Laundroluxe

The restaurant is in a parade of shops (Api api centre) and has quite basic décor. It’s something that has been missing in the town up to now; an eatery that successfully combines coffee bar, and fine dining restaurant. Good idea. What a cosy place to spend a lazy afternoon eating, drinking and chatting. The kitchen is at the far end with a couple of tables and bar counter opposite it. Whereas this dinner service was frentic, with every table taken and tables being turned all around us. The tables are tightly packed, though noise levels were tolerable despite the bustle. Here, the owner believes in doing things properly: napkins are of cloth, plates are pottery; cutlery and crystal sparkle in the candlelight. The menu does not venture into experimental territory, so there are plenty of things that most people might actually want to eat rather than it being an assault course of weirdness that is all too often the case these days. Western cuisine is the name of the game here. The menu is short and the dishes small, but both punch far above their weight. Service was very good, with topping up fairly reliable and the waiters being friendly and welcoming. Staff are lovely, and understand the concept of hospitality. They show us to a table, knowing by the time which booking it is, and moments later we have complimentary olives oil and bread, menus to peruse and choices to make. I start with Lobster soup, the meat is soft and buttery, served in nicely done soup. This starter will probably be some of the finest you’ve ever eaten – swoonworthy For the main course: Braised lamb shank. Super-soft lamb were covered with a silky secret intense lamb sauce showcasing real depth of flavour. There were abundant spices and pepper in that sauce, transforming it from quite a simple, unassuming in appearance, dish. It’s an inspired combination – of textures as well as flavours – though, if I’m being picky, it could have done with more veggie for depth of flavour. The meat is slightly overcooked for my taste but, with the fat rendered to a crispy finish. We finish our meal with Hot latte and iced and cold choco milk shake. Overall this is certainly a pleasant neighbourhood restaurant with an appealing menu. I may not give much of a damn about Michelin stars, but with his thoughtful, intricate cooking, the chef clearly does it well. Good job Chef Kelvin. Dr.Chan KS