Top 10 Nasi Lemak Restaurants in Kota Bharu
Introduction
Kota Bharu, the heart of Kelantan, is renowned for its rich Malay culinary heritage, and nasi lemak is undoubtedly the star. From traditional street stalls to cozy cafes, the city offers a variety of flavorful options that will satisfy both locals and travelers. Here’s a curated list of the top 10 nasi lemak restaurants in Kota Bharu you must try.
1. Nasi Lemak Bersinar Kota Bharu
Experience a fragrant, spicy nasi lemak that locals rave about. Perfect for breakfast or a quick snack, this spot is always bustling with food lovers.
Location: No. 3571C, Seksyen 20, Kampung Puteh, Jalan Kuala Krai, 15050 Kota Bharu, Kelantan, Malaysia
Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM daily
Must Try: Nasi lemak with sambal ikan bilis, sotong, udang, daging, ikan tongkol, fried chicken
Price Range: RM 1–20
Highlights: Fragrant rice, variety of sambal, fast service
Facilities: Casual seating, takeout available
Star Rating: 4.0 (654 reviews)
2. NC Nasi Lemak
Savor spicy fried chicken and unique sambal udang petai at this popular Kota Bharu eatery. Late-night diners especially love its flavorful options.
Location: Lot 2443, Kampung Khatib Ali, Jalan Long Yunus, 15200 Kota Bharu, Kelantan, Malaysia
Opening Hours: 4:00 PM – 2:00 AM daily
Must Try: Spicy fried chicken, crispy fried chicken, sambal udang petai
Price Range: RM 1–20
Highlights: Unique sambal offerings, late-night meals
Facilities: Casual seating, takeout available
Star Rating: 4.0 (35 reviews)
3. Ajihs Nasi Lemak & Thai Food
Enjoy a fusion of Malay and Thai flavors with their delicious nasi lemak. Founded by former footballer Badhri Radzi, it’s a local favorite for good reason.
Location: Jalan Guchil Bayam, Kubang Kerian, Kelantan
Opening Hours: 4:00 PM – 12:30 AM (Closed on Mondays)
Must Try: Nasi lemak, Thai dishes
Price Range: RM 10–30
Highlights: Affordable prices, combination of nasi lemak and Thai cuisine
Facilities: Casual seating
Star Rating: 2.8 (35 reviews)
4. Kampung Kraftangan
Step into traditional Kelantanese culture while enjoying your meal. Their nasi lemak is served alongside other heritage Malay dishes in a cultural setting.
- Location: Jalan Merbau, Bandar Kota Bharu, 15000 Kota Bharu, Kelantan, Malaysia
- Opening Hours: 8:30 AM – 4:45 PM (Closed on Fridays)
- Must Try: Nasi lemak, nasi ulam
- Price Range: RM 2–10
- Highlights: Cultural dining experience, traditional recipes
- Facilities: Museum, handicraft displays
- Star Rating: 3.5 (13 reviews)
5. Warisan Nasi Kukus
Famous for flavorful nasi kukus, this restaurant has been serving locals since 1972. Pair it with their variety of lauk for a satisfying meal.
Location: No. 419, Jalan Wakaf Mek Zainab, 15300 Kota Bharu, Kelantan, Malaysia
Opening Hours: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM daily
Must Try: Nasi kukus with fried chicken, spicy sambal belacan
Price Range: RM 1–20
Highlights: Established since 1972, wide selection of dishes
Facilities: Casual seating, takeout available
Star Rating: 4.4 (827 reviews)
6. Lock Cafe
A simple kopitiam offering authentic local flavors. Their nasi lemak with curry chicken is a popular breakfast choice in Kota Bharu.
Location: D2, Kota Bharu 15300, Kelantan, Malaysia
Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM daily
Must Try: Nasi lemak with curry chicken
Price Range: RM 5–10
Highlights: Traditional kopitiam vibe, simple breakfast menu
Facilities: Casual seating
Star Rating: 4.2 (211 reviews)
7. Nasi Lemak Cikgu
Known for its perfectly cooked coconut rice and spicy sambal, this stall is a breakfast favorite among locals.
Location: Jalan Long Yunus, Kota Bharu, Kelantan
Opening Hours: 6:30 AM – 11:00 AM daily
Must Try: Nasi lemak with fried chicken and sambal sotong
Price Range: RM 3–15
Highlights: Traditional taste, early morning rush
Facilities: Street-side seating, takeaway
Star Rating: 4.0 (120 reviews)
8. Nasi Lemak Kak Wok
This stall offers rich, creamy coconut rice with a spicy kick in their sambal. A simple yet unforgettable experience.
Location: Jalan Tok Hakim, Kota Bharu, Kelantan
Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 1:00 PM daily
Must Try: Nasi lemak with fried egg and sambal ikan bilis
Price Range: RM 3–12
Highlights: Affordable, authentic local flavor
Facilities: Outdoor seating, takeaway
Star Rating: 4.1 (95 reviews)
9. Nasi Lemak Cendana
Known for generous portions and a variety of lauk options. Perfect for a hearty breakfast or lunch.
Location: Jalan Cendana, Kota Bharu, Kelantan
Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM daily
Must Try: Nasi lemak with chicken rendang, sambal sotong
Price Range: RM 4–18
Highlights: Large portion sizes, flavorful sambal
Facilities: Indoor seating, takeaway
Star Rating: 4.3 (88 reviews)
10. Nasi Lemak Wak Din
A hidden gem popular with locals, serving spicy and aromatic nasi lemak. Known for its homely taste and fresh ingredients.
Location: Jalan Hospital, Kota Bharu, Kelantan
Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM daily
Must Try: Nasi lemak with sambal sotong and fried chicken
Price Range: RM 4–15
Highlights: Homely flavor, fresh ingredients
Facilities: Outdoor seating, takeaway
Star Rating: 4.2 (102 reviews)
Concluction
Kota Bharu is a paradise for nasi lemak lovers. These top 10 restaurants showcase the best of Kelantanese flavors, from traditional sambals to rich coconut rice and perfectly cooked lauk. Plan your visit to enjoy an authentic culinary journey in the heart of Kelantan.
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