Jia Siang Cafe (家香茶室) @ Pulau Betong, Balik Pulau, Penang.

A famed fishing village at Southwest of Penang Island (approximately 15 km away from Balik Pulau market), Pulau Betong is home to many fishermen and is known to have some of the best sea produce in Penang. Jia Siang Cafe is one of the more prominent seafood restaurants in the vicinity; having operated for years, it has accumulated an appreciate following. But there is a catch here- you must either reach there early during the day (as soon as it opens) or you will have to buy the fresh sea produce behind the restaurant (for the Chefs to cook). The seafood supplies in the restaurant are rather limited and the demand is usually high, so if you wish to savor some of the best seafood, make your way there as early as possible. Located at the end of the road, Jia Siang Cafe is right next to the river mouth; not air-conditioned, the heat-intolerant might this place a little uncomfortable to dine-in, especially with the sultry hot tropical weather.

Ichiran Ramen (一兰拉面) @ Causeway Bay (铜锣湾), Hong Kong (香港)

When one of the big names for Japanese Ramen- Ichiran Ramen first stormed Hong Kong few years ago, the queue was absurd and never had I thought that the queue remains relentless after the trend cools down. We joined the queue in late evening- slight past 9 pm and the queue was extended to two shops away from Ichiran. We waited patiently for half an hour and managed to squeeze our way in the shop, we then found out that the queue continued inside and for another half an hour. We managed to secure our seats. The one-hour waiting time seems to be extremely normal for Ichiran, in fact, it could go as long as two hours at certain days. The seating arrangement across all Ichiran branches is standardized and uniform so the signature one person one seat remains unchanged. Despite the long queue, the quality did not disappoint. The Ramen was lip-smacking and I'd love to return again but not too sure if I am willing to queue for an hour again though. 

3 Korean Fried Chicken (三个小鲜肉) @ Bukit Mertajam, Penang.

As if the fast-food competition is not fierce enough, the South-Korean inspired joint- 3 Korean Fried Chicken joins in the war, opening a new outlet at the Pusat Perniagaan Maju Utama, Bukit Mertajam. Korean Fried Chicken and classic Korean delicacies (like Kim Chi, Tteokbokki, Korean Fried Rice) make up the menu. The serving portion is small but it commensurate with the wallet-friendly prices. While the dining space is welcoming, 3 Korean Fried Chicken does not come across as a place suitable for proper meals... more like inter-meal snacks or perhaps, light afternoon breaks. 3 Korean Fried Chicken can be found few doors away from CIMB Bank at Bukit Mertajam (near Sentosa).

Gusttimo and Baguni Korean Concept Store @ Sunshine Square, Bayan Lepas, Penang.

Both Gusttimo and Baguni are new tenants to the newly remodeled space at Sunshine Square, Bayan Lepas. The supermarket has recently refurbished its front entrance near Jalan Mayang Pasir, making space for the Korean-influenced dessert joint and Korean mart. Gusttimo specializes in offering Korean-inspired icy sweet treats like Bingsu and eye-pleasing Italian Gelato; while Baguni is a Korean Mart that supplies shoppers with unlimited Korean products. One corner of Baguni is dedicated to a small kitchen that offers simple Korean Noodle and Rice dishes. The space is clean and comfortable, most suitable for shoppers who wish to stretch their shopping legs and dive into a bowl of refreshingly cool Korean Bingsu. We have managed to try both on our visit- we were happy with the Bingsu but were greatly disappointed with the noodles served by Baguni (merely Korean Instant Noodles). Our recommendation- skip the Baguni Kitchen and proceed straight to Gusttimo for their Korean Bingsu.

Tsunami Village Cafe @ Tanjung Bungah, Penang.

With a name like Tsunami Village, it certainly reminds us of the tragic moment when Penang got hit by killer waves in 2004, that particular location was probably one of the affected areas. The place is extremely popular amongst tourist, we were literally surrounded by tourists and none of the diners were locals. We were unease in the fear of falling into a tourist trap and our instinct was unfortunately, right for this round. We were first impressed by the outdoorsy setting of the place, overlooking the beach of Tanjung Bungah... followed by its thick menu. We thought the prices are very steep but proceeded nevertheless. Unfortunately, none of the dishes were impressive....

[Year 2017] Food Hunting- of Cafes/ Must-Eats @ Alor Setar (亚罗士打), Kedah (吉打).

The state capital of Kedah, Alor Setar is approximately 1.5 hours away from Penang island; is home to many good and inexpensive eats. Not only that the place has many fine restaurants, the cafe scene is getting vibrant either. If you are in need of a short get-away or food-focused trip, Alor Setar is definitely a good choice. 

For your planning purposes, we've managed to complete the below food list in 5 hours.

1) SK Kim Chai Por Hu (合莎驰名菜脯鱼)

Non-Halal

Service Charge: No

Government Tax: No

Address: No. 169-A & B, Kampung Perak, Jalan Putra, 05100, Alor Setar, Kedah.

Business Hours: 8 am to 3 pm. Opens Daily.

Contact Number: 016- 431 6655

La Villa Pool Club and Restaurant @ Holiday Villa Beach Resort & Spa, Langkawi, Kedah.

Ensconced in one of the luxurious Langkawi resorts at Pantai Tengah (next to Pantai Cenang), La Villa Pool Club and Restaurant (in-resort restaurant of Holiday Villa Langkawi) offers the best of both worlds- delicious food with breath-taking seaview. If enjoying a sumptuous meal with a booze over a scenic beach view is what you after, La Villa Pool Club and Restaurant is definitely a good choice. Built on an elevated ground next to the resort, the beach front restaurant strives to offer stunning view to its diners. Diners have the option to choose whether to be seated at the al-fresco dining area or the air-conditioned corner. The lunch and dinner menu are same yet different in its own way; the latter one provides more seafood option. Since seafood is one of the most prized elements for an island, the restaurant takes advantage of abundance seafood supply locally to offer the freshest ingredients every day. Diners can also take a leisure stroll along the beach before or after the meal. All dishes are (surprisingly) reasonably priced, rest-assured that diners can enjoy a luxurious dining experience without breaking the bank.

Maccha House (抹茶馆) @ Tai Koo (太古), Hong Kong.

Matcha, finely ground Green Tea leaves in powder form is not something new or recently unearthed; in fact, it has been around for centuries but in the modern world, it has become a star ingredient in food, particularly desserts. The Hong Kies have professed their love for Matcha so much that they need to operate a dessert parlor dedicated entirely to Matcha Green Tea. Maccha House has a few branches across Hong Kong, it has gained fame quick over social media since its launching. Though there are still some savory mains on the menu, it is pretty much Matcha-focused and the desserts are the real pull factors behind Maccha House. Given the satisfying quality, it is safe to assume that this place worth the travel-time and effort, particularly for Matcha lovers. 

Cheng Hwa Seafood Porridge (清和海鲜粥) @ Nibong Tebal, Penang.

Cheng Hwa Seafood Porridge is a relatively new member at Nibong Tebal, established few years ago, the place has rapidly garnered an appreciate following. One of the pulling factors is probably the wallet-friendly price points- a bowl of casual-ordinary Fish Porridge is only priced at Rm 6. Diners have the options to dine-in or sit at the al-fresco area, overlooking the serene-quiet neighborhood of Nibong Tebal while feasting on the freshest catch of the day. The menu comprises of Porridge and Noodles as well as some classic Chinese Seafood dishes is suitable for all range of diners- from young to aged, making it one of the well-received Seafood restaurants in the vicinity. Cheng Hwa Seafood Porridge can be found at the end of Jalan Atas, a stone's throw away from Law Chang Kee.

Euro Deli Delicatessen @ Gurney Plaza, Penang.

Euro Deli Delicatessen is a charming European restaurant long-operating at Gurney Plaza; it has constantly luring shoppers with its European-focused menu offering a vast enticing delights like German Pork Knuckle, Bratwurst, Hungarian Goulash, English Meat Plate etc. Despite showcasing a bar-like decor, the restaurant is in fact has a family-friendly atmosphere that presets diners with a relaxed, inviting interior, complete with warm wooden accents. In the evenings, the place is well-received amongst social drinkers or those who fancy imported European Beers. Euro Deli gives an impression as a drinking place but the menu should not be forsaken as well, particularly for meat lovers. Popular choices are the meaty, well-spiced Bratwurst and crackling Pork Knuckle.

Stone Nine Hot Pot by Jiro Shabu (石九锅) @ Auto City, Bukit Mertajam, Penang.

Truly a posh dining experience, the newly opened Stone Nine Hot Pot by Jiro Shabu redefines the classic way of enjoying Steamboat/ Hotpot. Not only does the place introduce personal pot, the interior decor strives to take your breath away. The restaurant covered in shades of wood exudes a sense of tranquility while the dining utensils promote elegance and sophistication. We did not expect the price points to be low, given the upscale interior decor. As expected, the price tags are hefty- expect to spend at least Rm 40-50 per person here, with the cheapest beverage (Green Tea) priced at Rm 5 (refillable). The dining experience however, is exclusive. Everyone gets to savor his/her own Hotpot and the ingredients are impressively fresh; at least... the prices are well-justified. Stone Nine Hot Pot by Jiro Shabu is right next to Citibank Malaysia, at Auto City, Bukit Mertajam.

Ramadhan Buffet Dinner- Sajian Dapur Nelayan @ Sunway Hotel Georgetown, Penang.

Looking for a decent place to break fast in this holy fasting month? Look out for the Ramadhan buffet spread at Sunway Georgetown Hotel. In conjunction with the Ramadhan month, Sunway Georgetown Hotel is offering their Ramadhan Buffet Dinner at unbeatable wallet-friendly prices with an array of authentic traditional fasting favorites and classic Malaysian delights. 

Ramadhan Buffet Dinner~ Sajian Dapur Nelayan:

Available on 29th May 2017 until 23 June 2017

From 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm

Rm 60 nett (adult); Rm 38 nett (children & senior citizen above 55 years old)

Hari Raya Buffet Lunch~ Bingkisan Aidilfitri:
Available on 25 June 2017
From 12:00 pm to 2:30 pm
Rm 60 nett (adult); Rm 38 nett (children & senior citizen above 55 years old)

James Foo Western Food @ All Seasons Place, Air Itam, Penang.

Dining out in a proper restaurant might not necessary be too grueling to the wallet, at least for the case of James Foo Western Food. The long-established name is known to every Penangite for its great dining deals and its strength to serve localized Western food. While the place does not feel as "fancy" as compared to some of the newly established cafes in town, some of the dishes taste equally good, but at discounted rates. The Western-food focused menu has since expanded from the locals' favorites (of Chicken Chop, Fish N Chips) to a vast selection of International fusion dishes, at very competitive prices.

The BAR°N @ Gurney Plaza, Penang.

Succulent ribs with chilled Beers for the holidays are, for many, de rigueur. A generous serving of ribs with other delectable spread signify extravagance and luxury; more so especially for those who are in celebratory mood. But you can strike everything in one go (both meat and alcohol) without putting a dent on the wallet at The BARN, a brand made known to Penangites and flourished since 2016. The place is famous as a drinking place, particularly the relaxing al-fresco atmosphere outside of the mall but the meat-focused menu is not to be forsaken as well. The European-influenced menu consists of all classic cuts of meats (and greens to balance off the diet of course), from Pork to Chicken, to Beef or even Lamb; whether you are an omnivore or carnivore, they have got you covered. 

Sugar On Top: Nagore (SOT) @ Chime Heritage, Georgetown, Penang.

Naming a cafe may not be as exhausting as one would expect but it does require a little artistic flair. One of the latest cafe joints in Penang- Sugar On Top dropped the cliches and decided to pick up something unusual- SOT. Perhaps a pun intended, it sure rings a bell on what the cafe could potentially offer. During its soft-opening period, Sugar On Top only serves desserts but right now, the full-fledged menu consisting Pasta, Burgers, All-Day Breakfast and special in-house delights. The price points are however, slightly higher than average. Sugar On Top is now taking over the previous lot of Haven Harbor, at Chime Heritage.

Magazine 63 (天下第一客栈) @ Magazine Road, Georgetown, Penang.

Decked out in absolute old world decadence, Magazine 63 is one of the latest hit and quirky bars in town. Secretly hidden away in Georgetown, it takes some detective skills to locate the entrance of the bar as it is completely concealed from the bustling Magazine Road. The place has got no obvious signage but with a small white flag hanging outside that says 'Alcohol' in Mandarin character. Push the door open and you will be instantly transported back to at least a couple centuries back; the stunningly exotic interior features olden-Chinese-inspired decoration that would douse you in some vintage elegance. Not only that the place is totally decorated according to that time-space, the servers are all dressed in traditional Chinese wear and the intriguing alcohol containers are custom-made according to the theme. For a boozy evening, this place is set to wow and put a smile on the faces of all their visitors; definitely a place worth visiting and seeing.

Italianies @ Gurney Paragon Mall, Penang.

Penang is never a vast desert when it comes to Italian eats, the typical Pasta dishes like Aglio Olio or Carbonara, Pizza and Tiramisu can be easily found. But specialized Italian restaurants are rare, probably only a handful of them in town. Italianies has been serving hearty Italian dies in Gurney Paragon Mall a few years back since the mall's grand opening. True to its name, the upscale and trendy restaurant right in front of the al-fresco zone delivers palatable and sinfully rich Italian fare. The menu is dedicated entirely to serving Italian delights- from the classic Pasta dishes to the well-received Pizza as well as genuine hearty Italian-European dishes; the relaxed and cozy atmosphere coupled with the dining options have been attracting a wide range of dining personalities. 

Giant Curry Mee (巨无霸咖喱面) @ Kimberley Street, Georgetown, Penang.

Curry Mee (otherwise known as Curry Laksa in central region) has always been one of Penangites' favorite local delicacies but the newly opened eatery along Kimberley Street offers the noodles with an upgrade. While the classic bowl of Curry Mee costs Rm 5 here, the deep pockets could go for the premium option with plenty of Seafood and Meat topped, at the price of Rm 11.50. The entire shop is dedicated to serving Curry Mee and has been drawing great attention from early risers and market-goers (right in front of the entrance to Chowrasta Market- Kimberley Street entrance). Curry Mee enthusiasts might welcome the idea but we'd like to think otherwise, perhaps a bowl of delicious-classic Curry Mee is good enough for us.

Hong Kong's Tsukiji Market- Yamataka Seafood Market (山贵海鲜- 灣仔筑地市场) @ Wan Chai (湾仔), Hong Kong.

Call it an extension of Tsukiji Market (from Tokyo) to Hong Kong, the Tsukiji Yamataka Seafood Market is built to emulate the Japanese fish market experience. The news spread amongst seafood devotees and they were waiting in anticipation for its opening. The place has been running successfully with a steady flow of customers every day since its opening in late November 2016. Yamataka Seafood Market is like a miniature Tsukiji Market with fresh Seafood imported from Japan and around the world; live seafood and made-to-order dishes are available too. If keen, customers can catch the fresh Tuna cutting show at certain times of the day. The entrance to the market is inviting and beautifully decorated to the Japanese theme with a curious dark shade that welcomes visitors to the market. Inside, visitors are first granted by the display fridge that displays an array of imported Japanese goods as well as freshly cut Sashimi and Sushi (for take away). Walk in further and you will find the standing Sushi bar and Seafood counter. But be prepared, nothing is cheap here so be careful not to put a dent on the wallet.

Ice Cafe @ Victoria Street, Georgetown, Penang.

Cool off at Ice Cafe, one of the latest hit in Penang that takes the definition of 'cool' to a whole new level. If the idea of freezing yourself while enjoying a serving of icy cold sweet treat intrigues you, you should really check it out. Ice Cafe is situated on the second floor of a building along Victoria Street (above Phantamania Penang); as you walk up the stairs, you will notice that the stickers are indicating that there's a drop in temperature. True enough, we felt the cold breeze blowing right smack to our face as we walked up. Soon, you will arrive at the entrance to Ice Cafe that resembles castle door. Push the door open and you will find yourself in a magical land of ice with igloo, ice bed, and everything cold but they are real though, those are just for decorative purposes. While it did indicate that the temperature was around 10 degree Celsius, we did not think it was that cold, probably a little lower than 20 degree Celsius. The entrance to Ice Cafe is free but visitors are expect to at least order a drink or icy treat during the stay at the cafe.

Recharge Yourself Before Next Leg of The Journey @ Plaza Premium Lounge, Gateway @ KLIA2!

One of the most cumbersome and exhausting challenges for globe-trotters would be the long transit hours especially when multiple flights are involved. Plaza Premium Lounge, Gateway @ KLIA2 is an oasis for travelers having long-hour transit, there is a wide range of services that cater to travelers' needs while waiting for their next leg of journey at the airport. Transit hotels are not common in some countries but for a busy transfer hub like KLIA2, it is most helpful for the onward-bound passengers. The Plaza Premium Lounge at KLIA2 is strategically located within the Gateway @ KLIA2, a short walk from the check-in counters of the airport, right above the retails at Gateway KLIA2. It boasts over a comfortable exclusive space, especially needed for business travelers. 

[Travel/ Food Guide] Itinerary to Hatyai, Thailand (合艾，泰国) 2017

When the travel bugs bite, it is a time to plan for a trip but it gets tough and grueling to the wallet especially when there is a dip in Malaysian Ringgit. Naturally, visiting neighboring countries becomes a popular choice. We continued our previous food adventure to Hatyai, Thailand (read our 2016 entry here) but the short trip was not sufficient to cover a lot of places.

For more travel deals, check out KLOOK!

New Updates:

• Tuk Tuk Drivers around Hatyai have the tendency to over-charge passengers/ tourists; we fell into the trap for a couple of times without negotiating with them. The rate within town should be THB 20 per ride but they tend to charge THB 30 per ride. Do take note on this.
• Food costs have increased recently, probably due to the dip in Malaysian currency; many things in Hatyai are no longer that attractive (in terms of pricing).

1) Bankampu Hatyai Fresh Seafood 

Pork Free

Service Charge: No

Government Tax: No

Address: 22/4-5, Lamaysongkoa Road, Hatyai, Songkhla, 90110, Thailand.

Business Hours: 11 am to 10 pm. Opens Daily.

Contact Number: +66 087-109 8777
Bankampu Facebook Page

Fatt Kee Roast Fish (发记招牌特色烤鱼) @ Pudu, Kuala Lumpur.

Inspired by the Chong Qing-Grilled Fish, Fatt Kee Roast Fish has recently gained a lot of attention from netizens due to its gigantic serving with loads of Seafood swimming in the huge pot. The concept is not new- Deep Fried Fish with Seafood (like Prawns, Squid, Flower Clams) and vegetables soaked in a spicy-savory Seafood broth; served in the way similar to Hot Pot/ Steamboat. The spiciness varies and can be tuned accordingly but the heat-intolerant should be extra careful on selecting the spiciness as it can be lip-burning hot. It can be then enjoyed just like an ordinary Hot Pot, with extra condiments like Udon, Vegetables and Seafood to be added. Do note that there are two branches and both locations are near to each other; one is air-conditioned while another one is al-fresco setting. The flavors were fun and the combination was exciting, a place worth visiting.