A quiet well-lit street, a neighborhood of peaceful abodes and an air that is at once serenely romantic yet buzzing with a suppressed energy that foretells of good things to come.
Welcome to Jalan Bangkung of Bangsar, one of KL's last true "best kept secrets".
Nestled comfortably on a slope on Bukit Bandaraya is a row of shop-houses where a few sterling restaurants have made their home. Parking is plentiful and before you even enter a restaurant you are rewarded with a spectacular view of the city splayed out before you. What better way to start a meal?
And what a meal you'd be in for. With six distinctly different restaurants dishing up some of the finest Spanish, Italian, Japanese and modern cuisine, you'll soon discover why patrons here so selfishly guard the knowledge of this wonderful food-street.
Dead center of the line-up is the famed Opus Bistro, a warm and cozy establishment that is a benchmark of fine Italian cuisine.
Flanking her is the Spanish culinary conquistador, Cava, where you'll find lip-smackingly good tapas and a heavenly paella. Oh, did one mention their homemade Sangria?
For those with more 'Orient-ed' tastes, turn to U, a contemporary yet delightfully relaxed Japanese restaurant. Not your typical sushi joint, U's Japanese fusion fare promises excitement with dishes like Ebi Motoyaki (grilled king prawns in Japanese white sauce) and house-blended Goma (or black sesame) ice cream. There's also Tea For Two, a place that's just full of pleasant surprises. As the name suggests, it's a great place for an intimate afternoon but it's just as perfect for a happy family dinner.
If none of these is your cup of tea, then head upstairs to The Tasting Room for a delicious glass of wine complemented by delicious offerings of food. And though their wine list may be formidable, their prices are, happily not.
Last but not least is Leonardo's Restaurant & Wine Loft, a most comfortable space tucked away on the upper floor where one feels completely at home. Perfect for unwinding with friends or family, their new but unpretentious fusion menu serves up good, simple meals from dinner to supper.
Make no bones about it, the eating (and drinking) at Jalan Bangkung is good. There is choice, atmosphere and quality. The best thing about this place is that eating here is not just an experience - it's a lifestyle choice. You're treated like family and the location proves that good food can literally be found at your doorstep.