UNDER the shade of decades-old trees is Warung PagiPagi, a Kuala Lumpur food court that offers more than just a meal.
In leafy Federal Hill (Bukit Persekutuan) with a view of Merdeka 118, it’s a place to unwind and hang out with friends well into the night.
This local hangout, situated next to the historic Galeria Sri Perdana (former official residence of Malaysia’s fourth and seventh prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad), attracts both families and youths.
Young people are often seen here until the early hours, sipping coffee, chatting and enjoying the laid-back vibe.
With several palaces also located on Federal Hill, it is not uncommon to spot a royal family member or two at the eatery.
In the mornings, Warung PagiPagi serves up a range of classic dishes like nasi lemak, lempeng kelapa (coconut pancakes), laksa Johor, Ubi Rebus Sambal Bilis, lontong and soto.
Warung PagiPagi general manager Asni Muzammil said the morning menu features 22 different lauk or dishes to pair with white rice.
These are a big hit among locals and visitors alike as they represent Malaysian comfort food.
As evening rolls in, the warung turns into a casual dining spot offering hearty meals.
One standout is its Buttermilk Chicken (priced at RM14), which comes with either white or fried rice.
The savoury and buttery gravy complements the crispy chicken perfectly.
The roti canai (RM2) is a staple here with varieties like roti telur (RM3), roti tampal (RM3) and roti telur bawang (RM4).
Specials such as Roti Sarang Burung and Roti Canai Kahwin are priced at RM5.
Apart from these in-house offerings, the space is home to several other stalls with different specialities such as Western food, coffee and butterbrew, Mexican food, smashed burgers, and desserts.
For something crispy, try the Fried Chicken Chop (RM17).
The tender chicken in light and crunchy batter is served with fries, salad and black pepper dipping sauce.
Dessert-wise, Strawberry-Coated Chocolate Pistachio Kunafa (RM16) is an indulgent treat, with fresh strawberries coated in a rich layer of chocolate and topped with a pistachio kunafa sauce.
The combination of sweet, juicy berries and creamy, nutty sauce makes for a satisfying end to a meal.
For a unique drink experience, try the non-alcoholic butterbrew (priced at RM15 each).
Choices include Light Butterbrew, Creamy Butterbrew or − for the more adventurous −Bloody Butterbrew (described as liquid strawberry waffles) or Brunette Butterbrew (a rich, chocolatey concoction that tastes like brewed brownies topped with cold buttercream).
Asni said 18 other stalls had opened up near Warung PagiPagi since January.
He calls it a “healing spot” for young people who enjoy hanging out and chatting in the fresh air, especially on weekends.
“Some regulars even bring their own chairs so they can enjoy the vibes for hours on end,” he added.
There’s something for everyone here, whether you’re in the mood for Western, Mexican or local fare.
The area gets busy, especially on weekends, with 140 parking bays filling up fast, but Asni said People’s Volunteer Corps (Rela) personnel would be there to help direct traffic and make sure everyone finds a spot to park.
Warung PagiPagi is located at Lot 1, Galeria Sri Perdana, Jalan Terengganu, Bukit Persekutuan.
It is open from 8am to 1am on weekdays, and 8am to 2am on weekends.
