Reliving Childhood Memories at FMS

       

Durbar is a Persian word that means a great ceremonial hall receiving visitors for formal and informal receptions, meetings and gatherings

        Back in the 80s, there wasn't a plethora of eateries serving Western food around in Ipoh. But there were several steadfast establishments that Ipoh folk could find delight in. And one of them was the Hainanese bar and restaurant, FMS (an acronym for Federated Malay States), located just across the Ipoh Padang in Old Town. It was a typical British colonial style eatery that had those vintage saloon or bar doors seen in cowboy movies. And it was where people in Ipoh could find tasty Hainanese fare.

Durbar at FMS occupies a corner lot just across the Ipoh Padang, a stone's throw away from St. Michael's Institution

Side entrance

Colonial style sidewalk

        When FMS ceased operations more than a decade ago, the older generation mourned its loss. The younger generation was unaffected as many fancier cafes have sprouted up all over Ipoh. Those of us, who are middle-aged, were caught in between. But when news spread that FMS was opening its doors again, we were stirred. 
        With a new name, Durbar at FMS, this refurbished colonial restaurant has sent Ipoh all abuzz. Thanks to Mr. Seow Wee Liam, an architect from St. Michael's Institution just around the corner, you can momentarily forget that you are in the 21st century when you walk in. Antiques and artefacts, especially reminiscent of the British colonial days, abound. Of course you will very soon be brought back to the present age of technology when you see orders being made using tablets!

The interior of Durbar at FMS

A beautifully-restored FMS

Colonial vibes

Phone from the glorious past

        For me, it was indeed a walk into my childhood. Not only did I used to frequent this bar with my uncles, aunts and cousins, I practically grew up on Ipoh Swimming Club food. Knowing that Ah Kong, the old chef at Ipoh Swimming Club  is now at the helm in the kitchen of Durbar at FMS, it's a chance to taste his comfort food again. And as we walked in this afternoon, we were warmly greeted by Kevin, who used to be a waiter at Ipoh Swimming Club. All the food featured in the menu were just like what we used to have in Ipoh Swimming Club.
        Papa ordered the Oxtail Soup and Hainanese Chicken Chop. Despite being a finicky eater where Western food is concerned, Papa nodded his approval for both. He ended his meal with a cup of kopi-o, and was truly pleased with it. It was as black, as kaw, and as sweet as he likes it. 

Priced at RM16 and served with a slice of garlic toast, the Oxtail Soup was  flavourful.

This Hainanese Chicken Chop (RM20) had all the right notes.

        Being a small eater, Mummy had just the Prawn Cocktail and the Baked Stuffed Crab. Her verdict : the Baked Stuffed Crab's delicious, but it still cannot hold a candle to the one at Coliseum, Kuala Lumpur.

Classic Prawn Cocktail (RM12)

Baked Stuffed Crab (RM25)

        Derrick was still full from his hearty wanton mee breakfast so he was happy with an Oxtail Soup and the Club Sandwich.

Durbar Club Sandwich (RM15)

        I had dreadfully missed Ah Kong's Seafood au Gratin so of course I had to order that today. It was as creamy and yummy as I remember it to be. 

My very scrumptious Seafood au Gratin (RM28)

Face of glee

        For dessert, Derrick and I shared the Crepe Suzette. It has always been my all-time favourite dessert and I'm glad that I have now converted Derrick into being its die-hard fan too. He was still ooh-ing and aah-ing about it long after we had left the place.

Kevin renders his loving touch on our Crepe Suzette

        I had a brief chat with Mr. Seow as I was picking up the tab. I had earlier chatted with him online to make today's reservations. He is as affable in person as he is in on Facebook. And I assured him that I would be giving Durbar at FMS favourable reviews. I silently added that I will be back, to relive my childhood memories, and for the simple good food.