All About Penang Food

1st Year Birthday Bash with Mad Sally

2011-11-18T05:19:00.000-08:00

Head down to Weissbrau, Straits Quay, Penang next weekend on the 25th & 26th November 2011 for the Bistro and Bar's 1st year anniversary bash....and what a bash it will be. Along with the who's who, you will be partying the night away with one of Malaysia's premier resident band from KL......Mad Sally, specially brought in to make what will be a great anniversary party.......truly awesome!

If you are not familiar with the KL party scene, Mad Sally has made an impressive debut recently as one of the top local Malaysian band to perform in some of the top Bistros & Bars in the capital city including Weissbrau in KL Pavilion. As a matter of fact, Mad Sally is as local as anyone could have guessed. they (the group members) as a bunch of "Mat Sallehs" who have made Malaysia their scene. They are Charlie Matrix (lead vocalist), Sam Flynn (Bass), Dick Bradley (Keyboard), Dangerous Darman (Guitar) and Malek Village (Drums). When you hear them sing, I am sure you will be pokered faced and leaving you wanting to get the party started.

Mad Sally is in the midst of recording their debut album of their own original materials but until then, you can sample their hi-energy cover renditions of great tunes by great bands and pop singers from the 1960s till present hits at Weissbrau, Straits Quay, Penang next weekend. You won't be disappointed.

To celebrate the 1st anniversary, Weissbrau will be serving free snack buffet and offering beer promotion of 1-litre of Calsberg and imported draught beer at only RM45++ and RM60++ respectively. Weissbrau customers are even allowed to keep the limited edition 1-litre beer glass (while stock last). And best of all, Weissbrau will be offering prizes for lucky customers but you have go there to find out what the lucky prizes will be.

So make a date to be at Weissbrau, Straits Quay on the 25th & 26th November 2011. Make it a dinner date, get the best seat in the house (err...Bistro or Bar) and continue to party away the night young with Mad Sally and make it your very own Novemberfest!

Zi Zai Restaurant

2011-11-16T06:20:00.000-08:00

My Ratings: 4 Stars
Cuisine: Chinese

Location: 1239-G, Ground Floor, Jalan Paya Terubong, Penang
RM15-40 per pax
Non Halal
Contact: +604 8265173 (Chef Tan Hock Chai)
Open Daily except Tues 4:00pm - 10:30pm
GPS N05.387212 E100.274013

In ancient times, Poon Choi is a dish for the common men in China. Throwing in whatever scraps of meat and vegetables into a bigpot and cooking it to make a common meal. However, in today's times, Poon Choi is no longer a haphazard concoction to meat and vegetables but a well balanced and well thought out top choice ingredients to make the most delicious and perhaps a nutritious feast of a dish. And you don't have wait till the festive season to have the dish

Zi Zai Restaurant serves one of the best Poon Choi in Penang with its choice of top quality and scrumptious seafood, pork cuts, vegetables, duck and chicken and the crown jewel, top grade New Zealand abalone. Zi Zai's Poon Choi is made up of 13 ingredients; Chinese cabbage, Chinese mushrooms, Broccoli, Braised pork belly in fermented bean curd, Yam, Yam bean, Sea cucumbers, Fish Maws, Roasted duck, Chicken, Deep friend snapper fillets, Home-made deep fried Hock Chew fish balls (with mince meat fillings), Sweet flesh prawns and abalone. The best way to eat Poon Chooi is the eat the food from top to bottom layer by layer. Each layer has its own distinctive taste and aroma and must each layer before moving to the next layer. This is because the chef has planned out how each of the ingredients can be enjoyed, from the light to the strong taste

Zi Zai's Poon Choi needs a day before pre-order via phone call. This is because the Abalone and Pork belly needs a day's preparation to give the dish a distinctive taste that's a cut above. Combined the above ingredients and you will get a Poon Choi that is not only visually appetising but also full of flavours. Zi Zai'sPoon Choi comes in two sizes, RM258 nett for a serving for 5-6 people and a bigger sized serving for 10-11 persons at RM400 nett. A value for money considering the choice and quality of ingredients. Chef Tan only wants his diners to enjoy best food without the high price.

I also had the opportunity to taste Za Zai other dishes. I found that the bean spout salted fish is simply delicious. The sprouts are plum and cooked just right and Chef Tan has even gone to extend to remove the sprout root and husks which only shows Chef Tan's commitment to better food. I also enjoyed the lala shells cooked in sambal. Irresistible! The belacan chicken is also one of my favourite
Starting December 2011, Zi Zai is offering Express Meals at only RM4.50 (rice and your choice of seafood and meat and a portion of vegetables). The Express Meals are available daily from 10:00am - 7:00pm except Tuesdays (closed)

Overall, I found the restaurant is casual (no frills), has ample parking and the food is tasty and its price affordable but I am impressed by Chef Tan's dedication to serve his customers only the best.

Taipei 101

2011-11-08T06:08:00.000-08:00

My Ratings: 3 Stars
Cuisine: Taiwanese and Japanese

Location: 35G Pesiaran Bayan Indah, 11600 Bayan Lepas, Penang (opp. HSBC/Queensbay Mall)
Non Halal
RM10-19 per person
Contact: +604 4641339

Taipei 101 Penang has been around for more than a year but now it is back in 2011 with a new menu that will suit everyone's taste of Taiwanese food and snacks found in famous Taiwan night markets. For those who crave for Japanese cuisine, Taipei 101 also has a variety of bento items and gyozas for the whole family.

We tasted 11 food items and 2 drinks from the menu and pictured below. They were:-

Pop-corn Chicken (RM5.00)
Roasted Lemon Chicken with Noddle (RM9.90)
Roasted Lemon Chicken with Mee Suah (RM9.90)
Braised Pork Trotter cooked in claypot (RM12.90 per set)
Spicy Pork Ribs cooked in claypot (RM11:50 per set)
Ginger Duck Claypot Rice (RM11.50)
Honey Sauced topped Fried Cod Bento (RM17.50)
Fried Mushroom (RM4.50)
Fried Dumpling (RM5.00)
Sweet Potato with Plum Powder (RM4.80)
Seaweed Potato Chips (RM5.00)
Winter Melon Lemon Tea (RM3.90)
Ice Blended Green Bean (RM4'90)

Overall, the food has strong, full bodied flavours and my pick of the day would be Spicy Pork Ribs, Ginger Duck, Braised Pork Trotter and the Honey Sauced Fried Cod Bento. Taiwan's favourite snack dish would be the sweet potatoes in plum powder. I find the Ice Blended Green Bean most refreshing on a hot day and of course healthy too! The prices are reasonable and value for money, especially for the set meals. The portions are sufficient to satisfy any hungry man or woman too. For example, the spicy pork ribs claypot set meal is served complete with spicy tofu, omelette and rice for only RM11.50 plus 5% discount if you hold a Taipei 101 member card. This definitely make Taipei 101 a good alternative food haunt to the surrounding restaurants and food court foods of the nearby mall that will not bust your wallet.

Menu choice is extensive which allows diners to try new dishes with every visit or to take away or have your meals delivered to your doorsteps. Yes, Taipei 101 has free delivery service (until 7:00pm) which covers from e-Gate to Bayan Lepas, Sungai Dua, Bukit Jambul to Inti College for orders > RM25. Move over McD, Pizza Hut, Dominos delivery, here comes Taipei 101 delivery service.

There are ample parking in the area or you can park inside the nearby mall multi-storey parking and just walk across. Opens Mon - Thurs: 11:00am - 3:00pm and then 5:30pm - 10:00pm. But on weekends starting on Friday, the operating hours are from 11:00am - 10:0pm. Cash term only.

Invited Review: De Tittle Dining Cabin

2011-10-25T19:04:00.001-07:00

My Ratings: 3 Stars
Cuisine: International

Location: 97, Lorong Selamat, Georgetown ,Penang
Pork Free
RM18 - 25 per person
Contact: +604-2297961, email: detittle@hotmail.co.uk

GPS: N05 25.033 E100 19.511

Once a while, comes a restaurant that is conceptualized and built from a partnership and this is true in the case of the De Tittle Dining Cabin. However, this partnership is from a life long friendship who had the same schooling, dreams, hobbies and interest.

De Tittle Dining Cabin is owned and operated by life long friends, Ean Lau and Janice Ooi who practically did things together literally, loves to travel around the world and enjoys cooking. As soon as you walked inside the restaurant, you can see the personal and in a sense touches Ean and Janice had put into their restaurant. They painted their restaurant themselves with with the help of friends and the decor reflects their personality, young, contemporary and chic.

Their inspiration comes from the love of travel and they wanted to bring back a small part of the country they visited and what better way is through food. De Tittle serves an international cuisine from Japanese, Italian, Swiss, oriental and western flavours. their menu alternates every two weeks. It is a family orientated restaurant with good kids menu and discounts for senior citizens above 60 years.

The specialties are their deep fried chicken or fish with an assortment of home-made sauces for under RM15. Add RM1.50 and you will get to enjoy addition of desserts, soup, dinner rolls and free flow ice-cream. If you have kids under 3 or parents over 60 years, They don't have to pay the extra RM1.50. Other favourites are their Cheese Fondue, Grilled steak and lamb and their special dessert called the Miracles of Devils and Angels which is a chocolate cake with molten chocolate lava center served with vanilla ice-cream. Simply irresistible! For full menu descriptions and pricing, go to http://www.cariso.net/2011/06/de-title-dining-cabin-invited-review/

The restaurant is a good alternative to the hustle and bustle of coffee shops, the heat, and angry hawkers nearby. Extensive menu choice. Good value for money. Parking is limited, so you have to walk a little. The restaurant offers causal dining with a private room/space upstairs for private parties or larger gatherings.

Drink Maakoa's Koopuwa - A Brazilian Cupuacu fruit drink that is packed with anti-oxidants. Simply good for you

Nonya Delights@Terrace Bay

2011-10-21T17:44:00.000-07:00

My Ratngs: 3 Stars
Cuisine: Nonya

Location: Terrace Bay Restaurant, Copthone Orchid Hotel, Penang
Halal
RM30 nett
Contact: +604-8923333

Nonya cuisine has seen a revival recently which many restaurants around Penang offering Peranakan food reminiscent of the good old days, just like mums cooked it. Now the F&B team at the Copthone Orchid Hotel is offering diners to experience the Peranakan heritage at their Terrace Bay Restaurant with more than 25 authentic and scrumptious Nonya dishes on the table.

The restaurant located on Level 7, a level below the reception or lobby area. It offers seatings both inside the restaurant and pool side which is able to cater up to 230 people. And at just the right moment. you can even catch the stunning sunset rays at the cornet of your eye. Simply rustic and beautiful.

The dishes changes weekly so that diners gets to experience something new every time the dine there but the old exotic favourites like Jiu Hu Char (Wood ear fungus salad), Kelabu Hai Tay (Jelly fish salad), Acar Awak (Mixed vegetable pickles salad), Pai Tee (Stuffed shredded chicken meat with vegetables) and Acar Huan Cheo Bokwa (pickled chilly with shredded papaya).

For mains, they have the Kapitan Chicken Curry, Assam Prawns (Tamarind Prawns), Assam Pedas Ikan Pari (Hot & Spicy Stinray), Kari Kiam Hu (Salted Fish Curry), Belacan Fried Chicken, Otak Otak, Kiam Chye Ark Th'ng (Duck with Salted Mustard soup), Chicken Lor Bak (Chicken Wrapped in clear tofu skin) and Assam Laksa noodles.

And finishing off the meal with desserts like Pulut Tai Tai (Blue glutinous rice cake), Ang Koo Kuih (steamed red glutinous rice cake), Onde Onde (Coconut coated glutinous rice ball with gula Melaka fillings), Bee Koh Moi, Bubur Cha Cha and Kuih Talam.

The restaurant specially hired a Peranakan trained chef to train their chefs to re-create the authentic taste to Nonya cooking. It is served buffet styled for just RM35nett for adults and RM21 nett for children. But the best is that Malaysian senior citizens gets to enjoy the food at a discounted rate of only RM25nett. It is truly value for money family gastronomic adventure.

The buffet available every Saturday from 7pm - 10pm and do call to reserve as the themed buffet is very popular.

Maakoa's Koopuwa Health Drink is packed with super anti-oxidants!

Spice Market Cafe: Buy 1 Free 1

2011-09-25T07:31:00.000-07:00

My Ratings: 4 Stars
Cuisine: International

Location: Rasa Sayang Resort & Spa
Batu Feringgi Beach, 11100 Penang
Pork Free
RM90 - RM130 per person
Contact: +604 888 8888

It is a trip down memory lane. Ever since the Rasa Sayang have been renovated and re-opened as a resort and spa, I have not been inside the hotel as often I would like to. But every time when I am there, without fail, I have a sense of tranquility and inner peace when I stepped inside the hotel and its landscaped gardens. My favourite is the grand old tree that stood in the center courtyard and everything seemed to be built around it....the pool, the restaurants and the two wings of the hotel.

This time I went there for a Sunday lunch review of its promotion package (Buy 1 Free 1) at the Spice Market Cafe. This round is the Merdeka Raya offer for the whole month of August. It is only RM80++ per person and yes, it is buy 1 free 1. Thanks to Jason for the invitation, we managed to get a seat in an otherwise fully packed floor both inside and outside dining.

Putting the offer aside, let's review the establishment and food. Spice Market Cafe is definitely a one of a kind restaurant. Kudos to the management, they came up with the concept of actually putting up a spice shop in the front. Not only it smells wonderful of the assortment of spices but as well as a visual appetiser for what is waiting inside is the glorious food. The Spice Market is aptly named to give visitors a hands-on introduction of the local and traditional spices used in the cuisines of the world.

My first impression of the cafe is that it is huge with food stations and counter on one whole side of the restaurant plus a huge central island for serving out cold dishes and desserts. It is like a mini tour of the world's cuisine from Indian specialties, seafood, pasta, oriental, Mediterranean and good old local favourites. And if you can't find what you like, you can make small request to the chefs to cook up your personal favourites if within the chef's means.

I got to eat my favourites and judging from the lines, it could be well a popular favourite. The Indian cuisine is something to note. They had Tandoori (chicken) and naan freshly baked in a traditional Tandoori oven. They also had lamb curry, paneer, dhal curry, basmathi rice and even Murtabak to complete the Indian food adventure

Another attraction of the restaurant is the central island serving out all sorts o f desserts and cakes from cheese cake, apple crumble, chocolate mud cakes, strawberry fruit cakes with whole strawberries, chocolate fondue to local fare like the ice-kacang and cendol and glutinous (pulut) rice. To top is off and uniquely, they also serve cotton candy made fresh from the machine. Belissimo!

All in all, there are more than 30 choices for mains and countless more side dishes and desserts and cakes. I learned that they refreshed the dishes every cycle. That means, when you get up for your second helping, chances are there are some dishes are new and more variety when you go for third, fourth and more helpings each time.

Leading the restaurant is Executive Sous Chef Lim who had many years cooking in international destinations. And after having a conversation with Chef Lim, I truly appreciate what he is doing to make the dining experience more special by having to be innovative in presenting the menu to his quest. And when it comes to quality ingredients, Shangri-La spares no expense in creating and leading a system of food quality control and in fact the hotel chain has been with an ISO certification. Partnering with Rasa Sayang's Food Ambassador, Miss Jessica, Chef Lim's team is doing a good job in making sure that each and every dining experience is a memorable one.

Spice Market Cafe is regularly doing a promoton with is Buy 1 Free 1 package deal. For example from now till 20 December 2011, on every Monday and Tuesday 6:30pm - 10:30pm. (price is currently RM104++ per person). So for the deal is RM104++ for 2 persons (food only). Reservations is required as the deal is very popular to avoid disappointment

Maakoa Koopuwa Health drink is packed with anti-oxidants

Spasso Milano

2011-09-22T08:16:00.000-07:00

My Ratings: 5 Stars
Cuisine: Italian

Location: 3C-G-2, Block C, Ground Floor, Straits Quay, Penang
Pork Free
Contact: +604-8912888

Penangites! Be prepared to experience an Italian gastronomic sensation of a lifetime.... Spasso Milano, Penang's newest contemporary Italian restaurant opened its doors a couple of weeks ago at the prestigious Straits Quay (adjacent to Weissbrau). I was left speechless and honoured when I was invited by Spasso Milano to review its spanking new restaurant, extensive menu and had some personal time with its main star attraction, Chef Felice Martinelli who is a native Italian from Milan who had left me a lasting impression of his impeccable dedication and talent to true Italian traditional cuisine.

Only after speaking to Chef Felice and experiencing the food, I really appreciates what Spasso Milano is offering to food lovers in Penang - true authentic Italian cuisine made with the freshest and quality ingredients. I have since raised my understanding and appreciation of what traditional Italian cuisine is. Previously, all I know about Italian food is pizza and pasta but now I know that there is more to Italian cuisines beyond the common stereotypes.

Spasso Milano spares no expense in selecting the best ingredients in its dishes, even if it means importing them from Italy. For example, the mushroom soup is the best I ever had. Made from Porcini mushrooms and drizzled with white truffle oil which gave the soup a distinct aroma. Another dish I tried was the mushroom and truffle risotto and is one of our favourite picks as the risotto is less creamy & rich, leaving us to experience the real sweetness of the mushroom risotto and stock.

We also had pasta but Spasso pasta is a cut better than other pastas in other restaurant. Cooked al-dente as it should be and with pasta made from top quality Durum wheat which simply make the dish a very healthy choice and more delicious as the texture is able to hold more sauces. Spasso imported many other types of pasta that is not available in local market. That's what I call a top class restaurant.

We ordered the "Trutti Di Mare" pizza with assorted seafood. The pizza is baked in a natural wood fired oven. Domed in shape with a terracotta base, the wood fire reaches the temperature up to 400c degree evenly which only takes a few minutes for the pizza to cook. Wood fired pizza taste much better than any other conventional oven and the wood fire oven is the main showcase of the restaurant.

For antipasti, we had the home-smoked duck breast with avocados, pan-fried goose liver on a bed of rocket salad and drizzled with a balsamic reduction and the tuna tartar. My favourite is the duck breast and goose liver, simply delicious and tender.

For mains, we tried the lamb shank with polenta, grilled (medium rare) Wagyu rib eye, one served with crusted herbs and the other with gravy. My points goes to the Wagyu rib eye.

For desserts, we had Tiramisu, Chocolate Lava Cake and Panna Cotta which is fresh cream pudding with mixed fresh berry coulis. We also tried their chili jam which fills your palate with a pleasant spiciness. The fresh cream pudding is silky smooth but without doubt the Tiramisu is our favourite with its irresistibly creamy and biscuit fillings with a hint of liqueur. But to our pleasant surprise, no alcohol is used. The aroma comes from the Espresso coffee.

I recommend Spasso Milan for authentic Italian food. The establishment offers alfresco dining overlooking the marina and also offers a private dining area fronting the wine cellar and wood fire oven for those who requires a more discreet dining experience. At the time of the review, the restaurant is only serving dinner and by reservations only. I would definitely be returning to try the panini, garden fresh salads and their special white pizza (without tomato base) which we did not manage to order and also to create the chance to meet Chef Felice (again) who has more than 15 years of international experience. Do call Spasso Milano for reservation as the place was very popular. Spasso Milano also retails the best of Italy's olive oils, tea, pasta and balsamic vinegar. More dishes and wine will be added to the menu. You won't be disappointed!

Get healthy with Maakoa's Koopuwa Cupuacu Fruit Drink

CSL Northern Hub 3S Center Launch@ Life1 Cafe

2011-08-27T15:34:00.000-07:00

If diamond is a girl's best friend, then CSL's newest Swarovski range of hand phones is the perfect gift for your girlfriend, wife or girl best friend. Set with Swarovski Zirconias on the dials and buttons with a brilliant white casing, it looks Sexy, Stunning and Sophisticated. All CSL Swarovski range phones comes with dual SIM, social media apps and camera to keep today's ladies connected to the internet. Check out the bargain prices, it's unbelievable!

For the guys and gals who want the latest Andriod, the CSL's Mi350 is the one you should get. Comes with dual SIM, 5MP camera, 3.5' LCD and a standard time up to 400hrs and it is only RM699!

I was recently invited to the launching of CSL's Swarovski range phones, Mi350and its Northern Region 3S Center at Prai Megamall (opp. McDonald's) and later a product review at the adjacent Life1 Cafe.

CSL's 3S Center which stands for After Sales Service, Technical Support and Mobility Solutions is CSL's commitment ot its customers in bridging mobility & internet with an affordable internet solution

The launching was graced by CSL's founder Dato Eric Chua and its country manager Mr. Edwin Gan. In conjunction with the launch, CSL was offering discounts of between RM100 - RM400 for its phones. I was shocked when I arrived at 9:30am (an hour and half before the launch) that there was a long queue of bargain hunters and gadget techies to grab the day's offers.

We adjourned to Life1 Cafe for the product review. We were served finger foods like chicken nuggets, boxing chicken, battered fish and chicken fillets and spaghetti.

Drink Koopuwa - Nature's Pharmacy in a Fruit drink, a bottle of nutrition packed goodness

CSL DS700 Review at Austin Chase

2011-07-27T10:09:00.000-07:00

CSL is fast gaining momentum in the Malaysia and international mobile phone scene. With a variety of models offered that suit all types of users and uses. Now the latest gadget from CSL is the Transformer phone - DS700

DS700 is mainly utilizing MTK based operating system to deliver feature rich mobile solutions. The main feature of this phone is that with one price, you get two types of phone - a classic brick phone and the latest touch screen with virtual keyboard phone. Both can be "transformed" with a simple slip off a cover and slipping on another cover. In addition, DS700 is dual SIM phone which is a necessity in current lifestyle where clients like to keep business associates strictly business and personal contacts personal.

Currently, in conjunction with the local screening of Transformer the movie (Dark of the Moon), CSL is offering the DS700 at an unbeatable price of only RM299 that comes with limited edition Transformer figurine and a steel Transformer case. In the box includes AC and USD charger, pouch case and comes in 3 distinct colours - Bumblebee Yellow, Optimus Prime Red and Megatron Grey.

Penang bloggers were invited to the DS700 product roadshow in Queensbay Mall, Penang and product briefing at Austin Chase

Catch a glimpse of the roadshow and briefing on this video. Click HERE

Fruits N Spice (Part 2)

2011-07-24T00:49:00.000-07:00

My Ratings: 4 Stars
Cuisine: Chinese, Street Food

Location: 202B, Jalan Sungai Pinang, 11010 Balik Pulau
Pork Free
RM7-10 per person
Contact: +604 8661807 (Eric Kee)
Opens on Weekends and Public Holidays only
GPS N05 23.727 E100 12.998

Joanne called me up and invited me to Eric's place for Hokkien Mee. He is cooking it this weekend instead of the usual laksa because he found fresh prawns in the market. I raced up to his place and true Hokkien Mee was served.

Balik Pulau is also known for its Hokkien mee. Always complimenting the more acidic laksa with the sweetness of the prawn broth. Eric's Hokkien mee, is another winner. Packed with ingredients, the broth is sweet and the chilly paste packs a punch.

Going to Eric's place is always a pleasure and a chance to get away from the city's hustle and bustle to the lush mountain greenery. This time, I had the chance to taste durians from Eric's plantation, from the famed Hor Lor to 604. Eric brought for me his "reserved" priced durians and freshly harvested from the nets and not those that have fallen to the ground. The "harvested" durians are smooth and aromatic compared to the fallen fruit which has more watery and "wrinkled" texture (pic2). Eric also makes nutmeg syrup and durian cake on every Wednesdays.

My advice is to call up Eric to confirm if he is cooking Hokkien Mee or Laksa and to order your durians before making the trip there. But most of the time, he is cooking Laksa

Drink Koopuwa - Health for Life

Penang Famous Cintra Street Dumplings

2011-06-30T08:56:00.000-07:00

My Ratings: 5 Stars

Location: 40, Cintra Street, 10100 Penang
(shop in between Campbell and Chulia Street)
Non Halal
RM10 - 30 per person
Contact: +6012-4803308 or +6016-4579590
Open daily: 9:00am - 6:00pm except Sunday.

GPS: N 05 25.108 E 100 20.032

This little specialty shop along the famed Cintra Street serves one of the best traditional rice dumplings I have ever tasted in Penang. Established more than 70 years ago by a Chinese immigrant from Guandong, a Mr Lor Hong Yen and now run by a 3rd generation Mr Lor Kah Fai. This family has been serving thousands of Hokkien and Quandong styled rice dumplings to Penangites and its visitors, soon became known to be the most popular dumpling stall in Penang and earned the title "Cintra Street Dumplings".

The Lor family started to sell Quandong styled rice dumplings, a unique combination of white glutinous rice, green beans, egg yolk and streaky pork. Steamed to perfection, a bite on its soft dumpling leaves the diner filled with joy. Hokkien dumplings were later introduced to cater the local Hokkien community's demand. Hokkien dumpling on the other hand is filled with dried mushroom, salted egg yolk, fatty pork belly and seasoned with dark soy sauce. Hokkien rice dumplings is firmer in texture and the taste is heavenly as the pork fat meats in heat of your mouth.

To top the rice dumpling experience, we saved the best for last. We ordered the giant Guangdong (Cantonese) rice dumpling (Guo Zheng Zong). Weighing in at least 2kg and cost RM40 each, it is big enough for up to 5 person's portion. It is worth every sen and it is filled with a combination of chicken, duck, pork meat, roasted pork, char siew, dried oysters, salted egg yolk, chestnuts and dried mushroom. This dumpling is available only during the dumpling festival and it will sell out fast as it is considered as a symbol of prosperity and is often given as gifts.

There were some side dishes like the yam cake, red bean soup which is also a must try. The atmosphere is no frills but it serves the best rice dumplings (best accompanied by homemade chilli and special dark sweet aromatic sauce). A must try recommendation from me

Fruits N Spice

2011-06-22T07:48:00.000-07:00

My ratings: 4 Stars
Cuisine: Chinese, street food

Location: 202B Jalan Sungai Pinang, 11010 Balik Pulau
Pork Free
RM 7-10 or RM15-20 (include durians)
Contact: +6048661807 (Eric Kee)
Opens weekends and public holidays only

GPS: N05 23.727 E100 12.998

Nestled in the hill side of Balik Pulau, there is an unique place to have laksa and durians - the favourite indulgences of Malaysians. The place is actually a private cottage with a vast durian plantation in its backyard - a place where lives a passionate man in the art of making laksa and has the green thumb especially for the durian tree.

Eric Kee gave up a corporate career to focus on his love of cooking and dreams in living in harmony with nature and has made Balik Pulau as his home. Eric cooks up a wonderful dish of homemade assam laksa and the nonya pai tee. Helped by his lovely wife, family and helpers. Eric also has manage to grow his business and now Penangites and its island visitors traveled all the way up and around the island to Balik Pulau solely for his laksa. And when the durian session is here, the crowd just keep coming over for the fruit and spicy noodle - a perfect combo and a hallmark of Balik Pulau. And visitors always go home with laksa to go and packs of durian flesh

It is truly a "home made" enterprise. The laksa is only available on weekends and public holidays. Eric has converted his house porch into the dining hall and he also converted the living quarter into an antique gift shop. Eric is an avid antique collector also trades in antiques. The durians are picked fresh from his ochard at the back of the house. Eric has most of the varieties of durians including the famed "Ang Heh". The durians are harvested when they (fruit dropped from the tree and not fall to the ground. To prevent the fruits hitting the grounds, they are tied up to the tree using string or collected from a net above ground. Once the fruit has hit the ground, the taste and texture of the fruit becomes inferior.

The laska (RM3:00 small/RM400 big per bowl) ingredients are fresh and the taste is well balanced. Not too sweet nor salty (add shrimp paste to taste), so it is perfectly suited to the health conscious. 2 type of drinks are served. First is Nutmeg juice (another hallmark of Balik Pulau) and sour plum drink (RM1.50 each) . The pai tee is crunchy and light (RM3.00) for a plate of 5 pieces.

The cottage is packed with customers. While waiting for your table, you can start with the durians under the shade of the durian tree. The cottage commands an excellent view of the valley below. Drivers driving to/from Teluk Bahang to Balik Pulau can never miss this place. It is a very well maintained and beautifully landscaped front yard.

I definitely recommend his place whenever you are heading to Balik Pulau. You will get good simple food, farm picked durians and a fasinating collection of antiques (some for sale) but most important you also get to experience how it is like to stay in a location that is so close to nature.

New Menu: Weissbrau@Straits Quay

2011-06-14T06:41:00.000-07:00

My Ratings: 4 Stars
Cuisine: German/Western

Location: Lot 3C-G-1 Straits Quay, Jalan Sri Tanjung Pinang, TanjungTokong 10470 Penang
Non Halal
RM50-60 per person
Tel: +604 890 1808
Open Daily 12noon - 1am

Weissbrau German Bistro & Bar at Straits Quay, Penang recently launched a new menu with a selection of old time favourites and regular customers suggestions. This is a testament of the restaurant's determination to win the heart and tummy of their regulars. And Weissbrau launched the new menu with style and pizazz.

Weissbrau hosted a buffet of the new menu's food favourites and drinks on May 20th and a rendition of song hits by Mad Sally - a hip and contemporary pop band of "Mat Sallehs" who made Malaysia their base and career location, hence their band name Mad Sally representing "Mat Salleh"

I found their new menu exciting with the pork knuckles my favourite. Crispy skin and juicy soft meat underneath it. Other favourites are Flammkuchen with mushroom and light curried chicken (Flammkuchen is like a pizza bread), Pork Ribs, Swiss Mushroom and Cheese Burger, Porcini Mushroom soup, Mushroom on Toast and Jagerschnitzel. The foods at Weissbrau, Straits Quay is brought to you by Pascal Schnyder, a Swiss who have the world of experience to his credits like working at the Dolder Grand in Zurich, The Ramada Renaissance, Hotel Conrad International in Hong Kong and the executive chef at the Pattaya's Dusit Resort. Pascal created the initial menu at Weissbrau and also update the new menu

I found a fantastic way to cool off a hot day at the Quays with Hoegaarden Belgium beer on tap. It is light and refreshing and equally suited to both gender of the sexes. Other beers on tap are Erdinger Weissbier, Franziskanner Dunkel and Leffe Blonde. Each beers offers a different taste to the palate. All the draught biers are served in their unique serving glasses which is both a delight to the taste buds and eyes. Weissbrau also stocks imported German bottled beers like Lowenbrau, Becks, Konid Ludwig and Grolsh.

The service is on par with the upmarket restaurants in the quay but I must make a special commendation to Weissbrau's director Mr Wayne Yoon (wayne@out2dine.com.my) who is constantly on floor to ensure the customers night went on smoothly.

Weissbrau @Strait Quay is one of two. The other is situated at the Pavillion, Kuala Lumpur (Connection Level). The word Weissbrau is a combo of German word "Weiss" for White and "Brau" for Brew which refer to Germany's favourite type of beer.

Looking for authentic German food fare and beers? Look no further than Weissbrau. Now at Straits Quay.

Maakoa Kupuwa - The Premier Anti-oxidant health drink made from the Cupuacu fruit from the Amazon

Invited Review: Yeng Keng Hotel

2011-05-08T08:56:00.000-07:00

My Ratings: 5 Stars

Cuisine: International/Hainan
Location: 362 Chulia Street, 10200 Penang
Pork Free
RM30-45 per person
Tel: +604 262 2177
Open Daily

GPS: N 05'25.138 E100'20.096

http://www.yengkenghotel.com.my

Yeng Keng Hotel built in mid 1800's as a private residence of an Indian Muslim family is situated right in the heart of Chulia Street enclave beautifully and restored to its original 19th century splendour and more. Now turned into a world class boutique hotel with 20 elegantly appointed rooms. The hotel also house a cafe & bar which dishes out authentic Hainanese and international cuisine, ideal for a stay and dine vacation - a unique way to experience the Heritage of early Penang

Yeng Keng cafe & bar is one of a few places in Penang that serves authentic Hainanese fare. Typical Hainanese dishes like the Deep Fried Choon Pieh (RM12 for 2 pieces), Hainanese Mushroom soup with glass noodles (RM10 per person), Curry Tumis White Pomfret, Inchi Kabin (market price), Hainanese Chicken Chop, Chicken Pie and Yam Duck. All these dishes are my childhood favourites.

The Chicken Pie (RM25) is value for money. The portion serves 4 to 5 persons. For larger party of 10 persons, a larger portion of chicken pie is available for only RM35. All of the Hainaneses dishes is flavourful and not oily (good!). The Choon Pieh is the Chef Tan's recommendation. He stressed on the freshness and sweetness of the crab meat used. Chef Tan has more than 17 years experience in Hainanese cuisines.

Yeng Keng cafe & bar also serves a variety of international fare such as lamb shank, grilled fish with butter sauce, potato, onions and capers (RM18), sandwiches, soups & salads, pasta and local hawkers favourites. Must try are the lamb shank (RM35) and Beef Hor Fun (RM15).
The international menu is readily available but do call the hotel is you are planning to have Hainanese fare as pre-order is required until the Chinese restaurant is in full operation (located in the adjacent building).

One special dessert is the Bomb Alaska (RM20). This is a must order. Yeng Keng cafe is the only restaurant which serves Bomb Alaska in Penang that I know of. A common dish once upon a time but over the decades the popularity of the dish seemed to have disappeared. Maybe because it is hard to make (beating the egg white to a fluffy consistency and the "extra" effort to serve the dessert which included heating up the alcohol to be able to light it up and ooze all over the white which is a show by itself.

After dinner, one can proceed to the front garden of the hotel for drinks. The cozy outdoor offers a magnificent view of the picturesque hotel front all lighted up in full lighting effects. The bar offers value for money buckets of beer and is an ideal place for friends to gather and chat through the night

"Get Healthy and Feeling Fantastic with Maakoa's Koopuwa that's packed with highest anti-oxidant goodness"

Invited Review: Restorante Bravo Italiana

2011-03-21T09:39:00.000-07:00

My ratings: 4 Stars

Cuisine: Western/Italian
Location: 1-01-11, Complex I-Avenue, 11900 Bayan Lepas, Penang
Pork Free
RM20-35 person
Contact: +604-641 0499
Open daily except Mondays 11:30am - 3:00pm (Lunch) & 6:00 - 10:00pm (Dinner)

GPS coordinates: N 05*19.945 E100*17.603

Craving for authentic Italian food? Last week I wrote of authentic Bulgarian food, this week it's Italian. Restorante Bravo Italiana is one of a few places in Penang you can soak up the taste of Italy, from Tuscany to Sicily. Here you can enjoy pasta, pizza, salads, soups, anti pesto, zabaglione and the all famed Tiramisu dessert, all in the comfort of this quaint little restorante.

The interiors are decked with posters and beautiful pictures of Italian landmarks, all taken by the owner and chef Lim Fung Chin who worked in Italy and has travel the whole length of the Italian peninsula. Chef lim who has more than 15 years of culinary experience under his belt, has worked in many places including the city Bologna and on board an international cruise ship which sailed around Europe and the Caribbeans.

Chef Lim believes in cooking the best for his customers including using the best ingredients like Extra Virgin Olive Oils and fresh herbs. His pizza base are hand tossed and the sauce are home made. Baked to perfection, Chef Lim's pizza creations must be one of the tastiest pizza I have ever tasted. (The Pizza ala Sicilian is a must try (contains beef pepperoni))

Restorante Bravo Italiana is also well stocked with your favourite Italian vintages. However, the most favourite accompaniment to your meal would be the desserts after meal. Again Chef Lim made the desserts himself. The most popular and signature dessert in the restorante is the Tiramisu , made to perfection. with its soft creamy center. Other desserts like the key lime pie, Italian mousse, Bravo zabaglione, sweet pumpkin pie are also favourites

Bravo Italiana also offers affordable set lunches (dine in only) includes Chicken Parmigiana, served with soup of the day, garlic bread, iced lemon tea and ice-cream starting from RM13.80. The restorante is suitable for all ages and whatever the occasions may be.

Maakoa - Live Fearlessly!

Invited Review: Vintage Bulgaria

2011-03-16T05:40:00.000-07:00

My Ratings: 5 Stars

Cuisine: Western/International/Bulgarian

Location: 1E Jalan Sungai Kelian (a.k.a. Hillside, Opp Coptone Hotel)), 11200 Tanjung Bungah, Penang

Non Halal

RM30 - 40 per person

Contact: +604-898 1890

Open Daily 4pm - 12am (Happy Hours 4-8pm)

Website: http://www.vintagebulgaria.com/

GPS coordinates: N o5*27.879 E 100*17.547

If you are hungry for the real deal authentic Bulgarian fare, then head out to Vintage Bulgaria. This family orientated restaurant and bar is owned and run by a Bulgarian family who love Penang so much decided to stay on the island and lucky for us gave us Penangites, offers a taste of Bulgaria, right here on beautiful Penang island and saved us the plane fare to Bulgaria

At Vintage Bulgaria, you can expect great food and a feel of Bulgarian hospitality and culture, from the castle decor of the restaurant basement, Bulgarian village wall mural painting at the private function area, signages in Bulgarian alphabets and the owner/hostess's greeting in the native Bulgarian tongue. Every time I stepped in, I feel at home in Bulgaria ( I swear)

Vintage Bulgaria also specially imported Bulgarian wine and liquor to compliment the food to totally immerse diners with the Bulgarian experience and culture.

In fact, this is not my first time at the restaurant. The first was a romantic couple's dinner, then there was a time I organised a blogger's gathering, All ended with a high note and toast to the hostess, Sylvia!! for a job well done

The restaurant cooks many kind of dishes to showcase the best of Bulgarian food and culture, from soups, salads, wraps, meat dishes (especially if you need a pork fix), seafood and desserts

My favourite has to be its pork dishes. My recommendation is the Pork Plovdiv Ribs, Roast Pork Djolan, Bulgarian Shashlik, Orley Wraps and Bulgarian Platter (contains beef). All true Bulgarian fare. If you are not a meat person, then the Shopska Salad is another way to experience Bulgaria. To finish the meal, try the Sweet Pumpkin Pie and/or the Chocolate Soup. Also drink Bulgarian house wine by the glass throughout the meal. If you do not want to try my recommendations all at once, then set dinner menus are available

Great place to meet up with friends over food and drinks, catch the EPL fever at the bar. Great place for families to have a meal together (served children's menu). Service is good. Ambiance is great...cozy, always gets me into the mood. Food selection is wide from Bulgarian to international. Try the restaurant, you won't be disappointed and leaves you with a sense of Bulgarian culture and hospitality and thoughts of coming back for more (to try other dishes) and to bring your loved ones to experience the same experience which you had

Get Healthy Today. Drink MAAKOA - A superfruit blend of Cupuacu, Acai and 7 other power berries

Clich Here to find out more

To order, click here

Little Cottage Cafe 2

2010-11-12T18:49:00.000-08:00

My Ratings: 4 Stars

Cuisine: Western/Italian

Location: Waterfall Hotel, 31 Gottlieb Road Penang

Halal

RM12-40 per person

Contact: 604-2281128/604-2296618

Open Daily 11am-3pm, 6pm-10:30pm

Catering also available

http://www.littlecottagecafe.com/

Little Cottage Cafe is a pleasant experience. Situation inside Hotel Waterfall along Jalan Gottlieb, the restaurant offers great food and nice ambiance for the whole family to enjoy. The restaurant offers set meals (except Sundays) and weekend international buffet priced for both the budget conscious Starting from RM9.90++) and gourmets. Ample parking inside hotel grounds (RM1 per entry) and outside council parking

The set meal is worth mentioning. From RM9.90++, you get a pasta meal, coffee, bread roll and soup. The are also various meats to choose and prices vary accordingly. My favourite is Garlic Pasta (cheap and good) and the signature lamb shank. The shanks is cooked well, meat is tender and savoury gravy

Overall the service is good, variety of food choices, portions are sufficient and the English cottage ambiance adds character to your dining experience.

Invited Review: Annathai Kitchen

2010-10-11T05:51:00.000-07:00

My Ratings: 5 Stars

Cuisine: Thai

Location: 26, Moulmein Road, Pulau Tikus, Penang

Non Halal

RM6-10 per person

Contact: 604-2277599

Closed Mondays

Opens: from 10:30am - 2:30pm and then 5:30-9:30pm for dinner

Once a while you find a culinary gem that everything seemed right and in this case Thai cuisine.

Thai cuisine is no stranger in the Penang eating scenes but this little kitchen by the popular market on the island seemed to dish out fantastic authentic Thai food

We were invited to sample a variety of delicious home cooked Thai food. All together there are more than 30 dishes on the platter and menu. A choice that can satisfy any person's desire. All the food is well balanced in terms of taste and sight

My personal favourites are:-

- Thai Otak Otak (Hor Mok)

- Jack Fruit with sticky rice (Khoa Niao Kha Noon)

- Fresh mango with sticky rice (Khoa Niao Ma Muang)

- Thai dessert with coconut milk and water chesnut (Tub Thim Krob)

- Thai chicken rice (Khao Mun Gai)

- Thai Laksa (Khao Nom Chin)

- Thai Fried Rice (Khao Yam)

- Tom Yam Goong

- Red syrup (Nam Daeng) with sago

- Green syrup (Nam Kaew) with sago

I like the Otak because the texture is one of the smoothest I have ever tasted (true skill). The Jackfruit and Mango goes well with the sticky rice. Their Thai Laksa is very unique and creamy. You can really taste the fresh ingredients used. Thai fried rice is just so pretty to look at, wonderful of colours of the ingredients is just too good to mix it up. And the Tom Yam Goong is one of the best I have ever tasted.

I can't wait to go back for dinner. They have a totally diffrent menu for dinner

Overall the restaurant offers a wide variety of authentic Thai home cooked dishes at reasonable price. It is clean and offers relaxed indoor and outdoor seating. Not surprising as the Matriarch of the kitchen is of Thai decent. I recommend my readers to try it

"Koopuwa's Cupuacu fruit has one of the best Anti-oxidant level"

Special Announcement: RM1 Burger King Whopper - Cheapest ever

2010-10-05T08:03:00.000-07:00

Just newly opened, Penang's very own Burger King outlet at Promendate28. Only RM1 for a Whopper Burger with any fizzy drink purchase on Oct 6th

Address: Lot27 & 28 Ground Floor, Lebuh Sungai Pinang 5, 11600 Penang(near the 4 blue pillar, Jelutong Expressway)

Be warned, I think there will be a huge crowd because of the offer. So be there early. Click on the advert for more details

Blog Fest Asia 2010

2010-10-02T14:31:00.000-07:00

I casually heard about this blog fest from my nephew and later friends. Intrigued, I surfed the web and many times thinking should I register or not. However, it did not take me long to decide to register. It is an international event and the first Blog Fest Asia was held in Hong Kong. I thought I am sure I am not going to miss the chance to attend, now that it is in Malaysia and best of all in my home state of Penang!!

When I heard there was seats available for the Penang Heritage Tour, I jumped at the opportunity to learn more about the heritage and get to know more about the international blogger community. The cream of the tour was a feast to our local foods and drinks. I enjoyed the tour, it was informative and eye-opening. Thanks to Tourism Malaysia who sponsored the tour.

That night, we were invited to a dinner for all registered bloggers at the QE2 restaurant. We took this time to get to know fellow bloggers and the blogging scene in their countries. The mood was relaxing but we did not stayed on for long as we had an earlier morning start

Saturday was a big day. A larger group of bloggers all congregated at Wawasan Open University at the Northam Road campus. There were local and international blogger from all over the world from Taiwan to India and across the ocean to France and the United States of America.

The events got off a good start with Keynote address, panel discussion and later breakout sessions to discuss about security and privacy issues, commercializing the blog and new technology in the blogsphere.

In the evening, we attended a dinner and cultural event organized by Tourism Malaysia. Our international friends were treated to can impressive cultural dance and Chingay demonstration. The night proceeded to the mybloggercon.com awards ceremonies where new and seasoned bloggers were recognized for their contributions to the blogging scene.

In summary, with the Blog Fest Asia being an international event, clearly shows that blogging has come a long way from a hobby to an established community in the world arena. And I am glad that government and state agencies together with private companies has sponsored this fest to be held here in Malaysia, clearly shows that Malaysian bloggers is a force and to show our international friends and Malaysia and Penang has much more to offer to see, eat and live!

For more information about the Blog Fest Asia, click here

For more information about Tourism Malaysia, click here

"Drink Koopuwa for Health and Energy"

Invited Review: Terrace Bay Restaurant, Copthorne Hotel

2010-09-26T06:28:00.000-07:00

My Rating: 4 Stars

Cuisine: Thai

Location: Copthorne Hotel,

Jalan Tanjung Bungah, 11200 Penang

Tel: 04-8923333

Halal

RM30nett (adult) buffet

RM20nett (senior citizen) buffet

RM18nett (child) buffet

Thanks to Food Promotions for organising the review. It was our first review of a hotel restaurant buffet. It was a Saturday night and the theme was Thai Food Promotions. We were pleseantly surprised that the crowd grew very fast and the dining hall quickly filled in to capacity although we arrived what we thought early at 6:30pm

Definite a good indication of the popularity of the buffet. We were treated to a variety of appetizers, soups, main courses, vegetables, noodles, stalls and desserts. all in all more than 27 major items, coffee and tea and all in a bargain price of only RM30 nett for adult or RM20 for senior citizen. I think this is value for money. The service is warm and friendly and the ambience is nice and you have a coice to dine inside or al-fresco by the poolside.

My favourite dishes are spicy Thai omelete (Khai Yat Sai), Thai Char Koay Teow (Phad Thai), Thai Otak Otak (Homok) and Mango with Glutinous Rice (Khoa Neuw Ma Muang). The food is tasty, fresh and skillfully prepared together with ganishings which is a must in Thai cuisines

The Thai Food promotion buffet is available on Saturday dinner an Sunday lunch. Suitable for family dining with food that caters to all ages and tastes. As the food promotion is popular, do call for reservations. Thailand is a land of Smiles and I definitely ended my night with a smile

Invited Review: Tree Monkey

2010-09-12T08:31:00.000-07:00

My Ratings: 3 Stars

Cuisine: Asian/Thai/Western

Location: Tropical Spice Gardens

(Lone Craig Villa, Lot 595, Mukim 2)

Jalan Teluk Bahang

Pork Free

Tel:+604 8813494
RM40 - 50 person

Nestled in the edge of the jungle and perched on a hill slope, Tree Monkey Restaurant by the nature is a perfect eat away and get away place from the hustle and bustle of city life where the food and ambiance is as authentic as it can be

Tree Monkey is located inside the Tropical Spice Garden however the entrance to the restaurant is through a gate next to the Tropical Spice Garden main entrance. Getting to the restaurant seemed like an adventure with a little walk up a slight incline of the hill's edge. When you reached the restaurant, you are greeted with friendly staffs and an ambiance of North Thailand where timber construction is everywhere

The food is mainly Asian, Western and Northern Thai cuisine. The restaurant deck offers alfresco dining while other areas offered tatami seating and regular seating. We were served with a welcome drink called Sunrise and I am pretty sure there wasn't any tequila in it

The first dish was the Asian Tapas. A selection of Asian bite size portion of vegetables, chicken meat and seafood to wet the appetite. Then we were served the Thai Tapas of Pandan chicken meat, mango salad, Otak, vegetables and chilli egg

On the side, we were serve both clear and spicy tom yam soup and turmeric rice. The owner has a chain of other food and beverage outlets around Penang and other parts of the country. For this restaurant, they brought in chefs from Northern Thailand to keep the food as authentic as possible. However, the heat of the spice is keep to a minimum to cater to food gourmet who like it mild. The spice for the food is harvested fresh from the Spice Garden. Furthermore, there is a spice shop behind the restaurant for those who like to bring back home the local spices

Great place to chill out with a great view of the sunset. Close to nature but with the comfort of modern dining. Occasionally, you may see wild animals and birds in nearby trees. Elderly patrons may need help with the small hike up to the restaurant and with illumination once the night is dark. A good place to experience Thai hospitality. We ended the night with a cup of spice coffee (Cinnamon)

Thanks to CK Lam for organizing the review

Invited Review: Viva Dim Sum Delight

2010-09-01T06:52:00.000-07:00

My Ratings: 4 Star

Cuisine: Chinese/Dim Sum

Location: Viva Local Food Haven

Lot 303, Jalan Tanjung Tokong 10470

(Beside Penang Chinese Swimming Club)

Non Halal

Tel: 604-8902549

RM15-20 per person

Newest Dim Sum outlet opening on the island (on 10th August). On the outside, it may look like another food court. Well it is but at the back, Viva has managed to set up a full working kitchen to dish out one of the best dim sum on the island

Judging from the dished we reviewed, the dim sum is superior to its competitors, the variety is wide selection, taste more refined and the ingredients is quality. Much more to standard you get in hotel restaurants. In fact the proprietor, Mr David C.M. Loh stressed that the concept of this restaurant is to present diners with quality dim sum made to established restaurants at affordable price that everyone can afford to enjoy

As a matter of fact, the chefs has many years in the restaurant environment in the greater city of Kuala Lumpur and they are proud of fact that they used top grade food ingredients to muster their creations. For example stuffed avocado and custard cream with crispy friend vermicelli noodle - sweet and exotic.

I recommend the dim sum place to anyone who enjoy quality and reasonable price and and a keen taste of true Hong Kong style dim sum. I definitely would like to go there often. Opening hours is 6:00am - 2:00pm daily but I believe they will extend their operating hour to include 6:00pm - 10:00pm for a fix of evening dim sum by the time of this review's publication.

Caffe Strada

2010-06-10T07:12:00.000-07:00

My rating: 4 stars

Cuisine: Western/Fusion

Location: Krystal Point (center point),

Bayan Lepas

Pork Free

RM10 - 25 per person

It is such a refreshing change to have a cafe that offers good simple fare in a relaxed environment where friends and family can spend together on this side of the island.

It's white decor gives a sense of sophistication, style and yet simplicity with a hint of European feel. Their staff is fresh and friendly, eager to serve to the delight of the customers

The moment I stepped into the cafe, I felt at home and at ease. The cafe serves a good spread of buffet for lunch and dinner with a selection beverages from cappuccino's, smoothies to milk shakes to iced latte and exotic drinks like the blue ocean float (pictured). You have to try their coffee, made from freshly roasted beans (yes, they roast their own coffee!) and freshly grounded to give their coffee the justice it deserves and I must admit, they serve of the best coffee. Their buffet lunch is RM19.90+ with complementary drink from their ala-carte menu while dinner is RM23.90+ with complementary drink

Caffe Strada also boast a wide selection of cakes (RM6.90 per slice) to accompany the nice cuppa of coffee from Tiramisu to Cheesecake to Belgium white and black chocolate cake freshly kept in climate control pantry. For those who fancy cakes, they serve savoury finger foods to cater to every taste buds and appetite like spicy chicken wings

That's not all. The cafe offers a relaxed atmosphere in both indoor and outdoor environment and a wide selection of local and international beers. Friends and family can enjoy each other's company with TV projection of your favourite sports and MTV. But the best of all, they do offer live band music occasionally (check with the cafe on band schedules)

So check this cafe out. I am sure you will love it. I did. They are have a grand opening on 11June 7:00pm. There will be lot of activities lined up. They are offering membership on a pre-loaded value on a card where the cafe will add on extra 15%. So this mean, if you load RM100 on the card, you get RM115 value which you can redeem from the cafe's menu. On the opening day, you get extra 25% value on your pre-loaded value. Now that's a great offer!

Call Micheal (+6016)-4953186 for reservations. Opens 7 days a week till late (2am)

The All New Sigi's Bar and Grill By The Beach

2010-03-12T16:51:00.000-08:00

My rating: 4 Stars

Cuisine: Western

Location: Golden Sand Hotel, Batu Ferringhi, Penang (tel: +604 8861852)

Halal

RM90 -120 per person

I never thought I see the reopening of Sigi's by the beach. It closed down many years ago for a makeover which today is the results of the makeover. Many memories there. I dated my wife there before we were married and many happy hours drinking beer al-fresco with buddies.
Now the new Sigi's is more chic, contemporary and has a Mediterranean feel to it. Most importantly it is now more enclosed for a more comfortable dining away from the mozzies. Recently officially open on 10th March but I had the opportunity to dine prior to the grand opening so a very quiet relaxing meal.

Sigi's spared no expense to make the dining experience worthwhile. Service is excellent, professional, warm and friendly. Nice gimmick by putting a battery powered table light to create the ambience of romance and exclusivity.

The menu range is extensive but finally we narrowed down to a few which we think is great food. We ordered a traditional Australian sirloin, lamb shank cooked till tender, pan-fried cod, seafood spaghetti and salt & pepper calamari.

We were not disappointed. The presentation is great. The food is well prepared and cooked to perfection. My favorite is the pan fried cod (RM65) with crushed new potatoes and topped with fennel and caper salad and sprinkled with crushed pistachios. Kudos to Chef Brock

Overall, our dining experience has been pleasant. Good ambience and offers both a relax dining and comfortable dining experience. However, price is a little high and don't forget to add service and government tax and it is not fine dining

Business Hours : 10am – 1am

Breakfast on weekends and public holidays from 8am to 11.30am

Lunch : 12 noon – 3pm

Pool Snacks Menu : 3pm – 6pm
Dinner : 6.30pm – 10.30pm

Tired of the rat race? Join Maakoa in Asia at ground zero for a rewarding business opportunity!

Contact Maakoa Asia today for more information

Congee@New Lane

2010-03-02T06:46:00.001-08:00

My Ratings: 4 Stars

Cuisine: Chinese/Street Hawker Fare

Location: Junction of New Lane & McAllister Road, Penang

Non-Halal

Price: RM4 - 5 per person

One evening, I decided to haunt a street famed for its street foods sold by the tens of hawkers who have been plying their trade since since I could remember. It has been years since I ate there. So there so some unfamiliarity of the food available their. Also that evening, my appetite wasn't at its best. So I was looking for something less filling and easy to go down.

I scouted the stalls from my plastic stool and I kinda like what I saw. I saw poh piah and a congee stall side by side. But I wasn't really sure what to have. So I ordered two. I was confident I could finish both.

But the setup of the congee stall really attracted my attention. All those pork inerts and meat hanging on the same push cart. Stomach lining, Char Siew (Marinated BBQ pork), intestines (deep fried till crisp and dark golden colour, more intestines (cooked) and some other parts or meat which I do not even know such existed.

At first look, the mass of meat and inerts hangings do not really stimulate ones appetite, especially I am trying very hard to eat more vegetables (be a vegetarian). But then the memories of soothing congee brings me back to a time and place I was really comfortable.....home and home cooked congee.

Congee on its own is so simple. Often taken when the weather is hot (and it is really hot nowadays) and when one is sick. The silky sooth consistency really helps the food goes down the throat. Add those deep fried inerts and char siew and a pinch of white pepper powder and freshly chopped shallots (spring onions) plus a dash of sesame oil is a must.......make the whole dining experience heavenly

But what had changed from the golden olden days is the price. I remember not paying more than RM0.80 for a bowl to now a minimum of RM4.00 to satisfy the desire for congee

A must try if you are not afraid of this bizarre food of port inerts and a fan of this Hong Kong styled congee.

"Monavie just launched in Malaysia on March 1st, 2010. Don't miss this golden opportunity to discover true health and wealth. Contact monavie.team.asia@gmail.com for a personal consultation on how you can start changing your life from today! I have taken the first step, what about you?"

Teluk Kumbar Seafood: How Peng You

2010-02-04T07:26:00.000-08:00

My ratings: 5 Stars

Cuisine: Seafood, Chinese

84 Mk9 Teluk Kumbar 11920, Penang 04-6491403

Pork Free (seafood restaurant)

RM20-30 per person

Teluk Kumbar Seafood (aka How Peng You or Good Friends) is becoming my go to place for true delicious seafood. The place is a real treat for the taste buds as well as the sight, smell and hearing and feeling. Situated at the southern part of the island by the beach side of a coastal fishing village. A number of well known celebrities have been patronising the restaurant. Jason from Taste with Jason TV shows did a segment on this restaurant. So it has to be good!!

A real treat for the sight is because the sun sets behind the hills along the beach, creating a unique colourful picturesque canvas of Penang idyllic coastal fishing village life. Silhouettes of the boats from the light reflected off the surface of the sea. A definite favourite for shutterbugs too.

We ordered seafood and vegetable. In order of appearance below, we had:-

Freshly Juiced White Nutmeg with Preserved Sour Plum
"Batu Maung" Satay

Claims cooked in Shallots and Ginger

Chinese Kailan with Roasted Garlic

Crab cooked wiht Salted Duck Eggs

Baked Crab (plain)

Crab cooked in a "Kam Heong" sauce

Claims cooked with Bean paste

Deep Fried Crispy Calamari

Steamed Fish Teow Chiew Style

Crabs were simply delicious in any style. Top favourite is plain Baked Crab. The ingredients are fresh. The favour is well balanced and aromatic. And of course the "Batu Maung" satays. Marinated slices of meat grilled together with the spicy aromatic sauce - a must order!

The restaurant is no frills but it has the best view of any great restaurants. A little challenging to locate the restaurant. Not easily seen from the main rood. It is directly in front of Yan Chang primary school in Teluk Kumbar and it's behind a motor workshop. It does have a small sign indicating the Teluk Kumbar Seafood restaurant but again barely can be seen. Drive around the workshop to the beach behind it and you will find ample parking by the beach

If you are able to find the place, it is definitely worth your effort. Seafood is fresh, you can choose your live seafood. Moderately priced. Crabs are meaty and sweet

Call the number above to check the business hours

Attain financial freedom by building a home-based global business

Edoichi Japanese Cuisine

2010-01-24T06:13:00.000-08:00

My Ratings: 3 Stars

Cuisine: Japanese
Location: Ground floor, Island Plaza, Penang (next to Coffee Bean)

Non Halal

RM30 - 45 per person

"Edo" which was renamed to "Tokyo" in 1868. Edo was the capital city of the Tokugawa Shogunate before the Meiji Restoration

The modern term "Japanese Cuisine" aka Nihon ryori or washoku means traditional styled Japanese food. Japanese cuisine is known for its emphasis on seasonality of the food (shun), quality of the ingredients and presentation.

Edoichi JC just opened about a month and a half ago and has been enjoying a steady stream of customers. The menu is beautifully pictured and the restaurant has a sushi bar with pleasant seating arrangement and private rooms,

The service is courteous and the staffs are always eager to check with the customers on their needs to make the dinning experience more comfortable. Each table has a service call button adds to the service factor

We ordered some lunch sets and Katsu curry. The sets ordered chicken teriyaki, beef teriyaki, Tofu steak and tempura set. For drinks we ordered Cola Fizz, Vanilla Banana shake and green tea (ocha). The taste was OK but we found the teriyakis slightly salty.

The ambiance is pleasant and a good escape from the heat of the day. Great sushi bar and a nice aquarium. Overall the price is slightly above average. They charge RM1 per pax for ocha. No government tax but service charge is included.

Discover the wonders of The Brazilian Acai Berries form the jungles of the Amazon now!

Townview Seafood

2010-01-19T00:33:00.001-08:00

My Ratings: 4 stars

Cuisine: Seafood/Chinese
Location: 11, Macalister Road, 10400 Georgetown, Penang
Non-Halal
Price: RM20-30 per person

Newly opened. This establishment is situated next to the Bank Simpanan Nasional along Jalan Macalister. The restaurant boast the cheapest crab pe kilo at only RM23/kg.

Well the marketing plan must have work because the restaurant is usually packed during dinner. Lunch and supper is available too but not seafood. Porridge is also served.

We ordered the crabs of course but we wanted a baked crab without sauce so that we can enjoy the sweetness of the meat. Then we orderd another kilo of crabs cooked in a spicy sauce (kam heong) with dried shrimps and curry leaves

Both varieties went well. We also ordered steamed spicy fish, fried chicken wings, kailan and a plate of glass noodles. Overall, our dishes were tasty and the seafood is fresh.
They have daily special dishes but we did not ordered. One of the favourites is meat cooked in whole pumpkin with XO sauce.

Not a bad place to dine. Prices are moderate. The total bill for our table was RM135 for 5 pax. I would like to return to try one some more of their house specialties.

Be part of a growth and profitable company today and begin a wonderful journey towards total health and wellness and financial freedom - Monavie ~ The Power of You. Join us today and be a successful business owner of the company

Salbazouk Dance Party at Hainan Town

2010-01-18T16:25:00.000-08:00

Make a date for yourself and your partner to dine a Nyonya cuisine at Hainan Town this Saturday and continue into the night away with a dance party Salbazouk style. Just what is Salbazoulk? Well it's Ballroom (Merengue) dancing mix with Salsa mix again with Dirty Dancing....and the results is a really HOT dance. For a preview.....go to You Tube and type in keywords Brazillian Zouk and Bachata Moderna. Thanks to Minny Chan

Dance away and get & feel the energy of the Amazonian Acai Palm Berry. Order and try it today!

Ivy's Kitchen 2010 Special CNY Package Deal

2010-01-07T19:12:00.001-08:00

Hey! Mr. Tan from Ivy's Kitchen just called me and he is excited to promote his 2010 Chinese New Year Dinner Package.

For those who dislike to wash up or just too busy or tired to buy and prepare the ingredients, don't fret because Ivy's Kitchen has the answer. Tan and Ivy has developed a special menu throughout the festive period that has the same wholesome goodness and taste which Ivy has cooking up for their customers. This time King Prawns and Abalone adds even more punch

Call Tan or Ivy today to make your reservations! Their new CNY special menu as below

Daore Korean Premium BBQ

2010-01-04T22:26:00.001-08:00

My Ratings: 5 Stars

Cuisine: Korean BBQ

Location: Jalan Tanjung Tokong (next to Petronas Station), 10470 Penang

Non-halal

RM40-80 per person

The sudden popularity of Korean cuisine fuels an explosion of Korean restaurants on the Island.....and Daore Korean Premium BBQ suddenly opened with two restaurant within a year. The first was in Bayan Point and the lastest project is in Tanjung Tokong.

The setup is impressive. No money is spared in designing its decor, equipment and hiring their service staffs.

As expected, you get great service. Order a minimum of two BBQ dishes and their cook it right in front for you. The dining experience comes with lots of extra side dishes like Kim-Chi, pickled vegetables, seaweed soup, desserts and a lot more assortments of tit-bits. Some items changes daily.

All you have to do is to order your main course/dishes and all the rest is taken care of. If you order the BBQ, there is a method to eat the BBQ meats. Get a piece of green salad, dip the meat in sesame oil, then their special chili bean paste and combine with a piece of garlic and shallots and wrap it up and chew it all in one mouthful. Gastronomic Heaven!!

Are you looking for opportunities to build a pipeline income source? Would you like extra income or just achieve your financial goals earlier and the quality of life that you always wanted?

We ordered Dak-gal-bi (lean skinless chicken marinated in hot chili sauce) RM27, Hanbang Dweji Wang Galbi (Choice pork ribs marinated in Korean Ginseng and herbs extract with sweet soy sauce) RM35, Unagi Galbi (eel) RM40

There are choice of seating arrangements you can request the restaurants. there is the standard chair and table, then there Tatami style and lastly tatami style in private rooms that looked like a village of many traditional Korean houses.

The Chief Chef is a Korean and he takes time to meet the restaurant customers. ......Great customer service!!! The Manager is also Korean and the staffs is not locals too (definitely not Koreans)

Ample parking with valet service. Great food and quality ingredients. Good ambiance makes the overall dining experience great. But be warned, you come out of the restaurant after meals smelling like BBQ on your body, attire and hair (despite lots of suction ventilation). So don't plan on going on another date after dinner....just straight to shower and a fresh change of attire

Learn how to leverage to create wealth and be part of the fastest growing companies in the U.S (source: INC:500)

Suffolk House: Prince of Wales Island

2009-12-29T22:02:00.000-08:00

My Ratings: 4 Stars

Cuisine: International/Western
Location: 250, Jalan Air Itam, 10460 Penang
Pork-Free
RM70-180 per person

Talk about history, Suffolk House is rooted deep in history. Being acclaimed as the only surviving Anglo-Indian mansion and the residence of Sir Francis Light, the colonial founder of Penang in 1786, it is such a great honour to see the place restored to its former glory (winner of 2008 UNESCO Asia Pacific Heritage Award for cultural heritage conservation)

Resource of the Suffolk House can be found in the following websites:-
Penang Heritage Trust
Wikipedia
Asia Explorers

Apart from the daily guided tours or free and easy self tour, Suffolk House as a full serviced restaurant serving executive set lunches (fr RM48++), English Hi-Tea (fr RM64++) and full course set dinner (Table D'Hote)

The lunch menu changes daily to provided loyal diners variety and the dinner menu changes weekly to provide the freshest ingredients from the menu. English Hi-tea consists of Tea with milk, scones, jam, sandwiches and pastries

Below is my dinner course set (Table D-Hote) - RM120++. You have other main course choices from chicken to fish to beef (from RM95++ to RM130++)

Find Out Today What Are Brazillian Acai Palm Opportunities

Sun dried tomato & pesto palmier as amuse bouche
Tuna Tartare with honey horseradish sauce
Sesame tofu, Baby spinach, olive and pudina/mint leaves with tomato chili lime dressing
Cream of Carrot and Celery Soup with pesto buttered toast
Tomato sorbet with sour plum shavings
Char grilled rack of lamb with rosemary infused lamb jus, creamy mashed potato, eggplant parmagiano
Dessert: Orange Almond cake with citrus syrup, Banana springroll with caramel drizzle & Vanilla Ice-cream with chocolate sandwich
Coffee

Fantastic ambiance, slightly formal but the outdoor seating is very casual. Service is OK. Price wise is high. Other outlets operated by the restaurants around Penang are BBB (Babylon Beach Blanket, Mansion@32 and Bagan.

Suffolk House can easily accommodate for than 70 seats on ground level and has a banquet space on the 1st floor which cam easily accommodate more than 200 pax

The culinary experience was designed by Chef Johnny Fua (mobile +6012-2339949).

The dinner is best experienced when you are not in a hurry as the course will take about 3 hours to finish

For reservation or enquiries, call Suffolk House Restaurant at +604 228-3930 or check out their website http://www.suffolkhouse.com.my/

Do You Want to Know Celebrities Secrets of Staying Young and Healthy? Click Here to start your discovery

Invited: Hardwicke House

2009-12-10T18:35:00.000-08:00

My Ratings: 4-Stars

Cuisine: International
Location: 67 Jalan Sultan Ahmad Shah, 10050 Penang
Pork-Free
RM25-45 per person

Thanks Hardwicke House for the invitation and Gourmet Garden for organising it.

Situated in the Hardwicke Heritage House, the restaurant offers a wide variety of food for their buffet for lunch and dinner and an extensive BBQ range. The restaurant also boast a well stocked wine cellar and imported coffee. The restaurant offers a cooling ambiance away from the heat of the afternoon and the busy streets of the night. the top floor has a wide open space for private function including private dinner and meeting rooms

The cellar is well stocked, mostly from new world wineries. The sommelier and owners of Hardwicke are very knowledgeable in the wine space and art of drinking wine.

The review was basic two parts: first the food tasting and then there's the wine tasting.

The food is good. Hardwicke tries very hard to provide a wide variety of food. There are more variety for dinner than lunch.

For the wine tasting, we had the opportunity to taste 3 distinctly different wines; Friulvini Verduzzo Sparkling (RM55), Terra Noble Sauvignon Blanc 2005 (RM63) and Schubert "Hardwicke Reserve" Cabernet Sauvignon 2002 (RM118/Promo price: RM60)

In a nutshel, Friulvini Verduzzo is an aperitif wine which goes well with first courses, confectionery and fruits. Terra Noble is a new world wine from Chile. It is dry and has a nice natural acidity and goes well with seafood and fish. Finally, New Zealand's Schubert "Hardwicke Reserve" Cab Sauv is a full bodied red with notes of blackberries, plum and dark chocolate, walnut and spices and extremely well structured with layers of super ripe tannins complemented by a long sweet and dark fruit filled finish

Looking for a wealth building opportunity of a lifetime? Look no further. Click here and see how you can be part of the fatest growing company that has the best compensation in he industry

Be their Facebook fan and check out their monthly promotion on Facebook
http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=49622&id=100000500023277
http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=26238&id=100000500023277

A variety of cuisine, wine and drinks and friendly staffs. A great place to excape the heat of the day.

Call Peter Tan of Hardwicke House for your reservations & party planning
Tel: +604-2264998/+6019-4603303

Non water-marked photos courtesy of Gourmet Garden

Klang Ki Xiang Bak Kut Teh

2009-11-26T01:19:00.000-08:00

My Ratings: 5 Stars

Cuisine: Chinese

Location: Pasar Awam Megamall, Jalan Perai Jaya 3, Taman Perai Jaya, 13700 Perai, Butterworth, Penang

(see GPS coordinates below)

Non-halal

Price: RM10-20 per person

Where to go when you have that Bak Kut Teh craving. Well, it is at Kluang Ki Xiang Bak Kut Teh is where BKT connoisseur go to for their fix. I can say that I finally found a place where I can find one of the best BKT in Penang. But you have to leave the island to a complex behind the Pacific Megamall. This is a four bagger of 5 stars review.

The meat are vegetables are fresh, the soup is tasty and the aroma is just a perfect balance of herbs. The local favorites are the dry BKT. But the soupy version is also worth a try. You get to order all sorts of pork parts from inerts to knuckles to tails to meat. Delicious!

A blend of 18 fruits and the Acai Berry that is nature perfect health drink

Price is moderate with RM8 per serving of BKT and RM6 for a plate of vegetables.

Open daily from 8am - 10pm. Call 013-4444488 or 016-2238993 to confirm or directions