Celebrate Lunar New Year with Shangri-La Auspicious Hampers

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Kuala Lumpur/ Delish/ Happenings

Published: January 02, 2025

Welcome the Lunar New Year with Shangri-La’s Festive Collection of Gifts

by: The Beat Asia

Tags:
Chinese New YearYear of the SnakeHampers
Untitled design 2025 01 02 T104646 623Photo by Facebook/ Shangri-La Kuala Lumpur

by: The Beat Asia

Published:
January 02, 2025

Tags:
Chinese New YearYear of the SnakeHampers

Ring in the Year of the Snake with Shangri-La’s vibrant, carefully curated array of festive offerings.

From elegant hampers and refined gift sets to premium yee sang and timeless Lunar New Year delights, these selections are designed to spread joy, prosperity, and abundance to loved ones and business partners alike.

Choose from a variety of hampers tailored to suit different preferences. The Luxe Prosperity hamper (RM1,944.80) is an elegant choice for those wanting to go all out, featuring an assortment of exquisite items such as Tempus Two Shiraz Red Wine (750ml), a fish-shaped coconut Nian Gao, premium 6-head Abalone, Emperor Red Dates, Hokkaido Dried Scallops, and a selection of mushrooms and sweets. For more budget-friendly options, consider the Jade Fortune (RM1,264.80) or the Golden Dynasty (RM669.80).

Celestial Gift Set C
Website/Shangri-La Kuala Lumpur

Gift sets also offer a thoughtful way to celebrate the season. The Celestial Gift Set C (RM346.80) includes a healthy selection of Charcoal Coconut Kuih Bangkit, Peanut and Sesame Brittle, Shang Palace XO Sauce, and Assorted Pralines. Other variations of the Celestial Gift Set, such as Set D and Set E, are priced similarly at RM346.80.

For a touch of sweetness, the Chocolate Ingot & Chocolate Slab with Cookies (RM193.80) is a delightful choice, or the Four-Happiness Gift Set A for RM176.80, consisting of walnut cookies, dragon beard cookies, green pea cookies, and almond cookies.

Orders are open until Feb. 12, 2025, with a special 15% discount on Chinese New Year retail items available when shopping at the Shangri-La Boutique.

You can purchase your gifts now at this website, or follow Shangri-La on their Facebook and Instagram for more information.

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Kuala Lumpur/ Delish/ Happenings

Published: January 08, 2026

Luckin Coffee Opens Flagship Store in MY and Launches Coffee Mobile Truck

by: The Beat Asia

Tags:
Luckin CoffeeFlagship StoresOpeningsCoffee Truck
Genting 1Photo by Courtesy of Luckin Coffee Malaysia

by: The Beat Asia

Published:
January 08, 2026

Tags:
Luckin CoffeeFlagship StoresOpeningsCoffee Truck

Lifestyle coffeehouse chain Luckin Coffee continues its expansion across Malaysia with the grand opening of its first flagship store at SkyAvenue, Resorts World Genting, alongside the debut of its Luckin Coffee Mobile Truck.

The brand's newest flagship store, nestled within SkyAvenue at Genting Highlands, spans 2,084 sq ft. and brings a playful, theme park-inspired concept into the popular coffee space. Designed to mirror the mall’s dynamic and entertainment-focused environment, the store features a Merry-Go-Round-style coffee bar, a roller coaster-themed seating zones, a large “Luckin” seating, an interactive “Charge Your Luck” zone, and an IP wall featuring Lucky, the brand’s Chief Lucky Officer.

Rooted in Luckin Coffee’s four pillars of professionalism, youth, fashion, and wellness, the new space reflects the brand’s modern, lifestyle-driven direction.

The Genting outlet exclusive drink
Courtesy of Luckin Coffee Malaysia

To celebrate the opening, Luckin Coffee has also introduced the Genting-exclusive Grape Cloud Frappe, a creamy, grape-flavored drink available only at outlets in Genting Highlands. The limited-edition drink blends a bright grape flavor with a creamy texture and is finished with fluffy whipped cream that perfectly complements its cloudy finish.

The flagship outlet at SkyAvenue completes the brand’s expansion in Genting Highlands, following the opening of the Pick-and-Go store at Highlands Hotel in August 2025 and the Antara Genting Relaxed Store last November.

The new Luckin Coffee Mobile Truck
Courtesy of Luckin Coffee Malaysia

Beyond the physical stores, Luckin Coffee Malaysia has also debuted its Luckin Coffee Mobile Truck, a mobile activation that allows convenient coffee access at festivals, townships, universities, lifestyle hubs, and community events, and carries the brand’s signature menu.

With its latest expansions, Luckin Coffee Malaysia continues to grow its presence around the country with its mix of flagship stores and flexible formats and highlights its position as a fast-growing brand in Malaysia’s coffee retail landscape.

Follow Luckin Coffee on Facebook and Instagram for more updates.

Location: Unit T2-35, SkyAvenue, Resorts World Genting, Genting Highlands, 69000 Genting Highlands, Pahang

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Kuala Lumpur/ Delish/ Happenings

Published: January 08, 2026

M’sian Influencer Chef Khairul Aming Opens His First Restaurant Rembayung

by: The Beat Asia

Tags:
RestaurantsOpeningsContent Creators
08012026Photo by Instagram/ Khairul Amin Kamarulzaman

by: The Beat Asia

Published:
January 08, 2026

Tags:
RestaurantsOpeningsContent Creators

Malaysian content creator-turned-entrepreneur Khairul Aming has officially entered the F&B scene with the opening of his first restaurant, Rembayung, in Kuala Lumpur.

Known for his viral cooking videos and modern takes on typical Malaysian flavors, Khairul Aming brings the same vibrance and energy into Rembayung, a village-inspired casual dining concept that celebrates local flavors with a modern twist.

Said to be 10 years in the making, Rembayung is a reflection of Khairul Aming’s personal food journey, drawing inspiration from the everyday Malaysian comfort dishes he’s made over the years and presenting them in a familiar and thoughtfully elevated manner.

“After 10 years in the online world, I am finally ready to step into the offline world,” he said in the caption of a video he posted. “This is the start of my plans for the next 10 years.”

New restaurant Rembayung by Malaysian content creator-turned-entrepreneur Khairul Aming
Threads/ Khairul Aming

The name “Rembayung” is a nod to the soft glow of the twilight sky, hinting at the restaurant’s relaxed atmosphere. The restaurant features a semi-glass house exterior with an elevated kampung interior, bringing the traditional kampung feel to the heart of Kuala Lumpur.

In another video he shared on his social media, Khairul gave a glimpse of what the menu of Rembayung would have to offer: traditional Malay kampung food that caters to customers with preferences for spicy and mild tastes, a children’s menu, meals that come with vegetables and fresh fruit, and no VIP rooms.

Staff at Rembayung by Khairul Aming restaurant opening
Instagram/ Rembayung | Instagram/ Khairul Aming

Rembayung is now officially open in Kuala Lumpur, but not without an overwhelming response from eager customers. Just before the opening night, Khairul Aming revealed that he and his team had successfully completed the first 3,000 bookings for Rembayung before the website crashed.

In a video, he apologized for the technical issues that customers had faced and assured them that he and his team will offer a satisfying dining experience to everyone who had secured a booking at Rembayung.

For more information and updates, follow Rembayung on Instagram. Reserve a table here.

Location: Lot 2791, Jalan Daud, Off Jalan Raja Muda Abdul Aziz, Kampung Baru, 50300 Kuala Lumpur

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Kuala Lumpur/ Delish/ Happenings

Published: January 02, 2026

Chef Ton Opens Thai Fine Dining Spot ‘As I Am’ in Kuala Lumpur

by: The Beat Asia

Tags:
Thai CuisineChef TonFine Dining
As I Am Chef TonPhoto by As I Am/Facebook

by: The Beat Asia

Published:
January 02, 2026

Tags:
Thai CuisineChef TonFine Dining

Renowned Thai Chef Thitid Tassanakajohn, more popularly known as Chef Ton, marks his second Malaysian venture and 27th outlet with As I Am — a new fine dining destination serving up reimagined Thai cuisine.

Housed inside the historic Tuah 1895 building in Kuala Lumpur, As I Am offers a relaxed yet thoughtful take on modern Thai fine dining. The restaurant features a carefully crafted 12-course tasting menu that draws inspiration from tradition, memory, and contemporary techniques.

Each dish stays true to the heart of Thai cuisine — bold, balanced, and full of flavor — while presenting it in a more refined and modern way. Highlights from the menu include the Thai Crepe with Crab Curry & Caviar, a refined take on a classic; Kanom Jeen Nam Prik Poo, featuring fermented rice noodles paired with crab meat, banana blossom, and Thai acacia; the richly flavored Red Curry Duck with Longan; and a memorable finish with Smoked Coconut Ice Cream for dessert. You can experience this tasting menu for RM450++.

Mahor chicken with watermelon agar-agar
Mahor Chicken with compressed watermelon agar-agar | Photo from Facebook/As I Am
Thai Crepe with Crab Curry & Caviar dish
Thai Crepe with Crab Curry & Caviar | Photo from Website/As I Am

Leading the kitchen is Head Chef Whan, a rising name in the modern Thai food scene who trained under David Thompson, one of the most influential figures in Thai cuisine. He also previously worked as Senior Sous Chef at Aksorn, Chef David’s one-Michelin-starred restaurant. That background shines through in the food at As I Am, where classic Thai flavors are respected, elevated, and made to feel fresh without losing their soul.

The restaurant is currently accepting reservations for January. The restaurant offers private dining experiences within its luxurious private rooms that can seat up to 12 guests, as well as larger private sections accommodating up to 20 people.

Private dining spaces
Photo from Website/As I Am

Want to be the first to witness Chef Ton’s latest creation? You can register to request Early Access here and enjoy priority invites to soft-opening previews, early bird promo, behind-the-scenes content, and first access to exclusive table booking.

For updates, follow As I Am on Facebook and Instagram.

Location: As I Am by Chef Ton, Level 1, Viewing Deck, L02-L03 Plaza Tuah 1895, 2, Jalan Hang Tuah, Bukit Bintang BBCC

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Kuala Lumpur/ Delish/ Happenings

Published: December 19, 2025

American Steakhouse Smith & Wollensky Opens Kuala Lumpur Outpost

by: The Beat Asia

Tags:
SteakhousesDiningSmith & Wollensky
Smith WollenskyPhoto by Steakhouse Smith & Wollensky/Facebook

by: The Beat Asia

Published:
December 19, 2025

Tags:
SteakhousesDiningSmith & Wollensky

Steak lovers in Kuala Lumpur have much to celebrate this Christmas season as American steakhouse Smith & Wollensky finally opens its doors!

Located on the ground and first floors of Suria KLCC, Malaysia’s premier shopping mall at the base of the iconic Petronas Twin Towers, Smith & Wollensky offers the highest quality of prime beef that is dry-aged in-house, exceptional wine pairings, and a classy ambience perfect for date nights and celebrations.

For its Malaysia outpost, the steakhouse offers a more casual all-day dining menu while still bringing out its showstoppers: the signature 44-ounce dry-aged swinging Tomahawk, a lavish seafood tower, and the decadent ten-layer chocolate cake — where a 1-kilogram slice is generous enough to share among up to six people! According to this post, they will also be offering specially crafted sauces like Lada Kelapa, Hijau Asia, and Asam Jawa, giving the menu a regional flair.

Swinging Tomahawk
Swinging Tomahawk | Photo from Facebook/Steakhouse Smith & Wollensky
Shellfish Tower
Shellfish Tower | Photo from Facebook/Steakhouse Smith & Wollensky

The restaurant also features an impressive wine program with over 2,000 labels sourced from across the globe. Their wine cellar features a wide range of American wines, most of which are exclusive and rarely available in Malaysia. You can also get a sip of wines from other regions, including France, Italy, Spain, Australia, Chile, South Africa, and more!

Beyond dining, Smith & Wollensky is a great place to host business functions or parties, having a dedicated events hall that can accommodate up to 80 guests.

The restaurant is now accepting reservations here. In the spirit of the holiday season, they are also offering limited-time festive desserts such as the Yule Log (RM259), Raspberry Pistachio Cake (RM159), and Pecan Pie (RM159). For pre-orders, call +60 123289760.

Gigantic Chocolate Cake
Gigantic Chocolate Cake | Photo from Facebook/Steakhouse Smith & Wollensky

Smith & Wollensky was established in 1977 in New York City and is famously favored by Warren Buffett, who hosts a charity luncheon to benefit the Glide Foundation in San Francisco. The auction has since raised 50 million US dollars.

They expanded to Asia for the first time in 2019, and now has branches in Taipei, Taichung, Seoul, and Manila.

For updates, follow Smith & Wollensky Kuala Lumpur on Facebook and Instagram.

Location: Lot LC G02-G05, & Lot LC 102-104, Suria KLCC, Kuala Lumpur City Centre, 50088

Opening Hours: 

  • All-Day Dining: Monday to Sunday, from 7:30 AM to 10 PM
  • Steakhouse: Monday to Sunday, from 11 AM to 1 AM

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Kuala Lumpur/ Nomads/ Explore

Published: December 12, 2025

Check Out Carousel & Co., Malaysia’s First Social Entertainment Venue

by: The Beat Asia

Tags:
Avenue KCarnivals
Carousel CoPhoto by Carousel & Co.

by: The Beat Asia

Published:
December 12, 2025

Tags:
Avenue KCarnivals

Kuala Lumpur’s social scene is about to level up as global skills-game powerhouse HB Leisure (HBL) launches Malaysia’s first-ever social entertainment venue, built for the booming trend of “competitive socializing.”

Nestled in a tech-enhanced rooftop setting at Avenue K, Carousel & Co. is an all-in-one destination where guests are invited to eat, drink, and challenge one another across large-format skill games in a highly immersive venue inspired by the golden age of fairgrounds.

The place is set up like a modern carnival, with a show-stopping Carousel Bar at the center serving handcrafted cocktails and easy, shareable bites. It’s built for groups, turning the usual night out into a fun, interactive hangout with different zones to explore, cool design details, and upgraded food and drinks. Whether you’re planning a work event or just looking for a new after-work spot, Carousel & Co. mixes relaxed social dining with the energy and playful competition of carnival games — perfect for unwinding, celebrating, or just having a good time.

Balloon Terrace
Balloon Terrace | Photo from Website/Carousel & Co.
The Pier Lounge
The Pier Lounge | Photo from Website/Carousel & Co.

“Malaysia’s social scene is evolving beyond dining and nightlife. Carousel & Co. brings the next phase — an experience that celebrates connection, creativity and competition,” said Greg Pearn, Head of New Concepts at HBL. “We wanted to capture that nostalgic carnival feeling but reimagine it for adults — where the games are bigger, the cocktails bolder and the laughter louder. We’re combining our 100-year heritage in theme park skill-based entertainment with Kuala Lumpur’s growing appetite for quality, playful experiences.”

Carousel & Co. marks HBL’s big debut in Malaysia’s lifestyle and entertainment scene, and it’s built with both scalability and future franchise potential across Southeast Asia in mind. The venue blends tech-enabled play with group-friendly design. Think digital scoring woven into every corner and spaces made for teams, gatherings, and social hangouts. Guests can look forward to modern twists on classic skill games like Down-The-Clown, Skeeball, and Basketball, all enhanced with real-time scoring that keeps the energy high and the competition fun. Those looking to use it as an event space can peruse its available private spaces, which can accommodate groups from eight to 115 people.

Private Dining Room
HB's | Photo from Website/Carousel & Co.

“Avenue K is exactly the right kind of playground for what we’re building,” added Greg. “It’s at the center of the city’s heartbeat, where business types, shoppers and travelers all cross paths. Carousel & Co. will fit right in by giving people a spot to have a drink, take a bite to eat, share a laugh and sneak in a little friendly competition along the way.”

No official opening date has been announced, but it’s expected to welcome guests sometime in December. Tickets at Carousel and Co. start from RM60, and tables can be booked here. 

For more information visit their website or follow Carousel & Co. on Facebook, TikTok, and Instagram for updates.

Location: Carousel & Co. Avenue K, Units L4-2 & L4-6, Level 4. 156 Jalan Ampang, 50450, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

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Kuala Lumpur/ The List/ What's On

Published: December 10, 2025

Craving for Sushi? Catch The Japan Foundation’s 'I Love Sushi' Exhibit!

by: The Beat Asia

Tags:
Japan FoundationJapanese FoodSushiExhibitions
20251210 i love sushiPhoto by Japan Foundation Kuala Lumpur/Instagram

by: The Beat Asia

Published:
December 10, 2025

Tags:
Japan FoundationJapanese FoodSushiExhibitions

Sushi for the holidays? Yes, of course! The Japan Foundation’s cultural traveling exhibition “I Love Sushi” has kicked off in Kuala Lumpur, running from Nov. 14 to Dec. 31, 2025, at the UR-MU @ The Toffee, The Project Room, Level 4.

Open from 11 AM to 7 PM daily (except on Mondays and Dec. 25), the delectable showcase lets guests have a closer look at Japan ’s most iconic dish — sushi — as both a culinary art form and as a glimpse into the country’s history, culture, and way of life.

The exhibition explores sushi’s evolution from its roots as an ancient preservation technique to a global phenomenon. Through captivating visuals, interactive displays, and digital experiences, guests are invited to deepen their understanding of washoku, the traditional Japanese cuisine recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage.

Entrance to the sushi exhibit
Photo from Instagram/Japan in Malaysia
Part of the sushi exhibit
Photo from Instagram/Japan Foundation Kuala Lumpur

This is definitely a go-to spot for sushi fans — from interactive artworks about sushi, a giant Pacific bluefin tuna replica, historical scrolls, Ukiyo-e prints and presentations, to the oh-so familiar conveyor belt sushi setup with over 150 hyper-realistic models of sushi, this exhibition is both mouthwatering and educational!

The exhibition is organized by the Japan Foundation, Kuala Lumpur (JFKL), with support from the Embassy of Japan in Malaysia, UR-MU, and Sushi Hibiki, a premium omakase at the Four Seasons Kuala Lumpur.

For more information, visit The Japan Foundation’s website here, and follow their official Facebook and Instagram pages.

Location: UR-MU @ The Toffee, Raja Chulan, 2, Jalan Raja Chulan, City Centre, 50100 Kuala Lumpur

Dates: Nov. 14 to Dec. 31, 2025

Opening Hours: 11 AM to 7 PM (Closed on Mondays and December 25)

Admission: Free

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Kuala Lumpur/ Delish/ Happenings

Published: November 12, 2025

The 4th MICHELIN Guide for Kuala Lumpur & Penang Has Now Been Unveiled

by: The Beat Asia

Tags:
Michelin GuideMichelin StarCulinaryGastronomyChefsMalaysian Food
20251112 Michelin KLPhoto by MICHELIN Guide Asia/Instagram

by: The Beat Asia

Published:
November 12, 2025

Tags:
Michelin GuideMichelin StarCulinaryGastronomyChefsMalaysian Food

The 2026 edition of the MICHELIN Guide Kuala Lumpur & Penang has now been unveiled, marking the fourth edition of Malaysia’s celebrated heritage, flavors, and culinary heart through these two cities.

From time-honored hawker stalls to ingenious fine dining tables, this year’s selection reflects Malaysia’s culinary scene in bloom, where tradition and innovation continue to thrive together. It also paints a perfect picture of a country that pays tribute to its roots while still embracing the world.

The MICHELIN Guide Kuala Lumpur & Penang 2026 features 151 establishments across its distinctions, a significant jump from the 2025 selection of 143 restaurants.

Dewakan earns the highest distinction once again as the only Two MICHELIN-Starred restaurant in the country. Eight restaurants (six in Kuala Lumpur, two in Penang) earn the One MICHELIN Star: Akar, Beta, Chim by Chef Noom, DC. by Darren Chin, Molina, Terra Dining, Au Jardin, and Auntie Gaik Lean’s Old School Eatery.

Aside from the MICHELIN Stars, several special awards were also given out during the ceremony. This year, 58 restaurants were awarded the Bib Gourmand distinction, including the newly added Gulainya, Lama, Awesome Char Koay Teow, Bee Hwa Café, and Sifu, celebrating establishments that serve exceptional food at moderate prices.

As for the MICHELIN Selected Restaurants, 84 restaurants have impressed Inspectors with their quality, character, and culinary soul. 11 new additions include Bidou, Jie, K, Kazu, Kuki, Shu, Blacklinen, Du-An (Lebuh Pantai), Mémoire, Peninsula House, and Sood by Chef Ton.

The MICHELIN Guide Special Awards were awarded to professionals whose vision and craftsmanship continue to refine Malaysia’s culinary landscape. Renowned for his thoughtful exploration of heritage and identity through food, Chin Hua Wong of Shu earned the Young Chef Award. Presented by UOB Malaysia, Bidou, the newest venture of Chef Darren Teoh of Two-Star Dewakan, was awarded Opening of the Year, and Maverick Fung of K earned the Service Award.

“The 151 establishments recognized this year reflect the remarkable energy and diversity of Malaysia’s food scene,” said Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of the MICHELIN Guide. “Together, they form a mosaic of flavor and passion, telling the culinary story of a modern Malaysia — one that is confident, expressive, and innovative.”

Malaysia is one of five MICHELIN-rated destinations in Southeast Asia, joined by Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, and, most recently, the Philippines. MICHELIN inspectors base their ratings on five globally applied criteria: ingredient quality, mastery of cooking technique, harmony of flavors, the chef’s personality in his cuisine, and consistency between visits.

For the full list of MICHELIN-starred, Bib Gourmand, and Selected restaurants, visit the MICHELIN Guide website, as well as their Facebook and Instagram pages. Download the MICHELIN Guide free app for iOS and Android. 

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Kuala Lumpur/ Delish/ Happenings

Published: November 05, 2025

Beloved Artisanal Bakery Croisserie Places 4th at the Mondial du Pain 2025

by: The Beat Asia

Tags:
BreadBakeryPastryCompetitions
20251104 croisseriePhoto by Croisserie/Instagram

by: The Beat Asia

Published:
November 05, 2025

Tags:
BreadBakeryPastryCompetitions

Popular artisan bakery in Kuala Lumpur Croisserie has placed Malaysia on the map for bread and pastry aficionados around the world, following its monumental 4th place win at the Mondial du Pain 2025 in Nantes, France — often dubbed as the “Olympics of Baking.”

A photo announcing Croisserie's win at the Mondial du Pain 2025
Photo from Instagram/Croisserie

Held biennially, the Mondial du Pain is a prestigious event that celebrates the art of bread-making. The competition gathered 18 national teams from around the world to compete in eight categories, including Best Assistant Baker, Best Snack, Best Nutrition Bread, Best Viennoiserie, Best Artistic Piece, and a blind-draw brioche challenge for public tasting.

This year marked Malaysia’s debut in the competition and was represented by Chef Ken Jay Lim (Candidate) and Chef Jia Ling Ho (Commis), guided by Chef Den Omura, who each impressed the judges with their talent and creativity.

The final results were announced last Oct. 28, 2025: Netherlands (1st Place), China (2nd Place), France (3rd Place), Malaysia (4th Place), Taiwan (5th Place), and Spain (6th Place).

A picture of the chefs who represented Malaysia at the Mondial du Pain 2025 and their creation
Chef Jia Ling Ho and Chef Ken Jay Lim (Left) and their Creation | Photo from Instagram/Croisserie and Ken Jay Lim

Croisserie’s achievement marks a significant milestone for Malaysian breadmaking and is a true testament to Croisserie’s dedication to true artisanal craft, highlighting Malaysia’s growing presence on the global scene.

Visit the Croisserie website here and follow their Facebook and Instagram pages.

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Kuala Lumpur/ Delish/ Happenings

Published: October 31, 2025

Last Updated: November 25, 2025

JFOODO Launches 'Discover New Harmonies with Japanese Sake' Campaign in MY

by: The Beat Asia

Tags:
SakeJapaneseAlcoholic Beverages
20251029 jfoodoPhoto by JFOODO

by: The Beat Asia

Published:
October 31, 2025

Last Updated:
November 25, 2025

Tags:
SakeJapaneseAlcoholic Beverages

Japan Food Product Overseas Promotion Center (JFOODO) has announced the 2025 edition of its annual sake pairing campaign in Malaysia.

Returning with the theme “Discover New Harmonies with JapaneseSake” on Nov. 1, 2025, this year’s campaign expands its reach and repertoire and invites diners to explore the exceptional versatility of Japanesesake across 15 celebrated restaurants in Kuala Lumpur, Johor Bahru, Penang, and Ipoh.

Seafood at the center with sake on the side
Photo from Website/JFOODO

The 2025 edition embraces a wider culinary canvas — featuring meat, vegetables, and oceanic delicacies. The result is a curated showcase of 30 exquisite pairings, all crafted to highlight the sake’s ability to elevate flavors across diverse cuisines, from Western and Indian to Mexican, Australian, and Thai.

Among the 15 participating restaurants are Michelin-starred Bar.Kar KL Restaurant, Mediterranean-inspired Michelle Butcherie & Kitchen in Johor Bahru, Penang’s charming Platta Café & Dining, and Ipoh’s inventive Opëam. Each one has its own culinary presentation, pairing sake with dishes that range from flame-grilled meats to delicate seafood and citrus-laced vegetables.

Some of the participating restaurants
Courtesy of JFOODO

These collaborations reflect not only the variety of Malaysia’s dining scene but also the boundless adaptability of Japanese sake, inviting gourmets to enjoy the alcoholic beverage in unexpected, unforgettable ways.

“This year’s campaign is a celebration of culinary diversity and the subtle brilliance of Japanese sake,” said Ms. Akiko Onishi, Senior Director of JFOODO. “With ‘Discover New Harmonies with Japanese Sake,’ we invite diners across Malaysia to experience sake not just as a traditional beverage, but as a versatile companion to global cuisine. Whether you’re a sake veteran or a curious newcomer, this month-long celebration promises a journey of taste, tradition, and discovery.”

Learn more about JFOODO’s annual sake campaign by visiting the website here. Look at the list of Participating Restaurants here and how to Perfectly Pair Your Meals with Sakehere.

Follow the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) on Facebook.

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Kuala Lumpur/ Delish/ Happenings

Published: October 20, 2025

Penang's Backdoor Bodega Joins Asia’s Finest at The Standard BKK Bar Crawl

by: The Beat Asia

Tags:
BarsAsia's BestBar crawl50 Best BarsCocktails
12Photo by Website/ Backdoor Bodega

by: The Beat Asia

Published:
October 20, 2025

Tags:
BarsAsia's BestBar crawl50 Best BarsCocktails

Great news for bar hoppers! Now, you’ll get the chance to sip cocktails from four of Asia’s top bars — all in one night, all under one roof.

On October 29, Bangkok will be home to a high-proof pilgrimage: The Best of the Best Bar Crawl, hosted by The Standard, Bangkok Mahanakhon.

More than an average bar hop, it’s a curated collision of mixology, culture, and regional flair, featuring four award-winning bars from Asia’s 50 Best list.

The Best of the Best Bar Crawl, hosted by The Standard, Bangkok Mahanakhon
Courtesy of The Standard, Bangkok Mahanakhon

Malaysian cocktail lovers shouldn’t be a stranger to Penang’s own Backdoor Bodega. Known for its irreverent “gift shop” branding and unapologetically local flavor profiles, the bar has earned cult status across Southeast Asia, as well as The Best Cocktail Menu in the World title at The World's 50 Best Bars 2025 award ceremony.

Founders Yung Shen Koh and Chia Wen Lok have built a reputation for turning Malaysian ingredients into bold, expressive drinks that speak to street culture and regional pride. At the crawl, Backdoor Bodega will take over Ojo, The Standard’s sky-high Mexican restaurant, serving up a menu that promises torch ginger, pandan, and tropical spice in every sip.

Joining them are three equally formidable names. Vender Bar (No. 74 Bar in the World 2025) from Taichung at Mott 32 Bangkok will bring Taiwanese flair and modern luxury to the table, while Stir Bar (No. 61 Bar in Asia 2025) from Ho Chi Minh will offer minimalist, clean cocktails that lean into quiet sophistication at Double Standard. Maltail Bar (No. 75 Bar in Asia 2025) from Kaohsiung rounds out the lineup with island-inspired pours and laid-back charm at Mott 32.

Ojo interior
Ojo | Website/ The Standard, Bangkok Mahanakhon
Double Standard interior
Double Standard | Website/ The Standard, Bangkok Mahanakhon

What makes this bar crawl even more impressive is that all stops are a rare feat for any hotel. Each venue channels a distinct elemental theme: earthy pours at Mott 32, fire-infused boldness at Double Standard, and airy, floral sips at Ojo Terrace, the highest rooftop bar in Bangkok.

Guests will receive a “passport” to navigate the crawl, starting at Double Standard. The ticket, priced at THB1,980 per person, includes four signature cocktails, bar bites at each venue, and two bonus drinks. The event will run from 7PM to 11PM on Wednesday, October 29, 2025.

For KL’s cocktail connoisseurs, it’s a rare chance to see Penang’s finest mix with Asia’s elite, all in one night, all in one city. Secure your seat now via Megatix.

Follow Backdoor Bodega on Facebook and Instagram, and The Standard, Bangkok Manhanakhon on Facebook and Instagram for cocktail previews and updates.

Location: The Standard, Bangkok Mahanakhon, 114 Naradhiwas Rajanagarindra Rd, Silom, Bangkok 

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