Rahsia, Kuala Lumpur

Rahsia is undoubtedly KL Plaza’s best-kept secret. To the uninitiated, finding it can be quite a challenge. Yet its rather discreet location in the midst of this bustling shopper’s mecca makes it an ideal hideaway for those seeking a more intimate dining experience. One can choose to enter via the KL Plaza lobby where a short stroll towards the left-hand side of the atrium will lead you to a brightly lit entrance tucked between two boutiques. Or take a short stroll across the road from the Bintang Steps to find a flight of cleverly hidden stairs that will take you to your desired destination.

Inside, the décor is quaint with faint hints of antiquated splendour. Lighting is kept to a romantic minimum to preserve the mood and ambience. You can dine al’ fresco on the terrace overlooking the Bintang Steps or enjoy the air-conditioned comfort and soothing music inside. The menu is predominantly Asian with a selection of Western favourites for those who prefer a touch of colonial in their dining. We were welcomed by proprietor, Oh U-Chen. A dilettante restaurateur, the idea for this outlet was mooted by his mother. Some may find it hard to believe that this establishment, with its slew of regular clientele, is barely four-months old.

First to arrive at our candle-lit table were the Top Hats and Prawn and Mango Salad. The former retained its crispness even though it had been sitting on the plate for some time, while the latter managed to strike a pleasant balance between the sweet, tangy mangoes and succulent smoky prawns. The Nyonya Set that followed our appetizers was a feast for the senses. Consisting of turmeric rice, curry, jiuhu char, baby spring roll and a choice of fragrant fish curry or delectable chicken “hong bak” style, the set proved to be an impressive palate pleaser. Unfortunately, the same could not be said for the Chicken and Mango Delight that rounded off our main course. While the Arroz Java (Rahsia’s very own spiced rice) that accompanied this dish was redolent with a myriad of exotic spices, the chicken breast was burnt and rather bland. The lemongrass sauce also failed to impress.

For dessert, we sampled the Apple and Banana Crumble and the Sago Gula Melaka. The crumble, which was served with vanilla ice cream and cinnamon sauce, had a biscuit-base crust that proved to be a tad rich for our taste. But the cleverly presented sago made up for the disappointing crumble. Not too sweet, with just the right amount of santan, it made for an apt ending to our commendable meal.

Teething problems aside, Rahsia is set to become yet another shining star on the Bintang Strip for its eclectic blend of East and West that brings forth a gamut of flavours to pique the taste buds of even the most jaded gourmand.

Prices range from RM6.00 to RM11.00 for appetizers, salads and soups, RM12.50 to RM29.00 for main courses, RM5.90 to RM8.90 for dessert. Rahsia is open from 12.00 noon to 1.00am on weekdays and from 12.00 noon to 2.ooam on Fridays, Saturdays and eves of Public Holidays. They are closed on Mondays. For reservations call: (603) 244 0059.