Ten years ago, I walked into Cibiuk Kajang and left with tears streaming down my face—not from sadness, but from the fiery sambal that made this place unforgettable. It was a culinary experience that etched itself into memory. But after a long hiatus, especially post-Covid lockdowns, my recent visit felt like a shadow of its former self.
Atmosphere & Service
The once-vibrant ambiance now feels dim and subdued. While service was fair and the QR ordering system worked efficiently, the energy that used to define this outlet seems to have faded.
The Sambal Station: A Diminished Legacy
Previously the crown jewel of the restaurant, the Sambal Station now offers just four small bowls—none of which packed the heat or complexity I remembered. The blanched vegetables (carrots, long beans, bitter gourd) lacked freshness and crunch, making the experience feel underwhelming.
What We Ate
Nasi Liwet with Ayam Bakar
The shallot-infused rice was still fragrant and satisfying. The chicken, though smaller, retained its sweet-spicy glaze. Sides of cucumber, salad leaf, fried tofu, and tempeh were decent. A tomato sambal was provided, but again, it lacked the fiery punch.
Nasi with Lele Goreng (Ikan Keli)
Similar sides as the Nasi Liwet. The fish was small but acceptable. The tofu stood out—crispy outside, soft inside. The tempeh, however, didn’t impress.
Avocado Blend
A creamy, cooling drink that helped balance the mild sambal heat. Recommended.
Final Thoughts
This visit was tinged with nostalgia and a bit of disappointment. The food wasn’t bad, but compared to the early days, the spark has dimmed. Prices have risen, and quality has slipped. For longtime fans, it’s hard not to measure today’s experience against the golden past.
No comments:
Post a Comment