Tel: +603 2145 8708
Bangkok Jazz is a great venue for live jazz, we decided to check out Martin's band one evening...
Martin and The Boys are ...
Ee Jeng @ Piano
Daniel @ Bass
Martin Ngim @ Drums
Here's Martin!
Ah ... a couple of drinkies.
Friday, October 31, 2008
Martin Ngim at Bangkok Jazz, Chulan Square KL
Add: Lot B1-A, Chulan Square, 92, Jalan Raja Chulan, KL
Tel: +603 2145 8708
Bangkok Jazz is a great venue for live jazz, we decided to check out Martin's band one evening...
Martin and The Boys are ...
Ee Jeng @ Piano
Daniel @ Bass
Martin Ngim @ Drums
Here's Martin!
Ah ... a couple of drinkies.
Tel: +603 2145 8708
Bangkok Jazz is a great venue for live jazz, we decided to check out Martin's band one evening...
Martin and The Boys are ...
Ee Jeng @ Piano
Daniel @ Bass
Martin Ngim @ Drums
Here's Martin!
Ah ... a couple of drinkies.
Sure Pizza, Plaza Damas at Sri Hartamas KL
Add: SURE PIZZA @ P37, Plaza Damas Ground Floor, Hartamas Shopping Centre, Jalan Hartamas 1, KL
Tel: +603 6201 6014)
Opening hours: Daily (10am-10pm)
Note: Pork-free
Located: Next to Sao Nam (Vietnamese), and opposite Kim Gary (HKie)
The star: Paolo, a quiet-spoken but pleasant Italian man + Chef + Restaurenteur!
RC recommended this place late one evening, and I was actually glad our original choice of Fogal Meat Market and Deli (Which I have still yet to indulge in!) was closed! I was introduced to Paolo, the rather quiet spoken but brilliant chef, who promptly showed us the fresh clams he had just purchased from the market at 4am in the morning!
Spaghetti alle Vongole - Spaghetti with clams, this was fabulous! Al Dente taken to a new level, perfectly firm to bite. What struck me about this dish was the top-notch Olive Oil used, brilliant. The condiments of minced paste of onion-garlic in olive oil, as well as "sambal-like" tomato-chilli paste was simply to-die-for!
Pizza Primavera - I can't remember which pizza I chose, it may have been the Primavera. Whatever it was, it was exquisite! One of the best pizzas I have ever had in KL, moist, fresh, and cheesy yet not-poweringly so!
Tiramisu - I ta-powed this home, hmmm... it's still in the fridge! It comes highly recommended, mmmmm!
Most dishes each cost between RM$20-25, and represent good value considering the freshness of the ingredients, as well as the generous portion size.
Note: Apologies for the rather crappy photos, I only had my 'berry on me :-( Shall come back with a larger group next time, and try out ALL the dishes, as well as bring a camera that is worthy of the excellent food i.e. Nikon D80 with Tamron SP90 Macro lens!
Tel: +603 6201 6014)
Opening hours: Daily (10am-10pm)
Note: Pork-free
Located: Next to Sao Nam (Vietnamese), and opposite Kim Gary (HKie)
The star: Paolo, a quiet-spoken but pleasant Italian man + Chef + Restaurenteur!
RC recommended this place late one evening, and I was actually glad our original choice of Fogal Meat Market and Deli (Which I have still yet to indulge in!) was closed! I was introduced to Paolo, the rather quiet spoken but brilliant chef, who promptly showed us the fresh clams he had just purchased from the market at 4am in the morning!
Spaghetti alle Vongole - Spaghetti with clams, this was fabulous! Al Dente taken to a new level, perfectly firm to bite. What struck me about this dish was the top-notch Olive Oil used, brilliant. The condiments of minced paste of onion-garlic in olive oil, as well as "sambal-like" tomato-chilli paste was simply to-die-for!
Pizza Primavera - I can't remember which pizza I chose, it may have been the Primavera. Whatever it was, it was exquisite! One of the best pizzas I have ever had in KL, moist, fresh, and cheesy yet not-poweringly so!
Tiramisu - I ta-powed this home, hmmm... it's still in the fridge! It comes highly recommended, mmmmm!
Most dishes each cost between RM$20-25, and represent good value considering the freshness of the ingredients, as well as the generous portion size.
Note: Apologies for the rather crappy photos, I only had my 'berry on me :-( Shall come back with a larger group next time, and try out ALL the dishes, as well as bring a camera that is worthy of the excellent food i.e. Nikon D80 with Tamron SP90 Macro lens!
Safe Egg - Pasteurised eggs at Mercato, Plaza Damas
saFegg or Safe Egg company ... Pasteurized Shell Eggs!? What on earth is this ... I was so surprised to see an egg supplier go through all this trouble and expense, at Mercato in Plaza Damas, Sri Hartamas.
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Malaysian Today - Santai, TTDI
As featured in the local paper, MALAYSIAN TODAY.
This is my 6th write-up, featuring Thai-Malay restaurant Santai which is located at Taman Tun Dr Ismail, KL.
This is my 6th write-up, featuring Thai-Malay restaurant Santai which is located at Taman Tun Dr Ismail, KL.
Santai, Taman Tun Dr Ismail
As featured on Malaysian Today, 30th October 2008!
One of the definitive "local-celebrities-tea-hangout" and best Malay restaurants in town, this is ... Taman Tun Dr Ismail's Santai.
Add: Santai Restaurant and Café @ 10, Persiaran Zaaba , Taman Tun Dr. Ismail, KL
Tel: +603 7728 8173
Seafood Tom Yam - Spicy, but well balanced, and full of flavour. RM$6.50
Telur Bungkus - Another one of Santai's signature dishes, tasty but not too sweet. Close to perfection! RM$5
Prawns with Petai (RM$6), Stir fried Kai-lan with Salted Fish (RM$5.50) ... Nothing to shout about, but still decent.
One of the definitive "local-celebrities-tea-hangout" and best Malay restaurants in town, this is ... Taman Tun Dr Ismail's Santai.
Add: Santai Restaurant and Café @ 10, Persiaran Zaaba , Taman Tun Dr. Ismail, KL
Tel: +603 7728 8173
Seafood Tom Yam - Spicy, but well balanced, and full of flavour. RM$6.50
Telur Bungkus - Another one of Santai's signature dishes, tasty but not too sweet. Close to perfection! RM$5
Prawns with Petai (RM$6), Stir fried Kai-lan with Salted Fish (RM$5.50) ... Nothing to shout about, but still decent.
My other favourite Santai dish, after their Tom yam ... Nasi Goreng USA (Choice of chicken or beef, I chose the latter), RM$7.50.
Malaysian Today - Chinoz on the Park, KLCC
As featured in the local paper, MALAYSIAN TODAY.
This is my 5th write-up, featuring Chinoz on the Park, located in KLCC.
This is my 5th write-up, featuring Chinoz on the Park, located in KLCC.
Tastings by Chinoz on the Park, KLCC
As featured on Malaysian Today, 23rd October 2008!
Menu: Tastings by Chinoz on the Park
Add: Chinoz on the Park, G47, Ground Floor, Suria KLCC, Kuala Lumpur
Tel: +603 2166 8277
Note: Pork-free
I was in the mood for some fine-dining one evening, and we made our way to the Twin Towers in the heart of KL. This was my first visit to the much talked-about Chinoz on the Park. The decor is rather stark, with a blend of steel and light-coloured wood used as decor. For a moment I wasn't quite sure if the "fine-dining" theme worked, but when we were presented with the chef's special menu, known as "Tastings", my eyes lit up.
Chef Haffizul Hashim who was appointed as Chinoz’s new chef de cuisine in early 2008, came across as being quietly confident, and had a boyish charm about him. He was clearly passionate about his food, especially when he presented us with details of the menu items. He has a bachelor of culinary arts degree from London, following which he worked in the gastronomic capital's finest restaurants, including the Mirabelle and Ritz. It was here where he learnt the trade from Michelin-star rated Chez Bruce.
Before the meal arrived, we enjoyed warm nutty wholemeal bread, followed by a dainty pumpkin-based pallet-cleanser. The latter was so good, and it made me eagerly await the main courses.
I could not resist selecting the Degustation Menu, RM$160, which was a selection of Chef Haffiz's creations, and it was a scrumptions choice! The meal started with a Cauliflower veloute with hokaido scallop and truffle. This was served as a shot-glass of Cauliflower foam, which was really good in its own right. However, when combined with the really fresh scallop and thinly sliced truffle, the flavours come alive.
The next course was the Blue fin tuna, with lemongrass-vanilla oil. Whilst having this dish, my dinner partner pointed out Chef Haffiz's signature style of mixing textures. The finely sliced green beans as well as little flowers sprinkled over the top, provided a burst of textures and colours, and was well appreciated.
On to the two main courses, the first being the Roasted barramundi in potato wrap, with seared scallop, parsnip vanilla puree. The barramundi was full in flavour, and the potato wrap was remarkable, tasting of potato yet having a rosti-like texture which I have not had since my days in the UK. The scallop was once again fresh and flavoursome, whilst the parsnip was delicious.
Then came the masterpiece, a slow braised daube of beef cheek a la Bourguigonne with pomme puree. The beef flakes away when the knife is applied, and it simply melts in your mouth. This was probably the result of the classical french cooking technique of slow stewing and reduction, and it was simply marvelous.
I had to make room for the dessert, which was the Chocolate parfait peanut tuile, beurre de cacahuete ice cream. Tasting of peanut butter, with crisp-to-bite textures, this was a chocolate lovers dessert. Coffee was then served. I felt that the quality of food and reasonably generous servings more then made up for the RM$160 price tag of this menu.
Overall, the service at Chinoz was attentive, and the food was both beautifully presented and creative, as it was delicious and enjoyable. Do give this special venue a try, whilst Chef Haffiz is in town. Be prepared for a sublime dining experience in KL!
Menu: Tastings by Chinoz on the Park
Add: Chinoz on the Park, G47, Ground Floor, Suria KLCC, Kuala Lumpur
Tel: +603 2166 8277
Note: Pork-free
I was in the mood for some fine-dining one evening, and we made our way to the Twin Towers in the heart of KL. This was my first visit to the much talked-about Chinoz on the Park. The decor is rather stark, with a blend of steel and light-coloured wood used as decor. For a moment I wasn't quite sure if the "fine-dining" theme worked, but when we were presented with the chef's special menu, known as "Tastings", my eyes lit up.
Chef Haffizul Hashim who was appointed as Chinoz’s new chef de cuisine in early 2008, came across as being quietly confident, and had a boyish charm about him. He was clearly passionate about his food, especially when he presented us with details of the menu items. He has a bachelor of culinary arts degree from London, following which he worked in the gastronomic capital's finest restaurants, including the Mirabelle and Ritz. It was here where he learnt the trade from Michelin-star rated Chez Bruce.
Before the meal arrived, we enjoyed warm nutty wholemeal bread, followed by a dainty pumpkin-based pallet-cleanser. The latter was so good, and it made me eagerly await the main courses.
I could not resist selecting the Degustation Menu, RM$160, which was a selection of Chef Haffiz's creations, and it was a scrumptions choice! The meal started with a Cauliflower veloute with hokaido scallop and truffle. This was served as a shot-glass of Cauliflower foam, which was really good in its own right. However, when combined with the really fresh scallop and thinly sliced truffle, the flavours come alive.
The next course was the Blue fin tuna, with lemongrass-vanilla oil. Whilst having this dish, my dinner partner pointed out Chef Haffiz's signature style of mixing textures. The finely sliced green beans as well as little flowers sprinkled over the top, provided a burst of textures and colours, and was well appreciated.
On to the two main courses, the first being the Roasted barramundi in potato wrap, with seared scallop, parsnip vanilla puree. The barramundi was full in flavour, and the potato wrap was remarkable, tasting of potato yet having a rosti-like texture which I have not had since my days in the UK. The scallop was once again fresh and flavoursome, whilst the parsnip was delicious.
Then came the masterpiece, a slow braised daube of beef cheek a la Bourguigonne with pomme puree. The beef flakes away when the knife is applied, and it simply melts in your mouth. This was probably the result of the classical french cooking technique of slow stewing and reduction, and it was simply marvelous.
I had to make room for the dessert, which was the Chocolate parfait peanut tuile, beurre de cacahuete ice cream. Tasting of peanut butter, with crisp-to-bite textures, this was a chocolate lovers dessert. Coffee was then served. I felt that the quality of food and reasonably generous servings more then made up for the RM$160 price tag of this menu.
RC who had chosen the restaurant, having previously enjoyed the many creations of Chef Haffiz on two previous seatings, chose the ala carte "Tasting" menu instead. She had a starter of Parsley risotto with sauteed escargot, portobello mushroom confit, RM$36. The flavours of the escargot, mushrooms were perfectly blended with the beautifully cooked risotto. Simply a marvelous starter!
For the mains, Chef Haffiz strongly recommended a fish, the Red Mullet, which was served with two citrus fruits, both Blood orange as well as Grapefruit at RM$78. It was so beautifully grilled that the flavours and moist texture of the mullet were well preserved, and the citrus combination complemented the dish perfectly.
For dessert the delicious and heavy Pistachio and Olive Torte, with strawberries, vanilla ice cream, RM$20, was well enjoyed. This was a truly generous portion, with two large slices of torte or cake served, and the sharp tasting minced strawberry flakes went well with the sweetness of the pistachio torte.
Overall, the service at Chinoz was attentive, and the food was both beautifully presented and creative, as it was delicious and enjoyable. Do give this special venue a try, whilst Chef Haffiz is in town. Be prepared for a sublime dining experience in KL!
Saturday, October 25, 2008
Social, Bangsar - Another reunion, this time its Glenfiddich time!
Add: 57-59, Jalan Telawi 3, Bangsar baru, KL
Located: Opposite Bangsar Village II
Tel: +603 2822 2260
TC and me seem to like returning to Social at Bangsar!
We enjoyed a late dinner of ... Marinara Aglio Olio (Alas, the pasta was over-cooked and "hardly" al-dente!), RM$24. And, Aromatic Crispy Duck (This was outstanding, loved the pancakes, duck, hoisin sauce, shredded veges and the nice touch of adding "chilli oil" ... Ah, just like "old days in the UK"!) RM$29. The duck was enough for 2 to share if one isn't too hungry!
For drinks, our foursome enjoyed ... Glenfiddich whiskey (Each shot, RM$23), Bombay Sapphire Gin and Tonic (RM$17), etc. Hic hic, quite the evening, rounded off with a Davidoff Cigarillo.
Located: Opposite Bangsar Village II
Tel: +603 2822 2260
TC and me seem to like returning to Social at Bangsar!
We enjoyed a late dinner of ... Marinara Aglio Olio (Alas, the pasta was over-cooked and "hardly" al-dente!), RM$24. And, Aromatic Crispy Duck (This was outstanding, loved the pancakes, duck, hoisin sauce, shredded veges and the nice touch of adding "chilli oil" ... Ah, just like "old days in the UK"!) RM$29. The duck was enough for 2 to share if one isn't too hungry!
For drinks, our foursome enjoyed ... Glenfiddich whiskey (Each shot, RM$23), Bombay Sapphire Gin and Tonic (RM$17), etc. Hic hic, quite the evening, rounded off with a Davidoff Cigarillo.
Friday, October 24, 2008
Amazing Race Asia 3 - Epsiode 7 (Macau)
Originally screened on AXN, Thursday 23rd October 2008, at 9:00pm Malaysia time. This is the 7th leg of the Amazing Race Asia 3 series.
Ida and Tania of Malaysia were still in , despite ending up last in the previous leg ... Leg 6 in Hong Kong
Notes below are courtesy of Wikipedia.
Mong Kok, Kowloon in HK
Tung Choi Street – Goldfish Market ... Additional tasks At Mong Kok, teams must pick up four goldfish and bring them to a designated pet shop at Bonham Strand.
This is war! Geoff and Tisha decide to yield (Delay another team, for the duration of an hour-glass) our local team!
Startled, but not surprised. Bernie and Henry of Malaysia knew they were the strongest team in the pack, and expected to be Yielded!
Ida and Tania of Malaysia were still in , despite ending up last in the previous leg ... Leg 6 in Hong Kong
Notes below are courtesy of Wikipedia.
Mong Kok, Kowloon in HK
Tung Choi Street – Goldfish Market ... Additional tasks At Mong Kok, teams must pick up four goldfish and bring them to a designated pet shop at Bonham Strand.
This is war! Geoff and Tisha decide to yield (Delay another team, for the duration of an hour-glass) our local team!
Startled, but not surprised. Bernie and Henry of Malaysia knew they were the strongest team in the pack, and expected to be Yielded!
Then the teams go across ... Hong Kong (Hong Kong-Macau Ferry Pier, Hong Kong) to Macau. They then head to Senado Square, followed by Macau Tower
In this leg's Roadblock, the chosen team member must climb to the top of the Macau Tower, obtain their next clue there, and go down back to their partner before reading their next clue.
Sai Van Lake – Dragon Boat Pier) ... In this leg's Detour, the choice was between Dance or Chance.
In Dance, the team members must correctly perform a lion dance routine to the satisfaction of the performance troupe.
In Chance, teams must don formal attire and play a game of blackjack; they must beat the dealer nine times (as denoted by the letters of the word COMPLETED) before receiving their next clue.
At Sai Van Lake, teams must paddle a dragon boat around a floating Caltex buoy.
Finally ... At Ama Culture Village, teams must rearrange lanterns bearing the animals in the Chinese zodiac in their correct order before being let into the Village and the Pit Stop.
Geoff and Tisha were victorious for the first time in seven legs, and have possibly become joint favourites to win, together with Bernie and Henry. But who knows ... there are still dark-horses in the HK boys and Singaporean gals!
The HK boys survived...
As did the pair who were yielded ... Here's Bernie and Henry of Malaysia.
As did the pair who were yielded ... Here's Bernie and Henry of Malaysia.
And not surprising ... in last place ... Ida and Tania of Malaysia.
BUT what was a surprise was ... This was a second consecutive pre-determined NON ELIMINATION leg, so they go through once again!
Will the Malaysian gals' luck run out next week, there can't possibly be ANOTHER non-elimination leg, so we shall see...
Thursday, October 23, 2008
Wine @ Nine, TTDI Plaza - Pool time with La Sallians
Event: La Salle Klang 91 get-together
Venue: Wine @ Nine
Add: C-19, Plaza TTDI, Jalan Wan Kadir 3, Taman Tun Dr Ismail, KL
Tel: +6012 286 1688
Opening Hours: 4pm - 2am (Mon-Thurs), 4pm - 3am (Fri-Sat), 4pm - 1am(Sun).
The main man ... KYS. The lad's good!
Hmmmm, you resident blogger in action. Poor technique, but loves the game!
A mini La Salle get-together :-)
Venue: Wine @ Nine
Add: C-19, Plaza TTDI, Jalan Wan Kadir 3, Taman Tun Dr Ismail, KL
Tel: +6012 286 1688
Opening Hours: 4pm - 2am (Mon-Thurs), 4pm - 3am (Fri-Sat), 4pm - 1am(Sun).
The main man ... KYS. The lad's good!
Mr G!
Hmmmm, you resident blogger in action. Poor technique, but loves the game!
A mini La Salle get-together :-)
Besides the REALLY good pool tables here, and friendly staff, the Guinness on tap is rather good too!
Coco seen through the eyes of a Tamron SP90
Some portrait shots of our Cocodog :-)
Camera set-up ... Nikon D80 , Tamron SP 90 1:1 Macro and SB-600 Speedlight.
Apple-time! Coco loves fruits ...
Camera set-up ... Nikon D80 , Tamron SP 90 1:1 Macro and SB-600 Speedlight.
Apple-time! Coco loves fruits ...
Overseas Imbi - Tamron SP90 Macro
Another opportunity to use my new macro lens for some food "still-lifes"!
Camera body: Nikon D80
Lens: Tamron SP90mm
Review of my new macro lens
EXIF (For majority of shots below): F/4.5 , 1/80s , No flash
Add: Restoran Oversea (Imbi) @ 84-88, Jalan Imbi, KL
Tel: +603 2144 9911
As you can see, I have reviewed and enjoyed the food here a "couple of times"!
Thanks for the treat :-) at Overseas, on the occassion of Baby S's christening.
Char siew - Possibly the best in KL!
Very interesting chicken dish, with "floss-like" ginger shavings over the top of steamed kampung-chicken.
Signature dish... Lovely "Ham Yue Fah Lam Poh", aka chinese bacon with salted-fish.
Roast piggy , oink oink! I prefer the even more unhealthy loh-mai variety aka served on a bed of glutionous rice.
A couple of vege dishes ...
(c) All photos are property of, and copyrighted to, Julian Si. Please contact me if a high-resolution shot is required, or if it is to be used in any other location outside of this blog.
Camera body: Nikon D80
Lens: Tamron SP90mm
Review of my new macro lens
EXIF (For majority of shots below): F/4.5 , 1/80s , No flash
Add: Restoran Oversea (Imbi) @ 84-88, Jalan Imbi, KL
Tel: +603 2144 9911
As you can see, I have reviewed and enjoyed the food here a "couple of times"!
Thanks for the treat :-) at Overseas, on the occassion of Baby S's christening.
Char siew - Possibly the best in KL!
Very interesting chicken dish, with "floss-like" ginger shavings over the top of steamed kampung-chicken.
Signature dish... Lovely "Ham Yue Fah Lam Poh", aka chinese bacon with salted-fish.
Roast piggy , oink oink! I prefer the even more unhealthy loh-mai variety aka served on a bed of glutionous rice.
A couple of vege dishes ...
(c) All photos are property of, and copyrighted to, Julian Si. Please contact me if a high-resolution shot is required, or if it is to be used in any other location outside of this blog.
Monday, October 20, 2008
Ipoh Road Yong Tau Foo, Sentul
Location: Ipoh Road, Sentul
Sui Kao and Yong Tau Foo ... delicious :-)
Bowls of soup which came with the meal, nice veges ...
Decent rojak too!
Sui Kao and Yong Tau Foo ... delicious :-)
Bowls of soup which came with the meal, nice veges ...
Decent rojak too!
Tamron SP90 shoots some home cooked food
Here's a close-up look at what Yanna prepared for dinner one evening at home ... Photos as seen through my new Tamron SP90 Macro lens and trusty Nikon D80.
Yong Tau Foo with black bean sauce, and a really appetising and perfectly fried curry-powder marinated fish.
Hmm, how close can I get to this omelette ... rather close!
Yong Tau Foo with black bean sauce, and a really appetising and perfectly fried curry-powder marinated fish.
Hmm, how close can I get to this omelette ... rather close!
Sunday, October 19, 2008
Amazing Race Asia 3 - Episode 6 (Hong Kong)
Originally screened on AXN, last Thursday 16th October 2008, at 9:00pm Malaysia time.
This is the 5th episode of TARA3 (The Amazing Race Asia 3) ... The first challenge was at the Kowloon King's Park Sports Ground, where teams had to get through a rugby field full of Standard Chartered handsome / tough / big / strong rugby players, who would stop them from getting the clue box at the far end of the field! Ida and Tania seemed especially enamoured by them, haha...
Here's the lovely Tisha Silang doing the Detour, Get Lucky. Wikipedia ... Teams had to head to one of the designated tables at Mee Lun St. and bite into hundreds of fortune cookies in a marked jar and only when they find the one cookie which contains a fortune regarding their next clue can they proceed.
Our gals took a lot longer at the fortune cookie challenge, sigh!
Bernie and Henry chose the other Detour ... Get Fishy. As described in Wikipedia, teams had to scale and gut 12 fishes to the satisfaction of a fishmonger, before they would receive their next clue.
The next challenge was a Roadblock at Kowloon's Tung Choi Street aka the Ladies' Market , where the teams had to look for an identical handbag on a "moving target" aka random-shopper! Not easy... Anyway, all the teams completed the challenge eventually.
Hmm, a lovely lady welcomed the teams to the junk at Blake Pier, Stanley, which was the pitstop for this leg.
Well done, the Hong Kong lads!
Uh ... Bernie kept the handbag from the challenge, haha! Not bad guys, our Malaysian superteam came in SECOND in this leg.
Our other team, Ida and Tania, came in LAST. But were relieved when Alan let them know that this was a pre-determined NON elimination leg. They gave up their monies, and they are on their way to next week's episode ... Phew!
This is the 5th episode of TARA3 (The Amazing Race Asia 3) ... The first challenge was at the Kowloon King's Park Sports Ground, where teams had to get through a rugby field full of Standard Chartered handsome / tough / big / strong rugby players, who would stop them from getting the clue box at the far end of the field! Ida and Tania seemed especially enamoured by them, haha...
Here's the lovely Tisha Silang doing the Detour, Get Lucky. Wikipedia ... Teams had to head to one of the designated tables at Mee Lun St. and bite into hundreds of fortune cookies in a marked jar and only when they find the one cookie which contains a fortune regarding their next clue can they proceed.
Our gals took a lot longer at the fortune cookie challenge, sigh!
Bernie and Henry chose the other Detour ... Get Fishy. As described in Wikipedia, teams had to scale and gut 12 fishes to the satisfaction of a fishmonger, before they would receive their next clue.
The next challenge was a Roadblock at Kowloon's Tung Choi Street aka the Ladies' Market , where the teams had to look for an identical handbag on a "moving target" aka random-shopper! Not easy... Anyway, all the teams completed the challenge eventually.
Hmm, a lovely lady welcomed the teams to the junk at Blake Pier, Stanley, which was the pitstop for this leg.
Well done, the Hong Kong lads!
Uh ... Bernie kept the handbag from the challenge, haha! Not bad guys, our Malaysian superteam came in SECOND in this leg.
Our other team, Ida and Tania, came in LAST. But were relieved when Alan let them know that this was a pre-determined NON elimination leg. They gave up their monies, and they are on their way to next week's episode ... Phew!
Audi A4 B7 2.0 Turbo - Caractere kit
Possibly one of the most handsome saloons on the road, this is the B4 Audi A4 2.0 Turbo. Even hotter with the original Caractere kit :-) Wow!
Gorgeous badging ... RS4 Caractere.
Impeccable build quality, and check out the Bose sound system which comes as standard.
CVT gearbox allows seamless gear changes as well as incredible fuel economy. My friend informed me for a full tank of RM$120-130 (At current fuel prices, which means the tank is similar in size to a Toyota Camry's), the range is 600-650km! Pretty good for a 200bhp engine eh, which also means that you even get a road tax rebate!
Check out the pedal shift!!
Comfort/economy mode - Cruising at 140km/h and the revs are well under 3,000rpm!
Sport mode - At nearly 180km/h, the revs are barely even 3,500rpm!
Wikiedia
The B7 - Audi introduced a heavily revised A4 in late 2004, with the internal designation of B7. However, this new range A4 still utilised the existing Volkswagen B6 (PL46) platform, a chassis derived from the outgoing B6, but enjoyed heavily revised steering settings, suspension geometry, new engine ranges, navigation systems and chassis electronics (a new advanced Bosch 8.0 ESP system). Audi's internal platform nomenclature uses PL46 (longitudinal passenger car platform, size 4, generation 6) for both B6 and B7 chassis. The Typ 8E and 8H internal designations are also unchanged from the B6 A4.
Engine 2.0T FSI
Power output 197 hp/147 kW
0-100km/h in 7.3 seconds
Gorgeous badging ... RS4 Caractere.
Impeccable build quality, and check out the Bose sound system which comes as standard.
CVT gearbox allows seamless gear changes as well as incredible fuel economy. My friend informed me for a full tank of RM$120-130 (At current fuel prices, which means the tank is similar in size to a Toyota Camry's), the range is 600-650km! Pretty good for a 200bhp engine eh, which also means that you even get a road tax rebate!
Check out the pedal shift!!
Comfort/economy mode - Cruising at 140km/h and the revs are well under 3,000rpm!
Sport mode - At nearly 180km/h, the revs are barely even 3,500rpm!
Wikiedia
The B7 - Audi introduced a heavily revised A4 in late 2004, with the internal designation of B7. However, this new range A4 still utilised the existing Volkswagen B6 (PL46) platform, a chassis derived from the outgoing B6, but enjoyed heavily revised steering settings, suspension geometry, new engine ranges, navigation systems and chassis electronics (a new advanced Bosch 8.0 ESP system). Audi's internal platform nomenclature uses PL46 (longitudinal passenger car platform, size 4, generation 6) for both B6 and B7 chassis. The Typ 8E and 8H internal designations are also unchanged from the B6 A4.
Engine 2.0T FSI
Power output 197 hp/147 kW
0-100km/h in 7.3 seconds
Mercedes Benz CLS AMG - C219
This CLS looks great in blue, with those split AMG rims :-)
I have no clue if this is the CLS 55 AMG or the even "badder" CLS 63 AMG!? Hmm...
Wikipedia
I have no clue if this is the CLS 55 AMG or the even "badder" CLS 63 AMG!? Hmm...
Wikipedia
The CLS is based on the W211 E-Class platform, but it is six inches (152 mm) longer.
A new AMG model was introduced at the 2004 Paris Motor Show, the CLS 55 AMG. Only 3,000 CLS 55 AMG cars will be built each year.
IVM Automotive, a subsidiary of German roof system specialist Edscha, developed the entire vehicle from the Vision concept to the production version. More than 150 IVM engineers were involved, making the CLS the largest vehicle development project in the company's history.
For the model year 2007, Mercedes-Benz has replaced the CLS 55 AMG with the CLS 63 AMG. The CLS 63 uses the newly developed AMG M156 naturally aspirated V8 engine capable of 514 hp (378 kW) and 630 N·m (464 ft·lbf) of torque. This results in a 0-60 mph time of 4.3 and 3.9 seconds for the CLS55 AMG and CLS63 AMG respectively.
Dragon Town Seafood, Nilai near Seremban
Add: Dragon Town Seafood Restaurant, PT 5736, Jalan TS 2/1F, Taman Semarak, Nilai, Negeri Sembilan
Tel: +606 799 4633
Ahh.... cold beer to wash down the heat from the scorching heat of Nilai Springs Golf and Country Club!
Couple of vegetarian choices, Hokkien Fried Noodles vegetarian-style (RM$6), and stir fried veges (RM$10).
The "signature" fei chau fish ... very tasty, and perfectly steamed. RM$24.
Finally... the Tung Poh Pork. Very yummy, but such a small portion. Goes perfectly with the man-tous. Rather expensive at RM$20.
ps: Thanks to KYS for taking us here :-)
Tel: +606 799 4633
Ahh.... cold beer to wash down the heat from the scorching heat of Nilai Springs Golf and Country Club!
Couple of vegetarian choices, Hokkien Fried Noodles vegetarian-style (RM$6), and stir fried veges (RM$10).
The "signature" fei chau fish ... very tasty, and perfectly steamed. RM$24.
Finally... the Tung Poh Pork. Very yummy, but such a small portion. Goes perfectly with the man-tous. Rather expensive at RM$20.
ps: Thanks to KYS for taking us here :-)
Nilai Springs Golf - Old La Sallians of Klang
Nilai Springs Golf & Country Club
Add: PT 4770 , Bandar Baru Nilai , PO Box 50 , 71801 Nilai , Negeri Sembilan
Cost per round: RM$90 with AGS Membership
First golf gathering from the Old La Sallians of Klang - Class of 1991.
Mr G and KYS ...
This was my favourite photo for the day :-)
Our four ball ... J2, J, KYS and G. A scorchingly hot day, I was absolutely roasted!
More piccies of our round ... where I shot a poor 54+56 off the blue-tees.
Managed to get quite a few decent shots of KYS :-)
Heh heh ... BEWARE! $$$$$ !
Here are the Old La Sallians of Klang :-) Class of 1991.
Add: PT 4770 , Bandar Baru Nilai , PO Box 50 , 71801 Nilai , Negeri Sembilan
Cost per round: RM$90 with AGS Membership
First golf gathering from the Old La Sallians of Klang - Class of 1991.
Mr G and KYS ...
This was my favourite photo for the day :-)
Our four ball ... J2, J, KYS and G. A scorchingly hot day, I was absolutely roasted!
More piccies of our round ... where I shot a poor 54+56 off the blue-tees.
Managed to get quite a few decent shots of KYS :-)
Heh heh ... BEWARE! $$$$$ !
Here are the Old La Sallians of Klang :-) Class of 1991.
Kon Loh Mee breakfast at Nilai
Location: Kedai Kopi and Restoran Melati 3, Nilai. Not far from Inti College.
Time: Way too early one Sunday morning, on the way to golf ... yawwwn, 07:30am?
Rather good kon loh mee / wan tan mee at Nilai ... slurp :-)
Guna had Lotus Pao and Roti Bakar instead!
Time: Way too early one Sunday morning, on the way to golf ... yawwwn, 07:30am?
Rather good kon loh mee / wan tan mee at Nilai ... slurp :-)
Guna had Lotus Pao and Roti Bakar instead!
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
A rare glimpse of the kitchen at Cova, The Gardens Midvalley
PL was kind enough to invite this Flogger-Blogger into her kitchen at Cova, the chefs were busy at work preparing the good food for a party I was attending that evening. Armed with my Tamron 17-50mm, I managed to capture these shots at the well organised kitchen.
Mmmmh... the food! Sure takes a confident restauranteur to invite a stranger into their kitchen!
Chef hard at work putting the finishing touches on a fish dish ...
Mmmh, don't forget the desserts!
This was the party which the team at Cova were catering for, R's birthday :-)
Here is a previous review of the fine food served at this eatery.
Mmmmh... the food! Sure takes a confident restauranteur to invite a stranger into their kitchen!
Chef hard at work putting the finishing touches on a fish dish ...
Mmmh, don't forget the desserts!
This was the party which the team at Cova were catering for, R's birthday :-)
Here is a previous review of the fine food served at this eatery.
Tamron SP90 macro food shots - Cova, The Gardens at Midvalley
Here are my first "real" shots with my latest Tamron SP AF 90mm F/2.8 Di Macro 1:1 ... Taken at a friend's birthday party in Cova at The Gardens in Midvalley City.
Some ice-cream for starters, for the kiddies, B and M :-)
The food was not only pretty, it was very yummy!
More shots of the hand-picked selections which were served at R's party!
And to finish ...
All in all, I was very pleased with the lens for close-up shots, the quality was sharp and crisp especially when used with a bounce-flash set-up. Next will come "portraits" which this lens is famed for!
Some ice-cream for starters, for the kiddies, B and M :-)
The food was not only pretty, it was very yummy!
More shots of the hand-picked selections which were served at R's party!
And to finish ...
All in all, I was very pleased with the lens for close-up shots, the quality was sharp and crisp especially when used with a bounce-flash set-up. Next will come "portraits" which this lens is famed for!
Tamron SP AF 90mm F/2.8 Di Macro 1:1 - Lens for Nikon
This is the latest addition to our lens family :-) A Tamron SP AF 90mm F/2.8 Di Macro 1:1
More information from Tamron.com
Model: 272E
Model: 272E
Lens Construction (Groups/Elements): 9/10
Angle of View: 27°
Diaphragm Blade Number 9
Minimum Focus Distance: 11.4in.(0.29m)
Macro Magnification Ratio: 1:1
Filter Diameter: ø55
Some information from a camera site, www.the-digital-picture.com
Pros: Modest size, good image quality, decent AF (autofocus) and reasonable price.
Unique is Tamron's use of a dial for the focus limit switch. It is slightly harder to bump the dial to a different setting and it works fine. In the limit position, the Tamron 90 will autofocus between 11.4" and 15.75" (290mm and 400mm) or 17.7" (450mm) and 8. The in-between distance is marked in white and visible in the focus window. Focus hunting can be dramatically reduced by using this feature. Of course, full range autofocus is available in the full setting.
Hmm, what can I shoot ...
Here are some random test shots ... my first ever Macro lens!
ps - Why is this lens known as the "Portrait Macro", you will soon see from my coverage of a friend's birthday party ...
Leng Chee Kang dessert at Mee Jawa, Tropicana
Add: Mee Jawa @ B-0-3A, Block B, Casa Tropicana
Tel: +6012 4835 555
Here is a previous review of the food served here.
Rather good leng chee kang is served here ...
This is Kedondong juice ... strange tasting, but oddly refreshing!
ps. What's kedondong? I would best describe that it is plum-like, and very "vegetable" tasting!
Found some literature which describes it as a Great hog plum, ambarella . Seems it has suffered by comparison with the mango and by repetition in literature of its inferior quality. However, taken at the proper stage, while still firm, it is relished by many out-of-hand, and it yields a delicious juice for cold beverages. If the crisp sliced flesh is stewed with a little water and sugar and then strained through a wire sieve, it makes a most acceptable product, much like traditional applesauce but with a richer flavor. With the addition of cinnamon or any other spices desired, this sauce can be slowly cooked down to a thick consistency to make a preserve very similar to apple butter. Unripe fruits can be made into jelly, pickles or relishes, or used for flavoring sauces, soups and stews.
Tel: +6012 4835 555
Here is a previous review of the food served here.
Rather good leng chee kang is served here ...
This is Kedondong juice ... strange tasting, but oddly refreshing!
ps. What's kedondong? I would best describe that it is plum-like, and very "vegetable" tasting!
Found some literature which describes it as a Great hog plum, ambarella . Seems it has suffered by comparison with the mango and by repetition in literature of its inferior quality. However, taken at the proper stage, while still firm, it is relished by many out-of-hand, and it yields a delicious juice for cold beverages. If the crisp sliced flesh is stewed with a little water and sugar and then strained through a wire sieve, it makes a most acceptable product, much like traditional applesauce but with a richer flavor. With the addition of cinnamon or any other spices desired, this sauce can be slowly cooked down to a thick consistency to make a preserve very similar to apple butter. Unripe fruits can be made into jelly, pickles or relishes, or used for flavoring sauces, soups and stews.
U-hu durian cheesecake, The Loaf at Pavilion
Hmm, the U-hu Cheesecake on the left is Durian flavoured ... can't remember what the right one is! Nevertheless, my friends seem to love these little guys :-)
The Loaf
Add: Lot 3-13-00 and 4-12-02, Levels 3 and 4 @ Pavilion, 168 Jalan Bukit Bintang, KL
Tel: +603 2145 3036
Here is a previous review of this bakery located in KL's Pavilion.
The Loaf
Add: Lot 3-13-00 and 4-12-02, Levels 3 and 4 @ Pavilion, 168 Jalan Bukit Bintang, KL
Tel: +603 2145 3036
Here is a previous review of this bakery located in KL's Pavilion.
Yanna prepares a Hari Raya themed meal at home
Selamat Hari Raya, well belated but still yummy as always! Here's a recent home-cooked hari raya themed meal at home :-)
Lemang (Glutinous rice cooked in bamboo) - Purchased, and rather good. Not as good as the one my colleague's family made though ... yummm.
Yanna's Rendang Chicken - Exquisite flavours!
Simple omelette ... always good.
Stir fried greens ...
Lemang (Glutinous rice cooked in bamboo) - Purchased, and rather good. Not as good as the one my colleague's family made though ... yummm.
Yanna's Rendang Chicken - Exquisite flavours!
Simple omelette ... always good.
Stir fried greens ...
Fried chicken ala Yanna
Yanna's home-cooked fried chicken, those who have had the privilege of trying ... well, they shan't forget the juiciness, tenderness and tastiness!
Fried rice ... Yanna does a superb job!
Some ABC soup i.e. chicken , carrots , potatoes and onions ... simple and delicious!
And washed down with the sweetest juiciest orange juice...
Fried rice ... Yanna does a superb job!
Some ABC soup i.e. chicken , carrots , potatoes and onions ... simple and delicious!
And washed down with the sweetest juiciest orange juice...
Hiong Kee Chicken Rice, Bukit Tinggi Klang
Just as I was about to get disillusioned with the sheer NUMBER of restaurants in Bukit Tinggi, Klang, but frustrated with the POOR QUALITY of food in the area ...
Great "find" by my dad ... Hiong Kee Chicken Rice is located opposite Giant supermarket, at Bukit Tinggi in Klang. The "white chicken" (Steamed) was really smooth and had a delightful fragrance and texture.
One could also order char-siew and other bits, such as Wantan Soup, along with Kon Loh Mee either with or without (called "chai" or vegetarian) char-siew. I am not a big fan of the char-siew nor the siew-kai (roast chicken) served here, stick to the steamed white chicken and siew-yoke instead. The wantans are good though!
Great "find" by my dad ... Hiong Kee Chicken Rice is located opposite Giant supermarket, at Bukit Tinggi in Klang. The "white chicken" (Steamed) was really smooth and had a delightful fragrance and texture.
One could also order char-siew and other bits, such as Wantan Soup, along with Kon Loh Mee either with or without (called "chai" or vegetarian) char-siew. I am not a big fan of the char-siew nor the siew-kai (roast chicken) served here, stick to the steamed white chicken and siew-yoke instead. The wantans are good though!
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
BMW X6 xDrive35i
Wikipedia ... The BMW X6 is a mid-size crossover SUV released for sale in the second quarter of 2008 by German automaker BMW. The X6 combines the attributes of an SUV (high ground clearance, all wheel drive and all-weather ability, large wheels and tires) with the stance of a coupé (bold styling, dramatic sloping roof).
This was the first example I had seen on our Malaysian roads, this particular one was gunning down the highway leading to the Shah Alam NKVE. It looks rather good in the flesh, but I don't quite "get it", in terms of its functionality and why one would choose this over an X5 or a 6-series coupe?
Paultan.org ... The BMW X6 is now in Malaysia. One variant is available immediately, with the other two to follow next year. The BMW X6 xDrive35i is priced at RM698,000 on the road without insurance, with BMW Service Inclusive + Repair. The xDrive35i model is powered by the N54 3.0 liter twin turbocharged inline-6 engine that produces 306 horsepower thanks to its twin parallel turbochargers and direct injection.
This was the first example I had seen on our Malaysian roads, this particular one was gunning down the highway leading to the Shah Alam NKVE. It looks rather good in the flesh, but I don't quite "get it", in terms of its functionality and why one would choose this over an X5 or a 6-series coupe?
Paultan.org ... The BMW X6 is now in Malaysia. One variant is available immediately, with the other two to follow next year. The BMW X6 xDrive35i is priced at RM698,000 on the road without insurance, with BMW Service Inclusive + Repair. The xDrive35i model is powered by the N54 3.0 liter twin turbocharged inline-6 engine that produces 306 horsepower thanks to its twin parallel turbochargers and direct injection.
Lindsay and Yoon in KL - Luna Bar
Add: Luna Bar Pacific Regency Hotel Apartments, Level 34, Menara Pan Global, Jalan Punchak, Off Jalan P Ramlee, KL
Tel: +603 2026 2211
We had ...
Mediterranean Pizza (RM$30), Lobster Crab cakes (RM$35), and Lamb skewers aka Satay (RM$35)
And, to wash it all down ... Heineken (RM$26 per bottle), and Mumm Cordon Rouge champagne (RM$385)
Cheers guys!
The spectacular view on what was a rainy thundery night, made it even more dramatic!
ps - Why is the KL Tower / Menara KL lit up in "periwinkle"?
"To create awareness of cancer and to change perceptions that the illness is deadly and incurable, the National Cancer Council (Makna) is organising a three-day Periwinkle celebration beginning today. The grand launch of the celebration ... when Menara Kuala Lumpur will be lighted purple to signify the periwinkle flower."
Tel: +603 2026 2211
We had ...
Mediterranean Pizza (RM$30), Lobster Crab cakes (RM$35), and Lamb skewers aka Satay (RM$35)
And, to wash it all down ... Heineken (RM$26 per bottle), and Mumm Cordon Rouge champagne (RM$385)
Cheers guys!
The spectacular view on what was a rainy thundery night, made it even more dramatic!
ps - Why is the KL Tower / Menara KL lit up in "periwinkle"?
"To create awareness of cancer and to change perceptions that the illness is deadly and incurable, the National Cancer Council (Makna) is organising a three-day Periwinkle celebration beginning today. The grand launch of the celebration ... when Menara Kuala Lumpur will be lighted purple to signify the periwinkle flower."
Lindsay and Yoon in KL - Petaling St & Tugu Negara
Linds and Yoon were in town, took them to Petaling Street (Chinatown) for some shopping!
We then headed out to Tugu Negara, near the Parliament House.
Initially sunny, the rain promptly came down!
Yoon taking photos ... caught in action!
Tugu Negara, literally the "National Monument" in Malay, is a sculpture that commemorates those who died in Malaysia's struggle for freedom, principally against the Japanese occupation during World War II and the Malayan Emergency , which lasted from 1948 until 1960. It is located in the Federal capital, Kuala Lumpur. The Malaysian Houses of Parliament is situated near the monument.
The monument depicts a group of soldiers holding the Malaysian national flag, the Jalur Gemilang, aloft. Each of the bronze figures symbolizes leadership, suffering, unity, vigilance, strength, courage and sacrifice.
View from the rear ...
Time to head off...
We then went to pick up a friend for dinner, and met some duckies instead!
We then headed out to Tugu Negara, near the Parliament House.
Initially sunny, the rain promptly came down!
Yoon taking photos ... caught in action!
Tugu Negara, literally the "National Monument" in Malay, is a sculpture that commemorates those who died in Malaysia's struggle for freedom, principally against the Japanese occupation during World War II and the Malayan Emergency , which lasted from 1948 until 1960. It is located in the Federal capital, Kuala Lumpur. The Malaysian Houses of Parliament is situated near the monument.
The monument depicts a group of soldiers holding the Malaysian national flag, the Jalur Gemilang, aloft. Each of the bronze figures symbolizes leadership, suffering, unity, vigilance, strength, courage and sacrifice.
View from the rear ...
Time to head off...
We then went to pick up a friend for dinner, and met some duckies instead!
Lindsay and Yoon in KL - Madam Kwans, KLCC
Add: Lot 420/421, Level 4, Suria KLCC, KL City Centre
Tel: +603 2026 2297
Ju's choice ... Mushroom chicken rice, always yummy and simply consistent.
Yoon's choice, he sure likes his food spicy! Beef rendang with Rice
Linds' choice ... Assam prawn with rice. Very yummy!
Tel: +603 2026 2297
Ju's choice ... Mushroom chicken rice, always yummy and simply consistent.
Yoon's choice, he sure likes his food spicy! Beef rendang with Rice
Linds' choice ... Assam prawn with rice. Very yummy!
Lindsay and Yoon in KL - KLCC and the Petronas Twin Towers
WELCOME to Kuala Lumpur, SELAMAT DATANG you guys!
Here's me looking up at the skybridge...
It had been over 5 years since we last caught up with one another!
The lovely couple at the Main Concorse...
Time to shop for some local handicraft!
After a coffee at Starbucks, we went for a simple lunch at Madam Kwans.
Here's me looking up at the skybridge...
It had been over 5 years since we last caught up with one another!
The lovely couple at the Main Concorse...
Time to shop for some local handicraft!
After a coffee at Starbucks, we went for a simple lunch at Madam Kwans.
Monday, October 13, 2008
Putter shoot-out : Titleist Scotty Cameron Detour v Ben Hogan Big Ben
These 2 putters are nearly 5 years apart in terms of release dates and technology, but show similarities in having alignment aids and beautiful construction. Remember, "You drive for show, and putt for dough"!
This is a shoot-out between ...
Ben Hogan Big Ben by Bettinardi (BHB-7)
v
Scotty Cameron Design - Newport 2.5 Detour
The Big Ben is a lot larger then the Detour!
Both headcovers are cool, and I do like the blue of the Big Ben, but the Detour seems more contemporary-looking! The Big Ben does have a magnetic clasp in its favour, compared to the velcro-ed Detour.
In terms of build quality, the Detour marginally beats the Ben Hogan.
Finally, in terms of alignment aids, both are good, but I prefer the Detour's simplicity and slightly softer feel.
This is a shoot-out between ...
Ben Hogan Big Ben by Bettinardi (BHB-7)
v
Scotty Cameron Design - Newport 2.5 Detour
The Big Ben is a lot larger then the Detour!
Both headcovers are cool, and I do like the blue of the Big Ben, but the Detour seems more contemporary-looking! The Big Ben does have a magnetic clasp in its favour, compared to the velcro-ed Detour.
In terms of build quality, the Detour marginally beats the Ben Hogan.
Finally, in terms of alignment aids, both are good, but I prefer the Detour's simplicity and slightly softer feel.
Scotty Cameron Design - Newport 2.5 Detour
From Scotty Cameron's website ...
The new Scotty Cameron Detour provides design elements and visual indicators to help create the proper putting path. It features a unique, arched body and sightline that show the player the shape of the optimum putting stroke. An angle milled body with a high toe complements the design for perfect balance and flowing aesthetics.
The multi-material design and construction of the Detour creates a soft, solid feel with an extremely high moment of inertia. The heavy, front stainless steel weighting bar and rear backweight triangulate weighting at the corners to increase MOI and provide perfect ball performance at impact. Milled pockets lighten the mid-section of the aluminum body for superior stability and deeper CG.
ps. The photos below are just another example of the capability and flexibility of the Tamron SP AF 17-50mm F/2.8 mounted on a Nikon D80. Basically, I could go WIDE, go CLOSE, and create a soft Bokeh, all with one lens.
Design: Arched design elements encourage the player to swing the putter on the proper path for perfect ball performance.
Construction: T-6 6061 Aircraft Aluminum Body, 303 Stainless Steel Backweight, 303 Stainless Steel Weighting bar, T-6 6061 Aluminum Toe Cap
Models: Detour (single bend shaft), or Detour 2 (straight shaft)
Headcover: Accident Orange (without pivot tool)
Beautifully constructed, both in terms of visuals as well as materials and finishing.
As in many other Scotty Cameron putters, the headcovers are desirably collectable, and an integral part of the "Scotty" experience! This one is called "Accident Orange"!
I like the Orange grip too :-)
A couple more shots :-)
The new Scotty Cameron Detour provides design elements and visual indicators to help create the proper putting path. It features a unique, arched body and sightline that show the player the shape of the optimum putting stroke. An angle milled body with a high toe complements the design for perfect balance and flowing aesthetics.
The multi-material design and construction of the Detour creates a soft, solid feel with an extremely high moment of inertia. The heavy, front stainless steel weighting bar and rear backweight triangulate weighting at the corners to increase MOI and provide perfect ball performance at impact. Milled pockets lighten the mid-section of the aluminum body for superior stability and deeper CG.
ps. The photos below are just another example of the capability and flexibility of the Tamron SP AF 17-50mm F/2.8 mounted on a Nikon D80. Basically, I could go WIDE, go CLOSE, and create a soft Bokeh, all with one lens.
Design: Arched design elements encourage the player to swing the putter on the proper path for perfect ball performance.
Construction: T-6 6061 Aircraft Aluminum Body, 303 Stainless Steel Backweight, 303 Stainless Steel Weighting bar, T-6 6061 Aluminum Toe Cap
Models: Detour (single bend shaft), or Detour 2 (straight shaft)
Headcover: Accident Orange (without pivot tool)
Beautifully constructed, both in terms of visuals as well as materials and finishing.
As in many other Scotty Cameron putters, the headcovers are desirably collectable, and an integral part of the "Scotty" experience! This one is called "Accident Orange"!
I like the Orange grip too :-)
A couple more shots :-)
Sunday, October 12, 2008
Cova, The Gardens at Midvalley City KL
Add: Cova Cafe, Lounge, Bistro @ 226B 1st Floor, The Gardens, Midvalley City, Lingkaran Syed Putra, KL
Tel: +603 2287 6260
Tucked away in a cosy corner of the bustling Gardens, at Midvalley city... this is Cova.
Cova's signature ... Crab cake (RM$18.50) was exqusite, so yummy.
Lobster bisque (RM$18.50) had the freshest of ingredients, but may be over-powering for some. Very strong flavours!
Season Calamari (Hmm not really my thing, RM$16.50) and Sauteed trio of Mushrooms (Just a hit of cream, and nice texture to the mushies, RM$12.50).
River prawn noodle aka Sang Har Mee (RM$28.50) - Could have done with more ginger, nevertheless a rather good variant of this popular local dish.
My favourite ... Duck Confit Vermicelli (Loved the al dante pasta, the non-overpowering infusion of garlic, and the delicious duck and mushroom ingredients). RM$28.50
Time for desserts ... Creme Brulee (Obviously real vanilla pods were used, great flavour but could have had a "crispier" and more-burnt (!) top ... RM$11.50).
A stroke of genius ... The Chocolate Lava Cake. RM$15.50 and simply heavenly!
All in all, a nice place to dine ... Meal for three came up to RM$250, but that did include some bubbly.
Tel: +603 2287 6260
Tucked away in a cosy corner of the bustling Gardens, at Midvalley city... this is Cova.
Cova's signature ... Crab cake (RM$18.50) was exqusite, so yummy.
Lobster bisque (RM$18.50) had the freshest of ingredients, but may be over-powering for some. Very strong flavours!
Season Calamari (Hmm not really my thing, RM$16.50) and Sauteed trio of Mushrooms (Just a hit of cream, and nice texture to the mushies, RM$12.50).
River prawn noodle aka Sang Har Mee (RM$28.50) - Could have done with more ginger, nevertheless a rather good variant of this popular local dish.
My favourite ... Duck Confit Vermicelli (Loved the al dante pasta, the non-overpowering infusion of garlic, and the delicious duck and mushroom ingredients). RM$28.50
Time for desserts ... Creme Brulee (Obviously real vanilla pods were used, great flavour but could have had a "crispier" and more-burnt (!) top ... RM$11.50).
A stroke of genius ... The Chocolate Lava Cake. RM$15.50 and simply heavenly!
All in all, a nice place to dine ... Meal for three came up to RM$250, but that did include some bubbly.
Wan Tan Mee - Wah Chai, Bukit Tinggi Klang
Add: Wah Chai Kopitiam, Lorong Batu Nilam 1D
Located: Beside Chin Chinho Steamboat
Mum and her friends had recommended this eatery many a time, and I remember trying it way back in Chinese New Year 2007 (and hadn't thought much about it). Today I gave it a go again, and it was actually rather good!
RM$4 for a kon-loh mee or wantan mee (Large), which comes with a small bowl of wantan soup. Noodles are al-dente, and sauce is tasty.
Located: Beside Chin Chinho Steamboat
Mum and her friends had recommended this eatery many a time, and I remember trying it way back in Chinese New Year 2007 (and hadn't thought much about it). Today I gave it a go again, and it was actually rather good!
RM$4 for a kon-loh mee or wantan mee (Large), which comes with a small bowl of wantan soup. Noodles are al-dente, and sauce is tasty.
Fong Lye Taiwan restaurant, Desa Sri Hartamas KL
Add: Fong Lye Taiwan Restaurant @ 9, Ground Floor, Plaza Prismaville Jalan 19/70A, Desa Sri Hartamas KL
Tel: +603 6201 7998
Other branches:
1) Mid Valley City shop
Add: Lot T208, 3rd Floor, The Gardens, Mid Valley City, Lingkaran Syed Putra, KL
Tel: +603 2282 8699
2) Imbi shop
Add: 94 Jalan Imbi, KL
Tel: +603 2145 6061
Been meaning to try this much-recommended restaurant for a year now, and finally had the chance this evening. Beware of long queues, the restaurant is small, and very popular, do try to make a reservation. It was worth the wait though, the food is good!
A delicious start ... Oyster spring rolls, RM$5 each.
Stir fried beef with ginger and spring onions - Delicious! RM$17
Fried tofu - RM$13. Wasn't overly impressed, but I was glad it was reasonably moist.
Well recommended dish, I really enjoyed this ... Basil chicken. RM$26
Stir fried asparagus with almond flakes (RM$19) - Really enjoyed the simplicity and flavour of this dish!
Sweet potato porridge (Yes, the potato was exceptionally smooth and good!) - RM$2.50
(Rice is RM$2.50 as well in Fong Lye, a diet coke costs RM$5, tea is RM$3 per person, and the lotus tidbits cost RM$4).
Lemon-honey cordial ... to wash down the meal. Complimentary, and so yummy!
Tel: +603 6201 7998
Other branches:
1) Mid Valley City shop
Add: Lot T208, 3rd Floor, The Gardens, Mid Valley City, Lingkaran Syed Putra, KL
Tel: +603 2282 8699
2) Imbi shop
Add: 94 Jalan Imbi, KL
Tel: +603 2145 6061
Been meaning to try this much-recommended restaurant for a year now, and finally had the chance this evening. Beware of long queues, the restaurant is small, and very popular, do try to make a reservation. It was worth the wait though, the food is good!
A delicious start ... Oyster spring rolls, RM$5 each.
Stir fried beef with ginger and spring onions - Delicious! RM$17
Fried tofu - RM$13. Wasn't overly impressed, but I was glad it was reasonably moist.
Well recommended dish, I really enjoyed this ... Basil chicken. RM$26
Stir fried asparagus with almond flakes (RM$19) - Really enjoyed the simplicity and flavour of this dish!
Sweet potato porridge (Yes, the potato was exceptionally smooth and good!) - RM$2.50
(Rice is RM$2.50 as well in Fong Lye, a diet coke costs RM$5, tea is RM$3 per person, and the lotus tidbits cost RM$4).
Lemon-honey cordial ... to wash down the meal. Complimentary, and so yummy!
La Mer - Space Furniture Bangsar party
Thanks for the invite to a cool La Mer event at Space Furniture, along Jalan Maarof, Bangsar :-) I like the dress-code theme, "Most stylish!"
This is ... Dennis Lau
Remember our Malaysian pair from TARA (The Amazing Race Asia) : Season 2?
I met Ann at the La Mer event!
Party time!
Slurp...
More tidbits ...
Best of all ... the mini bottles of Mumm champers!
This is ... Dennis Lau
Remember our Malaysian pair from TARA (The Amazing Race Asia) : Season 2?
I met Ann at the La Mer event!
Party time!
Slurp...
More tidbits ...
Best of all ... the mini bottles of Mumm champers!
Saturday, October 11, 2008
Malaysian Today - Bermuda and Onion, KL
As featured in the local paper, MALAYSIAN TODAY.
This is my 4th write-up, it features Bermuda and Onion along Changkat Bukit Bintang, KL.
This is my 4th write-up, it features Bermuda and Onion along Changkat Bukit Bintang, KL.
Bermuda and Onion - Changkat Bukit Bintang, KL
As featured on Malaysian Today, 9th October 2008!
This was my 4th write-up, and first full-page article, for Malaysian Today :-)
Add: 41 Changkat Bukit Bintang, KL
Tel: +603 2145 8333
Opening hours: Weekdays 12pm - 11pm, Weekends 10am - 11pm
Kuala Lumpur is a gastronomic dream, and there has been an influx (and demise!) of various trendy restaurants. One of the areas which has the most rapidly changing landscape of eateries would be Changkat Bukit Bintang. The choice of international cuisine in this compact area include Italian, Russian, Brazilian, Vietnamese, Lebanese, French and more!
Whilst a beautiful restaurant, with immaculately dressed waitering staff and doormen is inviting, it also makes me wonder what we are actually paying for. I like paying for good food, and Bermuda and Onion (B&O), which is a relatively new addition to Changkat Bukit Bintang, does that well!
B&O is an all-day eatery, and I have heard many good comments about their breakfast fry-ups as well as their more moderately priced set lunches. However, me and my friends were there for a "full-on" dinner experience, which turned out to be a joy for pork-lovers! The staff are attentive, and the décor is bistro-like ... Simple yet tasteful, with hues of greens and fresh flowers, this certainly made our three hour dinner fly by!
Chef Max, when he was not in his glass-partitioned open kitchen, was animated, playful and well skilled in Italian-inspired cooking. He came to say hi to us, and recommended various cold-cuts of meats from the refrigerated counter, as well as helped us through the menu. Soon after we sat down, a steaming hot basket of home-made bread with a greek cucumber and yoghurt dip (Tzatziki) arrived, and it was simply delicious!
We started off with some Cajun prawn skewers, which turned out to be plump and juicy. The sauce was to die for! The Short Ribs were also very tasty. Another starter which I would try next time is the Prawn wrapped with Parma Ham skewers, which JQ says is magnificent!
We then ordered a platter of cold-cut meats, which was served with some olives, and it was huge! I could hardly remember the various names, but I do remember it included parma ham, salumi, bresaola, peppercorn infused hams, as well as jamon-like (Spanish ham) meats. Fresh and delicious! We also ordered a smaller helping of Proscuitto and Melone (RM$33) or "Parma ham with rock melon", which was equally delicious. As an alternative, we could have also asked for the "rustic" platter, which would have meant that the meats are served with an assortment of cheeses, including parmesan, brie, and gorgonzola.
For the mains, we could not resist ordering the B&O Platter for two (RM$70). This is a mixed grilled of sausage, loin, ribs, belly with potato, onion and beans. It was good!
Our other friends ordered the Caesars Salad (One of the best in town, gorgeous freshly-grilled bacon bits), Ravioli (Sauce was over-powering and slightly too salty, I guess some would say it was full of flavour!), as well as grilled fish and a delicious steak.
The desserts we chose were decent, but hardly spectacular, a moist Chocolate cake and a Crème Brulee. We didn't explore many of the other desserts, leaving out the famed Tiramisu which was sold-out (RM$14).
I also heard that there is a counter at the rear of the restaurant, which allows convenient take-aways. What a great all-in-one concept restaurant! Price-wise, with a glass or two of house-wine, a typical meal would come up to about RM$100 per person. B&O is a really nice place to go for a treat, or simply to indulge in some Italian comfort food!
This was my 4th write-up, and first full-page article, for Malaysian Today :-)
Add: 41 Changkat Bukit Bintang, KL
Tel: +603 2145 8333
Opening hours: Weekdays 12pm - 11pm, Weekends 10am - 11pm
Kuala Lumpur is a gastronomic dream, and there has been an influx (and demise!) of various trendy restaurants. One of the areas which has the most rapidly changing landscape of eateries would be Changkat Bukit Bintang. The choice of international cuisine in this compact area include Italian, Russian, Brazilian, Vietnamese, Lebanese, French and more!
Whilst a beautiful restaurant, with immaculately dressed waitering staff and doormen is inviting, it also makes me wonder what we are actually paying for. I like paying for good food, and Bermuda and Onion (B&O), which is a relatively new addition to Changkat Bukit Bintang, does that well!
B&O is an all-day eatery, and I have heard many good comments about their breakfast fry-ups as well as their more moderately priced set lunches. However, me and my friends were there for a "full-on" dinner experience, which turned out to be a joy for pork-lovers! The staff are attentive, and the décor is bistro-like ... Simple yet tasteful, with hues of greens and fresh flowers, this certainly made our three hour dinner fly by!
Chef Max, when he was not in his glass-partitioned open kitchen, was animated, playful and well skilled in Italian-inspired cooking. He came to say hi to us, and recommended various cold-cuts of meats from the refrigerated counter, as well as helped us through the menu. Soon after we sat down, a steaming hot basket of home-made bread with a greek cucumber and yoghurt dip (Tzatziki) arrived, and it was simply delicious!
We started off with some Cajun prawn skewers, which turned out to be plump and juicy. The sauce was to die for! The Short Ribs were also very tasty. Another starter which I would try next time is the Prawn wrapped with Parma Ham skewers, which JQ says is magnificent!
We then ordered a platter of cold-cut meats, which was served with some olives, and it was huge! I could hardly remember the various names, but I do remember it included parma ham, salumi, bresaola, peppercorn infused hams, as well as jamon-like (Spanish ham) meats. Fresh and delicious! We also ordered a smaller helping of Proscuitto and Melone (RM$33) or "Parma ham with rock melon", which was equally delicious. As an alternative, we could have also asked for the "rustic" platter, which would have meant that the meats are served with an assortment of cheeses, including parmesan, brie, and gorgonzola.
For the mains, we could not resist ordering the B&O Platter for two (RM$70). This is a mixed grilled of sausage, loin, ribs, belly with potato, onion and beans. It was good!
Our other friends ordered the Caesars Salad (One of the best in town, gorgeous freshly-grilled bacon bits), Ravioli (Sauce was over-powering and slightly too salty, I guess some would say it was full of flavour!), as well as grilled fish and a delicious steak.
The desserts we chose were decent, but hardly spectacular, a moist Chocolate cake and a Crème Brulee. We didn't explore many of the other desserts, leaving out the famed Tiramisu which was sold-out (RM$14).
I also heard that there is a counter at the rear of the restaurant, which allows convenient take-aways. What a great all-in-one concept restaurant! Price-wise, with a glass or two of house-wine, a typical meal would come up to about RM$100 per person. B&O is a really nice place to go for a treat, or simply to indulge in some Italian comfort food!
Thursday, October 09, 2008
Amazing Race Asia 3 - Episode 5 (Taiwan)
This is The Amazing Race Asia 3 (TARA3), 5th episode, which is based in Taiwan. I think these 2 Malaysian pairs should go a long way ...
The dark horses!
Taiwan Coal Mine Museum - A tough challenge where the teams had to look for a little TARA3 souvenier, a coin, amongst 100s of kgs of coal.
The first team that completed the Sony Style challenge, Vince and Sam, chose to take the Fast Forward (The first and only in TARA3). It was a wise decision but now they are imprinted with a tattoo for life! WELL DONE ladds, they came in 1st in this episode due to completion of the very personal challenge.
The lads' tattoos!
The 5th Pitstop, was at the Taipei Astronomical Museum - WELL DONE Malaysia! Henry and Bernie were effectively 1st as they did all the challenges, cos' the boys had completed the Fast Forward.
Mai and Oliver's (Irritatingly whinging team from Thailand) nightmare at Taipei's New Sogo Department Store where at the Sony Style Store they had really bad luck in not finding the randomly placed (Amongst 1,000 discs!) Blu-ray disc with the clue. This eventually led to their departure from the race, where the basically gave up!
The dark horses!
Taiwan Coal Mine Museum - A tough challenge where the teams had to look for a little TARA3 souvenier, a coin, amongst 100s of kgs of coal.
The first team that completed the Sony Style challenge, Vince and Sam, chose to take the Fast Forward (The first and only in TARA3). It was a wise decision but now they are imprinted with a tattoo for life! WELL DONE ladds, they came in 1st in this episode due to completion of the very personal challenge.
The lads' tattoos!
The 5th Pitstop, was at the Taipei Astronomical Museum - WELL DONE Malaysia! Henry and Bernie were effectively 1st as they did all the challenges, cos' the boys had completed the Fast Forward.
Mai and Oliver's (Irritatingly whinging team from Thailand) nightmare at Taipei's New Sogo Department Store where at the Sony Style Store they had really bad luck in not finding the randomly placed (Amongst 1,000 discs!) Blu-ray disc with the clue. This eventually led to their departure from the race, where the basically gave up!
Nikon D90
Christmas came a couple of months early this year ... Here's our family's new gadget. The recently released Nikon D90 SLR (Body only).
Wikipedia
The D90 is a digital single-lens reflex camera model announced by Nikon on August 27, 2008. It is an advanced amateur model meant as a replacement for the Nikon D80. Nikon's estimated retail price is $999.95 US for the body only. It is also available with the newly announced Nikkor AF-S DX 18-105mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR kit lens for $1299.99.
Some of the improvements the D90 offers over the D80 include 12.3 megapixel resolution and live view capability. The D90 is also notable for being the first DSLR to offer video recording, with the ability to record HD 720p videos, with mono sound, at 24 frames per second (for up to 5 minutes or 20 minutes for smaller videos).
Here's what comes in the customary Nikon "gold" box ...
It is a very built camera, probably marginally better then the Nikon D80 which is still my regular-ride.
Wikipedia
Nikon's 12.3-megapixel
Nikon DX format CMOS sensor
Movie function (D-Movie Mode)
Active D-Lighting (4 levels and Auto)
3-inch TFT LCD with 920,000-dot resolution (VGA) and 170-degree ultra-wide viewing angle
Live View shooting mode (activated with a dedicated button)
Continuous Drive up to 4.5 frames per second.
More Wikipedia...
3D Color Matrix Metering II with Scene Recognition System
Multi-CAM 1000 autofocus sensor module with 11 AF points
ISO sensitivity 200 to 3200 (100-6400 with boost)
Nikon F-mount lenses
Built-in Sensor cleaning system (vibrating low-pass filter)
HDMI HD video output
Active Dust Removal System
Support for GP-1 GPS unit
File formats: JPEG, NEF (Nikon's RAW, 12-bit compressed), AVI (Moving JPEG)
EN-EL3e Lithium-ion Battery
Battery Life (shots per charge) approx. : 850 shots (CIPA)
Weight: Approx. 0.620 kg (without battery), 0.703 kg (with battery).
Wikipedia
The D90 is a digital single-lens reflex camera model announced by Nikon on August 27, 2008. It is an advanced amateur model meant as a replacement for the Nikon D80. Nikon's estimated retail price is $999.95 US for the body only. It is also available with the newly announced Nikkor AF-S DX 18-105mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR kit lens for $1299.99.
Some of the improvements the D90 offers over the D80 include 12.3 megapixel resolution and live view capability. The D90 is also notable for being the first DSLR to offer video recording, with the ability to record HD 720p videos, with mono sound, at 24 frames per second (for up to 5 minutes or 20 minutes for smaller videos).
Here's what comes in the customary Nikon "gold" box ...
It is a very built camera, probably marginally better then the Nikon D80 which is still my regular-ride.
Wikipedia
Nikon's 12.3-megapixel
Nikon DX format CMOS sensor
Movie function (D-Movie Mode)
Active D-Lighting (4 levels and Auto)
3-inch TFT LCD with 920,000-dot resolution (VGA) and 170-degree ultra-wide viewing angle
Live View shooting mode (activated with a dedicated button)
Continuous Drive up to 4.5 frames per second.
More Wikipedia...
3D Color Matrix Metering II with Scene Recognition System
Multi-CAM 1000 autofocus sensor module with 11 AF points
ISO sensitivity 200 to 3200 (100-6400 with boost)
Nikon F-mount lenses
Built-in Sensor cleaning system (vibrating low-pass filter)
HDMI HD video output
Active Dust Removal System
Support for GP-1 GPS unit
File formats: JPEG, NEF (Nikon's RAW, 12-bit compressed), AVI (Moving JPEG)
EN-EL3e Lithium-ion Battery
Battery Life (shots per charge) approx. : 850 shots (CIPA)
Weight: Approx. 0.620 kg (without battery), 0.703 kg (with battery).
La Salle Klang Old Boys Reunion, Zanzibar at Sri Hartamas
Add: Zanzibar @ 23 & 25, Plaza Crystal Ville 1, Jalan 22A/70A, Desa Sri Hartamas, KL
Event: La Salle Klang Old-Boys reunion (SRP Batch of 1989)
1989 .... 2008. Yes, this was a 19 year reunion for me, and for some one of us it had even been longer (KYS was even beyond the 2 decade mark!). We chose Zanzibar, a new locale at Desa Sri Hartamas, near Fahrenheit, row in between Maybank and True Fitness, for this meeting!
Familiar faces :-) AT, G, JS, TW, KYS, and N too. R appeared a little later to join in the fun.
Cheers bros!
It was brilliant recounting the days when we were in La Salle Klang ... Our first Brother principal, BMW, as well as subsequent headmaster, RM, as well as memories of the canteen (20 cent bowls of noodles!) and cross-country races through Palm Grove, were the hottest topics!
Macallan 12 never tasted so sweet :-) Cheers!
Event: La Salle Klang Old-Boys reunion (SRP Batch of 1989)
1989 .... 2008. Yes, this was a 19 year reunion for me, and for some one of us it had even been longer (KYS was even beyond the 2 decade mark!). We chose Zanzibar, a new locale at Desa Sri Hartamas, near Fahrenheit, row in between Maybank and True Fitness, for this meeting!
Familiar faces :-) AT, G, JS, TW, KYS, and N too. R appeared a little later to join in the fun.
Cheers bros!
It was brilliant recounting the days when we were in La Salle Klang ... Our first Brother principal, BMW, as well as subsequent headmaster, RM, as well as memories of the canteen (20 cent bowls of noodles!) and cross-country races through Palm Grove, were the hottest topics!
Macallan 12 never tasted so sweet :-) Cheers!
Zanzibar - A nice new bar in Sri Hartamas
Add: Zanzibar KL@ 23 & 25, Plaza Crystal Ville 1, Jalan 22A/70A, Desa Sri Hartamas, KL
Located: The row between Maybank and True Fitness. Opposite "Fahrenheit".
Fried rice - The "special". Pretty good with a little bit of spicyness. RM$12.
Sausages and Onions - Standard pub food, however I do prefer the one served at Bernards in Centrepoint or Backyard at Sri Hartamas !
Deep fried calamari - Stay away, really poor!
Located: The row between Maybank and True Fitness. Opposite "Fahrenheit".
Fried rice - The "special". Pretty good with a little bit of spicyness. RM$12.
Sausages and Onions - Standard pub food, however I do prefer the one served at Bernards in Centrepoint or Backyard at Sri Hartamas !
Deep fried calamari - Stay away, really poor!
Wednesday, October 08, 2008
Restoran Ketam Steamboat Seafood, Bandar Menjalara at Kepoong
Tel: +603 6272 2286
Location: Thanks to LimMeiYen's blog for this description ...
1) If you are coming from LDP, make a U-turn after the Toll and keep to your right.
2) Turn right and you will meet one roundabout.
3) At the roundabout, turn left (9 o'clock) and go straight till you meet a junction which is right in front of a Mosque.
4) Once you reach that junction, turn left-right and you will see a few petrol stations on your left.
5) Turn right at the first junction and go straight.
6) You will see Ketam Steamboat, on the left-hand side.
The starters ... Really good sweet-chilli sauce is served with the Chicken Wings at an adjacent road-side stall. About RM$2 per piece. "Ordinary tasting" chicken accentuated with deeeelicious dipping sauce!
The Steamboat - Brilliant!
1) Fresh seafood
2) Excellent and firm fishballs, which were obviously hand-made from good fish
3) Soup and Tom-yam broth wasn't too MSG-fied!
Cost? About RM$13-14 per person, but the additional stuff like enoki mushrooms (straw mushrroms @ RM$8 per plate) etc adds up very quickly. We ended up spending about RM$20 per head, for the four of us.
Hokkien Mee and Roast Duck, Reunion @ Bangsar Village 2
Been there done that ... I love going to Reunion at BV2 , its just a great place to go for some lunch or dinner. Prices are rather steep, but considering the food is great, the decor really nice, and service is good, I never complain!
Love them "leng ngao" (lotus) and peanuts, nice pickled starter...
So impressive... the Sambal which accompanied their famed and delicious Hokkien Mee, was steaming hot!
Best way to eat Hokkien mee, accompany it with some excellent Roast Duck.
The downside? The veges ... Too old!
Dominos Pizza - Aiyoh, I've been bad!
One evening, late one night, I craved some comfort food ... Oh oh, I've been bad, I couldn't resist some sinful fastfood... Domino's Pizza it is then!
Hmmm, they prepared it bang on time, 15 minutes, so no free pizza for me!
Sambal Sausage Pizza ... RM$23.80
It was delicious! But ... I felt so guilty. Grrrr!
Hmmm, they prepared it bang on time, 15 minutes, so no free pizza for me!
Sambal Sausage Pizza ... RM$23.80
It was delicious! But ... I felt so guilty. Grrrr!
Del Monte - Fruit Snacks, Premium Cranberries
Like raisins ... Only yummier!
Juicier, tastier, and less sweet ... a wonderful little snack, or sprinkle it over your breakfast cornflakes!
Juicier, tastier, and less sweet ... a wonderful little snack, or sprinkle it over your breakfast cornflakes!
Tuesday, October 07, 2008
Rumours Sunday Wine & Meats Buffet BBQ - Sri Hartamas
This is my second visit to this fine eatery, which serves a very good value "All you can drink red and white wine + BBQ" Sunday brunch. It starts at Noon, and you can carry on eating till 3pm, or "slightly" later if you ask Malik the Manager nicely! The cost? About RM$80-90.
Add: 24, Jalan 28/70A Desa Sri Hartamas, KL
Tel: +603 2300 6650
Manager's Tel: +6016 245 6425
Located: At the block behind Souled Out, or down a little alley which can be seen from Coffee Bean which is located a block away.
I particularly like this easy drinking Chilean Sauvignon Blanc. There's also the choice of an Italian white, or a couple of reds.
The starter selection, which included a delicious Cream of Mushroom soup on the day my gang visited. Pick from a salad selection, or fresh fruit, or a small selection of cheese and crackers. There's even kish if you fancy!
Here's Chef Virginia slogging away ... I love the sauces and the fresh meats which are capably barbequed by her. There's lamb, chicken, chicken sausages, beef and various seafoods. The prawns were fresh, as were the selection of meditteranean veges.
What it looks like on our plates ...
Or you can order ala-carte ... Here's a pasta.
ps - We were there for a new friend's birthday, Happy Birthday K!
Add: 24, Jalan 28/70A Desa Sri Hartamas, KL
Tel: +603 2300 6650
Manager's Tel: +6016 245 6425
Located: At the block behind Souled Out, or down a little alley which can be seen from Coffee Bean which is located a block away.
I particularly like this easy drinking Chilean Sauvignon Blanc. There's also the choice of an Italian white, or a couple of reds.
The starter selection, which included a delicious Cream of Mushroom soup on the day my gang visited. Pick from a salad selection, or fresh fruit, or a small selection of cheese and crackers. There's even kish if you fancy!
Here's Chef Virginia slogging away ... I love the sauces and the fresh meats which are capably barbequed by her. There's lamb, chicken, chicken sausages, beef and various seafoods. The prawns were fresh, as were the selection of meditteranean veges.
What it looks like on our plates ...
Or you can order ala-carte ... Here's a pasta.
ps - We were there for a new friend's birthday, Happy Birthday K!
Monday, October 06, 2008
Mazda CX-9 SUV / Crossover
Had the pleasure of going for a ride in a friend's new Mazda CX-9 SUV/Crossover. It was really nice!
Wikipedia
The Mazda CX-9 is a full-size crossover SUV, also described as a "modern station wagon", built by Mazda. It replaced the Mazda MPV minivan for North America. The CX-9 was unveiled on April 13, 2006 at the New York International Auto Show and went on sale in February 2007.
The CX-9 is built on the Ford CD3 Platform and is a front-wheel drive vehicle with an optional All-wheel drive system in the Grand Touring Model. Although it is similar in appearance to the smaller Mazda CX-7, the CX-9 shares little of that vehicle's platform components.
The CX-9 is manufactured at Mazda's Ujina 1 plant in Hiroshima Prefecture, Japan.
The 2007 CX-9 was the first Mazda to use the 3.5 litre Cyclone V6. Standard safety equipment includes Dynamic Stability Control, traction control, Roll Stability Control, front side impact airbags and three row side curtain airbags. The CX-9 offers options such as DVD navigation system, handsfree Bluetooth phone link, backup camera, rear entertainment system with Bose 5.1 surround sound. Transmission is in the form of a 6-speed F21 automatic.
I think it's a really nice place to be! No frills and classy, and very well put together.
Excellent interior build quality, very Germanic! And the stock Bose sound system is one of the best I have ever experienced!
Full ventilation control for the 2nd row...
There's even a third row, for small-ish people!
Cool lighting ...
No keyless go on the official local imports, but even the key fob is impeccably built!
Cost? Bermaz (Berjaya Mazda) can provide one to you, if you have RM$295K handy!
Wikipedia
The Mazda CX-9 is a full-size crossover SUV, also described as a "modern station wagon", built by Mazda. It replaced the Mazda MPV minivan for North America. The CX-9 was unveiled on April 13, 2006 at the New York International Auto Show and went on sale in February 2007.
The CX-9 is built on the Ford CD3 Platform and is a front-wheel drive vehicle with an optional All-wheel drive system in the Grand Touring Model. Although it is similar in appearance to the smaller Mazda CX-7, the CX-9 shares little of that vehicle's platform components.
The CX-9 is manufactured at Mazda's Ujina 1 plant in Hiroshima Prefecture, Japan.
The 2007 CX-9 was the first Mazda to use the 3.5 litre Cyclone V6. Standard safety equipment includes Dynamic Stability Control, traction control, Roll Stability Control, front side impact airbags and three row side curtain airbags. The CX-9 offers options such as DVD navigation system, handsfree Bluetooth phone link, backup camera, rear entertainment system with Bose 5.1 surround sound. Transmission is in the form of a 6-speed F21 automatic.
I think it's a really nice place to be! No frills and classy, and very well put together.
Excellent interior build quality, very Germanic! And the stock Bose sound system is one of the best I have ever experienced!
Full ventilation control for the 2nd row...
There's even a third row, for small-ish people!
Cool lighting ...
No keyless go on the official local imports, but even the key fob is impeccably built!
Cost? Bermaz (Berjaya Mazda) can provide one to you, if you have RM$295K handy!
Saturday, October 04, 2008
Best golf buggies - KGSAAS, Shah Alam
Brand new golf buggies ... KGSAAS.
It was only when we were half way through the round, did I notice ... a stalk on the side. Does it work!?
Yes, it's a left-right signal indicator!!! Hmmm, what use would it be when most people don't even choose to indicate when driving on public roads, GRRRrrrrrr!
It was only when we were half way through the round, did I notice ... a stalk on the side. Does it work!?
Yes, it's a left-right signal indicator!!! Hmmm, what use would it be when most people don't even choose to indicate when driving on public roads, GRRRrrrrrr!
Kelab Golf Sultan Abd Aziz Shah - KGSAAS, Shah Alam
High quality fairways and good greens ... and a view of the Shah Alam state mosque! This is KGSAAS! A round will set you back about RM$250 on a Saturday though, ouch!
Time to tee off! Four J's were in the game!!
Our very high tech and good James Bond (Yes, 007 - check out the side!) buggy.
Nice!
Notes from the corporate website ...
KGSAAS is popularly referred to as “The Home of Night Golfing”, Kelab Golf Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah (KGSAAS) is the country’s premier golf resort offering a 27-hole USGA class championship golf course, which is the first and only one in the world with all holes lit for night play.
Sitting majestically atop a verdant hill and overlooking the entire course laid down below and around it, KGSAAS is within easy reach for a swinging time. Accessible from any point within the Klang Valley thanks to a comprehensive system of modern freeways and highways, KGSAAS provides a quick relief for avid golfers as well as a tranquil retreat from the hectic city life.
KGSAAS’s 27-hole course is designed by world-renowned golf course designers, Thompson Wolveridge and Associates which is helmed by 5-time British Open Champion, Peter Thompson. Utilising the terrain’s natural undulations and the lakes’ natural beauty, combined with over 25,000 replanted trees and shrubs, the result is a scenic landscape that is most breathtaking. The course also encompasses mounds and foothills to provide golfers with the thrills they seek. The fairways here are broad yet the greens are deceivingly tricky. All these make KGSAAS a truly challenging course for golfers as they set out to tame the USGA-approved championship layout.
A unique feature (and main attraction) of KGSAAS is the lighting up of 27 holes for night golfing. This allows the executive to unwind with fellow golfers after a busy day and for them to enjoy a rollicking good time in the cool comfort of the Malaysian evening.
Time to tee off! Four J's were in the game!!
Our very high tech and good James Bond (Yes, 007 - check out the side!) buggy.
Nice!
Notes from the corporate website ...
KGSAAS is popularly referred to as “The Home of Night Golfing”, Kelab Golf Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah (KGSAAS) is the country’s premier golf resort offering a 27-hole USGA class championship golf course, which is the first and only one in the world with all holes lit for night play.
Sitting majestically atop a verdant hill and overlooking the entire course laid down below and around it, KGSAAS is within easy reach for a swinging time. Accessible from any point within the Klang Valley thanks to a comprehensive system of modern freeways and highways, KGSAAS provides a quick relief for avid golfers as well as a tranquil retreat from the hectic city life.
KGSAAS’s 27-hole course is designed by world-renowned golf course designers, Thompson Wolveridge and Associates which is helmed by 5-time British Open Champion, Peter Thompson. Utilising the terrain’s natural undulations and the lakes’ natural beauty, combined with over 25,000 replanted trees and shrubs, the result is a scenic landscape that is most breathtaking. The course also encompasses mounds and foothills to provide golfers with the thrills they seek. The fairways here are broad yet the greens are deceivingly tricky. All these make KGSAAS a truly challenging course for golfers as they set out to tame the USGA-approved championship layout.
A unique feature (and main attraction) of KGSAAS is the lighting up of 27 holes for night golfing. This allows the executive to unwind with fellow golfers after a busy day and for them to enjoy a rollicking good time in the cool comfort of the Malaysian evening.
Friday, October 03, 2008
Euro Fun Park, Funfair @ AEON Bukit Tinggi Jusco Klang
Venue: Euro Fun Fair, Bandar Bukit Tinggi 2 in Klang
Location: Car park of AEON - Jusco Bukit Tinggi mall
Tickets: Buy at the entrance, RM$3 for adults, and 2 bucks for kiddies.
Camera: Nikon D80
Lens: Tamron SP AF 17-50mm f/2.8 aka Tammy
Flash: None
Tripod: Cheapo fella, but at least it was full-sized (height-wise anyway!)
Exif: f/5.6 to f/12.0, 1/50s to 3s, ISO 100 to 640
This is the entrance
Wasn't sure whether I wanted to go in, initially, but struggled shooting from road-side... so I succumbed, and paid my dues to enter!
A few more shots from the outside ...
I am in!
My favourite shots :-)
More rides ... this one is like a "Viking"
The Roller Coaster was silent ...
Remember bumper cars!?
Location: Car park of AEON - Jusco Bukit Tinggi mall
Tickets: Buy at the entrance, RM$3 for adults, and 2 bucks for kiddies.
Camera: Nikon D80
Lens: Tamron SP AF 17-50mm f/2.8 aka Tammy
Flash: None
Tripod: Cheapo fella, but at least it was full-sized (height-wise anyway!)
Exif: f/5.6 to f/12.0, 1/50s to 3s, ISO 100 to 640
This is the entrance
Wasn't sure whether I wanted to go in, initially, but struggled shooting from road-side... so I succumbed, and paid my dues to enter!
A few more shots from the outside ...
I am in!
My favourite shots :-)
More rides ... this one is like a "Viking"
The Roller Coaster was silent ...
Remember bumper cars!?
Thursday, October 02, 2008
Amazing Race Asia 3 - Episode 4 (Taiwan)
On to the 4th episode of the Amazing Race Asia 3. It was originally aired on AXN in Malaysia, at 09:00pm - 10:00pm on 2nd October 2008, but I missed it ... so I watched the repeat early morning 3rd October, at 12:15am. Not a particulary exciting episode...
Wow, the team of AD and Fuzzie "Friends for 15 years" from Singapore, was the surprise of the episode. They did this "chinese conundrom" very quickly, having thought that the miniature museum of the alternate Detour was closed. They were the only team to choose the "Shape It" challenge, and with this they actually LED THE RACE !
Check out AXN's website which describes these 2 friends ... Their goal in joining the race isn’t about the fame or money, but the fun they think they would be enjoying. Says A.D., “Who wouldn’t want to watch two highly unlikely people run the race? Everybody loves the underdog.”
This was the alternate Detour, "Shoot It".
Wikipedia ... In this challenge, teams drive themselves to the Miniature Museum of Taiwan and are told to use a Sony Cybershot camera to shoot a very miniature model of a yellow-race envelope hidden inside one of the dioramas. After the photo was printed, the next clue could be found behind their new photo.
What happened ...
1) Mai and Oliver (Best friends, Thailand) - Started turning up the "ante" by breaking an alliance, and didn't share the fact that they had finished this Detour, and ran off to the next pretending that they couldn't do it! This may just come back to haunt them ...
2) Sam and Vince (Hong Kong lads) - Extremely good natured, and probably the true "gems" and "nice guys" of the show. Perhaps too nice! They gave up the answer of this challenge when they completed it, by celebrating out loud, ensuring that all other teams could finish the challenge as well! DOH!
Hmmm ... Eye candy :-) Tisha! I get more frustrated with Geoff's attitude by the episode... Lets see if she puts up with him till the end of the race!
Dad, where did you park the car?
Son, how do you remove the key from the ignition? How do I engage the gear?
DISASTER!
The Roadblock ... Chao tofu, sizzling type, challenge, presented by Allan Wu. Our Ida and Tania did incredibly well to get here first, and held on to the lead, despite the dramatics of Ida's tears!
Ewww.... AD from Singapore kept burping and throwing up!
And Henry? Just stop talking, and start eating dude!
Wikipedia... At the Institute for the Blind of Taiwan, one team member had to be blindfolded and then using their hands only to feel the braille message, translate, letter by letter to the other teammate who may not see their teammate's board to get the correct phrase "Go to Shenkeng". When they correctly give this message, teams will receive their next clue. One team would find a check worth NT$612,000 ($19,137) courtesy of Standard Chartered along with their next clue and donate it to the said institute before proceeding.
What happened ... The cool HK boys, Sam and Vince, were chosen to give the donation to the Home for the Blind. How appropriate as they were the "nice guys" of the leg! Guess this was the best method for product placement, StanChart gets a mention, and a charity gets some funds!
And that was it ... WELL DONE to Ida and Tania for winning the leg, taking home the first prize, which were a pair of Nokia phones with GPS.
The other teams arrived too...
Wow, the team of AD and Fuzzie "Friends for 15 years" from Singapore, was the surprise of the episode. They did this "chinese conundrom" very quickly, having thought that the miniature museum of the alternate Detour was closed. They were the only team to choose the "Shape It" challenge, and with this they actually LED THE RACE !
Check out AXN's website which describes these 2 friends ... Their goal in joining the race isn’t about the fame or money, but the fun they think they would be enjoying. Says A.D., “Who wouldn’t want to watch two highly unlikely people run the race? Everybody loves the underdog.”
This was the alternate Detour, "Shoot It".
Wikipedia ... In this challenge, teams drive themselves to the Miniature Museum of Taiwan and are told to use a Sony Cybershot camera to shoot a very miniature model of a yellow-race envelope hidden inside one of the dioramas. After the photo was printed, the next clue could be found behind their new photo.
What happened ...
1) Mai and Oliver (Best friends, Thailand) - Started turning up the "ante" by breaking an alliance, and didn't share the fact that they had finished this Detour, and ran off to the next pretending that they couldn't do it! This may just come back to haunt them ...
2) Sam and Vince (Hong Kong lads) - Extremely good natured, and probably the true "gems" and "nice guys" of the show. Perhaps too nice! They gave up the answer of this challenge when they completed it, by celebrating out loud, ensuring that all other teams could finish the challenge as well! DOH!
Hmmm ... Eye candy :-) Tisha! I get more frustrated with Geoff's attitude by the episode... Lets see if she puts up with him till the end of the race!
Dad, where did you park the car?
Son, how do you remove the key from the ignition? How do I engage the gear?
DISASTER!
The Roadblock ... Chao tofu, sizzling type, challenge, presented by Allan Wu. Our Ida and Tania did incredibly well to get here first, and held on to the lead, despite the dramatics of Ida's tears!
Ewww.... AD from Singapore kept burping and throwing up!
And Henry? Just stop talking, and start eating dude!
Wikipedia... At the Institute for the Blind of Taiwan, one team member had to be blindfolded and then using their hands only to feel the braille message, translate, letter by letter to the other teammate who may not see their teammate's board to get the correct phrase "Go to Shenkeng". When they correctly give this message, teams will receive their next clue. One team would find a check worth NT$612,000 ($19,137) courtesy of Standard Chartered along with their next clue and donate it to the said institute before proceeding.
What happened ... The cool HK boys, Sam and Vince, were chosen to give the donation to the Home for the Blind. How appropriate as they were the "nice guys" of the leg! Guess this was the best method for product placement, StanChart gets a mention, and a charity gets some funds!
And that was it ... WELL DONE to Ida and Tania for winning the leg, taking home the first prize, which were a pair of Nokia phones with GPS.
The other teams arrived too...
Father and son team of Niroo and Kapil are last, it was already dawn by the time they got to the Pitstop!
All because they wasted over 2 hours trying to remove the key from the car ignition, followed by a 4-hour penalty as they did not want to do the Stinky Tofu challenge. Eliminated!
Selamat Hari Raya, everyone!
Anuar Zain sings about "Suasana di Hari Raya"
... Berlalulah sudah ramadan sebulan berpuasa
Tiba syawal kita rayakan dengan rasa gembira
Anak muda di rantauan semuanya pulang ke desa
Ibu dan ayah keriangan bersyukur tak terkira...
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