Sek Yuen Restaurant in Pudu KL
[Non-halal] Sek Yuen Restaurant in Pudu is one of the oldest operating restaurants in KL.
Operating since 1948, Sek Yuen has been serving traditional Chinese dishes in a dai chow setting.
[Nov 2023 UPDATE: Sek Yuen was added to the Michelin Guide KL & Penang 2024. Check out our Michelin post here]
Operating for more than 75 years, Sek Yuen Restaurant occupies an old heritage building that stood before the Independence of Malaya.
Sek Yuen had since expanded to five shop lots – but the best tables are definitely in the original outlet with its pre-Independence stylings.
If you prefer a more comfortable space with air-conditioning, we do recommend making reservations for a table next door. Interestingly, Sek Yuen was one of the first restaurants in the 1970s to offer air-conditioned dining.
Sek Yuen Restaurant – history through the years
A bit of history: Sek Yuen has a humble beginning when three brothers sold wanton mee from a pushcart in KL. In 1948, the brothers decided to settle on Jalan Pudu as its permanent location, where it still stands today.
Currently run by the second generation, Sek Yuen remains a family business.
Sek Yuen are known for their Pipa Duck – a roast duck dish called such due to its resemblance to the Chinese musical instrument.
Pipa duck – a taste of many generations
We’ve visited Sek Yuen many times through the years since it was introduced by a colleague. For each visit, we’ve never failed to order the Signature Pipa Duck during each visit.
Since it was just the both of us for this visit, we decided to half a bird portion for RM40.
While it may not be the juiciest roast duck in KL, the duck has a beguiling charcoal aroma that immediately hits you.
The skin was crispy as we liked the moderate flavours of spices used for the rub. It’s not too heavy on the salt/spices, nor was the rub too light that the bird comes across as unseasoned.
The duck is also adequately tender and is best enjoyed with the accompanying sweet plum sauce.
The other signature dish here is the Stir-Fry Shark Fin with egg but we decided not to order it this time.
Tofu with Loofah, and spinach in superior soup
The Tofu with Loofah (RM20) and the Spinach in Superior Soup (RM25) were disappointing as they come across under-seasoned. Perhaps it was an off day for the chefs.
Summary
As one of the oldest restaurants in KL serving traditional Cantonese dishes, Sek Yuen Restaurant is worth visiting at least once.
The Pipa Duck is a dish that one should order here, but do ask the friendly staff about their other popular and signature dishes.
Sek Yuen Restaurant
Address: 313, Jln Pudu, Pudu, 55100 Kuala Lumpur
Hours: 11am-2.30pm, 5-9.30pm Daily (Closed on Mondays)
Phone: 03-9222 9457
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