Robataya Izakaya @ Queensbay Mall, Penang.

The only outlet outside of Klang Valley, Robataya Izakaya at Queensbay Mall sits at a corner at the North Zone of the mall (opposite Sen Heng). The Japanese restaurant has a big menu, other than the Izakaya items; diners can expect to find most of the Japanese delights- Sushi, Sashimi, Nabe, Noodle dishes on the menu. The restaurant has a comfortable Japanese setting and is able to accommodate big groups but do be prepared to pay a premium when dining out at Robataya (the rates are higher than many Japanese restaurants in town). 

Winter Joy 2019 @ Queensbay Mall, Penang.

With November month passing by swiftly, the Christmas footsteps are drawing nearer. To share the joy with fellow shoppers, the fashion leading mall- Queensbay Mall is all geared up to celebrate Christmas in a fabulously white, snowy way. Inspired by the excitement of Winter, the mall's Central Atrium is transformed into a magical land covered in thick white snow where one can find Penguins, Reindeers, Polar Bears and snowy Owls gathering harmoniously to commemorate the season of sharing and gifting in their own ways. Apart from the cute animals and Christmas decor, the Snow Shower and interactive floor projection (at the igloo) are some of the main highlights. To make things merrier, the mall management has also arranged a series of Christmas events for the public to partake. Come prepared for a joyful, white Christmas at Queensbay Mall Penang!

Many Thanks to Queensbay Mall for inviting us to the official launching of Winter Joy

Dandy Modern Food @ Queensbay Mall, Penang.

Middle Eastern cuisine is widely accepted and welcomed in Malaysia- healthy, bold and irresistible flavors but it is often too grueling to the wallet to indulge. Dandy Modern Food seizes this opportunity and brings flavors from the Mediterranean to Penang by offering delicious Mediterranean delights in an affordable price range. While some are authentically Mediterranean dishes, certain dishes have been modified to suit the local palate (esp on the heavy usage of Herbs). Having received great support from Penangites, the brand expanded its business operation and opened up a new branch at Queensbay Mall earlier this year. The same open-kitchen concept is used to impart a casual and comfortable dining atmosphere, allowing diners to witness the entire food preparation process. Both restaurants in Queensbay Mall and Arena Curve are Halal-certified; private functions and events can also be arranged at both locations.

Many Thanks to Dandy Modern Food for hosting us.

Uchino Ramen @ Bayan Indah, Bayan Lepas, Penang.

One of the few Ramen joints outside of central Georgetown and Tanjung Bungah area, Uchino Ramen is one of the latest additions to the Penang Ramen scene. Found at one of the shop lots opposite to Queensbay Mall, the new kid on the block positioned themselves as a Ramen joint that serves Kyushu-styled Japanese Ramen which is known for its rich, creamy Tonkotsu broth. While it places great emphasis on the Ramen menu, there are other options for non-Ramen eaters as well. The Japanese Don series has something interesting to offer, as well as some classic Japanese snacks and sides. Mid-range prices but legit taste, at least pretty close to those in Japan.

Pho Vietz @ Queensbay Mall, Penang.

Ever since Pho Vietz's soft launching in early May 2019, the stream of visitors visiting the Vietnamese restaurant is a testament to the restaurant's reputation as one of the best places for Vietnamese dishes. With 6 branches well-established in Klang Valley, Pho Vietz is one of the largest Vietnamese chain in Malaysia; this new Penang branch at Queensbay Mall is the brand's first branch outside of Klang Valley. Vietnamese food lovers can expect classic street dishes like Pho, Banh Mi, Vietnamese Spring Rolls to be on the menu. Not only that the kitchen is helmed by Vietnamese head Chef but the raw ingredients are imported from Vietnam itself... to replicate the authentic Vietnamese flavors to as close as it gets. 

温和清爽的越南料理一直是广大槟城饕客们最爱之一，四季如夏的天气，来道酸甜开胃的越南料理，更能撩起食欲。号称全马最大的越南连锁- Pho Vietz 选定了槟城皇后湾广场营业其首家巴生谷以外的分店。全马拥有6家分店的 Pho Vietz 是家喻户晓且人气爆满的越南餐厅，以提供道地且价钱公道闻名。店家采用从越南引进的原料，并在越南籍主厨指引下，尽可能端出最道地且最靠近越南的味道。Pho Vietz 菜单中包含了多种越南小吃，越式河粉，法包，春卷等越式美食。

Many Thanks to Pho Vietz for hosting us.

Aza Aza Starvil Korean Restaurant @ Bayan Bay, Bayan Lepas, Penang.

Aza Aza Starvil Korean Restaurant is not new, in fact, it has been around for at least a few years. Korean food lovers should not be new to the name, the place is most popular amongst the workers working in industrial zone. Aza Aza offers barbecue items, alongside with an array of Korean delights like Bibimbap, Tteokbokki, Kimchi-jigae etc; though the prices are pretty standard-average, the serving portion seems to be larger than its competitors. Another plus here is the serving speed, which caters perfectly for the working class... in rush of lunch hours. More like a place for quick fix in lieu of absolute taste. 

Vogue For Virtue 2018 Charity Fashion Show @ Queensbay Mall, Penang.

Vogue For Virtue, an annual CSR program of Queensbay Mall returns this April. With the same objective in mind- making fashion charitable, the fashion-leading mall rolls out the program for the 9th consecutive year. The program consists of 2 different elements- a month-long model search and a Charity Fashion Show with Celebrities. The model-search saw a total of 200 participants this year; all funds collected from the registration of the model search will be channeled to 2 under-privileged homes.

The mock-cheque presentation was done during the Vogue for Virtue Charity Fashion Show held on 29 April 2018. The event was graced by celebrities- Serena C, Nadia Heng, Daler Yusuf, Jeffrey Cheng, Wilson Tan, Jane Teoh and Shir Chong. They were joined by local models in strutting down the runway, showcasing the latest collection of lifestyle brands such as Bonia, Topman, Burton Menswear London, Dorothy Perkins, Esprit, Forever 21, Kipling, Uniqlo, Adidas, Puma, Under Armour and New Balance.

Many Thanks to Queensbay Mall for hosting us that evening.

Hoshino Coffee (星乃咖啡店) @ Queensbay Mall, Penang.

Hailed from Japan, Hoshino Coffee has taken the town by storm since its opening a few weeks ago. The well-established Japanese brand has presence over Singapore, South Korea, China and Malaysia... with the newly opened branch at Queensbay Mall being the first branch in Penang. Apart from its highly acclaimed Japanese Coffee, the restaurant serves a variety of Japanese-Western food like Pasta, Paella, Omu Rice, French Toasts and Souffles. The overwhelming responses discouraged many from patronizing the shop, we must admit that it did take us 3 visits (absurdly long queue) before we could even enter the restaurant. Decent food with generous serving and wallet-friendly prices; we are not surprised with the constant influx of patrons keep returning for the food.

Bibimbowl @ Summerton, Bayan Baru, Penang.

A proper Korean meal is never cheap but with the addition of Bibimbowl, Penangites can now enjoy delicious Korean quick fix at affordable price tags. As the name suggests, Bibimbowl is a space dedicated to serve the Korean mixed-rice; it is a simple, casual space that offers quick service. Apart from the signature Bibimbap, diners can find some Korean delicacies such as Cupbowl (mixture of Rice, meat and Korean Glass Noodles), Tteokbokki, Mandu etc. Prices are generally cheaper than most established Korean eateries so if you are craving for Korean food and in short of time, give this place a go. 

Mee Tarik Warisan Asli @ Queensbay Mall, Penang.

[UPDATE] This place has since ceased its business operation.

Mee Tarik Warisan Asli does not come across as a convincing name but for the uninitiated, the brand has presence in many states in Malaysia. It was first started by a China Muslim and specializes in hand-pulled noodles with recipe originated from China. The brand has recently opened up a new branch at Queens Street of Queensbay Mall. The menu offers a great variety of Chinese dishes- not only noodles but rice dishes with an array of specialties as well. Visitors also get to witness the noodle-making process via the transparent window that connects to the kitchen. Generous portion, competitive price points and delicious broth, this place can be a casual dining spot to fill up the tummy or a quick fix before the next leg of your shopping journey.

Celebrate the Jolly Season with Queensbay Mall

Christmas finds major shopping malls in Malaysia brimming with shiny lights, festive spirits and charming decorations, this jolly season is often the time when malls compete for the most inventive designs. One of the fashion-leading malls in Penang- Queensbay Mall celebrates the festive season with a dazzling magical touch. From now until 31 December 2017, shoppers are invited to partake in a series of festive-activities such as the 'Dazzling Christmas Musical', 'Santa & Santarina Coming to Town' and 'Festive Balloon Fiesta'. Inspired by the Rome's grandeur, the 'Dazzling Christmas Musical' features the quintessential Christmas elements like twinkling Pine Trees, Reindeers, Cupids sitting on Cobbled Street coupled with multimedia projection mapping light show over and across 10 units of LED panels ensembled into the majestic decoration at the mall's Central Atrium.

Many thanks to Queensbay Mall for inviting us to the Christmas Media Party.

Zhong Sheng Bowl Soup Hot Pot (一碗汤) @ Bayan Lepas, Penang.

The year end rainy season is surely an unexpected encounter; as temperature drops, the urge to have something comforting and tummy-warming gets stronger. One of the best ways to warm the body up is to enjoy a sumptuous Hot Pot. New kid on the block- Zhong Sheng Bowl Soup Hot Pot (一碗汤) housed in one of the shop houses opposite to Queensbay Mall; offers an array of Chinese healthy Hot Pots. The whole place is very "Chinese"... whether the interior decor (Chinese wooden tables, chairs and wallpapers... even the background music) to the menu or even the servers. It appears that the soup bases for the Hot Pots are carefully crafted to bring medicinal and invigorating effects to the body. The set package for the Hot Pot Soup is great value for the money but some of the additional ingredients may cost a little more; the soup variety here is rather unique and definitely worth a look.

Omaya Korean Spiced Chicken @ Queensbay Mall, Penang.

There is no doubt that Korean cuisine is having a certified moment in Penang; one of the biggest names in the Korean food industry- Omaya has finally landed on this northern State of Malaysia. The Korean joint has international presence and has more than 100 branches across 8 countries. The latest addition at Penang marks the brand's fifth branch in Malaysia. Instead of classic traditional Korean restaurant setting, Omaya takes on a younger approach- industrialized workshop interior decor, offering modern Korean delights with a twist. What truly separates Omaya with other Korean food joints (in Penang) is the introduction of gooey melted Cheese into the Korean dishes as well as its signature Seafood Platter or Korean Hot Stew. The selection here is compelling; this is a place suitable for large groups of people so tucking in the abundance Seafood platter or gigantic Korean Hot Stew makes more sense than dining out alone. With the availability of alcohol (particularly their Soju drinks), this place is suitable for gatherings. Omaya Queensbay Mall can be found at 2nd floor, right next to Sakae Sushi in the center atrium.

Many Thanks to Omaya for hosting us that evening.

Grand Opening of Regiustea @ Queensbay Mall, Penang.

Traditional Tea is usually consumed in an unadulterated way sans any outlandish ingredients; it was until recent years that the health-promoting beverage being modernized. One of the latest trends landed in Malaysia amongst excitement and thirst is to marry Tea with Cheese. The revolutionary beverage was introduced by Regiustea (one of the first few brands that started the trend), a brand based in Hong Kong and recently entered into the Malaysian market (in April 2017). Regiustea currently has 3 outlets in Malaysia- one in central region, one in southern and the newly opened branch at Queensbay Mall is its 3rd outlet in Malaysia (also the only one in northern region). 

Flavors are imaginative at Regiustea- not only pairing Cheese with Tea, the Hong Kong brand also mixed Durian with Tea. This may sound playful but all flavors are meticulously thought-through; whether you are a fan of Cheese or Durian lovers or merely seeking for something to quench the thirst, the menu with 32 choices (flavors) will have something for you. It is also noteworthy that all ingredients are natural and imported from overseas; Regiustea uses special brewing method (simmer the tea using cold water) so the Caffeine of the Tea will not be extracted (Caffeine-free). A truly unique yet lip-smacking beverage that you don't want to miss.  

Many thanks to Regiustea for hosting us.

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)! 

Fullhouse Egglet @ Queensbay Mall, Penang.

A new business venture under the "Fullhouse" brand, though we are still unsure how the brand got associated with serving the Hong Kong Egg Waffles. It occupies a strategic lot at Lower Ground Floor, Queensbay Mall (previously Chatime); it has a lot of Fullhouse-related merchandise on sale with a couple of seats available facing the "open kitchen". The setup is meant for takeaways so dining-in is not recommended. The place is dishing out 6 flavors- Original, Chocolate, Lemon, Corn, Cheesy-Berry and Choco-Bamon... with starting price from Rm 5 nett.

Aboong- Korean Taiyaki Ice Cream @ Queens Street, Queensbay Mall.

Aboong, one of the famous Korean Ice Cream brands has finally landed Penang, few months after their first outlet here in Malaysia (SS15, Subang Jaya). Penangites have surely professed their love for Soft Serve and with this new addition to Queens Street, Queensbay Mall, I was not surprised to see the long queue. Aboong specializes in serving Fish-shaped Waffles with their Frozen Yogurt Ice Cream. Commonly known as Taiyaki in Japan and Bungeoppang in Korea, the fish-shaped Waffles are filled with Azuki Bean filling or Custard. Waffles are made on the spot so do expect a minimum 10 minute-wait; as for me, I was not that fortunate. Due to the overwhelming responses, I had to wait for an hour....

Cho Dong Jib Korean Restaurant @ Queensbay Mall, Penang.

Cho Dong Jib's menu is a reminiscent of a family restaurant; the menu is consistently affordable and comforting... featuring the common Korean home-cooked dishes. The location is strategic, at Queens Street of Queensbay Mall; replacing the now defunct Taiwan Bull... targeting shoppers who want to have a comforting Korean family meal. Cho Dong Jib has 3 branches in Korea while the newly opened branch here at Queensbay Mall is the brand's first oversea branch.  The entire restaurant is not big... a little cramped instead and the seats are not that comfortable either but the fact that Cho Dong Jib serves Korean home-cooked dishes and not too grill meat-focused, it can be a decent place for a quick fix. 

Food Caller (富一碗) @ Queens Street, Queensbay Mall, Penang.

Replacing Okomen at Queens Street, Food Caller is a restaurant that offers Japanese-Chinese Ramen as their signature dishes, with a few Chinese dishes and sides. Not much changes on the interior decor though. The place was packed to the brim last Friday, seemingly well-received by the factory workers in the industrial zone. Some of their Ramen dishes can be comforting.... but we did not think they are as affordable as we'd hope. 

Pink Elephant Ice Cream @ Queensbay Mall, Penang.

More and more international food trend storming the island lately. The new kid on board is Thai Fried Ice Cream, though Pink Elephant is not the first to offer but it seems to be well-received by the patrons of Queensbay Mall. Pink Elephant is a dessert-focused brand dedicated to Thai Fried Ice Cream as well as Thai-influenced Milk Tea. Opened not long ago, the place sees quite a following but our guess goes to the slow "production" time. The made-to-order Ice Cream takes approximately 3-4 minutes per order; we had to wait for 20 minutes before it was served to us. Different combination of flavors have been paired and there is no flexibility in changing the flavors. The setup is simple, more like a kiosk rather than a dessert place as there are limited seating space (only 2 tables and often occupied). Probably a place that I would only visit for novelty experience. Pink Elephant Ice Cream is located right opposite to GSC Cinema on the 3rd floor.