ORCHID CULTURE BLOOMS AT TOUS LES JOURS

Since it arrived in the local F&B scene in June 2013, French-Asian bakery TOUS les JOURS (Everyday) from South Korea has been winning baked goods fans with its wide selection of bread, pastries, cakes and beverages.

Recently, a fresh idea has bloomed at Tous les Jours at the Empire Shopping Gallery Subang where the South Korean bakery franchise has teamed up with Orchid Culture to open the first orchid boutique in the country.

According to Orchid Culture director Darren Yeo (pix above), both Orchid Culture and Tous les Jours are in synergy when it comes to delivering the best and freshest in their business. "The focus on quality resonates with our brands and we strive to continue to provide only the best as Orchid Culture continues to grow."

Orchid Culture, which has two outlets - one in Bangsar Shopping Centre and the other in Tous les Jours Empire Shopping Gallery Subang, plans to expand the unique concept to more locations in the Klang Valley going forward.

Both entities are positive customers would respond well to their fresh approach as they believe while the tempting oven-fresh offerings of Tous les Jours are food for the soul, Orchid Culture's majestic orchids known as phalaenopsis should be a stimulating feast for the eyes.

An orchid specie native to Southeast Asia and Northern Australia, the flowers commonly known as 'moth orchids' are large and often resemble moths. It takes about 4-5 years for a carefully cultivated plant to bloom and the delicate, pretty blooms last about 2-3 months.

Although the phalaenopsis requires minimum maintenance in our Malaysian climate, it should be watered every 10 days or so. We were advised to keep the plants indoors as they are fond of human habitat temperate zones of 18-30 degrees Celsius. Keep them near bright windows or indoor lighting with plenty of air circulation.

This orchid makes an excellent gift for floral and nature lovers or as a focal centrepiece at home, hotels or even weddings. Prices start from RM70 onwards for a live plant. As the first and only specialised orchid florist, Orchid Culture is established by Waltex Biotec Sdn Bhd, Malaysia's largest grower of Phalaenopsis.

The next time you're stuck for gift ideas, pop into Tous les Jours Empire Subang and pick up a fresh orchid plant to go with the irresistible baked goods available there.

Check out Orchid Culture at Tous les Jours Boulangerie & Bistro, Lot GK08A Ground Floor, Empire Shopping Gallery Subang. Tel: 03-5036 7749. www.tlj.com.my

HIP COMFORT AT KIP HOTEL

 

Managed by the Lexis Group of Hotels & Resorts, the new and first ever KIP Hotel Kuala Lumpur beckons business and leisure travellers from the Sri Utara commercial district to its doors as of 1 October 2015.

 

Anthony Wee, general manager of KIP Hotel KL says the hotel’s strategic location will deliver personalised service to leisure and business guests from the Sri Utara vicinity and surrounding areas through its 199 modern, chic and comfy guest rooms.

 

 

The hotel’s soft opening ceremony saw a group of hotel personnel performing a catchy dance routine to rousing applause. Then media members were ushered on a tour of the Deluxe Queen, Deluxe Twin and Executive Queen rooms. Coming progressively would be Deluxe Suites and an Executive Suite.

Furnishings in the rooms are noticeably livened up by open-plan wardrobes and bright wall colours. LED screen TVs and complimentary WiFi should keep guests happy and occupied throughout their stay.

 

The small but cosy Aroma all-day dining restaurant is similarly outfitted in sleek, neutral touches. AtSix Lounge by day is the meeting point for chit-chat and relaxing while Aqua by the Pool offers respite from the poolside bar or a dip in the infinity pool.

Fitness buffs can work up a sweat at the gym before adjourning for drinks at Atop sky bar. All Coffee All Juices (ACAJ) café proffers artisanal coffee and fresh juices accompanied by dessert and pastry selections.

Planning to hold special events and corporate functions? Check out the four function rooms with 1,969sq.ft. banquet hall for intimate and medium sized gatherings.

Valerie Ong, director of KIP Group says the hotel expects to attract travellers from the corporate and government sectors with its contemporary design and modern amenities. “It’s a significant milestone for the KIP Group as plans are afoot for the opening of more KIP Hotels in Sepang and Melaka.”

Room rates start from RM240 nett. For reservations at KIP Hotel KL, call 03-6252 0888 or email: enquiry.hotel@kip.com.my. Address: 77, Jalan Seri Utara 1, Sri Utara off Jalan Ipoh, KL. Website: www.kiphotel.com.my

FEASTS, GIFTS AND CHRISTMAS CHEER

 

 

 An epic Christmas feast of gargantuan proportion ... that's the larger-than-life theme Bangsar Shopping Centre (BSC) has laid out this year to celebrate the merry Christmas and year-end season.

 Shop for Christmas decor & festive trimmings for your home

Clusters of real-life pine trees imported from the US of A decked the retail halls; the evergreen scent perfuming the air as shoppers rush to grab last-minute gifts or revel in BSC's 12 Feasting Days activities.

Drop by the Sothy's gift station at the Christmas Bazaar to discover glowing beauty secrets for gals and guys or shop for crafty stocking stuffers from the various trinkets, delicious goodies or toy stations.

 Whimsical selection from Marquise

 

Spread some good cheer for the less fortunate by donating your pre-loved books, playthings or any thoughtful gifts at the Charity Booth. Little ones can even write a letter to Santa and mail it there and then. The best 3 letters will be invited to attend lunch with Santa so hurry up and drop him a line!

 

 

 

Speed fiends should pose with the McLaren mean machine and post their pics on BSC's FB page. Who knows, that racy snapshot may just earn you a mystery gift.

 

 

 You can even rustle up a complete festive feast at Jason's Food Hall or surprise loved ones with the most irresistible foodie finds from BSC's many restaurants or cafes. We love those imported Christmas cakes especially the whiskey-laced ones!

 

Also look out for old-school rock candies, fancy gourmet chocs from Patchi, whimsical Christmassy cakes from Just Heavenly and panettone in sumptuous packaging. Stunning stuff that foodie friends will love to receive. Hint, hint! :D

 

 

 

Carollers, string quartets and wind ensembles will add to the lively ambience - I suggest you check BSC's FB: BangsarShoppingCentre page and www.bsc.com.my for the calendar of events and activities to fill up your days from now until the last days of 2013.

Don't miss out on freebies like stripey candy canes and Konitz designer mugs (for purchases above RM800 or for CIMB cardmembers RM600). Helpful elves to wrap your pressies are at hand over at the Gift Wrap station.

So eat, drink and be jolly at BSC from now until December 29. Call 03-2094 7700 for more details.