Positano Risto – Muslim-friendly, Alcohol-free Italian Restaurant in Publika
Words: Caroline Lai
Photos: Han Sen Hau
Tucked away at the corner of Publika’s lush, green courtyard, Positano Risto feels welcoming with its leafy entrance. As a Muslim-friendly and alcohol-free Italian restaurant, it’s a distinctly different option in the Klang Valley, where many establishments may skip pork but still serve alcohol. I was curious to see if Positano Risto would rise to the challenge.
During our visit, we met Haji Muhammad Imran, the humble and charismatic Muslim co-owner. With no prior experience in the F&B industry, Imran’s passion for creating a Muslim-friendly dining destination was ignited after his pilgrimage to Hajj. He returned with a strong desire to serve his community by offering something rare – an authentic alcohol-free, halal-ingredient Italian dining experience.
With the first Positano Risto opened in Singapore in 2017, it made its way quickly to Malaysia just a year later. However, in recent months, Imran brought in new blood, Italian chef Roberto Mancini. With over 30 years of experience across Asia, Chef Mancini has held prestigious positions such as Group Executive Chef at the Grand Hyatt Tokyo and the Intercontinental Shanghai (to name but a few). His expertise is key to bringing Imran’s vision of expanding Positano Risto globally to life. While international plans are on the horizon, Imran’s immediate focus is expanding locally, with a second outlet in the Klang Valley already in the works – though details are still under wraps.
Drinks Menu
We started our meal with a colourful selection of drinks. The Azurro (RM18.95), with its vibrant blue hue inspired by the waters of Positano, made for a sweet and refreshing start. There’s an array of smoothies for those in the mood for something more fruity. We chose the Mango Tango (RM14.95) and Berries Blush (RM20.95), both thick, creamy, and bursting with fruity yoghurt goodness. But my fave was The Ferrero Rocher (RM34.95) – a rich, decadent treat that tastes exactly as indulgent as it sounds – though be warned, it’s so filling that it could easily double as dessert!
Positano Risto Menu & Prices
To begin, we shared the Selezione Di Bruschette (RM38.95), an excellent appetiser to kick things off. This dish combines Positano’s homemade focaccia with a different topping on each bite: Sicilian-style eggplant, spiced prawns, and a velvety chicken liver pâté.
The signature La Stella (RM68.95) is a must-try, Positano’s iconic eight-point star-shaped pizza. It’s loaded with all the classic favourites like pepperoni, turkey ham, arugula, mozzarella, and fresh burrata on a sourdough-stuffed crust. The crust has a light crunch on the outside and a chewy, satisfying texture within – it’s both good-looking and good-tasting.
One of our top picks is the Gnocchi Ai Quattro Formaggi (RM36.95), light potato dumplings in a luscious four-cheese sauce made with Gorgonzola, Pecorino, Provolone, and Grana Padano. It’s rich but not overpowering.
For seafood lovers, the Spaghetti Al Nero Di Seppia (RM48.95) is a must. This squid ink spaghetti, cooked al dente, comes packed with a generous serving of tiger prawns, squid, clams, mussels, and scallops. Tossed in a spiced seasoning with cherry tomatoes and parsley, the heat level is moderate with just the right kick.
I always order risotto in Italian restaurants, and the Risotto Ai Funghi (RM42.95) offers a tasty meat-free pick. It features 175 grams of slow-cooked truffle Arborio rice mixed with wild mushrooms and Italian herbs and topped with crisp Parmesan chips. The creamy texture and earthy flavours were delicately balanced with a nice sharp crunch from the cheese.
The Salmon Al Forno (RM64.95) is a filling choice as a main. The Norwegian salmon trout fillet is oven-baked with a tender, pink centre. It is served with a smooth potato mash and sautéed vegetables, brought together by a rich sauce made from salmon oil, tomato, and cream.
For dessert, we were treated to a lovely table-side presentation of Positano’s Tiramisu (RM32.95). This deconstructed take on the classic Italian dessert was assembled before us using coffee-soaked ladyfingers, alcohol-free zabaione, meringue, a drizzle of espresso reduction sauce, and a sprinkling of dark chocolate shavings. The experience brought a theatrical ending to our meal.
Reasons to visit Positano Risto: Muslim-friendly Italian cuisine; lovely green courtyard that is just right in the evenings and a covered patio with fans for warm afternoons; must try la stella pizza, the four-cheese gnocchi and Positano’s signature tableside-prepared tiramisu.
Positano Risto, Publika
Block C1, Lot 2, Level G3, Publika Shopping Gallery
No. 1, Jln Dutamas 1, Solaris Dutamas
50480 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Link to Positano Risto Publika on Google Maps
@positanoristo_publika
+6010 400 6944
[email protected]
http://positanoristo.com.my
*Muslim-friendly, alcohol-free and halal ingredients.
**Parking in Publika Shopping Gallery
***Vegetarian options
****Child-friendly with high chairs and an outdoor courtyard
Positano Risto Publika Opening Hours
Daily: 11 am – 10 pm
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