Petaling Jaya (PJ), colloquially known as PJ, is a major city in the state of Selangor, Malaysia, originally developed as a satellite township for the capital, Kuala Lumpur. Granted city status in 2006, it covers approximately 97.2 square kilometers and forms a crucial part of the Greater Kuala Lumpur metropolitan area. For frequent-flyer hotel travelers, PJ offers a strategic balance between urban convenience and accessibility. Surrounded by Kuala Lumpur to the east, Shah Alam to the west, and Subang Jaya to the southwest, it serves as an excellent base for exploring the region. The city features well-developed infrastructure, diverse dining options, and proximity to key business districts, making it ideal for both short layovers and extended stays. Its location allows easy access to Kuala Lumpur’s international connectivity while providing a quieter, more residential atmosphere compared to the bustling capital.
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Petaling Jaya borders Kuala Lumpur to the east, making it an ideal starting point for exploring the greater metropolitan area. Hotels are typically concentrated in main commercial hubs, offering convenient access to the city center and neighboring satellite towns such as Subang Jaya. This location provides a strategic advantage for business travelers needing to move between KL and Selangor efficiently.
As part of the Greater Kuala Lumpur area, Petaling Jaya boasts a well-developed road network. While specific airport codes may vary, the city is easily accessible via land transport to major hubs including Kuala Lumpur International Airport. This connectivity makes it suitable for travelers relying on taxis or private transfers, ensuring smooth transitions between accommodation and business sites across the region.
Petaling Jaya retains its characteristics as a planned satellite township, featuring clean environments and comprehensive living facilities. Compared to the core areas of Kuala Lumpur, PJ offers a quieter accommodation experience without sacrificing urban convenience. This makes it particularly appealing to travelers seeking a balanced stay that combines professional efficiency with a relaxed atmosphere.
stadium in Malaysia
Mosque in Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia
mosque in Petaling, Selangor, Malaysia
mosque in Malaysia
mosque in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
art museum of University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
mosque in Petaling, Selangor, Malaysia
mosque in Malaysia
multi-purpose stadium in Shah Alam, Malaysia
mosque in Subang Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia
museum in Kuala Lumpur
Mosque in Subang, Selangor, Malaysia
Divided into bars and dining rooms, the three-story restaurant also sports a Louis XIII-themed private room. Diners can choose from the Omakase menu, seasonal menus and vegetarian options. Dishes range from modern classics, such as French roast chicken and freshly made pasta, to novel creations, all of which underscored by solid skills and quality international produce. Don’t miss the cheese trolley with 20 choices.
WebsiteSelf-taught Chef Chong uses Malaysian produce to imbue his French-leaning 11-course tasting menu with local colour and flavour. His lobster bisque is made with smoky Tahal oil based on asam laksa; his beurre blanc incorporates a creamy curry with turmeric and coconut milk à la masak lemak. Equally inspiring, his curated tea pairings complement the food by flavour bridging. Ask the chef for the tea tasting notes.
WebsiteInformed by stints in Japan and France and paying homage to his culinary roots, Chef Low refashions European recipes with Japanese, French and Malaysian influences. His set menu takes diners on a culinary journey inspired by his personal history and memories. An array of cooking techniques is deployed to great effect, such as cooking in melted beeswax, dry aging, and searing in claypot. Elevate the experience with local rice wine and sake pairings.
WebsiteAfter delivering home-cooked meals during the pandemic, the Syrian chef opened his brick-and-mortar shop, and it quickly became a neighbourhood favourite. The heady aromas of freshly baked goods fill the space. Unmistakably Middle Eastern, the food is rife with bold colours and flavours. The smoked hummus infused with burnt chilli oil tastes mildly spicy and very smoky. Try the kebab khashkhash – lamb skewers in a sharp, spicy poppy seed sauce.
🕐 Mo-Fr 18:00-23:00; Sa,Su 12:00-15:00,18:00-23:00
Amid cute bars and eateries in Plaza Damansara stands Aliyaa, famous for authentic Sri Lankan dishes. On the menu, beef, mutton, chicken, seafood or veggies mingle with distinctive Sri Lankan spices to great effect. Besides the famous whole crab, also try the Negombo prawns in pineapple gravy; or Kuliyal, curry rice and tomato paste baked in banana leaf. Food is generally quite spicy, but the chef will gladly adjust the level of heat to your liking.
WebsitePlaza Damansara offers no end of dining options, but this Peranakan joint stands out with the owner’s family recipes that have been polished and updated. No-frills home-style dishes are made with the freshest local produce and the sauces are made by the owner himself. Try his creamy basil boneless chicken, boasting juicy, velvety meat in a creamy sauce loaded with fresh herbal notes. Alfresco dining on balmy nights.
Bangsar Village is home to numerous buzzy restaurants and shops. In this vibrant district, Nirwana attracts diners for its distinctive flavours – a selection of regional dishes for anyone seeking the authentic taste of India. Go for one of the set menus with rice and vegetable curry on banana leaves, which you can top up with your favourite sides (fish, chicken or lamb). The chicken biriyani boasts moist tender meat and balanced flavours.
🕐 10:00-02:00
WebsiteThis family-owned business has been a mainstay of the local dining scene since 1965 and is now run by the second and third generations. As its name suggests, it specialises in Hainan chicken rice – choose between the steamed and fried varieties. For solo diners, the set menu offers great value, with peanut soup, flavoursome rice cooked in chicken fat and stock, and your choice of chicken cuts. The other chicken dishes are also worth trying.
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