Pearl by P&D is South East Melbourne’s must do for superb culinary ecstacy. – By Trevine Rodrigo in Melbourne.
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The name P&D has a widely respected name for excellence in Sri Lanka cuisine in Melbourne’s South Eastern suburbs barring few.
Their culinary excellence exceeds the now far too numerous eateries in Melbourne where we are spoilt for choice. But there’s always that subtle taste bud challenging difference that singles out the best from the rest.
Our foray into the unknown restaurant in Dandenong West, (to us), compared to the take away outlet in Carlton Road, Dandenong North, drew parallels only in the quality and estatic delivery of delectable Sri Lankan delicacies.
But the Pearl by P&D, the restaurant, is something special for its ambience and magnetic draw that clearly suggests, “we must go back”.
The menu, the exemplary cooking expertise, stretches the boundaries of Sri Lankan craving, taking you on a journey far beyond.
My choice of Garlic and Chillie Prawn Pasta, the others going for different versions of Kotthu Rotti, Pol Rotti, Nasi Goreng, Lamb Shank Kotthu, Rib Eye Steak, Porterhouse Steak, and a wide array of non Sri Lankan fare cooked to perfection, made the initial experience a gastronomic delight and an absolute winner.
This new venue has already drawn sellout crowds according to venue owner Priyanka Dias and his talented head Chef wife. Yet in in its infancy, it promises to be a venue that will challenge the best.
To Anne and I, who have patronised their catering for big occasions at home over the years for their talent in the kitchen and affordability, the only surprise was the extended adventure into the international culinary fare that impressed us very much.
The weekends cannot accommodate the limited capacity venue that can comfortably seat just over a hundred diners from my short conversation with the owners.
A short conversation with the owners revealed plans for a bit more tinkering including live music opposed to piped music now in use, said Priyanka.
With food being the centre focus for diners thronging this currently hard to find, well presented restaurant, the road to discovery is well worth the experience of finally getting there.
Thank you Esric Jackson for initiating this new experience and our core group and backing crew that joined in a new and exciting culinary adventure. Missed Audrey and Breno who were busy celebrating the young man’s birthday. Let’s do it again.
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