The Good Customer

WHAT? : Japanese-style prawn curry.  (Confession: This dish is actually served with 5 prawns, not 4, as shown in the above picture. I was so hungry that day that I had a prawn before remembering to take this shot. OOOPPS!)

WHY? : Entree was part of a “lunch set”. Served with coffee or tea. Delicious and well prepared with little extras such as almond silvers and pickled ginger.

HOW MUCH? : $11.99 for the set. An excellent deal!

WHERE? :

MORE: Formerly known as UCC Cafe Plaza, Aoyama Cafe is renowned for their UCC coffee blends – a brand that has been developed over the past 70 years. Choose your own individually “siphoned coffee” from a variety of coffee blends such as No. 1 Jamaican Blue Mountain, Hawaii Kona, and Sumiyaki (charcoal roast). Food is a fusion of Japanese and European - pastas, rice dishes, sandwiches, and desserts.

NOTES:  Had a wonderful experience at this location. Staff were exceptionally attentive and gracious.  Restaurant is divided into 2 sections – dining room and cafe. There is a minimum charge of $10 per person in the dining room. The airy and comfortable dining section is decorated with sleek, modern furniture. A lovely environment indeed!

Popularity: 21% [?]

WHAT? : Holt Renfrew is having a one-day promotion. Spend $250 at their beauty department and get a $25 Holt Renfrew gift card. That’s a 10% savings people! As most of you beauty enthusiasts know, the cosmetics department rarely offers discounts. Time to stock up!  Spending more than $250? Check out these other gift card offers – spend $500, get $50 gift card; spend $750, get $75 gift card; spend $1000, get $100 gift card. Click here  for more information.

WHEN? : April 17, 2010

WHERE?: Holt Renfrew Department Stores – Canada-wide. Click here for locations.

Popularity: 8% [?]

Writing this post on Orla Kiely (Hong Kong) has been on my “to-do” list for some time now. Sadly, by the time I got around to it, I found out that the boutique had closed it’s doors here in Hong Kong. Sniff Sniff!

To pay homage to their “once” Hong Kong store, I hereby post this entry.

I’ve been a admirable fan of the kitschy, 60s -inspired line, Orla Kiely. Faring from the UK, this brand is most notably known for it’s bright and colourful line of handbags, clothing, housewares, and linens. High quality materials coupled with whimsical designs, these products are sure to inspire your playful yet feminine side.

Up until last year (2009), Orla Kiely had 2 boutiques in Hong Kong. After the closure of it’s Times Square (Causeway Bay) location, only one remained in Hong Kong – the boutique in Central on Wyndham Street.

I have patronized both locations and have always been impressed with the service. Sales personnel are not condescending and seem genuinely willing to assist with any questions or suggestions. And let me tell you, this type of service can be hard to come by within the confines of this bustling city.

The real bonus for all you fans of this label – is the price!!! If you have shopped in the UK or the USA for Orly Kiely products, you will be pleasantly surprised to know that most of their products are sold for LESS in Hong Kong.

Another tip is, the boutique in Hong Kong consistently have promotions or sales – and they are indeed fabulous. Unfortunately, this boutique does not advertise these sales and therefore we, as consumers, are forced to check in periodically, for promotions. But who’s complaining? I love a reason to shop! Yes, even window shopping counts.

Before it’s closure on February 28, 2010, the store had a closing out sale. Items were being sold for below cost!!! Initially I felt that I had missed a great opportunity, but upon reflection, it’s probably for the best…. I’m sure I heard my pocketbook heave a big sigh of relief. For all you that made it out to the sale, I hope you procured some fabulous deals.

To my fellow Orla Kiely fans, a moment of silence for our dear friend ….

If anyone should know of where to purchase products from this brand in Hong Kong now, please drop us a comment. I know it would be much appreciated.

Popularity: 13% [?]

 

WHAT? : Aritzia’s Warehouse Sale

WHY? : Apparently this is Aritzia’s biggest warehouse sale ever! Discounts frm 50% – 90% off.  5000+ jeans on sale.   Plus, new items added daily and throughout the day.  Need I say more?

WHERE? :

http://www.aritzia.com/blog/2010/03/warehouse-sale-april-1st-april-5th

 

INFO : Free parking available.  Cash, debit, and credit accepted forms of payment.  Individual and communal fitting rooms on site.  All sales FINAL.

Popularity: 12% [?]

WHAT? :  CUT & COLOUR promotion at Toni & Guy Vancouver.  For $90, you can get a fab haircut AND a full head colouring. Add $30 for highlights. Promotion is valid for new clients and is only with specific stylists/colour technicians. Limited time only.

WHY? : With spring in full swing, it’s time for a new do. And who can say “no” to this irresistable offer from a reputable salon?

HOW? : Offer is valid at the Kitslano location. Call salon for an appointment.

WHERE? :

 www.toniguyblog.com

Popularity: 2% [?]