Peanut chicken skewers - a taste of Asia

Located in the heart of the University of Technology is the historic Lillian's Restaurant.

Primarily a training ground for the university's school of hospitality, the restaurant is a heritage site.

The building has been in existence since 1912 and has officially been a restaurant since 2002. Operations Manager Sheryl Smikle told Food that the restaurant has been gaining popularity among the students and staff members, but not the general public. "Because we are on the campus, people assume that we are only open to staff and students, but we are open to the public as well."

Smikle revealed that they decided to participate in the Gleaner-sponsored Restaurant Week to raise the visibility of the restaurant. And just for the week, they will be opened on Saturday.

Chef Karl Thomas notes that doing it right is what the meals at Lillian's are all about, because you have one chance to make a first impression, so it's all about flavour. The different cuisines are explored on the menu to give guests the opportunity to experience foods that are not necessarily economically available to the masses on a daily basis.

He highlighted the preparation of his signature appetiser - the peanut chicken skewers. "Peanut chicken skewers is truly a taste of Asia. Succulent chicken breast is skewered and pan-seared, then smothered in a peanut sauce and hugged with toasted black and white sesame seed, served with our special chilli dipping sauce."

The tasty menu also includes a choice of smoked salmon chowder or red and white salad for appetiser. Customers will have the option of panko crusted chicken, barbecued beef, pan-seared snapper, pineapple braised pork or grilled tofu and vegetables served with the rice of the day, roasted garlic mash potatoes and sautéed vegetables.

And the cherry on top is their dessert offerings of chocolate cake or vanilla trifle and fruits rolls.

- Krysta Anderson