THE sails of several Indian dhows, bulging with the blustery monsoon winds, suddenly appeared over the horizon, causing great excitement among the locals who had been awaiting the arrival of the merchants with much impatience.
Trade in highly-prized spices had, since the 18th Century, brought prosperity and wealth to the Prince Of Wales Island or Penang, as it's known today.
Located at the northern entry point to the Straits of Malacca, Penang was in the enviable position to attract Indian, Arabian, Portuguese, Dutch as well as British traders in search of spices.
Once the monsoon changes, these ships, with bellies filled with nutmeg, mace and cloves, would once again head for the high seas, knowing there is a promise of immense profits when they reach their home shores.
Some travellers who walk through the streets of Penang today swear they can still smell the aroma of spices in the air. For those who'd like to experience this facet of the island's glorious, "aromatic" past, all they have to do is to drop by at the Shangri-La's Rasa Sayang Resort and Spa's Spice Market Cafe, where they can taste the many different spices creatively added to its extensive menu.
Chef In Action
The restaurant is famous for its "theatre kitchen" environment, where chefs interact with customers as they prepare food a la minute in open kitchens, whipping up tantalising dishes that have earned Penang its gourmet reputation.
Diners will be surprised to know that while all items are halal, the taste of the many dishes remains authentic because of the correct combination of sauces and spices used.
Theatre kitchen where diners can see their food being prepared.
Brunch Delights
There is a comprehensive menu with selections from the sushi bar, vegetarian highlights, tandoori, pasta, grill, Penang specialities and fresh seafood including yabbies and lobsters. Besides these, there are all types of fruits you can use to create endless combinations of fresh, healthy juices as well as invigorating spice drinks that are one of the highlights of the Spice Market Cafe's hugely popular Sunday brunch.
According to its director of communications, Suleiman Tunku Abdul Rahman, the Sunday brunch is a not-to-be-missed dining experience.
"It is very popular with in-house guests as well as locals. Entire families, particularly those with children, can relax and enjoy their food in a casual atmosphere," he says.
Yummy lobsters.
Designed For Little Tots
There is a mini buffet line for children, making it easy and fun for the little ones.
"Not only is the table at an ideal height and thus, easy to reach, but the Choo Choo Train counter is spread with foods that appeal to the little ones. Also, they can eat in a special kids area which is equipped with a projector screening the latest cartoon films and a popcorn machine. There are also organised activities which include face painting and endless hours of entertainment by the resident clown," adds Suleiman.
"This means parents can dine on their own, assured that their children are in safe, able hands. Additionally, parents can also leave their children in the care of professional child minders who will take them in a buggy to the Adventure Zone located at Golden Sands Resort.
"Spice Market Cafe has also set up an area where parents can monitor their children via a closed circuit TV live transmission."
The Adventure Zone is an air-conditioned complex with drop slides and modular play equipment.
This child-friendly facility is divided into sections to cater to children of different age groups. The sections include the Game Zone, Toddler Zone, Art and Craft Room, paintball and football games.
Spice Boutique
To learn more about spices, stop by the Spice Boutique at the entrance to the cafe. Here you can buy over 100 varieties of dried herbs and spices, various curry powder mixes and other ingredients as well as recipe books.
When And How Much
The Sunday Brunch, from 11.45am to 3pm, is priced at RM94++ for adults and at RM55++ for children above six. Children below 6 eat for free when accompanied by adult diners.
Other Outlets
Other F&B outlets at the resort include the Feringgi Grill, an award-winning, fine-dining restaurant that is popular with discerning diners for its traditionally prepared European dishes. The poolside Pinang cocktail bar is where guests can enjoy lunch under swaying coconut palms while enjoying the cool caress of the sea breeze.
Contact
For enquiries and bookings, call the resort at 04-888 8888, email: rsr@shangri-la.com or go to www.shangri-la.com
