Tucked on one of TTDI's less-travelled rows, Viv's showcases some vivid ideas in its bid to be a distinctive dining destination.
Viv's exudes an eccentric spirit of East-West experimentation, captioned by recipes like this salmon, subtly mango-flavoured & paired with pumpkin puree, sesame mashed potato & butter-glazed veggies. The most memorable part of this well-prepared ensemble: A smooth, savoury unagi reduction, somewhat like a thick teriyaki sauce that's rich with the taste of eel. RM39.90+.
Japanese influences come unconcealed in Viv's bento (RM20.90+), but there's more to this box than meets the eye; the garlic fried rice, veggies & watermelon slices seem typical, but the chicken's decidedly Chinese, evocative of a Kung Pao interpretation, tinged with dried chillies. Bonus: Viv's unique unagi sauce surfaces in the middle (plus, papadum on the side).
Europe collides again with Asia for the curried grilled prawn, sweet & creamy, mingled with Viv's rendition of ratatouille, served in striking fashion. RM15.90+.
Pleasure for pasta lovers: Mix & match a sauce with a choice of accompaniments. You can have a basic pesto, aglio olio, carbonara or pomodoro for RM13.90, then add on grilled chicken, beef salami, turkey ham, scallops, smoked salmon, mushrooms or veggies (prices vary for add-ons, mostly between RM5 to RM10). Note: Let the staff know if you want your pasta al dente or not.
In the end, our favourite at Viv's is likely this one - classic & uncomplicated, but completely fulfilling: Beef short ribs, fleshy & flavourful in kitchen-made BBQ sauce (not cloying or processed-tasting), with cherry tomato confit & garden veggies. RM42+.
Viv's setting seems built for dessert sessions: The speciality's the Chocolate Aquarium (RM18.90+), basically brownies chunks mixed with vanilla ice cream, though there are multiple other temptations like banana berry trifles, pancakes, crepes & cakes.
No reason to resort to plain water - Japanese yuzu sparkling sake (RM48) is available, but the better bet is Korean makgeolli (RM34), served unexpectedly in traditional bowls. Teetotalers can try a wholesome smoothie, comprising components like grapes, lemon, bananas, honey or mint (RM11.90). Many thanks to Viv's hard-working team for hosting this meal.
Viv's Boutique Cafe & Restaurant
16 Jalan Wan Kadir 1, Taman Tun Dr Ismail, Kuala Lumpur. Tel: 03-7733-7911
16 Jalan Wan Kadir 1, Taman Tun Dr Ismail, Kuala Lumpur. Tel: 03-7733-7911
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