Malaysia is famous for its mouth-watering cuisines due to the melting pot of cultures that make up this impressive country. The harmonious blend of major ethnicities plus the infusion of other Western and Eastern influences has given birth to many noteworthy restaurants.

  "When I am asked to suggest a place in Johor Bahru for fine food and wine with a nice ambiance, EIGHT at Lido Hill or simply 8 Lido is always among the top of my mind."- Tony of Johor Kaki

Tired of cookie cutter menus and mirror concepts, the philosophy of EIGHT, Johor Bahru’s premier dining and events venue, “innovate, never imitate,” filled me with hope from the onset. Once the state’s most highly regarded restaurant, recent renovations in 2015 have since lifted its status even further to also be considered the city’s most prestigious entertainment and event space.

Kumar’s career was grown at establishments such as Raffles Hotel Singapore, Maze restaurant by Gordon Ramsay, Relais & Chateaux properties, and the Les Amis Group of restaurants. He’s often referred to as the bad boy of the food and beverage industry, and in his spare time he plays in a rock band and often defies the traditional pairings of wine, opting for products from lesser-known wineries.

With every New Year, there is the anticipation of new trends and the bidding of farewells to old trends in the food world. From the rise of food trucks and unique drink pairing menus to the downfall of the overused truffle oil in every dish, we speak to industry experts to find out what they think we have to look forward to in 2016, and what they will gladly say goodbye to from 2015.