In the tropical setting of Malaysia, several delightful locations offer respite from the sweltering heat. Among these, Cameron Highlands stands out as one of the country’s highly frequented destinations. In contrast to Genting Highlands, Cameron Highlands boasts a more relaxed, less urban lifestyle. Nevertheless, the locale offers a myriad of activities and an array of delectable dining options. This article will illuminate the culinary delights awaiting you in Cameron Highlands, presenting a curated list of the top 10 eateries to enrich your itinerary during your upcoming visit.
1. The Smokehouse Hotel & Restaurant
Immersed in a British-colonial ambiance, The Smokehouse stands as a distinguished resort in Cameron Highlands, complete with a charming front café. Whether nestled in the delightful garden terrace or surrounded by the English-style decor inside the hotel, patrons can relish the experience.
While the culinary offerings come at a premium, the expenditure primarily encompasses the enchanting environment. The establishment caters to various dining times, featuring opulent English-style or European breakfast, lunch, tea, and dinner sets. A word of advice: in the presence of a bustling crowd, it’s advisable to explore alternative locations to sidestep prolonged waiting times.
About The Smokehouse Hotel & Restaurant:
Website: https://www.smokehousehotel.com/
Instagram: Smoke House Hotel
Facebook: Smoke House Hotel
Address: By the Golf Course, Tanah Rata, 39000 Tanah Rata, Pahang, Malaysia
Contact: +05 491 1215
Whatsapp: +6012 328 1937
Email: enquiries@smokehousehotel.com
Booking: You make your booking or check prices at, Booking.com, Agoda & Book-directonline.com
2. Pizzarella & Misokimchi @ Tanah Rata
Pizzarella & Misokimchi, a cozy restaurant in Cameron Highlands, is driven by a passionate team with a mission to offer top-notch gourmet fare and exceptional service at an affordable price. With over 18 years of collective experience in the Food & Beverage sector, our team brings expertise from various roles in hotels, restaurants, and bakeries. Our commitment to quality is reflected in state-of-the-art equipment, streamlined processes, and adherence to food preparation standards, earning us consistent 5-star reviews.
In our pursuit of an exceptional dining experience, we adhere to a food philosophy using 100% fresh and natural ingredients, avoiding ready-made products. This commitment creates a unique taste profile, setting us apart as a culinary experience found exclusively at Pizzarella Misokimchi.
About Pizzarella & Misokimchi & Tanah Rata:
Open Hours: Monday – Sunday (12.00 pm – 9.30 pm)
Website: https://www.pizzarellamisokimchi.com/
Instagram: instagram.com/pizzarella.ch
Facebook: facebook.com/Misokimchi.ch/
Address: Cameron Fair, C-G-9, Jalan Camelia, Tanah Rata, 39000 Tanah Rata, Pahang, Malaysia
Contact: +05 485 1249
Whatsapp: +6012 500 8589
3. BOH Sungai Palas Tea Centre
For those venturing to Cameron Highlands, a must-have in their itinerary is the BOH Sungai Palas Tea Centre.
Once you’ve marveled at the tea plantation, a visit to this center offers the opportunity to savor their tea and enjoy delectable cakes.
The center also provides breathtaking views, making it a popular destination crowded with visitors on weekends and public holidays.
About BOH Sungai Palas Tea Centre:
Open Hours: Monday (Closed) & Tuesday – Sunday (8.30 am – 4.30 pm)
Website: https://bohtea.com/visit-our-tea-gardens/sungei-palas-tea-garden/
Address: Brinchang, 39100 Brinchang, Pahang, Malaysia
Contact: +605 496 2096
4. Uncle Chow Kopitiam Cameron Highlands
If you’re yearning for Malaysian food, Uncle Chow Kopitiam is the answer. Despite its name suggesting a traditional coffee house, this Kopitiam boasts a modern and comfortable interior. Nestled at a corner lot, Uncle Chow Kopitiam offers a variety of affordably priced food options, each not only delicious but also budget-friendly.
Our recommended dishes include the flavorsome curry noodles and prawn noodles. The thick, prawn-infused broth is sure to tantalize your taste buds, with each bowl generously packed with ingredients, especially prawns.
For a lighter option, indulge in their homemade Nyonya Kuih, often sold out within an hour of operation. Topped with coconut jam, it’s a perfect snack for your exploration in Cameron Highlands. Other offerings at Uncle Chow Kopitiam include Char Keuy Teow, yam desserts, and their signature Bubur Cha Cha, a delightful sweet coconut milk dessert.
About Uncle Chow Kopitiam Cameron Highlands:
Open Hours:
Facebook: facebook.com/uncle-chow-kopitiam-tanah-rata-cameron-highland
Address: C2-G, 1, Jalan Royal Lily 4/2, Taman Royal Lily, 39000 Tanah Rata, Pahang
Contact: +6013 574 8273
5. The Lord’s Café
The Lord’s Café stands among the top-rated cafes in the area. Situated in Tanah Rata, the largest township in Cameron Highlands, this café is comparatively smaller in size than others nearby.
The advantage lies in its less crowded atmosphere, offering a quieter setting for indulging in delightful desserts and beverages. The menu, though simple with limited choices, presents generously portioned dishes at pocket-friendly prices.
For breakfast, the signature Big Breakfast is a popular choice, but if you’re in the mood for something different, don’t miss out on their must-try Cream Scone. The fluffy pastry is served with strawberry jam, butter, and whipped cream, creating a delightful combination. A large menu signboard at the entrance ensures you won’t be overwhelmed when deciding what to order.
About The Lord’s Café:
Open Hours: Monday – Saturday (10.00 am – 5.00 pm) & Sunday (Closed)
Address: Jalan Besar, Tanah Rata, 39000 Tanah Rata, Pahang
Contact: +6019 572 2883
6. Restoran Ferm Nyonya
In addition to its delectable Nyonya cuisine, this restaurant boasts two noteworthy attributes: firstly, it is certified halal, and secondly, it provides a variety of vegetarian options!
Among its offerings is a steamboat set ideal for four individuals. However, it’s advisable to avoid visiting during peak hours at 1 pm and 7 pm when the establishment tends to get crowded.
Large groups, in particular, will find delight in the extensive menu and generous portions at this well-established Cameron Highlands restaurant, ensuring a satisfying dining experience.
About Restoran Ferm Nyonya:
Open Hours: Monday – Sunday (11.00 am – 3.30 pm & 5.30 pm – 9.30 pm)
Address: 78A-D, Persiaran Camelia 4, Tanah Rata, 39000 Tanah Rata, Pahang, Malaysia
Contact: +605 491 5891
7. The Lakehouse Restaurant & Bar
If you find yourself lodging at Lakehouse Cameron Highlands, chances are high that you’ll visit at least once, given the absence of alternative dining options in the immediate vicinity.
Even if you’re not a resident, indulging in afternoon tea at this location is an option, despite its considerable distance from other attractions in Cameron Highlands.
Setting aside its geographical location, the restaurant exudes a delightful charm with its incorporation of British colonial elements.
The establishment offers an extensive à la carte menu encompassing both Western and local cuisines, available for breakfast and dinner, complemented by a delightful array of wines.
For a more intimate dining experience, the option to reserve a private BBQ or steamboat dinner is available, requiring a minimum of 2 diners.
About The Lakehouse Restaurant & Bar:
Website: https://lakehouse-cameron.com/
Instagram: instagram.com/thelakehousecameronhighlands/
Facebook: facebook.com/thelakehousecameronhighlands
Address: 30th Mile, Jalan Ringlet – Sungai Koyan, Sungai Khazanah, 39000 Ringlet, Pahang, Malaysia
Contact: +605 495 6152
Fax: +605 495 6213
Email: info@lakehouse-cameron.com
8. Puku Cafe at Kea Farm
PUKU Café, situated at Kea Farm, is an adorable establishment offering handcrafted yogurt ice cream. Indulging in their delightful ice cream is a pocket-friendly experience, with each stick priced at just RM7-8!
If you find it challenging to settle on a flavor, consider sampling their offerings such as chocolate, strawberry (perfect for those Instagram-worthy selfies), green tea, or tiramisu!
In our opinion, the strawberry ice cream surpasses the chocolate in terms of deliciousness, boasting a more pronounced and flavorful profile.
About Puku Cafe:
Open Hours:
Monday – Thursday (9.00 am – 6.00 pm)
Friday – Sunday (9.00 am – 6.30 pm)
Instagram: instagram.com/puku_cafe/
Facebook: facebook.com/p/Puku-Cafe
Address: Brinchang, 39000 Brinchang, Pahang, Malaysia
Whatsapp: +60 18-945 1594
9. MR. AISU Ice Cream Café
In addition to the renowned ice cream parlor, Puku Cafe at Kea Farm, there’s another noteworthy spot in Brinchang: MR. AISU Ice Cream Cafe!
MR. AISU specializes in homemade soft-serve ice cream that strikes a perfect balance, avoiding excessive sweetness. Enhance your experience by pairing the ice cream with a delectable waffle, and for the more adventurous, consider indulging in their unique in-house pumpkin dough waffle!
Featuring a limited but satisfying mains menu, the pasta is commendable, and they offer a selection of sandwiches and pizza. On chilly days, the warmth from their heater adds to the cozy atmosphere.
Beyond a delightful dessert spot, MR. AISU Ice Cream Cafe is an ideal post-dinner destination, as it extends its closing hours until 10 pm.
Explore a diverse range of ice cream flavors, including Almond, Dark Chocolate, Belgium Chocolate, Mango, Pistachio, Cheesecake, Green Tea, Teh Tarik, Durian (seasonal), Lemon, Tiramisu, Ipoh Coffee, and Strawberry.
About MR. AISU Ice Cream Cafe:
Open Hours:
Monday, Wednesday – Sunday (11.00 am – 5.00 pm & 6.30 pm – 10.00 pm)
Tuesday (Closed)
Instagram: instagram.com/mraisu/
Facebook: facebook.com/misteraisu/
Address: No. 5, Gerai Berhampiran Pasar, 39100 Brinchang, Pahang, Malaysia
Contact: +011 2624 5616
Whatsapp: +60 11-2624 5616
10. The Dining Room
This restaurant is, in fact, the in-house dining establishment of Cameron Highlands Resort, distinguished as one of the premier hotels in the Cameron Highlands.
Partaking in a meal at The Dining Room requires a proper dress code. The restaurant exudes a soft ambiance and boasts a sophisticated aesthetic in both its interior and exterior. The vantage point from this dining venue offers a picturesque view of the verdant mountains of Cameron Highlands, accompanied by the refreshing coolness that combats the tropical heat of Malaysia.
Operating hours for The Dining Room at Cameron Highlands Resort commence with breakfast from 7 am to 10.30 am. The menu spans a delightful array of offerings, encompassing baked pastries, cereals, eggs, fruits, yogurts, pancakes, and more. While lunch is not available, the option to dine for dinner is open, especially convenient for those too fatigued to seek meals in the town area of Cameron Highlands. Dinner service extends from 7 pm to 10 pm, featuring a diverse selection of both international and local cuisines.
About The Dining Room:
Open Hours: Monday – Sunday (7.00 am – 10.30 am & 7.00 pm – 10.00 pm)
Address: Cameron Highlands Resort, Brinchang, 39000 Tanah Rata, Pahang, Malaysia
Contact: +05 491 1100
11. Cameron Organic Produce Steamboat Restaurant
Certainly, it’s essential to include some steamboat restaurants in Cameron Highlands within this compilation, in addition to the aforementioned option.
At Cameron Organic Produce Steamboat Restaurant, they employ traditional charcoal steamboat stoves and incorporate organic vegetables harvested fresh from their own garden!
For a tailored experience, you have the option to order a steamboat set designed for two, featuring a selection of seafood. Opt for either the chicken or vegetable soup base, purportedly free from MSG.
About Cameron Organic Produce Steamboat Restaurant:
Open Hours: Monday – Sunday (12.00 pm – 10.00 pm)
Address: 10, Bandar Baru, 39100 Brinchang, Pahang, Malaysia
Contact: +05 491 4807
12. Restaurant Tringkap 直能甲海鲜饭店
Restaurant Tringkap (直能甲海鲜饭店) presents itself as a conventional Malaysian kopitiam or coffee shop
Despite its unassuming appearance, the culinary offerings at this establishment rank among the finest in the area. The affordability of the menu items contributes significantly to the restaurant’s popularity, particularly on weekends and public holidays when it tends to be consistently packed.
The menu boasts a diverse selection of dishes, including signature highlights such as steamed free-range chicken with ginger and soy sauce, as well as deep-fried Tilapia fish. Other notable options include deep-fried abalone mushrooms, vegetables stir-fried with belacan (a pungent local chili not for the faint of heart), and clay pot-braised lamb.
About Restaurant Tringkap (直能甲海鲜饭店):
Open Hours: Monday – Sunday (12.00 pm – 9.00 pm)
Address: 14, Persiaran Taman Tringkap 2, Taman Tringkap, 39000 Brinchang, Pahang, Malaysia
Contact: +05 496 2324
13. Xin Teh Bak Kut Teh 心德肉骨茶
Tucked away at the far end of Cameron Square, within the mall premises, discover a recent addition – a specialized restaurant focusing on both the soup and dry variations of Bak Kut Teh.
The proprietress, affable and conversational, adds a pleasant touch to the dining experience, with an estimated cost of around RM50 for a party of two.
This corner of the mall tends to be less frequented, and on quieter days, it transforms into a serene, pristine space offering a clean and comfortable ambiance.
The combination of friendly staff and the cozy atmosphere makes this new restaurant in Cameron Highlands an inviting choice, especially on rainy days. However, it’s worth noting that we venture to claim the bak kut teh in Ipoh holds a superior culinary charm!
About Xin Teh Bak Kut Teh 心德肉骨茶:
Open Hours:
Monday, Wednesday – Friday (12.00 pm – 9.00 pm)
Tuesday (Closed)
Saturday – Sunday (11.30 pm – 9.00 pm)
Facebook: facebook.com/Xin-Teh-Bak-Kut-Teh-心德肉骨茶
Contact: +6012 636 8884
Remark: Non-Halal
14. Cactus View Restaurant
For a laid-back steamboat lunch or dinner to enjoy with friends and family in a charming outdoor setting, Cactus View Restaurant fits the bill, offering a rustic yet sheltered ambiance.
The affordably priced dual charcoal steamboat and barbecue set doesn’t overwhelm with excessive seasoning, providing a delightful dining experience. Our dinner at this establishment was thoroughly enjoyable.
In addition to the steamboat, indulge in some delicious ala carte dishes on the side, such as Steamed Fish or dry Bak Kut Teh.
Ensure you make reservations, especially on weekends and public holidays, as they are essential for securing your spot at this popular dining venue.
About Cactus View Restaurant:
Open Hours:
Monday (5.00 pm – 9.30 pm)
Tuesday – Thursday (Closed)
Friday – Sunday (5.00 pm – 9.30 pm)
Address: Brinchang, 39100 Brinchang, Pahang, Malaysia
Contact: +6012 261 8599
Remark: Non-Halal
15. Singh Chapati Urban Restaurant
A fantastic dining experience awaits if you manage to visit the unassuming family-run restaurant during less crowded hours!
Despite featuring a modest menu, the allure of this establishment lies in its consistently excellent and flavorful Indian cuisine, drawing patrons back for more. Given their commitment to preparing everything fresh, a bit of waiting time is to be expected.
Particularly noteworthy is their mutton curry, which we found exceptionally delightful. Before placing your order, be sure to communicate your spice tolerance to the kitchen.
To complement your meal, savor the warmth of comforting masala tea or indulge in their homemade hot almond milk!
About Singh Chapati Urban Restaurant:
Open Hours: Monday – Sunday (1:30 pm to 4:30 pm & 6:30 pm to 9:30 pm)
Address: No 1, Brij Court, Tanah Rata, 39000 Tanah Rata, Pahang, Malaysia
Contact: +6017 578 6454
16. Delicious & Happiness Kitchen – Cameron Highlands Restaurant
At first glance, Delicious & Happiness Kitchen may seem like an ordinary restaurant, but it excels in efficient business operations!
Even during peak times on weekends, the establishment manages to swiftly deliver generous portions of their delightful Chinese dishes, served hot.
What sets them apart is not just the speedy service but also the affordability of their menu, complemented by a friendly and helpful staff. Additionally, the dining space maintains a commendable level of cleanliness.
Indulge in their specialty dishes, including mantis prawn, butter chicken or squid (sotong), Assam fish, steamed salted chicken, stir-fried salted egg vegetables, salted egg tofu, bitter gourd omelet, marmite chicken, and sweet and sour pork.
About Delicious & Happiness Kitchen:
Address: No.16, Bawah, point, Jalan Angsana 1, Brinchang, 39100 Brinchang, Pahang, Malaysia
Contact: +6011 5914 9110
Remark: Non-Halal
17. Jim Thompson Tea Room
Named after Jim Thompson, a pivotal figure in the Thai silk industry, this sophisticated tea room offers a unique experience.
On the menu, you’ll find ala carte lunch options and a classic English tea set, priced at around RM150 for two to share. The higher cost acts as a deterrent for crowds, allowing visitors to fully relish their time in this elegant setting.
Our admiration extends to their homemade scones paired with genuine clotted cream, while the sandwiches and other treats on the top tier also receive commendation.
Yet, it’s the refined ambiance that elevates the high tea experience here to an exceptional level. To enhance the atmosphere, there are even occasions when a pianist contributes to the overall charm!
About Jim Thompson Tea Room:
Website: https://www.cameronhighlandsresort.com/
Address: Cameron Highland, 39000 Brinchang, Pahang, Malaysia
Contact: +05 491 1100
Conclusion
In concluding our exploration of the top 17 must-try foods in Cameron Highlands, this culinary journey reveals a diverse tapestry of flavors and local gastronomic artistry. From Nyonya delights to comforting steamboat experiences, each dish tells a story of the region’s rich culinary heritage. Cameron Highlands offers a burst of unique flavors and textures, reflecting its perplexing yet delightful food landscape. Whether savoring fragrant steamboat or indulging in local desserts, every bite encapsulates the region’s history. Enjoy a symphony of tastes that is both contextually rich and coherently delightful in this culinary haven. Happy feasting!
