QuiRkY Malaysia

Eruope 2011: Day 12 - Geneva, Switzerland

2012-01-23T15:32:00.002+08:00

Seeing double on Rue Du Montblanc.... Not! Surprising how the kebab parlour can get away with this. No one messes with the coffee mermaid! Speaking about coffee mermaid, she reminds me of a certain someone.

Pain Jambon from Manor (CHF 5.90) - Not bad but I still prefer the paninis.

Jet D'eau - The symbol of geneva on a gloomy rainy morning. It was an atmospheric morning with mist casting a thin veil to the majestic mountains in the background as if teasing the eager tourists, of which yours truly was certainly a victim. I imagine this is the type of view Freddy Mercury(lead singer of Queen) sees every morning from his home fronting lake Geneva in Montreaux.

Path leading to the jet d'eau - Walk any further and be prepared to get soaked.

Facts about the jet d'eau for the fountain geeks.

Wall crawlers reaching out to heaven.

Jardin Anglais on a rainy morning - completely different feel compared to when its dry and sunny.

Pathway leading to autumn.

Dinner - Pain Au thon (CHF 8+, lost receipt) from "Pain Pallais" is not as mind blowing as the beef sandwich. The tuna tastes like any other normal tuna but the baguette...... it was just mind blowingly good!

There you have it, 5 days worth of post on the fountain and the fountain again and on manor and the wonderful swiss baguettes. Goodbye Switzerland..... you will be missed. I will surely be back to discover more of you and your friendly girls. Now now, don't get me wrong, I was as chaste as an abbey monk the whole of the trip, what I mean is that Swiss girls have got this friendly way of talking to members of the opposite sex as if unrestrained by the shackles of culture and religion that the descendants of mars find so annoying.

Europe 2011: Day 11 - Lausanne, Switzerland

2012-01-01T23:27:00.010+08:00

Lausanne - a 30 minutes breath of fresh air away from my 5 days in Geneva. I at first had Montreaux, the 'Swiss Riviera" in mind via the CGN steamer ship but the thought of being on a ship 7 hours both ways didn't quite agree with me.

The main train station is right in the middle of an ascending path from the lake right up the church high above. This is the view of the path towards the lake.

Plants along the downwards path to the lake.

Colours along the pathway change as I approach the lake.

Good ol Lake Geneva, like a faithful friend, we meet again 53 km away. I lost sight of you on my train trip but here we are reunited again like long lost friends.

Hotel Chateau D'ouchy at the banks of the lake - Medieval castle turned modern hotel.

It was a glorious morning and Lausanne gave me an even stronger feel good factor compared to Geneva. I imagine how beautiful the alps could have been compared to this and it fills me with regret as I'm just a few hours away without any plan to climb it's peak.

The mountain range across the lake was breathtaking, something that can only be captured fully with a wide angle lens.

Plants around the vicinity serves as a painful reminder that I am not going to the alps on this trip.

Before I drown myself in self pity by the lake, I quickly made my way upwards from the lake, past the main train station. Seriously, if one goes to Switzerland and don't come back with a piece of sculpted metal on the wrist or at least a desire to own one after the constant bombardment of brand names, then there must be something wrong.

Tour De L'Ale - This 14th century tower is the last vestige of Lausanne's old city walls. Nothing much to see here except the outside view of the tower.

No mother and child allowed - Signboard like out of some dark futuristic movie.

Ah manor again. Notice the thai restaurant on the left. I noticed quite a lot of Thai nationals in both Geneva and Lausanne. There are probably a lot of Thai closet millionaires in Switzerland for the banking facilities? The Thai King used to live and study in Lausanne, this probably explains it.

Lunch from manor - smoked salmon croissant sandwich (CHF 3.75). Just so so.

Lunch No. 2 - Batonnet Au Salmon (CHF 3.75). This one has got a great batonnet with capers.......

....... I'm not sure whether those are heat blisters or corn meal but it sure is good.

Dessert: Movenpick peach & passion fruit yoghurt (CHF 1.60) and kinder pingui ice cream (CHF 0.75). Nearly everything from Kinder is good and they've got a wide range of kinder chocolate products in Switzerland ranging from choco bonbons to cakes.

The yogurt has got a really thick consistency (this is thick like loreal face cream compared to the watery type we get back home) with the fruits on top so that one can decide how much to mix in.

Pathway to the cathedral that sits on the highest point of the city.

Take your pick - covered pathway or cobbled pathway.

The covered pathway feels quite atmospheric with the aged dark wood but the graffiti robs it off some of it's charm by giving it a touch of unruly modernity.

The view of Lausanne from the top.

The cathedral Notre Dame - regarded as the most beautiful gothic building in Switzerland.

Light livens up the depiction of the call to prayer.

Dragon vs jet - after the cathedral, I went down again to explore this compact city by foot. Though the city is small but it has been visited by many famous personalities such as Voltaire, Napolean, Gandhi, Mozart, Mussolini, Charlie Chaplin and many more. Voltaire even wrote "I owe my happiest days to this town". Not surprising as it's got the charm evidently lacking in Geneva.

Around the corner I was greeted again by images of majestic mountains, probably the Gods teasing and toying around with my regrets of not being able to ascend the alps.

Spotted baby Audi about the size of a viva.

Vineyards left and right as seen on board the train back to geneva. Oh before I forget the daytrip 2 way ticket is CHF 42.

They say that swiss wine is so good that they drink it all and left none for export. I have yet to test the validity of this claim as I was to busy trying out all the wonderful beers.

Europe 2011: Day 10 - Geneva , Switzerland

2011-12-27T22:48:00.002+08:00

By now the reader must be wondering why my posts on switzerland keep on stretching day by day and yet I am still yapping about Geneva. The truth is, I was here 5 nights and did not have the opportunity to go to the alps because of botched planning. Tried to book a round trip by train a few months before departure but the SBB.ch website was just too difficult with a very confusing timetable. I thought I'd better not risk it and ruin the holiday, maybe return some time in the future to take on the alps.

Mon Petit Boulangerie underneath the SBB Gare Cornavin, Geneva's main railway station.

I noticed that most of the boulageries in Geneva have got their sandwiches supplied by this Pouly Tradition company, usually with a "Pain Pallais" sign outside the boulangerie.

Roast Beef Sandwich (CHF 8.XX) - This is the best sandwich I have ever had in my life! Though it is of the type prepared at a central location and then distributed to the boulangeries around geneva, the taste and texture is still top notch! The grain bread is really tough and chewy good while the beef... the beef is just so juicy, fresh(no idea how, as this has been laying on the showcase all morning) and peppery good that nothing from home comes close. The 2 main characters were held together by a strong script (ingredient), a mustard cheese sauce which fuses the taste into a uniquely different storyline. This is so good that I came back for more of the same the next few days - hampering my intention to try out as much of the different variety of food Geneva has to offer. In the end, after finally trying out everything at "Pouly Tradition", I still find this beef sandwich the best!

The beef sandwich previously had me seeing stars.

Bucherer - The only authorised dealer for Rolex in Geneva. Prices for Rolex in Europe are strictly non-negotiable. The best place to get a Rolex is still in kl, with a 10% discount that gets eroded every year with 1-2 upward price adjustments annually.

Although people say that Switzerland is one of the safest european country, things like this still happen (at one of the busiest road fronting lake) thanks to the immigrants and gypsies.

Trees form a shady portal to a sunny lakeside view.

Jardin Botanique - A really huge park near the edge of the lake.

Dinner - Blanc De Poulet (Plain chicken sandwich CHF 8.XX) is not as good as the fantastic beef sandwich earlier but still passable due to the bread.

Pretzel (CHF 2.60) from a little pastry shop near Mon Petit Boulangerie in the main train station. Completely different from Aunty Anne's version back home, this one is like a biscuit, still prefer aunty anne's dough like texture.

Chocolaterie du Rhône @ Geneva, Switzerland

2011-12-27T22:12:00.000+08:00

Du Rhone - one of Geneva's most famous name when it comes to chocolate. It is said that in the past, gourmand horses of Du Rhone's customers refuse to budge, blocking the road until after they are fed Du Rhone's pralines. What a spoilt bunch horses were in the 19th century.

Among the famous personalities who have tasted Du Rhone's chocolates are: General de Gaulle, Grace Kelly, Yul Brynner, Winston Churchill, the Shah of Iran, Dwight Eisenhower, Fernand Raynaud, J.F. Kennedy, etc.

Choc drink (CHF-6-8, lost receipt) is chocolaty but not thick enough to awaken the spirit of pleasure in me. Plus it's got a bit of a bitter aftertaste.

Accompaniment to a sweet finish - I like the little choc swirl here much better than the drink.

Chocolaterie du Rhône
Rue de la Confédération 3
P.O. Box 480
1204 Geneva
Tel. +41 22 311 56 14

Europe 2011 : Day 9 - Geneva, Switzerland

2011-12-19T21:30:00.003+08:00

Geneva as a city is about the size of Edinburgh - everything is within walking distance. Even though trams are free if one stay the night in any hotel at Geneva, I prefer to walk to take in the sights and sounds. Oh and before I forget, the 10 mins train ride from the airport to the city(and the other way round with the transport card provided by hotels) is free on second class, how cool is that?

Jardin Anglais (english garden) - beautiful, but is even more atmospheric after the rain. Everything around Geneva is built around lake Geneva. One thing I love about Geneva is the free wifi which is at it's strongest signal along the shores of the lake.

A lone swan ponders deeply on it's fate.

Manor - The shopping mecca of Geneva. A big variety of swiss chocolate can be found here; much cheaper than the airport(european internal flight). And the food and pastry section here is just splendid; so much choice and variety, it excites the foodie in us. I kept coming back (at least thrice a day) and must have spent at least a few hundred CHF here just on food, beer and chocolate. Chocolates are still cheaper at grocery stores, just that I prefer to buy here because there is more choice under one roof.

One of the first bread I had in Switzerland (Tuna panini CHF6 from manor) - Impressive! Made fresh to order(if one comes before the busy hours), it's got a really crisp skin covered in heat blisters - what a joy to sink my teeth into! Voila! Crisp bliss!

Caninette - Potential joke for hokkien tourists. It's ironic how supermarkets in Geneva don't provide plastic bags for goods and yet the city provide plenty of free bags all over the city for dog owners to pick up what were once objects that were loved by their beloved pets.

Street near the Jet D'eau. This is where one gypsy tried a "found a gold ring for you" trick on me which of course did not work. Got scolded when I didn't buy his trick but I just walked away cooly. There is no need to get worked up over another's shortcomings, in this case, this person' lack of money. A dark barks at the moon and it gets no reply. If this comes from a person of equal or higher stature for a good reason then it's a different story.

Rue De La Confederation - One of the main shopping streets of Geneva.

Just to give japanese food lovers an idea how much it'll hurt.

Free soup for the poor - Even though Switzerland might have one of the highest per capita income in the world, poor people are still more than a handful. The poor people here can be considered well to do if he/she were to be in certain parts of asia. My interpretation of rich is someone who carries himself well. A person can be poor but if he is of decent character, one would think that he is a closet rich man (or scrooge) who lives modestly while a "rich man" who behaves badly, one might think he probably came from a poor background and just happen to have some money because of his successful hawker stall or illegal business.

Old Town

Just right behind the Rue De la Confederation street is the old town of Geneva.

I like the atmosphere around the old town which is quite relaxing with cars only occasionally seen.

The back part of the old town is even more atmospheric. This is probably how every part of the city look like hundreds of years ago.

Dinner - Ciabatta Au Roast Beef (CHF 7.50). This is one of the best pastry from manor, along with the paninis. There's just a certain quality with Swiss breads that set it apart from it's neighbour France. I don't know what is it, maybe the water, maybe the air, surely something contributed into the flavour and texture...... I only know that it tastes damn good! So good that I had baguette/panini/ciabbatta sandwiches for breakfast/lunch and dinner, every single meal(except the mcdonalds on the first day)! The pastries from manor is only an introduction to the wonderful world of swiss breads. Over the next few days I am about to discover even more wonderful creations from boulangeries with the "pain palais" sign.

Europe 2011: Day 8 - Geneva, Switzerland

2011-12-14T22:16:00.006+08:00

The flight into Switzerland gives one a view of what is to expect on the coming days; snow capped craggy mountain tops and bluish water basins; one of the most unique and breathtaking views in the world. Too bad I was too awed with the view to reach out for the camera on the overhead compartment.

In my opinion, Europe(especially Switzerland), Japan and New Zealand are the only places in the world with the most abundant unique and beautiful views. Those who claim that whichever SEA country has the most beautiful scenery in the world with the best food in the world out of blind patriotism are really closed minded and should get out of their country more often(probably never been out of the country). Not shooting anyone here, just feel disgusted with the patriotic "self masturbation".

Anyway, as everyone know, Geneva along with Japan and a handful of other european countries are ranked as the most expensive cities in the world, with Geneva taking the number one spot if I am not mistaken. In japan, though things are expensive, I don't really feel the pinch as I think it is still reasonably expensive. In Geneva, thing are so expensive that my wallet turn into a pile of limp bovine skin at the end of every day.

In tokyo I can get a Mcd set for about RM 20+, in London about rm30+. In Geneva, this Mcchipo long wurst thing burger + drink is CHF 11.90 while the wedges is CHF 1, totaling CHF 12.90 (or RM 45 at the exchange rate of RM 3.5 to 1 CHF then. Actually it's higher as I bought my CHF at 3.8 and it soon nosedived thanks to the Swiss central bank's statement of intervention).

Switzerland is beautiful in hardware as well as software. Meaning that the people are as beautiful inside as they are outside. In fact, I hear more "merci" and "pardon" here than in Paris. Though it's the most expensive city in the world with the added bonus of being one of the biggest financial center in the world, people seem to stroll along with a free and calm demeanour that is evidently missing in all the other successful asian cities. Makes one think that all the pressure is actually in the mind and self inflicted.

If there is a city that can be considered multicultural, I'd say it's Geneva. People from all over the world can be seen in this city though they are probably tourists making the city one of the many stops before ascending the alps. One thing I didn't quite like with the city is that there are gypsy beggars at nearly every corner of the city. Beware of the "found a ring for you" trick; the gypsies are really only good at such ways of making a living.

Though it feels quite safe, crime is not unheard of here. Saw a car with broken window parked along the main road just in front of the monument above.

Geneva is also the watch capital of the world. Stepping out from the plane, one is already bombarded with thousands of watch advertisements relentlessly at every corner of the city. If I were a hongkie and if I were to stay here any longer, I would probably change my name from noodles to rolex or breitling.

Only on my first day here, I've aready gotten quite a favorable impression of Switzerland and I made a vow to myself that along with paris and new zealand, I would surely return again.

The reader must be wondering why such a long post compared to the dry and short writing on the previous posts. Well, I love this city, that's reason enough for me to yak on and on.

Beers @ Edinburgh

2011-12-12T13:35:00.002+08:00

One of the best thing about travelling is the choice of beer available at a reasonable price. Beer in europe is rarely found in bottle/can less than 500ml. Truly paradise for the beer lover.

Pilsner Urquell ($1.80 P) - Taste like what a bohemian beer should.

Boheme ($1.69 P) - Now this bohemian beer, this is really something. It has got a unique taste that leaves quite an impression. This is one of the best beer I have tasted in europe so far.

Innis & Gunn ($1.19 P) - Oak aged beer. Not my type of beer. The taste of beer and liquor kind of reminds me of the smell from the mess that drunkards usually leave on the ground.

Deuchars IPA ($1.25 p) - Like what the label says, this is truly a refreshing beer. Give me a cold Deuchars anyday.

Europe 2011: Day 7 - Edinburgh

2011-12-12T13:33:00.001+08:00

Edinburgh is quite small that everything there is to see, I have done it the day before.

The good old advice shop.... aunts & uncs who love to nag and give the "for your own good" advice would definitely love to be on the payroll here.

Greggs - one of the better pastry makers with a few outlets around edinburgh.

This explains why the trays are always almost empty at 7pm.

Beefylicious taste wrapped in a crisp flaky skin. This is much better than any pie I've had earlier.

Unbeknown to many, Edinburgh has got it's dark side kept underground from the cheery unsuspecting tourists. Explore at your own risk. And of course, no one is allowed underground without a guide.

Ale & steak pie (Lost receipt) from the pie maker(see day before) - This is like eating your pie and drinking your beer at the same time.

National gallery - the essence of Scottish art.

This is how a painting look like before it is completed - pretty cartoonish and laughable.

Irn bru ($1.14 P) - Scotland's second national drink after scotch that is brewed from a secret recipe for over a hundred years. Supposedly a great cure for a hangover; not surprising as it's mighty sweet and packs a punch from the stronger than usual gas. For me, this taste like a mixture mirinda orange, strawberry and a few more gassy "fruit" drinks.

Pictures of celebrities lured me into having dinner at this italian place called Ciao Roma. Had a spaghetti carbonara ($8.45 P) but nothing to shout about.

Strawberry prosecco ice cream ($1.75 P) - not bad.

Europe 2011: Day 6 - Edinburgh

2011-12-03T21:24:00.001+08:00

Edinburgh..... the land of thick scottish accent. Only that in my 2 nights stay here, I hear more brit accents than scottish.

The view here in scotland is really worlds apart compared to london.

Especially when edinburgh has got a few towering extinct volcanoes sitting right at the edge of the city.

This restaurant would be in a lot of trouble if it were to be named so in an extremist or closed minded country.

Had my lunch here. I am terribly fond of steak pies after having had the famous steak pies in auckland.

Steak Pie (Lost receipt) has got delicious filling but I fancy a crust which is more flaky.

Haggis pie ($1.35 P) with mashed potato on top - Not bad, was expecting the unpleasant taste of innards but somehow the spices used did a good job of covering up such unpleasantness very well.

Carlton Hill

Edinburgh, like the rest of scotland is filled with castles that were never re-bricked to give them a darkish coat of history.

Edinburgh doesn't have the tourist friendly subways of london and I find the buses here pretty confusing. Not really a problem, as Edinburgh is quite a small city with everything to see within walking distance from the hotel.

Carlton hill is a much easier climb than Arthur's seat to get a good view of the city.

360 degrees view of beautiful Edinburgh from Carlton hill.

Royal Mile & Edinburgh castle

Edinburgh Castle, home to the Edinburgh Tattoo, is a magnificently situated royal fortress located on one of the highest points in the city. The castle has been continuously in use for 1000 years and is in excellent condition.

This is as far as I get as I don't really fancy visiting old castles.

The Royal Mile (Old Town), especially the higher end near the castle, has many tourist-oriented shops selling Scottish souvenirs from postcards to whisky and kilts. The Royal Mile connects the castle with Hollyrood House(official scottish residence of British royal family).

Some alleyway nearby the royal mile.

Weird - Is it compulsory to buy something upon entry in the other shops?

A discovery center dedicated to the lake ness and it's other worldly resident "Nessie".

Hollyrood House & Arthur's Seat

This signboard got me laughing out loud on the streets of edinburgh. I don't mean to sound disrespectful but isn't it disrespectful for them to place a war veteran's retirement home at the entrance of the graveyard? It's like telling them "you're next" - a daily grim reminder of what's in store for them. I'm sorry again, I don't mean to laugh but I just can't help it but laugh at the awkward placement of the retirement home.

Hollyrood House - British royal residence and hosts the Queen's Gallery containing a collection of art from the Royal Collection.

Arthur's seat - part of an extinct volcano. The top is 251 m and overlooks Edinburgh. It is a one-hour trek to get there from the Scottish Parliament building

It was a really long and steep trek up that I was panting like mad 15 minutes into the climb and had to give up. My good excuse is that it was drizzling with strong wind, not many trekkers around and the sun was setting. Pretty good excuse eh?

Number plate with picture of guy. If this were to be allowed back home, the result would probably be hilarious.

Fish & Chips @ The Fryer's Delight, London

2011-12-03T20:28:00.003+08:00

A certain feeling of "jelakness" overcame me the night before, after the really big portioned meal of fish & chips. The monotonous taste of fish & tartar sauce just got the better of my tastebuds.

On this day, I coaxed myself to have fish & chips for one last time at "The Fryer's Delight" as this one is famous with cabbies and is different in that their fish is done the traditional way, that is fried in beef dripping.

Haddock Fish & Chips (Lost receipt but much cheaper than the meal the night before) - Not as crispy crunchy as the one I had a day before but not bad. Not really pronounced beefy taste when chewing. The beefy taste only stands out post meal. My only grouse is with the 2 small packets of tartar sauce.

The Fryer's Delight
19 Theobald's Road
London
Tube: Holborn

Europe 2011: Day 5 - London

2011-11-14T22:17:00.002+08:00

Breakfast - Irish potato farls ($1.20 P). Not bad, would have been better with butter or melted cheese on top. The cute face of a guy smiling at me while I was chewing killed my appetite.

Dessert - My appetite soon returned after I rubbished the potato farl wrapper. Chocolate flapjack ($0.99 p) is not bad with a strong chocolaty taste.

After dessert snack - Caramel shortcake ($0.69 p) is just ok, very much prefer the choco flapjack.

Hyde Park

Was sitting at hyde park enjoying the morning breeze when I suddenly realised how lonely it feels in this bustling city. I don't get this feeling when in paris. Maybe because the latter is agreeable in my heart.

Speaker's corner - too early for anyone to yak their displeasure at the government.

Victoria & Albert Museum

I brighten up at the sign of the Victoria & Albert museum. Relics that come from antiquity always touches the soft spot in my heart the way diamond touches a woman's heart.

I feel that the V & A Museum has got much more interesting exhibits than the british museum. It houses everything to do with life in the ancient world such as clothes, cutlery, bedposts, statues, etc..... from different parts of the world.

Oh fair maiden, what is it that thou seeketh?

The female form in it's highest guise.

Like a scene from a suspense movie - watch out behind you!

Someone about to get clubbed with a boner.

Spiralling french stairway - much more impressive when seen in person, especially the grain and finish on each log of oak.

Flattened art of music.

Exhibit about grills from all over the world.

Example of a room from the 19th(or was it 18th) century. The atmosphere in this heavily wood padded room feels thick and I had to walk off quickly when I find myself alone, for fear of meeting it's past inhabitants.

Off I go to the legendary Harrods department store in knightsbridge.

The food hall is most certainly impressive with interconnecting halls offering various foodstuffs from all over the world, at a premium price of course.

Seen here is the caviar station.

Details on the ceiling and walls here make a certain shopping complex back home seem like kindergarten stuff.

Yeah, 30 mil years open to the abuse of kids with ice cream coated hands.

Back home, imported mineral water comes from either the french or italian alps. Here, there is a wide choice and that includes those sourced from the norwegian glacier and scottish highlands.

What a bold invitation in red. No wonder those kids went awry a few months ago.

There who have followed this blog from earlier must be anticipating a post on a michellin starred restaurant anytime soon, as is customary everytime I go overseas. Not this time. My stay was too short in paris while edinburgh and switzerland doesn't have any restaurant that catches my fancy. The only restaurant I had in mind for this trip was Gordon Ramsay's in London. I've actually booked a table before the trip but they emailed asking me to fax over my credit card details to confirm the table, not something which I am comfortable with. So this is the only trip in recent years without a michellin starred restaurant meal. Not that I'm complaining as what I've tasted in the 14 days is equally good in it's own way.

Fish & Chips @ The Golden Hind, London

2011-11-12T14:39:00.003+08:00

Serving superbly fresh fish & chips, The Golden Hind is touted to be one of the best place for fish & chips in London. However, you might be surprised that something as traditionally british as this comes from the kitchen of it's greek owners.

About 1km walk away from the bond street tube, this place has been operating since 1914.

The menu - sorry, don't feel like standing to take this picture after 10 hours of walking.

Naturally, it has to be haddock ($8.60 P). The fish came coated in a really crisp and crunchy "goreng pisang" like batter and it was so huge that even I, a big eater, was having difficulties finishing it. Did not manage to finish the really big serving of fries ($2 P) though. One thing I like about this place is that the order came with a big helping of tartar sauce and tomato sauce. At another place, all I get is a couple of small packets of tartar sauce, the size of mcd ketchup packs.

Golden Hind Fish & Chips
73, Marylebone Lane,
London.

Ramen @ Wagamama, London

2011-11-12T13:57:00.002+08:00

Wagamama - A restaurant with 105 outlets worldwide (except asia) with a menu pitched to western consumers rather than designed for authenticity. Armed with my oriental tongue, we'll see how this turns out.

Just a block behind the main road of the british museum,

Canteen style tables - Wagamama is quite popular with the westeners as can be seen in the picture.

Staff dining area took up 2 seats on the canteen like table. I think the 2 seats would be left empty no matter how full the restaurant is as it seemed a special spot for employees only. But won't it feel awkward to be sitting and dining next to restaurant staff.

Grapefruit tea ($1.45 P) is not bad but give me a cup of longjing anyday. That is to say that I prefer authentic oriental anyday.

Wagamama ramen ($8.50 P) - Soup tasted too mild, it's like drinking water. Even though this is supposedly asian but my asian tastebuds can't recognise anything familiar in a bowl of ramen at all (except the noodles of course). The only thing good here are the grilled fish and prawn which has got a pronounced smoky flavour.

Wagamama
4, Streatham Street,
London.

2011: Day 4 - London

2011-11-06T16:58:00.001+08:00

Westminster Abbey, Parliament, Downing Street, Trafalgar Square, Buckingham Palace

All the saints were already in place in the morning to receive their halo. So was I, an early bird, but minus the halo of course. Every man is a god and devil in disguise for they are all within. Who can tell right from wrong then?

Westminster Abbey - Where royal coronations, weddings and funerals are held.

It was still a dreamy morning though the sun had already exerted it's full force.

Big ben stands tall - I didn't know the design is that intricate. Doesn't appear this intricate when seen on TV or from afar.

Underneath big ben is the parliament building. Visitors are allowed in to observe law being made. Something which will never ever be allowed in the Taiwanese parliament.

Every nook and cranny of a visitor's car will be thoroughly searched. I wonder whether they will also help check the engine oil level and battery water while they are at it.

This is where the driver will head to after his car have been searched.

Victoria tower (at the parliament) - At one time the tallest building in the world.

The London Eye from Victoria Tower Gardens.

Downing Street - Number 10 is where the british PM resides.

Those who have had "basashi" sushi the night before better keep a distance. I was duped into eating a horse meat ham sandwich in Switzerland because of my inability to read french. But that is a story for another day.

Trafalgar square - Visit Malaysia center at a strategic corner near trafalgar square. The dome shaped building is the national gallery.

Some weird grass growing vertically near the national gallery entrance.

Nice colours near the entrance of way leading to buckingham palace. This is just a short walk away from trafalgar square.

The western world might have it's glory days in the past but in the present age many of it's people are worse off than those from the east. As I was walking along towards buckingham palace, some australian old man tried to dupe me by inducing me into a bet that I would surely lose. I already don't have a good impressions with people coming from that island and now this guy hammered the last nail into the coffin. Overall, there are more beggars/street sleepers and dupesters that one can encounter in europe compared to anywhere in civilized asia. If one happens to come across any of these lowly types or is approached by one( including those asking for directions and especially kindly looking old men), just pretend not to understand english and they'll leave you alone.

The queen is in today as is evident with the flag being up. Who knows what the most powerful woman in the world is doing at that point in time. Maybe having lunch as it was lunch time. Which reminds me that I was to have my lunch at the famous Wagamama later.

British Museum

The conquest of the world brought the british treasures beyond what anyone can imagine. And along with it chunks of the heritage and history of it's colonies to be collected in the treasure trove that is the british museum.

The british museum has got this unique layout of a building within a building.

Among the relics being exhibited. Frankly, I am more impressed with the treasures at the Victoria & Albert Museum.

Cheeky museum curator encourage visitors to touch the Rosetta Stone as this one is just a replica.

The chinese treasures - from the intricate bronze of the Shang to the tumultuous days of the 3 Kingdoms to the glorious Tang to the decline of the Qing. Of course not as impressive as the national museum in taipei but still worth seeing.

Beigels @ Brick Lane Bakery

2011-11-05T20:24:00.000+08:00

For the best beigels in London, one can only get it from the one and only Brick Lane Bakery or more popularly known as Brick Lane Beigel.

Hard at work in the kitchen.

Plain beigal ($0.25 p) is the most authentic beigel I've eaten. Tough but moist skin with thick chewy "meat", this is as beigely good as it gets.

The salt beef beigel sandwich ($4 p) is even better with steamy hot beef that is so tender and juicy, the meat tears away without any resistance.

Brick Lane Bakery
159, Brick Lane,
London.
Tube: Shoreditch

Europe 2011: Day 3 - London

2011-11-04T18:44:00.003+08:00

It was a glorious morning with the sun being the chief contributor. Glory is something that is borrowed just as the scenery gets it from the sun. What then is everlasting?

Spitalfields Market

Spitalfields market - English markets weren't the dirty and wet place I imagine it to be. There's a food market here on Wednesdays and Sundays where organic beer, cheese, chocolate and croissant can be found.

Some dark lonely road from the spitalfields market leading to bricklane where I was to have my bagel breakfast at the famous bricklane beigals(separate post). The name of the mini mart best describes this city. I don't know why but somehow I am just not really comfortable with london compared to paris or switzerland. Must be the culture and impression I get from it's citizens.

St Paul's Cathedral, Millennium Bridge, Tate Modern

Cathedral with the 2nd largest dome in the world after St Peters in Vatican City. It was a sunday and only people who are attending service are allowed in.

Some bunch of hippies were camping in front of the cathedral protesting something and then there are a bunch of hackers called Anonymous fighting the same cause. Hmmm.... isn't this the same anonymous that brought down government websites back home?

From the cathedral, it was just a short cross over the Thames river towards Tate Modern via the Millennium bridge.

The Tate Modern Building was originally a power plant and today, it is one of the 3 most important art galleries in the world. Among the masterpieces exhibited here are works by Picasso, Warhol, Dali and Matisse. One thing I love about British museums are that they are all free, every single one of them that is owned and operated by the government(except the crown jewel exhibition at the tower of london).

In the name of art...... this is......... what I call art. Picture a bit blurry to prevent kids from getting turned on. Oh alright, I botched up on the camera ISO/meter setting but this picture is still worth showing.

Someone forgot his balls and left it dangling there. If I were the artist I would call it "the millennium balls - balls that sink with age".

This one had me laughing out loud there...... rubbish being blown about by the wind being thought of as art. Waiting till the day when someone courts controversy by calling natural disasters art.

Tower Bridge, Tower of London

This one isn't really called london bridge, the real london bridge is just a plain old bridge about a mile away. Notice how rapid the skies get gloomy.

The bridge that divides them - the tower bridge opens to allow ships to pass.

Tower of London - One of the most haunted buildings in the world. To look at the crown jewels, there's a charge of $16 pounds.

Covent Garden Piazza, Picadilly, Oxford Street

Covent garden supposedly has the largest fruit and vege market in england but I did not come across any market here. I only know this place to be the largest street entertainer square in london. Didn't hang around too long for fear of being harassed for coins.

10 minutes walk away from covent garden is chinatown in Picadilly. Saw the famous 4 seasons duck restaurant but I don't travel 10,000 km away to eat something I can get back home.

About 10 minutes away from picadilly is oxford street, the most famous shopping street in london. I don't find the tenants here interesting except Primark which has got decent quality clothes at unbelievable prices (even cheaper than malaysian brands on sale, eg: 1 work shirt for $6 pounds/RM30); nearly half the people on oxford street has got a Primark purchase in hand.

Rasa sayang express - food from home. Somehow, I don't really miss food from home, as I knew that everything is delicious in Europe and nearly all(as long as you do your research) are worthy of the table of the greatest gourmand though they do not come from the kitchen of celebrity chefs.

More put off by home food after learning that 2 pieces of roti canai costs $5.99 pounds or about rm30.

At the end of oxford street is a marble arch that leads to hyde park.

Europe 2011: Day 2 - London

2011-11-03T19:14:00.003+08:00

I arrive in london on the second day of the trip by eurostar, one way, $45.50 pounds. Was asked quite a barrage of questions by the immigration officer at the paris train station itself but luckily I passed with flying colours as I don't look dressed like someone who is on his way to wash dishes in London.

Looks like the tube staff were frequently subjected to verbal abuse. Hope this isn't a threat for another strike. Cry babies! Instead of abusing them, I've been the subject of abuse by one of them brit tube counter staff who looks obviously stressed out. Not really being abused verbally but he just can't seem to keep his thought to himself about my knowledge of the ticketing system. I find most brits like that, their thoughts run wildly out the mouth and most of the time it doesn't sound pleasant. I even heard one lady exclaim "show off" in a loud and jealous tone when she saw one young girl playing with an ipad. How rude. This coming from a country who is supposedly the champion for chivalry in the past. I don't find most of them polite at all, a lot of them just plain rude. A little bit of similarity with some examples found back home but much worse. The situation home must be because of the link of being a british colony. Looks like chivalry is reserved only for the royal family and not most of the people on the streets. Instead I find the french and the swiss one of the most polite and agreeable people who exercise their vocabulary of polite words like merci or pardon frequently. The latter are an agreeable type of people who has got an obvious flair for life and respect for it no matter who, unlike the brits who has got this dark and unapproachable aura to them. You can call it snobbishness but it isn't, it's more like rudeness under the cover of snobbishness as an excuse.

This is the real London eye - everywhere in the tubes and on the streets.

The "gherkin" in London's financial district. Walking the streets at night, it doesn't quite feel so secure (after having read that London has higher mugging cases than New York) as there are quite a few lonely alleys out of the touristy areas even though london is bustling with people.

Lloyd's building - designed to look like the insides of a building. Nothing new, as we've already got the center pompidou in Paris a long time ago.

Baguettes @ Au Levain D'Antan, Paris

2011-11-02T22:55:00.002+08:00

Every year, a panel of judges congregate to taste about 140 baguettes out of the 1000 or so baguettes around paris for the Grand Prix de la Baguette de Tradition Française de la Ville de Paris. A baguette de tradition must be mixed, kneaded, leavened, baked on premise and must never be frozen. It must also be free of additives and must consist of only four ingredients - wheat flour, water, salt and yeast.

Located just a short walk away from the Abesses subway station, Au Levain D'antan, this year's(2011) Grand Prix winner is also a very short walk away from last year's winner, Le Grenier A Pain. Must be the water. Or the fengshui. Lillian too is surely going to harp about the area's flying stars for the period of bla bla bla if she were to find out.

The baguette (lost receipt - about Eur$0.99 for one whole baguette, cut into half) here is certainly much better than it's competitor's as the skin tears away in an agreeable way to reveal an even more agreeable "meat". French baguettes have got irregular air holes from natural fermentation.

Au Levain D'Antan
6 rue des Abbesses, 75018
Nearest subway: Abbesses (12)
Closed Saturday and Sunday

Baguette @ Le Grenier A Pain, Paris

2011-10-31T22:23:00.005+08:00

In France, wheat is the grain of life and from it comes the most wonderful creation that is the baguette. Leathery tough skin with "meat" that satisfies even the most fussy eater, the only real baguettes are from France and nothing from home comes close(except Levain). Baguettes are such a big staple of life here that they've even got an annual competition for the best baguettes; of which the shop I am visiting today has won the 2010 Baguette Grand Prix.

Le Grenier A pain is not that difficult to locate, thanks to google maps - near the Abesses metro station below the monmartre hill.

Other than baguettes and such, they've also got sweet treats to tempt the senses. Any mere mortal would have given in but not me as I know I have a most serious tummy stretching mission of comparing the baguettes from here and Au Levain D'antan(also a Grand Prix De La Baguette winner) nearby for dinner; something which I must not fail as a baguette lover because of a tart.

With a tough leathery skin and an inside texture full of holes quite similar to "fat kou", this baguette with cheese is not bad; better than anything from home but not the best, as you will soon find out in later posts. Lost the receipt for this but it's about Eur$3.x. There is about half a baguette there and this is a very filling choice for a meal.

Le Grenier A Pain
38 rue des Abbesses, 75018
Metro : Abbesses (12)
Closed Tuesday & Wednesday

Europe 2011: Day 1 - Paris

2011-10-30T14:53:00.010+08:00

Paris, the city where the spirit of the masters of old still lives in the masterpieces that define the city, is in my opinion the best city in the world. It is vibrant, with a spirit coursing through it's veins that just can't be duplicated anywhere else. One can put the same amount of people in any asian city but the effect would be just a bustling city and not one anywhere near as charming as Paris. It is for this reason that I return for a second time. Not a long stay in paris but just long enough to feel that vibe again. I love Paris. They say Paris is a city of love but not just in the sense of love in a relationship but love for the city itself. If there is such a thing as relationship with a city then Paris is that perfect candidate and boy would she have many lovers.

Monmartre

On my first day in paris, I had to relearn how the metro ticket machine works(always forgot about that giant scroll bar) and had to reexperience the difficulty of climbing metro station stairs with my luggage. After I've had a good rest, my first visit is to the Sacre Coeur on the monmartre hill and the Place Du Tertre behind it.

A good view of Paris from the hill for free compared to paying and queing for it on the Eiffel Tower. Another good location for a great view of paris would be on the roof top of the Galleries La Fayette.

A cafe dweller's point of view - If I were a scantily dressed female, I would feel intimidated walking that bend with 30 pair of eyes fixed on me.

Place De La Concorde

Place De La Concorde - A huge square with a beautiful fountain between the Louvre/Tuilleries Garden and the Champs Elysees.

Paris is full of statues which lend the city it's emotions, much like a Bouguereau painting.

When I came in September 2008, the trees put on a show of brilliant gold but looks like most of them have shed their leafs in october.

Champs Elysees & Arc De Triomphe

On the Champs Elysees - Long que into Louis Vuitton. Also spotted a long que into Abercrombie & Fitch which has got a really unique garden entrance.

At the end of the Champs Elysees is the good old Arc De Triomphe. All roads lead to Rome but in Paris, all roads seemed to lead to the Arc De Triomphe.

Seine River

Ponts Du Arts Bridge(behind Louvre) - When night falls in Paris, love glows whereever there is light.

Pour vous à Paris!

China

2011-08-20T01:18:00.002+08:00

I've not even been to my final destination this year and now here I am, already planning on my next trip for 2012.

I have always had a profound awe for the land that was once called the center of the world. My few trips to this beautiful land has stoked even further my interest and desire to see more of it. It's a land which is thoroughly enveloped in a mystical atmosphere that is not unlike those felt by the heroes of bygone era. After having been to many places in the world, nothing touches my heart quite like China.

China is the land from which our countless ancestors rise and then return to dust. To worship the soil that is China is akin to worshipping the countless ancestors all the way down to the root; one can then be said to be a filial son no matter where one is in the world.

Nothing concrete yet, but I've been meaning to climb one of the sacred mountains and visit the cradle of empires. We'll see how it goes.

Levain Boulangerie & Patisserie Part 3 @ Jalan Delima, KL

2011-08-05T20:52:00.003+08:00

First of all, I would like to apologise for the lack of update; I have gotten a bit too busy, which is not a bad thing. At the rate this is going, it would be a few months before another mega post the likes of my visit to Japan. On my next trip, I would be hunting for an "oyster" at a perpetually snow capped mountain, tame a sleek raging bull(keeping my fingers crossed this one will happen though it seems bleak now because of a date clash but I vow to come back[maybe next year] for this) and be awed at another few michellin starred restaurants. Till then, there would probably be lesser updates, probably just a few ranting posts.

Anyway, back to the love story between me and Levain. Now, one can brag all he wants when it comes to anything else but to brag about one's lover; only a fool would engage in such brash action. But to be a fool for the greater good makes one a noble fool and somewhat lesser of a fool. And so I share the story between me and Levain so as to show my noble intentions, not as a fool but as a kindly chap.

The serpent of love always leaves one entwined to a creature that seemed so close a human being yet so far a monster. By influence of the potent "venom" called love, the fear of the monster(when she's angry) almost always melts into the gooey sweet stuff which we call caramel. The caramel french (RM 2.80) here has got caramel which tasted kind of like sweetened condensed milk.

Chocolate danish(RM 3.60) is so light and flaky that people who have never seen the light of civilization (such as the amazonians) will think that it is of unworldly origin after the first bite.

Turkey ham croissant (RM 4.20) is a meaty evolution of the traditional croissant with a rolled ham inside.

A bite into the corone (RM 3.00) gives such a creamy and chocolaty satisfaction that words can't catch the meaning.

The mini cereal baguette (RM 4.80) is like a double whammy for the tooth and is perfect for those who like to pit their molars against tougher opponents. As if biting through the tough skin is not good enough an exercise, biting into the tough grain is the epitome of greatness for the challenge loving molar moshers.

Tuna couronne sandwich (RM 7.90) is as joyful to bite into as a bagel. Notice the eggy looking bit at 7 o'clock? It's from the turkey ham and egg bread reviewed before in the last post. The latest version has gotten kind of tamed down, the sauce not as kick a** wonderful as before.

Baumkuchen (RM 7.00) - Ok but just a little sweet.

Durian cheese cake (RM 8.00) - Just ok.

Noisette (RM 8.50) - Also just ok.

Oh levain, you have given me the best proof yet of your love in this chocolate log bread (RM 8.00). Each bite into the intricate layers reveal a flavour which is all too familiar but yet still baffles as to how it could be this good. My soul just melted away into the very essence which makes up the chocolate log bread, as how the soul of man melt away into the soul of his lover with every show of affection. Our soul then entwine into the realization of the moment when everything becomes clear and bright. There's a warm tingly feeling surging below the chest; and I knew she was the one. I promise to love Levain as long as she's there for me.

Levain.
No. 7, Jalan Delima,
55100 Kuala Lumpur,
Malaysia
Tel: 03 2142 6611
Hours: Monday to Sunday 7.30am - 9pm

Levain Boulangerie & Patisserie Part 2 @ Jalan Delima, KL

2011-06-14T10:28:00.008+08:00

Levain, the name that inspires love in the breast of the bread lover. Oh Levain, a man who has not suffered under the name of love recognises not the happiness that is finally his. I have suffered endless parking nightmares on our every rendezvous and I can say that the happiness that finally belong to me was worth all the trouble.

Crossaint (RM 3.00) is comparable to the fine textures that grace the surface of a specimen from any fine french baker.

Cream cheese danish (Rm 3.90) was a little cloying and I think that the combination of cream cheese and flaky danish pastry didn't quite hit my "wow" spot.

Anpan (Rm 2.80) didn't quite impress..... I was expecting soft fluffy bun but the example above was far from it.

Walnut bread (RM 3.00) also didn't quite impress because the thickness was a bit dull(they've since replaced this thick version with a star shaped thinner version). Well, if one loves a woman, he would almost always overlook the little flaws that wouldn't quite measure up to the other plus points.

The bamboo chicken (RM 3.60) is testament to the ability of women to rise up and touch your heart after the way she has disappointed earlier.

Baguette (RM 4.30) has got the most wonderful surface to chew on but would have been great if the inside is not so "airy".

The turkey ham & egg (RM 3.20) has got a combination of flavours and textures that defies logic, thanks to the out of this world sauce that brought everything under it's influence.

Tuna french (RM 3.60) has got the most wonderful bun texture that is peerless in a radius of a thousand kilometers.

Tiramisu (RM 8.00) didn't win my heart because of it's quite liquid/runny mascaropone.

Chicken pizza (RM 4.80) was quite average.

Mini spicy cheese (RM 3.60) has got the same wonderful bread texture as the tuna french.

The rye bread (RM 8.00) here would turn any dull German into an ecstatic one for it has got the qualities which every man and woman crave for in their mouths..... chewy hard on the outside and fluffy soft inside.... the perfect yin and yang of chewing.

I am in a relationship with Levain and she is too precious for me to lose. I've tried a lot of the breads here but I hope that I don't learn everything about her yet; for the mysteries keep me in love with her and for something this wonderful, I hope to be forever in love with her.

Levain.
No. 7, Jalan Delima,
55100 Kuala Lumpur,
Malaysia
Tel: 03 2142 6611
Hours: Monday to Sunday 7.30am - 9pm

Capricciosa Pasta & Pizza @ Sunway Pyramid, Bandar Sunway

2011-05-18T11:59:00.003+08:00

Love is a kind of curiosity and to love means to pursue the satisfaction of that curiosity. My love for italian food has taken me on countless discoveries in the variation of flavours possible in a simple tomato sauce. Sometimes it ends in disappointment but mostly; happiness. I was quite contented with my love for Prego, satisfying my curiosity again and again without losing any of it but a new love has emerged in my life and she is of mixed parentage. Her name is Capricciosa, her looks and attributes were definitely italian but she has this japanese heritage in the way she does things; subtle and not easily identified.

Rice croquette, Sicilian style(RM 10.90); also known in Italy as "arancini" has gotten me excited with anticipation as I last had this ball of rice( wrapped around a small chunk of mozzarella and then deep fried) years ago in Italy; this being not so common in KL. The unholy trinity of rice, cheese and an awesome tomato sauce was such a force to be reckoned with that I had to abandon all thoughts of salvation (of my diet and my increasing waistline) and surrender myself to the pleasure that it affords me.

I thought that my pleasure had been crowned with the arancini, but realise at the end of the meal that such an early conclusion was treasonous to the kingdom of my pleasure receptors. The eggplant gratin (RM 15.90) here is a fine example of eggplant strips in a creamy and cheesy sauce.

Lasagna "capricciosa style" (RM 16.90) is a contrasting tug for the attention of the senses between the molten cheese and the thickly textured sheets of pasta. The seemingly lack of beef(only tiny little bits found) was more than made up for by the wonderful and tasty creamy tomato sauce.

Spaghetti with crab meat in tomato cream sauce (RM 24.90) has got the same wonderful creamy tomato sauce from the previous dishes but is made better by the addition of crab meat so as to alter the original taste for the better.

Pappardelle with porcini and eringi mushroom (RM 26.90) would be a hit for pan mee lovers as the pappardelle was made fresh and has got the kind of texture similar to thick and chewy pan mee.

Food here takes on more of an italian character than the italian/japanese fusion one would have expected from it's japanese founder. Capricciosa pizza (RM 16.90) was not bad with a refreshingly different and thick dough.

The tiramisu (RM 11.90) here was mascarpon-y enough to earn it's place in my good books though it veers from the traditional with the addition of almonds.

At the end of the meal, I felt as if I have just had my fill from the seraglio of a grand italian marquis for my tongue was worked beyond what it was used to, attending to all that is attractive and pleasurable.

The food here lacks a certain element found in authentic italian restaurants; which is not surprising as this is more of a chain store. But to mention it with the likes of authentic italian restaurants is already telling of the regard I have for this restaurant for they certainly excel in another element which is called taste.

Capricciosa Pasta & Pizza
Pavilion KL,
Tel: 03 2141 0517

Capricciosa Pasta & Pizza
OB3.LG2.2 Sunway Pyramid Shopping Mall
Bandar Sunway,
Selangor.
Tel: 03 7492 0513

Levain Boulangerie & Patisserie @ Jalan Delima, KL

2011-05-09T10:52:00.004+08:00

Levain means bread leavening agent in french. Not the most awe inspiring name but I shall soon learn a thing or two about awe, it's cause and it's effect after I'm done here.

Situated at a colonial style bungalow behind Time building and RHB bank, Levain is a peaceful respite from the hustle and bustle of jalan tun razak just one street away.

I was overwhelmed with a sense of delight after biting into this orange peel rye bread(RM 5.30). A really tough outer layer gives way to a contrastingly soft filling.

Crossaint d'Amando (RM 3.80) has got such a brittle texture that it crowned my happiness and I crown it one of the best crossaint I've ever had.

The mushroom white sauce bread (RM 4.20) is a finer version of the rye bread with tough skin that tears off in a different fashion and inside layer that is fluffier. Chewing on this is much like Pechlebel's Canon in D where one is taken on highs and lows alternately, depending on whether it is the skin or flesh/filling that happens to be under the tooth.

Even though I'm not a Macaron(RM 3.60 each, RM 3.90 for durian) fan, the offerings here were quite agreeable in texture, taste and sweetness.

Madeleine Au Chocolate (RM 4.50) is one of the best example I've tasted, with a texture that is compact yet moist.

I have also tried the pasta here but it is insignificant and like comparing heaven and earth when put side by side with the pastries.

The pastries were made as if fit for a deity and after having been eaten by a mere mortal such as myself, a sense of humbling awe developed. I have never tasted anything as good as this save for in europe and I dare stick out my neck and say that one won't get anything even close to this anywhere in malaysia(yes, I've tasted all the stories and loafs). The work of art here is in a class of it's own and rightly so with the incorporation of natural yeast that is made in house and the use of a stone oven that contributes to the resultant wonderful outer layer. I can say that The artist was more in need of restraint than encouragement. But not a soul will dare and earn the ire of KL's bread loving bunch.

Levain.
No. 7, Jalan Delima,
55100 Kuala Lumpur,
Malaysia
Tel: 03 2142 6611
Hours: Monday to Sunday 7.30am - 9pm

Arabian Restaurant @ SS16, Subang Jaya

2011-05-05T10:54:00.004+08:00

The middle east is home to exotic tales of mystique and legend that span from a thousand and one nights to the ancient courts of antiquity. Though divided by history, time, distance and culture, the legends and heroes share a common denominator in food. From homer to medieval persian soldiers to Muhammad Ibn who wrote his epic literature, I doubt the taste or recipe of a shish tawook has changed much.

Now, subang is already home to a large japanese community and there are signs that there is a fledgling arab(bar africans) community concentrated at the apartments along carrefour subang. The food goes where a (insert nationality) go and for the arabian community here, their cravings were satisfied with this arabian restaurant operated and staffed by native arabians at this shoplot beneath the casa tiara apartments.

From anear, the facade of the restaurant is as recognisable as any kebab joint in the world with the stacked up lumps of meat cooking on a grill. This place differs from it's peers by having an air conditioned dining area behind the cooking area.

Iranian kebab (RM 12) has got rice that tasted like it's steeped in a rich stock that is brought out even further with the liberal use of salt. It wasn't really a kebab, more like rice with herbed lamb skewers and a piece of lebanese bread.

Arabian kebab (RM 10) is beef balls, salad and sauce wrapped in a lebanese bread. The beef balls has got a strong taste of cardamom/clover or the likes which didn't really catch my fancy as I loathe such strong spices.

Shish tawook sandwich(RM 6) weaves an impressive tale on the tongue. It tells a story of the balanced sourness imparted by lemon juice and yoghurt getting along really well with the taste of garlic that it seemed a perfect blend. The concealed french fries tames the otherwise overly sour sauce. Coupled with the juicy and chunky chicken, this was really good and I rate it above everything middle eastern that I have tasted before. The shish tawook is also available wrapped in lebanese bread at RM 10.

Arabian Restaurant,
GF, Casa Tiara Apartments,
SS16 Subang Jaya.
(2 blocks away from carrefour subang)

T.G.I Friday's Burger @ Subang Parade

2011-05-02T11:07:00.000+08:00

Friday is a special day which every one of us look forward to, and is therefore a cause of celebration with many a white collar worker heaving a sigh of relief and proclaiming; thank god it's friday!

TGIF(Thank god it's friday) is an american chain restaurant which aim to capture the above emotion and make it a daily affair. I think this is more prevalently reflected in the fun and games the employees engage a birthday boy/girl into to get the free birthday cake.

Beef bacon cheeseburger(RM 22.50) has got a really big patty with melted colby cheese and crispy beef strips. This was not bad but my mistake of requesting for a medium well patty instead of the usual medium rare resulted in a texture and lack of juiciness which I can't really get used to. I prefer the jack daniels burger with patty done medium rare.

T.G.I Friday's Subang Parade
G03-07, Ground Floor, Subang Parade
5, Jalan SS 16/1,
47500 Subang Jaya, Selangor,
Malaysia.
Tel: 03 5634 2956

Ninja Joe @ Tropicana City Mall, PJ

2011-04-28T10:16:00.001+08:00

Having just had a really salty and garlicky pork burger in puchong a week ago, I was quite reluctant to walk into Ninja Jones but as those close to me would have guessed, the burger factor got the better of me.

Regular burger(RM 4.90 if not mistaken) tasted a bit plain and dry but the plus point is that the patty does not overwhelm with garlic or herbs. My only grouse is that it's about nearly the size of a fillet o' fish or less.

The big boss burger(RM 8.50 + RM 1[egg] + RM1.50[cheese]) was much better, with the bacon providing a smoky taste to an otherwise regular burger. The bacon somehow reminded me of the winning lettuce and bacon burger from mcdonald's tokyo which I still yearn for due to it's smoky bacon and out of this world sauce.

Ninja Joe
Lot LG18, Tropicana City Mall,
No.3 Jalan SS20/27
47400 Petaling Jaya
Tel:03 7725 0834

Tarbush @ KL

2011-04-25T10:21:00.000+08:00

Tarbush is a perennial favourite of mine when the spice laden middle eastern food is the craving of the day. This is such only because I've gotten so comfortable to this restaurant, I never bother visiting the competitors.

Along with korean food, middle eastern food gives one the most bang for the buck. With no limit to the number of lebanese bread one could request, walking out with food reaching the esophagus is within the realm of the possible. So, stave off the other forms of carbo and order only that which goes well with the lebanese bread if on a tight purse string.

Mussaka with olive (RM 15.00) is eggplant with a really wonderful tomato base that is good when mopped up with the complimentary bread. The bread is served in a basket quartered and each serving adds up to 2 whole lebanese breads.

Fallafel (RM 8.00) was fried to a perfectly crisp outer layer that hides a beany inner layer.

Foul with hummus (RM 13.00) can get a bit cloying after a few helpings on lebanese bread and meat but is worth every moment on the tongue before the cloying feeling kicks in.

Maklouba chicken (RM 24.00) is spice ladden rice sandwiched between 2 pieces of huge and tender chunks of chicken.

I got abit bloated from all the "windy" ingredients but the uniqueness of middle eastern food always doesn't fail to keep me coming back for more.

Tarbush.
Starhill
No. LG 16, Starhill Gallery, Jln Bukit Bintang,
55100 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Tel: 03 2144 6393

Bukit Bintang
No. 138, Jln Bukit Bintang,
55100 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Tel: (603) 2142 8558

Duck King @ Hutong, Lot 10, Bukit Bintang

2011-04-21T10:57:00.001+08:00

I have heard of the popularity of Duck king, a restaurant originating from Indonesia but have not had the opportunity to try it out at it is always packed at the Jaya One outlet.

Recently while loitering around bukit bintang, I stumble upon a duck king outlet in Hutong, Lot 10. It was 3pm and I only got to try it out because it was non-peak hours and seats were aplenty.

Nanjing salted duck noodle (RM 12.50) has got noodles with a really light and wonderful texture, the sort you'll get from macanese hole in a wall noodle shops. The salted duck was really tender but has got this smudging of rainbow colours here and there on the meat which kind of freaked me out at first but no famished person can resist such temptation and nothing remain on the bowl after I was done.

Duck King
Hutong, Lot 10,
Jalan Bukit Bintang, KL.

Royal India Cocktail Party @ The Intermark, KL

2011-04-19T10:41:00.007+08:00

When the words royal and India are lumped together, images of the numerous Indian maharajas and their opulent lifestyle comes to mind. This fine dining restaurant that is Royal India captures a bit of that imagination and translates it into reality with it's authentic and sophisticated dining experience.

This is my second cocktail party at the happening Royal India thanks to Ilya of Salina & Associates.

Royal India is located in the recently refurbished building now known as The Intermark. From near the restaurant entrance is an elevated view of the Double Tree Hilton reception.

The atmosphere on that night was electric. The place was packed to the brim inside out.

A lounge area for that little discussion after a satisfying meal.

The night would not be complete without beautiful faces.

After doing the rounds, it was time for some finger food. Thick roll laden with vegetables and meat - not bad when dipped in sauce or even the masala.

Deep fried food with a crunch preserved by a layer of caramel. This is a firm favourite of mine along with the entree below.

Rogan Josh Kashmiri - if there is a one dish which sums up Royal India then this is it. This is the alpha and the omega of northern indian cooking, given the experienced touch of Chef Rakesh Prasad who has over a decade of kitchen work in Mumbai and Jakarta. Tender chunks of lamb take on the characteristics of the rich herbs and kashmiri masala it has been naturalised in, one feels as if taken on a safari of flavours.

A sweet end to a wonderful meal. But not quite the end yet..... as you will find out below.

Time to head to the Royal India bar just a few steps away for a night of free flowing "nectar of the gods".

The drinks were aplenty and I was goaded on to drink more by some "concerned" friends. At the end of the night, there was no more you, me, him or them; just us, the void between heaven and hell, the laughters in the air as if mocking reality and the agreeable feeling of being bonded to the place and the people by the solvent of the spirit that is alcohol.

Royal India
Lot 203, The Intermark,
182, Jalan Tun Razak,
50400 Kuala Lumpur.
Tel: 03 2163 3280

Tokyo: The Final Chapter

2011-04-15T10:09:00.005+08:00

This is to be my last post on japan, a moving collage of life in the land of the rising sun:

1) Street performers in Shinjuku - They weren't expecting spare change, just recognition and maybe a shot at fame.

2) Takeshita Dori in Harajuku - As lively as petaling street.

3) Shibuya crossing - The march of the shoppers to the drumming of the traffic light buzzer.

4) Rush hour at the metro station - the flow towards economic prosperity. I forgot my camera doesn't focus automatically when zoomed in.

5) Shibuya 109 - In Tokyo, large container trucks were used to promote singers and flirt with the fans.

This is to be my last travel post for the first half of the year. Stay tuned for the second half, I'm going to drive a lambo and dine at one "best restaurant in the world".

Sushi Zanmai @ Tsukiji, Tokyo

2011-04-14T11:03:00.003+08:00

Sushi Zanmai is a very famous sushi restaurant in Tokyo serving one of the tastiest and freshest of sushis. Founded by a former seafood buyer known as "king of tuna", patrons come to expect only the best.

I highly doubt Sushi Zanmai has anything to do with restaurants of the same name in malaysia. It's probably just the case of "name ourselves after the leader" but the latter is successful in their own right with innovations such as the zinged sauce sushi.

I was light as a feather but heavy as a rock in my abdomen after having had my third lunch earlier in Umai Sushikan. Fortunately, the jovial mind prevails thanks to the out of this world toro salmon I had earlier and this lightness lead me into the Sushi Zanmai outside Tsukiji without an ounce of guilt.

Sushi chefs hard at work.

The menu - sushis here were a bit more expensive than Umai Sushikan.

I was running out of patience to try the sushis here which has achieved a legendary status of sort under the shadow of "the king of tuna".

From left to right:
1) Snowcrab (Y198)- Quite a large chunk of meat coming from a huge crab. With myself not being a crab person, I just ate this without a care. The sushi rice at Sushi Zanmai seemed a better version compared to Umai Sushikan.

2) Salmon (Y98) - There's just a certain something missing in this salmon meat after it was chewed and swallowed. I'm not comparing this to the toro salmon of Sushi Umaikan but that certain thing missing is the wonderful feeling that can only be gotten from super fresh meat. The salmon here was still fresh but not as fresh as any of the meat I had earlier at Umaikan.

3) Fatty tuna (Y398) - I was expecting sort of an enlightening experience from this, like the one I had earlier at Umaikan but was left instead with question marks in my head.

4) Crab paste (Y128) - This one has got an unpleasant taste, with the salty taste of seawater and repulsive crab innards jostling for superiority.

This outlet in Tsukiji is open 24 hours a day. Imagine 24 hours kaiten sushi restaurants in malaysia, that would give the mamaks a run for their money.

Sushi Zanmai
3541-1117,
Tsukiji 4-11-9.
Open 24 hours a day.

Umai Sushikan @ Tsukiji, Tokyo

2011-04-11T09:44:00.002+08:00

Put off by the crazy long que at one particular sushi place in Tsukiji, it was fortunate for me to come across this quiet and peaceful sushi place which is Umai Sushikan a few blocks away so I need not miss the well known Tsukiji super fresh cuts of meat. Looks can be deceiving, it may seem subdued and not as happening as the sushi restaurants closer to market but the food here definitely does not produce an effect that can be categorised as quiet on the tastebuds and pleasure quarters of the mind.

The menu - I ordered a particular piece here which produced the same effect as the cocktail of chemicals released post "first taste from the chase" - that wonderful feeling signifying the beginning of the flame; I can't believe this can also manifest outside intimacy. Pardon me for lumping intimacy and food together, this might not gel for some but it's exactly what was felt.

I would have ordered a second or third round if not racing against time. This is my chief regret which I thought would be forgiven in part with a planned visit to the very famous sushi zanmai later. But this is not to be, for reasons that will only be revealed in the next post.

My order came with a snigger from the wait staff. A second flip through the menu reveals that I've ordered a platter of healthy sushi dish for women at Y1,050. Was too excited to notice earlier, and based my orders on the pictures alone. But what the heck, ikura and tuna weren't reserved for women only you know. This, coming from someone who pops 2 sheep's placenta pills a day(I ain't gay, metro or effeminate, it's a hair tonic for my receeding hairline with a most powerful side effect on the libido that makes the traditional oysters, goatweed, arginine, etc seem like candy).

These were the freshest and most wonderful sushi I've ever had! I find myself hard pressed to describe because there has not been an experience as worthy. Press your arm and the flesh bounces back up. That is what it feels when bitting into the meat from these sushi; the meat tears away in a springy fashion, culminating into a wonderful melt in mouth texture after all the chewing. Possibly coming from a live whole fish moments ago, this is as fresh as it gets.

The sea urchin sushi in the middle is ala carte and costs Y345. It's something which I've been yearning to try for sometime, but after having tasted it here, it was nothing special really.

Now this toro salmon(Y230), this is really something, an experience unlike any other. Imagine the buttery fats which has got such velvety smooth texture alternating with the not yet compromised cell walls of the fresh meat which bursts cell by cell, releasing it's juicy contents when bitten into. This leads to a really wonderful sensation which brings oneself to a natural high. I would say this is the best piece of meat I've ever eaten in my life! Half an hour after this experience, I was still grinning away while walking the streets of tsukiji when recalling the said experience.

I shouldn't write this way, for it would surely taint the pure white canvas that is the mind of the prospective customers with my own opinions and expressions. The best experience belongs to one who walks in unsuspectingly, without any influence nor purpose. After this, dining at a japanese restaurant in KL will never be the same again.

Umai Sushikan
Tsukiji Fish Market,
Block no. 4,
Tokyo

Nobu Tokyo @ Tokyo

2011-04-08T09:55:00.001+08:00

Nobu is a highly acclaimed restaurant co-owned by celebrity chef Nobuyuki Matsuhisa and film star Robert De Niro and is a hit with celebrities, probably due to the confluence of Nobuyuki's flair in blending japanese food with a touch of south america and De Niro's star power and influence.

I was here without a reservation after having learned that it was not necessary. To avoid disappointment, I came as early as 11.00am, half an hour before the doors open. I sometimes surprise myself with such kiasu behaviour.

Inside Nobu, it's like a big dining hall that gets the conversation and noise going, instead of the whispers and hush hush tones expected in a fine dining establishment. That's the way it should be, lively and noisy so that one won't feel stifled and awkward.

I sat at the sushi bar facing the kitchen where I get to watch the chefs in action.

Nobu is famous for it's fusion cuisine blending japanese dishes with south american ingredients(Peruvian and Argentinian). The salad above which is part of the set has got really good bits of onions marinated in a tangy, sweet and salty sauce.

The signature dish here is the black cod in miso(Y3,630 for set) that came with rice done in such a way, it resembles sticky glutinous rice. Good, I like rice with that kind of consistency, it makes picking them up with the chopstick easy peasy. I surmise the only south american influence on the table was the flower petal and semi dried apricot.

The miso forms a golden layer on the cod, however I don't really taste the distinctness of miso but it was a good huge chunk nevertheless, with flesh that is so tender and a lightly seared skin that is just oh, one of the little pleasures of life. Extra points for the freshness, where that faint dreaded taste found in cod meat back home is non-existent here.

NOBU TOKYO
1F Toranomon Tower Office
4-1-28 Toranomon, Minato-ku,
Tokyo 105-0001
Tel: 03 5733 0070

Tokyo Day 10: Tsukiji

2011-04-06T09:32:00.003+08:00

Saw a Vie De France packed to the brim a few days earlier in akihabara and since this outlet was nearly empty, I just had to give it a try. This is to be my second lunch after Nobu and there would be another 2 more lunches - at umai sushi and sushi zanmai to make it a total of 4 in a day(it would have been 5 but I can't find Edogin)! A record for me but knowing this to be my last day, I just had to take it all in before it's too late.

The crossaint(Y168) was not bad - crisp outer layer with inside that is dense yet airy; enough to give the sensation of biting into something. The croque monsieur(Y168) was a bit oily and weird with asparagus as an unusual filling other than the compulsory ham.

Dried foodstuff and seafood retailers just outside of Tsukiji.

Raw snowcrabs in other parts of Tokyo weren't really as cheap as those already cooked in KL restaurants. However the price around Tsukiji range from ok to expensive. I guess this has got to do with freshness.

Bought a 300gm pack of kelp for Y1,050 which is real value for money. Back home, a 50gm pack retails for RM15 at jusco midvalley.

It was exciting to visit the biggest fish market in the world where sashimis taste as it should instead of the decaying limp meat we get back home.

The complex is a huge hangar, probably big enough to fit a few planes. I had the most unnerving suspicion that they'd probably find it convenient to fit in and cut up a few whales here.

It was nearly 1pm, and most of the fishmongers were already done for the day.

No entry for tourists before 9am - except the likes of chefs and seafood distributors. However I read that a small amount of visitors are allowed in for the 4-5am tuna auction and only after registration.

Whale meat sold here. I also came across skewered whale meat at the roadside outside tsukiji but have not the heart to try after being shown the species(which is a bit smallish like dolphin) from a whale chart.

Shophouses within the Tsukiji compound - Now this is the place tourists and locals alike get most excited about.

Look at the que..... I have not the fortitude to join such a long que under the scorching sun though it is for something good and fresh. This is akin to punishing oneself for the sake of a bite or two, which does not really satisfy logic. The above is not the only food que I saw in Tokyo, there were a few with the longest seen at omotesando, spanning a few blocks at one egg cafe or a name which sounded something similar. There's even a que all the way up the stairs to the first floor of Shakey's pizza, omotesando.

Not worth getting hospitalised like the chap above. The que was really slow moving due to the extremely limited seating inside. In the end I didn't leave disappointed, I had my fill nearby and experienced what is the best sushi experience of my life! And of course, something as good as this deserves another post.

At the end of the trip, I could have walked a hundred kilometers. Tokyo really is a walking city and one better not attempt if not someone who owns a pedometer back home. Train transfers could be hundreds of meters apart, one would also need to walk hundreds of meters from the station to certain attractions. My toes were near the brink of being amputated(just kidding on this one, but they were a pale white, signs that the skin was about to wear off), my thighs literally bled due to too much friction between them and my 3 months old maglis were starting to wearout, with a little gap starting to open between the soles and upper part.

I had the most pleasant experience when it comes to interacting with the japanese. The only unpleasant ones were with foreigners. The first involves the harrasing africans on the streets. They can get quite aggressive to impress their japanese masters to the point of tugging shoulders. The second involves a couple from our neighbouring maid exporting country. They were blocking the train fare machine while looking at train route for quite sometime (there is still space for 2 between them and the machine). A sumimasen from me was replied with the word "insolent" in their local language. I pretended to be local and not to take heed but after I'm done with the fare machine I gave them a really sharp stare which they could only reply with silence. No one is racist without a reason and these characteristic attributes which infringe on the personal space of another only seemed to inflame the spirit of racism in all of us further.

At the airport, I saw something familiar which reminds me of home sweet home. Well, that is probably a warm up before facing the real deal back home on a daily basis. One jinjoe was shouting cantonese expletives in the airport duty free, complaining to his relative that he paid too much for a casio watch bought earlier. Imagine the shocked faces of the japanese who were not used to such insolent behaviour. Aaaahhh.... what a warm reminder of home sweet home.

Anyway, it was an eye opening 10 days and Japan now join the ranks of my to re-visit countries along with New Zealand and China(there are too many impressive sights and historical monuments to see).

Tokyo Day 9: Tokyo Imperial Palace, Ikebukuro

2011-04-04T10:01:00.005+08:00

Maranouchi - Tokyo Imperial Palace

The Tokyo Imperial Palace is a huge complex surrounded by greeneries right in the middle of the city.

I was quite surprised to find a certain wing of the imperial palace so close to tall buildings. I wonder how can the imperial family's privacy not be compromised if such is the case?

Saw people in everyday clothing queing to enter through this gate. I think those were the imperial household workers.

Ikebukuro

Ikebukuro is yet another shopping district. 5 days of visiting shopping districts in Tokyo and I've had enough of it!

However Ikebukuro is a bit different in that it is well known for it's concentration of good ramen parlours.

I did not manage to find Menya-Goto which is operated by an apprentice of Taishoken, the inventor of tsukemen. And so, I just walked into this ramen shop without knowing anything of it.

My risk taking behaviour was rewarded when this dry style ramen turn out to be better than average, especially when eaten with provided garlic paste. The noodles were nearly as fat as hokkien noodles and is soaked in a thin savoury broth.

Supper - danish braid(Lost receipt - fr 7-11). I just love the pastries in Japan, even those from 7-11(nearly all packed pastries and breads highlighted is from 7-11). Some pastries from this convenience store has got taste and texture which can beat even famous bread shops from home anytime. When I do return, I would definitely stock up on the cheesecakes found in 7-11(they are the best - light, spongy and tasty!... no pictures, somehow I always find myself in this situation when it comes to the cheesecakes).

Deep fried meat sandwich(Y110) wasn't that appetizing, but I finished it anyway, thankful it's not the yakisoba sandwich I had a few days ago.

While enjoying my snacks and beer in room, the ground shook. I thought I was feeling dizzy but that was negated by the sound of furniture creaking. I had a bad feeling about this and the little tremors the few days before. Little did I know it would culminate into one of the largest quakes ever recorded a day after I left Tokyo. Seating here now and typing this, I see images of myself in a gloomy post quake tokyo if I would have left a day later. What a relieve.

Honke Owariya @ Kyoto

2011-04-01T11:55:00.001+08:00

Honke Owariya is a 1465 establishment that used to be frequented by the emperor's family and monks when the imperial capital was still in Kyoto.

To get there, follow the signboard "Kurumayacho" right in front of the Kyoto imperial palace bus stop.

Walk the whole length of the dull concrete lined street.

And arrive at this wonderful looking blast from the past sandwiched between 2 concrete loafs which is Honke Owariya.

Enlightenment of the mind at the garden or enlightenment of the palate inside the restaurant - take your pick.

The tourist friendly menu - It's a noodle lover's paradise, rice addicts take note, lol.

With a bit of history thrown in.

If your cup is full, how much more can you pour in? I've heard this zen saying being abused repeatedly by hollywood... from transformers to 2012.

Tempura Seiru Soba(Y1,365 + Y315 extra noodles) has got the most wonderful soba broth I've ever tasted. With a taste that is so right and balanced, it is no wonder they are an imperial favourite. Underneath the lacquer ware holding the soba is an equivalent amount of soba, value for money I'd say, at only Y315 extra.

I was also given a lacquer ware pot like the above in previously highlighted soba restaurant in Asakusa but do not know what to make of it. Now I am enlightened, thanks to the english instructions. Truly tourist friendly this place is. The soba broth tasted even better with this "used water" and needless to say I finished every drop of the broth.

Soba gashi(Y210 - soba/buckwheat biscuits). I like the really crackly biscuit on the left, satisfaction is to be gotten from every snap of the biscuit.

Kyoto Day 8: Imperial Palace, Kinkakuji, Roanji, Kiyomizudera

2011-03-30T10:37:00.003+08:00

I spent the previous night in a capsule ryokan (Y3,600 - very affordable), a first for me.

It wasn't as bad as it looked, there is ample space inside each capsule and also TV for entertainment. I was only a bit worried because the blinds can't be locked, but my fears were extinguished when I realised my capsule neighbours were all decent looking people.

Kyoto Imperial Palace

Now one can't come to kyoto and not expect to see temples and palaces. As can be seen on the map above, the garden is really huge and I only managed to walk up to the palace gates.

Winter and spring take their turn without fail. So must man and everything in nature if the rules of heaven were to be obeyed.

To walk such a long length is not a prescription for healthy feet.

Unless one is to profit from it. Profit I did not for the palace gates were closed to the public. This was forgiven and forgotten when I visited the 5 centuries old Honke Owariya nearby. The legendary restaurant is patronised by past and present emperors and deserves another post of it's own.

Kinkakuji
Kinkakuji is like a mirror image of the Ginkakuji, only that it's pavilion is of a golden hue.

Entry ticket(Y400) - Looks similar to a chinese amulet.

If this were to be my home, everyday would be a beautiful day.

The golden pavilion burned down in the 50's and was restored back to it's former glory. It is currently a storehouse for sacred relics.

The path to immortality is as simple as replenishing li with k'an. The hurdle to immortality as immense as the diverging pathways. Somehow, I still think Ginkakuji has the most beautiful garden on earth.

Roanji
From Kinkakuji, I walked a good 2-3km to Roanji temple, the result of my foolishness in undermining the scale of the map. Besides I was kind of bored taking buses(which are not 100 or 101) as they stop every minute, causing a 30 minutes ride to prolong to nearly an hour.

Even the trees are living "la dolce vita" here, being bottle fed.

This is what roanji is famous for - the zen garden.

This rock formation reminds me of a holiday island in Thailand. But I don't feel the urge, as I am already in the middle of a holiday.

Kiyomizu-dera

The way up to kiyomizu dera.

I was late and this is all I got to see from outside temple grounds.

The atmosphere of olden days kyoto is very thick around this hilly shopping street nearby called ninenzaka. I would say that I have more affinity to this street than the ones in Gion, but too bad most of the retailers were closed then.

Kyoto Station
For those wanting to see Kyoto from atop without paying a cent, the 15th floor restaurant walkway of Hotel Granvia next to Kyoto Station is the best bet. (No pictures from me as I don't have a tripod to get a good still).

Kyoto Ramen Koji - A ramen street on the 10th floor of the Isetan in kyoto station.

Where 7 famous ramen proprietors from all over the country were invited to operate.

After much indecision, I chose this ramen restaurant only because it has a pictorial ticketing machine.

It's impossible to order without the pictures.

My noodles were not bad and as usual, quite salty. I love the mugicha(toasted barley tea) served here as it was very fragrant. I suspect it's from Ippodo which is a very famous brand from Kyoto.

Kyoto Day 7: Daitokuji, Ginkakuji, Nanzenji, Gion

2011-03-28T10:49:00.006+08:00

Kyoto wasn't what I expected; it's a modern city like any other japanese city with attractions from the past tucked a short walk away from modernity.

Kyoto station is a modern structure where the shinkansen arrives to. The air in kyoto is so much cooler and this can be felt inside the station due to it's open sided design.

Kyoto tower just outside the station. On the lower left is the multi laned bus station.

Buses are the main form of transportation here as it takes one right to the doorstep of most attractions and it's much cheaper than the underground rail. A one day bus pass costs only Y500 for unlimited rides(Normal fare is Y220 per ride) and can be bought from the driver. I find the system more logical, where people get on from the back and pay in front when they get off. The buses here are hi-tech compared to anything I've seen; it's got coin exchange machine(purple), day pass stamper(green), next station information, backview camera and a weird looking thing near the exit(probably a passenger counter). I sat at the front row the first time and heard giggles throughout the trip. I later found out that the front row is reserved for the elderly and pregnant women.

Daitokuji

Daitokuji is a living center for the transmission of zen. It is a city within walls made up of 24 sub temples. Notable among these are Koto-in famous for it's maples in autumn and Daisen-in for it's lovely garden.

One is free to walk the temple grounds but would have to pay to enter each sub temple. Daisen-in is Y500 if I'm not mistaken. I love the quiet lonely walkways here lined with pine trees dripping with dew. Like it or not, one is forced to abandon the weight in one's head and surrender to the tranquility which such sight allows.

Ginkakuji
Ginkakuji is perhaps the pinnacle of japanese artistic expression. Best known for it's stone gardens and pond(built to reflect the moon), the fifteenth century temple was originally a villa for the artistic shogun Ashikaga.

One would need to cross a bridge over "the path of philosophy" to get to ginkakuji.

Like sensoji temple in tokyo, snacks and souvenir stores temp one before the very gates that open into "paradise".

I tried the custard puff(Y300) - not as good as the custard from nakamise dori highlighted previously.

Behold, the gate which opens into paradise.

In this paradise, one would not be judged by the gatekeepers. Sinner or saint, just pay Y500 and one is through.

Zen is the state between being and non-being. What does one see beyond the discursive nature of the mind?

This one looks like a paddy field when seen from the sky.

This truly is paradise - The moss covered ground gives one a feeling of being in "middle earth" and an atmosphere unlike any other.

The reflecting pond - I see a fair maiden in the pond, her face flickering everyday without fail, how am i to know my reflection in the future, but I am certain she will look as today.

The silver pavillion - I have no idea why it is called thus. Maybe because the golden pavillion name has already been taken.

Tossed some coins for good luck. No bulls eye but not very far off from a dialogue with the deities.

I can imagine an immortal on the stone bridge when night falls; feet playing with water, expression as carefree as can be.

Winding pathway at hill garden behind the pavillion - The natural garden along the way up the hill is the most beautiful I've seen in the whole of Kyoto and the world. Pictures does it no justice, one need to be here, feel the atmosphere and breath in the air for oneself to really experience what I have experienced.

View of Kyoto from on top the hill.

Pathway that leads to enlightenment of the eyes.

This is like a dream - I was so overwhelmed with the beauty surrounding ginkakuji that I am no longer sure whether reality is a dream or the other way round.

Path of Philosophy

The path of philosophy is a cherry tree lined canal flowing from Ginkakuji to Nanzenji.

Bah, what a bummer. You are welcomed Mr Kyoto Citizen, I love cooperating with the plants and trees.

Yours truly - Itinerary in pocket(that's not an erection) and belt becoming undone from all the hardwork.

Nanzen-ji
Nanzen-ji is a zen temple where american poet Gary Snyder underwent zen training.

Lake Biwa aquaduct - there's a waterfall and small hidden shrine somewhere around here but my feet doesn't quite agree with me after having walked the whole length of the path of philosophy earlier.

Nanzen-ji gate.

One of the 12 sub temples in nanzenji.

Gion
Gion is the traditional quarter of Kyoto where geishas appear in the evening.

Shijo-dori - main street of kyoto which extends 7km from yasaka jinja shrine to matsuo taisha shrine.

Hanamikoji-dori 1 - Street with an old world charm. Kyoto would be the most charming city in the world if the whole of the city looks just like the example above.

Hanamikoji-dori 2 - Narrow back alleys famous for hosting 17th century traditional teahouses.

Hanamikoji-dori 3 - Gion corner, a geisha theatre. There are classes for flower arrangement and tea ceremony here for Y1,500.

Hanamikoji-dori 4 - Pathway to yet another temple.

That means even Angelina Jolie won't get away with it.

A small stream along the kamo river. Restaurants set up stilts along the small stream at certain times of the year for patrons to enjoy the atmosphere. It was sort of relaxing to reflect on the gushing river with a beer in hand.

Time for a snack! - yakisoba sandwich(Y130). This is the worst thing I've eaten in my life! The soba has got no taste, the only thing one can taste when biting into this is the pickled ginger(gari), so it's like having a pickled ginger sandwich with the noodles thrown in as a challenging hurdle to finish this thing.

Enjoying a can of beer while watching the world go by along the kamo river. I was startled by a homeless old lady peeing into the manhole cover near where I was sitting, her modesty exposed for all to see. Gave her some coins and she went to a vending machine to get herself a beer. I quickly gulp down my beer and flee before she can come back to kampai with me.

A quaint little alley parallel to the kamo river.

LOL WOL, I'm not going to comment on this. But I just can't help it. Darwin's reverse theory of evolution in action.

Not to sound disrespectful but I would be scared stiff if only the both of us in a dark lonely alley, her face as white as spirit only appearing when light from paper lanterns fall on it. I wouldn't know what to do except face each other in silence, as in a passing dream.

Another stream - the city is surrounded by canals and streams that criss cross it, sort of like the city of Wuxi in China.

Kamo river in the evening.

I had my dinner at this okonomiyaki place in one of the alleys branching out from shijo-dori.

Some humorous, albeit distatesful wall plaques to entertain one before the food is ready.

For those dining alone, no worries. The restaurant proprietors were thoughtful enough to provide GROs clad in kimono on every table to accompany one. Notice the giant menu?

This is the only page inside the menu.

Okonomiyaki(Y630) here is really different from the stuff back home. This one has got really crisp skin(sort of like apam, only thinner and more crisp), lots of chopped ingredients(I can only recognise gari) and 2 watery egg yolks within. My only grouse is that the lady boss went round to collect money while everyone is tucking into the food.

The legendary Taillevent of Paris. Not a michelin starred restaurant in Japan, only an enoteca here.

Time to go shopping for supper again.

Fauchon pastries are amongst the best. I wish I can try everything, but there is only so much space in my tummy.

Basket of mini pastries(Y650) - 2 crossaints, 1 pain aux raisin, 1 pain au citrus and 1 shaved walnut bread. The crossaint is one of the best, with flaky outer layer and buttery taste inside. The same can be said of the pain aux raisin, where one of the famous japanese bakery in kl can't come even 10% close to the taste and texture.

Chocolate chip rock bun(Y158) was not bad, very "rocky" with a few chocolate chips to provide contrasting texture.

Pretzel(Y126) is just like eating a pretzel shaped donut, nothing special.

Tokyo Day 6: Harajuku and Shibuya

2011-03-24T19:56:00.011+08:00

Harajuku
Omotesando and the surrounding area leading to harajuku shares something in common with relaxed new zealand neighbourhoods, that is the blurring of line between commercial area and housing estate. Also quite similar to bangsar, only more posh and high on the feel good factor.

Prada building in omotesando. With such a huge prada building just a few blocks away from one's home, this is already a great feel good factor for the fashionista.

Every few minutes, a ferrari or lambo zooms by, even in the early hours(11am) of a sunday morning. The guy above is quite contrarian from his numerous peers in Italian stallions.

The short but fashionable walk from omotesando to harajuku.

The oriental baazar(at the fashionable walk of previous picture) - japanese souvenirs at a reasonable price. I came back on the last day with plans to purchase a few good looking norens(Y4,000 each) and yukatas(Y2,500 each) but was utterly disappointed when it was an off day(thursday). I then went around town searching but did not find the bargains I saw here.

In the end, I found the exact yukatas at nakamise dori in asakusa for Y500 more each after intense haggling.

A small lane with an interesting mix of businesses amidst a residential area. This is like the telawi of harajuku, only no cars are allowed in.

*Shakes head* ....The stuff they put out to market nowadays.......

Nothing but condoms.... a great place for those who fear shotgun marriages.

Laforet - one of the famous fashion malls of tokyo. This defies logic, but I read that retailers on the lower floors are cheaper than those above.

Takeshita-dori - A lively shopping street a short walk away from laforet. Guess what the guy on the right is selling(guy not visible but you can see his wares on the floor)? Scams do exist in japan and this one involves a magic puppet that dances on it's own(not anymore when the unsuspecting fool opens the package back home).

Harajuku street - opposite takeshita dori. A bit toned town compared to takeshita dori.

I walked back to laforet and up a small hill to arrive at the european looking harajuku station.

Nearby the station, street performers entertain for free in hopes of getting their talents recognised. I don't know what the guy above is supposed to be, I think KISS rocker with big arrow pointing to crotch.

A little further down the station is the entrance to the Meijijungu shrine. This is a shinto shrine dedicated to the Meiji emperor and Empress Shoken, where their souls are deified and worshipped as a kami(divine spirit).

It was a really long walk on rough gravel which aggravates further the condition of my feet.

The imperial seal on nearly everything in meijijingu.

I believe the presence of divinity is strong in japan. I took a picture of the deity's altar(picture taking is prohibited in the altar area) and my camera developed problems right after, with the mirror jamming after every click. I prayed in apology and deleted the picture and soon my camera was fine again. It's probably the divine spirits which brought the mongols to the bottom of the sea in their every attempt to invade japan.

Shibuya
Shibuya is a lively shopping area, comparable to shinjuku.

This statue marks the spot where the faithful dog Hachiko waited for his master everyday for a decade, not knowing that he has passed on after a stroke. The loyal dog's stuffed remain can be viewed at the National Science Museum of Tokyo in Ueno. Nowadays youngsters emulate the legendary dog's loyalty by waiting for gf/bf near the spot where Hachiko used to sit.

The famous shibuya crossing where when lights from all directions turn red simultaneously, people start pouring into the streets from all directions.

Toraya(at dept store next to shibuya station) - the household name in japanese sweets and snacks which originated from kyoto.

Everything in Y1,480.

Each confectionery has got a quality feel in every bite.

A shopping street entrance facing the shibuya crossing. Frankly I was so inundated with shopping streets in Tokyo that when another one comes along I'll just drag my feet into it without any anticipation.

Shibuya 109 - Just a short while in and I had to flee, for shibuya 109 is full of girly clothings and girls. The girls were one of the most fashionable type(both sales staff and customers)I have seen. I flee the same as when I accidently walked in to the female undergarment department because I seemed odd and out of place here.

Ahem, Ahem! The fashion labels here certainly sounds odd. Japanese girl to friend: "Hooraay! I'm going to 109 to get myself new titties!"

Dogenzaka - the hip street behind 109 which is full of cafes and restaurants. I read that it's one of the new hip place to pickup girls eversince the roppongi market cheapen up. I can't find the Bunkamura building here where Rope burusera is located. This is a shop selling used panties. Not that I am interested in purchasing any, just wanted to look see for the novelty of it.

Certain parts of tokyo were squeeky clean. However, with the difficulty of finding a rubbish bin anywhere in tokyo, it was not surprising to find heaps of rubbish strewn around like the above. It's much easier to find bins in kyoto than tokyo - this is quite baffling. I think the tokyo government has too much confidence with the tokyoite civility without factoring in the hordes of foreigners.

I had my dinner at Omiya Ardija near kabukicho(no points for guessing why I went back to kabukicho) without my camera(in subway station locker-Y300 good for a whole day). I had a bowl of noodle with a whitish and oily looking broth which tasted like salt water with slight meaty taste for Y520. Not as good as the one I had the day before as the springy and chewy noodles lost it's wonderful qualities after being steeped in the broth.

Some soothing ale to sooth whatever ails me before bedtime. I grew up with bottle of milk in mouth, in an instant I now find myself growing older with can of beer in mouth, who can tell the swift changes in life? I hope I don't progress to hard liquor as the years go by(I still like the beer high better). I love the draft one beer on the left. The taste wasn't sharp at all but clear and agreeable tasting which was very refreshing.

Airticket bought, itinerary done. At the time of writing this, I should already be in seoul but here I am in front of the laptop, so there would be no posts on Seoul anytime soon. Well, this is due to the fukushima incident which I think the odds are not in favour of one walking outdoors the whole day. The westerly winds could pause and there would not be ample warning should some radiation blowover. I burned four figures due to this but what price can one put on one's health? Anyway, I hope to be in seoul next year.

Tokyo Day 5: Shinjuku

2011-03-22T20:52:00.008+08:00

Breakfast - 2 pcs bread with encased strawberry jam(Price Y110-150). Very soft and fluffy but this is no different than eating a jam sandwich.

Shinjuku
I have always thought shinjuku hi-tech looking, as it was always linked to that sci-fi movie ... blade runner. I find instead shinjuku not to be the cold dark place portrayed in the movie but a shopping district full of warmth and energy due to the never ending crowd of people.

Apparently gold is still the in thing in japan. I agree on gold being the choicest precious metal. I would never wear a metal which looks like polished steel/silver but bear a fancy name like platinum.

This is not something that can be attempted back home without any incident. Guards pushing a cart of money through an alleyway armed with only a baton.

This is the iconic studio alta right in front of the JR shinjuku station exit, where youngsters come to get the latest fashion trends and hangout. I imagine the lively streets of shinjuku to be devoid of people now, where only shadows come out to play in the dark when no one else is looking.

Kabukicho doesn't seem as intimidating as it was made out to be. It is as decent as any other japanese street, just try not to walk the dark lonely lanes in the night. Good thing the africans are no longer here due to a fallout with the yakuza, else it would be a street full of annoyance.

A lane filled with noodle shops and pachinko parlours.

My first ramen experience in this shop in the middle of the lane pictured previously. Ramen is so big in japan that they've got guide books just on ramen restaurants.

The machine is quite confusing at first but luckily I was guided by a kindly staff. Basically feed the machine, press selection and collect ticket, press another button for change and finally hand over ticket to chef.

My shoyu based ramen(Y680) was not bad and came in a really big bowl. However it was a tad too salty. I find that the japanese love their noodles swimming in a really salty broth, as this is the case with every single serving of ramen I have had throughout my stay in japan.

Takashimaya times square in shinjuku. Japan is a paradise for the burberry fan. Burberry blue label which can be found nowhere but japan has got bags for only Y36,000(about RM 1,368). Fancy a burberry umbrella for Y10,500? How about a burberry table cloth starting from Y530? Instead of buying fridge magnets as is typical in every other country, I bought a big bag of burberry goods as souvenir.

The people working the front line, now they are the most polite and service oriented sales staff I've ever met. You won't get that snigger or that attitude as if the sales staff who is renting a room can afford more than you - from back home. It makes me reel in disgust thinking about the kind of service we are getting back home. Speaking of good service, one particular sales girl from burberry takashimaya comes to mind. She was cute enough to model a bag for me, slinging it on her shoulder and pretending to walk around innocently without me requesting her to do so. Needless to say, I was a happy customer moments later. The service was meticulous in that I need not que at the counter to pay. I lay down a few Y10k notes on the tray and an assistant will run off to the main counter of takashimaya to pay and return later with change and receipt.

As a tourist, I am entitled to a 5% discount voucher(for purchases above Y3000 - the vouchers can be requested at the 2nd floor tax refund counter by registering passport details) and a 5% tax refund(for purchases above Y10,000 - also via the tax refund counter where refunds will be in cash on the spot). The final discount was only 5% as there is a 5% consumption tax.

Something unique - half boiled egg shell opener (Y945). Tokyu hands in takashimaya offers creative and wonderful products for travel, home, etc. Also bought noren here for Y1680, cheap but with a plainly design.

At the said place, I also came across droplets with weird flavourings such as the udon(Y315) above, pork cutlet, bbq beef, etc. The droplets above tasted nothing like udon, more like barley flavoured sweets.

Ah, la dolce vita, that's the life. Or should I say La Belle Vie? Whatever it is, Tokyoites are a well pampered bunch, with the creme de la creme of the world's best at the disposal of one's whim and fancy, provided one has the moolah.

I had to pull myself out of takashimaya before I chance upon more things to buy. Pictured above is a bird's eye view of the railway track. Most guys would be straining to look at the billboard but I can assure you that her prized possessions and modesty were kept intact.

When in doubt about how to get to an attraction, the subway station walkway would be the best bet as there are signs on which exit to take to reach one's intended destination. The criss crossing and interconnecting pathways underneath were so numerous, it can probably fit millions.

To get to the tokyo metropolitan building above, I had to walk a toe crunching mile or so via an underground pathway from the JR station.

But the sweat and pain was worth it, for the view of the city that stretches as far as the eye can see. Before one is allowed up, bags would be searched but there's no need to register or pay a fee for this view from the 45th floor.

Right across the track from the jr alta exit is this atmospheric little alley called shomben yokocho(piss alley) where rustic yakitori bars can be found. It probably got it's name from the many drunk sararyman who throng the place after office hours.

I had my dinner at this ramen place between Alta and kabukicho called omiya ardija. Surprisingly, there was no coin machine to fiddle with, unlike the other ramen places.

One of the best ramen(Y490) I've ever had. Springy and chewy at the same time, the noodles were at their best when dipped into the broth briefly so as not to lose it's agreeable qualities.

I took a stroll through kabukicho in the night and it still felt safe, save for being harrased by one punkish looking guy when I accidently venture into a quiet lonely lane. The guy kept asking whether I wanted to watch a strip show but I already had something in mind.

Madonna is one of the few remaining authentic nozoki-beya in Kabukicho where one won't get ripped off if one is interested in admiring the female form. Pay Y2000 at counter, handover handphone/camera, wait in small dingy room, shown to personal booth, then enjoy the 20 minutes of erotica. The booth was really small and only big enough to fit one. There's a one way glass divider to keep in the itchy hands and a box of tissue for obvious reasons. If one fancies a dancer, one can also buy the panty she is wearing by slipping Y2000 through a slit on the glass divider.

This was the entertainment that got me off the maid cafe plan, thinking it was child's play. Now don't get me wrong, I'm not the type who would visit prostitutes, as they disgust me, but an entertainment like this is too good to miss out; even girls come to watch. Coming from a country where such entertainment is banned for good, I watched to my heart's content by patronising thrice. Out of the 3 shows, 1 was really very good, with a lot of subtle interaction, teasing and onani-ism in front of every booth. At times, the dancer's private parts were so close, one can nearly touch it if not for the glass divider. There were plenty of eye to eye contact and I suspect that the one way glass is not as it seemed. Those who think of secretly photographing the dancer beware; other than a Y500k fine, your photo and letter of apology would be posted for all to see in the waiting room. This makes me shudder at my foolishness in new zealand, there were two things I did which would definitely get me thrown out, I was just lucky or maybe the new zealanders were just such sporting blokes.

Time for dinner at yoshinoya. It's funny how yoshinoya has been in malaysia for so many years and this is the first time I am stepping into one in it's country of origin.

I chose set 1 at Yen 500.

Not so funny when the beef has got a really dry and dull texture.

Beer in japan is in a class of it's own. There is so much to choose from and most of them were brewed to a unique finish - something different from all the boring stuff we have back home. I especially like the asahi style free beer on the left (Y190 500ml) which tasted like soda water with a subtle hint of citrus and spices(think hoeegarden). There is not a day in japan in which my bloodstream was alcohol free as there is so much to try and discover from the 7-11 cooler. The 7-11's here even stock hard liquors like JD for about Y2000.

Pierre Gagnaire @ ANA-Intercontinental, Tokyo

2011-03-19T20:05:00.000+08:00

Having understood by taste the philosophy of Joel Robuchon's kitchen which emphasises on classical french haute cuisine with complimentary and intense flavours, I was about to experience the contrasting philosophy of the legendary Gagnaire, who's menu is more towards molecular and nouvelle cuisine. Nouvelle cuisine is characterised by lighter more delicate dishes and an increased emphasis on presentation. That means not using strong marinades and heavy sauces.

I love the seats near the entrance because it affords one some privacy. No one should "face off" a stranger on another table, especially in a classy restaurant such as this.

It was a clear sunny day today and Mount Fuji can be seen in the distance.

Pierre Gagnaire is known for his generosity and the above is just the start of it.

They've got the friendliest crew I've ever seen. The sommeliers and staff engage me in small and pleasant conversations from time to time which made me feel quite comfortable, to the point of feeling like I've known this place for quite a while.

The breads were made in-house. Probably from the Pierre Gagnaire boulangerie on the ground floor.

The butter in the background was shaped so much like a pau that I foolishly mistaken it for some type of japanese pau.

Here comes the appetizers - 5 of them to be exact. Nothing to shout about. Instead, I felt quite confused with the contrasting flavours from most of the appetizers.

Around the turnip - Quite a refreshing appetizer of turnip and ice cream.

Sheets of smoked swordfish with yuzu.

Winter vegetable veloutte with bitter chocolate accents. Quite weird having a vegetable puree with chocolate.

Slice of grilled beef with potato straw.

Marinated tairagai shellfish with amontillado wine, avocado cream and hazelnut.

The mains - The most tender duck meat.

With accompaniment of foei gras pudding. This is the highlight of the meal with it's unmistakable taste of foei gras captured in a smoothly textured pudding. It's like eating foei grass flavoured tofu with a little grainy texture.

This reminds me of my companion back home who is always harping about how cruel I am to consume foei gras. Luckily I did not open the videos she sent me about how the goose were ill treated, else that would put me off eating foei gras. See no evil = keep on eating foei gras.

Time for dessert.

Chocolate cake with some alcoholic chocolate sauce.

Some type of chocolate mousse.

This is the best dessert for me today, sweet syrupy coffee tasting sauce with a bunch of crackly confectioneries.

Some type of french biscuit with chocolate.

At the end of the day, I was quite impressed with the number of appetizers and desserts. It was like a continuous assault on the tongue with the sheer number of entries in each category. However, it was all a mixture of subtle flavours, with non dominating, leading to quite a confusion on the palate. The winner today was the foei gras pudding, which dominates every other thing on the table.

Personally, I prefer classic french cooking with it's intense flavours and artery clogging heavy sauces. I'm not sure how many michellin stars this restaurant has, maybe none as it is just in the first year of operation but with Pierre Gagnaire's restaurants around the globe collecting stars like stickers, it is only a matter of time before his tokyo venture adds more to his name.

Pierre Gagnaire Tokyo.
ANA-Intercontinental Tokyo.
1-12-33, Akasaka, Minato-ku,
Tokyo, Japan.
Tel: +81-3-3505-1111

36 floors below, near the reception area of the hotel is Pierre Gagnaire Pains Au Gateaux.

With lots of sweet confectioneries on display.

I reminded myself that I've probably had more than the daily sugar allowance earlier and so refrain from a buying frenzy since they looked so tempting.

Crossaint(Y270) - flaky when bitten into but not as buttery as I would have imagined it to be.

Pain Aux Chocolate(Y290) - Quite ok this.

Tokyo Day 4: Sengakuji, Zojoji, Ginza and Roppongi

2011-03-18T20:30:00.003+08:00

Breakfast - Baumkuchen(Lost receipt - About Y130-150 at 7-11) is quite popular in tokyo. It's like a swiss roll, only that the layers were much thinner(thus more numerous) and without cream to hold them together. Not bad, but nothing to shout about.

On this day, I was already feeling the strain from the previous 2 days of walking. But as a traveller, I had to fulfill my journey no matter the physical barrier. The new discoveries and visual delights were the fuel that kept me on despite pain the body throws at me as a sign of protest.

Sengakuji

My first visit for the day is the sengakuji temple. It was here that the 47 ronins(masterless samurais) who avenged their unfairly punished master were laid to rest. All 47 were punished to commit seppuku for lopping off the head of the arch enemy and carrying it into this temple.

While here, I experienced some sort of mysterious wind which suddenly started blowing strongly when I approach the graves perched on higher ground. It feels quite eerie the circumstances surrounding the wind as everything was still as rock before my approaching the graves. Plus, I was only one of 2 visitor on temple ground.

Zojoji Temple

Next on my itinerary is Zojoji temple.

This is a 14th century temple dedicated to Jizo which is just within walking distance to tokyo tower.

Ginza
Ginza looks pretty similar to any other trendy shopping street in tokyo, except that it is sitting on the most expensive land in the world.

Sony building - where the latest sony gadgets are on display and for sale.

I wonder how much would that visit malaysia ad cost since it's hanging on really expensive land.

It is here in Ginza that most department stores are found. The japanese department stores are of a different breed, unlike those in malaysia. You would not find a department store in tokyo without high end brands like burberry, ralph lauren and the likes on it's sales floor.

The whole of tokyo is like a giant fashion runway. More than half the population of tokyo were decked out in designer wear and if not then it would be at least something fashionable and pleasant to the eye.

The great thing about department stores is that the lowest level is devoted to the celebration of food. It's a ready to go food market here, with a few retailers wrapped around each pillar. One can find plenty of big names such as fauchon, toraya, eric kayser, etc underneath most department stores.

It has been a while since I last had anything from Eric Kayser.

The croissant(Y180) tasted just the way it was in both Taipei and Paris.

They've got really stringent quality control as the apple puff(Y260) above also tasted the same as the one I had in Taipei.

The japanese love everything french when it comes to food. One can find most of the big names in french f&b here including the one and only Laduree in Tokyo, famous the world over for it's macarons. I realised there's a macaron craze back home but macarons just weren't my type of thing, thinking them just so so. Anyhow I bought a few at Y250 each.

A few stations away from ginza is the tokyo international forum building. Nice architecture, however nothing much to see around here, except the yakitori street beneath the yurakucho station rail tracks.

Colourful flowers outside the tokyo forum building.

Roppongi

I then hopped on a train to roppongi which is supposedly a gaijin(foreigner) area. Nothing special here too, except for some artsy fartsy stuff near the mori building.

Supper - Mcd Teriyaki burger(Y280). The teriyaki sauce has got a gingery taste to it, giving this burger a weird taste. I still think the bacon lettuce burger of the previous day the best mcd burger! But of course, it's the best after the big mac.

Tokyo Day 3: Asakusa and Odaiba

2011-03-17T19:26:00.022+08:00

Asakusa

Asakusa is the old town of tokyo and retains somewhat the shitamachi feel of olden times.

Right out of the station exit, one is welcomed by the golden turd across the sumida river and the in-the-process-of-being-completed second tokyo tower nearby.

Just opposite the kaminarimon gate is Kameju Confectionery. Stars sometimes drop by for the ever popular hokkaido bean paste dorayaki.

Kameju 1: Crackers with a sweetish coat(Lost the receipt - about Y500-600+). Asakusa is famous for rice crackers.

Nishimura azuki, just next to Kameju is also quite an established confectioner.

Nishimura 1: Blocks of red bean paste(Lost the receipt-about Y500-600+) with coating of sugar. Quite sweet this.

Nishimura 2: Red bean dorayaki(Lost the receipt-about Y100-200+) - not bad but nothing to shout about.

Owariya soba is less than a hundred meters away from the kaminarimon gate and is a favourite haunt for monks from the nearby temples.

Seiru soba and tempura (Y950) has got really good noodles that tasted handmade while the dipping sauce was just superb. I don't find much difference between the tempura here and those back home at upscale japanese restaurants except the batter is more crisp and the prawns much bigger. One need not pay nor request for drinks at any japanese restaurant in japan for the moment one sinks his/her bottom on a stool, a cup of green tea/barley tea/iced water/etc will be on one's table, depending on what is being served. This drink is re-fillable from the jug on every table/on request and is mana for the traveller who is lazy to carry around a mineral water bottle.

A hundred or so meters directly in front of Kaminarimon gate is Namiki Yabu Soba. I was planning to have a double lunch today, unfortunately, Namiki-yabu soba wasn't open and will stay that way till november 2011. It is claimed to be one of the 3 greatest yabu soba in tokyo.

Pass the kaminarimon gate, is nakamise dori shopping street which offers plenty of temptation along the way before one reaches Sensoji, the house of deities which transcend beyond any temptation. Take it as a test of one's will power against temptation before one reaches the house of deities if one were to follow in the example of the revered deities. I for one failed just after a few steps into nakamise dori when some fried salty snack caught my attention. Redemption was to follow when the altar of the palate receives worship from the worshipper that is the mind.

Shop selling fried snacks with filling - choose from a few flavours such as custard, red bean, etc.

I had the one with custard filling(Y170) which oozes agreeable tasting custard when bitten into. The custard is actually very good and surpasses even those from beard papa.

This biscuit shop which is the closest to sensoji sells the cutest looking biscuits.

It's called ningyo yaki (Y300 for 4 pcs) and has got a 3 dimensional shape to it.

They were made quite like kueh carpet, with a guy sitting in front of a fire, turning the metal moulds.

These are one the best biscuits I've eaten. Very crisp on the outside with a soft red bean filling inside.

Someone please dial 110 and get ultraman here asap! We've got a bloke from the past who is about to expose his crotch to young innocent girls below!

"You, eato here. If you say no oishi, I beato with my umbrera, understand-o?"

Some sweet shop which looks quite popular on one of the lane branching out from nakamise dori. Seeing the endless people coming and going, I just had to try what this shop has to offer.

Syrupy sweet potato(Y210 per 100g) which is sold per 100g. Dry and sweet, it feels like bitting into a giant date.

Another little shopping street branching out from nakamise dori which has got an old time feel to it. The shops here selling combs, souvenirs and kimono has got a down to earth feel much like the cloth shops of jalan masjid india. However the price is not.

On the said street, I came across this little stall with quite a que before the picture was taken.

They were selling some kind of korrokke.

Turns out to be meat korrokke(Y180) which is quite meaty and very juicy.

About a few hundred meters away from the sensoji temple is Kappabashi Dogugai(kitchenware town) where restaurateurs get the tools of their trade such as knives, kitchenware and even realistic looking display food.

This and the pictures below were taken when I revisited Asakusa on my last day in japan.

5 storey pagoda next to sensoji temple.

The doors to the sensoji temple might be shut after 6pm but the deities were still receiving non-stop prayers from the devoted.

Odaiba

From Asakusa, I took a train to the shimbashi station and got myself an Odaiba One Day Ticket/Gururi Kippu(Y900) from the ticket machine. This ticket is valid for trains, buses and ferries to and within Odaiba.

Though I have the option to ride the yurikamome line straight to odaiba, I got down at Hinode station to take the ferry across as I wanted to take in the sights that can only can be seen from the waterways. The Odaiba One Day Ticket was very well worth it as one ferry ride already costs Y400 while the yurikamome train line costs Y180-370 for each ride.

The ferry took us to Pallette Town in Odaiba at a leisurely pace and I get to see mainland tokyo disappearing slowly as the ferry made its way to odaiba.

Venus Fort shopping center looked like some kind of warehouse complex which gives one the impression it probably houses a hypermarket.

This is not so as the inside resembles a little italian town.

With 3 floors of themed shopping experience.

Right next to the shopping center is Toyota's megaweb which offers patrons a peek into the present and future models from toyota. One can even test drive yet to be launched cars here such as the Vitz and FJ Cruiser.

This is probably how the next version of vios will look like.

The future camry looks a bit.... feminine.

Will this be in malaysia any time soon?

On top of the megaweb is this ferris wheel. I'm not paying to take a slow moving ferris wheel when I can see tokyo from the 45th floor of the tokyo metropolitan building for free.

A short train ride away is the odaiba aqua city and the fuji tv building behind it.

The american influence is strong in japan. Fortunately most japanese still keep to their culture of politeness.

A little beach in front of aqua city for the romantic stroll with that someone special. The horizon closes in on tokyo city and soon, a different characteristic of the city will emerge.

A warning about the dangerous dwellers which lurk beneath the water.

I had my dinner at Pomme Noki in Aqua city, which was reviewed quite favorably in forums for it's omu rice(rice wrapped in fried eggs drenched with sauce and baked).

It was hard to decide, because of the sheer number of choice on the menu.

I finally went with the hayashi sauce and creamy cheese sauce with bacon(Y1029). The creamy cheese sauce was very good however I didn't quite like the hayashi sauce side which tasted like tomato sauce with a dash of soy sauce.

A breathtaking view from the restaurant - The heavens were about to zip up the skies and call it a day but this being tokyo, light is never wanting, especially in the night.

The colourful rainbow bridge of odaiba heading towards mainland tokyo - as seen from Decks Shopping center.

Supper - Mcd bacon lettuce burger. This is one of the best mcd burger around. Smoky strip of bacon on top of a really thick and wonderful white sauce, cheese and finally a slab of beef patty below gives this burger a taste that beats all the other mcd creations I've tasted around the world so far. At only Y290, Mcd's ala carte burgers are the way to go for those on a tight budget.

Tokyo Day 2: Ueno and Akihabara

2011-03-15T20:19:00.004+08:00

Ueno

The sun rises at 6.00am this time of the year, as such I did not get much of a sleep having arrived so late yesterday. Sleep nourishes the body but the excitement and anticipation of exploring nourishes the spirit for it to transcend any physical barrier the body imposes.

The metro station machines were quite complicated looking at first. I was of the opinion that they were high tech machines, turns out not.

One would have to look at the chart above and find out how much to pay for an intended destination. A bit of a chore it is; those who can't read japanese would have to compare between the english name of station above and the fare below. Then select the amount on the machine and pay.... quite a simple machine that is not without flaw.

I was shortchanged of Yen 100 when I inserted Yen530 in coins for a Yen 230 ride. One machine also jammed when I inserted a twice folded before Yen1000 note. They were probably designed to accept only crisp new notes. The station master had to open the machine from behind to retrieve the note. It seems that KL machines were built much tougher with all the scruffy notes circulating around.

If, unsure, just feed the machine minimal fare and pay the difference when at destination station via the fare adjustment machine above. You'll know the fare is incorrect when the ticket gets rejected at the exit barrier.

Ueno park is just opposite the Ueno station. At the inner entrance, there's a statue of Takamori Saigo(the last samurai) and a tomb for the shogitai soldiers. I did not take any picture of the tomb due to respect and will not post up a picture of the statue as it will not interest the readers anyway.

Walk a little further and one would be greeted with this beautiful 17th century edo structure which is the Kiyomizu kanno-do. It was built facing the northeast as a spiritual defence because people in the past thought that the northeast is the direction where evil emanates. The deity in the shrine is a secret image housed in a miniature shrine and will only be shown to the public once a year.

Shinobazu pond looks really beautiful with the brownish wilted lotus plants. Next to the pond is the Benzaiten (goddess of fortune) temple. I prayed at the temple and tossed a few coins into the pond behind the temple and the next day, a small fortune was bestowed upon me, but one which silly me did not seize. At the Nakamise dori on Asakusa, I dropped a coin and it rolled and fell near a Y1000 note on the floor. A girl picked up the coin and note and wanted to return them to me. Being the honest person that I am, I only took the coin and told her I do not know who the note belong to while she stood there holding the note with a confused face. Although I wasn't Y1000 richer, it seemed a good omen for things to come.

The Toshogu shrine houses Ieyasu's(founder and first shogun of Japan) armor.

Nearby the Toshogu shrine is where people watch peonies bloom in spring. They weren't blooming yet at the time of my visit.

As I walk on, I chanced upon these mummified trees. Probably an unofficial sign that the museum is nearby.

Tokyo national museum costs Y500 per entry and exhibits it's contents in 5 separate galleries. I was fascinated with the chinese and Tang pieces housed in one of the building. They've also got indian, korean and middle eastern pieces on display.

Defibrillator in the national museum. These can be found all over town - in buildings, subway stations and etc. Imagine the number of lives saved due to the easy availability of these defibs. In a nation of artery clogging food like malaysia, these machines would come in real handy installed in public areas. I've heard countless stories of ppl getting a heart attack in public areas and they could be still alive with one of these around.

Beautiful blooming flowers within the museum grounds. However they weren't of the sakura variety. There was also a pinkish blossom near the entrance but it is of the momo variety and not the cherished pale pink of the sakura.

I walked back to the station and just opposite the station is Ameya-Yokocho. This is a shopping street where the japanese come to buy cheap ingredients for festivities.

Niki No Kashi, a well stocked supermarket is also somewhere around here, stocking lots of foodstuff such as rice crackers at a cheaper than average price.

It was also in Ameya-yokocho that I tasted the famous Gindaco Takoyaki for the first time.

The skin was really crisp while filling mushy with big chunks of octopus. The sauce, mayo and shaved fish combine to make this a really good eat, which no takoyaki back home can compare. After having tried a few Gindaco outlets around town, I think this outlet in Ameya makes the best takoyaki (Y500 for 8 pcs) as the skin here is crispier.

Akihabara Denki-Gai

Clint Eastwood - The boss.

KL has got it's jalan pasar for electronics. In Japan, a geek's paradise is akihabara where everything electronic can be found in it's latest form.

There's also a sex toy haven next to onoden with 7 floors of ecstacy inducing aids.

Akihabara is also known as maid cafe paradise where geeks spend thousands of yen to feel special and be pampered by the maids. This one was on my itinerary however I scrapped the plan for later as I was feeling the strain from the long night yesterday. In the end, this plan didn't materialise when I found something more entertaining in kabukicho days later.

Tokyo Day 1: Arrival

2011-03-14T18:51:00.008+08:00

Life is short and fragile, more the so for the Japanese who are always at risk from a major earthquake due to the nation being in the " pacific ring of fire". The plum blossom of this spring shall bloom, and in a short while, the beauty shall wilt and fall from grace. Such is the reality of life here that one gives his best shot to life, for the world within may never exist the very next minute.

I feel for all that I have met in my 10 days of being in japan. Such polite and friendly people. Life and work in japan is stressful and complicated, yet people here go about with a mysterious vigour for life such that they seemed to enjoy and be happy with whatever they are doing. And this, one can feel when interacting with them. It makes me feel disdainful for the quite a few with a lack of manners, rude, grudgeful and problematic people back home. One could be one of the richest person back home, but one's behaviour will definitely betray one's poor upbringing.

The shop assistant greets me as if she is genuinely happy to be in my presence, the kindly old lady smiles and asks to be excused when she needs to look at the bus schedule which I was blocking; these are the situations which one is apt to encounter on a daily basis in japan. Yet these people which I have met, I do not know their fate in the tokyo which has grinded to a halt due to the quake. The shop assistant might be still near her workplace without a way to get home or call home, placing her fate in the hands of the deities the japanese so revere. The old lady might be worrying the fate of her grandchildren as I write this. I might have escaped the quake by a mere 14 hours from lift off but I do not feel any better thinking that such pleasant and kindly people would be left to suffer such a fate. But such is the way of life - one can't escape suffering even in the depths of the jungle. For where else could one escape to, when the cry of hunted deer echoes throughout the 4 corners?

Life for man is brief,
Like the mark left behind by wandering seagulls,
Where shall your thoughts train upon,
When in a blink the swallows flew past.

Anyhow, I hope they are ok. At least for those I have met and had touched me in a meaningful way. Below and in subsequent posts will be the account of my journey through the land which seemed alien on this planet.

Day 1: Arrival

The flight arrived at 10.30pm and I was quite surprised with the really long que at airport immigration. I soon learned that it was due to the requirement of having fingerprints and photo taken. As I was a lone traveller, I had to go through the humiliating ordeal of having my bags and body searched by a female customs officer in front of the long que behind. Every man loves to be touched by a member of the opposite sex, but definitely not in this way.

By the time I have cleared customs, it was already nearly 12am. I hurried to the monorail station which would take me to hammamatsucho station(16 mins, Y470) and from there switch to a JR train and then a tokyo metro train to my hotel in minowa. There was a bit of confusion with the route and fare and this took a bit of time and by the time I realised, I had already missed the last tokyo metro train.

Yearning for an adventure and not wanting to pay an amount more than the price of a night's stay at a 5 star hotel for such a short cab ride, I walked around in the cold(it was about 0 degrees celcius according to the met dept but I was kept warmed by my trench coat) armed with only a map I have gotten 5 years ago. This took me about an hour for a location which is only 2 train stops away. I stopped to ask convenience store workers, policeman, even hardened construction workers and all I got was polite and pleasant replies even though I might not understand most of what they were blurbing out. When back home, asking a construction worker would most probably result in a reply laced with a high tone of voice and probably a few expletives thrown in.

By the time I found the hotel, it was already 2.30am in the morning. But I guess my body clock hasn't adjusted, thinking it was still 1.30am back home. I was tired but still flushed with the excitement earlier. Thankfully, my itinerary was designed to be light the next day.

Thinking back, I did not regret not taking a cab for it definitely felt exciting to walk a dark quiet neighbourhood alone and yet feel perfectly safe. Taking in scenes of what a real japanese neighbourhood looked like along a really long stretch of nothing but houses, something which I will never get to see for the remainder of my trip.

Now most people would fear or abhor travelling without a companion. Experience tells me that travelling alone is the best way to travel for there is no distraction; it is just you, your journey and your destination. No one to spar with, no one to distrupt you when deep in thought. What does it feel to be alone in a cold country? I don't recognise the word alone. Tokyo is a city of 30 million people that you can chat up anytime, especially the youngsters who can speak english and the japanese would be be polite enough to carry on a conversation.

Walking the streets of tokyo alone, not knowing much of the japanese language (except sumimasen, kimochi and yamateh), taking in all the sights and sounds with an eerie silence in my head........ I was literally lost in translation (minus the bonding part, someone is gonna kill me when I get home if this happens).

I would say that along with the new zealanders, the japanese were the most pleasant, polite and well mannered people in the world. The europeans, asians, americans and whatever are all very well far behind. I've got nothing but good things to say about everything japanese.

Mak's Noodles @ The Peak Galleria, Hong Kong

2011-03-13T18:57:00.001+08:00

Mak's Noodle prides itself with making one of the best wantons in hong kong.

It's branch outlet is located conveniently right at the entrance of the peak shopping centre.

Lonely planet writeup of the restaurant on every table.

Prices looked quite reasonable.

The wanton was really good as claimed by many. Wrapped with a really fresh and huge prawn, one can feel the wonderful crunch when bitting into it. The soup and noodles were also not bad, making this quite an enjoyable meal.

Mak's Noodles
GF, Peak Galleria Shopping Center,
Victoria's Peak,
Hong Kong.

Hong Kong Part 3 - The Peak

2011-03-13T18:25:00.000+08:00

I always have a main reason for visiting a country. With Taipei it's the national museum and beijing - the forbidden city. It would sound silly but my main reason for coming to Hong Kong was to look down on all the hongkies from atop the Victoria's peak.

A return ticket costs HKD $37. Reasonable price to pay for a novel mode of transportation up the hill.

Victoria's peak is still as charming as ever. On the way up, I remembered passing a lone house right in the middle of the hill with a ferrari. This time the owner has upgraded to a lambo murcielago and a nissan GTR. I wonder what's next when I return.

View of central hong kong. As charming as it looks, this is not the view I return for. I was expecting a view much more colourful and brighter city, certain to reveal itself in a few hours time.

One can view the whole city from the observatory for about HKD$ 30-50 more.

Bu there's a better alternative in the peak shopping center next to the observatory.

It might be a few stories lower than the observatory........

But one can view central hong kong without paying a cent.

View of pok fu lam from behind the peak shopping center.

Would she/he find solace in this eden after such a hideous act?

I did not achieve what I came for. The peak was enshrouded in mist with not a flicker of light to be seen below.

But still I was charmed by the vibrant energy that is hong kong.

Hong Kong Part 2 - Tsim Tsa Tsui

2011-03-12T20:26:00.001+08:00

Tsim Tsa Tsui is across the sea from central hong kong and can be reached easily through the mtr. This name never fails to amuse me for I always remember that Samuel Hui Song about Tsim Tsa Tsui Suzie.

At the tip of Tsim Tsa Tsui, is the legendary Peninsular Hotel, where the who's who of high society congregate.

Just a hundred or so meters away from the Peninsular Hotel is this breathtaking view of Central Hong Kong.

A classy shopping complex called 1886 or something nearby.

The long stretch of shopping street called Nathan Road just behind the peninsular hotel. Chung King mansion is supposedly somewhere on the right but after the experience at Macau, I have not the gall to ask anyone for I do not wish to rob any busy hongkie of his/her precious time which would result in me being given a scolding.

Nathan Road is really long and after about a kilometer or so, there's an intersection to Jordan Street.

Where the popular temple street market is located. I was there way too early at 3pm, hence the quiet peaceful street above.

Yung Kee Roast Goose @ Wellington Street, Hong Kong

2011-03-12T17:57:00.005+08:00

It's baffling how selling roast goose can be such big business.

So big that the restaurant is a multi storied building big enough to satisfy both curious diners and regular locals alike.

This is the only chinese restaurant I have ever seen with a Corum clock on display.

Roast goose in Yung Kee is considered the best in Hong kong if not the world and it has a Michelin star to back that up. It does feel kind of weird for a traditional chinese restaurant, especially one speciallising in roast goose to be associated with the michelin guide. Other than that, it's also voted the 12th best restaurant in asia by the Miele guide.

There's a special counter in Yung Kee for take-away. After payment, the number on your receipt will be called out when the food is ready to go.

At HK$ 35, my packed roast goose rice certainly has lots of rice. The roast goose is not bad especially when drenched with the provided citrus sauce, however I find nothing out of the ordinary with it as the meat tends to be a little dry.

32-40 Wellington Street,
Central, Hong Kong.
Tel: (852) 2522 1624

Kau Kee Noodle @ Sheung Wan, Hong kong

2011-03-12T11:32:00.002+08:00

Kau Kee is a household name among locals and tourists alike for their legendary beef brisket noodles with 90 years of history. Fans include the former chief executive of hong kong and also film star Tony Leung.

Walking down the steep road of gough street from hollywood road, one is faced with a quiet little street which is where Kau Kee is located.

The one and only Kau Kee.

As they were not open for business yet, I walked back to Wellington Street to check out Michelin starred restaurant Yung Kee's roasted goose rice.

After I had a pack of goose rice from Yung Kee, I walked back to gough street to be greeted with this que 5 minutes before opening time.

I finally got to try out Kau Kee when I came back during dinner time. There was no que but I still had to share a table with strangers. Something which I will never do in KL, but faced with the prospect of satisfying my desire, the pleasure of anticipation overshadows any displeasure I might have felt from doing so.

Curry beef noodles (HK$ 27) above has got the most tender beef and the most agreeable rough noodles swimming in a spicy hot curry. The noodles and beef were really good, I won't mind queing the next time I return.

Kau Kee Noodle,
21, Gough Street,
Sheung Wan.

Hong Kong Part 1 - Central

2011-03-11T20:14:00.001+08:00

Whenever I think of Hong Kong, I think of Samuel Hui. Lol, weird as it seemed, this association stems from his lyrics which reflects the reality of life in hong kong to the dot.

Not content with the glitzy lights of Macau, I was adamant to see the visual glory that is hong kong from the top, of victoria's peak that is.

Getting to Hong Kong from Macau is easy. It's just an hour away by Turbojet ferry and costs MOP 142 to and MOP 168 fro.

Sheung Wan, Hong Kong Ferry Terminal. Now these ultra fast ferries are not for those with weak stomachs. Even the locals need to use the provided paper bags as witnessed by yours truly.

Right across the ferry terminal is the Western Market, clad in a beautiful edwardian structure.

Graham street market. Like central macau, central hong kong is also quite walkable as most of the attractions are just a short walk away.

However, walking central hong kong would mean climbing steep pathways linking one main street to another. A very good exercise for those who have earned a big tummy, like yours truly.

The spirit of Lan Kwai Fong only rises after the moon.

Hollywood road would greatly interest the treasure hunter for it is where the antique stores are located.

The very steep road down from hollywood road to gough street where the very famous Kau Kee Noodle is located.

Lord Stow's Egg Tarts @ The Venetian, Macau

2011-02-28T22:19:00.003+08:00

Lord stow's bakes the tastiest egg tarts in the world! So claim a few guide books. How can a simple egg and pastry concoction differ that much from another, I though to myself. Well, only one way to find out.

With only 3 shops in the whole of macau, it is quite a pain when you crave for their egg tarts. Fortunately there's one in the venetian, so we need not go out of the way to coloane.

For the love of _ _ _, I can hear the choir of St. Paul's in my head. I must say I was quite taken aback, this truly is the best and tastiest eggtart I've ever had. The filling is extra sweet while the pastry flaky - layers of crisp delight, but so is every other eggtart in town. However there is just something in this Lord Stow's eggtart which sets it far apart from the other wannabes around town. Maybe I should say that is has a soul of it's own for want of a suitable description and this action of devouring an eggtart with a soul gives one the greatest satisfaction.

This is my last post on macau and I'll post on Hong Kong as soon as I get back from my next destination.

Lord Stow's Bakery & Cafe
Level 3,2119A,
The Grand Canal Shoppes,
The Venetian,
Macau.

Macau Part 3 - Taipa

2011-02-28T22:08:00.004+08:00

I was of the opinion that Taipa, south of the macau mainland is some kind of sleepy island but boy was I wrong after seeing the island for myself.

The famous cotai strip laden with hotels and casinos. In the plane, we were surprised how close the cotai strip is to the macau airport. They would probably use the strip as a runway should the need arise.

The gigantic marvel of modern construction that is the Venetian took only 4 years to build.

The venetian basks in light with it's rivals along the cotai strip.

Grandeur dressed in gold has no equivalent peer.

It is Macau's most extravagant shopping precinct.

Offering 1 million sq ft of retail space that is housed in the world's 4th largest building.

With the biggest casino in the world.

And if the ceiling is not shiny gold then it's realistically blue and cloudy.

They've even got gondoliers who break out in song every few minutes.

She's got such a lovely voice. I suspect most of the gondoliers were former opera singers.

On the other side of the cotai strip is the ultra modern City of Dreams.

With various artistic artifacts inside the building.

Life like 3d generated image of mermaid on wall - it's like the aquarium screensaver on pc, only a hundred times bigger. She swims around, play with the fishes, look at you and she's topless too. We did not get to see the free 360 degrees projection called "dragon's treasure show" because of a lack of time.

Rua De Cunha

Rua Cunha is a short and quaint shopping street less than a mile away from the venetian. On the right is Gelatina Mok Yi Kei famous for it's desserts and durian ice cream.

MOP 15 for the durian ice cream.

Not bad. It was satisfying to taste something familiar, being so far away from home.

Santos, another famous place for portuguese food, as endorsed by the then young chow yuen fatt. However we did not get to check it out due to us arriving way past the lunch hour.

The whole time we were in Macau, we did not see even a minute of sunshine. It was cloudy and drizzling all the time. We were kept going by the light inside, searching and exploring within what is a city that never needed any natural light, for it glows in it's own man made light. In macau, nighttime is its daytime, where punters awake to get to work wrestling the one armed bandit.

Wong Chi Kei Cantonese Noodles @ Largo Senado, Macau

2011-02-27T19:57:00.001+08:00

At the entrance of largo senado, just opposite mcdonalds is the very popular Wong Chi Kei which some claim makes the best cantonese noodles in macau.

The founder of this restaurant learned his skills from a famous hua-yuan master in 1940's canton. The last of the great noodle masters were from Hua-Yuan, Canton in the golden era of noodle making in the 1920's-30's.

Pork chop bun (MOP 17) is a slab of tender pork meat between what is a french loaf like bun - crips on the outside while fluffy soft inside.... marvelous this.

Wanton noodle in soup (MOP 26) is not bad but the star here is the noodles which are really smooth, springy and packs a good bite. Think petaling street wanton noodles, only so much more better.

Beef noodle (MOP 26) is not bad but the meat wasn't as tender as expected. And of course, the piece de resistance here are the noodles.

Wanton and dumpling noodles (MOP 34) done dry style. One thing I like about wantons in HK and Macau is that they are wrapped with a really huge prawn, which packs quite a crunch when biting into the fresh meat.

Wong Chi Kei
Travessa de Cinco de Outubro 51, R/C, Macau

Robuchon A Galera @ Hotel Lisboa, Macau

2011-02-25T19:06:00.000+08:00

Joel Robuchon was the most influential french chef of the post-nouvelle cuisine era instrumental in leading french cuisine back the authentic style of cooking. Operating more than a dozen restaurants worldwide with a total of 26 michelin stars among them, he is the man with the most stars in the world.

Although it was not the great man himself supervising the kitchen, I was still adamant to tryout what is Macau's only 3 Michelin Starred restaurant.

I made my reservation 1 month ago and here I am at the entrance, not knowing what to expect, for prices here are much more affordable than it's michelin starred peers in europe. Anyone earning MOP or Hong Kong dollars can definitely afford to dine here.

Amuse bouche - The one and only amuse of fresh oyster with some creamy topping presented meticulously.

Bread basket - Choose between salted or unsalted butter and the sommelier will carve a chunk out from the mound of butter.

Le foei gras et le shiitake - Shiitake mushroom in fine crispy tart with foei gras, gratinated pork medley and arugula leaves. As simple as it seemed, this appetizer turned out to be one of the best food I've ever tasted. The first bite causes confusion in me, which beget the whys and hows. By the second mouthful, I was calm, composed and reeling in a warm and happy glow coming from within, a glow which comes from the confidence of acknowledging that such a wonderful culinary creation and heavenly taste is even possible in this world! By golly, I was elated, I could sing this appetizer praises that can even outdo prayers from a religious fanatic but I think I should leave it at that and not bore the reader further.

Le boeuf wagyu - Jugged wagyu beef cheek in ravioli with green asparagus and pumpkin puree. The mains above is not bad but I was still quite shaken with ecstasy by the earlier appetizer that my tastebuds did not pay much attention to the incoming stimuli.

Here comes the sweet part. Choose 3 from the dessert trolley.

Time to end the meal on a sweet note. I like the paste like pie on the left and the crispy waffle with cream on the right.

Total damage? Close to HKD$500/person for the executive lunch, which is quite on the low side for a 3 Michellin stars restaurant. It was worth every cent just for the foei gras and shiitake appetizer alone and at that price, it's a steal.

I must say that Robuchon A Galera is quite possibly one of the best french restaurant on this eastern side of the globe.

Robuchon A Galera.
3/F, Lisboa Tower,
Macau.
Tel: (853) 8803 7878

Opening Hours
Lunch: 12:00 - 14:30 hrs
Dinner: 18:30 - 22:30 hrs

Cheong Kei Noodles @ Rua Felicidade, Macau

2011-02-24T21:54:00.003+08:00

Cheong Kei is well known for great cantonese meals at a moderate price.

Beef noodle (MOP 20) is not bad. However we were not expecting such a small bowl, about the size of a rice bowl which can barely satify my hunger(at least 3 bowls of such size will do the trick). We learned later that this is the standard size in macau.

We also ordered the wantan and dumpling noodles (MOP 20) as the dumpling here comes highly recommended. A bite into the dumpling reveals a weird fragrant taste sort of like the smell of joss stick.

Shrimp roe noodles (MOP 18) is just plain noodles with tiny shrimp roe that imparts taste but does not fill up the tummy much.

Try to come on non peak hours as the place is quite small and packed, I could barely make my way out(not that I'm that fat, but it would definitely be difficult for plus size people).

Cheong Kei Noodles.
68, Rua Da felicidade,
Macau.
Hours: 12.30pm - 12.00am.

Macau Part 2 - Central

2011-02-22T19:04:00.004+08:00

Central macau is actually quite walkable if one don't mind the tired feet. With most attractions less than a mile away from each other, it is definitely not feasible to build an mrt like hong kong over here.

We started our walk from the kun lam statue near avenue dr sun yat sen which has a nice view of taipa island along the avenue. Macau's equivalent of lan kwai fong called "the docks" is also along this avenue.

In the "lotus" beneath the statue.

We didn't see any street walkers soliciting for business, which is good. However, we saw plenty of call cards like the above strewn around certain areas to entice horny worms to the awaiting chicks. Who eats who there is no way of telling.

As we made our way to the central area, innumerable glitzy casinos/hotels lend the city it's posh and colourful character.

The most striking among them all is the pineapple shaped grand lisboa.

Which dwarfs it's older sibling just next to it.

The old lives in the new via the reflections.

The inside of the grand lisboa certainly looks grand but I am of the opinion that the venetian is the grand daddy of grandeur.

From the grand lisboa, we walked along the avenida almeida ribeiro/avenida infante henrique shopping street filled with shops displaying MOP 400k Patek watches. We turned into a small alley to arrive at Rua Felicidade which is the old town of macau. A few of macau's favourite eateries such as Cheong Kei and Fat Siu Lau are located here.

We walked back to the main road and further down on the other side of the road is the ever popular largo senado with it's wavy tiled walkway.

At the end of largo senado is a path leading to the ruins of St. Paul.

This is the iconic structure with which Macau is so constantly associated with.

There is a stairway behind the ruins of the cathedral which affords one a view that the saints carved out on top of the entrance see everyday.

But this is not for those with a fear of height or wearing a skirt.

Further down the entrance is a free entry museum displaying religious relics.

On one side of the ruins of St Paul is a temple dedicated to Nazha.

On another, the monte fort which used to be a defence against the dutch. Seen above is the old city wall.

Remains of what used to be a room.

Doggies here are cultured enough for the word W.C. to apply to the place where they are supposed to pee-pee. However I can't say the same for some Macanese we came across who were unfriendly with some being downright rude.

The climb up the steep stairs of the fort was rewarding in that we get to have a great view of the city.

Though in ruin, the cathedral is as perfect as can be, immortalised in the memories of those who visited.

We then took a cab to the fisherman's wharf which is a mammoth themed shopping complex just next to the ferry terminal to hong kong.

We were at first quite baffled as to why the place is so quiet with not a soul in sight. After all, this place is supposed to be open 24 hours and it's only 6.30pm.

I guess most people are more interested in the casinos than replicas of an ancient chinese city or the potala.

Replica of an european shopping street.

Sands casino nearby is noted for it's gold glass clad facade. And for the curious(more polite word to use than horny), Xanadu cocktail lounge inside has got free cabaret shows which I did not get to see.

The city truly is beautiful when the sun sets for it is a city of a million lights, the Las Vegas of the east.

Alorcha @ Macau - Portugese Food

2011-02-21T23:02:00.004+08:00

Just a short walk away from the A-ma temple in Barra Square is Alorcha, one of the most famous portugese restaurant in macau. Operated by a portugese guy and his portugese staff, food here is claimed to be as authentic as can be.

Dinner starts at 6.30pm so we had ample time to explore the area around barra square. By the time we came back at 6.25pm, the restaurant was already half full.

Complimentary bread basket.

Ameijoas (MOP 92) - clams in a flavourful broth. We kind of took a liking to this. It tasted kind of asian.

Arroz De Marisco (MOP 128) - This dish of rice submerged in broth with seafood(prawns, half a crab, a few mussels) is just ok. Feels like eating quarter cooked porridge.

Bitoque (MOP 108) is steak sprinkled with lots of fried garlic. Quite ok, just that the bottom is a bit greasy.

This is my first time having portugese food(other than the egg tarts) and I would say that it's not bad, though I can't imagine myself having portugese food as often as I do food/recipe originating/inspired from their mediterranean neighbour Italy. Note that there is a 10% service charge here.

Restaurante Alorcha
Rua Do Almirante Sergio
289, AA R/C Macau.
Tel: 2831 3193

Macau Part 1 - Barra Square

2011-02-20T14:32:00.023+08:00

After a 1 year plus hiatus, I finally got out of the country again to take a much needed breather. My friend who is a retired MAS employee used to encourage me to join the aviation industry in my younger days, saying that he would pull some strings to get me in. However I have not the interest for I hate the idea of serving strangers or having to sit 13 hours straight as part of the job routine.

Anyway, it sure feels great to explore a new city again and savouring what it has to offer. The next 10 or so posts will be about macau and hong kong.

We landed with not much of a view due to the foggy weather. Walking out the airport entrance exposed us to the reality of how cold the weather really was - 10 degrees Celsius to be precise.

I was expecting a city inundated with smut and shady characters often portrayed in hongkong movies but in reality the city is as decent as any other city of the world. It feels safe enough due to the fact that there are people everywhere and the bright and shiny casino buildings everywhere around town gives the city a classy facade.

Macau Tower & Barra Square

Macau tower and barra square is located at the southern tip of main land macau.

Macau tower reminds me of Auckland tower. AJ Hacket's is here too for those brave enough to bungee jump off the tower.

There's a shopping complex right next to the tower but there weren't many people around. I wonder when is Lamborghini going to open in KL? They should have stuck with the traditional lambo yellow instead of ferrari red.

The whole city was enveloped in mist, it feels kind of surreal at times.

A short taxi ride away is barra square. Macau got it's name from the A-ma temple here.

Lol, the W.C. thing is just comic right?

Dilapidated buildings behind the A-ma temple. It's like a canvas painting on the wall.

The moorish barracks was designed by an italian to house an indian regiment from goa in the past.

Quaint walkway from the moorish barracks to the penha church which reminds one of the good ol generation before.

There really is such a thing as a doggy wc! If there is such a thing in japan, it would definitely have squirting water and paw warmer for the long squatters.

Royal India @ The Intermark, Kuala Lumpur

2011-02-12T12:45:00.001+08:00

We were surprised that the formerly ageing city square is now a swanky new complex called the Intermark - housing the double tree hilton and the recently launched Royal India.

Royal India is the brainchild of the people who brought us Austin Chase coffee and Spice of India. It is an indian fine dining restaurant specialising in northern indian fare with a bar built in for those days when a cool refreshing drink beckons after the spicy and delicious fare at the restaurant.

We were invited to drink. Imagine our delight, being the in-need-of-alcoholic-counselling people that we are.

The spicy lamb dish above is definitely one of the best I've tasted, being the indian food lover that I am.

It's time to party!

Royal India.
Lot 203, The Intermark,
182, Jalan Tun Razak,
50400 Kuala Lumpur.
Tel: 03 2163 3280

Amazon Kindle 3 Review

2011-01-30T16:16:00.010+08:00

Ordered on the 7th, Shipped from Amazon on the 17th, arrive to US address on the 22nd, reached my hands on the 27th of september. That's how long it takes to get my hands on the new Amazon Kindle 3 wifi, launched just recently on the 27th of August in the US of A. The kindle has never been official in malaysia and singapore and so it's impossible to order through the Amazon.com website.

The package came in a sturdy cardboard box which is sealed to prevent tampering.

Note the above jagged edges of the box which is where the security seal used to be - it tears off like the seal on a cornflake box. At least I know the customs people hadn't touched or played with the contents. The refurbished units also came in the same sealed boxes but at a cheaper price but I know mine is original as I bought it directly from Amazon.

The kindle is about the length and width of 2 beer coasters side by side(don't ask me why I use beer coasters as a comparison) and as thin as a pencil. It weights about 250 grams which is about the weight of a 200 page paperback book. Internal memory is 4 gigs and the battery allegedly lasts for up to one month of reading with wifi turned off.

My first impression - I was quite impressed as to the detail on the e-ink screen, it looks so life like that at times it felt that the pictures/words are printed on screen. Another benefit of the e-ink screen is that it won't cause eye sore similar to looking at an lcd screen for long hours.

A nudge at the power button to turn it off brings up this ever changing screensaver. I suspect that the machine is forever turned on after the first time powering it up. When brand new, the screen was empty.

E-books can be bought off amazon.com cheaper than real paper books and it takes only a minute for the machine to automatically receive it when wifi is turned on. Note that if your amazon account is registered to a malaysian email address, amazon doesn't allow any purchase of it's kindle format e-books but there are ways to get around that that has been proven to work by myself. Even pdf's can be read but it needs a bit of conversion using a free software to fit the kindle screen nicely.

The web browser works perfectly well and is better than a blackberry browser in that it render pages as it is. My only grouse is that it doesn't have a blackberry style touchpad, so the cursor moves quite slowly.

Other than the browser, there is also an mp3 player and a text to speech program to read you your bedtime stories. I must say I was quite impressed with the text to speech program which converts ordinary text on an ebook into a natural sounding male voice.

The kindle is a convenient package to carry around your "books". I find myself finishing a 250 page e-book in record time of 2 days instead of the months it takes on a laptop. Hours of reading also doesn't produce any heat on the machine. The joy of reading has never been so real!

Update - 31/10/10

Rest the cursor in front of a word to get it's meaning. A convenient dictionary the kindle is.

Highlight interesting sentences then save them to notes.....

The saved notes can be accessed by pressing the [Menu] key and then clicking on "View My Notes & Marks".....

All saved notes can be accessed anytime just by opening the ebook and repreating the above steps. Through the settings function, one can also opt to backup saved notes on amazon.

Bookworms who read voraciously need not worry about bookmarks, for the kindle automatically return to the last opened page no matter how many ebooks one flip through.

Another plus point I like is that I can set a password so that itchy hands won't get to discover "interesting" ebooks I have in my kindle.

I have a few original units up for sale. If interested, do SMS me at 019-6201380.

My lowyat.net page

Japanese Izakaya Uo Toku @ SS15, Subang Jaya

2011-01-24T22:11:00.004+08:00

Just when we thought that the mushrooming of new japanese eateries at the row opposite sjmc has ended with the opening of Yamada, we were faced with yet another pleasant task of discovering tastes and textures at the newly opened Japanese Izakaya Uo Toku. I've been eyeing the place for a few weeks since having taken notice of their signboard and have since then been waiting with anticipation till they finally open for business recently.

A google search returns the meaning of Uo Toku as - to undo. Now to undo fabric in the ritual of worshipping a lover is tantalising. But to undo all doubts and inhibitions when a morsel of food is placed on the tongue is more the so, especially at a yet to be proven place.

They've taken the concept of an open kitchen to new depths.

This is the only menu available for lunch at the moment. Ala carte only for dinner.

Uo Toku Special (RM 45.00) comes with so many side dishes that it filled nearly half the table. The food is on par with the best there is along the ss15/sjmc row and we soon found out that the friendly white haired japanese chef used to work for a major hotel around town. Now the japanese do not like comparisons in such ways no matter positive or negative but there is just no other way to put it.

I have no choice but to surrender my doubts after having had my cold soba set (RM 30.00) as the soba dipping sauce has got such a perfect consistency and balanced saltiness that I drank it till the last drop.

After the Uo Toku/undoing of doubts above, we just can't wait to return one day to sample their ala carte menu.

Japanese Izakaya Uo Toku
129, Jalan SS 15/5A,
47500 Subang Jaya.
Tel: 03 5631 9181
(Opposite Tiaraville Condo and a few shops away from motel where pomander pork noodle used to operate)

B Station @ Taylor's Lakeside Campus, Subang Jaya

2011-01-17T21:43:00.003+08:00

Back to school again. That's what I felt when entering Taylor's lakeside campus. The difference between this place and my alma mater is that I can enter Taylor's lakeside freely without having to be harrased with a barage of questions by the guards. Just drive in, park, walk out and dine. No barrier gates, no parking fees, no questions asked.

Quite a concept this place is. A shopping arcade and university on the same ground with quite a number of restaurants including establised ones such as starbucks, baskin robbins, mongkok, subway and face to face noodles. One plus point when dining at any outlet in Taylor's is the lake view when dining al-freco.

Not wanting to go the tried and tested route, I walked into B Station which looks pretty neat and comfy. The outlet is operated by a korean lady and that reflects on the menu which is mainly hotdogs or korean classics.

I like the American wurst set (RM 6.90 with soft drink) with it's plentiful and delicious home made tasting tomato sauce. The "dog" tasted peculiar and quite similar to those you can get in hong kong - wrapped in a plastic wrapper and sold over the counter as if it's a sweet one can grab, unwrap and just munch on.

B Station
LG1-12 Commercial Block,
Taylor's University Lakeside Campus,
1, Jalan Taylor's,
47500 Subang Jaya,
Seloangor.

Cafe Aroma @ Grand Dorsett Subang

2011-01-10T22:07:00.004+08:00

We notice signs from nature such as clouds signifying impending rain. Then there's the frequent crowd at restaurants in the Grand Dorsett Subang. Hmmmm..... what does this imply? Only one way to find out. But before we move on to the heavy stuff, we gave the pastries at their coffee house a try first.

The squid ink olive bread (RM 13.00) is a fine example of the miraculous result of yeast and flour in the oven. The outer layer of the bread gives such a wonderful crunch that it throws one into the usual dilemma of live to eat or live to eat with of course a preference skewed to the former.

The beefpie (RM 8.50) here has got to be the most wonderful beefy concoction in a pastry that I've had since those ponsonby pies a few years ago. Big chunks of beef in a very good broth makes this a winner that I would stay with everytime I visit.

Beef quiche (RM 8.00) is also not bad with a long flat sheet of beef between the fluffy pastry and smooth egg concoction on top.

The almond pie (Rm 7.50) is also not bad but the chocolate cake (Rm 8.00) was at best average.

To enjoy 50% off pastries, drop by after 6pm.

Cafe Aroma
Ground Floor,
Grand Dorsett Subang Jaya.
Tel: 03 5031 6060
(Near lobby)

2011

2010-12-30T22:51:00.000+08:00

Firstly I would like to apologise for the lack of update the past 2 weeks. The patron god of the bees has taken a liking to me and bestow upon me his blessing. So busy was I that my dog now holds a grudge against me because he haven't had his usual walk for quite sometime.

And another year passes by, what a blast it was! One whole year of documenting and gulping down wondrous food before it assimilates into the being that is me. The only thing missing this year is the travel which I will make up for next year with 4 confirmed airticket bookings, spending a total of 35 days over the sea and a list of michellin starred restaurants on my to try list.

2011 is going to be a year of more food and travel!

Allegro Cafe @ SS15 Subang

2010-12-14T21:14:00.004+08:00

Whenever I think of Italian restaurants, I think of Anita Ekberg, her giggling ways and her bouncy ........ hair...... what were you thinking? Such is the association I get, caused by watching too much Fellini. If my GF were to walk into the fontana di trevi, the first thing I would do is to lure her out with something delicious. But that is only if food is her thing. Else making the kitty meoww would do the trick or maybe an LV bag or two, lol. Yes yes, it's romantic alright, but if it's in malaysia, the cops would be having a field day.

Allegro is the only non-corporation italian restaurant in subang jaya. We have heard stories about the food here but thought that since it has been a while, maybe they have improved?

The decor in Allegro resembles an italian home. Very comfortable and homely feeling. We felt like just sitting here and whiling the night away.

Seafood soup (RM 15.00) is tomato based and quite good with an intense taste of the sea.

Grilled vegetables (RM 16.00) was also not bad, especially the mushrooms but just a tad oily.

The allegro pizza (RM 28.00) sounds grand, being named after the restaurant. However it failed to rise thanks to a lack of taste from the cheese(I suspect it's belgian mozzarella from one importer in KL which contain a lot of filler). Salt is the medium to bring out flavours but unfortunately the pizza above utilise very little of it. We end up feeling like chewing on tasteless cardboard. It was that bad. Fortunately the bottle of tabasco sauce came in handy.

Set Dinner

Allegro has got a value for money Set dinner at RM 20.00. Probably targetting the student crowd that is quite prevalent in the area.

Pumpkin soup is so-so. I smell canned soup.

Spaghetti aglio olio(this or tomato based sauce) has got lots of clams but didn't quite impress.

Nothing to highlight here - ice cream is just ice cream - always good to an ice cream lover.

I walked out the restaurant feeling like I've just seen Anita Ekberg..... but without her infectuous giggling and bouncy............ hair. That's not fellini and that's definitely not anita. Looks like anita, talks like anita but is not anita. But for the value for money and affordable price here, it won't harm to hang around for the nice atmosphere and balcony seating.

Allegro Cafe,
1st floor,
11A, Jalan SS15/4,
Subang Jaya
47500 Selangor
Tel:03 5631 5682

Give. Share. Love. - Christmas @ Sunway Resort Hotel and Spa

2010-12-06T22:54:00.012+08:00

Tis the season to be jolly and what better way to achieve this than to give, share and love? Give, share and love - these are words of different meaning but they share the same spirit that is characterised by the desire to make another happy and cared for. In this same spirit, Sunway Resort Hotel & Spa launched it's Christmas theme for 2010 much to the joy of guests, employees and the less fortunate.

YB Elizabeth Wong giving a speech at the Lobby Lounge.

YB Elizabeth Wong officiating "toyland" at the hotel's lobby. Toyland is "santa's workshop" where mechanical toys come to life amidst a flood of light from the surrounding and traditional song in the background from carollers and merry makers. This is the spirit mate, I'm sure santa would concur with an approving "ho ho ho" everytime he makes an appearance.

Santa was overwhelmed by the bevy of beauties impatient to tell him they've been a good girl.

Here he is adjusting his beard and looking jolly (cheeky) after the previous session with the girls. Ok Santa, I'm just kidding! Ho ho ho? Don't skip my chimney this year?

After the ceremony, it's dinner time at Avanti Italian Restaurant. We were treated to a feast for the eyes as well as the palate with a plethora of mouth watering dishes ranging from italian classics like pasta to christmas must-haves such as the roast turkey.

Mushroom lovers would definitely love the gigantic pleasure inducing specimen here at 4 o'clock. As for me, the softshell crab and grilled eel did the trick.

I especially like the salmon and caviar. The saltiness from the roe gives the meat an extra uummph.

"Presents" around the christmas tree in the form of sweet savoury pastries.

The ginger bread house was left intact - no one dare demolish santa's property as that would send him scrambling to the restaurant.

The log cake was chocolaty and good.

I love the nutty walnut pie and cream filled panettone. The panettone has got a fluffy inner texture, I suspect they made this in-house as it has got a nice bite to it.

The tiramisu here was very mascarpon-y...... just the way I like it.

All in, it was a wonderful experience attending the event and visiting Avanti for dinner. Thank you again Virgillia for inviting us!

Kuala Lumpur International Motor Show 2010

2010-12-05T21:33:00.020+08:00

Cars.... one of the component C in the 4 C's. You can't live without them and yet they take a chunk out of money which you labor for years.

Malaysians are quite a car crazy bunch, no thanks to the sub par public transportation system. Hence, it is no wonder that KL international Motor Show can be such a hit.

Upon entering, she'll be the first one you see on the right. I think you would get a warm reception if you can greet her in russian.

Perodua bezza looks futuristic.

She's saying: Will you get one for me baybeh? Sorry honey, I would love to but it's not yet in production.

Bumble bee looks pretty similar to the one in movie. However, the bat-mobile and bat-cycle looked like they were made out of cardboard, styrofoam and manilla paper.

Proton concept car from design competition.

Another proton concept car that won third place.

Toyota FT-HS Hybrid - Supposedly a sports car but I can't fathom the design.

This looks like a japanese ninja cartoon character.

Now this CRZ is quite a looker. I'm sure it would sell quite well if the price is right.

Insight into a honda insight.

The koreans were going at it full force.

She's the goddess that inspires love with every glance a man takes.

For love is the desire to melt into the soul of the person we love.

Empires go to war for the hands of a woman. If this were 202 BC, I have no doubt that innumerable fleets will disturb the calm of the seas for the sake of this fine lady.

The last blossom was carried by the wind,
Towards the horizon I know not where,
Little did I know it has just changed form,
A rare beauty even the gods admire.

By the way, she's korean and that's her twin. So, hurry up and catch a glimpse of her at the nissan juke booth before the show ends.

By now you would have noticed that I am veering further away from cars.

It's hard to keep a straight face and tell you this post is meant to be all about cars.

Oh princess Leia, please save me from myself!

Seng Kee @ Petaling Street

2010-12-02T20:41:00.006+08:00

There's a chinatown in every major city of the world. Being chinese, one need not hanker for familiar food when overseas. Of course there are good and authentic chinese food as well as the not so good ones. With petaling street, chinese food here is as malaysian chinese as can be and is said to be among the best in KL. Eateries here don't just pop up and disappear like mushrooms in other chinatowns. The proprietors here had been going at it for decades and that makes all the difference in the taste.

Faceoff - Between the old and new, eastern and western values. Petaling street is one of them street where you would find vastly contrasting images but fortunately the treasured old still prevails.

Housewives - generations have thronged this alleyway for decades. The grandmother who was once a daughter remember what she sees. In 50 years, will the little daughter that has turned grandmother remember this market as it it? The ghost of the past will forever walk on but will all that change with the valor of the future?

This street barber here is probably the last of his kind, in a trade that would perish when he goes into retirement.

Nostalgia! The invisible stick that prods at the heart(in my case, the tummy was also affected) and leave it's victim drained! Oh is there no antidote for the ailments which have claimed innumerable victims in the past? Fortunately there is, for there is no better way to console the soul than a tummy filled with delicious food.

Ordered a small sized lou shu fan at RM 8.00(translated as rat's tail noodles but silver needle noodle is the more correct term to use) and was surprised with the really big portion(the claypot is bigger than those used for the usual chinese claptop rice). I'm not a lou shu fan person and have not a worthy past experience to benchmark against but I like what I'm eating here at Seng Kee. The noodles were coated with a slippery texture from the egg and tasted great from the sauce and stock that drained out of the minced meat. Eaten with their hokkien mee like sambal, this is one of the remedy to beat the nostalgic blues that petaling street is so full of. Happy to say that I was smiling ear to ear after finishing this.

Chinatown Seng Kee
52, Jalan Sultan,
50000 Kuala Lumpur.
Tel: 03 - 20725950

Las Vacas @ Kelana Jaya

2010-11-29T21:12:00.001+08:00

Stepping into Las Vacas, an all too familiar smell permeates the air. It's the smell of raw read meat, the perfume that would ignite desire to devour in any man/woman (unless he/she is a vegetarian). A sense of dejavu enveloped me, for the smell very much reminded me of the signature smell of Woolworth's meat department and the fun I had visiting everyday to try something new and different, be it cuts of meats or the varied sausages wrapped in sheep's intestine(the best way to encase meat).

The beef wrap (RM 18.00) is something which has no equivalent in KL. Cheese, carrot sticks, longbean and teriyaki sauce wrapped in a very tender slice of beef - this is the ultimate beef appetizer! Very good and deserving of the ooo's and aaaa's after the tongue has done it's job.

The 250gm beef burger (RM 15.00) is just a burger without fries or other sides. Patty was juicy and not bad but it somehow does not evoke feelings of wonderment that the beef wrap and steak does.

Now, the steak here, this is really something. I don't know how they did it, the ribeye grain fed (RM 69.45 for about 300gms) has got meat so tender, certain parts felt like chewing on chicken. It also has got a really agreeable taste, contributed by the juiciness of the meat. It is most appropriate that the steak did not come with any steak sauce for that would spoil the wonderful taste of the meat.

I've got to say, other than the meats at Prime, I am most certainly impressed with the beef at Las Vacas. Fresh, juicy and wonderful, it would be difficult to find beef with these characteristics unless you are in Aussie or NZ. I have been looking for authentic lamb intestine encased sausages for a very long time since getting hooked on them in NZ and I found it here! Now I need not hanker for them anymore for they are just a short drive away to Las Vacas!

Las Vacas Meat Shop
No 23, Jalan SS5A/11,
Kelana Jaya 47301
Petaling Jaya,
Selangor.
Tel: 03 7874 0711
Fax: 03 7874 0655

Daorae Korean BBQ @ USJ 10

2010-11-25T19:31:00.003+08:00

Ippune..... that's the word to use for korean beauty. The beauty about korean cooking is that it is simple but healthy.

For us, the piece de resistance of every korean meal has got to be the complimentary small dishes of vegetables which seemed a meal by itself. With the option to replenish without charges, korean food is probably the most underrated value for money food around. I like everything here except the lettuce with berry sauce at 11 o'clock and the radish at 12 o'clock.

Bulgogi (RM 25.00 ala carte) which is korean beef stir fry had my companion complaining about the mostly fatty slices of beef. I end up eating most of her beef as she detest eating such cuts of meat.

Bossam Dosirak Lunch Set (RM 15.00) is steamed pork belly meat (and a good one at that too) with rice and some vegetables. The pork belly meat has got a really thick layer of fat which imparts plentiful flavour to the unsuspecting tongue.

Daorae Korean BBQ
7B & 8B,
Top Speed Business Centre,
Jalan USJ 10/1J,
47610 Subang Jaya.
(1st floor at new shops opposite medonalds taipan)

Tony Romas Restaurant @ Sunway Pyramid

2010-11-22T22:47:00.002+08:00

It has been years since Tony Romas first set foot into Malaysia. We were a bit late to coat our tongue with the big portioned american taste that is Tony Roma's but as they say........... better late than never.

Complimentary bread looks a bit pale but is really fluffy soft inside and superb when eaten with the superior tasting garlic butter.

Soup of the day which came with our lunch sets were quite oily but beefy.

Potato Skin (RM 14.90) was above average with it's thin and crackly skin. The accompanying ranch dressing has got a really thick consistency and is just heavenly with a defined taste of buttermilk. Being a sauce person, the garlic butter and ranch dressing has gotten me really ecstatic.

My companion had the ribeye steak lunch set (RM 53.90) done medium well. I was never fond of meats done in such a way because it tend to be a bit dry. The taste was OK but meat wasn't tender enough. I like their chips very much because of the sprinkling of shredded parsley which gives it an extra zing.

I had my big stake burger done medium rare. It tasted buttery and was juicy alright but lacks the height and smoky patty taste of chili's version. The lunch set (RM 24.90) came with a soup of the day and re-fillable soft drink.

I quite like the food here at Tony Roma's - I would say they are comparable to the other 2 american restaurants if not better. You were wondering why we didn't order the signature baby back ribs? Well, we saw that it has got more bone than meat and this is not something which 2 famished person would very well prefer when walking in with an empty stomach.

Tony Roma's Restaurant
LL1.43 Lower Level One,
Sunway Pyramid Shopping Mall,
3, Jalan PJS 11.15, Bandar Sunway,
46150 Petaling Jaya.
Tel: 03 7492 1188

Sun Moulin Bakery and Cafe @ KLCC

2010-11-18T22:04:00.003+08:00

Was in KLCC recently and being a big fan of pastries, I couldn't help but walk into Sun Moulin in Isetan even though I've just had a meal earlier.

Apple cake danish (RM 2.50) sounds unique enough to have me put one on the tray. It has got a really weird texture.

Strawberry danish (RM 3.00) is actually bun like and not the expected fluffy and buttery pastry which is defined by the word danish pastry.

Dorayaki (RM 3.00) didn't impress in terms of texture nor taste.

I was a bit disappointed with my pickings this day. Maybe I should come across better pastries on my next visit, like their yummy looking crossaint or japanese cheesecake.

Sun Moulin Bakery & Cafe
3rd Floor,
Isetan, KLCC,
Kuala Lumpur.

Update to 2011 Food Wishlist #7

2010-11-15T23:17:00.012+08:00

7) Succeed in trying out all the japanese restaurants along the row opposite SJMC Subang.
Great Success!

Preference:

1) Rakuzen
2) Jyuraku
3) Hyotan
4) ------
5) -----
6) --- --- ---

The above list is formed by tasting different dishes in different restaurants. However it does reflect how much I like the philosophy behind each restaurant's cooking.

Kin Ryu Tei @ SS15, Subang Jaya

2010-11-15T22:22:00.005+08:00

Alas, a visit to this restaurant completes my wish of trying out all the japanese restaurants along the row opposite SJMC.

My first impression upon entering was that the restaurant has been operating for quite a while, judging from the feel of the place.

Private rooms on the right - absolutely great for those of us who treasure privacy, at the expense of people watching.

Tempura Soba (RM 20.00) - Soba in hot soup for a change. The soup was not bad, just the right saltiness crucial to balance the taste.

However, I wasn't so fond of the tempura - specifically the batter.

Horenso Yamakkake (RM 8.00) is spinach with grated yam. I was quite turned off by the texture of the grated yam which has got the slimy texture of ___________.

I'm sure there are gems waiting to be discovered here judging by how long this restaurant has been operating, only that I am not fortunate enough to try more dishes to really delve deeper into the cooking here. Should have asked the lady owner for recommendations, oh well, maybe I'll be back some day in the future.

Kin Ryu Tei
3, Jalan SS15/5A,
47500 Subang Jaya,
Selangor.
Tel: 03 5621 2668

Update to Wishlist 2011 - #5 Go without alcohol for three months.

2010-11-12T18:23:00.027+08:00

12/11/10: Succumbed to the evils of alcohol after only 11 days and have got this accursed substance coarsing through my veins as I write this. This demon is harder than I thought, compared to the demon that is nicotine, which I managed to subdue after 2 months of battle. But oft times, a man has got to weight his options. Alcohol might be detrimental to the body but sometimes there come matters which are not a triffle and would have damaged the body even more if not for the medium of calm that is alcohol. Well, looks like I have to start again at a later date.

I held my cup as if to honour,
And I see my counterpart shewing the same respect,
Finishing my drink I pay respect to the moon,
For without her my counterpart wouldn't have existed.

Sometimes my friend appears distorted,
Sometimes tall sometimes short,
Who can tell the endless change of things,
For even the gardener could be a descendant of the dragon.

The 3 of us had a great time,
We make haste to enjoy whatever time left,
For when the clouds hover over the moon,
I find that my friends disappear.

This life is but an immense dream,
This moment is but a passing fleet,
I raise my head and consult my drinking buddy,
I lower my head and reflect on my troubles.

Once more I down another cup,
What troubled my soul I remember not.

Sagano @ Renaissance Hotel Kuala Lumpur

2010-11-11T20:28:00.003+08:00

I have never eaten alone at an esteemed establishment in KL. This, I did many times overseas without any strange glance or prejudiced treatment from the wait staff. Curious as to how I would be treated here in KL, I made my way to Sagano, Renaissance Hotel.

There's a feeling of warmth all around - emanating from the golden pillar. It's the centerpiece of the smoking section(I don't smoke no more but I like the view down below from this section) that captures attention due to it being so contrasty compared to the subdued colours surrounding.

The curry nanban soba(RM 35.00) is recommended by the chef as stated in the menu and I did not hesitate to choose this over my usual tempura soba. The curry broth comes really thick much like the consistency of porridge. It was good tastewise with really tender chunks of chicken and would have had me licking the bowl clean there and then if not for maintaining a little decency. For those concerned, yes they do charge for the green tea - RM 5.00 to be precise.

As to the original intent of my visit, I'm glad to say that I've never been treated better in KL. Seeing that I could be bored sitting there alone, a kindly waiter passed me a magazine to flip through while waiting for food to be served. My waitress(regret that I didn't get her name) was really polite and exudes an aura of respect and humbleness.

Sagano Japanese Restaurant.
Renaissance Hotel Kuala Lumpur.
Corner of Jalan Sultan Ismail and Jalan Ampang
Kuala Lumpur, 50450 Malaysia
Phone: 60 3 2162 2233
Toll-free: 60 800 38 7272

Hyotan Japanese Restaurant @ SS15, Subang Jaya

2010-11-08T19:54:00.002+08:00

Those who have been to Kyoto and who are in the know will definitely recognise the logo above. I was at first quite shocked upon seeing this logo at the entrance. A quite similar looking logo adorns the entrance of the legendary hyotei restaurant of kyoto which is centuries old and accorded 3 michellin stars for culinary excellence. I thought they both were somewhat related.

My suspicion was quelled upon flipping the menu - the prices here are only a small fraction of what it costs in hyotei. I enjoyed flipping through the menu for it's unique and creative dishes that sounded foreign yet authentic which is quite intriguing to the senses.

Names without a face - row after row of sake bottles in the "nursery" waiting to be picked up by their rightful owners. Are they there to calm a rejoicing heart or nurse a broken one, no one knows for sure, for they are only names without a face.

The potato salad (RM 8.00) here is one the best we've come across with the right texture and taste.

Spiky roll (RM 18.00) is actually soft shell crab roll and is good enough to be third on our favourite list after Rakuzen and Jyuraku's.

Pumpkin tempura (RM 8.00) has got a really light but crisp batter which dissolves quickly in the accompanying broth.

Though not as packed with beef as Rakuzen's version, Hyotan's sukiyaki set (RM 32.00) will please sukiyaki lovers(of which I'm not one) with it's sweet broth.

Forgive the harsh flash for it does no justice to the gentle but mental chawan mushi (RM 8.00 ala carte). It comes with the set and is quite simply the best chawan mushi we've come across! All these years we've tasted various versions from plain ones to sake infused specialties but none come close to Hyotan's version which is submerged in a very sublime homemade crab sauce.

About the only thing to dampen the impression gotten from all the wonderful food above is the bland tasting broth of the cold soba with tempura (RM 22.00). Slightly dampen it did, but not enough to change our rock solid impression.

We were charged RM 0.50 each on the bill for wet towels we did not use. But that is no matter for the mind to dwell on after remembering being offered complimentary ice cream and coffee(choose either one) for dessert.

What better way to end the meal than being offered a complimentary dessert? Impressive indeed, when compared to their competitors nearby. I don't know whether this is the norm or if it's only because of some promotion. The only way to find out is to come back again some day, which we surely would, to try the other exotic sounding dishes on the menu.

We were always warned not to play with food during the childhood years. But no one said anything about not playing with food you don't have to pay for.

Voila, japanese cham(coffee + tea mix).

Though this is not the Hyotei(gourd) of kyoto which I at first thought it was, the food here is good enough for me to consider bumping off one of the japanese restaurant in my good food list.

Hyotan Japanese Restaurant
63, Jalan SS15/5A,
47500 Subang Jaya,
Selangor.
Tel: 03 5636 0326/28

Furin Japanese Restaurant @ Holiday Inn Glenmarie

2010-11-05T11:27:00.006+08:00

There's something about the atmosphere around Saujana Subang which is very much agreeable to me. Maybe that's what they call good fengshui radiance. Holiday Inn, which is located about a few kilometers away has this same atmosphere. I love how the low buildings has got this homely and peaceful feel to it, which even the most foul of moods will have difficulty sustaining itself.

Chicken teriyaki set (RM 35.00) - decent enough.

The vanilla ice cream served is top notch - creamy and with an agreeable texture.

I love the atmosphere here at Holiday Inn Glenmarie. Would definitely return to try the other restaurants.

Furin Japanese Restaurant.
Holiday Inn Glenmarie.
1,Jalan Usahawan U1/8,Seksyen U1,
40250 Shah Alam,
Selangor.
Tel: 03 7803 1000

Tomoe Japanese Restaurant @ SS15 Subang Jaya

2010-11-01T22:33:00.004+08:00

Tomoe sits beneath a hotel which used to be quite popular and probably still is. The ground floor used to be part of the hotel but was turned into a japanese restaurant that is tomoe. I guess the owner(s) realised the prospect of the area and contributed in part to what is now known as japanese restaurant street.

We made the mistake of leaving the Agedashi Tofu(RM 13.00) too long on the table. The coating on the tofu turned into a gelatinous mess when it should have been crisp.

Chicken Katsudon Set(RM 25.00) is not bad but the chicken absorbed too much fluid from the eggs to render the outer part soggy.

After having tried most of the restaurants along the row opposite SJMC subang except 2, we more or less have got an idea of the philosophy behind the cooking of each restaurant. As for Tomoe, we have not really had a sizable impression of what we have had but the lunch time crowd says otherwise. This calls for a return to sample more of the menu.

Tomoe Japanese Restaurant.
1, Jalan SS15/5A,
47500 Subang Jaya,
Selangor.
Tel: 03 5633 5919

Temptations @ Renaissance Hotel Kuala Lumpur

2010-10-28T19:14:00.004+08:00

Temptations. Tempted by the senses, where is escape to be found? Escape is to be found only by gratifying the senses. True to it's name, most of the food in this restaurant are tempting and I find that certain dishes are above the clinical tasting food found in some hotel buffets.

I love the "lamb" in the middle which will also appeal to vegetarians. There are quite a few indian dishes in the buffet lineup and I can say that most will please those who claim that Latest Recipe's curries are good.

Pickles around the plate, chicken cordon bleu at 7pm, steak at 6pm and salmon in the middle. Nothing impressive from the above.

Chicken salad and beef salad at 7pm and the macaroni are the only bland tasting food in this restaurant after trying out most of the available dishes.

The beef satay here is juicy and tasty, not something expected coming from a hotel restaurant. Excellent when paired with the thick and good satay kuah. The chicken pau is also popular with a sweet savoury taste.

Do check out whether their 50% wednesday lunch buffet promotion is still on-going. Else it's RM 79.00/PAX on the other weekdays.

Temptations.
Renaissance Hotel Kuala Lumpur.
Corner of Jalan Sultan Ismail and Jalan Ampang
Kuala Lumpur, 50450 Malaysia
Phone: 60 3 2162 2233
Toll-free: 60 800 38 7272

Chilis Grill & Bar @ Empire Subang

2010-10-25T19:58:00.001+08:00

Fresh from watching a video on Eurodeli's matterhorn burger a few days ago, we caught a certain disease, the symptoms of which manifests in a few at first unnoticed behaviours. We kept on talking about burgers, googled for it feverishly and watch as if in a state of trance whenever a program about burger comes on air. This is not good, not good at all. My physician who also doubles as a mental health expert would have kept a grim silence. I imagine he would dish out advice that would go along the lines of .... "Go satisfy your cravings quick! Before obsessive compulsive disorder sets in". With this worry on our mental health, we make haste to the nearest Chilis Restaurant.

We started the meal with this chicken + beef combo nachos (RM 27.95). Tasty & thick toppings on a thin base equals to a satisfying start.

The old timer burger+cheddar+chili(RM 17.95 + RM 1.50 + RM 2) was so huge that my mouth can't fit to take a good bite off it - I had to press the buns down firmly for that to happen. The patty weights 200 grams and is similar in size to 3 whopper patties stacked on top of each other. Tastewise, it was quite similar to mcd and burgerking only juicier, as I requested my patty done medium. The chili and cheese added gives the burger a really sloppy and messy touch, but it was worth the trouble.

My companion had the peppercorn burger (RM 19.95) with well done patty. The patty turn out to be dry and not as good as the juicy medium patty in my burger. Based on this, I had to remind myself to always go for at least medium done. The burger bun when eaten by itself is surprisingly good - fluffy soft with taste of butter and a hint of garlic/herbs.

About the matterhorn burger program, it was quite easy to blame the talkative chap's inability to finish the 1.5kg burger due to his incessant comments. Now, after even a meagre 200g burger patty, I was already half full, so I can imagine how difficult it is to finish up that really huge matterhorn burger.

Chilis Grill & Bar Restaurant.
Empire Shopping Gallery.
Lot G-17 Ground Floor,
Jalan SS 16/1,
47500 Subang Jaya
Selangor Darul Ehsan
Tel : 03 5631 8825
Fax : 03 5631 8819
e-mail: chilissj@chilis.com.my

Operation hours:
Sunday - Thursday :11.00am - 11.00pm
Friday & Saturday :11.00am - 12.00am

Prego @ Westin Kuala Lumpur

2010-10-21T20:57:00.008+08:00

I have always held the handmade pastas(tagliolini, tagliatelle & fettuccini) of Prego in high regard. Imagine my joy when I chance across Prego's "come as you are, eat as you can" lunch promotion where one can eat as much pastas & pizzas as he/she likes for RM 40++/pax.

There are a total of 16 pastas & 12 pizzas from their promotional menu and it is possible to order smaller portions of both so that there would be more tummy space to try more. We had this caesar pizza above which comes with a thin crackly base. Ok, but I don't really fancy the salty anchovies.

The linguine with tiger prawn is simply linguine with a hint of garlic oil but it was simply one of the best tasting pasta we've had here.

We ordered a normal sized calzone bomba (RM 34 ala carte) and we were shocked when it was served - it was bigger than the size of a flaccid american football. As you can see above, the calzone is packed with stuffings such as turkey ham, zucchini, artichoke, basil, tomato and mozzarella. The amount of stuffings probably contributed to it having no primary defining taste but it was still enjoyable biting through the crackly skin.

Along with the tiger prawn linguine, the tagliolini boscaiola(RM 33 ala carte and we requested for the handmade tagliolini instead of the fusili) above is also one of the best pasta we've tasted. The cream sauce with mushroom is just heavenly - full of flavours and is a pasta lover's distraction from the other worldly pleasures. Pair that with the handmade tagliolini which is made with perfect texture and cooked to perfect consistency and you've got a winner on the table.

The tagliatelle with redwine braised beefcheek was also quite good with the springy handmade tagliatelle coated with a light beefy sauce that reminded me of an oriental dish I can't seem to recall.

Wow suprema pizza(RM 36 ala carte) is pepperoni, turkey ham, gorgonzola, artichoke, kalamata olives, button mushroom, mozzarela & tomato sauce. The pepperonis were cut really thick and will appeal to pepperoni lovers.

Being a person who worships his pasta like a casanova worshipping his lover, Prego will be the place I shall always return to when the expression of love and the many fold return it brings is seeked upon in the caressing touch of each strand gliding into the mouth. Bellisimo!

Prego.
Westin Kuala Lumpur.
Ground Floor,
199, Jalan Bukit Bintang
55100 Kuala Lumpur.
Tel: 03 2731 8333
(This Promotion is valid for lunch mon-sat, currently on-going in October 2010)

Jyuraku Japanese Restaurant @ SS15 Subang Jaya

2010-10-18T19:18:00.003+08:00

Life - this path one must walk... is there no refuge from the straight path? Shall we not veer to the side and indulge in pleasures that are made for the senses? Fortunately yes to all the above, and from the picture above refuge is sought from the tatami seats on both sides.

Spirit - the ether that which altered consciousness thrives in. The japanese version packs a really slow but swift punch. I remember sharing a bottle of 1.8l with a friend and we laughed at the inability of the contents which we have emptied to give us the state of altered consciousness most alcohol do. An hour after that, we were laughing at non-sense and struggling to make our way back. From that day onwards we dare not belittle the spirit that is sake.

Imagine what this drum of sake would do to those unwary of it's power and foolish enough to belittle it.

Our refuge to the nirvana of the senses begin with this natto temaki (RM 6.00). The natto was good according to my companion but I was indifferent as nato wasn't my choicest food.

The crab roll (RM 20.00) was also good but somehow it doesn't have the ummphh nor the pop in mouth goodness we were looking for after having tasted the competitor's.

My mento sushizen (RM 32.00) set came with cold soba and this plate of sushi. Meat was fresh while rice really compact.... a necessity for good sushi.

The broth in which to dip the soba was really flavourful and I would have drank it till the last drop if not for fear that my blood pressure will go haywire from the saltiness.

My companion's gyuniku misoyaki set (RM 32.00) has got really tasty pieces of beef with sauce that would be equally good drenched on taugeh.

Jyuraku is definitely one of the better japanese restaurant that I would take refuge in whenever quality and authentic japanese food is on the mind. I suspect it would be the same with a few more of the japanese restaurants along the row which we have not set foot into as only the fittest survive such intense competition.

Jyuraku Japanese Restaurant
13, Jalan SS15/5A,
47500 Subang Jaya.
Tel: 03 5633 3819
(Next to rakuzen)

Quirky Malaysia 1st Year Anniversary Contest Winner

2010-10-18T00:01:00.000+08:00

After going through heaps of entries, we have finally found our winner! It wasn't easy with so many creative entries but nevertheless one entry stood out amongst all. I must admit I made a little mistake of not ruling out 18sx entries in the rules and regulations but then it must be tough trying to caption a naked couple without touching on the 18sx. The winning entry is one such entry and a funny one at that too.

Congratulations to one Alex Chia Kim Ray! We will contact you soon to arrange delivery of your voucher.

Auchentoshan Single Malt Scotch

2010-10-14T21:25:00.003+08:00

The french distill very good wines and some attribute it to their unique process of stepping on the grapes, lending it a very human touch. Now, to think that the scots distill very fine whisky because they wear kilts when around the production process and to have that contribute to the taste of the superb whiskies is just so very wrong.

After quitting smoking, this is the only vice left for me, of which I have still been nurturing for nearly 2 decades. I must admit that I've been on the "baby bottle" these few decades but with this bottle of single malt whisky, it's time I graduate from the blended stuff I've been suckling to all these while.

In Gaelic tongue, Auchentoshan means 'the corner of the field', an apt description of the terrain where the distillery is located. It is interesting to note that Auchentoshan is only one of 3 lowland distilleries still in operation full time.

The single malt whisky is surprisingly smooth...... good enough to drink neat without ice cubes or water. I would have baulked drinking Johnny Walker neat. This is the result of the triple distillation to give the single malt a smooth and delicate flavour.

Nose: Oaky, with big fruity flavours on the nose.

Palate: Smooth and sweet.

Finish: Lingering nuttiness.

The Auchentoshan 12 years retails duty free at RM 178. The current 12 years old replaces the celebrated 10 yrs old. It comes with..... what am I doing here writing this? I should be reaching for the bottle already!

Robot Sushi @ Sunway Pyramid

2010-10-11T21:49:00.005+08:00

Robot sushi used to be known as sushi groove but we heard that a member of royalty bought over the latter and renamed it robot sushi.

There was a promotion when we were there and patrons can order as much as they want from the ala-carte menu for RM 49.90/pax.

Sushis were ok, but they were not the most appropriate thing to devour early in the meal as I got a bit jelak from the rice.

Avatar roll - Funny name for something that doesn't look blue like the characters from the movie of the same name.

The batter coated gyoza were ok.

Soft shell crab is lightly battered and a bit oily.

The chicken salad is also just ok.

The teppanyaki beef here is top notch with a flavourful sauce that tasted so right that we've just got to have a second helping. I'd say that this is the best dish we've tried in this restaurant and is worth ordering again.

The wagyu burger came with a huge evenly grilled patty between a pair of soft fluffy buns. I love the taste and texture of the juicy patty but the burger can be a bit dull without sauce so remember to get some of that mayo salad in there. We even spooned some of the teppanyaki sauce which we love very much onto the burger.

After a quick calculation, we have eaten a total of RM 179, so it's still a gain after paying RM117 for 2.

Robot Sushi
Sunway Pyramid Shopping Mall
OB3.LG2.1B, Lower ground 2,
No. 3, Jalan PJS 11/145, Bandar Sunway,
46150 Petaling Jaya, Selangor.
(Next to lowest floor jusco bakery entrance)
Tel: 03 5622 1343

Neroteca @ Lorong Ceylon, KL

2010-10-07T20:38:00.002+08:00

Love is amore. I find it amusing hearing of couples declaring their love for each other in this place where there is dried dead meat hanging everywhere. For me being in this restaurant is more about re-living the spirit of Italy, the mother whom I want to throw myself onto her green, white and red bossom.

Walking into this restaurant is like stepping into a typical Italian deli with the numerous cheese on display and the many sausages and cured meat hanging. It's like walking into Volpetti in Rome, only this place is more modern. Throw in a few verbal sparring italian employees and Roma would be just a 30 minutes drive away from home.

Mediterranea salad (RM 22.00) - we had difficulty finishing the really huge portion. We love the sun dried tomatoes very much.

Spaghetti Ai Gamberi (RM 32.00) - spaghetti with sauteed prawns, mushroom and codfish has got pasta sauce which taste like chinese prawn mee broth. Excellent this for those who love the taste of seafood.

Ravioloni Valtellinesi (RM 26.00) is stuffed homemade sausage topped with light creamy walnut sauce. I love the sauce which is creamy and cheesy. But the ravioloni is too salty that I couldn't finish it, thanks to the sausage stuffing.

This is one of the better tasting tiramisu (RM 24.00) in town, my only grouse is that the sponge fingers were too soggy to afford any texture or way to tell it apart from the mascarpone.

Sweet strawberry sorbet (RM 8.00) puts a refreshing end to the meal.

To conclude, I must say Io Amore equi(I love it here)! And forget about what I've said earlier about couples declaring their love here. Ignore the numerous cold and lifeless meat for they don't stare and oh, love is blind. Throw away the cutlery and get on your knees, hide the ring in the pasta, express it whatever way you wish, for this is the closest to Italy one can get, this side of the globe.

Neroteca
GF, Somerset,
8, Lorong Ceylon,
50250 KL
Tel: 03-2070 0530
www.neroteca.com