El Centro Cafe Bar, Kota Kinabalu
1 Aug 2011
El Centro is probably one of the most exciting new café/bars to hit Sabah, with a menu that is affordable, original and very enticing. A fusion mix of Mexican and western with some local dishes thrown in, El Centro caters to expats and locals alike who want something a little different out of their dining experience. El Centro boasts no MSGs, all fresh produce and a strict no smoking policy—however, there are tall bar stools along the window bar for those who wish to sit outside and puff away.
El Centro has become a regular haunt of mine and I have had the chance to sample many dishes from the lunch and dinner menu. If I am just popping in for a glass of wine to meet friends, we will share some of the delicious bar snacks such as the delightfully zesty home-made hummus served with fresh veggies and naan bread. For lunch, a spicy tofu salad with apple ginger dressing is a must try. The hints of ginger and apple combined with the spice from the salad and the generous portion of succulent tofu make for a satisfying and healthy feeling salad. The soft shell tacos, accompanied by sour cream, and spicy beans with brown rice are one of the most popular dishes here, powdery soft tacos, that wrap chargrilled strips of steak, are filled with flavour, the perfect accompaniment is the Margarita, a specialty at El Centro and a must with Mexican food! The desserts at El Centro, all irresistably home-made, will change on a regular basis but the old favourites such as the chocolate brownie and the peach strudel cheesecake will make a reassuring appearance—a quick glance at one of the large blackboards on the walls will give you an indication as to just how much space you will need to leave for dessert!
The ambience of El Centro is another reason why people will come back time and time again. It is somewhere you can go where you won’t feel out of place on your own and equally comfortable in a big group or even on a more personal evening for two. The décor is aptly modern, warm terracotta shades, with tall tables, bar stools and wooden flooring, fans are used instead of piping air conditioning at Icelandic temperatures throughout, which, coupled with the open front actually make it very cool. The atmosphere bubbles and so does the owner, who you will frequently see flitting from table to table, chatting to customers and making people feel like this is home.
Details
Address: Jalan Tun Razak, Kota Kinabalu
Telephone: 08 8251 427
Website: http://elcentro.com.my