Month: May 2017

Save vs Splurge: Singapore Edition

Post author By Rebekah Lee
Post date May 31, 2017
No Comments on Save vs Splurge: Singapore Edition

Singaporean food is well known for being both inexpensive and amazing, but if you don’t want to seem kiam siap (stingy), or if you just want to escape sweltering heat, there are pricier versions of our favourite cheap eats that are perfect for dining out with clients or foreign friends. It’s up to you to decide!

Photo credit:The Coconut Club

Nasi Lemak

Nasi Lemak is flipping AMAZING, don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. Abandon your diet plans, throw all caution to the wind, and tuck into fragrant, coconut-flavoured rice topped with delish sambal chili, a fried egg, deep fried ikan bilis and peanuts, and a couple of deep fried chicken wings or pan fried fish for good measure. Feel free to add on other goodies like otah, stewed vegetables, or fried fish balls at some of Singapore’s favourite haunts: Boon Lay Power Nasi Lemak if you’re in the west, or Ponggol Nasi Lemak if you’re in the east! A large plate with multiple add-ons will only cost you $5 at most – you really can’t go wrong with either one.

Want to enjoy Nasi Lemak in a more atas, air-conditioned environment? We have TWO retro-style restaurants for you to visit! The Coconut Club and SINPOPO both exude a fun, classic, old-school charm (totally Instaworthy), and are perfect for your weekly #tbt post! A plate from The Coconut Club will set you back $12.80, and a sharing plate of fragrant Nasi Lemak for two at SINPOPO is $28, but we promise they’re both worth it. The fragrant rice is cooked to perfection and served alongside chunky sambal chili (YUM) and everything else that comes with a great plate of Nasi Lemak.

Find Boon Lay Power Nasi Lemak at 221A/B, Boon Lay Place, 641221
Find Ponggol Nasi Lemak at 965 Upper Serangoon Rd, 534721
Find The Coconut Club at 6 Ann Siang Hill, 069787
Find SINPOPO at 458 Joo Chiat Road, 427671
Book a table at SINPOPO and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Photo credit: Roxy Laksa

Laksa

Singapore seems a little nuts for coconuts, and for good reason – rich, mildly spicy coconut broth is what makes laksa so incredibly indulgent and irresistible. I know Singaporeans are INTENSE about which bowl of laksa truly takes the cake, but these three are my personal favourites. Head down to 328 Katong Laksa, Roxy Laksa or Sungei Road Laksa (I can’t narrow down my list any further, I’m sorry) for a slurping good bowl of noodles that’ll only cost you $5 at most, even if you add on extra noodles, cockles, and other goodies.

Now, if you want to splurge, Beast & Butterflies at M Social Singapore has a fresh take on the classic dish. Featuring smooth, thick mee tai mak (or lao shu fen/rat noodles) instead of the standard fare, it will run you $16. Chatterbox serves up an extravagant bowl of Lobster Laksa, complete with thick vermicelli, quail eggs, fish cakes, dried beancurd, and a whole Boston Lobster simmered in spicy coconut gravy! No, that’s not a typo. A delight for sure, but also something that will set you back $36. Worth it? For the relaxing ambience and those hearty mouthfuls of sweet, succulent lobster flesh drenched in laksa gravy – definitely.

Find 328 Katong Laksa at 51 East Coast Road, 428770
Find Roxy Laksa at 73A Ayer Rajah Crescent, #01-17, 139957
Find Sungei Road Laksa at Blk 27 Jalan Berseh #01-100, 200027
Find Beast & Butterflies at 90 Robertson Quay, Level 1, 238259
Find Chatterbox at 333 Orchard Rd, Level 5, Mandarin Orchard, 238867
Book a table at Chatterbox and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Photo credits: Wee Nam Kee Chicken Rice

Chicken Rice

Okay, real talk, this is the ONE thing I look forward to having every time I head home from a long trip overseas. There’s honestly nothing more comforting than sitting in a noisy kopitiam and shoveling fragrant chicken stock (and fat) infused rice in my mouth – and one of my favourite places to get it is from Wee Nam Kee Chicken Rice. You can’t go wrong with their smooth, tender pieces of chicken and flavourful grains of rice. I’m not a rice person, but trust me when I say that I’ll lick this entire plate clean.

Wanna have it somewhere fancier? Chatterbox strikes again with their award-winning Hainanese Chicken Rice – enjoy your tasty plate of goodness for $32 in a beautiful, relaxing 5-star hotel.

Find Wee Nam Kee Chicken Rice at 101 Thomson Road, #01-08 United Square, 307591
Find Chatterbox at 333 Orchard Rd, Level 5, Mandarin Orchard, 238867
Book a table at Chatterbox and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Satay

Beautifully barbecued chunks of meat on a skewer? Sign me up! It was all my Swiss friend’s lovely family would talk about when discussing Singaporean food in the middle of winter when we were busy having raclette, and for good reason. It’s really a genius way to enjoy meat, especially when it’s dunked in a bowl of satay sauce full of peanutty-goodness. Get some amazingly affordable satay at Chai Ho Satay or Fang Yuan Satay, where a skewer will only set you back 50 cents AT MOST. Talk about a value for money!

Violet Oon Satay Bar & Grill is the place to be for slightly more extravagant fare. The restaurant is absolutely beautiful and furnished in rich greens and polished oak, with handpicked vintage-looking decor that’ll bring you back to the good ol’ days. You can get three skewers of Angus Beef Satay for $18 that are tender and full of smokey goodness – pricey, but there’s a reason why people keep coming back for more!

Find Chai Ho Satay at #01-10, 448 Clementi Ave 3, 120448
Find Fang Yuan Satay at #01-344M, Blk 75 Lorong 5 Toa Payoh, 310075
Find Violet Oon Satay Bar & Grill at 3B River Valley Road, #01-18, 179021
Book a table at Violet Oon Satay Bar & Grill and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Photo credits: Hill Street Fried Kway Teow

Char Kway Teow

Hill Street Fried Kway Teow has queues that stretch on for miles (ok, slight exaggeration) and you’ll understand why after an arduous 30 minute wait. Their $4 Char Kway Teow has incredible wok hei and is the most fragrant thing EVER (my mouth waters just thinking about it). It’s greasy and sinfully good, full of cockles and noodles doused in the sweet and salty dark soy sauce, and makes you feel like you need to run 5km just to unclog your arteries after inhaling a plate (or two, I won’t judge), just the way a good plate of Char Kway Teow should be. It’s affectionately called a heart attack on a plate for a reason!

Kopi Tiam Swissôtel The Stamford has a great plate of wok-fried goodness for $18 that’s chock full of fresh prawns, cockles, and fish cakes. The restaurant is also furnished to look like a real kopitiam right out of the 80’s (complete with a wooden signboard), except you’ll be enjoying your plate of greasy, fried goodness in air-conditioned comfort – a welcome respite from Singapore’s heat, that’s for sure!

Find Hill Street Fried Kway Teow at 16 Bedok S Rd, 460016
Find Kopi Tiam Swissôtel The Stamford at 2 Stamford Rd, 178882
Book a table at Kopi Tiam and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

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Photo credits: Choo Yut Shing, Flickr

Bubur Pulut Hitam

This dark mixture may seem a little daunting at first, but it’s one of Singapore’s most beloved desserts. Made up of black glutinous rice (which gives the dessert a satisfying, slightly chewy texture), creamy coconut milk, and gula meleka for a sweet, nutty fragrance, this sweet dish is sure to please your inner sweet tooth. Get your fix from Lit Lit Sin Cold & Hot Desserts, where dessert prices range between $1.20 to $2.30 – a value for money for sure!

Alternatively, you could head to National Kitchen by Violet Oon for a fancier rendition of the popular Nyonya dessert, this time topped with a generous dollop of coconut ice cream ($12). If this isn’t the best way to #treatyoself, I don’t know what is!

Find Lit Lit Sin Cold & Hot Desserts at 928 Yishun Central 1, #01-157, 760928
Find National Kitchen by Violet Oon at 1 St Andrews Road, #02-01, 178957
Book a table at National Kitchen by Violet Oon and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Tags Cheap, Cheap and Good, Dessert, Guides, Pocket-friendly, Save, Splurge

Features Restaurants

Killer Sunsets & Delightful Libations @ Aqua Luna

Post author By Rebekah Lee
Post date May 30, 2017
No Comments on Killer Sunsets & Delightful Libations @ Aqua Luna

If you’ve read the previous feature on The Carvery, you’d know just how obsessed we are with the amazing views this boutique hotel offers. Aqua Luna is a gorgeous bar that’s perched right on the edge of the 7th floor of Park Hotel Alexandra, and is essentially encased in a glass dome of sorts. Think full-length windows that give you spectacular panoramic views of the Southern Ridges in all their glory.

Their infinity pool has a swim up bar, so you can order yourself a couple of tipples and watch the setting sun streak the sky with the pink blush of a Singapore Sling; it’s a welcome respite from concrete pavements and towering skyscrapers of downtown Singapore (actually only mere 15 minutes away).

The in-house bar team whipped up three delish cocktails for our drinking pleasure, and first up was their Sour Plum Mojito!

Fresh mint leaves and sour plum powder are first crushed together for a real kick of sour-plummy goodness.

Now for the stuff that makes a mojito great – rum! And topped off with ginger ale instead of the standard lime juice for a zesty kick.

The drink is then garnished with more sour plums, a fresh sprig of mint, and a lime wedge, and there we have it: a perfect, refreshing mojito. Perfect for Singapore’s summer heat, and waaaaay better than all the sour plum shots we used to down at Zouk in our youth (minus the nasty hangover!)

Here are two others that you absolutely CANNOT miss: the Hot Melons cocktail and Alexandra Sunset. The Hot Melons is made with sugar, spice and everything nice – the sweetness of fresh watermelon goes perfectly well with chili padi, Myers’ dark rum, and citrusy soursop sorbet… I know it sounds strange, but just try it – it’s a drink guaranteed to get the party started!

The Alexandra Sunset is my personal favourite. -The splash of flamed rosemary-infused Grand-Marnier is zesty and slightly smoky, and goes perfectly with fresh lime, lemon, and pineapple juices and cherry liqueur. The addition of both white and dark rum gives this tropical drink a pleasant, vanilla-caramel undertone. It’s the perfect drink to enjoy by twilight!

Is a bar experience truly complete without tasty bar grub? Aqua Luna has a different take on the standard truffle fries – they serve Truffle Polenta Fries instead! These parmesan-coated goodies are served alongside house-made truffle mayonnaise (made with real truffles, no less!) for an earthy, yet intensely satisfying flavour.

The Chorizo and Onion Flatbread pizza is crisp yet chewy and comes straight out of their wood-fired Beech oven. Their Mini Beef Burgers are also the perfect thing to munch on if you’re craving something more substantial – they’re served juicy and perfectly medium-rare on a toasted sesame bun. YUM.

Here’s some great news – Aqua Luna offers a Toasts To Indulgence party package for groups of 10 or more: unlimited house pours for 2.5 hours accompanied by a delicious medley of gourmet bar bites such as Tiger Prawns & Pesto Pizza, Smoked Wedges and Chicken Wings for $40++ per guest! So grab a couple of friends (or colleagues after a long work day) and indulge in great food, good booze, and a killer view.

Find it at 323 Alexandra Road, Level 7, Park Hotel Alexandra, 159972
Book a table at Aqua Luna and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Tags Cocktails, Drinks, Feature, Good View, Sponsored

Destination Hong Kong

TEA-se Me with the Ultimate Springtime Indulgence: Hong Kong’s Best Afternoon Teas

Post author By Benedict @ Chope
Post date May 29, 2017
No Comments on TEA-se Me with the Ultimate Springtime Indulgence: Hong Kong’s Best Afternoon Teas

Ladies, did you know that the origins of afternoon tea harkens back to Anna Russell, the 7th Duchess of Bedford? Back in those days, the Duchess was only served two meals each day—once in the morning for breakfast, and once in the evening for dinner. Overcome by never-ending hunger pangs, Anna decided to schedule a time each afternoon for a quick repast. Thus the afternoon tea was born, which rose to popularity first in London’s top hotels and was gradually embraced by Britain’s outposts worldwide.

Now you can enjoy this popular British pastime at an eclectic array of Hong Kong’s restaurants, from the posh digs of Clipper Lounge to the Nordic-inspired afternoon tea at FINDS. Pinkies at the ready? Let’s go!

Urban Park: Best for Laid Back Elegance

Urban Park’s Butterfly Blossom Afternoon Tea hands-down wins the prize for the afternoon tea with the best presentation. Priced at just HKD $239 per head, Urban Park’s set features sweet and savouries (think creamy Butterfly Cakes with Lemon Buttercream and Petite Prawn Cocktails). Presented in an adorable silver two-tiered birdcage garnishes with fresh flowers—nice touch eh?—Urban Park’s Butterfly Blossom Afternoon Tea Set is a sure flyaway winner. That British pomp and ceremony (tsk tsk The Peninsula), just isn’t present at Urban Park, but it’s still a glam spot where staff are polished and no ask is too tall. You know what’s the best thing? Refills come gratis.

Savvy Chope Tip: Check out Urban Park (TST)’s al fresco patio for some laid-back elegance

Urban Park (TST)
Monday through Friday
3:00pm – 5:30pm
HKD $239 for two

Find it at 4/F, 20-22 Granville Rd., Tsim Sha Tsui
Book a table at Urban Park (TST) and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

Urban Park (Central)
Monday through Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and Public Holidays
3:00pm – 5:30pm
HKD $299 for two

Find it at Shop 3-5, Nan Fung Place, 173 Des Voeux Rd., Central
Book a table at Urban Park (Central) and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

The Lounge & Bar: Best for Views

Three. Two. One. Yep, there has to be three reasons why The Ritz-Carlton’s The Lounge & Bar is a must-go in our book. Firstly, talk about the view! Indulge yourself with a lavish and bountiful feast 420 meters above sea level with panoramic views of Victoria Harbour. You’ll see fab views of the Island, and on a clear day, Devil’s and Kowloon Peak. Second, the ambiance is unparalleled. A grand piano merrily plays Vivaldi’s The Four Seasons; it’s a classy retreat for those looking for a little pomp and indulgence. Finally, the high tea itself packs a serious punch. Savoury items—Ham & Cheese Brioche, Cheese Tart—are a combination of rich and intense flavours. Located just below Ozone, The Ritz-Carlton’s The Lounge & Bar packs a serious punch when it comes to a cosy pot of tea and some finger sandwiches—an excellent place to ‘Lounge’ and relax.

Monday to Thursday
3:00 pm – 6:00 pm
HKD $388 for one/HKD $638 for two

Friday
2:15 pm – 4:00 pm (1st seating)
4:30 pm – 6:30 pm (2nd seating)
HKD $408 for one/HKD $678 for two

Saturday, Sunday, and Public Holidays
12:01 pm – 2:00 pm (1st seating)
2:15 pm – 4:15 pm (2nd seating)
4:30 pm – 6:30 pm (3rd seating)
HKD $408 for one/HKD $678 for two

Find it at Level 102, International Commerce Centre, 1 Austin Rd. W., Kowloon
Book a table at The Lounge & Bar and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

Clipper Lounge: Traditional Opulence

Mover or shaker? Clipper Lounge has historically been the rendezvous of choice for Hong Kong’s ‘it’ crowd. Here you’ll see the real jam: an eclectic mix of bankers hawking their pitchbooks, doting ‘ladies who lunch’, and the odd traveler or two. Expect legendary white-glove service and delicious British-inspired classics including Plain and Raisin Scones with clotted cream served with the Mandarin Oriental’s infamous rose petal jam on top. Be sure to smother that jam on literally every morsel, ‘cause it’s that good. Trust us. Post-indulgence, imbibe from their extensive tea menu, offering the highest quality of teas. If you’re a bit more of a health nut, then don’t miss out on their freshly pressed watermelon juice.

Mondays through Fridays
3:30 pm – 5:30 pm
HKD $298 for one

Saturdays and Public Holidays
2:00 pm – 4:00 pm
HKD $318 for one

Sundays
3:30 pm – 6:00 pm
HKD $318 for one

Find it at M/F, Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong, 5 Connaught Rd., Central
Book a table at Clipper Lounge and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

Above & Beyond: Asian Afternoon Tea

There’s more to the eye at Above & Beyond. Sure, the breathtaking views of Victoria Harbour 28 stories up are truly postcard-worthy. But what sets them ‘above & beyond’ amongst the inundation of afternoon tea choices in HK, has to be—cue the drumroll—dim sum. Yup! Sweet and savoury Cantonese plates are all present here: Sweetened Almond Cream with Lotus Seeds and Lily Bulbs, Pork Dumpling with Halibut and Black Mushroom, and Mushroom Dumpling with Pumpkin. Yum. So what’s better than dim sum? Desserts of course. Above & Beyond’s dessert selections are a bit of French-Asian fusion. Savour the Chilled Jelly with Lychee and Osmanthus (the lychee flavours are deliciously concentrated) as well as the Chestnut Crème Brûlée: a perfect dénouement, with its crunchy and custardy flavours melded to a buttery puff pastry base. Soar to new heights beyond our day-to-day afternoon tea haunts.

Saturday, Sunday, and Public Holidays
3:15 pm – 5:30 pm
HKD $438 for two

Find it at 28/F, Hotel ICON, 17 Science Museum Rd., Tsim Sha Tsui East
Book a table at Above & Beyond and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

The Lobby: Heritage Tea

The Lobby, located at the entrance of Hong Kong’s fabled hotel, The Peninsula, offers a wide litany of options to choose from all day, any day. But it’s the Afternoon Tea that’s a ‘must-do’ for any Honker. Long heralded as THE ‘it’ spot for locals and visitors to enjoy classic afternoon tea, The Lobby dishes out Hong Kong’s quintessentials varieties: Darjeeling, Earl Grey, Peninsula Afternoon, and Peninsula Breakfast are yours for the choosing. With a beautifully laid out table, and a live chamber orchestra playing everything from Beethoven’s 5th Symphony to Colors of the Wind from Pocahontas, what’s not to love at The Lobby?

Daily
2:00 pm – 6:00 pm (First-come, first-served basis)
HKD $368 for one/ HKD $658 for two

Find it at The Peninsula Hong Kong, Salisbury Rd., Tsim Sha Tsui
Click here for more info on The Lobby

FINDS: Tea with a Nordic Twist

FIND yourself Finnish delights at FINDS’ Finland Afternoon Tea Set. With selected savouries such as Smoked Trout Roe Treat—light and satisfying with their crunchy smoked roe—as well as Air Dried Beef on Malt Bread (lean and tender beef, while the aged malt bread is intense), you’ll feel like you’ve just been whisked back to Helsinki in no time. FINish the meal off with some decadent sweets on offer: Baked Lapland Cheese with Cloudberry Sauce, Lingonberry Tart, and Milk Chocolate Mousse & Sea Buckthorn Berry Cone are all winners in our book. But, the ‘must-eat’ or daresay, ‘must-drink’ has to be the 62% Dark Hot Chocolate. It’s rich and perfectly paired with FINDS’ in-house Tea Forte’s Organic Tea Selection. Find a winning Finnish combination at FINDS.

Daily
2:00 pm – 6:00 pm
HKD $356 for two

Find it at 1/F, The Luxe Manor, 39 Kimberley Rd., Tsim Sha Tsui
Book a table at FINDS and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

Tags Afternoon Tea, Breakfast, Breakfast and Brunch, Brunch, Cocktails, Dessert, Dinner, Drinks, Good View, Guides, High Tea, Lunch

Features Restaurants

The Ultimate Sunday Indulgence with Raffles Grill’s Semi-Buffet Brunch

Post author By Rebekah Lee
Post date May 26, 2017
No Comments on The Ultimate Sunday Indulgence with Raffles Grill’s Semi-Buffet Brunch

Raffles Grill is the perfect place for an indulgent, boozy Sunday brunch. Step into the grand colonial-style building bursting with old-school charm and prepare to be wowed by their wide array of delectable delights. Pairing them with the finest champagne and having them served to you discreetly via their world-class tableside service makes them taste even better, trust us! In fact, we even got to stuff ourselves silly with everyone’s favourite radio DJ!

On the 21st of May, the spunky, spirited, multi-talented foodie Rosalyn Lee (more affectionately known as “Rozz”) hosted her very first #RozzEats session of the year in collaboration with Chope, where she chose five lucky winners (and their even luckier plus-ones) to join her for a Sunday brunch that was nothing short of amazing – her words, not ours! We happily joined their little party (lucky us!) and got to experience indulgence at its best at Raffles Grill.

First up was this delicious trio: Haddock Cream Tartlet & Salmon Roe, ‘Joselito’ Iberico Ham, and Alaskan Crab Tacos with Potato Chips, Avocado, and Coriander – a wonderful way to start off the meal! The prized Joselito Iberico Ham was smooth upon the first bite and is mellow in flavour with a hint of ‘umami’, unlike other cured meats that tend to lean towards the saltier side. You’d be doing yourself a grave disservice if you pass this one up.

Prefer getting your hands on some seafood first? The Seared Scallops are phenomenal. These fat and juicy scallops are seared gently for a soft char while remaining succulent on the inside, and the cubed ham provides a solid contrast in texture as well as flavour. Finally, the savoury sage jus and celery puree add a nice touch of herbal essence to round off the dish.

Truly a step up from everything else, the Pan Seared Foie Gras with Green Pea and Morel Mushroom and a Yellow Wine Emulsion is the ultimate indulgence on a plate! The Pan-Seared Foie Gras is buttery and rich, and nicely balanced by the fresh green peas and mellow Morel mushrooms. The creaminess of the goose liver is also enhanced by the smooth yellow wine emulsion for a beautiful finish.

We were also served a mouthwatering slice of Mediterranean Sea Bass that’s gently pan-seared, served atop a warm bed of lemon orzo, and drizzled with sauce vierge. Simple, straightforward, and oh so satisfying!

Next up we tucked into some delightfully fresh seafood and got to choose from THREE types of oysters: Irish, Tsarskaya, and Fine de Claire Oysters, all overflowing with fresh, briny goodness; and best savoured with a squirt of lemon and a drizzle of mignonette. Need more to satisfy your seafood cravings? Dig into juicy and succulent Tiger Prawns and Maine Lobster, flown in from Canada, boiled and served fresh at the station! For an upscale touch, go for the Scottish Smoked Salmon with Kristal Caviar and a side of Blinis. YUM.

Meat lovers rejoice, for there is also a Live Carving Station! Don’t miss the Omaha Beef Tenderloin, where beautifully tender cuts are served with a side of savoury Bordelaise sauce and mint jelly. Equally as stunning is the US Prime Côte de Bœuf that’s grilled to perfection (pro tip: try it with the shallot confit and potato mousseline), and the Welsh Lamb Saddle that does not disappoint with its mellow flavours and drizzle of thyme jus. Don’t forget the tart Ratatouille or Broccolini for some superb sides!

There’s also a wide range of cheese options with different flavours, textures, and smells – with offerings like Camembert, pungent blue cheese, the gentle St. Felicien, and the spicy Epoisses de Bourgogne it’ll be like you’ve stepped into a cheesy heaven! Sample any cheese you fancy, accompanied by crackers, grapes, dried fruit, and more.

To end the meal, an array of sweet delights are prepared that’ll tickle your fancy: Salted Caramel Mille-Feuille, Raspberry Rose Saint Honore, Cherry Pistachio Streusel, Chocolate Cremeux with Crunchy Praline, and our personal favourite, Bread and Butter Pudding with Vanilla Sauce. One of the signatures of Raffles Grill, the bread and butter pudding is a warm and sweet delight that will have you relishing every last mouthful! We left stuffed, satisfied, and vowing to return.

Photo credits: @heyrozz

Find it at 1 Beach Road, Raffles Hotel, 189673
Make a reservation at Raffles Grill and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Tags Breakfast and Brunch, Brunch, Buffet, Feature, Seafood

Features Restaurants

Sunday Folks – Savour Some Spring Specials!

Post author By Averlynn Lim
Post date May 26, 2017
No Comments on Sunday Folks – Savour Some Spring Specials!

Since its opening in 2014, Sunday Folks has taken the ice-cream-and-waffles trend by storm, serving up plate after plate of their signature waffles and silky smooth ice cream to hordes of hungry, sweet-toothed customers.

And if you’re wondering why the waffles at Sunday Folks taste similar to the ones sold at Creamier, then you won’t be surprised to learn they’re sister companies! Co-founded by Executive Chef Audrey Wang, both brands have garnered accolades for serving up quality, handcrafted desserts and premium ice cream.

Of the many flavours of ice cream sold at Sunday Folks, the two best-sellers are the Sea Salt Gula Melaka and Earl Grey Lavender. All the ice cream here is made from scratch in their on-site kitchen, using premium imported ingredients such as Italian pistachio and hazelnut pastes, and pure fruit purees. During service, the ice cream mixes are constantly topped up into their non-pressurized gravity feed churners to produce a freshly churned confection that is rich and almost dense, but not icy. With such pride and love going into every plate served, their award for Best Dessert in Chope’s Diners’ Choice Awards 2016 was 100% warranted!

Here’s something to celebrate this spring! Until 12 June 2017, Sunday Folks will be dishing up their spring menu, inspired by the magical season of growth and renewal.

Fresh from the testing kitchen is the Spring Medley, a beautifully plated dessert featuring their limited edition Adzuki ice cream gateaux crowned with a dollop of Kuromitsu sago, paired with a globe of Hazelnut Milk Chocolate ice cream, warm black sesame financier, orange marmalade, and coconut milk foam. Garnished with Matcha soil, edible red amaranth leaves, pea tendrils, and Kogiku flower petals, it’s a true feast for the eyes and taste buds!

Moving on to the chocolates! Sunday Folks offers more than just the humdrum chocolate bars. Their chocolate bar slabs are all handmade and enrobe a wonderful range of goodies such as rose marshmallows, burnt butter Viennese cookies, roasted hazelnuts, and passionfruit apricot pâte de fruit! YUM.

Choose from a trio of chocolate slabs (left to right):

35% Azelia Hazelnut Milk Chocolate with Passionfruit Apricot Pâte de Fruit & Roasted Hazelnuts
65% Haïti Dark Chocolate with Orange Peel & Burnt Butter Viennese Cookie
34% Zephyr White Chocolate with Rose Marshmallow & Raspberries

Coffee-holics will not want to miss this their new Tiramisu Trifle. Think freshly churned Hazelnut Milk Chocolate ice cream layered with round ladyfingers sponge, mascarpone cream, and drizzled with espresso caramel sauce. To finish, the whole glorious cup is sprinkled with forked coffee jelly made from Liberty Roasters’ Speakeasy blend and THEN crowned with their Haïti Dark Chocolate slab, cocoa nibs, and dusting powder… oh my. Pssst! If you’re feeling fun, request for a shot of Bailey’s Irish Cream on the side!

Make an ordinary day extra-ordinary by dropping by Sunday Folks for a refreshing treat of handcrafted, artisanal desserts. Your taste buds will thank you!

Find it at 44 Jalan Merah Saga, Chip Bee Gardens, #01-52, 278116

Book a table at Sunday Folks and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Tags Bars, Coffee, Dessert, Feature

Destination Singapore

Sun-Soaked Sentosa’s Best Beach Bars, Cafes and Restaurants

Post author By Rebekah Lee
Post date May 23, 2017
No Comments on Sun-Soaked Sentosa’s Best Beach Bars, Cafes and Restaurants

Singapore doesn’t have many beaches for you to lounge around on despite being a sunny tropical island. However, if you’re determined to soak up the sun and waves without hopping on a plane, here’s a quick rundown of Singapore’s best beaches – plus the best restaurants and cafes to chill out in!

Tanjong Beach

Tanjong beach is the ultimate dog lovers’ paradise – it’s the place people usually take their dogs for a swim and a stroll (except the adorable pups are usually too excited to just stroll at a leisurely pace), so be prepared to have the time of your life! Bring your fur children along and grab a snack along with a cocktail at Tanjong Beach Club while soaking up some sun rays on lounge beds on soft white sand. Sit back and relax with some Cider Battered Fish & Chips ($28) with a side of fragrant Truffle Fries ($10), and a cold Piña Colada ($23) in hand and feel all the stress and tension of the outside world melt away. Remember to slap on some sunscreen!

Find Tanjong Beach Club at 120 Tanjong Beach Walk, Sentosa, 098942
Book a table at Tanjong Beach Club and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Palawan Beach

Palawan is Singapore’s child friendly beach, full of activities to keep children occupied for an entire day (or until they exhaust themselves from playing and swimming). Stroll across the suspension bridge to the little Palawan Island (which is also where Asia is closest to the Equator!), and on the other side you’ll be rewarded with a viewing platform that gives you a bird’s eye view of Sentosa. Grab a seat at FOC Sentosa for delish Spanish fare – there’s even a pool by the bar! Imagine goggling at a breathtaking pink and purple-hued sunset while sipping on a glass of FOC Red Sangria ($16) and digging into a Squid Ink Paella ($40 for 2) – talk about perfection!

Find FOC Sentosa at 110 Tanjong Beach Walk, Singapore 098943
Book a table at FOC Sentosa and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Siloso Beach

Siloso Beach is truly where the action’s at – this is definitely the place for you if you’re someone who likes to party, or if you’re the type of person who’s constantly on the move! You can surf a man-made wave at Wave House and chow down on their 1-Foot Garlic Baguette ($5.50) or the all time favourite ‘Wipe Out’ Pizza (topped with beef pepperoni, smoked chicken, chicken bratwurst, mushrooms, capsicum, pineapple and olives – $17.80) if you’re feeling peckish, or head over to Bikini Bar for a ice cold glass of Bintang beer!

If you’d prefer to just chill out, there’s something here for you too: Coastes offers a casual, laid-back beachy vibe where the sunbeds and deck chairs are placed right to the water’s edge. So sit back and relax with a good book, and dig into their delish Big Bad Wolf Pizza (bacon, roast chicken, capsicun, mushrooms – $25) or the flaky beer-battered Coastes Fish Burger ($20). You can also sprawl out at one of Ola Beach Club’s many sundeck chairs for some Hawaiian goodies – like their Kalua Pig Taco ($25) and Lomi Lomi Salmon ($16). Craving some Indian food? Kurry Korner’s got you covered with their hearty Chicken Tikka Masala & Butter Chicken ($17.60 each) that you can wash down with a refreshing glass of Mango Lassi ($6.60).

Find Wave House at 36 Siloso Beach Walk, Sentosa, 099007
Book a table at Wave House and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Find Bikini Bar at 50 Siloso Beach Walk, #01-01, 099000
Click here for more info on Bikini Bar

Find Coastes at 50 Siloso Beach Walk, #01-06, 099000
Book a table at Coastes and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Find Ola Beach Club at 46 Siloso Beach Walk, 099005
Book a table at Ola Beach Club and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Find Kurry Korner at 50 Siloso Beach Walk, Sentosa, 099000
Click here for more info on Kurry Korner

Quayside Isle @ Sentosa Cove

Drive a little further down to the luxurious Sentosa Coast Marina for a breezy row of restaurants and cafes reminiscent of Croatia’s Splitska Riva (only my favourite place in the entire universe) where you can settle down with a tall iced latte and almost teleport from the hustle and bustle of Singapore’s dizzying city lights to the jewel toned Adriatic seafront in a matter of seconds.

Visit Sabio By The Sea for great tapas – the El Pulpo (grilled octopus leg, $24) and Vieiras en Salsa de Cava (sea scallops with white wine sauce, $22) are seriously top notch; or Miska Cafe for yummy Falafel ($19) or Shakshouka ($20) – you can’t go wrong with Mediterranean fare! There’s also Greenwood Fish Market if you’re feelin’ seafood – the Cold Seafood Platter ($99) consists of a steamed ½ Boston lobster, marinated Yellowfin tuna, freshly shucked oysters, New Zealand green lip mussels, littleneck clams, tiger prawns, and in-house apple wood cold smoked salmon, and is great for sharing!

Fancy some chewy New York style breakfast bagels? Get The Central Park sandwich ($14) stuffed with spring onion cream cheese, lox, and a smattering of capers from Schmear – perfect anytime of the day. If pizza’s your thing, BIG FAT MAMA’s One Metre Pizzas are bound to satisfy!

There’s truly something for everyone here – so fret not if you can’t jet off for a beach holiday anytime soon; just head down to Sentosa and let the golden sun and salty air whisk you away to paradise.

Find Sabio By The Sea at 31 Ocean Way #01-02, Quayside Isle, Sentosa Cove, 098375
Book a table at Sabio By The Sea and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Find Miska Cafe at 31 Ocean Way, #01-07, Quayside Isle, Sentosa Cove, 098375
Book a table at Miska Cafe and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Find Greenwood Fish Market at 31 Ocean Way, #01-04/05, Quayside Isle, Sentosa Cove, 098375
Book a table at Greenwood Fish Market and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Find Schmear at 31 Ocean Way, #01-03, Quayside Isle, Sentosa Cove, 098275
Book a table at Schmear and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Find BIG FAT MAMA at 31 Ocean Way, #01-06 Quayside Isle, 098373
Click here for more info on BIG FAT MAMA

Tags Bars, Breakfast, Breakfast and Brunch, Brunch, Cafe, Cocktails, Coffee, Good View, Guides

Features Restaurants

SIN-ful-LEE Indulgent Meals @ Sin Lee Foods!

Post author By Chope
Post date May 22, 2017
No Comments on SIN-ful-LEE Indulgent Meals @ Sin Lee Foods!

‘WE DO NOT SERVE AND WILL NOT SERVE LAME EGGS BENEDICTS WHATSOEVER, SO TAKE A LEAP OF FAITH AND HAVE A GO AT OUR FOOD & BEVERAGES,’ proclaims the menu of Sin Lee Foods. It’s cheeky and unabashed—an attitude that translates into some downright delicious cooking. We can attest that the aforementioned leap of faith will definitely pay off should you take it.

Sin Lee Foods is hardly an unfamiliar name to any seasoned café-hopper. When they first opened their shutters, the Bukit Ho Swee hangout made a name for itself by modernizing an old-school spot – they even preserved the original signboard! Boasting a retro logo, bold cuisine, and an Instagram-worthy space, they became instantly recognizable.

Recently, in the spirit of reinvention, they’ve launched a new menu and we just can’t get enough of it. One standout is the Beef Bulgogi, Mantou & Cinema Cheese ($23), which features tender chunks of meat, crunchy crackers, pillowy mantou—and the best part: flowy cinema-style cheese oozing over the bulgogi that’ll bring back youthful memories of sneaking steaming bites of nachos in the movie theater! And boy, has our childhood indulgence grown up.

Think Duck and Duck ($26) sounds simple? Think again. It’s smoked and roasted Japanese duck, paired with melt-in-your-mouth foie gras caramelized in a pan, served with accoutrements like steamed rice, housemade sesame sauce, and a runny fried egg. Deceptively simple, but ultimately delicious indeed!

Other notable dishes like Beef & Grains ($25) are equally luxurious: you’ll enjoy a solid 180 grams of deliciously marbled striploin served over wet orzo ‘rice’, a runny egg, ginger, and furikake & scallions for that extra umami touch. It’s undoubtedly creative fusion dishes like this that have kept us hooked and coming back for more.

Their weekday special menu is also a can’t-miss. Fast food chains got nothin’ on their burgers—Sin Lee hopped right onto the salted egg yolk bandwagon with this stunner of a dish. Whole chicken thigh, fried to crisp perfection, is slathered with creamy, umami salted egg sauce and served on a bun. The second burger offering will make you salivate too: tender catfish fillet, breaded and fried, then topped with mentaiko cream sauce and ebiko roe that positively pops in your mouth. It’s an ambitious blend of Southern cuisine and Japanese-influenced cooking, dished up in a single explosive fusion.

Calrose Rice Bowls are yet another addition to tantalise your tastebuds. With an inventive range of toppings from Salmon & Tuna Wasabi Poke to Korean Rubbed Chicken Thigh, these new bowls are a steal for under $15 each.

But don’t fret, their crowd favourites are still around. Since its inception, Sin Lee’s Aburi Broccoli Salad ($13) has occupied a place in our hearts, and thankfully we can still indulge. Smoky torched broccoli florets drizzled with white balsamic, papadum, and red sugar may sound funky, but it’s a truly genius combination. Who said vegetables couldn’t be addictive?

And don’t forget the Fried Chicken & Waffles ($21.90) that catapulted them to foodie fame: marinated in har jiong and drizzled with melted maple butter and sesame gomae slaw, this fried chicken comes tenderly nestled upon crisp waffles straight from the iron cast.

Pair it with a Swedish craft cider ($15) or an adventurous Banana Horlicks Smoothie ($9), and you got yourself some good ol’ comfort vibes. See you there!

Find it at Blk 4 Jalan Bukit Ho Swee, #01-164, 162004
Book a table at Sin Lee Foods and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Tags Feature, High Tea, Japanese, Sponsored

Destination Hong Kong

7 Places to Flock to this Spring for EVERY Occasion

Post author By Benedict @ Chope
Post date May 18, 2017
No Comments on 7 Places to Flock to this Spring for EVERY Occasion

Hallelujah! Shed those tough winter layers (‘Au Revoir’ Canada Goose!) and spring into the season with seven things to try out this May! Whether you’re looking for a relaxed afternoon tea for two or a delish dish from the heart of France, these seven culinary offerings pack a mighty punch.

Uma Nota

Say ‘ola’ to Sao Paolo in SoHo. First there was TokyoLima, then Djapa. Next up: Uma Nota. It’s Hong Kong’s latest Brazilian-Japanese derivative in town, serving up the hottest (and hippest) Nipo-Brasileiro street food and cocktails. Chef Dagoberto Torres (he apprenticed under D.O.M.’s Alex Atlas) dishes up a delectable Brazilian-inspired menu with the streets of Sao Paolo in mind. With signatures like Red Snapper, and Prawn and Calamari Ceviche with Aji Amarillo and Coriander, you’re bound to be surprised and delighted by the plentiful dishes on offer. We’re personally digging the Crackling Pork Belly with Spicy Tonkatsu Sauce. Satiating. Satisfying. DELISH.

Savvy Chope Tip: Art buff? Check out the impressive mural art adorning Uma Nota’s walls post-meal

Find it at 38 Peel St., Central
Click here for more info on Uma Nota

Café 103

Pop on over to this breezy Kowloon nest perched 100 stories above sky at the grand dame of hotels in Hong Kong, The Ritz-Carlton. Soaring windows and beautiful onyx tables envelop the restaurant with natural light and a sense of airiness. If Uma Nota wasn’t enough Japanese flair for you, Café 103 showcases the full blossom of cherry themed Sakura Afternoon Tea. A culinary concoction of guest pastry chef Hideaki Tanaka from The Ritz-Carlton Tokyo, this luxe afternoon tea incorporates the Japanese national flower in almost all of their sweet and savoury treats. Sweeten the deal by washing down your savoury treats with some Sakura-infused tea, and of course keep your eyes peeled for the Green Tea Sakura Strawberry Cake and the Soy Milk Panna Cotta with Sakura Jelly. Sneak in some poolside lounging or world-class shopping, before your flight —it’s all just a jump away in Ritz-y Elements and the nearby Airport Express Station.

The Sakura Afternoon Tea Set is available daily from 3:30pm – 4:30pm and costs HKD $378 for one or HKD $638 for two on weekdays, and HKD $398 for one or HKD $658 for two on weekends and public holidays.

Find it at Level 103, International Commerce Centre, 1 Austin Rd. W., Kowloon
Book a table at Café 103 and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

Le Pan

Kowloon Bay? I know. This Kowloon hotspot is a bit far away, but completely worth it to get up close and personal with French cuisine. Spacious, all white interiors, four large private rooms with patios, and an elegant Chef’s Table within the kitchen. Intimidated? Don’t be. Headed by Singaporean chef Edward Voon (yes, that Edward Voon—the Rising Chef of the Year!), this culinary hotspot serves sizzling signatures such as sumptuous Shrimp Crisps, and whimsical amuse-guele! Seafood is a sure specialty here—don’t miss out on the duo of Hokkaido Scallop and the Squid Tortellini. We can’t think of a better place to dive into the wondrous seafood than in Kowloon Bay!

Find it at G/F, Goldin Financial Global Centre, 17 Kai Cheung Rd., Kowloon Bay
Click here for more info on Le Pan

The Mirage’s Exquisite Provence-Inspired Dishes

Be whisked away to rural France with The Mirage’s Provence-inspired Champagne-Ardene set menu. Start the meal off with the classic and delectable Boudin Blanc—matching perfecto with the candied apple purée, heirloom carrots, and crushed ratte potatoes. Paired with The Mirage’s monthly specialties (think Pan-Roasted Duck Liver with a hint of Champagne Gel and Drunken Grapes, which balances the richness of the foie gras), it’s a sure winner worth washing down with a glass of Champagne Deutz s’il vous plaît.

The set menu is available from 1 – 31 May 2017 from 6:00pm to 10:30pm, and priced at HKD $448 per person.

Find it at 1/F, Renaissance Harbour View Hotel, 1 Harbour Rd., Wan Chai
Book a table at The Mirage and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

Café Renaissance’s Champagne-Ardene Dinner Buffet

Oh là là. The hippest of Honker’s buffet galore, Café Renaissance’s Champagne-Ardene dinner buffet is a must-try in our book. We love the special showcase of French-inspired dishes such as the Pork Ham from Reims—a juicy marbled piece of meat that can be enjoyed alone as a quick snack or with a salad. Ease into your meal with the other specialty: The Patée. It’s a French stew of various succulent sausages and delish veggies. End on a sweet note by titillating and tantalizing your taste buds with a dénouement—Grapes Tart with Almond Cream. Light and refreshing, this dish is composed of grapes, apricot gel, pistachio, and almond cream enveloped over a crunchy tart. Creamy. Rich. Delicious.

Find it at Mezzanine Floor, 1 Harbour Rd., Wan Chai
Book a table at Café Renaissance and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

Dynasty’s Champagne Pairing

What’s better than a sip of bubbly to elevate Cantonese dining to the next level at Dynasty? Discover the deliciously crafted 7-course menu paired with a bottle of N.V. Drappier Blanc de Blancs Signature Brut Champagne at Dynasty this spring. Savour Dynasty classics including Steamed Sliced Garoupa with Bean Curd in X.O. Chili Sauce or the delicious Baked Crab Shell Stuffed with Crab Meats and Onions. Our fan favourite, however, is Deep Fried Lobster Homemade Sauce and Deep Fried Bun—enveloped with sumptuous coconut milk, this jet-fresh dish matches perfectly with the lightly fried lobster. A true Cantonese delight!

Dynasty Champagne Pairing Duet available from now to 30 June 2017, priced at HKD $980 per person.

Find it at Renaissance Harbour View Hotel, 1 Harbour Rd., Wan Chai
Book a table at Dynasty and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

Employees Only

Resto pop-ups are all the rage these days. Singapore’s über popular The Naked Finn is swimming its way to Hong Kong this Spring, so what’s next? Employees Only. But this New York speakeasy is jetting back to Hong Kong post pop-up. Headed by a group of industry friends including Dushan Zaric, Jason Kosmas, Bill Gilroy, and Igor Hadziasmajilovic, Employees Only is quite well-known in the Big Apple for cocktails—with a creative twist. Look for West Village sip easy libations (read: Floral Provencal, Hi-Octane Fix, and Grand Marnier and Bitters). Drink hard. Play hard.

Reportedly near Lan Kwai Fong
Click here for more info on Employees Only

Tags Buffet, Cafe, Cocktails, Coffee, Dessert, Dinner, Drinks, Good View, Guides, Japanese

Beijing Destination

Top Restaurants in Asian Cities – Part 2

Post author By Rebekah Lee
Post date May 16, 2017
No Comments on Top Restaurants in Asian Cities – Part 2

Here are 10 more restaurants for you to check out in these few most visited Asian cities!

Hanoi

Photo Credits: Duong’s Restaurant

Duong’s Restaurant

Tucked away in a small street in Hanoi, Duong’s Restaurant serves up authentic Vietnamese food and an experience you won’t soon forget, for the cosy restaurant also doubles as a cooking class venue! Don’t just savour deliciously fresh Spring Rolls and zingy Grilled Pork with Herbs & Fresh Vermicelli, but learn how to make it at home – this way, you can take delicious Vietnamese food with you no matter where you go.

Find it at 27 Ngõ Huyện, Hàng Trống, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội 100000, Vietnam
Click here for more info on Duong’s Restaurant

Photo Credits: Marvel Restaurant

Marvel Restaurant

Marvel Restaurant is perched on the 6th floor of Marvellous Hotel, which is conveniently located right in the heart of Hanoi’s buzzing Old Quarter. Escape the hustle and bustle of Hanoi to enjoy a hearty meal made up of fresh produce handpicked from Hanoi’s wet markets bright and early on a daily basis. Remember to give their Bun Cha (Vietnamese Pork Meatball and Noodle Salad) a try – it’s definitely something you won’t regret!

Find it at No.55 Đường Thành street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi, Vietnam
Click here for more info on Marvel Restaurant

Taipei

Photo credits: Ding Wang Hotpot

Ding Wang Hotpot

You shouldn’t leave Taipei without having steamboat, and this is the best place to get it – choose from either a fragrant, spicy broth filled with goodies like duck blood (don’t knock it till you’ve tried it!) and tofu or a chicken and sauerkraut-based broth (or both in a yin-yang pot!) – and order a plethora of various thinly sliced meats and vegetables for you to cook on the spot. It’s a place frequented by locals and tourists alike and there are usually snaking queues that extend out the door, so you know you’re in the right place!

Find it at 108, Taiwan, Taipei City, Wanhua District, 西寧南路62號2樓
Click here for more info on Ding Wang Hotpot

Photo credits: Addiction Aquatic Development

Addiction Aquatic Development

Addiction Aquatic Development is a newly renovated former fishmarket that now houses a live seafood area, standing sushi bar, florist, an al-fresco grill area, and a fine dining hotpot restaurant on the 2nd floor . You can also buy beautifully marbled wagyu beef steaks, snow crabs, and fresh slices of sashimi to eat to your heart’s content! It’s one of the best places in Taipei to get great Japanese cuisine at an affordable price, but be sure to head down early before the crowd comes in.

Find it at No. 18, Alley 2, Lane 410, Minzu East Road, Zhongshan District, Taipei City, Taiwan 10491
Click here for more info on Addiction Aquatic Development

Tokyo

Photo credits: Tapas Molecular Bar

Tapas Molecular Bar

This intimate bar only seats eight at a time, so you’ll have to make reservations at least a month in advance, but it’s well worth it. Come on down for an ever-changing inventive molecular gastronomy menu served in tapas-style portions, with a side of breathtaking views of the Tokyo skyline, and you’ve got yourself a night you won’t forget.

Find it at 2-1-1 Nihonbashi Muromachi, Chuo-ku, Tokyo, JP-13 103-8328, Japan
Click here for more info on Tapas Molecular Bar

Photo credits: Han no Daidokoro

Han no Daidokoro (韓の台所)

Dig into the finest cuts of Japanese Wagyu beef, grilled to perfection yakiniku style! Yonezawa beef is purchased and delivered straight to the restaurant from the Yamagata prefecture for deliciously tender, buttery cuts of meat that practically melt in your mouth. Get the Assorted Premium Beef Selection for 5,980¥ for the full experience!

Find it at Japan, 〒150-0043 Tokyo, Shibuya, Dogenzaka, 2−29−8 道玄坂センタービル
Click here for more info on Han no Daidokoro

Seoul

Photo credits: Tosokchon Samgyetang

Tosokchon Samgyetang

This is a must-visit when in Seoul – you really shouldn’t leave without having a hearty bowl of Ginseng Chicken Soup (Samgyetang), and this is the best place to get it. A whole chicken is served in a hot pot and stuffed with glutinous rice, chestnut, jujube, ginseng, red dates, and sunflower seeds, perfect for cold Korean winters or as a nourishing tonic any time of the year.

Find it at 5, Jahamun-ro 5-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul
Click here for more info on Tosokchon Samgyetang

Photo credits: Maple Tree House

Maple Tree House

Is there anything better than Korean BBQ? This popular restaurant is famous for serving up premium cuts of Korean Jeju Black Pork Belly – enjoy the tender, marbled meat as is, or marinated in their special fruit marinade. You can also find goodies like Maple Aged Bulgogi and Marinated Beef Short Ribs in this cosy joint. Be sure to make a reservation if you’re going around dinnertime or be prepared to queue!

Find it at 26 Itaewon-ro 27ga-gil, Itaewon-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Click here for more info on Maple Tree House

Beijing

Photo credits: Black Sesame Kitchen

Black Sesame Kitchen

This is THE place to be for a unique dining experience. Black Sesame Kitchen is well-known for their private cooking classes and intimate dining sessions that will without a doubt leave you with enough photos and memories to fill an entire Facebook album. A 10 course Wine and Dine lunch or dinner complete with two wine pairings for 300RMB/pax? Count me in!

Find it at 28 Zhong Lao Hutong, Dongcheng District, Beijing, China
Click here for more info on Black Sesame Kitchen

Photo credits: Hai Di Lao Hot Pot

Hai Di Lao Hot Pot

Hai Di Lao is the ultimate hot pot experience, made complete with impeccable service and the best ingredients they can possibly get their hands on. Their Ma La (directly translated to mean numbing and spicy, which is exactly what it is) paste is imported straight from Si Chuan, and is the ideal broth to cook perfectly marbled cuts of beef in. Be sure to order their special Prawn Paste as well, and make a reservation before you go!

Find it at 109 Xidan N St, XiDan, Xicheng Qu, Beijing Shi, China
Click here for more info on Haidilao Hot Pot

Tags Beijing, China, Dates, Dinner, Guides, Japan, Japanese, Lunch, Romantic, Seoul, South Korea, Taiwan, Tokyo, Vietnam

Events Videos

#takeyourmumout this Mother’s Day!

Post author By Rebekah Lee
Post date May 14, 2017
No Comments on #takeyourmumout this Mother’s Day!

How many times have we flopped down on the couch after a long day at work or school, whining about how tired we are, while waiting for our mums to whip up dinner? Now imagine having to prepare a meal for an entire family after a day of working your butt off… And I don’t know about you, but that sounds like straight up torture to me.

Chope is paying homage to all the incredible, sacrificial mums out there this Mother’s Day by getting three participants to put together something nice for their mum – and what better way to do so than with her guidance?

Here are the three adorable duos that joined us at CulinaryOn:

Kelly is a busy mum-slash-businesswoman – she’s the person in charge of Mellben Seafood (impressive, right?) Rachel…Well, she doesn’t cook at all. This is her first ever attempt, apart from the Home Economics classes she had to take in Secondary School, and it didn’t go as badly as anticipated (despite the slightly burnt garlic). Mum was proud either way – her daughter has skill!

Agnes is sassy and adorable, and says that her fitness-trainer son Moses cooks up a mean Oxtail Stew that turned her into a beef lover. It’s his very first time cooking beehoon, and he nailed it (7.5/10 despite it being slightly dry, says mummy) – not too shabby! She’s now looking forward to enjoying more of Moses’ cooking so she can finally sit back and relax.

Cindy is one of CulinaryOn’s fantastic sous chefs, and Brandon is the sweet boy who stole all our hearts. They both baked a fantastic dark chocolate cake doused in chocolate sauce, mini marshmallows, and sprinkles (with plans to eat it with vanilla ice cream afterwards, YUM), and this was Brandon’s very first time baking! Talk about pure talent – the gift of cooking certainly runs in the family.

The entire video was shot at CulinaryOn, a spacious culinary entertainment studio originating in Europe that promises a fun and exciting cooking experience – the perfect place for a birthday party for a bunch of foodies or a relaxed girls day out!

Classes are headed by professional Chefs that bring cooking to life with stories and entertaining activities, so you leave with more than just a myriad of new recipes and techniques in your repertoire; you’ll have fun-filled memories you won’t forget.

Remember to bring mummy dearest along for a memorable culinary experience!

Tags Breakfast, Chope, Dinner, Feature, Holiday, Lunch, Mother's Day, Video

Destination Hong Kong Shanghai Singapore

Top Restaurants in Asian Cities – Part 1

Post author By Rebekah Lee
Post date May 11, 2017
No Comments on Top Restaurants in Asian Cities – Part 1

Ready to take a trip to these hoppin’ Asian cities? If so, you don’t want to miss these top restaurants, ’cause eating local food the best part about traveling (in our humble opinion). If you’re unsure where to start, here are some of our top picks.

Singapore

New Ubin Seafood

There are two things Singaporeans love when it comes to food: (1) variety, and (2) a good value for money, so it should come as no surprise to you that New Ubin Seafood is one of Singapore’s most frequented restaurants! It’s the perfect place to bring a large group of friends with varied food preferences, for you’re bound to find something to satisfy even the choosiest of eaters. From deliciously fragrant Garlic Baked Crab & Bee Hoon to the hearty Chicken Masala, you’d be missing out if you pass this place up!

Find it at 63 Hillview Ave, Level 6 Canteen, Singapore (669569)
Book a table at New Ubin Seafood and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

Wild Honey

Wild Honey is the best place to unwind. It’s cosy, comforting, and serves up large portions of different types of breakfast foods from all over the world, all day long! The Greek breakfast consists an open-faced omelette baked with fragrant lamb moussaka, béchamel, Keflograviera cheese, shaved red onion, and fried Japanese eggplant with grilled flatbread – it’s a must try! If you prefer something sweet, The Brittany will hit all the right spots with its panettone french toast stacked with baby bananas, salted caramel mascarpone, toffee-ed hazelnuts, and salted caramel sauce. Drool…

Find it at 6 Scotts Road, #03-02, Scotts Square, 228209
Book a table at Wild Honey (Scotts Square) and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Find it at 333A Orchard Road, #03-01, Mandarin Gallery, 238867
Book a table at Wild Honey (Mandarin Gallery) and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Hong Kong

Ming Court

Two Michelin-starred contemporary Cantonese food with wine pairings? Count us in! Ming Court is located at the swanky Cordis Hotel in the heart of Mong Kok, and serves up spectacular Chinese cuisine. Give their famous Eight Treasure Soup a whirl (the eight treasures are Abalone, Fish Maw, Chicken, Shiitake Mushroom, Bamboo Pith, Black Tree Fungus, Dried Tangerine Peel, and Ginger), and their Honey Barbequed Supreme Pork Loin is to die for – it’s the perfect combination of sweet, salty, crispy, and juicy- just the way meat should be!

Find it at Level 6, Cordis Hotel, 555 Shanghai St., Mong Kok
Book a table at Ming Court and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

NOBU

We’ll spare you the formalities since almost everyone has heard of NOBU, but if you haven’t: it’s only the world’s most acclaimed innovative Japanese restaurant, no big deal really. You’ll find it worldwide: amidst twinkling Vegas lights, frequented by A-listers at WeHo, nestled on the picturesque Monte Carlo coast, and on the buzzing streets of Hong Kong, amongst many others. Stop by for a taste of Toro Tartar with Caviar and melt-in-your-mouth Black Cod Saikyo Yaki – we guarantee you’ll be back for seconds (or thirds)!

Find it at 2/F, InterContinental Hong Kong, 18 Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong
Book a table at NOBU and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

Bangkok

Cocotte Farm Roast & Winery

Cocotte Farm Roast & Winery is one of the best farm-to-table restaurants in Bangkok, dedicated to bringing you only the best and freshest produce that Thailand has to offer. Be sure to give their Cocotte signatures like The Farmer ‘Egg Cocotte’ a try: it consists of an organic duck egg cooked at 64 degrees, duck rillettes, and parmesan foam. If you’re craving something heartier, their tender Tomahawk Australian Wagyu is a succulent treat that you’ll be dreaming about for days!

Find it at G/F, 39 Boulevard, Sukhumvit Soi 39, Khlong Tan Nuea, Bangkok Thailand
Book a table at Cocotte Farm Roast & Winery and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Laemgate Infinite

Laemgate Infinite is one of Bangkok’s top à la carte seafood buffet restaurants, and for good reason. There’s always a wide array of fresh seafood straight from Chonburi available (we’re talking Oysters, Roasted Salt Shrimp and the like), alongside other lip-smacking dishes like Flavoured Grilled Pork and Som Tum with Pickled Crab. It’s also affordably priced and a 15 minute stroll from Chatuchak Market. I don’t know about you, but I was pretty much sold at “seafood buffet” – this sounds like heaven on Earth to me!

Find it at 2/F, 349 SJ Infinite One Business Complex, Vibhavadi Rungsit Road, Chatuchak, Bangkok Thailand
Book a table at Laemgate Infinite and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Phuket

Palm Seaside

Palm Seaside is a literal tropical paradise complete with ocean views, golden sunlight, palm trees swaying in the distance, comfy cushioned seats, and fresh catches from the Andaman Sea. Indulge in King Prawns with red curry paste, Linguini with Andaman Prawns or some Bouillabaisse – it’s the perfect place to do so!

Find it at 110/2 Moo 3 Bangtao Beach, Cherngtalay, Thalang, Phuket Thailand
Book a table at Palm Seaside and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

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Cut Grill & Lounge

Cut Grill & Lounge boasts succulent cuts of meat sourced directly from the Royal Projects Farm in Chiang Mai, so come here expecting high quality, locally sourced goodness! Dig into amazingly smoky Grilled Pork Ribs, creamy, fatty, Beef Tartar, and succulent Lamb Shank Confit – go ahead and treat yourself to the ultimate meat indulgence!

Find it at Soi4, Lagoon Road, Boat Avenue, Cherngtalay, Talang, Phuket 83110, Thailand
Book a table at Cut Grill & Lounge and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Bali

Sarong

Sarong is THE place to visit if you want to savour expertly prepared Asian dishes (mostly Indonesian, Thai, and Indian) in a beautifully intimate and cosy setting amongst luxurious dark wood furnishings reminiscent of a five-star Balinese resort. The food’s spicy and oh-so-good: their Signature Crispy Pork Belly with Sichuan chilli salt tamarillo & tamarind sauce is a crowd pleaser, and their Slow cooked Sri Lankan Lamb Curry is tender, hearty, comforting – everything you could possibly want in a curry dish.

Find it at Jalan Petitenget No. 19x, Bali 80361
Book a table at Sarong and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

MÉTIS

MÉTIS is well-known in Bali’s fine dining scene. It combines a classic fine dining concept with lush tropical beauty in an elegant establishment located in the heart of Seminyak, and provides an excellent interpretation of classic French dishes with a Mediterranean twist! Be sure to try their Pan Seared Organic Grass Fed Australian Beef Tenderloin served with tender braised oxtail, Bellota croquettes, and black truffle jus for a exquisite gastronomic experience unlike any other.

Find it at Jalan Petitenget No.6, Bali 80361
Book a table at MÉTIS and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

Jakarta

Amuz

Amuz is one of Jakarta’s top fine dining restaurants, and it’s easy to see why! Its main focus is on highlighting the rich flavours of French cuisine, and its ever-changing menu ensures that you’ll be getting the freshest seasonal produce that the markets have to offer. Expect something new and exciting each time you return!

Find it at The Energy Building, 2nd Floor, Jalan Jend. Sudirman Kav 52-53, Jakarta 12190
Book a table at Amuz and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

AB Steak by Chef Akira Back

Steak lovers, you’re in for a real treat. AB Steak is a brand new steakhouse with a unique Korean twist where meat truly takes the center stage! The beautifully marbled steaks are grilled to smoky perfection and served with a five different dipping sauces (soy wasabi, ssamjang, sesame oil, chimichurri, and bulgogi) and flavoured salts (garlic, kimchi, truffle, yuzu, and Himalayan) for the ultimate indulgence. You can’t go wrong with their House Aged Porterhouse or the Wagyu 9+ Flat Iron Steak!

Find it at MD Place – Mezzanine Level, Jalan Setiabudi Selatan No. 7, Kuningan, Jakarta 12910
Book a table at AB Steak and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

Shanghai

Lost Heaven (Silk Road)

You don’t have to trek through the beautiful mountainous terrains of northwest China to get your hands on delicious Xinjiang delicacies when you can get it at a comfortable, elegantly furnished restaurant in the heart of Shanghai – perfect if you’re only here for a short layover. Lost Heaven has delectable food items that span the Silk Road, from Pomegranate Sweet & Sour Chicken to Mongolian Roasted Lamb Ribs. We also dig the Tibetan Style Roasted Beef, as it’s the closest we’ll get to Tibet…for now.

Find it at 758 Julu Lu, 2nd-3rd Floor, Jing’An District, Shanghai, China, near Fumin Lu
Book a table at Lost Heaven (Silk Road) and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Liquid Laundry

Liquid Laundry’s spacious, industrial-style interior exudes an effortless laid-back vibe. It’s the perfect place to kick back with some delicious grub and a pint of craft beer (they even have their own onsite microbrewery!) while relaxing with a bunch of friends. The Eggs Benedict with Smoked BBQ Brisket is heaven on a plate – head on down and give it a whirl!

Find it at 1028 Huaihai Zhong Lu, 2nd Floor, Xuhui District, Shanghai, China, near Donghu Lu
Book a table at Liquid Laundry and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Tags Breakfast, Breakfast and Brunch, Brunch, Buffet, Chinese, Guides, Japanese, Michelin

Features Restaurants

Dining Personals: Cosy Seafood Joint The Boiler Seeks Hungry Diners to Enjoy Scrumptious Southern Meal

Post author By Chope
Post date May 9, 2017
No Comments on Dining Personals: Cosy Seafood Joint The Boiler Seeks Hungry Diners to Enjoy Scrumptious Southern Meal

I am: an adventurous seafood spot that will take you on a jaunt to the Deep South for that romantic jetsetting getaway you’ve always dreamed of—all without leaving our little island. Hope you like your restaurants with a spicy Louisiana twang!

You are: anyone from a fun-loving foodie or a picky eater, ‘cause I’m poised to become your new favourite date night spot!

About me:
Tucked away in an industrial estate away from the downtown crowds, I occupy a space that exudes contemporary class and convivial cheer at the same time. You won’t be disappointed by my bold divergence from traditional seafood boil through the fusion of local and Western flavours.

Our date:
We can start getting to know each other over a luxuriant appetiser of Fried Oysters for just $10.90. These crispy bad boys have just the right crunch to break the ice. There’s also the classic Louisiana Crab Cakes ($17.90) or the Crispy Fish Skins with Salted Egg Yolk ($9.90). I highly recommend the latter if you’re craving more of a local twist.

With countless options to spoil you, I promise the outing will be a finger-licking, hearty affair. And no one will be judging if you get ‘down and dirty’ on the first date…with the Bombdiggity Bag, my pièce de résistance. It’s chock full of delectable crustaceans like Dungeness crab, prawns, mussels, clams, corn, and chorizos, all for just $145 for 4 pax. (Celebrate your birthday here by ordering this sharing dish, and I’ll make it an extra special day by throwing in a whole Live Lobster to sweeten the deal!)

With my varied menu options you can choose your own adventure. Pick from a selection of fine, fresh seafood cooked to order, then spice it up with sauces galore: The Works, Garlic Butter, and Peppa’ Butter sauce, customised to your taste. I like to keep things interesting with sauce of the month flavours, like Sambal, Hei Bee Hiam, Tamarind, and Tom Yum, for an explosive combination of exotic flair and local comforts.

I also cater to the classics with dishes like crisp Fish and Chips ($12.90) with tangy tartar sauce and the barest squeeze of lemon. And let’s not forget the star of the show: live whole Boston lobsters for just $55! To round it all off, you can satisfy your sweet tooth with a multitude of desserts like Mao Shan Wang Durian Jar cake or Molten Lava Chocolate cake.

And what would a date be without some liberal libations? Find your new favourite tipple in the Beerjito, my refreshing signature cocktail, or an extensive range of craft beers. Looking for something a little more indulgent? Well, you’re in luck. Class it up with a bottle of wine or some fine whisky pairings, from my sister company The Fortress located just next door. Plus, corkage is waived for purchases from The Fortress.

Wine aficionados will swoon at the impressive array of bottles displayed on sleek industrial-style furnishings, for a stripped-back yet sophisticated vibe. Decked out with wooden tables and comfy matching chairs, it’s the perfect ambience for a cosy nightcap. An expansive space, plush leather couches, and candles before you on the coffee table—what more could you ask for?

Picture this: seafood bags brimming with saucy, intensely-flavoured crustaceans, followed by a refreshing tipple in hand, and some quality company. Now that’s an offer you can’t resist.

Book now, ‘cause I feel like we’ll really hit it off!

Find The Boiler at 18 Howard Road #01-06, Novelty Bizcentre, 369585
Book a table at The Boiler and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Tags Coffee, Dessert, Feature, Seafood, Sponsored