When it comes to exploring Kuala Lumpur, many of us have fallen into famous attractions – the Twin Towers, Bukit Bintang, theme park, and the usual food search in tourist-y spots become the go-to choices. But every now and then, you crave a change of pace. Somewhere new to sit, catch up, people-watch, or maybe even cross paths with someone unexpected.
These lifestyle and creative hubs are necessary for the city as they provide a space for arts, culture, and collaboration. They also serve as outlets for local brands to shine, whether they’re cafes, retail stores, bars, or unique fusion cuisine. And in Kuala Lumpur, these spaces are everywhere if you know where to look. Whether you’re looking for a chill place to work at, or taking yourself out to read a good book, look no further than some of the city’s most beloved hangout spots.
The Campus Ampang
Once an international school, The Campus Ampang is the newest go-to hangout spot for local dining, fashion, homeware, and lifestyle brands. The hub offers a wide variety of cuisines and flavours for all, including Universal Bakehouse, Fowlboys Diner, Coffeeboy Club, Jibby Chow, and dessert spots such as It’s Chunky and Piccoli Lotti. You can also do your grocery runs at Qra, a curated grocer offering fresh produce and other necessities. There are also plenty of choices when it comes to fashion and home decor like Kantan Kollektiv, Sueka Sueka, and Nala. It’s usually filled with different pop up markets, art showcases, and community events every weekend.
Address: Lot 7706, Jalan Kolam Air Lama, Mukim, Hulu Kelang, 68000 Ampang, Selangor
RexKL
Whether it’s during the day or the night, RexKL has turned into a bustling cultural hub in the heart of Chinatown. Today, the former screening theatre draws visitors thanks to its vintage aesthetics, good food, and line-ups of cool events and exhibitions. From live performances to cultural showcases, the place is also a stage for local and international talents to shine. Aficionados of thrifted fashion can check out the treasure troves that are collections of preloved and vintage goods at BangBang Vintage Stores’ and Mentor Bookstore. Book lovers will love browsing through the maze-like bookstore, BookXcess.
Address: 80, Jalan Sultan, City Centre, 50000 Kuala Lumpur
APW Bangsar
Short for A Place Where, APW has been beautifully repurposed from a printing factory to now a hub that hosts some of KL’s stylish cafes, bars, events, design studios, and art bazaars situated in Bangsar. While you can find art and stationery stores, fashion boutiques, and beauty outlets such as Handmade Heroes, Khoon Hooi, and Cheak, the place is big on its dining scene, serving diverse cuisines. It’s home to local eateries like PULP by Papa Palheta, Proof Pizza + Wine, Unwined, Olivia Deli, The Coach Coffee Shop, and Bask.
Address: 29, Jalan Riong, Bangsar, 59100 Kuala Lumpur
The Zhongshan Building
Tucked away on the corner of Jalan Rottan in Kampung Attap, The Zhongshan Building is a thriving creative hub that houses a treasure trove of indie bookstores, cosy cafes, and quirky artisanal stores hidden within the four floors of the building. For those who love a good thrift and unique goods from local brands, there are plenty of shops to drop by such as Naiise, Ana Tomy, and Tandang Records Store for artsy knick-knacks. Snack on artisanal tea, coffee, and sandwiches at Kok Far Tea Shop, Tommy le Baker, and Piu Piu Piu. The hub is also home to The Back Room, an art gallery, and fono, an event space that hosts music gigs.
Address: Jalan Kampung Attap, 80 – 84, Jalan Rotan, 50460 Kuala Lumpur
The Pocket
KL’s newest industrial hangout spot, The Pocket, is located in Pudu, Sungai Besi. You’ll find the hub in an old building that has been stylishly refurbished. The up-and-coming hidden gem is home to a community of cafes, independent shops, and cultural spaces that has attracted a mix of Gen Zs and food lovers alike. If you’d like a comfort pick-me-up, head to Ramen Monster and Scrappy Dough. Make a pit stop for desserts and matcha at Looozer, The Boy Cried Wolf, and A Cup of _. You can also browse a curated range of aromatic essentials at Cstone Concept Store.
Address: 139, Jln Sungai Besi, Pudu, 57100 Kuala Lumpur
The Gasket Alley
Since its opening in 2015, The Gasket Alley has hosted various events and festivals, bringing together the free-spirited community in the name of music and good vibes. The hub also houses the Harley Davidson and Moto Guzzi showroom and service centre, including lifestyle shops catering to hardcore riders. If you fancy a good grub, enjoy hearty meals and in-house blends at Coffeeboy Club, Makhan by Kitchen Mafia, and Phil’s Pizza. Drop by Hejau and Halo Doughnut for some housemade matcha and sourdough donuts.
Address: Lot 15, 13, Jln 13/6, Seksyen 13, 46200 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
