EATALCHAM

Sassorosso & Sassolino

In our 1st edition of EATALCHAM, we had the pleasure of interviewing Mr. Giovanni Koromilas, Managing Director at Sassorosso Italian Restaurant & Wine Retailer which opened its doors to patrons in 2007, and Sassolino – Italian with a Twist, his second venture which opened in 2019.

In this interview, Mr. Giovanni highlights his passion for authentic Italian cuisine, the commitment to providing an immersive dining experience, the evolution of the Italian food scene in Malaysia, and the challenges and efforts involved in maintaining authenticity and educating patrons.

Both Sassorosso and Sassolino select and import their wines directly. With over 150 labels representing every major region in Italy, they boast the widest selection in the whole of Malaysia, available both at their restaurants and retail.

1. Since 2007, Sassorosso has been offering its patrons fresh and delicious Italian food. What inspired you to open Sassorosso?

Opening Sassorosso was a culmination of my passion for authentic Italian cuisine and a desire to create a space where people could experience the true essence of Italian dining. Having spent years immersed in the rich culinary traditions of Italy, I wanted to bring that passion to life in Klang Valley. The vision was to offer not just a meal but a journey through the diverse and vibrant flavors of Italy, using fresh, high-quality ingredients to craft memorable dining experiences.

2. How would you define an authentic Italian dining experience?

Authenticity is at the heart of our dining experience at Sassorosso. It goes beyond the recipes; it’s about creating an atmosphere that mirrors the warmth and conviviality of Italian culture. From the carefully selected ingredients, traditional cooking methods, to the warm hospitality of our staff, every element is curated to transport our guests to the heart of Italy. An authentic Italian dining experience is a celebration of simplicity, quality, and the joy of sharing good food with good company.

3. What are your thoughts on the Italian food scene in Klang Valley/ Malaysia? 

The Italian food scene in Klang Valley has evolved remarkably over the years. There’s a growing appreciation for authentic Italian flavors, and diners are becoming more adventurous in exploring regional specialties. It’s heartening to see a diverse range of Italian restaurants flourishing, each contributing to the rich tapestry of Italian cuisine in Malaysia. The Malaysian palate has embraced the nuances of Italian cooking, and it’s exciting to be a part of this culinary journey.

4. In your opinion, what are some of the greatest challenges facing Italian restaurant operators today?

How do you navigate the challenges of providing an authentic Italian food experience? One of the main challenges is maintaining the quality and authenticity of ingredients. Sourcing genuine Italian ingredients is crucial to delivering an authentic taste. We work closely with trusted suppliers to ensure we have access to the finest produce. Another challenge is striking a balance between tradition and innovation. 

While staying true to classic recipes, we also strive to bring a contemporary twist to our offerings, keeping the menu dynamic and appealing to a diverse audience. Lastly, educating our patrons about the diversity of Italian cuisine is an ongoing effort. We want them to appreciate the regional variations and unique flavors that make each dish special.

5. Would you like to add anything else for our readers?

At Sassorosso, our commitment is not just to serve exceptional Italian cuisine but to create memories. We invite our guests to embark on a gastronomic journey that captures the spirit of Italy. 

Whether you are savoring a comforting bowl of pasta or indulging in our carefully curated wine selection, each moment at Sassorosso is crafted with passion and dedication. We are grateful for the support of our patrons and look forward to continuing to be a destination where the love for Italian food is celebrated.  Buon Appetito!

Sassorosso Italian Restaurant & Wine Retailer
Address: 9, Lorong Yap Kwan Seng, 50450 Kuala Lumpur
Contact No.: 03-2166 6428

Sassolino – Italian with a Twist
G-05, Star Boulevard KLCC, 1, Jalan Yap Kwan Seng, 50450 Kuala Lumpur
Contact No.: 03-2181 0641

ITALCHAM Members enjoy 10% discount on food and beverage.

  • Not applicable for friends or relatives not holding the ITALCHAM membership card.
  • Not applicable on discounted items or promotions.
  • Applicable only upon presentation of valid ITALCHAM membership card.

Address: No. 119, Jalan Gasing, PJS 10, 46000 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Phone: +6012 655 7710
Web: www.facebook.com/pages/Fellini-Ristorante-Cafe/250482628940005

ITALCHAM Members enjoy 10% discount before service charge and GST.

Applicable only upon presentation of valid ITALCHAM membership card.

Address: Lot AG1 Amplewest @Menara 6 No, Jalan Puncak, 50250 Kuala Lumpur, Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur.
Phone: +60 3-2022 3883
Web: https://www.zenzerogroup.com/

ITALCHAM Members enjoy 15% discount off the ala carte food menu at The Living Room at The Westin Kuala Lumpur. 

  • ITALCHAM membership card must be presented for discount entitlement.
  • Offer cannot be exchanged for cash or used in conjunction with other promotions/offers, coupons/vouchers and loyalty/privilege cards.
  • Discounts are applicable to food A-La-Carte menu at The Living Room of The Westin Kuala Lumpur only.
  • Subject to availability and black-out dates apply.
  • Prior reservation is highly recommended.

Address: The Living Room – Level UG, The Westin Kuala Lumpur, 199, Jalan Bukit Bintang, Bukit Bintang, 55100 Kuala Lumpur, Kuala Lumpur
Phone: +603-2773 8495
Web: www.marriott.com/hotels/hotel-information/restaurant/details/kulwi-the-westin-kuala-lumpur/5966409/

ITALCHAM Members enjoy 15% discount on food and alcoholic drinks in all of Sofitel Kuala Lumpur Damansara’s main outlets:

ITALCHAM Members enjoy 15% off and on any treatment at our award winning Sofitel Spa ( excluded facial/ mani & pedi)

Terms & Conditions:
– Blackout dates apply
– Applicable for maximum 12 persons in a table
– Present your member’s card and member must be the one dining/ at the Spa
– Not applicable in conjunction with any other promotions/ discounts

Address: Sofitel Kuala Lumpur Damansara, No. 6, Jalan Damanlela, Bukit Damansara, 50490 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Phone: +(603) 2720 6688

Web: https://sofitel.accor.com/asia/index.en.shtml

Address: Jalan Sultan Ismail, Bukit Bintang, 50250 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur
Phone:  +603-2782 8388
Web: https://www.panpacific.com/en/hotels-and-resorts/pr-collection-kuala lumpur/dining.html

ITALCHAM Members enjoy 20% discount on food at The Botanist Lounge & Bar, Thyme and Skye Chill.

  • Offers are not valid for the purchase of cigar, tobacco and all beverages including alcoholic beverages.
  • To enjoy the discount ITALCHAM Members must present a valid ITALCHAM Card before payment is made.
  • Offers are subject to any applicable tax, unless otherwise stated.
  • Prior reservation is encouraged and subject to availability.
  • Offers are not exchangeable for cash or other items and cannot be used in conjunction with any other discounts, privileges, promotions, discount schemes, loyalty programmes, discount cards or vouchers, unless otherwise stated.

Address: Jalan Sultan Ismail, Bukit Bintang, 50250 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur
Phone:  +603-2782 8388
Web: https://www.panpacific.com/en/hotels-and-resorts/pr-collection-kuala lumpur/dining.html

ITALCHAM Members enjoy 10% discount before service charge.

  • Discount is only valid before 10pm.
  • Applicable only upon presentation of valid ITALCHAM membership card.
  • Not applicable for friends or relatives not holding ITALCHAM Membership card.
  • Not applicable on discounted items or promotions.
  • Not applicable on eve of public holidays & public holidays.

Address: The Starhill, LG 08, Lower Ground, The Starhill 181, Jln Bukit Bintang, 55100 Kuala Lumpur
Phone : +603 2386 6030
Web: www.mmarinis.com
Linktree: https://linktr.ee/maristarkl

VIEW DETAILS

ITALCHAM Members enjoy 10% discount before service charge.

  • Applicable only upon presentation of valid ITALCHAM membership card.
  • Not applicable for friends or relatives not holding ITALCHAM Membership card.
  • Not applicable on discounted items/ Sunday brunch or promotions.
  • Not applicable on eve of public holidays & public holidays.

Address : Ground Floor, ONE KL, No.6, Jalan Pinang, 50450 Kuala Lumpur.
Phone : +603 2386 6030 
Web: www.mmarinis.com

ITALCHAM Members enjoy 10% discount before service charge.

Applicable only upon presentation of valid ITALCHAM membership card.

Address: No. 10, Old Malaya, Louring Raja Chulan, 50250 Kuala Lumpur
Phone: +60 3-2078 8008
Web: www.luceosteria.com

ITALCHAM Members enjoy 10% discount on the available cocktail packages

  • Applicable only upon presentation of valid ITALCHAM membership card. 
  • Offer is not applicable on Sundays and is subjected to any applicable tax, unless otherwise stated. 
  • Prior reservation is encouraged and subject to availability. 
  • Offer is not exchangeable for cash or other items and cannot be used in conjunction with any other discounts, privileges, promotions, discount schemes, loyalty programmes, discount cards or vouchers, unless otherwise stated.

CO2 TTDI | 達文敦 is a speakeasy space offering specially crafted beverages and food. The space also offers catering services and rental space for private events, corporate meetings and networking activities

Address: 9A, Lorong Rahim Kajai 13, Taman Tun Dr Ismail, 60000, Kuala Lumpur
Phone: +6011 267 29 619 
Web: https://www.facebook.com/co2ttdi/

More details coming soon.

Stay Tuned!

ITALCHAM Members enjoy 15% discount on all personal training and physiotherapy services at ARKE Fitness. For more information about ARKE Fitness, visit their website.

Address: G-01, Oval Damansara, 685, Jalan Damansara, Taman Tun Dr Ismail, 60000 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur
Phone: +60 3 9779 0298
Web: www.arkefitness.com

For more information about ARKE Fitness, visit their website www.arkefitness.com
For the terms and conditions, please contact ARKE Fitness HERE

ITALCHAM members are entitled to the following benefits such as:

  • UP-FRONT DISCOUNTS : Discounts directly reducing the fares on all published booking classes of Turkish Airlines even up to lowest promotional fares with Economy Class and Business Class savings.
  • FLEXIBILITY: FREE Rebooking, Rerouting, Refund and No-Show, for *selected fare classes and reduced fees for lower fare classes.
  • EXCLUSIVE BAGGAGE ALLOWANCE: Extra 10kg baggage allowance for all Corporate Club Premium tickets.
  • PERSONAL TOUCHPOINT: Travelers with dedicated Corporate Club Cards will be able to use our corporate check-in counters and business class lounge even when they are flying on Turkish Airlines Economy Class.
  • CORPORATE CLUB HELPDESK: Dedicated helpline in case any changes or assistance required for your tickets, but with your travel agencies, this should be your additional contact point if required.

For more information,  kindly contact us at info@italcham.my or send us a Whatsapp message at +60189004816

corporate.accounts.gi@generali.com.my