Thanks to its alignment with Asian taste preferences, Secret Recipe, originally a Malaysian brand, made its mark in Dhaka in 2017 and has been thriving ever since. KSM Mohith-Ul Bari, the head of business at Secret Recipe and Fair Group, explained that they opted for a Malaysian chain over North American ones due to the congruence of their flavour profile with Asian palates and the robust market presence in Dhaka.
"We chose a Malaysian chain because our flavour profile aligns with Asian palates and found a better market in Dhaka compared to other North American chains," he explained.
Food
Moving on to the culinary experience, the appetizer, the salt and pepper squid, accompanied by fries, a lemon wedge, tartar sauce, and a hint of seasoning, offered a delightful deep-fried squid. While we felt it could use a bit more seasoning, the addition of tartar sauce and lime juice enhanced the overall flavor, creating an ideal balance of sweet and acidic notes.
The following course featured a medium-rare T-bone steak, tender and flavorful, served with mashed potatoes and vegetables. The steak, retaining a hint of umami and cooked to perfection, benefited from flavorful additions.
A highlight was the salted caramel cheesecake slice, a new addition to the menu, offering a perfect blend of creamy, salty, and unforgettable flavours with a subtle crunch from the graham cracker cheese bottom. The peanut butter cheesecake, although lacking crispness, delivered a delicious, nutty richness, fulfilling its promise.
The red velvet milkshake leaned more towards a strawberry flavour, with visible red velvet pieces, making it a delightful choice for strawberry enthusiasts. Finally, the chocolate indulgence milkshake stood out with its rich chocolate flavour, relying on natural sugars for a satisfying drink without excessive sweetness.
Secret Recipe's price range for a meal ranges from Tk415 to Tk2,200.
Ambience
In terms of ambience, the Gulshan 1 location boasts expansive windows, classic yet inviting mahogany and white decor, complemented by wooden chairs, tables, and booths against a backdrop of white flooring and dazzling ceiling lights.
Verdict
Despite facing challenges, such as a surge in delivery demands post-pandemic and inflation-driven price increases, Secret Recipe has strived to maintain its quality and brand integrity. While they had to adjust cake prices due to inflation pressures, the commitment to providing quality remains unwavering.
For those who appreciate peanut butter flavours, the salted caramel cheesecake and peanut butter cheesecake are must-tries at Secret Recipe. And, if you have a sweet tooth, don't overlook the indulgent chocolate indulgence milkshake.