Laveda Charles checks out an Ultraman-themed restaurant in Damansara
I HAVE a vague recollection of watching some episodes of Ultraman some years back. Though not a fan of the Japanese superhero, I am amused with the idea of an Ultraman-themed restaurant setting up in Glo Damansara.
Why Malaysia? Apparently, according to a survey, Malaysia has the highest number of fans.
Guests get to have their own Ultra space (Nebula Planet M78) in the restaurant.
According to the TV series, it is a place called home where they can recharge and rejuvenate.
It is an interesting concept. There is also a merchandise store selling a variety of limited edition toys, gadgets, stationery, T-shirts, among other items within the restaurant.
Besides the themed restaurant, there is the Ultraheroes Cafe (express counter) for takeaways. The food at the express counter has a lower price range compared to the restaurant.
During weekends, this restaurant is packed with some of Ultraman’s biggest fans, both adults and kids alike. The appearances of Ultraman mascots on Sundays and public holidays also help to draw the crowd. The characters changes every few months but the most popular appearances are by Ultramen Ginga and Ultramen Tiga.
I love how despite being a themed restaurant, the decor is simple with semi-circled white sofas and chairs with tasteful touches of red to represent the prevalent Ultraman colour.
You will find framed silhouettes of Ultraman and other characters on the walls.
There is also a VIP room for functions or business meetings, with all the necessary equipment. Value lunches and dinner sets are available. For some of the “themed food” dishes (which have the Ultraman emblem or the monsters), diners are entitled to a limited-edition coaster per dish.
ULTRAMAN-THEMED DISHES
There are a few Western and Japanese signature dishes that are worth the try.
Top on my list is the Ultraman Tiga Burger which consists of a grilled Japanese-influenced teriyaki chicken.
The sweet, sour and salty chicken is absolutely tender and flavoursome. The taste is further enhanced by spring onions, cheese, mixed salad and fries. You should also check out the Dark Baltan Burger, which has soft-shelled crabs.
I am told that the children’s set is also popular among the adults. Choose between the Ultra Kids chicken or a fried fish fillet burger which comes with sides of fruits, a bottle of yogurt drink, vegetables and fried pumpkin mash, It comes with a free Ultraman sticker.
The Japanese curry rice is also popular. The rice is flavoured with sesame and seaweed and designed as an Ultraman head.
The rice is accompanied by creamy and mild Japanese curry with eight slices of deep-fried chicken pieces. It is nicely seasoned but I would prefer it to be spicier. You can also opt for deep-fried shrimp instead of chicken. Otherwise, try the bento sets that include salmon and unagi.
To finish off your meal, try some of the signature flavoured coffee. I tried the Ultraman Ginga Bluesky which has a tinge of lemon and mint taste. Damansara, Kuala Lumpur
TEL: 03-2856 7404
HOURS 10am-10.30pm daily
FOOD Themed Japanese and Western cuisine
PICK Burger Ginga
PAY RM20-RM40 per dish
MOOD Pretty calm and exciting with all the themed dishes.
SERVICE Fast and friendly
I SAY…OK, why not?
Pictures by Laveda Charles