SIGI's IS LAUNCHED!

IT WAS A NIGHT TO REMEMBER ... not only was it the launch of the new Sigi's Grill and Bar on the Beach at the Golden Sands Resort in Batu Ferringhi, but it was also probably the hottest night ever - in fact the day had averaged some 40 d Centigrade I believe. Penang has been sweltering for the past three months, and it doesn't look set to abate.

However it didn't stop the most happening event of the month (after all we're only in March!) from taking place; in fact, it probably made it go with even more of a bang as all the revellers - and there were hundreds - just HAD to down more beer and wine to cool themselves down, didn't they!

The drinks disappeared the same way the food did: with alacrity, and although the invitation said 730pm, by the time we got there at 745, it was already rocking: ANYONE who was ANYONE had been invited including all the inhouse guests from both resorts it seemed like. The place was PACKED everywhere, and there was nowhere to sit. Massive queues were already forming at the lamb station, barbeque pit and everywhere else. So I just settled for a glass of wine and a strawberry shortcake.

It was however horrendously humid and sticky weather, and I can only pity the poor auld souls who had to WORK rushing around serving drinks and food (there was pizza and fish 'n chips going round); one poor chap's shirt was completely stuck to his back he had been sweating so much. It was interesting as someone there pointed out: all the Msians were huddled in the air-con main dining area and all the Mat Sallehs were outside in the sweltering heat! We are such spoilt ninnies really ... !

The St George's Girls' School Band was there to liven things up, and there were fire dancers and belly dancers etc. It was all very lau juak. GM Mr Bruno Cristol gave a very short (I think, wisely, he knew he didn't stand a chance if he went on for too long) succinct speech to thank everyone for their hard work, and then declared Sigi's open with a BANG when the name lit up. After that it was back to the partying!

Well done Golden Sands, and Chef John BROCK (yes I'm afraid the old slippy and sleepy fingers here added an extra syllable to his name in the Star article about him so he's getting his revenge now by calling me Mrs Smith! Sorry Mr Brockman ... ooops I mean John) for getting it all together so quickly. Look forward to trying your other dishes.