YEN, nestled within the prestigious W Hotel Kuala Lumpur redefines Chinese culinary traditions with an imperial ambiance and an avant-garde dining concept. This distinguished Cantonese restaurant offers a harmonious dining experience that seamlessly blends sociability and sophistication.
At YEN, diners are treated to a diverse array of innovative dishes that infuse modern twists into traditional Cantonese cuisine. Each meal is thoughtfully paired with a curated selection of Chinese teas, enhancing the overall dining experience. The kitchen is helmed by the renowned Chef Tan Kim Weng, whose 30 years of culinary expertise ensure that every dish is presented with impeccable precision and artistry.
Ambiance
From the moment we stepped into YEN, we were enveloped in an atmosphere of elegance and warmth. The staff greeted us with genuine smiles and guided us to our table with utmost courtesy. Traveling with a toddler can sometimes be challenging, but the attentive staff made special arrangements for us, providing a cozy corner table with a stunning view of the KL Tower. This thoughtful gesture allowed our little one to enjoy her space while we relaxed and took in the panoramic cityscape.
What We Had
Soft Shell Crab Salad with Ice Lettuce, Fish Skin, and Truffle Sauce
Our culinary journey commenced with the Soft Shell Crab Salad, a dish that exemplified culinary excellence. The soft shell crab was expertly deep-fried to achieve a perfect crunch, while the ice lettuce added a refreshing crispness. The fish skin provided a unique texture contrast, and the truffle sauce imparted a luxurious earthiness that elevated the entire dish.
Wok-Fried Prawns with Nestum and Salted Egg
Next, we indulged in the Wok-Fried Prawns with Nestum and Salted Egg. The prawns were remarkably fresh and plump, their natural sweetness enhanced by the savory nestum coating. The salted egg yolk added a rich, umami depth, making each bite a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. This dish was a testament to the chef’s skill in balancing traditional and contemporary elements.
Double-Boiled Chicken Teapot Soup
The Double-Boiled Chicken Teapot Soup was a highlight of our meal, presented in an elegant teapot that emphasized its delicate nature. This nourishing soup, infused with liver-enriching herbs and fresh ginseng, was a true elixir. Each sip was deeply flavorful and soothing, showcasing the meticulous preparation and the high-quality ingredients used.
Signature Dishes
Roasted Peking Duck with Wheat Pancake and Traditional Sauce
A visit to YEN would be incomplete without savoring their signature Roasted Peking Duck. This dish was executed to perfection, with the duck’s skin rendered crispy and the meat tender and juicy, devoid of any gamy taste. The wheat pancakes provided a soft, pliable wrap, and the traditional sauce tied all the elements together beautifully. Each bite was a sublime experience, highlighting the chef’s mastery in traditional Cantonese roasting techniques.
Stewed Ee Fu Noodles
The Stewed Ee Fu Noodles were another standout. The noodles were perfectly stewed to achieve a delightful chewiness, while the accompanying minced prawns, mushrooms, and dried ground flounder added layers of umami richness. This dish was both comforting and indulgent, a perfect embodiment of Cantonese comfort food with a gourmet twist.
Dessert Delights
Chilled Durian Ice Cream & Pancake with Sea Salt Coconut Crumble
For dessert, we were treated to the Chilled Durian Ice Cream and Pancake. The durian pancake was a revelation, with its creamy filling delivering the quintessential durian flavor in a refined manner. The accompanying durian ice cream was equally impressive, its smooth texture and intense flavor earning it double thumbs up. The sea salt coconut crumble added a delightful crunch, providing a perfect balance to the creamy elements.
Lemongrass Infused Ai-Yu Jelly with Natural Peach Resin and Yuzu Pearl
To round off our meal, we enjoyed the Lemongrass Infused Ai-Yu Jelly, a light and refreshing dessert. The jelly was infused with the subtle fragrance of lemongrass, while the natural peach resin and yuzu pearls added a delightful textural contrast and a burst of citrusy freshness. This dessert was a perfect palate cleanser, leaving us feeling refreshed and satisfied.
Conclusion
Dining at YEN is more than just a meal; it’s an immersive experience that celebrates the art of Cantonese cuisine in a modern, luxurious setting. From the impeccable service to the meticulously crafted dishes, every aspect of our visit was exceptional.
Yen @ W Hotel Kuala Lumpur
Address: Level 11, W, 121, Jln Ampang, Kuala Lumpur, 50450 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur
Phone: 012-347 9088
GPS Location: 3.158464,101.7094092