The Veranda

Now that Carcosa has received a new lease on life, it has resumed its role as a worthwhile stop for afternoon teas and leisurely dinners.

Carcosa's French restaurant, The Dining Room, is no longer operational, so the only dining option here is The Veranda, which offers both Western and Malaysian fare.

Caesar salad with wholemeal croutons. A can't-fail classic, competently executed. Couldn't tell the difference between these croutons and regular ones, but we loved the scent of truffle oil that permeated this platter.

Salmon tartar with avocado, horseradish, quail egg, caviar & blini. As comfortingly creamy as baby food (though certainly not as bland).

Whipped goat cheese with honey in filo pastry, served with truffle vinaigrette & asparagus. The muskiness of the cheese was a perfect match for the sweet honey.

Slow-baked Australian beef tenderloin with balsamic jus, summer veggies & whipped potatoes. Despite the elaborate decorations on this dish, it was basically a meat-and-potatoes recipe that proved hearty enough to satisfy carnivorous cravings.

Salmon crusted with herbs & mustard, served with champagne risotto & truffle oil. Fabulously fresh, splendidly succulent.

Trapiche Astica Chardonnay (Argentina).

The Veranda,

Carcosa Seri Negara.