Eat Drink KL: The Elk @ Solaris

Wednesday, August 15, 2012

The Elk @ Solaris

Solaris Mont Kiara is a scary location to launch a cafe, since so many eateries have opened and closed here (remember Providore and Ultimo?). When The Elk recently emerged, we wondered whether it would have the extra edge to survive.

Some will wonder why "A passion for food meets a passionate love" is on the wall, while many might be mystified over this outlet's name. The reason: The Elk is run by a food-loving couple, whose names _ Ee Leng and Khaw _ combine to form the initials E.L.K.

Always fun to order Welsh rarebit (RM12, no taxes or service charge); this sliced toast with creamy, beer-infused melted cheese is wonderful for whetting the appetite.

Squid stuffed with minced pork, onion and garlic (RM12). The Elk's food has a homemade feel; it's unlikely to knock most customers' socks off, but you can sense the care poured into these recipes and the sincerity in the cooking.

Roast chicken (RM20). Family recipe marinated in both Western and Eastern herbs and spices. 

Own-made, handmade squid ink fettuccine with prawns, squid and mussels (RM25) in a very light white wine and olive oil dressing that might lack flavor for some.

Our top pick: The Elk's "Extreme Porky Burger," featuring 200 grams of minced pork with ham and bacon (RM28). The Elk is happy to oblige reasonable requests; we asked for an egg to top this, and we recommend everyone else do the same. 

The Elk serves no wine but has the right glasses; corkage is an excellent RM10 only, so walk over to Cold Storage to buy a bottle before heading here. 

Vacation photographs! It's time for a holiday. Well, nearly.

The Elk,
15, Jalan Solaris 4, Solaris Mont Kiara, Kuala Lumpur.
Open Mon-Sat, 10am-10pm.
Facebook:  http://www.facebook.com/TheElkMalaysia
Website: http://www.theelk.com.my