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By Mihar Dias October 2025
We’ve been fans of SitiLi ever since their early days — back when they operated from a tiny, charming outlet in Bukit Damansara. When they later expanded to a larger spot in the same neighbourhood, we thought they’d found their stride. Then, of course, Covid hit. Like many local gems, we feared that was the end of their story.
But lo and behold — SitiLi is back. And not just back, but reborn in style at the brand-new KLGCC Mall, nestled within the Senada Residences complex in Bukit Kiara.
Naturally, we had to check it out. We arrived for lunch shortly after their soft launch, thinking we’d cleverly beat the crowd. Wrong. Even after 1 p.m., the queue snaked past the entrance — a sure sign that word had already gotten out. We finally got our table, placed our order, and braced for the promised 45-minute wait. The food took closer to an hour, but to be fair, the staff did warn us.
My wife, ever loyal to her favourites, went straight for SitiLi’s celebrated nasi lemak. It arrived beautifully wrapped in banana leaf — fragrant rice with crispy anchovies, roasted peanuts, a perfectly boiled egg, tender beef rendang, and slices of cucumber. Her verdict? “Worth the wait.”
My beef soup, however, was less fortunate. Despite my request for a low-sodium version (doctor’s orders), it came far too salty.
The hot barley drink, too, was off the mark — more sugary syrup than soothing barley. We ended up diluting it with three glasses of hot water, and it still tasted like dessert in disguise.
To their credit, the owner — ever gracious — came over to apologise personally. He explained that the kitchen was still finding its rhythm and promised things would normalise soon.
It turned out to be a simple communication hiccup between the order takers and the cooks.
Despite the missteps, we left with our affection for SitiLi intact. The warmth of the couple who run it, the nostalgia of their flavours, and the sheer spirit of revival make it worth another visit.
Every reopening has its teething problems — and we’re rooting for them to iron out theirs quickly.
So yes, go visit. Be patient. And if you see a long line, take it as proof that good taste never really goes out of fashion.
📍 SitiLi @ KLGCC Mall
Lot 3F-10, Third Floor, KLGCC Mall
1 Jalan Bukit Kiara 1, Bukit Kiara
60000 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur
🕙 Open daily, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
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