'Flavors from Thailand': Zende Restaurant @ Seri Pacific Hotel Kuala Lumpur

 

Food lovers do not need to travel far to savour traditional dishes from Thailand!

Themed 'Flavors from Thailand', Zende Restaurant showcases a sumptuous buffet spread prepared by Chef Somchai Jaiyen and Chef Sirikan Phosawas who came all the way from Bangkok for 2 weeks.

For casual, all-day dining, Zende Restaurant combines a myriad of Asian and International cuisine with the Thai fare. The minimalistic ambiance is ideal for a simple meal among corporate and family.

#1 Mieang Kam (Daun Kadok Wraps with condiments)

Our gastronomical journey began with a traditional Thai Hors' Doeuvres. The elegantly plated starter tasted as good as it looked. With the balanced concoctions of ingredients, it createse a spicy symphony at all the right spots. 

#2 Yam Mamuang (Thai Green Mango Salad)

Next, the signature Thai salad infused with cili padi and peanuts came through with a sweet depth, adding punch to its spicy pungency. A perfect palate opener!

 

#3 Assorted Salad

Healthy food-goers are also in for a treat, as there is a wide selection at the salad bar. Served chilled  on the plate, it is simply refreshing.

#3 Tood Man Pla (Deep Fried Fish Cake)

Here's another must-try item in any Thai eatery I stumble upon. The minced fish meat is so soft and I appreciate a touch of freshly pounded red curry paste that gave the snack a lift. The dipping sauce has also done a great job in adding a touch of tangy sweetness. 

As my stomach is layered with the satisfying starters, 

perhaps this would be the perfect time to go for the main course. 

#4 Cavery Station: Thailand Baked Fish 

Fish is my favourite of the evening! The chilli paste topping made from red chillies and dried chillies created an interesting flavour that kept me going for a second helping.

#5 Panang Beef (Beef Curry)

#6 Wok Fried Crab with Curry Powder

Coated with just the right amount of spices, the fresh crab was cooked to perfection. Meanwhile, the beef was tender and juicy, not requiring any dip to enhance its flavour.

#7 Green Curry with Fish Ball

The green curry was just acceptable, however the genuinely sweet curry did help it noticeably. I believe the fish ball is homemade, as I bite through its bouncy, crunchy texture. 

#8 Chicken Massaman (Chicken Curry in Coconut Milk)

#9 Shepherd's Pie (Mashed Potato on Minced Meat)


#10 Oven Baked Chicken Thigh with Pomery Mustard Sauce 

For the local selection, I enjoy the tender chicken pieces in a mildly spiced, garlic infused gravy. They went perfectly with the warm and fluffy Thai fried rice garnished with green spring onions. 

#11 Thai Fried Rice 

There are many more Thai special dishes that are worth a try like the Deep Fried Prawn Spring Roll and Southern Thai Spicy Chicken Soup in Fresh Coconut Milk, just to name a few. 

#12 Grill Section 

One of the notable main dishes cooked ala minute is the grilled meaty portion. Despite of being a tad gristly, it was scrumptious with a nice smoky tinger. Enjoy succulent beef, seafood, otak-otak and many more!

#13 Rojak Buah

#14 Fresh Fruit Cuts

Of course, no food journey is complete without dessert and 

Zende did not disappoint me in this section. 

#15 Jackfruit & Mango in Sticky Rice

Of course we left some stomach for the signature Mango Sticky Rice. We loved how well the aromatic blend of fruity sweetness enhanced the firm clumps of rice's inherent taste. 

#16 Mango Pudding

#17 Red Velvet Cake

However, what caught my attention were the colorful pieces of cake and tartlet, cute little delights that were worth trying. A heaven for pastry lovers!

#17 Blueberry Cheese Cake

#18 Chocolate Fondue with Condiments

Zende is an ideal venue for desserts and bites. I wouldn't regret to come over for their 

High Tea Buffet during weekends to indulge in the sweets once again.

#19 Bread Pudding

 

For desserts, the ice cream selection is quite pleasing even for one who is watching his weight as it is not too sweet but still flavoursome. The myriads of condiments paired with ice cream is certainly a delightful combination.

#20 Kluay Boud Chee (Banana in Coconut Milk)

From the hot dessert selection, I had a strong liking towards this bowlful of warm banana in thick coconut milk. The soup was so smooth and aromatic, and I heard it wins the heart of the older generation as a hearty, wholesome dessert!

#21 Jelly Coconut Milk 

All Thai desserts are not excessively sweet, making it a perfect end to a scrumptious meal. 

#22 Chef Somchai Jaiyen 

Here the good food comes hand in hand with music. With the live band playing at the entrance of the restaurant, I have a great night sampling the flavours from Thailand under a relaxing atmosphere.

'FLAVORS OF THAILAND' BUFFET PROMOTION:

Duration: 8 Oct - 21 Oct 2012 

Lunch: 12.00pm to 3.00pm : RM55 nett 

Dinner: 6.30pm to 10.30pm : RM78 nett

For reservations, please contact 03-4049 4351

Verdict:

1. The overall taste has its own characters, I'm pleased with the delightful twist from the usual localized Thai cuisine elsewhere. 

2. Recommended: Mieang Kam, Thai Baked Fish, Grilled Seafood and Thai desserts 

3. Pricewise, it has a great value for money considering the vast varieties and authenticity of the Thai fare coupled with creativity.

Zende Restaurant 
Lobby Level
Seri Pacific Hotel Kuala Lumpur 
(Adjacent to Putra World Trade Centre PWTC)
Jalan Putra, 
50350 Kuala Lumpur. 
Contact: 603-4042 5555
Fax: 603-4041 7236
Email: resv@seripacific.com
Website: www.seripacifichotel.com
Facebook: fb.com/seripacifichotelkl
Twitter: @seripacific
Business Hours: 6.30am - 1.00am daily