Graha Matraman Podium Sarinah 2nd Floor,
Jl. MH Thamrin No11 T 021 230 0392

A perfect way to spend your Saturday evening is some quality father and daughter bonding time and where else to do it than the newly opened Manchester United restaurant and bar downtown. Named after the famous football team from England, crazed fanatics and the curious public can enjoy fine dining accompanied by a few surprises. Although, my father and I are not big on Manchester United, or football itself, this was still a great place for our inquisitive taste buds.

Though "welcomed" by strict security measures, we were immediately shown to our seats by a pierced and tattooed waitress, who deliberately called me sayang. Admirable customer service, I must say.

The restaurant's interior is Asian-influenced, with comfortable creamy white chairs with matching pure white tables and dim lighting, adding to its modernity. A hint of Western influence is apparent with team photos of Manchester United and memorabilia, such as jerseys and goalie gloves displayed on their red and white walls. There is nothing unique about their bar, however, the exposed brick walls on one side looked out of place for an Asian themed interior. The neon colored lighting and lounge chairs are perfect for socialites looking for a perfect place to drink their cocktails (they have a wide range of wine selection too!).

To some extent, bathrooms are not a highlight in a restaurant review. However, the fact that they used a picture of David Beckham (a former Manchester United team player, now with Real Madrid) and another of two teenage girls with their faces painted to indicate the men's and women's bathroom was quite witty. I was more surprised when I came in, as framed pictures of half naked men, showing off their six packs were over each toilet stall. Having to go to the toilet was never more interesting! And apparently, the same pictures were in the men's toilet too!