In the beating heart of Chinatown stands REXKL, a living, breathing time capsule where Kuala Lumpur’s past and present mingle over coffee, burgers, noodles, and the occasional waft of ink and printed pages. CreditOnce a grand cinema, this cultural icon has traded its silver screens for espresso machines, indie bookshops, and vintage treasures that feel plucked straight out of a dream. REXKL has a way of pulling you in; before you know it, hours have passed between bites, sips, and spontaneous discoveries.So if you ever find yourself wandering through the old streets of Chinatown, here are 10 spots at REXKL worth getting lost in — from cult-favourite eats to other gems you’ll want to gatekeep (but probably won’t).
Food & beverage
1. Decker’s
Formerly known as Triple Decker, Decker’s at REXKL has earned its stripes as one of the city’s top spots for smash burgers. The rebrand came with a refreshed space and a tight, confident menu focused on what they do best — juicy, flavour-packed burgers priced between RM20 and RM60.The Decker’s Original Burger is a solid starting point. Stacked with Angus beef patties, melted cheddar, caramelised onions, and the signature House sauce, it hits all the right notes of savoury comfort. If you’re after something with more personality, the Sichuan Chilli Crisp Burger brings subtle heat and crunch with crispy shallots and that addictive chilli oil fragrance. It’s not overly spicy, just enough to cut through the beef’s richness.For non-beef lovers, the Crispy Chicken Tenders come in Original and Spicy versions — both are crisp on the outside, tender inside, and made for dipping. Add RM5 for fries and a drink, and make it count with the KL Ginger Ale, a refreshing house brew that perfectly balances out the meal.To end on a sweet note, Decker’s has teamed up with Sōfte for soft-serve ice cream in creative flavours like Butter Pecan, Calamansi Asam Boi, and even French Fries. +6012 893 6392Tue to Sun: 12pm – 9pmClosed on MonInstagram
2. Phil’s Pizza
If your love language is pizza by the slice and wings on the side, Phil’s Pizza at REXKL might just be your next go-to. What started as a humble pizza counter has become one of the city’s most beloved spots for that perfectly foldable New York–style slice.Their Truffle Mushroom (RM75 for 12’’) is the crowd favourite, and rightfully so. Each slice oozes with earthy truffle aroma and gooey cheese, perfectly balanced on a thin, crisp crust. If you prefer something classic, the Pepperoni (RM69 for 12’’) never fails — salty, chewy, and loaded with just enough pepperoni to make every bite satisfying.For smaller appetites, their single slices are a smart move. The Slice Truffle (RM15.50) remains the bestseller, while the Slice Hot Wings (RM13.50) adds a kick with local Linggam hot sauce, spicy and sweet in equal measure. The Slice Meat La Pinyo (RM14) features minced beef and in-house pickled chilli, a bolder take on bolognese-on-pizza.Pair it with a Soda (RM12.50) or one of their Cookies (RM10), baked with 60% milk chocolate, and you’ve got yourself a meal!+6010 909 3208Daily: 11am – 10pmInstagram
3. Summation Cafe
One of my favourite discoveries this year has to be Summation Cafe in Serdang — but if you’re not keen on long drives or traffic jams, their kiosk at REXKL brings the same charm.Summation may be small, but its menu feels thoughtfully curated. Expect a comforting lineup of hot dishes, pastries, and crafted beverages that lean on quality rather than quantity. Still, the real showstoppers here are their alcohol-free canelésand matcha creations.The Orange Nutmeg Canelé (RM8) is pure elegance in pastry form. Infused with the zest of fresh oranges and a strong whisper of nutmeg, it’s caramelised on the outside yet custardy inside.If you prefer something cosier, the Apple Cinnamon Canelé (RM9.50) is a warm hug in dessert form. Filled to the brim with soft apple chunks slow-cooked in cinnamon and sugar, it’s the kind of treat that pairs beautifully with an afternoon chat or a slow Sunday read.To drink, the Matcha Strawberry Latte (Iced) (RM16) is as pretty as it is refreshing. The combination of earthy Japanese matcha and housemade strawberry puree creates that perfect sweet-tart balance. For something simpler, the Matcha Latte (RM15) keeps it classic.+6016 291 9917Mon to Fri: 10am – 7pmSat & Sun: 9am – 7pmFacebook | Instagram
4. Berrygood
Credit – BerrygoodIf you’ve ever wandered more than a floor up in REXKL, chances are you’ve already been charmed by Berrygood’s unmistakable red glow. This cheerful little shop is hard to miss — and even harder to forget once you’ve had a taste of what they do best: organically grown strawberries.Inside, you’ll find strawberries thriving in refrigerators, growing slowly under precise conditions to enhance their sweetness and density. And the result? Strawberries that are not too sour or too sweet, demanding to be turned into something delicious.Everything here celebrates the berry in one way or another. You’ll find strawberry milkshakes, tarts, daifuku, canelés, and their signature Frozen Yogurt (RM16) — a refreshing swirl of strawberry froyo topped generously with fresh strawberries and blueberries. Beyond the food, Berrygood doubles as a lifestyle stop. The brand’s sunny personality extends to its line of merchandise, from graphic tees to tote bags and button pins.+603 8011 9854Daily: 10am – 8pmInstagram | Website
5. KANTIN
Credit – KANTINKANTIN brings a taste of Sarawak to the heart of REXKL — and not just any taste, but the kind that’s earned them nods from the 2024 Malaysia’s Best Restaurant Awards and the Sarawak Hornbill Tourism Awards. Credit – KANTINIt’s a modern tribute to Borneo’s culinary soul, served with just the right dash of urban cool.Credit – KANTINStart with the Headhunter Pansuh Set, where tender meat is slow-cooked in bamboo, soaking up earthy flavours that taste like rainforest magic. The Sarawak Laksais a must — rich, aromatic, and perfectly spiced, it will keep you spooning till the very last drop. If you’re in the mood for something hearty yet comforting, the Rainforest Fried Rice and Wild Chicken Chop both deliver on flavour and nostalgia. For a Malaysian twist, the Kantin Nasi Lemak is a crowd favourite.Credit – KANTINThe drinks deserve a mention of their own. The Sarawak Teh C Special is a classic, while Kantin Kaffeine and Milo Truck Milkshake are sweet throwbacks to your childhood, done with finesse. For something bright and zesty, the Tree Sour Crush offers a refreshing, tangy lift that pairs beautifully with the meal.+6014 604 1369Tue to Sun: 11.30am – 10pmClosed on MonFacebook | Instagram
Credit – Stellar CoffeeLocated right at the entrance of REXKL as if stationed to cure your caffeine cravings, Stellar Coffee lives up to its name — a celestial stop for anyone who takes their brews seriously.Credit – Stellar CoffeeTheir espresso lineup features carefully sourced beans such as Ethiopia Limu G2 (RM11), a washed-process heirloom varietal with notes of sweet lime, citrus, and black tea. Another standout is the Ethiopia Yirgacheffe Koke G1 (RM11), a naturally processed coffee with pineapple, mango, and peach undertones that feel like sunshine in a cup.Pour-over enthusiasts will find equal delight in single-origin selections like Indonesia Kamala Benar Meriah Lot 3, an anaerobic natural with lemon, cacao nib, and soursop notes, or the floral Ethiopia Sidama Bensa Della, which laces lavender, blueberry, and bergamot in each sip. Daily: 8.30am – 7.30pmInstagram | Website
7. Raijin Ramen
Run by two brothers with an obsession for perfection, Raijin Ramen in REXKL brings the comforting warmth of Hakata-style ramenright into the heart of Kuala Lumpur. This little ramen bar might not boast a sprawling space, but it makes up for it with flavours so rich and silky, you’ll forget where you are after the first slurp.Credit – Raijin RamenThe menu keeps things simple but refined. The Shiro Ramen (RM25) is their purest expression of the craft — a bowl of creamy tonkotsu broth cradling perfectly cooked noodles and two slices of sous-vide char siew that practically melt the moment they hit your tongue. For those who like deeper, smokier flavours, the Kuro Ramen (RM25) is your match — the black garlic infusion adds a complexity that lingers beautifully. Its deluxe version (RM28) also includes the signature ajitama, because why not go all the way? Credit – Raijin RamenIf you need a light start, order some Edamame (RM6.90) or the refreshing Tomato Salad (RM6.90) with wafu sauce. Even their Yakitorioptions makes a great nibbler between slurps.+6013 804 7685Tue to Sun: 12pm – 3.30pm & 5.30pm – 10.30pmClosed on MonInstagram
General stores
8. BookXCess
Among all its outlets across Malaysia, the BookXcess in REXKL stands as the crown jewel. Set within the restored walls of the former Rex Cinema, this sprawling 6,000-square-foot space is an architectural love letter to both history and imagination.The moment you step inside, you’re transported into a labyrinth of books that twist and turn through the old theatre’s original structure. The architects cleverly used the sloping staircases and balcony space to create a stunning book maze, where each narrow passage leads to unexpected discoveries. And of course, it’s an Instagram dream. Those who stumble upon a spot to squeeze into between the books often can’t resist snapping a photo — the maze-like layout, warm lighting, and endless stacks make every angle feel cinematic.Daily: 10am – 10pmFacebook | Instagram | Website
9. KANOE
Credit – KANOEFor those who dress with heart and heritage, KANOE is a love letter to the art of batik. Based in Kuala Lumpur, this homegrown label embraces its “child of the tropics” identity with pieces that radiate sunshine and soul. Every collection celebrates the beauty of regional batik, crafted in collaboration with local artisans from across Indo-Malaya.Credit – KANOEEach fabric tells its own story, and every piece — often made in limited runs of just one or two — feels deeply personal. Think breezy silhouettes, halter tops, and dreamy batik dresses that turn everyday dressing into an ode to culture and craftsmanship.Credit – KANOEAmong the highlights are the Puteri Halter Dresses (from RM288 to RM308), an elegant lineup of batik prints like Puteri Cleo, Puteri Seraphina, and Puteri Ophelia. For something more casual, the Diamond Halter Tops (from RM98 to RM138) bring a modern twist to traditional patterns, pairing easily with linen pants or denim for a laid-back yet refined look.+6016 901 0377Mon to Fri: 10am – 6pmSat & Sun: 11am – 7.30pmFacebook | Instagram | Website
10. Bang Bang Vintage
If fashion could time travel, it would probably end up at Bang Bang Vintage in REXKL. This curated treasure trove is where nostalgia meets luxury, offering a mix of pre-loved designer pieces, rare collectibles, and vintage gems that span decades of style.Credit – Bang Bang VintageThe racks here are a dreamscape of fashion history — from Alexander McQueen’s AW14 “Oliver Bernard” Short Sleeve Shirt (RM498) to the sleek De Manta Padlock Clutch (RM1480). There’s also an Ann Demeulemeester Bondage Strap Cargo Pants (RM1900) for the avant-garde at heart, and an Armani Exchange SS15 Moto Jacket (RM880) that still channels early-2010s cool.Credit – Bang Bang VintageEvery piece is handpicked with care, creating a space that feels more like a fashion archive than a store. Metallic micro skirts, distressed denim jackets, 2010s chunky bangles, and old-school tees fill the shelves — ready to help you build your dream throwback look.+6018 229 3327Daily: 12pm – 9pmInstagram | Website
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Formerly known as Triple Decker, Decker’s at REXKL has earned its stripes as one of the city’s top spots for smash burgers. The rebrand came with a refreshed space and a tight, confident menu focused on what they do best — juicy, flavour-packed burgers priced between RM20 and RM60.
The Decker’s Original Burger is a solid starting point. Stacked with Angus beef patties, melted cheddar, caramelised onions, and the signature House sauce, it hits all the right notes of savoury comfort.
If you’re after something with more personality, the Sichuan Chilli Crisp Burger brings subtle heat and crunch with crispy shallots and that addictive chilli oil fragrance. It’s not overly spicy, just enough to cut through the beef’s richness.
For non-beef lovers, the Crispy Chicken Tenders come in Original and Spicy versions — both are crisp on the outside, tender inside, and made for dipping. Add RM5 for fries and a drink, and make it count with the KL Ginger Ale, a refreshing house brew that perfectly balances out the meal.
To end on a sweet note, Decker’s has teamed up with Sōfte for soft-serve ice cream in creative flavours like Butter Pecan, Calamansi Asam Boi, and even French Fries.
+6012 893 6392
Tue to Sun: 12pm – 9pm
Closed on Mon
Instagram
If your love language is pizza by the slice and wings on the side, Phil’s Pizza at REXKL might just be your next go-to. What started as a humble pizza counter has become one of the city’s most beloved spots for that perfectly foldable New York–style slice.
Their Truffle Mushroom (RM75 for 12’’) is the crowd favourite, and rightfully so. Each slice oozes with earthy truffle aroma and gooey cheese, perfectly balanced on a thin, crisp crust. If you prefer something classic, the Pepperoni (RM69 for 12’’) never fails — salty, chewy, and loaded with just enough pepperoni to make every bite satisfying.
For smaller appetites, their single slices are a smart move. The Slice Truffle (RM15.50) remains the bestseller, while the Slice Hot Wings (RM13.50) adds a kick with local Linggam hot sauce, spicy and sweet in equal measure. The Slice Meat La Pinyo (RM14) features minced beef and in-house pickled chilli, a bolder take on bolognese-on-pizza.
Pair it with a Soda (RM12.50) or one of their Cookies (RM10), baked with 60% milk chocolate, and you’ve got yourself a meal!
+6010 909 3208
Daily: 11am – 10pm
Instagram
One of my favourite discoveries this year has to be Summation Cafe in Serdang — but if you’re not keen on long drives or traffic jams, their kiosk at REXKL brings the same charm.
Summation may be small, but its menu feels thoughtfully curated. Expect a comforting lineup of hot dishes, pastries, and crafted beverages that lean on quality rather than quantity. Still, the real showstoppers here are their alcohol-free canelés and matcha creations.
The Orange Nutmeg Canelé (RM8) is pure elegance in pastry form. Infused with the zest of fresh oranges and a strong whisper of nutmeg, it’s caramelised on the outside yet custardy inside.
If you prefer something cosier, the Apple Cinnamon Canelé (RM9.50) is a warm hug in dessert form. Filled to the brim with soft apple chunks slow-cooked in cinnamon and sugar, it’s the kind of treat that pairs beautifully with an afternoon chat or a slow Sunday read.
To drink, the Matcha Strawberry Latte (Iced) (RM16) is as pretty as it is refreshing. The combination of earthy Japanese matcha and housemade strawberry puree creates that perfect sweet-tart balance. For something simpler, the Matcha Latte (RM15) keeps it classic.
+6016 291 9917
Mon to Fri: 10am – 7pm
Sat & Sun: 9am – 7pm
Facebook | Instagram
Inside, you’ll find strawberries thriving in refrigerators, growing slowly under precise conditions to enhance their sweetness and density. And the result? Strawberries that are not too sour or too sweet, demanding to be turned into something delicious.
Everything here celebrates the berry in one way or another. You’ll find strawberry milkshakes, tarts, daifuku, canelés, and their signature Frozen Yogurt (RM16) — a refreshing swirl of strawberry froyo topped generously with fresh strawberries and blueberries.
Beyond the food, Berrygood doubles as a lifestyle stop. The brand’s sunny personality extends to its line of merchandise, from graphic tees to tote bags and button pins.
+603 8011 9854
Daily: 10am – 8pm
Instagram | Website
Among all its outlets across Malaysia, the BookXcess in REXKL stands as the crown jewel. Set within the restored walls of the former Rex Cinema, this sprawling 6,000-square-foot space is an architectural love letter to both history and imagination.
The moment you step inside, you’re transported into a labyrinth of books that twist and turn through the old theatre’s original structure. The architects cleverly used the sloping staircases and balcony space to create a stunning book maze, where each narrow passage leads to unexpected discoveries.
And of course, it’s an Instagram dream. Those who stumble upon a spot to squeeze into between the books often can’t resist snapping a photo — the maze-like layout, warm lighting, and endless stacks make every angle feel cinematic.
Daily: 10am – 10pm
Facebook | Instagram | Website
If fashion could time travel, it would probably end up at Bang Bang Vintage in REXKL. This curated treasure trove is where nostalgia meets luxury, offering a mix of pre-loved designer pieces, rare collectibles, and vintage gems that span decades of style.
