Slug: avebist For Bangsar Weekly By Clarence Koh Away from the crowded areas of Bangsar, right behind the well-known Bangsar Shopping Centre, lies a new spot for those looking for a place to take their minds off the day's hectic schedule. The Bangsar Avenue officially opened on March 24, is the bistro for relaxation, good food, wine and entertainment. Strategically isolated from the traffic hassle, and with ample parking space, you could rest assured to unwind for the day. "We have about 55 parking lots at the back and another 20 just in front of the bistro," said Jackie Tan, the Manager of Bangsar Avenue. Surrounded by trees and greeneries, the outlet comprises two separate components that operate as one, the lounge and the terrace section. With a capacity for 150 people, the lounge features a bar serving a comprehensive variety of international cocktails, wines, and also coffee. Also featured at the lounge area every night, are live performances by different solo artists. For those seeking for live entertainment and are more into country or R&B music, you are at the right place. The show starts 9pm everyday. Placed nicely at both ends of the lounge are two pool tables for those interested for a friendly challenge. The dartboard also fits nicely at a corner of the lounge. At the terrace section, you could gather with your mates while you enjoy the gentle breeze or even look into the starry night. It is a lively spot to meet and unwind with friends. Besides, you could also enjoy great food in an open-air atmosphere. You would not want to miss the famous Makcik Nasi Lemak Panas Kampung Baru. Being bought over the franchise, Bangsar Avenue now serves the best nasi lemak in Bangsar area. The fragrant nasi lemak is served with large portion of beef, chicken or squid. It is simply hot and irresistible! Priced at RM11 for dining in and RM5 for take-away, the rice is best eaten with the hot and spicy sambal, huge-size ikan bilis, fried kacang, egg and sliced cucumber. For a plain serving, it costs only RM3 for take-away. The satay is also a must-try although the price is a bit steep relatively, at RM14 per dozen. On the house menu are some popular local delights like the Penang fried koay teow, Hokkien mee, Cantonese fried, curry laksa and the kampung style fried rice. All sold at RM8 only. For something light, try one of the finger food. Priced from RM5 to RM10, you can have a choice of chicken wing, deep fried fish cake, crispy spring roll, fried calamari and more. The menu might not be as extensive as you might have thought, but there is always something for you to try out at the bistro. For instance, the Tuna Fussili which is spiral pasta baked with chunky tuna, tomatoes, herbs and topped with cheese, priced at only RM13. "We have a Fun Pub section which is only open upon advance booking. It is for private parties, and as a private discotheque. With 250 seating, customers have ample space for their function," Tan added. The Bangsar Avenue Bistro offers relaxing ambience with great selection of ear-soothing music playing at the background. No matter you are here for a drink, the food or simply the entertainment, it is no doubt a place for you to release stress after a hard day's work. Happy hour starts from 4pm till 9pm daily, with draught beer served at only RM6 per mug or RM19.99 per jug. Ladies night will be on Wednesdays and Saturdays with free house pouring drinks for the ladies. Located at Lot 41274, Jalan Senuduk, Taman Bukit Bandaraya, the Bangsar Avenue opens from 4pm to 2am from Mondays to Thursdays, and extends to 3am on Fridays and Saturdays. It is close on Sundays. For inquiries or reservations, call 03-253 1363 or 03-253 1178. Pix Caption: 1. Amidst the greens with ample parking space is the Bangsar Avenue Bistro. 2. Bangsar Avenue...the place for a drink, a game and lots of enjoyment. 3. The famous Makcik Kampung Baru Nasi Lemak is now served at the Bangsar Avenue!