Hammer Bay

It was Friday, and also the worst traffic congestion along the coastal road in a very long time. SP suggested we try the ikan bakar restaurant near Gold Coast. I've seen lights and cars from a distance, but I never ventured to check the place out.

It was almost 8pm when we arrived at the ikan bakar restaurant - Hammer Bay. There weren't many people. Maybe they were still stuck in the jam. There was ample parking, but watch out for indiscriminate parking by people who don't know better.

Venture deeper into the restaurant and we saw several cozy huts beside the sea - for those who want a more private and personal dining experience. Then there are the canteen-styled tables and benches for those who want to savour the gastronomic delights without being distracted by delicate decor or fancy tableware.


We ordered ikan pari, fried sotong and belacan kangkong. The ikan pari was pretty good. Cooked over a charcoal pit, the chef managed to keep the ikan pari moist and the sauce was very tasty and generously lathered over the slices of ikan pari. But best of all, I could detect the mild taste and aroma of the banana leaves that were used to wrap the ikan pari. For me, that's the purpose of wrapping fish or any other ingredients in banana leaves.

The fried sotong and belacan kangkong were merely side dishes.

I'm hoping we'll revisit Hammer Bay, but next time we'll bring more people. That's the best way to enjoy ikan bakar dishes.