SOULed OUT Kuala Lumpur — Restaurant in Kuala Lumpur

Food, atmosphere, location - all are reasonably good! They added some new dishes to their menu worth trying out. Souled Out Sri Hartamas needs no introduction; at least, not in the Klang Valley. This popular eatery is almost a legend, after having been in the business since 1996. I remember going to this restaurant when they opened, in Desa Hartamas, before moving to the present location in Sri Hartamas. From its humble beginning, the brand has flourished to the many branches holding court in KL and PJ now.

The popularity of Souled Out lies mainly in its comprehensive range of food served, covering local and western favourites. Their fresh take on traditional Asian dishes at affordable prices is one of the keys of their success. Besides that, their cheerful energetic crew and lively atmosphere makes dining at Souled Out a most enjoyable experience. From my many visits to the place, their menu and quality of food have always been consistent.

After pleasing their legions of fans for more than 20 years with the same menu, Souled Out Sri Hartamas recently launched a new menu! Or should I say, launched some new items to their menu – I’m pretty sure many of the popular and favourite dishes are maintained.

As per the Souled Out standard, the launch event was a fun and energetic affair. Members of their crew did a catwalk-style donning national costumes of the countries that inspired the new dishes. A steady fixture in the KL night scene for over ten years now, Souled Out remains a popular hangout spot, especially among the city’s youths. The extensive menu serves decent, uncomplicated grub and standard drinks but the steady crowd is mainly due to its energetic and lively atmosphere. Also, they boast a good kids’ menu featuring chicken burgers, fish nuggets and their famous warm chocolate lava cake. Never empty, this is a busy hub for patrons to eat, drink, listen to live bands and play a game...

If I could rate this establishment ZERO stars then I would do so. The manager is an absolute disgrace. He should be ashamed of himself. He should be properly trained or maybe find another career.

Last weekend my wife and I were enjoying the football on the big screen inside at the back downstairs. Immediately in front of us there was a group of drunk local people (Indian Malaysians). While food was being served this group were smoking cigarettes. My wife is pregnant and hates the smell so I asked them to smoke elsewhere. They refused my request so of course I expressed my exasperation. The next thing I know I am soaking wet because the main culprit threw a glass beer bottle at me. Fortunately he missed but it smashed above my head. If I was alone I would not have been able to remain calm but as my wife was there I kept my cool. I raised the matter with several members off staff, including the manager, and they did absolutely nothing about this group of thugs. My Malaysian lawyer tells me that it’s very likely this group are drug dealers and they sell to the bar staff. This wouldn’t surprise me at all. A number of the staff seemed like they were high.

Anyway, so I called the police and they were unsympathetic. The group did not leave the venue, a no arrest was made. I was told I can make a statement down at the police station but no charges would be filed. My wife was inconsolable. Our night ruined. For that reason I will never return to this place and I suggest everyone else goes down the road to beer...

I've been coming to this restaurant since I was 12 years old. I've had multiple celebrations there before and I consider it a staple for my family.

A month previous my mother had booked a modest table for my baby shower; a celebration of life. But not long after they received a huge booking for 60 people. So we became very low priority to them and they really let us know us.

First, they gave a limit of 3 hours for how long we (paying customers) could stay at the restaurant. Then we needed to leave. Then, the day of the event, my mother called to confirm reservation only to be told we have to order within 45mins because after that the kitchen will be closed to prepare for the second event. So we, again, (paying customers) would have to rush. And people coming to see us from out of town, if they were a little late would get no food.

I have been made to feel unimportant. STRESSED out at 7 months pregnant. Low priority and that my day meant nothing next to their big order and big event. I booked first. And was treated like rubbish. I bet they are glad we cancelled. And they basically forced our hand to do so.

So here I am, stressed, crying, frantically trying to inform guests of the change last minute while trying to get dressed. Yes, all while 7 months pregnant.

Souled out, you are not a new restaurant, you are an institution. Don't treat people this way. You ruined what was supposed to be a very...