Pentos & Basil, Sea Park: A Handmade Pasta Haven with a Hidden Private Room

Pentos & Basil has long been a favourite among pasta lovers in the Klang Valley, and its new branch at Sea Park, Petaling Jaya, is already making waves. Following the success of its Bukit Jalil location, this second outlet promises the same delicious handmade pastas, an extensive alcohol menu, and a cosy, inviting atmosphere. But what truly sets this branch apart is its hidden gem: a private room upstairs that is perfect for hosting intimate gatherings and private events. Here is what I thought of Pentos & Basil over at Sea Park.

Location and Parking

Located at 33, Jalan 21/12, Sea Park, 46300 Petaling Jaya, the restaurant occupies a ground-floor shoplot that is hard to miss. Its location in the bustling neighbourhood of Sea Park means that parking can be a challenge, particularly during peak meal times. As with most popular dining spots in the area, expect to circle a few times to find a spot, especially during lunch and dinner hours. However, the effort is well worth it once you step inside and experience what the restaurant has to offer.

Halal-Friendly Dining

For those concerned about dietary restrictions, Pentos & Basil is generally halal-friendly. There is no pork on the menu, but some dishes do incorporate alcohol, which is clearly labelled. Dishes such as the Vongole, Nero di Seppia, Black Mussels, Asian Clams, Squid Ink Dishes, Duck Confit, and Beef Cheek all contain alcohol. The restaurant also serves alcohol on the premises, so Muslim diners should use their own discretion and check with the team on which dishes to avoid.

Operating Hours

Pentos & Basil Sea Park operates from Monday to Thursday, 12 noon to 3 pm for lunch and 5:30 pm to 10pm for dinner. On weekends and public holidays, the restaurant is open from 12 noon to 10pm without a break. It is worth noting that the restaurant can get quite busy, particularly during dinner time, so making a reservation is highly recommended.

The Secret Private Room

One of the standout features of this branch is the private room located upstairs. This hidden space is perfect for hosting private events, from birthday celebrations to corporate gatherings. The room can accommodate around 16 to 20 people, and the best part is that it costs nothing to book as long as you order more than RM800 worth of food. Given the restaurant's reasonable pricing, this is an achievable target for most groups.

For those interested in booking the private room, reservations are required. You can check out all the links for contact and menu details or make a booking directly on their website. The private room adds a layer of exclusivity to the dining experience, making Pentos & Basil an excellent choice for those looking to host a memorable event.

The Menu and Pricing

What makes Pentos & Basil particularly appealing is the value for money. For an average meal per person, expect to spend around RM50, with the price going up if you opt for alcohol. The portions are generous, and the quality of the ingredients is evident in every dish.

Here is a breakdown of the dishes featured in this review:

• Pentos Signature Salad | RM38

• Spanish Style Sea Prawns | RM32

• Soup of the Day (Mushroom Soup) | RM15

• Gnocchi - Mushroom Ragout | RM37

• Squid Ink & Seafood Risotto | RM39

• Pistachio Raspberry Tart | RM24.50

• Homemade Tiramisu | RM25

• Red Sangria | RM25

• Subtotal | RM235.50

• Service Charge 10% | RM23.55

• SST 6% | RM14.13

• Total | RM273.18

The above is not a typical two-person meal but rather a showcase of the restaurant's highlights. The menu also features a "Top 10 Must Try Dishes" section, making it easy for first-timers to decide what to order. Additionally, the restaurant offers a weekday lunch promotion at RM59 for two people, which includes a starter, a main, two sides, two soups, and a dessert an absolute steal considering the quality and portion sizes.

The Taste Test

The Pentos Signature Salad is a generous platter of crisp greens, avocado, nuts, and a perfectly cooked egg in the middle. The house dressing, made fresh daily, is light and complements the salad beautifully without overpowering it. This is a great dish for sharing, and it is worth noting that it is substantial enough to fill you up even before the main course.

The Spanish Style Sea Prawns were a standout. The prawns were cooked to perfection, and the rich, savoury blend of olive oil infused with thinly sliced garlic, smoky paprika, and dried red chilli flakes made for a delectable dipping sauce. The bread served on the side was the perfect accompaniment, soaking up all the flavourful oil. This dish was arguably one of the highlights of the meal.

The mushroom soup was pleasant but not particularly memorable. It leaned more towards the lighter side, whereas I prefer a creamier, richer version. It is a decent option, but not something I would necessarily order again.

Now onto the mains. The Squid Ink & Seafood Risotto at RM39 is an absolute steal. At this price point, it is rare to find such a generously portioned and well-executed risotto. The rice was cooked to creamy perfection, and the assortment of prawns and mussels was generous. The squid ink added depth to the dish, and the overall flavour was rich and satisfying. For risotto lovers, this is a must-try.

The Gnocchi with Mushroom Ragout was another highlight. The forest mushroom flavour was robust and umami-rich, and the homemade gnocchi was soft, chewy, and comforting. The dish was well-seasoned, and the portion was substantial. It is a close contender with the risotto, but the risotto edges it out slightly though that may just be my personal bias as a risotto enthusiast.

For dessert, the Homemade Tiramisu is a must-order. The aroma is strong, and upon the first bite, you are greeted with a perfect balance of sweetness, roasty coffee notes, and creaminess. It is worth noting that the Tiramisu is currently made without alcohol, but it is still a delightful rendition of the classic dessert.

The Pistachio Raspberry Tart had mixed results. The raspberry flavour was on the stronger side, almost overpowering the other components. I wished that the pistachio flavour came through a bit more. While it is not a bad dessert, it could benefit from a more balanced flavour profile.

The Red Sangria was refreshing and fruity, making it a great pairing with the meal. For those who enjoy a good cocktail, this is a solid choice.

Overall Experience

Pentos & Basil Sea Park is a versatile dining destination suitable for all ages and group sizes. While the ambience and lighting lean towards a romantic date night setting, the restaurant also accommodates families and larger groups comfortably. The private room is a fantastic bonus, adding an extra layer of appeal for those looking to host private events.

The service is attentive, and the staff are knowledgeable about the menu, making recommendations based on your preferences. The restaurant's commitment to quality and value is evident in every aspect of the dining experience, from the generous portions to the reasonable pricing.

Suitable For

Whether you are planning a romantic date night, a hearty family meal, or a gathering with friends, Pentos & Basil Sea Park has something to offer. The private room is perfect for private events, and the restaurant's welcoming atmosphere makes it suitable for diners of all ages.

The Verdict

Pentos & Basil Sea Park is a welcome addition to the Petaling Jaya dining scene. With its delicious handmade pastas, generous portions, and reasonable prices, it is easy to see why this restaurant has become a favourite among locals. The hidden private room is a unique selling point that sets this branch apart from its Bukit Jalil counterpart, making it an excellent choice for both casual dining and special occasions. If you find yourself in the Sea Park area, be sure to stop by and experience what Pentos & Basil has to offer.