The Mermaid- Cafe and Ikan Bakar @ Georgetown, Penang.

Being an island city with close proximity to the sea, Penang boasts over an abundance supply of fresh treasure from the sea. Grilled Fish or Seafood is one of the most common items found in most hawker centers but it is certainly not a common item in cafes. The name- Mermaid Cafe that sells Grilled Fish (Ikan Bakar) does suggest cannibalism but let's forget about the name. Once you have stepped in the cafe, you will find yourself in a clinically clean, neat space with proper setup. The cafe is manned by Alex, a Malaysian talent returned from Singapore; the menu was devised using the family recipe, particularly on the Ikan Bakar Sambal. But it has evolved far beyond the classic Malaysian Grilled Fish... with more modern options available. Though the menu is pretty much fish-focused, there are other worth-savoring side dishes as well as desserts.

Many Thanks to The Mermaid Cafe for hosting us that day.

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.