Sagano Japanese Restaurant

Passersby who venture along the second level of the Renaissance Kuala Lumpur hotel will notice this elegantly furnished restaurant that tantalizes all with its aromatic smells that escape from within, giving hints of the feasts that are taking place inside. Welcome to Sagano, the authentic Japanese Restaurant that has once been awarded the Best Fine Dining Restaurant Award in Malaysia , and alongside, has won many hearts, or rather, stomachs as well! Generously spaced and uniquely furnished with a combination of contemporary and Spartan settings; the whole place had a surreal ambience of Japanese authenticity!

Sagano Japanese Restaurant

• The Sagano Feast
  Executive Chef Norio Nomoto has masterfully blended all the kitchens of Japan to bring forth a comprehensive and authentic Japanese gourmet affair to the tables. The Sagano menu is extensive, and lends itself, in the leisurely Japanese tradition, to a series of appraising bites and heartwarming courses that will satisfy you fully, without making you feel satiated. Choices are aplenty as patrons can look forward to a whole assortment of incredibly fresh seafood, delectable meat, warm soups as well as vegetables and warm steamed Japanese rice. For the busy executives that are rushed for time, The Hiru No Set (Set Lunch Menu) is ideal as it packs in a combination of popular Japanese delicacies that will make lunch a quick but still equally delicious affair.
• What is good
  Commendable was the sashimi spread, which was artistically presented and freshly prepared for our eating pleasure. The freshness of its fish is assured as their sashimi is imported from Japan every week. The platter saw an assortment of salmon, swordfish, tuna and other favourites which were individually tender, subtly sweet and tasted just heavenly. A spritz of lemon served on the side adds a zesty twist to this otherwise subtly flavoured dish. If you are looking to turn up the notch, do add a dash of their creamy wasabi which is guaranteed to spice your meal up.

Also take joy in the intricately presented sushi platters that include a wide selection of delicacies like the crispy soft shell crab, sweetened ebi (prawn), tangy fish roe sushi and many more. Those who do not fancy raw food can delight in the flavourful teppanyaki (grilled) dishes prepared meticulously by the talented Sagano chefs. A particularly tasty choice will be the lightly seasoned teppanyaki chicken that was succulent and mouthwateringly sumptuous to savour. If you are one armed with a big appetite, you will do well to order their generously proportioned sets that combine teppanyaki, sashimi as well as miniature pots of steamed egg, soup and rice to fill your stomach up to the brim! It is as much a feast to the eyes as it is to the taste buds.

• Private rooms
  With three Tatami rooms, one Teppan Room, and one dining room in addition to the main dining area of the restaurant, Sagano seats 134 patrons comfortably, affording those who would want some intimacy with their beautifully furnished private rooms. Adorned in nothing less than an authentic Japanese style, the Japanese screens and low dining tables were reminiscent of an actual culinary experience in the cherry blossomed lands of Japan itself.

Sagano Japanese Restaurant

The SD Food Advisor’s take on Sagano
With its excellent ambience and food, it is easy to love Sagano. The favourable effort placed into making this a choice restaurant can be seen in all aspects; from the carefully designed and decorated interiors, to the exquisitely prepared Japanese delights, right down to the courteous and helpful service staff, everything in Sagano demonstrates the restaurant’s sincerity in offering its patrons a memorable dining experience that provides an enticing invitation for them to come back time and again.

Med @ Marche

Housed within the luxurious Renaissance Kuala Lumpur Hotel, this Mediterranean restaurant is truly a precious amber amidst its splendor. Dressed up in hues of warm brown, tangy orange and airy blues, one can easily unwind in its cosy ambience that radiates with elegance. With such opulence, its food surely does not disappoint. Serving up a moderately wide range of Mediterranean delights, the dishes were all tastefully and artfully created to present the best of the region to its guests.

Med @ Marche

• The Vibe
  Its resplendent décor holds distinct hints of Moroccan and North African styles, which can be captured from every angle, from the picturesque murals depicting the scenic Mediterranean coast painted on its walls to the soft mahogany drapes that cast mysterious shadows over the space; each feature is designed in such a way that it looks set to entice the patrons within with its mysticism and allure. Starting off with some pre-meal drinks at their intimately decorated lounge,Med @ Marche invites its guests to enjoy a cocktail or two amidst the sensual candle-lit surrounds before adjourning to the space within to continue with the main culinary experience. A fully-stocked wine cellar will tempt all to kick back and just relax with some quality wines imported from all over the world.
• The Food
  After falling in love with its décor, get ready to be infatuated with the tantalizing gourmet that the chefs of Med @ Marche have skillfully prepared for its patrons. Guiding this team is New Zealander chef Tim Yee, who believes that the natural flavours of food should be enhanced by using various ingredients and appropriate cooking techniques, instead of musking or overpowering it. Chef Yee designed his rather extensive menu to reflect subtle fusion of Australian influences into the otherwise pure Mediterranean cuisine. Noteworthy dishes include the lightly breaded halibut served over a bed of cous cous and the specialty rack of lamb platter, that comes accompanied with baked potatoes and fresh vegetables.The halibut was an intriguing play of textures as its crusty exterior fully complemented its tender meat within, which was further enhanced by the light and fluffy cous cous, which is a popular Mediterranean staple eaten widely by the people living in these parts of the world. Take joy in the fact that the halibut fish is not only delicious but healthy as well, for it is especially rich in Omega 3 vitamins. Similarly, the rack of lamb had the right succulence and was lightly seasoned with the right amount of spices, trapping all its natural flavours within. It skin was also grilled with a tinge of crispiness that made this one absolutely delightful dish to savour.

  From the half a dozen desserts available in this restaurant, the one that stands out the most will be their mango semifreddo that almost looks too good to eat. Delicately displayed on a black platter, the subtly sweet cake in the middle is surrounded by a ring of fresh sliced mango and topped off with a ripe gooseberry.

• Service
  A restaurant with an inviting ambience and delectable dishes will not be complete without an excellent service, and Med @ Marche sure did not miss that out. The staff were always well-groomed and courteous, which was a welcome sight from so many restaurants that we encounter nowadays.

Med @ Marche

The SD Food Advisor’s take on Med @ Marche
Already seduced by its intimate and sensual ambience, it sure is easy to favour this restaurant even if the food is not over the top. However, I have to say that the cuisine whipped up by these talented chefs was so exquisite that it definitely garners some well-deserved praises. I have to say thumbs up for this restaurant, for it has encompassed all the essential characteristics of making it a noteworthy place to wine and dine your night away.

Bangsar Village

Bangsar Village is the latest addition to the infamous Telawi area of Bangsar. It is a shopping mall that is split into two different sections. The first phase opened a while back and houses mostly food outlets and a quaint grocery shop called the Village Grocer. When it comes to shopping, it is Bangsar Village II that you would be more interested in.

Bangsar Village

Bangsar Village II (sometimes known as BVII) is a boutique shopping centre that is targeted at those with discerning tastes (which basically translates to “upper class”). Although it is not as large as many of the other shopping malls around the city, it does possess the high quality and service that one expects from a prestigious shopping centre.

The shopping centre is designed primarily for the fashionable and the rich. Its location in one of the trendiest area’s in KL makes it convenient for both locals and tourists alike. BVII promises the ultimate shopping experience for the trendy fashionistas with the latest in international couture. It aims to offer everything to suit your style, whether you are into contemporary, retro or the young and hip.

A variety of tenants can be found at BVII ranging from fashion, home décor, books, health and beauty, art to food. Brands such as Raoul, G2000, Massimo Dutti and many more can be found at BVII. It is ultimately shopping for the trendiest of people. After all that hard work trying to find the perfect outfit, pamper yourself with a massage, a relaxing facial or even a refreshing yoga class at one of the health, beauty and fitness outlets.

Bangsar Village

In addition to shopping, shopping and more shopping, BVII provides the perfect ambience for a Sunday Brunch “sex and the city” style. Restaurants and cafes are carefully selected to suit the upper class and chic theme. There’s something for every occasion, whether you are entertaining clients or just hanging out with the girls.

BVII provides a full range of services for its visitors. A concierge is available to manage your shopping bags and a valet is available to handle your parking problems. The only downside to BVII is that it is relatively new so there are still a lot of unoccupied spaces. Even so, BVII makes for a nice outing regardless of whether its shopping, food or just a good walking that you’re looking for.

Oggi Italian Restaurant

With the multitude of choices along the infamous street of Bintang Walk, one might reconsider dining at a hotel restaurant. Prices are so much higher and the food offered is not of the local variety. You might just change your mind after a taste of Oggi Italian Restaurant in Regent Hotel Kuala Lumpur.

Oggi Italian Restaurant

o    The Vibe

The first words that come to mind are class and elegance. The décor is not of Italian variety but the modern fine dining variety with its bright colours, spacious tables, wall mirrors and shining silver. The addition of Italian music in the background would compel you to start speaking in Italian or at least attempt to.

o    The Food

The menu might be a bit of a challenge for those who don’t speak Italian as most of the dishes are in Italian. Descriptions are in English though, and that would be enough to give you an idea of what you’ll be eating. The recommended dishes would be the lamb cutlets and the lobster fettuccini. The pesto marinated lamb cutlets are served with vegetables and basil lamb jus and is best ordered cooked medium. It is tender and moist and the basil lamb jus gives it the desirable Italian twist. The portions and prices are reasonable with 3 cutlets at RM56. The lobster fettuccini is pretty much self-explanatory. The pasta sauce is slightly sour and the lobster a bit scarce but overall, it is a dish worth trying. To make a perfect end to a meal, order the Tiramisu or the Chocolate Cake. The Tiramisu is soft and creamy and the best part is it is alcohol-free. The flourless Chocolate Cake is another pleasant dessert. It might be a bit dry, but once it reaches your lips, it melts in your mouth.

o    The Service

The service staff is an excellent bunch of people. They’re friendly and will remember your name throughout the meal. They are attentive and polite without interfering with the meal and they are the epitome of service with smile.

Oggi Italian Restaurant

SD Food Advisor’s take on Oggi Italian Restaurant

In all honesty, the prices are pretty decent coming from a restaurant located within a hotel. Main dishes average at RM40 and desserts start at RM18. It is considered one of the better Italian Restaurants in Kuala Lumpur and with reason as well. The portions may not be large but the food is good and if that’s not enough, the desserts would make up for it.

Alamanda Putrajaya

Alamanda Putrajaya is the first shopping centre built in Putrajaya. It can be considered the only shopping centre worthy of the “shopping centre” status. Located in Precinct 1 of Putrajaya, the mall opened its doors in August 2004 and since then, not much has happened.

Alamanda Putrajaya

The downfall of Alamanda Putrajaya is its location. Being far away from the city definitely contributes to its lack of success. The only visitors that the mall would receive are those who live within the area (which by the way isn’t much) or those who are visiting Putrajaya (which by the way isn’t much either). The area is pretty quiet, much like a ghost town.

Nonetheless, Alamanda’s concept is simple and precise. It aims to be a shopper’s paradise right in the heart of Putrajaya and it successfully is so considering there’s nowhere else to shop around the area. With no competition for miles, it is ultimately a shopper’s paradise right in the heart of Putrajaya.

The shopping centre has a variety of tenants ranging from clothing and accessories, restaurants and entertainment. Its anchor tenant is Carrefour which is a hypermarket. An apt choice if the only visitors you’re looking for are people in search for groceries and household items. Parkson is another anchor tenant at Alamanda but once again, there are no surprises when it comes to Parkson. Other than that, you’ll get the brands that you can easily get in any other shopping mall within the Klang Valley. It is ultimately, nothing spectacular.

Alamanda Putrajaya

One of the fascinating features of Alamanda Putrajaya is its travelators. It is the first shopping complex that features a travelator that connects the retail outlets with the car parks. This would aid in human traffic flow if the shopping mall were to be packed with visitors.

Alamanda Putrajaya wouldn’t be a first choice when it comes to shopping. It is one of those obscure malls that is located far away from all the bright lights and buzz of the city. With its two level design, there’s only so much shopping that you can do. You’ll be better off heading towards the Golden Triangle or any other shopping mall within Klang Valley. The only reason to visit Alamanda Putrajaya is if you so happen to be around the area. Then you would have an excuse to drop by.

Sungei Wang Plaza

The literal translation for Sungei Wang Plaza is “The River of Money” but such a name does not befit the place. Sungei Wang Plaza is a shopping mall that is popular amongst the locals and the tourists but it certainly isn’t one of the prettiest.

Sungei Wang Plaza

Its exterior and interior bears a weary look, one that is faded and jaded with time. Its walls are almost colourless but the bright lights of the night cover up its aging façade. Its interior is somewhat dingy but it serves its purpose. Shops are slightly smaller in size and so are the corridors. It tends to get slightly cramped during the weekends. All the floors are maze-like which makes for an interesting adventure.

Considering that this shopping mall opened for business in 1977, it is safe to say that its long run speaks leaps and bounds. Even with the newer shopping malls such as Starhill Gallery, Berjaya Times Square, Suria KLCC, Midvalley Megamall and 1 Utama, Sungei Wang Plaza seems to be determined to stick around.

Its strategic location definitely contributes to its success. It is within the vicinity of Golden Triangle and is walking distance from Bintang Walk and many other attractions, hotels and shopping malls around the area. The mall is connected to Lot 10 shopping centre and Bukit Bintang Plaza which makes it a magnet for people passing through.

Sungei Wang Plaza

Sungei Wang Plaza exudes a sort of charm that other malls lack. It is tailored to those looking for bargains and treasures. Most of the tenants are the smaller boutiques and independent local brands that are just looking for a nice and cosy place to call home. Amongst some of the items that can be found here are men’s and women’s clothing, footwear, food outlets, IT products and handphones (mobile phones/cell phones depending on which part of the world you come from).

The draw of Sungei Wang Plaza comes from its tenants. People who come here are dedicated to bargain shopping. Whether it be clothes or gadgets that you’re looking for, there’s definitely something at Sungei Wang for every trend. Just don’t expect marble floors, tall pillars and wall to wall carpets (if you know what I mean).

Nero Vivo Restaurant

Given the abundance of Italian restaurants in Kuala Lumpur, which ones are truly worth a visit? Check out the chic and modern Nero Vivo tucked away at the foot of Bukit Ceylon hills. This is one Italian restaurant that doesn’t let anything get in its way of serving good food and providing excellent service. The chef hails from Italy and the recipes are of his own creation.

Nero Vivo Restaurant

o     The Vibe

Nero Vivo is one place which is more than meets the eye. Its exterior is simple and humble but take a walk in and you will be amazed by its exquisite modern interior which has a cool urban twist to it. Its accented lighting and the soothing background music creates a warm and cozy ambience. A quaint outdoor area in the small garden serves to cater to those who prefer al fresco dining. The racks of wine that span from ceiling to floor speak of the patrons’ love for wine.  This will be an ideal gathering venue for great friends with good food accompanied by fine Italian wines.

o     The Food

A wide selection of authentic Italian food can be found on the menu. Kick-start the meal with the thinly sliced beef carpaccio served with parmesan and champignon and drizzled with extra virgin olive oil. Taken together with its accompaniments, the beef carppacio turns out to be refreshingly tasty. A highly recommended main course will be the beef tenderloin which is juicy and tender to the palates. The secret lies in using top quality Argentinean beef coupled with the skill of the chef in sealing the moisture of the beef within and hence, maintaining its juiciness. Seafood lovers may opt for the roast cod fish in creole sauce on ‘Funghetto’ eggplant and tomato sauce. The freshness of the cod fish is evident from its silky texture and omega-3 oil which overwhelms your palates as you take your first bite. To end the meal on a high note is the Tiramisu with croquante and red fruit compote which oozes liquer coffee out.

o     The Service

The staffs are generally friendly and attentive to your needs. They are more than willing to offer recommendations according to your preferences.

Nero Vivo Restaurant

SD Food Advisor’s take on Nero Vivo

This will be a perfect venue for a full course dining. A three course meal is priced at RM100.00. However those with a smaller appetite may wish to have a main course instead of the full course as the portions can be relatively large. Remember to make your reservations early to avoid disappointment as Nero Vivo is a hot favourite among the locals and tourists.

Starhill Gallery

Starhill Gallery is one of the (if not “the”) grandest shopping malls in Kuala Lumpur. It aims to provide “a gallery of rich experiences” to its visitors. With 7 floors of retail space all offering a different niche, Starhill Gallery makes the ultimate statement in fashion, food, beauty and art.

Starhill Gallery

The interior of Starhill Gallery is a sight to see. It offers a rare shopping experience that is private, glamourous and exclusive. All 7 floors are specifically designed to play its role. The classy interior, the grandeur of the design and its overall elegance makes it the perfect destination for those looking to splurge. Word of caution, Starhill Gallery is not for those looking for a bargain.

Its unique concept revolves around its 7 unique floors; Feast, Indulge, Adorn, Explore, Pamper, Relish and Muse. Feast and Relish provides an exclusive dining experience. Fine dining outlets such as Vansh, Shooks!, Gonbei, Jogoya and many more occupy the 2 floors. Indulge, Adorn and Explore offers shopping of the expensive kind. Names such as Louis Vuitton, Givenchy, Porsche Design, Davidoff, Dior, Tiffany, Vertu, Bang and Olufsen and many more can be found here.

The Pamper Zone is known as the world’s largest urban retreat dedicated to health, beauty and relaxation. Some of the world’s best therapists are housed right here in the heart of Kuala Lumpur. Muse is dedicated to art and it houses some of the best local art galleries ranging from canvas to photography and sculptures as well.

Starhill Gallery

Some people have compared Starhill Gallery to Suria KLCC because of certain similarities. Both offer an obscene amount of high end shopping, art and food. But the big difference is that Suria KLCC offers an all round shopping experience with a fair bit of bargains and food courts. In any case, Starhill Gallery, with its beauty, grace and grandeur, might be a better choice for those looking for a more private shopping experience.

Th Rib Shop

The Rib Shop has a name that is pretty self-explanatory. It is a haven for meat lovers as here is one rare find where pork is generously served. The restaurant’s motto itself is enough to instil curiosity as The Rib Shop intends to flavour your lips with their ribs. Pork ribs aside, the menu has a variety of other options for those who are less of a carnivore.

The Rib Shop

o     The Vibe

A simple interior with hues of tangerine and white creates a modern chic look. Within the Rib Shop is the Wine Shop which stacks bottles of wine from wall to wall and ceiling to floor thus creating a cosy ambience for the enjoyment of great wine with gourmet food in the same vicinity.

o     The Food

The creamy wild mushroom soup prepared using natural ingredients is wholesome and ideal for gourmet lovers. However those with a lighter palate may opt for the double Boiled Pork Rib consommé which is not so thick in its base. Served with salted vegetables and smoked bacon, this combination whets your appetite for the next upcoming dish. The highlight of the meal will be the Barbecue Pork Ribs (RM28.00). It is marinated with the chef’s secret recipe sauce which is a blend of east and west and serves to treat the palates for a delightful exotic feel with some spicy tinge after feel. The smooth and creamy mashed potatoes which accompanies the ribs balances the dish with a more neutral blend. The meal will not be complete without the Chocolate Brownie served with a scoop of vanilla ice-cream. It is sweet but not too overpowering and its lighter texture allows one to enjoy it without feeling too overwhelmed.

The Rib Shop

o     The Service

There are not many staff stifling around as the establishment is not very large. Service is good as they are friendly, attentive and always smiling. The food requires some wait but you can be assured that the chef is ensuring the quality preparation of your food for an exquisite dining experience.

SD Food Advisor’s take on The Rib Shop

A rare gem indeed to specialise in pork dishes. Better yet, prices are reasonable and the food is good. Pleasant ambience with gourmet fusion food served to please your senses. Take no offence and indulge yourself!

Berjaya Times Square

Berjaya Times Square is currently the Malaysia’s largest shopping mall. With 7.5 million square feet of built up floor area, Berjaya Times Square Kuala Lumpur contains a huge shopping mall as well as two five star hotels.

Berjaya Times Square

This giant of a structure is located smack in the centre of Kuala Lumpur city. Located along Jalan Imbi, Berjaya Times Square is accessible by monorail. It is also walking distance from other attractions  and shopping malls such as Bintang Walk, Sungei Wang Plaza, Starhill Gallery and Lot 10. Its strategic location makes it convenient for tourists and locals alike.

Its massive grounds boasts 13 floors of retail space offering and abundance of shopping, food and entertainment. The spacious floors consists of 700 specialty retail stores, 65 food outlets of different varieties and many unique entertainment outlets.

Shopping at Berjaya Times Square is no different than shopping at any of the other popular shopping malls in KL. You’ll see similar brands and similar collections at similar prices. Book fans will be happy to know that the current largest Borders store in the world is located in Berjaya Times Square. Other tenants include Metrojaya, Cold Storage, MNG, Esprit, Bossini, Dockers, Levi’s and up-market labels such as Tag Heuer and Dior.

Berjaya Times Square

There’s no shortage of food outlets at Berjaya Times Square either. The 3^rd and 4^th floors are dedicated to food, food and more food. This unique feature offers an “al-fresco” concept indoors. Some might think that it would defeat the purpose but the cooler air-conditioned interior is a welcome environment compared to the heat, rain, noise and smog outside. There’s an outlet for every occasion. Have a cup of coffee at Starbucks Coffee or if you’re looking for a quick fix there’s the option of fast food. If you are looking to splurge, you can do so at one of the up-market restaurants that offer exotic and tantalizing cuisines.

One of the main attractions of Berjaya Times Square is the entertainment that it offers. Asia’s largest indoor theme park and IMAX 2D and 3D can be found here. Cosmo’s World Theme Park is open to both adults and children. You can opt for the thrill rides that offer a dose of adrenaline or the slower and more mellow family and children’s rides. The IMAX 2D and 3D Theatre is Malaysia’s first and movie lovers are given the opportunity to experience movies in a larger-than-life sort of way.

With all these facilities, services and attractions, it’s a wonder why Berjaya Times Square isn’t making its mark as a shopping and entertainment destination. It has become the white elephant of the city. The theme park has been labelled “cheesy” and the shopping as well as food outlets are nothing out of the ordinary. Such a pity though for Berjaya Times Square had so much potential.