Understanding the Meja Rasa Signature Guide & the STAR Ranking Assessment

Meja Rasa Signature Guide is an independent food and beverage recognition programmed dedicated to celebrating, promoting and elevating outstanding dining establishments across Sabah and, in the future, throughout Malaysia. Through a professional STAR Ranking Assessment conducted by independent Mystery Judges, the guide recognizes establishments that consistently deliver exceptional food quality, outstanding hospitality and memorable dining experiences.

The founding idea behind the Meja Rasa Signature Guide was conceived by Mr Alfred Allen Ginsos, widely recognized as "The Food Fest Guy." He is the Managing Director of Favstyle Media, publisher of FAVSTYLE Magazine (Print & Digital) and Favstyle Essentials News Blog. Mr Alfred is also the founder of The Signature Food Fest, one of Kota Kinabalu's most recognized and successful food festivals, dedicated to bringing together the food, hospitality and tourism industries while promoting Sabah's vibrant culinary scene.

The Meja Rasa Signature Guide also builds upon the strong foundation of the Meja Rasa food and lifestyle blog, established in 2012. Over the years, the platform has grown into a trusted source for food discoveries, restaurant features and culinary news, recording more than 692,250 page views, making it one of Sabah's recognised food and lifestyle blogging platforms that continues to connect readers with authentic dining experiences and local culinary gems.

The purpose of the Meja Rasa Signature Guide is to provide a trusted reference for both local diners and visitors while encouraging participating establishments to continuously improve their standards in food quality, customer service, cleanliness, innovation and overall dining excellence.

Benefits to Participating Establishments

Participation offers far more than recognition. Establishments receive extensive exposure through the Meja Rasa Signature Guide Booklet, editorial features, professional photography, promotional video production, digital publications and strategic marketing campaigns across the Favstyle Media network.

Businesses awarded a STAR Ranking gain an independent mark of quality that enhances brand credibility, builds customer confidence, strengthens their reputation and increases visibility among both local residents and international visitors. The recognition also serves as a valuable marketing asset, helping businesses differentiate themselves in an increasingly competitive hospitality industry.

Brand Statement

S.T.A.R. represents the four pillars of the Meja Rasa Signature Guide evaluation: Service Excellence, Taste & Quality, Ambience & Authenticity, and Recognition. Every STAR awarded reflects an establishment's commitment to delivering memorable dining experiences and outstanding hospitality.

Terms & Conditions of Participation

1. Eligibility

Participation is open to all legally operated Food & Beverage (F&B) establishments in Malaysia, including but not limited to:

• Restaurants

• Halal Restaurants

• Muslim-Friendly Restaurants

• Cafés

• Lifestyle Cafés

• Theme Cafés

• Bistros

• Bars

• Hotel F&B Outlets

• Local Delight Kopitiam

• Food Kiosks

• Vendor Kiosks

• Other food and beverage establishments approved by the Organizer.

2. Minimum Requirements

To be eligible for participation, applicants must fulfil the following requirements:

• The business must have been in operation for a minimum of three (3) months.

• Possess a valid Business Registration and valid Trading License issued by the relevant authority.

• Operate with a minimum of three (3) staff.

• All food handlers must possess a valid Food Handler Training Certificate and Health Card as required by the Ministry of Health Malaysia.

• Maintain acceptable standards of cleanliness, food safety and customer service throughout the assessment period.

3. Complimentary Submission

• Submission of participation is FREE OF CHARGE.

• Submission does not guarantee selection into the Meja Rasa Signature Guide or STAR Ranking Programmed.

• The Organizer reserves the right to accept or reject any application without assigning any reason.

4. Full Participation Package

Selected establishments wishing to participate in the official Meja Rasa Signature Guide STAR Ranking Programmed are required Participation Fee of RM2,500 nett.

Participation Benefits	Estimated Market Value (RM)
Official Meja Rasa Signature Guide STAR Ranking Display Panel (Custom Wooden Engraved)	RM450
Official Certificate of Participation	RM100
Professional STAR Ranking Assessment by Independent Mystery Judges	RM1,500
Professional Editorial Content Writing (Print & Digital Publication)	RM600
Professional Photography Session (Restaurant & Signature Dishes)	RM800
Promotional Video Production & Editing (One Session)	RM1,500
Marketing & Promotional Campaign across Meja Rasa Signature Guide, Favstyle Media & Media Network	RM2,000
Featured Listing in Official Meja Rasa Signature Guide Booklet (Print & Digital)	RM1,200
Three (3) Complimentary Printed Guide Booklets	RM150
Digital Publication & Online Promotional Exposure	RM800

Three Distinguished Establishments Honoured with The Signature Food Fest 5th Edition's Highest Culinary Recognition - The Best Signature Menu

 

The Best Signature Menu Award

Award Recipients: 

1. Duo Of Beef Brisket by FAVOLA - Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu 

2. Squid Ink Pasta With Seafood Bisque & Tiger Prawn - Grub N Vine 

3. Salted Corn-Fed Chicken - E West Restaurant by Upper Palace Dining Group.

Excellence in gastronomy is measured not merely by flavour, but by the ability to create memorable experiences that resonate long after the final course has been served. At The Signature Food Fest 5th Edition Recognition Awards Ceremony, three exceptional establishments were bestowed with one of the festival's most coveted honours, the prestigious Best Signature Menu Award.

Duo Of Beef Brisket by FAVOLA - Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu 

Presented by Datuk Jonathan Bangkuai, Chairman of the Sabah Tourism Board, in the presence of distinguished guests, hospitality leaders, industry stakeholders, and members of the media, the award celebrates establishments that have demonstrated extraordinary achievement in culinary artistry, innovation, consistency, presentation, and guest satisfaction.

The recipients emerged following a comprehensive and rigorous evaluation process conducted by the festival's esteemed judging panel, led by Head Judge Datuk Gordon Leong, alongside Permanent Judge Rory Richardson, and TSFF SME Advisor & Judge, Adjunct Professor Jessie Jong Chung Jin (A.S.D.K.). Their collective expertise ensured that only the most deserving establishments received this distinguished recognition.

Squid Ink Pasta With Seafood Bisque & Tiger Prawn - Grub N Vine 

More than an acknowledgement of exceptional cuisine, the Best Signature Menu Award serves as a benchmark of excellence within Sabah's evolving culinary landscape. It recognises establishments that successfully elevate gastronomy into an experience, seamlessly combining remarkable culinary craftsmanship with exemplary hospitality standards to create lasting impressions for their guests.

Salted Corn-Fed Chicken - E West Restaurant by Upper Palace Dining Group

A Tribute to Leadership, Dedication and Excellence

The Organizing Chairman of The Signature Food Fest 5th Edition, Mr. Alfred Allen Ginsos, emphasized that this recognition extends far beyond the dishes themselves.

"Behind every award-winning signature menu is a story of dedication, vision, teamwork, and unwavering commitment to excellence. These achievements are the result of passionate individuals who continuously strive to raise standards and deliver extraordinary experiences to their guests."

Among the distinguished recipients, special recognition was accorded to Le Méridien Kota Kinabalu for its sustained pursuit of excellence and its unwavering commitment to world-class hospitality and culinary distinction.

The Organizing Chairman paid tribute to Mr. Suresh, General Manager of Le Méridien Kota Kinabalu, whose visionary leadership has guided the property towards numerous industry accolades and recognitions. His dedication to service excellence, talent development, operational integrity, and guest satisfaction continues to reinforce the hotel's reputation as one of Sabah's most respected hospitality destinations.

Special acknowledgement was also extended to Mr. Pavin, Hotel Manager of Le Méridien Kota Kinabalu, whose exceptional attention to detail, operational excellence, and commitment to maintaining international hospitality standards have been instrumental in enhancing the overall guest experience and strengthening the hotel's position within the luxury hospitality sector.

Celebrating the People Behind the Success

While the spotlight shines on award-winning creations, The Signature Food Fest firmly believes that true excellence is built by people. The achievements celebrated today reflect the collective efforts of visionary leaders, dedicated management teams, talented chefs, and passionate hospitality professionals who work tirelessly behind the scenes.

Their professionalism, perseverance, creativity, and commitment continue to elevate Sabah's food and hospitality industry, contributing to the destination's growing reputation on both regional and international stages.

As The Signature Food Fest advances its mission of recognizing and celebrating excellence, the festival remains committed to inspiring higher standards of quality, innovation, creativity, and customer experience throughout the industry.

The Best Signature Menu Award stands as a symbol of distinction, honoring establishments that not only serve exceptional cuisine, but also embody the very essence of hospitality excellence.

Oriental Kopi Cipta Sejarah Debut Pertama di Malaysia Timur di Suria Sabah, Kota Kinabalu

Dato Calvin Chan bersama dengan tetamu jemputan merasmikan Oriental Kopi cawangan bertempat
di suria sabah shopping mall

Aroma kopi warisan dan cita rasa klasik Malaysia kini menyambut Sabah apabila Oriental Kopi secara rasmi membuka cawangan pertamanya di Malaysia Timur di Suria Sabah Shopping Mall, Kota Kinabalu. ☕✨

Pembukaan rasmi yang dinanti-nantikan pada 9 Mei 2026 ini menandakan satu lembaran baharu yang cukup bermakna buat jenama tempatan Malaysia yang semakin mendapat perhatian ramai, sekaligus memperluaskan kehadirannya ke nadi utama Negeri Di Bawah Bayu.

Majlis perasmian berprestij tersebut telah disempurnakan oleh YB Datuk Chan Foong Hin dan turut dihadiri oleh wakil kerajaan, pemimpin industri, tetamu jemputan, rakan media, serta personaliti gaya hidup terkenal.

Antara VIP yang hadir termasuk:

• Datuk Dr. Awang Alik - Ketua setiausaha (KSU), Kementerian Dalam Negeri (KDN) 
• Datuk SH Sitti Saleha - Pengarah Imigresen Malaysia Negeri Sabah

Terletak strategik di Suria Sabah Shopping Mall, outlet baharu ini memperkenalkan sajian istimewa Oriental Kopi kepada dunia kafe dan kulinari Sabah yang semakin berkembang pesat. Para pengunjung boleh menikmati pelbagai hidangan autentik Malaysia seperti kopi bancuhan tangan, Nasi Lemak beraroma, Curry Laksa, Char Kuey Teow, roti bakar kaya mentega, tart telur, serta pilihan makanan nostalgia tempatan yang menggamit selera.

Direka dengan sentuhan kehangatan warisan dan elegan kontemporari, ruang ini mewujudkan suasana yang selesa dan mesra buat penduduk tempatan mahupun pelancong antarabangsa untuk menikmati keunikan budaya kulinari Malaysia di bawah satu bumbung.

Selain pengalaman menjamu selera, Oriental Kopi turut menawarkan rangkaian eksklusif produk makanan dan cenderamata boleh dimakan, membolehkan pelanggan membawa pulang rasa Malaysia dan menghidupkan kembali pengalaman tersebut di luar meja kafe.

Sebagai jenama Malaysia yang dibanggakan, Oriental Kopi terus komited dalam mengekalkan keaslian, kualiti pembuatan, dan kekayaan rasa pelbagai budaya yang menjadi identiti warisan makanan negara. Pembukaan Suria Sabah ini bukan sekadar satu perkembangan perniagaan, malah menjadi jambatan budaya yang menghubungkan komuniti melalui kopi, makanan, dan tradisi yang penuh bermakna.

FAVSTYLE Magazine | FAVSTYLE Essentials bersama MY KKCity dan Sabah KOL Media Alliance merakamkan setinggi-tinggi tahniah kepada Oriental Kopi atas pencapaian bermakna ini serta mendoakan jenama ini terus mencapai kelimpahan, kemakmuran, dan kejayaan gemilang di Sabah dan juga peringkat lebih luas.

Countdown begins! The Signature Food Fest 5th Edition is here Bigger, bolder, and tastier than ever with So Good Market taking over Riverson The Walk! 1–3 May 2026.

The countdown has begun, and the energy is electric.

The Signature Food Fest 5th Edition is finally stepping into the spotlight, and this year, it arrives bigger, bolder, and bursting with flavour. What makes 2026 truly special is a first-ever collaboration that feels like two vibrant worlds colliding into one delicious universe. The Signature Food Fest joins hands with So Good Market, bringing together a dynamic combo event that celebrates not just food, but the heartbeat of SMEs across culinary arts, services, and creative craftsmanship.

From 1st to 3rd May 2026, Riverson The Walk transforms into a living, breathing festival ground. Indoor and outdoor spaces come alive with over 16 Signature Food Fest booths and more than 50 curated vendors from the So Good Flea Market. Picture this: sizzling dishes, handcrafted gems, aromatic brews, and a constant hum of discovery at every corner.

Timing couldn’t be more perfect. The festival unfolds during the vibrant Sabahan Harvest Festival season, adding a cultural rhythm to the experience. It is not just an event, it is a celebration of abundance, community, and creativity.

Across the three days, visitors can expect engaging activities, exciting food sampling sessions, and a festive atmosphere that invites everyone to indulge. The highlight on 2nd May 2026 will be the Official Opening Ceremony graced by the Guest of Honour, marking a proud milestone for all involved. As the festival draws to a close on 3rd May, participants will be honoured with certificates of participation, a recognition of their passion and contribution.

But the journey does not end there.

From 1st to 31st May 2026, the public is invited to continue the experience through the “Dine, Win & Vote” campaign. With over 10,000 stamp brochures distributed, food lovers can explore participating outlets, enjoy exclusive deals, and cast their votes for their favourite signature dishes. During this period, appointed judges will visit each participating restaurant, café, bistro, and hotel to evaluate entries across four categories. Every dish tells a story, and each participant brings forward their most sumptuous creation, available throughout the entire month.

The grand finale awaits on 5th June 2026, where the TSFF Award Night will take place at Grandis Hotels & Resorts. This exclusive, invitation-only evening will celebrate excellence, creativity, and the remarkable talents within Sabah’s food and hospitality scene.

This milestone event would not be possible without the unwavering support of sponsors, media partners, and key collaborators. A special appreciation goes to Sabah Tourism Board and Sri Pelancongan Sabah – Hello Sabah Media for being part of this extraordinary journey.

The stage is set. The flavours are ready. The experience is yours to explore.

Join us and be part of the excitement.

For more information, visit:

www.signaturefoodfest.com

www.hellofavstyle.com

IBS Airlines Ramadan: From Grand Buka Puasa to Midnight Sahur Take-Off

 

Ramadan 2026 takes a bold creative turn at Ikan Bakar Sabah, where gastronomy meets imagination under the viral theme of IBS Airlines.

Our sincere appreciation to Tuan Fadzri, CEO of Ikan Bakar Sabah (#1 Seafood Buffet – Citarasa Ikan Bakar Sabah) for inviting Favstyle Magazine | Favstyle Essentials | My KKCity | My Tourism Destination Hub | SweetPotatoNews | KKFoodPlus to experience this extraordinary Ramadan concept.

Inspired by the founder’s passion for travelling the world with his spouse, IBS Airlines was born from global journeys and transformed into a fully immersive dining narrative. From the exterior façade to the interior setup, guests are transported into an aviation-inspired environment that feels like preparing for international departure.

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First Class Experience: IBS Airline Buka Puasa Buffet

The Buka Puasa session stands as the main highlight of the Ramadan celebration, offering scale, abundance and atmosphere.

Guests symbolically “travel” across culinary destinations including Hong Kong, Turkey, Japan and Guangzhou before landing back in Malaysia, celebrating Johor, Kelantan and Penang.

With over 250 dishes available, the spread includes:

• Traditional masak gulai selections
• Premium grilled seafood
• Authentic nasi briyani
• Fresh ulam and kampung favourites
• International highlights inspired by global routes
• A vibrant and extensive Water Balang beverage section

Adding to the festive energy, live buskers performances entertain diners throughout the evening, creating a lively yet warm Ramadan ambiance that enhances the entire iftar experience.

Buka Puasa Pricing:

• Adult: RM89.90

• Child (6–12 years old): RM49.90

• VIP: RM149.90

• Kids below 5 years old eat for FREE
  Prices exclude SST 6%

It is a full-scale runway of flavour, perfect for families, corporate gatherings and celebratory evenings.

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Second Tier: IBS Sahur Airlines – Midnight Gastronomy Journey

When midnight arrives, the gates reopen for the Sahur Airlines experience.

Operating from 12:00am to 4:00am daily, this session offers over 150 curated dishes, allowing guests to enjoy a more intimate yet equally creative late-night dining adventure.

Our media team had the opportunity to savour authentic local signature dishes, from rich gulai and grilled seafood to fragrant nasi briyani and fresh ulam selections, thoughtfully prepared for the sahur hour.

The immersive airline theme continues seamlessly into the night, maintaining the sense of a culinary journey before dawn.

Sahur Buffet Pricing:

• RM35.00 per person
  Prices exclude SST 6%

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IBS Airlines has quickly become the talk of the town, drawing attention for its creativity, immersive design and generous offerings.

With limited seating nightly and strong public response, early reservations are highly recommended.

This Ramadan, you do not simply dine.
You board, you journey, and you savour. 

Menang Duit Raya RM5,000 - IBS Airline Ramadan

 

RAKAM & MENANG

Rakam video paling kreatif semasa di Ikan Bakar Sabah dan menangi RM5,000!

Cara Sertai:

1. Rakam video paling kreatif semasa berbuka di IBS Airline

2. Post di TikTok / Instagram / Facebook

3. Tag @ikanbakarsabah

4. Guna hashtag #IBSAirlinecontest #SeafoodIBS #ikanbakarsabah

5. Pastikan akaun PUBLIC

Hadiah menarik menanti pemenang bertuah.

Lagi unik, lagi fun, lagi tinggi peluang untuk menang.

Lokasi:

https://maps.app.goo.gl/cUmJiLqkvEHwHeiH6?g_st=ipc

Tempah sekarang:

ikanbakarsabah.orderla.my/ramadhan-buffet

#IkanBakarSabah #IBSAirlinecontest #SeafoodIBS

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RECORD & WIN

Capture your most creative video at Ikan Bakar Sabah and stand a chance to win RM5,000.

How to Participate:

1. Record your most creative video while breaking fast at IBS Airline

2. Post it on TikTok / Instagram / Facebook

3. Tag @ikanbakarsabah

4. Use the hashtags #IBSAirlinecontest #SeafoodIBS #ikanbakarsabah

5. Make sure your account is set to PUBLIC

Exciting prizes await the lucky winner.
The more unique and fun your video is, the higher your chances of winning.

Location:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/cUmJiLqkvEHwHeiH6?g_st=ipc

Book now:
ikanbakarsabah.orderla.my/ramadhan-buffet

#IkanBakarSabah #IBSAirlinecontest #SeafoodIBS