Dining News – July 2024

Bar Trigona at Four Seasons Hotel Kuala Lumpur Earns a Coveted Spot on Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2024 List

Bar Trigona at Four Seasons Hotel Kuala Lumpur continues as a top cocktail destination in Asia, securing the #36 spot on the prestigious Asia’s 50 Best Bars list revealed on 16 July 2024. This marks the sixth consecutive year the bar has been recognized for its innovative cocktails and unwavering commitment to sustainability.

“We’re absolutely thrilled. On behalf of the entire team, I’d like to thank Asia’s 50 Best Bars and especially our wonderful guests, without whom this success wouldn’t be possible. We’re excited to build on this achievement and continue representing Malaysia with pride on the global cocktail stage.”

Head Bartender Rohan Matmary 

Sustainability is at the heart of Bar Trigona’s philosophy. They source local ingredients and utilize them meticulously to minimize waste. This dedication to eco-conscious practices has earned them past accolades such as the Ketel One Sustainable Bar Award and the Siete Misterios Best Cocktail Menu Award. Furthermore, in May 2024, they were listed among the Top Ten Best International Hotel Bars in the World at the Spirited Awards.

Bar Trigona’s current menu, “Colour Me Curious”, launched in 2024, takes guests on a vibrant journey through Malaysia’s diverse landscape. This playful and innovative menu features cocktails that capture the essence of the country’s unique colors, aromas, and flavors. With a second edition on the horizon, there’s always something new to discover.

The bar’s commitment to local sourcing extends beyond just recognition. They work closely with local farmers and producers, fostering a strong farm-to-glass approach that supports the community and promotes sustainable practices. Cocktails showcase the best of Malaysia, featuring seasonal fruits, herbs, spices, and flowers.

The name “Bar Trigona” isn’t just a coincidence – honey plays a starring role in both the bar’s theme and its drinks. The striking hive-inspired interior, framed by breathtaking views of Kuala Lumpur, reflects the bar’s dedication to trigona honey, a unique honey made by stingless bees native to Malaysia. Guests can experience the distinct, citrusy notes of this honey firsthand with a signature tasting flight featuring honey sourced from Bar Trigona’s network of local, artisanal, organic, and sustainable partners.

Bar Trigona takes its environmental responsibility seriously. Since its opening, they’ve championed eco-friendly initiatives focused on preserving bee habitats, protecting biodiversity, and empowering local communities. Their popular “Adopt a Beehive” program allows guests to contribute directly to sustainable beekeeping practices in Malaysia.


Luxury Meets Sustainability: Shangri-La Kuala Lumpur Celebrates World Chocolate Day with Sustainable, Award-Winning Malaysian Cocoa in Collaboration with Chocolate Concierge

In a delicious collaboration that highlights sustainability, Shangri-La Kuala Lumpur has partnered with Chocolate Concierge to create a unique chocolate experience that showcases the finest Malaysian cocoa. This initiative aims to promote sustainable cocoa farming practices and empower local communities involved in cocoa production throughout Malaysia.

From 7 July to 31 August 2024, guests at the Lobby Lounge can indulge in an exquisite chocolate afternoon tea featuring artisanal treats crafted by Executive Sous Chef Annie Yam and her team. Each delicacy incorporates Malaysian single-origin cocoa, including the award-winning Semai cacao from Pahang and Chemor cacao from Perak.

“Our afternoon tea set menu at Shangri-La Kuala Lumpur is inspired by our love for sustainability and supporting local communities. Our goal is to create a luxurious experience that delights our guests and promotes sustainable farming. Each treat on our menu tells a story of hard work, dedication, and responsible sourcing, connecting our guests to the origins of these delicious ingredients.”

Chef Annie Yam

The afternoon tea menu boasts a delightful array of sweet and savory options. Savory highlights include the Tiger Prawn Salad with Cocoa Nib Cornet and the Snow Crab Cake with Remoulade and Caviar. On the sweet side, guests can savour the Dark Chocolate and Raspberry Sphere, a harmonious blend of rich dark chocolate with a tangy raspberry center, crafted with 70% Semai cacao. Other delectable options include the Vanilla Salted Caramel Crèmeux and Chocolate Délice, and the Hazelnut Praline Chocolate Feuilletine Tart, all featuring different Malaysian cocoas with unique flavor profiles.

Guests can also enjoy classic scones and a choice of signature hot and cold chocolate beverages. Live performances from Thursday to Saturday and on public holidays create a truly indulgent atmosphere in the serene Lobby Lounge. The Afternoon Tea set is available daily from 3.00pm to 6.00pm, priced at RM220 nett for 2 persons. An exclusive Afternoon tea set is available for delivery and take away for delivery and takeaways, for purchase visit https://boutique.shangri-la.com/index.php     

For those on the go, Lemon Garden 2Go offers an exclusive selection of chocolate bonbons crafted by Chocolate Concierge, perfect for any occasion. Choose from Chocolate Gift Boxes featuring signature flavours like Pistachio Gianduja, Pineapple Coconut, and Coffee Banana, elegantly packaged and starting from RM158 nett for a box of 12 pieces or selection of 24 pieces or 45 pieces. Indulge further with Chocolate Bars (50g) crafted from Malaysian single-origin cocoa, starting from RM48 nett each

This collaboration between Shangri-La Kuala Lumpur and Chocolate Concierge offers a delicious way to celebrate World Chocolate Day while supporting sustainable practices and local communities.

For dining reservations and inquiries, call +603 2786 2378 or email dining.kl@shangri-la.com


The Danna Langkawi Resort & Beach Villas Unveils Langkawi’s First Peranakan Restaurant: Straits & Co

The Danna Langkawi Resort & Beach Villas, a member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World, has unveiled a transformed Straits & Co Restaurant. The restaurant is now Langkawi’s first Peranakan dining destination. This new chapter for Straits & Co is the result of a collaboration with Dayana Wong, a Penang-born cookbook author and Peranakan cuisine specialist. Wong’s heritage and expertise infuse the menu with authentic flavours and traditional recipes.

The Straits & Co menu takes inspiration from the Straits of Malacca and offers an unparalleled Peranakan dining experience on Langkawi. The menu meticulously reflects the rich and diverse flavours of Peranakan cuisine. Diners will find beloved classics like Chicken Pong Teh and Masak Titik alongside delectable desserts like Chendol and Bubur Cha Cha. Every dish is a celebration of tradition, prepared with fresh local ingredients and a touch of modern flair.

Dayana Wong’s personal connection to Peranakan cuisine is evident throughout the menu. Many of the dishes are cherished family recipes passed down from her mother and grandmother.

“My passion for Peranakan cuisine was ignited while studying in Toronto, away from home and learning to cook my favourite dishes over calls with my mom. Growing up with my grandmother’s intricate recipes and a blend of Chinese and Malay influences, I realized food is more than sustenance; it’s memory. This collaboration with The Danna Langkawi allows me to showcase the authentic flavours of Peranakan Nyonya cuisine, balancing tradition and contemporary presentation, and offering guests a truly immersive and diverse Malaysian culinary experience.”

Dayana Wong

“We are immensely proud to introduce the first Peranakan restaurant in Langkawi, in collaboration with Dayana Wong. Straits & Co will now offer an exceptional and authentic Peranakan Cuisine, enriching our guests’ experience and setting a new benchmark for culinary excellence on the island.”

Kirin Pancha, Hotel Manager of The Danna Langkawi Resort & Beach Villas

Straits & Co. at The Danna Langkawi seeks to enthrall guests with exquisite dishes and an immersive cultural experience that celebrates Malaysia’s vibrant heritage. Diners can expect a meticulous recreation of Peranakan cuisine, featuring both classic dishes and delectable desserts. With its focus on fresh local ingredients and traditional recipes passed down through generations, Straits & Co offers diners a chance to experience the rich tapestry of flavours that define this unique Malaysian cuisine.


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Cover photo: Four Seasons Hotel Kuala Lumpur

Photo credits: Respective brands/ properties

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