Dandy @ Queensbay Mall

 Been to Penang a few times over the years, but this was actually my first time stepping into Queensbay Mall. Since we decided to settle our dinner in the mall, we spent some time discussing where to dine before finally deciding on Dandy. With its bright and welcoming interior, the restaurant gave off a casual and comfortable vibe that felt perfect for a relaxed dinner after a day out.

Dandy @ Queensbay Mall

Flipping through the menu, we were pleasantly surprised by Dandy’s “Modern Food Culture” concept. Offering a halal-friendly selection with Mediterranean-inspired dishes, the menu featured a wide variety of comforting options that immediately got us excited for the meal ahead.

Food Menu of Dandy's

For drinks, we had the refreshing Blossom Iced Tea, a light and fizzy combination of flower tea, wolfberries, mint leaves, honey jelly, and a subtle hint of soda that made it extra cooling. The Caramel Spice Latte, on the other hand, looked indulgent and comforting with its creamy topping and aromatic flavours, making it a lovely pairing for the meal.

Blossom Iced Tea  & Caramel Spice Latte - RM17 Each

One of their recommended signatures was the Lamb Rice, proudly claiming over 500k plates sold. Served together with house salad, vegetable soup, and their signature red and white sauces, it felt like a wholesome and satisfying meal. I especially enjoyed the light aromatic fragrance of the basmati rice, paired with tender and well-cooked lamb that came without any overpowering gamey taste. 

Dandy Lamb Rice - RM42

The combination of the signature sauces added an extra layer of flavour that wrapped the dish up beautifully.

Dipping into the Red & White Sauce

In fact, we came into the restaurant craving for steak, so we decided to order the Dandy Striploin Steak. Served with straight cut fries, tomatoes, assorted mushrooms, vegetables, gremolata, garlic aioli, and steak sauce, the plate looked hearty and satisfying. The steak itself was nicely grilled with beautiful char marks while remaining juicy and tender, making it a comforting choice for steak lovers.

Dandy Striplion Steak - RM75

Cooked to our ideal doneness, the steak was wonderfully tender and juicy with every bite. Paired with the fragrant gremolata and crispy fries on the side, it was honestly a comforting and satisfying steak experience. What more could we ask for?

Cross Section of the Steak

Calories well spent indeed, and we were glad that stepping into Dandy turned out to be such a satisfying decision. From the hearty lamb rice to the juicy steak and refreshing drinks, the meal delivered both comfort and flavour. It was a pleasant dining experience that wrapped up our visit to Queensbay Mall on a happy and fulfilling note.

Dandy @ Queensbay Mall
Location: Queensbay Mall, GF112 & 113, 100, Persiaran Bayan Indah, 11900 Bayan Lepas, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Website

個室焼肉 萬 Yorozu

We finally arrived in Kyoto for dinner, where we were treated to a yakiniku experience to end the day on a satisfying note.

個室焼肉 萬 Yorozu

Menu

Gathered around the table, we settled in for a lively yakiniku experience as plates of marinated meats were served and placed over the charcoal grill. 

Our Dinner

Slowly grilling each cut to our preferred doneness added to the enjoyment, making the meal both interactive and satisfying. The spread was complemented by classic sides such as kimchi, beansprouts, and a light clear soup, rounding out a hearty and communal dining experience.

Grilling Starts

Beyond the meat platters, the ika offers a refreshing contrast, its tender texture paired with a light marinade that enhances its natural sweetness.

Ika

The fresh greens offer a light, refreshing balance to the meal, their natural crispness standing out even without added seasoning.

Greens

Meat & Sauce

The grilled beef delivers a satisfying smoky flavour, with the sauce lending a savoury depth that elevates its overall richness.

個室焼肉 萬 Yorozu
Location: 323-4 Shinnyodocho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 604-0853, Japan

和処花岡 Hanaoka in Osaka, Japan

Our first lunch in Osaka was at Hanaoka, where our guide brought us for a taste of local Japanese fare. After a long overnight flight, the anticipation for a comforting and authentic meal made this first stop all the more welcoming.

Hanaoka

The menu displayed outside highlights a range of bento set meals, suggesting a selection of hearty and well-balanced options for diners.

Menu

The walkway leading into the restaurant sets a tranquil tone, with a thoughtfully designed space that reflects a subtle Japanese aesthetic.

Walkway into Restaurant

The interior is thoughtfully designed with Japanese-inspired motifs, showcasing sakura blossoms and Mount Fuji, which adds a charming and immersive touch to the overall dining experience.

Decors

The dining area embraces a traditional Japanese setup, with low tables and wall-mounted hangers, offering a cosy and authentic atmosphere for diners.

Interior

The sight of the set meal immediately whetted my appetite. Featuring a neatly presented unagi rice box glazed with a rich, savoury sauce, it was accompanied by crispy karaage chicken and a comforting bowl of chawanmushi. The meal was further complemented by simple sides of edamame, tofu, and pickles, offering a well-balanced and satisfying spread.

Lunch

The set also includes a warm bowl of udon topped with kitsune and konbu, providing a soothing and well-balanced addition to the overall meal.

Udon

Simple, fuss-free, and satisfying, a fitting and comforting start to our Japan journey.

和処花岡 Hanaoka
Location: Japan, 〒550-0005 Osaka, Nishi Ward, Nishihonmachi, 3 Chome−1−46 奥内第５ビル 1F

Cecil Market Yu Tiao

Before leaving Cecil Market after breakfast, we walked past the fried fritters stall and were immediately drawn in by the irresistible aroma lingering in the air. Unable to resist, we picked up a Ham Chim Peng and a Huah Chee for a quick bite, planning to enjoy them along the way to our next stop.

Cecil Market Yu Tiao

The texture was delightful,  slightly crisp on the outside with a soft and fluffy interior. The fragrance was inviting, and the roasted sesame seeds on top added an extra layer of aroma and nuttiness, making each bite simple yet satisfying.

Ham Chim Peng - RM 1.40

The Huah Chee, also known as the “butterfly”, was enjoyable with its lightly crisp exterior and soft, fluffy centre. It carried a gentle sweetness and fragrance, making it a comforting and satisfying traditional snack.

Huah Chee - RM 1.40

Overall, the Ham Chim Peng and Huah Chee made for a delightful little snack to end our visit to Cecil Market. Freshly fried and aromatic, they carried a comforting old-school charm that is becoming harder to find these days. Simple as they may be, these traditional fritters reminded me how something so humble can still be deeply satisfying, especially when enjoyed fresh and on the go.

Cecil Market Yu Tiao
Location: Lebuh Cecil Pulau Pinang, George Town, 10300, Malaysia

Low You Soya Dessert

 After visiting Pasar Nearby for breakfast and while heading off to my next stop, I noticed Low You Soya Dessert Shop just across the street. With a little extra time on hand, I decided to grab something for a quick refreshment.

Low You Soya Dessert

Menu

Their menu was pleasantly straightforward yet offered a good variety, featuring both Hot and Cold Soy Milk Series, as well as Hot and Cold Bean Curd Series. What made it even more interesting was the range of toppings and sugar syrups available. From the usual white and brown sugar to more distinctive options like ginger and black sesame sugar, it added a layer of customisation that made the simple soy-based dessert feel more special.

It was a humble stop, but one that showcased how traditional desserts can still feel enjoyable with a touch of variety.

Menu

I eventually got myself a cup of their Classic Soya Milk, opting for the normal sugar level at 50% sweetness. Holding the chilled cup in my hand while standing along the busy street, it felt especially inviting under the humid weather.

Taking my first sip, the soya milk was smooth and light, with a gentle sweetness that did not overwhelm the natural soybean fragrance. The 50% sweetness turned out to be a good choice, allowing the drink to remain refreshing and easy on the palate.

Class Soy Milk - RM 3.50

It was incredibly cooling and satisfying, especially in the warm and slightly stuffy weather. Sometimes, it is these simple and familiar drinks that provide the most comfort during a short travel break.

Low You Soya Dessert
Location: 202, Lebuh Mcnair, 10300 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia

2nd Tiger Char Koay Teow (OO White Coffee Carnarvon Street)

After the disappointment with Barefoot Char Koay Teow, I was still “bu gan yuan” (unwilling to give up) and decided to try Penang CKT once more. This time, we headed to Tiger Char Koay Teow. The original stall address given to me was no longer in operation, so we went to the one next door, now housed inside OO White Coffee at Carnarvon Street.

2nd Tiger Char Koay Teow (OO White Coffee Carnarvon Street)

While watching the staff prepare our plate of Char Koay Teow, my heart sank a little. He was intermittently watching videos on his phone while waiting for the noodles to cook, which didn’t inspire much confidence.

Stall of 2nd Tiger Char Koay Teow

Nonetheless, our order came with a 20-minute wait. Despite the breakfast we had earlier at Pasar Lebuh Cecil, we ordered a cup of traditional Milk Tea each while waiting.

Milk Tea

Soon, the plate of Char Koay Teow was ready and placed right before our eyes. Served on a simple white porcelain plate, the portion appeared modest and neatly gathered in the centre. The flat rice noodles were evenly coated in a light orange-brown sauce, intertwined with strands of bean sprouts and bits of egg that clung onto the folds of the noodles. Small touches of chopped greens added a gentle contrast to the overall warm tones of the dish.

Tiger Char Koay Teow

As I took a few bites, I found myself reflecting quietly on the experience. The flavours leaned towards a gentler and simpler profile, presenting the noodles in a way that might appeal to those who enjoy a lighter interpretation of Char Koay Teow.

Does it look appealing to you?

However, it did not quite align with my personal preference of what I usually look forward to in a plate of this Penang classic. While I appreciate the effort and the different approach taken, it turned out to be another experience that did not resonate as strongly with me as I had hoped. 

Another Disappointment

Nonetheless, it became part of my continuing journey of exploring and understanding the many variations of Char Koay Teow that Penang has to offer.

Tiger Char Koay Teow
Location: 262-264, Lebuh Carnarvon, George Town, 10100 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia

Barefoot Char Koay Teow

Prior to my trip to Penang, I was actively craving a plate of Penang Char Kway Teow, especially one fried with duck egg, which is surprisingly scarce in Singapore. After watching a few YouTube reviews and getting a recommendation from my sibling, we decided to check this stall out. Upon reaching Cecil Street Food Centre, we made our way to the far end to locate it. I was excited and immediately rushed to place my order.

Stall of Barefoot Char Koay Teow

The lady taking orders had a rather extraordinary method, she literally wrote the orders on the eggs. The stall only accepts cash, and a number tag is issued upon ordering. It’s entirely self-service, and I waited close to 30 minutes for my plate to be ready. Customers can choose between a duck egg or a chicken egg, which was a nice touch.

Number to be called

When our order was finally ready, we collected it and took a closer look. The Char Kway Teow was fried over charcoal fire, and the prawns were undeniably plump, with that expected smoky wok hei clinging to the koay teow. However, the first mouthful left me disappointed. All my expectations of a satisfying plate of Char Kway Teow came crashing down, it simply wasn’t as memorable as what I had in Penang months ago. The ingredients included duck egg, Chinese sausage, and prawns, but somehow the overall balance just didn’t hit the mark for me.

Barefoot Char Koay Teow - RM 8.50

Would I wait another 30 minutes for another plate? Probably not. There are better versions out there, and this one just isn’t my style. Browsing through the Google reviews later on, I began to understand why opinions were so mixed. Turns out, I’m not in the minority who felt the same way.

Barefoot Char Koay Teow
Location: Pasar Lebuh Cecil, Lebuh Herriot, 10300 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia

LUM LAI Duck Meat Koay Teow Th'ng

Our morning ride to Cecil Street Food Court was all about getting a taste of local breakfast and immersing ourselves in the everyday rhythm of Penang’s food culture. We were there with one clear goal in mind, the famous Barefoot Char Kway Teow. However, as I navigated my way through the bustling food court, a long queue caught my attention, and the words “Duck Koay Teow” immediately drew me in.

We settled down at our first stop and placed our order at the Char Kway Teow stall, collecting a number tag while waiting. With time to spare, I set myself a second mission, to join the queue at Lum Lai Duck Meat Koay Teow Th’ng, a stall also recommended in the Michelin Guide. Despite having more than ten people ahead of me, the wait moved surprisingly fast, thanks to the efficient teamwork behind the stall. Each member had a clearly defined role, keeping the operation smooth and impressively organised.

Lum Lai Duck Meat Koay Teow Th'ng

Ordering was straightforward, with only two options available, small or big, no medium. Knowing Penang’s portions tend to be modest, and having queued for quite some time, I opted for the big bowl.

Pricing

The broth was the star of the dish, prepared by slow-simmering whole duck with pork bones, intestines, and loin for at least two hours. The result was a comforting, flavourful soup that complemented the duck beautifully, with a subtle sweetness that softened the duck’s natural robustness. The duck meat was deboned and cut into bite-sized pieces, making it easy to enjoy. The bowl was completed with fishballs and fish cakes, adding extra texture to an already inviting dish.

Duck Koay Teow Th'ng - RM 8.50 (Big)

Would I eat it again? Why not, especially if I find myself back at Cecil Street Food Court once more.

LUM LAI Duck Meat Koay Teow Th'ng
Location: Cecil Street Food Court, 24, Lebuh Cecil, George Town, 10300 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia

Hui Shang Ying Self-Made Rice Dumpling Specialty Store

We were running out of time after waking up from a short nap, so we decided to head over to Hui Shang Ying, just a few doors down from Fatty Fatty Chicken Rice. With time not on our side, we grabbed the menu and quickly made our selections before settling in.

Menu

We ordered the Sour Plum Calamansi Juice, refreshing and appetising, with just the right balance of sweet and tangy. It’s a familiar go-to that I almost always order whenever I’m in Malaysia.

Sour Plum Calamansi Juice - RM 9 Each

The BBQ Chicken Rice was pleasantly presented, a sunny-side-up egg crowned neatly on a mound of rice, accompanied by a juicy chicken steak glazed in a glistening BBQ sauce. A small serving of greens on the side added a refreshing touch and balanced out the plate nicely.

BBQ Chicken Rice - RM 16.90

Still not fully awake, I ordered the Hokkien Prawn Noodle, assuming it would be similar to our Singapore-style HKM. It wasn’t until the bowl arrived in front of me that reality kicked in. What was served turned out to be a comforting bowl of prawn noodle soup instead, complete with hard-boiled egg, kang kong and prawns swimming in a rich, savoury broth.

Hokkien Prawn Noodle - RM 12.90

Overall, if I were to choose again, I would likely skip this place, if not for its convenience and close proximity to our accommodation.

Hui Shang Ying Self-Made Rice Dumpling Specialty Store
Location: 4H & 4J, Desa University Commercial Complex, Jalan Sungai Dua, 11700 Gelugor, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia

Mommy Irene @ Sungai Dua

While taking a walk around the hotel vicinity after lunch, we spotted a Tau Fu Fa specialist right across from the hotel and decided to drop by. I don’t recall noticing this shop during our visit last year, so it felt like a pleasant little discovery.

Mommy Irene

We walked into Mommy Irene’s Kitchen, and it honestly felt like stepping into someone’s landed home. That said, it’s quite common in Malaysia to find eateries or service spaces set up in residential-style properties, so the experience felt both familiar and welcoming.

Menu

We had the Cantonese Tau Hua, which comes with a choice of brown sugar or chrysanthemum sugar. We went with the former, and the syrup was thoughtfully served in a separate bowl. The tau hua didn’t fill the bowl entirely, but it was silky-smooth in texture.

Brown Sugar Tau Hua - RM 5.50

We poured in the brown sugar syrup, and the sweetness was just right. The silky, wobbly texture was almost jelly-like, making each spoonful light and soothing. Served chilled, it was incredibly comforting and refreshing.

Wobbly

We also went for something warm the recommended Bubur Pulut Hitam, made with Thai black glutinous rice and topped with fresh coconut milk for a rich, comforting finish.

Bubur Pulut Hitam - RM 5.80 

The sweetness was just right, and every mouthful felt like a traditional indulgence. Comforting and satisfying, we polished the bowl clean before heading off.

I love this taste

We had planned to return for their Bubur Cha Cha, especially since our accommodation was nearby, but time never worked in our favour. On top of that, Bubur Cha Cha is only served randomly on weekends. Well then, we’ll just have to see if there’s a next time for us to visit again.

Will want to be back

Mommy Irene @ Sungai Dua
Location: 727F, Jalan Sungai Dua, Desa Permai Indah, 11700 Gelugor, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia