Where art and commerce collide

Popular plate: Top cafes at this hip new mall include Ben's and Marmalade Cafe.

Differentiating itself from the sea of megamalls that dot KL's retail landscape, Publika bills itself as an urban centre of creativity. An artistic feat in itself, the mall, which opened in 2011, is awash with feature walls and installations, while stores prompt community participation in their cooking classes and art workshops.

Fashion offerings are still relatively basic, but as word spreads about this edgy mall concept, it's likely more established brands will make camp here. For now, enjoy the in-house galleries, cool cafes and gourmet goodies from anchor tenant, Ben's Independent Grocer (BIG). Take the shuttle here from KL Sentral station.