W1 Bangsar is no stranger to me – I’ve been frequenting this spot over the last few months when I crave fish & chips in the neighbourhood. What I like about W1 is the sense of community it offers; you’d see people having drinks after work and friends/family eating together under one roof.
W1 curates a range of fun cocktails as well as the classics
Fish & Chips
Batter could be lighter, but overall this is still one of the better ones in town.
The Fish & Chips (RM48) is one of the better ones I’ve had in KL thus far. W1 uses seabass for their fish & chips, in a crispy batter that seals in the juices of the fish. I feel the batter could be lighter, but I’m satisfied with what they have to offer. This comes with a side of English chips and mushy peas (Jien likes it this way, I prefer mine with a tad more mint).
W1 Scotch Egg
W1 Scotch Egg (RM18) is what keeps me coming back to W1 Bangsar – breadcrumbed and fried soft-boiled egg in warm beef casing, served with curried aioli and pickled red onion. Forget traditional (cold) scotch eggs with ketchup. W1’s version takes things several notches up where the egg is warm and runny, and the flavour from the red onion cuts through the richness of this appetizer.
Grilled Carrots
We enjoyed the Grilled Carrots (RM18), served with chili maple glazed cranberries, parsley, tahini yoghurt, pistachio and za’atar. It didn’t wow based on menu description, but it packs flavour and deep caramelisation. A good sharing snack especially over drinks.
Masala Chicken Skewer
I’m not a fan of the Masala Chicken Skewer (RM29) simply because chicken breast is used. And that’s my least favourite part of the fowl. That aside, the marinade was delicious and the skewers came topped with mint yoghurt, tamarind, Kashmiri chilli oil and tomato salsa.
Pie & Mash
Creamy chicken pie with mashed potatoes and herb liquor gravy baby
Pie & Mash (RM38) features creamy chicken pie with mashed potatoes and herb liquor gravy baby; hearty, rich and comforting. Oddly, I’ve tried W1’s pies at Tiffin and while they come from the same kitchen, the pies taste better at W1 itself.
Spinach & Mushroom Pie
The Spinach & Mushroom Pie (RM34) was surprisingly delicious. I liked how the leek sauce and feta cheese mousse add richness and also a lighter finish so overall, the pie is easy to indulge and finish without feeling overstuffed.
Oven Baked Seabass
Masala puffed rice tabbouleh
W1’s Oven Baked Seabass (RM56) is well executed so the fish is cooked justly and evenly despite its larger size. This seabass fillet comes with a spice crust, served on a bed of madras almond white sauce and masala puffed rice tabbouleh on the side. Good stuff.
Sticky Cola Pudding
To end, we had the Sticky Cola Pudding (RM20) – W1’s version of the English sticky date pudding I presume. This comes with chocolate caramel sauce and vanilla ice cream. It can be a bit sweet for some as the caramelisation of the cola gives this dessert a toffee-like flavour.
Gin & Tonic
Gin & Tonic is a must-order at W1. They carry a good selection of English gins as well as gins from other parts of the world. The Chase Gin happens to be one of my favourites, along with the usual Hendricks with a slice of cucumber or rosemary.
For ladies, W1 boasts a range of cocktails so if cocktails rock your boat, they have good happy hour deals. I believe Wednesday is ladies night too and cocktails and house pours go for RM10.
On a whole, W1 Bangsar serves a variety of drinks and good food. You’re not just getting finger food, but a proper meal comprising starters, sharing plates, mains and desserts. Definitely worth checking out if you’re looking for a good place to drink and also eat.
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Ambiance: 6.5/10
Price: 6/10
Food: 7/10 (pork-free)
Verdict: My go-to spot for Scotch egg, fish & chips and good tipples in Bangsar.
W1 Dining & Cocktails
22, Jalan Telawi 2,
59100 Bangsar,
Kuala Lumpur.
Tel: 03-2201 5045
Business hours: 4pm till 12am (Tues-Fri), 12pm till 12am (Sat), 12pm till 9pm (Sun)
*Closed Monday