KL’s Central Market a great tourist stop for food and souvenirs

The sign on the entrance says, ‘Since 1888’ but the current building dates from 1933 and is designed in Art-Deco style.

Central Market Kuala Lumpur (Pasar Seni) is one of Kuala Lumpur’s top tourist attractions and for good reason. It’s probably the best place in the city to stock up on souvenirs, handicrafts and other great purchases.

As you would expect it’s a bit touristy but it’s truly a joy to browse around to see if there is anything new and interesting to purchase or simply admire.

The sign on the entrance says, ‘Since 1888’ but the current building dates from 1933 and is designed in the Art-Deco style that was popular at that time.

It was originally a wet market but long gone are the smelly butcher and fishmonger stalls to be replaced by essential oils, batiks, textiles, pewter ware, durian fruit products, arts and collectables.

The building is air-conditioned so it provides a respite from the blistering heat and humidity outside, and you can wander around in comfort.

One of the more popular shops is Kota Pinang on the ground floor where owner Victor will happily show you his eclectic selection of quirky antiques and collectables.

Some of the most delicious food can be found in Central Market especially at its Food Court.

Central Market is also a good place to eat and at lunch time the food court is filled with office workers from the nearby banks and government offices.

It’s always a good sign that the food is tasty and reasonably priced if it is filled with locals rather than just tourists.

On the upper level you can find various eating outlets including Precious Old China (the same company as the Old China Cafe and serving similar delicious Nyonya cuisine) and Ginger Restaurant (serving Thai/Malaysian cuisine).

Downstairs and in the next door annexe you can find branches of Secret Recipe, Old Town White Coffee and outlets selling Malaysian favourites like “nasi kandar” and “ais kacang”.

Do visit the Annexe where you can find a number of art galleries showcasing various local and regional artists.

Before finishing up at Central Market make sure you visit the Annexe, across an alleyway at the far end of Central Market, where you can find a number of art galleries showcasing various local and regional artists.

In particular you should drop in at Art House Gallery Museum of Ethnic Arts and see their unrivalled collection of tribal arts from Borneo and beyond.

Central Market
Jalan Hang Kasturi
City Centre
50050 Kuala Lumpur

Tel: +60 1-300-22-8688
GPS: 3°08’43.3″N 101°41’43.6″E
3.145352, 101.695448

Parking

There is a car park directly in front of the market but it does get busy at peak times.

Public Transport

The closest MRT station is Pasar Seni.

This article first appeared on thriftytraveller.wordpress.com