Author: Emerline Su

Your Guide to Local Kuehs

An irreplaceable part of any Singaporean’s diet, kuehs are the ultimate crowd-pleaser. That’s mostly because there are so many, there’s got to be at least one you like. To all the kueh fans out there, here’s some good news: you can learn to make your favourite local kuehs at the Singapore Food Festival! Before signing up though, let’s take a crash course on some of the most popular local kuehs.

Malay/Nyonya Kuehs

Sweet and fragrant, Malay and Nyonya kuehs are one of Singapore’s most iconic foods. The three main ingredients are pandan leaf, glutinous rice, and coconut. You’ll be amazed at how many delicious treats can come out of just these few simple, local ingredients.

1. Pulut Inti

Cr: mollys.com.sg

The most striking feature of these traditional Malay kuehs is their shape. Glutinous rice topped with sweet dessicated coconut is wrapped in a banana leaf, giving the kueh its triangular shape, and steamed. If you’re looking at the more common Nyonya interpretation, you’ll see that the rice is a gorgeous shade of blue.

2. Kueh Dardar

Cr: authenticworldfood.com

Kueh Dadar is essentially sweet, coconut-flavoured Pohpiah. These dainty rolls of delight have a fragrant gula melaka-infused coconut filling and a gorgeous green skin. The skins are dyed green using pandan leaves and cooked into paper-thin crepes, so that the pastry both looks and tastes too tempting to resist.

3. Kueh Salat

Cr: epicureasia.com

Sinfully indulgent and decadent, the kueh salat is satisfaction in a bite. A generous layer of melt-in-your-mouth kaya custard rests on glutinous rice steamed with more pandan and coconut milk. Bursting with the distinctive fragrance and mild sweetness of these two ingredients in every bite, the kueh salat is as delicious as it is eye-catching.

Teochew/Fujian Kuehs

As opposed to their petite and sweet counterparts, Chinese kuehs are usually savoury and rather filling. Because of this, they’ve become affordable and popular breakfast foods. Glutinous rice also plays a key role in these kuehs, but is cooked with ingredients like dried shrimp and mushrooms instead.

1. Tutu Kueh

Cr: straitstimes.com

An iconic snack everyone knows and loves, tutu kuehs are what nostalgia must taste like. Soft, cakey, and pillowy, a thin layer of steamed rice flour wraps around a filling of either ground peanuts or shredded coconut. The kuehs cook rapidly too, so you can watch in anticipation as they’re prepared on the spot.

2. Soon Kueh

Cr: youtube.com

At once delicate and hearty, the Soon Kueh is a tantalising blend of chewy, soft, and crunchy. Its soft and chewy texture comes from the unique skin, a translucent, thin layer made with rice and tapioca flour. A filling of radish and bamboo shoots contribute the crunchiness, while garlic and dried shrimp give the entire kueh a savoury fragrance.

3. Ang Ku Kueh

Cr: epochtimes.today

Literally “Red Turtle Kueh”, this snack gets its name from its bright red skin, which looks like a turtle shell. With a sweet filling of ground peanuts and sugar, or a paste made from mung beans, and a sticky, tender skin that’s delightfully mochi-like, it’s no wonder the kueh has stolen the hearts of generations of Singaporeans.

4. Png Kueh

Cr: youtube.com

Bright pink, shaped like a wonky triangle, and featuring an intricate pattern, a Png Kueh is truly a pretty sight. The sticky and chewy skin holds glutinous rice, cooked with aromatics like mushrooms, shallots, and dried shrimp to give the rice a complex mix of flavours. Here’s a fun fact: the Png Kueh is supposed to look like a peach, which explains its curious colour and shape. Traditionally, red or pink Png Kuehs are for the gods and white ones are for ancestors.

5. Chwee Kueh

Cr: bearnakedfood.com

Unlike most other Teochew kuehs, Chwee Kueh isn’t made of a skin wrapped around some filling. This popular hawker breakfast features a firm, almost pudding-like steamed cake with pickled radishes on top. Simple yet delicious, the crunchy and salty radishes complement the plain, silky rice cake perfectly.

Can’t wait for the workshops? That’s not a problem – Chope a seat at true blue Singaporean restaurants to enjoy your favourite local kuehs, along with a delicious meal of Singaporean foods. Folklore offers Singapore’s history on a menu, with dishes from Indian to Eurasian and everything in between.

If you fancy Peranakan, head down to Violet Oon’s for a selection of authentic Peranakan dishes that taste like they came straight from a friendly family kitchen. Finally, StraitsKitchen has a buffet of local hawker foods for all us bottomless pits. And remember, use the code TASTYBLOG when you make a reservation to bag 2X the Chope-Dollars!

Tags Events, Kueh, Local, Singapore, Singapore Food Festival

Links We Love Singapore

Weekend Reads: 13 – 15 July

Post author By Emerline Su
Post date July 13, 2018
No Comments on Weekend Reads: 13 – 15 July

This week’s a great one, especially for all us environmentally-conscious foodies. Starbucks has finally promised to get rid of its plastic straws! Cookie dough doesn’t just come in Ben & Jerry’s ice creams either – not with this wonderfully easy recipe for safe-to-eat raw cookie dough. Happy spoon-licking!

Cr: delish.com

Hooray for the environment! Starting from 2020, you won’t see a green Starbucks straw again.

It’s not just Starbucks that’s going green. Check out these innovative ways restaurants are looking after Mother Earth.

Drinking doesn’t have to be an evening thing with these light, fruity wines.

Germany’s got great beer, beautiful towns, and the most epic aeroplane menu we’ve ever seen.

Cr: epicurious.com

Everyone loves cookie dough until you get food poisoning. Here’s how to make a safe-to-eat cookie dough that’s too easy to be true.

It always sucks to be hyped about a food trend, only to realise it’s so last week. Thankfully, we now know the exact moment a killer trend becomes overrated and mainstream.

Peanut butter powder is a thing now, and it’s actually pretty good.

Tags Cookie Dough, Go Green, Singapore, Starbucks, Weekend Reads, Wine

Links We Love Singapore

Weekend Reads: 6 – 8 June

Post author By Emerline Su
Post date July 6, 2018
No Comments on Weekend Reads: 6 – 8 June

This week we explore new and exciting options for the perfect wedding venue, like a Las Vegas Taco Bell. In other news, McDonald’s new durian McFlurry is making waves all over Singapore, and Cadbury’s inviting you to help them invent a new flavour.

Hold your dream wedding at the beach, a church, or perhaps at Taco Bell!

No time for breakfast? Try these quick and easy morning snacks to kick-start your day.

Cr: timeout.com

If you didn’t get enough during the durian season, McDonald’s new durian flavoured McFlurry might be just what you need.

In this week’s watermelon adventures, we make a Watermelon Sangria.

How about this great hack for a no-mess watermelon juice?

Here’s your chance to create a new Cadbury flavour and make your chocolate dreams come true!

Cr: deseretnews.com

This beautiful “Up”-inspired doughnut will tug on your heartstrings.

Relive your childhood with this Rose Scratch and Sniff bottle.

Lifestyle Singapore Singapore

Fries Around the World

What’s in a name? Apparently, quite a lot, if you’re a fry. We call them French Fries, but they’re actually from Belgium. The British say “chips”, but what exactly is a chip, and is it any different from a fry? And also, what are the Canadians doing with those cheese curds? Find out how fries are done all over the world, and where you can treat yourself to these tasty snacks.

1. Fries – America

These are the ones you’re probably most familiar with. You know, the ones you order online whenever you feel midnight hunger pangs. Probably the most versatile form of fries (and food, for that matter), you can get them in all shapes and sizes – think waffle fries, crinkle-cut fries, curly fries… the list goes on. They also go great with pretty much every dip on Earth. It’s no surprise this dish is such a culinary chameleon, considering it’s won the hearts of so many around the world.

When we said they can go with every dip on the planet, we meant it. At Loof, your favourite American treat goes Singaporean with their Chilli Crab Cheese Fries. Spicy, crispy, and cheesy, it’s a wonderful upgrade to your run-of-the-mill hot potato.

Find it at 331 North Bridge Road, Odeon Towers, Singapore 188720.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

2. Frites – Belgium/The Netherlands

Cr: eatbook.sg

The Frite turned the humble potato into an addictive worldwide phenomenon so you can be sure it’s ridiculously good. However, it isn’t enough to just chuck potatoes into hot oil. You need to meet certain conditions to achieve Frite status. First, the type of potato – only soft Belgian Bintjes potatoes will do. They’re thick-cut, about twice or three times as wide as their skinny American cousins. Most importantly, Frites have to be double fried, preferably in fat instead of oil. If you tick all these boxes, you get a true blue Frite, soft and light on the inside, but with the most satisfying crunch on the outside.

If you want a frite done right, then you’ve got to have it from Martin Zwerts. This famous restaurant chain is beloved all over Europe for their authentic traditional frites, and it’s just arrived in Singapore earlier this year.

Find it at 3 Lorong Liput, #B1-07, Holland Piazza, Singapore 277725.
Click here for more information on Martin Zwerts.

3. Chips – Britain

Cr: bites.com.sg

Ah, the mysterious side of Fish & Chips. Contrary to popular belief, there is a difference (besides spelling) between chips and fries, though it’s a rather small one. Chips can only ever be thick and chunky. If you call long, spindly fries or worse, curly fries “chips”, you might earn the wrath of Jamie Oliver, Gordon Ramsay, and other chip-loving Brits. Also, they’re not only served with fried fish! The British love to smother their chips in sauces like gravy or curry to make it a tastier, heartier snack.

Grab the most authentic Fish & Chips in Singapore at Smith’s! We’re talking crispy batter, tender, moist fish, and of course, a generous serving of classic thick-cut chips tossed with vinegar and salt.

Find it at 271 Bukit Timah Road, #01-02 Balmoral Plaza, Singapore 259708.
Click here for more information on Smith’s Authentic British Fish and Chips

4. Poutine – Canada

Crisp fries covered in fresh cheese curds and drenched in homemade gravy. It may sound like a literal hot mess, but don’t knock it till you try it! Canadians all over the country adore this greasy, bracing dish, and it’s not hard to see why. The fries and gravy gradually melt the cheese curds, so the flavours of the ingredients slowly blend together more and more as you eat. Piping hot and substantial, it’s perfect for warming you up from the inside during cold winter nights. As a bonus, it’s also a national favourite for getting rid of post-party hangovers.

The Westin’s Cook & Brew is run by a Canadian chef, so of course there’ll be poutine. Affectionately called the Poutine “Eh”, it’s an absolute must-try, featuring fresh cheese curds, cider gravy, and pulled pork.

Find it at 12 Marina View, Level 33, The Westin Singapore, Asia Square Tower 2, Singapore 018961.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

5. Patatas Bravas – Spain

Cr: taste.com.au

What started as a cheap tapas to go with beers and drinks is now a ubiquitous bar snack much of Spain can’t go without. Potatoes cut into large, irregular chunks are pan-fried in oil until they get crispy and golden. Serve with mayonnaise and spicy Bravas sauce, made using garlic, paprika, tomatoes, and chilli, for a spicy, carby, and satisfying snack, just what you need for a night of drinking.

Itching for a Spanish fiesta? Visit Sabio Tapas Bar for a lively ambience, great drinks, and Spain’s quintessential bar snack, the Patatas Bravas.

Find it at 5 Duxton Hill, Singapore 089591.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

6. Pommes Frites – France

Most of us see fries as a fast and casual snack, but not the French. As lovers of all things fancy, their fries are about as posh as a potato can get. The pomme frite is thin and double-fried, so you definitely won’t get soggy fries in France. Also, they’re eaten not with burgers in small cafes and bars, but appear as Steak Frites (steak and fries) and Moules Frites (steamed mussels and fries) in classy Parisian brasseries. The French don’t use oil either – they use duck fat, so the fries get that extra kick of flavour.

For some quality steak and fries, look no further than L’Entrecote The Steak & Fries Bistro. The meat is melt-in-your-mouth tender, the sauces are to die for, and the fries are done to crispy, golden perfection.

Find it at 36 Duxton Hill, Singapore 089614.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

7. Pan-fried potatoes with onion – Russia

Cr: petersfoodadventures.com

When in Russia, eat fries for breakfast. We’re serious – fries in Russia and the Slavic countries actually look less like junk food and more like a wholesome breakfast. Potatoes, cut into strips, are pan-fried with onions and garlic until they turn golden-brown. Then, you can add anything you want into them. Some common options include dill, eggs and mushrooms. The end result is filling and nutritious, definitely something we would give to kids.

Unfortunately, it seems Russian fries haven’t reached Singapore shores yet. If you really love the idea of fries for breakfast (who doesn’t?), you can try making your own!

Tags Fries, Singapore, Travel

Lifestyle Singapore Singapore

Here’s How to Celebrate World Chocolate Day All Day!

Post author By Emerline Su
Post date July 2, 2018
No Comments on Here’s How to Celebrate World Chocolate Day All Day!

The best time of year is just around the corner: World Chocolate Day! On 7 July, the world will dedicate 24 hours to celebrating the godsend that is chocolate. What better way to celebrate than by throwing diet plans to the wind and spending the entire day enjoying chocolate in its many shapes and forms?

From pancakes to martinis, here’s how you can have chocolate for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Breakfast/Brunch

Dark Chocolate Souffle at Laurent’s Cafe

Go full-out fancy and have some artisanal chocolates at Laurent’s Cafe. This hidden gem serves authentic French brunch fare, but the star of the show is definitely the sweets. Opened by French chocolatier Laurent Bernard, you know you’ll always get quality chocolate here. A definite must-try is the famous Dark Chocolate Souffle. Fluffy and soft but somehow bursting with decadent chocolate flavour, this is the queen of all souffles. Pour the vanilla sauce into the souffle to make it sweet and fudgy, but still every bit as delicious. Be warned, though: once you have a Laurent’s souffle, no other souffle will ever suffice.

Find it at Robinson The Heeren, 260 Orchard Rd, B1-02C, Singapore 238855.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

ChocoCro at St Marc Cafe

Cr: primer.com.ph

Of course, those who’d rather not dive head-first into a sore throat will want something gentler on the stomach. That’s where the ChocoCro comes in! Flaky layers of freshly-baked croissant hug a deliciously molten chocolate core for the perfect balance of rich, light, and buttery. A fan-favourite at St. Marc Cafe that’s been around for 15 years, it’s not hard to see why so many people are enamoured with this delicate pastry.

Click here for more information on St Marc Cafe.

Lunch

Viennese Hot Chocolate at Antoinette

Cr: nookmag.com

Hot chocolate is just milk, chocolate, and sugar – right? If you think that way, then you clearly haven’t had the Viennese Hot Chocolate at Antoinette. This lavish restaurant has all the makings of an upscale Parisian Patisserie. Head down for a relaxing lunch of perfectly-executed French delights, and make sure you order a Viennese Hot Chocolate as well. Thick, rich, and smooth, drinking the hot chocolate is just like giving your tummy a warm hug. Served in a gorgeous fluted teacup with creme Chantilly on the side, we’re sure even Marie Antoinette herself would approve.

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

A variety of chocolate desserts at NineThirty

Cr: awfullychocolate.online

Cr: mokumsurfclub.com

No chocolate-themed celebration would be complete without enjoying desserts from our beloved Awfully Chocolate. Swing by NineThirty, a cafe opened by Awfully Chocolate, for a hearty meal of comfort foods and, of course, the entire selection of Awfully Chocolate desserts. Dig into a slice of their signature chocolate cake, or if it’s a hot day, have a scoop of dark chocolate ice cream. For an extra-special treat, try the Dark Chocolate S’more, a toasted marshmallow with a core of oozing dark chocolate.

Find it at 131 East Coast Road, Singapore 428816.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

Dinner

Chocolate buffet at The Courtyard

It’s basic maths: chocolate + buffet = paradise. Get a taste of heaven at The Courtyard, which offers a spectacular marriage of chocolate, gastronomy and theatrics. The closest thing we can find to Willy Wonka’s Chocolate Factory, this buffet is a superb tribute to World Chocolate Day. Everything here is oozing with chocolatey delight – even their savoury items. There’s Cocoa and Spice-Rubbed Baby Back Ribs, Wagyu Beef, Peruvian Chocolate, and Poblano Chilli Empanadas, and much more. Not feeling adventurous? DIY the perfect hot chocolate at the Hot Chocolate Trolley, or see an exciting display of liquid nitrogen freezing chocolate into a perfect sphere. It’s a chocolate lover’s dream come true!

Find it at 1 Fullerton Square, The Fullerton Hotel Singapore, Singapore 049178.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

Chocolate Feuilletine Crémeux at Prive

Cr: facebook.com

A cosy family-friendly restaurant with a menu of hearty meals, Prive’s boasts not just delicious mains but also luxurious desserts, and we’ve got our eyes on one in particular: the Chocolate Feuilletine Crémeux. A chocolate-coated dome of passionfruit and banana curd rests on a base of gingerbread. That, in turn, is supported by a soft, moist chocolate sponge. The entire dessert is a mix of sweet, mellow, spicy, soft, and crunchy. In other words, bliss in a bite. It’s only available at Prive Keppel Bay and Prive Asian Civilisations Museum until 8 July, so hurry to get your endorphin rush!

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

Drinks

Chocolate “Mortini” at Morton’s The Steakhouse

Cr: timeout.com

What’s the perfect drink to end an indulgent steak dinner with? An even more indulgent martini, of course! More specifically, the Chocolate “Mortini” at Morton’s Steakhouse. High-quality chocolate is everywhere, even coating the glass, so you get that rich, smooth goodness in every sip. Paired with booze, it’s like an alcoholic iced chocolate – the ultimate adult drink, and perfect for sweet tooths looking to get buzzed.

Find it at 5 Raffles Avenue, 4th Floor, Mandarin Oriental Singapore, Singapore 039797.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

Chocolate Flambe-tinis at Maison Ikkoku

Cr: eatbook.sg

Maison Ikkoku’s Chocolate Flambe-tinis are flashy and over-the-top as the Mortinis are down-to-earth. What else could you expect from the bar that mixes a $35,000 drink? Their gorgeously creamy mix of dark chocolate and gin gets a balance of bitter and sweet just right. Top that off with sugary toasted marshmallow melting over the top of the cup, dark chocolate shavings, and a stunning view for the quintessential luxury choco-holic experience.

Find it at 20 Kandahar St, Singapore 198885.
Click here for more information on Maison Ikkoku.

Dessert

The Dark Gallery

Cr: cforcassan.com

So it’s the end of the day, and you still haven’t gotten enough to satisfy your chocolate addiction? That’s okay, we can fix that with a trip to The Dark Gallery. Take World Chocolate Day to the extreme by trying samples of the finest cocoa from around the world. They’ve got pastries, ice cream, and other desserts made using chocolate from Venezuela, Madagascar, Brazil, and more. The connoisseurs out there will adore their chocolate tasting flight, while those of us who prefer something decadent and sinful will find satisfaction in their Frozen S’more, featuring a toasted marshmallow wrapped around a rich 80% chocolate ice cream.

Find it at 9 Raffles Boulevard, #01-K5 Millenia Walk, 039596.
Click here for more information on The Dark Gallery.

Tags Chocolate, Dessert, Singapore, World Chocolate Day

Links We Love Singapore Singapore

Weekend Reads: 29 June – 1 July

Post author By Emerline Su
Post date June 30, 2018
No Comments on Weekend Reads: 29 June – 1 July

What are your plans for this weekend? If you haven’t made any yet, then we’ve got a whole list of cool things for you to try. From a new method of cutting a watermelon to making the perfect recipe, you can be sure your weekend will be as delicious as it is exciting.

Avocado lovers won’t be able to resist Korea’s new Starbucks drink.

Here’s another entry to add to your bucket list: drink fine wine while playing an escape game in wine cellar.

Cr: tallypress.com

Ditch the overpriced coffee chains and make your very own cold brew with these coffee hacks.

Make sure you don’t miss these awesome street foods from around the world next time you go on holiday!

The Internet has just found the best way to cut a watermelon, and we’re not sure if it’s genius or just plain weird.

Cuteness overload alert! Neil Patrick Harris’s 7-year-old decided to go vegetarian, but gave up after a week.

Cr: bonappetit.com

There are a million brownie recipes out there, but which is the best? Click here to find who’s created the one brownie to rule them all.

Lifestyle Singapore Singapore

Fresh Eats: New Eateries to spice up your July

Post author By Emerline Su
Post date June 29, 2018
1 Comment on Fresh Eats: New Eateries to spice up your July

What are you craving this month – casual comfort food or elegant fine dining? Whatever it is, you’re sure to find something to suit your fancy in this month’s Fresh Eats. We’ve got everything from the familiar flavours of local tze-char to adventurous pairings of East-meets-West treats. Explore what these new restaurants have to offer and Chope your seat now!

1. New Ubin Seafood (CHJIMES)

If you’re looking for authentic local seafood, then New Ubin Seafood is the place to go. Its tradition of serving fresh tze-char seafood stretches back more than 30 years to a family restaurant on Pulau Ubin. With a new outlet at CHJIMES, you can satisfy your homestyle cooking cravings even in the middle of the city. Quality local dishes housed in a gorgeous colonial building: the perfect marriage of kampong and colonial to create a truly Singaporean experience.

Find it at 30 Victoria Street, #02-01B/C, CHIJMES, Singapore 187996.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

2. Steakville

Cr: imgur.com

Almost every Western restaurant serves steak, but at Steakville, the beef is a cut above the rest. With speciality beef flown in from the best farms all over the world, every bite is a ticket to tender, juicy, steak heaven. Their small but carefully-curated menu delivers mouthwatering, flavourful steaks for a surprisingly affordable price. For those who aren’t fans of red meat, the chicken and fish dishes are masterfully done as well!

Find it at 91 Bencoolen Street, Singapore 189652.
Click here for more information on Steakville.

3. Fat Po

Cr: jiaksimipng.wordpress.com

Brunch is everyone’s favourite meal of the day (unless dessert counts as a meal, of course), so we’re always thrilled to see a new brunch place. Riding the Asian-fusion wave is Fat Po, a cafe in Punggol serving brunch favourites with a distinctively Asian twist. Think the best of comfort food from Western and Asian cultures, featuring creations like freshly-baked Bolo Burgers, Mala Spaghetti, and Mapo Fries.

Find it at 10 Tebing Lane, #01-05/06, Singapore 828836.
Click here for more information on Fat Po.

4. Yellow Pot

Cr: lifestyleasia.com

Chinese food goes healthy while still retaining its beloved traditional flavours at Yellow Pot. The menu here comprises traditional, authentic, familiar Chinese cuisine, with no frills or fancy additions. Don’t think the food here is boring though because it’s anything but. Small creative touches hide in classic dishes, like tangy tomatoes stuffed with mushrooms in the chicken soup, or steamed barramundi dressed in anchovy stock and a special scallion-ginger pesto.

Find it at 88 Duxton Rd, Singapore 089540.
Click here for more information on Yellow Pot.

5. Chao Chao Gyoza

Coming in all the way from Osaka, Chao Chao Gyoza is the solution to all your gyoza cravings. Fall back in love with this underrated treat with fillings ranging from the classic pork and shrimp to innovative bites like curry or salted egg tori karaage. Each dumpling is made to such perfection that it becomes both food and a work of art, every one bite-size packets of happiness that’ll keep you coming back for more.

Find it at 103 Irrawaddy Road, #01-05 Royal Square @ Novena, Singapore 329566.
Click here for more information on Chao Chao Gyoza.

6. Sage Restaurant (Alexandra)

This restaurant-and-bar is well-loved for making fine dining affordable while keeping it delicious. Now, it’s opening a new outlet, so getting your weekend treat just became so much easier. Enjoy classy contemporary fusion fare like Pork Belly with Granny Smith apple puree and Torched Mentaiko Scallop at Sage Restaurant (Alexandra) – perfect for some Friday night or post-work indulgence.

Find the Albert Street outlet at 175 Albert Street, Singapore 189970.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

7. Standing Sushi Bar (Marina One)

Cr: standingsushibar.com

Everyone’s favourite sushi bar is coming to Marina One! With ocean-fresh fish flown in from Australia, Japan, and Norway, it’s the perfect place for a casual, affordable, and most importantly delicious workday lunch. If you’re craving something more substantial, they’ve got cooked foods like tempura, donburi, and robatayaki to get you your umami fix.

Find it at 5 Straits View, #B2-47 Marina One, Singapore 018935.
Click here for more information.

8. Porters Restaurant & Bar

Cr: facebook.com

Feeling fancy? Porters Restaurant & Bar is a stylish and modern eatery with a drool-worthy menu of Western favourites. From bar bites to hearty mains and a comprehensive drinks menu, it’s got something for everyone. Right in the heart of the CBD, it’s all set to be the new go-to for after work drinks, mid-afternoon snacks, or even a posh date in town. To top it off, they’ve got delicious set menus for those craving a lavish lunch.

Find it at 4 Marina Boulevard #01-31 The Sail @ Marina Bay, Singapore 018986.
Click here for more information on Porters Restaurant & Bar.

9. The Flaming Spice

Cr: facebook.com

Midnight munchies getting you down? Have a sudden craving for Thai, Indonesian, or Indian food at 2 in the morning? If you do, then The Flaming Spice is the solution to all your late night hunger pangs. The 24-hour restaurant serves a wide range of delicious foods from Western snacks to local treats. It’s certified Halal too, so you never have to worry about where to go for supper again.

Find it at 1 Pasir Ris Close, #01-309, Singapore 519599.
Click here for more information on The Flaming Spice.

Tags Fine Dining, Fresh Eats, Fusion, Seafood, Singapore, Steak, Sushi

Links We Love Singapore Singapore

Weekend Reads: 22 – 24 June

Post author By Emerline Su
Post date June 22, 2018
No Comments on Weekend Reads: 22 – 24 June

Loads of exciting things are happening this week, from the chance to actually have breakfast at Tiffany’s to World Cup cocktails. If you’re a fan of vodka, Audrey Hepburn, or Mac & Cheese, then you’ll love this edition of Weekend Reads!

This is what happens when you get a bot to write an ad for restaurants.

Planning a U.S.A. road trip? Take home these edible souvenirs so you can remind yourself and your tummy of your awesome holiday.

Cr: ny.eater.com

If you’d rather just stay in New York, you have to check out breakfast at Tiffany’s. No, not the movie – you can actually have breakfast in the iconic jewellery shop on 5th Avenue!

It’s time to dive into the Jelly Belly of the beast and find out how jellybeans are made.

Here’s another reason to celebrate: it’s been scientifically proven that Mac & Cheese is the perfect food for humankind.

Cr: mycocktailmasterclass.co.uk

Complete your World Cup viewing party with these Russian-inspired cocktails.

Then, stave off the hangover with these Filipino comfort foods that are the perfect end to a boozy night.

Feed your Meghan Markle obsession and find out about what she eats in a day.

Tags Breakfast at Tiffany's, Cocktails, Meghan Markle, Singapore, Weekend Reads, World Cup

Deals & Specials Singapore Singapore

Gear Up for Our EPIC One Day Only Flash Sale!

Post author By Emerline Su
Post date June 20, 2018
No Comments on Gear Up for Our EPIC One Day Only Flash Sale!

Our birthday may be over, but the party sure isn’t! So far, we’ve had a stunning foodie collage, $0.70 mains and up to 2,800 Chope-Dollars. Now, we’re unveiling the biggest celebration of all: an EPIC flash sale!

When the clock strikes 12am on 21 June, Visa cardholders can look forward to up to 50% off dining vouchers at a range of drool-worthy restaurants. The sale is on for just one day, so make sure you snap up those vouchers before they’re all gone.

Need more convincing? Check out these participating restaurants to get your tummy rumbling.

1. Salt Grill & Sky Bar

If you’re out to impress, then Salt Grill & Sky Bar will help you do just that. On the 55th floor of ION Orchard, the restaurant quite literally brings fine dining to new heights. Here, only the very best will do. We’re talking about simple and elegant dishes that shine the spotlight on premium Australian ingredients, paired with a curated wine menu, hand-crafted cocktails, and a magical view of the sunset over the city. One meal here and you’re sure to sweep your special someone, judgy parents included, off their feet.

Find it at 2 Orchard Turn, Level 55, ION Orchard, Singapore 238801.
Want up to 50% off? Purchase a voucher now!

2. Mitzo

Sleek, modern, and fashionable, Mitzo reinvents Cantonese dining into something that exceeds all expectations. Multicolour neon lights and a deep blue jellyfish tank usher you into an out-of-this-world dining experience, complete with a dizzying array of creative cocktails. When it comes to food, though, the flavours are still authentically Cantonese. Dim sum, barbecue pork, and other Cantonese favourites dominate the menu, made with a healthy sprinkle of style and flair. For post-dinner nibbles, they have a supper menu that turns all these familiar dishes into light bar snacks.

Find it at 270 Orchard Road, Grand Park Orchard, Singapore 238857.
Want up to 50% off? Purchase a voucher now!

3. Sawadee Thai

Whether it’s sinful crispy chicken, tangy mango salad, or the quintessential mango sticky rice, the cosy yet sophisticated Sawadee Thai has everything you need to satisfy your Thai food cravings. Every dish is made to order, using traditional methods that give them a distinctive home-cooked quality. Their spices and marinades are on point as well, combining sweet, sour, savoury, and spicy and creating an addictive whirlwind of flavours to keep you coming back for more.

Find it at 9 Tan Quee Lan Street, #01-01, Tan Quee Lan Suites, Singapore 188098.
Want up to 50% off? Purchase a voucher now!

4. My Little Spanish Place (Boat Quay)

Don’t be fooled by its name – the food at My Little Spanish Place is big, bold, and perfect for a casual gathering with a group of friends. Comforting classics from the recipe books of Spanish mothers take centre stage in this homey restaurant reminiscent of a meson. The heartwarming menu features food from all over Spain, exactly the way they would be in a countryside kitchen. Everything here is just what you need to relax and slip into a sleepy food coma after a long day.

Find it at 54 Boat Quay, Singapore 049843.
Want up to 50% off? Purchase a voucher now!

5. Ryu’s Japanese Traditional Restaurant

Luxurious and elegant, Ryu’s Japanese Traditional Restaurant ticks all our boxes for an indulgent serving of Japanese hospitality. Enjoy the finer things in life with a selection of carefully crafted dishes that are nothing short of artistic, paired with the perfect sake chosen by their very own sake expert. For a more casual and fun experience, why not get a little more hands-on and create your own hand roll instead?

Find it at 15 Stamford Road #01-87, Capitol Piazza, Singapore 178906.
Want up to 50% off? Purchase a voucher now!

6. Folklore

Relive your fondest childhood memories with your friends, family, and loved ones at Folklore. All our favourite local dishes are cooked to nostalgic perfection, brimming with the flavours we all know and love. From the completely traditional and authentic cooking methods to the crockery that’s exactly like what your grandparents use, everything here is geared towards bringing you on a trip down memory lane.

Find it at 700 Beach Road, Level 2, Destination Singapore Beach Road, Singapore 199598.
Want up to 50% off? Purchase a voucher now!

Want in on great savings at these restaurants? Mark your calendars for 21 June, and we’ll see you at the stroke of midnight!

Tags Birthday, Deals & Specials, Epic Flash Sale, Fine Dining, Singapore

Links We Love Singapore Singapore

Weekend Reads: 15 – 17 June

Post author By Emerline Su
Post date June 15, 2018
No Comments on Weekend Reads: 15 – 17 June

Anthony Bourdain Tribute — Cr: twitter.com

It’s a sad time for the world of foodies this week – Anthony Bourdain has just passed away. Read on to see a touching tribute to this iconic chef.

This amazing chalk art mural in Indianapolis is a beautiful tribute to Anthony Bourdain and his legacy.

Watch Gordon Ramsay lose a cook-off when he goes head-to-head against Madelaine Petsch in Masterchef: Vegan.

Cr: bustle.com

Pizza in bed is the best thing we’ve seen this week. Just try to convince us otherwise.

Here’s how you can get hotel-standard food at hawker centre prices.

Have you ever struggled to get still-cold butter to spread evenly on bread? If so, then this cool newfangled butter knife is exactly what you need.

Cr: epicurious.com

Inopportune sweet cravings will never go unsatisfied when you’ve got these recipes for easy microwave desserts.

Tired out after work? Try baking – it’s everyone’s favourite way to destress!

Tags Anthony Bourdain, Dessert, Singapore, Vegan, Weekend Reads

Lifestyle Singapore Singapore

Find the Perfect Restaurant for Your Dad this Father’s Day

Post author By Emerline Su
Post date June 14, 2018
No Comments on Find the Perfect Restaurant for Your Dad this Father’s Day

What “type” of dad do you have? If you don’t know, it’s time to find out – especially since Father’s Day is just around the corner! We’re going to introduce the 6 most common types of Singaporean dads, how to identify them, and what restaurants they’ll love. Let’s get started.

The Traditionalist

Description:

Your dad’s the go-to man for lessons on table manners, folklore, and how to address all those relatives you only see once a year or at weddings. He’s always prepared for festive occasions and is a huge stickler for the rules when it comes to cultural rituals.

A Restaurant He’ll Love:

A lavish yet tasteful restaurant, Summer Pavilion has a menu and ambience fit for a king. Chinese dishes are cooked with finesse and served with impeccable elegance, nestled in intricate, beautiful china. Treat your dad to an extravagant meal featuring impressive dishes like Bird’s Nest Dumplings, African Abalone, and King Scallops.

Find it at Level 3, 7 Raffles Avenue, Singapore (039799).
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

The Man of Simple Tastes

Description:

Your dad’s never wanted anything fancy, and he’s far from picky. Easily content with the little pleasures in life and perpetually shocked by the increasingly over-the-top hipster food culture, he’d much rather lim kopi than go cafe-hopping.

A Restaurant He’ll Love:

The problem: his favourite food is hawker food. The solution: bring him to The Clifford Pier for a buffet of local delights! All the classic Singaporean bites will be there so your father can pile his plate full of Ondeh Ondeh, Popiah, and Satay. Unlimited hawker favourites cooked to perfection, and a complimentary Father’s Day dinner for Dad to boot – what’s not to love?

Find it at 80 Collyer Quay, Lobby Level, The Fullerton Bay Hotel, Singapore (049326).
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

The Music Lover

Description:

Your dad’s pet peeve is a low-quality sound system, which is why your house has a huge CD rack and a high-end stereo (or if he’s hip enough, a vinyl player). He’s also a closet pop star but only shows it when that song plays. You know which one we’re talking about.

A Restaurant He’ll Love:

Treat your dad to a luxurious night of great music and delicious food at Monti. This swanky venue doubles as a restaurant and a jazz lounge, serving up a harmonious blend of gourmet Italian bites, mellow Jazz tunes, and an amazing view. If jazz isn’t your father’s jam, then take a look at our live music guide to see if anything suits his fancy.

Find it at 82 Collyer Quay, The Fullerton Pavilion, Singapore (049327).
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

The Bottomless Pit

Description:

Your dad’s got a big appetite and he’s proud of it. When he’s around, there’s no such thing as ordering too much. Dad’s more than happy to eat up anything you can’t finish, and once he’s done with that, he’ll ask for the dessert menu.

A Restaurant He’ll Love:

It’s time to feast like a beast! Your dad’s monstrous appetite might just meet its match at The Beast. Specialising in Southern food and hospitality, the portions here are nothing if not generous, and oh-so-indulgent as well. He’ll adore the immensely satisfying burgers sporting thick, juicy patties, and the crispy buttermilk chicken that’s fried to sinful perfection.

Find it at 17 Jalan Klapa, Singapore (199329).
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

The “It’s not spicy, trust me!”

Description:

Your dad could probably chow down on an entire bowl of chillies and still not break a sweat. A lover of all things spicy, it’s best to take his assurance that something isn’t spicy with a pinch of salt… and a glass of milk.

A restaurant he’ll love:

This hip Indian restaurant is a curry connoisseur’s dream! Zaffron’s extensive selection of curries, marinated meats, and sauces has won the restaurant a Michelin Bib Gourmand in 2017, and with their spot-on spices, it’s not hard to see why. Grab Dad and head down to one of their two outlets for a tongue-tingling experience you won’t forget.

Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG when you book a table at one of these outlets:

The Carnivore

Description:

Your dad won’t feel full or satisfied unless he’s gotten a serving (maybe more) of juicy, meaty goodness. All he needs to be happy with his dinner is a nice, generous slab of steak – no extra frills required.

A restaurant he’ll love:

If there’s one place that does steaks right, it’s Opus Bar & Grill. A range of succulent seafood and meats are grilled to perfection, with a smoky flavour and gorgeous sear while remaining moist and tender inside. Your dad will especially adore the marvellously marbled steaks that just melt in your mouth, while seafood lovers can feast on sweet, fresh whole lobsters.

Find it at 581 Orchard Road, Hilton Singapore, Singapore (238883).
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

Want to impress the old man without breaking the bank? Don’t miss our list of Father’s Day specials where you can treat dear ol’ dad to a meal he deserves!

Tags Chinese, Father's Day, indian, Live Music, Singapore, Steak

Lifestyle Singapore Singapore

Creative Durian Dishes Every Durian Lover Needs to Try

Post author By Emerline Su
Post date June 11, 2018
No Comments on Creative Durian Dishes Every Durian Lover Needs to Try

Mention the name ‘durian’ and watch how people react. This Southeast Asian gem is (in)famous for its smell and flavour, but regardless of whether you’re Team Durian or not, one thing’s for sure: the durian earned its keep as the King of Fruits.

The fruit on its own is good enough, but if you’re feeling adventurous or just want a bit of it in everything you eat, check out these creative durian-based dishes! The options can be sweet or savoury, hot or cold, or even full-out crazy. One thing’s for sure, though: they’re more than enough to satisfy any craving.

1. Bread & Butter Pudding at Marriott Cafe

Cr: aspirantsg.com

This classic treat gets a local makeover at Marriott Cafe. A warm and comforting dessert that’s so quintessentially British, it’s hard to imagine the bread & butter pudding with durian. However, by mixing a healthy dose of our favourite fruit into the custard, we get a dish that’s bursting with its distinctive and oh-so-delicious aroma in every soft, fluffy bite. That’s not all the Marriott Cafe has to offer though. Alongside the bread & butter pudding sit durian puffs, mousse cakes, and even creme brulees – all at their Durian High Tea Buffet.

Find it at 320 Orchard Rd, Singapore 238865.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

2. Durian Salat at Chalk Farm

Cr: Her World

Kueh Salat is already one of the more decadent and indulgent Nyonya kuehs. So, when you replace the coconut with durian custard, you’ve got a recipe for love at first bite. Made with top-notch Mao Shan Wang and Wang Zong Wang durians, the golden-hued custard is smooth, buttery, and full of flavour. One bite won’t be enough, so it’s a good thing the Durian Salat comes in a 2.5-kilogram cake. It’s meant to serve twelve, but if you want the whole thing for yourself, who are we to judge?

Find it at 290 Orchard Road Paragon #B1-K24, Singapore 238859.
Click here for more information on Chalk Farm.

3. Fried Durian Ice Cream at Majestic Restaurant

There’s one foolproof way to make everything taste better: dip it in batter and toss it in the fryer. At Majestic Restaurant, the fried durian ice cream ticks all of our deep-fried dessert boxes. The piping hot, golden-brown, and crispy shell (covered in maple syrup, no less) opens with a delightful crack to reveal a core of cold, sweet durian ice cream. You get both hot and cold, crunchy and smooth – all in one delectable bite.

Find it at 5 Straits View, Marina One The Heart, #04-01, 018935.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

4. Durian Lava Cake – Ice Edge Cafe

Cr: Iced Age Cafe

A treat for Singaporean sweet tooths, the decadent Durian Lava Cake at Ice Edge is the cafe’s claim to fame. The golden cake comes with a dusting of icing sugar and a scoop of gelato, and the durian “lava” oozing out once you dig your spoon in is one of the most Insta-worthy things we’ve seen. Fluffy durian cake and divine filling paired with creamy gelato makes this an indulgent dessert of complementary textures and flavours.

Find it at 2 Kovan Road, #01-10 Simon Plaza, 548008.
Click here for more information on Ice Edge Cafe.

5. Durian Fried Rice at Escape Restaurant and Lounge

As the easiest way to use up leftovers, fried rice is a forgiving dish you can throw pretty much anything into. Still, it has its limits, and putting durian in there clearly pushes those limits. Durian and fried rice may seem like an odd combination, but the fruit does surprisingly well in a savoury dish. When you add in a dose of sambal, you’ll get a firework of flavours, with smoky wok hei, aromatic durian, and the spicy umami of sambal coming together on your tongue. Make sure to bring your sense of adventure, because this isn’t a dish for the faint-hearted!

Find it at 1 Farrer Park Station Road, 217562.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

6. Durian everything – Mao Shan Wang Cafe

Cr: thejakartapost.com

Mao Shan Wang Cafe is the stuff of every durian-lover’s dreams. Everything here includes durian in some way, with out-of-this-world combinations we’d never dreamed of. Start your meal with a comforting durian coffee, and if you’re feeling munchy, how about fries with durian dip? The star of the show is undoubtedly the durian pizza. Layers of freshly-peeled durian flesh and cheese sit on a fluffy charcoal pizza crust, the flavours combining to create a curious but nonetheless yummy dish.

Find it at 49 Temple St, Singapore 058594.
Click here for more information on Mao Shan Wang Cafe.

Tags Durian, Fusion, King of Fruits, Local, Singapore