Food Explorer & Home Chef
Fresh from his Melbourne stint at Attica, touted to be one of the best restaurants Down Under, chef Daniel Kong from Kuching, together with 2 other partners – his brother and fellow chef Woon Ming – set up Vagabond KL in Desa Sri Hartamas, KL. …
Explored SS15 which I normally never go to with a foodie friend – Boon @tummy_full – and discovered a slew of inviting eateries, among them, newbie Amichi Ristorante. Helmed by Bari-born chef Angelo, a big shout out for their great service! I was having early …
Shinano Kitchen is literally a hole-in-the-wall pork-free diner serving Japanese and Korean rice and udon sets. Nestled on the ground floor of Uptown 5 Tower B in Damansara Utama, PJ, it has seating capacity for only 10 (very cramp seats) inside, but you can opt to sit outside on the sidewalk where it’s more comfortable, without air-cond. Capturing the essence of a real Japanese diner, Shinano fills a niche as prices are reasonable (RM10 to RM28) and the basic bento and rice sets are great for the office crowd who have no time to waste, and just wanna eat and go.
Essentially, there are only 3 main options – rice, fried rice or without carbs – paired with your choice of meat, tamago (eggroll), a side of kimchi and miso soup. Much like chap fan (Chinese mixed rice), but make it Japanese. Considering its tiny kitchen, the menu is surprisingly extensive as it plays with numerous combinations, including Japanese curry, udon and kimchi jiggae. Unlike Korean banchan, the sides are not refillable, but if you ask nicely, they might.
We had the beef patty with the garlic rice set, and unagi rice. Probably one of the cheapest unagi don around, the size of the eel was generous while the hambagu patty was a decent chunk of meat that went well with the garlic rice. I’ve had more exciting garlic rice, but the price would also be higher. Nothing fancy, but we enjoyed the meal – wholesome, prepared on-site and tasty – satisfying enough.
The sets come with refillable green tea as well so it’s a complete ensemble. Shinano offers a quick, satisfying meal and they have catering services as well.
Add: 101B, Tower B, Ground Floor, Uptown 5, Jalan SS21/39, Damansara Utama, Petaling Jaya. hp: 014-328 9941.
Get ready to vibe with Heineken’s REFRESHING SESSIONS with unexpected takeovers in the city! From supermarket aisles to bookstore shelves, Heineken® is serving up unforgettable DJ sets in the most unpredictable spots—bringing people together through music, good vibes, and a cool, refreshing Heineken. 1) QRA …
Torito, a new Peruvian-Japanese restaurant, sits on level 53 of Banyan Tree KL, its interior reflecting the captivating colours of the Peruvian natural landscape – vibrant green and azure blue – and the herringbone floor in terracotta tiles mirroring the desert sand. Torito (means bull …
Iconic Irish Whiskey Jameson presents the next chapter of its city-spanning Jameson Distilled Sounds events, this time taking over The Zhongshan Building. This edition will celebrate the release of Jameson’s latest limited-edition bottle, designed in collaboration with global Music Distiller and multi-Grammy-winning artist Anderson .Paak, while giving Southeast Asian talents a platform to share their sound.
With 18 artists, one stacked lineup, and endless vibes—the Jameson Distilled Sounds takeover hits May 17 from 6pm till late.
Jameson Distilled Sounds is both a global music programme and a local event series, sharing one name and one purpose: to connect a global music family across genres, borders, and subcultures—from Kuala Lumpur to Cork. Launched in 2024 with Anderson .Paak, the programme supports emerging talent worldwide by creating space for artists to collaborate, grow, and be heard.
Malaysian singer-songwriter Claudia Tan is the first local artist selected to be mentored by .Paak as part of this ongoing commitment. Just as Jameson is triple distilled for smoothness, the Zhongshan Building edition brings together communities and styles with the same craft and character that define Jameson.
Spanning indie, electronic, funk, soul, and deep house, the lineup offers a raw take on Southeast Asia’s sound—distilled, defiant, and deeply collective. Performances will take place at The Courtyard—a space more often known for sourdough than subwoofers, doubling by day as a bakery.
From Thailand, NOTEP blends ambient electronica with organic textures for a soulful, genre-fluid journey that’s both meditative and modern. Malaysia’s Talitha Tan brings smooth indie R&B pop and heartfelt lyrics. Saint Kylo, a powerhouse of R&B and funk, turns up the energy with infectious grooves and magnetic stage presence. Also taking the stage: the introspective stylings of Su San, Daaliah’s groove-forward DJ set, X.U’s electronic edge, and Kent Lee.
Catch the skyline and the sound as No One, Sheryn, Raven, Diorck, and B from Manipulated Mood Group take over the Kantata rooftop. Expect high-octane DJ sets that move from hypnotic builds to full-blown bangers—a golden hour session that sets the tone for the night ahead.
Indie tastemakers Chaseylain and Ribut 1059 of Twilight Actiongirl (TAG) return with eclectic DJ sets that nod to their roots in KL’s alternative scene, closing the night in Kantata with a special B2B that blends nostalgia with fresh sonic twists. Plus, swing by Poppy Records in the Zhongshan Annexe for a one-day-only promo—buy 1 Limited Edition Jameson x Anderson .Paak bottle and get a vinyl record of your choice—on us.
Over at Triptyk, the energy shifts into cocktail-hour mode as music and mixology collide. Expert mixologists Angel Ji and Steve Foo serve up curated Jameson signatures with a musical twist to her already famous cocktails, soundtracked by Viene’s deep club cuts and Vanns Ngo’s driving house. Just when you think it’s winding down, think again — a surprise Hijack Session by a tech house DJ is set to dial things up one last time.
Triptyk curates a lineup of flavour-forward bites, perfectly paired with the smooth taste of Jameson Irish Whiskey. Savour Pixies & Vespers’ yakitori skewers, crafted to complement the signature zest of a Jameson, Ginger Ale & Lime. Calle Taco’s handheld bites are expected to bring the heat, while Kantata keeps the energy flowing with late-night comfort food that’s as bold as the beats.
Register Now
This is an open-invite night. Register online now for free entry. Arrive before 8pm. First 200 guests through the door get a complimentary Jameson Ginger Ale & Lime.
Event Registration Link:
https://www.jamesonwhiskey.com/en/jameson-distilled-sound-my-2025-party-registration-form/
Guerlain, the renowned French luxury beauty house, presents the first-ever Bee Garden 2025 Pop-Up in South-East Asia, at The Exchange TRX, Kuala Lumpur, from April 28 to May 11. This experiential retail concept seamlessly blends beauty, fragrance, and sustainability, offering visitors an unparalleled journey into …
Ming Room in BSC, along with other Oriental Group of restaurants, has introduced some new dishes to its menu, just in time for Parents’ Day. Always one of my fav places to dine as you are assured of amazing Chinese cusine and impeccable service. We …
Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur is set to reignite the city’s culinary scene this May with Dine With Chef 2025, themed Newstalgia: Memories Reinvented — a tribute to the flavours that shaped us, reimagined through the lens of modern gastronomy. The month-long dining event brings together a stellar lineup of exclusive collaborations with local and international chefs celebrated for their culinary artistry and storytelling.
Led by the spectacular culinary team at Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur, Dine With Chef this year brings together talented chefs in the region, including participating chefs from the newly opened Hyatt Centric City Centre Kuala Lumpur, and the soon-to-debut Park Hyatt Kuala Lumpur and Hyatt Regency Kuala Lumpur at KL Midtown. This year’s theme, Newstalgia, taps into the emotional pull of childhood staples, the comforting flavours we grew up with — and reimagines them with progressive techniques, unexpected cross-cultural pairings, and a luxurious twist.
“Dine With Chef is about honouring Malaysia’s vibrant culinary identity alongside the finest international culinary traditions while giving our chefs the freedom to play and collaborate,” says Olivier Lenoir, General Manager of Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur.
“By bringing together local and international culinary talents in addition to our chefs from the Hyatt properties in Kuala Lumpur, we’re turning this into a citywide celebration of culinary creativity and shared nostalgia.
“What excites us about Dine With Chef this year is how it opens up room for storytelling,” says Grzegorz Odolak, Executive Chef of Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur. “This year, we’re not just serving meals — we’re curating moments that connect the past and future on a single plate. We want to position Hyatt as a creative force in Malaysia’s evolving dining scene — spotlighting its chefs, spaces, and stories through immersive gastronomy that invites exploration and emotional connection.”
Guests can expect modern tasting menus, one-night-only collaborations, and interactive chef-led sessions that celebrate both innovation and nostalgia.
Meet the Guest Chefs
1 – 4 May | The Spirit of Poland – THIRTY8, Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur
Experience the innovative creations of Chef Marcin Budynek and the authentic flavours crafted by Chef Mariusz Olechno for à la carte dinner, and the exquisite pastries of award-winning chef Paweł Mieszała at afternoon tea. In commemoration of the Constitution on May 3, the St. Martin’s Afternoon Tea will be taking place from May 3 – 4 May at RM158 nett, and will feature the St. Martin’s Croissant. This unique pastry, traditionally baked in Poznań and Greater Poland, is not only a festive treat for St. Martin’s Day but also holds a special connection to Polish Independence Day.
11 May | Mother’s Day Brunch – THIRTY8, Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur & IL Forno, Hyatt Centric City Centre Kuala Lumpur
Held at two different locations, Chef Greg of Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur will be joined by Chef Stig and Chef Holger of Park Hyatt Kuala Lumpur in a heartfelt culinary tribute at THIRTY8 from RM248 nett. This heartfelt tribute is also paired with a bespoke gin & tonic trolley and thoughtfully crafted mocktails and cocktails including the signature “The Matriarch” available at RM 48+/per glass.
At IL Forno, Chef Enzo of Hyatt Centric City Centre Kuala Lumpur and Chef Jonas of Hyatt Regency Kuala Lumpur at KL Midtown have curated a culinary embrace for the extraordinary women in our lives priced at RM198+. Create cherished moments and express your deepest appreciation this Mother’s Day at IL Forno, where every dish is served with love.
12 – 16 May | TanBuri Set Lunch – TanBuri, Hyatt Centric City Centre Kuala Lumpur
Imagine a culinary journey where the fiery aromas of Indian tandoor meet the comforting embrace of a Japanese donburi rice bowl. Here, succulent tandoori meats and vegetables, infused with local spices, nestle atop fragrant rice. Each bite tells a story of tradition and innovation, enhanced by a swirl of their secret homemade sauces. Discover this East-meets-South delight for RM40+ .
14 – 17 May | Peranakan Cuisine by Chef Florence Tan – JPteres, Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur
Embark on a heritage-rich culinary journey with Chef Florence Tan, Malaysia’s beloved icon of Nyonya cuisine. Bringing the vibrant flavours of the Peranakan community to life, her passion, authenticity, and culinary expertise have captivated audiences around the world. Savour her signature creations at a Peranakan Lunch Buffet from May 14-16, priced at just RM128 nett for adults and RM64 nett for children. For an even more intimate experience, don’t miss the exciting Gerai Session on May 17 at RM158 nett.
16 – 18 May | ARTEnoon Tea with Chef Ali & Chef Kang – THIRTY8, Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur
Joining Pastry Chef Low Kin Kang of Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur, the esteemed Pastry Chef Ali Saleh from Park Hyatt Jakarta presents an art-themed afternoon tea featuring an Asian-inspired selection of sweet and savoury creations, elevated into elegant, bite-sized masterpieces at RM128 nett on weekdays and RM158 nett on weekends.
19 – 23 May | Weekday Lunch Buffet with Chef Ramu & Tea Thambi – JPteres, Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur
Chef Ramu Kumar’s culinary journey began as a child in Tamil Nadu, inspired by the rich aromas of his grandmother’s kitchen. Over the years, he has mastered the art of both Northern and Southern Indian cuisine, continuing to share the vibrant essence of Tamil Nadu through every dish he creates in collaboration with Tea Thambi at RM64 nett per child and RM128 nett per adult.
22 – 24 May | India Through Another Lens with Raj Kumar of Firangi Superstar – THIRTY8, Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur
Chef Raj Kumar reimagines Indian cuisine through playful storytelling, bold flavours, and modern creativity. His inventive style comes to life at Firangi Superstar in Singapore where tradition meets innovation, drawing inspiration from the richness and vibrancy of India. Guests can enjoy the experience with à la carte pricing, allowing them to explore the menu at their own pace.
29 – 31 May | Private Dining by Nyonya Su Pei – JPteres, Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur
Nyonya Su Pei is a passionate guardian with over 10 years of experience in private dining and culinary instruction. Blending heritage recipes passed down through generations with modern flair, she continues to inspire the next generation of chefs. Enjoy an intimate private dinner for two from 29 to 30 May at RM248 nett, or join her flavour-packed Gerai Session on 31 May at RM158 nett.
29 – 30 May | Guest Shift with WAX ON Berlin featuring Mixologists from Hyatt Centric City Centre Kuala Lumpur, Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur and Park Hyatt Kuala Lumpur – @21 Rooftop Bar, Hyatt Centric City Centre Kuala Lumpur
This special event will feature Sam Orrock, the celebrated mixologist from Berlin’s renowned Wax On, a fixture on the World’s 50 Best Bars list. Joined by mixologists from participating Hyatt hotels in Kuala Lumpur, this exclusive collaboration brings together cutting-edge cocktail culture and world-class bartending talent for a high-energy showcase, celebrating the art of mixology through flavour, craftsmanship, creativity, and visual flair with cocktail packages starting at RM108+ for three drinks and RM158+ for five.
Complementing the key events, discover a curated ongoing series of diverse culinary experiences at Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur:
Every Friday & Saturday | Sake, Uni & Caviar Tasting Dinner – Level 5, Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur
An exquisite showcase of culinary craftsmanship, this intimate dining experience invites guests on a palate-pleasing journey through refined flavours, delicate textures, and the art of precision on every plate in collaboration with Sushi Azabu at RM688 nett.
Every Friday & Saturday | Fun & Flames Weekend BBQ – POOLHOUSE, Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur
Chef Izmin’s cuisine seamlessly blends the warmth of comfort food with the sophistication of modern dining, a reflection of his diverse culinary journey. This dedication to excellence is exemplified in his dishes, where meticulous attention to detail and a preparation process result in a richly flavoured culinary experience for RM128 nett.
Every Thursday to Sunday | Le Petit Chef – Grand Residence, Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur
Take a ride on an extraordinary 90-minute dining experience with a wondrous 3D mapping performance which promises a multisensory wonderment as you will explore the cultures and food from different regions. Menus start from RM248 nett for children, with adult options progressing from Le Grand Végétarien at RM398 nett, Le Grand Chef at RM468 nett, to the ultimate Le Master Chef experience at RM598 nett.
For more information about #DinewithChef2025, its main events and participating restaurants, visit Hyatt’s website.
For reservations and dining enquiries at Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur, email restaurant.kuagh@hyatt.com or WhatsApp at +60 12 621 9869.
For reservations and dining enquiries at Hyatt Centric City Centre Kuala Lumpur, email KULCT-DigitalDine@hyatt.com or WhatsApp at +60 12 628 9421.
Felt like having a light meal, so we dropped by Ling’s Focacerria over the weekend after hearing so much about her focaccia. It’s a really small cozy cafe with just 5 tables, but brightly lit with half the space taken up by the open style …