JOHOR BARU: THE tradition of love locks which started from a Serbian tale during World War One has caught the imagination of lovers across the globe.
Sweethearts from Paris, New York, Moscow, Vancouver, Las Vegas, Seoul and Beijing have embraced the tradition of writing their names on padlocks and locking them onto a bridge, fence or gate. By throwing the keys, it symbolises their everlasting commitment to each other.
The Greenet Bar & Restaurant offers its guests the opportunity to declare their affection in a similar way. The stairway in the restaurant, called the Love Ladder, is dedicated to sweethearts, best friends and families who wish to inscribe their names on padlocks and hang them on the metal railings.
A padlock is provided on each table. Instead of throwing the keys away, patrons can drop them into a bowl in the front porch.
From the number of padlocks fastened to the Love Ladder, it appears that Greenet is a popular destination for those who wish to celebrate love and special memories.
On a far wall, a sideboard is decorated with framed photographs, mementoes from couples and families who had dined at the restaurant.
“We want to help our patrons to capture their special moments,” said Ben Low, a business partner involved with the marketing and branding of Greenet and who is also managing its Facebook page with a record of guests’ “Journey of Moments.”
As a destination for special occasions such as marriage proposals, birthdays and anniversaries, Low and his team work hard to accommodate the quirkiest ideas from customers.
“Our dishes may be simple but we use premium quality ingredients to create elegant meals to suit the occasion.”
Two of their most popular soups are the Mushroom Truffle Soup and Pumpkin Soup.
The Greenet Pasta is an interesting signature dish. Tossed in a secret green sauce which hints of a mild mint flavour, this appetising meal is served with fresh scallops, prawns and mussels.
Low’s team also try their best to tweak the dishes to suit Asian palates and different age groups.
“We understand that some prefer less cheese or cream, especially the senior citizens,” he said.
One of the popular dishes there is the Classic Glazed Roasted Chicken in chilli marmalade, orange and balsamic sauce served in a bed of fondant potatoes and the fillet of Grilled Cod Fish served with tangy orange tomato salsa.
The meal is not complete without desserts like Chocolate Mousse and Blueberry Cheesecake, each served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Greenet Bar & Restaurant is at 28, Jalan Maju, Taman Pelangi, Johor Baru and is open daily from noon.
For details, call 016-710 1580 or visit its Facebook page, Greenet Restaurant and Bar.