Malaysia's durian-themed restaurants are booming as record numbers of durian lovers are flocking to the country, eager to sample what many consider the world's best varieties of the pungent fruit.
Often described as a fruit people either love or hate, durian has long been a favorite among many Chinese visitors as well.
New outlets have sprung up across Kuala Lumpur and Penang, branding themselves as restaurants but serving little beyond durian in different forms, from fresh fruit to ice cream, cream puffs, milkshakes and even deep-fried versions.
"We opened this place nearly a year ago, and our customers come from all over the world," said Ophelia Ng, branch director of Laifa in Petaling Street in Kuala Lumpur, capital of Malaysia.
Visitors said the draw was the wide range of durian varieties on offer.
"My friend is from Singapore, and this friend is from Indonesia. So we are here to try out different varieties of durian. I think there is different flavors, [some are] a little bit bitter, some are sweeter or creamier, yes, so that's why we are trying it out first before we order the big one," said Wen Ni, a Malaysian durian lover.
Some tourists, however, found the taste less appealing.
"I'm not sure if I like it. I don't really like it. It's not really good," said a tourist from Austria.
For Chinese tourists, sampling Malaysia’s finest durian remains an essential experience.
"When you come to Malaysia, you can't afford to miss the best durian. The finest varieties are Musang King and Black Thorn. It's best to enjoy them in a restaurant, where you can eat comfortably in a cool, air-conditioned setting. The durian is delicious, and relaxing here while savoring the fruit is the best experience," said Zhao Bin, a tourist from Guangzhou, capital city of south China's Guangdong Province.
With durians banned from hotels and public transport, restaurants offering air-conditioned comfort have become the preferred way for tourists to enjoy Malaysia's most divisive fruit.
Malaysia's durian restaurants thrive amid booming demand
