As soon as you walk in, you will be greeted by the rhythmic pulse of Latin music and the tantalising aroma of charcoal-grilled meats.
Over here, sharing is caring. The emphasis is on communal dining, encouraging you to gather everyone around the table and embark on a culinary journey through Latin America.
The menu acts as your passport, whisking you away on a whirlwind tour of flavours from Chile, Peru, Mexico, Bolivia, Brazil, and Argentina, to name a few.
Each dish is a vibrant tapestry of spices and textures, a true testament to the rich culinary heritage of the region.
You will be greeted with a shot of pineapple tepache, which is a fermented Mexican drink, presented in a mini tiki cup.
Kick off your feast with an Instagram-worthy spectacle – the tableside-prepared Amazonas Guacamole – creamy avocado intermingled with fennel and a hint of citrus from orange.
A touch of guajillo chile adds a subtle smokiness, perfectly balanced by the citrus salt. And don’t forget the fried green plantains called patacones and plantain chips for that satisfying crunch.
Next up, the Wild Jungle Salad is a visual delight. Mixed leaves burst with colour, their earthy tones enlivened by gooseberries. The honey and fermented chilli dressing is a revelation – sweet with a touch of fiery heat, it awakens the palate and complements the natural sweetness of the berries.
But the real star of the show is the Picanha steak, cut from the top part of the cow’s rump. Tender and juicy, the meat is expertly grilled on a custom-made parrilla grill, giving it a smoky charcoal flavour.
Served atop a wire mesh over burning coal to retain its smokiness, the steak is then given a beef fat and porcini rub for that beautiful char and umami taste. Each bite is a celebration of quality – the beef simply melts in your mouth. Chef’s kiss!
For seafood enthusiasts, the Mexican Prawn Esquites is a delightful discovery. Poached prawns rest on a creamy bed of corn cooked over glowing coals, balanced by the richness of grated manchego cheese and lime.
No Latin American feast is complete without a sweet ending, and Amazonas KL doesn’t disappoint.
The churros here are a dream – golden-brown and light as a feather, dusted just right with cinnamon sugar. Each dunk into the chocolate sauce is a decadent delight.
The cocktail menu echoes the vibrant spirit of the food. The Charred Sour is a smoky revelation. The tang of charred pineapple mingles beautifully with the citrusy yuzu and the subtle sweetness of agave. Pisco, a Peruvian brandy, adds a warming touch, creating a complex and utterly captivating drink.
For those seeking something more dramatic, El Dia De Los Muertos is a visual masterpiece. The striking beetroot hue immediately draws the eye, while the first sip is a burst of sweet and tart – passion fruit and pineapple tango with the tang of lime, all held together by the smoky depth of mezcal.
But don’t be intimidated by its name Day of the Dead – this cocktail is refreshing and full of life.
If you prefer something lighter, Sweet Nothings is a delightful surprise. The spicy notes of ginger dance with the sweet-tartness of blueberry and zesty lemon, while Campari adds a touch of bittersweet complexity. Cava, which is a sparkling Spanish wine, and Aperol lend a delightful effervescence, making this the perfect drink for a warm evening.
Overall, Amazonas KL is the perfect spot to relax, connect with loved ones, and indulge in the rich flavours of Latin America.
Amazonas KL
The Exchange TRX
PL09 & L04.03, Park Level
55188 Kuala Lumpur
Business hours: 11am-10.30pm daily
Contact: 017-930 4880