Double Lion Hotel & Restaurant

Are you a local in Perak seeking to explore the authentic culinary gems of Kuala Kangsar, or perhaps in need of a very basic, no-frills place to rest for the night? In the heart of Kuala Kangsar lies Double Lion Hotel & Restaurant, a establishment with two distinct faces. While its hotel section caters to the most budget-conscious traveler looking simply for a place to sleep, its restaurant, however, stands as a beloved local institution, drawing crowds from all walks of life for its famously affordable and delicious treats.

The name "Double Lion" might conjure images of grandeur, but it's important to set expectations correctly, particularly for the hotel portion. As reviews indicate, the hotel is an older establishment. It is acknowledged as being very cheap, making it a viable option if your absolute priority is minimal cost for a night's stay and you are not expecting modern amenities or pristine conditions. It serves as a simple shelter for those who value extreme affordability above all else, where the focus is strictly on a place to sleep.

However, the real star here, and what truly makes "Double Lion" a name whispered among locals, is its restaurant. This is where the magic happens, especially during morning and afternoon tea breaks. The restaurant is not just famous; it's a culinary landmark in Kuala Kangsar, celebrated for its incredibly cheap yet wonderfully satisfying offerings. This contrast between the hotel and restaurant is stark, with the latter truly embodying the spirit of local culinary tradition and community.

For those living in Perak, especially if you're passing through Kuala Kangsar, the restaurant section of Double Lion Hotel & Restaurant is a must-try. It offers a genuine taste of local flavors and a glimpse into a beloved everyday gathering spot, where people from diverse backgrounds come together over simple, good food. While the hotel might suit only a very specific type of budget traveler, the restaurant is a universal highlight that continually earns high recommendations for its delicious and extremely affordable fare.

Double Lion Hotel & Restaurant is centrally located at 74, Jalan Kangsar, Bandar Baru, 33000 Kuala Kangsar, Perak, Malaysia. This prime location places it right in the heart of Kuala Kangsar, offering excellent accessibility to the town's amenities and attractions.

Jalan Kangsar is a significant thoroughfare in Kuala Kangsar, indicating that the establishment is easily found and reached. Being in "Bandar Baru" (New Town) suggests a central or well-developed area of Kuala Kangsar, which would typically mean proximity to shops, eateries, and other essential services. Kuala Kangsar itself, as the royal town of Perak, is well-connected to major road networks within the state, including the North-South Expressway (PLUS), making it a relatively straightforward journey from various parts of Perak and even from neighboring states.

For those traveling by car, finding Double Lion Hotel & Restaurant should be easy, and the location likely benefits from being on a main road. While parking might be a consideration during peak hours, especially for the popular restaurant, its central position enhances convenience for guests and diners alike. The ease of access makes it a practical stop for travelers passing through Kuala Kangsar or for locals wanting to visit the famous restaurant.

The central location means that guests of the hotel (for those choosing to stay) would be within easy walking or a short drive distance to Kuala Kangsar's historical landmarks, such as the Ubudiah Mosque, the Perak Royal Museum (Istana Kenangan), and various local markets. This accessibility is a major advantage for visitors wishing to explore the town's rich heritage without extensive travel from their accommodation. For locals, it's a convenient and well-known spot, making it easy to recommend and direct others to for its culinary offerings.

The bustling atmosphere, especially around the restaurant during popular times, reflects its integral role in the local community. This central and accessible location is key to its status as a local favorite for food, regardless of the hotel's condition.

• Hotel Accommodation: Provides basic, budget-friendly rooms for overnight stays, suitable for travelers seeking the simplest form of shelter.
• Restaurant Services: Offers a popular dining experience, particularly known for its breakfast and afternoon tea items.
• Local Culinary Delights: The restaurant serves local cuisine, with a highly recommended specialty: bread with butter and kaya jam.
• Affordable Food: Renowned for extremely cheap and value-for-money food items, especially the bread.
• Local Gathering Spot: The restaurant functions as a community hub, attracting a diverse crowd of locals for meals and breaks.

• The Exceptionally Popular and Affordable Restaurant: This is by far the biggest highlight and distinguishing feature of Double Lion. The restaurant is "famous among the locals" and sees "more people during morning and afternoon tea break." Its key attraction is the "extremely cheap" yet delicious food, particularly the "bread with butter and kaya jam." This specific item is a crowd-pleaser, described as "dense yet fluffy," and a "whole load of bun is only RM2," making it incredible value for money. The fact that "a lot of people regardless of races will come for their bread" underscores its widespread appeal and status as a local culinary gem. This communal aspect and the sheer popularity of its food make the restaurant a must-visit.
• Authentic Local Dining Experience: The restaurant offers a genuine taste of local life in Kuala Kangsar. It's a place where you can observe locals going about their day, engaging in conversations, and enjoying simple, traditional Malaysian fare. This provides an immersive cultural experience that goes beyond just eating, giving visitors a true sense of the community's daily rhythm.
• Budget-Friendly Accommodation (for specific needs): While the hotel portion is noted as "run down and old" with hygiene issues, its primary feature is its cost-effectiveness. It is "worth the cost" if one is "looking just for the simplest place to sleep." This means for travelers on an extremely tight budget, who prioritize only a bed for the night and are willing to overlook comfort and modern amenities, the hotel fulfills that very specific need. It's not about luxury, but about fundamental shelter at rock-bottom prices.
• Historical Charm (of the building/establishment): As an "old hotel," the building itself likely holds a certain historical character, even if not meticulously maintained. For those who appreciate the patina of age and the stories old buildings tell, there might be a subtle charm in its long-standing presence in Kuala Kangsar.
• Central Kuala Kangsar Location: Its prime spot on Jalan Kangsar in Bandar Baru ensures easy access to the town's central areas. This means convenience for both restaurant patrons and hotel guests to explore Kuala Kangsar's royal landmarks, local shops, and other eateries without extensive travel.

It is crucial to note the stark contrast in reviews between the hotel and the restaurant. The hotel receives a very low rating and severe criticism regarding cleanliness, maintenance, and functionality (broken AC, bad smell, moldy toilet roll, broken lamp and bathroom door, inconsistent water supply). These issues make the hotel unsuitable for anyone expecting even basic standards of hygiene and comfort. The recommendation is primarily for the restaurant's culinary offerings and its status as a local favourite.

To experience the renowned local flavors at Double Lion Restaurant or to inquire about the very basic hotel accommodation, you can use the following contact details:

Address: 74, Jalan Kangsar, Bandar Baru, 33000 Kuala Kangsar, Perak, Malaysia

Phone: 05-776 1010

Mobile Phone: +60 5-776 1010

It's always advisable to call ahead for restaurant operating hours, especially during peak times like morning and afternoon tea, to ensure you can enjoy their famous bread. For hotel stays, given the noted conditions, it would be prudent to call for clarification on room availability and current status if considering an extremely budget-conscious option.

For the residents of Perak, Double Lion Hotel & Restaurant in Kuala Kangsar presents a unique case of suitability, almost entirely driven by the magnetic appeal of its restaurant. While the hotel component serves a very niche, budget-driven purpose, the restaurant is a widespread local favorite and a true community staple.

The primary reason for its suitability, particularly for locals, is the **restaurant's iconic status and incredibly affordable, delicious food**. The famous bread with butter and kaya jam, priced at an "extremely cheap" RM2 for a whole loaf, is a culinary institution in Kuala Kangsar. This kind of value and taste is exactly what locals appreciate – good quality, traditional food that won't break the bank. The fact that "a lot of people regardless of races will come for their bread" underscores its universal appeal and role as a unifying local spot. For Perakians, visiting Double Lion's restaurant is often a nostalgic experience, a familiar taste, and a reliable spot for a satisfying tea break or breakfast.

The restaurant also functions as a **genuine local gathering spot**. It's not just about the food; it's about the atmosphere, the familiar faces, and the sense of community. During morning and afternoon tea breaks, you'll find it bustling with diverse locals enjoying their meals, chatting, and soaking in the relaxed vibe. This communal aspect is highly valued in Malaysian culture, making it a natural choice for casual meetups with friends and family.

Regarding the hotel, its suitability for locals is extremely narrow. It caters exclusively to those who need the **absolute cheapest place to sleep** and are completely willing to overlook significant issues with hygiene, maintenance, and facilities. For budget backpackers, or perhaps individuals in a pinch who simply need a roof over their head for a few hours and prioritize cost above all else, the hotel offers that bare minimum. However, it is generally **not recommended for a comfortable or pleasant stay** by any standard.

In conclusion, for Perak locals, Double Lion Hotel & Restaurant is highly suitable as a culinary destination, a place to enjoy traditional, affordable, and delicious food that has garnered widespread acclaim across all communities. Its restaurant is a must-visit for an authentic taste of Kuala Kangsar. The hotel, on the other hand, should only be considered by those with extremely limited budgets and no expectations for comfort or cleanliness.

Double Lion Hotel & Restaurant

74, Jalan Kangsar, Bandar Baru, 33000 Kuala Kangsar, Perak, Malaysia