Chinese New Year Archives

10 Restaurants to Usher in the Chinese New Year

By Editorial January 27, 2019

About one week left to Chinese New Year! We know how hectic things can get in the household this time of the year. If you haven’t already tossed your Yee Sang or booked a restaurant for the reunion dinner, below is a list that we hope would be of help.

(Several restaurants featured are non-halal)

1. Jibby Chow

This Subang based restaurant is best known for its chilli crab with fried mantao and Mongolian-style crispy lamb ribs. They currently offer four Chinese New Year sets at varying price points. Some of the specials include whole roasted five spiced salted chicken with prawn crackers and prosperity dipping sauce, steamed hybrid grouper with white clams, prawns and young ginger in superior soy sauce as well as Marmite honey tiger prawns.

CNY Set Menu starts from: RM338++ for 4 pax

Facebook: @jibbygroup

Address: Courtyard Mall, Jalan SS15/4G, Subang Jaya

Phone: 03-5612 7072

2. Sek Yuen (Non-Halal)

Some might call it rustic, some might call it hipster, but many would agree that the food here is delicious. Established since pre-Merdeka days, this restaurant is known for its Cantonese-style comfort food. A must-try here is the Pei Pa duck and braised grouper with roasted pork, shredded onions and mushrooms. Chinese New Year sets are available.

CNY Set Menu starts from: RM608++ for 10 pax

Facebook: @restaurantsekyuen

Address: 313-1, Jalan Pudu, Kuala Lumpur

Phone: 03-9222 0903

3. Birch

If you’re in for a more Western vibe this Chinese New Year, head on to Birch. Set menus are not available, however, they offer salmon yee sang as well as American-inspired Chinese New Year specials (available 6.00pm onwards). Dig into their citrus and ginger baked cod (RM68) or oriental spatchcock which is a spring chicken marinated with oriental sauces (RM55). Also on the specials is the oriental pizza with shredded roast duck and chicken (RM33).

Well-known for their cocktails, try one (or all three) of their quirkily named CNY cocktails.

Facebook: @birchkl

Address: Damansara City Mall, Jalan Damanlela, Damansara

Phone: 03-2011 5966

4. Extra Super Tanker (Non-Halal)

With a name like Extra Super Tanker, it really does piques one’s curiosity to try the restaurant out. Serving authentic Cantonese cuisine with a Hakka twist, the food certainly did not tanked. Not to be missed in their Chinese New Year menu this year is the baked Spanish Iberico ribs, steamed dragon grouper with bamboo pith and baked crystal prawns with honeydew bowl.

CNY Set Menu starts from: RM1238 for 5 pax

Facebook: @extrasupertanker

Address: GloDamansara, No 699 Jalan Damansara, Kuala Lumpur and

The Club @ Bukit Utama, Petaling Jaya
Phone: 03-7733 7769 (GloDamansara), 03-7726 8877 (The Club)

5. Serai

Try something different this Chinese New Year and opt for Thai-inspired Northern Malaysian cuisine instead. Serai has two set menus featuring favourites such as pandan chicken with Thai chili sauce, creamy butter prawn with crispy egg floss and seabass with steamed lime sauce. There are several Serai outlets around Klang Valley, you won’t be far from one!

CNY Set Menu starts from: RM688++ for 10 pax

Facebook: @seraigroup

Address: Empire Shopping Gallery, Paradigm Mall, Jaya Shopping Centre, Pavilion Kuala Lumpur, Shaftsbury Square

6. Dolly Dim Sum

Best described as a modern interpretation of a traditional Chinese tea house, Dolly offers casual dim sum dining to be experienced with family and friends. They have two Chinese New Year festive sets aptly named Prosperity and Happiness. Each set features traditional dishes such as spicy Szechuan dumplings and prawn cheong fun and also signature dishes such as popcorn prawn and golden chicken nugget. End your meal on a cool note with their chilled longan sea coconut dessert.

CNY Set Menu starts from: RM60++ per person for 6 pax

Facebook: @dollydimsum

Address: Nu Sentral, Pavilion Kuala Lumpur, Avenue K, IOI City Mall, Sunway Putra Mall, Sunway Pyramid

7. Ming room (Non-Halal)

One of the most established Chinese restaurants in the Bangsar/Damansara area, Ming Room’s menu features authentic Cantonese cuisine and modern interpretations. Some of the premium offerings in this year’s Chinese New Year menu are Guangdong-style sizzling Boston lobster, Marmite freshwater prawns and pork trotter with fatt choy and dried oyster.

CNY Set Menu starts from: RM1200 for 10 pax, RM178 for individual set

Facebook: The Ming Room

Address: Bangsar Shopping Centre, Bukit Bandaraya, Kuala Lumpur

Phone: 03- 2284 8822

8. Noble mansion (Non-Halal)

Always a popular pick for weddings and the Lunar new year festivities, this restaurant is indeed a mansion with several grand rooms that can accommodate 600 pax in total. Their Chinese New Year menu comes in both group and individual sets. Look forward to opulent specialties such as steamed turbot fish with crystal noodle and bean paste, spicy Szechuan Boston lobster and clams with water chestnut tacos.

CNY Set Menu starts from: RM1288 for 10 pax, RM188 for individual set

Facebook: Noble Mansion

Address: Plaza 33 No. 1 Jalan Kemajuan, Seksyen 13, Petaling Jaya

Phone: 03-7932 3288

9. Unique Seafood Subang

If you want to ensure you are getting the freshest seafood, this is the place to be. With rows of tanks to greet you at the restaurant, you can see your seafood live before it is being prepared by their Master Chefs (not for the squirmish!)

The Chinese New Year set menus include dishes such as braised “10 head” abalone with dried oyster and vegetables and poached live tiger prawns in herbal soup. To add in variety, they have non-seafood specialties such as Teochew-style braised duck with salted vegetables and Beijing-style baked lamb rack.

CNY Set Menu starts from: RM688++ for 5 pax

Facebook: @uniqueseafoodgroup

Address: Citta Mall, Ara Damansara, Petaling Jaya

Phone: 03-7734 3006

10. Grand Imperial (Non-Halal)

Wow your relatives with dinner at one of the Grand Imperial Group restaurants. Splurge on the premium menu which features dishes like the South Africa “1 Head” abalone (half) braised with dried oyster and fatt choy and the smoked London duck with tea leaves. For a prosperous year ahead, feast on your reunion lunch or dinner accompanied by an appearance by the God of Prosperity and their lion dance troupe. Check out their Facebook for a list of timings.

CNY Set Menu starts from: RM498++ for 4 pax

Facebook: @GrandImperialGroup

Address: Pavilion Kuala Lumpur, Bangsar Shopping Centre, Hartamas Shopping Centre, Pinnacle Annexe Bandar Sunway, 1 Utama Shopping Centre and Sunway Velocity Mall

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Fashion

Where to get your Cheongsam for Chinese New Year 2019

By Amanda Sura January 18, 2019

With the Lunar New Year just around the corner, it’s time to look for that new outfit to wow your friends and family. This year, there are many collections to choose from, especially by our Malaysian fashion labels. Be it a traditional cheongsam, or feminine dresses with accents like a mandarin collar or fun oriental motifs, here are some options for you.

Innai Red

Inspired by Penang’s heritage, Innai Red introduces an elegant collection using luxe fabrics such as brocade, taffeta, organza, charmeuse silk, and French lace. This season features beautiful beadwork paired with their signature ruffles. The collection is perfect for those who want some ‘oommph’ to their outfit whilst wearing minimal accessories.

RoaSkye

Fans of bright and bold colours will appreciate RoaSkye’s collection. In line with the brand’s identity, the cheongsam prints are quirky and fun. Pair one up with black mules or silver slip-ons for a tasteful pulled-together look.

Doublewoot

One can always count on Doublewoot for some awesome finds when it comes to frocks and jumpsuits. The ‘Oriental Essence’ collection is romantic, girlie, and sweet; inspired by contemporary and classic designs full of soft fabrics and delicate lace. The pieces can double up as day-to-night wear, which is great for a full day of visiting open houses to hosting guests at yours!

Melinda Looi RTW

Known for her statement pieces that are often eclectic and glamorous, Melinda Looi’s oriental collection does not disappoint. Inspired by Malaysian Chinese Folk Art, one is sure to stand-out in an original piece that screams contemporary chic. Don’t forget to accessorise with the one-of-a-kind mahjong series bag or silk scarf also from the label.

Duchess & Co

It’s all about asymmetrical hemlines and peekaboo lace for Duchess & Co. Asymmetrical hemlines give an overall elegant impression plus the illusion of a taller self. Choose something timeless yet modern from the collection, like a long lace pastel cheongsam or fire-red cold shoulder cheongsam.

Whitesoot

Lovers of A-line and midi flare dresses will love what Whitesoot has got in store. Themed ‘Shanghai Jazz Night’, the lunar new year collection comprises of vintage styled dresses including matching ones for your mini-me. Affordable old school charm, what’s not to love?

Khoon Hooi

Rock that OOTD (outfit of the day) shot with a bespoke cheongsam by Khoon Hooi. The ‘Garden Blossom’ collection will surely turn heads with beautiful beadwork combined with rich textiles and embroidery. Dramatic sleeves also give the pieces an edge without making the wearer look OTT (over the top).

Afiq M.

Afiq M. plays up the cheongsam with a cold shoulder and draped sleeves to give it some subtle sexiness and sophistication. The modern take on a traditional favourite will command attention and is classic enough to be worn more than once.

Nala Designs

Their much-loved signature patterns are turned into lovely bespoke cheongsams and mandarin collared dresses to fit the festive season. Each Nala Designs piece goes for RM588 and orders are to be collected two weeks upon purchase. You can also get a tailored shirt in the same pattern made for your other half too!

Tag us in your CNY snaps at #makchicCNY, we’d love to see your outfits!

Photos are taken from the respective brand’s website and Instagram pages. For more details and prices, contact the online stores and boutiques.

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Childrenswear

10 Places To Shop For Children’s Chinese New Year Outfits 2019

By suningc January 11, 2019

Before this, cheongsams and samfus for kids were mostly available in Chinatown, not exactly the most ideal shopping destination, especially with children in tow. Thankfully over the years, more brands have started to cater to this growing market and one no longer have to brave the heat of Petaling Street for Chinese New Year outfits.

Here are 10 places to shop for Chinese New Year clothing for the kids this year:

1. Pokoks

Pokoks’ contemporary reinvention of traditional wear with a sleek and simple silhouette will definitely appeal to the minimalist parents. The brand’s latest Chinese New Year collection, LIMAU 2019, incorporates Malay design elements into traditional Chinese costumes, which perfectly portrays Malaysia’s multicultural society.

Price range: RM68 to RM122

Age range: 1 to 14 years old

Gender: Boys and girls

Shop: https://pokoks.com

2. Maison Q

Maison Q’s unique reversible outfits are double the fun and double the mileage. A favourite from the collection is the Minmin dress, an asymmetrical hemline cheongsam with traditional scallop print on one side, and when flipped inside out, voila, you now have a blue striped cheongsam. Some items are designed exclusively for specific retailers to commemorate the first year in the Malaysian market, such as the pink Sheila Onesie featured above which can only be found at Shoes, Shoes, Shoes.

Price range: RM179 to RM360

Age range: 6 months to 8 years old

Gender: Boys and girls

Shop: HappiKiddo, The Gardens Mall and IPC Shopping Centre.

ShoesShoesShoes, Bangsar Shopping Centre, Publika and Jalan Telawi.

3. Ginger Duck

The Chinese New Year collection from Ginger Duck is 100% locally handmade, no mean feat considering the vast array of cheongsams, tunics and dresses available for adults and children. Each piece has a quirky characteristic; psychedelic print collars, parrot prints and my favourite – a pastel blue cheongsam with batik collar and flouncy skirt. There are plenty of matching outfits available for mother and son, brother and sister and father and son. Definitely a brand to check out.

Price range: RM88 to RM108

Age range: Infant to 10 years old

Gender: Boys and girls

Shop: 163 Retail Park, Mont Kiara (pop-up store from 21 Dec to 31 Jan )

Bangsar Shopping Centre concourse, Bangsar (10 Jan to 4 Feb)

Button and Wheel, Gamuda Walk, Kota Kemuning

Robinsons, The Gardens Mall, Mid Valley City

4. Tesco

Yes, you heard right. Every year, Tesco has a wide range of Chinese New Year outfits for children and adults, from lace qipaos to tutu dresses with Mandarin collars and Tang suits (tunic with Mandarin collar and frog buttons) paired with shorts for the boys. The affordable price tag is definitely an additional plus point because your kids are only going to wear them a handful of times before they outgrow it.

Price range: RM19.95 to RM80

Age range: 1 to 10 years old

Gender: Boys and girls

Shop: Most Tesco outlets nationwide

5. Lazada

Warning: you may end up spending hours browsing through Lazada. A search for “girls cheongsam” and “boys Chinese New Year” produced hundreds of results from traditional designs to updated versions of classic Chinese costumes to cotton onesies with cheongsam collar and frog buttons. Tip: if you’re worried that delivery will not be in time for Chinese New Year, select vendors that ship from Malaysia.

Price range: Prices start from RM10

Age range: Infants to teenagers

Gender: Boys and girls

Shop: www.lazada.com.my

6. Tiny Button

This brand has beautiful cheongsams in pastel colours (as well as the traditional red) and boys tunics. Best of all, they’re made from lightweight cotton, perfect for sweltering Chinese New Year weather. They also have cute cotton cheongsam tops which can be dressed down with leggings or dressed up with a tutu skirt. Oriental-themed ensembles are available throughout the year, so do check out Tiny Buttons if your child has a Chinese wedding to attend.

Price range: Prices start from RM10

Age range: Infants to 5 years old

Gender: Boys and girls

Shop: http://www.tinybutton.co

7. Whitesoot

One of the perquisites of having daughters is matching outfits! If you’re thinking of twinning this Chinese New Year, you can find mother and daughter cheongsams at Whitesoot. From personal experience, getting kids dressed on CNY morning can result in tantrums, “I don’t want to wear that!” “I don’t like that!” But when you tell them that mummy will be wearing the same outfit too, they will put it on with no more complaints because, hey, who doesn’t want to look like mummy (milk it while you can, this generally expires around the age of 8).

Price range: RM95 (for kids) to RM229 (for adults)

Age range: 2 to 9 years old (sizes tend to run a little small)

Gender: Girls only

Shop: https://whitesoot.com

8. Sea Apple

This Singaporean kids’ wear brand was named after the sturdy sea apple tree. The trees were originally planted as firebreaks along the borders of highly flammable lalang wasteland in Singapore as the tree does not burn easily. The brand’s ethos is to produce high-quality garments with classic lines using natural, comfortable materials that are suitable for everyday wear. Materials are from brand name fabrics, European and Japanese mills (there are several Liberty London pieces in this year’s CNY collection). What I love is the embroidery detail on many of the pieces featuring local plants and flowers, ie: bunga gambir, nutmeg flower, banana tree, etc.

Price range: RM120 to RM272

Age range: 6 months to 12 years old

Gender: Boys and girls

Shop: https://seaappleshop.com

9. Chinatown Classic

Chinatown Classic has a range of casual cotton cheongsams and tunics to traditional satin brocade gowns. Besides clothing, there are also Oriental accessories such as embroidered handbags, beaded slippers, purses, hats, and so on. The brand has three stores but the display at Robinsons in The Gardens Mall has the largest selection for kids.

Price range: RM65 to RM250

Age range: 1 to 12 years old

Gender: Boys and girls

Shop: Robinsons, The Gardens Mall, Mid Valley City

Suria KLCC, Kuala Lumpur

Berjaya Times Square, Kuala Lumpur

10. Major Departmental Stores

Most major departmental stores have extensive selections of Chinese New Year clothing. Home brands such as J Kids (Aeon) and Somerset Bay (Metrojaya) have charming outfits to offer at very affordable prices. Another brand to look out for is Purple Fish. Pro shopper tip: do go as soon as the malls open to beat the crowd and queue.

Price range: RM35 to RM250

Age range: 1 to 12 years old

Gender: Boys and girls

Shop: Aeon, Parkson, Robinsons, Isetan, Metrojaya.

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