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The last time I properly wandered through Central Market — that old-school cultural landmark-slash-mall tucked in the heart of Pasar Seni — was sometime before the pandemic. Back then, it was quiet and a little sparse, the kind of place you passed through rather than lingered in.
Fast forward to now, and the transformation is almost night and day. The once sleepy building has bloomed into a vibrant hub, with rows of permanent vendors, shophouses, and weekend events celebrating everything from street food to traditional crafts.
And of course, after weaving through the crowds and maybe picking up a trinket or two, chances are you’ll find yourself hungry — or at the very least, in desperate need of a cold drink. Thankfully, both inside the building and along Kasturi Walk just outside, you’ll find plenty of stalls ready to refuel you.
Here’s a handy little guide to 10 of the best bites and sips Central Market has to offer.
1. Bartolo Lisboa Bakehouse (204 – 206, Mezzanine)
Bartolo Lisboa Bakehouse sits quietly above the bustle of Central Market, tucked along the mezzanine beside a staircase most people barely notice. It’s a soft pause in the middle of a busy day, a space that smells of butter and freshly baked bread, with sunlight slipping gently across its warm interior.
The name hints at what’s inside — a menu rooted in Portuguese flavours, from savoury plates to flaky pastries. They serve alcohol if you’d like a drink, though the food itself stays free of pork, lard, and alcohol, making it a welcoming stop for just about anyone.
The kitchen shifts gears from morning to evening, but the earlier menu is where many favourites appear. The Alheira Croquettes (RM18 for two) are a good way to begin — crisp on the outside, filled with smoky sausage, and lifted with a smooth apple cinnamon puree.
If you’re leaning toward something more substantial, the Roasted Veggies sandwich (RM26) is simple and appetising. The bread, denser than a typical English muffin and toasted until lightly crisp, holds together layers of sundried tomatoes, roasted eggplant, zucchini, and cilantro.
Pastries are a central part of the story here, particularly the Pastel de Nata. The original (RM8++) has a delicate, flaky shell and a smooth custard that avoids being too eggy. The matcha version (RM8++) offers a more layered experience, with the bitterness of matcha tempering the sweetness of the filling in a subtle but memorable way.
The Porto Croissant (RM12++) takes a slightly different route — a loaf-like pastry with a thin sugar crust that’s simple and sweet but quite rich. It’s best enjoyed slowly, perhaps alongside something savoury or citrusy to keep the flavours in balance.
+6011 2145 9985
Sun to Wed: 10am – 9pm
Thu: 10am – 11.30pm
Fri & Sat: 10am – 9.30pm
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2. Two Old Man Ramen (Kasturi Walk)
Two Old Man Ramen is easy to miss if you’re not looking for it. It sits along Kasturi Walk, just outside Central Market on the right-hand side, blending into the buzz of souvenir stalls and snack carts. The concept is a yatai-style ramen stand, brought to Malaysia by a seasoned Japanese chef and his brother. These days, you’re more likely to find an adorable aunty behind the counter, ladling steaming broth into bowls for customers perched at the few tables lining the walkway.
The menu keeps things simple, which is part of the appeal. There are 3 ramen options — Shoyu, Miso, and Spicy Miso — along with a handful of sides like karaage and grilled octopus. I went for the Miso Ramen (RM15.90) and a Salmon Belly Skewer (RM12), a combination that turned out to be exactly what the afternoon called for.
The ramen broth leans a little salty for some tastes, but I found it balanced and deeply soothing. It’s the kind of soup that warms you without weighing you down, perfect when you want something comforting but not overly rich. A sprinkle of the chilli powder provided on the side adds a welcome kick, though a gentle hand is best — a little too much and the spice quickly takes over.
The salmon belly was delish, grilled until tender and finished with a glossy drizzle of sweet soy sauce, with a wedge of lemon on the side to cut through the richness. The fat melted just enough to make each bite luscious without tipping into heaviness. I did wish I’d ordered a second.
+6012 668 2883
Tue to Sun: 12pm – 10pm
Closed on Mon
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3. Masy Chicken Tenders (Kasturi Walk)
Of all the American food trends to land on Malaysian shores, chicken tenders might just be the most welcome. And while plenty of big-name chains have tried to claim the spotlight, Masy Chicken Tenders keeps things simple — and much easier on the wallet. If you ever find yourself wandering Central Market with a chicken tender craving, this is where you should pause.
Prices start at RM12 for 4 pieces, with 3 flavours to choose from: Classic, Inferno, and Honey BBQ. Each order comes with a choice of sauce — ranch, hot cheese, or buffalo chilli — to dunk, drizzle, or completely smother your tenders in. If spice isn’t your thing, the Classic is the safest bet. It’s already generously seasoned and carries a gentle heat on its own, enough to keep things hot without setting your tongue on fire.
Ranch and hot cheese are the most reliable choices, creamy and indulgent without overpowering the chicken. The buffalo chilli, on the other hand, leans heavily on the chilli sauce side of things — maybe not for everyone. The tenders themselves are the real reason to stop by. Each piece is crisp on the outside, tender within, and seasoned well enough to hold its own even without the sauce.
+6011 2386 0934
Daily: 10.15am – 10pm
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4. Bake With Aidan (Kasturi Walk)
I first heard about Bake With Aidan from a friend who swore by their bakes during her university days, often racing to grab a box before everything sold out. And it’s easy to see why.
These aren’t the kind of pastries made with imported butter and meticulous patisserie technique. They’re humble, small-batch treats that tap into something nostalgic — the kind of sweets you’d run to after school, coins clutched in hand, just for a quick sugary fix before heading home.
If you try one thing, make it the Berry Eton Mess Pavlova (RM8). Essentially a crushed pavlova in a cup, it layers crisp meringue with cream and bright strawberries in a way that feels balanced rather than saccharine. That’s saying something coming from someone who usually avoids pavlovas altogether. The tartness of the berries cuts through the sweetness beautifully, making it an easy dessert to finish.
I’d skip the Tartlets Cheese (RM10) and go for the Tiramisu Cheesecake (RM15) instead. It’s not a traditional tiramisu, but it hits the same comforting notes — creamy, coffee-kissed, and just indulgent enough to satisfy a late-afternoon sweet tooth.
+6010 3164 689
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5. Putu Bambu Tradisi (Kasturi Walk)
Some snacks never go out of style, and putu bambu is the proof. At Putu Bambu Tradisi in Central Market, this beloved old-school treat is still made the way it always has been. If you’ve never tried it, putu bambu is a traditional steamed cake made from rice flour and filled with palm sugar. It’s usually tinted green with pandan for a subtle aroma, then steamed inside slender bamboo tubes and served with a sprinkle of fresh grated coconut.
Here, the process is part of the experience. Each order is made right in front of you, the soft hiss of steam and the scent of pandan filling the air as you wait. A set of 3 Putu Bambu Pandan costs RM4, and you can add 2 more for RM5. For a slightly modern twist, chocolate or caramel toppings are available for RM6.50, though the classic version holds its own without extras.
The putu bambu here is well-balanced — soft, delicately sweet, and comforting in that way only traditional snacks can be. And while I’m usually team putu mayam, this one came pretty close to stealing the top spot.
+6016 652 6362
Daily: 10am – 8pm
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6. Pak Erik Coffee (Kasturi Walk)
Pak Erik Indonesian Coffee is an easy spot to miss among the bustle of Kasturi Walk, but it’s a reliable stop when you need a caffeine break.
The menu covers the basics, from a straightforward Americano (RM8) to a range of flavoured lattes (RM13), ideal for a quick pick-me-up while exploring Central Market.
Matcha lovers have a few options to choose from, too. The lineup includes Dirty Matcha (RM13), Strawberry Matcha Latte (RM14), Mango Matcha Latte (RM14), and a classic Matcha Latte (RM13). The matcha itself is decent for the price — not the most refined you’ll find in the city, but satisfying enough if the craving hits.
Daily: 10am – 10pm
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7. Kee Nguyễn Vietnam Finest Coffee (Kasturi Walk)
Kee Nguyễn Vietnam Finest Coffee is where you go when you need a serious caffeine kick. This little stall doesn’t mess around — its brews are strong, bold, and likely to keep you more awake than you planned.
Prices start at RM8, with a line-up of classic and creative Vietnamese favourites including Signature Condensed Milk Coffee, Yogurt Coffee, Salt Coffee, Mocha Coffee, Coke Coffee, and the ever-intriguing Egg Coffee.
Recently, they’ve expanded the menu beyond coffee, introducing a matcha range that starts at RM12. Options include Matcha Latte, Matcha Salt, Matcha Mulberry, and a few other playful variations.
+6010 840 8829
Daily: 10am – 10pm
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8. Precious Old China (Lot 2, Mezzanine)
Precious Old China feels like a gentle step back in time. Perched on the mezzanine level of Central Market, this restaurant is steeped in Peranakan charm — from the carved wood furniture and vintage decor to the menu that reads like a love letter to Straits-born cooking.
Seafood is a strong suit, and the Jenahak Asam Fish (RM45.90) — snapper in a fragrant tamarind and basil gravy topped with torch ginger — is a classic dish in many Peranakan homes. And for those who like it rich and hearty, the Fish Head Curry (RM66.90), with vegetables and salted fish simmered in spicy coconut gravy, is a must-try.
One-dish meals make for a satisfying lunch stop. The Precious Nasi Lemak (RM19.50) comes with rendang chicken, sambal, fried anchovies, and all the familiar accompaniments. The Buah Keluak Fried Noodles (RM19.50) — enriched with the earthy, chocolatey notes of the prized buah keluak nut — are a rare treat you don’t often find elsewhere.
Snacks and small plates are worth exploring too. The Pie-Tee (RM19.50) — delicate little pastry cups filled with turnip and chicken — are a perennial crowd-pleaser. And if you want something crunchy to start, the Chicken Lobak (RM14.90) and Fried Spring Rolls (RM14.90) are both reliable picks.
+603 2273 7372
Daily: 11am – 10pm
9. Bo The Avocado (Lot 2.07, Annexe)
Bo The Avocado is exactly what it sounds like — a little corner of Central Market dedicated to all things creamy, green, and gloriously good for you. Tucked away on the 2nd floor of the Annexe, it’s part smoothie bar, part cafe, and part avocado love letter.
For something refreshing, the Avo Tea range is a gentle introduction. Both the Avo Peach Green Sencha (RM15) and Avo Passionfruit Tea (RM15) are dairy-free and infused with premium tea blends, offering a light, fruity lift on a hot afternoon.
Matcha fans will feel right at home here too — the Iced Matcha Latte (RM12) keeps things classic with Niko Neko matcha, while the Iced Dark Chocolate Matcha Latte (RM14) strikes a lovely balance between earthy and bittersweet. If you’re in the mood for something fruitier, the Peach or Mango Matcha Latte (RM15 each) offer a summery twist.
If you’d rather eat your avocado than drink it, their toast selection makes a satisfying light meal. Guacamole Enoki Toast (RM15) layers creamy guac with stir-fried mushrooms, while Guac Smokey Salmon (RM20) pairs avocado with silky smoked salmon. Simpler options like Avocado & Egg Mayo (RM15) or Avocado & Tuna Toast (RM16) are just as yummy.
+6017 947 8229
Daily: 10am – 8.30pm
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10. Taste of Medan (Lot 1.06 & 1.13, Ground Floor)
Taste of Medan is where Indonesian home cooking meets Malaysian familiarity — a comforting little spot on Central Market’s ground floor where every plate feels like it’s been passed down through generations.
The Nasi Lemak Ayam Goreng Berempah (RM27) is a crowd favourite for a reason — aromatic coconut rice paired with crispy, spice-marinated fried chicken. If you’re after something with a deeper, richer flavour, the Nasi Lemak Beef Rendang (RM29) or Nasi Lemak Ayam Rendang (RM23) are both worth lingering over, each served with tender, slow-cooked meat and a fragrant, coconut-rich sambal.
There’s also the comforting Nasi Soto Ayam Medan (RM19.90), a lighter option with shredded chicken, taugeh, and coconut broth that’s perfect if you’re after something soothing.
More homely picks like Nasi Tim Ayam (RM19.90) — steamed chicken with egg and salted egg — and the simple yet nostalgic Nasi P’rang (RM9.90) with sardines round out the lineup.
+603 2022 0831
Daily: 7.30am – 10pm
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