Huck's Cafe @ Bangsar

Huck moved his popular cafe this month, leaving Petaling Jaya for Bangsar. We're ecstatic, since it's much closer and more convenient for us here!

Earlier entry on Huck's @ PJ: November 24, 2010.

Huck's secret weapon at his captivating new venue: a "Secret Garden," where customers can sup outdoors and surrender slowly to the night's calm embrace.

Ceiling fans swirl overhead to ensure that everybody stays cool. Expect a few insects to pop by, but that adds to the allure of the ambiance.

For air-conditioned comfort, reserve a table inside. This bungalow is more spacious than Huck's former location, with thoughtfully furnished rooms, including one with tatami-like seating.

We can't decide what's our favorite aspect of Huck's: the charming host, his beautiful home or his creative cooking that feels like a genuine labor of love.

Sarawak acar on crunchy keropok, the most addictive appetizer ever.

Two soups: pumpkin & mushroom. Both boasted a homemade touch, with natural flavors and a comforting creaminess, thanks to plenty of pumpkin & mushrooms.

Minced chicken, tinged with turmeric & kaffir lime leaves and stuffed in super-tender squid. As intensely aromatic as anything that we'd encounter at KL's best Balinese or Thai restaurants.

Chicken breast with banana filling (!), wrapped with smoked turkey bacon & served with corn & refreshing mint leaves. Huck calls this "Sweetcorn Maryland;" the mix of savory and sugary sensations turned out to be a real pleasure. It helped that everything was well-prepared, from the tender breast cooked with white wine to the soft but not mushy banana.