Trishna Restaurant, KL

When i received the invitation for VibeHero's next event, i was rather wary as i was under the weather that day and had been wanting to avoid spicy food. But knowing that it was an authentic northern Indian dinner (and in the mood for Deepavali), i couldn't resist. I parked my car at Pavilion (weekdays, after 6pm, flat rate RM 6) and walked to Hotel Istana. There, i enjoyed the lobby's grandeur as i made my way to the basement and into Trishna Restaurant.

 Striking entrance of the restaurant. I introduced myself and the waiter led me into a private room where the rest of the team were already seated.

I have never been into a beautifully decorated Indian restaurant. The arty walls and furniture reminded me of a scene in movies. The tables were also prettily set up (although we did a little 'remodeling' of our own later to sit together). We were later introduced to the jovial owner, Mr Benny.

Achari Chicken Tikka was a delicious starter to the dinner. Flavourful and tender. I didn't mind having a second.

To be taken with the Chicken Tikka, this sauce further better this dish.

Another memorable starter was the Paneer Tikka. Although mine came slightly charred at the side, i enjoyed the taste and texture of the paneer. I also liked the capsicum along with this dish.

Last of the starters was the Ajwain Fish. Soft on the inside but no lacking in flavours. The starters had been delectable and satisfying- that they could also be main courses, and it definitely is hard to pick the best.

Salad.

Dal Makhani went perfectly well with naan or rice.

Another tasty chicken dish- Butter Chicken, served with thick, flavourful gravy.

Bagan Aloo, mix of potatoes and vegetables, was good.

I felt the Mutton Rogan Josh was average. The curry wasn't too spicy and the mutton wasn't tough, and there wasn't much to shout about it either.

My favourite of the night was this: Saag Paneer. The gravy was unique and mouth-watering (and felt healthy) that i could drink it like a soup. The smooth texture and the rich flavours simply danced in my mouth.

Naan Roti Mix. Frankly, i found the naan to be ordinary.

Spicy pickle- so i didn't take this.

Pulao Rice was good. It was aromatic and well cooked that the grain-by-grain rice made for great complementary to the main courses.

Gulab Jamun. Sweet-tooth people will definitely enjoy this! Two pieces were just nice to savour this sweet dessert.

I enjoyed my dinner tremendously- and it was the correct decision that i went. The dishes weren't too spicy; so to say this restaurant caters to people who seldom, if not, take spicy food (if you prefer extra spicy, just let them know and they will up the spiciness level), and vegetarians will enjoy just as much. The right blend of spices made the dishes tasty and rich. Service at the restaurant was friendly too.

A northern Indian cuisine? It's authenticity at its best.

What? Achari Chicken Tikka, Saag Paneer, Pulao Rice

Where? Trishna Restaurant. Hotel Istana Kuala Lumpur, No 73, Jalan Raja Chulan, KL.

Contact number? 012-3820412, 012-3750412, 03-21421575

Facebook? Trishna Restaurant

VibeHero? Trishna

* special thanks to VibeHero and Trishna Restaurant for the event.