Cover image via SAYS
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If you are a vegan or simply a fan of meat-free cuisine in the Klang Valley, you would know The Hungry Tapir is many locals' favourite go-to spot for great food paired with a great atmosphere
Its original outlet in Chinatown Kuala Lumpur along Jalan Petaling has been a staple for vegans and vegetarians for years.
But for those who don't frequent central KL, there's now a reason to celebrate. The brand has expanded with a new outlet in Bangsar along Jalan Telawi 3.
Tucked above the same row as Baskin-Robbins, the new space carries a familiar charm, with warm natural light reminiscent of the original Chinatown outlet
It also features similar overhead lanterns, creating the same juxtaposition of modern and vintage elements, an inviting setting that encourages slower meals and deeper conversations (especially with a cocktail in hand).
Now, onto the main event: the food. The Hungry Tapir Bangsar delivers the same lip-smacking, how-is-this-vegan kind of dishes.
Psst… if you are a long-time fan, their vegan Truffle Baked Mac & Cheese is still as amazing as ever. The dish comes with crispy, well-seasoned tempeh standing in for "bacon", adding both texture and a bold, savoury punch between your creamy, savoury pasta bites.
We went in a group of four, and we all agreed to order that traditionally main as a "side". #NoRegrets
Rating: 9.5/10
We also ordered their Mama's Satay, Jungle Laksa, Tapir's Nasi Lemak, Big Brekkie, and Steak Me Out Tonight as our mains
As a vegan for over 30 years, I can attest that Hungry Tapir never disappoints with its menu.
From local to western plates, the kitchen consistently nails the balance of familiar flavour with a refined touch, elevating everyday dishes into something worth savouring slowly.
Mama's Satay is made from lion's mane mushrooms, a common vegan alternative. But what sets this apart is the marinade. The balance of spices and lemongrass creates a deep flavour, allowing the 'protein' to stand out among other vegan restaurants.
Rating: 7.5/10
The Jungle Laksa has a light yet savoury, creamy curry broth, which is balanced with fresh greens to cut through the richness. Generously topped with tofu puffs and tofu sheets, it transforms what is usually a sinful dish into something nutritional without compromising on flavour.
Rating: 8.5/10
Tapir's Nasi Lemak is a hearty take on the national favourite, served with vegetables, hedgehog mushroom rendang, fried tempeh, peanuts, cucumber, and a well-balanced spicy sambal.
The rendang is the true standout: rich, deeply aromatic, and cooked in an authentic Malay style. It delivers a sense of familiarity that even non-vegans will appreciate, capturing the essence of the original without missing a beat.
Rating: 7.8/10
Big Brekkie's 'scrambled egg' is made from tofu, a simple yet satisfying substitute you might find yourself craving daily. The real star, however, is the homemade smoky chickpea sausage. With a crispy exterior and a soft texture from within, it's a sausage that slaps.
Rating: 7.5/10
As for Steak Me Out Tonight, it's a well-seared, mushroom-based steak served atop a bed of creamy mash, with a side of charred asparagus — a perfect entrée for a slow, satisfying meal, packed with rich, savoury flavours in every bite.
The steak goes far beyond the typical store-bought mock meats often found in hypermarkets. It's rich, dense, and boasts a satisfying tender texture that makes it a convincing meat alternative.
Rating: 7/10
The Hungry Tapir Bangsar did not disappoint during our office lunch review, and we're confident you'll have a great time at this well-loved vegan establishment that has been a staple in the KL dining scene for years
Here are the details of the outlet:
Business hours:
Daily from 12pm – 11pm
(closes at 12am on Friday and Saturday)
Address:
61-1, Jalan Telawi 3, Bangsar, 59100, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
You can make a reservation here.
