Asian sensations

When we were invited to test out the updated menu at the tantalising Toshi we didn’t need to be asked twice. Within minutes we were there, stomachs grumbling and ready to start.

And what a start! As we enter the restaurant we immediately have to adjust our eyes, as the dim lighting and flickering candles set the stage for the romantic meal to follow. The dark brown Asian inspired décor, punched up with pops of red, really does make a statement.

After a thoughtful scan of the menu (we’re particularly impressed with the variety of sustainable fish on offer) we decide to test a little bit of everything. We order Overland, the set menu, which offers a variety of chicken and beef options for this carnivore to delight in.

To start we try one of the new menu offerings, tom kai chicken soup. This coconut concoction is filled with stalks of lemongrass and cherry tomatoes of all things. It’s light, tangy and undeniably delicious. Appetites whetted, we then are treated to deep fried vegetable spring rolls that are still piping hot as we break into them.

Next up is the main course. We’re rather surprised when we get two equally large portions of lamb penang and beef chao fan. Where to start? With two mains presented side-by-side we simply dig in to the closest item within our fork’s reach. First up is the lamb penang a gorgeously rich and spicy Malaysian curry that comes with chunks of potatoes and makes us swoon just ever so slightly. A meal entirely in itself we’re suddenly regretting all those spring rolls earlier.

Convinced nothing can top it, we literally must eat our words when we dig into the beef chao fan. Served with a portion of Chinese fried rice, the braised beef short rib falls apart with a light jab of our fork and melts in our mouth. It’s nothing short of perfection.

The only dilemma of the night is figuring out how to put away all the fantastic food we’ve managed to order, even after being assured that it only serves one! And with that as our only concern, you shouldn’t be surprised to see us back there very soon.

Sawaiba Khan

What? New menu at Toshi
Where? Grand Millennium Al Wahda
Cost: Overland Set menu for AED 155
We say: Tip top Toshi tantalises taste buds!
Contact: 02 443 9999