Horizon Grill at the Banyan Tree Kuala Lumpur has taken dining to new heights – the 58th floor of this impressive downtown hotel. Diners can enjoy their meal in the restaurant’s air-conditioned interior or alfresco in the atmospheric heady ambiance of the open terrace. While views of the glistening Twin Towers and the city skyline are sufficient to keep most diners happy, the food, beverages and service here are the equal of the panoramic views. The culinary direct is contemporary European with leanings towards the classics. Creative Asian-inspired elements are crafted in but to most patrons it is classic Western with leanings to France. Start the meal with fresh oysters imported from France, a portion of French caviar, foie gras terrine or crab cakes. For soup, try Horizon’s twist on the classic lobster bisque; crustacean bisque of crabmeat topped with lobster foam. It is in the restaurant’s name so it should be no surprise that grilled meat is a specialty. Order the house-smoked Angus short-ribs, Kyushu rib eye steak or Goulburn Valley beef with sauces such as truffled Béarnaise to appreciate how this outlet sets itself apart from the competition. While there is a comprehensive wine list by the bottle, there is a small but inviting selection of wines by the glass. These include reasonably priced, Sixty Drops Sauvignon Blanc (NZ), Wairau River Pinot Noir (NZ) and Trapiche Malbec (Argentina). Finish the meal with a cheese selection or lychee parfait. Specialty desserts include chocolate swirl (orange and lemon segments with chocolate and sea salt cookie crumble, pandan cream and vanilla ice cream) and millefeuille (crispy tuile, raspberry gel, Madagascan cream and Nestum ice cream). The restaurant opens for all three meals of the day with reservations essential for evening meals. www.banyantree.com
