Feast On Luscious Mentaiko Eggs Benedict And Warm Waffles At This Snazzy Mont Kiara Cafe
Expanding their illustrious menu, we got to try some delicious items that'll be hitting the café tomorrow!
By Wayne Garreth — 12 Jul 2022, 03:03 PM
Tucked away from the busy streets of Jalan Sultan Haji Ahmad Shah comes a contemporary café on the ground floor in Arte Mont Kiara
Having opened their doors last December, ALLO by The Owls Cafe has already garnered major attention for their distinctive and urban eatery in Mont Kiara.
Drenched in light-coloured tones from head to toe, ALLO's pastel pink entrance radiates an inviting and enchanting presence to explore what may be hidden behind these pristine doors.
Entering the spacious locale, the sophisticated and chic design concept seamlessly flows in every aspect of the eatery. From velvet seating to marble tables, the open-concept of this restaurant enhances the cosy ambience for guests to feel right at home.
Another dashing attraction is the art pieces hung up on the walls, giving a comforting feel, that while the surroundings are aesthetically pleasing, you could kick back and chat the afternoon away.
The large cascading bay windows allow for an immense protrusion of natural light to illuminate the stellar interior qualities of the eatery. Grab a spot by the window and watch the calming movement of traffic outside. If you'd prefer some fresh air, grab a table at the al fresco seating area outside.
One of the most aesthetically-pleasing spots however, would be the upstairs dining section that spaciously fits up to 18 pax. Looking for your next OOTD spot instead? Pose at their floral mural, or under the elegantly placed chandeliers.
We recently paid a visit to ALLO, and had a chance to see if their food items matched the quality and eclectic nature of the visual cafe appeal
Beginning with their snack platters, both of the items we tried are set to premiere on ALLO's menu from tomorrow, 13 July.
The first item was the Prawn & Cheese Croquettes with chimichurri aioli sauce. Typically known as Japanese comfort food, the croquettes were warm and pleasant when we cut into the slices. Balanced in flavour, each piece has a delicate exterior crunch that was met with an equally mesmerising cheesy texture. Overall, this order would be a great treat for those seeking a heavier snack option.
We then proceeded to try the Mussels Escabeche that was served with a side of sourdough and dill cream. This cold salad was refreshing and enriching, kicking off our tasting session with a bang. While we'd be the first to admit that this piece would suit those with an acquired taste, there's no arguing against the compliment of the chilled muscles atop the warm sourdough that heightens a vinegary sensation to the taste buds.
Moving on to their Breakfast menu, we began our meal with the Croque Monsieur, that was essentially a sourdough sandwich. Just by sinking our knives into a slice, we were met with a subtle crunch that oozed melted mozzarella. Pairing lovely with the chicken ham layers for a gooey goodness of sorts, the béchamel sauce pulled the entire dish together, adding a buttery texture to the sandwich that elevated it from a common ham sandwich, to a fluffy and appetising breakfast meal.
A true winner in our eyes would have to be the Salmon Mentaiko Egg Benedict. A spin on the classic English dish familiar to many, the minor substitutions with Japanese mentaiko hollandaise sauce and smoked salmon as supposed to sliced ham, definitely claimed dish of the day. One slender cut into the poached egg had it spilling out and generously coating the smoked ham and English muffin.
Ultimately, this ALLO creation will have us placing an order for this piece again, and again, and again!
Here's a mouth-watering video of the Salmon Mentaiko Egg Benedict:
The final breakfast item was the Blue Butterly Pea Nasi Lemak. Visually captivating, the heady aroma of sambar and anchovies was met with a bountifully-sized slide of chicken rendang. Unfathomably impressed, just a mouthful of the rice, sambar, and chicken, transports one to the roadside stall with authentic and enriching Malay flavours that are only comparable to the classic chicken rendang dishes. With the spicy kick provided by the sambar element, this dish was a near claim to best dish.
Progressing to their pastas, we endeavoured to the Salmon Curry Pasta. Served with dollops of pan seared salmon, this creamy creation was definitely on the sweeter side as opposed to spicy. Nonetheless, the additions of tomatoes and spinach added a tangy balance to the sauce, that enthralled us into the freshness of the herbs within its composition.
We also tried some of the soon-to-be-released dinner menu items.
Just as described for the snack platters, these next two items will be available at ALLO by tomorrow evening, 13 July.
Al dente to the feel, the Prawn & Mushroom Risotto was accompanied by giant-sized shrimps and splatters of parmesan cheese. The risotto itself was pipping hot when it landed on our table, and held its shape throughout our tasting. The signature sauce itself radiated through the bowl, adding to the savoury delectability in the elements of seafood.
The last savoury dish on the menu was the Pan-Grilled Salmon served on a blanket of pumpkin puree with a side salad. A crisp exterior, our piece had a flawless white colouring when we cut into it. Seasoned aptly, a pleasant surprise was in the buttery honey-mustard sauce coated over the salad of kale, charred onion, and shaved apple. One of the more invigorating items on the menu at ALLO, this dish would unquestionably turn any diner into a grilled salmon lover.
Maintaining a long line of waffles as part of their dessert menu, we couldn't help but get our hands on two of their best-sellers
Indulging in their Rebecca Waffles, the dynamic layout of the waffles topped with strawberries, blueberries, bananas, and honey, was met with an interesting surprise in their own earl grey ice cream. Stealing the spotlight almost immediately, this usual combination is a practical 'no-brainer' for many. Yet, we were absolutely enchanted by the distinctive earl grey ice cream that was nothing short of silky and smooth.
It's hard to believe in another irresistible combination, but the David Waffles was just as impressive as their Rebecca counterpart. Richer than the last, this waffle combo consisted of brûlée bananas, peanut butter cream, vanilla ice cream, hazelnut praline, and pretzels. Drizzled entirely in chocolate sauce, the multi-dimensional flavours within this visually enticing plate would make any person (child or adult) bounce with glee for an order.
Bold enough to suggest, we'd hardly blame anyone who would come all the way to Mont Kiara just for either one (or even both) of these dessert waffles!
Last but certainly not least, we had a go at ALLO's signature Strawberry Lemonade that was a sweet and fizzy beverage for a laidback lunch.
We also tried their Ajisai Matcha that had a strong umami smack ingrained in the natural sweet nuttiness of the herbs. All in all, the touch of bitter extracts added for a grassy and flavoursome gulp for a hot day.
Need some convincing? Here's a glimpse of a stir with the Ajisai Matcha:
Stuffed to the brim, our tasting session at ALLO was truly one of the most enjoyable yet
Besides knocking it out of the park when it came to their flavours, we were thoroughly impressed by how generous and delicious their waffle desserts were too.
Though we did not get to try everything on the menu at ALLO, the establishment even has an array of soups and local delicacies to choose from, which include (but are not limited to) Buttermilk Soft Shell Crab Nasi Lemak, and basil chicken. As for parents looking for a new outlet to spend a day with their kids at, ALLO also has a kids' menu that includes scrambled eggs and mini waffles too.
Surging in popularity since their opening, ALLO is definitely a café worthy of adding to your list the next time you're seeking out the latest brunch spot in town.
