A Culinary Adventure at LA FIN: Where Flavors Dance and Presentations Delight!

by SeeFoon Chan-Koppen

Nestled in the heart of Ipoh very close to the Sultan Aslan Shah airport, the gastronomic gem known as LA FIN has managed to captivate both my palate and my senses in ways I never thought possible. Chef and Founder, the young and talented Mr. Dom Ng, has orchestrated a symphony of flavors that is nothing short of enchanting. Allow me to take you on a journey through the culinary wonderland that is LA FIN.

Stepping into LA FIN is like stepping into a minimalist palette, where every dish is a masterpiece and every ingredient a brushstroke. Founder and Chef Dom Ng, a seasoned maestro of the culinary arts, despite his tender age of 26, has trained under the finest establishments including the exclusive St. Regis in Kuala Lumpur and his expertise shines through in every dish he presents.

First, let’s dive into the scrumptious creations that graced our table. The “La Fin Big Breakfast” (RM28) is a playful rendition of a morning classic. The eggs were expertly cooked to perfection, yielding velvety yolks that mingled harmoniously with succulent pork sausages. The addition of baby spinach added a refreshing touch, while the plating was nothing short of artistry in itself.

The “Mushroom Risotto” (RM25) transported me straight to Italy with its robust flavors. Loaded with an abundance of fresh mushrooms and generous shavings of Parmesan cheese, this dish is a labor of love. I opted for the pan-seared chicken topping which added a delightful contrast to the creamy risotto, though the option for a vegetarian version is equally tantalizing.

The “Signature Duck Breast” (RM35) left one of my dining companions hankering for more. Two thick, tender cuts of duck were accompanied by a piquant red wine chocolate sauce that danced on my taste buds. Grilled king mushrooms and seasonal vegetables completed this masterpiece, their flavors weaving together harmoniously.

Next up was the “Seafood Pasta” (RM35), a fusion of flavors that left me utterly enchanted. The squid ink pasta was al dente, and the seafood was a medley of deliciousness. The tomato sauce, infused with red wine, created a symphony of tastes that were nothing short of sublime.

The “Classic Carbonara” (RM20) was a revelation in simplicity. Made with bucatini and homemade bacon, the dish embodied comfort in every bite. The creamy, perfectly balanced sauce (no cream) was a testament to Chef Dom’s mastery.

Ah, the “Pork Chop“ (RM28) – a masterpiece in its own right. Sous vide-cooked to tender perfection, the pork loin was accompanied by a creamy mustard sauce that tingled with tanginess. The pureed sweet potato and braised purple cabbage, along with caramelized apple slices, elevated this dish to ethereal heights.

No culinary journey is complete without a sweet finale, and LA FIN certainly didn’t disappoint. The “Tiramisu” (RM18) was a delicate dance of rich cream and delicate biscuit layers (made ala minute). The “Crème Brulée“ (RM15), with its luscious custard base and perfectly caramelized sugar crust, was a divine indulgence.

To complement these divine creations, LA FIN boasts a selection of specialty coffees, expertly crafted by their trained baristas. The “Waffle Cone Coffee” (RM12), “Sea Salt Latte” (RM12), and “Cinnamon Latte” (RM12) were not just beverages, but works of art that completed the culinary experience. Picture an crispy ice cream cone, the inside lined with dark chocolate, filled with their classic Barista coffee which I sipped while biting off bits of the cone. Broken bits ao a gingery biscuit at the bottom of the glass, to be dipped into the coffee made this heaven in a bite.

Now let’s talk about bacon. The bacon here is home cured by Dom! Thick cut and salted perfectly, I can honestly say this is the BEST bacon I have ever tasted. Just lightly pan fried, every bit is succulent, tender and great for eating just as a snack. At 200g for RM15 (takeaway vacuum packed) I made sure I had enough for my snacking by purchasing 2 packs.

In conclusion, LA FIN is a treasure trove for culinary aficionados seeking an unforgettable dining experience. Chef Dom Ng’s mastery of flavors, combined with his visually appealing plating style, creates a symphony of tastes that lingers long after the meal is done. Each dish is a testament to his passion for the craft, and LA FIN is a true testament to his culinary genius. Don’t miss the chance to embark on this gastronomic adventure – your taste buds will thank you!

As will your pocket.