Frangipaani, Republik Damansara Heights

Frangipaani is a beautiful new restaurant by every measure, from its leafy, sunlit terrace to its interior that's meant to channel colonial-era Indian elegance.

Its menu is equally enticing, paying homage to centuries of a culinary heritage that spans Punjab to Goa - the latter is brought to life by the Crab Xec Xec, a classic curry that's rich with roasted spices, robust in its depth and dimensions, the kind of curry that everyone will lap up to the final spoonful (RM48+).

With a menu of more than 60 recipes, there's something for everyone here, from the meaty-but-mellow paya shorba, a soothing soup with natural collagen in all its gelatinous glory (RM20+), to the vegetarian-friendly dal khichdi, a one-pot, comfort-cooking medley of creamy rice and lentils (RM20+). Flavours are impressive - well-rounded and wonderfully balanced.

Cocktails promise playful South Asian flourishes: Indian Passion features vodka and passion fruit puree jazzed up with a jal-jeera cumin mix and green chillies (RM33++), while Hariyali Effect blends Scotch whisky with jaggery syrup infused with star anise, nutmeg, cumin and cinnamon (RM35+).

Service is dedicated and determinedly diligent, ensuring an exceptionally pleasant evening here.