Restoran Kari Kepala Ikan Kampung Pandan, a long standing KL culinary institution has an outlet in Putrajaya

Food
24 Apr 2026 • 12:00 PM MYT
Zulkifly Baharom
Zulkifly Baharom

An HR practitioner, Sejahtera Leadership Coach & Gusi Peace Prize Laureate.

Image from: Restoran Kari Kepala Ikan Kampung Pandan, a long standing KL culinary institution has an outlet in Putrajaya
Dr. Zul at the entrance of Fish Head Curry Restaurant. Pix: Zarina

This Kuala Lumpur (KL) based restaurant has been established in 1976 is renowned for its authentic, generations-old recipe for fish head curry. It offers a traditional, rustic dining experience, specializing in rich, non-food-coloring, herb-infused curries that have made it a standout, humble dining spot amidst the city's modern landscape. Its signature dish, famous for Red Snapper fish head curry simmered with curry leaves, coriander, and spices. Known for its reddish-brown curry, which uses a secret original recipe curry powder, and maintaining the traditional way of cooking passed down through generations.

I am familiar with Restoran Kari Kepala Ikan Kampung Pandan in KL since my days working with PETRONAS & living at the Federal Hills in 1980s. It was a humble, unassuming spot in Kampung Pandan that provides a classic, nostalgic KL dining experience. I remember it is a highly rated, long-standing and authentic Mamak-style spot in KL known for its thick, reddish-brown, fragrant fish head curry, often described as a top contender for the best in the city.

Image from: Restoran Kari Kepala Ikan Kampung Pandan, a long standing KL culinary institution has an outlet in Putrajaya
Fish Head Curry is often richer and cooked to order or in small batches. It usually features a large red snapper or grouper head with okra, eggplant and tomatoes. Pix: Zarina

Generally praised for its rich, authentic, and consistent taste over the years, though some customers have complained long wait times due to popularity. This restaurant can get crowded, particularly during peak lunch hours on weekdays and weekends. So, it is timely that a branch has just been set-up in Precinct 9, Putrajaya. While it shares a similar name with the famous original KL branch, it is a distinct establishment from the branch located in Precinct 1 of the Administrative City. The outlet at Precinct 9 located at the residential area less crowded, easy parking space, good service and clean environment.

Image from: Restoran Kari Kepala Ikan Kampung Pandan, a long standing KL culinary institution has an outlet in Putrajaya
Dr Zul said, “Often Fish Head Curry Restaurant is a ”destination" meal for families or groups of like minded relatives, friends, colleagues, as one fish head is typically too large for one person." Pix: Zarina

I learned the main difference between a Nasi Kandar restaurant and a Kepala Ikan restaurant lies in the variety of dishes and the style of serving. While they both often serve Mamak or Malay cuisine, they offer different dining experiences. Nasi Kandar is like a “buffet” where we stay in queue, point at the side dishes we want, and the server adds to our plate. A central flagship for Kepala Ikan is the star, served in a large clay pot or bowl on our dining table.

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