RETRO AMERICAN FAVES ROCK AT ED'S DINER

 

Opened in 1st Dec last year, Ed’s Diner - Malaysia’s one and only American retro-concept eatery from London - is the first ever to operate outside the United Kingdom since its establishment in 1987. Channelling cool 1950s vibes like the movie Grease, this 158-seat restaurant at Resorts World Genting (RWG) flaunts glowing neon signs, a monochrome, checkered tile floor, glossy vinyl booth seating and chrome-accented soda fountain stools.

 

A working jukebox – an authentic analog machine loaded with chart-toppers from the 50s, 60s and 70s – takes pride of place. RWG Outlet Manager Mohd Fauzan, Sous Chef Hapizi bin Hussain and Outlet Chef Zulkifli Nayan underwent 2-month training with the master franchisor, to ensure the food and beverage selection comply with expected standards.

Both RWG chefs who have 27 years of industry experience each, not only exceeded the franchisor’s expectations but are also playing a key role in getting halal certification for Ed’s Diner. “Once we succeed, this will be the first halal-certified Ed’s Diner in the world” says Mohd Fauzan.

Food-wise, portions are huge at Ed’s Diner so it’s advisable to share especially if you’re a light eater. Remember to amp up the rock & roll feel by selecting your fave retro hits from the jukebox, absolutely free of charge.

Familiar curtain-raisers of Nachos To Share (RM39) and Chicken Caesar Salad (RM18) paved the way for lunch. The generous heap of tortilla chips came smothered with chicken chilli cheese sauce, tomato salsa, guacamole and sour cream. Each hearty bite was addictive with hints of coriander and chilli seasoning. Mildly sweet yet tart green chilli pickles helped to alleviate the cloying richness.

 

Loading up on the salad of romaine lettuce, grilled chicken thigh, cherry tomatoes, parmesan, croutons and Caesar dressing made sense; especially when we had to chomp through the plethora of tempting eats.

 

My personal pick of the lot is Chicken N Waffle (RM24), one of best selling items Ed’s Diner is famous for. The savoury and sweet profile combo of deep-fried chicken with crisp vanilla waffles and honey hit the spot for me.

Smoky slices of streaky beef and Big Ed’s burger sauce lent additional appeal to the double 150g beef patties, cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion and gherkins which made up the trademark Big Ed’s Burger (RM35). It’s a hefty speciality for one person to handle but if you have a humongous appetite, go for it.

Fancy some heat with your burger? The Nashville Hot (RM19) comprising fried spicy chicken burger with hot sauce and chilli seasoning was piled high with cheese, lettuce, tomato, coriander, cheese sauce, mayonnaise and onion rings. Also available in Super Hot version with double lashings of hot sauce.

 

Family and child-friendly fare includes Classic Foot Long (beef RM23, chicken RM21) and Love Me Tenders (RM38). Sandwiched between soft, sesame seed-flecked buns, the sausage adorned with gherkins, ketchup, mustard and crispy onion passed muster.

I was more smitten with the delicious fried chicken tenders. A dash of chilli seasoning, a cup of macaroni & cheese, classic fries and onion rings enlivened the boneless chicken, alongside the house BBQ and cayenne ranch (sour cream, cilantro and mayo) sauce. Try the Falafel Burger (RM19) with a patty made from chickpeas and spices for those looking for a vegetarian option.

Specially created for Malaysia, the local team proffers Buko Coconut Pandan Cake (RM28) – a delightful pandan ice cream milkshake crowned with coconut pandan jelly, whipped cream, palm sugar syrup and love letter biscuits. Lightly creamy, its sweetness was agreeable.

Our other fave is the no-frills Peanut Butter Deluxe Shake (RM24) while the signature Strawberry Donut Shake (RM28) with its no-holds barred strawberry ice cream and fresh strawberries concoction could be a meal by itself. Colourful fruit loops, love letter biscuit roll, whipped cream, strawberry sauce and a mini strawberry doughnut complete the liquid dessert.

Ed’s Diner is open from  11am to 10pm Mon-Thurs. On Friday-Sunday and eve of public holidays, it’s open from 11am to 11pm.

For information, please call tel: +603 6101 1118 or visit www.rwgenting.com