The Place
For those of you who know the ‘Zhou, you’d know that Pandan had quite a cult following. So, when all three branches shut down recently, disappointed tongues were left wagging, so to speak. Making a bona fide comeback at China Plaza is this authentic Indonesian gem. To find it, snake around the phone shops on the fourth floor; it’s tucked away towards the back.
The Food
At Pandan, there’s a telling of a story of a country, as they cook up a respectful take on its adored culinary repertoire. There’s all the essentials, from gado gado (RMB27) to soto ayam (RMB29), and seafood staples like grilled prawns (RMB59).
The impossibly enjoyable sate ayam, with juicy bits of meat, is served with peanut dipping sauce, like those sold from street stalls. Fried and served with green chili, the ayam bakar cabe ijo is a treat at just RMB42. On the rice section of the menu, you can find a seafood nasi goreng (RMB38) that lives up to its name.
Many dishes come with homemade sambals, and it’s worth ordering a side of each. They showcase the same deft complexity that appears in the restaurant’s curries. The beef curry (RMB49) in particular is musky and rich. The kitchen does hold back a wee bit on spice levels to sate local palates, so if you’re seeking a punchier dose of spice or a sweat-inducing experience, ask for it to be cranked up or you’ll be left disappointed.
The Vibe
The same team of cooks and servers that led Pandan prior to closure is back in full force, so expect service that is familiar, warm and cozy. It looks like the community’s hankering for a recognizable taste has just made all of our lives more delectable, again.
Price: RMB80
Who’s going: reminiscent Pandan fans, curry lovers
Good for: a taste of Indonesia, sambal, sate ayam
Nearest metro: Martyrs' Park (Exit A), 5 minutes
Open daily, 10am-10pm; see listing for Pandan.
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