Zach Heng
Google
Diving into Golden Triangle unveils not just a meal, but a passport to a culinary expedition specializing in the Southeast Asian flavors of Thailand, Malaysia, and Myanmar. Tucked away in the heart of Philly, this humble gem offers an intimate escape to distant lands with its quiet, casual ambiance and a cozy dining room that boasts no more than eight tables.
Our adventure began with the Malaysian classic, Roti Canai -- a delightfuly crispy, flaky, chewy marvel that serves as a prelude to the symphony of flavors awaiting us. Paired with a rich curry chicken potato dip, this dish was a standing ovation in the making.
Then came the Sambal Shrimp, a bold ensemble of shrimp reveling in a spicy brown sauce, creating a festival of taste that had every fork in the room longing for an encore.
The Beef Rendang, while a masterpiece of flavor and tenderness with its slow-cooked, aromatic curry, left us longing for a second act, as the disappointing portion size was more of a soliloquy than a full-fledged aria.
Despite the small dining room, Golden Triangle played the perfect host to our group of six (including a baby car seat), accommodating us at their sole large table--a testament to their ability to harmonize space and service.
While the Mee Goreng and Penang Char Kway Teow flavors were well balance and added depth to our culinary journey, both dishes lacked a bit of the smoky "wok hay" that I was yearning for. The Burmese Kimchi introduced a zestful twist to the meal as it was our first time trying any Burmese food, but it wasn't particularly memorable. In the end, the Roti Canai and Sambal Shrimp emerged as our favorites of the night.
Overall, Golden Triangle is more than a dining destination; it's a quiet nook where flavors dance and diners are invited to a show that tantalizes the taste buds and warms the heart. With its intimate atmosphere and welcoming vibe, it stands out as a beacon for those seeking an immersive culinary experience in Center City. Here's to more explorations at this quaint culinary corner, where the world feels both vast and intimately close, all within the confines of its quiet, casual dining room.