Zuo An Zhi Jian • 佐岸之间 — Restaurant in Kuala Lumpur

2nd time visit on 27th March 2024 @ Wednesday after their official opening.

This is a restaurant that has recently commenced its trial operation. Before this, the owner managed two other establishments, "三月杜鵑 March Azalea Kitchen" and "七號佐岸 Zuo An." However, due to certain objective factors, both of these restaurants have become history since January 2024.

I appreciate "佐岸。之间 /Zhī Jiān". It evokes the same fresh and comfortable ambience as "三月杜鵑" did when they first opened many years ago. But definitely is one is the best of so far.

Perhaps, this is the culmination of the owner's experience and essence after managing two restaurants with distinct styles. Honestly, I have a preference for this place. It feels like reliving the original "initial intentions"!

I admire the owner for their unwavering belief and indomitable spirit. Despite facing numerous obstacles along the way, they never give up and consistently strive for improvement.

While enhancing the building's layout, the owner has thoughtfully preserved the original architectural style. The first floor's design exudes formality, making it conducive for business exchanges. On the other hand, the second floor carries an artistic vibe, and remnants of the past are still visible. This sensation is fantastic! The intentionally retained details transport people to a different time and space.

Since it was past lunchtime, my companion and I visited to relish their delightful "salted egg croissant" paired with Americano and "Kopi'O." The "Kopi'O" took me by surprise. Initially assuming it was just another common coffee, turned out to be a beverage that I wanted to savour again. It has become my go-to drink, adding a small yet delightful joy to my afternoon tea time!

As they are still in the soft-launch phase, I anticipate many improvements to come! I eagerly look forward to a more refined experience on...

Update: now know as Restoran Zhi Jian, relocated in a double story shop lot with new menu but equally endearing. It was interesting to see how they managed to incorporate some of the old Zuo An into Zhi Jian, albeit scaled down.

It was an effort locating them again as from Zuo An, i don’t remember being told that they would be rebranding. So Waze announced, you have arrived. I parked & set out on foot with no Zuo An to be seen. After walking up & down that street eventually i started looking for the Shoplot No.

Anyway, long story short, check out Zhi Jian.

Apparently, Zuo An & Zhi Jian is the same/similar but people who don’t read mandarin, would know no better.

Menu & QR Code Menu available.

Previously:

An emerging trend in the OUG area of houses along the fringes of commercial areas, being converted into cafes.

Amongst them is Zuo An, a bungalow conversion with a lot of greenery & private corners - indoor & outdoor.

Available are 3 Private Rooms requiring minimum spending between 250 to 400 for 8 to 12 pax. Perfect for Meetings…

Zuo An is a QR Code Order establishment but provides glossy menu Old Flower 🌸 Diners. Kitchen closes 4 - 6pm but remains open for beverage & non kitchen orders.

I really like their Mixed Berry Panna Cotta but it’s tiny rm10. When they first opened...

I've always drove pass and saw this place every time I came to this area particularly for BurgerLab@OUG. Hidden from plain sight one could easily overlook this Cafe. The name 'March Azalea' just stuck in my head ever since and I knew I just have to visit this at least once.

Enough with the backstory, I had their pork cutlet and their breading is close to perfection. Then I end my meal with their pour over coffee and it was good. I can't recall the full name of the coffee because it's too long "Yangrief something something...."

Their staff service was friendly and attentive. At first glance I thought Saleem looked menacing but he's actually pretty cool.

Their interior design is really nice and emits a calming feel that you just want to quietly eat your meal there. Further back they have larger table for group if you want to throw a birthday soirée. I also spotted a private room which you can dine in.

It does not disappoint but I can hardly find anything I can hype about this Cafe either that's why I'm giving a 4/5 on my first visit.

Will try their...