Dining at ORBIT Revolving Restaurant KL Tower with Transfers

Review of the Dining at ORBIT Revolving Restaurant KL Tower with Transfers

When it comes to dining with a view, few experiences match the allure of eating at KL Tower’s Orbit Restaurant. Located inside the iconic Kuala Lumpur Tower, this restaurant offers a 360-degree rotating panorama of the city skyline, making your meal a visual as well as culinary delight. While it’s not a full-scale culinary adventure, it’s a popular choice for those celebrating special moments or simply wanting to tick off a must-do experience in Kuala Lumpur.

What we particularly like about this experience is its combination of spectacular views, a diverse buffet menu, and the convenience of hotel transfers. The slow rotation ensures you get to see just about every angle of Kuala Lumpur, from the Petronas Towers to the distant mountains. Another appealing aspect is the family-friendly atmosphere combined with the possibility of group discounts, making it more accessible. However, it’s worth noting that the overall rating reflects some areas of inconsistency, such as organization and speed, which are worth considering.

This experience is best suited for travelers seeking a memorable dining backdrop, couples celebrating a special occasion, or anyone who enjoys a mix of good food and incredible views. If you’re after an authentic Malaysian culinary experience or a high-end fine dining venue, you might want to explore other options. But for a relaxed, scenic dinner with a dash of novelty, Orbit Restaurant hits the spot.

Key Points

Spectacular 360-degree views: The revolving restaurant offers panoramic sights of Kuala Lumpur, especially enchanting at night.
Diverse buffet options: From local fare to international dishes, there’s something for all.
Convenient transfers: Hotel pickup and drop-off are included if you select that option, saving you hassle.
Slow rotation speed: Provides ample time to enjoy each view but might feel sluggish for some.
Smart casual dress code: Dress appropriately to match the ambiance.
Booking in advance: The experience is popular, often booked 30 days ahead, especially during peak seasons.
Mixed reviews: Some travelers praise the views and food, while others mention organizational hiccups and slow check-in.
Cost considerations: At $110 per person, it offers good value for the views and experience but isn’t a gourmet dining extravaganza.

A Detailed Look at the Experience

Arrival and Meeting Point

The tour starts with a meet-and-greet at your hotel lobby, a perk for those who prefer a stress-free journey. The pick-up is via air-conditioned vehicle, and this runs smoothly most of the time, although the driver might be a few minutes late due to Kuala Lumpur traffic, as some reviews note. The designated meeting point is MATIC109, Jln Ampang, a central location near public transportation, making it easy for most travelers to find.

The Transport and Convenience

Having hotel transfers included adds a lot of value, especially if you’re unfamiliar with Kuala Lumpur’s traffic patterns. The journey to KL Tower is short, and the vehicle is comfortable. The service ensures you arrive relaxed and on time, with a departure scheduled at 6:30 pm, perfectly aligned for dinner and sunset views.

The Restaurant: ARAS at KL Tower

Once at the KL Tower, the experience shifts to the ARAS revolving restaurant. The check-in process has received mixed reviews—while many find it organized, some travelers have encountered confusion, especially if their booking isn’t properly noted. One reviewer mentioned the staff’s unawareness of Viator bookings, leading to a frustrating check-in that was eventually resolved. To avoid this, it’s best to have your reservation details ready and arrive 15 minutes early.

The Dining Experience

The buffet spread is described as modern and authentic Malaysian, complemented by international dishes like pasta salads, roasted garlic, and a variety of cold cuts. Hot dishes include stir-fried crab with chili and Ikan Asam Pedas, with some local favorites like Ayam Goreng Berchili also on offer. The dessert section features a selection of freshly prepared confections, giving diners a sweet finish.

One reviewer highlighted the quality of the food, noting the attentive staff and the gentle music played by a band, which added to the relaxed atmosphere. However, food quality and presentation may vary depending on the day, so it’s wise not to expect a five-star gourmet buffet but rather a solid, well-rounded meal with good variety.

The Rotation and Views

The primary draw—the slow, continuous rotation—means you can gaze at the Kuala Lumpur skyline from every angle. The rotation is quite gentle, which some travelers find relaxing, but a comment from a reviewer suggests increasing the rotation speed slightly. The nighttime views are especially stunning, with city lights twinkling below, making it ideal for romantic dinners or memorable photos.

Additional Considerations

• Window seats are available for an extra RM50, but they are subject to availability. If you’re keen on the best views, it’s worth requesting in advance.
• Dress code is smart casual, so avoid shorts or flip-flops if you want to blend in. This elevates the experience slightly beyond typical tourist casuals.
• Be aware that beverages are not included in the package; alcohol and drinks are available for purchase, and all drinks need to be settled before departure.
• The duration is approximately 2 hours, which is enough to enjoy your meal, the views, and a leisurely experience without feeling rushed.

The Review Landscape

The overall rating of 3.5 out of 5 reflects a mix of experiences. Some guests, like Tyrone, enjoyed the “incredible experience” with a “5-star buffet” and the novelty of revolving while dining. Conversely, others, such as Kevin, faced issues with check-in and booking confirmation, emphasizing the importance of arriving prepared and with documentation.

Value for Money

At $110 per person, the experience offers good value if you’re looking for a memorable dinner with scenic views. It combines dining and sightseeing in one package, saving you time and effort. However, it’s not a gourmet restaurant, and the buffet might not satisfy those seeking haute cuisine. Plus, alcohol is an extra expense, which can add up.

Who is this experience best suited for?

This tour works well for couples wanting a romantic dinner, especially with the stunning night views. It’s also suited for families or small groups celebrating a special occasion, thanks to its relaxed atmosphere and inclusive transfer service. If you’re someone who enjoys scenic panoramas and a casual buffet-style meal, this experience is a good fit.

However, if your priority is gourmet dining or organizational perfection, you might find the experience a bit uneven. Also, those in a hurry or with strict time constraints may want to consider the slow rotation and potential check-in delays.

Final Thoughts

Dining at the Orbit Revolving Restaurant atop KL Tower is more than just a meal—it’s a visual journey through Kuala Lumpur’s skyline. While the buffet offers a decent variety and the views are unforgettable, some aspects like check-in organization and rotation speed could benefit from fine-tuning.

For a relaxed evening with a memorable backdrop, this experience delivers a satisfying blend of scenery and sustenance. It’s a solid choice for travelers seeking an iconic KL activity that balances affordability with stunning vistas.

If you’re prepared for some minor organizational quirks and a moderate pace, this dinner will likely leave you with fantastic photos and a story to tell. Just remember to book early, dress smart casual, and brace for a memorable night above the city.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, if you select the transfer option, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in an air-conditioned vehicle, making the experience seamless.

What is the dress code?
The dress code is smart casual, so think neat attire—no flip-flops or shorts—to match the elegant setting.

How long does the experience last?
The entire experience lasts about 2 hours from pickup to drop-off, giving enough time to enjoy the meal and panoramic views.

Can I choose a window seat?
Window seats are available for an extra RM50 and are subject to availability, so it’s best to request this in advance.

Are drinks included in the price?
No, beverages are not included. Alcoholic drinks and other beverages are available for purchase, and all drinks must be settled before departure.

What is the best time to go?
The dinner starts at 6:30 pm, ideal for catching the sunset and night views with the city lights illuminating below.

Are there any restrictions on booking during holidays?
Yes, the rates are not applicable during certain festive periods like Chinese New Year, Christmas, or New Year’s Eve, when prices and availability may differ.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before your scheduled experience for a full refund.

Is this experience suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and the relaxed atmosphere makes it suitable for families, though the dress code and buffet style are better suited for older children or teens.