Magnum-imous Treats at Magnum Cafe

There was a huge buzzing hype a while ago, when this world famous and highly exclusive themed cafe landed on our turf in the capital city.

Magnum Cafe (yes, if you are thinking of the luxuriously chocolate-plating coat over soft chic-flavored ice cream and no, if you thought of the lottery brand) IS that reason for the swooning crowds and the anxiety of anticipation overwhelming the air everywhere, when news of the opening is confirmed. Fans or not, almost everyone is in a frenzy over this cafe.

I am sure everyone is a fan of ice-cream, well, at least majority out there lest you are lactose intolerant or on a diet, or just another pickyeater *clears throat*

Putting aside the fact that almost every one (young or old) is an ardent/lifetime fan of ice cream, it is also interesting to note that Magnum Cafe are only found in only a few carefully handpicked countries; making it even more privileged than ever (perhaps one of the best marketing strategies out there).

I can understand, almost, the reason for all that hype and the need to lust after such exclusivity.
Magnum has definitely positioned themselves as almost that iconic brand of ice cream, in a luxurious way.

Following the success of its first outlet in Mid Valley Kuala Lumpur, Magnum Cafe was definitely convinced by its huge fan base in the country which propelled them to launch their second outlet in the neighboring county; in the fairly new IOI City Mall, located in the Federal Territory of Putrajaya, which is also a rather young addition to the count of states in the nation.
It makes sense to target this district; where the country's administration is centered and is identified as the nucleus of the country, setting the state to be one of the most advanced and important city in the nation.

One can opt to queue for that quick fix of a taste of Magnum luxe on the tips of their tongue at the ice-cream takeout counter fronting the cafe and enjoy that treat of watching their ice cream making in action by the specially trained ice cream artisans (well, not quite so, but they are supposedly trained anyway).

The ice cream counter may conjure that impression closer to the image of the usual Magnum soft and creamy ice cream coated with the unmistakably delectable Belgian Chocolate plates on the outside (a tribute to its European origins - Magnum is owned by Unilever, a British/Dutch company), giving that casual outlook to one that could be associated with this usually off-the-shelf available ice cream.
The long queue could put one off too, especially on weekends, and puts one's mind to thoughts of the privileged youth these days who are obviously taking the notion of living their lives to the fullest to the depth of the meaning, indulging in life's simple pleasures; even if it means paying more for a regular ice cream which could cost thrice lesser than the version served at a well-themed cafe.
Including tax, of course.

Magnum Cafe is of course, not just that.
It is not just an ice cream booth, nor just a counter like your everyday ice cream counter found on corners of the street.
Close, but not quite almost the same concept, for after all, there is always that extra kick required to live up to one that earned the title of Cafe.

Take a walk away from the counter and follow the curve of the outer part of the cafe (if you are walking on the outside), and be welcomed by the other entrance which is where the real cafe resides.

Like any other cafe, you are bound to have the takeout area and then, there is that dining area.

This part is the real cafe; the Magnum Cafe which is elegantly styled to provide that selection of meals made for seated dining.
Yes, these days, even ice creams are made gourmet style and you actually sit down to a proper ice cream meal. No sloppiness allowed please.
Use your forks and knives, and don't forget the napkins.
Just kidding, or, almost.




The Magnum Cafe showcased the real reason of its popularity and allure which made it highly lusted after all around the world, aside from the fact that it's sparsely located in only specific locations.
Plush cushions and artistically designed interior gives the cafe that air of luxury and sophistication.
One may easily forget that they are actually in an ice-cream themed cafe, for its stylish settings set the tone more suited for high tea and classy dining.

The menu quickly set in to establish that image of the cafe, joining in with the presentation of creatively crafted food (yes, they also serve a modest variety of food and you could actually have a meal here besides desserts) and of course, the eye candy; the real mccoy itself and the star of the show/cafe - the iconic Magnum ice cream.

It is quite an eye opener to see the many varieties they offer; fully unleashing the potential (not quite hidden anyway) of this chocolate temptation, on the stick so familiar to the world.
One could be spoilt for choices by the many dazzling choices, especially if you are already one with a sweet tooth, have a soft spot for desserts, or simply an ice cream fan - make that a Magnum one, to laud your own loyalty when you are on its turf.

I am quite impressed by the quick thinking of the creators of the cafe, and especially the one behind the menu.
I mean, when you have a special dessert concoction to complement the hard frozen creamy white chocolate Magnum to create this unique opus titled Magnum soup (MYR22), you know you're getting somewhere and that is definitely not any ordinary cafe.






The soup is just one of the eclectic mix; with the combination of sweet and creamy (from the ice cream) and chewy (glutinous rice balls) and a few accomplices in the form of rice crackers, this is the recipe for a stunning yet relishing masterpiece.






It is equally stunning in its visuals, and is truly an eye-catching, taste pleasing work of art.




The Magnum Triple Choc Cookie Skillet (MYR30) is ready to warm your heart with its hot cookie dough which is feisty with that crusty taste fresh from the oven, and I really mean, right out of the oven straight to the table. Served ala brownie mode, the first few bites are bound to burn your tongue if you are not careful. Even the tray/plate is hot on the sides, keeping the dough warm all the way with each and every bite; a surefire way to beat that chill from the air-conditioning in the cafe.




The doubly stacked Magnums on top of the melted chocolate chips embedded in the baked cookie dough is the direct giveaway to the triple choc theme.

It is truly a luxurious treat; triple the indulgence of it all.

The gourmet styled ice-cream themed desserts are filling enough, especially when one comes after a meal, looking forward to soothe that sweet tooth.
Portions are made for sharing, and prices are definitely on the steep side, due to the carefully crafted masterpieces of each creation on the menu.
It is the effort which made up the uniqueness of each and every dessert, to earn it that specialty crown and of course, making it subject and rightful to charge that extra bucks too.
For the effort.

For die-hard Magnum ice cream fans, they are definitely pleased or over the moon to find that they are actually given that dream to create their own Magnum, the way they want it, with the "Make My Magnum" popularized and conceived by the people behind this cafe, to add to that craze and obsession with the indulgent original Magnum ice-cream.

Since this is your own creation, you can go crazy with the choices to design your very own decadence, styled with luxury.

Well, almost, since there are almost 250 ways to choose from, at the counter itself.

Each stick now costs MYR9.90, but it is bearing your identity; even if it is selectively from their ingredients.

For less hassle, there is also that ready recommendations from their signature Magnum classics.

Black Forest 

Enjoy extreme chocolate indulgence with the marrying of chocolate brownie and dark chocolate topped with enjoyably chewy bites from petite marshmallows, crushed oreos and be sizzled with exotic tastes of the freeze dried raspberries.

Golden Flower
Classic Vanilla Magnum topped with an unique combo of popcorn, gold nuggets and culinary rose petals make this a really catchy blend and visually stunning in its colors too.





To say that Magnum Cafe offers simple pleasures of life is undermining the real talent of the conceptual theme, and definitely not justifying the notion behind this brilliant brainchild which started that Magnum ice-cream mania around the world.
Those few selected countries which made it to host the Magnum cafe are fortunately privileged, to say the least.

Simple pleasures of life start with an ice-cream perhaps, but sinful and luxurious indulgence to leave that deep longing with every lustful, savory bite and rich creamy trail trickling down one's throat to trigger that inner passion for sweetness, Magnum might just be the answer.

Ice cream trucks, parlors and booths are the trends, but Magnum Cafe has definitely set that vogue for the ice cream world.


*This is not a place for the weak-willed and weight watchers*
You have been warned.


Magnum Cafe are in 2 locations in Malaysia:-
1. Mid Valley (3rd Floor, South Court)
2. IOI City Mall


**This is not a sponsored Post**
Disclaimer: All opinions are based on author's own experiences and thoughts, and are not associated/represent the general views or tastes, and may differ from one to another's experience.


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Let's Get Crabbin' with the Australian Spanner

The sight of this bright siren red, not to mention the gigantic size of this crustacean species is enough to make anyone go weak in the knees.
This unique species known as the Australian Spanner Crab is definitely not meant for the weak-hearted and can be quite a catch to be found here, but it is definitely close to most of the local Australians' hearts.

This resident crab hails from the Land Down Under; with obvious signs indicated in the name itself and is commonly found along the eastern to the southern part of the coastal waters in the region.
From Queensland to Nowra in New South Wales, it is a familiar species and even a popular favorite among the Australian folks.

While commonly found in Australia, its presence here definitely deserves the spotlight and that was exactly the star role it landed on the menu of Manhattan Fish Market recently as one of the highlighted dish.

At a whopping price of only MYR39.90, it sounded reasonable and just too good for the crab lovers out there; especially for the adventurous ones (after all, the sight of the crab is there to tell you what you're expecting).
The photo of the crab on the promotional poster poised against the easel at the entrance of the shop was a visual concept to prepare the diners of this crab, but still, it did nothing to halt that big 'O' opening of our mouths when the dish finally arrived.



The crab did not come alone and along its arrival are its companions in the form of the accompanying sauce.
A choice of a light buttery sauce or the fiery spicy sambal gravy, the dressing sauces are there to enhance the dining experience and the taste of the crabby flesh.

The tools to get the crab cracked open are definitely not forgotten; along with a bowl of water with a slice of lemon for one to rinse their hands with after all the hard work.
That is indeed thoughtful, and that lemon gives the hands a citrusy scent to dispel the strong and distinctive smell from the crabs itself.
(You'd know what I mean :-)

A glimpse of the flesh



The accompanying spicy sauce did a better job in masking the slightly frozen taste of the flesh; temporarily blinding the thought that this was indeed air flown into our country from another country.
However, the sambal sauce was definitely a strong reminder of our local tastes and I really mean that it was spicy!

Crabs tend to take a longer time to consume, or enjoy and therefore, when dining with the crabs, it takes a lot more patience and of course, when you are just in the mood backed with the leisure/luxury of time on hand.

I don't mind crabs, well, at least when they are peeled, to be honest *grins* and I need my crabs to be really, really fresh.

The Australian Spanner Crab may be the star of the meal, but the Grilled Salmon with Black Pepper Sauce (MYR24.90) made its way to our table too, courtesy of yours truly who just needed a fix of salmon that day.



Served with fresh and boiled vegetables alongside mashed potatoes drenched with the black pepper sauce where the salmon fillet is plopped on top, complete with a tiny flag of Manhattan Fish Market, this looked pretty appetizing for a start.






However, I was a little disappointed that the salmon fillet, while stunningly succulent in appearance turned out to be too overly well done to my liking.
Perhaps I was just too particular with the way my salmon is to taste like, but I am not a fan of dry and harsh textures of the flesh when it comes to a rich fish like salmon.

The starter we ordered; the Ocean's Gem (MYR10.90) which was a combination of an assortment of seafood drizzled with a tantalizing sourish dressing on a bed of fresh greens was definitely the winner of the day.



Juicy fresh prawns and scallops, mixed with the crunchy variety of sliced carrots, capsicums, cucumbers, lettuces and cabbages, raisins and marinated onion slices make up the triumphant dish and one just can't get enough of the portion.

It may look small in its size, but I would say it is just nice for a serving of 1-2 pax and is a sure appetite stimulant with its vibrant colors and the flavorful tastes which one simply cannot resist.




To quench that thirst and soothe the senses, the Sunset by The Bay (MYR9.90) is one good choice.
A bold mix of Early Grey Tea with tiny bits of peaches, graced by that slice of lemon by the side to give it that extra zesty kick is truly irresistible.

It has been a while I have been to this restaurant and I have almost forgotten the wonderful varieties of seafood; especially fish that they have here.




I am reminded of them now, and I crab you not, that I am thinking of my order on my next visit :-)

Cooking 'em up in the Clay pots

There is just something about clay pots, the distinctive aroma and taste of the food are just comforting, and in a natural way.
The warmth of the food and the unpretentious flavors make everything that comes out of a clay pot naturally irresistible, which makes it one of the favorite way of preparation of food in many regions especially in Asia.

I was introduced to this Claypot Restaurant, nestled in a residential neighborhood along Jalan Sungai Kelian in Tanjung Bungah.
Specializing in claypot dishes, as its name suggests, the restaurant has since changed ownership recently though maintaining the concept of claypot in their preparation.

Located within a terrace house lot along a row of houses transformed into businesses, the number 48 distinctively highlights the place out of the many other restaurants (there are plenty of good restaurants in this area as well).




The natural homey interior of the restaurant makes all the sense, since it is an actual house converted into a restaurant and the furnishing is kept to the minimum to create that spacious and clean concept of a dining environment.



I love the little touches of the retro-themed posters on the wall, which creates a soft blend of classic memories amidst a pristine and fuss-free setting with plain wooden dining furniture.
Simplicity always say it best, and is definitely welcomed especially in a setting fit for a pleasant dining ambiance with family and friends.



The selection of dishes on the menu are pretty straightforward, offering a domestic variety for each category; from vegetables to chicken, pork and seafood, humbly served in their signature clay pots.

Braised Japanese tofu in Claypot (MYR8.00) is a simple and plain version of the egg-laden version of the beancurd cooked in a modest starched gravy dressed with peeled onions and spring onions.



It is just like any home cooked version of a braised tofu would taste like.

Seaweed with white tofu soup cooked with eggs is comforting without frills in its presentation and taste.
Served piping hot, this indeed warms one's soul at the very first taste.
As the owner is a family friend, who took over the business, we were treated to this hearty serving on the house as our selection of dishes were somehow constricted to rather dry-based dishes, as according to the owner.
(It is indeed a thoughtful gesture from his side :-) )



The owner is one specialist in vegetables; having formerly (and still) ran a vegetables business and he recommended us the Brussel Sprouts with meat floss (MYR8.00), which was the vegetables which new in stock on that day.
Ask for recommendations for the vegetables of the day, and they will be more than happy to oblige to offer suggestions.





Deep fried Mantis Prawns with dry chilies (Kung Pow style) (MYR20.00) is not served in a claypot; and was fried to crunchy crisp.



This is always my favorite dish anywhere and I was delighted to see that they have it on their menu.
(It can be a bit of a scavenger hunt for this dish sometimes, as there are restaurants which don't serve this or sometimes they run out of the mantis prawns).
This is a little too crispy to my liking though; as I usually prefer the light crisp and slight moist of the flesh inside which is perfection in my personal definition.



The version served here is a little on the spicy side too, with their generosity in the red chilies and sliced ginger.


One of the highlight would be this Braised Fish Slices with Black Bean Paste (MYR25.00).



Served in a claypot, of course, this is a little dry, according to the owner, but we enjoyed the unique flavors used in the mix of the gravy, keeping the salty tastes of the black bean paste to a moderate level and the succulent flavors of the fish slices are preserved at its optimum.
Juicy and fresh slices of fish are used; instead of fish fillets which make the impeccable tastes of the dish, and the claypot added to enhance the flavors.

The food here tastes just like home, and one could easily be momentarily entranced by that thought that they are actually dining at home, especially with the homey settings as well.

Drinks are also served from a homemade selection; though only a few, and I would recommend this naturally refreshing and appetizing mix of Haw with Apple Juice (MYR3.80).

 

The combination is well-blended and kept to their natural tastes; with no additional flavoring or sugar, and is definitely a soothing option.

Prices are reasonable here, though the portions could be considerably smaller.
Most of the dishes are in one size of serving, and larger groups might consider ordering more from the menu due to the compact portions of the food.

However, the ambiance, cleanliness and the service make up a pleasant dining environment.

Also, who can say no to a good round of home-tasting food, not to mention served directly from the warm clay pots?


Address:
48, Jalan Sungai Kelian, 11200 Tanjung Bungah, Pulau Pinang



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