Food & Drink

A Taste of Japan at PARKROYAL COLLECTION Kuala Lumpur: Japanese Buffet & Wine Dinner with Chef Koji Fukuda

May 20, 2025 dixonthum

I had the chance to attend a special chef’s Masterclass yesterday at PARKROYAL COLLECTION Kuala Lumpur, and it was truly an eye-opener into the refined world of Japanese cuisine. Chef Koji Fukuda, a culinary veteran with over 30 years of experience, walked us through his techniques, stories behind each dish, and his deep respect for ingredients. Watching him work up-close — calm, precise, and deeply passionate — was an experience that made me appreciate Japanese food even more. Now, the good news is, you don’t need to be in that masterclass to enjoy his creations. From 20 to 25 May 2025, the hotel is hosting A Taste of Japan, a week-long showcase of Chef Koji’s culinary mastery, open to all food lovers.

Japanese-Themed Buffet Dinners at Thyme
Held at Thyme, their elegant all-day dining spot, and Pacific Lounge at Pan Pacific Serviced Suites Kuala Lumpur, the event is done in collaboration with Meat & Livestock Australia and Aussie Beef & Lamb — so expect quality meats and flavours that blend Japanese techniques with premium Aussie produce.

From 20 to 22 May 2025, don’t miss the Weekday Buffet Dinners priced at MYR185 nett, where Chef Koji brings Japan to life through a beautifully curated spread. Then on 23 and 24 May 2025, the Fabulous Meat and Seafood Buffet (MYR238 nett) takes centre stage, featuring top-grade Australian beef and lamb alongside fresh seafood delights.

Live stations to look out for:

Sushi & Onigiri Station – torched beef sushi, mackerel rolls, and Australian lamb onigiri with savoury lamb miso.
Sashimi Station – fresh cuts of tuna, salmon, and white fish.
Teppanyaki Station – Osaka-style seafood okonomiyaki.
Tempura Station – golden-fried beef strips, prawns, and seasonal veggies.
Noodle Station – Kyoto-style kitsune udon.

Signature dishes include:

Hokkaido-style zangi karaage with shibazuke tartar sauce
Sumo-style chanko nabe steam pods
Australian lamb dumplings with shiso dressing
Genghis Khan-style yakisoba
Plus favourites like teriyaki salmon, beef gyudon, and fluffy dashi maki tamago.

One-Night-Only: 5-Course Wine Dinner with a View
On 25 May 2025, wrap up the week with an exclusive 5-course wine dinner at the Pacific Lounge (MYR368 nett). Held high above the city skyline, this elegant evening pairs Chef Koji’s beautifully plated courses with handpicked wines.

The menu includes:

Dashi Maki Sandwich (with yuzu aioli and caviar) – paired with Veuve du Vernay Brut and Chardonnay
Australian Beef Tataki – paired with Merlot
Miso-Glazed White Fish in Chanko Broth – paired with Chenin Blanc
Teriyaki Australian Lamb with agedashi tofu and shishito pepper – paired with Spanish Reserva
Mitarashi Parfait – paired with Italian Moscato

Early Bird Deals & Booking Info
Planning to go? Book in advance via their eShop and enjoy 10% off the wine dinner and 20% off the buffet dinners. All prices include government taxes.

To reserve your seats, WhatsApp +6010 229 7156 or email dining.prckul@panpacific.com

If you love Japanese food or simply enjoy trying something new and exquisite, don’t miss this one-week-only culinary affair.

About Chef Koji Fukuda
Chef Koji brings his passion and enthusiasm for curating, introducing, and inspiring unique lamb recipes with Japanese ingredients to Japan, a country whose cuisine generally consists mainly of beef and seafood. He found this inspiration after joining the Lambassador culinary journey in Victoria, Australia,
where he embraced all the knowledge and experience about Aussie lamb. Chef Koji became more adventurous after beginning his career as a chef in Osaka. He then pursued opportunities in Australia, New Zealand, and Singapore, where he created unique dishes that honoured Japanese cuisine.

In 2011, he stepped into an executive chef role, opened a restaurant, and went on to lead several dining establishments to success. In 2019, Chef Koji took on another executive chef position at a prominent hotel in Tokyo.

Food & Drink, Travel

4 Must-Try Restaurants Under One Roof at Concorde Hotel Kuala Lumpur

April 23, 2025April 24, 2025 dixonthum

Looking for the best places to eat in Kuala Lumpur city centre? Whether you’re a hotel guest, a local foodie, or just exploring dining options near Jalan Sultan Ismail, here’s your answer: Concorde Hotel Kuala Lumpur. This iconic hotel is home to 4 unique dining spots under one roof, offering everything from buffet feasts and authentic Japanese meals to handmade dim sum and live music lounges. I recently explored all four, and trust me — each one has its own charm and flavour worth experiencing.

Here’s your ultimate guide to the top 4 restaurants inside Concorde Hotel KL.

1. Melting Pot Café – Buffet Dining in Kuala Lumpur
If you’re craving a buffet restaurant in KL, Melting Pot Café is the place to be. Famous for its generous spread of international and local cuisine, this all-day dining spot is perfect for families, couples, and group gatherings.

Guests can enjoy the relaxing ambiance with live band performances by Bergema 5 every evening.

📌 Buffet Prices at Melting Pot Café:

Weekend High Tea (Sat & Sun): RM108 nett per pax
Buffet Dinner (Fri & Sat): RM168 nett per pax
Kids (6–11 years old): 50% off
Room Guests: 20% off for up to 2 pax per room

📍 Located at the lobby level of Concorde Hotel KL

2. Kazuma Japanese Restaurant – Authentic Japanese Food in KL
Searching for authentic Japanese food in Kuala Lumpur? Head to Kazuma Japanese Restaurant, located on Level 1 of Wisma Concorde, right above Hard Rock Café. This cozy eatery offers a peaceful setting for couples and small groups, serving fresh and flavourful dishes at affordable prices.

Highlights include their weekend special Salmon Fish Head Set, starting from just RM45.

📌 Kazuma Menu Price Range: RM25 – RM80 nett
🕒 Opening Hours:
Daily (including public holidays)
Lunch: 11:30am – 3:00pm
Dinner: 6:00pm – 10:00pm

📍 Located on Level 1 Wisma Concorde (above Hard Rock Café)

3. Xin Cuisine – Popular Non-Halal Chinese Restaurant in KL
Xin Cuisine is one of the rare hotel restaurants in KL that still serves non-halal Chinese food. Renowned for its handmade dim sum and premium steamboat, it’s a must-visit for fans of traditional Chinese flavours. They also provide banquet venue for traditional Chinese weddings.

Expect a full house on weekends – no reservations are allowed, so it’s best to come early. Everything here, from siew mai and har gow to roasted duck and char siew, is handmade by skilled chefs.

🥢 Must-try items:

Dim sum: dumplings, bao, siew mai
Steamboat: handmade ingredients, fresh seafood
Roasted meats: siew yuk, char siew, roasted duck
Hot dishes: rice, noodles, and more

📍 Located within Concorde Hotel Kuala Lumpur

4. Xroads Xpress – Popular Live Music Lounge in KL
For those looking for live music bars in Kuala Lumpur, Xroads Xpress (pronounced as ‘Crossroads Express’) at Concorde Hotel KL is a hidden gem. With regular performances by RS Duo, Beat Culture, and True Colours, it’s the ideal place to unwind with drinks and food in the heart of KL. Regulars come here to dance and hang out with each other!

Perfect for your Friday night hangout or a casual weekend chill session.

🕒 Live Music Showtimes:

Mon – Sat: 5:30pm – 1:00am
Sun: 8:45pm – 11:30pm

🍸 Enjoy both local and international drinks, with snacks and bar bites available.

BONUS: 5. Spices Restaurant
Spices Restaurant is a hidden gem within Concorde Hotel KL, exclusively open for Premier Room (and above) guests. Serving a breakfast buffet from 6:30am to 10am, it offers both American and local favourites, like pancakes and pastries to nasi lemak and porridge, in a cosy, private setting. Service here is top-notch, and if you visit, don’t miss their special mixed fruit juices — refreshing blends like apple-celery or orange-carrot are a great way to start your day!

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Here’s why you should choose Concorde Hotel Kuala Lumpur for dining
✔️ Centrally located on Jalan Sultan Ismail
✔️ Walking distance to KL Tower, KLCC and Bukit Nanas Monorail
✔️ Ideal for hotel guests and walk-in diners
✔️ 4 distinct dining experiences in one location

Whether you’re planning a foodie staycation (like I did over two nights), a business lunch, or a night out in KL, the restaurants at Concorde Hotel Kuala Lumpur offer something to satisfy every craving.

Food & Drink

Meet Mee x Nisabakri Gourmet Launch Chili Wantan Mee, A Spicy New Chapter in Instant Noodles

April 18, 2025April 24, 2025 dixonthum

On 16 April 2025, I had the pleasure of attending the soft launch of a unique collaboration between two notable local brands: Meet Mee and Nisabakri Gourmet. Held at the classy KL Wellness City Gallery, the event was an elegant gathering of media friends, food industry insiders, and loyal supporters of both brands.

At the heart of the launch was their latest creation: Chili Wantan Mee – a fiery twist on a beloved Malaysian classic. This isn’t just any instant noodle pack – it’s a full-on gourmet experience made accessible to everyone. The product brings together the culinary brilliance of Chef Puan Sri Nisa Bakri, a household name known for her refined palate and passion for local cuisine, and the fast-growing innovation-driven team at Meet Mee.

After a full year of dedicated R&D, the duo unveiled what they confidently describe as one of the few halal-certified Wantan Mee products on the market. The goal is to make this iconic dish accessible to all Malaysians, especially Muslim consumers who’ve long wanted a halal version of their favorite noodle dish.

Each pack is a complete meal experience: springy noodles, dipping soy sauce, chili oil, crispy crackers, and even shrimp shakers for that extra umami kick. Prep time? Just four minutes. Whether you’re a traveler, camper, hiker, student, or just someone who appreciates a good meal without the hassle, this product checks all the boxes.

Chef Nisa shared her excitement during the event, expressing how this collaboration is more than just a product launch – it’s about celebrating Malaysian culinary identity and pushing it to new heights through digital platforms and modern innovation. Her hope is that this dish will not only satisfy local taste buds but also introduce Malaysian flavours to global palates.

Want to try it yourself? You can now grab Chili Wantan Mee via TikTok on these official accounts:
👉 @meetmee.official
👉 @nisabakrigourmet

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As Meet Mee and Nisabakri Gourmet look to bring this spicy creation to homes around the world, they’re also inviting exporters, retailers, and F&B partners to join them on this flavourful journey. This is truly a proud moment for Malaysian food innovation – and we’re just getting started.

Food & Drink, Travel

Where to Eat in Phuket: Tunk-ka Cafe at Khao Rang Hill for Sunset Views & Authentic Thai Food

April 9, 2025 dixonthum

If you’re looking for a dining spot in Phuket that combines great food, fresh air, and a breathtaking view, I recommend checking out Tunk-ka Cafe. Located near the top of Khao Rang Hill (also known as Rang Hill or Khao Rang Health Park), this cosy restaurant offers a relaxed, natural setting surrounded by trees and greenery. It’s the kind of place where you can truly unwind while enjoying authentic Thai cuisine with family or friends.

I had the pleasure of dining here during my recent trip and honestly, it was one of the unique dining experiences in my trip to Phuket. The weather was breezy up on the hill, and the scenery—especially during sunset—was absolutely stunning.

The food? Let’s just say, I’m still thinking about it.

We ordered several dishes to share, and each one impressed. My personal favourites were the sweet and sour curry with shrimps and Phuket pineapple, which had just the right balance of tanginess and heat, and the crab meat stir-fried with curry powder—so rich, flavourful, and generous with the crab meat! Another standout was the crab meat and herbs in coconut milk curry—creamy, aromatic, and perfect with steamed rice. We also had the stir-fried pak liang with egg, a southern Thai vegetable dish that was simple yet delicious.

From what I gathered, seafood and crab dishes are a popular choice here, and it’s easy to see why—they’re fresh, well-prepared, and packed with flavour. Get the full menu here.

What I really liked about Tunk-ka Cafe is how it feels so peaceful, almost like a hidden retreat above the city. Whether you’re planning a small group gathering, a casual family dinner, or even a quiet meal with your partner, this place hits the sweet spot for ambience and taste.

So if you’re in Phuket and looking for a place with great food, amazing views, and a relaxing vibe, give Tunk-ka Cafe a try. Trust me—you’ll want to come back.

📍Tunk-ka Cafe
Khosimbi Road Tambon Wichit, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83000, Thailand
Operating hours: 11:15AM – 9PM (weekday), 11AM -10PM (weekend)
FB: https://www.facebook.com/TunkkaCafePhuket0808211500/
IG: https://www.instagram.com/tunkka.cafephuket

Food & Drink, Travel

3 Reasons You Should Visit Ma Doo Bua Cafe in Phuket

March 30, 2025 dixonthum

Looking for a unique café experience in Phuket that blends stunning visuals, delicious Thai cuisine, and a welcoming atmosphere? Ma Doo Bua Cafe is a must-visit destination that offers more than just food and coffee — it’s a full-on Instagram-worthy experience you won’t forget.

Whether you’re a foodie, a photo enthusiast, or just seeking a great spot to relax with friends and family, here are 3 compelling reasons to visit Ma Doo Bua Cafe in Phuket.

#1 Unmissable Photo Spot with Giant Victoria Water Lilies
Ma Doo Bua Cafe is famous for its iconic pond filled with massive Victoria water lilies, creating a surreal, picture-perfect backdrop. Visitors can walk alongside the pond or even hop on a traditional boat for a drone photoshoot session, capturing unique aerial shots that are sure to wow your followers.

You can either take your own photos for free or book a professional drone session right at the café. It’s one of Phuket’s most popular photo locations — and for good reason.

📸 Pro Tips: Visit in the early morning or golden hour for the best lighting and fewer crowds. However, those professional drone sessions fill up fast, so the earlier you reach the cafe, the higher your chances of securing a spot. Also, for outfit, go for colours like cream, beige, Persian blue, ivory white, or mustard yellow — they complement the green and orange backdrop beautifully and make you stand out in your shots.

#2 Wide Range of Food & Drinks on the Menu
Whether you’re craving a refreshing drink, a sweet treat, or a hearty Thai meal, Ma Doo Bua Cafe has something for everyone. Their menu features:

Refreshing beverages like iced Thai tea, smoothies, and tropical fruit drinks
Decadent desserts, from mango sticky rice to chocolate lava cake
Savoury Thai and fusion dishes, including pad Thai, curries, pasta, and more

The beautifully presented dishes are not only delicious but also photogenic, making your dining experience even more enjoyable.

🍹 Don’t miss their signature butterfly pea drinks and fresh coconut!

#3 Perfect Spot to Relax with Friends & Family
Ma Doo Bua Cafe isn’t just about the visuals — it’s also a spacious, family-friendly venue with plenty of seating options both indoors and outdoors. Whether you’re coming as a couple, with kids, or in a large group, you’ll find ample space to chill, chat, and enjoy the scenery.

There’s even a kids’ zone and shaded areas, making it a relaxing hangout spot for all ages.

🧘‍♀️ The peaceful garden setting and koi ponds add to the relaxing vibe — perfect for slow travel days in Phuket.

📍Ma Doo Bua Cafe
310 51 M.1 Baandon-Cherngtalay Rd Tambon Thep Krasatti, Thalang District, Phuket 83110, Thailand
Operating hours: Open daily from 9AM – 9PM
FB: https://www.facebook.com/Maadoobua.Phuket/
IG: https://www.instagram.com/madoobua.phuket

If you’re planning a trip to Phuket and want to experience a café that offers visual charm, great food, and a relaxed vibe, Ma Doo Bua Cafe should be at the top of your list. It’s the perfect place to capture memories, enjoy authentic Thai flavors, and spend quality time with your loved ones.