Tavern Tipples . . . In 2009, sometimes model, Kartika Sari Dewi Sukarno was sentenced to caning in Malaysia for drinking beer in public. Women are increasingly being caned under Sharia law in Malaysia, although in this particular case, due to international publicity and the fact that she is the daughter of the former President of Indonesia, Islamic authorities eventually reduced the sentence to community service.  Her mother is Dewi Sukarno (image above) a former Japanese bar hostess (whose real name was Naoko Nemoto) and third wife of President Sukarno. Link to full story

Le Midi Restaurant Lot T3
3rd Floor Bangsar Shopping Centre
Jalan Maarof, Bukit Bandaraya
59000 Kuala Lumpur.
Tel: 03-2094 1318
Website: http://www.lemidi.com.my/

This is definitely out of my usual loop, but I have really been enjoying KL, as this is only my third visit here. What could be better than to start out with a French/Italian menu, really it is simply Mediterranean and goes with the climate!  A very attractive part of the decor (and I mean that literally) is an amazing jellyfish aquarium, that I could not take my stare away from, as it changes every second. My friends had to keep reminding me to pay more attention to them. I chose a classic soupe de poisson with rouille and croutons that was quite fitting, and followed with a grilled fish topped by an olive tapenade. It is an easy-going restaurant that has a very presentable decor and efficient service. I think that even though things are not 100% perfect, they are working out the kinks, and I would expect an upward curve soon as the staff are friendly, and really good at what they do, which is to try to make people have a good evening.