Penang International Food Festival

SAVE THE DATE! Indulge your way through Penang this 14-29 April at the Penang International Food Festival.





Three main events:

Street Food Festival - 14 & 15 April at Lebuh Pantai
Taste of Penang - 21 & 22 April at Jalan Kelawai
Food Truck Invasion - 28 & 29 April at Design Village Penang
More info and updates: www.piff.com.my

Preparing for 5.5 million tourists

Preparing for 5.5 million tourists

Tourism Malaysia Penang is aiming to attract some 5.5 million tourists to visit the state next year.

Its deputy director, Haryanty Abu Bakar, said she was confident of achieving the target based on its new activities and promotions and programmes in the pipeline.

She said it would be an exciting year as Tourism Malaysia Penang offered 33 interesting tour packages under the Visit Malaysia Year programme next year.

Haryanty said the focus would not only be on food and heritage but also recreational sports such as angling and sailing.

"We are confident of achieving the 5.5 million target," she said after launching the VMY 2014 photo sticker contest at the Penang Bridge toll plaza in Prai recently.

Travel packages worth up to RM2,000 will be given to 30 winners monthly during the three-month contest which starts on Jan 1. Participants are required to take a picture of the sticker on their cars at any tourist spot in the country, then click "Like" on Tourism Malaysia's Facebook page -- www.facebook.com/CutiCuti1Malaysia -- before uploading their pictures on the page and sharing it with 10 friends.

Haryanty said Tourism Malaysia would also be organising a two-day Countdown VMY 2014 Carnival at Queensbay Mall today as a preliminary event to Visit Malaysia Year 2014. She said some 3,000 people were expected to visit 13 booths offering tourist packages during the event.

In Perak, Tourism Malaysia Perak (TMP) director Ahmad Kamarudin Yusoff launched the contest at the Tapah Rest & Relaxation area. Ahmad said the TMP team distributed 1,000 car stickers and 500 goodie bags to motorists during the launch. -- Additional reporting by Diana Yeoh


Haryanty Abu Bakar with a motorist at the launch of the VMY 2014 sticker photo contest.

~News courtesy of New Straits Times~

Privilege card for tourists

Privilege card for tourists

The Gurney Paragon Mall Tourist Privilege Card was recently launched to give tourists the opportunity to enjoy even more discounts and special deals at the mall.

Launched by the state's Tourism Development committee chairman Danny Law Heng Kiang, the programme currently has about 100 participating outlets.

Hunza Properties Bhd executive director Khor Siang Gin said this effort signified the mall's commitment towards promoting Penang as a key destination.

"Through this programme, tourists can benefit directly from the participating tenants," he said.

Law said: "I am pleased that Gurney Paragon has taken on this initiative to contribute to the tourism industry. We believe that a successful international tourist city depends on introducing new and exciting products, events and giving visitors an unforgettable experience."

In a press conference, Hunza Properties executive director Lily Tan said the programme was opened to all foreign tourists, as long as they showed their passports.

"Registration is free, and the card is renewable daily. So far, we have already given out 800 cards, and we hope to give out at least 1,000 cards each month. By Melissa Darlyne Chow 

Khor Siang Gin (left) and Danny Law Heng Kiang showing the Tourist Privilege Card launched by Gurney Paragon Mall.

~News courtesy of New Straits Times~

Visit Malaysia 2014

A buffet in the afternoon

A buffet in the afternoon

THE array of scrumptious Western and Asian delights served in G Hotel’s Saturday High Tea is ideal for laid-back weekend gatherings in the company of friends and family.

Whether it is a late lunch after a half day’s work, or a tummy-filler before dinner, the meal consisting of light and fresh bites sets the stage for convivial chatter.

The buffet, served between 1pm and 4pm at the hotel’s lobby level G Café, is reasonably priced at RM45++ per adult, and RM22.50++ per child aged six to 12. Kids below six eat free.

The lineup, crafted by hotel sous chef Hamizi Hamid and his team, starts with a variety of freshly tossed salads with choices of dressings, and local equivalents like rojak and pasembur.

There are also hearty soups to warm diners up.

The main dish section features a combination of staples like fried rice, cheese gratin, and grilled chicken, as well as finger foods like quiche, pizzas and spring rolls.

There are also action stations dishing up the popular local favourite, char koay teow, along with roti canai and murtabak, ala minute.

Alternatively, guests can help themselves to bite-sized dim sum or toss their own bowl of noodles.

Highlight of the buffet is the dedicated sandwich counter where guests can pick their own ingredients and watch chefs craft their unique combinations on the spot.

Bread options include soft rolls, sandwich loaf, rye bread or croissants, to be stuffed with tuna, egg, sardines, tomato and onion salsa, ham, salami, smoked salmon, smoked duck or beef bacon. The options are endless.

Remember to leave some space for dessert, as pastry chef Tan Kwee Lian’s irresistible sweet treats should not be missed.

Each week, the award-winning chef features eight unique cakes.

Possibilities include the Chocolate Banana Cake with Coconut Gianduja, and Chocolate Entrapment, among others.

One bite, and the exquisite flavours and combinations of these creations are apparent.

The buffet is completed with four flavours of Baskin Robbins ice- cream, and local drinks like teh tarik, chrysanthemum tea, sugarcane juice or air bandung.

On Sunday, enjoy a fun-filled gastronomic adventure with the whole family as the G Café serves the Sunday Funday Family Brunch from noon to 2.30pm.

It features a mini buffet and special play corner for the little ones, and is priced at RM78++ per person.

Kids between six and 12 enjoy a 50% discount, while those under six eat free.

For dinner, the hotel currently offers the Mongolian BBQ Buffet on Mondays, the Creole and Cajun Cuisine Buffet on Wednesdays, Seafood BBQ Buffet on Fridays and Surf and Turf Buffet on Saturdays, all priced at RM99++ per person.

On Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday evenings, there is the International Semi Buffet, priced between RM68++ and RM98++, depending on the main course selected.

Treat your parents to lavish spreads and fun activities with the upcoming Mother’s Day and Father’s Day Sunday Brunch on May 12 and June 16 respectively.

Both are priced at RM128++ per person including free flow of beer, or RM88++ per person and RM44++ per child, for food only.

For reservations, call 04-2380000 or email to food.beverage@ghotel.com.my.

～News courtesy of The Star～

Enjoy the best of fine dining at chic bistro

Enjoy the best of fine dining at chic bistro in Bay Avenue

PRIMED for those who appreciate the finer things in life, Vino Vino Bistro represents a confluence of worlds where seemingly contrasting elements strike a harmonious, culinary chord.

The swanky establishment, located in Bay Avenue near Queensbay Mall, Penang, finds pre-eminence in its distinctive yet unlikely juxtaposition of time-honoured western staples with dainty, eastern flavours.

As its moniker implies, juices of the vine and prized spirits are its forte. But the most surprising aspect is what it dovetails with — contemporary Japanese cuisine, in particular, Yakitori.

The skewered meats, seafood and vegetables are a best seller, mainly because they are done the right way. They are cooked over a grill lined with a special compacted type of charcoal.

As executive sous chef Steven Kong explains, the embers maintain a constant, moderate temperature that ensures everything is cooked evenly, without being overly charred, thus remaining tender and juicy.

Infused with a distinctive aroma, the skewers’ appeal also lies in their simplicity.

Among the comprehensive selection, the Tebasaki (chicken wings) is perhaps the most popular.

Crispy on the outside and tenderly moist on the inside, it is so good that one helping is never enough.

Equally great are the Sunagimo (chicken gizzard), Kaki Kushi (oysters), Momo (chicken thigh), Bonjiri (bishop’s nose), Sasami Mentai Mayo (chicken fillet with fish roe mayonnaise) and Tsukune Cheese (chicken meat balls with cheese).

Regardless of the order, the Yakitori skewers make a great complement for Vino Vino’s vast selection of around 500 wine labels and 30 types of single malt and blended whiskies.

It is a unique pairing that pleases the palate.

Apart from the Tapas-like bites, the outlet also features a good selection of delicacies from the Land of the Rising Sun, which ranges from sushi to udon, and ramen to rice dishes.

Connoisseurs will find the Assorted Sashimi Platter, which may feature salmon, tuna, yellowtail and cold water sweet prawns, among others, a delightful burst of fresh, aquatic flavours.

On Tuesdays and Fridays, there is a 30% discount on the raw fish selection.

Among the more modern creations is the Wasabi Cheese Smoked Duck, which comprises delicate slivers, to be lathered with the special horseradish-based spread and eaten with crackers.

Another, the Burger Cheese, is a hearty slab of ground beef and chicken, oozing with melted cheese.

All these also go well with any of the premium Japanese sake and shochu lineup.

Currently, the outlet offers affordable lunch and dinner sets, priced from RM17++ and RM29++ respectively.

There is also a Buy-2-Free-1 promotion for red and white wine, available in different sized portions by the glass. These are dispensed from their automated Vino Tech system, which utilises argon, an inert gas, to keep opened bottles fresh for up to 21 days.

Located at Block H-10-1, Lorong Bayan Indah 2 at Bay Avenue in Bayan Lepas, the bistro seats up to 40 pax and also has a karaoke room upstairs for those who would like to belt out a few numbers after meals.

Opening hours are from noon to midnight (Monday to Saturday), and from 5pm to midnight on Sunday. For more information, look up Vino Vino Bistro on Facebook, or call 04-6459922 for reservations.

~News courtesy of The Star~

Japanese touch to street market

Japanese touch to street market

THE Japanese expatriate community will be showcasing their homeland’s traditional arts, craft and food at the Little Penang Street Market (LPSM) in Upper Penang Road on March 25.

There will also be a cosplay competition and a photography exhibition on the earthquake and tsunami tragedy that hit Japan last year on March 11.

Japanese pottery will be on sale and visitors will also be treated to a demonstration on how to make udon noodles.

The cosplay competition, which is limited to 15 participants, will see the winner walk away with RM500.

The LPSM that day is in remembrance of the first year anniversary of the tsunami tragedy, held in the spirit of ‘kizuna’, which means bond of friendship in Japanese.

The LPSM will be held from 10am to 5pm.

For more information, contact 017-4290806 or e-mail www.littlepenang.com.my

~News courtesy of The Star~

Promote tourism and education, state urged

Promote tourism and education, state urged

PENANG should look into promoting its tourism and also positioning itself as an education hub, said a prominent foreign-trained academician.

Datuk Dr Woo Wing Thye, a professor in Economics at the University of California, said both fields were appealing to the growing Chinese market.

He added that Penang and the nor- thern states in China shared many things in common, especially the food and environment.

“Penang is a great place for institutions of higher learning.

The lecture was the first of the ‘Penang in Asia’ lecture series organised by Socio- economic and Environmental Research Institute (Seri).

Dr Woo said the state was an ideal spot for winter vacation, adding that people also like to try out exotic food in exotic surroundings.

He also said high salaries were not the only reason why talented Malaysians re-fused to return upon graduation over- seas.

“Money is not everything. Some people decided to stay overseas because they want something secure for their children and family members,” he said.

Also present was Penang Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng.

～News courtesy of The Star～

Easier now to savour Balik Pulau durians

Easier now to savour Balik Pulau durians

DURIAN lovers can now enjoy a variety of the king of fruits from Balik Pulau, Penang, including the famed Mao Shan Wang (King of Civet Cats), in the heart of the city.

Thanks to a durian promotion to be held at New World Park on Burmah Road from today until the July 31, urbanites do not have to travel to the durian orchards in Balik Pulau.

Organised by the village security and development committee (JKKK) of Jalan Transfer and Argyl Road, and New World Park, the promotion will see fresh durians transported daily from the orchards of Sungai Pinang in Balik Pulau.

The promotion will be held at the New World Park from noon to 8pm daily.

Other varieties available during the promotion include the Ang Sim (red heart), Khun Poh, Ang Heh (Red Prawn) and D24. Mangosteens and rambutans will also be sold alongside the durians.

Seasonal treat: Chang (right) prying open a durian during the press conference to announce the durian promotion at New World Park on Burmah Road in Penang. With him is Loo (left)

New World Park marketing and promotion executive Loo Ai Leen said the management was happy to help in promoting local fruits.

Media members were treated to some 50 durians of various varieties courtesy of Balik Pulau durian farmers Chang Teik Huat, 58, and Chin Ah Bong, 43.

Fruits sold throughout the promotion will be coming from their orchards.

The duo gave tips on how to select durians.

“Good durians can be smelt from a distance instead of having to sniff up close, and are lighter compared to durians yet to fully ripen.

“You also find the thorns less hard when you brush it against the palm of your hand,” said Chang.

Also present was state Local Government, Traffic Management and Environment Committee chairman Chow Kon Yeow who described durian as among Penang’s tourist attractions.

He said the orchards in Balik Pulau were able to produce up to 10,000 durians per day during the local durian season which is between early June to late August.

The durians will be sold between RM10 to RM30 per kg during the promotion, depending on the varieties.

~News courtesy of The Star~

Georgetown Festival 2011

Big names and exciting events in store at Georgetown Fest 2011

PENANGITES can look forward to a host of international performances during the George Town Festival 2011.

Among the highlights are a free presentation called 12 Monkeys to be held at the Penang Botanic Gardens at 7.30pm on July 9, and three ticketed events.

12 Monkeys features works by world renowned Beijing Opera director Ghaffar Pourazar, Thai contemporary dancer Jitti Chompee and local dancer Zubin Mohamad, with each piece portraying the character and background of a monkey character.

No. 7, to be held from July 1 to 3, is a one-woman show starring Singaporean actress Tan Kheng Hua (Margaret from the popular sitcom Phua Chu Kang).

The show, inspired by the seventh wife of Cheong Fatt Tze of the famed Blue Mansion movie, is scheduled to be held at the Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion at 7.30pm.

Opera fans are also in for a treat with the Pro Musica Gala Concert on July 17, showcasing rising young opera stars such as Belgian soprano Julie Mossay, Italian tenor Enrico Casari and Thai baritone Kittinant Chinsamran.

The concert will take place at Dewan Sri Pinang at 7.30pm.

There will also be a performance by Akhram Khan Company, one of the foremost innovative dance companies in the world, for the first time ever in Penang.

It will be held at the Dewan Sri Pinang on July 20 at 7.30pm.

The George Town Festival Committee is still sourcing for funds from corporate companies and other avenues, aside from the RM1.2mil allocation from the state government.

George Town Festival director Joe Sidek said they were still short of RM2.5mil.

However, he is upbeat that none of the programmes would have to be scaled down despite only three weeks to go before the festival begins.

He also thanked the state government for its strong support.

The festival will open on July 1 at the grand ballroom of E&O Hotel with Peranakan Penang, a cultural and fashion showcase of exquisite Peranakan jewellery worth more than RM100mil in total.

The jewellery will be paired with evening dresses from top Malaysian fashion designers Yeohlee and Zang Toi, with a special appearance by Malaysian-born supermodel Ling Tan.

The festival, until July 31, celebrates George Town’s listing as a Unesco World Heritage site and will feature over 80 programmes showcasing arts and culture.

The George Town Festival is organised in collaboration with the Penang Municipal Council, George Town World Heritage Incorporated and Penang Global Tourism Sdn Bhd. The Star is the official media partner.

For details on ticketing and pricing, e-mail to info@georgetownfestival.com or call 04-2616308.

~News courtesy of The Star~

Celebrity at Chowrasta Market

Taiwanese celebrity draws attention at Chowrasta Market

HOUSEWIVES in Penang seem to have fallen for the charm of Taiwanese celebrity chef Chen Hong.

He was at the Chowrasta Market yesterday and was instantly recognised by the marketgoers.

Some were keen to have their photographs taken with him while other fans were heard calling out his television nickname “Ah Hong” as he passed by.

Chen was embarking on a food adventure which was being filmed as a segment of his popular cooking show.

His mission is to discover lesser-known street food by sampling fare prepared by the hawkers and restaurants in Penang.

Among his fans was housewife Dimas Harun, 60, who had been watching his shows for over 10 years.

“I learned to cook Chinese food by watching the show and my family loves the taste of the dishes.”

Shaking hands with Chen made Dimas a happy lady. She was meeting her idol for the first time.

“It is surprising to see him here and I admire his friendliness,” she enthused.

Taiwanese tourist Lin Ying-Hsiu, 29, said it was hard to believe that she could meet Chen in Penang, as she had never met him in Taiwan before.

“Chen is one of the popular icons in Taiwan. I am proud to see he is popular in Malaysia too,” she said.

Chen will visit 30 hawker stalls and 20 restaurants in Batu Ferringhi, George Town, Pulau Tikus and Gurney Drive during his two-week stay in Penang.

“The state is a food paradise and I like the passion of the eatery operators here.

“They go all out to make their food tasty,” said Chen who was also unveiled as Penang’s food ambassador for Taiwan by the state government.

“I am honoured, as this is the first time that I am co-operating with a government in my career,” he said.

Chen said he would be working on a cookbook and a television programme during his visit, which is in collaboration with Food Digest magazine, and the online food portals FoodTok and Gourmet Garden.

~News courtesy of The Star~

Nature's art on show

Nature's art on show

COLOURFUL petals and sweet flowery scents will greet visitors to the Penang Botanic Gardens in conjunction with the Penang Floral Festival 2011 taking place from today until June 5.

Stall operators have been busy preparing for the festival, such as setting up flowers and plants of all shapes, sizes and colours to be sold at the entrance to the gardens.

Green fingers: Oh Foon May, 15, pruning plants in preparation for the Floral Festival at Botanic Gardens

A stage has been set up for the opening ceremony today by state Tourism Development and Culture Committee chairman Danny Law.

The festival’s organising chairman Ooi Eng Choon, who is from the Penang Arts Society, said that the festival was held to encourage the locals to appreciate nature.

“We want people to develop a love for nature, as nature has the ability to lower stress levels,” he said.

Twelve Penang Arts Society committee members have been preparing for the festival since February.

“We have been holding meetings to plan the event, including arranging with the stall operators and judges for the bonsai and adenium competition,” said committee member Pong Kok Kiong, 37.

Australian tourist John Grafitti, 71, was admiring the flowers at the stalls.

“The flowers on display are stunning. The Botanic Gardens is a beautiful place,” he said.

There will also be a stall by the Friends of the Botanical Gardens selling T-shirts with prints of leaves.

Also on display throughout the nine-day festival are 150 bonsai and adenium plants from the competition.

“The response to the competition has been encouraging. It shows that there is a great interest in bonsai and adenium plants locally,” said committee member Chuah Yeh Pow, 50.

The Floral Festival is from 10am to 7pm daily, and entry is free.

～News courtesy of The Star～

Rendezvous at Rendezvous

Rendezvous at Rendezvous

RENDEZVOUS at Green Hall, Penang, is a rare culinary gem waiting to be discovered, with many passing by the place unaware of the delicious traditional Arab and Mediterranean dishes served there.

Every creation is a labour of love by owner cum chef Abel Zenagui.

“The preparation is time consuming and requires attention to detail, with most of the dishes being cooked over a slow fire. I try to maintain the original taste as much as possible to enable the locals to enjoy authentic Arab and Mediterranean fare,” he said.

The passionate chef, who is very particular about the quality and freshness of his gastronomic interpretations, manages the eight-month-old restaurant with his wife Rifta Ridzuan.

Diners can savour specialties like Mushroom Soup, Paella (a rice dish that originated from Spain and is cooked with tomato puree, green pepper, seafood and chicken), Mixed Grill, Lamb Tajin and Kabsa Chicken.

The Mushroom Soup is somewhat different with its big chunky mushroom pieces but the taste is nevertheless hearty, while the Paella is bursting with flavours and comes with a lemon slice for diners who prefer that extra sourish zing.

Best taken hot, the Mixed Grill consists of beef, lamb kebab and Shish Thoug (chicken). The locals might find this dish too dry to their liking as it is served without any sauce but the meats are surprisingly delectable, having absorbed the spices and herbs they were marinated in. Black pepper sauce is served upon request.

The Lamb Tajin, with the tender lamb soaked in a tomato-based stew-like gravy, tastes simply wonderful. Be sure to relish every mouthful as the dish took three hours to cook, simmering over a slow fire. The Tajin is served with either couscous (moistened semolina wheat coated with finely ground wheat flour) or Arabic bread.

The Kabsa (Middle Eastern rice coated with special mixed herbs) Chicken is yet another palate pleaser, and is served with yoghurt and homemade chilli paste that act as perfect foil to the rice.

More tantalising selections include Maqluba Rice (cooked with herbs and mixed with fried eggplant, potato, carrot and nuts), Steak, Lamb Chop, Spaghetti and Pizza while a must-try dessert is the Algerian Baklawa.

An extremely popular sweet dish in Algeria, the baklawa is a delightful combination of multi-grained nuts like almond, walnut and pistachio mixed with pure honey and layers of crispy pastry that has been baked for two hours.

Set lunch (priced from RM22 to RM36 per person) and dinner (RM24 to RM38) comprising mushroom soup, choice of main course and a drink (coffee, tea or iced lemon tea) are also available.

Rendezvous is housed in a beautifully renovated heritage premises (opposite the High Court) and features a charming and woodsy interior that is tastefully decorated with eclectic pieces, including Chinese antiques.

The first and only Arab and Mediterranean fine dining restaurant in town, patrons can look forward to belly dancing on Saturday nights. The pork-free outlet is also ideal for hosting private functions, with a seating capacity of 80 people and up to 100 for a cocktail reception.

The restaurant has also recently introduced its membership scheme offering special discounts of up to 15%. Happy hours are from 3pm to 8pm with a variety of snacks and appetisers selling at only RM7 per plate.

Operating hours are from 11am to 11pm daily. For further enquiries, call 04-2505066/68.

~News courtesy of The Star~

Penangites celebrate all things French

Penangites celebrate all things French

SHOPPERS walking into Gurney Plaza in Penang will have a chance to be seduced by French culture.

They will be greeted by a 5.5m wooden model of the Eiffel Tower in the atrium of the new wing.

The structure is part of the shopping mall’s French Festival till June 2, which also saw the launching of a French Film Festival to complement the experience.

The festival was launched with a ribbon-cutting ceremony by state Domestic Trade, Consumer Affairs and Religious Affairs Committee chairman Abdul Malik Abul Kassim, Alliance Francaise Penang president Datuk Renji Sathiah, and Gurney Plaza central manager Lawrence Teh.

“Penang is aiming to be an international city, and this festival has come at the right time to show that we are not only a tourist destination but also a place for investors,” said Abdul Malik.

The French Film Festival from Thursday to May 31 will showcase six films from a variety of genres such as action and romance.

“This festival is a great way to promote French culture,” said Renji.

Gurney Plaza will also be holding a ballet and dance performance by MyDance Station and individual talents at 3pm followed by live strolling musicians at 4pm this Saturday and Sunday.

A living statue performance from 4pm to 8pm will also be held on both days.

~News courtesy of The Star~

‘Tap and go’ bus rides

‘Tap and go’ bus rides

Rapid Penang will test run its E-ticketing system for three months, starting June 1, to enhance the bus fare collection process.

Its media relations manager Mohd Tajudin Mohd Kassim said the system would be put on trial on 50 buses departing from the Weld Quay bus terminal for the Paya Terubong, Air Itam, Farlim and Balik Pulau routes.

“Under the ‘Taptopay’ electronic fare system, commuters only have to tap their bus passes on decoders once they board the bus, and the fare will be deducted automatically.

“The system will cut down the commuters’ boarding time and eliminate the hassle of using cash and coins for every journey,” he said when contacted yesterday.

Mohd Tajudin said once the system is proven to be feasible and able to link to the company’s existing Global Positioning System (GPS), it will be implemented on all the 350 buses statewide.

“Commuters wishing to participate in the test run are required to change to the new microchipped bus pass at our headquaters on Lorong Kulit.”

For more information, call 04-2381313 or visit the company’s website (www.rapidpg.com.my).

~News courtesy of The Star~

Exciting fairs coming soon

Exciting fairs coming soon

ICT@Komtar Digital Lifestyle Mall in Komtar, Penang, will be holding five fairs from May to July.

The first one will be the Camera Fair tomorrow.

This will be followed by a Notebook Fair, Broadband, Mobile and GPS Fair and a Components Fair in June.

From July 22 to July 24, a Games, Speakers and Accessories Fair will be held for games enthusiasts.

Excitement awaits visitors to the Camera Fair as there will be an iPad 2 on sale with a purchase-with-purchase offer that gives them a chance to buy the iPad 2 from as low as RM888.

Visitors who spend a minimum of RM5 can take part in a spin-the-wheel contest to buy items at a special price.

ICT@Komtar director Shanley Leong said shoppers will no longer have to wait for PC fairs to buy gadgets at an affordable price.

“Just come here as we offer good deals 365 days a year,” she said at a press conference.

~News courtesy of The Star~

Cool place to chill out

Cool place to chill out

THOSE looking for a place to kick back after an arduous day at work need not look further than the Church Street Cafe.

Located along Church Street, the cafe is the perfect getaway spot for many seeking a reprieve after a stressful day at work despite being nestled in the buzzing heart of the inner city.

The cafe, operating since 2004, serves up a mouth-watering array of western dishes such as Santa Fe Enchiladas and Dragon Wings.

The enchiladas is sure to satisfy the appetite of Tex-Mex cuisine lovers with its spiciness, which comes from the peppers used. The spiciness complements the chicken meat chunks meant to be wrapped in a flour tortilla.

Mouth-watering: (clockwise from front) Mushroom Grill Chicken, Santa Fe Enchiladas, Snow Beer and Dragon Wing.

Meanwhile, for those who prefer to sink their teeth into a turkey wing, they can go for the Dragon Wings.

Despite being notoriously known for its dry meat, the turkey wing, as big or even bigger than a human palm, is surprisingly tender. Cooked to perfection and coated in a smoky barbeque sauce, the turkey wing is the perfect dish to be eaten with the cafe’s signature beverage, the Snow Beer.

The Snow Beer is almost similar to an ice-blended beer. The beer and glass are frozen beforehand to give it that refreshing sensation as it runs down the customer’s gullet.

According to cafe owner Yeap Teik Chuan, his place is the only place that sells Snow Beer.

“Many people have tried it at home but failed because the temperature has to be just right to freeze the beer. One has to be creative to survive in the food and beverage business.”

The walls of the outlet are plastered with album covers of musicians like The Rolling Stones and Elvis Presley as Yeap had started the outlet with beer and ‘Rock n Roll’ in mind.

“I will be the one choosing the music and I will not allow any of my staff to tamper with the playlist featuring my favourite bands like Guns N’ Roses, Queen and The Beatles.

Every Wednesday, the cafe will have Dart Game Night where customers can come in and play with each other. The outlet is also equipped with a pool table.

The prices here are reasonable and the service, ambience and cleanliness are second to none, and this makes customers want to come back for more! Moreover, there will also be a new menu soon.

In addition to that, the outlet also has a private room equipped with musical instruments like guitars and drum sets for a jamming session or a private party which can accommodate up to 20 people.

Church Street Cafe (04-2639422) is open from noon to 3am on weekdays and 5pm to 3am on weekends and public holidays.

~News courtesy of The Star~

A buffet where everything is nice

A buffet where everything is nice

FEASTING takes on a whole new meaning at the Spice Market Cafe’s Sunday Brunch, where the food is so delicious and plentiful, one is inclined to eat like there’s no tomorrow.

A veritable glutton’s paradise, the popular buffet at Shangri-La’s Rasa Sayang Resort and Spa’s signature ‘theatre kitchen’ restaurant boasts a cosmopolitan spread of cuisines from all corners of the world.


Fresh from the sea: Spice Market Cafe cook Heng Eng Seong preparing the Seafood on Ice station

Playing backdrop is the Spice Market Cafe’s modern, air-conditioned dining area, whose hardwood finishes exude a classy ambience in tune with the resort’s stature.

For a feel of the tropics, opt for the alfresco area, surrounded by centuries old rain trees and lush green shrubs, with the calming sounds of flowing water echoing in the background.

The appetiser station, abound with many varieties of cold cuts, smoked meats, cheese and salads, is a great place to start off. Those with a tinge of craftiness could also toss up their own bowl of greens.

But the Seafood on Ice section is where the crowds normally gravitate. Here, there are mussels, oysters, yabbies and prawns — all so fresh you could almost smell the ocean — ready to be devoured.

At the buffet, chefs also take centre stage, preparing dishes ala minute before the diners’ very eyes.

From freshly rolled sushi to aromatic meats fresh out of the Tandoor oven and hand-pulled la mian (noodles) in varying flavours, it’s quite a delight to watch the culinary artisans handcrafting your meals.

Over at the carvery, expect to find items like Beef Wellington or Roast Chicken, sliced up to your request.

If that’s not enough, there are a host of equally delicious offerings awaiting inside chafing dishes. From Oysters Bienville to Chicken Souvlaki Skewers and Deep Fried Chicken Wings with Local Spices, it’s an all-encompassing line up.

With so much on offer, one could indulge to the point of not having any room for dinner. But pace yourselves, as the indulgent treats found at the Dessert Island should not be missed.

There’s a sinfully amazing selection of western and local sweets, cakes, puddings, pastries, candy floss and ice cream, that melts your resolve. If that doesn’t tempt you, then the ever-popular chocolate fountain probably would.

The buffet spread, changed weekly, also includes free flow of freshly squeezed fruit juices. Do keep a look out for the resident clown as well, who’ll conjure up cute balloon animals and objects for you to take home as souvenirs.

Kids are given special consideration too, with a Children’s Corner dishing up treats the youngsters love — burgers, hot dogs, nuggets and chips, just to name a few.

What’s more, there’s currently a lucky draw where one lucky winner would walk away with the weekly prize of another Sunday Brunch for two.

All weekly winners would also be in the running for the monthly grand prize — a two-nights’ stay in a Premier Room at the resort’s exclusive Rasa Wing, with daily breakfast, afternoon tea, canapes and sparkling wines.

The buffet, priced at RM80++ for adults and RM40++ for kids, is available every Sunday from 11.45am to 3pm. For reservations, call 04-8888888.

~News courtesy of The Star~

A truly Asean culinary experience

A truly Asean culinary experience

Recommended: DOME Cafe's general manager Clive Howarth (second left), together with (from left) Melium Group's senior PR and advertising executive Denise Chin, Ferhat and marketing officer Sheryn Chin posing with some of the cafe's signature dishes.

WITH countless restaurants and eateries serving up cuisines from all corners of the world, Penang is undoubtedly a food haven.

But paradoxically enough, apart from coffeeshops or roadside stalls, there aren’t many alternatives if one seeks a more stylish and refined setting in which to indulge in local and regional fare.

The opening of Aseana CafeBar at Straits Quay changes all that.

With an elegant, chic indoor and alfresco setting complemented by a variety of scrumptious offerings close to home, the lifestyle cafe fills a niche in the market.

Melium Group’s PR, advertising and events manager Ferhat Nazri-Aziz said the picturesque, waterfront setting of Straits Quay couldn’t be more ideal for the brand’s second outlet, after the first at Suria KLCC.

“We wanted to bring back the local heritage and offer patrons a nice place with a truly Asean feel, where they can relax and take time to appreciate regional delicacies,” he said during a media food tasting session recently.

Earlier, pressmen also got to sample signature items from Melium’s other outlet at Straits Quay, DOME Cafe, located just across Aseana at the Main Lobby.

Done up in the familiar old-world European coffeehouse ambience, it was opened late last year.

It is the brand’s fifth outlet in Penang and 16th in the country.

~News courtesy of The Star~

Large menu, alfresco dining

Large menu, alfresco dining

AMONG the many Japanese restaurants in Penang, I’Shi Tei Japanese Garden Café stands out by offering diners a garden setting to savour an array of mouthwatering dishes.

Opened for business in July 2010, it comprises both an air-conditioned indoor and alfresco dining area complete with a mini-garden.

The outlet is located at the premises of the former Chin Kang Hu restaurant along Jalan Tanjung Bungah.

It is directly opposite Copthorne Orchid Penang and the Toy Museum, and is accessible both from the main road as well as from Jalan Oldham at the rear.

There’s a homely feel to the indoor dining area, while the alfresco section is very relaxing in the evening when the weather is cooler.

Heading the kitchen is Chef Alex Ong who was trained in Tokyo and has 25 years of experience working in five-star hotels before venturing out on his own.

His expertise is evident with the menu offering close to 200 items for diners to choose from. Though some dishes may not be listed on the menu, just mention your preference, and if the ingredients are available, he’ll whip it up.

The dishes offer great value for money. Among them are the Salmon Sushi and Tempura Set, Sashimi Moriawase Special, and the Unagi Roll and Chasoba Set.

I’Shi Tei specialises in air-flown items like snow crabs, hamachi and otoro, among others. Another special is the Gyuniku Enoki Roll, which is pan-fried beef wrapped around golden needle mushrooms.

There’s a comprehensive range of sushi, sashimi, ramen, donburi and teppanyaki dishes.

For something sweet, try the homemade macha ice cream or go for the peach, kiwi and cranberry sherbets.

A promotion for Bento Boxes priced from RM15.90+ onwards as well as 10% discount of ala carte (except promotional items) are being held until the end of May.

Those celebrating their birthdays also get 20% off ala carte items throughout their birthday month for unlimited visits.

Home delivery is available for Pulau Tikus, Tanjung Tokong, Tanjung Bungah and Batu Ferringhi areas on weekdays. For weekends, it’s subject to conditions. The cafe also does in-house and outdoor catering with prior notice.

For more information, look up their Facebook page by searching for I’Shi Tei. There will be updates on latest promotions.

Also keep an eye out for passwords which appear from time to time. Mention the password during your visit to the café and you’ll get free items or discounts.

The restaurant is open daily from 11.30am to 3pm, and 6pm to 10pm. For reservations, call 04-8902964.

~News courtesy of The Star~