Latest news with #Mamba
Eater
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Eater
Explore This New Bucktown Tasting Menu Restaurant With a Secret Bar
is the James Beard Award-winning regional editor for Eater's Midwest region, and in charge of coverage in Chicago, Detroit, and the Twin Cities. He's a native Chicagoan and has been with Eater since 2014. Class Act, a new tasting menu restaurant in Bucktown, attempts to remove many obstacles that prevent diners from enjoying fine dining by presenting meals in a friendly, residential-like atmosphere around a 16-seat communal table, hoping diners will mingle with other parties. There's a bar component to the space, called Nightcap, a tiny speakeasy-style spot that's open to the general public without requiring reservations. Folks can enter through a side alley. Restaurant guests will eventually be whisked to the space at the end of their meals. This is the welcome room that greets guests. Chef Nicolai Mlodinow 'Bouquet' is make with zucchini flower, parmesan mousse, flowers, and honey. Chef Nicolai Mlodinow hatched his dream in college, cooking in dorms, and brought his apartment pop-up to Chicago. The restaurant's kitchen, with its marble counter facing the entrance, looks like an apartment kitchen from afar, albeit armed with sufficient gadgetry that Mlodinow hopes will allow Class Act to compete with Chicago's top-tier restaurants, mentioning restaurants like Alinea, Oriole, and Smyth. He describes the approach as modernist cuisine that taps into international influences. Mlodinow, an avid basketball player who grew up in California, is confident and wears sneakers showing off who his favorite player was growing up — a certain LA Laker who sported 'a Mamba mentality.' Mlodinow shares a story about wearing ankle weights while cooking to develop endurance strength, comparing himself to Rock Lee, a manga character from the Naruto series. The chef hopes this attitude carries through a 13-course meal over three hours that touches upon nostalgia. The opening menu is called 'Growing Up.' The communal dining seats 16. The kitchen is meant to look residential. 'The sense of connection and belonging is everything to me,' Mlodinow says. 'Bringing people together to break bread... One of the courses, they literally tear bread together. That is why I cook.' A tartlet with butter-poached shrimp and flavored with Cajun seasoning and garam masala is emblematic of what Mlodinow wants to achieve, he says. It reminds him of a blackened salmon dish his father cooked for him growing up: 'When I look at it, when I taste it, I get all those flavors,' he says. He's quick to say he isn't swapping in fancy ingredients to tried-and-true dishes just for the sake of it. For example, the thought of recklessly substituting uncured brisket in a specific dish instead of pastrami revolts him. 'Blackened Seafood' and 'Scrimps.' 'Ice Cream Truck' is made with saffron olive oil ice cream and crystalized chocolate. There's a Nordic bent in Class Act's menu, but Mlodinow calls it subtle — the use of flowers, for example. Flowers are something the chef gravitates toward: 'They're very intentional, it's not just with how pretty it is,' Mlodinow says. 'These things actually have flavor.' Guests will enter and convene in a welcome room where they can enjoy a drink and decide on a beverage pairing; perhaps some peer pressure or old-fashioned conversation can help customers decide between nonalcoholic, standard, reserve, or cocktails. Dinner costs $230 per person, which ranks as one of the pricier tasting menus in town. The top tier includes Oriole ($325), Smyth ($420), and Alinea ($325 to $395) for standard reservations. In comparison, Feld, which opened in 2024, debuted at $195. The back bar, called Nightcap, is open to the general public. The cocktails aren't mundane. The chef's business partner, Shreena Amin, met Mlodinow while she was a guest at one of his dinners. She lives in Schaumburg and grew up traveling the world and eating at fine dining restaurants. The two took a research and development trip to Copenhagen, where they visited Michelin-starred institutions like Noma, the Alchemist, Jordnær, and Geranium in one week. For Amin, opening Class Act can give Chicagoans a taste of other cultures without a passport. 'We want to be carving out our own space that is about connection and fun and whimsy and joy and the food always has to be incredible — it takes you somewhere and tells a story,' she says. 'But what you're going to take away and remember is who you sat next to, how you laugh together, that's what makes you want to come back.' Class Act and Nightcap, 1737 N. Damen Avenue, reservations via OpenTable.
The Star
3 days ago
- Business
- The Star
Micro businesses group calls for constructive talks over e-commerce fee changes
KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian Micro Business Association (Mamba) has urged stakeholders to engage in a balanced and constructive dialogue over recent fee structure changes by e-commerce platforms. Mamba secretary-general Alvin Low said the focus should be on strategic cooperation between sellers, platforms, and policymakers to ensure a resilient, competitive digital marketplace. 'We must avoid scare tactics and politicising discussions that directly affect thousands of local traders in Malaysia. 'There needs to be room for discussion—so that everyone, from sellers to shoppers to platforms—can win,' Low said in a statement. He noted that while fee hikes are difficult, larger global dynamics, such as the ongoing US-China trade war and emerging tariffs, are contributing to a surge in low-cost Chinese imports into South-East Asia, including Malaysia. "These cheaper products risk undercutting local businesses if no proactive steps are taken. 'We are already seeing cheap imports entering the market through new and existing e-commerce platforms targeting consumers in Malaysia, undercutting local sellers and threatening their long-term survival,' he warned. Low stressed that maintaining a competitive edge means platforms must continue to reinvest in infrastructure—such as logistics, fraud prevention, AI-powered product recommendations, and customer service—benefiting sellers as well as buyers. 'Good customer experience is not just a buyer issue—it's a seller issue too. When platforms are seen as trustworthy and efficient, sellers gain more visibility and repeat customers,' he added. Citing statistics from GlobalData, Mamba said Malaysia's e-commerce market is projected to reach RM67.1bil by 2028. "To seize this growth, Low said both sellers and platforms must work hand-in-hand to meet rising consumer expectations. While empathising with seller frustrations, Mamba warned against punitive actions or blanket criticisms that could destabilise the ecosystem. 'Calling for authorities to threaten or punish platforms simply for raising fees is counter-productive and risks undermining the very ecosystem we are trying to strengthen,' Low said. Mamba urged the government, seller groups, and platform operators to open channels of dialogue and forge a sustainable path forward—ensuring Malaysia's micro, small and medium businesses remain competitive in the evolving global landscape.
The Sun
4 days ago
- Business
- The Sun
Mamba seeks balanced dialogue on e-commerce fees
KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian Micro Business Association (Mamba) is calling for a more balanced and constructive dialogue surrounding the recent adjustments to e-commerce platform fee structures. Secretary-general Alvin Low Wei Yan said that while the association understands the concerns raised by various stakeholders, Mamba believes the issue demands a holistic perspective—one that considers both the sustainability of digital platforms and the competitiveness of local micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). 'We must avoid scare tactics and the politicisation of important conversations that directly impact thousands of Malaysian sellers. 'There must be room for discussion—so that everyone, from sellers to shoppers to platforms—can benefit,' he said in a statement. Mamba acknowledges that price hikes are never easy, but stresses that global dynamics—particularly the escalating US-China trade war and rising tariffs—are likely to result in a surge of low-cost Chinese products being redirected into Southeast Asian markets, including Malaysia. 'We are already seeing cheap imports entering the market through new and existing e-commerce platforms targeting Malaysian consumers, undercutting local sellers and threatening their long-term survival,' Low said. 'This trend is expected to accelerate in the coming months, and we must prepare for it strategically.' Mamba urges both the government and local sellers to support and collaborate with platforms that prioritise MSMEs within their ecosystem. To counter current pressures, Mamba believes platforms must continue investing in infrastructure, tools, and services that enhance customer satisfaction such as faster delivery, reliable refund processes, improved search functions, and AI-driven product recommendations. These enhancements not only attract buyers but also increase traffic, visibility, and conversion rates for sellers. 'Customer experience is not just a buyer issue—it's a seller issue too,' said Low. 'When platforms are seen as trustworthy, convenient, and efficient, everyone benefits. Sellers operating on such platforms are better positioned to build customer loyalty and drive repeat business.' 'Going it alone is not only costly—it's unsustainable,' he added. 'For any e-commerce platform to fund major upgrades in AI tools, logistics, fraud prevention, and customer support independently, it requires significant investment. If platforms are unable to reinvest due to pricing pressure or policy uncertainty, the entire seller ecosystem will suffer in the long run.' Mamba believes that joint investments by both sellers and platforms will yield long-term benefits. According to data and analytics firm GlobalData, Malaysia's e-commerce market is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 8.5% between 2024 and 2028, reaching RM67.1 billion (US$14.7 billion) by 2028. This outlook highlights the long-term potential of the digital economy, and the need to stay competitive through reinvestment and innovation. At the same time, Mamba emphasises the importance of balancing MSME needs with rising customer expectations. Poor buyer experiences caused by delivery delays, miscommunication, or a lack of transparency—have a direct impact on seller performance, ratings, and returns. 'That's why blanket criticism of e-commerce platforms may not be helpful,' said Low. 'Calling for punitive actions against platforms simply for adjusting fees is counter-productive and risks undermining the very ecosystem we are trying to strengthen.' Mamba calls for open, collaborative dialogue between the government, platforms, and seller associations to chart a sustainable and inclusive path forward—ensuring Malaysian MSMEs continue to thrive amid global headwinds.
New Straits Times
4 days ago
- Business
- New Straits Times
More balanced, constructive dialogue on e-commerce fee changes, urges Mamba
KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian Micro Business Association (Mamba) has called for a more balanced and constructive dialogue on the recent fee structure changes by e-commerce platforms. The platform fee changes, set to take effect on July 16, reportedly include a new 54 sen support fee per order, higher transaction charges and increased commission rates for 'pay later' services. The association said this issue requires a holistic perspective, one that considers both the sustainability of digital platforms and the competitiveness of local micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs). Its secretary-general Alvin Low Wei Yan said it is important to avoid scare tactics and politicising important conversations that directly affect thousands of local sellers. "There needs to be room for discussion so that everyone, from sellers to shoppers to platforms, can win," he said in a statement. While acknowledging that price hikes are never easy, he said current global dynamics, particularly the escalating US-China trade war and imposition of tariffs, may trigger a surge of low-cost Chinese products being redirected into Southeast Asian markets, including Malaysia. "We are already seeing cheap imports entering the market through new and existing e-commerce platforms targeting consumers in Malaysia, undercutting local sellers and threatening their long-term survival. "This trend is likely to accelerate in the months ahead, and we must prepare for it strategically," Low said. He said it is essential for the government and local sellers to work together with platforms that prioritise MSMEs within their ecosystem. To counter current pressures, he said that platforms must continue investing in infrastructure, tools and services that improve customer satisfaction such as faster delivery, reliable refund processes, better search functions and AI-powered product recommendations. These improvements make platforms more attractive to buyers, increase traffic and in turn boost visibility and conversion rates for sellers. "When platforms are seen as trustworthy, convenient and efficient, everyone benefits. Sellers who operate on such platforms stand a better chance of building customer loyalty and driving repeat business," he added. Low said joint investment from both sellers and platforms is vital. This is especially with the e-commerce market projected to reach RM67.1 billion (US$14.7 billion) by 2028. At the same time, Mamba reiterates the significance of balancing the needs of MSMEs with rising customer expectations. It said the poor buyer experiences due to delays, miscommunication or lack of transparency, have a real and direct impact on seller performance, ratings and returns. "That's why blanket criticism against the e-commerce platforms may not be helpful. "Calling for authorities to threaten or punish platforms simply for raising fees is counter-productive and risks undermining the very ecosystem we are trying to strengthen," he added.
Time of India
01-07-2025
- Science
- Time of India
Black mamba vs Mongoose: Key differences on the basis of size, speed, diet and who would win in a fight
The epic showdown between the Black Mamba and the Mongoose is one of nature's most thrilling predator-versus-predator battles. The Black Mamba, Africa's deadliest snake, is known for its speed, potent venom, and aggressive defence. In contrast, the mongoose is a small but fearless mammal equipped with agility, thick fur, and a remarkable resistance to snake venom. While the Mamba relies on its deadly bite, the mongoose counters with lightning reflexes and clever strikes. This natural rivalry showcases the mongoose's daring nature and survival skills in the face of one of the wild's most feared predators—the formidable Black mamba. Explore the key differences between the two deadly predators, the Black mamba and the mongoose, and determine who would win in a confrontation. Black mamba vs Mongoose Category Black Mamba Mongoose Physical Size Up to 14 ft (4.3 m) long, lightweight (~3.5 lbs/1.6 kg), torpedo-shaped body 1–4 ft (0.3–1.2 m), muscular, weighs 0.2–5 kg depending on species Speed and Agility Fast—up to 12 mph (19 km/h); excels in straight-line speed Faster—up to 20 mph (32 km/h); highly agile and reflexive Venom vs. Defense Neurotoxic venom, fatal without treatment; multiple fast strikes Natural immunity to neurotoxins; dodges and strikes snake's head swiftly Hunting and Diet Ambush predator; feeds on rodents, birds, other snakes Omnivorous; eats insects, rodents, eggs, birds, venomous snakes Behavioural Traits Solitary and shy; becomes aggressive when threatened Bold, curious, fearless; some species live in social groups with cooperative behaviors Habitat and Distribution Prefers dry savannas, rocky hills, woodlands in sub-Saharan Africa Lives in forests, grasslands, deserts across Africa, Asia, and parts of Europe Adaptations and Survival Venom, speed, fearsome presence Venom resistance, reflexes, group defense, agility Black mamba vs Mongoose: Key traits explained Physical size The Black Mamba is a big and thin snake, growing up to 14 feet (4.3 meters) long. Its elongated and torpedo-shaped body is meant for quick, straight-line travel. It is quite long but not very heavy—usually no longer than 3.5 pounds (1.6 kilograms)—which helps its speed and agility. In comparison, the Mongoose is considerably smaller, typically measuring between 1 and 4 feet (0.3 to 1.2 meters) in length, but with a more muscular, stockier build. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Giao dịch vàng CFDs với sàn môi giới tin cậy IC Markets Tìm hiểu thêm Undo Its weight depends on species but can range from a half pound up to over 11 pounds (0.2 to 5 kilograms). The Mongoose's smaller size accommodates quicker, more agile movements and easy maneuverability in tight combat. Key takeaway: Although the Black Mamba is longer and larger in size, the muscularity of the Mongoose is denser, which prepares it for agility and forceful attacks. Speed and agility Black Mamba is generally regarded as one of the world's fastest snakes, able to travel up to 12 miles per hour (19 km/h). The speed is also important in unleashing quick venomous attacks or escaping danger. The speed, however, is more or less linear, depending on the use of straight movements. The Mongoose does better than that, reaching speeds of about 20 miles per hour (32 km/h). Aside from absolute speed, it has remarkable agility and reflexes, capable of quickly avoiding blows and delivering accurate counterblows. This lateral speed is an essential plus in fights with venomous snakes, where life and death often hang in the balance of dodging strikes. Key takeaway: Both animals are swift, but the Mongoose's better agility and quicker reflexes bestow on it a strategic advantage in evading and outmaneuvering foes. Venom and defensive capabilities The Black Mamba's main defense is its very deadly neurotoxic venom, which may lead to respiratory failure and death within hours if left untreated. Its venom injection is accurate and swift and facilitates multiple stings in rapid succession. Nevertheless, the Black Mamba prefers to avoid fighting, usually providing warning displays like revealing its black mouth and hissing before striking. Consequently, the Mongoose has an excellent natural defense against venom, particularly neurotoxins, by virtue of having specialized acetylcholine receptors. This biological mechanism enables it to overcome bites that would prove lethal to other animals. The defense approach of the Mongoose is based on agility and swift, precise attacks, usually targeting the snake's head with dodges away from venomous bites. Key takeaway: The Black Mamba's venom is lethally effective, but the Mongoose's evolved resistance and evasive tactics help neutralize this advantage in direct combat. Hunting strategies and diet The Black Mamba is an ambush hunter, and it hunts by day. Its prey includes small mammals, birds, and even other snakes every now and then. It employs speed and venom to knock down prey with ease before swallowing them whole. Its preference for hunting focuses on stealth, accuracy, and quick incapacitation. Conversely, the Mongoose has a diverse diet that includes insects, rodents, birds, eggs, and notably, venomous snakes. It employs opportunistic foraging, relying on keen eyesight, quick reflexes, and sometimes social cooperation (in species that live in groups) to hunt effectively. When facing venomous snakes, it uses a combination of rapid attacks and evasive maneuvers to tire and kill its opponent. Key takeaway: While the Black Mamba relies on venom and stealth, the Mongoose uses speed, sharp teeth, and occasionally teamwork to hunt and survive. Behavioural traits Behaviorally, the Black Mamba is shy by nature and evades human or predator contact when it can. It would prefer to escape than fight, but it will turn extremely aggressive if cornered. It is typically solitary except during breeding times. The Mongoose has a braver, more inquisitive nature, frequently showing fearless attitude when faced with threatening animals. Certain mongoose species are solitary predators, but some exist as large social clusters that work together in hunting, defense, and rearing offspring, with complex social behaviors not seen in most carnivores. Key takeaway: The social and fearless character of the Mongoose differs from the Black Mamba's solitary and avoidance-oriented behavior, influencing their individual survival strategies. Habitat and geographic distribution The Black Mamba lives in dry savannas, rocky hills, and open woodlands, mostly within sub-Saharan Africa. It thrives in warm areas with plenty of refuges such as rock crevices or thickets. Mongooses inhabit a much wider variety of habitats ranging from forests to grasslands and deserts in Africa, some parts of southern Europe, and Asia. Their ability to thrive in any environment helps explain their wide range of distribution and survival rate. Key takeaway: The Black Mamba's niche is more specialized, whereas the Mongoose's adaptability helps it survive in different ecological niches. Adaptations and survival The Black Mamba and Mongoose relationship is an example of evolutionary arms race: the snake's powerful venom as a weapon and the mongoose's venom immunity and fighting skills as defensive mechanisms. The dynamics between them have pushed specialized adaptive features in both animals, sustaining lethality and survival. Black Mamba's strengths are its potent venom, quickness, and fearsome demeanor. The Mongoose responds with physical strength, agility, group cooperation, and immunity to venom, allowing it to hunt or fend off snakes successfully. Black mamba vs Mongoose fight battle: Who would win In the epic showdown between the black mamba and the mongoose, the mongoose usually emerges victorious. This small carnivore boasts a natural resistance to the black mamba's deadly neurotoxic venom, thanks to specialized acetylcholine receptors, giving it a crucial edge in survival. Its lightning-fast reflexes and fearless, aggressive attack style—often aimed at the snake's head—allow it to dodge strikes and deliver fatal blows. Watch: Slender mongoose kills black mamba - FULL VIDEO Even when bitten, some mongoose species can withstand or recover from the venom if it isn't instantly fatal. However, the black mamba isn't to be underestimated; with its incredible speed and lethal venom, one clean bite can turn the tide. Real-life wildlife encounters have shown that while mongooses win most battles, they don't win them all. Ultimately, the mongoose's agility, bravery, and venom resistance give it the upper hand in this high-stakes mamba vs Mongoose: Key traits explained Also Read | What makes a king cobra 'king'? 6 lethal traits that rule the reptile world
