Flames, Flavour & Feline Charm: Yaki Soul Redefines KL's Late-Night Supper Scene

In the beating heart of Kuala Lumpur, a new culinary sanctuary rises after dark. It goes by the name Yaki Soul, and it lives by three simple words: Vibes. Bites. Unites.

This isn’t your average grill house or typical izakaya. Yaki Soul is a soulful symphony of charcoal, sand, smoke, and sound—where the food tells stories, the music moves hearts, and the house cat named Yaki welcoming you at the entrance for a midnight hello. Open until 3AM, it welcomes dreamers, workers, foodies, and night owls into a world of fire and flavour.

The Star of the Grill: Sand-Grilled Kinki Fish

No visit to Yaki Soul is complete without experiencing its signature sand-grilled Kinki Fish. Cooked with ancient Japanese technique, this rare delicacy is slow-roasted in volcanic sand—a method that ensures the fish is seared to crisp, golden perfection outside, yet remains tender, buttery, and moist inside. Its skin shatters under the fork, revealing succulent white flesh that melts on the tongue. Rich in natural umami, lightly charred, and served with minimalist garnishes to let its essence shine—this dish is a masterstroke.

Big Head Prawns

Accompanying it are two Big Head Prawns, flame-kissed and sweet with smoky sea-brine, and the Dry-Aged Silver Hill London Duck Drumstick.

Dry-Aged Silver Hill London Duck Drumstick

Expertly dry-aged to intensify its flavour, this premium duck drumstick delivers a symphony of textures and taste — boasting paper-thin, crackling skin and succulent meat with an impressively deep, rich flavour. Each bite is elevated by a whisper of smokiness, perfectly balanced for a truly unforgettable experience.

Japanese Amela Tomato Salad

Begin with the Japanese Amela Tomato Salad. These premium, sun-ripened tomatoes burst with natural sweetness, paired with crisp greens and umami-forward dressing that highlights their juicy brilliance.

Sashimi

Seasonal Japanese Oysters

The Sashimi selection is intentionally curated: two Seasonal Japanese Oysters arrive on the half-shell, plump, briny and clean—every bite a velvety taste of the sea.

Salmon Beetroot Sashimi

Then comes the Salmon Beetroot Sashimi, marrying the earthy sweetness of beet with buttery salmon for a dish that’s as vibrant on the palate as it is on the plate.

Otoro

The Otoro is another must order too. Deliciously done and it brings a melt in the mouth sensation and with the top of caviar and gold leaf on top, it makes it even more luxurious

Skewers, Charred Perfection on a Stick

This is where Yaki Soul’s spirit truly shines. Every skewer is a bite-sized ode to balance, texture, and fire and what’s more is they are using Japanese charcoal which give the overall fire balance ensuring the grilling is perfect.

• Longan Wrapped with Chicken Meat: sweet fruit and savoury meat collide in surprising harmony.

• Prawn Wrapped with Chicken Skin (x2): smoky, juicy, and texturally complex.

• Organic Leek: caramelised with a gentle char that deepens its sweetness.

• Organic Garlic with Aka Miso: soft, rich, and smouldering with umami.

• Shiitake Mushroom with Prawn Paste: earthy, briny, and deeply satisfying.

• Golden Oyster Skewer: briny and luxurious, wrapped in crispy finesse.

• Cherry Tomato: blistered and bursting with sweet juice.

• King Oyster Mushroom: meaty, tender, and echoing the fire’s kiss.

• Josephine Pineapple: grilled to release caramel tones with tropical brightness.

• Chicken Ball with Egg Yolk: nostalgic and velvety, dipped into golden yolk for extra richness.

Each skewer is meant to be paired with cold beer, sake, or house cocktails—perfect for late-night grazing under glowing lanterns.

Savoury Snacks for the Soul

The snack menu is both playful and clever.

• Wasabi Organic Okra surprises with a crisp bite and a wasabi kick.

• Deep Fried Gobo (burdock root) is earthy, addictive, and uniquely crunchy.

• Deep Fried Koebi Karaage features tiny shrimp, perfectly crisped and impossible to stop eating.

• Cold Ika (squid) is chilled, savoury, and ideal between hot bites.

Deep Fried Chicken Wing with Crispy Garlic: Crispy, juicy, and wildly satisfying—a crowd favourite.

Hokkaido Curry Soup.

Hokkaido Curry Soup

For those seeking comfort, look no further than the Hokkaido Curry Soup. It arrives bubbling, thick with house-blended curry, salmon head, and a colourful medley of vegetables. Warm, bold, and restorative, it’s the dish that hugs you back.

Fried Seafood Udon

The Fried Seafood Udon finishes the night strong—thick, springy noodles tossed with wok-seared seafood, kissed with a hint of char and rich in umami. We are indeed falling in love with this and wanted more of it. A must to go for.

Yaki Soul doesn’t just feed your belly. It feeds your mood. Starting every night around 8:00–8:30PM, the restaurant comes alive with live music performances from the local DJ each night brings a different vibe, syncing perfectly with the clink of glasses and the gentle flicker of flames.

And then there’s Yaki, the restaurant’s beloved feline. Equal parts mysterious and charming, Yaki moves through the room like a silent host. She might curl up beside your table, watch the band from her favourite perch, or simply pause to greet regulars. Her presence adds a layer of calm and character that no decor can replicate.

Where Vibes. Bites. Unite.

At Yaki Soul, every detail is intentional. From its late-night hours and curated playlist to its open-fire grilling and feline mascot, this izakaya doesn’t just serve food—it tells a story. It’s a place for laughter, reflection, indulgence, and connection.

So, the next time your cravings awaken after dark, follow the scent of charcoal, the rhythm of live music, and the trail of late-night wanderers. You’ll find yourself at Yaki Soul—where the fire never sleeps and neither does the flavour.