Review: If you’re looking for a casual dining spot that opens late in SS15, then Ore9i is the place. Although it looks like there’s a number in its name, patrons usually just call it ‘Oregi’. It’s located on a busy street, but always packed no matter what time you pass by.
Students from nearby colleges seem to love coming here and hanging out in the courtyard area on the right, smoking Shisha pipes. Oregi is the perfect place to hang out until late as it usually closes at about 2am in the wee hours.
There’s an indoor seating area that’s air-conditioned, so you don’t have to worry about being forced to share a space with the sweet scent of Shisha smoke. The food served here is an eclectic mix of Middle Eastern and Western dishes that are fuss-free and unpretentious. The environment is lively and this makes it a good place to gather with a large group of friends.
If you’re unfamiliar with Middle Eastern and Arabic food, you may want to do a bit of research first. Otherwise, you can just immerse yourself in the menu. For starters, there’s soft and nutty hommus served with pieces of Arabic bread and a drizzle of olive oil. This and other appetizers like Foul mashed beans and Shakshuka (baked eggs) can be ordered to share.
Most diners here go for the rice or pasta dishes. Flavoured rice like Haneeth, Mandy and Kabsa are served on a set with grilled chicken or lamb, with a salad and spicy sauce on the side. There are several combinations to choose from, but one of their best sellers is the Roasted Chicken Madggot Rice. Fragrant and fluffy spiced Briyani –like rice is served with a whole juicy chicken leg. You can also have the option of having this dish with lamb instead, which come as huge tender and moist chunks.
For meat lovers, try the Shistawook which is a juicy cut of barbecued chicken served with bread and a generous serving of garlic sauce. For a lighter bite, you can try their lamb and chicken grilled sandwiches which are rolled up and also served with a healthy portion of garlic sauce.
Pasta dishes here are varied, with both white and red sauce. If you want a vegetarian-friendly option, you can try the mushroom sauce spaghetti. The Beef Ball Pomodoro is also a crowd favourite as it’s filling and familiar at the same time.
Beverages are aplenty here and this is a good place to get their in-house signature mint lemonade, infused with real mint leaves. There’s also lots of fresh juices that is a pretty healthy choice for those who don’t want to eat or drink anything heavy late at night.
Apparently, Ore9i is a favourite gathering place for football fans during the various premier league and World Cup seasons, so if you’re looking for football ‘kaki’ to accompany you during major matches, this place is it. It’s a young crowd and the youthful atmosphere and spirit will no doubt stay with you, even after you leave.
Ore9i (Oregi) Restaurant : No.53 Jalan SS15/4B Subang Jaya, 47500, Subang Jaya, Selangor. 47500 Petaling Jaya, Malaysia. Phone: +60 3-5612 1106
