RESTAURANT INFORMASION

THE DAYAK RESTAURANT
29, Panovel Commerical Complex, Jln Simpang Tiga, 93300 , Kuching
P: (60) 8223 4068
Number:082241404
 Website:www.ask.com/History+Of+Restaurant
 
First Impressions: Seen from outside, The.Dyak is simply a segment in a shophouse. Inside however, a calm, relaxed atmosphere set in 'longhouse elegant' décor awaits. Copies of historical photos and framed Iban textiles emphasise the point that we are in Dayak territory now, with antique jars and old-fashioned table-ware added to the impression. Each setting includes spoons, forks or chopsticks, but it is perfectly acceptable to have – and quite a few patrons enjoy – their meal by hand. And wait till you see the table mats – they contain an entire history of The Dayaks of Saribas!

Food: Strictly indigenous Borneo cuisine includes grilled, roasted and fermented meats, salted durian, jungle shoots and vegetables, and top-quality local rice. Chicken-in-bamboo is the obvious standby in any restaurant serving 'Dayak cuisine', cooked to traditional perfection in this case. A number of dishes are created to cater to 21st-century tastes: fried noodles of various kinds, even a gourmet burger that was certainly never served up in granny's longhouse kitchen!

Drinks: Tuak is high on the list of drinks, but there is a good selection of fresh fruit juices available, and the usual 'coffee shop standbys' of hot and cold beverages, soft drinks and herb teas.

Service: Quietly attentive waiters who can explain the intricacies of the menu to the guests are a big help to patrons who are new to the cuisine. The restraint the restaurant owners exercised in not indulging a typical cultural novelty approach is much applauded, as part of the very pleasant ambience of this restaurant is that nobody is 'playing Dayak' here, and the waiters aren't costumed in beads and feathers.

Price: There is a lunch buffet for RM 12 on weekdays, which is very popular with office workers looking for something a bit different. Choosing from the a la carte menu however, would average between RM 30 to 50 per person.

Verdict: Highly recommended for well-prepared, authentic 'local food'. It's worth noting that there are a number of non-halal items on the menu so it's not a dining option for the masses.