Cover image via Penko (Provided to SAYS)
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If you've ever wished for a little Tokyo escape without hopping on a plane, this new spot in Kuala Lumpur might just be your next go-to
Tucked inside a beautifully restored heritage building at Medan Pasar, just a stone's throw from Central Market, Penko is one of the newest additions to the city's growing heritage, F&B, and lifestyle hub.
The area itself is quietly transforming into a cultural pocket of KL, and Penko is right at the forefront of that revival.
Founded by the same team behind KAPPA Kaisen Izakaya in Damansara Heights, Penko is led by Japanese founders Nori-san and Sho-san
Sho-san's journey started in Tokyo, where he first stepped into the restaurant industry as an owner. With a long-standing dream of expanding overseas, he eventually made his way to Malaysia in 2022 to explore the local dining scene, particularly omakase.
What he found, however, was a gap. While omakase was gaining popularity, affordable options were hard to come by. That inspired him to create a more accessible version, leading to the opening of KAPPA Kaisen Izakaya.
He and Nori-san started out as drinking buddies. But as shared meals turned into shared ideas, they realised they were both craving something missing in KL — a truly authentic izakaya experience that didn't feel overly commercialised or overpriced.
After a few brainstorming sessions (and probably a few drinks), KAPPA was born, and it did well.
With their first KL restaurant thriving, the duo decided it was time to explore something new, this time with a focus on charcoal grilling and a more relaxed izakaya vibe
When they came across the space in Medan Pasar, it wasn't just the building that caught their eye, but the vision behind the area itself.
Part of a wider effort to breathe new life into KL's heritage core, the space stood out as something worth being part of. Sho-san saw an opportunity to contribute to that transformation, and Penko was born.
Opened in February 2026, Penko is still relatively new, joining early tenants like Hock Kee Kopitiam downstairs and KLCG Bakery in the area.
Step inside, and you'll immediately notice how thoughtfully designed the space is
Penko blends KL's heritage bones with subtle Japanese touches, retaining much of its original charm while introducing Japanese elements like artwork and lanterns.
Sho-san also went the extra mile by importing drinking equipment from Japan, including a selection of glasses that he personally handpicked. It's these small, intentional details that elevate the experience without making it feel forced or gimmicky.
Their goal was simple: create an atmosphere that feels authentically Japanese, while still being comfortable and grounded in KL.
While Penko started off as a dinner and drinks spot, it has since rolled out lunch sets, perfect for office crowds around the area or tourists exploring the city
The lunch menu features a mix of classic Japanese comfort dishes, including bara chirashi don, grilled saba mackerel, sashimi selections, soboro don, sushi, and more.
Beyond the food, Penko is designed as a space where people can unwind
The atmosphere is relaxed and spacious, with a cosy undertone that makes it easy to linger a little longer than planned.
There's even a private room available, making it a great option for small gatherings, celebrations, or more intimate dining experiences.
Check it out for yourself:
Address
Level 1, 11, 15, Medan Pasar, City Centre,
50050 Kuala Lumpur
Opening hours
11.30am – 2.30pm
5pm – 11.30pm
