Mad Cow Wine & Grill at Pullman Bandung Grand Central boasts a sophisticated interior characterized by black and dark wooden accents, creating a warm and intimate atmosphere. The dim lighting enhances the sense of tranquility, making it a quiet retreat for diners. It’s the kind of place that invites you to relax and fully savor your experience.
The open kitchen adds a lively touch, letting us watch the chefs work their magic. The anticipation built as we saw the chefs skillfully prepare our dishes using the Josper Basque Grill; a charcoal oven that combines traditional grilling techniques with high heat for optimal flavors. What's particularly unique is the use of kayu rambutan and apple wood, giving the meat a distinct smoky aroma. This cooking technique ensures a beautiful balance of smoky depth and juicy tenderness in the grilled items.
When the chef's top picks finally arrived, we were immediately impressed by both the presentation and the generous portions. Chef Suhendro Harianto, the Head Chef of Mad Cow & Akasa, personally introduced each dish, guiding us on how to best savor them. The smoky aroma from the grill hit us first, lingering in the air and heightening our anticipation.
Let’s dive into the best dishes we tried:
We started with a Burrata Salad, which was an extraordinary way to kick things off. The soft, creamy burrata paired beautifully with fresh vegetables, ripe tomatoes, and a light olive oil dressing. It was a perfect appetizer to lead into the more hearty grilled dishes that were coming.
Another standout appetizer was Maddie’s Bone Marrow. Two pieces of beef bone marrow were served, soft and meltingly tender, yet still a delightful surprise. Topped with herbs and cheese, the bone marrow had a perfect balance of flavors, enhanced by the smoky aroma from the roasting process. Served with a side of Norlander toast, it was clear the chefs had mastered this dish.
Then came the star of the evening: the grilled items. First up was the T-Bone, a USDA Prime Grain Fed Black Angus, weighing in at a generous 500 grams and grilled to a perfect medium. A sprinkle of flaky sea salt enhanced the steak's natural taste, adding a delightful crunch and bringing out its savory qualities. We paired it with two sauces: the chimichurri, which provided a zesty and vibrant flavor, and the mushroom sauce, a rich and creamy accompaniment that added warmth to the dish. Each sauce brought its own distinct character, appealing to a variety of palates.
Next, the Grilled Bamboo Lobster Thermidor made its grand entrance. Cooked to perfection, the lobster’s natural sweetness was enhanced by the smoky flavors from the grill. Topped with a mustard and cheese crust, the lobster was both indulgent and satisfying. To make it even more decadent, we paired the lobster with the bearnaise sauce, a rich and velvety addition that brought out the delicate flavors of the seafood.
Pairing these grilled dishes with the right wine elevates the entire dining experience. Mad Cow Wine & Grill offers an impressive wine selection, thoughtfully curated to complement their signature meals. Whether it's a bold red or white wine, a refreshing rose, or sparkling wine, there's something for every dish and palate. Among their distinguished labels are Montes Alpha, Tarapaca, and Te Mata Estate, all known for their exceptional quality.
The side dishes were also noteworthy. We especially enjoyed the creamy spinach and baked potato, both of which perfectly complemented the rich flavors of the main courses. Though we were satisfied, we couldn’t resist dessert.
The Basque Burnt Cheesecake, served New York-style and topped with ice cream, was rich, creamy, and slightly caramelized. It wasn’t overly sweet, allowing the creaminess and mild savoriness of the cheese to take center stage.
Finally, we ended with the Molten Chocolate Lava Cake, and it was nothing short of spectacular. As soon as we cut into it, the warm, gooey center oozed out like molten lava, contrasting perfectly with the soft outer layer. The dark chocolate flavor was intense, with a bittersweet richness that made it a personal favorite.
In a nutshell, Mad Cow Wine & Grill is a culinary gem that promises an unforgettable dining experience. The unique grilling techniques—using wood-fired grills like Josper Basque Grill—infuse the dishes with a smoky aroma that sets this restaurant apart. With its expertly grilled dishes and an impressive wine selection to elevate your meal, it's a destination worth savoring. The breathtaking panoramic views of the city, particularly the iconic Gedung Sate, enhance the dining experience, making each moment even more memorable. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a delightful evening out, this restaurant will surely leave you wanting more.
Mad Cow Wine & Grill
Jl. Diponegoro No.27, Bandung
P: (022) 86038888
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