Magazine Lists Country’s Culinary Hotspots
By May Ling

Bandar Seri Begawan - Do you like to be happy? Then eat and be merry says BiG Magazine in its latest issue naming some of the leading eateries in Brunei.

"If anyone in Brunei Darussalam could be said to be really happy, it is our veteran journalist Ignatius Stephen who began his career with the Borneo Bulletin more than three decades ago," the magazine, which bills itself as Brunei Insider's Guide, says.

The reason for his elated state of mind these days is the fact that he designed and built Brunei's only 24-hour eatery, the delightful De Royalle Cafe, in the heart of the capital which has become Brunei's No 1 nightspot, adds BiG Magazine which is published by CHMP Enterprise & Tourism Development Department, MIPR.

"I didn't expect to be so successful. But there you are, I get as much pleasure from it as many customers. So what else can you ask for?", remarked Ignatius Stephen. Here are some of the questions he fielded when BiG Magazine dropped by at the De Royalle recently.

Five great restaurants to dine in Brunei?

"Foremost, would be the Pantai Restaurant at the Empire Hotel. I just love the ambience there with the cool gentle sea breeze soothing your face. The food there is just mouth-watering. Pantai's impeccable reputation for its intimacy and service makes it the favourite setting for dinners and celebrations."

"Secondly, it would be Fratini's at Port View. I always go there for a simply relaxing meal. It has a beautiful view of the river. The food ranges from above average to superb. They have good pizzas there. So if you're into Italian food, this is the place to look out for."

"Thirdly, I would say Deals at Sheraton Utama is classy and elegant. The service is great, and worth every single cent, especially for its high quality nouvelle cuisine. So if you do want to pamper yourself with a very posh meal, here's the place."

"And fourthly, I would choose Misato for its splendid Japanese Cuisine. Eating there makes me feel like I am in Tokyo. So, anytime if you want to try some great Japanese food, head down there."

"And, of course, I would like to mention my very own De Royalle. It has atmosphere and pleasing fare, not forgetting its famous Swedish Meat Balls."

What do you miss about Brunei when you're abroad?

"Everything... There is no place like home. I would definitely miss the lush greenery. Not forgetting, of course, the friendly and easy-going people here."

Favourite Brunei food?

"I would have to choose Ambuyat. You can't get it anywhere else. Simply flavourful..."

Most exciting location in Brunei?

"Sometimes, I will go down upriver just to sit and watch the proboscis monkey, also known as the Long-nosed Monkey. It is a reddish-brown arboreal Old World monkey. Basically, it's classified as an endangered species. You will find it hard to tear yourself away from such peace and tranquility.

Best way to soak in Brunei's culture in limited time?

A visit to a home in Kampong Ayer. You will be welcomed warmly there by the friendly village people, and, also you can learn everything about Brunei's culture first hand. -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

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