LOCATIONThe Terrace at Cockle Bay Wharf.
PROFILED BY DE GROOTS MEDIAHow would you like to have dinner with Buddha? Well, perhaps not the real deal, but a pretty impressive larger-than-life stone statue of him. If that sounds like a treat follow the crowds, and the smell of incense, to Chinta Ria Temple of Love. Modelled after a Malaysian temple, from the outside this distinctive restaurant looks like it’s been blasted from an Asian tale into the heart of the shining tourist hub of Darling Harbour. Once you’re inside and seated in a bright chair around one of the many cafe-style tables this perception changes a little. A buddha of truly magnanimous proportions does preside over dinner – a satisfied grin on his face – and there is incense and some exotic decor elements to remind you that you are somewhere special, but the menu is modern and the space is filled with loud, undeniably 21st century, banter.
Speaking of food, despite its historical-looking residence Chinta Ria’s cuisine is a punchy mix of modern Malaysian and Asian. However what the restaurant lacks in tradition, it makes up in flavour. The generous menu swings from entrees into noodle, rice, seafood, meat, poultry, soup and vegetable dishes and lands even the fussiest diners in a state of harmony. The “red temple chicken” – a roulade of chicken in a coconut sauce – is a popular choice, although lovers of spice may prefer to go for one of the laksas. Indecisive types are advised to try the creamy chicken curry or the tasty nasi goreng. A decent – though not overwhelming – drinks list offers a selection of wine, beer and soft drinks. And when it’s time for dessert there’s no going past the taro pudding – nothing caps off a love-filled evening quite like pearls of sago, coconut cream and a drizzling of palm sugar.
Agnes Gajewska