”

What makes this place even more special is that it has always been a family affair. Not only does Qistina manage their warung’s social media exposure while attending to her university studies, she takes over the night shifts on weekends to earn some pocket money.

Made with Musang King, this serawa durian is a signature dish available in the mornings. (Tinagaren Ramkumar @ FMT Lifestyle)

Warung PagiPagi offers distinct morning, lunch and evening menus that attract different crowds. The standout on their morning menu is, without a doubt, the serawa durian.

“Our serawa durian is made with musang king, and it is usually eaten with bread. Here, we serve it with bread, roti jala and biscuits,” said Sabrina.

The serawa durian was a revelation with its thick, creamy texture and bold durian flavour. It was incredibly indulgent and it tastes best with their homemade roti jala. It’s a must-try for all durian lovers!

Another favourite is their bestseller, the nasi lemak ayam berempah. The chicken is crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, paired with sambal that strikes the perfect balance between sweet and spicy.

Local favourite nasi lemak ayam berempah is their best-seller. (Tinagaren Ramkumar @ FMT Lifestyle)

They also offer unique and rare finds in the city, such as lempeng – essentially a Malay crepe. Dip it into the sambal ikan bilis, which packs a spicy punch, and you just won’t stop eating!

If you’re in the mood for a heartier meal, don’t miss the siakap asam pedas nyonya, served during lunch. It comes with a generous piece of tender fish with an asam pedas gravy that’s flavourful but not overwhelming, making it perfect for enjoying by the spoonful or drenching your rice.

With an abundance of options ranging from bone marrow mee bandung to daging salai masak lemak, you’ll be spoilt for choice here.

Warung PagiPagi is also known for its vibrant evening scene. At this time of the day, you can enjoy a wider selection of dishes, like their signature sup ekor, while relaxing to the tunes of buskers.

While it might not be a true kampung warung replica, the open concept, lush greenery, and tables draped in batik create a refreshing escape that’s definitely worth a visit.

Warung PagiPagi offers a touch of kampung charm in the heart of Kuala Lumpur. (Tinagaren Ramkumar @ FMT Lifestyle)

Warung PagiPagi
Lot 1, Jalan Terengganu
Bukit Persekutuan
59000 Kuala Lumpur

Business hours: 8am-1am (Closed on Mondays)

Follow Warung PagiPagi on Instagram.

Stay current - Follow FMT on WhatsApp, Google news and Telegram

Subscribe to our newsletter and get news delivered to your mailbox.