Food Explorer & Home Chef
Stumbled upon Lee Ga in Desa Sri Hartamas while in search of authentic Korean food beyond the usual BBQ one of those days. Korean cold noodles aren’t as popular here but naengmyeon done right, is really quite refreshing and tasty. The version at Lee Ga …
Built around the theme of a canteen, the resto offers popular Japanese incantations and free-style fusion dishes that are pocket-friendly, suitable even for those not so keen on the usual raw Japanese offerings as most stuff here are cooked. A place I’ve been meaning to …
Off the eaten track, 3 handsome abang – Irham, Ehsan and Syariman – have banded together to open Hening in a lovely vintage bungalow off Jalan Damai in Kuala Lumpur. Decor has been kept simple, original rooms and terrazo floors retained and walls decorated with local artwork. The sprawling garden is perfect for events or al fresco dining, weather permitted.
With an aim to raise the bar on traditional Malay cuisine and making it accessible cuisine for locals and tourists alike, Hening offers mainstays such as Ikan Asam Pedas and Daging Masak Lomak to state specialties like Pekasam and Daging Batang Pinang Bakar Air Asam.
The beef (masak lemak daging bakar), came in flavourful creamy santan-rich turmeric gravy which was not too concentrated. I expected the Ikan Asam Pedas to be spicier but it had a low-grade burn, easy on the tongue for those who can’t handle the heat.
The Kerabu Limau Bali had Thai accents, featuring spicy sour pomelo salad. Pekasam, a unique fermented fish dish cooked with ground roasted rice, had a strong full-on tangy funky salted fish taste with a hint of sour, crispy gritty rice bits, accompanied by sauted onions and sliced chilli. Takes a bit of getting used to, but once you learn to appreciate this, it’s wonderful together with the hot basmati rice wrapped in banana leaf.
The Daging Batang Pinang Bakar Air Asam were delicious too, skewers of grilled tenderloin served with tamarind sauce with chopped tomatoes and onion in it.
Food is good, very reasonably priced and the ambience perfect for a family meal or to bring visitors getting acquainted with Malay food.
They also open for tea time with local kuih as snacks and you can book the bungalow for celebrative events as well.
What’s even more interesting is that the house also acts as a living gallery displaying artworks with Malaysian scenes for diners to enjoy by local artists; all these are also up for sale.
Hening, which means peaceful or tranquil in Malay, is certainly worth the visit, both for the food and the setting.
Add: 56, Lorong Damai 1, Jalan Damai Off Jalan Tun Razak, Kuala Lumpur. hp: 017-31 6964
So happy that Emilio Cibo E Vino KL opened in my hood. Showcasing true blue Sicilian fare, Emilio is in Glo mall, PJ and offers almost home-style Italian food, as though your Italian friend invited you for dinner. Mussels or Zuppa Di Cozze E Vongole, is …
Almost every other Nyonya resto offers Melaka-style Peranakan food so it was a nice change to find Herba & Rempah offering flavours that’s Penang influenced instead. Owner/cook Jay Mee, formerly a PR consultant, started her online biz during MCO which transitioned into a physical shop …
Jim Beam, the world’s number one bourbon brand, cranked up the excitement at the highly anticipated Jim Beam Highball Bash 2024 at APW Bangsar on Sept 26 and 27. Attendees came together to vibe with their tribe with dynamic personalities and Tribe Leaders in their respective creative spaces – DJ Jovynn, Jayden Chong and Sam Wong, proving that everything is truly #BestEnjoyedTogether!
Packed with thrilling activities, live performances and immersive experiences, the event delivered non-stop fun, shared joy, and unforgettable moments.
The Jim Beam Highball Bash 2024 featured a powerhouse lineup of Malaysia’s finest DJs that kept the energy soaring across both days. Day one saw electrifying sets by DJ Yazzi, Saint Kylo, DJ Duo BATE and DJ Jovynn, who had the crowd enthralled with their distinct mixes and high-octane beats. On Day two, Odelia Tirza, DJ Yazzi and DJ Blink took the stage. Together, these maestros of sound added their unique flair to the bash’s soundtrack.
At the Jim Beam Highball bar, custom-crafted highballs came in delightful twists and unique garnishes. From refreshing classics to playful creations like the Apple Candy, nostalgic Sarsi Float, and indulgent Milo Dinosaur, there was something to please every palate. Guests could also customise their drinks. ensuring a truly personalised experience.
Another standout highlight was personalised mementos from the night. Attendees were could craft exclusive Jim Beam-themed items. This interactive element added a personal touch to the evening, providing every guest with a unique keepsake to remember their time at the bash.
To complement the flowing drinks, the event showcased a tempting selection of Korean bites and iconic Malaysian street snacks. The Best Dressed Contest, hosted by Sam Wong brought out the playful, daring spirit of Jim Beam.
Jim Beam is set to bring the excitement to three iconic venues — Guang, Tang Ping, and Tavern 13 this October! Follow @jimbeamsea for updates.
Sitting pretty on the 51st floor of THE FACE Style hotel, Molina is the product of a partnership between epicurean Datuk Alex Tan and 2-Michelin starred chef Sidney Schutte from the Netherlands. A visionary chef, keen to bring a spectrum (also the name of his …
I was whisked away over a weekend to Solaire Resort Entertainment City in the Philippines recently, and what an experience it was! The huge imposing facade of Solaire Resort greeted me way before I was anywhere near, it’s that big. Once we arrived, it was …
It’s literally been more than 2 decades since I last visited Manila in the Philippines for a fashion shoot. I can hardly remember much of it – bits of Makati, the old church, going around in a taxi – that’s about it.
This time round, it was a blast visiting the newish Solaire Resort Entertainment City, just about 10 years old. We were taken on a short tour of Bonifacio Global City (BGC) in Metro Manila as well, which didn’t even exist way back then. It was eye-opening how much change can affect a city, given a push in the right direction. Hopefully this positive change can spread to the rest of Manila to benefit the people.
While there was hardly much time to explore outside of our city tour and a short shopping excursion, it was such a luxury to be pampered within the exclusive Solaire Resort and enjoy its world-class facilities and restaurants. Here’s what you can expect:
Solaire Resort Entertainment City
The premier Filipino integrated resort celebrates more than a decade of redefining luxury and excellence. Setting the standards for 5-star service and world-class facilities, its commitment to quality has led to the prestigious Forbes Travel Guide 5-Star Excellence Award for the 8th consecutive year. Nestled within the vibrant Entertainment City, Solaire offers a unique and unforgettable experience for every guest.
“Receiving the 5-Star Excellence Award with Forbes Travel Guide is a result of our team’s perseverance and dedication to ensure that our guests are provided with excellent service and exceptional experiences. We will continue to work hard to achieve our vision to make Solaire the only Filipino luxury integrated resort, the most preferred globally,” said Thomas Arasi, President, and Chief Operating Officer-Bloomberry Resorts Corporation, Solaire Resort Entertainment City and Solaire Resort North.
Facilities
The Sky Tower, one of Solaire’s luxurious towers, has 312 rooms and suites that offer exclusive accommodations with the highest level of elegance, sophistication and comfort. Rooms between 65 to 395 sqm together with the sweeping views of the world-renowned Manila Bay, facilities like a jacuzzi, cabanas, a fitness centre, spa and salon, are reasons enough for the well-deserved award.
Gastronomic offerings abound as guests can choose from a selection of 19 dining options that include 3 signature restaurants and bars run by culinary masters.
The newly built pillarless Grand Ballroom epitomises Solaire’s dedication to offering elegance and grandeur. With its expansive and versatile space and stunning architectural design, it sets the stage for memorable events, being the largest ballroom in Metro Manila.
All function rooms are equipped with state-of-the-art audiovisual equipment, conference facilities, exquisite menu options, pre-function areas, ample parking spaces and complimentary Wi-Fi access. Corporate meeting and event packages can be customised to suit the customer’s needs.
Discover the height of sophistication at The Shoppes at Solaire where a row of luxury brand retail stores such as Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Celine, Dior, Omega and more.
“We are grateful for all our guests who have been supporting us as we continue our decade of excellence into our 11th year. This award is a recognition of our teams’ determination and effort to remain steadfast in providing outstanding service for our guests.” says David Batchelor, Senior Vice President for Resort Operations.
Accommodation
Solaire comprises two exquisite towers, the Bay Tower, and the Sky Tower. Catch the brilliant sunset from the Chairman’s Villa with its panoramic view of Manila Bay. Guests will also have their own personal butler where they can feel the highest level of service tailored to their preference. Unique paintings in each room, all embracing different genres and styles by Filipino artists and designers, set the mood right and make you feel more at home. Including the Bay Tower, there are altogether 793 rooms available.
Dining
Dine by the golden hue of sunset as you feast at your favourite restaurants. Enjoy drinks – a momento aperitivo – at Finestra, sunset cocktails by the Pool Bar & Grill, or refreshing drinks at Waterside, drinking in the great ambiance and live music.
The resort boasts 19 restaurants and bars, including 3 signature restaurants featuring experienced world-class chefs. Yakumi’s Sunday Brunch has a selection from eight buffet stations where you can savour authentic Japanese dishes and fresh sashimi sourced straight from Toyosu Market.
Enjoying fresh sashimi at Yakumi.
Indulge in Red Lantern’s Dim Sum Brunch Buffet, featuring over 46 delectable dim sum varieties and homemade Chinese barbeque. Experience the sophistication of Finestra’s Sunday Champagne Brunch, where you can enjoy unlimited flutes of champagne along with delicious Italian dishes.
Dim sum from Red Lantern
BBQ Pork Ribs and Tomahawk from Waterside.
Steak from Finestra.
Entertainment
Experience top-tier entertainment at The Theatre at Solaire with Broadway shows, ballet performances and concerts showcasing both local and international artists. Last March, Cameron Mackintosh’s Miss Saigon, an adaptation of Giacomo Puccini’s classic opera, “Madame Butterfly” was shown. This love story transported one back to Vietnam in the 1970s with music that resonated with the audience.
Solaire was also awarded the Best Asia-Pacific Integrated Resort and Best Gaming Floor by its industry peers at the 2023 IAG Academy IR Awards, a testament to its excellence and innovation in the Asian gaming and hospitality industry. Solaire’s gaming floor spans two levels, 30,200 sqm of premium gaming space, a haven for both casual players and the elite. The casino is home to over 2,300 slot machines and more than 400 gaming tables equipped with the latest technology comparable to Macau and Las Vegas.
The grandeur of Solaire’s gaming space is exuded by its Players Stadium, where the hottest Electronic Table Games can be played all at once by 200 guests who can watch the excitement unfold in one of the largest curved LEDs in the world. An elevated experience awaits Solaire’s gaming elite at Solaire Club, an entire floor where unmatched service, unparalleled menu options and utmost discretion.
Shopping
The Shoppes at Solaire feature a row of luxury brand retail that gives a different shopping experience, with renowned brands such as Givenchy, Stefano Ricci, Amazing Cre, Dior, Bulgari, Tiffany & Co. and more.
Lifestyle Card
Solaire Resort offers the most rewarding experiences with its Lifestyle Card with which you can enjoy the best offers and rebates just by dining, shopping and booking a hotel room or your favourite award-winning theatre shows. With that comes 5-star service and world-class facilities, a breathtaking view of the radiant sunset of Manila Bay, a culinary indulgence like no other and a row of luxury brand retail stores all at one address.
Book your room directly on the website to receive two signature welcome drinks, pool access, complimentary use of pool day beds and Solaire Bonus Peso. You can enjoy and earn a 5% rebate when you use your Lifestyle Card. You can get up to 20% off and earn up to 20% rebate when dining at any of Solaire’s dining establishments. Book theatre tickets and get up to 20% discount with your Lifestyle Card. Earn 5% rebates on purchases at participating retail outlets.
Sign up to become a member by downloading the MySolaire App.
Chimac Festival
Solaire Resort Entertainment City offered a slice of Korean culture and cuisine during its week-long celebration of live music, games and entertainment during the first ever Chimac Festival. ChiMac, a combination of “chicken” (chi) and “mac” (beer) in Korean, had mouthwatering Korean dishes and showstopping performances by the renowned DJ Kara and one of the Philippines’ most beloved bands, The Itchyworms.
Guests had a chance to try noodles, tteokbokki, gimbap and kimchi, Korean-style sausage (Sundae), skewered fish cake soup, Buchimgae and fried Korean snacks, not to mention hot foods like chicken skewers, herb marinated fresh pork belly (Samgyupsal) skewers, Bulgogi and braised spicy pork ribs.
No ChiMac festival is complete without the renowned South Korean fried chicken, voted as the world’s most popular K-food. The night’s festivities include a chicken and beer drinking contest, a beer pong tournament, an electrifying performance by DJ Kara and the groovy rock beats of The Itchyworms. Guests could also dress in a traditional Hanbok dress.
Discover the charm of the Philippines and feel the warm hospitality of its people all in one destination. For more information, visit www.solaireresort.com.
I’ve been to quite a few Tiger Food Festivals in the last few years and I must say this year’s was quite happening! Some 10,000 guests flocked to 1U Shopping Mall, PJ from Sept 5-8 for the Tiger Crystal Food Festival which has become a …