A perfect evening for dining al fresco on the patio at Akar.
Fernando Botero’s “Man on Horse” in Clayton near Akar.
Adapting to More Street Side Dining
It’s been far too long since I’ve been to Akar. (The name means “roots” in Malay.) The upscale hole in the wall on Forsythe has seating for, maybe, a dozen inside. But the patio has been going gangbusters. Thankfully, the restaurant is weathering the storm and coming back stronger than ever.
You’ll know you’re there, when you spot the Botero “Man on Horse” sitting at the intersection of Hanley and Wydown and see a street side full of happy diners.
Owner/Chef Bernie Lee had not settled into his Clayton location very long before the pandemic struck. (He previously had Hiro’s Asian Kitchen downtown, which is where I first fell in love with his cuisine.)
Recently Robin, JC and I lucked out and got a street side table. There are no reservations outdoors, just first come, first serve. It was a gorgeous evening. You could tell local foodies relished the chance to enjoy some fine dining with Bernie once again.
I missed seeing Bernie during my recent patio dining. He was catering an event elsewhere. But things ran smoothly in his absence. The bar is charming, as is the menu. Tantalizing dishes—many stemming from his childhood in Malaysia—are well seasoned and impeccably crafted.
Menu consists mostly of a number of small, shareable plates.
Pork Potstickers with Citrus Ponzu and Black Rice Vinegar
Korean Fried Cauliflower features braised cauliflower bites, sweet and spicy Korean gojuchang, fresh peanuts, and scallions. (Vegetarian)
A side dish of carrots
Softshell Crab with sweet corn medley and famous Singapore chili sauce
Chicken Meatballs
Eggplant with garlic-scallion jam
I came upon this old photo (2015) of Bernie, stirring up a dish in Robin’s kitchen as I look on in admiration. The innovative chef started his first restaurant when he was just 27 years old.
Akar. 7641 Wydown Blvd. in Clayton. Hours: Sun-Sat 4p-9p. Inside seating reservations for 5p; 6:45p; and 8:30p.
Patio dining first come first served. Curbside and catering available.
