Flavours @ Telawi & Suanson @ Bangkung

Fourth time's the charm? Chef Riz Redz has opened Flavours Restaurant at the Telawi address where Nasi Lemak Antarabangsa, Nasi Lemak Tanglin and Heritage Food consecutively lived and died since 2009.

One thing remains constant: there's always nasi lemak here. Flavours' nicely presented rendition (about RM6) tastes fair, thanks to a satisfyingly savory sambal, though the rice could be much more moist and fragrant.

Flavours offers traditional side dishes to accompany the rice: have some rendang ayam nagori (RM6), or choose from the selection of ayam kampung goreng bumbu, dendeng daging balado, sambal tumis sotong kering and paru goreng.

Western fare sits alongside Asian recipes on Flavours' menu. For a pasta that partners the best of both sides of the culinary world, this spaghetti flooded with buttermilk garlic sauce, cili padi, curry leaves and crispy calamari is absolutely addictive.

Our visit to Flavours last week was during its trial run, so only rice and pasta were available. But in the weeks ahead, expect to see familiar favorites from Chef Riz's original outlet, On The Table _ such as his signature beef burgers and beef goulash pie _ surface at Flavours.
Entry on On The Table at Solaris Dutamas: June 9, 2010.

Seeking sweets, we took a three-minute jaunt to Jalan Bangkung, where Suanson's Specialty Cakes sells some of Bangsar's most voluptuously creamy cupcakes.

Besides the chocolate mousse and red velvet cupcakes, it's worth trying Suanson's madeleines, muffins, eclairs, cream puffs and everything else that's on the shelves. To trot out a cliche, each bite is a delight.

Pineapple tarts, mini ones that are no less mouthwatering than bigger varieties.

Flavours Kitchen,
51G, Jalan Telawi 3, Bangsar Baru, Kuala Lumpur.

Suanson Specialty Cakes (closes early in the evening),
Jalan Bangkung, Bangsar, Kuala Lumpur.