With an unconventional yet curiosity-piquing moniker like The Sticky Wicket, one can bet that this gastropub isn’t going to be another average watering hole and fortunately, foreign jargons like diamond duck and dibbly dobbly need not be part of your dictionary to delight in its unwavering charm.
Its dramatically dark interior oozes an urban cool and forms a bold visual statement that may seem lightly intimidating, but is counterbalanced by the abundance of honorary cricket memorabilia decking the walls and sports, evidently including cricket, playing on every available screen, occasionally even with the commentary blaring from speakers in the restroom.
This quintessentially British pub grub doesn’t only enthuse die-hard sports aficionados. It also boasts a welcoming setting for any sort of camaraderie over a drink or two, particularly for cocktail connoisseurs as The Sticky Wicket’s strong suit lies in its cleverly crafted concoctions with witty references to renowned cricket players that are hard to not take notice of.
The brainchild of Englishmen Matthew Parry and Des Yatigammana who also tend the bar, expect to find unexampled cocktails such as the sophisticated Bad Attitude (RM49) which is an ode to former New Zealand all-rounder Chris Cairns, comprising a Sauvignon Blanc reduction, Luxardo Maraschino, Regans’ orange bitter and a touch of Chandon Brut.
For a midday pick me up, you won’t go wrong with the Rawalpindi Express (RM39) that fuses Stolichnaya vodka, Pedro Ximenez wine, chai tea syrup and a shot of espresso. Served in a coconut, The Smiling Assassin (RM39) is a tropical treat that partners Plantation 3 star rum, Joseph Cartron Cocody Coconut liqueur, Giffards Creme de Cacao and ginger ale.
We reckon that Dickie Bird (RM39), which pays homage to retired English cricket umpire Harold Bird, is bound to be a hit amongst the ladies for its refreshing tang and citrusy earthiness without being excessively cloying. It is an exquisite marriage of Chase Gin and Campari, livened up with fresh lemon juice, Yorkshire tea syrup and a splash of apple.
As for grub, very traditional British fare permeates a majority of the menu with a few exceptions here and there. We adored Bails (RM20), baked 100% lamb sausage rolls seasoned in Jamaican jerk spices and wrapped in a light, buttery pastry, and we thoroughly wiped the spicy, salted egg yolk dip clean with the thickly cut More-ish Chips (RM17).
The Great British Cod and Chips (RM42), served with mushy peas and tartare sauce, was a little bit of a letdown due to the overly fried battered fish and cod, when done wrong, turns out rubbery. With that said, the Crispy Lamb Shank (RM55) is a worthwhile order for its succulent meat and crispy skin, served on top of mash and lavishly topped with a bean gravy.
For The Sweet Taste of Victory to the end of our visit, we went with the Sticky Date Pudding (RM22). The warm date pudding had just the right hint of sweetness, and accompanied with the actual Madagascar vanilla bean crème anglaise, further spotlights the flavour complexity of the delectable cake.
Pub Quiz Night goes down every Tuesday at The Sticky Wicket, whereas Ladies Night takes place on Wednesdays. To savour Happy Hour deals from RM9.80++ for a pint, pop by any time from 4pm to 7.30pm on weekdays and the whole of Sundays.
34 G&M, Jalan Medan Setia 2, Plaza Damansara,
Damansara Heights, 50490 Kuala Lumpur.
Tel: +603-20115378
Opening Hours: Mondays to Thursdays and Sundays – 12pm to 1am, Fridays and Saturdays – 12pm to 2am
