La Vie Food & Wine — Restaurant in George Town

I recently had the pleasure of dining at La Vie, and I must say, it was an unforgettable experience. The ambiance was elegant yet inviting, setting the stage for a delightful culinary journey. The menu boasted an array of enticing dishes, and I couldn't resist trying their crispy unagi, New Zealand lamb, and squid ink spaghetti.

Let's start with the crispy unagi. It was a true delight for the senses. The perfectly cooked eel was encased in a light, crispy batter that added a satisfying crunch with every bite. The unagi itself was incredibly tender and juicy yet crispy that enhanced its natural sweetness. It was a standout dish that left me craving for more.

Moving on to the New Zealand lamb, I was impressed by the restaurant's expertise in preparing this exquisite cut of meat. The lamb was cooked to perfection, with a juicy pink center that showcased its tenderness. Each bite was a harmonious blend of rich, succulent flavors that danced on my palate. The accompanying side dishes of seasonal vegetables and a velvety puree provided a well-rounded balance to the dish.

Now, let's talk about the squid ink spaghetti. This dish was a true work of art, both visually striking and incredibly delicious. The al dente spaghetti was bathed in a luscious squid ink sauce that lent a deep, savory flavor. The generous portions of tender prawn added a delightful seafood element to the dish, while the addition of fresh herbs and grated Parmesan cheese elevated the flavors to another level. It was a culinary masterpiece that I won't soon forget.

Aside from the exceptional food, the service at La Vie was impeccable. The staff was attentive, knowledgeable, and passionate about their craft. They went above and beyond to ensure a memorable dining experience, offering helpful suggestions and taking care of every detail.

In conclusion, my visit to La Vie was a true gastronomic adventure. The crispy unagi, New Zealand lamb, and squid ink spaghetti were exceptional dishes that showcased the chef's culinary expertise. The restaurant's elegant ambiance and attentive service further enhanced the overall experience. If you're looking for a dining experience that combines artistry, flavor, and impeccable service, I highly recommend La Vie.

To top it all off, it's no surprise that La Vie has been recognized with a Michelin star in 2023, a testament to their outstanding culinary skills and...

Dinner treat at La Vie wasn’t just a culinary encounter — it felt like a temperature check on how one restaurant fits within a street in quiet transformation.

We began with a charming amuse-bouche: pani puri-style shells, perched on a colourful bed of fusilli — quirky and unexpected. Then a garden salad that managed to surprise — crunchy chicken skin, soft-boiled eggs, and thick tomato wedges lent weight and texture to what’s often an afterthought on most menus.

The chawanmushi, topped with grilled prawns and finely chopped chives, brought a tender, umami-rich moment before the Squid Ink Spaghetti Aglio Olio arrived — intensely satisfying, its savoury brine lifted by fresh tomatoes and spinach. The 1/2 Deboned Organic Chicken, glazed to near-perfection and paired with wasabi, lime, and chives, was deeply comforting — a dish that doesn’t scream for attention but earns it.

Then came dessert: Sabayon Sauce with Strawberries, Blackberries, Grapes & Crunchy Pecan Nuts, crowned with a scoop of ice cream. Creamy, slightly burnt on top, and delightfully nutty — it was a mellow, confident close to the meal. All this paired with a glass of Mud House Sauvignon Blanc, crisp and citrusy, kept the conversation flowing.

We spoke, as one often does over good food, of intentions and identity. The boss, modest and candid, reflected on La Vie’s early days — originally part of the hotel it sits within. But ownership has changed. The once-shared vision with the hotel appears frayed: the lobby entrance now lacks attention, and the rooftop bar, though independently run, feels disconnected from the experience downstairs. It could be a perfect sunset perch, but tonight it was dark and silent.

Yet all around, Jalan Pintal Tali is stirring. The Root dessert bar draws in younger crowds; Komorebi Dining brings contemporary flair from across the street; two to three vintage shops along the same stretch offer character and pause between dining options. There's a cluster effect at play — one that rewards establishments willing to collaborate, evolve, and invest in visibility.

La Vie still has heart, clearly. But charm alone may not be enough. In a lane quietly becoming one of George Town’s next lifestyle corridors, the restaurant risks standing still while the neighbourhood is learning how to...

Nestled in the heart of old Georgetown, at the junction of Rope Walk and Cheong Fatt Tze Street, lies a hidden gem tucked inside Le Dream Hotel. This charming restaurant, owned and operated by Kelvin, has been serving authentic Western fine dining cuisine for over a decade.

Our culinary experience was nothing short of extraordinary. We began with live oysters, each one fresh, briny, and kissed by the sea—a delightful burst of umami with every bite. The chargrilled squid followed, tender yet with a perfect smokiness, complemented by a subtle char that added depth to its flavor. The crispy unagi was a revelation, its golden, crackling exterior giving way to a rich, buttery interior—a harmonious balance of textures. The steamed clams were a symphony of natural sweetness and delicate seasoning, their broth a light yet flavourful accompaniment.

For the mains, the sirloin wagyu was a star dish—succulent, marbled to perfection, and cooked to a tender medium-rare that melted in the mouth. The rack of lamb was equally outstanding, with its crusted edges adding a fragrant crunch to the juicy, flavourful meat.

The evening’s indulgent feast was filled with laughter and cheers as we came together to celebrate our friends born in the joyous month of December. The restaurant exuded an effervescent energy, its festive ambiance wrapping around us like a warm embrace, while our camaraderie deepened with every shared moment.

The perfect blend of exceptional food, a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, and lively conversation made for an...