Everyone loves travelling, as it allows us to discover new cultures and meet people from all over the world. But when it comes to food, we often crave what feels familiar.
For Indians living abroad, adapting to the local food culture can be difficult.
However, when visiting Langkawi, you must try all of the best Malaysian street food. But if you ever miss home-style flavours, this guide will help you find the best Indian restaurants in Langkawi.
Do you know that Indian food is famous in Langkawi?
Let me tell you about it!
Indian food runs deep in Malaysia’s story. It all started back in the 1800s, when Tamil Muslim traders landed from India. They brought dishes like Nasi Kandar (rice served with various curries), which many dock workers enjoyed.
As time went on, Chettiars from Tamil Nadu set up shop across Southeast Asia. That’s why you can get a lot of Chettinad flavours of star anise, plenty of pepper, onions and tomatoes. Even the locals started liking it and became part of their lives.
Today, Malaysia’s Indian community is largely South Indian, which is why you’ll easily find authentic Tamil dishes throughout the country.
You’ll also find plenty of popular North Indian dishes, especially Mughlai favourites.
Best Indian Food Places in Langkawi, Malaysia
Though Malaysia has the best restaurants with delicious food, as an Indian traveller, you may still crave familiar dishes like spicy Biryani, Naan, or Butter Chicken.
When that happens, you don’t need to spend time browsing reviews. Here are the best Indian restaurants in Langkawi for authentic flavours.
Asian Tadka Indian Restaurant
As a new establishment, Asian Tadka Indian Restaurant still managed to attract many customers. The menu is great, with chaats, pasta, soups, rich North Indian curries, and mixed grills.
When you step inside, you will notice a modern, clean, and comfortable setup. It’s perfect for families.
Note: While it is marketed as an Indian restaurant, it is actually a Pakistani restaurant. However, all the food is similar to Indian, but the taste can change a little.
- Location: Archstudio Pantai Cenang, 07000 Langkawi, Kedah
- Must try: Naan, Chicken Karahi, and Aloo Paratha
- Rating: 4.6 Star (1,157 reviews)
- Timings: 09:30 am – 11:59 pm
Sufra Restaurant
Once you finish exploring the Underwater World Langkawi, you’re likely to feel hungry. Just head to Sufra Restaurant, which is 140 m away.
The place feels bright and spotless, which makes it a go-to for families and anyone who’s health-conscious. They can do customizations like no butter, less oil or any request.
Sufra’s food menu covers Indian, Pakistani, Arabic, and even Western dishes. But the Indian options are most preferred by tourists. The portions are generous, so it’s a great value.
- Location: Opposite the Underwater World, Langkawi
- Must try: Dal Tadka, Lamb Shank Biryani, Chicken Tandoori, and Biryani BBQ rolls
- Rating: 4.6 Star (1,109 reviews)
- Timings: 09:00 am – 11:59 pm
Pakistani Restaurant
If you are craving real Lahori-style Pakistani food, this beachfront Pakistani Restaurant is a must-visit.
The setting here is unbeatable: you have a great outdoor spot on the beach where you can enjoy your meal with a breeze and an ocean view. The staff pay attention to detail and ensure every dish follows traditional recipes.
The menu highlights classic Lahori dishes: aromatic Biryanis, smoky Tandoori, and everything with rich flavours. If you want it spicy, you can customise it as you like.
Then their kebabs hit that perfect balance. It is juicy inside, roasted outside. They make sure every dish is perfect, satisfying your palate.
- Location: Cenang rest house, Jalan Pantai Cenang, 07000 Langkawi
- Must try: Lamb and Mutton Karahi, Greek Salad, Falafel Wrap, Parathas, Shawarma & Mango milkshake
- Rating: 4.6 Star (1.8k reviews)
- Timings: 10:00 am – 02:00 am
Taste of India
The food here gives you authentic North Indian flavours. Just as memorable as the food, the restaurant’s sunset is outstanding. So, when you dine in Taste of India, it will be a spot you will remember.
The atmosphere is relaxed, with thoughtful décor and sea views. Add in the background, and you will definitely enjoy the familiar Bollywood tunes.
- Location: Near Melati Tenjong Beach Resort, Cenang, Langkawi
- Must try: Masala Papad, Jeera Rice, Butter Chicken, and Masala Chai
- Rating: 4.7 Star (443 reviews)
- Timings: 12:00 pm – 11:00 pm
Asian Kitchen & Indian & Arabic & Western Food
From Pantai Tengah beach, Asian Kitchen is just 350 metres away, and it’s easy to find. People love it for its mix of Indian, Arabic, and Western dishes, all in one spot.
The food is what really pulls people in. Everything tastes fresh, and you can tell they care about quality. If you are in the mood for pasta, pizza or butter chicken, you won’t be disappointed.
On top of that, the staff are genuinely friendly, making sure you feel right at home.
- Location: Lot 2 & 3A, Ground Floor, Cenang View Hotel, Jalan Pantai Cenang, Langkawi
- Must try: Spaghetti Carbonara, Butter Chicken, & Chicken Tikka Masala
- Rating: 4.8 Stars (304 reviews)
- Timings: 11:00 am – 04:00 am
Rockafellers Langkawi
This is a bar and a restaurant, which is a bit different from other Indian restaurants in Langkawi.
Rockafellers Langkawi is a mash-up of North Indian food and Western bar classics. The atmosphere is lively with music, themed lighting, and plenty of entertainment, especially for sports lovers.
Here, there are many TV screens broadcasting various sports: football, basketball, and cricket. The main highlight is the live band performance with great music every day, creating a great atmosphere.
- Location: Lot 31, Jl. Teluk Baru, Pantai Tengah, Langkawi
- Must try: Cocktail, Dal Makhani, Garlic Naan, Butter Naan, Pizza, Steak and Butter Chicken.
- Rating: 4.6 Stars (689 reviews)
- Timings: 12:00 pm 01:00 am
Maroush Restaurant
You will find Maroush Restaurant located inside Landcons Resort on Jalan Pantai Cenang. It’s been around for a while and has a lot of regular local customers.
The restaurant itself is something special. An Indian architect designed it with the Mughal Palaces in mind. So, there’s a touch of royal elegance with photos of Indian traditions and some famous celebrities on the walls.
- Location: Lot 6&7, Landcons Resort, Jalan Pantai Cenang, Kampung Lubok Buaya, Langkawi
- Must try: Veg Jalfrezi, Tandoori Chicken, Garlic Cheese Naan, Samosas & Masala Chai
- Rating: 4 Star (563 reviews)
- Timings: 01:00 pm – 11:00 pm
Kirthika Kitchen (South Indian Food Restaurant Langkawi)
There are multiple Indian food spots, but finding a good Tamil cuisine or a vegetarian restaurant in Langkawi is challenging. If you are on the search, then Kirthika Kitchen is the place to go.
This is a family-run spot that feels more like eating in someone’s home than dining out. They focus on classic South Indian Tamil dishes, and they carry each flavour and method passed down through generations.
- Location: 2217 b, Jalan Pantai Cenang, Kampung Tanjung Mali, Kedawang, Langkawi
- Must try: Mutton Masala, Banana Leaf Meals, Ghee Dosa, Egg Onion Dosa, and Rasam
- Rating: 4.2 Stars (317 reviews)
- Timings: 09:30 am – 10:00 pm
Taj Palace Restaurant
Just near the Bella Vista Waterfront Hotel, one of the best 3-star resorts to stay in Langkawi, you can spot the Taj Palace Restaurant in Kuah. This place carries this grand vibe straight out of a Mughal palace. This is one place in Langkawi you must visit for the ambiance.
The restaurant glows with golden light, making the whole dining room feel warm and special. You will be amazed by the small chandeliers hanging overhead, which add a touch of elegance.
It doesn’t matter how many days you stay in Langkawi, this is one spot you will come back to.
Now, about the food: the menu is vast. They make North Indian, South Indian, Arabian, Lebanese, and Asian dishes, with plenty of choices for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.
- Location: 138, Pusat Perdagangan, Pusat Dagangan Kelana Mas, 07000 Kuah, Kedah
- Must try: Egg Curry & Dal Makhani
- Rating: 4.7 Stars (175 reviews)
- Timings: 11:00 am – 11:30 pm
Restoran Nasi Kandar Tomato
One of the locals’ favourite restaurants in Langkawi has been Restoran Nasi Kandar Tomato for years now. The best part is that any time you are hungry, they are serving hot, delicious food.
This is a 24-hour open eatery in a large open area and runs on a self-service system. Pick what you want and know precisely what you will pay, as they have clear price tags on everything.
Just a heads-up: when it gets busy, things can move a little slowly, and it gets pretty loud. Prices are reasonable, but with so many tempting dishes, it’s easy to go overboard if you’re not paying attention.
- Location: Jalan Pantai Cenang, Pantai Cenang, Langkawi
- Must try: Cheese naan, Roti Canai, Teh tarik, and Dosa
- Rating: 3.7 Stars (1,533 reviews)
- Timings: 24 hours
Punjabi Kitchen (Indian Food)
When you walk into Punjabi Kitchen, you will catch the aroma of tandoori spices in the air. The vibe is relaxed. It’s not fancy, just a casual, family-friendly spot where the focus is on the food, not the décor.
What really stands out here is the rich, buttery gravies and North Indian dishes. One of the best creamy Dal Makhani and tender Butter Chicken. And the food here is unique and rich in flavour as they cook the old-school way, in a clay oven.
- Location: Mukim Kedawang, Jalan Pantai Cenang, Kampung Lubok Buaya, Langkawi
- Must try: Chicken Biryani, Butter Paneer, and Chana masala
- Rating: 4.6 Star ( 103 reviews)
- Time: 10:00 am – 11:00 pm
Indian Banana Leaf Langkawi by Mommy Mira
With wooden interiors and a brick-styled step-up, the place gives you an antique vibe. Then the cute yellow ball-shaped lights glow in the place. You don’t have to go to fancy rooftop bars; this place would make a cute date spot.
Apart from all that, Indian Banana Leaf Langkawi by Mommy Mira gives you a home feel with a proper Malaysian-Indian meal. It’s run by a local family, and every guest gets treated like they belong.
When it comes to food, it is all about tradition. Dishes are served on fresh banana leaves, just as in South Indian and Malaysian-Indian households. The menu covers everything from mutton and chicken to fish, prawns, and lots of vegan choices.
- Location: Surau, Lorong 1565, Jalan Pantai Cenang, Pantai Cenang, Langkawi
- Must try: Banana Leaf Rice, Chicken Biryani, Mutton Vindaloo, Poori Potato Masala
- Rating: 4.5 Star (157 reviews)
- Timings: 09:00 am – 10:00 pm (closed on Wednesdays, Thursdays: 08:00 am – 05:00 pm)
Conclusion
Food is the most important factor for Indians, as we grew up with many flavours and dishes that became part of our comfort zone. But if you can adapt to new cuisines, travelling can be challenging.
However, now the world is all about convenience. And in Malaysia, with strong Indian influence, we find the best Indian food in Langkawi.
The best part about exploring different countries is trying their food. So, just give it a try at some of the best local dishes like Nasi Lemak, Laksa, Satay, Nasi Dagang, Ikan Bakar, and so much more.
Frequently Asked Questions on Indian Restaurants in Langkawi, Malaysia
How much does food cost in Langkawi?
Food costs in Langkawi vary significantly based on where you dine. It’s based on where you eat and the type of food you buy.
- Budget restaurants: approx. 400 INR for a meal per person
- Mid-range restaurants: approx. 700 INR for a meal per person
- Higher-end restaurants: approx. 1,000 INR and more for a meal per person
Can you get vegan food in Langkawi?
Yes, Langkawi offers excellent vegan food options, especially at Indian restaurants, which naturally feature many plant-based dishes.
You can visit vegan establishments or any Indian restaurant in Langkawi to try dosas, idlis, sambar, and various vegetable curries.
However, it’s important to specify “no ghee, no butter, no dairy” when ordering, as many North Indian dishes use ghee or butter for preparation.
Where should you go for authentic Malaysian food in Langkawi?
There are many restaurants on the island that offer Malaysian food. But for a local experience, you need to go to the local market and try the small vendors’ food.
Here are the must-visit markets in Langkawi for the best food-
- Kuah Town Night Market
- Pantai Cenang Night Market
Is Langkawi a good destination for Indians when travelling with family?
Absolutely! Langkawi is an excellent destination for Indian families, and there are many reasons for it.
First, the availability of authentic Indian food means you’ll never struggle to find familiar flavours or vegetarian options.
The island is family-friendly, with safe beaches, calm waters perfect for children. Then attractions such as Underwater World, cable car rides, mangrove tours, and wildlife parks are perfect for all ages.
Do Indian restaurants in Langkawi serve alcohol?
Some restaurants like Rockafellers Langkawi serve alcohol with a full bar offering cocktails, mojitos, and margaritas.
However, many traditional Indian restaurants, especially mamak-style eateries like Restoran Nasi Kandar Tomato, do not serve alcohol as they cater to Muslim dietary preferences.
