I've always had a soft spot for laksa as this was something that the family and I have whilst we do our weekend errands. Considering the cooler weather that currently defines Melbourne, I think this favourite of mine would soon be your favourite, especially if you are craving for comfort food.
Seafood curry laksa ~ this creamy and mildly spicy coconut broth did satisfy me on that cold afternoon. I was hesitant to up the spiciness of this dish but kinda regretted it towards the end of the meal - a little more spiciness would have brought this bowl of laksa pretty close to a familiar favourite of mine.
Nasi goreng pattaya ~ whilst Laksa Bar rides on the popularity of it's laksa dishes but for me, the highlight was this plate of fried rice. Generous amounts of fried chicken were shredded and tossed into the wok alongside with the other ingredients. Topped with fried egg and drizzled generously with sweet chilli sauce, I think I have found myself a new favourite;) A big shout out to the friendly waiter who recommended this to me
Thursday, March 31, 2016
Monday, March 28, 2016
Trei Cafe, Glen Waverley MELB
Just a short walk away from my apartment lies a little cafe that serves food tailored for the calorie conscious among us. Whilst it is difficult to avoid eating out, we can always make better choices on what we choose to put into our tummies.
Trei's menu has a good blend of healthy and unhealthy options to select from and service is fairly efficient. Only downside is the cafe is not designed to accommodate numerous customers so be warned, patience has to be a virtue.
Matcha green tea latte ~ was a little disappointed that this turned out to be verging on the powdery spectrum as opposed to a smooth, well whisked drink. Matcha flavour is present but perhaps only just.
Iced chocolate ~ a little more chocolate mixed into it would have made a big difference.
Sweet potato fries with avocado salsa and lime ~ I am secretly a big fan of anything to do with potatoes although it's probably not one of the healthiest types of carbohydrates out there. Replacing a bowl of potato fries with a sweet potato version is a brilliant idea and to top it off with a good dose of healthy avocado fats, surely this counts as a healthy snack. Fries were crispy on the outside and soft on the inside - I could easily finish this off myself if my friend was not looking;)
Trei big brekky ~ poached eggs with bacon, mushrooms, spinach, haloumi and avocado.
Banoffie french toast with dulce de leche, banana, creme patisserie and cookie crumbs. This is why I have to stick to a moderately intense exercise routine or else I won't be able to have my cake and eat it too. I liked how fresh each individual ingredient is on the plate and how well they complimented each other.
Trei's menu has a good blend of healthy and unhealthy options to select from and service is fairly efficient. Only downside is the cafe is not designed to accommodate numerous customers so be warned, patience has to be a virtue.
Matcha green tea latte ~ was a little disappointed that this turned out to be verging on the powdery spectrum as opposed to a smooth, well whisked drink. Matcha flavour is present but perhaps only just.
Iced chocolate ~ a little more chocolate mixed into it would have made a big difference.
Sweet potato fries with avocado salsa and lime ~ I am secretly a big fan of anything to do with potatoes although it's probably not one of the healthiest types of carbohydrates out there. Replacing a bowl of potato fries with a sweet potato version is a brilliant idea and to top it off with a good dose of healthy avocado fats, surely this counts as a healthy snack. Fries were crispy on the outside and soft on the inside - I could easily finish this off myself if my friend was not looking;)
Trei big brekky ~ poached eggs with bacon, mushrooms, spinach, haloumi and avocado.
Banoffie french toast with dulce de leche, banana, creme patisserie and cookie crumbs. This is why I have to stick to a moderately intense exercise routine or else I won't be able to have my cake and eat it too. I liked how fresh each individual ingredient is on the plate and how well they complimented each other.
Thursday, March 24, 2016
Rich Mahal, Burwood Highway MELB
Just like any other human being, I too face stressful moments and during these times, I turn to food as a pick me up. Whilst I am capable of handling difficult situations fairly well, my tummy manipulates my mind into thinking that I need some form of therapy;) Which brought us here after a much needed time away from my study/ work desk.
At Rich Mahal, you can choose a few different types of curries to have with your rice, be it something extremely or mildly spicy and in terms of protein, you have the choice of chicken, mutton, fish and beef. Vegetarian is an option too and all up, it was a much needed quick dinner fix. Pleasantly aromatic and satisfying.
For those unfamiliar, curry puff is a traditional type of savoury snack in Malaysia. It is available here and I daresay it is almost as good as the ones I can get back home. Crispy pastry layer and loaded with a mildly spicy curry mix.
Roti telur ~ roti was fluffy and comes accompanied by a few different types of gravy to suit your palate.
Murtabak ~ basically a roti stuffed with meat filling and accompanied by a little bowl of curry gravy. At $8.50, it was a steal compared to how much other restaurants are charging for it.
Roti tissue ~ paper thin and crispy roti, drizzled with condensed milk aka roti dosed with sugar.
Overall, good value for money and probably a good place to hang out with friends if you are looking for a spot that's crowd-free:)
Tuesday, March 22, 2016
Axil Coffee Roasters, Hawthorn MELB
Melbourne is truly a brunch lover's playground as there's so many variations to choose from be it your typical big brekkies loaded with bacon and poached eggs; to something a little Asian inspired such as ramen or congee to a dessert party with hotcakes or the prettiest muesli bowls you would have laid your eyes on.
I rarely get the opportunity to brunch out each in the morning and am really thankfully for H who made the effort to bring a rather overly enthusiastic and annoying me here. The cafe was already packed full of hungry brunch-ers at 11.30am but we still managed to get seats after waiting for about 10 minutes.
Coffee ~ aromatic best describes my cup of caffeine that day. Have also found out that Axil does barista classes so for those keen on picking up a few handy lessons, you know where to go;)
Scrambled eggs with bacon and cured trout ~ this picture probably doesn't do this plate of food any justice. $10 for a plate of golden, scrambled eggs with toast - you're definitely getting your money's worth on eggs, that's for sure;)
Ferrero rocher chocolate waffles with hazelnut parfait, toasted hazelnuts, crushed wafer biscuits and gianduja chocolate curls. I was torn between ordering this or the equally notorious pancakes but I have stuck to my gut feelings and went ahead with the waffles. Didd not disappoint at all. Good dose of chocolate that's drenched in a savoury and nutty parfait to combat against excessive sweetness from the waffles. Highly recommended and only set back is I was looking forward to two pieces of waffle haha;P
Overall, a very enjoyable brunch session made possible by H and good food + coffee :) Life is indeed good.
I rarely get the opportunity to brunch out each in the morning and am really thankfully for H who made the effort to bring a rather overly enthusiastic and annoying me here. The cafe was already packed full of hungry brunch-ers at 11.30am but we still managed to get seats after waiting for about 10 minutes.
Coffee ~ aromatic best describes my cup of caffeine that day. Have also found out that Axil does barista classes so for those keen on picking up a few handy lessons, you know where to go;)
Scrambled eggs with bacon and cured trout ~ this picture probably doesn't do this plate of food any justice. $10 for a plate of golden, scrambled eggs with toast - you're definitely getting your money's worth on eggs, that's for sure;)
Ferrero rocher chocolate waffles with hazelnut parfait, toasted hazelnuts, crushed wafer biscuits and gianduja chocolate curls. I was torn between ordering this or the equally notorious pancakes but I have stuck to my gut feelings and went ahead with the waffles. Didd not disappoint at all. Good dose of chocolate that's drenched in a savoury and nutty parfait to combat against excessive sweetness from the waffles. Highly recommended and only set back is I was looking forward to two pieces of waffle haha;P
Overall, a very enjoyable brunch session made possible by H and good food + coffee :) Life is indeed good.
Friday, March 18, 2016
Europe: Slovenia
Europe. When I hear this word, I think about all the major cities such as London, Paris or Berlin. After stepping foot in the lesser known countries, I surprised myself by how little I knew about these countries and myself.
Slovenia is definitely not one of those must see places for tourists. I would describe it as a skiing paradise or even a retiree's escape rather than a happening destination for those seeking an adventure. However, I found solace in this lesser known retreat, Lake Bled, and realized that I actually like being high up in the mountains despite my obvious fear of heights.
The view from Mount Vogel was simply stunning and one that I will remember for a long time. Lake Bohinj was equally stunning, especially with Mount Vogel as it's backdrop image. Most of our time was spent in the Park Hotel and we were fortunate enough to be able to sleep with an amazing view of the island church.
Buffet breakfast ~ something I became accustomed to, noting that I am not a morning person at all! All things healthy to kickstart the morning:)
Not to mention Lake Bled's famous cream cake which is similar to Australia's vanilla slice but probably not as rich.
Find out more about this place here my travelling diary:)
Slovenia is definitely not one of those must see places for tourists. I would describe it as a skiing paradise or even a retiree's escape rather than a happening destination for those seeking an adventure. However, I found solace in this lesser known retreat, Lake Bled, and realized that I actually like being high up in the mountains despite my obvious fear of heights.
The view from Mount Vogel was simply stunning and one that I will remember for a long time. Lake Bohinj was equally stunning, especially with Mount Vogel as it's backdrop image. Most of our time was spent in the Park Hotel and we were fortunate enough to be able to sleep with an amazing view of the island church.
Buffet breakfast ~ something I became accustomed to, noting that I am not a morning person at all! All things healthy to kickstart the morning:)
Not to mention Lake Bled's famous cream cake which is similar to Australia's vanilla slice but probably not as rich.
Find out more about this place here my travelling diary:)
Thursday, March 17, 2016
Hofbrauhaus, MELB CBD
Having travelled and staying in Europe for around two months, I have learnt so much about the countries that I have visited be it culturally or historically. Whilst I would love the opportunity to actually live and work there, for now, I will have to settle for what European experience Melbourne has to offer until my next trip there.
One of the countries that I fell heads over heels with was Germany. Perhaps due to their down to earth practical characteristics or their impressive workmanship or perhaps, their bar culture. A meeting point for locals which also doubles up as venues for celebrating or experiencing good local fare.
We got here before the dinner crowd settles in and managed to secure seats for ourselves. I'd imagine this place can get pretty busy on Fridays and weekends so do make reservations to avoid disappointments. Service is relatively efficient and menu wise, it's a meat lover's paradise.
One of the countries that I fell heads over heels with was Germany. Perhaps due to their down to earth practical characteristics or their impressive workmanship or perhaps, their bar culture. A meeting point for locals which also doubles up as venues for celebrating or experiencing good local fare.
We got here before the dinner crowd settles in and managed to secure seats for ourselves. I'd imagine this place can get pretty busy on Fridays and weekends so do make reservations to avoid disappointments. Service is relatively efficient and menu wise, it's a meat lover's paradise.
Schweinshax'n ~ pickled roasted pork knuckle on a bed of sauerkraut with potato dumpling, mashed potato, potato salad, house made jus and German mustard. A plate big enough for two individuals and lots of tender, juicy pork meat to share.
Wiener schnitzel ~ served with potato salad, lemon and garlic-herb mayonnaise. Having tried a Viennese schnitzel in Vienna before, I found this to have a very strong pork scent compared to the one I had in Europe. Still delicious nonetheless and again, probably enough to be shared among two individuals.
I would strongly suggest ordering a couple of plates of food and sharing it around the table if you would like to sample more from the menu. And while you're at it, I would suggest having a jug of refreshing, cool beer too:)
Tuesday, March 15, 2016
TGI Fridays, MELB CBD
TGI Fridays has been around since I was in college many, many years ago and back then, it was one of those places that I often associate with celebratory events such as birthdays, simply because it was
THE place to be for us. And so, when the opportunity comes around, thanks to the many restaurant discounts from the Entertainment Book, I was able to revive this fond memory once more.
Buffalo wings ~ Each piece of chicken wing is coated with a mildly spicy sauce prior to being deep fried and comes served with celery sticks and blue cheese dressing. $16 for 6 wings was steep but in terms of flavour, it was good nevertheless.
Jack Daniel's platter ~ three different combinations to choose from but we settled for steak, ribs and shrimps. I am not much of a carnivore compared to my siblings which makes it all the more reason to believe me when I become fond of a particular plate of protein. The sauce used to glaze the meat had a good proportion of sticky sweetness as well as acidity which compliments the meat very well. Bonus points for having an extra serve of sauce on the side, just for those double dippers like yours truly;)
Beef short ribs ~ prepared using a tangy BBQ sauce coating every inch of the ribs, this is the one to go for if you are a meat fanatic. So tender to the point whereby one requires minimal physical work to tear it apart, this might be your next sharing platter option if you do dine here.
Oh and did I mention they do have happy hour drink days as well?;)
THE place to be for us. And so, when the opportunity comes around, thanks to the many restaurant discounts from the Entertainment Book, I was able to revive this fond memory once more.
Buffalo wings ~ Each piece of chicken wing is coated with a mildly spicy sauce prior to being deep fried and comes served with celery sticks and blue cheese dressing. $16 for 6 wings was steep but in terms of flavour, it was good nevertheless.
Jack Daniel's platter ~ three different combinations to choose from but we settled for steak, ribs and shrimps. I am not much of a carnivore compared to my siblings which makes it all the more reason to believe me when I become fond of a particular plate of protein. The sauce used to glaze the meat had a good proportion of sticky sweetness as well as acidity which compliments the meat very well. Bonus points for having an extra serve of sauce on the side, just for those double dippers like yours truly;)
Beef short ribs ~ prepared using a tangy BBQ sauce coating every inch of the ribs, this is the one to go for if you are a meat fanatic. So tender to the point whereby one requires minimal physical work to tear it apart, this might be your next sharing platter option if you do dine here.
Oh and did I mention they do have happy hour drink days as well?;)
Thursday, March 10, 2016
Zagar's Charcoal Grill, Burwood MELB
We all learn something new everyday and mine would be to never judge a book by its cover. Located upstairs and with the capacity to seat 20 people at most, this must be one of the smallest restaurants that I have been to.
Service was efficient, friendly and attentive. I believe this is a husband and wife team manning the kitchen and the floor, a task that is often tricky and stressful to juggle but they have managed well. Food came out from the kitchen in good timing and everyone around me appears contented.
Bowl of chips ~ a tad expensive at $14.50 but it was homemade and one cannot go past a good bowl of chips.
Every main dish comes with a good serve of potato salad and coleslaw to freshen up your palate. Pretty simple and boy, does this concept remind me of a similar meal that I had in Bordeaux last year.
Porterhouse steak ~ done medium rare beautifully and kudos to the chef for allowing this piece of meat to bask in all it's natural glory.
Zagar's sausages ~ homemade sausages that are bursting full of meaty flavours with each bite. Also every grilled all over with a lovely exterior crisp and juicy filling, do give this a try if you are not feeling too peckish for the night.
Overall, Zagar exudes an unpretentious atmosphere and one can easily get used to dining here on a weekly basis. Good wine coupled with great food and exceptional service, can not fault this place at all.
Service was efficient, friendly and attentive. I believe this is a husband and wife team manning the kitchen and the floor, a task that is often tricky and stressful to juggle but they have managed well. Food came out from the kitchen in good timing and everyone around me appears contented.
For entree, we had a starter size of the filet mignon. It was well rested and evenly grilled to a medium rare consistency, one of the better ways to enjoy a good piece of steak. Came with a garlicky bearnaise sauce, a light Asian inspired sauce and a much more peppery robust tasting sauce - feel free to find out that is to your liking:)
Every main dish comes with a good serve of potato salad and coleslaw to freshen up your palate. Pretty simple and boy, does this concept remind me of a similar meal that I had in Bordeaux last year.
Porterhouse steak ~ done medium rare beautifully and kudos to the chef for allowing this piece of meat to bask in all it's natural glory.
Zagar's sausages ~ homemade sausages that are bursting full of meaty flavours with each bite. Also every grilled all over with a lovely exterior crisp and juicy filling, do give this a try if you are not feeling too peckish for the night.
Overall, Zagar exudes an unpretentious atmosphere and one can easily get used to dining here on a weekly basis. Good wine coupled with great food and exceptional service, can not fault this place at all.
Monday, March 7, 2016
Bottega, CBD MELB
When there's friends there's always good food. Unfortunately, I forgot to bring my DSLR camera and so, had to resolve to using my iphone to capture the moment. Italian, anybody?:)
Crusty bread served with butter ~
Green and gold taglioni, prawns and octopus, chilli and bisque ~
Pan roasted kingfish, aqua pazza, fennel, tomato, mussels and tarragon ~
Truffled pasta ~
House made ricotta gnocchi, Kidden Park goat ragu, pecorino ~ soft pieces of gnocchi blanketed by a layer of heart warming ragu and topped with paper thin pieces of cheese. Every element complimented each other well and seasoning was on the spot.
We found that in terms of portions, it was a little small and was not filling enough for the gents on our table. Nevertheless, probably a good spot to dine in if you want to unwind and if you have a not feeling too peckish.
Crusty bread served with butter ~
Green and gold taglioni, prawns and octopus, chilli and bisque ~
Pan roasted kingfish, aqua pazza, fennel, tomato, mussels and tarragon ~
Truffled pasta ~
House made ricotta gnocchi, Kidden Park goat ragu, pecorino ~ soft pieces of gnocchi blanketed by a layer of heart warming ragu and topped with paper thin pieces of cheese. Every element complimented each other well and seasoning was on the spot.
We found that in terms of portions, it was a little small and was not filling enough for the gents on our table. Nevertheless, probably a good spot to dine in if you want to unwind and if you have a not feeling too peckish.
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