During our stay at The Courtyard Hotel Penang, my companions and I had the pleasure of enjoying a truly exceptional dining experience at The Gin Library, which is situated within the renowned Courtyard By Marriott Penang. The Gin Library has gained a reputation for its expertly crafted cocktails and its impressive selection of premium gins, but we were in for an extra treat on this particular evening.
We were thrilled to discover that The Gin Library had teamed up with Ostréa Oyster and Caviar Bar to offer a seafood feast that would satisfy even the most discerning of palates. The combination of fresh caviar, expertly shucked oysters, and a selection of other delectable seafood offerings made for a culinary journey that left a lasting impression on us.
THE FOOD
SMALL PLATES
Scallop Pate ( RM 40)
The Scallop Pate at this restaurant is a true culinary delight that we highly recommend. Priced at RM 40, this dish is a must-try for anyone who loves seafood and enjoys a rich, flavorful pate.
One of the things that make this Scallop Pate so exceptional is the way it is prepared. The chefs use only the freshest scallops to create a smooth, creamy puree that is the foundation of the dish. The scallop puree is then paired with a roasted cashew cream that adds a nutty, slightly sweet flavor to the dish. To top it all off, the Scallop Pate is served with a fragrant and delicious basil pesto that perfectly complements the other flavors on the plate.
When you take a bite of this Scallop Pate, you’ll experience a complete indulgence for your taste buds. The flavors are perfectly balanced, with the richness of the scallop puree balanced out by the lighter, slightly sweet cashew cream. The basil pesto adds a fresh, herbaceous note that ties everything together, making each bite a true delight.
Seafood Themidor (RM 40)
The Seafood Themidor at this restaurant is a true standout dish that we highly recommend. Packed with a generous portion of seafood, this dish is sure to delight anyone who loves seafood and enjoys a rich, indulgent meal.
The Seafood Themidor features a delightful combination of squid, smoked mussels, scallops, prawns, mozzarella, and smoked paprika. Each ingredient is carefully selected for its quality and flavor, and the result is a dish that is bursting with flavor and texture.
One of the things that makes this Seafood Themidor so exceptional is the way the seafood is cooked. The squid, scallops, and prawns are perfectly cooked, tender and juicy with just the right amount of bite. The smoked mussels add a depth of flavor that is unique and delicious, while the mozzarella provides a rich, creamy note that ties everything together. The smoked paprika adds a hint of smokiness that perfectly complements the seafood and brings all the flavors together.
SNACKS
Popcorn Chicken
The Popcorn Chicken at this restaurant is a tasty and addictive treat that is sure to satisfy your cravings for a crispy, flavorful snack. The chicken is well deep-fried to a perfect golden yellow, making it crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside.
One of the things that makes this Popcorn Chicken so irresistible is the quality of the chicken used. The chefs use only the freshest and highest quality chicken, ensuring that each bite is flavorful and delicious. The chicken is also expertly seasoned, with a perfect blend of herbs and spices that make it simply irresistible.
MAINS
Mac & Cheese (RM 48)
The mac and cheese, is proved to be a standout dish. This dish was not only a delicious comfort food classic, but also demonstrated the chef’s creative use of ingredients.
The mac and cheese featured a rich, creamy sauce that was perfectly balanced with a combination of sautéed leeks, air-dried beef, provolone cheese, and cheddar jack cheese. The sautéed leeks added a savory depth of flavor to the dish, while the air-dried beef provided a contrasting texture and a hint of smokiness. The provolone and cheddar jack cheeses blended seamlessly to create a bold, tangy flavor that complemented the creaminess of the sauce.
The Squid Ink Risotto
The Squid Ink Risotto is an exquisite dish that showcases the chef’s expertise in combining flavors and textures. The velvety, creamy risotto has a distinct, briny taste that comes from the squid ink, which also gives it a striking black color. The dish is then topped with three different preparations of squid – grilled, fried, and braised – each bringing a different texture and flavor to the plate.
The heirloom tomatoes add a burst of freshness, while the aged cheddar provides a sharp, tangy note that complements the seafood perfectly. The dish is completed with crispy pumpernickel crackers that add a crunchy contrast to the softness of the risotto. Overall, the Squid Ink Risotto is a work of art that not only looks impressive but also tastes exceptional.
OVERALL
If you are in search of an unforgettable dining experience with a breathtaking view, look no further than Ostrea at The Courtyard Penang. This establishment is a must-visit for anyone seeking an exquisite culinary adventure accompanied by stunning vistas.
Address:
218D, Jalan Macalister, George Town, 10400 George Town, Pulau Pinang
Phone: 04-297 2300