Tanburi
WHERE TANDOORI TRADITION MEETS MODERN CREATIVITY IN THE HEART OF KL
Tanburi is a dynamic, new casual dining concept located on the ground floor of Hyatt Centric City Centre Kuala Lumpur, designed to capture the city’s appetite for bold, approachable flavors. At its heart, the restaurant blends the rich tandoori traditions of South Asia with contemporary culinary creativity, reimagining classics in inventive formats.
The menu surprises with dishes like donburi- styled rice bowls layered with smoky meats and vibrant toppings, or the playful “Nanini,” a naan sandwich that marries familiar street food comfort with modern presentation.
The opening of Tanburi alongside other concepts within the hotel, reflects Hyatt Centric’s ambition to reshape everyday dining in Kuala Lumpur with offerings that are exciting yet accessible. Tanburi, however, stands out for its strong identity and focus on the fire-driven craft of tandoori cooking.
Stepping into the restaurant, your attention is immediately drawn to the open kitchen where three custom tandoori charcoal ovens take center stage. Their glowing embers, flickering flames, and the gentle hiss of marinated meats hitting the searing heat, create a sensory theatre that sets the tone for the meal. The smoke and heat from these ovens are not incidental, they are the soul of the cuisine, imparting the signature char and irresistible aroma that make tandoori dishes so distinctive. Here, coconut charcoal is used with intention, enhancing the food with a gentle smokiness and a rounded depth that complements the spices without overpowering them.
The setting itself mirrors the philosophy of balance that defines Tanburi, seamlessly blending tradition with modernity. The decor is bright and contemporary, anchored by clean lines and warm lighting that creates a sense of ease.
Greenery is thoughtfully woven throughout the space, with potted plants and natural accents softening the edges of the modern design and adding a touch of organic vitality.
This interplay between sleek finishes and earthy details gives the restaurant a personality that feels current and timeless.
The menu is playful and approachable. For breakfast, served from about 7am to 11am, there are items like Nasi Lemak Pandan with Tandoori Chicken, Breakfast Nanini, and all-day Roti Canai. Prices here are very reasonable, with some items starting from about RM 12.
For lunch or dinner the donburi-styled rice bowls are a standout. One example is a bowl of basmati rice topped with tandoor-cooked lamb, slices of eggplant, pomegranate seeds, and a coriander garlic sauce, a mashup of textures and flavours that balances the smoky, tangy, and fresh. There are also tandoori platters, Nanini (a sandwich using naan in panini style preparation), artisan naan breads, and other side dishes.
Drinks and accompaniments hold their own. Expect familiar favorites like Masala Chai, Mango Lassi, and Pandan Teh Tarik, as well as a wider selection, including juices, soft drinks, coffee, and even beers and wines. For dessert, there’s soft serve ice cream in flavors like Mango, Coconut, or tropical blends. These lighter sweets provide a nice finish without being overly heavy.
What works well at Tanburi is how it balances innovation with comfort. Innovation is seen in the way they reinterpret tandoori and Indian classics, such as the don-styled bowls and the Nanini, while comfort comes from staples that feel familiar, like roti canai and nasi lemak, but presented with elevated touches. The pricing, especially for breakfast and casual meals, makes it accessible for many, while still delivering on flavor and presentation.
Some minor observations are that occasionally the spice levels could be more balanced depending on the dish, and with such varied styles, from Indian classics to donburi to sandwiches, consistency is key. There are reports that some items shine more than others. Overall the kitchen seems confident. The casual vibe makes it equally suitable for solo meals or relaxed dinners with friends.