The Chickenjoy toasts in opening the 15th outlet of Jollilbee in Brunei Darussalam earlier this morning

Dennis Flores, Vice-President, International Operations (Europe, Middle East & Australia) Jollibee Foods Corporation delivering his welcoming remarks and the milestone of Brunei Darussalam for Jollibee’s success

Finally the 15th store is officially opened in Brunei Darussalam. I am referring to Jollibee in Brunei Darussalam. You will be surprised that Jollibee in Brunei is more popular than other regional countries other than their home country, the Phillipines. Imagine this, Indonesia only has one outlet, Singapore has only 4 outlets, Hong Kong has only two while Malaysia has no more Jollibee outlets. The other SEA country that loved Jollibee is Vietnam with 80 outlets and counting.

So it’s safe to say that Jollibee hits the Brunei’s taste and it has been an ongoing success since it’s inception in 1987. My favourite meal from Jollibee then was the nasi lemak.. yummy… and also Jollibee’s chunky chicken burger 😀 Now both items are not available anymore in our Brunei market.. Boohoo. Hence, my favourite meal now is the spicy chicken with rice and my all time favourite Chocolate Sundae.

Enough of my ramblings about the past on Jollibee. I’m impressed that the popular franchise has been sustaining its presence for 30 years in Brunei. That’s longer than any other franchise that I know of. None of the competitors come close to the longevity of Jollibee in Brunei.

This morning the 15th outlet, perhaps the best design of the lot in Brunei, opened its door to the public and it’s located at Brunei International Airport.

The official opening was done gracefully with the presence of many – His Excellency Meynardo LB Montealegrer, Ambassador of The Philippines to Brunei Darussalam, Dennis Flores, Vice-President, International Operations (Europe, Middle East & Australia) Jollibee Foods Corporation., Abdul Razak bin Mohammad Hassan, grandson of Pehin Orang Kaya Ratna Setia Dato Setia Hj Awang Abdul Hapidz, Jollibee Franchisee Brunei, Muhammad Emmy Shamdy Khairul Kadir, Acting Deputy Director of Civil Aviation.

Also gracing the presence were Mr. Rodel Alcantara, AVP & Market Head for Brunei, Singapore, Malaysia & Europe, Jollibee Foods Corporation, Christina Ward, Operations Head of Jollibee (Brunei), Roilan Alvarez, Group Manager and Hj Md Shukry bin Hj Md Yusuf, first local restaurant manager in Jollibee (Brunei).

The airport outlet was unveiled by noon today and as usual, there was a long queue prior to the opening of the 15th outlet.

Congratulations once again to Jollibee Brunei for their milestone. Let’s spread more JOY to Brunei after 30 years and running. Thank you 😀

Jollibee mascot and his four friends at Jollibee’s Brunei International Airport outlet

With the awesome team of Jollibee Brunei

His Excellency Meynardo LB Montealegrer, Ambassador of The Philippines to Brunei Darussalam with Abdul Razak bin Mohammad Hassan and Muhammad Emmy Shamdy Khairul Kadir, Acting Deputy Director of Civil Aviation sharing a light moment

It’s quite spacious at Jollibee outlet. This will definitely be a huge hit among Bruneians

My beautiful friends – Hasmin and Pranika, attending the event today

Liyana Yus the Jollibee Ambassador

I love the interior concept of Jollibee Brunei

A long queue waiting to enter the Jollibee outlet

Wu Chun spending time with his overseas fans

A customized and personalized cake for Wu Chun from the pastry chef during the launch of the Bake Culture at Serusop branch

During the launch of the third outlet of Bake Culture at Serusop, Wu Chun announced expansion in China and USA by 2017 for Bake Culture. Interesting to know that Wu Chun has bigger plans for the successful bakery that is popular in Brunei and Taiwan.

He hinted that by November, Bake Culture will be opened at Chongqing, China and followed by another outlet in New York, USA. Both outlets are in the process of renovation.

One of the local signature item, Roti Satay, will be introduced in the said outlets and the idea is to spread and share the culture of different countries.

He also highlighted that the pastry chefs have been trained for the past twelve months inclusive of food tasting for the customers’ needs.

It was also good to see Wu Chun fans flying in from China to support the launch and Wu Chun humbly enough spent time with them and took photos.

The other question that was put forward to Wu Chun was on the upcoming movie where he is being featured, “My Other Home”, an upcoming Chinese-American sports biographical film directed by Yang Zi and produced by Huang Jianxin, starring American basketball player Stephon Marbury as himself. Awesome. It’s not sure when the movie will be out in Brunei but it is slated for a China release on 4th August and yes, China is a huge market for sure.

Congratulations Wu Chun on the expansion of Bake Culture (oh ya, he loves banana muffin from Bake Culture) and I hope to see your movie in Brunei hopefully 🙂

The design of the new outlet in Serusop

Photo opportunity with Baiduri Bank associates

Wu Chun with invited guests

Wu Chun with his Bake Culture team

Wu Chun speaking to Progresif team

The cakes section

These look delicious

Fans waiting to enter the bakery

They flew in just for Wu Chun 😀

Check out his new movie – “The Other Home” to released in China this August

Lim Kai Wei, Marketing Manager of Sinofood Express, Deno Goh, Operations Director of Sinofood Express, Izam Ahmad, Marketing Manager of Sinofood Express, Mr. Vincent Pao, General Manager of Concepts Computer, Alice Chan, Chief Financial Officer of Concepts Computer and Mr. Zul Abdul Rahman, Marketing Executive for Concepts Computer during the signing ceremony

The signing ceremony between Concepts Computer and Burger King Brunei last weekend

Last weekend, Concepts Computer, one of the largest IT retailer in Brunei, along with Sinofood Express, the franchisee of Burger King in Brunei Darussalam, is signing a collaborative MOU for cross-promoting their respective products during the holy month of Ramadhan and the festive month of Syawal.

Signing on behalf of Burger King Brunei is Lim Kai Wei and Izam Ahmad, both marketing Managers with Burger King Brunei. While on behalf of Concepts Computer, Mr. Vincent Pao, General Manager, and Mr. Zul Abdul Rahman, Marketing Executive for Concepts Computer. Also present was Operations Director, Burger King Brunei.

Vincent Pao, General Manager of Concepts Computer, speaking to the media, said, “There is potential for a great collaboration between Concepts Computer and Burger King Brunei, since both has a large customer base in different sectors of the Bruneian market, so it is very synergistic.”

Zul Abdul Rahman, Marketing Executive for Concepts Computer, added to the media, “Customers who have purchased $200 or more on a single receipt; excluding purchases of Acer PC, notebooks and Acer or Epson projectors; in our store will be able to receive a free $10 Burger King voucher. And on the other hand, purchases of $100 to $199 on a single receipt will get a free $5 Burger King Voucher, redeemable at all Burger King Brunei branches.”

And Lim Kai Wei, Marketing Manager of Burger King Brunei, also added, “And Burger King customers who purchases $25 and over on a single receipt will also receive a $10 Concepts Computer voucher, which can be redeemed with Concepts on any of their products including Acer computers or projectors, Epson printers or projectors, APC power solutions, even softwares or OS from Microsoft.”

Also commenting to the media is Izam Ahmad, Marketing Manager for Burger King as well, ”Burger King Brunei is very happy to work with Concepts during this promotion, with the hopes of offering added value and better services to our customer base, especially since this is the first time we are partnering with an IT retail company.”

Both Concepts and Burger King will be running this voucher program until 31st of July 2017, or while vouchers are still available with either Concepts Computer or Burger King.

For more information call 2233551, 2233552 or 2233553, or visit your nearest Concepts Computer showroom or Burger King branch.

Speaking of Burger King, do get yourself a limited edition BK bottle when you buy a Ramadhan Family Meal from Burger King (while stock lasts)

I got myself one two weeks ago but man, I don’t know where I kept the bottle… Hmmmm..

Ms Syakirah binti Jamali had the privileged to design Mr. Brown’s 2017 Hari Raya bottles

Mr Brown Coffee, a widely known beverage in the capital, proudly released their limited edition Hari Raya bottles to celebrate Hari Raya among the Bruneians.

Earlier this year in February, Mr Brown held its first Bottle Design Competition, which was won by a local artist, Ms Syakirah binti Jamali. And now her artwork is imprinted as the labels for this year 2017 Hari Raya bottles.

The limited edition bottles are designed with an Islamic geometrical national flower, simpur patten, to showcase the spirit of the festive season.

Started two (2) years ago, Mr Brown Hari Raya version is made specially for the festive season and hence is only available during Hari Raya and exclusively in Brunei. Since its debut, it has become a popular collectible amongst Mr Brown fans.

For this year, this festive Mr Brown is available in the most popular original flavour – Iced Coffee. This outstanding flavour is made according to a famous French recipe blending premium coffee with milk and sugar.

Mr Brown Coffee’s eye-catching limited edition Hari Raya bottles are now available in stores nationwide, and while stock lasts.

On the occasion of Hari Raya. this slim and easy-to-grab bottle is suitable for glassless event, and perfect to be shared among families and friends.

I have my dosage of the latest Mr. Brown limited edition Hari Raya bottles 😀

It’s the time of the year again. Cakes, biscuits and cake rolls, you name it. It’s the time of the year for you to make your orders in time for Hari Raya.

The pictures below are just a few from the list available from RZ Lynz Bakery and they are ready to accept orders and the final order will be on 5th June 2017.

What can you expect from the list?

Cake Roll

1. Roll Bueno Marble (Kinder Beuno) Size 8” BND 8
2. Roll Durian Monthong Size 8” BND 8
3. Roll Choco Peppermint (Mint + Buttercream) Size 8” BND 7
4. Roll Nutella Delight (Nutella) Size 8”BND 7
5. Roll Lady Diana (coffee) Size 8”BND 7
6. Roll Purple Raspberry Size 8” BND 7
7. Roll Mumbo (Lemon + Buttercream) Size 8”BND 7
8. Tapak Kuda Ovomaltine Size 9” BND 8
9. Tapak Kuda Kit Kat Size 9”BND 8
10. Tapak Kuda Size 9” BND 6

Cake Lapis

1. Cake Lapis Durian Solo (Monthong) Size 6”x9” BND 36 or Half Size BND 18
2. Cake Lapis Favourite Nutella (Coklat Emulco + Nutella) Size 6”x 9” BND 36 or Half Size BND 18
3. Cake Lapis Balkis (Oren+Pandan+Coklat Chip) Size 6”x 9” BND 34 or Half Size BND 17
4. Cake Lapis Yasmin (Honey Gold Cornflake) Size 6”x 9” BND 34 or Half Size BND 17
5.Cake Lapis Citrawarna (Vanila) Size 6”x 9” BND 30 or Half Size BND 15
6. Cake Lapis Sisik Ikan (Hawflake) Size 6”x 9” BND 30 or Half Size BND 15
7. Cake Lapis Begawan Solo (Banana) Size 6”x 9” BND 28 or Half Size BND 14
8. Cake Lapis Coffee Princess (Coffee) Size 6”x 9” BND 28 or Half Size BND 14
9. Cake Lapis Kukus Cream Cheese Size 6”x 9” BND 25
10.Cake Lapis Cheese Size 8”x 8” BND 18
11. Cake Batik Empire Size 8”x 8” BND 28
12. Cake Batik Vico Size 8”x 8” BND 22
13. Cake Batik Size 8”x 8” BND 16

Ranges of cakes and biscuits from RZ Lynz Bakery

Cake Lapis Coffee Princess (Coffee)

Biscuit

1. Almond Nutella Thumbprint 50 pieces BND 13
2. Nutella White Choco 50 pieces BND 12
3. Crunchy Nutella 50 pieces BND 12
4. Mocha Hazelnut Cresent 50 pieces BND 10
5. Classy Dahlia Cookies 50 pieces BND 10
6. Sugee Almond Cookies 50 pieces BND 10
7. Cerelec 50 pieces BND 9
8. Tart Nanas 50 pieces BND 9
9. Rainbow Cookies 100 pieces BND 12
10. Biskut Sarang Semut 50 pieces BND 8
11. Bubblerice Cornflake Rainbow 50 pieces BND 9
12. Biskut Cornflake Madu 50 pieces BND 8
13, Kueh Mor Kacang 50 pieces BND 9
14. Kueh Mor Cornflake 50 pieces BND 9
15. Kueh Mor 50 pieces BND 8
16. Popia Gulung Seaweed 200gm BND 8
17. Popia Gulung Nestum 200 gm BND 7
18. Popia Simpul 500 gm BND 9
19. Popia 500 gm BND 10

Cake Batik

1. Kek Batik Padang Golf Size 8”x 8” BND 30 or Half Size BND 15
2. Kek Batik Red Velvet 8”x 8” BND 34 or Half Size BND 17
3. Kek Batik :- Yam (Keladi) / Lemon / Lychee / Strawberry / Permata Biru / Green Tea / Chocolate / Pandan / Mocha. 8”x 8” BND 28 or Half Size BND 14
4. Plain Brownies Size 9”x 9” BND 17
5. Nutella Gunung Berapi Size 9”x 9” BND 20
6. Frambozen Kenari Size 10”x 10” BND 20
7. Kek Velvet Klasik Size 8”x 8” BND 14

Kek Lapis Kukus Cream Cheese

Almond Nutella Thumbprint

Kek Lapis Begawan Solo (Banana)

Or even better you can for different packages if you tend to buy in bulk. Below are the list as follows.

Package A [BND 50]
Kek Lapis Sisik Ikan Size 3” x 4.5”
Kek Lapis Coffee Princess Size 3” x 4.5”
Roll Purple Rasberry
Tapak Kuda
Popia Simpul

Package B [BND 75]
Kek Lapis Yasmin Size 3” x 4.5”
Kek Lapis Citrawarna Size 3” x 4.5”
Kek Lapis Cheese Roll Mumbo Size 4” x 4”
Tapak Kuda Kit Kat
Kueh Mor Cornflake 50 pieces
Popia Gulung Nestum

Package C [BND 100]
Kek Lapis Fav. Nutella Size 3” x 4.5”
Kek Lapis Balkis Size 3” x 4.5”
Kek Batik Roll Choco Peppermint
Kek Roll Lady Diana
Tapak Kuda Ovomaltine
Kueh Mor Kacang 50 pieces
Rainbow Cookies 100 pieces
Popia

Package D [BND 20]
Biskut Sarang Semut 50 pieces
Kueh Mor 50 pieces
Bubblerice Cornflake Rainbow 50 pieces

Package E [BND 25]
Crunchy Nutella 50 pieces
Biskut Cornflake Madu 50 pieces
Sugee Almond Cookies 50 pieces

Package F [BND 35]
Nutella White Choco 50 pieces
Mocha Hazelnut Cresent 50 pieces
Tart Nanas 50 pieces
Cerelec 50 pieces

Whatsapp your orders – Lyna 825 4001 or Yana 837 0100

Final order – 5th June 2017.

Kek Roll Choco Peppermint (Mint + buttercream)

Kek Roll Purple Raspberry

Patrons last night at Star Lodge’s Asian-American Barbeque

This Ramadan, Star Lodge Jerudong will be captivating Asian cuisines with American flair of barbeque, offering the widest buffet spread in Jerudong. Diners can enjoy a large variety of traditional Ramadan delicacies inspired by our signature dish Lamb Ouzi, Kitaro’s Sushi & Maki and Slow Roast Whole Lamb along with delectable gourmet desserts.

The choices are definitely more than last year’s. The main course dishes are plentiful, more than 10. I commended the chill counter where cold salads and desserts are being served. It was quite rare that I would target for appetisers but I did because I am now have to be mindful of my salt intake.

For the opening Sungkai, Star Lodge had quite a number of patrons last night and the feedback has been pretty good.

It was also the first time Star Lodge introducing vouchers for a group of 10, 20 and even 40. The bigger the numbers, the better the deal for sure. Definitely worth the value for patrons.

Decorated in warm and relaxed atmosphere, Star Lodge also features private areas for VIP gatherings or group celebrations as well as private caterings with customize menus for minimum 30 persons. The fully replenished buffet is available every day from 6.00pm to 9.30pm, please call 261 1618 ext. 8870 | 8865.

Follow @starz.lounge and @starlodgebrunei for updates.

Range of sushis

Dessert corner

Cold salad and appetizer

Some choices from the buffet line

Some choices from the buffet line

The popular garlic rice

Slow Roast Whole Lamb

Roti Jala

Tempura section

Lamb Leg yuummmmm

Chef Jake Nicolson awarding first prize at Taste of Australia in Brunei. Congratulations to Julie Marker who won with her Chili Lime and Salted Egg Pie! 

The Radisson Hotel, Bandar Seri Begawan was abuzz yesterday with the sounds and smells of the Australian High Commission’s Taste of Australia event. The crowds came out to see renowned Australian Chef, Jake Nicolson, in action in the kitchen, to show off their own culinary talents and learn about great Australian food products available in Brunei.

Speaking at the event, Australian High Commissioner, H.E. Nicola Rosenblum said “Australians and Bruneians have many things in common – countries endowed with natural beauty, warm and friendly people, a common Commonwealth heritage – but if there is one thing that truly brings us together it is our shared national obsession with good food! Today has been an opportunity to share in this passion, both by showcasing quality Australian products which are available in Brunei, and by also celebrating Bruneian enthusiasm for cooking and for fabulous flavours.”

Mr Daniel Havas, Senior Trade Commissioner, of co-sponsor Australian Trade and Investment Commission (Austrade), said “Australia is fortunate in that the rich variety of terrains and climates across our continent allows our farmers to produce an abundant variety of premium offerings all year round, but Australian farmers are also committed to constant quality improvement, research and innovation to ensure that our vegetables, meat and dairy products are the best they can be. Austrade is pleased to work with our local partners and distributors to bring these exceptional products to the Brunei public.”

Australian High Commissioner, H.E. Nicola Rosenblum, renowned Australian Chef, Jake Nicolson and Siti Zaleha Kaprawi of Astera Consultant

Chef Jake Nicolson and Thanis Lim judging the food competition at Taste of Australia

Chef Jake trying out the delicacies at Tamu

The event saw renowned Australian chef, Jake Nicolson, sharing his culinary skills with the crowd, demonstrating two dishes which will be served to VIP guests at a dinner this evening, and judging a cooking competition with local food celebrity Thanis Lim. Chef Nicolson said “I have been so impressed by the inventiveness and passion shown by the Brunei cooks today! It has been such a pleasure to learn about Bruneian ingredients and recipes, and to taste everyone’s food. I will certainly be taking a few new ideas back to Australia with me.”

The Australian High Commissioner also thanked the event’s sponsors and participating businesses, saying “An event such as this one relies on the support of a wide range of people. I would like to convey my sincere thanks to our sponsors and participating organisations who have supported us so generously.”

During his visit to Brunei, Chef Nicolson has also been exploring Brunei flavours at the Kianggeh Fruit and Vegetable Markets, Kampong Ayer and Gadong Night Markets. Images taken from Australian High Commission Facebook Page.

The Chocolate Fondue

Have any plans this Sunday? Do check out Momo/StarLodge’s All-You-Can-EAt Sushi & Barbeque Sunday Buffet for only BND 20 Adult | BND 12 Kids from 11:30am to 3:30pm

What can you expect from the dishes? Definitely the lamb on the spit, the thin crust pizzas, asian dishes, plump sausages and not forgetting their sushi range from Kitaro Lodge. For your info, Kitaro Restaurant have relocated their business to Star Lodge and they won’t be operating in Gadong outlet anymore.

The highlight were also the dessert corner such as the chocolate fondue and many other delicacies to choose from.

For the diners, you can have free usage of the swimming pool and ideal to bring families along for the buffet. You can even dine by the swimming pool area and enjoy the sun 😀

Furthermore, Momo & Star Lodge will be having free gifts for families and guests. You can follow their updates on IG @momo.restaurant @starlodgebrunei

For bookings, call 261 1618 or 861 3329

Amran helping himself to the lamb

The lamb on the spit. Good choice!!

Grilled dishes for diners

Butter milk fish

Curry chicken

Thin crusted pizzas

Noodles

Fried tempura

Sushi from Kitaro

Sushi from Kitaro

Ice-cream also available and even the tubs 😀

Check out the grilled meat

The Star Lodge Roast & Ribs Mezza Buffet Dinner started last weekend and continues this every weekend (Friday & Saturday evening). If you’re a meat lover, then look no further. Drop by Star Lodge and check out their sumptuous dishes.

I had the chance to dine and the choices were quite decent and with variety as they served not just meat but other savouries as well. My favourite would always be the lamb.. Yes, I’m a sucker for lamb but I can’t have too much of it or my body gets kinda heaty or even I might get dizzy *lol* But man, the lamb is a good inclusion in the Roast & Ribs weekend buffet. Make sure you eat with the skin too 😀

So do expect dishes such as slow roast smoked coffee ribs, glazed beef briskets, roasted chicken and other selected dishes along the buffet line.

I’m sure it will be a big hit this weekend because of school holidays and it’s also pay day time.

If you have any comments, you can drop an email to grazestars@gmail.com and you can also follow their IG @starz.lounge @starlodgebrunei

Roast & Ribs
Mezza Buffet Dinner
Every Friday & Saturday
6:30pm to 9:30pm
Adult $26 | Child $13
Call 2611618 | 8613329

My dinner dates last weekend.

Baked fish with Puttanesca Sauce

Balinese Bebek Betutu

The chef behind the menu of Roast & Ribs Mezza Buffet Dinner

Roast chicken. I didn’t get to try this but will do on my next visit.

Caramelized herbed roots vegetables

The ribs is quite tasty

My favourite dish of the lot… Skin and meat.. Yummy

A good mixture of veges to compliment the meat

More beef 😀

Choices of soup!!!

Sandwich perhaps?

Fillings for the sandwich

At the appetiser area and plenty more to choose from

The dessert corner

Ok, the final shot of the lamb… Love it..

Have you tried Pelicana Chicken outlet in Brunei?

I tried the Peli Platter from Pelicana Chicken – This is enough to serve four pax. They also have the bigger platter for 6 pax.

I headed over to Pelicana last year as I’m a sucker for chicken wings and Pelicana caught my attention. For your information, Pelicana is a Korean franchise that is known for their fried chicken with seasoning. The brand has been very strong not just in Korea but in international waters. Just imagine there are over 3,000 outlets of Pelicana alone. So it’s good to see Pelicana to have its presence in Brunei Darussalam as all of us are already accustomed to food & beverage franchises.

The first outlet so far is at Setia Kenangan II, Kiulap and there will be opening another one this year. I’ve already visited the outlet a few times because of its consistency and I love seasoned fried chicken. I simply can eat wings all day *yum yum*

So let me share you a bit on what Pelicana are pretty known for – well for one thing, it’s their fried chicken being marinated with different selection of delicious sauces from Korea. Yes, the ingredients are imported to make sure there is an authentic taste of Korean flavour in a fast food concept.

It may seem like a fast-food joint but the preparation shows other wise. Their fried chicken are prepared fresh from the kitchen and the quality is still pretty decent.

The Brunei outlet offers up to six selection of speciality sauces that ranges from Original Crunchy, Charcoal BBQ Peli, the Super Hot Spicy Peli and the popular coated Cheese and Cheese flavour (always popular among the locals).

Pelicana Chicken also have their own selection of side dishes that diners can order to feast with their delicious fried chicken. Musaengchae (seasoned radish) and Miyeok Muchim (seaweed salad) is the two side dishes that really goes well with the fried chicken.

On my last visit with Kurapak and Khaliq, we had a feast where we ordered a platter which is value for money. Three of us couldn’t finish it that we had to take away the food.

I also had the pleasure to speak to Sharon Choo, the owner of Pelicana Chicken, and she’s happy with the response from the public as they are quite accustomed to the taste of Korean flavoured fried chicken.

You can follow their instagram account @pelicanachickenbn and Facebook for updates. It’s a new generated account so do bear with them.

The bird’s eye view of the Peli Platter 1

Looks good indeed

This is the charcoal BBQ Yangnyeom – spicy much but this is very tasty

I caught Khaliq off guard as he tried the spicy one. He still loved it 😀

There’s a small private room on the 1st floor

The first outlet has two floors. This is the upper floor. I think I was the first customer there then as I came as it opened. Super hungry 😀

Good seatings upstairs too

My favourite seating area on the upper floor

… and my second last meal at the particular seating was with Jolene back in January. See you this weekend 😀

They also serve burgers

The Clear Chicken Mee hoon “Kalguksu” 😀

This is the rice served at Pelicana

Interesting taste from the Korean product served at Pelicana

The Cheesy flavour is one of the hot sellers at Pelicana and I can understand why