Month: February 2013


Feb
2013

Happy Kitchen Brownie Bars

categories: Gluten-Free Products

I like chocolate. Ok. I survive on chocolate is possibly more accurate. Today, I discovered a new chocolate treat, Happy Kitchen Brownie Bars. Ok, so they pack 491 calories a brownie, but they were good. And organic, vegan and gluten-free. But sadly, not cheap. At least at Jason’s Food Hall in Bangsar Shopping Centre, where they are priced at $10.99. On the Happy Kitchen website, they are RRP £1.49. But I guess that’s the problem with importing.

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I admit to total pigginess and tried the Pecan Brownie, the Chocolate Brownie and the Orange Brownie. All good, super-chocolatey and moist. I could eat more. Except I’m supposed to be watching my diet in anticipation of the total food orgy that is a Paris trip this week.

I’m counting them as my daily serve of fruit.

Kiss kiss

Bubbles

http://www.happykitchen.org.uk


Feb
2013

Mandarin Grill @ Mandarin Oriental $$$$ 16/20

categories: Eating Out, Restaurant Reviews

The Mandarin Grill is a regular in my dining out list as Chef Reto and all the staff are sensitive to food allergy requirements. While it is on the pricier end of Kuala Lumpur dining out, they do a great lunch deal – $78 for 2 courses.

On booking, I specify that I am gluten free, which gets me fresh baked bread. While I don’t love the bread, it is a nice gesture.

This time, I started with the Duck Confit, served with a salad, parsnip purée and a pickled cherry. The duck practically melts in your mouth and the tartness of the cherry and the crisp salad balance the richness.

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For my main, I had the aged Parmesan and new pea risotto. While the Mandarin Grill makes their own vegetable stock, if eating risotto anywhere else, don’t forget to ask if the stock is made from canned, powdered or bouillon cubes as these usually contain some form of gluten in the starch.

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I don’t usually have dessert, but Chef Reto has previously whipped up Creme Brûlée or a parfait on occasion. Their fig sorbet is also a favorite.

Kiss kiss,

Bubbles

Mandarin Grill
Mandarin Oriental Kuala Lumpur
Kuala Lumpur City Centre

Reservations 03 2380 8888

Open Daily for lunch and dinner.

  • Allergy friendly: *****
  • Taste: ****
  • Atmosphere: Hotel fine dining, modern elegance. ***
  • Service: ****
  • Cost: $$$$ Mains range between $68 and $250 for lobster. Take advantage of the fixed price menus both for lunch an dinner.