During my recent trip to Satun, I stumbled upon a café that left me utterly mesmerized—De Bua Café Satun. Tucked away in this serene part of Thailand, De Bua (which fittingly means “lotus”) is a delightful spot that beautifully marries nature with exquisite dining.
Ambience and Setting True to its name, De Bua Café features a picturesque lotus pond that adds a touch of tranquility to the atmosphere. The café offers a blend of indoor seating and an enchanting outdoor garden setting, perfect for photo op and OOTD shots. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a peaceful meal or host an event, De Bua Café is a versatile venue perfect for weddings, parties, and family reunions.
Delectable Halal Dishes The menu at De Bua Café is a delightful surprise, featuring a range of halal dishes that cater to diverse palates. Here are some of my top recommendations:
Deep Fried Shrimp Donut Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside—these are a must-try!
Steamed Seabass with Spicy Seafood Sauce Perfectly cooked seabass paired with a zesty sauce that packs a punch.
Fried Seabass Spicy Salad with Herbs A refreshing and flavorful dish that combines the best of Thai spices and fresh herbs.
Deep Fried Soft Shell Crab with Garlic Crunchy and aromatic, this dish is a treat for seafood lovers.
Super Hot Tom Yum Noodle For those who love a bit of heat, this noodle dish is a fiery delight.
Other delicious options include: • Stir-fried Stinky Beans with Shrimp • Stir-fried Malindjo Leaves with Egg • Shrimp Paste Chili Sauce with Fresh Shrimps • Beef/Chicken Khao Soy • Desserts like Toast with Ice Cream, Assorted Bingsu and many more!
Why You Should Visit The combination of excellent food, beautiful surroundings, and outstanding service makes De Bua Café a must-visit. Whether you’re a foodie looking to explore new flavors or someone seeking a relaxing spot to unwind, this café has something for everyone.
📍De Bua Cafe 66 ซอย 2 Khlong Khut, Mueang Satun District, Satun 91000, Thailand Opening Hours: Open daily from 10 AM to 9 PM Tel: +66 97 470 6522
If you find yourself in Satun, don’t miss the chance to experience De Bua Café. Trust me, it’s a hidden gem that will make your trip unforgettable! Fret not, the staff their speak simple Bahasa Melayu which makes communication so much easier for us!
If you’re a fan of authentic Cantonese cuisine and Dim Sum, then you need to visit Lai Ching Yuen at Grand Millennium Kuala Lumpur. I recently dined there and was thrilled to discover their newly enhanced Dim Sum Buffet menus. Catering to both weekday indulgence and weekend revelry, these revamped menus embrace the essence of traditional Hong Kong culinary artistry and promise a gastronomic journey through delectable flavors and exquisite craftsmanship.
A Tribute to Hong Kong Dim Sum Culture The moment I walked into Lai Ching Yuen, I was struck by the elegance of the place. The ambiance is a perfect blend of sophistication and warmth. The extensive selection of Hong Kong-inspired delicacies, meticulously crafted by a team of seasoned chefs led by Executive Chinese Chef Thye Yoon Kong, immediately caught my attention. With over 30 years of experience in Cantonese cuisine, Chef Thye is a true master of his craft, and his specialty is Dim Sum.
Chef Thye Yoon Kong, Executive Chinese Chef at Lai Ching Yuen
The essence of dim sum is handcraftsmanship which requires excellent skills and years of training. We are excited to introduce our enhanced Dim Sum Buffet menus, as we added 20 new dishes to offer our guests a wholesome experience of the Dim Sum culture which I have learned a lot about throughout my career in Cantonese cuisine.
said Chef Thye Yoon Kong, Executive Chinese Chef at Lai Ching Yuen
A Feast for the Senses The menus feature an array of Hong Kong-inspired Dim Sum creations, from savory classics to innovative reinterpretations of time-honored Cantonese cooking methods. The diverse selection includes appetisers, soups, steamed-to-order delights, fried selections, stir-fried mains, and desserts, each promising a feast for the soul.
Some of the highlights from my visit included Steamed Siew Mai with Fish Roe, Deep-fried Bean Curd Roll with Shrimp (鲜虾腐皮卷), Wok-fried ‘Bei Fong Tong’-style Chicken (避风塘鸡片) , Pan-fried Buns with Salted Fish (香煎咸鱼包) and Steamed Rice Rolls with Shrimp (鲜虾滑肠粉)
To top off the meal, I indulged in the Hot & Sweetened Cream of Red Bean with Tangerine Peel (陈皮红豆沙), a sweet and comforting dessert that provided the perfect ending to a sumptuous feast.
Exciting New Varieties and Specials In addition to their all-time favorites, Lai Ching Yuen has introduced 20 new dim sum varieties that promise to delight the senses. The Crispy Fish Skin with Salted Egg Yolk (咸蛋脆鱼皮) was an addictive snack with a perfect symphony of crunch and rich flavors. For a heartier option, the Braised Rice with Seafood (海鲜泡饭) was a comforting and satisfying dish.
Weekends and public holidays bring even more excitement with exclusive specials crafted by Chef Kong. The Steamed Siew Mai with Mini Abalone (鲍鱼蒸烧卖) and the Baked Durian Puff (榴莲酥), available in limited quantities, are not to be missed.
Weekday Dim Sum Buffet Tuesday to Friday, 12noon to 3pm
RM88++ per adult; RM58++ per child (between 5 to 12 years old) and senior citizen
Weekend & Public Holiday Dim Sum Buffet Saturday to Sunday, and Public Holidays, 11am to 3pm
RM108++ per adult; RM78++ per child (between 5 to 12 years old) and senior citizen
Buffet Details
Lai Ching Yuen has truly redefined the dim sum experience. If you’re looking for a culinary journey that showcases the best of Hong Kong Dim Sum culture, I highly recommend visiting Lai Ching Yuen. It’s an experience you won’t forget.
📍Lai Ching Yuen Grand Millennium Kuala Lumpur 160 Jalan Bukit Bintang, 55100 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia *This is a non-halal restaurant
About Lai Ching Yuen Lai Ching Yuen is an institution for authentic Cantonese cuisine, making it a go-to destination for those seeking for non-halal specialities in Kuala Lumpur. Guests have the unique opportunity to observe and engage with the chefs as they skillfully prepare dim sum dishes in the open kitchen.
Emphasising the use of the freshest ingredients, the menu is thoughtfully curated to achieve a harmonious balance of flavours, textures and expert cooking techniques. Beyond its renowned dim sum, Lai Ching Yuen presents a range of notable dishes including Mini Buddha Jump Over The Wall, Barbecued Whole Suckling Pig, Baked Iberico Pork Ribs, Wok-fried Lobster ‘Bei Fong Tong’ style, Stewed Spare Ribs with Yam Casserole and Richman Fried Rice with Fresh Scallop, Prawns and Egg White.
Lai Ching Yuen goes beyond offering dining experiences by extending its services to intimate-scale weddings as well, accommodating up to 120 guests. Couples are presented with three meticulously crafted wedding menu options, each designed to cater to a table of 10 guests: Eternal Love at RM2,888++, Double Happiness at RM3,888++, and Together Forever at RM4,888++. Alongside these delectable menus, couples are also treated to a range of complimentary perks as part of their wedding package. These privileges include a one-night stay in the luxurious Bridal Suite, exquisite floral arrangements and featuring a flower backdrop photo wall. Additionally, couples can enjoy a complimentary food tasting session for up to 10 guests, and exclusive use of a private room for their tea ceremony. As a delightful touch, the package also includes a multi-tier wedding cake for the ceremonial cake-cutting moment, among other generous perks.
About Grand Millennium Kuala Lumpur Grand Millennium Kuala Lumpur is located in the pulse of the premier shopping address of Bukit Bintang, adjacent to Pavilion Mall and walking proximity to Starhill Gallery and Lot 10. It is nestled in the iconic Golden Triangle with accessibility to business and entertainment districts. The hotel features 468 spacious guestrooms including 16 suites, all-day dining – The Mill Café; authentic Cantonese cuisine – Lai Ching Yuen; and Bistro 160. Hotel recreational facilities includes outdoor resort-style swimming pool, along with fitness centre and The Spa. The hotel also houses a total of 1,500 square metres event space, capable of accommodating any type of events from business meetings, to social celebrations and weddings. For more information, please visit www.grandmillenniumkl.com
From L to R: Chef Ramazan Bingöl, Turkish Celebrity Chef, His Excellency (H.E.) Emir Salim Yüksel, The Ambassador of Türkiye to Kuala Lumpur, Ms Ming Ho, General Manager of Le Cordon Bleu Malaysia, Doreen Heng, Senior Marketing Manager of Le Cordon Bleu Malaysia, & Chef Sylvain Dubreau, Chef Cuisine Instructor at Le Cordon Bleu Malaysia kicking off Turkish Cuisine Week 2024 that happens annually from 21 May to 27 May 2024.
I had the pleasure of attending a remarkable Turkish cooking presentation at Le Cordon Bleu in Kuala Lumpur, organized by the Embassy of Türkiye as part of Turkish Cuisine Week 2024. The event, held on May 10th, featured the renowned Turkish Celebrity Chef Ramazan Bingöl, who introduced us to the rich and vibrant flavors of Aegean cuisine.
Chef Ramazan Bingöl, Turkish Celebrity Chef, demonstrating the preparation of Izmir köfte (spiced lamb meatballs) and Tel kadayif (shredded kadayif dough baked in syrup with crushed nuts) in conjunction with Turkish Cuisine Week 2024.
The experience was nothing short of delightful. Chef Bingöl’s demonstration was both captivating and educational, as he shared the intricate art of preparing traditional Aegean dishes. One highlight was the İzmir köfte, spiced lamb meatballs that were bursting with flavor. We also indulged in Tel kadayif, a delectable dessert made from shredded kadayif dough baked in syrup with crushed nuts. Each dish showcased the region’s emphasis on fresh, healthy ingredients and sustainable cooking practices.
H.E Emir Salim Yüksel, Ambassador of Türkiye to Kuala Lumpur giving his opening speech at highlighting sustainability as a pillar of Turkish cuisine at the Turkish Cuisine Week event held recently.
H.E. Emir Salim Yüksel, the Ambassador of Türkiye to Kuala Lumpur, opened the event with a speech that shed light on the significance of this year’s focus on Aegean cuisine. He emphasized the importance of sustainability, a key pillar of Turkish culinary tradition, and how the Aegean Mediterranean diet exemplifies a healthy, waste-free approach to cooking. The ambassador’s insights added a deeper appreciation for the cultural and historical context behind the food we enjoyed.
(Second from Right) His Excellency (H.E.) Emir Salim Yüksel, Ambassador of Türkiye to Kuala Lumpur, and (Far right) Ms. Ming Ho, General Manager of Le Cordon Bleu Malaysia, enjoying freshly baked Izmir köfte served by (far left) Chef Ramazan Bingöl in conjunction with Turkish Cuisine Week 2024.
The Aegean region of Türkiye is renowned for its stunning landscapes, rich history, and culinary heritage. This coastal area is celebrated for its use of fresh vegetables, local herbs, and abundant seafood. It’s also famous for its centuries-old olive trees and the production of high-quality olive oils, which are integral to the local diet and have been linked to long, healthy lives. The ancient olive oil workshop in Klazomenai, dating back 2,600 years, is a testament to the region’s long-standing tradition of olive cultivation.
Chef Bingöl’s presentation was not just about tasting delicious food but also about understanding the essence of Aegean cuisine. He explained how the region’s culinary practices are deeply rooted in sustainability and tradition. The demonstration of brewing traditional Turkish coffee was a perfect conclusion, adding a rich and aromatic touch to the event and highlighting the cultural significance of coffee in Türkiye.
Tel kadayif (shredded kadayif dough baked in syrup with crushed nuts)Izmir köfte (spiced lamb meatballs)Turkish Coffee
In conjunction with Turkish Cuisine Week, Curate at Four Seasons Hotel Kuala Lumpur will be hosting a Turkish culinary extravaganza from 21 – 26 May 2024. Esteemed chefs Karabatak and Atacan Uras from Four Seasons Hotel Sultanahmet in Istanbul will present a feast of exquisite Turkish flavors. The menu will feature a variety of dishes, from timeless favorites like kebabs and pilaf to rare delights such as Kuzu Tandir (Turkish Roasted Lamb). This event promises to be a spectacular gastronomic journey, and I can’t wait to experience more of Türkiye’s rich culinary heritage.
For anyone interested in exploring Turkish cuisine, I highly recommend visiting turkishcuisineweek.com for more information on the upcoming events. Turkish Cuisine Week 2024 is a celebration of tradition, sustainability, and the vibrant flavors that make Turkish food truly unique.
About Türkiye Located in the Mediterranean Sea and connecting the Asian and European continents that are separated by the famous Bosphorus, Türkiye is a unique destination and a hub for cultural interaction. In addition to its perfect climate, Türkiye inspires visitors with its history, nature and gastronomy, all of which reflect the diversity of civilisations from over many centuries. Located at the crossroads of cultures, Türkiye has a distinctive understanding of art and fashion which is the synthesis of tradition and modernity, and its dynamic shopping and entertainment life also attracts visitors from all over the world. For more information about Türkiye please visit: https://www.goturkiye.com/
In the heart of Kuala Lumpur, there’s a special place called Xin Cuisine. It’s part of the Concorde Hotel, known for its great food and nice atmosphere. With its elegant ambiance and delectable offerings, Xin Cuisine has carved a niche for itself as a premier destination for lovers of Chinese cuisine, specifically dim sums & roasted meat, in the heart of Kuala Lumpur. It has been operating since many years back but this was my first dining experience there. I really enjoyed it. When Xin Cuisine is the very few non-halal restaurants in a hotel in Malaysia, you know this must be really classic and gold.
Dim sums on push-carts
Embracing Timeless Traditional Cantonese Food & Dim Sum at Xin Cuisine For your info, Xin Cuisine is all about serving really good Cantonese food. They have lots of different dishes, like juicy barbecued meats, porridge, noodles and assorted dim sums. Every piece of dim sum was handmade with care, and I could really taste every bite is full of flavour and sincerity.
Dim sum, the beloved tradition of Cantonese cuisine, takes center stage at Xin Cuisine, where diners can savor a wide variety of these delectable bite-sized delights. Steamed, fried, or baked to perfection, dim sum offerings at Xin Cuisine range from delicate dumplings to fluffy buns, all served in the traditional manner using push-carts, adding an interactive element to the dining experience.
BBQ Puff 叉烧酥Lychee Cheesy Prawn Ball 荔枝芝士虾球*
Among the popular choices are: Trio Combination Platter (BBQ Pork, Roasted Pork, Roasted Duck) Prawn Dumpling 故乡鲜虾饺 Siew Mai 烧卖 Steamed Chicken Claw 豉汁蒸风爪 Steamed Fish Ball 茜菜蒸鱼卖 BBQ Pork Bun 蜜汁叉烧包 Seafood Dumpling Soup海鲜灌汤饺 Fried Salad Prawn 沙律炸虾角 Prawn Fritters 韭菜虾饼 BBQ Puff 叉烧酥 Egg Tart 酥皮蛋挞 Fried Beancurd Prawn 鲜虾腐皮卷 Baked Coconut Bun 菠萝椰丝包 Bamboo Rice 竹筒咸鱼粒饭 Lychee Cheesy Prawn Ball 荔枝芝士虾球* Rice Wine Chicken Bun黄酒鸡包* Fried Shrimp Cheong Fun 炸脆皮肠粉* Osmanthus Jelly 桂花糕 Mango Pomelo Sago 杨枝金露 *Limited-Time Dim Sum Specials – Weekday Exclusive
Mango Pomelo Sago 杨枝金露Seafood Dumpling Soup海鲜灌汤饺
Private Functions and Weddings Xin Cuisine provides four themed private dining rooms exclusively for private groups. On weekends, these rooms adapt to host larger crowds by opening their walls. Additionally, Xin Cuisine is available for wedding dinner banquets, accommodating approximately 20 tables.
I’m glad I visited on a weekday because I had the pleasure of enjoying beautiful Chinese music played by a resident artist on the traditional instrument known as the ‘guzheng’ 古筝. This is only available on weekdays.
The History of Two Dragon Pillars At Xin Cuisine, you’ll find an enduring elegance embodied by two ornate dragon pillars that have adorned the premises since the era when it was known as Hotel Merlin. Crafted from a single tree trunk sourced from Taiwan, these pillars were skillfully carved by a talented craftsman from Taiwan during that time.
Two Dragon Pillars
📍Xin Cuisine Chinese Restaurant Concorde Hotel KL, Jln Sultan Ismail, Kuala Lumpur, 50250 Kuala Lumpur Operating hours : Monday – Friday: 11.00 am – 2.30 pm (brunch) & 6.00 pm – 10.00 pm (dinner) Saturday: 9.00 am – 2.30 pm (brunch) & 6.00 pm – 10.00 pm (dinner) Sunday & PH: 8.30 am – 2.30 pm (brunch) & 6.00 pm – 10.00 pm (dinner) Tel: 03-2144 2200 extension 2338 *This is a non-halal restaurant *Booking is allowed on weekdays. Strictly no booking on weekends.
Discovering the Legacy of Concorde Hotel KL Concorde Hotel Kuala Lumpur, (formerly known as Merlin Hotel) a landmark in the bustling cityscape of Kuala Lumpur, provides the perfect setting for an unforgettable dining experience at Xin Cuisine. With its strategic location in the Golden Triangle, the hotel offers easy access to major shopping malls like Suria KLCC, Pavilion KL, Sungei Wang, entertainment venues, and corporate offices, making it an ideal destination for both leisure and business travelers alike.
To truly experience Langkawi, you’ve got to spend a night or two on Tuba Island. It’s just a quick 20-minute ferry ride away. Tuba Island, also called Pulau Tuba, sits right next to the main island of Langkawi. The distance between the two islands is pretty short, usually just 1 to 3 kilometers, depending on where you are. Getting there is easy-peasy—just hop on a ferry from Langkawi, and you’ll be there in no time. The ride usually takes about 10 to 30 minutes, depending on the waves and where you set off from.
Take a ferry from Jeti Pelancongan Kuah to Tuba IslandInside the ferry
My own ferry trip with Bestuba took around 20 minutes, from Jeti Pelancongan Kuah to Jeti Pulau Tuba. And guess what? It only cost RM5 per person.
Entrance of Tuba Island CottageLove the scene here
One of the places to stay in Tuba Island is Tuba Island Cottage which offers a serene escape for couples or groups who want a peaceful getaway with comfy vibes and a special atmosphere. This cozy place opened its doors in 2018 and has since become a hit with travelers who want to escape the busy city life and just chill.
Tuba Island Cottage is all about peace and coziness, offering a variety of rooms to fit your needs. There are 10 rooms in total, each equipped with essentials like bed (either single or double), bathroom, air conditioning, TV, and kettle. Among them, six spacious Superior Rooms feature extra perks like fridge, sink, and more space, while the four Standard Rooms provide a simpler but still comfy stay. Plus, there’s a standby room available for last-minute bookings, making sure everyone can enjoy this serene retreat.
The view in the early morning
From my personal experience, what sets Tuba Island Cottage apart is how close it is to nature. When you’re here, you’re not just visiting—you’re really part of the island’s natural beauty. You can hear the trees rustling and even the chickens clucking. Every moment on the island is a chance to feel connected to the world around you.
Cute cat
Just a short ride or a quick walk from Tuba Island Cottage, you’ll find Warung Pokok Asam, a restaurant that’s only a minute or two away by motorbike, or about a 5-minute walk. They serve up a bunch of tasty dishes, especially prawn noodles like Mee Udang, Nasi Goreng Udang, Beehoon Goreng Udang, Kuetiau Kungfu Udang, as well as Nasi Goreng Ayam, Nasi Pattaya, and lots more, all at really good prices. The restaurant is open every day from 11 am to 11 pm.
This restaurant is a mere 5 minutes walk away from Tuba Island Cottage
If you want a quiet escape surrounded by nature, Tuba Island Cottage is the place to be. To book a stay, just give Puan Watie a call at 019-831 7810. And if you need a ride to the island, they can arrange transportation for a small fee, so you can relax and enjoy your trip without any worries.
_____ Like what you read and intrigued to incorporate nature-based travel, immerse in Malaysian cultures, and embark on thrilling adventures into your itinerary? Reach out at 017-407 9734 or 019-303 6008, or email qttgroup.management@gmail.com for additional details and quote referral code QTTNBT-07.
QTT FAM Trip to Langkawi is organised by QTT Group Plt in collaboration with LADA, Jupeter Holidays and supported by KembaRojak.
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