A Winter Cravings Met in the Heart of Malaysia
If you are looking for the best Korean sashimi in Kuala Lumpur, your search might end in a very nostalgic place. For many Koreans, December is synonymous with Bangeo (Yellowtail) sashimi. While living in Malaysia, I often found myself dreaming of that melt-in-your-mouth texture. You might think enjoying premium aged fish is a far-fetched dream in Southeast Asia, but ‘dreams come true’ at a hidden gem called Maljiro.
Location: The Hidden Foodie Hub, Desa Sri Hartamas
Maljiro is located in Desa Sri Hartamas, a vibrant neighborhood known for its dense population of Korean and Japanese expats.
- Distance: About 15–20 minutes from KL City Centre (KLCC).
- Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/EsFH2GuuDRkxVAjaA
- Accessibility: From Bangsar, it takes only 13–15 minutes via Grab. The area feels like a mini East Asian food street, complete with Korean BBQ, dessert cafes like Sulbing, and even Korean board game cafes.
Best Korean Sashimi in Kuala Lumpur: Maljiro (Aged Fish Guide)
What sets Korean sashimi restaurants apart is the “Hansang-charim” (a full table setting). At Maljiro, the meal starts with classic savory pairings typically found in a Korean ‘Hof’ (traditional pub):
- Assorted Sides: The spread includes everything from Shrimp pancakes (Saewoo-jeon) to grilled eel, showcasing the generous “sharing culture” of Korea.
- Rolled Omelets & Sizzling Corn Cheese: These are the quintessential Korean bar snacks. The creamy, cheesy corn served on a sizzling iron plate is a legendary staple of Korean pub culture. For many, these dishes are the ultimate comfort food that perfectly complements a cold beer or Soju. You can catch a glimpse of it at the edge of my photo!
Menu & Pricing: Great Value for Groups
Maljiro offers various sets that provide excellent value for the quality and quantity of food served. Here are the main options you can expect:
| Set Menu | Recommended For | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Aged Sashimi Set (M) | 2 – 3 Pax | Approx. RM 250 |
| Aged Sashimi Set (L) | 3 – 4 Pax | Approx. RM 350 |
Please Note: While the set prices are consistent, the selection of fish in the sashimi platter changes daily based on the freshest catch available. This ensures you always get the highest quality seasonal fish.
Considering the sheer number of side dishes (Anju) included—like the shrimp pancakes, corn cheese, and spicy fish stew—it is a very reasonable price for a premium seafood experience in Kuala Lumpur.
The Star of the Show: Expertly Aged Sashimi
At Maljiro, the fish is “aged” (Suksung), which enhances the umami and creates a buttery texture. During my visit, I enjoyed a variety of:
- Yellowtail (Bangeo), Sea Bream, and Flatfish.
- Pro Tip: Try the “Salted Rice Ball (Sogeum-gimbap) Wrap.” Following a trend popularized by Korean celebrity Kang Min-kyung, wrapping a piece of aged fish with washed kimchi on a small salted rice ball is a game-changer.
- Watch how it started: https://youtu.be/IRixxDvSxbs
Final Verdict: A Must-Visit for Seafood Lovers
The interior is decorated with elegant ink paintings of fish, reflecting the owner’s pride. While the spicy fish stew (Maeuntang) was a bit salty for my taste, the quality of the sashimi more than made up for it. Whether you are a local foodie or an expat missing the tastes of Seoul, Maljiro offers an authentic slice of Korean seafood culture in KL.
- Location: Jalan 24/70a, Desa Sri Hartamas, Kuala Lumpur
- Perfect for: Group dinners, seafood enthusiasts, and K-culture fans.
