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Showing posts from March, 2012

Kellie's Castle, Perak

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Yes, i've heard about the scary stories surrounding this historical building. But it was the love story- of passion and ambition, that repelled my fear and pulled me to the castle. It is very easy to find Kellie's Castle. From KL, exit at Gopeng toll station, drive towards Ipoh and turn left at the junction that leads to Batu Gajah. The castle is situated along the main road. Opens at 9 am to 6 pm everyday, the fees are generally RM 3 per adult and RM 1 per child. This unfinished, ruined castle was built by William Kellie Smith, a Scottish planter, in 1915. There are two parts in Kellie's Castle today: Smith's first mansion, Kellie House and the incomplete Castle. Like the Taj Mahal, i see this castle, among many references, as a gift of Kellie to his wife, Agnes Smith and a home for his family after the arrival of their second child, son Anthony (first child, daughter Helen). Kellie was fascinated with the Hindu religion and Indian culture that the architecture of ...

Uncle Jang Korean Restoran, Ampang Branch, KL

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I am not really a fan of Korean food. But this place offers a change to the usual, and probably, something different that is worth a try. My sister recommended Uncle Jang Korean Restoran and since it was her birthday, she brought us to this restaurant, claiming it to be different. I have to admit that she was right: the visit to the restaurant came with a unique spin. Upon entering the restaurant, i noticed each table has a hot plate on it. The tables were divided into two: one low enough that allows us to sit on the floor and eat, and another for us to sit on the chair. We sat, a bottle of water was brought to our table, and we began placing our orders. We ordered hot plate chicken (minimum of 2 persons, so we chose one Original and one Spicy) and Ramen noodles. Our orders arrived and the waiter tossed the raw food onto the hot plate. The underneath of the table did get a little warm and sitting in front of the stove felt like being in a 'Teppanyaki' restaurant. Lots...

Kafe All Inn and Thean Chun, Perak

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One of the many reasons a visitor goes to Ipoh is for an 'makan' (eating) spree. I know i am one of them, and when it comes to food, i find it difficult to resist. This short visit brought me to a place i have been for numerous times. Now i wish to recommend. The shops are located opposite each other, and their neighbour, Kong Heng, is just next door. My suggestion is to have your meal at Thean Chun then a dessert break at Kafe All Inn. At Thean Chun, the Ipoh 'Hor Fun', Ipoh Chicken Slice Noodles is recommended. Not only here but you can see pasted on its shop the numerous recommendation by other food critic. You will hardly miss this stall as it is usually crowded especially during peak hours. Apart from the smooth kuay teow noodles, what makes this dish a winner is the soup. It has that oomph that lingers in your month, sweetened by the chicken and prawn slices. Crossing to the opposite side of the road is the Kafe All Inn, and i recommend this shop is beca...

Healy Mac's Changkat Bukit Bintang, KL

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There is something about Healy Mac's Irish Bar and Restaurant that makes me want to return for more. Whether it is the place, the ambiance, the food or the drink, I cannot really pinpoint as they score equally the same. I went to the branch in Greentown, Ipoh and was impressed with my little time spent on its food. I grew aware of its existence in KL, particularly in Changkat Bukit Bintang, and recommended the venue for a special occasion. My family and i visited Healy Mac's on a Friday night. We arrived nearly half past eight. The entrance was crowded- other customers were looking at us as we made our way to the balcony upstairs. We sat on a barrel-cum table and were entertained by a friendly waiter. After placing our orders, our waiting period was filled with great music. Chicken Parmigiano, one of my favourites and is highly recommended for chicken lovers! The crust of the meat is crunchy and crispy; fragrant and flavourful with its sauce. The meat is cooked to perfec...