A delizioso festive 3-course set menu at Kucina, Penang Marriott Hotel
Recently, I dined at several popular restaurants in Penang, only to leave rather disappointed. Despite their Instagram-worthy interiors and bustling dining halls, the food often fell short – mediocre offerings served at steep prices. Even with my trusty mirrorless Nikon in hand, I found no inspiration to photograph the experiences; they simply were not worth capturing.
That evening, craving something truly satisfying, my wife and I headed to Kucina at the 5-star Penang Marriott Hotel. Without a reservation, we arrived early and were fortunate to secure a table. As the night unfolded, I felt grateful for our timing as the restaurant quickly filled up.
Dining at Kucina was a delightful experience – exceptional service, a welcoming atmosphere and Michelin-quality meals that showcased tradition, artistry and passion. My wife and I settled in for a candlelit dinner, selecting the "Festive Chef's Special Menu." I chose the three-course selection at RM128.00 nett, anticipating a memorable meal – and it truly delivered!
This is the first time I am sharing black-and-white photographs in a food review. While vivid colours often highlight a dish’s appeal, this choice reflects on those with colour blindness, who may perceive the world in muted hues or shades of grey. For them, textures, forms and details take on greater significance – elements we might overlook. This perspective challenged me to shift focus and present the meal’s essence beyond colour. I hope these monochrome images inspire a closer look at light, shadow and intricate artistry. After all, how lucky are those who can enjoy life in full technicolour?
Remarkably, these photographs were captured with my Google Pixel phone, proving that even a handheld device can beautifully capture the soul of a meal in an unconventional yet striking manner.
The evening began with a complimentary amuse-bouche: house-cured smoked salmon with sour cream on a crispy sago cracker. The cracker added a delightful textural contrast to the creamy richness of the sour cream and the smoky flavours of the salmon, creating a tantalising prelude to the courses that followed.
Shortly after, freshly grilled house-made focaccia was served alongside olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Stopping at just one piece? Mamma mia, mana boleh... so, of course, I ended up having two.
The first course was a salad of smoked Cherry Valley duck breast, buffalo mozzarella, fresh pear cubes, arugula, macadamia nuts and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. The smoky richness of the duck, combined with the creamy mozzarella and the natural sweetness of the pear, created an interesting interplay of textures and flavours. The slight bitterness of the fresh arugula leaves tied everything together, while the macadamia nuts added some crunch.
Next came the main course – a tender confit duck leg resting atop a bed of creamy mushroom risotto, cooked al dente and infused with truffle. Baby french beans added a fresh, light contrast, while the distinct aromatic truffle jus enriched the dish with its umami flavour. Every element was carefully choreographed and I thoroughly enjoyed this hearty offering, though the duck skin could have been slightly crispier... then Perfetto!
For dessert, I opted for the Barolo wine-poached pear, served with a scoop of pistachio ice cream and a black sesame tuile. The tender, melt-in-your-mouth pear, infused with aromatic spices, was truly sedap-licioso! It evoked the warm, comforting feeling of Christmas and mulled wine, enveloping my senses in a festive embrace. While the presentation was lovely, I felt it could have been even more artistic if the pear half had been sliced and fanned. What truly surprised me, however, was the inclusion of whole black peppercorns – an unexpected addition to poached pear. The little burst of heat it brought was an unexpected twist.
Throughout the evening, the service was attentive and flawless. The team was both professional and friendly, ensuring that every moment of our dining experience was thoroughly enjoyable. Kucina is a restaurant I would happily return to time and again.
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Written and photographed by Adrian Cheah
© All rights reserved
18 December 2024
Kucina at Penang Marriott Hotel
55 Gurney Driver, 10250 Penang, Malaysia
T: +6 04-566 1888
Open daily from 12:00 pm – 2:30 pm, 6:30 pm – 11:30 pm
The set menu changes, so be sure to check in with the restaurant for their latest offerings. You can also pair your meal with a wine selection or explore their list of well-known labels. For anyone seeking an evening of la dolce vita and authentic Italian dining in Penang, Kucina is an excellent choice. Here, the art of slow cooking and the delicate craftsmanship of handmade pasta are celebrated.
On 8 March 2024, Kucina at Penang Marriott Hotel opened its doors, bringing a taste of Italy to the island. The word cucina, meaning "cuisine" or "style of cooking" in Italian, encapsulates the essence of authentic Italian dining at the restaurant. Offering dishes made with fresh, high-quality ingredients, Kucina is set in a rustic décor that mirrors the charm of the Italian countryside. Aquamarine accents complement an amber brick floor, while pale wood furnishings rest beneath attap ceiling features, creating a warm and inviting dining space.