Serai @ Shaftsbury Square, Cyberjaya

Serai is famous for its finest twist of "East meets West" cuisine, however my favourite moment here is always about its popular range of desserts. Perhaps I'm not a fan of authentic Northern cuisine, but if you are, Serai is one of the best homegrown restaurants that lure you with Kelantanese delights injected with Thai recipes.

The restaurant boasts a chic and cosy atmosphere that makes your dining experience more comfortable and satisfying.

SALAD

Smoked Salmon and Asparagus Salad @ RM24

I spot something not so local on the menu and decide to give it a try. Thick slices of smoked salmon are twirled into rose shape, and tossed with cherry tomatoes, onions, olives, potatoes, lettuce and poached eggs in horseradish mayo dressing.

It may feel heavy on the palate due to the overzealous application of mayo, but thumbs up to the generous portion of salmon that melts in the mouth with smoky aroma. 

Pumpkin Salad @ RM16.90

Vegans can try out the healthy pumpkin salad featuring a delicious concoction of roasted pumpkin with chickpeas, tomatoes, portobello mushrooms and crunchy walnuts in honey lemon dressing topped with wild rocket leaves. 

Don't belittle this platter, the chunks of soft pumpkin actually make me full to the brim! 

MAIN

Nasi Kerabu @ RM22.00

Northern dishes are not cheap, but do expect large portions served at Serai. I am expecting aromatic blue colored rice, but it comes white to my disappointment. Served with crispy fries, pickles and salted egg, I am pleased that the sauces don't flood the entire platter. 

The roasted chicken leg is well-marinated and cooked into charred perfection. 
I love the drizzle of spicy sweet sauce on top of it, and it will be better if more of that sauce is given!

DESSERTS

The home-baked dessert selection here is always so tempting, especially the best-selling Berry Pavlova and Tiramisu!

Berry Pavlova @ RM15.90

If you are into the sugar-laden combination of crisp meringue, softly whipped cream and berries, then the pavlova here is definitely a must try. Melting perfectly in the mouth, it is so deliciously sinful!

Tiramisu @ RM15.90

If you are a fan of tiramisu cake, surely you've heard of the much sought-after Tiramisu from Alexis. But when it comes to comparing that with Serai's, I would vote for this decadent slice of Tiramisu at Serai for its rich, velvety mascarpone layer and caramelized nutty coating. 

Red Velvet Cake @ RM15.90

I don't normally like my red velvet cake to be dense and overly heavy with cream cheese. And Serai does it perfectly right in terms of flavour and texture. The combination of airy sponge layer, crunchy nuts topping and cream cheese do not overwhelm the palate at all! 

Pistachio Creme Brulee @ RM15

Other dessert on the menu that is made ala minute include the pistachio creme brulee served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and shaved nuts. It has a very velvety smooth texture and burst with beautiful aroma of pistachio; so lovely!

Affogato @ RM8.90

If you can't decide between coffee and dessert, why not have both in a glass? The espresso here is nothing to shout about, but I believe when it is combined with ice cream, everyone would love it!

Verdict:

1. It is a perfect place to chill out under relaxing ambiance. The only downside is that, securing a seat during lunch hour is difficult because of the huge corporate crowd. 

2. Service is friendly and quick, but the desserts are a little on the high side price-wise.

3. Recommended: Pavlova, Tiramisu, Smoked Salmon and Asparagus Salad

Serai
P3A-16 & 17 (Level 3A)
Shaftsbury Square
Persiaran Multimedia 6,
63000 Cyberjaya,
Selangor.
Contact: +603-8322 6717
Email: info@seraigroup.com.my
Website: www.seraigroup.com.my
Business Hours: 10am - 11pm daily

Other outlets:
KL Life Centre
Jaya Shopping Mall
Empire Subang Jaya
Paradigm Mall