Month: February 2018

Oodles of Noodles: Best Noodle Shops in Singapore

Post author By Rachel Ho
Post date February 28, 2018
1 Comment on Oodles of Noodles: Best Noodle Shops in Singapore

Some call these carb-heavy dishes sinful, I say it’s a staple. You can’t eat clean with this (we haven’t found an ideal zucchini pasta yet), but it’s worth training dirty for these bad boys. As a dedication to National Noodle Month in March, here are some of our favourite noodle spots around the island.

Cr: makansutra.com

J & J Special Beef Noodle

Towards the end of the food haven that is Old Airport Road Food Centre lies a stall brewing fragrant, thick, brothy bowls of goodness. The braised beef brisket noodle soup is a standout, with its warm, full-bodied, and blended with spices to give it a hearty flavour. Uncle William serves up good meat alongside kind smiles — it’s hard to ask for anything more. Unless you want wagyu noodles or rice, which he has on the menu, too.

Find it at Block 51 Old Airport Road Food Centre, #01-162
Click here for more information on J&J Special Beef Noodle.

Morsels

It’s always a treat to dine at Morsels, but one of the most memorable dishes we’ve had here is the “Firecracker” pulled pork pasta. The pork is marinated for 24 hours, then braised for another three, so you know it’s juicy and flavourful. The habanero pesto is nestled in the curves of the shell pasta, so with each bite, you’ll be grabbing your glass of water, and craving your next mouthful. Don’t worry if you can’t take the heat — each bowl comes with a dollop of sour cream to ease the burn.

Find it at 25 Dempsey Road, #01-04
Book a table at Morsels and get 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG.

Cr: danielfooddiary.com

JB Ah Meng

This amazing zichar restaurant is always crowded, and once you have their “san lou bee hoon” (or ‘three-storey noodles’), you’ll know why. Every strand is coated with wok hei, and the charred bits are a great textural contrast to the more moist noodles inside. Fried with shrimp, egg and squid, it is an absolute must-order if you can brave the crowds.

Find it at 534 Geylang Road
Click here for more information on JB Ah Meng.

Sumo Bar Happy

This hole-in-the-wall ramen bar was our most visited restaurant last year and we are ecstatic they are finally on Chope so we can continue our streak without the anxiety of not getting a seat. The beef ramen is great (as are the free flow onsen eggs), but my personal favourite is the sashimi mazemen. The fish is great (how can you complain when there’s otoro, ikura and akami among others?), but accompanied with the chilled yuzu noodles and ponzu sauce, and this dish is the most addictive, refreshing thing you can have on a hot day. Wash it down with one of the playful cocktails on offer.

Find it at 261 Waterloo Street, #01-24 Waterloo Centre
Book a table at Sumo Bar Happy and get 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG.

Cr: pinkypiggu.com

Boon Tong Kee Kway Chap Braised Duck Roasted

Not to be confused with the chicken rice shop of the same name, this stall in Zion Road Food Centre serves braised, tender duck meat with two great chilis. But the kway chap is cooked to perfection, the Chinese equivalent of al dente, and the broth is a soothing herbal blend sure to complete the meal. Go early to avoid the queue.

Find it at 70 Zion Rd, #01-24
Click here for more information on Boon Tong Kee Kway Chap Braised Duck Roasted.

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A Noodle Story

There’s always a long line here for these bowls of “Singapore-style ramen”, but it’s no surprise when the food deserves its two Michelin Bib Gourmand awards. Brave the wait, and you’ll be rewarded with melt-in-your-mouth char siew, an Instaworthy (and tasty) potato-wrapped prawn, a soy sauce-infused onsen egg and crispy Hong Kong-style wontons, served on top of a bed of springy noodles. There are only 200 bowls on offer for lunch though, so get there quick.

Find it at 7 Maxwell Road, #01-39
Click here for more information on A Noodle Story.

Tags Michelin, National Noodle Month, Noodles, Ramen, Singapore

Features Singapore

Fresh Eats: Mouth-Watering March

Post author By Emerline Su
Post date February 28, 2018
2 Comments on Fresh Eats: Mouth-Watering March

Travel around the world without even leaving your seat! From Cantonese buffets to Italian-Japanese fusion, Singapore’s newest restaurants will take you around the globe in just 8 sumptuous meals.

Cr: thedivaeatsprata.com

La Cala

Spanish staples get a makeover at La Cala, the newest Spanish joint in town. A swanky yet laid back restaurant, La Cala serves up all your familiar Mediterranean classics with a healthy dollop of originality and flair. Look out for modern takes on tapas, which are far more elegant – though just as hearty and delicious as their homelier counterparts. Be more adventurous and take the rare chance to try a pigeon paella or Fideuà, a Catalonian noodle Paella full of fresh seafood.

Find it at 7 Fraser Street, #01-40/43, Singapore 189356
Click here for more information on La Cala.

Cr: myo.sg

MYO Restobar

Why choose between Chinese and Western cuisines when you can have both? Tradition meets modernity at MYO Restobar, a restaurant serving dim sum and traditional Cantonese dishes with subtle notes of Western fine dining. Elegant porcelain bowls blend harmoniously into an industrial-chic space, which also features a bar and terrace for a refreshing pick-me-up over stunning views of the CBD skyline.

Find it at 137 Robinson Road, #19-01, Singapore 068906
Click here for more information on MYO Restobar.

Seven & Ate

Find your new favourite sandwich at Seven & Ate, a gastropub in Jalan Besar with an Asian-inspired menu even better than their humour. Get ready for decadent sandwiches unlike anything you’ve seen before; each one is loaded with juicy meats and savoury sauces which will leave you blissfully satisfied. If you don’t feel quite so indulgent, their quinoa bowls full of healthy superfoods are just as delicious. A laid-back, cosy cafe serving not just delicious food but also craft beer and coffee, Seven & Ate is the perfect place to go to for a day of work.

Find it at 78 Horne Road, Singapore 209078
Book a table at Seven & Ate and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG.

The Hungry Caveman

Calling all satay lovers! Try China’s version of meat-on-a-stick at The Hungry Caveman, a restaurant offering skewered meats which you can grill yourself. Opened in partnership with China’s biggest BBQ company, The Hungry Caveman houses Singapore’s first automatic barbecue. Chow down on succulent lamb skewers infused with a fragrant blend of herbs and spices, tender chicken wings, and scrumptious seafood – all grilled to smoky-sweet perfection.

Find it at 181 Orchard Road, #06-25, Singapore 238896
Book a table at The Hungry Caveman and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG.

Verde Kitchen

Every ethical diner’s food heaven, Verde Kitchen’s wide range of delectable dishes use free-range meats, sustainable seafood, and vegetables from local farms so that you can eat in peace without worrying about ripples in the ecosystem. Almost everything is made from scratch, and they provide gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegetarian options as well, making sure everything you eat is good for both your body and Mother Nature.

Find it at 581 Orchard Road, Level 2, Hilton Singapore, Singapore 238883
Book a table at Verde Kitchen and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG.

Cr: ladyironchef.com

Summer Hill

A hidden gem quietly tucked away in the midst of HDB blocks, Summer Hill is a casual French bistro providing Clementi’s residents with comforting, homestyle French food. Its menu is authentic and unpretentious, featuring down-to-earth classics which are simple but done exquisitely well. One of its bestsellers is the Croque Monsieur, a sandwich of smoky ham and mild melted cheese complete with creamy bechamel sauce. Although the food is anything but fancy, its perfect balance of rich flavours and humble presentation will leave you craving more.

Find it at Block 106 Clementi Street 12, #01-62, Singapore 120106
Click here for more information on Summer Hill.

Caffé B

Did you ever imagine mixing Italian and Japanese flavours? We didn’t either until Caffé B waltzed in and presented us with a unique gastronomic delight: Japanese-Italian fusion. Imagine Italian fine dining favourites with subtle hints of savoury Japanese umami – just thinking about it is making our stomachs growl! The restaurant-and-bar has just moved from Marina Bay Sands to Club Street, making it perfect for a fancy night out drinking and soaking in the Club Street nightlife.

Find it at 64 Club Street, Singapore 069438
Book a table at Caffé B and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG.

Dragon Tooth Gate

If you just can’t get enough of Cantonese restaurant food, then Dragon Tooth Gate is the place for you. It serves all your familiar Cantonese dishes with one amazing bonus: it’s a buffet. Feel free to eat up all the fried prawns, spare ribs, and (gasp) chilli crab that your stomach desires, without feeling like each bite burns a bigger hole in your wallet. If all that chilli sauce is getting too heavy for you, give your palate a breather by adding a steamboat to your table. And yes, it’s buffet-style too.

Find it at 8 Port Road, Singapore 117540
Book a table at Dragon Tooth Gate and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG.

Tags Barbecue, Buffet, Cantonese, French, Fresh Eats: Singapore, Fusion, Healthy, Italian, Japanese, Seafood, Spanish

Hacks & How-Tos

Dos & Don’ts: Food Photography

Post author By Averlynn Lim
Post date February 26, 2018
No Comments on Dos & Don’ts: Food Photography

Since its inception in 2010, over 40 billion photos and videos have been shared on Instagram, with swelling numbers of people documenting their #foodventures online. Our growling stomachs at midnight are very dismayed.

But, who says you have to own a DSLR or be a professional photographer to capture stunning food shots worthy of that double-tap? If you’re looking for tips to up your Instagram game, be it with a phone or a fancy cam, we’ve got yo’ back.

DO: Use props to tell a story

Using suitable props helps add visual interest to your image, and tell a story. For example, in the left image above, the potted plant in the foreground, and utensils and chair in the background help set the scene for the rainbow cheese toast – the image’s focal point. Without the need for a caption, they tell us that the toast was consumed in a rustic, laidback cafe. The image transports the viewer to the scene and evokes feelings of tranquility.

DON’T: Clutter your shots with irrelevant items

That having been said, do not overdo it and add unnecessary items to the shot. Doing so will only add visual clutter and distract the viewer from the image’s subject. Things like used tissue paper and random scraps of paper? Remove them; they only make your image appear messy.

DO: Use natural lighting

Lighting is very important in photography. As much as possible, use natural light to allow the colours of your food to pop. Artificial lights tend to create harsh shadows and colour casts. For example, the above image on the right was taken in a night market in Malaysia with bad lighting, giving the photo an unappealing yellowish hue. For the best food photos, take them in soft, diffused, and neutral-coloured lighting.

DON’T: Use your smartphone camera’s flash

If you’ve taken a picture using your iPhone flash in a dimly lit restaurant, you’ll know exactly what I mean! Using a flash results in uneven, harsh lighting, leaving your photos underexposed at certain parts, and overexposed at others.

iPhone Tip: When taking photos in a low-light setting, besides tapping on the photo to increase the brightness of your subject, you can also increase your screen’s brightness. This will help to brighten the image on the whole without overexposing other elements in your photo.

(Of course, if you have a loyal crew, you might be able to make it work.)

the team helped me out with good lighting to take a nice pic of me eating pizza pic.twitter.com/dZdYa11Yep

— jane (@jaanemao) December 4, 2016

DO: Post-process your photos

Giving your images a little boost with minor colour-corrections and touch-ups will help to clean up, enhance, and give them a professional look. Doing so will also help to bring out the colours of the food, create mood, and improve your images’ composition. You don’t have to use professional software like Lightroom or Photoshop. Popular smartphone applications such as VSCO, Snapseed, and Afterlight have a comprehensive range of features and settings enough to transform your raw pictures into masterpieces.

DON’T: Overedit

It’s tempting to add filters to your pictures, however, be cautious of layering on too many of them as this will take the focus away from the food. Overediting will also result in unnatural photos and colours. For example, the image on the above right is oversaturated, resulting in an unappetizing and garish image which screams fake.

DO: Think about your angles

Don’t worry if you’re not a professional photographer. Simply play around and explore different perspectives to find the one that best compliments and highlights the features of the particular dish you are shooting. If you’re looking to emphasize the variety, amount, and arrangement of food, then shooting from a top-down angle aka a flat-lay is your best bet.

DON’T: Stick to the same angle

While a top-down angle is great for emphasizing the top surfaces of your subject(s), it won’t work for all types of food shots. For example, in the image on the right above, what you’re looking to highlight is the fluffiness of the bread and the coconut filling packed within. To do so, tear one bun in half to reveal its cross-section, and shoot from the side. Tearing (instead of cutting) the bun will add textures and layers to your shot, adding visual complexity.

Now you’re all set to live your best #foodporn life!

Tags Dos & Don'ts, Food Photography, Photography, Tips

Hacks & How-Tos Singapore

Make Your Own Food Porn: YouTube Channels to Follow for the Aspiring Chef

Post author By Emerline Su
Post date February 24, 2018
No Comments on Make Your Own Food Porn: YouTube Channels to Follow for the Aspiring Chef

Do you dream of whipping up your own meals but don’t know where to start? Or perhaps you’re looking for a creative new recipe to sweep that special someone off their feet. Look no further than these YouTubers and their delicious, creative and sometimes full-out crazy recipes and tips, which will tickle your taste buds and add a dash of fun to your cooking.

1. Alex French Guy Cooking

French cooking has never been easier than with Alex’s accessible, step-by-step recipes. His videos will help you master the best of French cuisine like the iconic French onion soup or melt-in-your-mouth cheese soufflé (yes, he makes soufflés), bringing hearty French fare into your kitchen and guaranteeing you everlasting adoration from your friends. As if learning how to bake your own lemon meringue pie wasn’t enough, his charming accent and quirky humour makes watching his kitchen adventures that much more enjoyable.

2. JunsKitchen

It is a truth universally acknowledged (ok by ‘universally’, we mean Chope) that the two best-loved things in the world are great food and adorable animals. JunsKitchen combines both, as Japanese cook Jun Yoshizuki serves his family – beloved cats included – healthy, delicious, and completely handmade traditional Japanese food. You’ll get to see the entire tantalising process, from picking ingredients and making his own udon to the final product. Not into Japanese food? You should still watch anyway, to catch a glimpse of his fabulous feline Haku hanging around every step of the way.

3. SORTEDfood

At its heart, SORTEDfood is just a bunch of friends goofing off in a kitchen, whipping up completely crazy but inexplicably delicious food. With a huge variety of videos, from cooking battles featuring creative spins on beloved classics to video tutorials teaching basic skills for beginner chefs, SORTEDfood will delight novice and experienced cooks alike. Our personal favourite is their Level Up videos, where they take your ultimate guilty pleasures and make them even more decadent.

4. Kerryann Dunlop

With a love for food as large as her kids’ appetites, Kerryann Dunlop’s recipes are the perfect go-to for parties or large family dinners. Simple family favourites like chicken pie and chocolate fudge take centre stage as this down-to-earth mother of two brings out the best of home-cooked food, presenting hearty meals sure to fill tummies and warm hearts. Don’t worry about the cost of cooking for a large group either; all her recipes are great for cooking on a budget.

5. Maangchi

If you’re a lover of Korean food, Maangchi is sure to be your new best friend. Don’t be fooled by her adorably fun-sized stature and lovable ahjumma vibes – this lady is a kitchen goddess. She can make anything, and we mean anything, related to Korean cuisine. Kimchi? Easy. Dumplings? No kick. Fried chicken? Elementary. Get ready for a taste of the Korean life you’ve always dreamed of, complete with crispy, juicy Korean fried chicken whenever you want.

Tags Foodies, frenchguycooking, How to cook, JunsKitchen, kerryanndunlop, maangchi, SORTEDfood

Links We Love Singapore

Weekend Reads: 23-25 Feb

The Chinese New Year snacks coma may be over, but here on Chope the good food never stops. From sakura pink-themed merch at Starbucks Singapore to a museum of candy to how much Bill Gates thinks groceries cost, there’s plenty to digest!

See your childhood dreams come true in New York City’s Museum of Candy, which looks like Willy Wonka’s Chocolate Factory has finally come to life.

Speaking of childhood dreams, Disney World’s Beauty and the Beast themed restaurant is getting an authentic French menu.

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bfb51cqBh11/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=embed_profile_upsell_control

This week in WTF: Surprise engagement rings in… avocados?!

Could you eat just one stew, for every meal, every day, for the rest of your career? Sumo wrestlers do.

Ellen Degeneres finds out how much Bill Gates spend on groceries.

Meanwhile, Jay-Z is casually handing out US$11,000 in tips.

Imagine spending £15 on a teapot, breaking it, then selling it for £575,000.

Closer to home, Singapore’s restaurants are embracing environmental sustainability and wildlife conservation by pledging to stop selling Shark’s Fin Soup.

Of course, Starbucks now has transparent drinks too.

Speaking of Starbucks, how pretty are these items??

Tags Avocados, Candy, Disney, Ellen Degeneres, Starbucks, Weekend Reads

Save/Splurge Singapore

Cafes & Restaurants in Singapore with No GST

Post author By Nicol Ong
Post date February 23, 2018
No Comments on Cafes & Restaurants in Singapore with No GST

Earlier this week, the Finance Ministry made an announcement that sent Singaporeans islandwide into a flurry – the Goods & Services Tax (GST) will be increased from 7% to 9% sometime between 2021 to 2025.

9% is a whopping amount, and when added with the 10% service charge, amounts to approximately 20% in additional fees when you dine out in Singapore. Whoa. But fret not! Here are some generous restaurants that waive GST so you can get the most bang for your buck.

New Rasa Singapura

Named after the iconic Rasa Singapura food centre that closed down in 1989, New Rasa Singapura aims to continue its legacy of creating the best Singaporean hawker fare while absorbing both the GST and service charges. Part beloved restaurant, part social enterprise, New Rasa combines the creation of hearty and irresistible local favourites such as beef rendang, with community efforts like providing training and employment to the underprivileged and physically or mentally impaired.

Our favourite dishes include their Angoli Fish Head Curry, the Hainanese Chicken Rice and their Dry Laksa. Good food for a good cause? Sign us up!

Find them at 56 Tanglin Road, B1-02 Tanglin Post Office, Singapore, 247964
Book a table at New Rasa Singapura and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

Food For Thought at National Museum of Singapore

It’s hard to find places in Singapore that actually serves dishes like Red Rice Wine Chicken – a familiar local favourite reminiscent of family reunions and birthdays – but good news! Food For Thought at the National Museum is one such place. Pay them a visit and you’ll find yourself on an elegant trip back in time, with its thoughtfully designed, rustic interior and delicately crafted Southeast Asian fare.

Fitting for its location, Food For Thought pays homage to Singapore’s heritage and history through its round marble table tops, wall mosaics, and wooden chairs – evocative of old-school Singaporean kopitiams. Apart from all-day brunch options, their Southeast Asian-inspired menu includes Crispy Curry Chicken and Hainanese Pork Cutlet, and even seasonal specials that reflect particular exhibitions held by the Museum.

Find them at 93 Stamford Rd, National Museum of Singapore, #01-04/05, 178897
Book a table at Food For Thought and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

SPRMRKT on McCallum Street

Inspiration is the name of the game at SPRMRKT. Incorporating a bistro and a concept shop under its roof, this place simply has it all.

We recommend you first fill your stomach. Take a gander at their revolving menu which changes depending on the day. Expect fresh eats each day, ranging from Chicken Caesar Salads on some days to Potato, Tuna, and Cucumber with Boiled Eggs the next. If you enjoyed your meal, you can even pick up their in-store groceries to recreate the dishes yourself!

Find them at 2 McCallum St, Singapore 069043
Book a table at SPRMRKT and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

Ninja Cut

The younger sibling of Ninja Bowl on Duxton, Ninja Cut follows in its big brother’s footsteps and creates hearty Japanese cuisine with an emphasis on healthy living.

Chow down on favourites such as the Oceans of Mentaiko, where stunning flavours are unveiled, stemming from the harmonious mix of crisp toast, juicy prawns, Hokkaido scallops, and New Zealand mussels, all topped with a mouthwatering helping of mentaiko butter cream sauce. A definite go-to place for a delicious yet healthy meal!

Find them at 32 Seah St, Singapore 188388
Book a table at Ninja Cut and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

Lola’s Cafe

Famed for its breakfast-themed options, brunch lovers should already be well acquainted with Lola’s Cafe – a cosy joint located along the charming Simon’s Road at Kovan.

There is a bona fide community spirit at Lola’s that can be felt the instant you walk through their doors, a bonhomie that is echoed in their delicious, no-frills, and lovingly made brunch fare.

Note: Never leave Lola’s without sampling their Honey Paprika Wings!

Find them at 5 Simon Rd, 545893
Book a table at Lola’s Cafe and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

Stateland Cafe

Looks can be deceiving, and it’s even more so for Stateland. Housed inside a nondescript shophouse within the hip enclave of Kampong Glam, its interior features an industrial theme, complete with cement walls, wooden tables, and tungsten lamps. On top of its sleek decor, it serves up bowl after bowl of experimental dishes given an Asian twist, taking inspiration from cafe classics and local favourites.

Be sure to sample their innovative waffles and thick toasts, and also unique dishes like the Hainanese Chicken Rice Risotto and BBQ Sambal Unagi Bowl!

Find them at 30 Bali Ln, Singapore 189866
Book a table at Stateland Cafe and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

*Bonus: places we love that waive service charge instead of GST!

Here are a couple of deserving gems we love that absorb the 10% service charge, instead of GST!

Wheeler’s Yard

The service charge waiver at Wheeler’s Yard isn’t the only thing we love about this quaint little joint. We’re sure many of you have seen its famed blue doors on Instagram or Facebook, and are familiar with its industrial-style interior inspired by cycling culture.

Be sure to sample their relatively familiar yet strangely exciting menu options, which meld local and international flavours, resulting in dishes like Chilli Crab Pasta, Yuzu Soy Glazed Sweet Potato, and their Ultimate Beef Yard Burger.

Find them at 28 Lorong Ampas, 328781
Book a table at Wheeler’s Yard and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

The Quarters

Featuring a local-inspired menu with items like Shiok Fries, Har Cheong Gai, and even Salted Egg burgers and wings, there’s not much here to dislike. Quaint and cosy with homey wooden floors and furniture, this tucked-away spot conjures up nostalgic memories that are reminiscent of a school classroom.

Located in the heart of Tanjong Pagar, it also offers piping hot and aromatic coffee. Even with the GST surcharge, it’s definitely worth a visit!

Find them at 16 Enggor Street, #01-09, 079717
Book a table at The Quarters and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

Tags Asian, Cafes, No GST, No Service Charge

Lifestyle Singapore

Books for Food Lovers

There are many ways we feast: most days with our tongue, often with our eyes, and on good days, on journeys through the mind. A love for food is cultivated through a deeper understanding of other culinary journeys, and what better way to do it than with a book and a good cup of coffee? We present a short list for you to get off Amazon or your favourite bookshop this weekend.

Cr: Phaidon

A Day at elBulli: An Insight into the Ideas, Methods and Creativity of Ferran Adria by Ferran Adrià

elBulli, formerly the best restaurant in the world, may have closed its doors for now, but the magic of head chef Ferran Adria lives on in this tome. A Day at elBulli is part photobook, all philosophy, and features 30 dishes that represent a full menu at a restaurant notorious for its hard-to-get reservations. The 600-page book has more than 800 photographs, menus, recipes and diagrams which will take you through a full working day at elBulli in just a few words. You might not get to taste Adria’s food, but you just might learn a thing or two about the thought processes behind his molecular gastronomy techniques. (P.S.:If you prefer something more accessible, try his homestyle cookbook, The Family Meal.)

Get it here!

Cr: Amazon UK

Heat: An Amateur’s Adventures as Kitchen Slave, Line Cook, Pasta-Maker, and Apprentice to a Dante-Quoting Butcher in Tuscany by Bill Buford

Determined to see his culinary hobby turn into something more, New Yorker writer and home cook Bill Buford takes up a stint at Mario Batali’s three Michelin stars restaurant in New York, Babbo. The result is a hilarious memoir documenting the mistakes, humiliations, and disappointments — but also the skills and triumphs — on his learning journey. It also serves as a biography for Batali, a larger-than-life character both in and out of the kitchen. The book is a breezy read, but also raises interesting questions about what and why we eat.

Get it here!

Cr: Amazon

In Defence of Food: An Eater’s Manifesto by Michael Pollan

Eat food. Not too much. Mostly plants. That’s Michael Pollan’s answer to what we should eat, in a world saturated with what the journalist-activist calls “edible foodlike substances”. Pollan presents the original ‘eat clean’ guide, and he urges us to eat things our ancestors would recognise. He also argues that despite the West’s obsession with nutrition — not about food itself — it has ironically ended up less healthy. If you’re a foodie, read this to know why good, fresh ingredient are critical to amazing food.

Get it here!

Cr: Amazon

Heartburn by Nora Ephron

From the writer of classic rom-coms like When Harry Met Sally and Sleepless in Seattle comes a side-splitting novel about the disintegration of marriage. Cookbook writer Rachel Samstat discovers her husband is in love with another woman, and dives into her recipes for solace and an attempt to win him back. It’s no secret that this book is a thinly veiled account of Ephron’s own breakup with her husband, so the ending is bittersweet. But she writes with such candour, humour, and strength that, like all good dishes, you can’t help but want more.

Get it here!

Cr: Goodreads

Fresh Off the Boat: A Memoir by Eddie Huang

If you’re a fan of the American sitcom Fresh Off the Boat, then this memoir, which the show is based on, is perfect for you. Huang is profane and profound, musing about the difficulties of growing up as a second-generation Taiwanese-American as, in the same breath, he rhapsodises about his favourite rapper and basketball team. Food is a subtle undercurrent in the book, one of the places in which he tries to fit in — Huang later goes on to open a barebones ‘bao’ eatery called BaoHaus. As he puts it, this is a story about finding love in family, friends, food, music, and culture, “and a million other surprising places.”

Get it here!

Tags Books, Foodies, Reads

Save/Splurge Singapore

5 Fancy Places to Spend Your Angpao Loot

Post author By Veena Vinod
Post date February 19, 2018
No Comments on 5 Fancy Places to Spend Your Angpao Loot

Now that you’ve raked in some money from the red packets, it’s time to treat yo’ self! Here are five (non-Chinese, don’t worry) fancy places to splash that cash.

1. Gunther’s

Any French food connoisseur will tell you that the ambience of a restaurant can make or break it. Gunther’s does not disappoint, with an elegant interior featuring luxury furniture and Art-Noveau decor. The highlight here, however, is the delicious food. Reviewers have raved about the award-winning Cold Angel Hair Pasta, and juicy Carpaccio of Wagyu Beef, and we know someone who comes here specifically for their delicious butter and bread. Nestled in a quaint shophouse and located conveniently between Bugis and City Hall, there’s simply nothing to dislike about Gunther’s fancy French done right!

Find it at 36 Purvis Street #01-03 Singapore (188613)
Book a table at Gunther’s and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

2. Shoukouwa Sushi Restaurant

Arguably the jewel in the crown of One Fullerton, this two Michelin star eatery is an intimate, 14-seater sushi spot serving up authentic Japanese gems. Think minimal wood seats paired with subtle taupe tones and sublime eats and you’ve got the right picture. The cooked dishes are excellent, but the true superstars of the menu are the raw seafood. With ingredients flown in from Tsukiji Market daily, if you’re craving some great Edomae sushi omakase or looking for elegant Japanese fare, this is the place for you!

Find it at 1 Fullerton Road #02-02A One Fullerton Singapore (049213)
Book a table at Shoukouwa and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

3. The Tavern Restaurant

We’re not saying this is the fanciest place out there, but what it lacks in grandiose flourishes, it makes up for in taste. This simple shophouse may not seem like much at first glance, but don’t let the unassuming exterior and rustic interior (we’re talking European cabin-style decor here) fool you – the service and food are top-notch. They’ve got plenty of European delights from land and sea, including Angel Hair Pasta With Lobster, plump escargots, that tough-to-find Raclette, and more. We’re pretty partial to their selection of wagyu ourselves. Located on a cosy stretch of River Valley Road, and with quick, unobtrusive service, this place will surprise you in all the best ways.

Find it at 227 River Valley Road Singapore (238285)
Book a table at The Tavern Restaurant and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

4. Yhingthai Palace Restaurant

Lovers of jazzed up Thai food should put Yhingthai Palace on their lists. Just a couple of doors down from Gunther’s, this Bib Gourmand eatery serves up authentic and flavourful nosh in an ornate setting. The food here definitely comes with the signature ‘kick’ that Thai food fanatics are so fond of, and the sight of a table filled with these aromatic masterpieces will get your mouth watering for sure. For a wide array of Thai and Chinese dishes, this is place is ideal if you and your friends can’t settle on just one cuisine to have for dinner.

Find it at 36 Purvis Street #01-04 Singapore (188613)
Book a table at Yhingthai Palace Restaurant and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

5. Yantra by Hermant Oberoi

Hailed as Singapore’s premier North Indian restaurant, this restaurant presents Indian fusion food in an extravagant manner. Helmed by Chef Hermant Oberoi, who has cooked for the likes of Barack Obama and Brad Pitt, the menu draws on culinary inspiration from all over India. With fresh spices flown in specially from the sub-continent, this is the place to go if you’re craving some curry after days of reunion dinners.

Find it at 163 Tanglin Road #01-28/33 Tanglin Mall Singapore (247933)
Book a table at Yantra by Hermant Oberoi and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

Tags Chinese New Year, European, French, indian, Japanese, Splurge, thai

Links We Love Singapore

WEEKEND READS: 16 – 18 FEB

Post author By Chope
Post date February 16, 2018
No Comments on WEEKEND READS: 16 – 18 FEB

Happy Lunar New Year to one and all! Food coma hitting you hard? Visitations not as exciting as you planned? Bored at home? Read on.

Here’s how much a billionaire spends on breakfast.

Strange illustrations of recipes for Chinese dishes.

Say Gucci and you think of…food? Introducing Gucci Osteria.

Going to the land of k-pop stars and dramas? Korean chefs choose the best Korean snacks to add to your shopping list.

Californian bakery Honey & Butter creates incredibly cute pop culture macaroons ranging from Harry Potter to Stranger Things.

14 restaurant horror stories that will have you cringing with secondhand embarrassment.

An exact replica of a Singapore kopitiam – down to the dishes on offer – exists in Sapporo.

So Starbucks Singapore just launched these Instagram-worthy drinks, but can they beat the cherry blossom-pink creations from Starbucks Japan?

Tags Weekend Reads

Others Singapore

8 Mouthwatering Mookata Joints in Singapore

Post author By Chope
Post date February 16, 2018
No Comments on 8 Mouthwatering Mookata Joints in Singapore

This house believes Singapore is a country of soup and barbecue lovers. Just look at the vast number of steamboat joints, Korean barbecue spots, and that old-school stalwart Seoul Garden. It’s no surprise then, that mookata, a Thai amalgamation of Korean barbecue and Chinese hotpot, has found tons of fans here.

Originating from Thailand, the term ‘mookata’ is actually ‘mu kratha’, with “mu” meaning pig or pork and “kratha” referring to a skillet or pan. The pan in question typically comes with a dome top surrounded by a trench for the soup. It all sounds pretty average until you see the cooking in action. Scores of meat and seafood plaster the top of that dome (stuck down by a generous layer of pork lard), bubbling and sizzling away as fat and umami goodness drip down into the moat to create some delicious, delicious soup.

Stomach rumbling and mouth watering yet? Perfect, then you’re ready to embrace these mookata must-tries. Be warned, though, fancy clothes not advised here because the smells will linger.

Cr: 1_345 Secrets

1_345 Secrets of Thai Taste

With their location in the spacious food court at The Elitist building coupled with their late opening hours, 1_345 Secrets ensures a table for those late-night owls. Their menus are pretty straightforward, no fancy twists here, but their classics, deep soup pit, and MSG-less stock are popular enough to warrant a new outlet at Seng Kang Square, cheekily named 12_45 Secrets of Thai Taste. Why the blank? Here’s a hint: future number of outlets.

Find it at 25 Bukit Batok Crescent, The Elitist, Singapore 658066
Click here for more information on 1_345 Secrets of Thai Taste.

Mookata Traditional Thai BBQ

If you’re serious about chowing down in fine clothes, here’s a restaurant that’s decided to add a dedicated exhaust system to combat that smell problem. One of the pioneers of Mookata in Singapore, Mookata Traditional Thai BBQ now has 3 branches in Bugis, Katong, and Yishun to cater to their growing crowd of fans. They have a great selection of meats including streaky bacon and pork collar, 3 levels of spice, and change up their menus on occasion to keep diners coming back for more.

Book a table at these outlets and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG.

Cr: SethLui.com

Mookalicious

Being one of the few mookata locations in Bukit Timah doesn’t mean that Mookalicious slacks on the competition! With MSG-free soup and one of the freshest prawns and fish slices in town, it’s no wonder that there’s always a crowd.

Find it at Chicken House, 17 Lorong Kilat, Singapore (598139)
Click here for more information on Mookalicious.

Cr: Tom Yum Kungfu

Tom Yum Kungfu

We love that this mookata spot fire their pans with actual charcoal. Besides the clear and light broth which is better for those avoiding too much rich foods, their offerings also include uncommon protein options like venison and a homemade fish paste. Personally, we like to pair our bubbling soups with yummy Thai dishes off their a la carte menu.

Find it at 56 Serangoon Garden Way, Singapore (555952) or 16 Circular Rd, Singapore (049372)
Click here for more information on Tom Yum Kungfu.

Cr: Ladyboy

Ladyboy Moo-ka-Cheese

We’ve had traditional mookata, we’ve had kungfu mookata, now here’s something a little (or a lot) cheesier. Besides your usual soup selections, Ladyboy Moo-ka-Cheese turns the typical mookata on its head by offering you a choice of decadent cheese dips with names as cheeky as the restaurant moniker. Try Ladyboy Cheese and Golden Salted Egg Cheese for starters, but if you’re looking to sample every type they have, prepare to stay past midnight for sure.

Find it at 644 Geylang Lorong 40, Singapore (389574)
Book a table at Ladyboy Moo-ka-cheese and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG.

Siam Square Mookata

Here’s another old hand at this hotpot delicacy, Siam Square Mookata. This chain restaurant has grown greatly since the first outlet at Siam Square and bears the coveted title as one of the largest, if not the largest, mookata chains in Singapore, with a whopping 9 outlets in total. In keeping with its tradition, it has maintained a no-frills style and continues to wow fans with a secret chilli sauce recipe (practically magic words to a Singaporean).

Book a table at these outlets and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG.

Cr: Huay Kwang Thai

Huay Kwang Thai Mookata

Sure, service here isn’t Michelin-level but with an affordable buffet that leaves your wallet feeling comfortable, does it really matter? With fresh seafood and a good selection of meats, Huay Kwang Thai is popular and gaining fans every day. Open until 2am, this place is perfect for supper seekers.

Find it at 244R Upper Thomson Road, Singapore 574369
Click here for more information on Huay Kwang Thai.

Cr: Happy Mookata

Happy Mookata

Golden Mile Tower is a haven of Thai delights and mookata is no exception. For your standard, no-frills mookata buffet paired with some of the most affordable prices in Singapore, Happy Mookata is great. Drinks are not included in the buffet, but they’re not expensive either, plus the Thai Milk Tea here is of the less sweet variety, perfect for avoiding an early death. The seafood is frozen, so depending on your luck you could get fresh ones or not so fresh ones, but the meats are usually dependable.

Find it at Golden Mile Tower, 6001 Beach Road #01-55D, Singapore 199589
Click here for more information on Happy Mookata.

Tags mookata, Singapore, Thai cuisine

Lifestyle Singapore

5 interesting facts you should know about Chinese New Year

Post author By Michelle Tan
Post date February 15, 2018
No Comments on 5 interesting facts you should know about Chinese New Year

Lion and Dragon Dance to celebrate Chinese New Year at Wynn Las Vegas in Las Vegas, NV on January 27, 2012. (C) Erik Kabik/ Retna Ltd.

It’s finally the eve of the Lunar New Year! While we prepare ourselves for the main event tomorrow, how many of these facts do we actually know about one of the world’s most celebrated festivities?

Cr: voanews.com

The longest-lasting fireworks display in the world

The Lunar New Year is celebrated by almost ¼ of the world’s population, with China being the largest population to date. It is thought that setting off fireworks at the stroke of midnight “scares off” evil spirits from the previous year and kick-starting the new one on a clean slate. The festival also sees the biggest annual fireworks usage globally; there isn’t a single hour in any other country that witnesses the lighting of fireworks at such a scale than in China – and they produce about 90% of the world’s fireworks!

Cr: CityWeekend.com

It’s the only time to catch up with the family over lively and friendly banter

… well, sort of.

Those who are in their late twenties onwards and unattached would have prepared themselves for all the “when will you get married?” ~~interrogations~~ questions from family members. Taobao, China’s largest online shopping website, even offers ‘rent-a-boyfriend’ services for single women in China to bring men of their choice back home for the festivities to appease their older relatives!

Cr: Asian Fusion Mag

Enjoying Lion & Dragon Dances

The Chinese lion and dragon are creatures that are associated with luck and prosperity. During Chinese New Year, Lion Dance troupes go from door-to-door around neighbourhoods performing dances to invite good fortune to people’s homes. In return, the residents will reward them with a red packet. The dance can range from a 3-minute performance to an elaborate 10-minute display of acrobatic feats depending on the amount awarded.

On the other hand, the Dragon Dance is usually a public performance since it requires a large number of Dragon dancers to hold up the dragon’s body (which can go up to over 200 feet long!) on poles, creating an illusion of a flying dragon in the air.

Cr: CityWeekend.com

Adhering to Chinese New Year superstitions

Starting the new year on a good note is of utmost importance, which is why it comes as no surprise that there are a number of superstitions that the Chinese follow to ensure a smooth-sailing year ahead. The following are just a few prominent ones; how many of these do you actually follow?

Avoid taking medicine during the first couple of days of Chinese New Year so that your year ahead isn’t plagued with illnesses
Don’t sweep or take out garbage on the first day of Chinese New Year to avoid “sweeping away the luck and fortune” that come to your home
Avoiding eating porridge for breakfast as porridge is seen as a sign of being ‘poor’ (since porridge is a common food for the poor in China)
Don’t do the laundry on the first and second day of the Lunar New Year because these two days are celebrated as the birthday of the Water God (‘shui shen’ / 水神)
You shouldn’t wash your hair on the first day of Chinese New Year or else you’d be ‘washing your fortune away’

Cr: Flickr @ Choo Yut Shing

Eating foods that are considered lucky

What’s a festival without some good ol’ feast fest! In Chinese culture, even the food that we eat during Chinese New Year has to have some sort of symbolism to them. Among the most popular (and important ones) to have are Nian Gao 年糕 or Glutinous Rice Cakes (to signify that one will prosper and reap better rewards in the new year), lucky fruits such as mandarin oranges and pomelos (symbolising fullness and wealth), and fish (which represents more savings to come in the following year).

Cr: CityWeekend.com

Giving and receiving red packets or ‘angpao’

This is undoubtedly one of the most anticipated reasons why children LOVE Chinese New Year. Inside these crimson envelopes are ‘lucky money’ given to children by their elders, usually from people who are married or even those who have started to earn their way, and they get to spend it however they like. #bestgiftsever

Not receiving actual angpao this year? Fret not because we’re ringing in a paws-perous Year of the Dog with Chope’s Secret Angpao!

We’re letting you relive the thrill of opening angpaos again and again when you redeem virtual angpaos for 50 Chope-Dollars each, where lucrative prizes such as $50 Chope Shop credits and $88 cash. Think you’re the HUAT-est? Try your luck today!

Tags Chinese New Year, fireworks, Lion Dance, Luck, Lunar New Year, Secret Angpao, Singapore, Superstitions

Lifestyle Save/Splurge Singapore

Chope Tries: $2.50, $15, and $30 Nasi Lemak

Post author By Chope
Post date February 15, 2018
No Comments on Chope Tries: $2.50, $15, and $30 Nasi Lemak

Nasi lemak is one of those foods that has seen plenty of iterations in recent years. With more and more places around the island offering the delicious dish at various price points, we decided to find out if it’s actually worth shelling out extra cash for a “better” quality dish.

Wan Xing Nasi Lemak and Economic Bee Hoon ($2.50)

Wan Xing is known for their cheap food – they have a couple of outlets, if we recall correctly – so it’s no wonder their stall frequently sees snaking queues. The nasi lemak incorporates all the ingredients you would expect – from the spicy sambal to sunny side up – but you can add various dishes from their selection. The rice is supposed to have a green tinge but ours was quite faint. Taste-wise, it had a mild pandan flavour and wasn’t particularly fragrant, but blended perfectly with the sambal, which, to be honest, tasted like most other sambals from the hawker centre. The peanut and ikan bilis mix was crunchy and salty, but relatively sparse. However, for the low price point, this dish was filling and rather delicious, something we would buy again if we were in the neighbourhood and craving nasi lemak.

Find it at 270 Queen Street, Albert Centre #01-62, Singapore 180270

The Coconut Club ($15)

The Coconut Club has been popular among the lunchtime crowd in the city for a while now, so we were curious to see how it held up against the low, low price of $2.50. This spot pays careful attention to the quality of their dishes – think using old crop Thai Jasmine Rice and coconuts from one specific plantation in Sabak Bernam to create fluffy, fragrant rice.

When the dish arrived at the table, it certainly looked impressive, from the colours to the amount of each component. We tried the rice and that was good, fluffy and not drenched in oil. We tried the homemade sambal and that was good too, a balance of sweet and spicy. But then we tried the chicken and forgot everything else; it was definitely the highlight of the dish. Unlike the generic fried chicken of the other two, the chicken here had a spicy, uniquely Asian flavour and featured a delightfully crunchy skin. Would we come back? Yes (after payday), if only to eat that crisp chicken skin again.

Find it at 6 Ann Siang Hill, Singapore 069787
Click here for more information on The Coconut Club.

Chatterbox (Mandarin Orchard Singapore) ($30)

Given the price tag, this must have been the best of the lot, right? We hoped it was, we wanted it to be! The excitement was real, but dampened a bit when the dish was laid before us. The sambal looked legitimately crafted and there was the addition of prawns, but the rest of the components looked like any nasi lemak joint out there. Nevermind, we thought, it’s all in the taste. But while the tangy, spicy prawns did leave us satisfied and the otah was undeniably flavourful, neither the sambal nor the rice left us in gastronomic heaven. That’s not to say it wasn’t good, however, the dish as a whole was fragrant and recognisably ‘nasi lemak’, but lacked a real punch that would elevate it to legendary status. On the whole, it’s a great place to bring someone you’re looking to impress with classy local faves, or for people who prefer less spice and more subtle flavours.

Find it at 333 Orchard Road, Singapore 238867
Book a table at Chatterbox and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG.

Ultimately, we’re happy to keep our nasi lemak expenditure below $7 on the regular (why the odd number? Because we admit to having a soft spot for Qiji), but willing to fork out that extra bit of cash for The Coconut Club’s hearty offering.

Tags Chope Tries, nasi lemak, Save, Splurge