Spot the penguin.

In the heart of Kuala Lumpur’s dining scene in Damansara Heights, a swanky new spot has opened its doors. Introducing Humboldt. Conceptualised by the brains behind the award-winning bar and kitchen JungleBird, the visionaries Lolita Goh and Joshua Ivanovic have seamlessly woven the vibrant flavours of South America into the city of KL.

The name Humboldt derives from the Humboldt Current, the flow from the southern tip of Chile up north through the Galapagos archipelago. Championing the tagline “follow the current,” this evokes the idea of broadening our minds for discovery and adventure. When it comes to the space, what caught our gaze was the zesty orange polygonal feature wall behind the bar.

Take a minute to admire the feature–every corner has a story. The unique structure is an ode to the Sechura and Nazca desert mountains on Peru’s South coast and where the mighty Atacama meets the Pacific Ocean on Chile’s North coast.

As the story unfolds, Humboldt will be represented by two main characters: the Humboldt Penguin and INK (the jumbo Humboldt squid). The former represents charm and sophistication, and the latter embodies fluidity and intellect. Combine the two, and their drive is a neverending adventure.

What’s on the menu at Humboldt?

Under the expert guidance of Ivanovic, the cocktail list will entice any palate. Our highlights include the Pisco Sour, which stands out as a refreshing elixir, expertly balancing the bold flavours of Waqar pisco and house-made Mistela. However, if you’re seeking a delicious non-alcoholic indulgence, the Chicha de Piña is an absolute must-try, combining the sweetness of pineapple with fragrant cinnamon, toasted wheat berries, warm spices, and gula melaka to create a drink that is as complex as it is refreshing.

Pescado Encocado

Begin your journey with an impressive selection of empanadas—De Pino, De Gallina, De Viento, and De Pipian. Even today, our mind yearns for a bite of the Carne (beef brisket, achiote, and smoked chilli), Viento (cheese, onion, and aji de tomate), and Pipian (potato, peanut, and aji de mani).

Perfect for any meat lovers, the antichucos (charret meat skewers) make a great addition to your table. Packed with flavour and seared to perfection, the skewers bring tantalising heat to your meals–go ahead and opt for de Carne (slow-cooked beef brisket), and if you’re feeling adventurous, de Corazon (beef heart) and de Higado (rabbit liver).

For light bites, the Yuca Frita was an addictive snack before the entrees. Crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside, the tapiocas are served with a Colombian-style avocado and egg dip–equally rich and delicious.

Cone Chactado

And now for the main event: the Pescado Encocado was a fragrant burst of flavours within every bite, reminding us of the familiar taste of our local Malaysian dishes. And for the pièce de résistance, Cone Chactado is a feast for the senses—deep-fried rabbit served whole or half, reimagined by Lolita as a tribute to the iconic Cuy (guinea pig) of South America.

Whether you choose the Pescado Encocado or the Cone Chactado, be sure to order the fragrant heirloom rice with lima beans, Arroz con Menestra.

For a sweet finish, sip on the Chocolate Santafereno, a cocktail that promises to elevate your taste experience to new heights. Crafted with the luxurious blend of Chairman’s Reserve White rum, rich cacao, savoury parmesan, and a hint of vanilla, this delectable concoction is a must-try for those with a penchant for the finer things in life.

At Humboldt, every bite and sip tells a story, inviting you on a culinary journey that transcends borders and tantalises the senses—truly a feast for both the palate and the spirit.

Address: 73- 1, Jalan Setia Bakti, Bukit Damansara 50490, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Opening times: 5PM till late (Wednesday – Sunday, closed on Monday and Tuesday)

All images credited to Humboldt.