Discover something new in Kota Bharu
Kota Bharu is more than just a transit to Perhentian Island or Thailand. In fact, the humble town is worth exploring for its promising culinary adventures and unspoiled heritage. Bonded to a strong cultural identity, the capital city of Kelantan also plays a major role in Malay history.
If you wish to go somewhere less touristy, don’t shy away from exploring Kota Bharu. Include the local businesses below in your itinerary too!
Read more about these places below!
Restoran Nasi Ulam Cikgu
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About Restoran Nasi Ulam Cikgu - Mark your food trails in Kota Bharu where the locals would go for authentic Kelantanese food! The late owner of Restoran Nasi Ulam Cikgu was an economics teacher who started the business as a small stall over 20 years ago in the town of Kubang Kerian. It was then expanded to where it is today — an established restaurant in Kampung Kraftangan, as well as a few other franchises in Kelantan and Kuala Lumpur.
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What to order here? - It’s self-service, so you’ll get to pick from a spread of fresh herb salads for your Nasi Ulam. Recommended dishes including Ikan Keli Goreng Berempah, Asam Pedas Ikan Patin and Ikan Singgang. Add sauces like Budu or Sambal Belacan to go with the rice for an extra oomph!
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Address: Kampung Kraftangan, Jalan Hilir Kota, 15300 Kota Bharu, Kelantan
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Opening hours*: Saturday – Thursday, 10.30 a.m – 4.45 p.m. Closed on Fridays.
Wayang Pak Dain
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About Wayang Pak Dain - Under the moniker of Pak Dain, Muhammad Dain Othman is a renown shadow puppet master (a.k.a. Tok Dalang) in Kota Bharu who has been a true devotee of Kelantanese traditional shadow play since the 80s. Pak Dain is the founder of the Kelantan Malay Traditional Shadow Play Gallery in 2008, which represents his life’s work through various collections and documentations of the much celebrated ‘wayang kulit’.
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What to do here? - Apart from various puppet displays, the gallery holds live ‘wayang kulit’ performances and puppet making workshops. There is also a gift shop here for you to buy traditional puppets made by Pak Dain himself.
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Address: No. 5, Simpang 3 Morak, 16040 Wakaf Bharu, Kelantan
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Note: Contact in advance to book your visit.
Tiny Elephant
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About Tiny Elephant - Today, the sleepy town of Kota Bharu is budding with a list of pretty neat hipster cafes. If you need a break from all the traditional East Coast cuisine, indulge in an irresistible cup of artisanal soft serve ice cream at Tiny Elephant. This Muslim-friendly cafe serves delicious snacks, pastries and a wide selection of drinks — from fresh smoothies, bubble tea to cold brew coffee.
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What to order here? - The all-time favorite soft serve flavors here would be their Signature Matcha and Callebaut Chocolate Hazelnut. Another dessert recommendation is Buttermilk Waffle, topped with your favorite soft serve flavor!
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Address: No. 1122, T/B, Jalan Tengku Petra Semarak,15000 Kota Bharu, Kelantan
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Opening hours*: Monday – Sunday, 7.30 a.m – 11.30 p.m.
*Opening hours subjected to change during RMCO
More insider scoop here
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