Hakka Republic Wine Bar & Bistro

I was dragged to this fabulous bar kicking and screaming as the last thing I wanted was Hakka food(I love Hakka food but I have been in Sabah and had so much) and I was dying to go the Hard Rock for my Burger fix. To my surprise,the menu was western and the quite sexy manageress recommended we share both their Black Angus and Wagyu Burgers which were not yet on the menu. I had a shrimp bisque to start with which was first class and then half of each burger. When I say it is good I can say that they were the best burgers I have had anywhere. I actually preferred the Angus which was less expensive.

One of my friends had the Salmon with 'spinach' chips and that was delicious and another had the Cod in Miso which was also excellent. Even with all the good food in KL, there is a new star and it is surprisingly reasonable.

The wine selection has to be the best in town. They have the best selection of Italian wine including many collectibles which are difficult to find even in Italy. The prices are a bargain and are a fraction of the price in an Italian restaurant.

This is really a funky place. Its a Chinese style Bar with a Western restaurant!! Its quite a laid back place with the bar being quite bright and busy and the restaurant surprisingly sedate and almost insulated from the buzz of the bar. Food is good and reasonable for the quality. We had the steamed Wagyu beef for starters- it was excellent and very reasonable for this quality. Very unusual dish but a goodie. I progressed to the beef cheek(Year of the Bull ma..) which was good and my friend had the Burger. Both were very good. The Croissant and butter pudding was tasty but not warm.

They have an excellent choice of 16 wines by the glass at reasonable prices. No need to drink the same boring bottle all night. Service was a bit patchy but hopefully its early days still. Overall a great meal, atmosphere and very reasonable for what we ate.

This Chinese styled Bar has to be the best Bar in Kuala Lumpur. Extensive wine and whisky list and well made cocktails distinguish it from the also rans among the bars in town. Uniquely, there is also a variety of well chosen wines by the glass.The restaurant has a pleasant view of the garden on top of the podium.

Their soups are outstanding in particular the Green Pea and Tarragon and the Wild Trio of Mushroom. It also churns out a mean Burger which has to be one of the best in town. My friends had the Duck confit which was well made but perhaps needs a zesty accompaniment. The Seafood agli aglio angel hair pasta and the beef cheek are very tasty.

For dessert, the Rich Fruit cake, the Sticky date Pudding and Chocolate Fondant with Ice Cream are excellent.

The Sunday brunch buffet at RM65, with special prices for champagne and drinks is one of the great values in Kuala Lumpur

Chef Adi claims he is just finding his feet here after many years in Japan and so I look forward to him in full flight.