Solitude.
A comfortably lonely word.
A state of mind that everyone needs at a moment in time.
Pair it with a hearty meal and a good read....shear bliss.
It was that very idea that got me driving to the Gardens on a beautiful Saturday morning in December before meeting a friend later in the afternoon.
One is spoilt for choice at The Gardens but one can't help but be attracted to the sophisticated green-coloured setting of Chinoz, complete with cosy beige-coloured chairs. And recalling Lianne's Valrhona experience, I knew this was the place to be that morning.
Instead of the churros, I opted for the Hot Chocolate (RM17), Valrhona chocolate, that is. The warm cup of rich, smooth melted chocolate, diluted in milk was optimally sweet and got more addictive with every sip. Throw in a marshmallow for added sweetness and texture. A rather expensive but wonderful companion to the Saturday's paper.
Christmas tunes played by the piano man in the distant created an even more relaxing ambiance. That's before the afternoon crowd started thronging in.
Chinoz offers an extensive menu, ranging from pastas to sandwiches to a limited array of local delicacies. Wanting something fuss-free that morning, I had the Steak Sandwich (RM28). The portion was alright while the sides were rather generic; shoestring fries and lettuce. However, I did enjoy the simple, refreshing vinaigrette on the lettuce, complete with chopped onions. The bread was warm and soft. Taste-wise, rather generic. The steak was dry, hard and freshness was questionable as the "beefy" scent was rather strong. Other ingredients in the sandwich included rockets, caramelized onions, tomatoes and mustard dressing.
Total damage for a blissful breakfast: RM51.75. The food here is not cheap but a few more visits are required to confirm the overall quality of the food. The staff was very attentive, by the way.
It could have been perfect if not for the steak.
Food aside, the moment spent to myself, for myself was priceless. Solitude never felt so good...until my friend called to complain about the problematic parking condition at The Gardens, that is. And that was also the moment I had my last sip of the Valrhona chocolate.
chinoz @ THE GARDENS
G212, Ground Floor
THE GARDENS Mid Valley
Lingkaran Syed Putra
59200 Kuala Lumpur
Tel: +603-2287 8277
