A LI YAA – Kuala Lumpur

The food, service and atmosphere is top class and worthy of a fine dining establishment. Everything I had was good quality and tasted fine, although some dishes worked better than others.The meal started on a high note with some complimentary Rasam served in small cups. I'm not sure what type of rasam it was but it may possibly be the tastiest rasam I've ever had. Compliments to the Chef!The Fish Cutlets were tasty but had a strong fishy aroma, perhaps from the type of fish used? The Lamb Cutlets were better in terms of taste and aroma and I preferred it over the fish.The stars of the meal for me were the Sambols or salads. The Gottu Kola, Bitter Gourd Salad and Amma's Eggplant Salad were all unique and tasty. All the salads were seasoned with grated coconut and sliced onions. These are ubiquitous of Sri Lankan cuisine and are Highly Recommended. Stir Fried Four Angle Beans were on the Daily Specials and this was very good too.I found the Fish Sothy to be a little too thick with coconut cream for my liking. It was also lacking some spiciness from green chilies which are usually added. The Drumstick Curry was similarly a little too thick with coconut cream but had a nice sourness. Both would pair nicely with string hoppers.The Signature Mutton Paal Poriyal was a dry preparation, but I felt it was somewhat mild compared to the spicy and fiery versions in Sri Lanka.Both the Vegetarian and Chicken Kothu were decent with the choice of String Hoppers. Personally I prefer the Kothu with Roti instead.Kulaiyal are packets of rice with choice of Vegetables, Chicken, Lamb or Seafood. The Vegetable and Seafood versions we had were decent but I felt the rice ended up rather mushy from the steaming. I'd prefer just plain rice with the dishes, like in a Lamprais packet.Masala Tea was rather disappointing as it came with frothed milk. Not something I'd expect in a good Sri Lankan tea, and it felt out of place.

I recently had the pleasure of dining at Aliyaa and it was nothing short of extraordinary. From the moment I stepped in, the warm hospitality and aromatic spices transported me straight to the heart of Sri Lanka.The menu is a vibrant showcase of authentic Sri Lankan cuisine, and each dish bursts with bold, complex flavors. The lamprais—a fragrant banana leaf-wrapped parcel of rice, meat, and sambols—was a standout, packed with flavor and cooked to perfection.One dish that absolutely stole the show was the seafood kolaiyal. Perfectly cooked prawns and squid were dry-fried with roasted spices, curry leaves, and just the right amount of heat, creating a dish that was intensely flavorful, smoky, and addictive. The sothi—a light turmeric and coconut milk curry—offered a soothing contrast, while the beetroot curry added a sweet, earthy touch that brought harmony to the entire spread.The appam were a true highlight—crispy, lace-edged bowls with soft, fluffy centers that paired beautifully with creamy coconut milk and brown sugar.What sets this place apart is the attention to detail and authenticity. The chefs clearly know and love the food they create, and it shines through in every dish. This is not just a meal—it’s an experience.If you're looking to explore the true essence of Sri Lankan cuisine, Aliyaa is a must-visit. Extraordinary food, heartfelt service, and a cultural journey in every bite.

Can’t wait to come back. Been meaning to come for a while after being recommended. Did not disappoint at all. Classy restaurant with excellent Sri Lankan cuisine and good service. Host started us off with some complimentary rasam which itself was out of this world. Enjoyed everything we ordered from the pol roti and puttu to the cashew curry, string hoppers and potato sodhi. Prices very reasonable for a Michelin guide restaurant with classy ambience. Kids menu available too.Good to get a reservation even if on a weekday just in case.If you’re coming by Grab best to key in the actual address so that you don’t end up at the condo apartment complex of near-identical name.

Exceptional Sr Lankan food at a trendy restaurant with a nice ambience. Tried the mutton meatballs, fish cutlets and seafood kolayyal. Everything tasted so good.

An Indian skewed Sri Lankan experience (if it was meant to be) that was a little heavy on the salt for my liking, but generally a good experience and value for money. The appam was a little sweet, which I didn't expect. Very good rasam, prawns, fried bittergourd salad and dry mutton.