Food & Drink

Celebrate Raya 2025 with The Chicken Rice Shop’s Hikayat Ayam Zamrud & Refreshing Lagenda Kurma Drink

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As the sacred month of Ramadan begins and Aidilfitri approaches, Malaysians across the nation come together to reflect, give thanks, and share moments of joy with loved ones. In the spirit of togetherness, The Chicken Rice Shop (TCRS) proudly introduces its latest seasonal masterpiece — Hikayat Ayam Zamrud, a limited-time menu item inspired by the rich flavours of tradition and culture. This special dish is a perfect companion for your buka puasa (breaking fast) and Raya celebrations, combining taste, warmth, and nostalgia in every bite.

I recently tried the Hikayat Ayam Zamrud, and it’s more than just a meal — it’s a rich culinary tale told through every bite. This hearty dish features perfectly golden-fried, juicy chicken paired with fragrant rice and a warm, comforting bowl of soup. What truly elevates the dish is the bold and aromatic sambal hijau — a local Malaysian favourite. Made from a fragrant blend of herbs, fresh green chilies, and a zesty hint of lime, the sambal delivers a balanced punch of spice and freshness that lingers on your palate. As someone who savours bold, Malaysian-style flavours, I thoroughly enjoyed the harmony of textures and spices in this dish. The crispy exterior of the chicken contrasts beautifully with its tender, juicy interior, and the aroma of the rice alone sets the tone for a fulfilling meal. To top it all off, the special-edition Lagenda Kurma drink — sweet and refreshing — is the perfect finish to the meal, offering a cool escape after a spicy, savoury experience.

In the true spirit of Ramadan, TCRS is also giving back to the community. As part of its ongoing commitment to social responsibility, The Chicken Rice Shop is extending heartfelt support by delivering hearty, nourishing Hikayat Ayam Zamrud meals to local orphanages in the Klang Valley through special food donation initiatives. The three orphanages are Rumah Anak-Anak Yatim Shifa, Rumah Penyayang Nur Iman, and Rumah Titian Kaseh. This generous effort reminds us all of the values that make Ramadan meaningful — compassion, gratitude, and giving.

Join in the celebration by trying Hikayat Ayam Zamrud, available now for a limited time at all The Chicken Rice Shop outlets nationwide. Don’t miss the chance to experience this festive culinary creation while supporting a noble cause.

Follow The Chicken Rice Shop on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and their official website for the latest updates, promotions, and more feel-good food stories this Raya season.

Food & Drink, Travel

8/5 Runway Cafe Phuket – Best Plane Spotting Cafe Near Phuket Airport

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I just got back from an amazing trip to Phuket, Thailand, and I’m excited to share some of the most interesting places I visited. First up on my list is a truly unique café experience you won’t want to miss — 8/5 Runway Cafe.

This cozy little café is located right next to the runway of Phuket International Airport (HKT), and yes — you can actually see it from the airplane window as you land. It’s that close! For aviation enthusiasts, travel lovers, or anyone looking for a cool new hangout spot, 8/5 Runway Cafe offers something out of the ordinary: the thrill of sipping your drink while planes roar overhead, landing just a stone’s throw away.

The atmosphere is laid-back and intimate, with a small seating area that keeps things peaceful. Despite its size, the café is incredibly popular with photography lovers and plane spotters, many of whom come here to capture the perfect shot of low-flying aircraft. You’ll often see people setting up cameras or just relaxing with their phones pointed toward the sky.

The menu has something for everyone. If you’re into sweets, try their cakes, muffins, croissants, puffs, or even ice cream. For drinks, they serve a variety of coffee, tea, smoothies, and more — perfect for cooling down on a hot Phuket day or perking up before a flight. My friends and I had Dalgona coffee, iced caramel latte, iced Thai milk tea, banana chocolate cake and chocolate lava cake.

There’s ample parking space, making it easy for both locals and tourists to drop by. The staff is friendly and welcoming, and the barista speaks English well, so communication is smooth and easy even if you’re not fluent in Thai.

Minimum spend is 80THB per person, paid as an entrance fee at the ground floor counter. This amount can be fully redeemed for food and beverages at the upstairs café. You can also top up if you’d like to order more.

5 safety tips when visiting:
1. Do not climb and always keep clear from Airport Security Fence.
2. No flash camera.
3. No drone or any unmanned aircraft (UAV).
4. No laser.
5. No balloon & sky lantern.

Whether you’re looking for a relaxed café with a twist, a scenic photo spot, or simply a good coffee with a view, 8/5 Runway Cafe in Phuket is definitely worth a visit.

📍8/5 Runway Cafe
8/5 ถนนเรียบรันเวย์ Mai Khao, Thalang District, Phuket 83110, Thailand
Operating hours: 9AM – 6:30PM
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/47u4PL3rtM2Fb9fr9
FB: 8/5 Runway Cafe

Lifestyle, My Personal

Blind Boxes: Fun Collectibles or a Modern-Day Addiction?

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Blind boxes have taken the world by storm, with stores like Pop Mart, Top Toy, and others dominating the collectible market. Popular characters such as Labubu, Crybaby, Sanrio Hello Kitty & Kuromi, and Disney’s Princesses, these mystery boxes create excitement with every unboxing. But are they just a fun hobby, or is society falling into a psychological trap?

How Blind Boxes Work
Before we proceed further, let’s talk about how blind boxes work. Blind boxes operate on a mystery-based purchase model, where buyers receive a sealed package without knowing the exact item inside. Each series consists of a set number of figures, often including common, rare, and ultra-rare editions. Collectors may buy multiple boxes to try and complete a full set, but since items are randomized, they often end up with duplicates—leading to either more purchases or trading with other collectors.

The Thrill Behind Blind Boxes
Blind boxes work on a simple yet powerful concept: you don’t know what you’re getting until you open the package. This element of surprise taps into human psychology, triggering a dopamine rush similar to gambling. The idea of chasing rare figures makes the experience even more thrilling, pushing people to buy more in hopes of completing their collection.

How Blind Boxes Affect Children

  1. Instant Gratification & Dopamine Dependency – Kids experience a rush of happiness when opening a blind box, reinforcing a need for constant surprises.
  2. Emotional Regulation Issues – Not getting the desired figure can lead to frustration, tantrums, or disappointment.
  3. Unrealistic Spending Habits – Many children don’t understand the value of money and may repeatedly ask parents to buy more.
  4. Peer Pressure & Social Influence – Seeing friends or influencers collect popular characters like Labubu or Crybaby can make kids feel left out, pushing them to want more.

The Impact on Adults

  1. Dopamine Addiction & Financial Strain – Many adults justify excessive spending as a “hobby” but end up buying blind boxes compulsively.
  2. Gambling-Like Behaviour – The random reward system encourages repeated purchases, much like slot machines.
  3. Stress & Anxiety – The fear of missing out (FOMO) and frustration of not getting rare items can cause anxiety.
  4. Social Media Pressure – Unboxing videos from influencers fuel consumerism, making collectors feel the need to show off their purchases.

When Does It Become A Problem?
While collecting blind boxes is not inherently bad, it becomes a problem when:

  • You spend beyond your budget, chasing a rare Labubu or Crybaby figure.
  • You experience stress or anxiety over missing out.
  • You buy more out of frustration instead of enjoyment.

Finding A Healthy Balance
To enjoy blind boxes without falling into an unhealthy cycle:
✔ Set a budget – Decide how much you’re willing to spend each month.
✔ Trade or resell duplicates – Platforms and communities allow swapping figures instead of overspending.
✔ Enjoy the experience, not just the outcome – Appreciate the thrill of collecting rather than just the rarest pieces.
✔ Educate children on money management – Help kids understand that blind boxes are a luxury, not a necessity.

Conclusion
So do you think this hobby is harmless fun or dangerous obsession? Blind boxes offer excitement and joy, but when unchecked, they can lead to financial stress, addiction, and anxiety. Whether you love Labubu, Crybaby, Sanrio characters, or Disney’s princesses collectibles, it’s essential to enjoy the hobby responsibly. Set limits, trade wisely, and remember—collecting should bring happiness, not stress!

Do you love blind boxes and which character is your favourite? Share your thoughts in the comments!

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.