For durian lovers who just can’t bear to say goodbye to the end of the current season, one option is to drop by this hotel in KK, writes Olivia Miwil
WHENEVER durian season is soon to be over, fruit lovers go the great length looking for the king of fruits before the season really ends.
Promenade Hotel Kota Kinabalu comes just right in time to bend its rules on “no durian” policy to satisfy its patrons’ craving for the king of fruit until the end of October.
The hotel, located at the busy waterfront of capital, puts some creative mind to include creamy durian in its selection of pastry, dishes and dessert.
They include deep-fried durian fish ball and deep fried durian custard spring roll with the creamy flesh of durian in the centre. Each is priced at RM8.50 per serving.
At RM35, patrons can enjoy deep-fried prawn that comes with durian butter cream. It tastes like your usual butter prawn but the fruit adds a little sweetness to the dish.
For ala carte dinner selections, the hotel offers creamy durian spaghetti and durian curry chicken with cheese.
As the pasta thatis served with prawns can be too creamy, it is best to share this RM15 dish with others. But, of course, if one is a hardcore fan of spaghetti and durian, the serving is just nice.
Among all the food, my favourite is the durian curry chicken with cheese that is served with rice which is priced at RM25.
While the chicken absorbs the spice and heat from the curry, the durian adds a sweetness that masks the overall spiciness.
Both the spaghetti and the curry chicken are considered spicy but the chefs will be happy to adjust the spiciness to ensure diners are happy with their food.
For dessert, try its chilled durian sago and Mexican durian bun.
The durian gastronomic journey does not just end within the hotel’s Promenade Cafe, Dynasty Restaurant and Deli Corner, as guests can continue by heading to its parking porch for a real durian feast.
FAST FACTS
Promenade Hotel Kota Kinabalu
TEL 088-252396/265555 ext 5107
WEBSITE www.promenade.com.my
HOURSDynasty Restaurant 11.30am-10.30pm, Promenade Cafe 6.30am-midnight.
EAT Durian-based pastry, dishes and dessert.
PAY Price starts from RM6.
MOODChinese-setting at Dynasty Restaurant and modern-setting at Promenade Cafe.
SERVICEStaff are attentive and friendly.
I SAY...Durian lovers should not miss it or you have to wait until next season.