It was always going to be a special evening – a Penang Mingle in the lovely setting of Il Bacaro, the Venetian restaurant owned by the charming boutique hotel, Campbell House.  A bacaro is an Italian tavern, the sort of wine bar cum family run eatery which makes any diner or drinker feel instantly comfortable. The owners of Il Bacaro, Nardya Waray and Roberto Dreon, have created a delightful space which retains the homeliness of the bacaro while infusing it with a sophisticated charm so refreshing in the heart of China Town.

Due to the start of the summer holidays and the tail end of the George Town Festival, the number of minglers was slightly less than the previous event held in May, but the select crowd obviously enjoyed making new friends and meeting old acquaintances. One of the best things about a mingle evening is that you never quite know whom you will run into! There was a good cross-section of the expats of Penang and a sprinkling of locals as well, and everyone had a friendly face to chat to.

We were served yummy calamari, wonderful risotto spicy rice balls, and pizza, the latter of which was a simple thin crust with tomato and mozzarella splashed on top. The Italian-themed food was an excellent contrast to the red and white wine courtesy of Cronier Wines, and the Tiger beer courtesy of GAB.

Fortunately, the rain stayed away (it has been most unseasonable in Penang recently) and we were able to complete the unwinding process by moving outside to sit in the arcade the Dreons have made in their “five foot way”.

All too soon it was over, and eager voices were asking when the next gathering would be. Join us if you can, for sparkling company, good drinks, and some food!

NEXT MINGLE
Wednesday 12 September
7pm-9pm at The Lone Pine Hotel,
97 Batu Ferringhi, 11100 Penang
Contact : [email protected] to RSVP, or visit  mingle.expatgomalaysia.com/penang-mingle

Source: Penang International August/September 2012
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