Monday, August 31, 2015

Cafe G Seventies (70's)- The Backyard @ Hutton Lane, Georgetown, Penang.

Nagore Road area is surely one of the most cafe-concentrated districts in Penang- with near to 10 cafes nearby and the number is still increasing. Visiting a cafe is fun and it has always been so; question is... what's so special about this particular cafe? For the very first time, the cafe prohibits customers from entering via the main entrance and instead, they are invited to enter the entrance next to a small, narrow alley. But the divergent was worth it; open the door and you will be welcomed by a well-designed, snug and laid-back cafe in shades of wooden beam, exuding a pleasant sense of tranquility. Comfortable couches and clean, sturdy long tables are available; though aced well in terms of interior decor, we thought their menu was somewhat less-exciting. Apart from the conventional cafe-fare, we noticed some familiar cakes in which we believed they were outsourced from a renowned cake house at Butterworth. A comfortable place especially suitable for reading. Note that Cafe G Seventies' entrance is at Nagore Road, right next to the alley beside La Mei Zhi Steamboat.

Sunday, August 30, 2015

Penfolds Wine Dinner @ Georgetown Wines, Georgetown, Penang.

One of the renowned Wine shops in Penang- Georgetown Wines organized its inaugural Penfolds Wine Dinner on 27 August 2015. The long-established Australian wine label matches well with Georgetown's heritage history (170 years in wine making) and has record of producing more than half of the wine produce in Australia. Penfolds has been exporting a lot of their wines to UK and many countries in Asia; it is also well-known for its consistency and quality, made possible by their old and diverse vineyards. The meticulously paired 4-course wine pairing dinner designed by extraordinaire Chef Aldrien deftly combines Asian and Western flavors with premium Penfolds Wines; a commemorative event to Georgetown Wines' first anniversary. If I may, the Penfolds Wine Dinner is a one-off event but Georgetown Wines does have great plans for wine events in the near future. Rm 168 nett for a seat at the Penfolds Wine Dinner.  

Many Thanks to Georgetown Wines for hosting us that evening. 

Friday, August 28, 2015

Coffee Addict @ Carnavon Street, Georgetown, Penang.

More brunch options for early-risers, the new snug and small cafe at Carnavon Street has a decidedly relaxed feel. Limited tables available (probably 3 tables) but it somehow feels roomy and not cramped. They do not have a very big brunch menu, but good enough for a weekend leisure brunch; dabble yourself with a wine-drinking brunch as Coffee Addict does serve Red/ White (Sauvignon) at (Rm 14/ glass). It has a semi-outdoorsy ambiance (not air-conditioned), where one could sit by the bustling Carnavon Street and watch the world goes by. Expect no sophisticated and proper seating at Coffee Addict but classic, old school metal stools and tables. The best time to visit the place will be in the morning... late afternoon might be a bad idea as the hot, sultry tropical weather might put you off. Precise location of Coffee Addict: opposite to the Police Station at Carnavon Street or behind to Armenian Street Heritage Hotel.

Wednesday, August 26, 2015

May's Place @ Burmah Road, Pulau Tikus, Penang.

Restaurateur May intends to have her place decorated into a garden-theme, for her diners to partake in a playful spin of Fusion food with brilliant interplay of sweet, savory, zesty and spicy Thai-Western dishes. However, things did not turn well as expected; the space is now turned into an amiable, comfortable place, with self-drawn paints embellishing the wall. The snug little cafe seats up to 25 diners, making it a place most suitable to host small parties/ celebrations. Pasta occupies significant spots on the menu but priced at matchless-low price tags. Small scale Buffet Lunch is available on every Tuesday (Rm 15.90) and Sunday (Rm 20) while the weekly menu will be posted on their Facebook Page. The location may be a little obscured- locate CIMB Bank at Pulau Tikus (opposite to Bellisa Row) and May's Place is on the second floor of Wo Lai Yeh Bak Kwa, few doors away from CIMB Bank.

Tuesday, August 25, 2015

Hokkien Prawn Mee [Happy Cafe] @ Sungai Dua, Penang.

Hokkien Prawn Mee is undeniably one of the staple food here in Penang and most Penangites have an answer to find their favorite stalls. One particular humble and unassuming stall selling by the bustling main road of Sungai Dua, has been well-received by the nearby residents. No fanciful toppings but a bowl of classic Penang Hokkien Prawn Mee with the quintessential Penang flavors. To locate the place, drive along Jalan Sungai Dua from Jalan Sultan Azlan Shah, the stall is located right in front of a row of Terrace House, opposite to Tesco Extra Penang.

Monday, August 24, 2015

"Little Thai" of Thai Boat Noodles and Coconut Ice Cream @ One-Stop Midlands Park Centre, Pulau Tikus, Penang.

Most Penangites have a soft spot for Thai Food, though Thai snacks and delicacies are a dime of dozen but finding a really good one can be challenging. One-Stop Midlands Park Centre, a place where time has forgotten... many shops have since closed down but there are some new ones popping out as well. The "Little Thai" corner is one good example, probably a place ideal for Thai food devotees to explore. Traditional Thai delicacies like Som Tam (Papaya Salad), Coconut Ice Cream, Tom Yum, Koay Chiap, Boat Noodles, Chicken Rice etc are available, all priced at unbeatable and wallet-friendly prices. 

Fu Er Dai (富二代) Dim Sum @ Jalan Sultan Ahmad Shah, Georgetown, Penang.

Big, busy and friendly, Fu Er Dai is one of the new establishments that delivers Dim Sum in town. It combines the classic Cantonese Dim Sum dishes and their innovative variations (like Curry Siew Mai) as well as Stir Fry dishes (like Char Hor Fun). The place is spacious, occupying a long vacant land beside the old Protestant Cemetery; prices are slightly on the higher side but well-justified with the generous serving. The place welcomes a chilly-sea breeze in the morning but it gets warm and stuffy later in the afternoon. A place especially suitable for a weekend family brunch, considering the enormous Dim Sum selection and ample parking space. 


Curry Siew Mai (Rm 3.50)


Japanese Seaweed Roll (Rm 4.50)



Steamed Fish Balls (Rm 3.50)


Egg Tarts (Rm 1.70/ each)


Deep Fried Prawn Rolls (Rm 6)


Scallop Dumplings (Rm 6)


Chee Cheong Fun (Rm 4.50)


Oyster Noodles (Rm 10/ regular)

Most Dim Sum dishes we had were delicate and fresh; their Egg Tarts were most praise-worthy. Runny, smooth and sweet Egg filling well-sheathed in a thin and flaky crust. It has the instantaneously melt in the mouth effect; truly an exemplary of a good Egg Tart, best wash down with a glass of hot Chinese Tea. Japanese Seaweed Roll was equally savory; it has the right texture- sliced meat, not finely minced. The dimension of the dish was clearly spelled out- meaty, flavorful and well-seasoned to the right spot. Curry Siew Mai has a creative twist... we thought. It turned out to be an ordinary Siew Mai with Curry powder added, though it adds an exquisite touch but we thought it was nothing out of the ordinary. For a change, we had an extra order of Oyster Noodles. Reliable presentation and the Oysters were fresh but it was not a dish that left us with a strong impression.


Ratings:
Taste: 7.5/10 (1-3 bad, 4-7 average, 8-10 good)
Service: 7/10 (1-3 bad, 4-7 average, 8-10 good)
Price: 7/10 (1-3 expensive, 4-7 average, 8-10 cheap)
Parking: 7.5/10 (1-3 bad, 4-7 average, 8-10 good)
Ambiance: 7.5/10 (1-3 bad, 4-7 average, 8-10 good)
Non-Halal
Service Charge: No

Additional Information:
Business Hours: 6: 30 am to 2 pm (last order at 1: 30 pm). Opens Daily.
Contact Number: 6016- 440 8535

Map of 7, Jalan Sultan Ahmad Shah, George Town, 10050 Pulau Pinang, Malaysia

Saturday, August 22, 2015

Lok-Lok Cafe @ Kimberley Street, Georgetown, Penang.

Savor Lok Lok with style at Lok Lok Cafe, a fully air-conditioned cafe that specializes in selling Lok Lok. Lok Lok Cafe is not the usual Lok Lok place, it has more than that to offer. Diners can opt to have their Lok Lok barbecued instead of just blanching them in the hot water but hot water is not used in Lok Lok Cafe; Chicken broth is used instead, which claimed to provide more intensive flavor to the Lok-Lok ingredients. There are aplenty dipping sauces available... probably more than 12 types in total. Prices are definitely on the higher side, with the cheapest stick sells at Rm 1 per stick and portion smaller than usual. The place is, however, fully air-conditioned and nicely decorated not intending to induce perspiration. Nice environment but it would be better if the prices are more wallet-friendly. A decent place if you are looking for a comfortable place for a quick supper. Lok Lok Cafe can be found at Kimberley Street, towards the exit to Penang Road. 


Home-made Squid Balls (Rm 2)


Barbecued: Beef Skewer (Left- Rm2.50) and Chicken Skewer (Right- Rm 2.50)


Deep Fried Soft Shell Crab (Rm 7) 

Thursday, August 20, 2015

J-Garden @ Bayan Bay, Bayan Lepas, Penang.

J-Garden is a deceptively casual-sounding spot tucked away from the main road of Persiaran Bayan Indah (behind Eastin Hotel); has some serious talent behind it. The Japanese-Fusion restaurant has come out with an unconventional, elusive but sturdy menu, featuring a vast selection of Appetizers, Entree, Main and Desserts; though the price tags might be a little hefty but justifiable for the top-notch quality fine food. The facade is quiet and unconvincing but stepping into the cafe would think otherwise. The interior has a clean and bright environment; somehow the simple, tough wooden tables and ample seating space amplify the elegance. Service was impeccable, frequent check-ins from the server to ensure customer satisfaction; expect to be greeted with a Japanese bow (Japanese service etiquette) and a warm smile. One of the hidden gems that deserves a limelight. 

Many Thanks to J-Garden for hosting us that evening.

Tuesday, August 18, 2015

Black Kettle @ Beach Street, Georgetown, Penang.

Weekend brunch is almost like an institution in Penang, a perfect cure over late night hang over for the younger generation but there seems to be an increase in popularity amongst the older generation as well. Perhaps a new means for family bonding. For brunch, try out Black Kettle, this new modern place with a Bakery offers a wonderful assortment of Brunch items. Not only does the menu has the classic French Toast, Egg Ben, Big Breakfast but it has a vast selection of Aussie-influenced items as well. The place is surprisingly spacious with elegant-classy setting. The bistro behind has an intimate setting with eclectic and colorful furniture; while the cafe in front has a cozy/ homey setting with a high-ceiling, allowing natural sunlight to flow in. The master Baker and head Chef's from Germany and they are proud to share with us the cafe procures award-winning Australian Coffee Beans; assuring quality food. Do not expect cheap price tags but you get great quality in return. 

Monday, August 17, 2015

KO.B.Q Korean Restaurant @ Elit Avenue, Bayan Baru, Penang.

The new food hub in Bayan Baru has seen a rapid expansion lately- with a succession of restaurants joining. Hardcore Korean fans might not be new to the name- KO. BQ, long established Korean Restaurant nestled within Precinct 10, Tanjung Bungah. The Korean Restaurant has recently expanded their business, opening a new branch at Elit Avenue. Both places seem to serve the same menu and... probably the same prices too. The place is fully air-conditioned, with the standard setting of a Korean Restaurant. Despite that the substantial menu covers dishes suitable for all ages; it is still recommended to go in a group as most of the items come in a large servings. A decent place for Korean devotees to explore the taste of Korean but not the place that you would want to visit on a regular basis. 

Friday, August 14, 2015

43 Cafe @ Sungai Dua, Penang.

A revisit to 43 Cafe, the space had an "upgrade" to refurbish the dining area, turning it into a chill, amiable and lively space. It is a small dining annex next to the owner's private residential- comfortable, cozy, inviting; the tall ceiling allows light to flood in and so does the natural breeze. Not only the interior decor has changed, 43 Cafe was previously into serving gourmet Pork Burgers (though they still do now), they have since come out with various types of new five-star food at amazing prices. Ice Cream lovers are not forsaken too, flavors were deliberately devised and uniquely to 43 cafe. 43 Cafe is probably one of your best bet for an inspiring "meating" session.

Many Thanks to Chef Jacgy for hosting us that evening.


Sous-Vide Chicken (Rm 22.80)

Wednesday, August 12, 2015

Clash On Cafe [Clash of Clans] @ Abu Siti Lane, Georgetown, Penang.

Clash of Clans is undeniably one of the most popular gaming apps ever created and the clash-fever is rapidly-accelerating and spreading still. There are few Clash of Clans enthusiasts in Penang that professed their love for the strategy game and thus, decided to venture into a Clash of Clans-themed cafe. The gaming-friendly space set on a shop house along Abu Siti Lane; step in the cafe and you will be greeted with many Clash of Clans-related 3D sculptures, paints and figurines; featuring some of the most known characters in the game. The cafe's menu is less-exciting and prices are not as competitive as some of its competitors but the cafe has many power-point plugs all over the place; making it extremely friendly for gamers to tag team. There are many activities that devotees of the game can partake; the future initiatives and events will be posted on their Facebook Page. Clash On Cafe is adjacent to the famous Coconut-place at Abu Siti Lane.

Tuesday, August 11, 2015

Air Asia Bloggers Community Penang Takeover August 2015!

In collaboration with Penang Global Tourism, 16 fortunate bloggers from Kuching, Kota Kinabalu and Kuala Lumpur were invited to join an inaugural event organized by Air Asia on last Saturday (8 August 2015). The event includes a treasure-hunt task (which again, includes 5 different challenges), a visit to Air Asia's Battle of the Year 2015 at Queensbay Mall and a dinner at Yeng Keng Hotel. Fellow bloggers were divided into 5 different groups. Each group will then be led by 1 or 2 Penang bloggers to complete the assigned challenges.

Many Thanks to Air Asia for organizing the fun-filled event. 


On the Ferry with a bunch of friendly passengers: photo credits to Ana Jonessy


Photo credits to Ana Jonessy; clockwise- Ken (yours truly), DianaCalistaJian and Ana.

Monday, August 10, 2015

Phaik Laksa @ Jalan Air Hitan, Air Hitam, Penang.

Previously located at Seang Teik Road, Phaik Laksa has since moved to a new location at Jalan Air Hitam, right next to the now defunct Shell Petrol Station on the same road. Phaik Laksa has been receiving overwhelming responses; particularly from the students studying in the nearby high schools. They are not visiting solely because of its signature Assam Laksa but for their famous Taiwanese Ai Yu Jelly as well. 

Friday, August 7, 2015

Pik Nik Everyday @ Raja Uda, Butterworth, Penang.

Tucked inside the iconic building of Raja Uda- Pangsapuri Seri Melur is the latest venture by Pik Nik, named Pik Nik Everyday. The new sister cafe- Pik Nik Everyday serves the exact menu as Pik Nik but it has a more playful and chic interior decor; evidently seen from the school bus and classroom elements in the cafe- flimsy classroom chair, colorful unsystematic drawing on the wall, ragged plastic trophy... attempt to evoke memories in elementary school or junior high school. Within the fun and lively environment, diners can feast upon their signature savory and sweet Waffles as well as their range of refreshing drinks. A place that I'd visit for novelty.