FLAVOURS OF KERALA

Coast by Kayra offers a sumptuous range of South Indian cuisine from the coastal region of Kerala

- ALISON LOH

WHEN VISITING THE HEART OF KUALA LUMPUR, it’s easy to be distracted by its kaleidoscopic streets and luxurious malls. And if you look closely, there are many hidden gems waiting to be discovered, especially from the culinary aspect.

While many eateries have been unearthed on social media, there’s one newly opened spot that’s worth exploring. That’s Coast by Kayra, a locally owned Keralan restaurant that offers an elevated dining experience.

Many variations of South Indian food could be easily found at your usual kopitiam and roadside stalls. At Coast by Kayra, you can expect an opulent culinary journey that will simply whisk you away to the Keralan coast.

Owned by third-generation Keralite Malaysian Meriam Alfonso, the restaurant is led by her alongside Executive Chef Sal Sabeel. Coast by Kayra is the counterpart to Kayra, a restaurant that’s been operating for eight years in Bangsar. With the launch of Coast by Kayra, Alfonso hopes to continue her commitment to elevating traditional Keralan cuisine and earning its rightful place at the dinner tables worldwide.

“I was a lawyer before switching careers and founding Kerala Food Sdn Bhd,” Alfonso said. “My family ran a small restaurant called Kerala in Johor Bahru when I was growing up, so food has always been a big aspect of my life. With Kayra and now Coast by Kayra, I think it’s only natural for me to continue this legacy that started with my family and my love for Keralan cuisine.”