Restaurant review: Chilli Fagara

Chilli Fagara may need no introduction. However there may be some who have yet to visit (it was my first time) and want a bit of an introduction.

Founded in 2005, it’s built a steady, loyal clientele who love it’s high quality, homey-yet-sophisticated cooking (been a Michelin-recommended spot for years!). The restaurant was founded by Chef Chan who is still, at 70+, heavily involved creating new recipes regularly. It very much remains a foodie family business.

So whether you’re new to Chilli Fagara or have loved it for years, they’ve launched some new lamb dishes for spring to tempt your appetite.

Our meal started strong with the cumin lamb skewers ($178). These were perfect - tender chunks with a roasted crust.

The skin of the little lamb dumplings ($98 for 6) were a little soft for my liking but the filling was nice and fragrant.

But the sizzling plate of lamb slices with Chinese leeks and garlic soy sauce ($148) may have been my favourite of them all. It’s a homey dish - in presentation and taste - that really hit the spot. In today’s unpredictable times, it’s nice to have some comfort food isn’t it? This and a bowl of rice would be a perfect meal for one.

In addition to the lamb dishes, we also had some tried-and-true favourites.

The honey garlic spare ribs ($138) came out piping hot and were the perfect mix of sticky and crunchy.

The mapo tofu ($108) was mildly spiced, a nice one to pair with the black truffle-infused spicy fried rice ($138) which is one of the best bowls of fried rice I’ve ever had. Great chewy texture and quick a kick!

And the homestyle shredded potatoes ($108) came with scrambled eggs, a unique twist.

Verdict

Chilli Fagara is an easy restaurant to love. It feels like a hidden gem, a classic hole-in-the-wall secret... but one that is soon to be a tried-and-true favourite. There are plenty of non-spicy or mild dishes so this would be a good choice if your partner or group has varied spice tolerance.

7 Old Bailey St, Central, 2796 6866