[Non-halal] Mano at The Five is a new Latin America-inspired restaurant in Bukit Damansara.
Newly opened at The Five – which is quickly establishing itself as the newest and hippest dining hub in town – Mano Restaurant distinguishes itself by focusing on Latin American dishes inspired by chef Sergio’s birthplace in Mexico, and sharpened by his travels and training in Spain.
The team at Mano is made a perfect trio with Brian Lau and Rocky Chai at the wheelhouse – which promises a medley of Latin flavours with a sprinkle of Asian influences.
Mano at The Five in Bukit Damansara
Despite not making any reservations, we were fortunate to secure a table on its opening weekend.
The waiting staff was really helpful and accommodating – and we liked how well-versed they were with the menu. Hence, we were quite happy to follow the recommendations of the front-of-house.
Guac with some yuzu pizazz
For starters, we decided to get the Mano Guac (RM32).
We enjoyed Mano’s take on the avocado dish – which is arguably one of the most well-known food exports of Mexico.
Mano’s guacamole is served with tortilla chips, but we like how the dip is jazzed up with some yuzu for tartness, and that there are still chunks of avocado for some texture. We also tasted a lick of heat from the jalapeno.
Lamb Birria is delicious
For mains, we enjoyed the Lamb Birria (RM55) – pulled lamb that’s compacted like a terrine, and slightly fried for some char and texture.
This is one of the most unique lamb offerings in town, and we liked how juicy and well-seasoned the lamb was. The lamb is best eaten in a bite with some chickpeas, coriander, and spiced jus in a spoonful.
Chicken is decent
The Roasted Half Chicken (RM65) was a decent play on poultry.
The bird was smoked and brined to tenderness and flavour, and the accompanying sauce is smoky and fatty, with a hot sauce that should please any salsa lovers.
While the chicken is tasty – we had more tender and impressive chicken elsewhere. Hence, we much prefer the Lamb Birria.
Summary
As it was just the both of us, we didn’t manage to try most of the items on the menu.
However, we do hear great things about the decadent pork fat mash, and the desserts here are apparently quite impressive.
The space is also very comfortable and is suitable for corporate lunches (it is in a very strategic location after all).
Hence, Mano is definitely a place we’ll revisit in the future.
Mano Restaurant
Address: E-1-03, The Five, Kompleks Pejabat Damansara, Bukit Damansara, 50490 Kuala Lumpur
Hours: 5pm-11pm (Sun-Thurs), 5pm-12am (Fri & Sat)
Phone: 017-277 6266
Website: https://www.manorestaurant.my/
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