Tuesday, September 30, 2014

Assam Laksa/ Cendol @ Paya Terubong, Penang.

One of the popular places for the local residents to get their afternoon snack will be this unassuming stall along Jalan Paya Terubong, opposite to Shell Petrol Station. Albeit this is more towards a "take-away" place but they do provide a few chairs and tables for those who wish to dine-in. There are two stalls nestled under the wooden shelter- one selling Assam Laksa, the other one dishes out Cendol and Ice Kacang. While prices are slightly cheaper than those in coffee houses or hawker centers, we did not think they were entirely great. I would not make a trip up here solely for the Assam Laksa or Cendol but if you are in dire need for something to quench your thirst, you may consider to stop by and enjoy a bowl of their Cendol/ Ice Kacang. To find the place, locate Shell Petrol Station along Jalan Paya Terubong, a stone's throw distance away from Econsave. This place is directly opposite to the Shell Petrol station.

Monday, September 29, 2014

Parisian Cafe Time @ Sarkies Corner, Eastern & Oriental Hotel Penang.

Having a light breakfast in a five-star hotel is no longer a dream and it does not cost an arm or leg. You may now spend some quality time in a colonial-styled cafe with a perfect ambiance and impeccable service (from the servers) while enjoying their luscious range of pastries and freshly brewed coffee without putting a dent on your wallet. The "Parisian Cafe Time" promotion is available from 29th of September 2014; from 10 am to 12 pm; daily. 

Many Thanks to E&O Hotel Penang for hosting us that morning. 

Saturday, September 27, 2014

St. Presso @ Elit Avenue, Bayan Baru, Penang.

The new commercial building (Elit Avenue) near Sunway Tunas at Bayan Baru area has finally opened to the public and amongst the new establishments, St. Presso is a worth-mentioning one. The newly opened cafe takes on a rather simple but cozy and spacious setting. It does not have any eye-catching mural paints or funky furniture but rather, comfortable couches and ordinary wooden chairs. Foods were pretty standard-average on our visit but St. Presso is definitely one of the few cafes that exudes the warmth of home (at least for me). A good place to drop by for your caffeine fix or to grab a sandwich for your light lunch. Elit Avenue can be found opposite to the traffic light before turning into Sunway Tunas; or directly opposite to Pantai Hospital and Giant Hypermarket at Bayan Baru. 

Foodsion (食尚) Celebrates Its Fifth Anniversary @ SuperStar Libra

A new milestone claimed by the renowned local Food and Travel Magazine (Foodsion- a Mandarin Magazine) for celebrating its fifth birthday this evening (26th of September 2014) on the deck of SuperStar Libra along with its readers, subscribers, partners as well as the members of the media. The event saw the attendance of Penang State Exco YB Danny Law and Dato Teo. The guests were invited to witness the cake-cutting ceremony as well as a lucky draw session to reward the loyal readers of the magazine. If you wish, the aforementioned magazine (Foodsion) is available and can be found in major book stores throughout the country. 

Many Thanks to Kerson Media and Star Cruises for hosting us that evening.

Friday, September 26, 2014

Dubu Dubu Seoul Food @ Gurney Paragon Mall, Penang.

The month of August welcomes another well-known Korean restaurant- Dubu Dubu Seoul Food. The brand has a few branches in Malaysia; most of them are in KL, the one at Gurney Paragon is the first branch in Penang. As the name of the restaurant would imply, the place serves Korean food; however, we thought the dishes we had were not very "Korean" and more like ordinary Chinese Stir Fry dishes instead. Authentic? Arguable. Nevertheless, we wondered if the meal did not go well as we did not order the correct dishes or the fact that they have yet to stabilize their business operations since they are still new. Nonetheless, it is worth a second look to check on their improvements, probably a couple months later. Dubu Dubu Seoul Food is located on the Lower Ground floor of Gurney Paragon Mall, right beside 600 CC and Daiso. 

Wednesday, September 24, 2014

Hameediyah Restaurant @ Campbell Street, Georgetown, Penang.

Some fans of Hameediyah claimed that the flavors of the spices have tamed over the years but everyone would have to agree that Hameediyah is still one of the best places to enjoy a plate of authentic Penang Nasi Kandar. The 107-year old well-known Indian Muslim restaurant has recently revamped its menu and refurbished the restaurant, giving the public and regular patrons a fresh impression. The new strategy seeks to defy the conventional thinking of Nasi Kandar eateries being unhygienic and unpresentable and Hameediyah is proud to prove that they have done it. The walkway is clear, the toilet is clean, the dining hall is air-conditioned and the servers are friendly. However, the restaurant does not have plans on compromising the flavors; on the contrary, they are bringing back some dishes that have vanished over the years; explained by the management of Hameediyah. Diners can now enjoy the mouth-watering dishes of the yesteryears in a more comfortable and cleaner environment. On a side note, their extended outlet- Hameediyah Tandoori House is few doors away and is especially suitable to accommodate larger groups. 

Many Thanks to Hameediyah for hosting us that evening. 

Monday, September 22, 2014

Dou Houz (豆号馆) @ Noordin Road, Georgetown, Penang.

Penang has no shortage of restaurants or cafes that serve good Vegetarian food but Dou Houz is definitely a delightful addition to the Vegetarian food scene in the state. Dou Houz (豆号馆) is a recently opened Home-stay cum cafe, the place serves very simple menu- 3 types of Pizza and a Cold Noodle-dish. No other choices but they do have aplenty of drinks; their home-made Enzymes are worth-trying. The absence of air-conditioners may be frustrating for the heat-intolerant but their warm hospitality, lip-smacking dishes at unbeatable prices are some valid reasons to check out the place. Dou Houz is located at Noordin Road, a stone's throw distance away from Gama Supermarket and Hock Lok Siew Confectionery. 

Saturday, September 20, 2014

Steamboat Haven (炉圣) @ Fettes Park, Tanjung Tokong, Penang.

The Penang Food Hunter (PFH) Facebook Group is a voluntary initiative started by a few food enthusiasts, the group has more than 60, 000 members at present. Members of the PFH group can enjoy discounts at participating restaurants in Penang. Steamboat Haven was one of the many places introduced by the members and part of the long participating merchant list. Opened for just a couple months, the place has garnered an appreciate following and proven to be a popular family dining place for the nearby residents. We were not surprised- the good quality fresh ingredients, wallet-friendly prices and consistently attentive service could provide an explanation to this. Advanced reservation is recommended should you have plans on visiting the place on weekends. Steamboat Haven is located along Fettes Road, right beside Magnum bet station and opposite to Prima Tanjung. 

Friday, September 19, 2014

Seafood Extravaganza Buffet @ Sarkies, Eastern & Oriental Hotel Penang.

The thought of seeking a good place that serves a wide range of seafood (in Penang) to satiate my craving has been a daunting task for me; fortunately, I can have my cravings fixed at Sarkies. Sarkies of Eastern and Oriental Hotel Penang is pleased to offer buffet fanatics a new sturdy range of buffet spread. Plethora of carefully chosen stupendous dishes will be offered. The management has tweaked the menu a little and as a result of that, a more extensive menu is up. 

Many thanks to E&O Hotel Penang for hosting us. 

Seafood Extravaganza: (the buffet promotion is expected to run until the end of October 2014)

7 pm to 10: 30 pm, every Wednesday.

Rm 110++ (Adult), Rm 48++ (Children)

Many Thanks to E&O Hotel Penang for hosting us on that evening. 


Yabbies/ Crayfish and Oysters

Wednesday, September 17, 2014

Jack & Co @ Dato Keramat, Georgetown, Penang.

 ** Jack & Co has since relocated to Icon City at Bukit Mertajam, Penang.**

It is easy to miss Jack & Co, the first shipping container restaurant cum bar in Penang. Tucked within the shop houses along the bustling Dato Keramat Road, Jack & Co may be inconspicuous to many. The restaurant uses a modern-eco design; shipping containers, old tires on the wall and pallets are some of the solid evidences. Seats in the shipping container are very limited (by reservations only), guests are encouraged to sit at the al-freso pallet-furniture patio. The tables and chairs, however, are made of the flimsily stacked pallet tables; a good place for a drink but not for dining. Menu is rather limited as the restaurateur focuses on the alcohols while the prices are on the higher side. There were some hits and misses on our visit but since the place is very new and the menu is constantly changing; it is worth a second look. Jack & Co is located on Dato Keramat Road, facing Federal Cinema and the famous Ah Leng Char Koay Teow. 

Tuesday, September 16, 2014

New Menu Launched at Coya (古雅) @ Lorong Selamat, Georgetown, Penang.

As the Nine Emperor Gods Festival hovers over the horizon, stalls selling a myriad of Vegetarian food will be mushrooming over the island. However, if you wish to find a place with a cozier ambiance and better setting, why not visit Coya (at Lorong Selamat)? The vegetarian restaurant launched its new menu recently, featuring some new dishes and some regulars' favorites. For more information on my last visit, you may hop over to read my previous blog entry here.

Many Thanks to Coya for hosting us. 

Monday, September 15, 2014

The Big Fat Hen @ Garden Inn, Anson Road, Georgetown, Penang.

**The Big Fat Hen has since ceased its operations.**

Garden Inn (opposite to Methodist Girl School and KDU College Penang) welcomes a new cafe at the hotel lobby, The Big Fat Hen has three branches in the heartland of Georgetown; Garden Inn at Anson Road, G-Inn at Macalister Road and Chime Heritage (opening at the end of September). Interestingly, all three branches serve different menus- it is recommended that you visit G-Inn's for breakfast, Garden Inn's for light lunch and dinner at their dining house at Chime Heritage. For the business hours, kindly refer to their Facebook Page for more information. We visited their branch at Garden Inn, the place has the perfect setting and ambiance for friends to catch up; though seats are pretty limited. The menu is not too extensive either, but more than sufficient for a light lunch or casual meet ups with friends. 

Saturday, September 13, 2014

Granny's Hokkien Mee (奶奶福建面) @ Taman Lip Sin, Bayan Baru, Penang.

Nestled under one of the flats at Taman Lip Sin (beside the open-space Car Park), Granny's Hokkien Mee had fans licking their lips in anticipation since their opening a couple months ago. Expect to wait no less than 30 minutes for a bowl of their Hokkien Mee; you will be amazed to learn about the overwhelming responses from the nearby residents over this Hokkien Prawn Mee specialist. The Prawn broth was good and the quality may be slightly above average, but I am not sure if its good enough for the 30-minute wait though... To find Granny's Hokkien Mee, turn into Lengkok Nipah from Jalan Bukit Gambir, you should be able to see Granny's Hokkien Mee on your right shortly after Pan Palace Plaza (where Sunshine Lip Sin is located).


Friday, September 12, 2014

[Travel] Itinerary to Osaka (大阪), Japan.

The third largest city in Japan, Osaka is famous for its food; both Takoyaki and Okonomiyaki were first made famous in Osaka. The cultural-rich city has many things not only to eat but to see as well.  We traveled with Cathay Pacific from Hong Kong International Airport to Kansai International Airport. We did not have much time to spend over there (just two days) but we did manage to visit a few famous tourist attractions. 

Kansai International Airport/ 関西国際空港

Thursday, September 11, 2014

One Dim Sum (一点心) @ Prince Edward, Hong Kong.

Another famous Dim Sum place for both locals and tourists will be the one-Michelin Starred Dim Sum eatery- One Dim Sum (一点心). The place is well-known for its inexpensive yet quality Dim Sum. You will usually need to queue during peak hours. Our visit was in the late afternoon (probably 4 pm), thus, we need not to wait and there were quite a few empty tables around. Despite reading many negative reviews on the service, we were treated very well by a friendly staff on our visit. It may be a little tricky to get to the place, from Exit A of Prince Edward/ 太子 MTR Station, walk east towards Playing Field Road until you reach your first junction. Turn left into the junction and you should be able to see One Dim Sum in catchy red signage on your right. Prices are unbelievably affordable for the fine-quality food and gigantic portion; every single order of ours was served piping hot. I will definitely make a visit back to this place again. 

Wednesday, September 10, 2014

A Unique Experience with 'Withlocals" @ You Le Yuen (柚乐园), Love Lane, Georgetown, Penang.

Wish to have a different experience on the locals' cultures on your trip apart from the usual sight-seeing? It is not impossible with Withlocals. Withlocals is a great platform for travelers to experience the culture and lifestyle of a place. The online market space strives to connect travelers and locals through food and experiences; learning disparate cultures on unfamiliar place has never been that easy. Not only do travelers get to pick their preferred time, date, hosts and activities but they can customize their experiences according to their own preferences. Privacy is assured as most "Eats", "Tours" and "Activities" are customized to your needs which offer greater flexibility and a superior experience to your travel. For more information about Withlocals, kindly visit their website.

This blog post is brought to you by Withlocals. 

Monday, September 8, 2014

Paper Pepper Cafe @ Jalan Masjid Kapitan Keling, Georgetown, Penang.

**Paper Peppefer Cafe has since ceased its operations.**

A new management has taken over De Yard Cafe, the place was refurbished and given a complete new look. Paper Pepper Cafe has a unique yet different concept, customers can purchase their self-designed Postcards and have it delivered to any destinations or to have it delivered in future (maybe 2 years later). The cafe has a very quirky interior decor which exudes a young and vibrant vibe. The place was a little warm on our visit (even though on late evening) and it may be frustrating for the heat-intolerant. The cafe is still new and has yet to finalize their menu; their current menu has limited dishes but they serve Western dishes with a few types of Snacks, Canapes, Pasta/ Brunch dishes, and of course, a couple types of desserts.

Sunday, September 7, 2014

[Travel] Itinerary to Tokyo (东京), Japan.

Tokyo, the capital of Japan and a world renown metropolis. There are many things to do, to see, to eat and to shop there. Fortunately, I did manage to drop by Tokyo for three days on my recent trip to Japan. We did not manage to do a lot of things due to time constraint and of course, shopping. Here's a list of what we did in Tokyo (and what you should include in your trip too):

On a side note, it is highly recommended that you purchase a Tokyo Metro Pass from Narita Airport or Haneda Airport before you start your tour. The Tokyo Metro Pass is available either for 1 Day (800 Yen), 2 Days (1,200 Yen) or 3 Days (1, 500 Yen). We opted for the 3 Day-Tokyo Metro Pass which allowed us to board on any Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway Trains. It does not include JR Trains and any private trains either. Please do note that this Tokyo Metro Pass is only available for oversea visitors on tourist visas only. 

Tokyo Tower/ 東京タワ

Saturday, September 6, 2014

Australian Dairy Company (澳洲牛奶公司) @ Jordan, Hong Kong.

Another famous and voted as one of the must-visit Cha Chan Tengs (Hong Kong Style Tea-Restaurant) by many, Australian Dairy Company attracts long queues everyday. Visitors from all over the world come to this place and wait patiently just to have a try on their famous Scrambled Egg Sandwich and Steamed Milk Dessert. While their foods were impressive, their service was one of a kind. We were rushed in to our seats and forced to share a table with others. The distance between tables is so narrow that you could barely turn your body around. The waiter will stand right in front of you expecting you to make your orders right away. The atmosphere was intense and the orders arrived to our table in a jiffy (before I could even take my camera out from my bag). Everyone seems to eat in a faster pace than usual. Horrible service aside, their foods were pretty good and we reckon that this place is worth the visit if you happen to be in Hong Kong. A great place to experience the Hong Kong fast-pace environment too. 

Thursday, September 4, 2014

Caffe Bene @ Gurney Paragon Mall, Penang.

The wait is over as the famous Korean dessert specialist- Caffe Bene has finally opened its doors to the public on 29th of August in Gurney Paragon Mall Penang. Caffe Bene had fans licking their lips for anticipation everyday (since its opening), evidently seen from the relentless queue right outside the cafe. Their menu is rather straight forward, they have three signature desserts- Bingsu (Korean Shaved Ice), Waffles and Bread/ Toast; full menu can be found on their website. Though the Bingsu and Waffle were not mind-blowing, we thought they can be comforting especially on a sultry-hot day. However, I am not sure if I am willing to queue for half an hour just to have a bowl of shaved ice.

Caffe Bene is located on Ground Floor of Gurney Paragon Mall, right beside Edo Ramen and a stone's throw distance away from H&M and Lacoste. 

Wednesday, September 3, 2014

[Travel] Itinerary to Sapporo, Hokkaido (札幌,北海道), Japan.

Sapporo, Hokkaido is definitely one of the most memorable and fun destinations for my entire Japan trip. The relatively quiet town has breath-taking views, fresh air and many more exciting tourist attractions for your entertainment. Here is a list of what you should not miss in Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan. 

New Chitose Airport/ 新千歳空港