Durbar at FMS (Formerly FMS Bar & Restaurant)
Ipoh is famous for its culinary heritage, and Durbar at FMS stands out as a must-visit destination for food lovers and history enthusiasts alike. Serving classic Hainanese and colonial-style Western cuisine, this iconic restaurant lets you savor flavors that have delighted generations, all within a beautifully restored historic building.
Restaurant Overview
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Restaurant Name | Durbar at FMS |
| Location | 2, Jalan Sultan Idris Shah, 30000 Ipoh, Perak, Malaysia |
| Phone / Contact | +60 17-797 7115 / +60 5-210 5115 |
| Website / Social Media | Facebook / Instagram |
| Founded Year | 1906 (as FMS Bar; rebranded as Durbar at FMS in 2019) |
| Cuisine | Hainanese & Colonial-style Western |
| Highlights | Historic ambiance, classic Hainanese dishes, colonial-era architecture |
| Signature Dishes | Hainanese Chicken Chop, Oxtail Soup, Chicken Maryland, Fish & Chips |
| Ambiance | Vintage colonial with timber furniture, antique fittings, and historical photographs |
| Opening Hours | Daily: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM (Closed on Wednesdays) |
| Recommended For | History enthusiasts, food lovers, families, travelers seeking cultural experiences |
| Notable Fact | Recognized as one of Malaysia’s oldest bars; Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Award 2025 |
History: From FMS Bar to Durbar
Founded in 1906, the FMS Bar was a social hub for British colonial administrators, tin miners, and rubber estate managers. Located near the Ipoh Padang, it became a center for social, cultural, and political gatherings.
The original FMS Bar closed in 2008, but in 2019, the building was restored and rebranded as Durbar at FMS by architect Seow Wee Liam and owner YT Lee. The restoration preserved its colonial charm while introducing modern comforts, making it a unique dining experience for locals and tourists alike.
Culinary Delights: Hainanese & Colonial-style Western Cuisine
Durbar at FMS is a food lover’s paradise. Its menu features Hainanese classics and colonial-era Western dishes:
- Hainanese Chicken Chop – Crispy fried chicken with rich brown onion gravy and potato wedges.
- Oxtail Soup – Hearty and flavorful, a must-try for lovers of traditional Hainanese cuisine.
- Chicken Maryland – Breaded chicken served with ham, sausage, banana fritters, and fries.
- Fish & Chips – British-style battered fish served with golden fries.
- Chicken Cube Fried Rice – Cantonese-style fried rice with braised chicken cubes, infused with ‘wok hei.’
The restaurant also offers a selection of cocktails, wines, and imported beers, perfect for relaxing in the colonial ambiance.
Reviews & Recognitions
Durbar at FMS has received glowing reviews from both locals and tourists:
“The ambiance was cozy and welcoming, but what made our visit special was the exceptional service. Susan made us feel like guests in her own home.” – Astral T, Google Reviews
“Durbar FMS is truly a nostalgic gem. The flavors brought back a sense of comfort, stepping into a different time where food was simple yet full of character.” – Jaye S, Google Reviews
With a Tripadvisor rating of 4.7/5, it has earned recognition as one of Ipoh’s top dining destinations.
Why Visit Durbar at FMS
Durbar at FMS is more than a restaurant—it’s a journey into Ipoh’s colonial history:
- Historic Ambiance – Enjoy a colonial-era dining experience with vintage furniture and historic photographs.
- Culinary Heritage – Relish Hainanese and Western dishes that are authentic and flavorful.
- Cultural Insight – Learn about Ipoh’s rich past from the building, décor, and staff stories.
This restaurant is ideal for history buffs, foodies, families, and travelers seeking a cultural and culinary experience.
Final Thoughts
A visit to Durbar at FMS is stepping back in time to Ipoh’s colonial era while enjoying top-notch Hainanese and Western cuisine. The combination of historical charm, flavorful dishes, and attentive service makes it a must-visit destination in Perak. Whether you’re exploring Ipoh for the first time or returning for nostalgia, Durbar at FMS offers an unforgettable dining experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Durbar at FMS, Ipoh
1. Where is Durbar at FMS located?
Durbar at FMS is located at 2, Jalan Sultan Idris Shah, 30000 Ipoh, Perak, Malaysia, near Ipoh Padang.
2. What are the opening hours of Durbar at FMS?
The restaurant is open daily from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM, except on Wednesdays when it is closed.
3. What type of cuisine does Durbar at FMS serve?
Durbar at FMS serves a unique fusion of Hainanese and colonial-style Western cuisine, including classics like Hainanese Chicken Chop, Oxtail Soup, Chicken Maryland, and Fish & Chips.
4. Is Durbar at FMS suitable for families?
Yes! The restaurant offers a family-friendly ambiance, with spacious seating and dishes that appeal to both adults and children.
5. Does Durbar at FMS have historical significance?
Absolutely. Founded in 1906, the original FMS Bar was a colonial-era social hub for administrators, tin miners, and rubber estate managers. The current Durbar at FMS preserves the colonial charm and heritage architecture.
Comments are closed.