HONG KONG: French Kiss

Had this Vietnamese-infused dessert at a local Vietnamese restaurant in Hong Kong, Rice Paper. Dessert, French Kiss was a bit on the sour side, with raspberry ice cream, but must say, the presentation conquered all others. Layered with puff pastry with nuts and hazelnut inside, coated with sugar, topped with Raspberry sorbet

HONG KONG/ SHANGHAI: Street Food

Street food is infamous in Hong Kong... but this one I'm about to introduce is not just fishballs and fried goodies. These are grilled right in front of you. Only available in Mong Kok



Street Food in Shanghai. Oily but oh-so-delicious. There was a long line up for the gyoza.. Looks like normal gyoza.. but trust me, I have never had gyoza that tasted this good. The flavors just burst in your mouth.

This, too looked really good... but oysters on the street, in Shanghai.. I didn't want to get sick.
Egg/Rice pancakesThis is very famous in Shanghai apparently. They're called "Ah Po" dumplings. Supposingly made my "Ah Po" (Grand moms)

Caesar Cocktail

Time to introduce my favorite cocktail: Caesars.
Simple, but the best, in my opinion anyways. This is the recipe I've always used to make my own:

• 1 1/2 oz vodka
• 4 oz clamato juice
• 2 dashes Worcestershire sauce
• dash of Tabasco
• celery salt
• lime wedge
• pepper to taste
• celery salt
• spicy pickled bean for garnish

Rim glass with lime wedge and celery salt
Add vodka and clamato juice
Season with pepper and Worcestershire sauce and Tabasco
Stir well
Add spicy pickled bean for garnish
Voila!
Drink!

Melty Kiss

Has anyone ever wondered why these Japanese chocolates are even more popular than, let's say, Purdy's or Godiva? Up until I gave this box of Melty Kiss a try a few years ago, did I realize that they are popular for a good reason. There are a few flavours available with dark chocolate powder sprinkled on top. With the strawberry flavored Meltykiss, you can actually taste the strawberry seeds. The Green tea flavored is rich in matcha. The dark chocolate is my favorite. It's rich in chocolate and i love how it's just CHOCOLATE.

Melty kiss is ONLY sold in the winter, even in Japan. Reason being, they are so light that they melt in anything but cold climates. Can you imagine how fast they melt in your mouth? yummyyy

LADNER: La Belle Auberge

Located in Ladner, B.C. I would just like to share pictures with all of you. I heard from the maitre D that the owner wanted to retire and close this restaurant down. I hope they won't because in my opinion, La Belle Auberge is one of the best French restaurants in Vancouver, with thoughtful service, in a cute little house. Presentation for their dishes was absolutely beautiful. I'll just be posting pictures as print is not necessary.

VANCOUVER: Chartwells no more

Chartwells at Four Seasons Hotel was indefinitely one of the best hidden secrets Vancouver had. I can't believe this time returning to Vancouver, it's gonna be gone gone gone. They have the most fluffy souffles. This one was Mandarin Orange Souffle. Perfectly made, very light and fluffy, not too sweet, even with the orange syrup.
After the big meal and the desserts, they usually give you an extra treat.


Last time I went, they gave us little pieces of their heavenly cheesecake topped with dark chocolate and raspberry.

SHANGHAI: Jade Garden 蘇浙匯

To the eastern world, Shanghai. A restaurant with dishes that has captured hearts of many. Having been to this restaurant the first time in Shanghai, I wouldn't miss it for the world when I had the chance to visit Shanghai the second time. With 3 servers dedicated to serving each table, the service is excellent, not a second neglecting their diners. With an extensive menu and a classy and refined dining area, Jade Garden delights each customer with their authentic dishes.

Additional Pictures from my second visit to Jade Garden:

VANCOUVER: Goat Cheese Pave

Sorry for the disgustingly poor photo quality but this is the only one I have atm. I don't know about you but I am definitely a goat-cheese-lover. This can't be missed if you are passing through Vancouver. Abigail's Party. It's a very small local restaurant on Yew Street. I can't say everything else is superb but this, all goat-cheese-lovers have got to try. I have been craving it for over a year already.
Pan-seared thin potato wrapped bundle of oozing goat cheese, roasted garlic, pearl onions, red wine & hibiscus reduction, focaccia

SEATTLE: Crabcakes at Elliott's

Hmmmm..... Something one must order upon visiting Elliott's in Downtown Seattle. Located right beside the pier, this renowned local restaurant is known for it's fresh oysters, delicious calamari and of course, their infamous crabcakes.

KELOWNA: Tasting the World

Most will think Quail's Gate only has wine to offer. Next time you drop by Kelowna, don't forget to visit the little restaurant overlooking the vines in Kelowna at Quail's Gate.

The rack of lamb grilled to perfection, precisely at medium rare. Juices overflowing when bitten into, tender enough to pull apart with your front two teeth.

Lemon Ice Cream cannot be missed. Homemade and fresh with a drizzle of lemon syrup on top.