I Love Miri.. Why I say so, its because Miri people are damn rich nowadays, they invest lots of new franchise in the city, and we being Mirians can try out so much brand new things. Yippie!

This is the Food & Tea Hong Kong Style Fast Food Restaurant’s franchise that available around Malaysia. I think the one that i’ve tried before was at Low Yat many many years ago. But now seems disappear already. Hmm.. anyway, that’s not the matter.  Food & Tea or  歡喜地茶餐廳 is located at Boulevard Commercial Centre. Its just in between MyStore and Infinity Night Club.

I tried to go there last week during my lunch break, but they were too busy, every table were fully occupied.  So today I went there with my bro, again to check out the new outlet. The shop location is good, but the build up space are a bit too small. They can only fit in for roughly 8-9 tables.

We just ordered some dessert, as its consider as afternoon tea.

I had the glutinous Ball with Dried Longan and Spicy Ginger Sweets.
Although it was not taste like what I expected, but I think the glutinous ball are great. Just a bit pricey hor

Ah long have the Red Beans , Barley and Milk Sweets.
He says that he can do this at home, add on sweet milks, then pour in Red Beans and Barley.

Hahah…. that’s just a teaser la.

We enjoyed the environment, for chit chat wise, for online wise, everything seems fine.

A take away Smoked Ham and Cheese Sandwich for Muh Hwa.

Compare to the menu and the turn out, oh, sorry its too much difference.

I don’t know how it taste but it smells great la!

When the bill came out, total amounted RM14.65.  There’s 10% service charge. Before I went here, I heard lots of bad comments for them. But maybe I could say they are still new, just give them some room for improvement. Oh, hehe, why I’m so helping them? No la, to be square la, yet its run by my not-so-close uni friends.

Anyway, I’ll be back again for a second review.
Food & Tea, please be prepared!

Actually I’ve been travel a lot for the past few years, but I rarely travel domestically, NO.. please don’t say I’m showing off, but its truly that travel within Malaysia actually cost more!

A few things to share and compare here.

* The Air tickets to International sometimes are cheaper than to KL.
* Lots of places like in Peninsular needed to access by car, if you don’t have a car, then anything else would be expensive.
* Hotels and tour packages for domestic are usually very expensive. Compare to those travel packages that offered for our neighborhood country, everything in Malaysia seems more expensive.
* Travel information are hard to get online

Anyhow, there’s actually lots of great places to explore within Malaysia. Cameron Highlands is one of the place that I wish to go but always ended up to other places. I’ve been study online for the information for the highlands, with the helps of friend who always travel up and down, only then I manage to get ourselves the free and easy trip!

Maybe some of you might be thinking, drive from KL to Cameron easy only la, why make its sounds like you are going oversea? Excuse me, I’m really going over the SEA. To go Cameron Highlands, we need to travel from Miri to KL over the sea. Then only we could take BUS up to the highlands. Journey seems long to us, but its worthy for our never ending honey moon.

Arriving Cameron , Tanah Rata Tourist Centre

The very first important thing we need to take note for the free and easy trip is you need to get a a simple local tour from Cameron. The one get from here seems good. I don’t need a luxury tour, but just bus transfer from KL, pick up, accommodation and simple country side tour.

Note: They charge extra RM50 during the weekends, same things goes to Hotel rate.

I was here in LeArk back in Sept 2008.

Whenever there’s new eatery pop up, it will be the talk of the town.  Its been almost 2 years since my last visit. I left them a very poor review on their food.

Time passes, I wonder does my truthful review back then does bring that any improvement for Today. I think the answer should be Yes!

Will and his gang would definitely loves to hangout here during the free time. And at this time, I would take this chance to write them a second review. Of course, on the good side. =)

They’ve actually rename to The Ark. I bet probably most of the people can’t pronouce “le” ?

They are now serving more varieties of food which the main attractions would be their Authentic Thai Cuisine. The chef is really from Thailand!

The environment still as great as before. Well maintained, lighting makes the whole place looks comfy.

The first thing that Alex spotted, they’ve one functioning and online computer for customers. Not like lots of the other restaurant, putting a dummy pc but this one is working pretty fast! The Ark has their own blog now.  To my surprise, they’ve actually taken my photos without my consent! Nevermind la, free publicity, and welcome to take this batch if you like. =)

Let’s have a look on what we had, actually it was a late supper for few of us. We just had some simple Thai dish, such as Fried Mee, Fried Rice & a Papaya Salad.

Tears are bursting out from the corner of my eye.. Its real authentic, most of the food are spicy.

As for the refreshments, lots of choices as well, with reasonable price. The happiest thing is they serve FRESH cOcOnutS! Awesome ^^

Will and Gang
Top: Left – Will Chua | Right – Joseph

Bottom: Left – Justin | Right – Ah Kiong

To be fair, I’m happy to see their changes. It proven, comments are meant for improvement.

For the fact that The Ark is running well, most probably they provide a very good environment for their customers.

Everyone is enjoying their food, having the good time with the loves one. ♥

30 March 2010, Heidi turns 14. We celebrated her birthday earlier on the weekend as the actual days falls at the weekday. His dad treat the whole family to Nikko Japanese Restaurant, and as usual, I am invited as I’m their most favorite Aunt. >__<

Nikko Japanese Restaurant is one of the premier Japanese Restaurant in Miri. In terms of food, service and environment, I think this is the only restaurant that pass the quality check.

Let’s indulge!

This is the kid’s favorite. Tamago Sushi.

The green peas, simple and nice, freshly boiled with few pinch of salts.

Something I found at Nikko which is slightly different from other Japanese restaurant. They serve Chili Powder on each table instead of Wasabi. While you get Wasabi on request.

My sister and bro in law’s favorite, California Rolls.

The kids can’t live without Rice, Garlic Fried Rice for RM3.50. Not bad, it taste mouthful of Garrrrrrrrlic!

Japanese also have dumpling, but taste so-so only. I still prefer the Chinese one.

Kanikama Sushi

My favorites Beef Udon!

Now come the fishes!

Sardine Fish, looks so sad.

Hi, Salmon Fish!

Eerie, Baby Octopus!

Appetizer: Mix Fruits Plates.

We enjoyed the dinner, and the waitress were really busy serving us here and there. Although the bill came out would be slightly expensive but their services and food does worth for it.

How I wish I can celebrate my birthday at Nikko too >.<

Before I started posting for this Pasar Malam entry, I think I should pay a respect to the late Sibu MP , Datuk Robert Lau Hoi Chew. He passed away on 9th of April 2010. The news spread very fast, and we got the confirmation after we saw the press.

Anyway, he did not influence much into my life that I don’t know what credit I should write for him.  Coincidentally, just the night before he passed away, Alex and I went to Pasar Malam of Sibu town and saw one of this picture stick on the hawker stall.

In this photograph : Dato’Sri Mohd. Najib bin Tun Haji Abdul Razak, Late YB Datuk Robert Lau, YAB Pehin Sri Hj. Abdul Taib Mahmud & YB Dato’ Wong Soon Koh.

This photo was taken on last July 2009 during the visit of our Prime Minister to Sibu. It is like getting closer to the public. At least from this picture, I know that the Hawkers were happy and being proud of their visit to the Pasar Malam.

Back to the Pasar Malam post that I intend to write.

The Pasar Malam in Sibu has been one of the tourist spot, or Sibu’s unique attractions.  As a Mirian, I hardly find a pasar malam that operates daily, and it consist of Chinese and Malay stalls running business under one roof. Well said, 1 Malaysia.

This Pasar Malam, just like the Pasar Malam in West Malaysia selling varieties of food, fruits and vegetables. Not only that, there were some stalls selling apparels for all ages with a reasonable price. Most of the hawkers here have been running the business for years or more.

Start with the most popular items sold in Pasar Malam is the BBQ pork.  Whichever part from the pig you can get it here.

Did you see the pig nose?

This young man is BBQ -ing the pork belly.

Then you can also get the ready made – economy rice and dish. OR you can call it “Chap Fan”.

There’s variety of dishes, but honestly speaking, I do not dare to try.

Next, the 2nd popular items in Pasar Malam will be this Mini Apam Balik, or in chinese they call it half moon 半个月亮。

These were made from the Malay stalls.
Price are standard.
1 piece for RM0.40 and 5 pieces for RM2.

The making of Apam Balik would be easy from what we seen, but still the most critical point is on the tactics of pan baking and the ingredients.

It was very competitive that when they see lots of people are urging for this Mini Apam balik, lots of stall start selling the same item. To my surprise, it all runs by young people.

But still the most succesful stall of Apam Balik still belongs to this young lady. I’ve seen her here since her size was smaller. *chuckled* I mean since she’s in teenage years la.

Together gather with her should be her brother. They look alike.

We always have to queue for her Apam Balik while the other stalls are waiting for flies instead of customers.

Although it looks a bit crumpled but it taste good!

On the 3rd ranking, would be the “Pao” seller.
They sell varieties of Bun, I mean the Chinese White Bun. And also they sell dumplings and some nyonya kuih.

This is the old man that I would respect, but I rarely buy Pasar Malam’s bun.
He runs the stall all by himself, and is a very hardworking old man. Whenever I pass by his stalls, he will greets his customers and tell them the Bun is hot, good to eat.

This hawker, is just 2 stalls next to him. Its really competitive, but they have their own ways to survive.

On the 4th ranking and onwards, I personally think it would be this lady who sells boiled Sweet Corns and some snacks.

The Malay Kebab stall also very popular.

RM2.50 for one kebab.

Want to have some Kacang Putih??
RM1 per cup.

Colorful beverages, Orange color should be air Samboi – kind of lime juice.

Not to forget, the fresh soya bean and soya jelly.
Visited my the Prime Ministers and the YBs.

The remaining stalls are those sellling fruits and veges.

Apparels stalls.

Would you come to visit the Pasar Malam, this is one of the spot that you can’t miss in Sibu.

It operates daily start from 6pm till 10pm.
Location: High Street of Market Road.

Why do i say New Terminal, I bet they are the 5th Terminal in Sibu. Else, why do they call themselves as Terminal 5 cafe?

Anyway, Terminal 5 cafe is just located at the shoplot next to Bus Terminal at Jalan Pahlawan here. Or for easier landmark, next to Everwin Supermarket. From my understanding, this cafe has just started their business for a few months.

I’ve been to Terminal 5 for twice, but I never tried their food yet so I can’t comment on how their food is taste.

Environment wise, T5 is really a good place to chill out with family and friend.

Beers were served too.
This is the sitting area, also the non smoking zone.

While the Balcony also occupied with seats, I bet those who prefer to sit outside opt for smoking area. Else, I rather stay in Aircond.

Mike and Will called us out for tea, so we chosen here.

A good place to chit chat, not too noisy not too quiet with some music at the background.

About their drinks, I really have something to comment.

I had hot honey lemon – RM3.50
Alex had Ice honey lemon – RM3.80

Same height,  same amount of liquid, same glass and just because of the ice cube extraRM0.30.
That’s fine. Not a big deal. Not the price problem. But the taste problem!
No honey taste, no lemon taste.  So what is this? Tasteless Ice Honey Lemon?

As for William, he ordered Cham drinks.
Do you get the meaning for Cham?
This is their special drinks, Cham cham in Chinese dialects means MIX up.
Its a mixture of coffee and some other beverage, but Will comments it doesn’t taste like what it should be. Poor Will.

Ended up, only Mike gets his ideal drink.
Chlorophyl + Lemon. Its a smoothie.
Looks good, taste good.

If I have time this weekend, I will be there again to try out their food. They close at 11pm, but you must be there before 10.30pm before their kitchen close. I’ll write the food review after I’ve try it. :p

I found that lately, there’s a lot of new cafeteria blooming out at Sibu town. Is this a good news? I hope so.. I just don’t wish to see one close after another. Oh ya, one good news to share, Secret Recipe is coming to Sibu town soon! Don’t play play…. now everyone can eat lo!

What’s the first thing you would request when your pizza is serve? As for me and my friends, we would definitely ask for Cheese Powder. That is compulsory for the Pizza, Spaghetti and the Mushroom Soup.

Pizza Hut at Sing Kwong , Sibu

However, its really disappointed that we found out Pizza Hut at Sing Kwong, Sibu does not serve Cheese Powder. Not only that, the cheese which is suppose to be on the Pizza also seen lessen compare to before.

So who steal the cheese? The worker itself? The management wanted to cut cost? Or Cheese being stolen by the rat?

We tried the new Chunky  Loaded Pizza, its crispy, lots of ingredients. You get 30% off if you have maybankard.

There were 6 of us, I’ve requested Deli Wings, my favorite.

Joseph had the lasagna.

While we shared the spaghetti and the cheese baked rice.

You must be thinking, we were really big eaters. Actually it was Will’s treat after getting his final allowance. $$$. Thank’s for the treat. And it’s my pleasure to join in the lunch together with Will’s ex-colleague.

Nice meeting you guys, Ah Kiong, Joseph & William.

The next time before you take your order, please remember to ask , “Do you have cheese powder?”

We were invited to join KongKay and Will Chua for dinner at BBQ House last night.  However, we did not make it due to certain reason.  Will keep recommending that the food are great, to no regrets, Alex and I opt to go here for dinner tonight.

BBQ House

BBQ House  韩江烧肉 is located at the shop lot next to Paramount Hotel. The exact address: No.1 1st Floor, Jalan Kampung Datu, Sibu Sarawak. Tel: 016-886-3868. They serve Korean food, BBQ style and also side dishes.  Operating Hour: Monday to Sunday. 11.30am-2pm & 5.30pm -10.30pm.

The interior of BBQ house is just simple, a reception on the left of the entrance and a few tables comes with the BBQ set on each.

Apparently, there is another restaurant that serve Korean Food, which is Manna Cafe. But I would prefer BBQ house, its more authentic.  When we just arrive, the owner, Mr Hu greeted us and asked if we were first time to its restaurant. He introduced us the dishes and take order for us.

While waiting for food,  as usual, I would take picture of the surrounding. Alex would be busy taking picture with his digital cam too.

As it is only the 2 of us, it would be wasteful if we ordered too much.

The BBQ set would be on the middle, the waiter would help to lit up the fire, and bbq the meat for us.  We just have to sit there, wait and eat! And I love this sauce,  I hade 3 of it. Haha, not to be missed ok? You must blend it together with the meat and vege, it taste absolutely great!

Beef and Chicken for BBQ.
The meat were marinated before served to BBQ. Taste good. Maybe next time we should try lamb.

Veges, mushroom & Tofu as the soup base to be boiled by the side.

We have side dish too, dumplings, kimchi and seaweed strip.

We finished all the food we ordered except the dumplings. Alex says the dumpling taste funny, but I found its okay.

We enjoyed the dinner so much.
Total spent: RM41.80 inclusive of drinks.

Who says Sibu only have best Kampua, infact, we do have nice Japanese Food and nice Korean Food. Most important thing, it all comes with reasonable price!