A lifetime is simply too short to sample every type of cuisine that Malaysia has to offer. Likewise, foodies find it impossible to keep up with the growing number of new eateries opening up every month.
That’s why we have sussed out these five apps to help you locate your next best meal. What’s even better is these apps are free to download so you can spend more on food.
You might want to save some money for a gym membership though, because we have a feeling you might need it soon……
- By MakanJom Sdn Bhd
- Available on iOS and Android
Appearance-wise, Makan Jom makes a good first impression with a simple layout that makes it very easy to navigate. There’s a catch though; it is only available in Bahasa Malaysia to cater to the Malay-speaking majority of the population.
You can search for eateries by distance or popularity, or just key in the name of the restaurant that you are looking for. Once you have decided, get directions via Waze or Google Maps, or simply bookmark your selection for future reference.
The developer claims the eateries listed in the app have JAKIM’s halal certification and serve halal food. If so, this would certainly make the app handy for Muslim patrons.
In the latest software update, you can add your favourite eateries to the existing catalog. That means you’ll have more eateries to choose from when other users contribute to the list as well.
The standard of quality control is questionable, as you can find duplicate listings for the same restaurant and listings with incomplete information. Overall though, it is a good app, so we hope the app developer can fix that hiccup soon. And have an English version so more people can enjoy it.
- By Media Prima Digital
- Available on iOS and Android
You can’t go wrong with an app created by the subsidiary of entertainment heavyweight Media Prima. If the name sounds familiar, it is because Jalan Jalan Cari Makan (the app) is based on the popular TV show of the same name.
When it’s makan time, use the app to search for a restaurant in your vicinity, either in English or Bahasa Malaysia. If you are feeling adventurous, choose one from their list of featured restaurants (updated weekly) or just go with one of their picks.
Some of the eateries listed have been featured on the TV show, so you can find videos of the host Naz making his recommendations. Keywords below each listing describe its halal status and the type of cuisine served, so you can decide your pick of the day at a glance.
Besides the usual features that allow you to read and share comments, bookmark your selections, and share to social media, you can also download and redeem promo codes within the app itself.
Our favourite promo is the one that offers a free Uber ride to your selected eatery so you don’t have to drive there yourself. That means you’d be able to grab a beer two, which is always nice.