London - November 18, 2005

A Place to Satay

Awana Restaurant & Bar Opens

Malaysia.

A land teeming with natural wonders (Mulu Caves), breathtaking sights (Pangkor Laut) and plenty of talent (ever heard of artist Wong Hoy Cheong? Or cult films Sepet and The Big Durian?).

And now, another beauty: Awana, the new culinary outpost opening tomorrow in South Ken serving modern Malaysian cuisine. Awana means ‘in the clouds’ in Malay, and the food, like its country of origin, has some heavenly qualities.

Short of a trip to Penang, you won’t find a better beef rendang or roti canai this side of the South China Sea. For starters there’s wonton isi lautan (crispy wrapped seafood) or sambal udang (steamed prawns), followed by a plethora of hot, spicy curries and satays, assorted rice, and plenty of that smirk-inducing vegetable, morning glory. Puddings include pandan pearls with coconut and caramel, and a black sticky rice warmed with sweet cream.

If it all sounds fantastically sexual, that’s because it is; Malaysian food is renowned for its uplifting, sensual qualities. 

Fancy adding a little extra spice to your life?

Go on down.

You know y’Awana.

Awana, 85 Sloane Avenue, SW3 (020 7584 8880).

  Lunch Spot, Malaysian