Happy TravellerWelcome to Petaling Jaya: A Budget Backpacker’s Paradise!
Hey there, fellow adventurers! If you’re like me and love to explore new cities without breaking the bank, then you’re in for a treat with Petaling Jaya, affectionately known as PJ. Nestled just a stone’s throw away from the bustling capital, Kuala Lumpur, PJ is a foodie haven where your taste buds can travel the world without costing a fortune.
Getting Started: Old Town’s Culinary Gems
First things first, let’s head to Old Town, the heartbeat of PJ’s food scene. Start your day with a steaming plate of nasi lemak, the beloved Malaysian breakfast. It’s essentially coconut rice served with sambal, peanuts, fried egg, and a slice of cucumber, and you can snag a plate at Restoran Nasi Lemak Kandar Pelita for around RM 6.00. Please, don’t forget the fried chicken—crispy and juicy!
Street Food Extravaganza at SS2 Night Market
If you’re in the mood for a street food adventure, make your way to the SS2 Night Market, which lights up every Tuesday evening. This bustling bazaar is where you can sample everything from satay to roti john. I vividly remember biting into a crispy banana fritter from a local vendor—sweet, warm, and downright addictive! Don’t be shy to try a little of everything; each dish is priced between RM 2 to RM 10, making it super wallet-friendly.
Chill and Sip at Damansara Kim
After a hearty meal, you might want to kick back and relax with a drink in hand. Head over to Damansara Kim and check out the hip cafes lining the streets. One particular spot that caught my attention was a quaint little cafe called Yut Kee. Here, I savored a cup of aromatic kopi (Malaysian coffee) while munching on their legendary roasted pork buns. The blend of flavors washed down with a smooth brew is pure bliss! Prices here range from RM 5 to RM 15, depending on your choice of drink or snack.
Indulge in Something Sweet: Dessert Stops
No food journey is complete without dessert! Make your way to Hokkaido Baked Cheese Tart for a delightful treat. Their freshly baked cheese tarts are a magical blend of creamy cheese and pastry that melts in your mouth, all for just RM 7 each! I devoured mine while lounging on a nearby bench, feeling like I had just discovered gold.
Sip and Savor at Local Pubs
If you fancy a more laid-back evening, PJ boasts several local pubs that are perfect for unwinding after a long day of exploration. Beer Factory in Damansara Uptown offers an extensive selection of local and international brews at reasonable prices. Grab a pint or two while indulging in their tasty truffle fries. Prices here won’t burn a hole in your pocket, with drinks starting around RM 12.
A Few Tips for the Budget Backpacker
- Public transport is your friend: Use the LRT or buses to get around PJ; they’re efficient and cheap!
- Ask locals for recommendations: You’ll be surprised where the best hidden gems can be found.
- Don’t be afraid to bargain: In markets, haggling is a norm and can save you some cash.
Wrap Up Your Food Adventure!
So, there you have it—a taste of Petaling Jaya that won’t send you home broke! With its diverse food scene and friendly atmosphere, PJ is a perfect destination for a budget backpacker like you. Grab your backpack and set out to explore the flavors of this vibrant city. Trust me, every bite will be worth it!
