Monday, February 27, 2017

Red Courtyard (红庭院) @ King Street, Georgetown, Penang.

Red Courtyard is a relatively new eatery in the banking district has a stylish and eye-catching color... the facade is painted in red hue with some sharp contrast of black. We understand from the restaurateur that red represents "China" and this indirectly, explains that Red Courtyard serves China-Chinese food. This new kid on the block serves a range of Hunan (湖南) classics such as Spicy Beef Noodles, braised Duck with Beer and Beef Steamboat. The Chef herself comes from Hunan and she uses recipes passed to her from previous generations; that reaffirms the authenticity. As far as the heat-intolerant is concerned, the fully air-conditioned restaurant provides a comfortable dining atmosphere. Private rooms are also available to accommodate larger groups. The Lunch crowd will be pleased to know that Red Courtyard offers set lunch from Rm 8.90 nett (promotion valid until further notice). Red Courtyard is the new tenant over Das Rad Cafe's previous location, at King Street.

Many Thanks to Red Courtyard for hosting us that afternoon.

Friday, February 24, 2017

Yi Bing Qing Fish Head Steamboat (意槟情鱼头炉) @ Nagore Road, Georgetown, Penang.

Yi Bing Qing is a big name when it comes to steamboat restaurant in Penang, the well-established steamboat restaurant is known to serve some of the best Teo Chew styled Fish Head Hot Pot in town. The signature Fish Head Hot Pot would consist Deep Fried Fish Head and meat in milky broth, Yam, Cabbage and Pork Balls, additional items can be ordered at additional costs. The restaurant is fully air-conditioned but in the event the place is fully occupied, diners may be required to be seated outside (if they are willing to). Advance reservation needs to be made early to avoid disappointment, walk-in as early as possible otherwise. 

Thursday, February 23, 2017

New Paris Restaurant (新巴黎大菜馆) @ SS2, Petaling Jaya, Selangor.

Ask anyone who stays in the neighborhood of SS2 (Petaling Jaya) for an inexpensive, quick and comfortable place for Zhu Char (Chinese Stir Fry dishes), New Paris Restaurant is probably one of the names most mentioned. The long-established Chinese home-styled restaurant has been there for long and has since, earned its reputation for being one of the best Chinese restaurants around. Nestled within the housing area, the restaurant occupies 3 units with a huge signage can be easily spotted from far. The place is huge and could easily accommodate diners in large groups, air-conditioned seats are available too. The Cantonese-styled menu is large and reasonably priced (in the context of Klang Valley's living standards).

Wednesday, February 22, 2017

Birds Nest Secret (燕之密) @ Icon City, Bukit Mertajam, Penang.

Bird's Nest... a prized Chinese delicacy that symbolizes wealth and social status, can now be enjoyed in the form of modern desserts in the newly opened Birds Nest Secret, Icon City. It is also believed to carry medicinal effects and does wonders to the skin... making it extremely popular amongst the ladies whom seek for flawless skin or to preserve their age. Birds Nest Secret is a cafe that specializes in offering bird's nest... more so in the form of sweet treats. Both the interior and exterior decor are swanky and modern, presented in shades of sparkling gold and a touch of wood; popular seats are often taken up during peak hours, if a table with picturesque background concerns you, do make your reservation early. The selection is wide but comes with hefty price tags. Given the taxing price rates, we are not too sure if this is a place that we'd like to make a visit... more for novelty experience.

Monday, February 20, 2017

Victoria Green Corner @ Jalan Padang Victoria, Pulau Tikus, Penang.

Victoria Green Corner is a house turned artsy cafe, the cafe is dedicated to serving Nyonya-influenced menu. There's no clear signage out the front but the interiors are sparkling and stunning. It displays a great amount of antiques, ranging from the ancient Chinese toga to the recent Nyonya's collection of crockery set. The decors are eye-pleasing, with some of them designed by the daughter of the restaurateur. The menu is small and some of the offering is common but the real pull factor is the homey ambiance. If you are into Nyonya-inspired dishes, this place is worth a look. Victoria Green Corner can be found behind Union Primary School, opposite Westlands Secondary School.

Friday, February 17, 2017

The Shed Aussie Pub & Restaurant @ Straits Quay, Penang.

Australian Cuisine hasn't had much exposure in Penang but we hope that will change with the opening of The Shed in Straits Quay. The Australian-influenced Pub & Restaurant offers a vast selection of grill meats as well as some Burgers and Pasta. The setup is more of a bistro with a stage behind (live music performances are available on certain days); those who prefer a more outdoorsy ambiance with cold sea breeze could opt to dine-in at the sea-front while those who prefer to sit nearer to the stage could opt for inside. The atmosphere is relaxed and casual, most suitable to chill out with friends/ family over a few helpings of beers and wines (or even better, pair with their meat-focused dishes). Not a bad place for drinks and casual Australian barbecue meat but we thought the food lacked the "x" factor (not that we weren't pleased with the quality, just that the probability of returning is not high). The Shed Aussie Pub & Restaurant can be found right next to Spasso Milano, previous tenant was Weissbrau German Bistro.

Thursday, February 16, 2017

Kakigōri Dessert Bar @ Taman Paramount, Petaling Jaya, Selangor.

One of the greatest summer treats invented by the Japanese- Kakigori, a classic Japanese shaved ice dessert topped with flavored Syrup and condiments. With a name like Kakigori, this new establishment at Taman Paramount Petaling Jaya has wrestled its way out. It is now one of the most visited cafes in the neighborhood, particularly due to its Instagram-worthy sweet treats. The interior decor is simple, with some basic tables and seemingly flimsy chairs... a fun and young space it seems. But the cafe has a small menu... entirely dedicated to serving Kakigori (only a handful of choices though). Prices are standard-average but the service could be better improved, the place was packed to the brim with long queues waiting outside and as soon as we have finished the desserts, we were "politely" asked to leave our table. Not a space for chill out I suppose. 

Wednesday, February 15, 2017

Mee Udang Bukit Tambun (蜜屋浪) @ Bukit Tambun, Penang.

Visitors visiting Design Village Penang but intend to have something special for lunch (except those fast food chains in the mall) can opt to reroute to Bukit Tambun, a small township famous for Seafood and home to many Seafood restaurants. Bukit Tambun is approximately 10 minutes drive away from Design Village Penang; it was once the de-facto place to visit when Penangites wanted fresh Seafood. Though it is still popular right now but the hype has reduced drastically as there are many other options available for now. But Mee Udang (Prawn Noodles) Bukit Tambun offers something out of the norm, instead of the usual Seafood Zhu Char dishes; it dishes out home-made Mee Udang, a proud Malaysian dish. Mee Udang is not the only option here, fresh Seafood catch is easy to source and thus, expect some simple, no frills Seafood dishes to be found here as well. The fully air-conditioned Mee Udang specialist can be found at one of the colorful heritage houses under the restoration project on the main road of Bukit Tambun (towards the now defunct Jetty).

Monday, February 13, 2017

Flavor Food Hot Pot (原石锅) @ Burmah Road, Pulau Tikus, Penang.

If you think Hot Pot would be heaty, greasy and full with Monosodium-Glutamate (MSG), you need to pay a visit to Flavor Food. The modest and rather invisible Hot Pot restaurant is a new addition to Pulau Tikus, well-tucked in one of the shop houses on the bustling Burmah Road (right next to Union Primary School). Flavor Food believes in extracting the natural wholesomeness of the ingredients and bold seasonings will not be seen here. Most ingredients are home-made and they are not a big supporter over processed food either. The fully air-conditioned restaurant has a chic but cozy atmosphere, most suitable for family occasion or casual dining. The observant would notice their sleek stone pot, specially designed to suit the theme. A Hot Pot restaurant with heavy Cantonese-roots it seems; but as far as quality and service are concerned, I'd definitely love to revisit. 

Disclaimer: We visited the restaurant on our own with the intention to pay, the owner spotted us and insisted to pick up the tab. Comments for this review are however, genuine (no ratings shall be given though). 

Friday, February 10, 2017

Penang's Latest Attractions- Jurassic Research Center and Rainbow Skywalk @ The TOP, KOMTAR.

In the effort of revamping and restoring the past glory the iconic skyscraper of Penang- Kompleks Tun Abdul Razak (KOMTAR), Only World Group (OWG) initiated the project- "The TOP" with the philosophy of "Fun, Food and Good Living". The project includes an introduction of a spate of F&B outlets, indoor and outdoor theme parks but one of the greatest highlights of the project is to have 3 additional floors added to the originally 65-storey skyscraper, increasing its height to 249 meters. "Jurassic Research Center", "Rainbow Skywalk", "Magic Mirror Maze", "Jelly Bump Bumper Cars", "Dragon Regatta", "Dino Gym", "7D Discovery Motion Theater", "Ocean Explorer", "Tech Dome Penang" are some of its attractions and rest-assured, there will be something suitable for visitors of all age groups. For more information, please follow The TOP's Facebook Page or email your inquiry to sales@thetop.com.my.

Many Thanks to The TOP and WIN Creative Marketing for arranging the tour.

Thursday, February 9, 2017

Green Bell Western Restaurant @ Hutton Lane, Georgetown, Penang.

The F&B scene in Penang does not sound like it will be slowing down for the new year of 2017, there are quite a number of new restaurants to put on radar. Foodies may have noticed this eye-catchy building at the corner of Hutton Lane, right next to New World Park. The exterior of the restaurant is painted in orange color, with a few bright spotlights in action. The name "Green Bell" surely does not ring a bell... at least not for us. Green Bell has quite an extensive menu, offering a vast selection of Western-Fusion dishes, though most of them are priced reasonably, the dishes lacked the excitement when it comes to quality... as though it was just an ordinary restaurant in the neighborhood. Food-aside, the service on our visit was lackluster; for a few simple orders, it took them more than one hour to serve and the restaurant was not even half-full. 

Wednesday, February 8, 2017

The Bean Sprout Cafe @ Masjid Kapitan Keling, Georgetown, Penang.

Specializing in the classic brunch items- Big Breakfast, Toasts and Pancakes; The Bean Sprout Cafe is one of the latest members to join the clamoring cafe scene in Penang. It occupies one of the lots right opposite to the few century old Kuan Yin Temple along Masjid Kapitan Keling. Both exterior and interior are rustic, it certainly matches the heritage theme well. The contrast is obvious here- young and passionate in an old-fashioned space; east (building) meets west (food); the cafe operators seem to pay great attention to details here. The heat-intolerant might be glad to know that there's a huge blower erected (though not air-conditioned), the cafe is not stuffed and the ventilation works fine. We did not feel stuffy at all, on a sultry hot afternoon. Albeit the cafe has a small menu but sipping a cup of Joe and enjoying the Toast while looking at the bustling temple-praying scene can be one of the great ways to enjoy your off day. 

Tuesday, February 7, 2017

INPenang Awards 2017- Recognizing Outstanding Penang People and Organizations by CHTNetwork

In the effort of recognizing some of Penang's most outstanding organizations that have worked the extra miles not only to bring success and honor to their own organizations but also to make the society and Penang (or Malaysia) a better place. The INPenang Awards, a brainchild by CHTNetwork, is formed to recognize and award entities/ individuals that have made extraordinary contributions and supports to the tourism industry in Penang. The selection committee meets to nominate and vote on a yearly basis; hospitality, travel, health & beauty, automobile, fashion sectors are amongst some of the sectors considered by the committee. The significance of the award has given opportunities to key players in the industry to showcase their talents and abilities, unlock new business opportunities as well as to encourage competitiveness amongst the local businesses. Award Winners are carefully selected and they represent the best of the best in their respective industries. INPenang Awards held its 3rd International Edition (2017) on 5 February 2017 at St. Giles Wembley Penang.

Many Thanks to CHTNetwork and Ichi Media for hosting us that evening.

Monday, February 6, 2017

Guan Xian Lao Ma Steamboat (灌县老妈砂锅串串) @ Raja Uda, Butterworth, Penang.

More options for seasoned Steamboat diners at Raja Uda, Guan Xian Lao Ma (灌县老妈砂锅串串) is one of the biggest names when it comes to Steamboat/ Hot Pot in Sze Chuan, China. The restaurateur obtained local franchisee license to operate an extended branch here... at Raja Uda Commercial City Centre, Butterworth (same row as Pentagon 5). The brand is known to dish out Sze Chuan Ma-La Spicy Hot Pot with Skewers... the same concept is being brought to the branch in Raja Uda as well. The restaurant is nicely decorated, step in the restaurant and you will be instantly teleported to China... even the stools, wall paper, lighting and tables; all resemble the characteristics of old Chinese decorations. The menu is fairly large, diners can either order by filling up the order form or simply head to the display fridge and help themselves with the skewers (Rm 1.80 per stick). There are of course, some standard items but only a handful of soup bases available. 

Friday, February 3, 2017

BMS Organics @ Moulmein Rise Shoppes, Pulau Tikus, Penang.

Health-conscious and vegetarians need not necessarily depend on salad alone when visiting Georgetown. Pulau Tikus is truly one of the meatless districts in Penang, there are already quite a number of plant-based restaurants and cafes around the neighborhood and now, it welcomes one of the largest vegetarian-chain restaurants in Malaysia- BMS Organics. Housed in the latest commercial building- Moulmein Rise Shoppes, BMS Organics occupies two prominent lots on the ground floor; offering similar menu as to most BMS Organics in the nation. The completely animal-free menu is rather small but has a good blend of both Western and Oriental vegetarian/ vegan delights. Right next to the cafe is mini market that offers a wide range of healthy products but to our surprise, all are cleverly priced and positioned. It's definitely one of the must-visit places for vegetarians and vegans to stock up their daily supplies.

Thursday, February 2, 2017

Tokyo Secret Offers Cheesy Japanese Treats in Penang!

Ever since the invasion of the heart-melting oozy Japanese Cheese Tarts in the nation, Malaysians have professed their love for the yummy Japanese treats and the hipstery food trend goes on (a food trend that we are more than delighted to welcome with open arms). Reward yourself with a Japanese Cheese Tart on this festive season; Tokyo Secret- one of the most loved brands by Malaysians, sourced its recipe from an experienced Japanese Chef and all the ingredients are imported from Japan and obtained from suppliers with certificates of Halal-compliance. No preservatives nor artificial coloring is used; tarts are often freshly baked on the spot so a short wait might be required but rest-assured, this is to ensure that Tokyo Secret delivers some of its best-quality and freshest Cheese Tarts to you. Tokyo Secret is constantly rolling out seasonal flavors, miss not by visiting the nearest Tokyo Secret to your place now (available in Gurney Plaza and Queensbay Mall Penang)! 

Wednesday, February 1, 2017

Colonial Kitchen Hainanese Cuisine @ Burmah Road, Pulau Tikus, Penang.

A new kid on the block, Colonial Kitchen Hainanese Cuisine is one of the latest eateries at Pulau Tikus (opposite Wisma Perkeso). The place serves an unassuming and unabashed Hainanese menu with some classic highlights such as Hainanese Pies, Chicken Chop and Pork Chop etc. It has been receiving positive remarks since its opening. Colonial Kitchen has a simple interior decor, not unnecessary frills but some basic tables and chairs (not even air-conditioner) but this does not stop gourmands from visiting the place; those who are in the know are particularly contented with their home-made Pies. Prices are however, slightly on the higher side.