CRIZ BON APPETITE

For those meat lovers out there, E&O Hotel (Eastern & Oriental Hotel) has always been the place for great Eat-All-You-Can Sunday Roast. Initially set up at the heritage wing, it’s now located at the Planters Lounge, Level 6, Victory Annexe. At the moment, it’s set at a promotional price of RM75.40nett per pax (RM88nett per pax from 1 May 2019 onward) from 12.00noon until 3.00pm on every Sundays. It’s a nice relocation as now you could dine comfortably within the lounge or at the al fresco area while enjoying the panoramic scenery of the coastline. Prior reservation is encouraged as it could be rather packed to avoid any disappointment.

There are 3 options to your meat choices such as Roasted Beef, Roasted Stuffed (sage & onions) Chicken Breast and Slow-Cooked Lamb Shoulder, served with Yorkshire Puddings, Goose Fat Roasted Potatoes, Mushy Peas, various gravy and condiments.

If these are not enough, you would also have a salad corner with a variety of mixed greens plus various dressings. There would also be the Soup of the Day served with fresh bakes from their reputable in-house bakery.

Desserts could be rather simple as there would be some fruit cuts as well as the Dessert of the Day such as Spiced Bread & Butter Pudding, served with Vanilla Custard Sauce, which would be a great way to end a meaty meal.

Eastern & Oriental Hotel, Penang (next to Penang Bowl) is located along Lebuh Farquhar. If you are coming from Jalan Sultan Ahmad Shah towards Weld Quay, keep to your left immediately after passing by CitiBank. When you see the Penang Bowl building on your left (UMW Toyota opposite), please slow down. Turn left immediately after the Penang Bowl entrance. The E&O Hotel car park is situated just inside the Victory Annexe building. Parking charges would be a maximum of RM6 (weekdays: Monday-Thursday) and RM12 (weekends: Friday- Sunday). You would need to go down to the lobby and take another elevator to the sixth floor of the building.

Name: PLANTERS LOUNGE @ EASTERN & ORIENTAL HOTEL
Address: Level 6, Victory Annexe, 10 Lebuh Farquhar, 10200 Penang, Malaysia.
Contact: 604-222 2000
GPS: 5.423354, 100.336294

RATING:
Ambience: 8/10 (1-4 cheap, 5-7 average, 8-10 classy)
Food Choices: 7/10 (1-4 limited, 5-7 average, 8-10 many choices)
Taste: 8/10 (1-4 tasteless, 5-7 average, 8-10 excellent)
Pricing: 8/10 (1-4 cheap, 5-7 average, 8-10 expensive)
Service: 8/10 (1-4 bad, 5-7 average, 8-10 excellent)

Let’s start the coming Chinese New Year in welcoming the Year of the Boar by having some great spreads with family and friends. This year, Swez Brasserie at Eastin Hotel, Penang, would be offering various dinner packages for your reunions. For more information and reservations, please contact Eastin Hotel Penang at 04-612 1111 or email info.pg@eastin.com

Here are the promotions available:

Family Reunion Buffet Dinner
Date: 4 February 2019 | 7.00pm – 10.00pm
Price: RM138nett for adult

Chinese New Year Buffet Lunch
Date: 5 & 6 February 2019 | 12.00noon – 2.30pm
Price: RM98nett for adult

Chinese New Year Buffet Dinner
Date: 5 & 6 February 2019 | 7.00pm – 10.00pm
Price: RM118nett for adult

Senior citizens get a 25% discount each and children get a 50% discount per child (6 to 11 years old). An early bird promotion of dine 6 pay 5 applies for full paying adults only and this offer is valid with full payment before 25 January 2019.

The program for the coming Reunion Dinner includes a mask changing show, warrior drums, and clown appearance for the kids. Our hotel’s Lion Dance Performance will be held at the lobby area on 11 February 2019 (Monday) at 9.30am.

You could also purchase their various concoction of Yee Sang as takeaways from 22 January 2019 until 19 February 2019.

Let’s take a look at some of the items available during the coming Chinese New Year Reunion Buffet Dinner 2019 on the eve, 4 February 2019. Of course the main attractions would be their Signature Fortune Yee Sang at the Huat Ah Giant Yee Sang Table, Poon Choi, Yook Poon and other delectable dishes such as the Salad Bar and Chilled Table (Assorted Lettuce with Condiments, Choices of Dressing and Condiments, Honey Dew with Sausage Salad, Thai Spicy Grilled Chicken Salad, Baby Octopus Salad, Thai Young Papaya Salad, Homemade Seafood Terrine, Smoked Salmon Platter, Assorted Sushi with Condiments, Assorted Sashimi with Condiments, Assorted Pickles and Kimchi), Soup (Cream of Asparagus Soup With Croutons, Double Boiled Chicken Broth with Red Dates and Herbs), Hot Dishes (Steamed White Rice, Lotus Leaf Fried Rice with Smoked Turkey & Dried Shrimp, Teochew Mee Teow, Green Mussels with Hot Bean Sauce, Steamed Broccoli with Fatt Choy & Dried Oysters, Sautéed Prawn Meat, Pacific Clam and Cashew Nuts, Fried Chicken with Tonkatsu Sauce, Baked Salmon Fillet with Garlic Herbs Butter, Baked Lamb Chop Provençale, Braised Herbal Duck, Steamed Seabass Fillet “Teochew Style”), Seafood on Ice (Cold Tiger Prawns, Scallops, N.Z Half Shell Mussels, Half Shell Oysters with Condiments, and Cold Snow Crab Legs to be served on platter on each table by their service staff), Action Counter (Roasted Leg of Lamb with Condiments and Black Pepper Sauce and Mint Gravy,Homemade Salmon Gravlax with Condiment) and Desserts (Assorted Fruit Platter, Chocolate Walnut Cheese Cake, French Pastries, Local Kuih, Sesame Balls, Assorted Chinese New Year Cookies, Glutinous Rice Balls, Tao Fu Fa with Brown Sugar, Almond Beancurd & Longans, Chocolate Bread and Butter Pudding, Sliced Moist Chocolate Cake, Tiramisu in Cup, Assorted Macaroons, Cold Lin Chee Kang, 3 Types of Ice Cream and Condiments)

Here’s a glimpse at all the delicious items for the night:

You can also check out the other promotions available below:

Thank you to the management of Eastin Hotel Penang for the preview. I would like to take this opportunity to wish everyone a Happy & Prosperous Chinese New Year!

The Swez Brasserie is located at the ring wing of Eastin Hotel, Penang (next to Queensbay Mall). If you are coming from Georgetown towards Bayan Lepas Free Trade Zone via Bayan Lepas Expressway, do watch out for the Pulau Jerejak signboard (leading to Pulau Jerejak jetty). Ignore the turning and drive on to the next left junction. Turn left into Jalan Aziz Ibrahim and drive on until you a roundabout. Turn 3 o’clock and drive on until you see a big Eastin Hotel signboard at the first right junction. Turn right and drive on. Park your car at the basement car park. Take a lift to the first floor lobby and you would see the restaurant there.

Name: SWEZ BRASSERIE @ EASTIN HOTEL
Address: 1 Solok Bayan Indah, Queens Bay, 11900 Bayan Lepas, Penang, Malaysia.
Contact: 604-612 1128
Business Hours: 12.00pm-2.30pm (Lunch), 6.30pm-10.00pm (Dinner)
GPS: 5.33643, 100.306345

RATING:
Ambience: 8/10 (1-4 cheap, 5-7 average, 8-10 classy)
Food Choices: 8/10 (1-4 limited, 5-7 average, 8-10 many choices)
Taste: 8/10 (1-4 tasteless, 5-7 average, 8-10 excellent)
Pricing: 8/10 (1-4 cheap, 5-7 average, 8-10 expensive)
Service: 8/10 (1-4 bad, 5-7 average, 8-10 excellent)

About Eastin Hotel Penang: Eastin Hotel Penang is a contemporary International business class hotel. Strategically located within the integrated waterfront development of Queensbay, Eastin Penang is adjacent to Queensbay Mall. Its superb location is minutes’ drive away from the Penang International Airport and the iconic Penang Bridges as well as in the vicinity of the Bayan Lepas Free Industrial Zone. It features 328 meticulously decorated guest rooms and suites, facing the shimmering blue sea and the verdant green hills of Pulau Jerejak, home to tropical rainforest that is over 130 million years old. For more information, please visit www.eastin.com

What’s the best way to usher in the Year of the Female Brown Earth Pig during this coming Chinese New Year 2019? It would be to feast with family members and friends at reunion dinners with great ambiance and great food! This year, Straits Café & Lounge @ Ixora Hotel, Bandar Perai Jaya, Penang, would be promoting a few great deals for all to celebrate the auspicious season. You could call in +604-382 8888 to make your reservations or log in the hassle-free online site to pay in advance and enjoy some discounts.

To start off, they have two packages for the Chinese New Year 2019 – Celebration Prosperous Chinese Course Sets (for both lunch & dinner), namely RM988+ for 8-Course and RM828+ for 6-Course. They also do have the Alcoholic Special Promotion, where you could Buy half dozen (6 bottles) and above of HOUSE WINE and get 20% off of NORMAL PRICE, Buy 2 CARLBERG BARRELS and get the 3rd BARREL on HALF PRICE or Buy 2 glasses free 1 glass of Carlsberg draught beer (320ml per glass), applicable at The Straits Cafe only.

Here are some of the dishes available for both courses such as CHEF SPECIAL 5 COMBINATIONS (from 8-Course) which consisted of Mushroom Roll with Fatt Choy Sauce, Fragrant Crunchy Fish Finger, Stir-Fried Pacific Clam with XO Sauce, Breaded Golden Shrimp and Sesame Coral Flower Jellyfish, SEAFOOD TREASURE CHOWDER WITH ABALONE SLICE & FISH LIP (鲍你好势又发财 – from 6-Course), DEEP-FRIED BONELESS CHICKEN BBQ SAUCE (鸿运香脆鸡 – from 6-Course), DEEP-FRIED FIVE SPICE GARLIC PRAWNS SAUCE (嘉官皆进爵 – from 8-Course), STEAMED RED SNAPPER WITH AROMATIC THAI APPLE SAUCE 财运丰收庆有余 – from 6-Course), STEAMED LOTUS LEAF FRIED WITH DRIED & BLACK MUSHROOM (百子千孙齐丰收 – from 8-Course), and more.

You could also enjoy their Chinese New Year Eve Reunion Buffet Dinner (4 February 2019) from 7.00pm to 10.00pm at The Straits Cafe and Lounge. Priced at RM98+ (Adult) and RM68+ (Child aged 4-12), there’s the offer of 15% off for early bird with FULL PAYMENT before 31st January 2019 for the total payment.

Here are some of the buffet items you would get during the promotion. Some of the items are APPETIZER (Tuna & Pasta Salad, Kerabu Chicken Feet With Mango), COLD CUT PLATTER (Smoked Duck Platter), MAIN COURSE (Fried Noodles with Seafood, Stir Fried Green Shell Mussel with Turmeric Sauce, Broccoli & Cauliflower with Pacific Clam, Chinese Herbal Chicken), DESSERTS (Chocolate Tart, Gui Ling Gao Jelly in Bowl, Baked Egg Tartlet, Red Velvet cake), and more.

You could also check out their Prosperous Chinese New Year Yee Sang Galore (Dine-in & Takeaways), which would be available from 20 January 2019 (Sunday) until 19 February 2019 (Tuesday), from 12.00pm to 10.00pm. Two sizes is available at RM108+ (Large: 8-10 pax) or RM88+ (Medium: 3-6 pax). A minimum deposit of RM50nett is required with 3 days advance order.

Getting to the Straits Café & Lounge @ Ixora Hotel won’t be hard as it’s just located next to the Megamall Shopping Complex at Bandar Perai Jaya. If you are coming from the island via the 1st Penang Bridge, just look out for the second exit on your left upon reaching the mainland. Drive all the way via Jalan Baru until you reach the 1st traffic lights. Turn left into Jalan Perai Jaya 1 and you can see Ixora Hotel at the junction of Jalan Baru/Jalan Perai Jaya 1. Drive straight for about 10m and you can see the basement car park on your left. Park your car and go up Level 1 and you can see the café & lounge there.

Name: STRAITS CAFÉ & LOUNGE @ IXORA HOTEL
Address: Jalan Baru, Bandar Perai Jaya, 13600 Perai, Penang, Malaysia.
Contact: 604-382 8888
Business Hours: 6.00am-10.00am (breakfast), 12.00pm-2.30pm (Lunch), 6.00pm-10.00pm (Dinner)
GPS: 5.378357, 100.398322

RATING:
Ambience: 8/10 (1-4 cheap, 5-7 average, 8-10 classy)
Food Choices: 8/10 (1-4 limited, 5-7 average, 8-10 many choices)
Taste: 8.5/10 (1-4 tasteless, 5-7 average, 8-10 excellent)
Pricing: 8/10 (1-4 cheap, 5-7 average, 8-10 expensive)
Service: 8/10 (1-4 bad, 5-7 average, 8-10 excellent)

With the multi-ethnic makeup of its population, Malaysia had inherited a melting pot of culture and cuisine that has preserved its own unique flavors until today. To pamper diners with such cuisine, especially the tastes of yesteryears, Swez Brasserie @ Eastin Hotel, Penang would be storming up an array of delicious dishes from various states, to impress your taste buds during the current “Flavours of Malaysia” Sunday Buffet Lunch from 12.00 noon until 2.30pm, from now until 24 June 2018. Priced at RM68nett for adults, RM48nett for Senior Citizens and 50% off for children, you are assured of tantalizing dishes to satisfy your appetite. For more information and reservations, contact Eastin Hotel Penang at +604-612 1111 or you can also email at info.pg@eastin.com / log in to the website www.eastin.com. All the prices above are not applicable with any other discounts including credit card discounts.

We could resist traditionally cooked Malaysian cuisine which had been pepped up with loads of fresh herbs and spices, especially on relaxing Sundays? Just go casual and head to Swez Brasserie @ Eastin Hotel, Penang, to enjoy your hassle-free buffet lunch with great tasting dishes such as Daging Percik Berempah, Ikan Masak Tempoyak, Sotong Sumbat Ketupat Masak Sambal, Chili Prawns, Otak-Otak, Lontong, Kam Heong Chicken, Terung Masak Sambal Belacan, Lala Masak Padrik and many more. Don’t forget to try out their signature dish of Fish Curry with Ladies Fingers.

You would also get to try out some of the famous Penang street food at their Action Counters such as Mee Goreng Sotong, Curry Mee, Sotong Kangkong, Curry Laksa, Char Hor Fun, Nasi Dagang, Bebola Ikan Goreng, Popiah Basah, Ikan Pari Bakar Sambal Tumis, Fried Seafood Wantan Noodles, Cucur Bawang, Ikan Bilis with Thai Chilli Sauce and more.

Nothing beats the inner satisfaction of finishing off the meal with sweet temptations of Malaysian favorites sweet “bubur”, local delicacies aka kuih-muih, cakes & pastries, fresh fruits and more, over a hot cup of Teh Tarik.

Overall, I quite like the buffet spread as they were simple and yet delicious, with many items brought back the good old flavors of yesteryears. Bon Appetit!

The Swez Brasserie is located at the ring wing of Eastin Hotel, Penang (next to Queensbay Mall). If you are coming from Georgetown towards Bayan Lepas Free Trade Zone via Bayan Lepas Expressway, do watch out for the Pulau Jerejak signboard (leading to Pulau Jerejak jetty). Ignore the turning and drive on to the next left junction. Turn left into Jalan Aziz Ibrahim and drive on until you a roundabout. Turn 3 o’clock and drive on until you see a big Eastin Hotel signboard at the first right junction. Turn right and drive on. Park your car at the basement car park. Take a lift to the first floor lobby and you would see the restaurant there.

Name: SWEZ BRASSERIE @ EASTIN HOTEL
Address: 1 Solok Bayan Indah, Queens Bay, 11900 Bayan Lepas, Penang, Malaysia.
Contact: 604-612 1128
Business Hours: 12.00pm-2.30pm (Lunch), 6.30pm-10.00pm (Dinner)
GPS: 5.33643, 100.306345

RATING:
Ambience: 8/10 (1-4 cheap, 5-7 average, 8-10 classy)
Food Choices: 8/10 (1-4 limited, 5-7 average, 8-10 many choices)
Taste: 7/10 (1-4 tasteless, 5-7 average, 8-10 excellent)
Pricing: 7/10 (1-4 cheap, 5-7 average, 8-10 expensive)
Service: 8/10 (1-4 bad, 5-7 average, 8-10 excellent)

About Eastin Hotel Penang: Eastin Hotel Penang is a contemporary International business class hotel. Strategically located within the integrated waterfront development of Queensbay, Eastin Penang is adjacent to Queensbay Mall. Its superb location is minutes’ drive away from the Penang International Airport and the iconic Penang Bridge as well as in the vicinity of the Bayan Lepas Free Industrial Zone. It features 328 meticulously decorated guest rooms and suites, facing the shimmering blue sea and the verdant green hills of Pulau Jerejak, home to the tropical rainforest that is over 130 million years old. For more information, please visit www.eastin.com

Note: Effective 1 May 2017, Royale Bintang Penang will be renamed as Royale Chulan Penang

Fridays are the days to look forward to each month as The Royale Bintang Penang has been serving great spreads of BBQ items for quite many years – Friday Night Poolside BBQ Buffet. Priced at RM88.00nett (Adult) and RM44.00nett (Child: 6-12 years old/Senior Citizen: 60 years old and above), diners can enjoy the cool breeze of the night by dining next to the hotel’s swimming pool. The spread can be quite extensive, starting from boutique salad, salad bar, soup, hot dishes, long live stations, meat to order bar, DIY hawker dish to a wide selection of desserts and fruit cuts at their Sweet Seventeen station. Don’t forget to enjoy your free-flow of coffee or tea after your hefty meal too.

To start off your meal, do check out the salad and soup station for some sumptuous local and international fare. What caught my attention was the Sup Tulang Rawan Kambing which was pepped with fragrantly selected herbs and spices. It was indeed something delicious to boost up the appetite for more feasts to come. Moreover, it was great to find some local street dish such as the Sotong Kangkung and Thai-style salads such as the Seafood Glass Noodles Salad as well as Mango & Papaya Salad amongst the spreads.

As for the Hot Dishes Station, you have some fried rice and noodles but what interests me was the Baked Pumpkin Wedges which I rarely see at most BBQ buffet. The Jacket Potatoes with Chives Sour Cream was also one great side dishes to go with the BBQ items.

The BBQ and street food adventure would begin at the Long Live Stations and Meat To Order Bar where the aroma along from the wonderful grills would send your saliva dripping furiously. The tender and juiciness from the Royale Spiced Roasted Whole Lamb and flavorful Grilled Minute Steaks are some of the items to look out for. Don’t missed out the Samurai Burger too as the patties were in-house made with perfection.

There’s always some part of the stomach left for some desserts. Do check out the Dessert Station with a mixed of local delicacies to some international cakes and puddings. I quite like the Pengat Pisang Sago which was pepped up with the fragrantly acclaimed Gula Melaka.

You can check out the full spreads available on each Friday night as per menu below. Do click for a better viewing.

Overall, I’m quite satisfied with the spreads for the Friday Night Poolside BBQ Buffet, especially those red meat choices where the meat had that smoky flavors on top of the nice marinates. The best part would be midway into the buffet where the staff would bring out the “surprise” – slipper lobsters. Those mini lobsters are to die for as they were indeed super delicious to resist.

Do also check out their flyers for more promotions.

• Tanjung Set Lunch available every Monday to Saturday (12.00pm-2.30pm)
• Friday Night Poolside BBQ (7.00pm- to 10.00pm)
• Saturday Night Hawker’s Fare (7.00pm-10.00pm at the Sri Tanjung Café)
• Sunday High Tea (12.30pm-4.00pm at the Sri Tanjung Café)

For those who love their tea, the hotel also offers an exclusive Special Luxury Afternoon Tea Package which serves the finest luxury tea brand in the world, TWG Tea, as well as deluxe tea sandwiches, baked warm scones and a selection of cakes. It is available at the Tea Room at only RM60.00nett per person.

Penang is known as the food haven of Malaysia and the Royale Bintang Penang also prides itself on the food served that leaves its guests coming back for more. To encourage the guests to come back regularly for the food, The Royale Bintang Penang also launched the “I Love To Makan” monthly Facebook photo contest last year. Guests who dine at any of the food outlets will need to just take a photo of them dining and post it on the hotel’s official Facebook page. The picture with the most number of likes will win attractive prizes from the hotel.

“Penang is one of the most dynamic destinations for business and leisure travel. With the hotel’s unique historical and architectural buildings steeped in British Colonial style, it blends together the modern and multi ethnic heritage of the people who call Penang “home”. It’s been an amazing 3 years and we hope to continue providing luxurious comfort and full amenities for the leisure travellers as well as the perfect setting for celebrations, business meetings and corporate events.” said Philip D. Theseira, General Manager of The Royale Bintang Penang.

As you enter the lobby of the hotel, just walk to the elevator and go to Level 2 of the heritage building. You can see the poolside BBQ there.

THE ROYALE BINTANG PENANG
Address: 1&2, Pengkalan Weld (Weld Quay), 10300 Georgetown, Penang, Malaysia.
Contact: +604-259 8888
Business Hours: 7.00pm-10.00pm (Friday only)
GPS: 5.416838, 100.343898

RATING:
Ambience: 7/10 (1-4 cheap, 5-7 average, 8-10 classy)
Food Choices: 8/10 (1-4 limited, 5-7 average, 8-10 many choices)
Taste: 7/10 (1-4 tasteless, 5-7 average, 8-10 excellent)
Pricing: 7/10 (1-4 cheap, 5-7 average, 8-10 expensive)
Service: 8/10 (1-4 bad, 5-7 average, 8-10 excellent)

ABOUT THE ROYALE CHULAN & BINTANG HOTELS & RESORTS: The Royale Chulan & Bintang Hotels & Resorts (managed by Boustead Hotels & Resorts Sdn Bhd registration number 147089-A) has secured a strong footing in the local hospitality industry, beginning its venture with the launch of the flagship property The Royale Bintang Kuala Lumpur. Since then, the company has strengthened its portfolio to build and grow further in the brand of True Malaysian Hospitality with the addition of six other hotels, namely the 5-star properties The Royale Chulan Kuala Lumpur and The Royale Chulan Damansara. Therefore, as of year 2017, with the recent opening of the Royale Chulan Hyde Park in London last year, there are now eight Royale Bintang branded hotels with the new Royale Chulan Cherating Pahang pending operations by mid-year 2017. The Royale Chulan & Bintang Hotels & Resorts is a Malaysian chain of full-service hotels, founded and owned by Boustead Hotels & Resorts Sdn Bhd – a subsidiary of the diversified public listed conglomerate Boustead Holdings Berhad. The company places marketing emphasis on business travel, but operates one leisure-oriented resort as well. The Royale Chulan & Bintang Hotels & Resorts strive to become a stylish and forward thinking leader of hospitality. From gala events to banquets to business meetings to romantic days to remember, the group strongly holds to its tagline – We Are Where You Want Us To Be.

Ever since my encounter in dining at Starz Diner @ Hard Rock Hotel Penang during Chinese New Year last year, I’ve since felt in love with the culinary skills as well as the uniqueness in flavors that the hotel’s Chinese Sous Chef, Chef Yoong Toy Heng @ Chef Heng and his team had pepped up wondrous spread for the festive season. Do check out their Chinese New Year 2017 Rockin’ Reunion Buffet Dinner (27 January 2017), priced at RM138nett (Adult) and RM69nett (children 6-12 years old) as well as their Rock of Prosperity Seafood Buffet Dinner (28 January 2017), priced at RM128nett (Adult) and RM64nett (children 6-12 years old), at Starz Diner @ Hard Rock Hotel Penang from 6.30pm until 10.30pm this festive season. Please call +604-886 8057 or email fb.penang@hardrockhotels.net to book earlier to avoid disappointment.

This buffet this year would offer a variety of mouth watering spreads starting from the must-have Yee Sang to traditional desserts and cookies. Here are some of the dishes that you might have during the buffet sessions. From Cold Platter, you might have Marinated Octopus Salad, Jelly Fish Papaya Salad, Chicken Roll with Thai Mango Salad, Pomelo & Mandarin and Shrimp Salad, Yee Sang Platter and more. You should try out the Braised Sliced Chicken and Seafood Treasure Soup as the stock was indeed so rich and nourishing that I had more bowls than I had anticipated.

For the Main Course of Hot Dishes, you might get to savor their Steamed Glutinous Rice with Dried Oyster & Roasted Mix Meat (Reunion), Crispy Chicken with Prawn Cake and Marmite Chicken (Reunion), Braised Whole Duck with Eight Treasure Style (Day 1), Steamed Fish with “Pat Tong” Style (Day 1), Deep Fried King Prawn with Spicy BBQ Sauce (Reunion), Wok Fried Brown Crab with “Kam Hiong” Sauce (Reunion), Braised Seafood Treasure in Pumpkin and Garden Green (Reunion). Their braised duck has always been my favorite, considering that it had all the ingredients of my liking. The Braised Seafood Treasure in Pumpkin and Garden Green indeed was an eye-opening dish as I’ve yet to see any chef produced such an interesting and flavorful dish before. The combination of the natural sweetness from the added pumpkin puree combined with the rich seafood flavors from the added fresh scallops, dried oysters, sea cucumber, Chinese mushrooms and greens, made up the umani taste of this heavenly dish.

As for desserts, you could expect to have Soya Bean Milk with Glutinous Ball, Leng Chee Kang, Glutinous Rice Cake, Chinese Cookies and more.

Overall, both their Chinese New Year buffet spreads had the quality and value worth that no other hotels had ever produced. Moreover, the taste I savor each year had always excelled beyond my expectations. It’s another job well done by the kitchen team.

The Starz Diner is located at the left wing of Hard Rock Hotel Penang. Upon entering, just head to the left side and you will see a little glass door leading to the eatery.

Name: STARZ DINER @ HARD ROCK HOTEL PENANG
Address: Batu Ferringhi Beach, 11100 Penang, Malaysia.
Contact: 604-881 1711
Business Hours: 6.30am-11.00am, 5.30pm-11.00pm
GPS: 5.467568, 100.241382

RATING:
Ambience: 8/10 (1-4 cheap, 5-7 average, 8-10 classy)
Food Choices: 8/10 (1-4 limited, 5-7 average, 8-10 many choices)
Taste: 8.5/10 (1-4 tasteless, 5-7 average, 8-10 excellent)
Pricing: 7/10 (1-4 cheap, 5-7 average, 8-10 expensive)
Service: 8/10 (1-4 bad, 5-7 average, 8-10 excellent)

RESERVATIONS:

Starz Diner/Pizzeria: Call +604-886 6057 or email fb.penang@hardrockhotels.net.
Hard Rock Café Penang: Call +604-886 8050 or email hrc.admin@hardrockhotels.net.
More information: Hard Rock Hotel Penang’s F&B Promotions

Hard Rock International: With a total of 204 venues in 64 countries, including 157 cafes, 22 hotels and 11 casinos, Hard Rock International (HRI) is one of the most globally recognized companies. Beginning with an Eric Clapton guitar, Hard Rock owns the world’s greatest collection of music memorabilia, which is displayed at its locations around the globe. Hard Rock is also known for its collectible fashion and music-related merchandise, Hard Rock Live performance venues and an award-winning website. HRI owns the global trademark for all Hard Rock brands. The company owns, operates and franchises Cafes in iconic cities including London, New York, San Francisco, Sydney and Dubai. HRI also owns, licenses and/or manages hotel/casino properties worldwide. Destinations include the company’s two most successful Hotel and Casino properties in Tampa and Hollywood, Fl., both owned and operated by HRI parent company The Seminole Tribe of Florida, as well as other exciting locations including Bali, Chicago, Cancun, Ibiza, Las Vegas, Macau and San Diego. Upcoming new Hard Rock Cafe locations include San Juan, Lagos and Gran Canaria, Spain. New Hard Rock Hotel projects include Daytona Beach, Dubai, Los Cabos, Tenerife, Abu Dhabi, and Shenzhen and Haikou in China. For more information on Hard Rock International, visit www.hardrock.com.

From breakfast, lunch, dinner until supper, Wembley Café at The Wembley Hotel Penang would surely impress any diner with their sumptuous buffet spreads. Wembley Cafe provides accessible and affordable high quality food and service to everyone. Recently, I tried out their Thursday Japanese & Western themed buffet and was blown away by the amount of Japanese inspired dishes rather than being served with just sushi and sashimi. The buffet which would be served from 7.00pm until 10.00pm is priced at RM95nett (adult), RM48nett (child) and RM67nett (senior citizen).

Let’s take a look at the buffet spreads. From the Salad & Appetizer Sections, you would find the “Make Your Own Salad” with a selection of greens such as Beet Root, Carrot, Cherry Tomato, Capsicum, Zucchini, Cucumber, Corn Kernel and Mix Leaves accompanied by Dressings & Condiments (Thousand Island, Lemon Herb Vinaigrette, Italian dressing, Caesar Dressing, Turkey strips, Grated Parmesan, Olives, Crouton, Pumpkin Seed, Sunflower Seeds & Fruit Pickles), Japanese Potato Salad (Potato, Carrot, Red Onion, Mayonnaise, Mustard, Boiled Egg & Spring Onion), Crabstick Salad (Japanese Cucumber, Salt, Kani & Mayonnaise), Chuka Idako, Chuka Kurage, Vegetable Anti Pasto (Roasted Abalone Mushrooms, Roasted Bell Peppers, Roasted Zucchini, Olives & Artichoke) and Penang Rojak (Young Mango, Jicama, Cucumber, Dough Stick, Rose Apple, Guava, Pineapple, Bean Curd, Pounded Peanut & Rojak Sauce)

Their Seafood on Ice has always been the crowds’ favorite as they do serve Snow Crab Leg, Half shell oyster, Mussel, Scallop, Flower Crab & Tiger Prawn (with Tabasco, Lemon, Spicy Cocktail Sauce, Chili & Lime Dressings)

The Sushi & Sashimi Section would include Tuna, Butter Fish, Salmon Sashimi, Nigiri and Rolled Sushi (served with Kikkoman, Wasabi & Pickled Ginger)

For Cheese, Soups and Bread, you would expect to find some International Cheese (with Crackers, Dried Fruits, Grapes & Honey), Kimchi Soup with Chicken, Miso Soup with Salmon Head & Belly plus Assortment of Rolls, Loaf Bread with Butter. There was also the Bubur Lambuk for the Ramadhan period.

For Main Course, you would get a mix and match of Japanese and Western cuisine such as Yaki Udon with Seafood, Stir Fried Miso Butter Prawns, Mixed Vegetables (Yasai Itame), Roasted Tenderloin with Mustard & Peppercorn, Miso Honey Lamb Ribs, Chicken Teriyaki, Hasselback Potatoes, Baked Mussels with Ebiko Chili Mayo, Stuffed and BBQ Squid, BBQ Saba Mackerel, Barbecue Chicken with Italian Herbs, Garlic & Chili Flakes, Silver Anchovies XO fried Rice and Steamed Rice.

At the BBQ, Tempura and Steamer Sections, you would find delicious items such as Chinese BBQ (Roasted Chicken, Roast Duck & Chicken Char Siew, served with Chicken Rice and Condiments, various ad-hoc prepared Tempuras (with Grated Radish, Ginger & Tempura Sauce) plus Chawan Mushi.

The Asian Tapas Section would consist of Chicken Satay with Condiments and Peanut Sauce, Grilled Sausage with Chili Mayo, Sesame Balls, Corn on Cob, Japanese Okonomiyaki and Korean Pancake (with shoyu, vinegar, onion, garlic & green chili).

For Fresh Fruits and Desserts, you would get items such as Assorted Fruit Platters, Cakes, French Pastries, Jellies, Tart, Kuih, Omochi, Ice Kacang (Red Beans, Herbed Jelly, Cendol, Cream Corn, Red Jelly & Pickled Nutmeg), Ice Cream (Chocolate, Vanilla, Strawberry, Green Tea and Yam with Mango Sauce, Strawberry Sauce, Vanilla Sauce, Chocolate Sauce and Condiments), Chocolate Fondue (Marshmallow, Cookies & Dried Fruits) and Freshly Brewed Coffee & Tea.

Overall, I like the buffet spreads here as the dishes are of quality and freshness. The differences compared to many other hotels are that most of the dishes served here are in smaller portions and would be replenished freshly from the kitchen. Moreover, the different themes available daily would ensure that diners would get the best dining experiences.

Let’s have a look at the dining promotions for the hotel from July to October 2016 as below. Do click on the photo for a clearer view.

To get to the Wembley Cafe, just walk into the main entrance of the hotel and head to the elevator to go up to Level 2 of the building. You would see a bunch of friendly staff at your service. Wembley Café has a 24-hours in-room service to cater to in-house guests.

Name: WEMBLEY CAFE @ THE WEMBLEY HOTEL
Address: 183, Jalan Magazine, 13000 Penang, Malaysia.
Contact: 604-259 8123
Business Hours: 24 Hours
GPS: 5.413164, 100.330428

RATING:
Ambience: 8/10 (1-4 cheap, 5-7 average, 8-10 classy)
Food Choices: 8/10 (1-4 limited, 5-7 average, 8-10 many choices)
Taste: 8/10 (1-4 tasteless, 5-7 average, 8-10 excellent)
Pricing: 8/10 (1-4 cheap, 5-7 average, 8-10 expensive)
Service: 8/10 (1-4 bad, 5-7 average, 8-10 excellent)

About Cititel Hotel Management Sdn Bhd (CHM): Cititel Hotel Management Sdn Bhd (CHM), is an established hotel management company with an inventory of over 4400 rooms and employee strength of over 2300. It is known for its collection of centrally located hotels and continues to actively seek opportunities in key Asian cities to build and expand its portfolio, particularly in the three and four-star categories. CHM is a subsidiary of the renowned IGB Corporation Berhad, a Malaysian property and investment holding company, acknowledged for its excellence in both commercial and residential property development.

About The Wembley, Penang: The Wembley, Penang accommodates 415 well-appointed guestrooms located in the heart of George Town. Furnished with batik-style designs and complementary broadband internet access, The Wembley, Penang, also provides exclusive privileges such as private check in, complimentary broadband internet usage and access to the private lounge on the Executive Floor. The Wembley houses a pillar-less grand ballroom which can accommodate approximately 1,200 persons, 10 meeting rooms, Wembley Café – 24-hours dining restaurant, lobby lounge, a salt-water infinity swimming pool, a gymnasium, a helipad (the first for a Penang hotel and in the Northern Region), Executive Suites and Executive Lounge and the DSRT Sky Room. For more information, please contact +604 259 8000 or visit www.StGiles.com

About Cititel Express, Penang : Adjacent to The Wembley is the 3-star Cititel Express, Penang which is the epitome of a Smart, Clean and Simple hotel has also open its doors for both the business and leisure travellers. Cititel Express accommodates 234 guestrooms and family rooms with all the essential amenities for a refreshing experience with great value. The hotel appeals to busy executives seeking affordable accommodation within a functional environment with a local identity and service that is friendly, attentive and yet unpretentious. Enoshima Japanese Restaurant offers delectable cuisine at the Lobby Level. For more information, please contact +604 259 1188 or visit www.cititelexpress.com

Have you tried the Olive’s Ramadhan Buffet at Sukkah Coffee House @ Olive Tree Hotel, Penang, during the holy month of breaking fast? The buffet has an array of appetizing yet authentic Malay and Middle Eastern dishes coupled with other international selections. The promotion would be from 6 June 2016 until 5 July 2016 from 6.30pm to 10.00pm. It’s priced at RM98+ (adult) and RM50+ (child), where diners could enjoy the delicious iftar dishes until their hearts’ contents. For reservation and enquiries, please contact Sukkah Coffee House at +604-637 7856 to make prior booking to avoid any disappointment.

The Appetizers and Salads would include Individual Salad (Chicken Salad, Pasta Salad, Seafood Salad & Mushroom Salad), Gado-gado with Peanut Sauce, Ulam-ulaman with Sambal Belacan, Sambal Cincaluk, Sambal Mempelam, Sambal Udang Kering, Sambal Kelapa, Jelatah, Tau Kua, Acar Buah, Acar Rampai, Sambal Ikan Bilis, Ikan Masin, Telur Masin, Jeruk-jeruk, Keropok Lekor, Keropok Ikan, Keropok Udang, Papadum, Ketupat, Lemang with Serunding Ayam, Serunding Daging, Serunding Udang, Hummus, Babaganoush and Tabouleh.

There would also be a section for Seafood on Ice which would consist of Shrimps, Snow Crab Legs and Fresh Oysters. For seafood lovers, these would be just some basics but it would still be enough to fill up your appetite.

For Hot Dishes, you would expect to have dishes such as Sayur Campur, Kobis Goreng Kunyit, Ekor Lembu Masak Merah, Kambing Kerutuk Pantai Timur, Ayam Masak Madu, Burung Unta Goreng dengan Halia, Kari Kepala Ikan, Sotong Goreng, Udang Karang Berlada, Otak-Otak, Tandoori Wrap, Koay Teow Goreng, Nasi Hujan Panas and Nasi Puspa Wangi. For a change, it was great to have tried out their garlic stir fried ostrich meat (Burung Unta Goreng dengan Halia) which was indeed juicy and tender. The aromatic toasted and sambal fried dried cuttlefish (Sotong Goreng) was also another great dish to savor especially with fragrantly steamed rice.

From the Action Stalls, some of the items would include Beef & Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce, Beef & Chicken Tandoori, Roti Prata with Dhal Curry, Murtabak with Pickled Onion, Pasembur with Condiments, Roasted Lamb, Sheesh Kebab (Mutton & Chicken), Sup Kambing, Koay Teow Soup with Condiments and Bubur Lambuk with Condiments. From my dining experiences savoring all the buffets amongst the hotels, Sukkah Coffee House indeed served the best Chicken Satay with big chunks of well marinated and juicy skews of grilled meat, just with the right flavors to my liking. Surprisingly, these delicious skews were skillet-grilled until perfection.

For Desserts and Beverages, you would get items such as Ice Cream Potong, Crushed Ice & Tutti Fruiti with Condiments, Leng Chee Kang, Buah Kurma Madu, Local Seasonal Whole Fruits, Assorted Fruit Platter, Assorted French Pastries, Whole Cakes, Cream Caramel Pudding, Cream Brulee, Bubur Kacang, Linzer Torte, Durian Crepe, Fruit Pavlova, Local Kuih-Muih and beverages such as Air Bandung, Soya Milk with Cincau, Mata Kucing, Young Coconut, Teh Tarik and Kopi Tarik. We did try out their Apple Crumble and it was heavenly with just the right amount of added grounded cinnamon and sweetness to my personal liking. Moreover, the fresh pods made Vanilla Sauce had just the right creamily and consistency to boost up the flavors of the lovely dessert.

Overall, the spreads for the Olive’s Ramadhan Buffet was up to its standard with some dishes outshone many other buffets out there. However, there are still rooms for improvements especially at the dessert section where the jellies were rather “plain” without much uniqueness to my personal liking. They could have come out with some crystal jellies, puddings, etc rather than having some large servings of konnyaku jellies.

More Ramadhan Mubarak Deal below:

The Sukkah Coffee House @ Olive Tree Hotel Penang is located just opposite the Subterranean Penang International Conference & Exhibition Centre (SPICE – formerly known as PISA aka Penang International Sports Arena) along Jalan Mahsuri. If you are coming from Bukit Jambul via Jalan Tun Dr. Awang towards the Penang International Airport (PIA), turn left into Jalan Mahsuri at the traffic lights immediately after you have passed the SPICE. Keep right and drive up until the traffic lights and make a U-Turn. You can see the hotel on your left. Park your car and use the elevator or escalator to Level 2 and you can see the Sukkah Coffee House there.

Name: SUKKAH COFFEE HOUSE @ OLIVE TREE HOTEL PENANG
Address: 76, Jalan Mahsuri, 11950 Bayan Lepas, Penang, Malaysia.
Contact: +604-637 7856
Business Hours:
Breakfast: 6.00am-10.30am
Lunch (Monday to Friday): 12.00noon-2.30pm
Lunch (Saturday & Sunday): 12.00noon-3.00pm
Dinner: 6.30pm-11.00pm
GPS: 5.327101, 100.279070

RATING:
Ambience: 7/10 (1-4 cheap, 5-7 average, 8-10 classy)
Food Choices: 8/10 (1-4 limited, 5-7 average, 8-10 many choices)
Taste: 8/10 (1-4 tasteless, 5-7 average, 8-10 excellent)
Pricing: 7.5/10 (1-4 cheap, 5-7 average, 8-10 expensive)
Service: 8/10 (1-4 bad, 5-7 average, 8-10 excellent)

About Olive Tree Hotel: Nestled along the industrial and corporate corridors of Penang, the Olive Tree Hotel is a Green Building Index (GBI) compliant hotel that boasts easy access to major landmarks and hosts a convenient and conducive environment for business and leisure travelers alike. A 25-storey statement of well profound architecture and hospitality with a choice of 228 rooms and 24 suites, guests can expect not only a functional space that is sure to give the utmost comfort, but also a memorable experience. The Olive Tree Hotel Penang is also built to cater to meetings, conventions, banquets and weddings. It houses a Grand Ballroom with a mezzanine gallery that that can comfortably accommodate up to 720 people and 7 function rooms with various dimensions for various events.

The Eatery @ Four Points by Sheraton Penang has launched a specially designed Selera Warung Buffet Dinner from 13 June 2016 – 26 June 2016 (*Extension of promotion would be advised). The promotion would start from 6.30pm until 10.00pm daily. Diners would get to enjoy their over 30 selections of Malaysian themed enticing buffet spreads for only RM54nett (adult) and RM27nett (child from 4 to 11 years old). All Starwood Preferred Guests (SPG) members would be entitled to an exclusive discount on food. You can check out the dining offers at the hotel’s website. Terms and conditions apply. From the al fresco area until indoor, it would be like going food hunting from one stall to another in a food bazaar with items ranging from snacks, main dishes to desserts. Please call +604-371 8706 or email eatery.03947@fourpoints.com to make your reservation today.

From Starters and Appetizers, you would get a mix and match of local and Western items such as Pasembur Pulau Mutiara with Spiced Sweet Potato Dips, Ayam Daun Pandan, Masala Ubi Bengala Samosa, Loh Bak Ayam, Kerabu Daging dan Tang Hoon Ala Thai, Kerabu Sotong Limau Bali, Pucuk Paku dan Udang Kapas, Kupang Degang Kerisik, Kacang Botol Dengan Dada Ayam Carik, Kerabu Manga Muda dan Udang Kering, Kerabu Taugeh dengan Kerang, Ulam-Ulaman Kampung (with condiments such as acar buah, sambal belacan, air asam, sambal belacan, kicap bercili, kuah kacang, chutney manga, acar rampai, telur masin & ikan masin), crackers (ikan parang, papadum, lekor, udang & binjau), squid & orange with shaved fennel salad, tuna & potato with green bean salad, Greek salad with Spanish feta & olive and mixed garden salad (with dressings such as thousand island, Caesar dressing, herbs vinaigrette, lemon vinaigrette, balsamic dressing, stuffed olive, shaved parmesans & capers).

As for soup, you would be served with Sup Ekor Berempah, served with Roti Bengali and Roti Perancis.

Out from “Mum’s Food Diary” would be some notable home-style main dishes such as Daging Batang Pinang Goreng Halia Muda, Kupang Goreng Cabai Kering, Sambal Tumis Udang, Ayam Masak Merah, Ikan Bawal Hitam Goreng Bercili, Rendang Daging Pahalawan “Temasik”, Kebab Ayam, Kupang Masak Cabai Kering served with steamed rice.

From the Action Sections, you would be served with some nostalgic dishes such as their Kaki Kambing Bakar Rempah Ratus, Ayam Tandoori, Nasi Briyani, Bombay Onion Pickled, Cucumber Raita, Dhal Tadka, Penang Char Koay Teow and Salmon Laksa. You should not miss out the Salmon Laksa as it was one of the best around as the creamy flavors was just out of this world.

From fruit cuts, local desserts to cakes and pastries, there would surely some hidden gems for you to savor such as the Penang Rojak (jicama, guava, pineapple, cucumber, water apple, young mango and green apple with rojak sauce), preserved fruits (kedongdong, cermai, betik, api-api, manga, ceri merah & hijau), fresh tropical fruits and whole fruits (watermelon, honey dew, pineapple, papaya & jackfruit, orange & green apple), Assorted Malay Kuih, Lempok Pandan, Creme Caramel, Pudding Jagung, Pudding Manga, Sago Gula Melaka, Pandan Custard Cake, Chocolate & Walnut Brownies, Apple Crumble Tart, Buah Kurma, Pengat Pisang, Bubur Cha Cha, Pengat Labu, Ais Kacang & Chendol with assorted Ice Cream and Ice Cream Potong. Beverages wise was rather unique as they were served chilled in water jars soaked in crushed ice. These include Air Bandung, Jus Kurma, Jus Cincau, Jus Oren and Jus Manga.

Overall, the Malaysian dishes served here had many delicious options compared to their buffet spreads I had tried earlier throughout the last few years. It was indeed a great value-for-money deal you should not miss out.

The Eatery @ Four Points By Sheraton is located along the main road of Jalan Tanjung Bunga. To get there, just use the road going towards the beaches of Batu Ferringhi. As you reach a curving part of the road, keep to your right after the first traffic lights (Chinese Swimming Club on your right). At the second traffic lights, turn right into the hotel’s premises to find a car park. Walk straight into the lobby and you can find The Eatery located at the ring wing of the hotel.

Name: THE EATERY @ FOUR POINTS BY SHERATON PENANG
Address: 505 Jalan Tanjung Bungah, 11200 Tanjung Bungah, Penang, Malaysia.
Contact: 604-371 8888 (General), 604-371 8706 (The Eatery)
Business Hours: 6.30am-11.00pm (Daily), Sunday Brunch: 12.00pm-3.00pm
GPS: 5.463681, 100.301836

RATING:
Ambience: 7/10 (1-4 cheap, 5-7 average, 8-10 classy)
Food Choices: 8/10 (1-4 limited, 5-7 average, 8-10 many choices)
Taste: 7.5/10 (1-4 tasteless, 5-7 average, 8-10 excellent)
Pricing: 7/10 (1-4 cheap, 5-7 average, 8-10 expensive)
Service: 8/10 (1-4 bad, 5-7 average, 8-10 excellent)

About Four Points: Four Points is travel reinvented. With over 200 hotels in nearly 40 countries, Four Points meets the needs of the everyday traveler and offers guests exactly what they need on the road. Four Points combines timeless style and comfort and an authentic sense of the local as well as genuine, always-approachable service, all around the world. To learn more, visit www.fourpoints.com/experience. Stay connected to Four Points on facebook.com/fourpoints.

About Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc.: Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. is one of the leading hotel and leisure companies in the world with more than 1,200 properties in some 100 countries and over 180,000 employees at its owned and managed properties. Starwood is a fully integrated owner, operator and franchisor of hotels, resorts and residences with the following internationally renowned brands: St. Regis®, The Luxury Collection®, W®, Westin®, Le Méridien®, Sheraton®, Four Points® by Sheraton, Aloft®, element® and the recently introduced Tribute Portfolio™. The Company boasts one of the industry’s leading loyalty programs, Starwood Preferred Guest (SPG®), allowing members to earn and redeem points for room stays, room upgrades and flights, with no blackout dates. Starwood recently announced plans to spin off its Starwood Vacation Ownership, Inc. business, a premier provider of world-class vacation experiences through villa-style resorts and privileged access to Starwood brands, into a standalone public company by the end of 2015. For more information, please visit www.starwoodhotels.com.

The Lemongrass Restaurant @ Hotel Neo+ Penang by Aston is currently having its Sajian Selera Nusantara Ramadan Buffet Dinner from 9 June 2016 until 3 July 2016 during the holy month. The promotion would be priced at RM55nett (adult) and RM32nett (child) from 7.00pm until 10.00pm. Diners would get to savor the many types of kampung-style cuisine with a twist of Indonesian cuisine. The highlight of the buffet dinner would be Chef Faizal’s well marinated roasted whole lamb.

The menus would be on daily rotation basis starting from the Salads and Appetizers Section with items such as Ulam-Ulam Melayu (Tomato,Timun, Petai, Ulam Raja, Daun Selom, Pucuk Paku, Kacang Botol, Terung, Bendi), Kerabu Pucuk Paku, Kerabu Manga Ala Thai, Acar Rampai, Telur Masin, Ikan Masin, Bergedil Ubi, Potato Salad, Sambal Belacan, Sambal Tempoyak, Sambal Budu, Cincaluk,Sambal Mangga, Sambal Kicap, Air Asam, Sambal Bawang. Chips, Pickles and Nuts were also available such as Keropok Ikan, Keropok Udang, Papadam, Keropok Sayur, Jeruk Mangga, Jeruk Papaya, Jeruk Kelubi, Asam Boi, Kerepek Ubi,Kerepek Pisang,Tempeyek Kacang,Kuih Siput,Maruku,Kacang Hijau Bersalut Tepung, Acar Limau and Jelatah.

As for Soup, they served Indonesia Soto Ayam with Condiments which was a unique combination with a tad of spiciness compared to the ones I’ve tried or even cooked before. The soup had some lemongrass and chili peppers added in which was notably quite Indonesian style.

As for the Main Dishes, we tried out their Nasi Putih, Nasi Goreng Thai, Mee Mamak, Nasi Arab, Gulai Ayam Ubi Kentang, Sotong Masak Kicap, Mutton Varuval, Udang Masak Lemak, Tofu In Egg Sauce, Sayur Goreng Istimewa, Opor Ayam and Sambal Goreng Kentang. Bubur Lambuk with Condiments was also served daily.

At the Action Counter, we had many kinds of grilled items such as Ikan Bakar (Pari, Kembung, Talapia, & Sardine Cicah Bersama Air Asam), Chicken and Beef Satay with Condiments, Otak-Otak Ala Johor plus Penang Laksa with Condiments.

On the other hand, the Carvery Station had Roasted Whole Lamb, served with black pepper and mint sauce.

For Desserts & Fruits, you could always try out their ABC (Ais Batu Campur) and Cendol with shaved ice and assorted syrup plus condiments, Bubur Kacang Hijau, Bubur Cha Cha, Kuih Keria, Lepat Ubi, Kuih Seri Muka, Kuih Ketayap, Kuih Lapis, Crème Brulee, Black Forest Cake, White Lady Cake, Dates, Jelly & Puddings (Honeydew, Mango & Coconut), Pisang Goreng, Keledek Goreng, Ice Cream (at least 3 types) and Assorted Sliced Fruits.

As for Beverages, they have Teh Tarik, Laici Asam Boi, Air Soya, Air Cincau, Air Chrysanthemum Tea and Coffee.

Here’s the menu of what was served on that day.

Overall, the dishes served here had a rather home cooked style with lovely traditional grills and condiments. Some of the dishes indeed had some different Indonesian flavors in them.

The Lemongrass Restaurant is located at Level 2 of the hotel. As you enter the hotel, walk towards the left side of the building and go a floor above and you can see the entrance to the restaurant.

Name: LEMONGRASS RESTAURANT @ HOTEL NEO+ PENANG BY ASTON
Address: 68 Jalan Gurdwara, 10300 Penang, Malaysia.
Contact: 604-255 1000 (Ext. 1103)
Business Hours: 7.00pm-10.00pm
GPS: 5.479097, 100.254663

RATING:
Ambience: 7.5/10 (1-4 cheap, 5-7 average, 8-10 classy)
Food Choices: 7.5/10 (1-4 limited, 5-7 average, 8-10 many choices)
Taste: 7/10 (1-4 tasteless, 5-7 average, 8-10 excellent)
Pricing: 7/10 (1-4 cheap, 5-7 average, 8-10 expensive)
Service: 8/10 (1-4 bad, 5-7 average, 8-10 excellent)

About Hotel NEO: Hotel NEO+ Penang features 196 guest rooms and suites decorated in a modern-contemporary style that befits the new trends in hotel design. With uncluttered open spaces, the atmosphere is at once stylish and relaxed, topped off with twenty-first century conveniences such as complimentary high-speed WiFi, LED TVs and home entertainment systems. The new NEO concept aims to open doors to a world of wellbeing and sensual satisfaction. Designed in a stylish and contemporary style befitting the latest trends in hotel design, NEO Hotels offer uncluttered open spaces for an atmosphere of relaxation and tranquility within these chic yet reasonably priced new-build hotels and resorts. The brand has been described as “hip and new,” with aesthetics reminiscent of cutting-edge fashion designs. Customer Focus Groups have credited Archipelago International for “bringing sexy back”, thus hailing NEO Hotels as a brand fit for savvy young travelers and Generation Y parents alike. Images of NEO Hotels can be found at www.neohotels.com

About Archipelago International: Archipelago International is Indonesia’s largest hotel management chain with a portfolio of over 110 hotels and 15,000 rooms. It also continues to have the fastest growing brands with over 100 properties in the pipeline across Indonesia, the Philippines, and Malaysia. Their 7 core brands include favehotel, NEO, Quest, Harper, Aston, Alana and Kamuela, ranging from ultra-luxurious villas to select-service, economy-class hotels to serviced apartment residences. You can view more at www.archipelagointernational.com