Exceptional is how I would describe the Gantry in one word.
In particular, the service was outstanding. The Gantry is located in the Pier One hotel. The 5 star hotel delivered top knotch 5 star service at the Gantry and throughout the hotel (I find that some 5 star / hatted restaurants do not quite deliver on the service front - but not with the Gantry!).
After taking a leisurely stroll along the harbour on Walsh Bay, my dining partner and I arrived at the steps of the Pier One hotel for lunch. They say first impressions count, and I was wowed. We were greeted with friendly, genuine smiles upon arriving at the steps to the hotel, from the bell boys outside, door staff, conceirge and reception. The reception staff guided us to the restaurant.
The hotel and restaurant are new, shieke, and have a vibe of understated luxury. The bathrooms even had a couch and a framed, wide floor to ceiling mirror!
The restaurant staff were just as friendly, and extremely attentive and polite. We were sat right next to the harbour on a table on the outside section of the restaurant (on the wharf) straight away.
Our waitress was lovely. No request was too much - from asking for a cocktail list when the bar was not open, to requesting the sun-shade to be raised up so that we could get a better view of the harbour.
The food and drinks were outstanding - especially the mains! We had:
- Salmon gravlax and grapefruit entree - extremely fresh, clean taste. I'm salivating thinking about this dish. The novelty of the dish was that the grapefruit was the same colour as the salmon so you wouldn't know if you had a piece of fish or grapefruit until you eat it or inspect it closely.
- Scallops (one with coconut and lemongrass, one with ginger and soy sauce) - average.
- Grilled garlic butter prawns - average.
- Fish and chips main - the BEST fish and chips I've ever had, hands down. My dining partner had the same thought. The fish was very fresh, perfectly cooked, the batter was crispy and airy at the same time. The chips were fat, a little bit like potato wedges, and were seasoned just the right amount. The crisp on the chip was just right.
I'd given up all hopes in finding fish and chips I actually like - and to my surprise, I found it when I wasn't looking for it! People say that certain beachside kiosks / cafes have the best fish and chips and I've been disappointed every time. Now this truly is the best fish and chips I've ever had!!!
- Duck breast steak main - juicy, tender duck, and the vegetables, seasoning and sauce made the dish taste delicious.
- Sourdough bread with butter - good, but not amazing.
Unfortunately, we didn't leave enough room for dessert.
Prices are very reasonable considering the location, service, quality of food and ambience.
We were so impressed by the Gantry that my dining partner promised a return trip on the spot!
This is definitely somewhere I could go again and again. read more