PETALING STREET
Kuala Lumpur Culture, Market Life & Travel Guide
Welcome to the Dragon’s Back
Petaling Street is not just a street; it’s the vibrant, chaotic, and beating heart of Kuala Lumpur’s historic Chinatown. Known affectionately as ‘Chee Cheong Kai’ (Starch Factory Street) in Cantonese, its history is woven from the threads of tin miners, traders, and immigrants who built this city.
Today, the iconic green “dragon” awning covers a world of sensory overload. It’s a place where the scent of sizzling *Hokkien Mee* mixes with the sweet aroma of *bak kwa* (barbecued pork), where the call of “lelong, lelong!” (sale!) echoes from stalls piled high with goods, and where ancient temples stand just steps away from trendy new cafes. This is Petaling Street—a living, breathing museum of culture.
The Guide: Market Life
The Art of the Bargain
The Scene: The main artery of Petaling Street is a covered market, famed for its “replica” goods—watches, handbags, sneakers, and t-shirts. Whether you’re here to buy or just to browse, the experience is a performance. Stall owners are sharp, witty, and ready to engage.
How to Shop: The cardinal rule is: *always bargain*. It’s expected and part of the culture. The first price you are given is just a starting point, often 50-70% higher than the final price. Start by offering half of the asking price and work your way up. The key is to be polite, smile, and be willing to walk away—you’ll often be called back with a better offer.
Pro-Tip: Never bargain aggressively for something you don’t intend to buy. The best deals are often found in the late morning before the crowds hit or late at night when vendors are packing up.
Petaling Street Food Guide
1. The Savory Staples
Forget the restaurants; the real magic is in the stalls. Seek out the famous **Kim Lian Kee** for their charcoal-fried *Hokkien Mee*. These thick, dark noodles are slick with pork lard, soy sauce, and crispy pork bits. Another must-try is **Hon Kee Porridge**, which has served silky-smooth *congee* with raw fish or pork offals for over 60 years.
2. The Sweet & Snacks
Cool down with a cup of **Air Mata Kucing**, a refreshing chilled winter melon and longan drink. For a snack, find the **Madam Tang Muah Chee** stall. Her glutinous rice balls, coated in sugar and peanuts, are legendary. Don’t leave without trying the *bak kwa* (barbecued pork jerky) from the street-side vendors; the sweet, smoky aroma is irresistible.
3. The Hidden Cafes
Beyond the traditional stalls, a new wave of trendy cafes is hiding in plain sight. Look for “Project Kwai Chai Hong,” an alleyway restored with art, which leads to spots like **Concubine KL**. Nearby, behind an unassuming “toy shop” facade, you’ll find the **PS150** speakeasy bar, serving cocktails inspired by local Malaysian flavors.
The Guide: Culture
Temples and Hidden Gems
Petaling Street is more than just a market; it’s a center of faith and history. Just a short walk from the main market arch, you will find the **Sri Maha Mariamman Temple**. Founded in 1873, it is KL’s oldest and richest Hindu temple, with an incredibly ornate *gopuram* (tower) at its entrance.
In the other direction, you’ll find the **Guan Di Temple** (or Kwong Siew) and the **Sin Sze Si Ya Temple**. The latter is the oldest Taoist temple in Kuala Lumpur and was built by Yap Ah Loy, one of the city’s founding fathers. Visiting these temples offers a quiet, spiritual escape from the bustle of the market just outside.
Pro-Tip: Remember to dress respectfully when visiting temples (cover shoulders and knees). Photography is often allowed, but be mindful of worshippers.
Don’t Just Visit Kuala Lumpur.
EXPERIENCE PETALING STREET.