The Tan Yiek: speakeasy

Every country, place or even the universe - has its own best kept secret. Soon Heng Social Club is one of them, amassed their reputation with discreet way of conveying their messages through old, funky, or you can call it mystifying decorations, posters or props on the online platforms.

To be part of their social club member, it will take awhile to apply. Some said it took them a week, some may say a month or even dreadful, some gave up applying (not exaggerating) . The key to success is on the luck, timing and persistence. In fact, right into RMCO phase, I got my approval as soon as they posted up on their reopening.

Yes, mind you - by invitation only.

Classic old school board games, nostalgic poster of a young lad. Kids in the 70's will know.

It was the exotic props - wrapping the patrons back to the old days, bringing em' back the memories as you dine. In fact, some corners are dark with supernatural" elements. Beware.

The bar.

On the left is the Nutmeg Sour (RM 6) and on the right was the Artisan Hawthorn Berry (RM 8). The beverages did brought me back to my humble beginning before stepping into city, however, I realised, both drinks were a little too sweet. Feedback were given after payment.

For appetizer, I had the sharing platter of pork bossam with homemade kimchi, fresh herbs, ginger scallion sauce and sriracha (RM 35). A Korean inspired dish with Soon Heng's local twist especially on the ginger scallion sauce and the herbs used. Overall is a decent dish. It may also be tedious for intimacy dinner date.

For the main course, here's a plate of pan seared fresh market seabass with romesco sauce, grilled zucchini parmesan, lemon & thyme couscous and grilled king oyster mushrooms (RM 45). The best dish on that night, the catch was fresh - perfectly seasoned. Coupled with romesco sauce at the side to give brightness and hint of heat to it.

Another main was the grilled Vietnamese inspired premium pork shoulder chop with sambal matah, lemon & thyme couscous, ulam, grilled king oyster mushroom (RM 42). Portion was huge, worth the bucks, the grilled pork shoulder chop was good with the sambal matah. My only "tiny" complain on this dish was on the amount of sambal matah's raw ingredient superb annoying that it got stuck in between teeth. Damn.

Personal Summary: By reservation-booking only. Space can be a lil' tight for some people. The food might take longer than usual to arrive (appx. 20-30 minutes for appetizer. 45-60 minutes for main course). Price figure on menu might seems absurd but the portion is worth your buck. Food menu changes monthly.