However, Gin Rik Sha’s cleverly curated brunch menu looks ready to redefine this weekend treat with a modern Indian-fusion twist.
From fried idiappam (putumayam) and spiced maple syrup to dosa stuffed with corn and cheese as well as masala-seasoned egg white omelettes, expect your taste buds to explode with familiar, traditional flavours tweaked in the most surprising of ways.
It was important to Bavita Dhillon, the restaurant’s menu consultant, that the brunch spread featured unique dishes not available during the week.
“Our owner travels a lot and she makes it a point to dine in as many restaurants as she can. She takes note of what she likes and she tells us what she wants included in our menu.
“Her directions for the brunch menu were very clear. The idea was to front traditional Indian flavours but present the food in a modern way. And keeping the dishes homey was key,” Dhillon shared with FMT Lifestyle.
In July, Gin Rik Sha relocated from Plaza Damansara to its new location in the neighbourhood of Medan Damansara. Perfect for a weekend family outing, the restaurant retains its former rustic charm while exuding a cosier atmosphere now that it serves a smaller crowd.
The best way to start your Gin Rik Sha brunch affair is with a glass (or two, no one’s judging) of “RoseSecco”, an off-menu, weekend-only drink. Bright, sparkly and fresh, this simple concoction of sloe gin and prosecco with cut strawberries and lemon is pure summer in a glass. Move over mimosa. A new brunch drink is in town.
Once your late morning libation is in order, try the Seafood Somo In Idiappam Cups. Playful and simple, this dish comes as a pair of fried idiappam cups. Resting gloriously in this crispy nest is a fragrant blend of prawn and fish sodhi and moili (both coconut milk-based curries) that’s reminiscent of a home-cooked meal.
For something lighter, go for the Brioche Bombay Toast, but do not be tricked by its simplicity. The fluffy bread is soaked in sweet, milky and savoury goodness. Drench it with maple syrup and watch it disappear in seconds.
Of course, what is brunch without the big breakfast? Gin Rik Sha’s answer to that is their non-vegetarian thali (a vegetarian option is also available). This beautiful assortment of Indian food served on a single platter is as big a feast for the eyes as it is for the taste buds.
A crispy dosa gently envelops a dry, flavourful lamb curry. Over the carrot paratha (served with freshly prepared coconut and chilli chutney) is the Indian railway omelette. This delicious egg dish, loaded with chopped chilli, onions, chilli powder, and pepper, is a popular refreshment on India’s long-distance trains.
The thali is completed with a bowl of poha uppuma (a breakfast or tea time snack made with flattened rice) and a quinoa-enhanced potato patty from North India atop a bed of greens. Overall, a must-try.
The Kerala Fried Chicken & Rice Waffles is yet another inventive take. Prepare to have your taste buds awakened once the spicy notes of the chicken hit.
What’s more, the tenderness of the chicken complements the crispiness of the rice waffles, made from dosa batter. The spiced maple syrup (cumin seeds and chilli flakes) on the side is a nice touch.
The restaurant also offers a Spicy Four Cheese Pizza. Topped with a well-balanced mix of parmesan, cheddar, mozzarella and paneer or Indian cottage cheese, it’s savoury and crunchy to the bite.
All in all, the brunch menu at Gin Rik Sha is modern, homey and aromatic, perfect for a weekend date or a small family gathering.
Gin Rik Sha [Pork-free]
132, Jalan Kasah
Medan Damansara
50490 Kuala Lumpur
Breakfast & brunch hours
8.30am-3pm (Saturdays)
8.30am-6pm (Sundays)
Contact: 010-243 8266
Follow Gin Rik Sha on Instagram.