Kalamata Cafe may be housed in an ordinary upstairs shoplot in Desa Sri Hartamas, but once inside, one is transported to the Mediterranean, with warm terracotta contrasted against turquoise hues, abstract designed Egyptian carpets on the walls and exotic hanging lamps, providing the ideal ambience. What’s interesting is how the menu offers a fusion of Egyptian and Greek food – strange combination you think at first, but then again, when you go through the menu and ingredients, you learn there are so many similarities between the two cuisines.

To start, we picked the Hummus (RM15) from the menu’s mezze section – smooth and creamy chickpeas went well with the housemade pita bread that came with it, replenishable. The Alexandrian sausages (RM28) – sliced and fried with green chillies and tomato – was juicy and flavourful and another great appetiser.

Mains were vegetarian Moussaka Clay Pot (RM39) – Greek influence – made with eggplant, potato, tomato and bell peppers, layered in between tomato and creamy béchamel sauce on top, sort of like lasagna but using eggplant instead of pasta sheets. There’s also a beef version if you prefer. A bit light on salt but this allowed the natural sweetness of the eggplant to shine. 

We also enjoyed the Moroccan Lamb Tangine (RM43) that came with basmati rice. Basically lamb stew with potatoes and carrots, it was not as concentrated as I expected and the fluid gravy was excellent accompaniment with both rice and pita bread. Didn’t seem like much food for the three of us, but we were stuffed.

We had peach juice made from actual peach fruit flown in directly, so it tasted naturally sweet, none of that artificial flavours or sweeteners (RM8). Prices were very decent, in fact, lower than some cafes I’ve come across which don’t even offer half as complex flavours. Kalamata serves wine as well which goes perfectly with their food.

A hidden gem, this place is worth exploring, especially if you have a penchant for the exotic. Authentic flavours, unique ambience and cozy dining space, Kalamata Cafe checks all the boxes.    

Add: 5 – 1, Jalan 26a/70a, Prima Ville, Kuala Lumpur. Hp: 017-665 9102