The Defence branch of fine-dining restaurant Aylanto is less-explored and I feel less marketed. Of course, Aylanto meaning tree of a heaven, is not the one to commercialise and advertise its food as we all know how it relies on word of mouth, but even word of mouth marketing has been adopted less by this branch, nestled in Z Block.
I made my way to this particular one a few back and here is what I think.
STRENGTHS — I like how there is no pomp and show and in-your-face banners that would make you instantly notice the play on reaching the premises. Point 1 for the subtleness of the exterior only! Once inside, the double-storied building has a warm, luxurious, homely and decent décor with an interior that speaks volumes of the creative team behind bringing the place together. The seats and sofas are comfortable, the tables and crockery are classy, expensive looking and accessible. There are no five spoons to choose from what you have to use to eat what. I remember taking a look at the wallpapers and the ceiling and the floor and the plantations and chandeliers, and I really thought I was home if not in Monaco’s Le Louis 15. I heard once that your meal’s taste changes according to the vessel it is served in, and I think Aylanto took special care of that.
Going forward, I feel Aylanto specialises in soups. I tried their Cream of Mushroom with Chicken soup which had a combination of fresh mushrooms, diced chicken, cream and marjoram and the richness of the taste and the perfection with how the vegetables and chicken has been cut added to the taste owing to its immaculate presentation. Many a times, I have been to restaurants where the haphazard way in which the veggies and meat is sliced shows the amount of care and affection put in the cooking and making of it. This soup in particular is a must try, also because the weather calls for it.
Crab Meat Gratin in Starters should be a good choice. Firstly, because the dish itself is salty and to have it as a starter makes sense as it’s served in small portion and serves the purpose for trying out something worth having right before your main course arrives. The dish is basically fresh crab meat, baked in a creamy cheese sauce, seasoned with herbs.
The highlight of Aylanto’s entire menu is definitely is lobster. It is unlike anything you have ever tried in Lahore. For me, it was unlike anything I’ve tried in Pakistan. It’s called Lobster Thermadore, it quite pricey but worth every penny you take out to pay for it. I ordered half a lobster, which made heads turn only because of the way it was served showing the chef’s attention to detail. It was a succulent lobster, tossed in seasoning and gruyere cheese, served with garlic rice. The taste transports you to Maine’s Lost Kitchen where you forget you’re in Lahore and the ambience adds to your fantasy vision. I posted pictures of the lobster I had on food groups and on social media and my phone was abuzz with people commenting and drooling over it.
Do try Aylanto’s fresh baked cookie dough with vanilla ice cream to end your food journey with people who know how to keep you coming back, despite operating in a market which is now saturated with so many.
The service is swift, friendly and very accommodating.
WEAKNESSES — burgers are not Aylanto’s strongest points. If you’re there, do opt for something else which the restaurant specialises in.
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