A Taste of Timeless Malaysian Classics
This Ramadan, Holiday Inn Johor Bahru City Centre proudly presents the Juadah Lagenda Seniman, a unique dining experience that pays tribute to Malaysia’s cinematic heritage. Running from 5 March to 29 March 2025, this buffet offers a culinary journey that recalls the charm and nostalgia of classic films from the golden era of Malaysian cinema, one that saw icons like P. Ramlee leave a lasting impact on the nation’s cultural legacy.
Juadah Lagenda Seniman will be served at Dine@Eight Restaurant from 6:30 pm to 10:00 pm, where it promises an unforgettable spread of traditional and contemporary dishes, creatively presented through food stations inspired by iconic movies from this cherished era.
A Dedication to Flavour and Nostalgia
Helmed by Executive Chef Abdul Wafi, a Penang native who recently joined Holiday Inn Johor Bahru City Centre, he brings a personal touch to the Juadah Lagenda Seniman with years of culinary expertise and a passion for authentic flavours.
Remarkably, Chef Wafi’s connection to P. Ramlee runs deeper than just inspiration. Growing up in Penang, where the legendary icon spent his later years, Chef Wafi was surrounded by stories of the legend’s love for food and the rich culinary traditions of the era. “The stories I grew up hearing about P. Ramlee’s love for food have deeply influenced my cooking philosophy. This buffet is my way of sharing that inspiration with our guests,” said Chef Wafi.
A Culinary Story Unfolds: Juadah Lagenda Seniman
Step into the world of culinary artistry and nostalgia with Juadah Lagenda Seniman, where each station brings a chapter of Malaysia’s rich cinematic and culinary heritage to life. Guests are invited to embark on a flavourful journey, reimagined through the artistry of Executive Chef Abdul Wafi and his talented culinary team, such as Chef Jehan Azimi, Chef Izuanudin and Chef Muhammad Aidil.
A Nostalgic Appetizer Prelude
Start your culinary adventure at the Labu Labi Corner, where the comedic charm of Labu dan Labi comes to life with the vibrant flavours of Pasembur and Penang Rojak. Each bite captures the playful spirit of this beloved classic, setting the stage for a memorable dining experience.
Then, head on to the Jeruk Jeruk Ibu Mertuaku Corner, where tangy delights like Jeruk Mangga, Jeruk Betik, Jeruk Buah Pala, and Jeruk Ambra pay homage to the dramatic and layered emotions of Ibu Mertuaku film. Infused with a perfect balance of sugar, vinegar, and bird’s eye chili, these pickled fruits offer a refreshing medley of sweet, sour, and spicy flavours, where each bite delivers a burst of complexity, much like the film’s intricate theme.
The journey continues with hearty offerings at Aneka Sup Do Re Mi Corner, where Sup Berempah and Paru Daging Kambing reflect the harmonious camaraderie of the Do Re Mi film. Next, savour the comforting flavours from Bubur Lambuk 6 Jahanam Corner, featuring comforting bowls of Bubur Lambuk Ayam and Bubur Lambuk Daging. These cherished Malaysian porridges are delicately spice to create a hearty and satisfying dish, much like the adventure and unity celebrated in the 6 Jahanam film.
A Taste of Timeless Classics
The main course Ya Ali Baba Corner invites you to experience the spirit of Ali Baba Bujang Lapok, where a treasure trove of flavours awaits. Start by pairing Nasi Arab with Ayam Kuzi, a Kelantanese specialty featuring tender chicken simmered in a rich and velvety sauce, reflecting a timeless tale. Next, savour the bold flavours of Daging Rendang Mamak, where tender beef is slow-cooked in a luscious coconut gravy infused with aromatic Southeast Asian herbs and spices. For mutton lovers, the Kambing Rendang offers a truly unforgettable experience with its succulent meat steeped in layers of spicy, coconut-infused richness.
A Culinary Drama Unfolds
As a prelude to Hari Raya, get ready for a flavourful spectacle as the Action Counter Haji Bakhil takes centre stage with Kambing Golek and a medley of other sizzling grilled barbecue delights, capturing the lively and spirited essence of Haji Bakhil. Meanwhile, the Action Counter Mati Pun Susah Hidup Pun Susah delivers a smoky Penang Char Kway Teow, honouring the film’s powerful story of struggle and perseverance.
Authentic Flavours Rooted in Tradition
The excitement has just begun as Chef Wafi draws from his Penang roots and family culinary legacy to present the Nasi Kandar Surr Station. This authentic Penang-style Nasi Kandar spread is inspired by the vibrant food culture of his hometown and pays homage to the birthplace of P. Ramlee. Pair the Nasi Kandar with Ayam Bawang Madu, tender chicken marinated in aromatic spices, fried to golden perfection, and drizzled with sweet honey for a harmonious blend of savoury and sweet, or opt to savour the Kari Kepala Ikan Salmon, a bold twist on mamak-style fish curry, where the natural sweetness of succulent salmon balances the rich and flavourful curry.
A Fiery Tale on Your Plate
Inspired by the unforgettable father-and-son dynamic in Anakku Shazali film, this station delivers a dish that captures the fiery and mischievous essence of the film. Murtabak Kuah Dhal mirrors the boldness of Shazali with its rich and spicy filling, perfectly paired with smooth and fragrant dhal gravy and tangy pickled onions. Complementing this hearty offering is the beloved Roti Canai, a buttery yet light flatbread that is crispy on the outside, soft and warm on the inside, all made to order at the live station.
Inspired by the comical scene from Pendekar Bujang Lapok, where the illiterate trio mistakes a school for illiterates for a circus, our Tandoori Naan Station offers a fun and flavourful twist to your dining experience. Freshly baked in a traditional tandoor, the naan bread is soft and fluffy with a crispy edge, offering a perfect balance of textures, while the naan’s surface features its little charred bumps, resembles Braille. While the illiterate trio might have trouble with signs, guests will have no trouble recognizing the flavours in the fluffy and soft naan. Paired with the juicy Chicken Shawarma, this combination creates an irresistible flavour that brings comfort and satisfaction with every bite.
A Sweet Finale with a Touch of Nostalgia
Inspired by the iconic scene from Ali Baba Bujang Lapok, where the famous line “Nasib Baik Ko Panas, Kalau Tak, Kena Pangkah Aku!” leaves everyone in stitches, this station serves up Bubur Gandum and Bubur Pulut Hitam, where these creamy yet sweet delights offer a comforting and nostalgic experience. Best enjoyed while they’re hot – no slaps needed, just a spoonful of comfort and joy in every bite.
Satisfy your sweet tooth at the Ahmad Albab Dessert Corner, where whimsical treasures like cotton candy, ais kacang, and other assorted homemade cakes mirror the playful spirit of of the iconic film. These sweet delights are the perfect finale to a buffet that honours Malaysia’s rich culinary tapestry and its timeless traditions.
A Retro Ambience in Collaboration with Galleri Seni Johor
To elevate the nostalgic experience of Juadah Lagenda Seniman, Holiday Inn Johor Bahru City Centre is proud to collaborate with Galleri Seni Johor, located at KOMTAR JBCC to create a captivating retro-themed ambiance. Drawing inspiration from the golden era of Malaysian cinema, the restaurant will be adorned with nostalgic treasures, classic film memorabilia, and artistic installations that celebrate Malaysia’s cinematic heritage. This collaboration offers an immersive visual journey, allowing guests to dine in a setting that beautifully complements the culinary storytelling.
Book Early to Save More
Take advantage of the Early Bird Promotion at only RM158+ for adults with a buy 10 free 1 promotion, available exclusively from now until 15 March 2024.
Normal prices sit at RM188+ for adult (buy 10 free 1), RM168+ for senior citizens (ages 60 years and above) and RM98+ for children (ages 6-12). 5 years old and below kids will eat for free.
Special Packages and Offers
Get rewarded with 20% off IHG One Rewards Dining Privileges with a limitation of 8 persons for every receipt. Explore the Dinner Bed and Breakfast package at holidayinn.com/johorbahru for a complete experience of staycation, Sahur Buffet, and Juadah Lagenda Seniman.
Reservation Information and Exclusive Offers
For reservation or more information, please call 07 207 8888, email to fnb@holidayinnjbcc.com, or walk into Dine@Eight Restaurant.
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