Isabelle in the heart of IOI City Mall is a culinary gem that blends the timeless elegance of Italian-American cuisine

Food
20 Oct 2025 • 9:00 AM MYT
Zulkifly Baharom
Zulkifly Baharom

An HR practitioner, Sejahtera Leadership Coach & Gusi Peace Prize Laureate.

Image from: Isabelle in the heart of IOI City Mall is a culinary gem that blends the timeless elegance of Italian-American cuisine
Dr. Zul visited Eriel (right) at her work station. Pix: Zarina
Image from: Isabelle in the heart of IOI City Mall is a culinary gem that blends the timeless elegance of Italian-American cuisine
Eriel briefed Dr. Zul about the favorite Isabelle dishes in Malaysia reflect a beautiful blending of Italian tradition & American innovation. Pix: Zarina

In influencing his mother, Zarina & I on the choice of an Italian restaurant as the venue of joint birthday reception for three of October babies in our family, Farouq, our eldest son, said, “Look at any American menu. We'll see the fingerprints of Italian cooks everywhere. Pizza, pasta, and gelato are just the start. Even the way Americans think about: fresh ingredients, slow cooking, sharing meals, comes straight from Italian kitchens. Overall, the original food in Italy does represent the Italian identity and culture. Italian-American food has been shaped throughout history by various waves of immigrants to the USA.”

Yes, I realized young generations enjoy Italian-American food due to its comfort, adaptability, and strong presence on social media. The cuisine's blend of familiar and adaptable dishes, from pizza to pasta, and lasagna drives popularity among younger consumers for various occasions, and their dietary needs.

In a corner of the cozy IOI City Mall Putrajaya is a spanking Isabelle Restaurant. The restaurant's beautifully appointed space offers a serene and inviting atmosphere, perfect for romantic dates, special occasions like family reunion or simply enjoying a delicious meal with friends, Isabelle promises to deliver an unforgettable dining experience from classic pasta dishes to creative cocktails. The eatery is dotted with potted plants and uncomplicated ambience. (isabelle.ioicity.pjy@valiram.com/www.isabelarestaurant.com)

Last week during the combined birthday reception of Farouq and his wife, Nadja and their niece, Ilfi Fatihah at this Italian restaurant Isabelle in Putrajaya, I met Eriel, a friendly Malaysian cook, who revealed that “The Head Chef is Nocolo “Nico” Delbono who has been working in restaurant kitchens around the world for the past 30 years since he was 17. He comes from a family with a long history in restaurant business; both his grandfather and father also owned restaurants in Italy. Nico is assisted by a Malaysian chef, Reza and together involved in training local staff including me on authentic Italian dishes.”

Image from: Isabelle in the heart of IOI City Mall is a culinary gem that blends the timeless elegance of Italian-American cuisine
For Farouq, Nadja, Ilfi & their siblings, the dishes at Isabelle Putrajaya are associated with their childhood memories overseas, providing a sense of comfort & nostalgia. Pix: Zarina

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