Showing posts with label Cafe. Show all posts

[FOOD] 20130803 The Loaf Bakery and Bistro Perdana Quay @ Telaga Harbour, Langkawi


The Loaf is a Japanese fusion bakery and bistro that also serves Western style ala carte menu for breakfast, lunch or even dinner. Using traditional Japanese baking methods coupled with the best ingredients, the bakery sets to serve the best products to its customers.

The bakery is linked to our former Malaysian Prime Minister, Tun Dr Mahathir, with the first outlet opened in Telaga Harbour, Langkawi in 2006. You will often see Tun's name appear in the menu such as Tun's Breakfast.

Over the years, this premium bakery has expanded outside Langkawi with a few outlets opened at key hotspots in Klang Valley such as Pavillion, Bangsar Village II, Empire Subang, Sogo KL, Avanue K, Nu Sentral, KLIA 2, Sunway Pyramid, Mitsui Outlet Park, the Mines, Cheras Central Mall, DPulze Cyberjaya and Great Eastern Mall. They also have another outlet in Langkawi which is located at the new Cenang Mall.

The Loaf serves various kind of bread and pastries, including cookies and jams. They also have their own specialty dessert known as the Uhuhu that looks more like a cup cake with different topping selections.

C9 Perdana Quay Telaga Harbour Park Pantai Kok, Langkawi 07000 Kedah
Telephone: +604 959 4866
Opening Hours: 10:00am until 10:00pm

TO GO


The Perdana Quay is located at the Telaga Harbour which is towards the west side of the island, with a good view of sea and yacht. However, the location is kinda remote and it's recommended to rent a car as grabbing a cab may not be easy.


SPECIALITY



It was my second day in Langkawi and I'm on my way to Panorama Langkawi hence decided to drop by The Loaf Bakery and Bistro at Perdana Quay for breakfast since it's along the way, otherwise I would hardly drop by due to the distance away from main attraction areas.


The first outlet is located at this serene and quiet Telaga Harbour, overlooking the nice view of yacht docks. The Perdana Quay is rather quiet in my opinion with little crowd, it will be tough for the outlets here to sustain and constant upkeep and maintenance is required to keep the flow of tourist coming in. The whole place was rather quiet with majority of the commercial activity located at the sea-fronting side.


You can choose to dine outside with a cuppa while overlooking the beautiful scenery, but I prefer to avoid the scorching hot sun. I would be nice to sit outside at night with the cold night sea breeze and some music. Hmm..


The bakery was quiet in the morning with only a few patrons, probably also due to Ramadhan month during my visit where all the Muslims are fasting. The interior is cozy with a warm and homey feel.



They have various pastries and breads to offer and most of them do look very appetizing. They do provide some samplers for you to try. Prices are towards the higher side but still affordable, probably will just buy less.


This is one very special looking bread that looks like a pizza but actually known as the Coco Choco.


More bread for your selection.


I ordered the Square Egg on Toast (RM13) for a start with the description quoted from their menu "Thick toast with square sunny side-up egg, chicken sausages, hash brown and fresh grill tomato" that comes with a choice of coffee or tea. Well, to be honest, there's nothing to shout about this plate with everything looks and taste mediocre with oily hash brown and blunt toast.


The coffee that comes along with the toast. Very thick black coffee towards the acidic side.


Don't quite remember what this is called but if not mistaken it is the Scrambled Egg with Beef Stripes. The look might not be appetizing but fortunately the taste is ok, although nothing spectacular.


Hot Chocolate was also acceptable but I do hope for a richer taste of chocolate.


I also ordered a croissant for comparison purpose as I just had one of the best croissant the day before at La Chocolatine at Pantai Tengah. As expected, the croissant is the typical crispy pastry, which I don't fancy and I still prefer the one back in La Chocolatine.


Last but not least is of course their signature Uhuhu dessert and I ordered the Chocolate Almond (RM3+) to wrap up my breakfast. It taste more like a moose dessert than a cup cake,

SUMMARY


I never been to The Loaf at KL and only tried in Langkawi since it is the origin. Overall, the environment is cozy but the food were disappointing even though the breads are still up to standard. I would recommend to just dine in during tea break for their pastries and bread and forget about the ala carte menu. Price is also towards the high side and not to value for such quality.

Taste
 ☆☆☆
 mediocre
Value
 ☆☆☆
 high side
Service
 ☆☆☆☆☆
 Very attentive and friendly staff
Cleanliness
 ☆☆☆☆☆
Opening Hours
08:00am until 10:00pm (Daily)
Wifi
Yes
Parking
Yes
Website
http://www.theloaf.com.my/

GPS: 6.368551, 99.682553
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[FOOD] 20130802 La Chocolatine @ Pantai Tengah, Langkawi


Had my first breakfast in Langkawi at La Chocolatine after my night flight back in 2013. It is a small French pastry shop owned by a French, who is also the pastry chef, serving some very nice pastries and desserts.

Although the price seemed to be on the higher end but it is totally justified by the quality of the pastries and desserts served, with some French desserts that are rarely seen in normal pastries. They do serve breakfast sets with sandwiches and omelette if you fancy a western breakfast.

La Chocolatine is located at Pantai Tengah, right after the junction between Jalan Pantai Tengah and Jalan Teluk Baru.

03 Jalan Teluk Baru, Pantai Tengah, 07000 Langkawi, Kedah
Telephone: +604 - 9558891
Opening Hours: 09:00am until 09:00pm

TO GO


La Chocolatine is located at Pantai Tengah, which is towards the South end of popular tourist spot of Pantai Cenang. If you are staying nearby Pantai Cenang or Pantai Tengah then travelling by foot is most recommended as you can also enjoy the beach front.

Any other locations would require you to either rent a car or bike or to take a cab.

SPECIALITY



La Chocolatine is a cozy little pastry shop with a striking orange sign board located just after the end of Jalan Pantai Tengah with a beach fronting (although some distance away).


It has a very simple yet homey interior with some trace of French culture. The service was friendly and prompt and I noticed some locals are working on the pastries in the kitchen.


Breakfast set menu are available but I don't quite get the reason of serving two beverages but only one bread, of course with the price tag of RM20 and above (that was in 2013!).


I opt for the ala carte menu instead to have more flexibility. They serve Nespresso coffee along with tea or hot chocolate to accompany your pastry. Although I would like to comment on my Cappuccino was just mediocre. Better just to focus on their pastries and desserts and to skip beverages.

Croissant - RM4

Their croissant was a killer. I'm not a fan of croissant but this particular croissant totally changed my perspective of croissant because I used to think that croissant is dry and oily with layers of pastries. The croissant made by La Chocolatine was different, it was soft and fluffy with rich butter flavour.


The inner texture of the croissant reassembles more like a bread (but not bread!) instead of the normal croissant that I used to have.


I also ordered this bread (sorry I don't remember the name!) which is also very good. I really like the texture of the pastries, not forgetting the flavour.


Desserts are also their signature and I believe the girls will definitely scream in front of the patisserie counter with arrays of sinful desserts for the sweet tooth. Common French desserts such as enclair, tarts, macaroons and many other fancy French-named desserts. However, do expect a higher price tag for such premium quality desserts with at least RM10 each.

I skipped desserts as it was too early in the morning for a sweet dip. Probably will try it next time when I'm in Langkawi again. 


SUMMARY


Very nice and authentic pastries that totally revamped my perspective of pastries. It gave me an insight on how well a pastry can taste like, if properly done. It was kinda rare to find a French pastry in a place like Langkawi but perhaps the peaceful and slow pace of Langkawi attracted many foreigners to reside here.

Taste
 ☆☆☆☆☆
 Very nice pastries
Value
 ☆☆☆☆
Price is on the higher end
Service
 ☆☆☆☆
Cleanliness
 ☆☆☆☆☆
Opening Hours
09:00am until 09:00pm (Daily)
Wifi
Yes
Parking
Yes
Website
Nil

GPS: 6.282507, 99.730884
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[PLACE] 20150114 Khaosan Road @ Phra Nakhon, Bangkok


Khaosan Road or Khao San Road was once a main rice market, suggested from the name "Khaosan" which literally means "milled rice". It is now a famous night market and backpacker's street with cheap accommodation which attracts many backpackers from around the world.

It is also a travel hub where many travel agents providing cheap and affordable tours to various destination around Thailand and even outside Thailand with one stop Visa application services. My half day trip to Damnoen Saduak Floating Market is also arranged by one of the travel agent from here.

At night, the street transforms into a very happening place with street vendors, food stalls, pubs and other entertainment. Khaosan Road is considered to be a more hippy place and is flooded with more foreign tourists than any other night market around Bangkok.

You may find many interesting in Khaosan Road that you may rarely encounter else where like makeshift mobile pubs, campervan pubs, edible bugs stalls etc.

Khaosan Rd Khet Phra Nakhon Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10200 Thailand
Nearest BTS Stations: Nil
Telephone: Nil
Opening Hours: Nil

TO GO


Khaosan Road is not near to any BTS nor MRT stations and mostly you would need to grab a cab to reach here.



ATTRACTION


Khaosan Road is more lively at night with the variety of pubs and cafe. It caters more for the younger market with its strong music and adventurous offerings such as on-the-spot tattoos, fried scorpions on-the-go, street challenges etc.


More than half of the visitors here are foreigners and mostly staying nearby at the backpackers' lounge or hotels.


Temporary or permanent tattoos stalls are commonly seen here in Khaosan Road and they will do it on the spot like a free show.



Not forgetting the traditional Thai massage, from the cheap open air mass-production type, to the slightly premium air-conditioned parlours along the streets. A great way to pamper your foot after a long walk.


The Khaosan Road expands into the alley from the main street which will lead you to the other side of Khaosan Road where they are more restaurants and pubs awaiting for you.


In contrast to the more happening main street, the side walk is more cozy and relaxing with pubs and restaurants if you are looking for a bite.



The BBQ seafood is very tempting and inviting with the aroma. If it wasn't because I was still full from the earlier seafood dinner at T&K Seafood, I might end up having my dinner here instead. Probably next time.


Further down the streets, the crowd became lesser and the streets are quiet and dark. However, this is where all the cute little campervan bars are located. The locals creatively transformed these old campervan into vibrant and colourful road side bars. Each having its own distinctive characteristics.


Some with loud techno music while some others with soothing chillax melodies.


Some cuter version of the campervan bars.


No campervan? Nevermind, old pick up trucks will do just fine.


Towards the very end of the street, there's this red looking cafe with some tents outside for those who are looking for a quiet environment away from the busy streets.


SUMMARY


Khaosan Road caters more to youngsters who are more adventurous and active with a variety of unique experience. It is a relatively short street but a more hipster area compared to other night markets and it is very lively. It is known as the backpacker's street with many backpacker's lounge established within the vicinity. Here is also one of a few places that you are able to find exotic bug/insect snacks for those who dare to try.

Attraction
☆☆☆☆☆
very lively and happening street.
Cleanliness
☆☆☆

Entrance Fee
Nil
Opening Hours
Daily
Wifi
Nil
Parking
Limited
Website
Nil

GPS: 13.759012, 100.497098
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[FOOD] 20150113 After You Cafe @ Siam Paragon, Bangkok


After You Cafe, with their tagline "there's always room for dessert" simply reminds you not to miss out their delicious dessert even after your tummy is filled with Bangkok's street food.

The cafe started off from a college girl' passion in baking back in 2007 and has expanded ever since until what it is today with 11 outlets around Bangkok, serving the signature toast and cakes like the well known Shibuya Honey Toast and Chocolate Lava Cake.

Besides delicious dessert, the cozy environment is also another reason why this cafe is so well received by the patrons. Some outlets are located in shopping malls while others are at shoplots which are road fronting under the outdoor environment.

They have been constantly improving their menu by adding new dessert choices, making sure you will have a refreshing visit every time.

Outlets:
- Siam Paragon
- Siam Square One
- Central World
- Silom Complex
- J Avenue
- Lavilla, Paholyotin
- The Crystal, Phase 2
- Central Plaza, Ladprao
- The Mall Bangkapi
- The Crystal Ratchapruek
- INT Intersect

After You Cafe, Siam Paragon, Ground Floor
Nearest BTS Station: Siam Station
Telephone: +6602 - 610 7659
Opening Hours: 10:00am until 10:30pm (Daily)

TO GO


There are as many as 11 outlets around Bangkok, which you may pick one outlet which is nearest to your location, with Siam area being the most convenient and highly recommended. Just take a BTS from any line and travel towards Siam station, which is also the interchange station for both BTS line. From here, the nearest outlet will be either Siam Paragon or Siam Square One.



SPECIALITY



You have to be early to beat the crowds as I have read online reviews that the cafe will be swarmed by patrons during peak hours. If you have a tight schedule, I would recommend you to come early or to some other outlets that are further away, whichever is convenient. It was an early weekday during my visit, hence the kinda empty tables with some tourist and students around.


The menu didn't come cheap for Thailand's standard with each dessert costs average above 150 Baht (RM16.50). Besides desserts, they do serve coffee and other hot beverages if you are looking for an early fix. They have complimentary drinking water, to be self serviced as well.

Shibuya Honey Toast - 170 Baht (RM18)

Frankly, I'm only here for the Shibuya Honey Toast, which was what the hype was all about. This thick toast with two scoops of vanilla ice cream and some cream topped with almond chunk costs 170 Baht (RM18) if not mistaken, pretty pricey for a piece of bread. It better holds up to what it claims!


What's a honey toast without honey? The Shibuya Honey Toast is best served with a pour of honey over it. The toast, despite thick, is very soft and buttery. You can easily press down the knife through the toast of bread and top your bite with the sweet dip of honey and vanilla ice cream. It does have other variants of the toast like Nutella, Strawberry, Matcha etc etc.

Recommended to be shared by at least two person as it was quite a big serving and it is also too much for one to stuff the whole toast by him or herself. Might visit another time to try out the others, but for now, some tummy reservation is required for my next stop.

SUMMARY


The main shout out will be the toast while others are just toppings and add on to compliment the toast. Recommended for those who have a sweet tooth or dessert/toast lover, not so much for a guy like me. Portion is big, recommended to be shared.

Taste
☆☆☆☆
Key is the toast while ice cream is just compliment.
Value
☆☆☆
Very pricey for a toast and Thailand' standard, but still worth a try
Service
☆☆☆☆
Friendly staff and service
Cleanliness
☆☆☆☆☆
Opening Hours
Varies according to outlets
Siam Paragon: 10:00am until 10:30pm (Daily)
Wifi
Yes
Parking
Yes
Website
http://www.afteryoudessertcafe.com/

GPS: 13.746330, 100.534692
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[FOOD] 20141219 Kam Wah Cafe 金华茶室 @ Mongkok



Kam Wah Cafe is the place to look for if you are looking for some famous "Polo buns" (菠萝包). The Polo buns (nothing to do with Marco Polo) is actually a normal bun with a sugar crust coated on top that looks like pineapple (bo lo in Cantonese) when baked, hence the name.

The bun is actually commonly served in many "cafe" in HK with options to be served with butter slices (菠萝油), pork chop (猪扒菠萝包) and etc. The Kam Wah Cafe in Mongkok is well known for its fresh-from-oven buns that is usually sold out very quickly.

Besides Polo buns, the cafe also sells various pastries like coconut tart and egg tart (Tai Cheong is much better) and cooked food for those to opt to dine in.

47 Bute Street, Mongkok, Hong Kong
太子弼街47號地下
Nearest MRT Stations: Prince Edward Station, Exit B2
Telephone: +852 2392 6830
Opening Hours: 06:30am until 12:00am

TO GO


Kam Wah Cafe is located at Bute Street, Mongkok, which is accessible via Prince Edward Station, Exit B2 or Mong Kok Station, Exit B3. Both stations are accessible via Kwun Tong Line (Green) or Tsuen Wan Line (Red)




SPECIALITY




Kam Wah Cafe offers both dine in and take away option. Their daily menu are usually published at the frontage of the shop with prices included.


Hong Kong cafes like to sell in set due to practicality and for volume of sales. It's easier for patrons to order just Set A, B or C and easier for the owner to prepare, as well as to get higher volume and profit.

Normal Polo Bun with Butter - HKD9 (RM4)


Polo Bun with Pork Chop 猪扒菠萝包 - HKD20 (RM9)

Today decided to dine in and of course not forgetting their famous buns. The yellowish bun has very soft texture with the sweet powdery crust on top. The bun is best served fresh and hot as I did take away one and it didn't taste as good after it became cold.

Stir-Fried HK style Pork Keow Teow 猪扒河 - HKD44 (RM20)

Over the three days of stay and I never get to try HK's famous stir-fried beef keow teow and I saw Kam Wah Cafe have that in the menu, so I ordered one to try (beef was substituted with pork because I don't take beef). To be honest, the noodle just taste mediocre, but I didn't have high expectations to begin with since this dish is not the signature here.

Signature Toast 西多士 - HKD19 (RM9)


Half way through the food I saw the signboard showing their award winning Toast (西多士) so I decided to give it a try also since this will be my last meal in HK before heading to Shenzhen.


The toast is served with maple syrup. To be honest, the toast has nothing to shout about. Please skip this. The toast served in Bangkok's After You Cafe is much better than this.


Now you see where the name of the bun came from?

SUMMARY


Not totally worth a visit unless you are nearby looking for a bite. The buns are ok but the rest are just mediocre.

Taste
☆☆☆
nothing much to shout about except for the buns.
Value
☆☆☆☆
average pricing
Service
☆☆☆☆
not good but not too bad either. 
Cleanliness
☆☆☆
Opening Hours
06:30am until 12:00am (Daily)
Wifi
N/A
Parking
N/A
Website
N/A

GPS: 22.322222, 114.169727
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