Klang Valley's F&B biz is one of the toughest so it is indeed a cause for much celebration when New Formosa Restaurant in SS2, PJ reached its 35th anniversary milestone recently. The owners - chef Lee Weng Eng and his Taiwanese wife, Mrs Jeanie Lee - have established New Formosa Restaurant as one of PJ's bastions of Chinese cuisine; their signature Taiwanese specialities have kept diners returning throughout the years.
In conjunction with New Formosa's 35th Anniversary, the enterprising lady has created special *set menus priced at RM188 and RM238 for 6 persons, for tables of 10 persons RM498 and RM668. Some of its famed signature dishes that have cemented New Formosa's long-standing reputation were served for preview; giving us a taste of its success secrets.
The rice is so good that I'd be happy to fill up on that and leave the huge, meaty crab claws for die-hard crab fans. Having said that, the chunks of sweet crab meat are really moreish when dipped into the zesty ginger and vinegar sauce that is served with it.
Mrs Lee also persuaded us to try New Formosa's Crispy Deep Fried Sesame Chicken - an irresistible speciality that goes well with beer drinkers. After one bite, we too were sold! Coated in crunchy, golden sesame seed-flecked batter, the pieces of chicken was polished off within seconds.
Muachi (top) and aiyu jelly (below)
"The Teochew side of my husband's family is represented by Pumpkin and Ginkgo Nut Yam Paste" says Mrs Lee proudly. It's a labourious dessert to make but heavenly to eat as the rich yam paste is balanced by the pumpkin while the ginkgo lends some textural contrast.
*It is advisable to call ahead and reserve the special menu as everything is prepared fresh to order. Menu prices based on cash term basis.
For more information and reservations, call 03 7875 7478. New Formosa address: 46, Jalan SS2/24, Petaling Jaya, Selangor.