This article first appeared in The Edge Financial Daily, on November 11, 2015.
If you are longing for flavours in keeping with this week’s festivities, you will be spoilt for choice with authentic Indian restaurants available aplenty in the Klang Valley. Outlets range from the laidback banana leaf rice joints with their own cult followings to finer establishments that recall the splendour of the glory days of the maharaja.
Whether you prefer the spicy lentils-based dishes of the South or the rich and creamy nuances of the North, be sure to save room for freshly “pulled” tea or a selection of sweets to finish the meal. We’ve compiled a list of our favourite fine restaurants around the city. Reservations are recommended where available as the crowds may be pouring in this week.
Khushi Spice
Feast Floor, Starhill Gallery 181 Jalan Bukit Bintang, Kuala Lumpur
Tel: (03) 2782 3872
www.feastvillage.com
Follow the fragrant aroma of spices down the labyrinthine passageways of Feast Village to find Khushi Spice (formerly Spice of India). The warm décor is kept minimal as though to allow the menu do the talking, and service is attentive. Recommended dishes include the onion bhaji, chicken tandoori with a fluffy naan, mutton shahi korma and jhinga (prawn) briyani while the rogan josh – a touch sour and spicy - is a must-have. We suggest the mango and mixed berries lassi to accompany the meal while desserts include an especially creamy mango kulfi and gulab jamun served hot.
Qureshi
Ground Floor, East Wing Kuala Lumpur Golf & Country Club 10 Jalan 1/70D, Bukit Kiara, Kuala Lumpur
Tel: (03) 2011 1007
www.klgcc.com
Expect a royal experience at Qureshi – its founders belong to the family of Imtiaz Qureshi, a descendant of Indian master chefs for the country’s top rulers over the centuries. In tribute to this legacy, spices are regularly flown in from India to flavour scrumptious dishes such as minced lamb kebab, marinated lamb in biryani rice, tandoori chicken and butter chicken in tomato gravy. End with the pistachio kulfi with carrot halwa and perhaps a cup of thandi (milk flavoured with cardamom, almonds and saffron). The décor lives up to the nobleness of its premise with a stately setting.
The Rolling Pin Restaurant
B2-63 Plaza Damas 3 Jalan Sri Hartamas 1 Taman Sri Hartamas, Kuala Lumpur
Tel: (03) 6206 5581
therollingpin.co
Internationally acclaimed veteran chef Rakesh Talwar and young culinary talent Abhishek Botadkar are behind this charming eatery, bringing between them progressive Indian cuisine and a flair for Chinese gastronomy. Prices are entirely reasonable and the menu tantalises with the likes of stuffed tandoori mushroom, lamb seekh kebab, kheema mutter masaledar, Goan fish curry and vegetable kofta curry. Start with samosa and order plain or stuffed breads to substantiate the meal, as well as sides such as boondi raita or green salads. Soups, noodles and wok-tossed meats are also available for those hankering for Oriental flavours.
Malabar Palace
G13A Ground Floor Sri Hartamas Shopping Centre, Kuala Lumpur
Tel: (03) 6206 2310
malabarpalace.com
Representing the indigenous and external cultural influences on Kerala’s local culinary scene, Malabar Palace serves a blend of traditional and innovative dishes in a trendy setting. Aloo tillwala, okra masala and butter chicken with pilaf are juxtaposed alongside the chef’s special of Kuttanadan crab roast, Kashmiri lamb curry, avial and the Malabar seafood platter on the menu. Palpayasam and carrot halwa are included on the list of beautifully-interpreted classic desserts. Breads include the crispy Malabar poori and fluffy Kerala paratha, perfect to mop up luxuriant curries and gravies.
Malgudi
Lot 17, Lorong Universiti C Section 16, Petaling Jaya
Tel: (03) 7931 2556
www.facebook.com/Malgudi-1559407601007639
A relative newcomer to the scene, opening its doors in April, Malgudi is already becoming known for its unfussy and authentic Southern Indian flavours. The extensive menu offers over 100 items and includes favourites such as crab masala and pepper chicken masala, using the house’s homemade signature masala blend, and a pick of biryani. Especially popular are the traditional thali sets, featuring a serving of rice with a selection of chutneys and sides. Prices are reasonable and service quick, drawing in a regular crowd on weekends. Reservations are recommended on special occasions.