As two 30+ millennials who were meeting for dinner one night, the requirement was a pretty place that did not play loud music so you could hear one another, cocktails that made you feel like you were finally drinking according to your age, and food that just hit the spot. Muro ticked off all that and more. It was a perfect 10/10 that two weeks later, it was our spot to celebrate a friend's birthday.
Located bang in the centre of town on Museum Road, Muro is a social club that you might miss out on when you're walking down (or up to) from loud and energetic Church Street. It doesn't scream for attention with the beautiful outdoor seating covering up what's inside. Sofas, comfortable seating, and soft, warm lighting are boosted by the wooden detailing. The bar takes centre stage with a spiral wooden staircase on the side that leads to the floor with booths and private lounges. On both occasions we were at Muro, we sat downstairs where the vibe was lively without being boisterous – on one occasion, we had someone celebrate their 50th across the room and the only thing we could hear was a loud cheer of 'happy birthday'.
While we were browsing through the food menu, mixologist Shankar brought us a slightly unassuming drink with what from a distance felt like black cotton candy topping but was steel wool that he lit up for an 'Oooh' moment. It somewhat explains the name of the cocktail – Heat Of The Moment. The actual heat of this delightfully punchy tequila-based drink comes from the Naga chilli that this writer's friend, who happens to be from Nagaland, quite enjoyed. Plus, the lacto-fermented guava added depth. Another cocktail that comes recommended from the Muro Musings section is the gin-based The Good Apple which has a tart floral flavour brought on by yuzu, green apple, and jasmine.
While drinks were being sipped, our first round of food arrived – Crispy Sweet & Sour Lamb, Penang Prawn, and the Barbeque Pork Bao. The largely Thai menu features plenty of small plates which we appreciated because nothing like ordering almost everything from the menu. The prawn was a hit with us mopping off the Penang curry with our fingers and whatever was left of the bao. We happened to be around when the founders were too and Amrit, who also runs The Druid Dragon, recommended we ought to try the Thai Crispy Pork salad and try we did. And glad we did so, too. It's already a staple cause what's not to like crispy pork belly pieces in a medley of tomatoes and mango with a sharp lemony dressing? For mains, we went for the Thai-style grilled Barbeque Pork Skewers that just hit the right spot. We'd order it again with eyes closed.
We're heading back to explore the menu further because the friends want to order Corpse Reviver No. 4.
