Saturday, November 30, 2013

The Alley @ Stewart Lane, Georgetown, Penang.

I am constantly on the lookout for new places and my recent discovery was this place- The Alley. Hidden in heart of Georgetown, The Alley sits next to the famous tourist hot spot- Godness of Mercy Temple or known as Guan Yin Teng to the locals. The obscure location and unappealing exterior making it hard for the public to realize and there are no parking lots available, it is recommended that you have your car parked at Jalan Masjid Kapitan Keling or Chulia Lane. The modish and laid back ambiance of this cafe is ideal for a relaxing afternoon tea or a perfect place for a cup of coffee to start up the day. However, the seating of the cafe is rather limited and it is not advisable to visit in a big group, reservation is recommended if you plan to do so. Their menu is earnest and simple, offering a type or two of cakes, Churros, Cronuts and some Sandwiches as well as their array of Coffees. 

Thursday, November 28, 2013

Pit Stop Cafe @ Lorong Chulia, Georgetown, Penang.

While the cafe culture in Penang continues to percolate, there are quite a lot of new cafes sprouting out in the heart of Georgetown lately and Pit Stop Cafe is one of the new members. Pit Stop Cafe is a quaint and humble cafe situated at Lorong Chulia and the junction to Lorong Pasar. With wall paintings, antiques and prints adored the walls, it is possible to feel transported to the older days with its retro interior design and laid-back ambiance. Quite the opposite from its interior design and ambiance, Pit Stop Cafe offers all day breakfast set, with some pasta dishes as well as rice set. As they are fairly new, they have limited offerings on their menu. Service was genuine but probably lack of manpower, staff tends to get forgetful on our orders. 

Tuesday, November 26, 2013

Big Ben Breakfast @ Waterfall Road, Botanical Garden, Penang.

When one mentions about having Western breakfast in Penang, many will be suggesting this place- Big Ben Breakfast. Being a glutton, its ashamed that I have yet to try their food after so many years, finally, I've found a time to hunt for it, the place where many people raved about! Location for Big Ben Breakfast is rather obscure and inconspicuous, from Jalan Kebun Bunga heading towards Botanical Garden, look for a touristy area on your right, Big Ben Breakfast is sitting at one of those hawker stalls. I've also heard of the ingenuine service here but the service provided to us during our visit was perfectly okay. However, I thought their foods were very greasy and unhealthy, nothing to shout over for their foods either. I am not too sure if it worth the calories but definitely not for me. Do try this place out if you are looking for an oily but ordinary breakfast. 

Pine Tree Cafe @ Sungai Dua, Penang.

Many burger joints have been sprouting out in Penang recently, being a not-so-burger-fan, I have no interests in visiting or trying any burger joints at all. However, there was an exception recently, I was browsing through Facebook and came across an interesting dish- Ramen Burger (they do serve ordinary burgers). Pine Tree Cafe is situated at Jalan Sungai Dua, few doors away from KFC Sungai Dua. I wasn't impressed with their menu as most of the dishes listed were quite common. As USM students are one of their main customer sources, prices are really affordable and wallet-friendly. The place was thronged with crowd during our visit and to my dismal, we had to wait for more than 40 minutes before our foods were served to us. Probably they are still new, there are rooms for improvements in terms of service and serving speed. 


Saturday, November 23, 2013

Royce' Chocolate- A Taste of Hokkaido

Indulge in a taste of Hokkaido with Royce' Chocolate, this Japanese brand takes pride in offering some of the finest premium chocolates; sourcing its ingredients from surrounding areas of Hokkaido, a region in Japan well known for its quality farming and fresh dairy products, ensuring every single bite of their chocolate carries the flavors and senses of Hokkaido. Unlike any European chocolates, Royce' products are made less-sweeten and possess a lighter texture and softer in feel. 

Royce' Chocolate has recently launched their e-store, teeming with a selection of more than 40 types of products available, customers can now order their products anywhere in Malaysia at anytime. There are a total 7 outlets in the Klang Valley- Isetan Suria KLCC, Bangsar Village, The Garden's Mall, Ben's Independent Grocer at Publika, Tropicana City Mall, Tropicana Golf & Resort and Empire Shopping Gallery. As for Penangites, fear not, delivery to Penang is made possible via their professional chilled logistic partner- Ta-Q-Bin; the available delivery areas are Klang Valley, Penang, Kedah, and Johor. 

Chocolates are deemed as the de facto gifts in this gifting season of Christmas, New Year or even Valentine. What are you waiting for? Surprise your loved ones with Royce' delightful chocolates now. Place your order now at http://www.royce.com.my/.

Thanks to Royce' Chocolate Malaysia and Jocelyn Lee from Royce' Chocolate Malaysia for sponsoring the review.

Yeap Noodles (叶面) @ Chulia Street, Penang.

I am sure Kwong Wah newspaper readers will be quite familiar with the name- Yeap Noodles. They were featured on the newspaper last year and they have moved their business from Transfer Road (to Chulia Street) since then. The unique selling point for Yeap Noodles is definitely none other than their flavored noodles. There are a total of eight types of flavored noodles available, namely Original, Soy Sauce flavored noodles, Spinach flavored noodles, Carrot flavored noodles, Peppermint flavored noodles, Oat flavored noodles, Chili flavored noodles and Seaweed flavored noodles. However, customers are not allowed to pick the flavored noodles they preferred and instead, everything has been meticulously paired according to them. I found the foods were very disappointing and I doubt that I will be going back for a second visit.

For more information, please visit <http://www.tourdirections.com.my/directory/>. Planning your Penang food tour? TourDirections Penang helps you discover Penang cafes and restaurants, Penang hawker food, Penang budget hotel and Penang homestay at TourDirections.com.my.


Thursday, November 21, 2013

Mee Goreng/ Mee Rebus @ Kompleks Makanan Pesiaran Gurney, Gurney Drive, Penang.

There is this infamous Mee Goreng/ Mee Rebus tucked within this place- Kompleks Makanan Pesiaran Gurney, a Malay-Mamak hawker center along Gurney Drive. The award-winning Indian-Muslim Mee Goreng is famous for its good quality and reasonable price. To get to Kompleks Makanan Pesiaran Gurney, simply locate the chain convenient store- 7 Eleven along Gurney Drive, the hawker center is right beside 7 Eleven. Another worth-trying dish would be Pasembur which is also commonly known as Indian Rojak.  There were quite a number of office workers still patronizing the place during my visit. I'm sure there are some reasons why these stalls are still standing strong after so many years and the fierce competition amongst the competitors.


Tuesday, November 19, 2013

Brown Pocket @ Gurney Paragon Mall, Penang.

Brown Pocket, a newly opened dessert cafe, is a delightful addition to Gurney Paragon mall. Its iconic location at Gurney Paragon mall allows exhausted shoppers to hide away from the crowds and have a short rest by savoring some of their signature desserts. Brown Pocket offers an array of desserts comprises of Waffles, Crepe and imported Ice Cream. The place has a very good ambiance with spacious and comfortable seating which exude a relaxed vibe and offers a breath-taking view. It was the very first day of business since their soft opening, the staff was rather unsystematic probably due to first day jitters. Brown Pocket is located strategically on level 6 of Gurney Paragon Mall, opposite to Celebrity Fitness and facing Kelawai Road (corner unit). 

Saturday, November 16, 2013

Coffee Journey @ Island Plaza, Tanjung Tokong, Penang.

Tucked within the building where time has forgotten- Island Plaza along Jalan Tanjung Tokong; Coffee Journey is a newly opened cafe that serves a wide range of coffees and an array of pastry cakes. Be spoiled for choices at Coffee Journey's stunning variety of Coffees, ranging from the usual Coffee or Aussie's favorite- Flat White or even Gourmet Syphon Coffee. The cafe took a prominent spot at the ground floor of Island Plaza (next to Coffee Bean), facing the bustling road of Jalan Tanjung Tokong, Coffee Journey can be spotted easily from far; the modish and laid-back ambiance makes the cafe a very suitable place to spend an afternoon reading books or just watching the world goes by. Prices are reasonable and relatively cheaper as compared to those chain cafes in town, a place that coffee lovers would not want to miss! 

Thursday, November 14, 2013

Mantis Prawn Hokkien Mee/ Ah Lim "Birthday Noodles"/ Mr. Kek Swiss Roll @ Pinang Delicious Food Court @ Macalister Road, Penang.

Many asked: "Where's your favorite Hokkien Mee/ Prawn Noodles in Penang?", being on my top 3 list, Seang Lim Mantis Prawn Hokkien Mee is definitely one of the must-have if you an ardent fan of Hokkien Prawn Noodles. Unlike any other Hokkien Prawn Noodles where ordinary shrimps will be added, Seang Lim uses Mantis Prawns, bringing the both the flavor and texture to a whole new level. Tucked within a not-too-eye-catching coffee house along Macalister Road Penang, one can also find the infamous Ah Lim Birthday Noodles/ Lam Mee as well as a humble and unpretentious swiss roll "specialist" in the place. It should be fairly easy to locate Pinang Delicious Food Court, you should be able to see it from Red Rock Hotel or the junction to Abu Siti Lane and walking distance to Krian Road.


Tuesday, November 12, 2013

Favourite Cafe @ Beach Street, Georgetown, Penang.

**Favorite Cafe has since ceased its business operations.**

With the cafe culture is percolating in Penang, I am always on the lookout for new places and Favourite Cafe is one of them. Opened its doors for less than a month, Favourite Cafe is quaint yet humble little cafe situated along Beach Street at the heart of Georgetown, Penang. It is possible to feel transported to the older days where the previous generation used to live in those pre-war houses at the heritage area. Every corner can be a photo opportunity, especially those antiques displaying around; not to mention the quirky and playful pictures and mural paints adorned the walls. We were there during a sultry afternoon and the heat was unbearable, it was quite frustrating that the place is not air-conditioned and we were sweating throughout the entire meal. Food menu is not extensive and they mainly serve western dishes, with a couple of oriental choices- Fried Rice. Service could be more genuine but probably they are still new; I was not quite impressed with the dishes we had but the place worth for a visit probably more for novelty or you are around the vicinity. 

Saturday, November 9, 2013

Starbucks Christmas Media Launch @ Starbucks Drive-Thru Tanjung Tokong, Penang.

"Create Wonder and Share Joy with Family and Friends", with Christmas is just around the corner, Starbucks is proud to bring back some of their pleasantly delightful seasonal favorites to celebrate the Christmas spirit with the public. Fans of Starbucks can once again enjoy their preferred Christmas beverages- Toffee Nut Frappuccino, Toffee Nut Latte, Peppermint Mocha Frappuccino and Cranberry White Chocolate Mocha Frappuccino. 

If you are looking for coffee beans or Christmas gifts, worry not, Starbucks has more than that to offer to their fans. Starbucks is also bringing back the returning customer favorite- Starbucks Christmas Blend, along with Starbucks Christmas Blend Espresso Roast and Starbucks VIA Ready Brew Christmas Blend. Additionally, to share joy with Starbucks fan in this festive season, Starbucks is offering their Christmas themed Starbucks Card which come in three designs! The Christmas Media Launch event was held at Starbucks Drive-Thru Tanjung Tokong on 7th of November, 2013. The promotion for Christmas beverages and gifts will be made available on 6th of November 2013 on wards and expected to run until 6th of January 2014. 

Many thanks for Starbucks Malaysia for extending the invitation. 

Thursday, November 7, 2013

Victoria Sweet Pastry @ Vantage Desiran Tanjung, Tanjung Bungah, Penang.

Tucked within the new commercial property right beside Tesco Tanjung at Tanjung Bungah, Vantage Desiran Tanjung; Victoria Sweet Pastry is a rather new dessert eatery which opened its doors not long ago. Its obscure location makes it a little inconspicuous, from Tesco Tanjung, keep to the left and enter a link-bridge to Vantage Desiran Tanjung, you should be able to spot this eye-catching dessert shop facing the main road of Jalan Tanjung Bungah. Be spoiled for choices at Victoria Sweet Pastry's wide variety of desserts at affordable prices. The place exudes modern and relaxed vibe, making it a very good place for gatherings and friends get-together. Their genuine service offered us a pleasing experience at the place; a worth-visiting place where you can satiate your cravings for desserts especially those with a sweet tooth. 

Monday, November 4, 2013

Tua Wa Kong (大碗公) @ 8 Row, Krian Road, Penang.

** This place has since ceased its operations.**

With our lifestyle being more modernized and cosmopolitan, consumers are expecting more in terms of ambiance, everyone wishes to seek for air-conditioned places for quick lunches. Seeing this as an opportunity, Tua Wa Kong serves its signature dishes while providing a fully air-conditioned place but preserving authentic and traditional flavors. Using recipes passed down from previous generations, Tua Wa Kong at 8 Row of Krian Road, is one of the few that offers Dry Hokkien Prawn Noodles. As much as it provides a cooling environment to the otherwise sultry afternoon, the place lacks of a good ventilation system which caught us smothered in the "aroma". One might find oneself smells like crustacean after a meal there. Service could have been better as empty bowls were found scattered around. Prices are considered reasonable considering the substantial portion and the generous amount of ingredients added; definitely a worth-dropping by place if you are in the vicinity. 

Saturday, November 2, 2013

Official Opening of Four Points by Sheraton Penang

30th of October 2013 marked the official opening of Four Points by Sheraton Penang, adding a new member to the Penang Hotel industry. Situated along Jalan Tanjung Bungah, Four Points by Sheraton is part of Starwood Resorts & Resorts Worldwide and Plenitude Berhad, the 220-rooms hotel has been refurbished to a modish and contemporary design. It was my honor to be invited to this auspicious official opening event. 

About Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc.
Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. is one of the leading hotel and leisure companies in the world with a total number of 1,162 properties in nearly 100 countries. Some of the renowned brands under the group are St. Regis, The Luxury Collection, Westin, Sheraton, Aloft, Four Points by Sheraton and Element. To reward the supports of public, the company boasts one of the industry's leading loyalty programs- Starwood Preferred Guest (SPG), allowing members to earn and redeem points for room stays, upgrades and flights, with no blackout dates. For more information about SPG, kindly visit www.starwoodhotels.com and www.spg.com.