Meraki ups the ante on neighbourhood dining

Meraki started off by crafting in-house sauces, snacks and corporate gifting in 2020, then ventured into private dining. It has since curated exclusive menus for private and corporate events, including  weddings. Now it has a physical restaurant in Section 17, PJ. The neighbourhood restaurant serves contemporary Malaysian cuisine, led by chef LC and chef Kumar, and their dishes strive to honour local ingredients and culinary heritage. 

During the media review we had a run through of the menu. Starting on a whimsical note, we had a few things from the Small Plates section: Rehydrated Sultanas, Asam Boi Kyuri (pickled cucumber), Chee Kuih (steamed rice flour kuih), Coriander Slaw and Fried Egg Tofu. The sultanas (raisins) were nice and succulent, cucumber given a different taste note thanks to the asam boi, coriander slaw – not for non-fans. Egg tofu was ordinary. Chee Kuih, while common to the Chinese, was a nice introduction for other ethnic groups. Much like Korean banchan, these were lovely appetisers that paved the way to more solid offerings later.

Standalone single dishes such as Vangole Basah – a laksa spin with clams – flavourful, but we left it too long while taking pics so was kinda soggy; Chilled Somen with Prawns with ulam tempura/Asian Ponzu had unusual texture and taste; and Chicken Rice Risotto – this I really like, even though normally I’m not a fan of risotto – all were commendable, each stood on their own and were well-executed. 

My faves were main courses Cured Angus Sirloin with ulam bernaise – quite different for a sauce, but in a good way, and Lamb Shoulder with yogurt – these were stellar dishes, perfect doneness, tender yet textured, well-marinated and balanced flavour. The 24-hour brine Chicken came with ulam bernaise too.

For dessert, mini tiramisu, creme caramel and vanilla parfait made a pleasant sweet end. Not bad at all, though the chefs’ strength clearly were in the main courses. 

Meraki’s menu is extensive and varied, offering familiar Asian cuisine that have been tweaked by the chefs’ interpretation. Rice is available if you can’t live without a carb base. Prices are not cheap, but they don’t knock the ball outta park either. Go discover Meraki for yourself, it’s worth the adventure. 

Add: Ground floor, 22A, Jalan 17/54, Section 17, Petaling Jaya. WA Only: 03-7499 3516