LOFTY GOALS

Tucked away in the vicinity of Subang area that leads to Ara Damansara, you'd find another spanking new mall to trawl. Known as the Citta Strip Mall, this low-rise sprawling complex so far has Harvey Norman as its main tenant while the ground level is dominated by a slew of F&B outlets.

Virgin Mary is a wicked concoction of tomato juice, Tabasco and lemon juice...ideal tonic for a sweltering hot afternoon!

Only time will tell just how many of them would eventually last the distance...but heck, it sure didn't faze coffee chains like PapaRich and Chawan as well as independent eateries like MeatWorks from sprouting branches here.

Joining the fray is 4-month old Gourmandis, a casual lifestyle bistro/restaurant/bar done up in monotones with cafe-style seats clustered in and around the bar. There is also a raised patio that evoke an informal air to the whole set-up.

Soup du jour...this left us guessing if it was cream of cauliflower?

Truth be told, the place has garnered mixed reviews from my acquaintances so I haven't quite put my finger on Gourmandis' exact pulse yet. Having tried the set lunch (it'd set you back about RM20 or so), the food appears a tad too salty for my personal liking but then other diners may beg to differ.

According to executive chef Benhar Amirul, Gourmandis specialises in fusion cuisine; mostly Mod-Oz that's tweaked! to suit local palate. Hence you'd find crowd pleasing offerings such as Paella and Roast Chicken Thigh.

Soft & sticky...the seafood paella has prawns, mussel and fish in it

Keeping it simple...roast chicken thigh with baby potatoes and brown sauce

Since the kitchen team has yet to find their firm footing, Gourmandis probably needs more time before the service and food gel together.

GOURMANDIS, Lot G-46, Citta Strip Mall, No 1 Jalan PJU1A/48, PJU 1A, Ara Damansara, PJ, Selangor