TIPPLES & TREATS AT FARQUHAR'S BAR

Lovers of Happy Hours and discerning bon vivant who yearn to slake their thirst can make a beeline for the much-loved Farquhar’s Bar. Remodelled as a vintage cocktail bar, Farquhar’s Bar at the Eastern & Oriental Hotel Penang is relocated further down the marble and French doors walkway at the newly refreshed Heritage Wing.

Subdued, mellow lighting coupled with deep teal blue hues and white cornices evoke a rarefied atmosphere similar to a gentlemen’s club and private study. The oak and brass-finished long bar serves as a focal point near the entrance whilst the inner sanctum boasts studded leather Chesterfield sofas, retro arm and wing back chairs, antique fittings, and collections of monochrome prints. Scenic views of Penang’s waterfront beckon beyond its expansive picture windows.

Cocktail o’clock has never been more atas...the resident mixologists are adept at whisking up classic and contemporary tipples. To wet our whistle, we opted for Gin Setengah (RM45) – London Dry Gin with Grand Marnier, longan and a splash of pineapple juice (3rd pix below); Pink Lady (RM50) – London Dry Gin with Applejack, lemon juice, housemade grenadine and egg white (2nd pix below); and Moscow Mule (RM45) – Vodka, lime juice and spicy ginger beer (pix below).

Should you wish to chase your drinks of choice with light refreshments, the snack creations are worth the calorie intake. Simplistic in approach but lush and big on flavour is Potato & Caviar (RM28), airy-light potato crisps with sour cream and caviar dip.

Heartier but a definite palate-pleaser is the sumptuous and melty Gruyère Cheese Sandwich (RM28). Savoury rich with a smoky aftertaste, the brioche toast triangles were sublime and satisfying.

Delectable options to stave off hunger pangs include Peranakan Sliders (RM20) of braised duck breast sandwiched in crispy mantou with chilli dip, and

Beef Lollipop (RM28) – superbly tender and juicy marinated beef cubes with saffron and garlic aioli. 

Having sampled them, the snacks hit the spot well. We even ordered additional portion of the Beef Lollipop and Gruyère Cheese Sandwich.

Note: Farquhar’s Bar is open daily from 230pm to midnight during the pre-Covid19 days. To sample the Sundowners' Tapas mentioned above, head over to Palm Court from 4pm to 7pm daily (refer below pix).

For more information and reservations, please call Eastern & Oriental Hotel Penang, tel: 016-419 8923 or visit:

 https://www.facebook.com/eohotels/

AFTERNOON TEA APPEAL AT PALM COURT, E&O HOTEL PENANG

Tea time at the new Palm Court of Eastern & Oriental Hotel (E&O) Penang harks back to the halcyon days when well-heeled ladies, lovey-dovey couples and even an immaculately garbed gentleman or two gather for a cuppa and light refreshments prior to dinner.

Named after the legendary Palm Court Bar that used to operate below the echo dome in the lobby during the Sarkies Brothers’ era, the new Palm Court retains its charming old world ambience: overstuffed sofa lounges, wingback chairs, ottomans and coffee tables intersperse with starched white tableclothed tables make it a welcoming haven to escape the tropical weather.

 

In the old days, bachelors, planters, traders and sailors converge at the Palm Court for their glass of stengah (equal measures of whisky and soda water, served over ice), today it's business and leisure travellers, close girlfriends and small families who are drawn to the resto's a la carte assortment of Indian and Malay inspired dishes, Chinese noodles and casual international favourites for lunch or dinner.

The Afternoon Tea (RM88 nett per person) is a favourite mainstay here, featuring triple-tier stands of finger sandwiches and dainty pastries. For a touch of luxe, the Champagne English Afternoon Tea is RM168 nett per person inclusive of 1 glass of champagne. 

Out of the 13 varieties of tea, we selected Orange Passionfruit, Japanese Sencha and Organic Earl Grey to accompany our selection of savoury and sweet temptations.

From the appealing assortment of sandwiches presented, it was obvious much thought has gone into the whole repertoire. Upping the ante on the plain ol’ cucumber sandwich, the Palm Court team proffered Cucumber, Dill and Cream Cheese Pullman Sandwich, Smoked Salmon Tartare Wholemeal Finger Sandwich, Marinated Tuna Flake Sandwich, Crab Meat Slaw Sandwich, Corn Fed Chicken Ragout Gougères (cheese choux pastry), Truffle Scented Egg on Poppy Seed Butter Bun, and Organic Spinach Quiche to set the ball rolling.

Being waited on hand and foot, luxuriating in the hallowed setting made the experience thoroughly enjoyable. After the on-point savoury appetite pleasers, we made short work of the Raisin and Plain Scones with clotted cream, house-made strawberry jam and for a touch of the tropics, pineapple jam.

By the time we were ready to hit on the Red Velvet, Opera Cake and Fruit Cake, we had struggled a little. There were still Fruit Tartlets and Millefeuille to contend with but alas, it was a lost cause as having downed copious cups of our tea, we were hard pressed to make short work of everything. Overall, it was an exceptional afternoon to remember.

Note: Review conducted prior to Malaysia's Conditional Movement Control Order (CMCO). The English Afternoon Tea is now available every Saturday & Sunday from 3pm to 5pm at Palm Court, E & O Hotel Penang.  Limited seats available; to reserve click: http://bit.ly/PalmCourtBooking

MY CRAZY RICH ASIANS STAYCATION EXPERIENCE AT E&O PENANG

Rudyard Kipling. Somerset Maugham. Charlie Chaplin. Noel Coward. Dato’ Michelle Yeoh. They were among the coterie of famous guests who have graced the iconic Eastern & Oriental Hotel Penang.

 

Thus we too had the privilege of living the luxe life, albeit it was only for a weekend, after the E&O Hotel completed a 9-month meticulous refurbishment programme of its Heritage Wing. Retaining its rarified old-world charm coupled with newer culinary experiences, the grand dame of Penang greeted the new decade with aplomb.

Upon entering the spacious lobby, my Crazy Rich Asians-style staycation experience was triggered. After welcoming pleasantries, we were instantly escorted to our plush Twin Queen Deluxe Suite. Just a squiggle of my signature completed the swift and smooth check-in process. Guests residing at the Heritage Wing also enjoy butler service on request.

Like Alice in Wonderland, I explored and admired every inch of the tastefully appointed suite. Soft, muted colours abound, complemented by white and dark wood trimmings, carefully curated framed prints and two queen-size beds bestowed understated colonial era-inspired elegance. An ornate writing table with multiple slots and drawers made those who need to catch up on work a complete breeze.

Founder of Interiors International Sdn Bhd Datin Tham Oi Wah who restored the Heritage Wing back to its former glory has done an excellent job overall. For instance, padded armchairs and a comfy settee turned the adjoining seating area into an inviting lounge for reading, watching the UHD flatscreen TV and rustling up drinks from the side cupboard. Banks of retro louvre windows opened out to breathtaking views of blue skies, towering palm trees, aquamarine sea and the Heritage Wing pool surrounded by potted greenery.

Cocktail hours en-suite are possible thanks to the provision of glass decanters filled with vodka, gin and whiskey. A mini bar with soft drinks, bottled juices, soda water and cold towels comes built-in within the side cupboard. It also proffers a Nespresso machine, an array of Harney & Sons premium tea complete with a tea press, three types of nibbles (handcrafted pralines and nuts) and daily fresh fruit. 

Strolling into the elongated walk-in wardrobe and dressing area, I felt like a pampered superstar. The dark wood vanity cum dressing table was splendid for dolling myself up whilst the ample shelving and storage space ensured our luggage and necessities were kept in order. Aside from the bathrobes provided, a touch of local culture in the form of two batik sarong (tying instructions provided) are made available.

I could stay ensconced forever in the luxurious bathroom with a long bath, signature twin vanities and a separate shower. In the hotel’s quest to reduce the usage of one-time plastic,  amenities such as bamboo toothbrush, comb and emery board came packed in biodegradable cornstarch material. Instead of miniature plastic bottles of shampoo, conditioner and body lotion, full-size ceramic pump bottles of toiletries are now de rigueur.

Although we were reluctant to tear ourselves away from the creature comforts of our plush suite, we went a whirlwind tour of the E&O. The echo dome – an original structure from the Sarkies management era – reigns overhead in the Heritage Wing lobby. A four-sided upholstered banquette seat crowned with a cluster of palm fronds makes it a majestic rendezvous point for guests.

At the expansive reception area, a dark wood key slots cabinet from the heritage hotel’s halcyon days along with the manually controlled Waygood Otis lift with a sliding grill – featured in the Crazy Rich Asians movie – remains ship-shape even though it is no longer in use.

 

 

Nearby, groups of retro-designed armchairs and settees with side tables bearing fresh orchids beckon from strategic nooks and corners. Along the marbled corridor leading to the Grand Ballroom and Victory Annexe, huge potted palms and more orchids add touches of vibrancy. By night, the mellow lighting casts a romantic vibe.

“Generations of guests and visitors alike have chosen the famous Heritage Wing as the backdrop for their magical moments over its 134-year history” said Alison Fraser, general manager of the E&O Hotel Penang. “Mindful of this beloved legacy, careful consideration has been taken to ensure we retain E&O’s treasured style of timeless elegance that is unique to this cherished heritage landmark.”

A new art colonnade situated along the hallway outside The Cornwallis does double duty as a showcase of artworks by local talents. The artistic collection changes periodically, promoting different homegrown artists' creative efforts to the E&O Hotel guests from around the world.

 

 

 

Strolling along the verdant seafront lawn, we saw a lovely garden wedding set-up. More elaborate banquets and formal affairs are usually held at the gilded Grand Ballroom which oozes class and discernment.  

History buffs can refer to the beautifully produced map provided in their suite, listing interesting historical elements found onsite the hotel. For instance, three decommissioned cannons from Fort Cornwallis remain in place at the seafront facing the Andaman Sea – important testaments of not only to the historical significance of the E&O and its guests but also that of Penang.

Our walk ended at the 232-suite Victory Annexe where Emporium – the hotel’s retail shop is located. Stocked with a treasure trove of keepsakes such as "The E&O Hotel – Pearl of Penang" coffee table book by Ilsa Sharp, unique artisanal souvenirs, framed landmark photographs of Penang, eclectic semi-precious stones and silver designer jewellery, delicately beaded cheongsam dresses, batik stoles and sarong, Emporium is bound to keep avid shopaholics happy. To replicate the E&O’s restorative bath experience, Emporium also offers organic spa accoutrements by Panpuri, essential oils, plush E&O bath towels and robes.

 

  

Sunset saw us venturing into The Cornwallis lounge for complimentary cocktails and canapes from 6pm to 7pm. Tempting nibbles of lamb meatballs with a zingy sauce, baby potato halves topped with sour cream and chopped streaky beef, roti jala with chicken curry, crudites, a cheese board with assorted nuts and fruits, and tropical sliced fruits whetted our appetite.

 

 

Thirst-quenchers include house white or red wine, beer, juices or soft drinks. Otherwise, the resident mixologist will readily whip up a classic cocktail or inventive mocktail on request nightly. Conceived with an integrated seating and dining area, the convivial lounge looks out to the Heritage Wing swimming pool.

 

As guests of the Heritage Wing, we had the privilege of having breakfast at the Cornwallis, Planters Lounge (Level 6, Victory Annexe) or Sarkies. Our first morning was spent admiring the seaview vista from the spacious balcony of Planters Lounge (the alternative is air-conditioned comfort inside the lounge).

Rarely did we revel in the tropical balmy weather but somehow the luxury of having breakfast prepared to our liking made it a distinct experience. Thanks to the cordial and attentive service, I relished every bite of my White Only Omelette with Spinach and Tomato while my other half tackled his Breakfast Steak and Eggs, and for my girl, Cured Salmon and Eggs Benedict.

The following morning our Continental breakfast at The Cornwallis was equally on-point. Laid out for guests to help themselves were yoghurt, fruits, muesli and cereals, pastries and bread. Our omelette and scrambled eggs came up to expectations. Again, service was impeccable and left no room for complaint.

 

Whether you’re staying in a Superior, Deluxe, George Town, Premier, Straits, Writers, Pinang Suite or the ultimate E&O Suite at the Heritage Wing, the courtesies accorded will include all the privileges we had experienced, complimentary in-suite WiFi access, complimentary local newspaper (Chinese, English or Malay), and laundry and pressing service of 3 garments per stay.

 

Views from Pinang Suite

Premier Suite

 

 

When it comes to food & beverage, the E&O Hotel Penang will leave discerning gourmands spoiled for choice. That's another story best told on another day in another blogpost.

For your own Crazy Rich Asians staycation or more information, visit the E&O Hotel Penang website https://www.eohotels.com/suites/

Coming soon: Reviews on the dining options available at the E&O Hotel Penang: Palm Court and Java Tree.