Last Sunday, we had a simple yet satisfying food escapade that started with brunch at the Ring Road Restaurant, a corner-lot coffee shop located off Loke Yew Road. This spot has become a favorite of my hubby, who loves their delicious steamed village chicken and fresh seafood noodles.
The seafood noodles at Ring Road Restaurant boast fresh seafood and frogs cooked in a rich, flavorful broth reminiscent of the popular Hai Kah Lang seafood noodles, which earned the Michelin Bib Gourmand in 2022. While Ring Road’s selection isn’t as extensive as Hai Kah Lang’s, the taste is spot on—and the best part? There’s no long queue, and the prices are friendlier on the wallet. The steamed village chicken was tender and succulent, complementing the seafood noodles perfectly.
After our hearty brunch, we headed to OUG to pick up some kitchen supplies for my hubby’s shop. Along the way, we realized we all needed a bathroom break. We stopped by Venus Bistro (formerly Steven’s Corner), a large, airy eatery known for its variety of Indian and mamak delights. Feeling a bit guilty about just using their facilities, we decided to order something small.
I couldn’t resist my favorite, Tosei Rava, which turned out to be one of the best I’ve ever had! The crispy texture was perfect, and the flavor wasn’t overly spicy, making it a delight to enjoy. My hubby opted for a Roti Canai, which was equally satisfying. The attentive and friendly staff made the experience even better. Venus Bistro impressed us with its cleanliness and spaciousness—rare qualities in a mamak restaurant. I’m already thinking of planning our next visit to try their banana leaf rice and other Roti dishes.
After our unexpected detour to Venus Bistro, we continued with our shopping and eventually headed home. As usual, Sherilyn stayed home, working diligently on her never-ending architecture assignments. We made sure to grab some takeaway food for her to enjoy later.
My ‘kon lo maifun’ with a big bowl of fresh garoupa fish fillet and fish paste. The portion of noodles was too big for me and I only managed to eat a quarter of it.My favorite crispy Tosei Rava from Venus Bistro.
Two Sundays ago, it was just my hubby, Sherilyn, and I out for lunch. Alycia was off enjoying her holiday in Taiwan with friends, and Cass was at her figure skating class. Unsure of where to eat, hubby decided to drive to Section 17 in PJ, and we stumbled upon Nice Bistronome, a new French-Italian fusion restaurant. We were intrigued, especially after learning that the restaurant is named after Nice, the second-largest city in France, with dishes inspired by the flavors of this beautiful French town. What a fitting name, and as it turned out, the food was just as “nice” as its namesake!
To kick off our meal, hubby ordered focaccia as the starter (RM20). It was light, airy, and served warm, perfect for dipping. It came with a dipping of extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar, and the other was a standout tapenade spread. The tapenade was a flavor-packed mix of capers, olives, and anchovies, and it was absolutely fantastic. I enjoyed it so much that I ended up polishing off almost the entire basket of focaccia dipped with the three condiments!
Next, hubby ordered half a dozen escargots with pesto (RM36), which were delicious and the meat was just right and not rubbery. We also had fried halibut tenders (RM60), roast spring chicken with rosemary and herbs (RM72), and tiger prawns pasta (RM62). Every dish was well-executed and full of flavor. The roast spring chicken was succulent and fragrant with rosemary, while the fried halibut tenders were perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. The star of the meal had to be the tiger prawn pasta. The sauce was infused with rich prawn broth, making it incredibly flavorful. Each bite was divine, and we were thoroughly impressed by the dish.
For dessert, we decided to take our dining experience upstairs to a charming little café called Doux Doux (same owner as NICE). Hubby ordered a piccolo latte, while Sherilyn chose a matcha latte. To satisfy our sweet tooth, we ordered a soufflé and an entremet cake. Both desserts were indulgent and beautifully presented, rounding off our meal perfectly. Our stomachs were full, and so were our hearts.
It was one of those lunches where everything came together—the food, the ambiance, and the company. The only thing missing was Alycia and Cass, who would have undoubtedly enjoyed the experience with us. We’ll definitely be returning to Nice Bistronome, and hopefully next time, the whole family can join in on the feast!
NICE Bistronome 939, Jalan 17/38, Seksyen 17, Petaling Jaya, Malaysia *Below Doux Doux by Chateau Dionne @nice_bistronome +60125799309
Warm and lightly toasted focaccia along with dipping.Escargot pesto served on a bed of pebbles.Tiger prawn pasta and deep fried halibut tenders.Roast spring chicken. The serving was huge and we couldn’t finish it, so had it doggy-bagged home for Cass.The open-kitchen concept makes it a spectacle for us to observe how the chefs skillfully dish out the food.Sweet indulgence at Doux Doux.
Last Saturday, we had the pleasure of dining at Bircos, a modern Indian restaurant that my husband recently discovered. He had visited Bircos with his friends and was very impressed with the food. We were in for a real treat, and the evening turned out to be a memorable culinary experience.
Bircos offers a contemporary twist on traditional Indian cuisine, and we were excited to try some of their specialties. My husband, who always has a keen sense for good food, took charge of ordering a lovely spread for us to share. The meal started with chicken biryani rice, a fragrant and flavorful dish that set the tone for the rest of the evening. The rice was cooked to perfection, with tender pieces of flavorful chicken hidden within, each bite bursting with aromatic spices.
Next up were the fish tacos, a delightful fusion dish that combined the rich flavors of Indian spices with the lightness of fresh fish. The tacos were a refreshing contrast to the other dishes, offering a unique and modern take on Indian cuisine. The cheese naan was another highlight, its warm, buttery layers filled with gooey, melted cheese, making it an irresistible accompaniment to the curries.
One of our all-time favorite dishes, the Palak Paneer, did not disappoint. The creamy spinach sauce, perfectly spiced and balanced, was the ideal backdrop for the soft, succulent cubes of paneer. We also savored the butter chicken masala (another favorite Indian dish of ours), a rich and creamy dish that was both comforting and satisfying. The chicken was tender, and the sauce had just the right amount of sweetness and spice.
The mutton vindaloo was another standout, offering a spicier kick that my husband particularly enjoyed. The mutton was cooked until tender, and the fiery vindaloo sauce was full of bold, intense flavors that lingered pleasantly on the palate. Cass requested the Punjabi samosa, a crispy, golden pastry filled with a spiced potato mixture that was simply delightful. The Methi Paratha bread added a touch of earthy flavor to the meal, its subtle bitterness from the fenugreek and other herby flavors balancing the richness of the other dishes.
Unfortunately, Sherilyn couldn’t join us again as she had dance rehearsals that evening. However, we ordered an extra portion of Palak Paneer for her to enjoy later, knowing how much she loves it. The servings at Bircos were generous, and despite our best efforts, we couldn’t finish all the rotis. We gladly had them doggy-bagged home, extending our delicious dinner to the next day.
The prices at Bircos were reasonable, especially considering the high quality of the food. The restaurant’s ambiance was warm and inviting, and the waiting staff were exceptionally helpful, making our dining experience even more enjoyable.
Bircos has definitely earned a spot on our list of favorite restaurants, and we look forward to returning soon to explore more of their modern Indian creations. Whether you’re a fan of traditional Indian dishes or curious about innovative takes on familiar flavors, Bircos is a must-visit.
Bircos
Address: 9, Jalan Setiapuspa, Medan Damansara, 50490 Kuala Lumpur Phone: 017-648 6309
Sundays are a cherished time for our family, marked by moments of togetherness and indulgence in good food. Last Sunday was no exception, as hubby treated us to a surprise family lunch that took us on a journey down memory lane and tantalized our taste buds in equal measure.
This time, we embarked on our usual Sunday lunch with no clue as to our destination. It wasn’t until we arrived at Concorde Hotel that the mystery unfolded, evoking fond memories of our wedding day almost 24 years ago, when we celebrated our union at this very hotel in May 2000. I thought that hubby was pulling my leg when he told me that he was bringing us to Concorde Hotel for Dim Sum. We have not gone to a hotel for lunch for eons and in recent years, we hardly dine in hotels.
Stepping into Xin Cuisine, the Chinese restaurant nestled in the lobby of Concorde Hotel, we were greeted by the familiar sights and smells of dim sum – a nod to our wedding dinner held in the same venue.
True to form, the dim sum at Xin Cuisine proved to be a feast for the senses, with each bite bursting with flavor and tradition. From delicate dumplings to crispy spring rolls, the quality of the food remained as impeccable as ever. This is the reason why we chose to have our wedding at Xin Cuisine because of the quality of the food served.
These look like any other dim sum but they taste superb, one of the best dim sums that we’ve eaten.Dim sum still served on push carts. Yummy desserts. The tau fu far is silky smooth.Fried prawn fitters with big chunky prawns inside. Full house.
After savoring our dim sum goodness, hubby surprised us once again by whisking us off to Three Years Old for coffee and cake. As we lounged in the cozy ambiance of the café, the girls indulged in a trio of sliced cakes, accompanied by steaming cups of gourmet coffee.
Sherilyn & her dad
Our joyous afternoon took an unexpected turn when Sherilyn experienced an allergic reaction, reminiscent of a previous bout of hives that landed her in the hospital in June last year. She was at her dance studio for class when this happened, so she walked to a nearby pharmacy to get medicine to tame the allergy. We realized that the culprit may have been the prawns consumed during our dim sum earlier.
Reflecting on Sherilyn’s allergy history, we came to the sobering realization that while she may not have a direct allergy to prawns, certain chemicals used in their processing could trigger adverse reactions. Most of the time, eating prawns would cause no allergy but sometimes, she would get an itch in her mouth and lips and the worst case was a full-blown hives attack requiring hospitalization in June last year. Thankfully, with swift intervention, the medication managed to stave off a full-blown hives attack, sparing Sherilyn from further discomfort.
Can’t believe that today is the second last Sunday of January 2024. This means February and CNY are upon me very soon. And this means that Haru’s going to be separated from me soon. I have two months to prep myself mentally for Haru’s first ever boarding and I’ve been praying hard that all will go well for my precious kitty.
On a more positive note, I can’t wait to be back in Ipoh to have reunion meals with my family. My eldest brother’s family from Singapore will be back too. I’ve not seen his 3 kids since CNY 2020, the year the pandemic started. The last time we saw the twins, they were still toddlers. Now they’re in primary one, which means I won’t be able to carry them anymore. They’re no longer babies. Where did all the time go?
Today we had lunch at Seoul Korea again. This is our top favorite restaurant for authentic Korean food as the restaurant is run by a family of South Koreans. Dining at Seoul Korea always gives us 100% satisfaction, so much that we even buy their delicious banchan (appetizers) back.
Our favorite boiled pork. The pork has zero seasoning yet the natural taste of pork belly is very flavorful with melt-in-the-mouth flesh.Cold noodles with pear.Ox tail soup.Delectable BBQ beef and pork. Someone rushing to complete her assignment. She’s drawing a building plan here.So proud of this girl for earning a place on the Dean’s List in her first semester. Praying that she’ll do as well in her subsequent semester exams to earn a scholarship from the university.
As the final moments of 2023 fade into the past, it’s time to reflect on the year that was—a year marked by swift transitions, unexpected turns, health scares, and a myriad of experiences.
The passing of 2023 seemed almost like a blink of my eye. In the ebb and flow of life, our family encountered moments of triumph and challenges, creating a mosaic of experiences that shaped the year. Despite the ups and downs, the overarching sentiment is one of gratitude. Gratitude for the lessons learned, the strength discovered, and the love that held us together.
Welcoming the first day of 2024, my heart is filled with hope—for brighter days, for new opportunities, and for the chance to create more cherished memories with those I hold dear.
My greatest wish for the new year centers on the cornerstone of well-being—good health and safety. I pray for robust health and safety for myself and all my loved ones. May each day be a gift of vitality, strength, and well-being.
For my husband’s catering business, I wish for its continued success and prosperity. May the coming year bring new opportunities, satisfied clients, and the continued growth of a venture that brings joy to our family and those we serve.
Academic success is a beacon for my three daughters. As they navigate the halls of education, my prayer is for diligence, resilience, and the attainment of academic goals. May the new year be a chapter of learning, growth, and accomplishments for each of them.
I pray for God’s blessings to encompass every aspect of our lives—for guidance in moments of uncertainty, strength in times of weakness, and grace that abounds in both joy and challenges.
As I pen down my reflections and wishes for the new year, I extend the same sentiments to you and your family. May 2024 be adorned with blessings and good health, days filled with joy, and marked by prosperity. May your journey be guided by love, strengthened by resilience, and illuminated by the light of hope and God’s blessings.
In closing, let’s step into 2024 with hearts open to possibilities, minds attuned to gratitude, and spirits anchored in faith. Here’s to a year of abundance, growth, and the unwavering presence of love. Happy New Year to all my readers!
We had our first brunch of the year at UO Shin Japanese Restaurant at Millerz Square today, followed by coffee and desserts at HWC x Quack Quack Bakery.
The only day that hubby has the time to have lunch with us is on Sundays. Sometimes though, he has to work on weekends, so I will settle lunch with the girls. Since Sunday is the only day that we get to eat with the girls, we usually eat at a nice cafe or restaurant to chill and enjoy our lunch together before a new hectic week begins and busyness fills our lives again.
Below was our lunch three Sundays ago at Seoul Korea, our top favorite Korean restaurant. Everyone was present for the lunch, which is really hard these days as the girls are all grown up and have their own activities.
The best Banchan in terms of variety, taste and quality. These are replenishable.
Seoul Korea is an authentic Korean restaurant run by a Korean family. Our family has been patronizing this restaurant for over a decade and have celebrated countless birthdays and anniversaries here.
Assorted BBQ meat. We love the melt-in-the-mouth and flavorful boiled pork belly (top left photo).Kimchi soup (filled with loads of ingredients) and ox tail soup.By far the best seafood kimchi pancake. Every mouthful is seafood and kimchi with very little flour.
Two Sundays ago, my lunch was with hubby alone. Cass was in school to sit for the UEC exam, Alycia was at her part-time job at the cafe and Sherilyn decided to sleep in to catch up on her sleep after a week of sleepless nights completing assignments. Hubs and I couldn’t decide what to eat and finally settled for North Indian food at Lion of Punjab. I can hardly say no to cuisine from this part of India.
Paneer Naan, Naan stuffed with minced chicken, Tandoori Roti and Palak Paneer. Palak Paneer is a classic curried dish from North Indian cuisine made with fresh spinach, onions, spices, paneer and herbs. ‘Palak’ is a Hindi word for ‘Spinach’ and ‘Paneer’ is ‘Indian cottage cheese’. This is our family’s favorite North Indian dish.Mutton Briyani, which was very flavorful.Butter chicken, another favorite dish of the girls.Bhindi Masala, which is another super delicious dish. It’s bursting with aromatic Indian spices and herbs. Even Cass who dislikes lady’s fingers devoured this dish.
I wonder why the dishes are filled to the brim and piled on top of a super tiny bowl, making it so difficult for us to scoop the dishes without dropping bits of it on the table 🧐
My husband is a gourmand in every sense of the word. He’s the kind of person who doesn’t just eat to live; he lives to eat. While some people splurge on clothes, cars or dream of globetrotting adventures, my husband’s heart and wallet are devoted to one thing – food. He’s incredibly generous when it comes to indulging in exquisite culinary experiences, and together, we embark on food hunts that are nothing short of delightful.
Our most recent culinary escapade led us to a charming new café along Old Klang Road in Kuala Lumpur, a hidden gem called SunSan Bake. Nestled in a hidden slope off Old Klang Road, SunSan Bake is housed in a cozy refurbished bungalow. This café is a haven for brunch enthusiasts and coffee connoisseurs alike.
SunSan Bake is a bakery café by day and casual dining restaurant by night.
Outside the bungalow is a pristine, green lawn and a smattering of trees and wild reeds that create a green environment. There’s a zen garden path with gravel and pebbles. Once inside, there’s plenty of natural light, thanks to plenty of French windows. What I like about a café that’s brightly lit up with natural light is that my photos will turn out beautifully, without needing much editing.
SunSan is renowned for its Western fusion cuisine and specialty coffee. What sets it apart is the dedication of its baristas, who are true artisans in the craft of hand-brewed coffee. Every cup is expertly crafted to perfection, ensuring a memorable coffee experience for patrons. For filter brews, they offer two options: “competition” beans as well as seasonal filter coffees.
Game to try the Black Truffle Shiopan? It’s made with black truffle butter, white truffle oil, bamboo charcoal and smoked Maldon salt. The shape and color can be suggestive of something else though, 💩 😂
Our visit to SunSan began with the tantalizing display of pastries next to the entrance, each arranged like a work of art in a gallery. The attention to detail was undeniable, and it was clear that this place aims to be a gallery of edible works of art.
Sunsan Bake menu
For our breakfast, my husband opted for the Sunshine Breakfast set, a delightful spread that came at RM36. The plate featured a harmonious blend of flavors, including eggs, sausage, ham, grilled portobello mushroom, a handful of raw greens and a slice of toasted artisanal bread. It was a hearty breakfast that left him thoroughly satisfied. To accompany his meal, he chose a Flat White coffee (RM15).
Sunshine Breakfast set, RM36
To satisfy our sweet tooth, we couldn’t resist trying the cempedak pandan cake, priced at RM20. The cake was a revelation, with the tropical flavors of cempedak and the aromatic essence of pandan creating a harmonious and unforgettable dessert.
Cempedak Pandan cake, RM20Flat white, RM15
As for me, I had already eaten breakfast at home and wasn’t particularly hungry, but I couldn’t resist trying the cake and hubby’s breakfast set.
SunSan Bake proved to be a delightful discovery, and we left with the promise to return and explore more of their menu. We were charmed not only by the delectable food but also by the café’s commitment to creating a welcoming space where food truly becomes art.
On a serene and gloomy Sunday afternoon, my family and I had a delightful lunch at Kayra Restaurant, Bangsar Village. With its promise of authentic Kerala cuisine, we were eager to indulge in the rich flavors and aromatic spices of India. As we entered the restaurant, we were immediately captivated by the leafy terrace adorned with a mural of Kerala’s backwaters, setting the tone for a truly immersive dining experience. Every dish that we ordered was truly a masterpiece of taste and tradition.
We ordered a roast chicken dish cooked with aromatic spices and onions, mango and prawn curry, mutton stew, spinach and dhal curry (my top favorite), ghee roast Paneer (cottage cheese) with onions curry, appam, chapati, Neer dosa, puffed roti, Khameer roti, Masala chai, biryani rice, and okra Poriyal.
Spinach and dhall curry. One of the best dhall curries that I’ve tasted. Rich, thick and flavorsome. I love the crispy fried spinach sprinkled on top.Biryani rice.Ghee roast paneer – one of the tastiest paneer that we’ve tasted.Chicken roast. The rich flavors of this dish are quite similar to the Ayam Kuzi dish from hubby’s central kitchen.Everyone loved their range of rotis! Clockwise from top: puffed bread (hollow inside), Khameer roti, apam, and chapati.
The roast chicken, cooked with a melange of aromatic spices and caramelized onions, left us wanting more with its tender and succulent meat. The mango prawn curry infused a perfect balance of tangy and spicy notes, a delightful combination that had us craving for extra helpings.
Mutton stewPrawn and mango curry.
The mutton stew, immersed in a rich and savory gravy, showcased the finesse of Kerala’s culinary heritage. The true star of the meal for me was the spinach and dhal curry, an exquisite concoction that won my heart with its comforting and wholesome taste. Paired with various bread options like chapati, dosa, puffed roti, and Khameer roti, each bite was a delightful dance of flavors and textures.
We liked the ghee roast Paneer and spinach and dhal curry so much that we ordered a portion for takeaway, along with chapatis for Alycia and Sherilyn who didn’t join us for lunch.
For our vegetarian choices, we were delighted by the ghee roast Paneer (cottage cheese), which was a delightful contrast of soft mild cheese and robust spices. The okra (lady’s fingers) Poriyal provided a unique twist to a commonly used vegetable, elevating it to a whole new level of delectability. Cass who doesn’t like okra surprisingly helped herself umpteen times to the okra dish.
To accompany our meal, we enjoyed aromatic biryani rice, perfectly cooked to enhance the already flavorful dishes. And no meal is complete without a cup of Masala chai, its warmth, and spices creating a harmonious ending to a soulful feast.
The ambiance at Kayra further heightened our dining pleasure. The moment we walked into the terrace, the feeling was one of stepping into a holiday resort with cool breeze blowing in. The leafy terrace, adorned with its picturesque mural, exuded the essence of Kerala’s landscape, while the rattan furnishings and lush greenery created a tranquil oasis in the heart of the bustling city. It was a perfect respite, allowing us to immerse ourselves fully in the flavors and atmosphere of the restaurant.
Kayra’s inclusion in the Michelin Guide 2023 and its accolade in the top 20 restaurants of the Tatler Dining Awards are well-deserved honors. The restaurant’s dedication to preserving and presenting the essence of Kerala cuisine shines through in every dish.
Our Sunday lunch at Kayra Restaurant was a beautiful experience, where the flavors of Kerala’s cuisine painted a vivid picture of its cultural richness. From the perfectly spiced dishes to the inviting ambience, Kayra delivered a culinary journey like no other. While the prices may be slightly higher than other Indian restaurants, the quality, taste, and ambiance are well worth it. As we bid adieu to Kayra, we left with hearts full of contentment and a resolve to return soon to explore more treasures from their extensive and intriguing menu.
KAYRA, BANGSAR VILLAGE F08, 1st Floor, Bangsar Village 1, Jalan Telawi 1, Bangsar Baru, 59100 Kuala Lumpur +60 (17) 215 7382
This past Sunday, our family had a unique and eventful day with each member engaged in their own activities. While Cass immersed herself in the thrilling world of anime at an anime fest in IOI City Mall at Putrajaya, Alycia, dedicated her time to her weekend part-time work. Meanwhile, my MIL embarked on an exciting trip to Ipoh with her erstwhile schoolmates. Amidst these diverse activities, Sherilyn, hubs and I enjoyed a delightful lunch experience at Haidilao.
After recalling our enjoyable visit to Haidilao in April, where we celebrated Cass’s birthday, hubs and I decided to revisit this delightful establishment for a satisfying hotpot lunch.
Sherilyn ordering the ingredients for the hotpot using the restaurant’s iPad.Our order delivered to us in a robot server.
Haidilao’s reputation for excellent service and mouth-watering hotpot options made it an obvious choice. As we settled into our cozy table, reminiscing about our previous experience, we couldn’t help but wished that Alycia and Cass could join us.
Assorted thinly sliced meats. The pale colored meat on the right is pig’s aorta 😲. Not my kind of meat 🤐
With bubbling pots in front of us, we immersed various ingredients, ranging from thinly sliced meats to an assortment of seafood and vegetables, into the flavorful broth. We ordered the yellow fish maw and Japanese dashi broth. Both the broths were very flavorful and thick, especially the yellow fish maw. Each morsel was carefully cooked to perfection, creating a symphony of flavors that tantalized our taste buds.
Fresh prawn paste in a piping bag.Raw fish slices and baby octopus.Cooked garoupa fish slice and baby octopus.Fish maw from the yellow fish maw soup. Yummeh!Thinly sliced rib eye. All you need is about 5 seconds of immersing the meat into the hot soup to get super tender meat that melts in the mouth.Very yummy fried mochi dessert with Gula Melaka filling.The iconic HDL’s Noodle Dancing Man churning out fresh noodles for our hotpot.Complimentary ice-cream.
While we were savoring our hotpot lunch, Cass, embarked on her own adventure at IOI City Mall for half a day. She and her high school classmates attended an anime fest, immersing themselves in the vibrant and imaginative world of Japanese animation. Even though we couldn’t physically be there with her, the Life360 app provided me with a sense of reassurance and peace of mind as I tracked her whereabouts throughout the time she was away.
The bill. I only realized today that condiments and sauces are chargeable at RM8 per pax and flavored drinks at RM5 per pax when the waiting staff informed us when she took our orders after we were seated. All these while, I thought they were complimentary. However, the condiments and flavored drinks are refillable.Tracking Cass’s whereabouts using the Life360 app on my android phone. In order for this to work efficiently, there must be Wifi / mobile data and strong signal from both sides.
Two Sundays ago, we had the pleasure of indulging in a remarkable dinner at Makoto Unagi Restaurant in Desa Sri Hartamas. The occasion was made even more special as my eldest sister-in-law from England was visiting us and treated our family to a sumptuous meal at Makoto.
Makoto, renowned for its expertise in charcoal-grilled eel, is helmed remotely by executive chef Mr. Otani Shinichiro, who also manages a family-owned authentic unagi omakase restaurant in Tokyo.
Makoto takes pride in sourcing its eels directly from Shizuoka Prefecture, the birthplace of unagi breeding. This attention to detail ensures that only the finest and freshest eels are served at the restaurant. As we savored the perfectly grilled unagi, we were captivated by the delicate balance of flavors and the melt-in-your-mouth texture that the dish offered. Each bite was a testament to the chef’s mastery and expertise.
This is our second time savoring Unaju from Makoto. When my SIL came to KL in December last year but couldn’t visit us during her first few days in KL as everyone was down with Covid, she ordered two Unaju sets and had them Grab-ed to our house.
Makoto Unaju Special (RM183) – this set showcases eel cooked in two styles- half served kabayaki-style and the other half shirayaki-style (seasoned only with salt, without tare sauce, perfect for unagi purists). The set comes with an umami-rich soup of eel liver with a lovely earthiness, as well as Makoto’s own pickles. We ordered three sets of this and the other two sets came with a clear soup.RM88 for half a whole eel without rice for me.
While Makoto specializes in grilled eel, we also explored other offerings on the menu. One standout dish was the hamachi head—a magnificent yellowtail head grilled to perfection. The dish was a visual feast, with the cheeks and collar beautifully charred, and the bones filled with succulent, tender meat. The flavors were unparalleled, making it the most delectable grilled fish head we had ever tasted.
Hamachi head (RM138) – the huge yellowtail head has plenty of succulent meat on its bone and is by far the best grilled fish head I’ve tasted.
Our dinner at Makoto went beyond grilled eel and hamachi head. We embarked on a gastronomic adventure, sampling a range of dishes that showcased the restaurant’s expertise. The tempura was flawlessly executed, featuring a light and crispy batter that complemented the freshness of the ingredients. The chawan mushi, a silky steamed egg custard, delighted our taste buds with its delicate flavors and velvety texture.
Kaisen Futomaki. We ordered two plates of this.
For sushi lovers, Makoto’s maki rolls were a revelation. The soft-shell crab maki combined the briny flavors of the crab with the creaminess of avocado, resulting in a delightful combination of textures. The kaisen futomaki showcased an assortment of fresh seafood, artfully rolled into a substantial and satisfying bite. And the tiger prawn maki delighted us with its succulent deep fried prawn filling, perfectly balanced with the vinegared rice.
Tempura.Tiger prawn maki (RM38) and soft shell crab maki (RM38).
Chawan mushi (RM8) for everyone.
While the food at Makoto was undeniably remarkable, the true essence of the evening lay in the joyful company we shared. Also, the attentive and knowledgeable staff at Makoto added to the warm and welcoming ambiance, ensuring that our dining experience was as enjoyable as it was delicious.
Recently, the hubs had a pleasant dining experience at Baristart Coffee and wanted to share the culinary delight with us. Eager to explore the menu, we ventured to the café to sample their famous food offerings.
Baristart Coffee, a renowned Hokkaido-born establishment, has found its way to Malaysian shores with its first outpost in Bangsar Shopping Centre. Since opening its doors in 2022, this coffee haven has been captivating the hearts of locals and tourists alike with its delectable food and beverages infused with Hokkaido milk.
Our brunch spread consisted of an enticing assortment of dishes, each prepared with the finest ingredients and meticulous attention to detail.
Avocado Toast with Scrambled Eggs: This classic combination was elevated to new heights at Baristart Coffee. The creamy avocado paired perfectly with fluffy scrambled eggs, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.
Ocean Trout with Salsa and Brown Butter: A true treat for fish lovers, this dish featured succulent ocean trout with crispy skin adorned with vibrant salsa, brussels sprout, and brown butter. The flavors danced on our taste buds, leaving us wanting more.
Beef Sukiyaki Sando on Hokkaido Bread: A true standout, the beef sukiyaki sando was sandwiched between incredibly soft and fluffy Hokkaido bread. The tender beef, combined with the rich flavors of sukiyaki sauce, made for a delightful culinary experience.
Mixed Tempura Bowl: A medley of perfectly fried tempura showcased the chef’s expertise in capturing the essence of Japanese cuisine. The crispness of the tempura paired flawlessly with the accompanying dipping sauce, raw cabbage, and rice, making it a satisfying choice.
Cinnamon Rolls: These warm, fluffy rolls were generously dusted with cinnamon sugar and topped with a luscious glaze. Each bite was a burst of comforting flavors, making it a perfect companion for our coffee. The mil liked it so much that she ordered one more for takeaway for her breakfast the next day.
Strawberry Cream Puff: A delicate choux pastry filled with velvety strawberry cream, this dessert was a refreshing and light option to satisfy our sweet cravings.
Hokkaido Milk Ice Cream: True to their roots, Baristart Coffee showcased the creaminess and richness of Hokkaido milk in their delightful ice cream.
Milk Cake Nutella: This unique creation resembled a tiramisu but without alcohol. The combination of Nutella and the creamy milk cake base made for a decadent treat that delighted our taste buds.
While our experience at Baristart Coffee was overwhelmingly positive, we found the bombolini to be slightly too sweet and cloying for our liking. However, this small hiccup did not overshadow the overall culinary journey we embarked on during our Sunday brunch.
Despite our delightful brunch experience, we left with an eagerness to return and explore more of Baristart Coffee’s offerings. We are particularly excited to try their range of sandos, known for their delectable fillings and usage of Hokkaido bread. Additionally, the cute Shiro Kuma bear-shaped shaved ice bowl with milk syrup has piqued our curiosity and eagerness to try it on our next visit.
My pick – Ocean Trout with Salsa and Brown ButterMixed Tempura BowlSukiyaki beef sando with fluffy Hokkaido milk breadAvocado Toast with Scrambled EggsMIL’s favorite – Cinnamon roll Alycia’s pick – strawberry cream puffLatte and flat white; signature Hokkaido milk ice-cream which was very creamy and smooth.Milk cake NutellaOvomaltine Bombolini on the foreground. This Italian doughnut has a gooey center with creamy chocolately filling and sugary, soft dough.
Today is an anticipated public holiday announced by our new PM to celebrate a new government. The eldest SIL treated all of us to a sumptuous lunch before her flight back to HK the next day and then to the UK.
SIL gave Sherilyn the liberty to choose a restaurant of her choice and she chose Tamaruya Honten Teppanyaki at The Gardens Mall. The restaurant is within Isetan.
Tamaruya Malaysia Sdn Bhd is operated by an established brand, Wasabi Tamaruya Honten Japan which has a long history in Shizuoka, Japan.
Our starters:
Toasted foccacia with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.Tamaruya Platter ~ consists of Tamaruya style pie tee and filo prawns with our choice of dipping @ RM36.Mushroom soup (RM20) and Tamaruya seafood chowder soup (RM24).Tebasaki platter ~ consists of fried drummets and wings coated with Japanese dark sauce served with wasabi creamy sauce @ RM29
On the teppan selection:
Sherilyn and I both ordered Teppan Barramundi fillet served with mashed potato and teppan assorted shrooms @ RM54.
Alycia, hubs and his aunt each ordered teppan beef. I didn’t take note of which is what but they ordered pure Angus ribeye (RM129) and sirloin steak.
After our hearty meal that costs almost RM1k, the girls went Christmas shopping with their koo ma — for Nike shoes! Each of them got a pair of Nike shoes that costs more than my most expensive Nike shoes ever. Lucky girls. Wish I had someone to splurge on me too 😜
Sunday, 5 June 2022 ~ Hubs brought us to try a ‘new’ Chinese ‘tai chow’ restaurant – it’s a first try for us but not for him.
As catering functions have picked up ever since Malaysia reopened its borders and economic sectors, hubby’s catering business has been making a rebound. He’s been busy almost everyday, including Saturdays and Sundays. His business was at an all-time low for almost 2 years during the pandemic with on-off lockdowns. Only God knows what we’d gone through during the difficult 2 years.
Anyway, onwards and upwards!
If there’s a Sunday that hubs doesn’t have to work, he will drag all of us to ‘jalan-jalan cari makan’ (loosely translated in English to – walk around and find food) with him.
Pudu is a place where one can find many good eateries, from street food to cafes, ‘tai chow’ stalls and decades-old -restaurants that withstood the test of time with their good food.
Yi Sheng Huat at Pudu is famous for their ‘tai chow’ dishes, especially steamed fish. We were there a little before 12 noon, which is the start of their operating hour and waited for almost half an hour, with growling tummies before the dishes arrived.
Steamed fish with loads of garlic. Stir-fried ‘sang cheong’ (pig’s intestines). Not my kind of dish but hubby’s favorite.Steamed lala clams with Chinese cooking wine and ginger.Stir-fried spinach with garlic.‘Phai kuat wong’ (pork ribs king)Deep fried squids, which is our favorite dish.
Food was great and we enjoyed our meal thoroughly. We’ll definitely be back again to try other dishes when hubs is free again on a Sunday. This time, I want the entire steamed fish all to myself! I’m a sucker for restaurant-style steamed fish.
Yi Sheng Huat Seafood Restaurant 357 & 345, Jalan Gajah, Pudu, 55100 Kuala Lumpur Opening Hours: 11.30AM – 2PM; 5.30PM – 11PM Contact: 012 – 2685 638
For weeks hubs had been raving about this Chinese restaurant that he went to a couple of times with his besties at Bandar Mahkota Cheras. This restaurant requires advance booking from their customers before going. If you plan on a walk-in, chances are you’ll be told that they are fully booked. Their dishes are often sold out due to their popularity.
The restaurant only opens at 11 a.m. and we were there a little before 11 and waited for about 20 minutes before the first dish arrived.
The first dish is pork lard rice, one of the restaurant’s signature dishes.
The pork lard rice came piping hot in a rice cooker. It has generous amounts of pork lard and gravy with bits of pork belly. This is the ultimate killer dish to thwart your diet plan if you’re on one. This dish is so delish and addictive that it’s just so hard to stop at just one bowl. Totally stunning combination of flavors – rice mixed with aromatic crispy pork lard, gravy, and chopped raw garlic. Sauteed baby French beans with smashed dried shrimps, red chilis and big onions.Steamed chicken drenched in garlic sesame oil, served alongside minced ginger and house-made chili sauce. The chicken is so beautifully glossy with a luxurious mouthfeel.Big prawns cooked in Nyonya style curry.Squid rings cooked to tender perfection in a concoction of aromatic spices and chilis. The squid rings are all infused with decadent flavors.Fried pork neck with an inhouse made dipping sauce. By the time this dish arrived, I was already very stuffed, so didn’t try it.Silky smooth ‘Choy Heong’ tofu topped with fried minced pork.
The bill came close to RM300 for this meal.
After lunch, we segued into Ding Dang, a titbits shop just a few steps away. This super huge snacks shop is a paradise for junk food lovers as it’s replete with hundreds of types of biscuits, chips, nuts, candies and every snack you can think of. We bought some snacks home, of course. It’s really dangerous to walk into such an enticing titbits shop if you lack self-control. It can be hard to leave the shop empty-handed when every step of your way in the shop has something luring and screaming out to you to take it home 🤪
Legend Seafood Restaurant Jalan Laksamana, Bandar Mahkota Cheras, 43200 Cheras, Selangor 010-254 3216
Alycia will be sitting for the SPM Trials in less than two weeks. Her high school teachers are providing additional online classes on Saturdays and Sundays to complete the syllabus. Thus, the poor girl has not been able to join us for lunch for two consecutive Sundays. And the littlest brat is at the stage where she doesn’t like to follow us adults anywhere, except to the book store or to the nearby outdoor kopitiam to dig into her favorite fish paste noodles. It’s a pain to drag her out of the house to have lunch or dinner with us these days. I actually bribed her to get her to follow us out for lunch. I remember Alycia went through a similar phase at her age. Cass is now at the age where I see a lot of familiar hair-pulling scenarios that I had with Alycia and Sherilyn when they were at the hell-raising in-between age of transforming from a little girl into a teenager.
Oh well…
Thankfully Cass is my last and hopefully I don’t have to deal with anymore terrible phases from the 3 girls anymore! I remember their Terrible Twos, Terrible Threes and Terrible Tweens very vividly. Hopefully it’s now Terrific Teens all the way!
We had lunch at The Museum @ The Starling Mall to savour good old Ipoh food. It’s our first time visiting this mall but hubs had been here several times.
Ipoh Hakka noodles, crackling siew yoke and chargrilled char siew, Wanton noodles and Yuet Koong Hor aka “moonlight-style noodles”.
Teochew style porridge with fried fish head.
After lunch at Museum, we segued into Kam Kee Cafe 1967, a reputable Hong Kong F&B brand to get takeaway for Alycia, a fan of ‘cha chaan teng’ grub. Kam Kee Cafe channels the charm of a ‘cha chaan teng’ experience in a collaboration between a family of Malaysians and Kam Kee Cafe, Hong Kong.
This venue in The Starling mall is the first overseas outpost of Kam Kee Cafe, whose branches span Wan Chai to Tsuen Wan – Kam Kee is the legacy of a Teochew native who came to Hong Kong in the 1950s and started a food shop a decade later, during that era’s birth of Western-influenced, working-class cafes that serve affordable fare, from toasts to tarts. fried noodles to baked rice.
For takeaway, we got this Cheese Baked Spaghetti Bolognese with minced meat @ RM18.80 for Alycia, a portion of fried rice for our dinner and two Polo buns for the girls’ recess the next day.
We also ordered a Polo bun with spam meat, cheese and egg and shared it among the 5 of us, where each of us (who were already quite stuffed) had a small wedge to try.
When you dine at a Hong Kong ‘cha chaan teng’, you just have to order their ‘lai cha’ aka milk tea. I love the milky and flavorful evaporated milk that’s used in their milk tea.
The mil shared this almond tea with egg white with me and OMG, it is SO creamy, full of almond aroma and delicious! I requested for less sugar and this beverage hit all the right notes! One sip and I was sent to tong sui heaven 😋
This might be considered fast food, but it’s delightfully fulfilling here – from the choice of ingredients to the care in cooking. Now that we are all grounded in Malaysia with restrictions on traveling overseas, dining at Kam Kee Cafe brings you a slice of Hong Kong at prices that are affordable without having to fly to Hong Kong.
After lunch, we went groceries shopping at Jaya Grocer with Cass badgering me to hurry up so that she could have some time at Popular bookstore where there’s a clearance sale. Our bookworm is the happiest whenever she’s at a place surrounded by books (not academic ones unfortunately).
She found The Complete Stories of The Wizard of Oz Volume 2 selling at only RM29.90 for a really thick book and her mood instantly changed from one of sulky to beaming with joy when she saw all her favorite novels on sale 😅
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