In a proud moment for Malaysia’s dining scene, two new entrants earned their first One Michelin Star in the Michelin Guide Kuala Lumpur & Penang 2026. Local restaurants Akar and Terra Dining, located on the same street in Taman Tun Dr Ismail, were welcomed into the exclusive Michelin-starred club.
Their success marks a turning point for TTDI. Once a quiet suburb known for cafés and casual dining, TTDI is fast becoming a go-to culinary destination. Both Akar and Terra Dining were previously in the Michelin Selected category.
Two new Michelin Stars
At Akar, Chef Aidan Low delivers food that feels personal and poetic. His dishes reimagine European classics through a Malaysian lens. Each plate blends Japanese precision, French flair, and local flavour. The result is refined yet soulful. Every bite bridges heritage and innovation.
“This award has a bigger meaning than just my restaurant. I think it means, as a country, we still have so much more to offer. I hope it encourages people to step out and really showcase what they’re really, really good at and hopefully that could also come to fruition one day like what we do,” said Low.
Chef Chong Yu Cheng at Terra Dining follows a similar philosophy. His approach focuses on restraint and precision. He lets ingredients speak for themselves. Each dish highlights balance, texture, and purity of flavour. The experience feels calm, composed, and deeply intentional.
“First of all, I would say I’m very, very thrilled to receive the award. I think it’s a way of putting Malaysia on the map, not only at a street food level, but at a haute cuisine level, where our cuisine – especially what I’m representing – sort of more tradition-based Malaysian cuisine – can actually stand toe-to-toe with some of the best restaurants in the world,” Chong stated.
Dewakan Retains Two Michelin Stars and a Green Star
Meanwhile, Chef Darren Teoh continues his reign at Dewakan. The restaurant retains its Two Michelin Stars for the third consecutive year. It also keeps its Green Star for sustainability for the second year running.
Dewakan remains Malaysia’s benchmark for fine dining. Teoh’s menu celebrates indigenous ingredients and local traditions. His cooking blends artistry with awareness. Every dish honours Malaysia’s natural abundance while reimagining its future.
Malaysia’s culinary scene is evolving fast. TTDI’s rising stars and Dewakan’s continued excellence prove one thing — the nation’s chefs are redefining what modern Malaysian cuisine can be.
The Michelin Guide Kuala Lumpur and Penang 2026 list of Michelin-starred restaurants:
2 Michelin Stars
- Dewakan
1 Michelin Star
New
- Akar
- Terra Dining
Retained (KL)
- Beta
- Chim by Chef Noom
- DC. by Darren Chin
- Molina
Retained (Penang)
- Au Jardin
- Aunty Gaik Lean’s Old School Eatery
(Photos credit: Michelin)
