Funk by ANJO: Where Dining Meets Music

In the heart of the city lies an establishment that pulsates with life and energy, drawing patrons in with its promise of good food and a memorable time. Funk by ANJO is a fresh twist on the dining scene, juxtaposing the upscale sophistication of ANJO with a laid-back, relaxed vibe.

Upon arriving at ANJO, we were directed to take the stairs to the third floor. The doors slid open to reveal a distinctly different world from the restaurant below. The ambiance of Funk by ANJO is dimly lit, creating an intimate and cozy setting, perfect for date nights or gatherings with close friends. But it’s not the dim lighting alone that sets the mood; it’s the music, the relaxed chatter, the occasional laughter, and the clinking of glasses that make the place alive and inviting.

The interior of Funk is a fusion of contemporary design and vintage touches. From plush seating areas to high bar stools, the space caters to all kinds of social settings. What caught my eye was the meticulous attention to detail. Antique-inspired lamps cast a warm glow on diners, while quirky wall art and artifacts lend character and charm to the place.

But what truly sets Funk by ANJO apart is the music. Come nightfall, the restaurant transforms into a lively spot with bands playing, covering genres from classic rock to jazz, ensuring there’s something for everyone. It’s this seamless blend of food, ambiance, and music that makes Funk a hotspot for those looking to unwind and have a good time.

While the ambiance is a major draw, the food doesn’t take a back seat. Keeping in line with its casual vibe, Funk offers a more relaxed menu, but the dishes are crafted with the same passion and dedication as ANJO. Moving to the food, Funk by ANJO serves you with the wide variety of small bites to some bigger sharing platers too.

Sambal Prawn stuffed Wanton Cone (RM 42)

At first glance, this dish promises a visual feast. The glistening ebiko on the salmon cubes offers a hint of luxury, contrasting beautifully with the fiery red of the sambal prawn and the golden hue of the wanton cone. The presentation is impeccable, an indication of the craftsmanship and meticulous care that went into preparing this dish.

The initial bite introduces a play of textures. The cone is crisply delightful, and its crunch is a joyful preamble to the succulent salmon and the chewy, flavorful squid. The freshness of these seafood ingredients, punctuated by the pop of the ebiko, ensures that every mouthful is a celebration.

But it doesn’t stop there. Moments later, the bold flavors of the sambal kick in. It’s spicy, tangy, and slightly sweet, encompassing all the rich flavors that one expects from a well-made sambal. Love the overall combination and taste.

Cheese Baked River’s Prawn (RM 62)

The glistening prawns, with their radiant orange hue, emerge from beneath a blanket of golden-brown melted cheese. Their size alone speaks to their quality, suggesting the succulent, meaty bite that awaits within.

On tasting, the prawns reveal their freshness — they are firm, juicy, and brimming with the sweet and briny essence of the river. This natural flavor provides the ideal canvas for the layer of melted cheese. Creamy and rich, the cheese adds depth and a luxuriousness to the dish, its slightly tangy undertones accentuating the prawn’s sweetness.

Stir Fried Beef

As for the stir fried beef, they are absolutely a divine. The beef is perfectly stir fried till perfection and side with the mantao . They are really good when paired with the mantao which comes simply fluffy. The presentation of the dish is eye-catching – tender pieces of beef, glistening with a savory glaze, strategically positioned beside fluffy mantao buns.

Diving into the beef, you’re immediately struck by its tenderness. Each piece of meat is marinated to perfection, ensuring that the flavors penetrate deep within. The beef is neither too chewy nor too soft; it hits that sweet spot which is a testament to the chef’s prowess in ensuring the beef is cooked to perfection. The sauce is a perfect accompaniment, lending a savory touch with hints of sweetness and a mild spicy undertone, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

But the star move in this dish is pairing the beef with mantao buns. These buns, often reserved for dishes like pork belly, take on a new role here. Soft and cloud-like, the mantao absorbs some of the sauce from the beef, offering a slightly sweet counterbalance to the savory beef. The contrasting textures, the softness of the bun and the slight chewiness of the beef, create a delightful dance in the mouth, making each bite a pleasure.

Fresh Oyster (RM 60 for ½ dozen)

From the moment the plate graces your table, it’s clear that every oyster has been chosen with utmost care. Nestled in their rugged, beautiful shells, the oysters gleam invitingly, their natural juices reflecting the ambient lighting, almost like little pearls of the ocean awaiting discovery.

As you pry an oyster from its shell and savor it, the taste transports you straight to the seaside. The initial burst of brine encapsulates the spirit of the ocean, reminding one of gentle sea breezes and the rhythmic sound of waves crashing onto the shore.

Gambas Al Ajillo (RM 52)

At Funk by ANJO, this classic Spanish dish is given the utmost respect, both in terms of flavor and presentation.

Upon first glance, the Gambas Al Ajillo impresses with its beautifully plated prawns, glistening in olive oil, accompanied by finely chopped garlic and specks of chili. The enticing aroma is the first hint that you’re about to embark on a flavorful journey. The scent of sautéed garlic combined with fresh prawns is a siren call to seafood lovers.

Taking the first bite, you’re greeted with the succulent tenderness of the prawns. Perfectly cooked, they carry the subtle sweetness that is characteristic of fresh prawns. But it’s the garlic-infused oil that elevates this dish to new heights. The garlic, neither too overpowering nor too mild, strikes the right balance, complementing the prawns beautifully. Each mouthful is a symphony of flavors – the sweetness of the prawns, the pungency of the garlic, and the slight kick from the chilies.

Truffle & Serrano Ham Sandwich (RM 48)

The Truffle & Serrano Ham Sandwich is a delightful encounter of luxury and tradition in every bite. The sandwich’s brings you with the golden crust, a testament to its perfectly toasted exterior. The bread itself is crispy on the outside, yet soft and yielding within. Upon the first bite, the alluring aroma of the truffle is immediately apparent. Its earthy richness permeates through each layer of the sandwich, lending it an unmistakable luxurious note. Complementing the truffle is the Serrano ham – a culinary gem from Spain. Known for its delicate texture and savory depth, it lends a beautiful saltiness to the sandwich, balancing the intense flavors of the truffle. The ham is thinly sliced, allowing it to meld seamlessly with the other ingredients, making every bite a harmonious blend of taste and texture.

Chic & Len

At first glance, you might think it’s just another chicken dish, but as soon as you take that first bite, you’re met with a burst of flavor that piques your curiosity. The chicken is impeccably cooked, tender and juicy, with just the right hint of spiciness to tickle your palate without being overwhelming. Every bite is a confirmation of the chef’s precision in balancing spices and flavors.

Yet, it’s the papadam that elevates this dish to an entirely different level. The papadam, with its iconic crunch and slightly peppery undertone, provides a delightful contrast to the chicken. It’s a match that, while seemingly unconventional, feels instinctively right. The crispy texture of the papadam complements the soft and succulent chicken, creating a dance of textures in your mouth.

Sipping on the chosen wines while soaking in the live music was almost therapeutic. It provided an opportunity to unwind, converse, and truly appreciate the moment. For those looking for an evening of elegance, great wine, and soul-stirring music, Funk by ANJO is the place to be