Kuala Lumpur’s dining scene has just welcomed a major new player, as the internationally acclaimed Ministry of Crab has officially opened its doors at TUAH 1895 in Bukit Bintang City Centre. Known globally for its dedication to premium Sri Lankan mud crabs, this legendary seafood restaurant is set to captivate local gourmands with its signature dishes and world-class hospitality. We’ll be back soon for a full review, but EatDrink was able to attend the media launch preview event just ahead of the restaurant’s official opening, and suffice it to say we came away impressed! This is truly the gold standard for crab dining.
Ministry of Crab was first established in Colombo, Sri Lanka, in 2011 by celebrated chef Dharshan Munidasa, alongside cricketing legends Kumar Sangakkara and Mahela Jayawardene. The brand quickly gained a stellar reputation, consistently ranking among Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants from 2015 to 2022. With outposts in cities like Shanghai, Mumbai, and Bangkok, along with a popular branch in the Maldives, Ministry of Crab is no stranger to international expansion, but its arrival in Kuala Lumpur marks a particularly exciting milestone for seafood lovers here in Malaysia.
Set within TUAH 1895, a building just adjacent to Lalaport that serves as a fine dining and lifestyle hub, Ministry of Crab Kuala Lumpur offers more than just an incredible meal – it delivers a full sensory experience. The restaurant’s elegant yet understated décor reflects both Sri Lankan heritage and contemporary sophistication, creating an ambiance that is both inviting and refined. The open kitchen concept allows diners to witness the culinary artistry firsthand, adding an interactive dimension to the dining experience.
A CELEBRATION OF CRAB
The star of the show here is, of course, the Sri Lankan mud crab, celebrated for its impressive size, delicate texture, and sweet, succulent meat. Ministry of Crab takes pride in sourcing only the finest crustaceans, ensuring that every dish meets its exacting quality standards.
The menu features an array of signature crab dishes, each meticulously prepared using Japanese, Sri Lankan, and Mediterranean influences. One of the most impressive offerings is the Crabzilla, a massive 2-kilogram mud crab, guaranteed to make an impact. Meanwhile, the Prawnzilla, featuring freshwater prawns weighing over 500 grams each, offers another indulgent seafood experience. Of course, diners can choose from a full range of sizes (both for crabs and prawns), and while the Crabzilla option is admittedly a wallet-buster, the smaller specimens are a bit more affordably priced, at least for a dining experience of this calibre.
In true Ministry of Crab fashion, freshness is paramount. The restaurant operates on a “No Freezing, No Chilling, No Reheating” philosophy, ensuring that every dish is served at its peak. This dedication to quality is one of the many reasons why the brand has garnered such an esteemed reputation worldwide. A full Ministry constitution lays out the rules which govern the restaurant (see below), so guests can be assured of the highest quality, authenticity, and attention to detail.
BEYOND CRAB – A CULINARY EXPERIENCE
While the crabs take center stage, the menu at Ministry of Crab offers plenty more to savour. From expertly grilled river prawns to delicately spiced Sri Lankan curries, as well as the popular Crab Liver Paté, each dish is crafted with precision and passion. Signature specialties like the Pepper Crab and the Garlic Chilli Crab allow diners to experience the vibrant, aromatic flavours that Ministry of Crab is known for.
Adding to the experience is the carefully curated wine and cocktail selection, ensuring that every meal can be paired with the perfect beverage. The restaurant’s commitment to excellence in both food and service makes it a standout addition to Kuala Lumpur’s fine dining landscape.
Located in Bukit Bintang City Centre, Ministry of Crab’s newest outpost is set to become a must-visit destination for seafood enthusiasts, discerning diners, and international visitors alike. The venue’s prime location makes it easily accessible, and its setting within TUAH 1895 adds an element of historical charm to the experience.
Ministry of Crab Kuala Lumpur is open daily, with dinner service running from 5:30 PM to 10:30 PM (Sunday to Thursday), and extended hours until 11:30 PM on Fridays and Saturdays. Reservations are strongly recommended to secure a table at this highly anticipated new hotspot.
LOCATION & RESERVATIONS
- Address: GF-03 & M-03M, TUAH 1895, 2, Jalan Hang Tuah, Bukit Bintang, 55100 Kuala Lumpur
- Phone: 017-773 3680
- Website: ministryofcrab.my
With its stellar reputation, unwavering commitment to quality, and now a prime location in KL’s city centre, Ministry of Crab is ready to redefine the seafood dining experience in Malaysia. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the brand or a first-time diner, a visit to Ministry of Crab Kuala Lumpur surely promises an unforgettable culinary journey.
