DELHI DELIGHTS AT DILLI 6

Delicious Northern Indian specialities prepared with aplomb by Delhi-born chef Ankita Aggarwal take centrestage at Dilli 6 restaurant. Also known as the Tandoori Temptress, Ankita started as a caterer in 2009, cementing her reputation in rustling up hearty, family-style offerings. Her maiden poolside Waves Café in Mont Kiara opened in 2020.

Last October she levelled up with Dilli 6, referencing an old Delhi postcode where bustling shops and street food scene abound in the district. Hence the resto menu integrates street food fare alongside keto-friendly, vegan and meat-based Northern Indian fare with some fusion touches.

Stepping into the whitewashed interior, we took instantly to the austere space, decked with framed colourful pictures.

 

An eye-catching wall mural of a lady in a tuk tuk adorns the spacious, air-conditioned private dining area. Sturdy wooden armchairs, a three seater divan and a low coffee table are complemented by a long dining table. Potted plants and a book shelf exude homely vibes to the overall space.

Our palate-pleasing openers of Dahi Puri (RM25) and Gobi 65 (RM22) proved on-point from the get-go. Yogurt-filled with sev (chickpea noodle crisps) and spiced potatoes, the crispy balls unleashed tons of bright, invigorating flavours and varied textures.

We also gushed over the spiced batter-coated fried cauliflower florets. They were superbly yummy with the coriander chutney.

Fish tikka, kebab and tandoor-cooked chicken made up the shareable Mini Tandoori Platter (RM50). Portions were ample enough to satisfy whilst leaving us eagerly anticipating the mains to come.

Heeding the chef’s advice, we paired Jeera Rice (cumin-flecked basmathi rice RM12), triangles of Garlic Naan (RM9) and poufy Poori (RM8, 2 pcs) to savour and mop up the spice-rich Achari Chicken (RM28) and Fish Curry (RM28).

The achari chicken was deliciously creamy and fragrant with multitude of exotic spices whilst the chunky fish curry in turmeric yellow gravy proved equally appetising. Dark verdant green Palak Paneer (RM32), testifying to the substantial amount of spinach used, was a nice contrast to the plethora of meaty dishes.

Our sweet treat for the day was Kulfi (RM16), a chilly luscious treat with almond flakes. I lapped up every spoonful with gusto, washed down with a rather mild Masala Tea (RM8). My friends shared a sunshiny yellow Mango Lassi (RM16) which got the thumbs up.

For reservations, please call Dilli 6, Tel: 017-260 8693. Address: 42A, Persiaran Zaaba, Taman Tun Dr Ismail, Kuala Lumpur. Open Tuesday to Sunday, 11am-10pm

CITARASA NIPAH AT EQ KUALA LUMPUR

Food harking from the simple days of yore has evolved into compelling Ramadan must-haves at Citarasa Nipah, an annual Ramadan tradition at EQ Kuala Lumpur.

 

The hotel’s chefs take pride to recreate a splendid dinner buffet for the breaking of fast, ranging from fresh crudites and local salads to surefire crowd-pleasing dessert.

 

Notable curtain-raisers include savoury Bubur Lambuk, Kerabu Betik Muda, Pomelo Salad, Urap Pucuk Manis, Kerabu Jantung Pisang, and Kerabu Nangka among others.

Venturing to the mains, a dedicated salai counter serving Malay smoked meats: catfish, beef, duck and even udang galah (fresh water prawns) cooked in rich and spicy masak lemak chili api gravy beckons. Spice lovers should make a beeline for hearty Rendang Tulang Rusuk and Biryani Batu Pahat with Ayam Masak Merah.

 

Other drawcards to sample include Lamb Varuval, Indian Fish Curry, Ketam Goreng Berempah, Gulai Nangka Muda, Ayam Kuzi, Rendang Ayam, and Sayur Lodeh.

 

Enticing treats to wrap up the meal ranges from Malay Kuih, Cendol, Ais Kacang, Durian Crème Brulee, Kek Batik and Agar-agar to cite but a few examples.

Whether you aim to impress corporate guests, or gather friends and family over the Ramadan season, Citarasa Nipah dinner buffet is served from 6 to 28 March (6.30pm-10.30pm). Price: RM238+ per adult, and RM114+ per child (6 – 12 years old).

Early bird promo price of RM198+ per adult available 2 to 5 March and 29 to 30 March. Group bookings of minimum 10 persons can also enjoy the special price of RM198+ per adult.

EQ BAZAAR

Following last year’s successful debut of EQ Bazaar, the immersive concept allowing guests to browse and sample an array of street food stalls in the plush comfort of the hotel’s function rooms has returned.

Street food favourites such as Ayam Golek (Malay rotisserie chicken), Kambing Bakar, Satay, Ikan Bakar Garam, Grilled Lamb, Roti John, Murtabak, and Bakso (Indonesian meatballs in soup) await.

 

Also temptations of Daging Sambal Getuk (deep-fried beef in chilli), Ketam Masak Lemak (flower crabs in coconut milk), Chicken Rice, Fish Head Curry, and Prawn Fritters will add further variety to the spread.

 

The ever-popular air balang - beverages served in large drink containers: Sirap Bandung, Kalamansi Lime, Sweetcorn Juice, Soy Bean and Sugar Cane will quench your thirst.

Before calling it a night, feast on Malay desserts ranging from Bubur Pulut Hitam, Bubur Kacang Hijau), Ais Krim Potong, Cendol and Ais Kacang.

 

Early bird bookings from 3 to 5 March for EQ Bazaar will enjoy the special price of RM158+ per adult. Normal price (6 to 28 March) at RM178+ per adult, and RM89+ per child from 6 – 12 years old. Group bookings of a minimum of 20 persons will enjoy the special rate of RM158+ per adult.

For more information and reservations, contact EQ Kuala Lumpur:

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