For our midday break, we chose to dine at Yarl, a Sri Lankan restaurant located in Taman Tun Dr. Ismail (TTDI). This establishment has progressively gained prominence and is now widely recognized for its Ceylonese cuisine. With its relaxed ambiance and genuine culinary offerings, it’s no surprise that they have amassed a dedicated following over the years.
I have been a long-time patron of this establishment, visiting at least once a week. However, a series of negative incidents in 2021 disrupted this frequency, including instances of subpar customer service that left a lasting impression. Several years later, I have returned to find that the establishment has significantly improved. Consistently good customer service and delicious food have prompted me to forgive past grievances and become a regular once again.
As is customary at all of their Yarl establishments, this particular location also featured tranquil grey walls adorned with photographs of Sri Lanka and its people. The customer service was good, as we were promptly attended to within minutes of our arrival.
During our visit at midday, the mixed rice option was available for lunch. This daily offering, available between 11:30 am and 3 pm, presents a variety of dishes including meats and vegetables for customers to select from. One will certainly be spoilt for choice here.
Menu
We had a delectable and satisfying feast at Yarl.
Lunch Mix Rice
The meal comprising rice with rasam and gravy/curry is priced at RM 4. Customers have the option to select a variety of vegetables from the available selection, with each portion costing RM 3. In our case, we opted for a combination of fried bittergourd, leeks, long beans, spinach, potatoes, and cucumber in yogurt. So, essentially, a plate of rice with three vegetables, rasam, and curry costs RM 13, a price which I considered to be quite affordable, especially considering the affluent area in which the restaurant is located.
Mutton Parathal, RM 10, Chicken Parathal, RM 6
Each individual portion of meat weighs 120 grams to ensure consistency in serving size for every customer. Both types of meat were flavorful and complemented the rice and vegetables well; however, I gravitated towards the mutton. It was tender, juicy, and its taste was tantalizing.
Fried Chicken, RM 12, Fried Tenggiri, RM 19
The two items were fresh off the stove. At the mixed rice section, one can also see uncooked, marinated meat on display. After selecting the desired meat, it will be fried and served hot. In my opinion, this is the best way to eat fried meat. It enhances the flavor, creating a crispy, crunchy outer layer that is quite appealing. The flavors were perfectly balanced, making it enjoyable to eat.
Sri Lankan Crab Meat Curry, RM 85
If you have a liking for crab meat, you will find satisfaction in this dish. Served declawed, eating it was a breeze as it do not come with the messiness that usually accompanies this particular meat. The dish features an ample portion of crab meat in a rich, flavorful gravy.
Kothu Chicken String Hoppers, RM 15
This dish can be considered the Sri Lankan equivalent of fried mee hoon and is one of my favorite dinner options here. It consists of a generous serving of string hoppers (idiyappam), boneless chicken, and more. If you are seeking an alternative to rice for a satisfying meal, this could be the ideal choice.
Mango Lassi, RM 11, Hot Nallens Bru Coffee, RM 5.90
The Mango Lassi was refreshing. It had a somewhat thick consistency and a good balance of sweetness complemented by subtle hints of sourness. The Bru Coffee was served according to my preference – extra strong and less sweet. It was awesome..
Overall, my visit to Yarl was quite pleasant. I would not hesitate to return for another visit in the future.
Address: 46, Jalan Tun Mohd. Fuad 1, Taman Tun Dr. Ismail, Kuala Lumpur.
Opening hours: Everyday. 8 am to 10 pm.
Signing out now, Ciao.
