Sarawak has long been a melting pot of cultures, but in culinary terms, that pot has recently been stirred by a reawakening in the F&B business. Fresh flavours are being imported, old traditions revived, and new combinations tested to create a new culinary landscape for Kuching. The food heritage of our past stands strong, from hawker scene to high-end hotel, but new faces are bringing it forward into the future. So we at KINO, confirmed foodies all (isn’t everyone in Kuching?), are paying tribute to some of the bright new stars as well as the firm favourites in our Sarawak skies.
Lot 455, Block 10, Ridgeway Road, off Jalan Ong Tiang Swee, 93200 Kuching
017-282 3989
The Backyard Café, tucked in the grounds of 11Ridgeway, welcomes to its menu a newly refined edition of a Sarawakian’s favourite – the iconic Sarawak Laksa. Topped with ample prawns, omelette strips, shredded chicken and beansprouts, with a serving of rice vermicelli lathered in their own rendition of a zesty, coconut broth infusion. Here, tradition meets modernity. Enjoy this hearty meal in an open “longhouse” space, surrounded by jungle greenery and fresh air. From craft workshops to company meetings, 11Ridgeway boasts over 10,000 feet in space – including four rooms, a café and outdoor garden – making it a perfect venue for anyone seeking the right space at a central location. (Mon-Sat: 9am to 6pm)
Grd Floor, Lot 3269 [SL.56], TT3 Commercial Centre Jln Canna, Kuching
011-3155 9237
016-317 0987
Hong Yan BBQ Steamboat Restaurant brings the first authentic Sichuan hotpot experience to Malaysia! Here, there is something for everyone. Broth options range from the ultra spicy, to a unique tomato-based combination. Spoilt for choice? Opt for a split pot. There are side dishes, colourful skewers of fresh ingredients, and platters of seafood, chicken, duck, beef, pork and lamb. Create and customise dips using the various condiments – some come specially from Sichuan. Drinks include specials like Rice Wine Milk Tea, Taurus (yoghurt drink), and fresh juice concoctions. There is also Bing Fen, a popular and refreshing Sichuanese iced jelly dessert, topped with fresh fruits and raisins. Hong Yan truly satisfies all the senses! (Daily: 10am-11pm)
1st-3rd Flr, Lot 16841, Tabuan Tranquility Commercial Centre, Jalan Canna
010-9779422
http://www.facebook.com/ EATKuching
EAT is a bespoke academy dedicated to the culinary arts of confectionery, patisserie, cake decoration, chocolate and sugar craft. Whether you’re looking to complete a recognised diploma, or just want to join in a fun, short course – EAT can tailor the learning experience to suit you. EAT also offers Party Platters of items such as croissants, brioche, quiches, canapés, sausage rolls, tartlets and more to cater to private and corporate functions. Orders can be custom made to your requirements. EAT is fully equipped with baking utilities and available as a venue rental. (9am-6pm, Mon-Sun, by appointment only)
80 Ewe Hai Street, 93000 Kuching
013-882 0113
www.facebook.com/ peridot.kuching
A precious gem at the old heart of Kuching, Peridot is spearheading that spirit of invention that is sweeping the city and now bringing it beyond its fresh and innovative menu and into every event. An ideal space for any intimate gathering, Peridot is now providing that personal touch, offering tailor-made menus on request and event decorating and planning services from early 2019. This is boutique at its best – stylish and specialised, individual and custom made for clients – Peridot will help each event stand out from the pack with a function designed for a perfect fit.
(Tues-Sun: 6pm-10pm)
Lot 1659, 15, Jalan Simpang Tiga, 93300 Kuching
013-8389995/082-550006
www.facebook.com/ thecontainerkuching
The Container is a new concept in Kuching city, blending old and new with East and West to bring visitors an entirely different experience. Architect- designed, this innovative space gives a new lease of life to old shipping containers, providing numerous indoor and outdoor spaces perfect for a private party or a relaxed dinner in the company of friends. You can even rent the whole place for a bigger splash! But the invention doesn’t end there with a menu full of old favourites in new combinations. Sample the Chicken Maryland with its salted egg yolk crust or even Spaghetti Laksa. Anyone for Kway Teow Bolognese? Container is an entirely new Kuching combination!
38 Tabuan Rd, 93000 Kuching
011-369 06675
Zinc has been in the Sarawak firmament for 4 years now, set there by high standards in food, ambience and service. The Mediterranean cuisine served by Chef Jordi from Barcelona features many items never before tasted here. With cool music at a volume which doesn’t drown out your conversation, experience one or all of the 10 premium gin & tonics on display. Happy Hour for craft cocktails such as Roselle Daiquiri and Jameson Zoom runs at the fitting timeslot of 9.45pm to 11.45pm. The wine list is equally impressive, with the tastiest house red and white wines in town. Now featuring Live Jazz performances every Thursday by the Xanadu Duo from the UK.
(Tues- Sun: 6pm until late)
Ground Floor, Matang Ria Commercial Centre, Jln Matang, 93050, Petra Jaya
016-888 2963
www.facebook.com/Dapur- Nyonya-2192854174092362/
Dapur Nyonya is all about versatility and variety. Try their specialty dishes of ayam bakar, sotong bakar and ikan keli set, served with their secret sauce – an all natural sambal tutuk, for extra “oomphh”. Fancy a Western meal instead? There’s chicken chop, lamb chop and beef steak served with mushroom sauce on the menu too. Come to Dapur Nyonya for your Chinese New Year family reunion dinner and enjoy their set dinner which includes Pak Loh Duck, Nyonya Curry Chicken, Assam Pedas Fish and more. Dapur Nyonya can also provide catering services – they have a full repertoire of dishes from Nyonya to Indian to Chinese and Malay recipes. Dapur Nyonya is a certified halal cafe. (Mon-Sat, 11am-11pm)
1st-3rd Flr, Lot 16841, Tabuan Tranquility Commercial Centre, Jalan Canna
010-9779422
EAT is a bespoke academy dedicated to the culinary arts of confectionary, patisserie, cake decoration, chocolate and sugar craft. Whether you’re looking to complete a recognised diploma, or just want to join in a fun, short course – EAT can tailor the learning experience to suit you. EAT also offers Party Platters of items such as croissants, brioche, quiches, canapés, sausage rolls, tartlets and more to cater to private and corporate functions. Orders can be custom made to your requirements. EAT is fully equiped with baking utilities and available as a venue rental. (9am-6pm, Mon-Sun, by appointment only)
Ground Floor, Lots 353-355, Section 50, Jalan Padungan Utara, 93100 Kuching
082-255 416
King’s Curry brings the spice and excitement of Northern India to South- East Asia. King’s Curry is the original creator of the signature Cheesy Naan and King’s Martabak. You can have a full-blown meal, a quick bite from their extensive fast food selection (lunch only), or the ultimate pick me up with their new ‘Cutting Chai and Bites’. Iconic, aromatic Indian tea with crispy pakora can stand alone or as a prelude to their mightier mains – they have even added ‘Nasi Goreng Siram Curry’ to tickle local taste buds. Authentically Indian and still strongly Sarawak – come and enjoy a royal feast!
(Tues-Sun: 10.30am-10.00pm)
Jalan Canna (behind GIANT Stutong), Ground Floor, Kuching
082-361244/016-8890600
www.facebook.com/ Razzmatazz-Bistro -Pub-Lounge-599649300106886
The ethos at Razzmatazz never changes – always 100% Western, no fusion. But the menu is constantly evolving. International award-winning chef George is endlessly adding specials to his menu and new offerings in his range – beautiful breads and tempting truffles are just the start. Now, in true Swiss tradition, creamy, dreamy cheese fondue makes its first appearance in Kuching – not just a meal but a gastronomic experience in itself designed to be shared with friends and family. Dip into our specials, dive into the fondue and top it all off with a sweet treat – let George take you on the grand tour!
(Daily: 4pm-12am)