Category: Food & Drink

Food & Drink

Ramadan Iftar Buffet at Sofitel KL Damansara: Buka Puasa with Live Stalls, Durian, and More!

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Raya celebrations are best enjoyed with great company and, of course, an unforgettable feast! This year, I had the pleasure of buka puasa at Kwee Zeen in Sofitel Kuala Lumpur Damansara, where the Destinasi Rasa Serantau buffet dinner brings a spread of over 120 mouthwatering dishes that truly celebrate Malaysia’s diverse flavours.

A Grand Iftar Experience
From the moment I stepped in, the vibrant LIVE stalls and the aromatic scent of traditional dishes set the perfect mood. What stood out was the unique “Seven Flavours of Malaysia” concept, highlighting specialties from different states. My top picks?

  • Ketupat Sotong Gula Aren (Kelantan) – Tender squid stuffed with glutinous rice, bathed in a luscious palm sugar sauce.
  • Udang Galah Masak Diraja (Pahang) – Freshwater prawns in a rich, flavourful royal curry.
  • Nasi Biryani Sunquick Berlauk (Johor) – Fragrant biryani with a sweet citrus twist.
  • Kambing Golek Nusantara (Selangor) – Juicy, slow-roasted lamb infused with traditional spices.
  • Asam Pedas Ekor Lembu (Melaka) – A tangy, spicy oxtail dish that’s a must-try.
  • Mee Udang Harimau (Penang) – Prawns and noodles in a savoury, robust broth.
  • Kerabu Scallop & Oyster Goreng (Perak) – A refreshing seafood delight.

The Ultimate Sambal and Durian Experience
One highlight for me was the House of Sambals, featuring bold flavours like Sambal Hitam Nyiru Belimbing Buluh and Sambal Totok—each adding an extra kick to my meal. And for durian lovers, the Durian Warong served fresh durians daily, making it the perfect way to end the night.

Buffet Details
📅 1 – 30 March 2025
🕡 6:30 PM – 10:00 PM
💰 RM228+ (Adults) | RM114+ (Kids 7-11 years old)
📞 Reservations: +6017 511 7725

If you’re looking for an authentic Malaysian iftar experience, this is one buffet you don’t want to miss!

For more information, visit Sofitel Kuala Lumpur Damansara official website or follow them on their social media accounts.
Website: https://www.sofitel-kualalumpur-damansara.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SofitelKualaLumpur
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sofitelkualalumpurdamansara/

About Sofitel Kuala Lumpur Damansara
Sofitel Kuala Lumpur Damansara is a luxury hotel nestled in the heart of Kuala Lumpur’s vibrant Damansara Heights. With its sophisticated design, elegant accommodation, and world-class facilities, the hotel offers a refined sanctuary for discerning travellers. From its stylish rooms and suites to its exceptional dining experiences, spa and fitness facilities, and warm and personalized service, Sofitel Kuala Lumpur Damansara provides guests with a truly unforgettable stay.

About Sofitel
A pioneer of French luxury hospitality since 1964, Sofitel today embodies heartfelt and committed luxury with a French zest. A seamless blend of the richness of each local culture and the French joie de vivre, the brand delights travellers who appreciate delicacy and subtle refinement, offering them heartfelt and authentic service. At Sofitel, beauty is in the details: life’s simple pleasures such as gastronomy and sleep are art forms for an incomparable experience. Sofitel now boasts more than 120 hotels, all elegant and unique, in the world’s most sought-after destinations. Among its most remarkable properties: Sofitel Paris Le Scribe, Sofitel London St James, Sofitel Dubai The Obelisk, Sofitel Mexico City Reforma and Sofitel Ambassador Seoul. The brand also offers a selection of heritage luxury hotels under the Sofitel Legend banner, renowned for their timeless elegance and fascinating history, such as Sofitel Legend Old Cataract Aswan, Sofitel Legend Santa Clara Cartagena and Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi. Sofitel is part of Accor, a world-leading
hospitality group counting over 5,500 properties throughout more than 110 countries, and a participating brand in ALL – Accor Live Limitless – a lifestyle loyalty program providing access to a wide variety of rewards, services and experiences.

Food & Drink

Where to Buka Puasa in KL? Concorde Hotel’s ‘Bergema Sepanjang Malam’ Iftar Buffet Dinner is a Must-Try!

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Ramadan is a time for reflection, togetherness, and of course, indulging in heartwarming, nostalgic dishes that bring back the feeling of home. This year, I had the pleasure of experiencing Concorde Hotel Kuala Lumpur’s ‘Bergema Sepanjang Malam’ nightly buffet at Melting Pot Cafe, and let me tell you—it’s a feast like no other!

From 2 to 30 March 2025, Concorde transforms into a culinary haven, offering a spread that takes you straight back to the good old “balik kampung” days. Whether you’re craving traditional kampung-style cooking or a modern twist on classic flavours, this buffet delivers on all fronts.

A Nostalgic Culinary Journey
As soon as I stepped into the dining area, the warm aroma of slow-cooked rendang and rich, aromatic spices filled the air. The buffet features time-honoured Malay classics, each dish prepared with recipes passed down through generations by the talented Chef Arif Ibrahim and his team.

The buffet at Concorde Hotel Kuala Lumpur offers a diverse selection of authentic Malay dishes, each crafted with time-honoured recipes. Among the highlights is Asam Pedas Daging Tetel, a flavourful dish known for its perfect balance of tangy and spicy flavours, complemented by tender beef. Another must-try is the Rendang Tok, a slow-cooked specialty infused with deep, earthy spices that enhance its rich taste.

Other traditional favourites include Gulai Tunjang, a hearty beef tendon curry, and Pajeri Nenas, a sweet and savoury pineapple dish. For seafood lovers, the buffet features Sambal Tumis Udang Petai, a spicy prawn and petai stir-fry, and Siput Sedut Masak Lemak, a creamy coconut-based dish made with sea snails.

A unique offering at the buffet is the Telur Itik Masak Lemak Cili Padi, a rich and creamy duck egg dish cooked in a spicy coconut gravy. The Gulai Ketam Nipah, a flavourful mud crab curry, showcases fresh, briny flavours that seafood enthusiasts will enjoy. Additionally, the signature Sup Gearbox, a slow-cooked bone marrow soup, is a standout dish, offering a deeply satisfying and aromatic broth.

Live Cooking & Modern Twists
Beyond traditional kampung favourites, Concorde Hotel elevates the buffet with live cooking stations that add a sense of excitement to the dining experience. Watching the chefs prepare Kambing Panggang on Briyani Rice right before my eyes was a spectacle! The meat was juicy, tender, and full of flavour.

I was also intrigued by the modern creations, particularly the Asam Pedas Ikan Salmon—a fusion of old and new that worked beautifully. The BBQ Teppan Theatre was another crowd favourite, serving up succulent steaks and the freshest seafood. And if you love sushi, the Japanese corner features everything from sushi maki rolls to fresh sashimi, including salmon, tuna, and octopus.

Seafood lovers will be thrilled with the Seafood on Ice station, where oysters, mussels, prawns, and bamboo clams are served fresh and chilled to perfection.

Flavours from Around the World
While the heart of the buffet is undoubtedly Malay cuisine, international flavours also make an appearance. The Mee and Kuey Teow Kawah station was a personal favourite, offering hot bowls of slurp-worthy noodles, alongside Laksa Johor, Murtabak Ayam, and Roti Canai Sarang Burung.

For Western cuisine lovers, the Creamy Cheese Wheel Pasta was pure indulgence. Rich, creamy, and cheesy—it was a pasta lover’s dream. Meanwhile, the Thai and Chinese section was packed with flavourful dishes like Minced Basil Beef Pad Kra Pao, Thai Red Curry Prawns, Kam Heong Lala Clams, and Steamed Seabass with Ginger Sauce.

Dessert Stations & Live Music
No meal is complete without dessert, and Concorde Hotel made sure to end the night on a high note. The Serawa Durian, made from premium D24 and Musang King durian, was pure heaven for durian lovers. The live dessert stations kept things exciting, serving up fresh Kuih Ketayap, ABC Ais Kacang, and Cendol.

Adding to the festive atmosphere, the Bergema 5 Batak Band serenaded guests throughout the night, creating a warm and lively ambiance. It truly felt like a Ramadan celebration filled with joy, laughter, and good food.

Pricing & Booking Details
For the ultimate Ramadan dining experience, the ‘Bergema Sepanjang Malam’ buffet is priced at RM198 nett per person. However, you can enjoy a special rate of RM178 nett per person on 2–4 March and 28–30 March. Kids aged 6–11 years get 50% off, making it a great option for families. With a two-menu rotation, there’s always something new to look forward to!

To book your spot, call 03-2717 2233 or 012-399 0734.

Food & Drink, Travel

My Bangkok Café Hunt: 4 Cozy Spots in Thonglor You’ll Love

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During my last trip to Bangkok, I spent some time exploring Thonglor (Thong Lo), one of the city’s trendiest districts. This area is packed with stylish cafés, creative spaces, and cozy hangouts. If you’re looking for a chill place to relax, work, or simply enjoy good coffee, here are four spots I personally visited and loved.

1. (un)FASHION Cafe
📍 3 Ekkamai 10 Alley, Khlong Tan Nuea, Watthana, Bangkok 10110, Thailand

This was one of my favourite stops! (un)FASHION Cafe is a super cozy and family-friendly spot, with plenty of space for kids to play. I noticed a lot of Japanese patrons here, which makes sense since the area is popular among expat families. The best part? It’s connected to a vintage shop selling beautifully crafted leather products. I spent some time browsing before settling down with a cup of coffee, just soaking in the relaxing vibe.

2. Bigknit Cafe
📍 1st Floor, RQMALL Sukhumvit 49, Watthana, Bangkok 10110, Thailand

This café was such a unique find! If you love knitting or crafts, you’ll definitely enjoy this place. Not only do they serve coffee and snacks, but they also sell yarn and knitting supplies. I saw a few regulars working on their projects while chatting over tea—it felt like a little creative sanctuary in the middle of Bangkok. Even if you’re not into knitting, the warm, homey atmosphere makes it worth a visit.

3. theCOMMONS
📍 335 Akkhara Phatsadu Alley, Khwaeng Khlong Tan Nuea, Watthana, Bangkok 10110, Thailand

I love discovering cool community spaces, and theCOMMONS was exactly that. It’s a semi-industrial co-sharing hub where people come to work, chill, and socialize. The open layout, natural light, and mix of cafés, food kiosks, and artisanal shops made it an ideal place to hang out. I grabbed a coffee and just enjoyed the creative energy—it’s perfect if you need a spot to work remotely or just unwind.

4. Audrey Cafe & Bistro
📍 Soi Thong Lo 11, Khlong Tan Nuea, Watthana, Bangkok 10110, Thailand

For a more elegant and laidback experience, Audrey Cafe & Bistro was the perfect spot. The European-inspired decor gave it such a charming feel, making it a great place for a relaxed meal. I could see why it’s a favourite for couples—there were plenty of picture-perfect corners, and the ambiance was just lovely. I enjoyed a delicious meal while taking my time to soak in the cozy setting.

Why I Loved Exploring Thonglor
Thonglor is more than just a nightlife district—it’s full of hidden gems perfect for café-hopping, working, or just unwinding. Whether you’re into crafts, community spaces, or stylish bistros, there’s something for everyone.

If you’re planning a trip to Bangkok, I highly recommend checking out these spots! Let me know if you’ve been to any of them or if you have other favourites in Thonglor. 😊

Food & Drink

Santapan Cahaya Buffet 2025: Must-Try Iftar Feast in Courtyard by Marriott Kuala Lumpur South

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I had the pleasure of attending the media preview for the Santapan Cahaya festive buffet dinner at Substance, Level 3, Courtyard by Marriott Kuala Lumpur South and it was truly a feast worth experiencing this Ramadan. Running from 3 to 27 March 2025, from 6:30 PM to 10:30 PM, this buffet beautifully captures the essence of a traditional evening bazaar while offering a luxurious yet comfortable dining experience.

A Diverse and Flavourful Feast
Beyond Malay delicacies, diners can enjoy Chinese, Indian, Western, and fusion dishes. From aromatic Indian curries to flavourful Chinese steamed food and perfectly grilled Western-style meats, the variety ensures everyone finds something they love. The live cooking stations add an interactive element, allowing guests to watch their food being freshly prepared.

Indulgent Desserts and Sweet Treats
No Ramadan buffet is complete without a sweet ending, and Santapan Cahaya excels in this department. The dessert spread includes assorted kuih, cakes, fresh fruits, and a delightful chocolate fondue station—a favourite among both kids and adults. Whether you enjoy traditional Malay sweets or modern treats, there’s something to satisfy every craving.

Welcoming Dining Experience
Beyond the food, what makes Santapan Cahaya truly stand out is its comfortable and spacious dining environment. The ambience is warm and inviting, perfect for gathering with family, friends, or colleagues. The friendly and attentive service further enhances the experience, making guests feel welcomed and well taken care of.

Book Your Table Now
Priced at RM137 nett per adult, RM69 nett per child (6-12 years old), and RM89 nett per senior citizen (55+ years old), this buffet offers incredible value for an all-you-can-eat experience. Whether you’re looking for traditional flavours or a mix of international cuisines, this is a buffet not to be missed.

For reservations, call +603 8682 8898 and secure your spot for an unforgettable Ramadan iftar feast!

Food & Drink

Indulge in a Flavourful Festive Feast, Santapan Senja at Traders Hotel KL

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If there’s one thing I look forward to during this special season, it’s indulging in the comforting flavours of traditional Malaysian cuisine. This year, I had the pleasure of experiencing Santapan Senja at Traders Hotel Kuala Lumpur, and it was truly a feast worth sharing.

From 28 February to 30 March 2025, Traders Hotel brings back Santapan Senja, offering two distinct dining experiences—a lavish buffet at Gobo Chit Chat and a refined three-course set dinner at Bara On Six. Both options celebrate classic flavours, crafted with care to evoke nostalgia while creating new memories with loved ones.

Santapan Senja Buffet Dinner at Gobo Chit Chat
Walking into Gobo Chit Chat, I was immediately drawn to the enticing aroma of slow-roasted whole lamb—succulent and perfectly seasoned. The mee bandung with lobster was a standout, packed with rich, umami goodness, while the seafood bakar daun pisang delivered that unmistakable grilled smokiness, enhancing the freshness of the seafood.

Other must-try dishes included the siput sedut masak lemak, creamy and bursting with flavour, and the fish head curry, which had just the right balance of spice and tanginess. Of course, I couldn’t leave without trying the asam pedas Melaka, a true comfort dish with its bold, spicy-sour profile. The buffet also featured fresh coconut for a refreshing touch, and an array of desserts to end the night on a sweet note.

📅 Available from 28 February – 30 March 2025
Price:

  • Weekdays (Sunday – Thursday): RM178 per adult | RM88 per child
  • Weekends (Friday & Saturday): RM198 per adult | RM98 per child
    Early Bird Price (until 23 February 2025):
  • Weekdays: RM148 per adult | RM78 per child
  • Weekends: RM168 per adult | RM88 per child

Santapan Senja 3-Course Set Dinner at Bara On Six
For those seeking an intimate dining experience, the Santapan Senja Set Dinner at Bara On Six is the perfect choice. The meal begins with an all-you-can-eat appetizers spread, featuring delicious kerabu and comforting bubur lambuk.

For the main course, diners can choose between the grilled seabass with nasi tomato—light yet flavourful, or the roasted lamb rack with nasi tomato, which was incredibly tender and juicy. To round off the meal, the fluffy banana sponge cake with gula Melaka ice cream was a delightful treat, balancing sweetness and texture beautifully.

📅 Available from 1 March – 30 March 2025
Price: RM108 per person

For further information and updates regarding the Santapan Senja Buffet Dinner, check out this link:
https://www.shangri-la.com/kualalumpur/traders/offer-detail/dining/gelora-raya-buffet-dinner-raya/

For Booking: E-Vouchers

Festive Treats: Koleksi Lebaran
No festive season is complete without Raya cookies and thoughtful gifts. Traders Hotel offers a curated Koleksi Lebaran, featuring classic treats like pineapple tarts and Almond London, as well as an exclusive Traders Lebaran Gift Box. These delightful goodies are available for purchase online from 28 February to 31 March 2025 at www.tradersklspecials.com

Whether you’re looking for a grand buffet spread or a sophisticated set menu, Santapan Senja at Traders Hotel Kuala Lumpur offers something for everyone. The flavours, the ambiance, and the warm hospitality made this an experience to remember. If you’re planning to celebrate with family or friends, I highly recommend making a reservation early.

For reservations, call +603-2332 9888
Email: festive.thkl@tradershotels.com