Calling all adventurous foodies, you need to eat here!
09/02/2018
A unique culinary experience, Dining in the Dark has been recognised as one of the best restaurants in Kuala Lumpur. As soon as I read about it, I knew I had to experience this gastronomic journey for myself, and booked a table for two.
So, what is Dining in the Dark?
Fine dining with a unique twist. A surprise 4 course meal, served in complete darkness. Take away one sense, and heighten the others. Experience the taste and the textures of your food, without judging the way it looks first.
The concept of the restaurant is to raise awareness about blindness and turn the tables on societies attitudes towards disabilities The visually impaired staff who would normally be at a disadvantage in the outside world, now have the upper hand. Guests must put their faith in their dining guides, as they get a glimpse of their world.
Without the distraction of sight, you can truly enjoy your meal, and the precense of your dining partner. Phones, watches, and all technology must be kept in a locker during the meal. No outside light what so ever.
How does it work?
Upon arrival, you’ll be able to choose your beverage from the drink menu before entering the dark room. The menu is unknown, and it is recommended to let them know of any special requests when you make your reservation. They can accomodation any dietary requirements. You’ll be asked to put your belongings in a locker, and your dinning guide will take you inside.
You’ll be led inside by putting your hands on the guides shoulders and following them to your table. Once you’ve sat down, they will serve your drinks, and explain how to navigate the table, as well as tips and tricks as to best enjoy the experience!
The menu is a surprise, and changes approximately every 4 months. They use local ingredients and food inspired by the region you are in. Once your seated and have your drinks, the delicious food starts coming! Everything is served in dishes that make it easier to eat in the dark. At first you feel silly and awkward (at least no one can see if you spill on yourself! At least until after..) but as the dinner progresses, things become much easier. Our guide recommended us to just close our eyes, as it will help you relax.
After dinner, once you’ve emerged from the dark room and adjusted to the light again, they will give you a piece of paper and a pen and have you guess what you ate during each course. Then they will show you the real menu to see how good your palette is! The whole experience takes approximately 2 hours.
How can you I try this out?
To make reservations, you can easily book on their website. If you book online, you receive a 14% discount, making the price for two 240RM (Malaysian Ringette), which is about $60USD for this unique 4 course dinner for two!
Even though you are in the dark, the restaurant does have a smart/semi-formal dress code. No shorts, singlets, flip-flops, hats or hoodies!
The restaurant is located in Bukit Bintang, the entertainment district of Kuala Lumpur. Go for dinner, and then afterwards hit one of the many bars in the area! Most have happy hours, drink specials, or even free drinks for ladies.
If you are not in Kuala Lumpur anytime soon, don’t worry, there are Dining in the Dark restaurants all over the globe, check it out in a city near you!
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Have you ever tried Dining in the Dark? What did you think? Let me know in the comments!