SHAH ALAM: DECKED in contemporary lounge design with Broadway-like show lights, vinyl records and vintage artworks that give a jazz club feel, ROA by Jovian Mandagie focuses on providing classic Manadonese delicacies inspired by the designer’s own family recipes.
Located in the dining spot popular among families and university students in Seksyen 7 here, the restaurant claimed to be the first eatery in the country to give highlight to and serve North Sulawesi cuisine.
Famous for being tantalisingly spicy, the dishes offered are perfect for those who crave for meals that pack a fiery punch.
Start your Manadonese dining experience by ordering the Jovian’s special starter. It is a serving plate of chicken breasts which comes with a hot and spicy Manado dip called dabu-dabu.
Move on to a warm broth dish such as the kuah asam marlin if you like your soup to have the balance of both spicy and sour.
Savour the ayam rica-rica, udang woku and sapi bumbu sate garo dishes when opting for the perfect main courses to go with your servings of white rice.
Do not go home without feasting on the restaurant’s signature roa saos, which is a special garfish dish that is widely loved in Manado.
Among the array of mouthwatering desserts that diners should try include the Manadonese klappertart made from creamy coconut milk pudding, raisins and a hint of cinnamon served with vanilla ice cream, and the traditional kue kuk, which is a sweet dish of steamed glutinous rice with green bean filling.
Off the runway, making a mark in the culinary world has long been a business goal for fashion designer Mandagie.
“Starting up a food business has indeed been challenging but what motivates me is the experience I can give to fans in return — the pleasure of listening to enjoyable music, accompanied by great food and good company in an elegant and sophisticated setting,” said the designer during the official opening of his restaurant recently.
The Agriculture and Agro-Based Industry Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob was also present to officiate the event.
Mandagie added that the idea of opening up a restaurant that embodies the brand’s dining concept started two years back.
“From the menu to the interior decorations, I have made sure that all of the elements that make up ROA are personalised based on my own preferences.
“I am certain that diners will enjoy the best of Manadonese flavours with fresh ingredients when they feast with friends and family here,” he added.
ROA by Jovian Mandagie opens from 10am to midnight.
For reservations, call 03-5524 4486.