interior
This week You! peeks inside the classic yet modern interiors of a Chinese restaurant in Islamabad...
Chinese restaurants are known for their typical decor; dim lights, wooden influence and dark colours. The use of red and brown is rather prominent in the interiors of most Chinese restaurants across the globe. ‘Yum’, the newly opened Chinese and Thai restaurant in Islamabad is no different. It is a branch of the restaurant in Lahore that offers much more than just food! ‘Yum’ is a mix of interesting architecture, a gathering space and a dining area with swinging doors that give off a very sophisticated and luxurious feel.
The decor of this particular eatery is interesting as it blends shades of red and maroon with beautiful wood work. Moreover, ornate pieces are complemented by simple lines, wooden flooring and low furniture design along with huge windows that overlook lush green lawns and plantation. The use of natural wood and traditional bamboo adds an authentic touch to the overall decor of the restaurant.
As soon as one enters the restaurant, one is bound to notice the original art works that have been strategically displayed on the walls. The alluring accents in red highlight and enrich the interior of the eatery. Handpicked paintings, carved wood detailing, decoration pieces and use of luxurious fabrics not only add character to the entire place but create a stunning look which is classic, elegant and modern at the same time.
The owner of the restaurant, Mr. Nisar Chaudhry and its architect Masood Ali Khan both agree that finding an appropriate place was a feat because they wanted to accommodate ‘Yum’ and ‘English Tea House’ in one geographical area. “Actually we wanted to create a concept that could complement Chinese cuisine through tea and dessert, while holding its own charm; hence we decided to open up both the Chinese restaurant and Tea House in the same vicinity. A cottage in a hilly forest seemed the perfect location for both the places. Of course, that was difficult to achieve but we wanted a space with a hut and a lot of greenery around it especially for the Chinese restaurant,” says Mr. Chaudhry.
According to architect Masood Ali Khan, the brick walls have been done carefully, particularly because they add warm hues and a very elegant effect to the space, which is essential in Chinese restaurants. “Brick walls give off a very welcoming effect and make people feel comfortable and at home. And that is precisely what we wanted to achieve. Also, wooden tables along with chairs upholstered in beige and green, and bright red leather chairs add vibrancy to the overall place,” he shares.
Another striking element of the decor is the huge windows that are not-so-common in most Chinese restaurants - and that is what sets this eatery apart from others. These windows also make the space look well-lit during the day when natural light pours in. “The beauty of big windows in any type of space, including a house is the amount of light it captures during the daytime and the depth it provides to a space at night-time. However, a beautiful view is very essential when you are opting for big windows. And therefore, we ensured plenty of greenery outside,” informs Masood Ali.
When it comes to food, ‘Yum’ offers some of the most delicious Chinese and Thai dishes. The honey chicken wings, Kung Pao Fish, Sesame Honey Chilli Chicken and the Yum Special Prawns are worth taking a day off from your diet and enjoying some delicious authentic cuisine.
This is not all! The restaurant has a rooftop dining area, which may be simple in its design and aesthetic, but it has the Margallah Hills in its backdrop and that makes it worth sitting up there. Since Islamabad has a pleasant weather in the evenings throughout the year, the rooftop is a perfect place to sit with friends and family and enjoy a meal of its delectable Pan Asian Cuisine at any time of the year.