Poblano KL

Poblano opened in 2022 inside Old Malaya, a restored row of colonial-era buildings from 1919 on Lorong Raja Chulan, with a view of KL Tower above the trees. It was founded by Chef Frediani and his family, and the next generation now helps run the room, which mixes warm orange walls, painted murals and a wine wall.

The menu is Mexican at heart with wider Latin American touches. Tacos come three to an order, including lamb barbacoa, carne guisada with ancho crema and black bean, and fajitas arrive sizzling with beef, chicken or tiger prawn. Larger plates include chicken mole negro made with 15 ingredients, lamb barbacoa slow-cooked in banana leaf for 12 hours, enchiladas and burritos. There are also Brazilian moqueca, steaks and a few pastas. The bar focuses on margaritas, from classic and spicy to passionfruit and lychee, with a daily happy hour until 7pm.

It suits date nights and relaxed group dinners in the city centre. Lunch runs on weekdays and it is open all day at weekends. Book through the website or by WhatsApp. Prices exclude SST and a 10% service charge.