Bangoya at Jaya One: Restaurant Review

With a tantalizing tagline that promises “Grilling Under The Stars,” Bangoya opened this month in Jaya One, revealing itself to be an alfresco izakaya on an atmospheric rooftop meant to evoke a sake-garden setting.

Kushiyaki skewer-grilled and Yakiniku barbecued meat represent the terrific temptations of Bangoya, which supposedly translates into “night hut,” run by the masterminds behind Kissaten. Snatch a seat at a recycled pallet table and let the evening heat up, though heaven knows what’ll happen if it rains.

Meat Sticks

Plenty to order (but be patient while waiting): RM4++ sticks of chicken liver, bishop’s nose, gizzard, wings, skin and meatballs, salted or teriyaki-style …

… plus pork belly and prawns, all irreproachably prepared.

DIY Grilling

For folks prepared to sweat it out, the DIY charcoal-stove selection is value for money.

We over-ordered in our enthusiasm: Pork belly, ribs and miso-marinated meat (RM10++ each) …

… plus lamb (RM15++), beef brisket (RM20++), tongue (RM18++) and Aussie sirloin (RM18++), as well as squid (RM20++), shishamo (RM3++) and corn (RM5++).

The fun wanes after five minutes of intensive labor, though the meat’s beautifully flavorsome.

Motsu Nikomi

Love the Motsu Nikomi (RM10++), a big bowl of intestines, tripe and other glorious inner goodness.

Halibut Teriyaki

Also delicious: Halibut teriyaki (RM10++), tasting closer to cod fish than usual.

Veggies

With great protein comes great responsibility to consume veggies: Heaps of fiber in the cucumber, bitter gourd, onion and cabbage salads, plus helpings of Hiyayakko tofu and edamame.

Cute Cocktails

Bangoya’s cocktails are cute, but more pretty than potent for RM15-RM18++.

Minty lime shochu, kiwi shochu, orange juice ume and lemongrass lime sake.

All in all, a good set-up for folks who enjoy outdoor eating. Could become one of Jaya One’s biggest attractions in ages.

No Desserts

Bangoya serves no desserts, but no worries: Take the elevator down to The Bee, which might still have stocks of recent limited-edition ice cream flavors by The Last Polka, including the Kuah Jenhan peanut butter and jelly flavor with brownie chunks and Wonderland caramel base with walnuts and black pepper brittles.