Establishing itself as a firm favourite amongst locals, Kekou has been dishing up tantalising flavours of the East since opening. Nestled on Bridge Road in “the historic precinct” of Richmond, this Pan Asian restaurant offers a delicious and accessible menu for both dine-in and takeaway, marrying new school flavours and techniques with more traditional recipes.  Add an extensive wine and cocktail list, underpinned by an impressive local craft beer selection, and Kekou really does serve up the goods.

Head chef Oak Kunnalok, originally from Bangkok, Thailand and an alumnus of acclaimed restaurants such as Nobu, Chin Chin and Rice Paper Scissors, has created a contemporary fusion menu that takes traditional favourites next level.  The familiar Asian flavour balance of sweet, sour, salty, spicy is elevated with bold and less familiar flavours that give layers of complexity to its flavour game. A mix of small and larger plates are designed for sharing to experience a range of these flavour sensations.

Kunnalok’s menu is marked by signature dishes including a succulent lobster betel leaf with kerisik, finger lime and miang kum caramel and succulent lamb ribs with coconut gravy, pickled green papaya and chilli oil.  The ribs are braised in coconut stock until melt-in-the-mouth tender, then chargrilled until caramelised and crisp.  The green papaya offers refreshing acidity, and the chilli oil gives that kick of spice, creating the perfect balance.

And that’s just for starters!

Fresh seafood options include locally sourced oysters topped with a refreshing green granita, a drop of makrut lime oil and a decadent garnish of black caviar.  Another signature dish is Kunnalok’s kingfish sashimi with a spicy red nahm jim and sweet coconut gel. Chef’s entire menu is produce driven and a reflection of his long-term relationships with the best growers, farmers and producers Victoria has to offer.

Venue Manager Chad McCarthy has curated a comprehensive wine, beer and cocktail list that works in concert with the cuisine.  The ever-changing wine list features both popular and lesser-known varietals from a range of quality producers.  Inviting you to challenge your palate, step outside your comfort zone and into a realm of vinous deliciousness, the international list is a joy to read.  From Riesling to Pinot Gris to Gruner Veltliner, to a red adventure with a Pinot Noir Shiraz blend, Kekou has something for all tastes.

Riding the current craft wave, and boasting a massive 18 beer taps, Kekou maintains a dedicated focus on craft beer and support for local breweries.  Think The Mill in Collingwood, Hawkers Beer in Reservoir and La Sirène in Alphington amongst many others. Guests can choose from lighter brews like lagers, pale ales and sours, as well as heavier options such as dark beers and stouts, with enough choices to satisfy any beer craving.

If cocktails are your penchant, Kekou gives classics a Southeast Asian twist as a taste of things to come.  Diners and drinkers can choose from the likes of a Pear & Apricot Sidecar; Martell Cognac, Apricot Brandy, Poached Pear & Five Spice, Lemon & Fig. Kekou Royale; Dom Benedictine, Raspberry & Vanilla Cacao topped with Laurent Perrier La Cuvee.

A place for friends and family to come together, Kekou has created a space that is as accommodating as it is memorable. Split across two levels, plus an outdoor space to lounge and linger, Kekou can flexibly cater for different sized groups and is available for private functions upstairs.  An amalgam of numerous architectural influences and cultural references, Kekou’s industrial chic interiors create a warm and welcoming atmosphere, a friendly ambience and a unique dining experience – for all the right reasons.

19 May 2022

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