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Top Budget-Friendly Restaurants to Celebrate CNY 2026

CNY
The 2026 CNY Matchmaker: Which KL Restaurant is Perfect for Your Family Reunion?
January 27, 2026

The Year of the Horse is almost here! In Kuala Lumpur, the search for the perfect CNY 2026 Reunion Dinner is already in full swing. But with inflation on everyone’s mind, the real challenge is finding that “Golden Ratio”—a venue with festive grandeur that doesn’t empty your Ang Pao before the year even starts.

Whether you’re a student, a young professional, or the designated family event planner, we’ve categorized the city’s top spots into three easy-to-digest price tiers. Bonus: We’ve included Eatigo promotion tips to help you slash those bills by up to 50%!

Tier 1: The “Budget Steals” (Under RM120 per pax)

Best for: Students, young professionals, or casual gatherings.

If you want the 5-star hotel atmosphere without the 5-star bill, these “hacks” are for you.

1. Lai Ching Yuen @ Grand Millennium

If there were an award for the “Most Sophisticated Budget Save,” Kwee Zeen would take the trophy for 2026. Nestled in the chic Sofitel Kuala Lumpur, this restaurant offers a brasserie-style atmosphere that feels expensive, but with the right strategy, it’s one of the most affordable luxury reunions in the city.

Highlights

  • The “Seafood Symphony”: Known for one of the freshest seafood spreads in KL—think plump oysters, chilled prawns, and mussels that taste like the ocean.
  • Chic Ambiance: High ceilings, gold accents, and an open-kitchen concept make it perfect for that “family group photo” that actually looks good on Instagram.

Review summary

A Seafood Haven!” “We came for the CNY reunion and were blown away by the seafood selection. The oysters were fresh, and the staff was incredibly attentive. Use Eatigo—it’s the best value for a 5-star hotel in KL.

Location: 1st Floor, Grand Millennium Kuala Lumpur, 160 Jalan Bukit Bintang, 55100 Kuala Lumpur, Kuala Lumpur

Open Hours:  12:00 – 14:00, 18:00 – 22:00 (Tuesday-Sunday ) Monday (Closed)

Eatigo Promotion

  • Look for the 50% OFF slots on Eatigo (typically for the 2:00 PM late lunch or 6:00 PM early dinner) to bring your total food bill down significantly!
Discount up to 50% off

2. Ti Chen @ The Saujana KL

If your idea of a perfect Chinese New Year involves escaping the “buffet chaos” for a refined, sit-down experience, Tao Chinese Cuisine is the answer. The name “Tao” (meaning ‘peach’ in Chinese) is reflected in the stunning decor, featuring hundreds of ornate peach blossom carvings that create a truly auspicious atmosphere for 2026.

Highlights

  • The “Peach Blossom” Ambience: One of the most beautiful dining rooms in KL, offering a calm, sophisticated vibe that’s perfect for families who actually want to hear each other talk.
  • Artisanal Dim Sum: Known for some of the most creative dim sum in the city—think truffle-infused dumplings and gold-leaf topped buns.

Review summary

Exquisite and Elegant!” “The atmosphere at Tao is incredible—the peach blossom ceiling is a sight to behold. We had the CNY set menu and every dish was balanced and beautifully presented. The service was impeccable. A great spot if you want something more private and upscale.

Location: The Saujana Hotel Kuala Lumpur, Saujana Resort, Jalan Lapangan Terbang SAAS, 40150 Shah Alam, Selangor., Kuala Lumpur

Open Hours: 12:00-15:00 , 18:00 – 22:00 (Tuesday-Sunday ) Monday (Closed)

Eatigo Promotion

  • Snag a 25% discount during the 2:00 PM slots to enjoy a high-end feast for a double-digit price.
Discount up to 50% off

3. Kwee Zeen @ Sofitel Kuala Lumpur

If you want your CNY 2026 reunion to feel like a tranquil escape in the middle of the city, Serena Brasserie is your go-to destination. With its iconic floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking a lush garden and waterfall, it provides a “zen” backdrop for a festive feast that feels truly special.

Highlights

  • The “Garden View” Dining: Unlike many indoor hotel restaurants, Serena Brasserie offers a bright, airy atmosphere with a beautiful view of the hotel’s greenery—perfect for daytime reunions.
  • The Seafood Powerhouse: Often cited as having one of the best seafood-on-ice selections in KL. Expect fresh oysters, succulent crabs, and chilled tiger prawns as the centerpiece of your celebration.

Review summary

Best Buffet Experience in KL” “The seafood selection at Serena Brasserie is top-tier. Everything was incredibly fresh, especially the oysters. The garden view through the large windows makes the whole dining experience feel very peaceful. A great place for a family celebration.

Location: Sofitel Hotel, 6, Jalan Damanlela, Bukit Damansara, 50490 Kuala Lumpur, Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur, Kuala Lumpur

Open Hours: 06:00 – 22:00 (Daily)

Eatigo Promotion

This is where the magic happens. With 50% OFF Eatigo deals, a CNY Buffet Lunch can go as low as RM54 (U.P. RM108), and dinner from RM84. It’s the best value-for-money hotel buffet in the city.

Discount up to 50% off

Tier 2: The “Sweet Spot” (RM120 – RM180 per pax)

Best for: Family reunions and corporate lunches.

This tier is all about balance: excellent food, great locations, and a price that feels “just right.”

4. Nook @ Aloft Kuala Lumpur Sentral

If you’re looking for a Chinese New Year celebration that feels fresh, vibrant, and full of life, Nook is your destination. Located in the heart of KL Sentral, this restaurant swaps the traditional red-and-gold ballroom vibe for a sleek, “scandi-chic” design. It is the go-to spot for urban families and corporate groups who want high-quality food in a relaxed, stylish setting.

Highlights

  • “The Lucky Stride” 2026 Buffet: Their signature CNY theme for 2026 features a curated spread of local favorites and international delights, ensuring there is something for everyone from Gen Z to the elders.
  • Interactive Live Stations: Nook is famous for its open kitchens. Watch chefs whip up their signature Sarawak Laksa or grill premium meats and seafood right before your eyes at the teppanyaki station.

Review summary

Modern and Delicious!” “The atmosphere here is so different from other hotels—it’s bright and fun. The Sarawak Laksa is a must-try! We had our early reunion here and the variety was impressive. Great for families with kids who might be picky eaters.

Location: Level 1, No. 5 Jalan Stesen Sentral, 50470 Kuala Lumpur, Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur

Open Hours: 12:00 – 15:00 (Daily) 18:00 – 22:00 (Friday-Saturday)

Eatigo Promotion

  • Up to 50% OFF: You can typically find the 50% discount for the 1:30 PM (Lunch) slots and the 6:00 PM – 6:30 PM (Early Dinner) slots.
Discount up to 50% off

5. Quan’s Kitchen @ Four Points by Sheraton Chinatown

If you want a reunion dinner that feels deeply rooted in the heart of Kuala Lumpur’s heritage but with a cool, industrial-chic edge, Quan’s Kitchen is the place to be for 2026. This isn’t your traditional “stuffy” hotel restaurant; it’s a high-energy space that pays tribute to the street food culture of Chinatown while serving up premium buffet excellence.

Highlights

  • The Chinatown View: One of the biggest draws is the stunning view of the historic Chinatown district and the Merdeka 118 tower, providing a dramatic backdrop for your festive photos.
  • Heritage Flavors with a Twist: For CNY 2026, their “Luck & Love” buffet focuses on forgotten traditional recipes reimagined with premium ingredients like Atlantic salmon and braised duck.

Review summary

Great Vibe and Food!” “The atmosphere here is amazing, especially at night with the city views. The food selection is a perfect mix of local Chinatown flavors and international favorites. The roast duck was juicy and well-seasoned. Definitely worth a visit for a festive gathering!

Location: Level 8 at Four Points Sheraton by Sheraton Kuala Lumpur, Chinatown, 2, Jalan Balai Polis, City Centre, 50000 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Kuala Lumpur

Open Hours: 11:30 – 16:00 (Daily) 

Eatigo Promotion

Up to 50% OFF: You can frequently find the 50% discount during the 2:00 PM (Late Lunch) or 14:30 PM slots.

Discount up to 50% off

6. Contango @ The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur

If you want your Chinese New Year reunion to feel “Majestic” without the exorbitant price tag, Contango is the answer. Located in the Tower Wing of this historic hotel, Contango features an incredibly grand, contemporary open-concept kitchen. It’s a “theater of food” where you can watch chefs prepare a global feast right in front of you.

Highlights

  • Open-Kitchen Theatrics: This isn’t just a buffet; it’s a performance. From brick-oven pizzas to precision-sliced sashimi and sizzling grills, the interactive stations keep the energy high.
  • The Japanese Station: Widely praised for having some of the freshest salmon sashimi and assorted sushi in the city’s hotel circuit.

Review summary

A Feast for the Senses!” “Contango never disappoints. The open-kitchen concept is amazing—you can see everything being made fresh. The Japanese section was the highlight for me; the salmon was super fresh. The atmosphere is luxurious but still very welcoming for families.

Location: 5, Jalan Sultan Hishamuddin, Tasik Perdana, 50000 Kuala Lumpur, Kuala Lumpur

Open Hours: 12:00 – 14:30, 18:00 – 22:00 (Daily) 

Eatigo Promotion

Up to 50% OFF: You can often find the 50% discount for the 9:00 PM (Late Dinner) slot.

Discount up to 50% off

7. Marco Polo Chinese Cuisine

Established in 1980, Marco Polo is a culinary landmark in KL. While many restaurants chase modern trends, Marco Polo has mastered the art of “Nostalgic Elegance.” It is the perfect venue for families who value authentic Cantonese recipes, pushcart dim sum service, and a warm, storied atmosphere that makes every reunion feel like a homecoming.

Highlights

  • Authentic Pushcart Dim Sum: One of the few remaining places in KL where you can experience the joy of “Yum Cha” with trolleys brimming with freshly steamed Har Gow and Siew Mai circulating the room.
  • Signature BBQ Sampler: Their roast meats are legendary—specifically the crispy roasted pork belly and honey-glazed char siew that have been perfected over four decades.

Review summary

A Taste of Tradition Marco Polo is a classic for a reason. We’ve been coming here for generations. The food is consistently good, and the pushcart dim sum brings back so many memories. It’s hard to find this kind of authentic vibe in the city anymore.

Location: 1st floor, Wisma Lim Foo Yong, 86, Jalan Raja Chulan, 50200 Kuala Lumpur., Kuala Lumpur

Open Hours: 11:00 – 15:00, 18:00 – 22:30 (Daily)

Eatigo Promotion

Up to 30% OFF: You can frequently find the 20-30% discount for early lunch slots (11:00 AM)

Discount up to 50% off

Tier 3: The “Premium Value” (RM180+ per pax)

Best for: Impressing the in-laws or “Big” milestone celebrations.

When you need to pull out all the stops, these spots offer a “splurge” that actually delivers on its promise.

8. Lemon Garden @ Shangri-La Kuala Lumpur

Widely regarded as the “King of Buffets” in Malaysia, Lemon Garden is a dazzling theatre of global cuisine. Whether you are hosting a high-stakes business lunch or a festive family reunion, the sheer scale and quality of the spread here make it a celebrated destination for those who want a sophisticated, world-class dining experience.

Highlights

  • The Magnificent Seafood Bar: A sprawling centerpiece featuring freshly shucked oysters, succulent prawns, mussels, and a premium sashimi selection that is second to none.
  • Interactive Theatre Kitchens: Watch master chefs in action at live stations. Highlights include the Indian Tandoori station with its clay-oven naan and the Authentic Satay station for perfectly smoky skewers.

Review summary

A True Festive Feast!” “Lemon Garden never fails to impress. The seafood spread is easily the best in KL—the oysters were so fresh and replenished constantly. Perfect for a CNY gathering where everyone wants something different. It’s a splurge, but with the variety of food, it’s worth it.

Location: Shangri La Hotel, 11, Jln Sultan Ismail, Kuala Lumpur, 50250 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur

Open Hours: 12:00 – 14:30, 19:00 – 22:00 (Daily)

Eatigo Promotion

Up to 30% OFF: You can frequently find 30% discounts for late lunch slots (1:00 PM – 1:30 PM)

Discount up to 50% off

9. Serena Brasserie @ InterContinental KL

If you want your CNY 2026 reunion to feel like a tranquil escape, Serena Brasserie is the premier choice. Known for its floor-to-ceiling windows that look out onto a lush hidden garden and waterfall, it offers one of the most serene and sophisticated dining atmospheres in the city. It’s a perfect blend of luxury and nature.

 Highlights

  • The “Garden View” Experience: The restaurant is flooded with natural light, making it a spectacular venue for a CNY Long Lunch or a bright, celebratory brunch.
  • Premium Seafood-on-Ice: A massive draw for seafood enthusiasts, featuring freshly shucked oysters, tiger prawns, and succulent crabs that are replenished throughout the session.

Review summary

A Peaceful Paradise in the City” “The garden view is simply breathtaking. It doesn’t feel like you’re in the middle of KL at all. The food was incredibly fresh, especially the seafood station. It’s the perfect place for a quiet, high-end family celebration.

Location: 165, Jalan Ampang, Kuala Lumpur, Kuala Lumpur, 50450 Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur

Open Hours: 06:00 – 23:00 (Daily)

Eatigo Promotion

Up to 50% OFF: You can often secure a 50% discount for the 1:30 PM (Late Lunch) slot or the 9:30 PM (Late Dinner) slot.

Discount up to 50% off

10. Tao Chinese Cuisine @ InterContinental KL

Tao Chinese Cuisine (Tao meaning ‘peach’ in Chinese) is one of Kuala Lumpur’s most visually stunning dining destinations. The restaurant is famous for its ceiling adorned with thousands of ornate peach blossoms, creating a serene, dreamlike atmosphere. It is the perfect venue for families who prefer a quiet, elegant sit-down meal over a busy buffet.

 Highlights

  • Award-Winning Cantonese Artistry: Led by Chef Tommy Choong, the kitchen specializes in traditional Cantonese flavors reimagined with modern techniques.
  • Signature Crispy London Duck: A must-order dish known for its paper-thin, crackling skin and incredibly succulent meat.

Review summary

Exquisite and Impeccable” “Everything from the flavors to the presentation was top-tier. Each dish balances tradition and innovation perfectly. The service is attentive and intuitive—it’s a true culinary gem in the heart of KL.

Location: InterContinental Kuala Lumpur, 165, Jalan Ampang, 50450 Kuala Lumpur, Kuala Lumpur

Open Hours: 11:30 – 14:30, 18:30 – 22:30 (Daily)

Eatigo Promotion

Up to 50% OFF:  You can often secure a 50% discount for the 12:30 PM (Late Lunch) slot or the 8:30 PM (Late Dinner) slot.

Discount up to 50% off

Summary

This guide provides a comprehensive roadmap for celebrating the 2026 Chinese New Year (CNY) in Kuala Lumpur, specifically focusing on “Reunion Dinners” that offer a luxury experience without the high price tag. By utilizing Eatigo, diners can secure discounts of up to 50% off at some of the city’s most prestigious hotel restaurants.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How do I get the 50% discount mentioned in the guide? The discounts are exclusively available through the Eatigo app or website. You must book specific time slots—usually early dinner (6:00 PM), late lunch (1:30 PM or 2:00 PM), or late dinner (8:30 PM or 9:00 PM)—to unlock the maximum 50% savings.

2. Which restaurant is best for traditional elders? Marco Polo Chinese Cuisine is the top recommendation for traditionalists. It features nostalgic elegance and authentic pushcart dim sum service, which is a rare find in modern KL. Tao Chinese Cuisine is also excellent for its refined, quiet, and auspicious sit-down atmosphere.

3. I love seafood. Which spot should I choose? There are three standout seafood powerhouses:

  • Kwee Zeen (Tier 1) for a “Seafood Symphony.”
  • Serena Brasserie (Tier 3) for premium seafood-on-ice and garden views.
  • Lemon Garden (Tier 3) for the most extensive and famous seafood selection in the city.

4. Are there any restaurants with a good view for photos? Yes! Quan’s Kitchen offers a stunning view of historic Chinatown and the Merdeka 118 tower. Serena Brasserie has beautiful floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking a waterfall, and Tao is famous for its dreamlike ceiling covered in thousands of peach blossoms.

5. Is the “Nett” price important? Yes. For those who want to avoid surprise charges, Nook @ Aloft is highlighted for its straightforward pricing (e.g., RM168 nett), meaning the service tax and prevailing taxes are already included.

6. Do these discounts apply on CNY Eve and Public Holidays? Eatigo discounts often vary on special occasions. It is recommended to check the specific “Conditions” on the Eatigo link provided for each restaurant, as some may offer lower discount percentages (20–30%) or have specific set-menu exclusions during the peak of CNY.

7. Which restaurant is best for families with “picky eaters”? Contango at The Majestic and Nook at Aloft are ideal. They feature “open-kitchen” concepts and international buffets that include Japanese, Western, Italian, and local Malaysian stations, ensuring there is something for everyone.

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