Monday, March 16, 2020

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.


Thursday, March 05, 2020

FISH AND CHIPS AND MORE AT THE LAUGHING FISH BY HARRY RAMSDEN


 
If you can’t go to Great Britain for fish and chips, let British fish and chips come to you. Head on up to Resorts World Genting (RWG) where a ‘chippie’ experience at The Laughing Fish by Harry Ramsden awaits.
My personal favourite catch there is the light and flaky Cod (regular RM40, large RM48 & legendary RM58). Served piping hot, the slab of imported Atlantic cod comes coated in airy-light, crisp batter with a pile of thick-cut, double-cooked chips.
If you prefer flavourful depth to your fish, the chunky Haddock (regular RM44, large RM54 & legendary RM64) will reel you in. Each serving of fish and chips at this resto comes with a choice of Harry’s Mushy Peas, Harry’s Gravy or Curry Sauce. Additional serving of mushy peas is available at RM6 and Double Cooked Chips at RM10 while gravy and curry sauce costs RM4 each.
Interestingly, Genting SkyAvenue F&B Sous Chef Mohanakrishna Nadarajah (left) informs us the curry sauce recipe was specifically created by the RWG team, to cater to local tastebuds but in compliance with the master franchisor’s guidelines.
The veteran chef, who has two decades of industry experience including past stints at RWG’s the Peak (now known as Olive), Ireland and Abu Dhabi, recalled his training with Harry Ramsden. “We are taught on the essentials: from cutting chips and making the batter to the correct consistency, to knowing the types of fish and potatoes used.”
Together with Outlet Chef Devlin M Danker who has 17 years of experience in European/Western cuisine, the duo ensures the various menu offerings at The Laughing Fish by Harry Ramsden are up to scratch.
Famished diners will find ample succour from the Sharing Platter (RM35) featuring salt & pepper fried calamari, battered onion rings, deep-fried mozzarella cheese sticks and deep-fried chicken chunks. These nibbles should keep hunger pangs at bay before the mains arrive.
Thirst-quenchers to raise your glasses to include Laughing Fish Signature Lemonade, served in single or a sharing fish-shaped jug; Laughing Fish Rose Lemonade and Tamarind cooler – two localised concoctions rustled up by the RWG resident mixologist. The drinks’ refreshing tanginess help to banish any greasy richness from partaking all the meaty and fried stuff.
Those partial to burgers can relish Cod Burger (RM32) – a sturdy yet soft burger bun with deliciously flaky cod coated in Harry’s secret batter.  Tartar sauce, mixed lettuce, tomato and coleslaw complete the speciality.
Another classic pub grub worth sampling is Grilled Beef Bangers (RM35). Made to specifications by the RWG butchery, the delicately thyme-scented beef bangers are accompanied by potato mash and onion gravy.
Specially created for local palates, the robustly flavoured Piri Piri Chicken Leg (RM35) proves to be a notable option too. First soaked in milk, the chicken quarter is then rubbed with Jamaican jerk seasoning (smoked paprika, black pepper, onion and garlic powder, cumin, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, cayenne pepper and dried herbs among others) before it’s grilled.
Tender, juicy and suffused with complex spice accents, the delectable chook gives some famous grilled chicken brands a run for their money. Served with double-cooked chips and spicy coleslaw, its stick-to-the-ribs goodness gets our full thumbs up.
 
No typical British meal is complete without pudding (dessert). Try Eton Mess (RM18) with strawberry coulis; a luscious mound of fresh strawberries, crushed meringue, whipped cream and lime zest. According to food historians, it was created at Eton College's mess hall in the 1930s. Back then it was simply a bowl of bananas or strawberries mixed with cream or ice-cream, with the later addition of meringue.
On a sweeter scale, there’s Sticky Toffee Pudding (RM15) too. Basically a dense, almost stodgy cake studded with dates, it’s served with warm toffee sauce for an indulgent finish.
 
 
THE LAUGHING FISH BY HARRY RAMSDEN, Address: Level 4, High Line Roof Top Market, SkyAvenue, Resorts World Genting, Genting Highlands, Pahang.

Sunday, March 01, 2020

HEART 2 HEART CHARI-TEA


A charity afternoon hi-tea by women in support of a women’s cause featuring a fashion show by iKARRTiNi and Ms World Malaysia 2019 Alexis Sue-Ann will be held on 28 March 2020 at Dorsett Kuala Lumpur.

Scheduled to be held in conjunction with International Women’s Day and in support of Visit Malaysia Year 2020, DYAM Raja Puan Muda Perak Tunku Soraya Halim is expected to grace the charity event as Guest of Honour.

The one-day only charity fashion show not only aims to channel part of the event proceeds to Orphan Care Foundation – a transit home for abandoned babies, underprivileged children and pregnant women, it also a platform to promote the rich heritage of Malaysian batik and the fashion-forward designs by Kartini Illias under her homegrown label, iKARRTiNi.

Founded in 1990, iKARRTiNi has since gained recognition for its fashion-forward batik designs. Designer Kartini Illias believes one must design to suit the market when using traditional fabrics, in order to stay relevant in the fashion industry. Besides the 2015 Expo Milano and 2016  Rome Fashion Week, Kartini has showcased her design collection at the 2014 Modest Fashion Show by Haute Arabia in London.  She also designed the National Costume for Ms World Malaysia 2019 Alexis Sue-Ann for the Ms World Finals 2019.
Ms World Malaysia 2019 Alexis Sue-Ann will be leading the catwalk, her show of support for Orphan Care Foundation; part of her ‘Beauty with A Purpose’ advocacy for the recently concluded Ms World Finals 2019 held in London last December.

Slated for Saturday, 28 March @3 pm at Alamanda Room of Dorsett Kuala Lumpur, invitation to the event is by donation of RM188 nett per person. Guests will receive door gifts by L’Oreal Professionel, L’Estetica Facial Bar and BYCHIÈN, a makeup artist agency established in 2019.

Those who are interested to support this worthy cause may contact Mel T@Dorsett Kuala Lumpur, tel: 016 201 1107, email:  events.kualalumpur@dorsetthotels.com OR call Kattie Hoo, hp no: 016 201 1340.

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