Back to Shuraku after the lengthiest lapse.
The longevity of this izakaya in a neighborhood that's been a graveyard for scores of other restaurants is a testament to Shuraku's better-than-the-norm food, effective service team & beautifully considered setting. Perfect for dinners that stretch for hours.
Sake-swilling Japanese expats can be spotted here at their favorite watering hole, merrily munching on savory sustenance like squid sauteed in butter & spicy cod roe (RM22, pre-taxes).
The menu has evolved through the years into a reliable selection of familiar ingredients that are spun into both steadfastly traditional & slyly inventive recipes. One of our favorites might be the salmon-topped omelets, warm & hearty soul food for rainy nights.
Hotate 'Pizza' (RM16), creamy-rich scallops & straw mushrooms grilled on dumpling skin base.
As the seasons change in Japan, Shuraku strives to reflect what's freshest & most beloved; the current autumnal menu, showcased through November's end, comprises delicate concoctions like marinated salmon & eggplant (RM12) ...
... & best-with-beer fare such as deep-fried mackerel with ginger & soy sauce (RM16).
Wrapping up this meal with what legend says is a kimchi-laden, ocean-briny addiction of one of Shuraku's show-runners. By special request only.
Japanese-influenced gelato by Cielo Dolci features at Shuraku, just as it does at sister restaurant Daikanyama. Black sesame's the can't-fail classic, but try the Japanese sweet potato gelato too.
No shortage of liquor here, from regular sake to sparkling sake mixed with jelly.
Non-booze masquerading as alcohol: Ryoma 1865 beer, surprisingly satisfying-tasting despite having a liquor content of zero
Lots of little touches make a big difference in Shuraku's decor: Look for the bicycle that once was used by Japanese postmen, now a part of this KL restaurant's furnishing. Life steers all of us in unexpected directions.
Shuraku
13-2, Jalan Solaris 1, Solaris Mont Kiara, Kuala Lumpur
Open Tues-Sun for dinner
The Oct.-Dec. inaugural edition of Eat Drink KL: 100 Favorites is now available in an eBook for free, convenient reading on computers, tablets & smartphones. It comprises reviews & information for 100 pretty nice eateries that span various locations, cuisines & budgets.
Please click here: http://eatdrinkkl.publ.com/Eat-Drink-KL-100-Favorites-Oct-Dec-2013
This link expires Dec. 31, 2013; see blog entries after that date for new link
Please click here: http://eatdrinkkl.publ.com/Eat-Drink-KL-100-Favorites-Oct-Dec-2013
This link expires Dec. 31, 2013; see blog entries after that date for new link
