Pietro, Ristorante Italiano, Damansara, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Words by Kristin Cosgrove

Pictures by The Yum List (Monica Tindall)

Fresh, quality ingredients are crucial in Italian fare, and at Pietro Ristorante Italiano each dish is clearly created and prepared with this in mind. We were recently treated to a tasting of signature and authentic dishes, which were consistently delicious from start to finish.

Located in the ECM Libra Building on Jalan Damansara Endah, Pietro boasts a vaulted ceiling and double story windows. The windows give the main dining room an open feel and add airiness to the grey-toned interior. Light electronica floats through the dining room, also unassuming and setting a casual but sophisticated tone.

Outdoor tables are available on the patio outside the front door, as well as on a lower deck off the side of the restaurant – a cozy space perfect for a small party. Upstairs areas also offer rooms for private events.  

We came in late on a Monday afternoon before the dinner rush. Some local businessmen were talking over a bottle of wine at a nearby table but otherwise we had the dining room to ourselves. As the evening wore on, several types of patrons came in for dinner: couples looking for a romantic evening out, large families celebrating birthdays and casual diners who looked like they make Pietro a regular stop. 

The amuse bouche was Smoked Duck with Melon. The juicy sweetness of the melon swirled together with the salty, smokiness of the duck, unabashedly flirting with the taste buds.   

Perfectly cooked Fegato d’Oca followed, the foie gras was pan seared to crispy perfection on the outside and soft on the inside. It was served on a baked apple and drizzled with port wine sauce and micro lettuce on toast. I usually have a mental block against eating foie gras when it looks this much like a liver (I know, “Get over it.”) but even I had to admit this dish was terrific.  

Pietro’s signature seafood soup, Brodo di Pesce (RM30), had a broth that was extremely flavorful and with just the right amount of fire. The seafood was extremely fresh tasting, the prawns and muscles cooked to just the right degree. Monica and I both unabashedly used the garlic bread served on the side to sop up the remaining broth.  

Squid ink pasta (Tagliolini neri con Capesante, RM60) was a new flavor for me, and I was pleasantly surprised at the mildness. For this dish, the ink is precooked into the pasta, rather than used in a messy sauce, which I think is easier for the uninitiated. The flavor blended beautifully with the tender scallop perched on top. 

The Pesci e Fruitti Di Mare (fish of the day) was Baramundi, or Asian sea bass. Served whole (RM68), this charbroiled masterpiece is an attractive dish; the fish is stuffed with garlic, sun dried tomato, fresh herbs, onions, and more, giving the fish the quintessential Italian taste. I kept going back for “just one more” bite.   

Stuffed to the gills (us, not the fish), another glass of wine helped to dull the nagging fullness of our bellies, allowing us to fully enjoy the signature Filetto al Barolo e’ l’essenza di Timo (RM95). The Angus tenderloin was clearly a good cut, properly cooked and very tender. The Borolo jus glaze was properly understated but flavorful, while the thyme essence was just that. Served with mixed wild mushrooms and pretty dollops of truffle potato puree, this dish would satisfy even the pickiest carnivore’s palate.  

For dessert we indulged on the White and Dark Chocolate (RM22), two layers of mousse in a teardrop shape with two Amarena cherries and almond praline.  

It’s easy to see why Pietro has a regular following. Consistently great food at very reasonable prices means Italian food lovers can indulge at most anytime. For those with more local tastes, Pietro now also has Asian-inspired menu items. And don’t forget the wide range of drinks including Rubra artisan coffee from Australia and premium soft drinks imported from France and England. A good selection of juices, wines and alcoholic mixed drinks are also available.

Reason to visit: Consistent, fine Italian food in a casual but sophisticated atmosphere, good value for money. 

Pietro

Bangunan ECM Libra 8

Jalan Damansara Endah

50490 Damansara Heights

Kuala Lumpur, Malayia

+6 03 2093 6433

www.pietro.com.my