Category Archives: Non-Halal

Family, Food, Halal, Hotels, MALAYSIA, Melaka, Melaka, Non-Halal, Noodle, Nyonya, Snack

Highlight of my Short Gateway to Melaka 2022

4 Comments

During the recent school break, I decided to bring my family to Melaka for a short gateway. It has been 2+ years since our last visit to Melaka.

1. Stay at Estadia Hotel Melaka

Since its a family gateway, I checked for a rather spacious rooms which offers good rates. After comparing the hotels and reviews…I then decided to choose Estadia Hotel Melaka which fulfilled my criteria.

Location of Estadia Hotel

Estadia Hotel is also a sister hotel of Hatten Hotel and the price is more affordable too. Estadia Hotel is located within a short distance with Mahkota Parade, Mahkota Medical Hospital, Hatten Square, Dataran Pahlawan. It is also next to Hatten Hotel. Furthermore its distance to the popular tourist spot, Jonker Street is about 3km.

Despite visiting on weekdays, the Melaka town road is still so busy. Probably due to school holidays.

The hotel car park is shared with Hatten Square. Remember to validate your car park ticket at the hotel lobby for the free parking. In this case, we uses TouchNGo card.

Hotel Lobby

“Experience authentic Baba Nyonya culture in a splendid Peranakan mansion-home styled hotel. A perfect blend of contemporary design meets traditional textures and motifs, revel in Estadia’s magnificent décor inspired by Melaka’s ethnic heritage.”

I booked the Family Suite which has 2 connecting rooms, even with 2 bathrooms with a good price of about RM330 per night for this suite.

I would say the rooms are quite cosy & comfortable.

Bathroom with stand shower.
Coffee/ tea making facilities. I like the water bottle. So cute and nice.

2. McQuek’s Satay Celup

McQuek’s Satay Celup (Main Branch)

288 Jalan Parameswara, Banda Hilir, 75000 Melaka.

☎️ Contact No.：010-268 2998

🕧 Operation Hours：4:00pm – 11:00pm

(Closed on Wednesdays)

After getting some rest in our hotel room, we went out for early dinner at McQuek’s Sate Celup. I google search for less tourist place and stumbled upon this . You may overlook this place because it is located along the main road.

We were the early birds. Hence no crowd. I preferred this place over the popular Ban Lee Siang, because it is more spacious and more open air here. Hence I feel more comfortable eating here. Besides that, the service and taste was satisfying too.

Staff will constantly check on our satay sauce and refill them. Besides that the precook satay sauce is also available for sale. So that you can also DIY your own satay celup at home using their sauce.

3. Jonker Walk

Each time come to Jonker Walk also so hot and sweaty! HAHAHAHA!!

Discovered some interesting plaques from one of the shop.

Got attracted with these blocks. I bought one too….. with a different figure.

4) Sebungkus Melaka

Address: Lot G065- G066, Terminal Pahlawan, Jln Merdeka, Bandar Hilir, 75000 Malacca

Operation Hours : 8am – 8pm (Open daily)

Phone: 012-969 7295

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sebungkusmelaka/

We did not go for hotel breakfast, but checking out this rather new makan place which is just a short walking distance from our hotel.

Self ordering & pickup concept.
A small local kopitiam serving local delicacies.

We had their breakfast set, which came with few options with an affordable price. We love the nasi lemak, the rice was aromatic and the sambal was good! (It was my lucky day….I got a double egg yolk in an egg). Besides that, the Char Kuey Teow was nice too with ‘wok hei’.

5) BESS Kopitiam

Address: Pusat Niaga, 7 , jalan PNBBU 5, Kampung Solok Musai, Bukit Baru Utama, 75150 Melaka

Operation Hours : 7.30am – 3.30pm (Closed on Thursdays)

Phone: 017-610 8055

I used to eat Nyonya Laksa at Jonker Walk, because its more convenient to eat and walk there. But recently I felt the taste has deteriorate and also expensive. Then I tried before at Donald & Lily, it was good but unfortunately it has closed down.

I google search for the less tourist one….. In resultant I was here at Bess Kopitiam.

Apparently, the Nyonya Laksa is a must TRY here. Even my Malaccan blogger friend will often dapao their Nyonya Laksa whenever she return hometown. The crowd here are mostly locals, the prices are quite affordable too.

Nyonya Laksa is a rich, coconut-based broth that originated from Melaka. The creamy broth consists of coconut milk. Tops with julienned cucumber, prawns, sliced fish cakes, bean sprout, hard boiled egg and bean curd puffs.

Looking at the color…. it was really rich, creamy and flavorful.

Bihun Siam
Nasi Lemak
Western Breakfast Set
Peanut Butter French Toast

All in all, the Nyonya Laksa was the best, then follow up with Bihun Siam. They also sell the homemade Nyonya Pineapple Tarts, but taste average only.

6) Klebang Original Coconut Shake

Before leaving Melaka, we decided to stop over Klebang Coconut Shake for the popular coconut shake and some snacks. This place is often crowded. But probably because we were early and it was on weekday, hence there wasn’t much crowd.

The huge sign arch is pretty visible on the side of the busy road.

The coconut shake are freshly made. Ice+ Cocounut Flesh + Coconut Juice, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It was quite refreshing and also a thirst quencher drink on a hot and sunny day!

We also tried the Nasi Lemak bungkus, Bihun Goreng and Onde-onde. I would conclude that the coconut shake was good, whilst the rest were just mediocre.

Address: Lot 130, Solok Kampung Bahagia, 75200 Klebang Besar, Malacca

Operation Hours: Daily (11am – 6.30pm) , Friday (2.30pm – 6.30pm)

Phone: 013-399 4061

~That’s the end of our short trip to Melaka…See you soon…~

Chinese, Food, Non-Halal, Seremban

Kampar Claypot Chicken Rice @Taman Bidara, Seremban.

3 Comments

My first post of the year…… Wishing everyone Gong Xi Fa Cai!!

What is your criteria of a good claypot chicken rice?

For me, a good claypot chicken rice has to be flavorful, rice evenly coated with sauce, not lumpy (soft).

Nowadays its very rare to find those claypot chicken rice that slow cooked using charcoal fire stove. 











In Seremban, there’s this place serving claypot chicken rice which claimed as Kampar Claypot Chicken Rice. I heard that the owner is from Kampar. By far, this is the best claypot chicken rice in Seremban. Located at Taman Bidara, behind of Do Re Mi Baking Academy.










The claypot chicken rice was cooked upon order. Therefore be prepared for some waiting time. This place is usually quite full during lunch hour (before Covid). 










I like the aroma of the rice when it was served piping hot. Rice is cooked with marinated chicken, Chinese sausage, not forgetting the salted fish for extra flavors then sprinkled with scallions. (RM9 for single size serving.)










What I liked most about this place is that the claypot chicken rice is served with pickled shallots and cili padi to give you some crunchiness.










Another dish that I like is the Yellow Wine Chicken which make you sweat. LOL! 










Besides that, they also served some simple blanched vegetables, steamed soup (watercress soup, lotus root soup, etc….may varies daily).










You can give them a call to place order so that you don’t have to wait long.










Kampar Claypot Chicken Rice





Address: No 19, Jalan Bidara 16, Taman Bidara, 70100 Seremban, Negeri Sembilan





Operation Hours: Daily 11.30am – 3pm , 5.30pm – 9.30pm (Closed on Mondays)





Phone: 016-285 3187



		
	
	

	
	




	
	

				

			Food, Kuala Lumpur, MALAYSIA, Non-Halal, Travel
		

			
Jalan-Jalan & Makan-makan @Petaling Street, KL

		

			 			2 Comments
						

	


		

		
How is everyone? I hope everyone is doing well.


So sorry for the long overdue post. I actually made this trip end of last year, but didn’t have the time or mood to write. 🙂


On end of December 2019, in conjunction to Christmas celebration I had a short 3D2N gateway in KL with my family. On day 2 we skipped the hotel’s breakfast and decided to go Petaling Street for makan-makan and jalan-jalan. We have not been to Petaling Street for so many years! Oh my….. LOL!


To avoid the traffic and car park problem, I decided to use Grab, e-hailing to go to Petaling Street. Hehe….


Now with roofing over, at least not so hot. Stalls were still handled by foreigners and most of the stalls are selling the almost similar stuffs…imitation branded bags, sport shoes, watches, clothing and also souvenirs. Most of the stalls will be open by 10am.


Hon Kee Porridge Petaling Street,


was our first stop for breakfast. It is one of the oldest porridge stall here. Located nearby the famous Air Mata Kucing.


varieties of porridge are available here at an affordable price.


 




 


We ordered Pork & Fried Intestine Porridge and Raw Fish Porridge for sharing. They are served hot! Both are great. But I personally like the Raw Fish Porridge…which I felt nostalgic and rare. It is undeniable that their porridge texture is smooth.


Other than porridge, Chee Cheong Fun (steamed rice roll) is also available here.


I am not really a fan of Chee Cheong Fun. But their chee cheong fun is quite nice. Not only the texture is smooth…the sauce also is quite special. Its different from the usual chee cheong fun sauce.


Bored of common chee cheong fun with sauce? Tried something different here. Fried chee cheong fun with egg and minced pork. 🙂


Address: 93, Jalan Hang Lekir, City Centre, 50000 Kuala Lumpur

Operation Hours: 4AM – 2.30pm


 


Right in front of the porridge stall, there is a small stall selling these freshly fried Sweet Potato Balls.


 


As we walk along the Petaling Street, we also spotted a friendly lady selling Mua Chee. Her version comes with variety flavors.


Mua Chee is the Chinese version of ‘mochi’. It is made of steamed glutinous rice then coated with fine peanuts. It’s a popular street snack. You can give it a try…but I personally don’t quite like this texture , because the texture is tougher. I preferred the goey version. hehe….


Next, we came over this cart selling Roasted Duck. Saw few people was waiting for their turn to buy. Hence we decided to buy 1/2 duck to try. Mom said the duck tasted good. (roast duck is one of mom’s favorite)


As we walked further, we came along a street selling flowers….fresh flowers. I heard friends been saying fresh flowers are selling at reasonable price at Petaling Street. (In pic, uncle was unpacking the fresh Gerberras. Do you like Gerberra?)


We were hunting for Hawker Chan for our next makan stop. Then we passed by this beautiful temple called, “Kuan Ti Temple“. This temple is listed as one of the “5 Must-Visit Chinese Temples in KL”.


“Kuan Ti Temple is a 121 year-old Taoist temple located along Jalan Tun HS Lee. An easily recognisable building with a bright orange façade, it is dedicated to Guandi, the Taoist God of War and Literature; there is a red-faced, long beard statue of Guandi at the rear of the temple.”


Kuan Ti Temple


    

  • Opening Hours: Daily, 07:00 – 19:00 (opening hours may vary, so please check with the temple keeper)
    • 

  • Location: Right across the street from Popular Bookstore, and just opposite Sri Mahamariamman Temple.
    • 

  • Address: Along Jalan Tun H. S. Lee
    • 



Found it! We came to


Hawker Chan, Petaling Street


for lunch. We wanted to try the chicken rice here. Apparently it is Singapore’s Michelin-starred chicken rice. (Hawker Chan was awarded one Michelin star by the Michelin Guide Singapore in 2016.)


Known for “cheapest Michelin-starred meal in the world”, Hawker Chan is famous for their soy sauce chicken rice.




Self service ordering system. Just like fast food. The environment is good and clean with air-conditioned.


Simple 1 page menu. Prices considered reasonable for this location.


Soya Sauce Chicken Rice (RM8.60), doesn’t look appealing. 😦

Sorry to say Chicken looked dry and rice not quite aromatic either.  Nothing to shout about tho.


Char Siew Rice (RM9.80). Char Siew was one better side. Lean and tender.


The chili sauce, as you can see its quite watery….


Instead, we liked the Papaya Tea Soup with Pork Rib (RM7). It was nourishing and flavorful.


 


Have you tried Hawker Chan KL? Some of my friends who have tried the original stall in Singapore said it tasted good. Probably when something is franchised or managed by outsiders…the taste will be off.


Address: 135, Jalan Petaling, City Centre, 50000 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur


Operation hours:- Open daily from 10.30am – 9pm


Phone: 016-564 6787


Bunn Choon Egg Tarts, Petaling Street


I read that Bunn Choon Egg Tarts are nice. So, we decided to buy some.


The 2-storey vintage building painted in vibrant yellow and blue color attracted many visitors. It is easily sighted next to Kwai Chai Hong.


There are also table and chairs for customers who wants to dine in.


One of the best egg tart in KL. Apparently the egg tart recipe was passed down since their establishment in 1893.


You can smell the aromatic of these freshly baked pastries.


We decided to try both skin flavors of egg tarts and also the char siew sou.


We love both egg tarts and char siew sou.


Address: No.8 Lorong Pangung, 50000 Kuala Lumpur (Opposite Pasar Seni MRT Station, about 5 minutes walk) 


Operation hours: 7am – 3pm


After buying the egg tarts, we came to


Kwai Chai Hong, Petaling Street


which is just next to Bunn Choon.


how to get to Kwai Chai Hong


 






 








 


Although this area is not big, but the artist fully utilized the walls with beautiful murals and setup to bring visitors a  journey back in time to the 1960s golden era of KL Chinatown. Now, in conjunction to Mid-Autumn festival, they’ve put up some beautiful lanterns with Rabbit theme. (https://www.kwaichaihong.com/)




We only managed to cover half day trip. I hope we have bigger space for our stomach to fill more food. Perhaps next trip.


*Coming post will blog about a fail proof cake.

For lazy people like me. 😀


 

	

	
	




	
	

				

			Chinese, Food, Hainan Cuisine, Non-Halal, Seremban
		

			
Hainan Food @森美兰海南会馆, NEGERI SEMBILAN HAINAN ASSOCIATION

		

			 			2 Comments
						

	


		

		
Recently the hall area of 森美兰海南会馆, Hainan Association Negeri Sembilan has turned into a makan place for public. Serving Hainan food and Hainan Coffee.




Social media news spread faster than newspaper. I only knew about this hidden place after some of my friends shared it on Facebook.


I was not working on one of the weekday, so I told my mom that I’m bringing her to this new place for breakfast.


After dropping Jet at kindergarten, we went straight here with the help of waze navigation and arrived at around 9am.


How can one not try the Hainan Coffee. It was prepared by an elderly man. We had Kopi-C served in this old-school cup. Feeling so nostalgic. The coffee was rich and aromatic.


Not forgetting also the Hainan Toast with butter and kaya spread. Both drinks and toast from the same stall. Total was RM5.30.


Food and drinks were mend by different owner.


The 1 page menu were printed in purely Chinese. LOL!! 😀 😀


The kind boy whom took our food order read one by one to us.


Mom had Hainan Mee (RM6). Noodles were cooked al-dente and flavorful. You can spot some choy sum, sliced fishcake and pork.


I had Hainan Chicken Chop (RM12). It looks just like the traditional version of Hainan Chicken Chop, slab of fried deboned chicken thigh with generous brown sauce. Chicken was tender and sauce was not too salty or too watery. Nowadays, its rare to get nice Hainan Chicken Chop. At price of only RM12, I would say ‘what’s more to complain’?

(Based on recent update, September 2020:- Several friends commented that their Hainan Chicken Chop not nice. Inconsistent)


While eating, I also noticed quite many people ordered the Wat Tan Hor. Perhaps, I should try that in future and update it here.

(September 2020 Update:- The Wat Tan Hor and Hainan Chicken Rice was nice to eat)


Furthermore there is one Hainan Chicken Rice stall. Wanted to dapao after smelling the aromatic boiling rice. But was told the rice still not ready. 😦 😦


Honestly, I preferred such breakfast over some overpriced cafe breakfast. Typical Asian? Well, everyone has their own choice. 🙂


森美兰海南会馆

NEGERI SEMBILAN HAINAN ASSOCIATION


Address: No. 30-31,Jalan Datuk Abdul Malek,

70000 Seremban, Negeri Sembilan


Open daily (7.30am – 4.00pm) Closed on Mondays


*solely based on writer's own opinion*
*Cash term*

	

	
	




	
	

				

			Chinese, Coffee, Food, Non-Halal, Seremban, Yong Tau Foo
		

			
Breakfast @Wong Fook Kopitiam•旺福咖啡店, Seremban

		

			 			4 Comments
						

	


		

		
My late grandfather loves Butter Coffee very much. Instead of adding the traditional creamer or condensed milk into the cup of hot black coffee, he added a slice of butter. I can’t brain how good it was when I was just a teenage girl then.


Lately, I got to know about this new kopitiam in Seremban old town after my friend shared about his meal there. Apparently their signature coffee is ‘butter coffee’. Without much hesitation, I paid a visit there for breakfast together with my mom.


Located along the busy road of Jalan Dato Bandar Tunggal, opposite HSBC Bank.


From front till the back of premise, there were total around 20 tables. Quite ample of seats.




A one page menu showing list of food and beverages available here.


Signature Butter Coffee


A slice of butter was added to this cup of hot coffee. Stir the aromatic coffee when its hot and drink it while its still hot. The butter naturally gives a smooth finish and creamy mouthfeel to the coffee. This drink definitely reminds me of my late grandfather.


Apart from the coffee, I also tried the Ham Egg Toast. However I don’t quite like to overdone egg yolk. Perhaps I shall request for well done yolk. 😀


Whilst a stall here selling Yong Tau Foo, Chee Cheong Fun, Nasi Lemak and Fried Bihun.


Yong Tau Foo – RM1.50 per piece


Fishball – RM1.30 per piece


Chee Cheong Fun – RM1.00 per piece


I was eyeing on this plate of Nasi Lemak with Minced Pork for RM5. Instead of pairing with fried chicken, minced pork as condiment works well too. It is very rare to see such combination.


Besides the nasi lemak, the chee cheong fun with curry gravy was quite good. Chee Cheong Fun has smooth texture, while the curry gravy was tasty. We mixed sweet sauce and curry gravy, mom said its tastier and balanced flavor this way. Meanwhile, the yong tau fu filling has mixture of fish & pork paste.


Apart from the above, steamed pao and some traditional steamed dim sum are available here too. Dim Sum selections were quite limited.




Some instagramable spots at Wong Fook Kopitiam.


Instead of modern cafes, its nice to see an old shop turned into a vintage kopitiam, drawing people of all ages.


For your info, I parked my car along Jalan Dato Lee Fong Yee and walked over. (Distance around 100m)


 


Wong Fook Kopitiam•旺福咖啡店


 118, Jalan Dato Bandar Tunggal, Bandar Seremban, 70000 Seremban, Negeri Sembilan


Business Hour:-






Thursday
7:30am–3pm




Friday
7:30am–3pm




Saturday
8am–2pm




Sunday
8am–2pm




Monday
Closed




Tuesday
7:30am–3pm




Wednesday
7:30am–3pm






Phone: 011-2643 8831


 


*solely based on writer's own opinion*



*Cash term*



	

	
	




	
	

				

			Family, Food, MALAYSIA, Non-Halal, Noodle, Penang, Snack, Travel
		

			
8 Hours Tour in Penang with KLOOK

		

			 			4 Comments
						

	


		

		
If you are a local Malaysian, you can either drive or take a public transport to Penang.


But what if you are taking a public transport like bus or airplane to Penang? How are you going to move around the island?


You can either rent a car with or without a driver, a bus or uses the e-hailing service.


When I traveled with my family to Penang earlier this year, I decided to book a private chartered car by KLOOK. I booked an 8 hours tour, so that we can travel in a group without hassle. This private service has all the bases covered including fuel costs and highway tolls.


In this case, you can either plan your itinerary or get suggestions from the professional driver. The driver contacted me a day before the travel date to know about my travel plans. Therefore we could plan our journey smoothly.


 


Driver was very punctual with the given time. We planned to start our journey at 10am. Driver arrived at 9.45am with Toyota Hiace which could easily fit up to 10 person. Other than that, the vehicle was clean and comfortable.


1) Kek Lok Si Temple


We decided to go Kek Lok Si Temple as our first stop because it is located further away from Georgetown. Distance was about 10km but traveling time may take about 30minutes depending on the road traffic.




Kek Lok Si Temple is a Buddhist temple situated in Air Itam, Penang, Malaysia. It is the largest Buddhist temple in Malaysia.


Above is the landscape view of a 30m height pagoda tiers with combination of Burmese, Thai and Chinese architectural style.


Kek Lok Si Temple is divided into 3 zones. Ground, Mid Section and Hilltop where you can see the tall statue of God of Mercy, Kuan Yin.


Driver drove us directly to mid section.


The mid section of the temple comprised of temples, gardens, the pagoda and the four heavenly kings pavilion












I wished for Health and Happiness.


If you are tired or have difficulty in climbing the steps, you can use the Incline Lift to Hilltop, the statue of Kuan Yin.


Ticket price for Incline Lift – RM3 per way (Adult), RM1.50 per way (Children below age 12).


The inclined lift moves gradually uphill. We enjoyed the ride which could also admire the beautiful view.


Indeed very beautiful. The 99ft bronze Kuan Yin statue with octagonal pavilion supported by 16 columns. It is the tallest Guanyin statue in the world.








A pond filled with Koi fishes.


The garden at hilltop here is breathtaking and relaxing…………..


…………….but the weather was too scorching hot.


There were also statues and benches resembles the 12 Chinese Zodiac.


(traveling downhill via inclined lift)


Kek Lok Si has changed so much (in a positive way) compared to the last time we came here.


Kek Lok Si Temple ,


11500 Ayer Itam, Penang


Contact No.: 04-8283317


2) Ayer Itam Assam Laksa


After Kek Lok Si Temple, we stop over Ayer Itam for the famous Assam Laksa. Same spot, same stall, same owner over the decades. You will never skip Assam Laksa when you come to Penang.


Although the flavors may not be as good as those early days, but still a satisfying bowl of Assam Laksa.


Clikc HERE to read in detail about Ayer Itam Assam Laksa.


Ayer Itam Assam Laksa

Jalan Pasar, Paya Terubong,

11500 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia


Operating Hours: Daily, 10.30am – 7pm


3) Teddyville Museum Penang


From Ayer Itam, we moved on to Teddyville Museum which is located at Batu Feringgi.


Distance was about 16km from Ayer Itam (approx. 30 minutes drive)


The adorable teddy bear museum which showcases Penang’s famous tourist destinations, food culture, historical events and things about Penang


Read my full review about Teddyville Museum HERE 🙂


Address: 56, Jalan Low Yat, Puncak Ria, 11100 Batu Ferringhi, Pulau Pinang


Open Daily from 9am-6pm




4) Cecil Street Market 七条路巴刹


We wanted some authentic local Penang food. Hence the driver suggested this place.


I do understand that we had very little time in Penang. But this hawker centre has most of the local Penang food under one roof. Therefore it allows us to try varies dish. Furthermore this place is less tourist, affordable price and the food tasted good too.


Read from my earlier post HERE 🙂


Address: 40-48, Lebuh Cecil, George Town, 10300 George Town, Pulau Pinang


Open Daily from 7.30am – 7pm


 




5) Chew Jetty


“Clan Jetties form part of the Penang Heritage Trail. There used to be seven jetties until one was demolished by fire and now six remain. Billed as one of the last bastions of old Chinese settlements on the island, this waterfront society is home to houses on stilts of various Chinese clans. Located straight down from Lebuh Chulia (beside the Kapitan Kling Mosque) at Pengkalan Weld (Weld Quay), these water villages are over a century old. Each jetty is named after a Chinese clan – the Chew Jetty is the most tourist-friendly with the most stilt-houses.” (source from http://www.penang.ws/penang-attractions/clan-jetties.htm?cid=ch:OTH:001)






Along the wooden jetty, there are wooden houses on both left and right side. Small stalls are setup by house owners in front of their house.




Items sold here are mostly souvenirs, handmade crafts and little food.


There is this shop that sells Big Bowl Noodles. I’m quite interested to try, but all of us were still so full after makan at Cecil Street Market.






Spotted some interesting wall mural here.


The above mural themed ‘Folklore by the Sea’ painted based on the resident’s lifestyle during those days.


Walk towards the end, you will see the jetty. Boat ride service is available here.


It was quite interesting and a good experience. You could spend maybe around 1 hour here, stroll, take photos, and look see the environment here.


People suggested to come here during sunset for a beautiful view.


To read more information and history about Chew Jetty, click HERE.


 


Chew Jetty was our last destination before we ended our 8 hours tour. It was a fruitful day without having to rush.


Would you like to share where will you go in 8 hours?


 


 

	

	
	




	
	

				

			Chinese, Coffee, Family, Food, Ipoh, Non-Halal, Noodle
		

			
Makan Makan @Ipoh 2017

		

			 			13 Comments
						

	


		

		
End of last year I made a short trip to Ipoh for a short gateway.


People said Ipoh has many nice food. Although I spend a day at the theme park, but I try my best to cover as much as I could. In this post, I will share what I had, be it nice or not so nice. 🙂


As soon as I reached Ipoh at around 4pm, our first stop was Ipoh Hor Fun in town.


1) Restoran Thean Chun


DSC04597


Restoran Thean Chun is an old shop located at Ipoh Old Town.


DSC04592


It was crowded during weekend. May be because it is a well known place among tourists.


DSC04590


I noticed that most of the workers here are quite elderly. They are in charge of the drinks.


DSC04587


The one thing that everyone said must try, is the Caramel Egg Custard. I would say its very smooth and nice. But abit tad sweet if you are not into sweet stuffs.


DSC04588


Do not miss a chance to have Ipoh Coffee when you are in Ipoh. The iced coffee is rich.


DSC04595


We also ordered 2 bowls of Kai Si Hor Fun, Steamed Chicken and Ipoh Bean Sprout. Total price was about RM37.


DSC04593


Plate of plump and crunchy bean sprout.


DSC04596


A bowl of Kai Si Hor Fun (flat rice noodle with shredded chicken and prawn. The hor fun was smooth, prawn was fresh while the broth was quite flavorful but not that rich. I felt it was okay, but mom claimed it just average. Its all depends on individual’s palate.


The good thing about Thean Chun is that, it not only serves one food, but it has quite a variation. E.g: Curry noodle, Pork Satay, Popiah. Moreover opposite the restaurant is the tourist spot, The Concubine Lane.


Restoran Thean Chun




Address: 73, Jalan Bandar Timah, 31650 Ipoh, Negeri Perak


Operation Hours: (Open daily) 9.30am – 4pm, 


9.30am-12am(Sundays)








Phone: 05-255 3076








2) Tong Sui Kai




DSC04636


Just as the sky gets dark, this street became alive. With long stretch of food stalls on both ways. It is named Tong Sui Kai in cantonese. Literally translated as Dessert Street. Not only serving desserts but wide choice of hawker /street food. If your stomach has big space, then you got the chance to try more food.


DSC04637


We were there at about 7.30pm. Crowd start to build up later at 8pm onward.


DSC04638


Each stall has its own number. Same goes to the dining tables. Please remember your seating table number. You will need to inform the food seller for them to bring over your food.


DSC04639


Assorted Siew Mai & Fishball.


DSC04640


Braised Duck Feet. You can skip this. Because it wasn’t that nice. Meat was tough.


DSC04641


Char Kuey Teow was quite nice. But can’t remember which stall. As we seated, the Char Kuey Teow lady came over to approach us. LOL!


We ordered Kerang Rebus, Keropok with Rojak Sauce and Sotong Kangkung from stall No.28 which I felt quite nice. Then we ordered drinks and Longan tongsui from stall No.27. I didn’t order any shaved ice dessert because nobody wants to share with me 😦


Tong Sui Kai




Address: Jln Sultan Ekram, Taman Jubilee, 30300 Ipoh, Negeri Perak.


Operation Hours: 6pm – 2am (Open daily)










3) Nam Heong Ipoh Soho




Makan Makan Ipoh


Just before we depart to Lost World of Tambun, we decided to have our breakfast at Nam Heong Ipoh. We thought to give a try at Nam Heong Soho instead of Nam Heong at Ipoh old town.


IMG_20171127_092213


No doubt the place is cosy, air-conditioned and spacious.


DSC04654


DSC04651


Self ordering basis via iPad.


DSC04657


Drinks are not bad especially coffee.


DSC04666


Wantan Mee – RM9.90


DSC04665


Dry Curry Noodle – RM9.90


DSC04668


Wat Dan Hor – RM10.90




DSC04659


Egg on Toast – RM4.90. Egg on toast is a popular thing in Ipoh.


DSC04660


Egg Tarts (6pcs) – RM12.50


DSC04669


The food prices here are on the higher side. However I felt that the food are just average.


On recent news, Nam Heong Ipoh Soho has brought in 6 robot waitress to serve the diners here. It definitely draw more crowd over the curiosity.


Nam Heong Ipoh Soho




Address: Block B,2-15, Ipoh Soho, Shah,, Jalan Sultan Iskandar, 30000 Ipoh, Perak


Operating hours: 8am-6pm (Monday-Friday) 8am-10pm (Saturday & Sunday)






Phone: 05-246 0521












4) Ming Court Hong Kong Dim Sum




This dim sum restaurant is just a short walking distance from the hotel we stayed. We decided to give a try to Ming Court instead of the popular Foh San which is just opposite to each other. Both are equally crowded.


DSC04815


Ming Court dim sum is pretty ol-skool, from environment to dim sum. I got the feeling that I’m dining in Hong Kong with Cantonese speaking servers, sharing table and crowd.


DSC04814


Servers will fill the tray with dim sums and approach the diners from table to table. You can see the real item and pick your choice of dim sum. Be it deep fried, steam or dessert as well.


DSC04816


The dim sum prices aren’t expensive. Moreover the dim sum tasted good too.


Ming Court Hong Kong Dim Sum




Address: 36, Jalan Leong Sin Nam, Kampung Jawa, 30300 Ipoh, Negeri Perak


Operating hours: 6am – 12.30pm (Closed on Thursdays)






Phone: 05-255 7134














5) Dai Shu Geok (Big Tree Foot)


DSC04821


When you mentioned about Dai Shu Geok, many people would be referring to the Yong Tau Fu. It is actually a food court with Big Tree next to it.


DSC04818


Spotted the busy kitchen with constantly frying the stuffed items (vegetables/beancurd).


DSC04817


Everything looks so nice and tempting. Pick your own stuffed items then fill the basket which later pass to the person in charge either to take away(dapao) or dine there. You can also add on noodles on top of these yong tau fu.


DSC04819


It surprises me when the total bill came cheaper than I expected to be. If I’m not mistaken, the yong tau fu here is priced at RM0.80/piece. In Seremban, a piece of Yong Tau Fu could easily price at RM1 – RM1.30.


DSC04822


If you are having Yong Tau Fu here, do not forget to order their Assam Laksa too.. Which cost only RM3.50/bowl. The above photo was bowls of assam laksa with condiments before adding the broth. The broth was rich in flavors!


Dai Shu Geok (Big Tree Foot)




Address: Jalan King, Off Jalan Pasir Pinji, 31650, Ipoh, Perak, Malaysia, 31650 Ipoh


Operating hour: 8.30am – 5.30pm (Open daily)








Phone: 012-524 5408














6) Aun Kheng Lim Salted Chicken


DSC04823


Salted Chicken (Salt Baked Chicken) is a famous dish in Ipoh. At Aun Kheng Lim Salted Chicken, the salted chicken is readily packed so that it is convenient for buyer to bring it home or as a souvenir. In Ipoh, there are many many seller with different names. I have tasted several salted chicken, some were either too salty or the meat was tough. Aun Kheng Lim Salted Chicken is not too salty with hint of Chinese herbs and the chicken meat is tender too.


Price : RM21 (whole chicken)


Aun Kheng Lim Salted Chicken




Address: Ayam Garam Aun Kheng Lim, 24, Jalan Theatre, Taman Jubilee, 30300 Ipoh, Perak


Operating hours: 9am – 7pm (Open daily)






Phone: 05-254 2998














7) Guan Heong Biscuit Shop




IMG_20171128_124400




Before we leave Ipoh, we decided to drop by Guan Heong Biscuit Shop to purchase some local biscuits to bring it home as souvenir and sendiri makan.


“Guan Heong” is the FIRST BISCUIT SHOP in IPOH town with 100 years of heritage (since 1918) and is famous for its Meat Floss Biscuit, Hawaiian Biscuit and Salted Bean Biscuit.




IMG_20171128_124357


A small shop that is packed with varieties of biscuits.


I did blogged about their signature meat floss biscuit, sometime ago. You can read it HERE.


Guan Heong Biscuit Shop




Address: Jalan Sultan Iskandar, Taman Jubilee, 30000 Ipoh, Negeri Perak


Operating hours: 9am – 7pm (Monday-Saturday) 9am-6pm (Sundays)






Phone: 05-241 2399














8) Pun Chun Restaurant




People usually made a pit stop at Bidor before or after visiting Ipoh. Approximately an hour drive, to try the famous duck noodle here at Bidor. Hence this restaurant can be quite crowded during peak season. i.e: long holidays/long weekends.


At Pun Chun Restaurant, they not only serve Duck Noodle, but there are also wantan mee, chicken rice and local biscuits are available too.


IMG_20171128_164226


We ordered the soup version as well the dry version (kon lou). RM8 per serving.


IMG_20171128_164257


For dry version, it will serve with a plate of springy egg noodle in dark soy sauce plus a separate serving of piping hot bowl of herbal duck soup. If you want to have a good taste of the duck soup itself, please avoid ordering the soup version. It taste rather bland. Kinda sad too that the flavors wasn’t as good as I had it 6 years back.


Oh ya, the Iced Coffee is definitely worth ordering.


Pun Chun Restaurant




Address: 38-40, Jalan Besar, 35500 Bidor, Negeri Perak


Operating hours: 6am – 9pm (Open daily)






Phone: 05-434 1554














*solely based on writer's own opinion*






If you have your favorite makan place in Ipoh, why not share it with me and readers here. Thanking you in advanced. 🙂

	

	
	




	
	

				

			Food, Kids Meal, Non-Halal, The Gardens, Vietnamese
		

			
Lunch @An Viet, The Gardens Mall

		

			 			4 Comments
						

	


		

		
Ăn Viet, which literally means to “Eat Viet”, is a casual dining restaurant serving authentic Vietnamese food. 


Apparently the first outlet is at The Gardens Mall, Mid Valley City which opened on 11 November 2015. While the second outlet is at Sunway Pyramid which has a bigger dining area.


Mid Valley has been my favorite shopping mall, hence I visited their outlet here. I often see crowd when it comes to peak hour ; especially during lunch and dinner period. I tried to be earlier yet it was full house. I gave my name and number of guest to the staff, as I was told to come back in half an hour time. Making use of the waiting time, lets go for grocery shopping at Jaya Grocer which is just few doors away.




At An Viet, their motto is to Minimise Global Food Wastage and at the same time for each person who finishes his or her entire meal, Ăn Viet will set aside RM0.10 for Food Aid Foundation, a Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) that collects and distributes food to those in need.


I really like their move! Eat what you can. Eat for good cause.






Their food menu comprised of appetizer, rice and noodles. Quite a varieties too.




Vietnamese Drip Coffee with Condensed Milk (CÀ PHÊ SỮA) – RM8.90 (Cold)


If you like Vietnamese Coffee, you should give this a try. Its quite rich and aromatic.




Lemongrass & Ginger Drink (XẢ GỪNG) – RM7.90 (Hot)


This drink is available in jug as well as cold too. If you are not a lemongrass person, you may find this drink too strong of lemongrass. Otherwise its a healthy drink.




Grilled Rice Paper with Minced Pork (BÁNH TRÁNG NƯỚNG) – RM9.90




This is like a savory pancake with very thin and crispy crust. Filled with minced pork and it has a lil spiciness in it. It was grilled. Thus its not so oily.


 


For the main dish, it comes in ala-carte and sets.

We went along with set menu, which I thought its value for money. The set menu comes with rice/noodle + Vietnamese Fresh Spring Roll + Clam in Coconut Broth (for single serving)




Claypot Fish & Pork Belly with Caramel Sauce (CÁ KHO TỘ) – RM21.90/set


Gravy taste was nice, so does the pork belly. But I dislike the fish because it has plenty of bones.




Grilled Lemongrass Chicken (GÀ NƯỚNG XẢ ỚT) – RM19.90/set


The were 2 big slabs of chicken meat skewed in lemongrass and put to grill. The chicken meat was nicely grilled and well marinated.




I like both the side dishes that comes in the set menu.


Clam in Coconut Broth, tasted light and appetizing. Because of the sourish and spicy after taste.


 Vietnamese Fresh Spring Roll, filling is very fresh and crunchy wrapped with thin translucent rice paper.




I want this! (car) I want that! (aeroplane). Kids were thrilled when they saw the kids menu offered here.




AEROPLANE – Set comes with Chicken Wing, Fried Spring Roll, Fried Egg, Prawn cracker, Rice and a Vitagen drink.




SPORT CAR – Set comes with Pork Chop, Fried Spring Roll, Braised Egg, Prawn cracker, Rice and a Vitagen drink.




Actually I was quite pleased that they actually served kids set here. They served it in attractive way. The food portion is quite big for kid. Moreover the price is just RM14.80.




Most of the dishes here uses Fish sauce. If you love to cook and would like to get a bottle of this good quality Vietnam Fish sauce, you can purchase it here too. At price of ±RM25 (sorry, I’ve forgotten the exact price).


Verdict : Apart from the crowded and busy ambiance, I do feel that the food here is quite good. There were many other dishes that I wish to try out someday.


 


An Viet


LG203B, The Gardens Mall, Mid Valley City, Lingkaran Syed Putra, 59200 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur


Tel: 03-2201 1181


Operation Hours: 11am-10pm


Website : www.anviet.com.my


*solely based on writer's own opinion*

	

	
	




	
	

				

			Burger, Cafe, Cakes, Coffee, Dessert, Food, Fusion, Non-Halal, Pasta, Seremban, Western
		

			
Lunch @The Beast Cafe, Uptown Avenue Seremban 2

		

			 			4 Comments
						

	


		

		




One may overlooked this place. Tucked in between restaurants and offices, we locate The Beast Cafe at a popular makan spot at Uptown Avenue Seremban 2.


The Beast Cafe gives cafe hoppers another option to hangout with family and friends.




Printed menu with photos as reference, made it easier for viewing. The menu comprised of breakfast, salad, main dish, finger food, drinks and desserts.


Apparently, Iberico Pork is one of the specialty meat in this cafe.


The Iberian pig is a traditional breed of the domestic pig that is native to the Iberian Peninsula. The pigs are allowed to roam in pastures and oak groves, feasting on natural grass, herbs and lots of acorns. Acorns are rich in oleic acid, the same found in olive oil. Thus an Iberian pig is refer as “walking olive trees”.






The Beast Iberico Burger – RM34.90




Iberico pork meat, sandwiched in between fresh lettuce and soft burger buns is served with fries. The meat is non-ordinary pork that we get in the local market. For burger, they uses pork belly. The meat is then nicely grilled to a perfect timing otherwise it will be overcooked and rubbery. In my opinion the meat is smooth and juicy, consist of fine marble fat that literally melts after chewing in mouth.


Other than burger, Iberico pork is also prepared in rice, pasta and rissoto.






with Modern minimalist interior.








The Beast Cafe is a cosy and quiet place with soothing background music.




English Breakfast – RM17.90


Consist of Toast bread, Mix Salad (with sesame dressing), Sausage, Bacon, Scrambled Egg, Baked Beans. (Available daily from 12pm-4pm)






Aglio Olio with Prawn – RM17.90


Al-dente spaghetti is cooked with olive oil and mixture of homemade herbs. Garnished with fresh, plump prawns and Parmesan cheese. (Do request for more chili flakes if you like it spicier).




Hearty Cold Pressed Juice – RM11.90


(Carrot + Apple + Orange)


Cold-pressed juice refers to juice that uses a hydraulic press to extract juice from fruit and vegetables. It is popular among the youngsters. It is just a hype or healthier? Using a hydraulic press, will crush your ingredients in order to extract the greatest quantity of juice possible without compromising the nutrient quality. In this case, it is wholly made from fruit and vegetables, and are free from added sugars and preservatives.




Rose Latte – RM10.90


Freshly brewed cup of coffee made of Arabica Coffee Beans with hint of Rose flavor. I am not a coffee expert, but I am a coffee lover. This cuppa coffee was rich, smooth and aromatic. Nevertheless the rose flavor did not overpower the coffee taste.




Strawberry Smoothie – RM11.90




Fancy a glass of icy cold strawberry smoothie to quench your thirst? The Strawberry Smoothie here has the right ratio of strawberry and milk! Topped with a scoop of your choice of ice cream. Gives it a whole new flavor after the ice cream melts in the drink. Mine was topped with a scoop of mint ice cream. Hence I got a minty strawberry after taste.






Chocobanana Waffles – RM17.90


Stacks of Chocolate crispy waffles, slices of bananas, cranberries, drizzled with chocolate sauce and topped with a scoop of ice cream.




The Piggy Bank – RM19.90




I’m amazed with the cuteness of this dessert. Well, I assumed most of the girls and kids would fall for this. How much do you love your dessert. If there’s a chance, I would love to have a dessert after meal. Its just like there’s a sweet ending in life.




*lets break the piggy bank to get some content*


The pink coated outer shell is made of white chocolate.




It is filled with 61% Dark Chocolate Mousse, layered with Double Dutch Blackforest Cake and Pitted Dark Sweet Seneca Cherries. Not too sweet I felt. But if you are not a sweet tooth person, you may compliment it with the sliced fruits on dish. As strawberries and kiwis, they are more acidic, hence it balanced the sweetness.




Unlike some common desserts that we used to see, The Beast Cafe strive to serve some ‘up to trend’ desserts for the customers. Although The Beast Cafe serves Western cuisine, but in order to suit family diners with young and old, the thoughtful owner decided to make both Western and Fusion available on their menu.


 


The Beast Cafe


No 293 Jalan S2B13, Uptown Avenue


70300 Seremban, Negeri Sembilan




Contact Number : 017-278 9122


Operation Hours:


Sun-Thu: 12.00pm-10.00pm 


Fri-Sat: 12.00pm-11.00pm 


Closed on Tuesdays







*solely based on writer's own opinion*
*nett price. NO service charge*
*non-halal*




	

	
	




	
	

				

			Chinese, Dim Sum, Family, Food, Genting Highland, Non-Halal
		

			
Wanhoi YAMCH’A @Sky Avenue, Genting

		

			 			3 Comments
						

	


		

		
With the newly opened Sky Avenue at Genting, you’ll be surprised with the food varieties. One should not worry about feeling hungry. Instead you will be spoilt with choice. Price from moderate to expensive, from Asian to Western food.




On my recent visit to Genting, I settled my lunch at Wanhoi YAMCH’A. I google about this place and discovered something cute and fancy here. 🙂


 


Wanhoi YAMCH’A is a restaurant inspired by the renowned Oversea Group. Serving Malaysian Cantonese cuisine.


Besides that, dim sum is also available at Wanhoi YAMCH’A.






The interior is quite classy yet modern.




Part of the menu to show you the prices.




Crispy Pork in Sweet & Sour Sauce (RM38.80). It tasted like ‘Ku Lou Yuk’, but this has a crispy texture because the pork is thinly sliced then deep fried. Next, its coated with caramelized sweet and sour sauce. Its quite an additive and appetizing dish.




Stir Fried Kangkung Special Sauce (RM28.80) was a mouth watering dish. It may looks simple, but the flavors were good. With the hint of spiciness from the cili padi (bird-eye chili), and shrimp paste to enhance the flavors of this dish.




BBQ Pork Belly (28.80), was alright. Not the best I’ve eaten.


The above dishes were eaten with white rice (RM3.50/bowl)


 


We wanted more. Hence we would also love to try their dim sum which claimed to made fresh.




Steamed Pork Ribs (RM11.80)




Siew Mai (RM12.80) . The siew mai however was just average, not memorable.






BBQ Pork Bun in Zhu Zai Shape (RM14.80). Consist of 2 adorable piggy steamed buns served hot in basket.




Pao dough has good consistency while the BBQ Pork filling was tasty. Glad that the pao dough wasn’t too thick.




Custard Pau (RM14.80)




“Wuek…I spit custard..” 😀 😀 Isn’t this pau looking cute? It is a steamed bun which is served hot. This yellow looking creature (pau) is filled with runny salted egg custard which literally ooze out once you take a bite. Very nice I felt.




A lovely pair of bird in a cage!! Salted Egg Yolk Lotus Paste Filling (RM15.80)




This dish really caught my attention.




The pastry is a buttery kind like what we had for Shanghai Mooncake. Its filled with smooth lotus paste.


Verdict : Food prices are on high side, food portion also quite small. But luckily the overall food taste was acceptable and quite satisfying.


 


Wanhoi YAMCH’A (near PictureHouse Cinema)


Level T2, Sky Avenue,, Genting Highlands, 69000 Genting Highlands, Pahang, Malaysia


Operation Hours: 11am – 10pm


Contact Number: +60 3-2144 9911


*solely based on writer's own opinion*
*imposed 10% service charge*
*Genting member entitled to 10% discount*