Waldorf Astoria Kuala Lumpur to Open with Restaurants by Michelin-Starred Chefs

The Waldorf Astoria Kuala Lumpur, set to open in late 2026, will include dining venues led by chefs Garima Arora and Jean-Georges Vongerichten.

Chef Garima Arora, owner of Bangkok’s two-Michelin-starred Restaurant Gaa, is set to launch Yaari. Named after the Hindi word for “friendship,” the restaurant will feature a contemporary Indian menu. It aims to reinterpret traditional regional dishes, from curries to kebabs, using heritage cooking techniques and spices. The menu will also showcase refined chaats and desserts inspired by traditional Indian mithais. Arora holds the distinction of being the first Indian female chef to oversee a Michelin-starred restaurant.

Jean-Georges Vongerichten to Introduce Three Dining Concepts at Waldorf Astoria Kuala Lumpur

French chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten, whose flagship New York City restaurant Jean-Georges holds two Michelin stars, will introduce three distinct dining concepts. JG KL will offer dishes that blend French, American, and Asian influences, with an emphasis on precision and seasonality. Inspired by his established “abc” concepts, abc kitchens KL will feature a seasonal menu integrating farm-to-table principles, plant-based options, and Latin influences. The third venue, The Bar by JG, will serve small plates and a curated beverage selection. Vongerichten’s career spans four decades and he is known for combining French techniques with Asian influences.

These culinary partnerships are part of the Waldorf Astoria Kuala Lumpur’s strategy for its dining offerings. Additional venues are anticipated to be announced closer to the hotel’s opening in 2026.