Hoi Seng Restaurant @ Ipoh Garden

A new Chinese diner opened its door to business recently (15/8/09) at a most strategic spot in Ipoh Garden, directly facing the roundabout nearest to the post office. Not exactly 'new' per se, given the fact that Hoi Seng seemingly originates from another Hoy Seng (notice the difference in spelling?) in Batu Gajah Perdana, near to Pusing in Perak.

Seemingly because I did not manage to confirm the rumour, as the whole place was buzzing with activities, almost catering to a full-house crowd on the evening we had our dinner there. An impressive feat, as the restaurant can seat up to a grand capacity of 50 tables of guests, if there's any function or occasion being celebrated at the premise.

Spacious, grand and bright decor - A perfect setup for a wedding dinner

Jusco Kinta City is still suffering from the spreading-like-wildfire rumours (or truth, I can't determine for sure) about the devastating pandemic hitting the departmental store since weeks ago. People are being wary, thus staying away from enclosed public places such as shopping complexes, schools, gatherings, and even offices.

But much to my chagrin, restaurants, eateries, kopitiams etc are still patronized by the masses, as if everyone's brandishing the devil may care attitude. How cool. It was drizzling that weekday evening, but Hoi Seng was doing such brisk business, one may be forgiven for thinking that this restaurant has its own loyal following for some time now.

Special Pot Rice - RM14 for small, RM28 for big portion

A plus point when it comes to ordering at Hoi Seng, in comparison to other similar Chinese diners, is that they have a simple, two pages menu, printed and laminated. With plentiful of pictures, prices clearly printed, and with English translations to boot, turning your order into a more convenient and hassle free affair. I do not advocate for the 'asking the waiters for the special dishes nonsense', as I doubt all the waitering staff have the same exact knowledge of the restaurant's specialities and dishes. Unless they've been working at the same place for a respectable amount of time.

Therefore, it was a simple point and order system, coupled with the staff's recommendations. But the swelling crowd was rather overwhelming, we were fearing that our food would arrive an hour or so later. But the waitress was reassuring, minus the empty promises, but instead admitted that they're still new to the scene, and still coping with the exceptionally good customer flow.

Mini Buddha Yum Pot @ RM28

The Special Pot Rice came in a small portion for the 6 of us, barely sufficient but was exactly what we requested as carbo = extremely filling stuff. With a treasure load of ingredients, such as shrimps, 'char siew', waxed sausages, mushrooms, French beans(kacang buncis), silver anchovies, celery, and such, the sticky, fragrant rice was presented in a huge wooden/steel bucket. Reminded me of claypot chicken rice, sans the smoky aroma. Still a better bet than the common glutinous rice or fried rice served at the end of a wedding dinner.

The Mini Buddha Yum Pot (yup, it was named as such, and definitely not my intepretation) is a layman's version of the highly-prized Buddha (or Monk) Jumping Over The Wall. Lesser ingredients at a fraction of the price (RM28 standard portion), the sliced abalone, mushrooms, dried scallops, chicken and dried fish maws rendered the soup a distinctive umami flavour, but a little thin (read : diluted) and bland, in comparison to its many-folds pricier counterpart. Of course, you get what you give. :)

Deep-fried Lotus Roots with Salted Egg @ RM10

An addictive and novel snack-cum-vegetable in the form of fried crispy lotus roots with salted egg coating, the concept may not be ground-breaking, yet worked wonders. The salty flavour complemented the bland but crunchy lotus roots so well, you may be wishing for a pint to appear miraculously to go with the savoury snacks. Order this for the children, and guaranteed they'll be eating their greens with glee! (Erm, not really greens, but okay lah ...).

Shanghai Special Pork Ribs @ RM16 (small). RM32 if big portion.

Initially craving for some Guiness Pork Ribs, we were disappointed they were not being served that evening. But at least the staff knew their kitchen well, instead of running to the kitchen and back to your table to confirm.

Settled for second best (or probably the better choice, given the front page placing of the dish on the menu) instead, we had the Shanghai Pork Ribs, served with blanched 'Siu Pak Choy' and fluffy 'mantou' (steamed buns). Not bad, with generally leaner cuts of meat (pork RIBS, ok?), but still remaining tender and marinated well. The dark and thick gravy just begged to be wiped clean with the 'mantou'. But take note that only 5 pieces are being served, and this was clearly stated by the staff taking our orders.

Hoi Seng Special Tofu @ RM9 (small), RM18 if big portion.

Smooth, egg-y beancurd served with plentiful of gravy, topped with generous garnishings of julienned crabsticks and beancurd sheets (foo chuk). Homely stuff, suits the tastebuds of the young and the older generation.

Fresh-Water (Knife Fish) Fish Balls @ 70 cents each

A feeling of deja vu swept over me, as we were served with a plate of their signature fishballs. Probably reminded me of the Lenggong's episode not too long ago. But the bouncy (QQ) texture, and sweet flesh of the Saito/Wolf-herring fish (Ikan parang, doubtful it's called Knife Fish as stated in their menu) shone through, requiring no dipping sauce at all. Though a bowl of chilli sauce was provided on the side.

Sliced Fish with Wine in Claypot @ RM12 for 100g of Grouper fish fillets.

And last but not least, the fillets of grouper served in the Chinese wine concoction, with wood ear fungus (mook yee), and mushrooms was no difference from the chicken in wine commonly served to women in confinement. LOL.

Though the thick and sweet flesh of the grouper provided much flavour in its own, when dunked and cooked inside the strong broth, somehow the texture became much firmer, and may not be to everyone's liking. Stick to the chicken instead, if you're in the mood for some 'Kiong Chau Kai'.

The 1st Page - Signature dishes. Wanted to order the 1st platter on the top left, but must book in advance. Shucks .....


And the second and last page. Easy right? No need to tear your hair (or the waitress'), trying to make up your mind on what to order on the spot

That meal explained the abundance of people patronizing this restaurant on a weekday's evening. And the many rave reviews from friends and neighbours. We'll probably return for the other dishes, and the platter of Cold Salted Four Seasons Pork (RM68) that we've been eyeing, but sadly required advanced booking for a taste.

The meal came to RM118 for the 6 of us, with white rice being charged at RM1.20 each, and Chinese tea at RM1 per head. Almost too reasonable, given the setting that resembles a higher class Chinese restaurant.

Location : Restoran Hoi Seng Ipoh @ No 86, Jalan Dato Lau Pak Khuan, Taman Ipoh, 31400 Ipoh Perak.

Tel No : +605-548 2272

Opens daily from 11.30am - 2.30pm, and 6.00pm until 10.30pm.

Parking's a breeze come night time, while a bit tricky in the day, for the post office is situated directly next to the restaurant.

Here's a GOOGLE MAP to the restaurant.

Home Cook Recipe Restaurant in Ipoh - Good, Cheap & Satisfying

Things are slowly getting out of hand now. With the menacing H1N1 in full force, it almost felt like Armageddon at times, with news on people dying for no reason day in, day out. Sure, those immuno-compromised or with co-existing illnesses are comparatively easier to succumb to the looming pandemic.

Why are things out of hand you ask? Well, for one, I think almost everyone in Ipoh (at least, those with handsets, or not in hibernating mode) has received a viral SMS circulating, about a worker (or more) in Jusco Kinta City whom had contracted the disease. And even subsequently dying. Yup, that tragic, that worrying, and makes one wonder, where's a safe place to be now?

As far as air-borne diseases go, NOWHERE. Even if you choose to self-quarantine at home, or hide under your bed, you're bound to be in close proximity with your family members, or relatives, or even friends at one time or another. Hence, practise self-hygiene, avoid spreading the disease if you're not feeling well, or diagnosed with the flu.

I could go on and on and spoil your day, OR I can shift your attention to something that brings us back to reality, and a smile to one's face ......

F-O-O-D !!!

Stir-fried Roasted Pork with Chillies @ RM12

There's a rather new restaurant in town, near to Woolley Food City. Yup, in Ipoh Garden again. (Click HERE for the previous post on Kam Hor Ayam Tauge, within spitting distance from this place I'm reviewing). Not spanking new, but still in its infancy stage for sure. However, come dinnertime on weekends, and you'll be surprised the crowd spills to the sidewalk on the outside.

Egg with Choy Pou (preserved radish) @ RM7

Looking for a good restaurant in Ipoh ain't tough, but tricky. (I'm sounding contradicting, eh? It's the end of the world aura, I tell you .....). This restaurant named Home Cook Recipe seems unassuming, but proudly unfazed by the heavy competition in the forms of Woolley Food City (more than 20 stalls) and the evergreen Tung Koo Thing aka Mushroom Stands (?!) or Aneka Selera.

After repeated take-aways of Salted Fish Fried Rice and Singapore Fried Beehoon, I was hooked. And swore to give this place a try, and was astonished at the immense reaction from the Ipoh crowd one fine, Sunday evening.

Stir-fried Shu Miu (sweet potato leaves) @ RM7

Aside from the typical 'dai chow' dishes commonly found elsewhere, Home Cook Recipe offers some tricks up its sleeve as well. Notable signature items include the Herbal Steamed Chicken, Tilapia steamed in various sauces (Batong sauce - Spicy/Sour combo, Indonesian style, Thai style and more), Pork Ribs, and even frog legs. Yup, those sweet, tender and firm flesh. Delectable stuff, I tell you ........

The Fried Roasted Pork with Chillies was magnificient. Really, really delicious stuff, paired with white, fluffy rice. One of their forte, the roasted pork (siu yoke) was stir-fried with lots of onions, scallions, ginger and green capsicums, rendering the dish sweet-ish from the caramelized onions and pork combination.

The Choy Pou Dan (Egg omelette with Preserved Radish) was good, nothing spectacular, as was the Shu Miu (sweet potato leaves), but with enough oomph in the form of 'wok hei' to lift the simple greens up a notch.

Steamed Tilapia with Spicy bean Sauce @ RM18

"Cheong Ching" (literal translation : Sauce Steamed) Tilapia fish/African fish is a perennial favourite of my grandma's, and never failed to make an appearance on the dinner table when we dine out. And at Home Cook Recipe, their version was devoured with much relish, and satisfaction. Slightly spicy, a little sour, but very flavourful gravy complemented the firm, and sweet flesh of the tilapia. Rest assured NO unpleasant (even repulsive?) muddy, earthy taste.

Three Taste Chicken @ RM15

We initially intended to order the Herbal Steamed Chicken, a specialty of theirs. Sadly, the last chick was stolen right from under our noses. Hmm. Then substitute came in the form of fried chicken with a sweet, sour and spicy sauce, concocted from Thai chilli sauce, lots of curry leaves, and whatever else that achieved the right balance of flavours. A tad sweet, but the crispy chicken made up for the minor flaw.

Single portion of Salted Fish Fried Rice @ RM4

And I could not resist ordering a single portion of their fried rice, which I adore to bits. Fluffy, not too wet, yet every grain separated and fried with much 'fire'. Ingredients thrown in include tiny bits of salted fish, Chinese waxed sausages, eggs (duh), and prawns. And don't forget the fiery cili padi to numb that tongue. Oh, blisssss ......

This restaurant opens on both ends as well. So park anywhere you want.

A meal for 6 came to RM72, including drinks and rice. A reasonable sum to pay for a comfortable meal here in Ipoh, with true home-cooked fare.

Location : Home Cook Recipe Restaurant @ 28 & 28A, Lengkok Canning, 31400 Ipoh Garden, Ipoh Perak.

Here's a GOOGLE MAP of the place, also within walking distance from Woolley Food City, Aneka Selera and Kam Hor Ayam Tauge. Opens for lunch and dinner. Days off not sure, but 2 days in a row each month. Call before arriving, to avoid disappointment.

Tel No : 012-656 8046 or 012-453 8323.

Kam Hor - Ipoh's Nga Choy Kai/Ayam Tauge

Since the previous post was on Nga Choy Kai/Ayam Tauge/Chicken Bean Sprouts (click HERE for some Buntong Cheap Eats), might as well dig deeper into the backlogs, and allow yours truly to write on another similar Ipoh's specialty .....

This shop has TWO entrances on both ends; The front and back portion of the shop can seat the customers. Loads of them during dinner hours. Be prepared for the wait.

The patient, gentle and careful uncle. Just don't expect your food to be served in a blink of an eye! And the smooth, incomparable Hor Fun.

Kam Hor has been serving its loyal customers since 28 years ago. And counting. Out of towners commonly flock to Lou Wong or Onn Kee (both household names, situated directly facing each other in town) for their fix of Ipoh's famous Nga Choy Kai. But you might have realised that I have yet to blog about them, throughout the one plus year I've been running this blog.

Reasons being? They're famous enough to be discovered, stumbled upon, or referred. And I was not exactly pleased with my last visit to Lou Wong, for I find that their poached chicken is a little too raw (even to the point of oozing blood from the marrows!) to my liking.

The dry version of the Hor Fun

Of course, if you're wondering, where else for good Nga Choy Kai? Or decent ones, at best. Especially if you're not fond of the traffic at Lou Wong/Onn Kee. For one, Cowan Street's Ayam Kuetiau serves some mean Nga Choy Kai of their own (yet to write on them, but soon ... I hope), and the one from Buntong is equally famous, as well as the Fifteen Tower's version near to the now 'extinct' Medan Kidd bus station (click HERE for the post).

Thankfully, it was NOT bleeding (lurve) ......

Kam Hor is run by an elderly couple, probably in their 60's (or more). Loving, accomodating, but terribly slow at times. Especially if the shop's packed to the brim. So be warned, as your bowl of noodles may not arrive until after 45 minutes of being seated!

But we were there comparatively early (7pm), and were greeted with the welcoming sight of a few patrons digging in to their chicks, crunchy tauge and slippery smooth rice noodles.

Fat, crunchy ... and healthy bean sprouts. Or at least healthier than those stir-fried, deep-fried or even curried version of greens.

A meal for three came to RM22.50. Including drinks, but no sides. You can opt for the innards if you're in favour of the slimy and sinful delights.

The poached chicken was less oily compared to Buntong's, still tender and smooth, but generally smaller in size with more boney parts than flesh. A mere minor gripe though. And the bean sprouts was good; fresh and crunchy, with a dash of sesame oil and white pepper, and served with soy sauce.

The Hor Fun (flat rice noodles, or kuey teow) was even garnished with fried shallots. A nice touch, adding flavour to the broth (the soup version), and crunch (the dry version, or 'Kon Lou').

Lovey-dovey they ain't ... but prove of their lurve in the food itself?

Location : Kedai Kopi Kam Hor (Nga Choy Kai/Ayam Tauge) @ No 89, Jalan Canning Estate, 31400 Ipoh Garden, Ipoh, Perak. (Not so sure about the exact address)

Here's a GOOGLE MAP, in case you're lost. But this shop faces Aneka Selera aka Tung Koo Thing, and near to Woolley Food City.

Opens daily, from about 6.45pm onwards until night. May close every other Tuesday.

Sun Marpoh Restaurant in Ipoh - Lingering Memories from My Childhood

I was practically trained to recognize my foods, & developing my raw, untrained tastebuds since early childhood days. I lived in Pasir Puteh in Ipoh since I was born, then subsequently moving to my current home (cannot disclose location ... scared got stalkers! LOL.) for about 15 years now.

Yup, I'm an ancient brontosaurus from the Jurassic era. So what? I can still chew on the fats, and bite on the bones. HA!!

Gigantic, crispy & tempting deep-fried pork hand (zhu sau) served with the thick, gooey sauce

Back then, I was already munching on sweet and sour pork, lemon chicken, sambal petai and whatever else that was considered 'hot' back then. Of course, no salted egg chicken/prawns/squids/crabs, nor 'Yin Yang kailan', or 'Nai Yau' (Butter Cream Sauce) this & that.

One of the better place for good old 'dai chow' (rice served with dishes, Chinese style) was, and probably still is, the Sun Marpoh Restaurant in Ipoh Garden. Back then, it was known as Marpoh Restaurant, and has since transformed itself from a goose to a swan (bad metaphor, I know. Sue me); Expanding itself into a two shoplots, and fully air-conditioned.

Stir-fried Brinjals with Minced Pork - Epitome of home-style cooking

Ask any ancient Ipohan about this place, and guaranteed 50% of the time (or more, depending on which era they were born in) they'll nod in agreement, and face lighting up while smacking their lips. Unless they're the evil detractors, of course.

Anyway, we've been dining in this restaurant since the 80's. The quality has been maintained more or less, prove that tight QC is at play here. You rarely see the place empty, or the staff swatting flies come dinner hours. Even on weekdays.

Glistening, crispy fish fillets with lemon sauce

On this particular visit to Sun Marpoh, we sampled some of their rarer creations, or signature dishes, if you will. The crispy skin, deep-fried to perfection pork hand (Is it trotter? front trotter? knuckle? Sorry, I'm not good with animal parts here) is currently one of the more famous dish at Sun Marpoh, a portion for RM28. The crisp skin was still crackly until the end of the meal, while the tender, marinated meat was a delight. If you're not fond of fatty, almost gelatinous pork meat, then I suggest you skip this. Or pop a Statin after meal. ;) The accompanying sauce was a combination of five-spices powder ('5 heong fan'), soy sauce, dark soy sauce, etc. Not really necessary though, given the robust flavour of the meat and the skin.

Surprisingly simple. Pleasantly delectable. "Kwai Fei Tofu" - A perennial staple at Sun Marpoh's.

The brinjal stir-fried with minced pork meat (RM8) may look simply and bland, but in reality the dish served its purpose perfectly. If you can't get your children to eat their greens, get them to dig into the tender, smooth and tasty brinjals (eggplants/aubergines). OK, they may not be considered as your typical greens, but still rich in potassium and folic acid. And nicotine, supposedly. Hahaha ... not too worry. Nicotine from plants is negligible. But good news for smokers? (Source from Wikipedia).

The fried fish fillets with the sticky, caramelized lemon sauce (RM16) was worthy of a mention, though may not be the best bet for a child's palate. Not the typical lemon sauce (which is sweet, tangy and brimming with citrusy scent), but with addition of curry leaves, and spices.

And last but not least, we could not help but order the dish that introduced me to beancurd waaaaayyy back then, the Kwai Fei Tofu (RM8), made from their own velvety smooth, egg-y and delicious beancurds. No bells, no whistles, but plain delightful gravy with mixed vegetables as garnishings. You can't go wrong with this.

There is an enviable array of signature dishes at Sun Marpoh, proudly displayed on the board on the wall inside the restaurant itself. Feel free to ask the special(s) of the day, and have a fun time choosing your picks! Btw, they do whip up a mean Sweet and Sour Pork!

Location : Sun Marpoh Restaurant @ 69, Jalan Lau Pak Khuan, Ipoh Garden, 31400 Ipoh, Perak. Tel No : +605-545 5127. Opens from 11.30am until 3.00pm for lunch, and 5.30pm until 10.00pm for dinner daily.

Here's a GOOGLE MAP for easy reference.