Review

‘Pinto’ is one of seven themed outlets enhancing the burgeoning culinary reputation of the InterContinental resort in Kamala. In keeping with its name (‘pinto’ means multi-coloured in Spanish), it offers a range of cosmopolitan dishes, priding itself on ‘fire-inspired’ cooking which sits well with its global emphasis on Italian, Indian and Thai cuisine. Three classic styles under one spacious roof. French-Canadian chef Alexandre Fréchette has created a wide-ranging menu including vegan and vegetarian options, sumptuous breakfasts, lunches and dinners. The inflection towards authentic Italian dishes is showcased in the charcuterie board, a gargantuan selection of house-cured meats and artisanal cheeses. Classic wood-fired pizzas include an aromatic tartufata with porcini mushrooms, white scallop tiradito is citrussy and succulent. Adventurous wood-fired mains include flounder, picture perfect in a lemon sauce, and locally farmed, charcoal grilled rack of lamb, crisp on the outside and juicy within. Indian dishes offer a gastronomic contrast. Try fragrant biryani or rich tandoori cooked butter chicken. For vegetarians, there are lentil and paneer dishes, though Pinto has an array of plant-based and vegetarian specialties, including pastas, pizzas, soups and salads. The Thai menu features all-time favourites: phad Thai noodles, sour tom yum goong with prawns, and spicy stir-fried pork or chicken mince with basil and garlic. Old and new world house wines are part of an impressive cellar.