Le Jardin - Sofitel Marrakech Palais Imperial

Out of three restaurants at Sofitel Marrakech Palais Imperial, we would say that 'Le Jardin' was the best place to dine. Both during the buffet breakfast and also lunch, you will find an array of local and international food. You will be spoilt with choices.


If you are not so adventurous trying unfamiliar taste, at Le Jardin you can be a bit brave by trying new flavours in a small portion. We have tried from sushi which were not too bad, typical Moroccan starters to salad that was mixed to our taste. Although they do serve french dishes and asian wok dishes which looked really delicious, we stick to couscous dishes with lamb, chicken and fish served with seven vegetables, broth and caramelized onion and raisins. And we never been disappointed. 

Depends on the type of meat we were having at the time, we always choose local produced wine. You cannot really go wrong with Medaillon wine, both red and white. They are all good. Really compliment the local food that is rich in flavours, herbs and spices. 

The lay out of the restaurant was also great. Open plan, well lit and aired with comfortable chairs and good size tables. Most people would opt to dine on the terrace though, overlooking matured garden. Must be very relaxing..

Do not miss out on the sweet treats... Especially the chocolate mousse... It is so yummy..


Le Jardin
Sofitel Marrakech Palais Imperial
Rue Harroun Errachid, 4000 Marrakech - Morocco
Phone: +212 524 425600
Website: http://www.sofitel.com/gb/hotel-7335-sofitel-marrakech-palais-imperial/index.shtml

L'Oasis - Sofitel Marrakech Palais Imperial - Morocco

Casual dining by the pool if you fancy an al fresco dining. 
Well... we were up for it on that particular day. What could be better than dining and soaking the warmth of the sun at the same time. Though, it could get really hot after a while. So, get the sun shade and a hat ready or request for a parasol to be put up. 


We intended to have the gazpacho to start with then followed by espadon served with couscous. Unfortunately they arrived at the same time. So, we were rather confused what to have first. 
Well... never mind.. this is indeed a casual dining after all. No point in complaining, it will only confuse the waiting staff even more. Please note that we speak very little french and the staff who served us happened to speak very little english. So it was quite a challenging situation to make each other understand. 
We ordered the espadon not knowing exactly what it was.. Well.. at least if it turns out to be something that we don't like, we still can enjoy the couscous :)

The gazpacho turned out as expected, light and refreshing. Great starter in a hot afternoon. The mysterious 'espadon' turned out to be an overcooked a steak of white fish. It tasted ok, but certainly would not be our favourite. The couscous and white wine worked well to wash it down. 


The desert was quite delightful though, we had lemon custard pie and strawberry custard pie. Strawberries are used a lot in places we have been to around Morocco. They are surprisingly very sweet. Healthy option if you have sweet tooth without worrying about putting pounds on. 


Although it was enjoyable to eat outdoor, we would rather go for 'Le Jardin' - the third restaurants at Sofitel Marrakech that serves buffet breakfast and lunch. 


* Later on we found out that 'Espadon' is sword fish. 


L'Oasis
Sofitel Marrakech Palais Imperial
Rue Harroun Errachid, 4000 Marrakech - Morocco
Phone: +212 524 425600
Website: http://www.sofitel.com/gb/hotel-7335-sofitel-marrakech-palais-imperial/index.shtml

L'Orangerie - Sofitel Marrakech Palais Imperial, Morocco

First evening of our stay in Sofitel Marrakech Palais Imperial we dined at L'Orangerie. It offers Moroccan and French cuisine. We were the first guests arrived at the restaurant decorated in Moroccan style. We chose a table by the window with a view of Atlas mountains under the moonlight. 


Being in Morocco, obviously we went for the Moroccan specialty such as Harira (Moroccan soup), light yet tasty starter served with dates followed by Lamb Tajine with prunes. The meat was beautiful and tender, simply falls off the bone. The spices used to cook it with were just amazing. We would have it with couscous though, but as it was served as it is in a terra-cotta pot and it was quite a generous portion, we just stick to that. And to accompany our lamb tajine, we had a good bottle of Moroccan red wine, Medaillon. What a great way to experience the local culture.


As you may have noticed that we hardly turn down an offer for sweet delights at the end of our meal. Therefor, to complete and to celebrate our arrival in Marrakech we went for selection of Moroccan pastries. Although we are not great marzipan lovers, we did enjoy our little treats (which were mostly filled with marzipan) beautiful decorations on each piece were good distractions. 


Service was reasonably good, the waiting staff was friendly, spoke good english and very informative. Certainly a place we would go back to. We just wished they open at lunch time too.. 


* Photos will be added soon!


L'Orangerie at Sofitel Marrakech Palais Imperial
Rue Harround Errachid, 4000 Marrakech - Morocco
Phone: +212 524 425600
Website: http://www.sofitel.com/gb/hotel-7335-sofitel-marrakech-palais-imperial/index.shtml

Hotel Sofitel Marrakech - Palais Imperial

Beautiful hotel in Moorish style set in lush Hivernage area. Upon arrival, we immediately get Moroccan charm as we have expected. Warm and welcoming staff checked us in while we enjoy taking a sip of steaming hot mint tea at lobby lounge. Soon after we were shown our suite. 


A good size accommodation split into two areas, a lounge with comfortable sofa, flat screen TV, minibar, desk and a dining table set. The next area is the sleeping quarter, walk-in wardrobe and bathroom. Ideal for a week stay or longer. It was located on the ground floor, so it was easy access to the garden and swimming pool. Great! 


Although we were happy with our suite in general, but there were some downsides to it. First, was poor lighting. Okay, by staying in the hotel we were supposed to put our feet up and relax, no bright lighting would be highly required, but as we do enjoy reading, we did struggle to get comfortable.


Second, was the climate control switch. We could not adjust it to air-conditioner. We have switched it to AC and chose the lowest temperature but the ventilator still blow warm air. 


Third, was the dust on the carpet. During our seven days stay there, not once the carpet in our suite was vacuumed. We could just imagine the amount of dust that has been accumulated within that period. It was brushed to remove bits but not efficient enough to get rid of dust though. Plus, they have a tendency to miss out the patio area. If we left used glasses and ashtray, they would be removed and cleaned, but not the floor, in this case, the brush would be useful. 


The last downside was the minibar was not refilled regularly. We were in fact had to remind the reception to refill ours. We thought all hotels like their guests to spend money at their properties, minibar is one of the best way to do it. 


Beside heated swimming pool overlooking the Atlas mountains, spa and relaxation facility, shoe-shine service, kids mini racing track, bars, Sofitel Marrakech Palais Imperial has three restaurant at the premises. You will find our reviews on the list. 

Overall, we did enjoy our stay there. Djemma El Fna is within walking distance. Well, if you don't mind about half an hour stroll under the sun. If not, take a 'caleche' - a horse drawn carriage from outside of the hotel, it would cost you about 100 Dirhams. Set the price before you get on it and enjoy the haggle. There are a lot to discover in Marrakech, so get into the local culture! 


Hotel Sofitel Marrakech Palais Imperial
Rue Harroun Errachid, Hivernage, 4000 Marrakech - Morocco
Phone: +212- 524 425 600
Website: http://www.sofitel.com/gb/hotel-7335-sofitel-marrakech-palais-imperial/index.shtml

Ebeya Steak House - Jakarta

After dining in several Japanese Teppanyaki restaurants around Jakarta and even Kuala Lumpur, we still find this particular restaurant to have served the finest. Although they claimed themselves as 'steak house' we actually never tried their steak. We love our japanese food, so we stuck to teppanyaki.

Had we not stayed at the hotel and got disappointed by the quality of food served, we would never come across to Ebeya. As it is located tucked away in a corner of Lobby floor of Ritz Carlton Pacific Place. It has a small entrance with a golden sign board that mentioned the name of the restaurant.

As we got in, we were so surprise that the place was decorated so nicely and authentically japanese. All the female staff were dressed in beautiful kimono and they were so delicate. We then showed to the teppanyaki area. The chef who cooked for us the first time we went there was a Japanese chef. He amazed us with the food he prepared there and then in front of us. Such a treat! Especially his garlic chips. They were made there as we sat down, guaranteed not something out of a packet. Just make sure you have no appointment with the dentist or important meeting or worse romantic date after the meal :) 

We had all the chef has recommended us. Fish, crab, foie gras and of course kobe beef. With a good bottle of sake, we were in heaven! The food were simply delicious, fresh, full of flavour and melt in the mouth. The whole dining experience was effortless. The sake was just another compliment to make our afternoon perfect!

Some of us may find this restaurant is rather pricey, but honestly, it is worth every penny!! We cannot wait to get back there again! 

* They do have several private room on site to cater large parties or business lunch. 

** This establishment is not a part of Ritz Carlton Hotel, so make sure you carry cash or credit cards. 

Ebeya Steak House

Ritz Carlton Pacific Place

Jalan Jendral Sudirman Kav. 52-53 Jakarta 12190

Phone: +62 21 57973661

Monsieur Marcel, Farmer's Market Los Angeles

You fancy an authentic French food, but have no time to make the trip to Paris, do pop-in to Farmer's Market Los Angeles and find Monsieur Marcel Gourmet Market and Restaurant. You can pick-up ingredients to take home and cook it yourself or if you want less hassle, dine at Pain Vin et Fromage, petit bistro that will satisfy your desire of French food. Well, it certainly did to us.


As it was rather chilly outside, we ordered cheese fondue savoyarde to warm us up. You may think that cheese fondue is not very French but more Swiss. Ok, quite right, but this savoyarde fondue was made with all French cheeses. So.. We can agree to categorize it as something French ;)
It was definitely tasty. Although a portion is ideal for two, it did not last very long between two of us. 

After cheese fondue we had charcuterie francaises - a platter of cold cuts with pate, duck rillettes and few more with a company of a good bottle of Chablis. Very enjoyable! Great place to grab a quick yet tasty lunch. 


* Don't forget to get validation on your parking ticket to get a discounted rate.


Monsieur Marcel
the Farmer's Market
6333 W. 3rd Street, Los Angeles, CA 90036
Phone: +1 323 939 7792
Website: www.mrmarcel.com

McCormick and Schmick's Beverly Hills, CA

This is certainly a great option to dine after a long stroll at Rodeo! Especially during a warm day, you can enjoy a great lunch and soak up the sun at the terrace at the same time. 


Unfortunately on our last visit we had to opt for 'dine in' due to light shower. We had a nice table though. A cosy nook overlooking the Beverly Wilshire Hotel, hoping we will spot familiar faces from block buster movies. 

Back to food concern, we ordered a dozen of fresh Kumiai oysters and other type of oysters that we could not recall the name - to start with with a nice bottle of Moet then a plate of yummy crab cakes that got us addicted to since then. On top of that we also had a portion of Calamari 'fritto misto' served with lemon aioli. We enjoyed all the food served so far. 

Of course, a good lunch would not be complete without mouthwatering dessert. Our choice went for classic trio creme brulee. They did look very attractive indeed, but unfortunately the taste said different. 
The texture was too heavy and pasty instead of light and creamy. 


Although the dessert did not turn out as expected, do not get put off by though.. As they have other options that we did not get the chance to taste. Overall McCormick and Schmick's at Beverly Hills still a nice venue to have a casual dining experience. Great food, friendly service, opens all day and not overpriced either. No wonder the place has always been busy. We certainly would come back there again! 


McCormick and Schmick's 
A Pacific Seafood Grill
206 North Rodeo Drive 
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
Phone: +1 310 859 0434
Website: http://www.mccormickandschmicks.com

Blowfish Kitchen and Bar - Jakarta

As many people have already acknowledged, Jakarta has enormous amount of international restaurants to spoil food lovers. We were told by some friends to try ‘Blowfish’ – Japanese fusion restaurant. Of course, before we made our visit we check out their website to give us ideas what to expect. From the description on the website, we had very good impression. Let’s see if they actually deliver their promises.

We arrived at Blowfish at 12 noon, we saw only a couple of tables occupied, but within 15 minutes the place started to fill up. The lay out of the restaurant was not as ‘grand’ as we had expected. It was quite ordinary, rather dark in fact. A few Japanese decorations such as kimono hanged here and there.

Anyways, as we sat down, a waiter greeted us and showed us the menu. We decided to try dishes that are not familiar to us such as ‘Agedashi Crab’, ‘Funky Buddha Roll’, Kabocha Croquette and Yamamoto Roll to share between us, accompanied by Japanese hot ocha.

When the food arrived, somehow we were not too impressed with the presentation, or the taste, at the end. The whole service was average. There was nothing bad about the food, just plain and simply average quality. We were wondering what was all the fuss about. We reckon people go there to party at the lounge not necessarily to dine at the restaurant. Maybe that is something we have to try next time. 

Blowfish Kitchen and Bar

City Plaza at Wisma Mulia

Jalan Jendral Gatot Subroto 42

Jakarta 12710

Phone: +62 21 5297 1234

Website: http://www.ismaya.com/blowfish/

Potato Head Jakarta

Now this is something different. A funky, quirky designed restaurant and bar – currently the ‘in’ place to hang out after a long day shopping at Pacific Place or after work. It has potted green plants to cover a large wall at the back end and washed out wooden windows covered the other wall. Wooden seats and tables, air conditioned throughout except the open air terrace. Very casual and cosy. 

Greeted by the manager himself, we were shown tables available to choose. We picked a table at one corner right next to the DJ booth that is only in use on the weekend. While we were going through the menu, the manager explains the special menu of the month to be considered. Interesting...

As we fancied a light lunch, our choices went for Paella Rice and Chicken Salad to start with. The chicken salad was a nice and tasty choice plenty even to be shared between two persons. The paella was not too bad either. It would be better had they made it with proper paella rice instead of normal jasmine rice. They put chicken pieces, salmon, mussels and prawn on the top to add the flavour, plus supposedly chorizo on the side but for some reason it was not spicy at all.

To finish our lunch, we ordered a Trio Éclair served with three-flavoured ice cream. The fillings of the trio éclair were vanilla, chocolate and mocha, tasted good but too runny.

Overall, Potato Head is a fun place to dine, whether you come on your own or with a group of friends. As it is open all day, you can come at anytime and no rush to leave either. The food served there were quite tasty too. We have not had the chance to try their famous cocktails, though. But we could just imagine on the weekend this place would be really happening.

A few downsides that we found there were the fact they don’t have separate area for non-smokers and the staff were not very attentive or responsive to the customer’s needs.

We would re-visit Potato Head in one evening on the weekend and we will up-date you with the result..

Pacific Place Mall G51A

SCBD Jalan Jendral Sudirman Kav. 52-53 Jakarta Selatan 12190

Phone: +62 21 57973322

Website: http://ptthead.com/jakarta/