Travel & Food

Travel & Food

The Modern Take on Japanese Fine Dining Cuisine: Zoku & Terrance at The Hari Hong Kong

Unpretentious restaurant which blends the culinary arts of Japanese cuisinesand varied menu with sensible size portions, efficient service and a nice atmosphere.  Zoku is located on 2/F of Hari Hotel with dining area and outdoor seatings.The Japanese menu and long shoshu list naturally drawsa mixed scene of steady flow of picky Japanese diners, local Hongkongers, business and curious travellers.It turns out that reservations were a bit difficult to secure on a Mothers-Day’s Sunday,but we managed to reserve a table on the following night.We were given the loveliest table right by the terrance– it was just perfect on a gloomy day.We drawn in by the tailored 6-courses experience tasting menu,each comes in petit form which was enough for us. But if you’re a larger eater,there’s always more food on the A La Carte menu stands by you.We went on a full celebration mode and opted in for the 5 cocktails 6 shochu pairing, WILD. The food was excellent. Of the trio of appetizers, we loved the wagyu daikon caviar the most.Crab potato rice and a stunningly fresh sea snail chawanmushi had our mouths watering. Paired with Kagami – tasted like lime, summery and boosted our appetites for the next courses. Next, we were served a perfectly clear Mackerel. The fish had a fresh, so tender that it almost disintegrated on the tongue. The wasabi was creamy and rich, top notch. Wine pairing with cool mini shochu – strong but brought out the freshness of the fish.I waited the ice melted a little to take a sip.Next up, was a Katsu Sando: Crispy pork belly with spring onion andpanca chilli and Yazakuma (sen) sour for pairing which gave lime, sweet potato notes. Moving on to the main, this was the perfect lead in to the dish we’d all had our eye on –Kurt-Dai (Black Sea Bream form Miyazaki). We were honored to have chef Edwin Guzman come and served our table which made it the highlight of our evening. Shishito pepper, shimeji mushroom and mint smoothed in grassy flavor with subtle notes of citrus and pepper. Paired with Umai (Rokuchosshi, cointreau, umamibitter, ginger beer shikuwasa). Meaty and savoury that deepens the flavor of Rokuchosshi Zosui: Kumamoto rice, lobster, coriander oilThe server called it “Lobster sauce on a lobster”. And she was right! So luscious, rich and buttery without being too overwhelming.The lobster was cooked perfectly and paired well together with Shiso Oyuwari. Our friendly bartender had been enthusiastic about the cocktail before serving it- he said oolong tea + honey is unbeatable duo.Not to mention, served in a warm pot just tasted delightful!Also less alcohol because I was a little light headed after the penguin bottle (cool mini shochu). Lol It’s a unique flavor that shines in creative cocktails, mocktails,and culinary creations (perfume ingredients even!). The dessert course of Shima TofuThe fresh strawberries, tofu that tastes like sorbet dusted with Okinawa brown sugar.Pairing with another “strong” shochu called Kurouma Kunteki to make a perfect end. The overall dining experience was phenomenal and unforgettable.The stories behind the tasting and wine tasting menu, from the Western-Japanese wooden tableware and decor to the fresh handpicked ingredients at every dish.Check out my full review on my staying on Tripadvisor here.All opinions are my own.

Travel & Food

Champagne brunch at Veda

Why I picked the Champagne Brunch at VEDA! We loved the plant forward vegetarian restaurant at the beautifully revamped Ovolo Hong Kong. Located in Central Mid Level: 2 Arbuthnot Road, Central, Hong Kong China. VEDA has an expansive plant forward vegetarian menu that always has great dishes from around the world. They are constantly evolving and changing the menu which makes going an adventure. I love to see what new concoctions the chef comes up with. I think it is great that “Veda is committed to giving back to the Earth by minimizing waste in our kitchen, using sustainable materials and practices wherever possible.” First Glance: We went there on Mother’s Day and it was packed. I highly recommend reservations on holidays. We were greeted by Jomari who helped ease our hour long wait to be seated. She made sure that we have everything we needed, even once we were seated, she came to us from time to time to check on us. She went above and beyond and helped make the start to our brunch an enjoyable experience VEDA has had a beautiful facelift! It used to be one floor with bars and a very limited seating. Recently they transformed the lobby space to a second floor for the restaurant offering more seating. The ambiance is great! Table and bar at Veda Table at Veda Interior Bar at Veda Bar set up at Veda Interior Wall at Veda Table and bar at Veda Table at Veda Table at Veda The Food: The food was exquisite; we weren’t sure what to expect with portion size but color us surprised we were all full just with the sharing plates! I really loved the Samosa Chaat and the Avocado & Pesto Paneer Dosa it had great flavor. My mom and aunt loved the sweet potato fries and hummus! What I really enjoy is VEDA’s take on wellness offering a low-carb wrap, flour naan & egg whites. A fun twist to a traditional favorite! Service did leave something to be desired. It could be the crowd was just too much. Drinks: For those who like to enjoy a drink with brunch the offered a great list free flow option. The 2 hour – free flow included any listed alcohol and great starters for a generous 598. Want to enjoy the food without the bubbles! The had a food only option that included soft drink, coffee, or tea for 388. We felt that either option could feed 2 people easily, I’d suggest ordering some sides for a party of 3+ so you guys can have room to enjoy other small plates on the menu. The Verdict: VEDA has a convenient location and a nice price point. We liked the creative menu and diverse choice on offer. We loved the food at VEDA it was delicious, and we’ll certainly be back

Travel & Food

Most Scenic Walks in NYC | Yotel New York

 Hey loves! What’s new? I was in New York for a few days two weeks ago for the Creators Summit at the Brooklyn.It was so good finally meeting everyone!Had a few meetings in the city so I booked Yotelwhere it is centrally located in Manhattan, about 10 minutes walk to Time Square. Check in process was super handy and no any human involved.I was happy with the self check in lobby so no one saw me in tired all worn out faceafter getting off from plane.Simply insert your info and credit card in any machine on the left andYobot on the right will be taking care of your luggages after you check out.Once you’ve self-checked in, take the elevator to 4th floor which is the main lobby.Standard rooms are tiny with cabin-style rooms and futuristic designs.Make sure you book your trip in advance ahead so you get higher chance to reservethe queen corner cabins (only 10 available) with the sublime views of Mid-town,also bigger room size if you’re expecting another party to spend the night.View my mini tour of the the Queen corner cabin here. In case if you’re traveling to New York, yourself, or with one other personbecause this is not a family friendly hotel.Yotel is for business travelers for people that are not going to be in their rooms a lot.For me it was perfect since I like to go out and about while i am in a city.Honestly, it’d be hard to go back to your room and call ita night because there is always something going on in New York!(unless you’re tying up my hands and duck taping me, lol)Late night comedian shows or simply a street showyou will get yourself entertained.You can watch my NYC vlog here and here for the full city guide!Didn’t do much on sightseeing but, I am sure you’ll find these tips helpful.Stay tuned for my NYC outfit posts x Featured ProductsDevon Blouse by Miaou Hadley Pants by Nili Lotanvia Rent the RunwayUse my code “RTRATHENAN” to get $100 off your first2 Unlimited months subscription! Valid thru Oct 15.#RTRinsider #myRTR

Travel & Food

What’s good in K-town & Weho | LA Guide Part 1

The best feature of the guest rooms, you will get their large floor-to-ceiling windowsand the scenic views they will provide of the Hollywood Hills. You’ve probably seen it in a movie, since L.A. is one of the top sites for production in the country.You’re guaranteed to experience something new in the heart of this highly diverse metropolitan area.Korean Town is the site of the city’s many cultural neighborhoods n the heart of L.A. The Line LA is absolutely an architectural character of Wilshire Boulevard running through the heart of the neighborhood.The swimming pool is located on the second floor next the The Openary Restaurant.I did not get a chance to jump in the pool because I was too busy out and about (AND doing all my photo and shhhh).Love the gaming and the outdoor lounging area. This is where these pictures taken. WearingDELTA TOP IN BLUE DOT from SONG OF STYLEPENELOPE PLEATHER SKIRT from RONNY KOBOTRANSPARENT PASHLI CAMERA BAG from 3.1 PHILLIP LIMvia Rent The Runway Use my code “RTRATHENAN” to get $100 off your first 2 Unlimited months subscription! #RTRinsider  TRANSPARENT PASHLI CAMERA BAG from 3.1 PHILLIP LIM Had a brunch during my second day of staying at Openary with my bestie Yarina.Menus are locally grown produce into artisanal dishes,I just LOVE simple food that I think it’s the best and does good to your body.It was soooo good catching up with my girl & I know we’ve been talking about this over years now-Move to LA when? #HotGirlSummerGot my Mermaid Raw Juice from Alfred Coffee at the lobby before hitting the road.  Contemporary artworks and objets d’art by local artists decorate the public spaces andphotography was created specially for the hotel by artist Kevin Hanley.The scene here is hip, young, and urban, and becomes a party hot spot on the weekendswhen locals flock to the on-site night club. Hotel offers valet parking only so nothing you have to worry about-which is huge for me parking is super hactic.I would rather get sucked in traffic than struggled with parkings.Everything will be taken care of all you need is to remember your room number.   Alright y’all… Time for some WeHo love shall we?  Let’s “breakfast and lunch hangout”!! It’s no surprise that there are plenty of tacos and Guacamole on Gracias MadreThis is the perfect place for those looking for something on the lighter end of the brunching spectrum.The daytime menu, yup that’s right- I’m talking about the drink menu.Definitely order small bites like baked corn or nachos for the table. WearingX REVOLVE AMELIA TOP from House of Harlow 1960RIBCAGE FLARE JEANS from Levi’sX BENEFIT SHADE QUEEN from Quay

Travel & Food

What to wear to festivals | Ultra Korea 2019

Hey guys! So i just came back from South Korea not too long ago andsooo excited to share what I wore to the Ultra Music Festival! At music festivals, girls are blessed with more outfit choices than boys.My rule of thumb for dressing for UMF is that COMFORT is #1! You’ll be walking a lot, dancing a lot, and sweating a lot.Pick clothes that allow you to ventilate and shoewear that allow you to walk for milesI wore four inches heels and legs were numbed last year, lol that was a record now one year older wiser.    American rave fashion is an a lot more elaborate affair, bra tops and shortie kind of things.Not much of a fan to leg wraps or stocking though, they are too slutty in my opinion (no offense). I’m sure you guys already heard of the brand futurism clothing brand @iamgia . I am wearing this open chest crop top with a matching crop pants.(This set is sold out:( Shop similar here and here )Paired with wedged boots to add a little edge to my whole look. Featured Items

Travel & Food

Nothing can replace comfort | Subtle Luxury | Joyce Wang #LVobjetsnomades

  To be a nomad doesn’t simply mean to travel around, because you can travel on your smartphones.Travel really means to enjoy and share things and imagine how the world could be.I always love the travel pieces from Louis Vuitton collection, not only because of the symbolic LV leather pattern,it connects the whole structure together.  Joyce Wang showcased a colourful and eclectic mix of limited editions while clearly focusing on the present and future.it was most inspired by the nature. The outdoors in the elements, this is where she finds her “comfort”.The Louis Vuitton Objet Nomades collection is the perfect example of the art of travel.        

Travel & Food

Shame Free Zone: Prepared is Powerful with Preventeza | Her Campus

I hope everyone is having a great week start! Today I would like to step aside from fashion and beauty, and have some pillow talks with you ladies! So get cozy and grab a cup of coffee (or tea!), we are going to have some real girls conversation on and birth control. I am going to share what is Preventeza and inside of the Preventeza Prepared is Powerful pouch; it is worth a buy, how and when to use it.Preventeza Is the latest form of emergency contraception, a proven pill to help women prevent pregnancy before it starts; it use the same ingredients as regular birth control but a higher dose. Use it within 72 hours of unprotected sex, it helps to prevent pregnancy before it starts. Now you might be questioning about if there is any side effect- check out this video and it explains everything you need to know before you decide to give it yay or nay! You will also learn more about Preventeza and Vagisil’s mission to end the sigma around women’s sexual health. I personally think that is important to “be prepared”, when it comes to contraception, it’s every woman’s motto, especially the “emergency” situation). Wouldn’t you agree? Life might throw you some unexpected curveballs sometimes and there should not be any shame. Preventeza is much less expensive than an unexpected pregnancy for only USD 46.99! You can buy it over the counter at drugstores, or here. (For a limited time, you can one get one free, which lowers the cost even further!)This post is sponsored by Vagisil® and Her Campus Media.All opinions are my own. Click here for full product information.

Travel & Food

What I Wore For Monaco Part 1 | Influencer Awards Monaco | Lifestyle Nomination

Boujour!I am so excited to share this blog with you, I had an amazing time at the first edition Influencer Awards Monaco!There were so many talented people around the world, great food moments, and beautiful dresses.I am extremely honored to be nominated in lifestyle. It’s so amazing that how social media bring us closer and how we share the same belief together! I have many footages that I want to show you guys the insights of the Gala dinner, super new to the vlgging culture so give me some time babies! Here are some sneak peeks as seen on my IG stories.   

Travel & Food

I Dont Know How to Wear a Jacket | Best Brunch Places | Shanghai Travel Guide Part 2

“Athena is hungry, she is definitely not sharing food.” Yarina whispered I’m sugaring with these over-the-knee boots!I love them not only because they give an illusion of long legs, Aldo made them open-toe so I could wear them in summer! Buying Bumbags is like riding in LA desert… peaceful and Endless… Boohoo has became one of my favorite online clothing brands, their products are super affordable and trendy. Either you are a fast fashion lover or prefer basics, they have them! This Bumbag is only UD25 and goes with anything! (Even with a blazer!)   Featured Items Beekman Military JacketLevi’s Frayed Denim Wedgie ShortFALKE Double Strap performance tank topAldo Winkerboohoo Sarah Zig Zag Quilted Belt Bag   I am obsessed with this snapback from Tommy! If you have to define what my style is- I am a little bit of everything! I like to explores the fashion barriers of what it means to look casually presentable in the home, work and during those nights out on the town. A simple mini black dress nails in all times!I paired up with a leather bum bag rom Boohoo (Similar and Chloe version here) so I can stroll around town (you know girls got to shop while travelling in a big city) and dance all night freely!

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