Pokok, Kuala Lumpur

Meaning 'tree' in Malay, Pokok grows at the end of a canopy pavement, jutting its glasshouse for photobugs and foodies alike.

Been on our radar for awhile, also known for its event space, my family and i headed here for brunch. Tucked between the walls of Mahsa, KL, it was quite a change of scenery from the car park to the eatery.

Travel for food? Travel finds food? If you know of a better translation for this popular phrase, i'm all ears.

Make a reservation (we did so we breezed by them). Otherwise, wait in line for a spot in the glasshouse. Frankly, choose inside or by the patio of the glasshouse; if not, come back another time because the ambiance matters.

After seated, we pulled out our handphones. Now, now, and before you judge us, we were not texting or social media-ing just yet. We scanned the QR code on the table that linked us to the menu homepage. We placed our orders and chilled under the daylight. I read that sometimes it might be hot but we were fine on our visit.

Beverage: mango berry fizz, cappucino, cafe latte and Pink Latte. Pretty setting, yeah?

Me and my Pink Latte affair, smiling with my eyes. It was fragrant, rosy like, yet with a hint of earthiness from the beetroot. 

The big bowl of Mushroom Soup was enough to go for multiple spoons and bread dips. It was light, a bit of sour aftertaste, truffle aroma present; but we felt that it should be served warmer. 

Salmon Spring Rolls was an innovative starter. Crispy on the outside, cool and soft inside. Dip with the chili side for extra kick.

Chili Padi Pesto Pasta added chicken breast, a marrying fusion of cuisine. I had it mild spicy and could balance the flavours of the chili and fresh pesto. But nothing really to shout about.

Nasi Lemak Bomb was a yum spread. While the chicken was forgettable, the beef rendang was a delight- tender meat, nutty sauce. The sambal was another winner for me- unique that it had an almost tomato-chutney taste.

All elements on this Pan-seared Norwegian Salmon plate worked. The protein fillet was well-cooked- moist flesh and crispy skin. The vegetable sides and crusted mashed potato were accompanied with a delicious sauce.

If one thing was to remember about this Seafood Aglio Olio, it was very spicy although we ordered for less spicy. Having said that, it was still nice with the well-cooked mussels, prawns and squids.

We tried something familiar: Apam Balik Cake and Burnt Cheesecake (in the background). Wait, apam balik as in the local Malaysian peanut/corn snack, but in cake form? Yes! It did taste like the snack, albeit too much cream. I liked it but my family preferred the burnt cheesecake.

Meal aside, the waiter/waitress were friendly to assist but should learn more about their dishes.

Overall, we had a lovely, satisfying brunch, with just the right amount of Instaworthy photoshooting.

Note: Dine-in experienced during the CMCO period whereby eateries shall adhere to SOP provided by the government.