Mezza9 @ Hartamas

A reasonably nice-looking outlet with the potential to become a hip Hartamas hangout.

Mezza9's food is fairly enjoyable, running the gamut from European to Asian fare. The paella (about RM25) might be served on a white plate instead of a black pan, but what matters is that it's full of both seafood and flavor, brimming with fresh prawns and mussels.

Creamy spaghetti (about RM50), somewhat overpriced, despite the undeniable wealth of smoked salmon, scallops and roe.

Desserts are worthwhile. The lemon tart with cream chantilly (RM15) tastes surprisingly better than it looks, thanks to a freshly baked feel and a subtly tangy complexity of flavor.

And it was all orange: Steamed orange pudding with orange fruit segments and orange sauce. Warm comfort, well executed.

Profiteroles (about RM18), one with chocolate ice cream, the other with vanilla.

Mezza9's London-trained chef has worked over the years in KL restaurants like Sentidos Tapas and Flamenco; his experience shows.

Mezza 9,
Glomac Galleria, Desa Sri Hartamas, Kuala Lumpur.
Open for dinner, except Tuesdays.