Putien Gurney Paragon Set For Four

Dinner at Putien Gurney Paragon was a well-paced, thoughtfully curated affair. We opted for Set Meal A for four (RM338) - a showcase of Putien’s Fujian roots and culinary finesse.

The meal began with the Braised Homemade Beancurd, a simple yet elegant dish. The beancurd was delicately soft but held its form well, soaked in a savoury braising sauce that added depth without overwhelming its natural flavour.

Next came the Iced Bitter Gourd, a refreshing palate cleanser. Sliced razor-thin and served chilled, it was surprisingly mild, the iciness tempering the bitterness. Dipped in honey, it became an intriguing contrast—cool, crisp, and cleansing.

The Bian Rou Soup was a highlight. It carried a tangy, slightly vinegarish note that made it remarkably appetising. But the real star here is the dumpling—the skin made from hand-pounded pork, an intense labour of love that results in a springy, almost noodle-like wrapper, housing minced pork filling. The texture is unlike any other dumpling—supple yet meaty.

The Deep-Fried Prawns with Cereal felt a little underwhelming in comparison. While the prawns were fresh and well-cooked, they lacked the natural seafood sweetness that would have elevated the dish. A competent execution, but not a standout.

We were fortunate to catch the Sambal Duotou Clams, a seasonal delicacy available only between April and July. These clams, sourced from the coastal Duotou village in Fujian, were plump and flavourful, their sweetness balanced by the mildly spicy sambal.

The Deep-Fried Chicken with Garlic was my favourite dish of the night. The skin was golden and crisp, and the meat within remained juicy—a difficult balance to strike in a fried dish. The generous heap of garlic added an aromatic punch.

The meal ended with the signature Heng Hwa Bee Hoon, Putien’s dependable staple. The vermicelli, made from hand-milled rice flour, is stir-fried with a medley of seafood, vegetables, and peanuts. It’s comforting and consistent, a dish that delivers every time.

There was a dessert too. All in, Set A offers an excellent introduction to Putien’s hallmark dishes, showcasing both technical skill and a reverence for traditional Fujian flavours. A fine choice for those seeking variety and quality in a group setting.