DOTY 2023 Awards winners: 5 of Malaysia’s best dining rooms and bistros to check out this weekend

by Aisha Capulong

Where great cuisine meets stunning design — from chic urban spaces to classic and elegant facades, these five dining rooms are a guaranteed feast for all senses

The winners for this year’s Designer of the Year Awards, commonly recognised as DOTY, are among Malaysia’s finest designers. In honouring and celebrating their work as leading visionaries, the platform has become the benchmark of excellence in the Malaysian and international design scene. These exceptional talents change the worlds that surround them into innovative spaces of being, living and breathing. Presenting – the recipients of the 14th installation of the DOTY Awards.

Winners of DOTY 2023 Best Commercial Design

Our culturally diverse Malaysia boasts a vibrant culinary scene. It is no secret that our locality contains smorgasbords of gastronomic experiences, and perfectly reflecting the endless options available, these five establishments have been meticulously designed to elevate the art of dining, each in their own unique way.

HALZAN PENANG

by NEVERMORE GROUP

NATURENEST: SLEEK MEETS GREEN | MODERN NATURE BRINGS THE OUTDOOR IN

As patrons approach Halzan Penang, they are immediately, and entirely, enveloped in a beautiful alfresco atmosphere. The indoor-outdoor approach taken by design group Nevermore puts a mark on sustainability through the use of natural materials, earthy tones and abundant greenery. This dynamic blend creates a fresh and vibrant ambiance while establishing a deep connect with the outside world. Inside Halzan Penang, one is confronted with a sensory journey that works with, and complements, its surroundings.

Characterised by the modern concept, this refined 6,000 square feet bistro is the epitome of design done right. Every detail, down to the gooseneck kettle accents used behind the counter, is a deliberate choice. Rattan chairs of various shapes, paired with light teak table fittings, are applied throughout the entire space to lend a sense of airiness. Near the open plan barista counter, sets of semi-circle sofas make intimate and exclusive nooks that almost separate your party from the rest of Halzan Penang.

Swathes of natural light emphasises all the right textures while concealed lighting in the decorative wall niches creates shadows that form artful visuals. Even evolving throughout the day, this playful integration of light and shadow adds an interesting layer to the dining experience. An additional visual divide is also accomplished through the cement terrazzo floors, with large pieces of marble embedded into, against a cool-toned wood strip flooring.

The outdoor area reflects the same attention to detail found indoors. Through a seamless extension into the alfresco dining zones and bar, the Nevermore Group successfully links all parts of the restaurant and exterior, while taking full advantage of George Town’s scenic views. Experiencing everything from the soft rustle of the rattan lampshades in the breeze, to the delicate sunlight filtering through the glass ceilings, every seat at Halzan Penang has been designed to be a special one.

SAN BY THE THREE WINES, GEORGE TOWN

by ARCHIPLAN INTERIOR DESIGN

EPICUREAN INGENUITY | WINE AND DINE AT THIS RETRO-LUXE TAPESTRY

San by The Three Wines’ bold departure from the design norm for wineries has manifested into a retro-luxury composition by Archiplan Interior Design. Harmoniously merging distinct design elements together, the result is a visually vibrant 1,520 square feet space with contrasting colors and diverse silhouettes. While these differing components may initially seem incompatible, stepping inside San by The Three Wines reveals the cohesive symphony they are able to collectively orchestrate.

Every feature came with careful consideration: the floor tiles have been meticulously custom-cut to fit , while muted gold tones emanate from the hidden warm lighting that commands the space. The marigold chairs offer a vibrant touch of sophistication while the decor walls and bar area, featuring olive shades of green, by and large transform the winery into a lush haven.

The incorporation of geometric patterns enhances the space’s visual dynamism, and despite its luxe look, the furniture maintains a comfortable and inviting atmosphere, prioritizing both style and comfort at the same time. The organic flow of the layout, from the wine bar to the dining area, has been purposefully designed to set the tone for a monumental dining experience.

Combined with the prudently curated menu, the winery pays homage to a variety of historical eras and cultures, and renowned for its distinctive approach, Archiplan Interior Design’s philosophy is a steadfast commitment to integrating function, form, and finishing into every project. Together, the seamless synthesis of design and great cuisine revolutionises San by The Three Wines beyond a simple restaurant; it is a sensory experience.

MANZANITA PÂTISSERIE & BOULANGERIE, ISKANDAR PUTERI

by RICE DESIGN

BOTANICAL TAPESTRY | GREENERY ADDS TACTILITY TO THIS INDOOR-OUTDOOR BISTRO

Manzanita Patisserie and Boulangerie at Iskandar Puteri’s affluent Eco-Botanic district is a space that speaks for itself. Symbolising a gentle breeze, the dominant use of curves throughout the eatery creates a narrative marked to enchant its patrons from their very first step inside. At 3,151 square feet, the vision for Manzanita, says Rice Design, was to echo nature and mirror the outside in. Within this cutting-edge bistro, design is a recreation of the living world.

Forming a symbiotic interaction of textures, mini trees, hanging plants and verdant moss are strategically placed wherever the eyes fall. Soft neutral hues like beige, rose-orange and the comforting tones of natural wood form reflections of a peaceful garden. Evoking the imagery of wind dancing, a fluid line of unique acrylic bulbs traverse across the ceiling.

Woven chairs and sofas, widely regarded as outdoor fittings, make up the seats at Manzanita. Through the contrasts made using shrubbery against wicker and wood, and further enhanced by carefully positioned lighting fixtures, the space’s contours and curated elements acquire a newfound depth.

As daylight slowly wanes and evening settles in, the café undergoes a mesmerizing change. The outside, adorned with warm lighting and bread and wheat symbols, evidently suggests to those looking from afar of Manzanita’s specialties: pastries and other baked goods. The shift from day to night unfolds with a play of light and shadow, emphasizing the café’s dual nature as a tranquil daytime sanctuary and an arresting evening hotspot.

AUNTIE GAIK LEAN’S OLD SCHOOL EATERY, GEORGE TOWN

by NEVERMORE GROUP

SHANGHAI NOSTALGIA | A CHARMING PORTAL INTO 1960S SHANGHAI

Tucked away within the George Town UNESCO World Heritage Site is the gorgeous Auntie Gaik Lean’s Old School Eatery. The Nevermore Group has successfully revolutionised this facade full of established history into an epic of the past. Drawing inspiration from the intricate interior design of 60s Shanghai, the 2,640 square feet Michelin-starred restaurant is full of Peranakan character as a means of paying homage to Chef Gaik Lean’s identity.

Washed in a royal blue palette, the space is designed to induce a luxury feel for its fine dining offerings while maintaining nostalgia. A recurring motif at this special establishment is the gold-detailed Peranakan panelling. Throughout the day, a soundtrack from the 1960s fills the dining room. Chinoiserie floral wallpaper imparts grace and tranquility into the space while the dark oak fittings enhance the sentimental atmosphere and evoke memories of days gone by.

Overhead, with the concealed lighting shining through, the elegant flower notches in the royal blue acoustic panels form a scene reminiscent of a starry night sky. These panels are strategically installed for ambiance augmentation as well as managing noise levels. However, commanding the dining hall is the gilded traditional lantern pendant lamp, skillfully crafted by master artisan Guan and further accentuated by the moon-like niche in the ceiling.

Once a jeweller, the two mirroring display cases outside prominently exhibits cultural items of the Peranakan ancestry and some of Chef Gaik Lean’s personal memorabilia. Beautifully revamping this historic space in George Town with charismatic touches galore, the Nevermore Group presents itself as a force to be reckoned with and a commendable design studio worthy of its many accolades.

THE ORPHEUM, PETALING JAYA

by SPROUT DESIGN

ETERNAL ANAMNESIS | A THEATRICAL CELEBRATION OF THE PAST

Transporting its patrons to an Old Shanghai theatre, The Orpheum is an escape for the soul within the bustling ward that is PJ. A poignant statement that the past is not obsolete but rather a source of exaltation, this cherished venue embodies the beguiling power of music when paired with the timeless appeal of historic yet elegant design. Serving as an homage to both the grandeur of Shanghai and the allure of Broadway, the blend achieved here at The Orpheum is a captivating synthesis of sights, sounds, and flavor.

The mixologists behind the bar, like alchemists, skillfully create concoctions that reflect the magic of the establishment. As one wanders through The Orpheum, they will encounter multi-tiered lounge seating that provides a panoramic view of both the stage and the audience. Each seat holds tales of intimate meetings, hushed conversations and delightful camaraderie. Overhead, the chandeliers emit a gentle, inviting light that enhances The Orpheum’s charm and anchors the space.

Envisaged by studio Sprout Design, finding the right spatial balance for all the different sections of the broadway-esque establishment was one of the core foci of the space. Inspired by the enchanting ambiance of 1950s Shanghai, each element contributes to the rich experience and is what distinguishes The Orpheum. Imported furnishings and exquisite materials can be seen adorning every corner, and rich maroon tones complement the gold palette to create a sense of comfortable luxury.

Located prominently at The Orpheum’s ingress is the ticket window, but it is more than just an area for transactions. The ticket counter serves as a gateway through time, where purchasing your entry means investing in an unforgettable experience. At The Orpheum, nostalgia takes on a palpable form, transforming the act of dining into a journey of cherished moments.