Author: Kenneth Fong

Kenneth is a firm believer that when it comes to food, everything should be tried at least once. That is why he has tasted and survived surströmming, hongeo, and witchetty grub. Like Tolkien, he also believes that if more of us valued food, cheer, and song above hoarded gold, it would be a merrier world.

Prost! 8 Places To Celebrate Oktoberfest 2018

Post author By Kenneth Fong
Post date October 15, 2018
1 Comment on Prost! 8 Places To Celebrate Oktoberfest 2018

Held annually in Bavaria, Munich, Germany (phew! What a mouthful), Oktoberfest is a folk festival that is synonymous with great company, great beer, and great times! Can’t fly to Germany to celebrate this historic festival? Fret not as we’ve gathered 8 places in Singapore where you can taste authentic German beer and still bask in the spirit of Oktoberfest. And if you’re a beer geek looking for something a little more niche than German beers, be sure to check out these watering holes to get your craft beer fix.

1. Brotzeit

Practically an institution if you’re looking for all things German, Brotzeit celebrates Oktoberfest with live music and comedic acts like Oktoberfest Oompahband, as well as AnTon & the funny Guys (18 to 21 Oct at the Vivocity outlet). You can also taste all-time Oktoberfest favourites like tender pork collar slow roasted in dark beer sauce, served with soft potato dumplings and tangy sauerkraut; savoury meatloaf served between a soft Kaiser roll and potato salad; and who can forget? Succulent, oven-roasted pork belly that comes with crisp crackling skin, filled with moist bread stuffing. Wash it all down with a Hofbräu Oktoberfestbier (a full-bodied, bottom-fermented speciality beer)!

Book a table at these outlets:

2. Der Biergarten

Inspired by traditional beer gardens found in the Bavarian region, Der Biergarten is an unassuming space along Prinsep Street that is perfect for an intimate dinner or a round of drinks with friends. Come 16 October, gather a couple of mates (or girlfriends) and celebrate Oktoberfest with performances from AnTon & the funny Guys, a live band, and perhaps even a game of pool. There are also three Oktoberfest special platters ($68) to choose from: the Pork Knuckle Meat Lovers platter; a German Butcher Platter with Pork Jelly; or for those on a liquid diet – a 4 pint Paulaner Oktoberfest Bier set.

German beer aficionados will be pleased to note that traditional drafts like Paulaner Original Münchner Hell Premium Lager, as well as Paulaner Hefe-Weißbier Naturtrüb Wheat Beer, are available at this fine establishment for $10 a pint.

Find it 48 Prinsep Street, #01-01, Singapore 188677

3. ERDINGER Oktoberfest 2018

Cr: misstamchiak.com

If you’re already planning a big night out at Clarke Quay, why not join in on the Oktoberfest festivities hosted by ERDINGER Weissbräu? From 19 to 20 October, the popular nightlife spot will be transformed into a German town where you can get lip-smacking German food as well as traditional Bavarian-brewed beer on tap.

The live band performances and carnival games are sure to get you on your feet as you participate in boisterous dancing on tables – as tradition dictates – and merrymaking. And if you’re really lucky, you might just walk away with awesome prizes during the grand lucky draw each night. There’s nothing like a good street party to get the Oktoberfest spirit going. Prost, mein freund (Cheers, my friend)!

Book a table at these partner bars:

Find it at Clarke Quay Fountain Square, Clarke Quay, Singapore 179024
Click here for more information on ERDINGER Oktoberfest 2018

4. Post Bar

Cr: Fullerton Post Bar

Mark your calendars for 20 October as Fullerton Post Bar celebrates Oktoberfest with plenty of beers, beer maids, a live band and DJs, beer drinking competitions, and of course gourmet German fare like beef goulash, Bavarian sausage, and pork meatloaf. And what’s better than an ice cold ERDINGER Weißbier? How about the fact that they’re going for $10 all night!

Pro tip: get your tickets (each ticket includes one ERDINGER) early as they tend to sell out fast! Advance tickets are going for $15, regular at $20, while event day tickets cost $30. Come dressed in your finest dirndl (the traditional Bavarian dress for beer maids) and you may stand a chance to win prizes!

Find it at 1 Fullerton Square, Singapore 049178

5. LeVel33

Cr: LeVel33

For an Oktoberfest that literally makes you feel like you’re on top of the world, LeVel33 is the place to go. Located on the 33rd floor of the Marina Bay Financial Centre, the world’s highest urban microbrewery is proud to offer their very own Festbier ($9.88 from opening till 8pm, $12.88 after 8pm) that was specially brewed for the month of October. The brew is best described as a clear straw colour with a frothy white head. The aroma is a buttery, creamy malt, with light caramel notes and is slightly fruity. The flavour is moderate bitter with a light hoppy palate. Light to medium bodied with soft carbonation.

TL;DR, goes best with a Brewery burger: puff malt brioche buns, thick wagyu beef patty, lettuce and cheese. Köstlich (delicious in German)!

Find it at 8 Marina Boulevard, #33-01 Marina Bay Financial Centre, Singapore 018981

6. Oktoberfest Asia 2018

Cr: oktoberfestasia.com

Now in its 6th year, Oktoberfest Asia is back again and will be held in a fully air-conditioned marquee on Tan Quee Lan. The main event happens from 19 to 20 October where there will be a free flow of German beers like Benediktiner Hell, Bitburger, Paulaner Bräuhaus, and Weihenstephan for all valid passes (starts from $63) to go with German delicacies prepared by catering firm Shiso. The Rock Oompahs will also be performing live to celebrate this joyous festival.

If you pick up a VIP ticket ($154), you’ll get access to a sumptuous Oktoberfest Buffet which consists of Bavarian Chopped Green Salad with Walnut Vinaigrette, Roast Pork Knuckle & Crispy Pork Porchetta with Homemade Sauerkraut, German Apple Strudel with Cinnamon Sauce, and Gebratener Reis Deutsch (stir-fried long grain rice, green pepper, onion, pimentos, cider vinegar) just to name a few.

21 October will be a Family Day ($22, also comes with a free beer) complete with bouncy castles, game stalls, and other activities to keep the children entertained.

Find it at Tan Quee Lan Street
Click here for more information on Oktoberfest Asia 2018.

7. Paulaner Bräuhaus

Paulaner Bräuhaus, Singapore’s first authentic German microbrewery, will be celebrating Oktoberfest from 10 to 21 October with various highlights. Expect freshly brewed Oktoberfest beers to accompany snacks like the original “Weißwurst” (a traditional Munich sausage made of minced veal and pork, flavoured with fresh parsley and lemon, served with an oven-baked pretzel). As well as specially curated Oktoberfest menus which feature generous platters of crispy pork knuckles, roast pork, and pretzels hanging from a “pretzel tree”. There’s even a family brunch buffet on 14 and 21st October, where your little ones can entertain themselves with activities like props making, glitter tattoos, pretzel bracelets, and alpine hat design.

Find it at 9 Raffles Boulevard, #01-01, Millenia Walk, Singapore 039596

8. Stärker

Cr: Stärker Group

If you prefer a quieter affair, why not head down to any of Stärker’s outlets to enjoy their Oktoberfest offerings with a freshly brewed Stärker beer? The restaurants also offer 5 unique brews: Aromatic, Charcoal, Dunkel, Lager, and arguably the crowd favourite, the Lychee. Each brew has a strict 7-day shelf life and all of them are made with the finest ingredients imported from Europe. Now THAT’s freshly brewed.

A 3L of Stärker’s finest and an Oktoberfest platter cost $138, while 6 half pints and their famous pork knuckle (marinated in Stärker’s secret spices and served with creamy mash, house salad, with a side of Stärker beer sauce) cost $83.80. Available at all of their outlets.

Book a table at these outlets:

Tags Chope, Craft Beer, Oktoberfest, Pubs

Restaurants Singapore Singapore

10 Tea-rrific Spots to Indulge in a Spot of Afternoon Tea

Post author By Kenneth Fong
Post date September 17, 2018
No Comments on 10 Tea-rrific Spots to Indulge in a Spot of Afternoon Tea

Fancy an afternoon of indulgence? How does tea, scones, pastries, and finger sandwiches sound? Jolly good, we say! From heritage-themed offerings to authentic Peranakan flavours, we’ve put together a list of 10 places offering the best in town.

1. 10 Scotts

Located at the lobby level of the Grand Hyatt Singapore, afternoon high tea at 10 Scotts feels like coming home to an inviting living room with its comfy sofas and wide coffee tables. Expect a selection of sandwiches (rotated weekly so you’ll have more reason to return), charcuterie, artisanal cheeses, seafood (oysters!), maki (sushi rolls), stews, scones, savouries, and desserts like macarons, madeleines, tarts, and choux.

Find it at Grand Hyatt Singapore, 10 Scotts Road, Lobby Level, Singapore 228211
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

2. The Clifford Pier

Cr: The Fullerton Bay Hotel

Occupying the space of the original Clifford Pier, afternoon tea at the Fullerton Bay Hotel is a leisurely affair that is informed by the venue’s historic past as well as the kitchen’s meticulous recreation of heritage favourites.

The Singapore Heritage Afternoon Tea ($48++) contains a selection of 8 savoury and 8 sweet items to reflect Singapore’s culinary past and present. Think Nonya-style Chicken Curry wrapped in freshly made Roti Jala, Kurobuta Pork Kong Bak Bao, fried Mantou stuffed with iconic Chilli Crab and Bika Ambon. Shiok (awesome).

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

3. LeBar

Cr: sofitel-singapore-sentosa.com

Ideal for meeting friends for a leisurely afternoon, LeBar’s airy decor and plush furniture invites you to linger over fine teas, artisanal sandwiches, and French pastries. The Afternoon Tea à la Française features an array of tempting finger sandwiches, savoury amuse-bouches, and delicate mini pastries all presented in an ornate jewellery box.

To really #treatyoself, top up $15++ for the premium option which privies you to gastronomic creations like Foie Gras Crème Brûlée (caramelised goose liver custard), Truffle Brandade de Morue (a creamy, comforting dip that goes perfectly with bread), and Gelee de Champagne Taittinger (champagne jellies).

Find it at Sofitel Singapore Sentosa Resort and Spa Hotel, 2 Bukit Manis Road, Sentosa, Singapore 099891
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

4. Lobby Lounge at InterContinental Singapore

The Lobby Lounge at InterContinental Singapore is a beautiful, all-day dining venue that offers an array of exquisite teas, freshly shaken tipples, petite plates, and more. It is also where award-winning Chef Ben Goh presents his themed afternoon teas. This season’s offering is the Secret Garden ($78++ for two persons, inclusive of coffee and tea).

The menu is served in a three-tiered showcase of savoury treats like Tamago Furikake Egg Sandwiches, Smoked Salmon Mousse and Chrysanthemum Mantous; as well as an exquisite selection of Victorian desserts like Raspberry-Rose Lemon Pound Cake, Lavender Lemon and English Scones, and Carrot Cake with Orange Mint Mascarpone Mousse.

Find it at 80 Middle Road, Level 1, InterContinental Singapore, Singapore 188966
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Want 10% off your meal? Purchase your voucher today!

5. National Kitchen by Violet Oon (National Gallery)

We’re big fans of Violet Oon, and consider her to be the Julia Child of Peranakan food in Singapore. With such a title, you can expect the afternoon tea at National Kitchen by Violet Oon to be an exquisite presentation of traditional Peranakan flavours.

The Singapore High Tea ($56++ for two persons) is served with your choice of coffee or tea. The latter is specially hand-blended by The Singapore Tea Company to showcase the best teas of the season. The menu features beloved Peranakan classics like Kueh Pie Tee and Kueh Dah Dah.

You’ll probably be quite stuffed, but we highly recommend topping up the additional $14++ (also for 2 persons) for the dry laksa.

Find it at 1 St Andrews Road, #02-01, Singapore 178957
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

6. One-Ninety Bar

Cr: One-Ninety Bar

The Weekend Afternoon High Tea ($46++) at One-Ninety Bar comes with an extensive selection of TWG teas that should satisfy any tea lover. If you’re more of a coffee connoisseur, you’ll appreciate the 100% Arabica beans from Tanzania, by Lavazza, that will be brewed at your table.

Apart from a seasonal array of delicate savouries and sweets that will be circulated throughout, you’ll also be served pastries like pistachio éclairs, fresh fruit tarts, and yuzu lemon cupcakes. A must try is the freshly baked vanilla scone served with homemade rose petal strawberry preserve and clotted cream. Don’t be afraid to go for seconds (or thirds).

Find it at 190 Orchard Boulevard, Four Seasons Hotel Singapore, Singapore 248646
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

7. Pollen

Cr: pollen.com.sg

Set in the gorgeous Flower Dome at Gardens by the Bay, Pollen always promises a dining experience that seemingly transports you to a different world. And afternoon tea ($38++ per person; add $5++ for free-flow coffee or tea) in this magical garden, is no different.

The carefully curated menu features tasty savouries like Egg and Watercress Finger Sandwiches and moreish Beef Croquettes. For sweets, there’s Earl Grey Lemon Cake, Financiers, and Orange and White Chocolate Scones. If you’re in the mood for celebration, simply top up $40++ more to enjoy a free-flow of bubbly Prosecco.

Find it at 18 Marina Gardens Drive, #01-09, Flower Dome Gardens by the Bay, Singapore 018953
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

8. Tea Lounge

Lauded as one of the best high teas in Singapore, the Tea Lounge at Regent Singapore offers Afternoon Tea in a contemporary colonial garden setting.

Expect attentive trolley service for weekday afternoon tea accompanied with aromatic pour-over coffee or a perfect cup of precisely decanted tea blend. Additionally, opt for a Manhattan-inspired tea mocktail or cocktail for an unconventional (but equally delicious) refreshment.

On the weekends, the Afternoon Tea Buffet is an indulgent affair planned around various themes. The current Singaporean delights fare will see an eclectic selection of Western and Eastern with a touch of local flair. Think Singapore Rojak Salad and Salted Egg-Crusted Wagyu Rump.

Find it at 1 Cuscaden Road, Lobby Level, Regent Singapore, A Four Seasons Hotel, Singapore 249715
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Want 35% off your meal? Purchase your voucher today!

9. The Rose Veranda

Cr: Shangri-La Hotel, Singapore

Hungry after shopping in town? Head over to The Rose Veranda, an elegant dining room located at the mezzanine level of Shangri-La Hotel, Singapore.

To create a truly bespoke tea experience, the waitstaff will personally show you various teas for you to choose from. Once you’re shown to your seats, feel free to help yourself to as many bite-sized offerings your stomach can accommodate. This is perfect for those who want to try as many things as possible.

For those who want heartier portions, fret not as there’s a carving station and offerings like Beef Bourguignon, Laksa, and a sushi bar. End your meal with a myriad of desserts or create your own with the chocolate fountain.

Find it at 22 Orange Grove Road, Mezzanine Level, Tower Wing, Shangri-La Hotel, Singapore 258350
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

10. Wildseed Cafe

If you prefer quiet conversations or enjoy the company of a good book along with your tea, then Wildseed Cafe might just be your next favourite haunt. It’s also exceedingly pretty as it shares the same premises as The Summerhouse.

The Afternoon Tea Set ($40++ for 2 persons) features nature-inspired fare informed by the cafe’s farm-to-table ethos. The focus of the tea set is on beautifully executed sweets like Coconut Lemon Cake and Sticky Date Pudding, but also offers a savoury option in the form of the Chicken Pinche Petit Sandwich (smoked chicken breast with jalapeño mayo and corn).

Spend the afternoon having tea, and stay for dinner in a Garden Dome right in the middle of the idyllic garden.

Find it at 3 Park Lane, Singapore 798387
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Tags Afternoon Tea, Buffet, Chope, Coffee, Finger Foods, High Tea, Hotel, Orchard, Singapore

Lifestyle Singapore Singapore

Stuff Your Face at these 8 Places with Epic Food Portions

Post author By Kenneth Fong
Post date July 24, 2018
No Comments on Stuff Your Face at these 8 Places with Epic Food Portions

You’ve tried every café in our Ultimate Singapore Café Guide that covers the West, East, North, as well as North-East and Central Singapore, and you’ve filled your Instagram feed with your dining escapades that include envy-inducing views. So… What now?

How about some epic food portions that will put you and your friends’ stomachs to the test? Here are 8 places that tout massive servings that are great for groups, or if you’re brave and hungry enough, for just you.

1. 289 Xiang Ji Roasted Delights

Cr: facebook.com

One of Singapore’s iconic dishes, you can find chicken rice all over the country, and for good reason. Everybody from foreigners to local uncles and aunties adores this delicious dish. But how much do you love chicken rice? Could you maybe scarf down a 3kg serving in one sitting?

Prove your love at 289 Xiang Ji Roasted Delights. It hosts a Mega Chicken Rice challenge that gives you the massive plate, worth $28, for free if you can finish it all by yourself. For those who would rather watch your friends attempt this, don’t forget to order some of the excellent char siew that has just the right amount of char so it remains crispy on the outside, while the fatty meat remains succulent.

Find it at 289H Bukit Batok Street 25, Singapore 657289.
Click here for more information about 289 Xiang Ji Roasted Delights.

2. The Beast

The Beast Burger ($125++) is a 7-pound monstrosity that contains (drumroll please):

1.6 pounds of juicy beef patty
1 pound of slow cooked pulled pork
1 pound of Southern buttermilk fried chicken, topped with slaw, lettuce, and tomato

All sandwiched between a 9-inch sesame bun. And of course, what burger meal would be complete without a bucket of sweet potato fries on the side? Mere mortals can share the burger between 4 diners. But if you want to be immortalised on their Wall of Fame, feel free to take on The Beast Burger Challenge and manage to finish it within the time limit, your meal will be free and you’ll get your name added to the Wall of Fame.

If you and your hungry friends are still hungry, The Beast hosts All You Can Eat Chicken Tuesdays, where you get to enjoy juicy Southern Fried Chicken as well as unlimited cornbread, sides, and dessert too!

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

3. Eight Signatures Seafood Restaurant

Served in what can only be described as a trough, Eight Signatures Seafood Restaurant’s seafood platter is truly a sight to behold. You’ve got flower crabs, fried goby, all sorts of shellfish, and tiger prawns – all meticulously prepared and assembled with vegetables. Top it all off with a delicious broth (you can choose between garlic soy, mala, tom yum, or curry) for maximum satisfaction. The restaurant prides itself on using the freshest seafood available, which explains why the resulting seafood broth is always so sweet.

And if you’re wondering if a single person can finish the largest seafood platter that Eight Signatures has, click here to watch local competitive eater Zermatt Neo demolish one. #goals.

Find it at 87 Serangoon Garden Way, Singapore 555983.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

4. T Bob’s Corner

Cr: tbobscorner.com

Our voracious meat lovers and Muslim friends will be pleased to know that T Bob’s Corner is the place to be for Western fare that is Halal-friendly. And T Bob doesn’t play around when it comes to their “Sharing” options: from a 1 kg platter of lamb cutlets to a 1 kg T-bone steak served with their famous bone marrow, you and your friends will definitely be satisfied if you’re feeling carnivorous. For the particularly ravenous, the star of T Bob’s Corner is a massive 1.4 kg bone-in Angus Tomahawk that supposedly feeds 4 individuals, but no one’s stopping you from trying to finish it by yourself.

Find it at 527 Bedok North Street 3, #01-514, Singapore 460527.
Click here for more information about T Bob’s Corner.

5. Little Diner

Little Diner is a laid-back restaurant modelled after New York City’s Lower East Side, so expect generous American-style fare with urban-chic decor. And when we say American-style, we mean it in every possible way, right down to their portion sizes. For example, there’s nothing “little” about the enormous Empire Burger that stands at almost a head tall.

Little Diner’s Empire Burger ($55++) is a sandwich loaded with 3 beef patties, bacon, a good mix of swiss and cheddar cheese, caramelised onions, plenty of lettuce and tomatoes, pickles, and a fried egg, with a side of thick-cut fries and house salad. Whew, that was a mouthful. It’s good for a group of 3 to 4 people, but you can take up the Empire Burger Challenge. If you manage to finish the entire thing in 20 minutes, you’ll earn mad props and a free meal. If you can’t finish it within the time limit, you’ll have to pay for the burger. On the bright side, the good folks at Little Diner will throw in a free dessert. That is if you can still stomach dessert.

Find it at 789 Bukit Timah Road, Singapore 269763.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

6. Peperoni Pizzeria

Cr: Tableforthree.wordpress.com

If you a-dough pizza as much as we do, how about ordering an XXL 21” pie from Peperoni Pizzeria? Enough to feed 4-6 people, it’s perfect for a small party or family get-together. Make sure you’ve got lots of space in your car though, because the pizza box is so huge that it doesn’t fit on a standard delivery man’s motorcycle, so you’ll have to pick it up yourself.

Choose from options like the tried and tested Classico flavours, or treat yourself to something more premium with the Speciale flavours. Can’t decide? Do the half-and-half or follow your stomach and order two serparate XXLs instead.

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

7. Roadhouse

Roadhouse is a casual diner that prides itself on serving all-American classics: milkshakes and customisable burgers. It’s also home to the 1 kg Terminator Burger Challenge that’s almost as intimidating as Arnold Schwarzenegger himself. The burger has 6 beef patties, grilled in a mighty Josper grill to seal in the juices and impart a nice, smoky sear. The stack also includes cheese, streaky bacon, jalapeños, and coleslaw, all between homemade sesame buns. Finish this tasty burger within 20 minutes – the sea of fries included – and it’s free. Plus, you’ll earn eternal glory on the Roadhouse Wall of Fame. Our recommendation: skip breakfast and wear stretchy pants.

Find it at 13 Dempsey Road, Singapore 249674.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

8. Senmi Sushi

Cr: emporiumshokuhin.com.sg

If you’re always checking out our Japanese Restaurant Guide for the best places to satisfy your sushi or sashimi cravings, then you’re going to want to visit Senmi Sushi – especially if you love chirashi don. And by love, we mean so much that you’ll want to swim in one of them.

Senmi Sushi’s Giant Chirashi Don is brimming with salmon, tuna, swordfish, salmon roe, tamago, and plenty of cucumber for a nice crunch. And while they recommend sharing it between 2 to 3 diners, it is also perfectly sized for hungry individuals who always complain that the standard chirashi don serving is too small. If you wish to #treatyoself, the Giant Premium Chirashi Don will see your akami (tuna back) upgraded to chūtoro (medium fatty tuna), plus the addition of scallops and amaebi (sweet shrimp) that is sure to make you go oishii!

Find it at 6 Raffles Boulevard, Marina Square #01-18, Singapore 039594.
Click here for more information about Senmi Sushi.

Tags Burgers, Food Challenge, Large Portions, Pizza, Seafood, Singapore

Lifestyle Singapore Singapore

10 Curry Houses To Spice Up Your Life

Post author By Kenneth Fong
Post date July 10, 2018
No Comments on 10 Curry Houses To Spice Up Your Life

If there’s anything that a true blue Singaporean foodie can’t resist, it’s got to be a good curry. And we’re not talking about the slightly sweet Japanese curries with chunks of carrots and potatoes or the green curries that we associate with the Thais. We’re talking about the sometimes fiery, but always rich blend of spices and aromas of an Indian curry that will whet any appetite!

Here are 10 of the best curry houses and restaurants. If you want more of that spicy goodness, check out our Indian Restaurant Guide too!

1. Aromas of India

Curry connoisseurs know that the best curry houses can be found along Race Course Road, and Aromas of India is no exception to this rule. With cosy décor, an intimate ambience, and wholesome, home-cooked flavours, visiting Aromas always feels like returning home.

Start your meal with the Palak Pakora (chopped spinach, battered, deep fried, and served with mint chutney), before moving onto the Chicken Vindaloo. Need some carbs? These dishes go perfectly with Biryani or Saffron Rice.

Find it at 60 Race Course Road, Singapore 218567
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

2. The Banana Leaf Apolo (Parkway Parade)

Cr: thebananaleafapolo.com

The famed three-shophouse establishment on Race Course Road that is Banana Leaf Apolo needs no introduction. As its name suggests, their menu of South and North Indian dishes come on banana leaves – a tradition that traces its roots back to India. East-siders will also be pleased to know that they’ve opened an outlet in Parkway Parade in February this year!

No matter which outlet you choose to dine at, their signature Apolo Fish Head Curry is always piping hot, with a healthy assortment of vegetables like okra, tomatoes, and eggplant that complement the spicy stew perfectly. And as always, a tall glass of cold, freshly-pressed lime juice is the beverage of choice for such a hearty meal.

Find it at 80 Marine Parade Road, #03-01/02A, Parkway Parade, Singapore 449269.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

3. Punjab Grill

At Punjab Grill, the highlights are always their top-notch tandoori, pakora, naan, and paneer dishes. After all, they are the icons of Punjabi cuisine. If you want to try something new, take a chance on the Saag Gosht. The delicious rendition at Punjab grill features baby lamb and finely chopped spinach. To really amp up your curry meal, order a side of Paneer Tikka Lababdar (cottage cheese in tomatoes and onion gravy) as well as some Kulcha (mildly leavened flatbread, similar to a naan) to mop up all that curry and gravy with.

Find it at 2 Bayfront Avenue, B1-01A Galleria Level, The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

4. Rang Mahal

Cr: robbreport.com.sg

Considered the pioneer of Singapore’s Indian fine dining scene, Rang Mahal is a long-standing beacon of traditional Indian favourites as well as contemporary interpretations that will tantalise and surprise. This awardee of MICHELIN’s The Plate 2017 is helmed by Chef Milind Sovani, who spent 5 years in India studying the nuances of Indian cuisine and its spices. He’s also a student of the Ayurvedic approach – one of the oldest systems of medicine in the world – to Indian cuisine.

The result is a plethora of dishes like the spicy Tomato Saar with Mulethi Herb Foam, which boosts immunity and digestion. A must try here is the Parsi Kheema Per Eeda and Maska Bao. The soft maska buns are the perfect vessels for the mild curry of lamb and eggs, and great or cleaning your bowl too!

Find it at 7 Raffles Boulevard, Level 3, Pan Pacific Hotel, Singapore 039595.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

5. Samy’s Curry Restaurant

Cr: sg.asia-city.com

Located in a colonial building, Samy’s Curry Restaurant has been serving its famous fish head curry for more than 50 years. The décor looks a little like a canteen that’s stuck in time, but the diners that constantly pack this restaurant aren’t there to fill their Instagram feed with pictures (even though we won’t fault you if you snap a few photos). They keep coming back because Samy’s offers hearty Indian food at an affordable price.

Once you’re seated, you’ll get a banana leaf and some utensils. However, we suggest going sans spoon for the full experience. Next comes a scoop of rice – you have a choice of white or briyani – and a serving of vegetables and dhal, before you receive whatever sides and mains you have ordered. We recommend the Fish Head Curry, the Mysore Mutton, and the intriguingly tasty Fish Cutlet (think of it as a fish begedil).

Find it at 25 Dempsey Road, Singapore 249670.
Click here for more information about Samy’s Curry.

6. The Song of India

The Song of India is a 1 MICHELIN Star restaurant that serves refined yet decadent Indian cuisine. Curry fans will appreciate the Lucknavi Lamb Shank or Nalli Gosht (lamb shanks that are slow cooked in yoghurt, spices and fresh coriander until they are fall-off-the-bone tender), as well as the velvety smooth Goan Fish Curry (which has been cooked with tamarind to impart a sweet, tart, yet sour flavour profile that greatly increases the complexity of the dish). If you’d like to try their luxurious take on Indian cuisine, they’ve got options like Lobster Moily (whole lobster pan seared in lemon and marinated with a delicate coconut milk based sauce) and Star Spiced Foie Gras (pan seared foie gras spiced with star anise masala).

To celebrate their 13th anniversary, the restaurant offering a gourmet buffet lunch ($36.90++ per person) from Mondays to Saturdays. Sounds like a good deal? It gets better: every 4th diner dines for free. Take the chance to drag your foodie buddies and check off another restaurant from Singapore’s MICHELIN Guide.

Find it at 33 Scotts Road, Singapore 228226.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

7. Tandoor

Cr: tandoor.com.sg

If you think that all curries are heavy and food coma-inducing, then Tandoor’s summery stews will be a huge eye-opener. They use fresh, sweet mangoes from the Mangalore region in India to make signature dishes like Mango Curry, a tangy, appetising dish. It goes extremely well with a serving of steamed Basmati rice, and is also a perfect accompaniment to heavier dishes like the Bhatti Ka Murgh (Tandoori Chicken) or succulent Fish Goan Curry. Their open kitchen is also a nice touch. Watch the fascinating display of their chefs’ culinary prowess, as they prepare your food in gigantic tandoor ovens.

Here’s some good news for the weekend: Tandoor currently offers an indulgent buffet that serves a wide selection of curries along with various naan bread for $52++ per person.

Find it at 11 Cavenagh Road, Holiday Inn Singapore Orchard City Centre, Singapore 229616.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

8. Omar Shariff Authentic Indian Cuisine

Cr: omar-shariff.com

Just like the other places featured in this list, Omar Shariff definitely knows how to cook a mean curry. We particularly like the Rogan Josh – a dish of Persian origins – that features generous chunks of lamb slow cooked in an aromatic curry, perfumed with a myriad of spices.

Omar Shariff also has a well-crafted vegetarian menu featuring delicious creations like Tandoori Aloo Bharwan (potatoes filled with paneer and marinated in yoghurt masala) and Aloo Jeera (potatoes spiced with roasted cumin).

Find it at 805 Bukit Timah Road, #01-02 Sixth Avenue Centre, Singapore 279883.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

9. Yantra by Hemant Oberoi

Cr: yantra.com.sg

Yantra by Hemant Oberoi is not your typical North Indian restaurant. The flavours and aromas are very much Indian, but the presentation and preparation all come with an unconventional twist. Expect surprising, yet delectable culinary creations like the Chicken Tikka Fondue and the Lucknavi Gosht Lamb Biryani. Curry lovers should definitely try the Martabaan Ka Meat or Pickling Pot Lamb Curry, with some naan on the side. For the stronger of stomach, try the Goat Cheese and Onion Seed Naan. End your meal with a Gulab Jamun Tiramisu or a Sugarcane Sorbet.

Find it at 163 Tanglin Road, #01-28/33, Tanglin Mall, Singapore 247933.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

10. Zaffron Kitchen

Awarded the MICHELIN Bib Gourmand in 2017, Zaffron Kitchen is known for their extensive selection of curries, snacks, and marinated meats, all perfectly executed and served in hip and modern spaces.

Do what the regulars do: order the Butter Chicken with a side of naan. We particularly love the garlic naan, which has the perfect balance of savoury, crunchy, and chewy. If you still have space for more, The Fish Tikka (made with salmon for a more unique texture) and Mutton Rogan Josh aren’t to be missed either.

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

Tags Curry, indian, Singapore, spicy food

Lifestyle Singapore Singapore

10 View-tiful Places To Dine At Around Singapore

Post author By Kenneth Fong
Post date June 25, 2018
No Comments on 10 View-tiful Places To Dine At Around Singapore

Tired of the same ol’ cafés and restaurants that you frequent? Think that the only best view of Singapore is from the Skypark at Marina Bay Sands? Well, think again. We’ve travelled around our sunny island to put together a list of 10 places to dine at, that all have beautiful views to boot. And to make it easier, we’ve categorised them according to their regions!

North

1. The Summerhouse

Many couples have gotten engaged or recited their vows on the premises of The Summerhouse, and it’s easy to see why. The property is essentially a countryside summer escape that’ll make you forget that you’re in Singapore. To really up the ante of your dining experience, ask for the charming Garden Domes, which provide a magical space for private dinner parties of up to eight diners, or a romantic dinner for two. These fully air-conditioned geodesic domes allow you to wine and dine, in the garden, under the stars, in absolute comfort.

The Summerhouse also has a strong focus on the farm to table experience, and sources ingredients from a farming collective of growers, producers, and kelongs. In fact, the garnishes and herbs that you see on your dinner plate might just be harvested from the in-house edible garden that surrounds the idyllic restaurant.

Find it at 3 Park Lane, Singapore 798387.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

2. Whisk & Paddle

Cr: whiskandpaddle.com.sg

To be more precise, Whisk & Paddle is located in the North-Eastern part of Singapore, and is situated right next to the Punggol Waterway. It’s probably the closest thing we’ll ever get to a café by the river, but it’s no less scenic. Also, here’s good news for parents with kids or fur-kids: this establishment welcomes both humans and their furry friends.

Besides an all-day breakfast, Whisk & Paddle also offers a myriad of Western dishes like duck confit, fish & chips, pasta, as well as hand-stretched thin crust pizzas, so there’s definitely something here for everyone. If it’s not too hot out, we recommend sitting at the veranda; it’s the perfect place to relish in the tranquil ambience with a cuppa, and also the ideal chillout spot for an ice cold beer in the evenings.

Find it at 10 Tebing Lane, #01-01, Singapore 828836.
Click here for more information about Whisk & Paddle.

South

3. Tamarind Hill

Cr: tamarindrestaurants.com

You can find Tamarind Hill at Labrador Park, home to the only rocky sea-cliff on mainland Singapore that is accessible to the public. Housed in a colonial bungalow, the restaurant boasts both traditional and modern Thai and Burmese cuisine, as well as a picturesque view of the sea. Some of the must-tries include the home-style classic dishes like som tam (spicy green papaya salad), red tom yam seafood soup, and the moreish massaman beef curry.

After your meal, stop by the beautiful, black and white bar, and take your pick from a great selection of house-infused gins, signature cocktails, and fine wines curated from over 11 countries.

Find it at 30 Labrador Villa Road, Singapore 119189.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

4. Ocean Restaurant by Cat Cora

Cr: Resort World Sentosa

For those wondering if that’s the actual view you’ll be getting when you dine at Ocean Restaurant. Yes, it is. After all, Ocean Restaurant’s main attraction is that it is Singapore’s first aquarium dining experience.

As the perfect accompaniment to this experience, Ocean Restaurant serves Mediterranean-Californian cuisine, executed with an Asian flair, that is also informed by Chef Cat Cora’s belief in sustainable seafood. This means that the menu uses local, sustainable seafood produce as well as seafood caught via sustainable methods, which makes the dining experience that much more satisfying.

Find it at 22 Sentosa Gateway, S.E.A. Aquarium, #B1-455, Singapore 098136.
Click here for more information about Ocean Restaurant by Cat Cora.

East

5. Jumbo Seafood East Coast

Cr: cavinteo.blogspot.com

This entrant probably needs no introduction. One of Singapore’s most recognisable home-grown brands that is one of the must-go places for its famous Chilli Crab, Jumbo Seafood is also known for Fried Cereal Prawns, Crispy Baby Squid, and Golden Egg Salted Prawns. The East Coast outlet, which is the first restaurant of the Jumbo group, will always be a little special because that’s where most of us had our first “seafood by the sea” dining experience. It is the quintessential Singapore dining experience that is both loved by tourists and locals alike.

Find it at Blk 1206 East Coast Parkway, #01-07/08, East Coast Seafood Centre, Singapore 449883.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

6. La Cantina in Venezia

Cr: facebook.com

Located on the rooftop of Changi Village Hotel is La Cantina in Venezia, an Italian restaurant that serves a wide array of robust, traditional dishes that are prepared simply and executed brilliantly. The restaurant has a good selection of antipasti, thin crust pizzas, and delectable pastas – most notably the Linguine Al Granchio. Think chunks of sweet crabmeat and al dente pasta, all coated in a smooth, tangy tomato cream sauce.

Equally stunning is the panoramic view from the establishment, where you can watch airliners make their final approach into Changi Airport. If you’re planning to make dinner reservations, ask for a window table and be there in time for the sunset.

Find it at Changi Village Hotel, 1 Netheravon Road, 8/F, Singapore 508502.
Click here for more information about La Cantina in Venezia.

West

7. The Bridge Bistro & Beacon Bar

Cr: rsyc.org.sg

West-siders fret not, for we’ve found The Bridge Bistro & Beacon Bar! It’s a nautical-themed restaurant, offering European staples with Asian influence and a pretty awesome view of the harbour. The al fresco dining area is perfect for a romantic night out with your significant other, or a relaxing get-together with friends.

Craving Italian? La Pizzeria, a new dining concept that offers wood-fired pizzas and pasta, is on the same premises. Some of their signature dishes include the Gnocchi Sorrentina (tomato sauce, basil, mozzarella, and parmesan cheese), Ravioli Spinach and Ricotta, as well as an Italian classic, the Pizza Margherita.

Find it at 52 West Coast Ferry Road, Level 2, Singapore 126887.
Click here for more information on The Bridge Bistro & Beacon Bar.

Central

8. Pollen

You know that sense of wonder Charlie felt when he walked into Willy Wonka’s Chocolate Factory? Experience it firsthand at Pollen! A restaurant that sits inside an olive grove, surrounded by Amalfi lemon trees and plenty of lavender and thyme, it’ll definitely be a treat for the senses.

Pollen’s menu features modern European fare with a Mediterranean twist, made with fresh herbs and vegetables grown in the dome’s micro-climate. Vegetarians will be pleased to know that the restaurant also offers vegetarian tasting menus that are meticulously put together.

Find it at 18 Marina Gardens Drive, #01-09, Flower Dome Gardens by the Bay, Singapore 018953.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

9. Riders Café

Cr: wonderflour.blogspot.com

Grown weary of the same hipster cafés with dim lighting, flashy espresso machines, and avocado toast? Try some fresh air, horses, and the English countryside for a change! Well, it isn’t the actual English countryside, but the lush paddocks of Bukit Timah Saddle Club and Riders Café’s charmingly rustic ambience just might make you forget that you’re still in Singapore.

Go with the family or a group of friends because you’ll want to order everything. Just look at some of our favourites from the small, but well-executed menu: Bircher Muesli, fluffy Lemon Ricotta Pancakes with berry compote and honeycomb butter, and of course, the signature Riders Burger. When you’re done with your meal, kick back with some Grand Mimosas and laze away the afternoon, while the rugrats run wild and explore.

Find it at 51 Fairways Drive, Singapore 286965.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

10. Salt grill & Sky bar

Cr: Luke Mangan & Company

At 55 floors above ground level in the middle of Orchard Road, it goes without saying that Salt grill & Sky bar offers a magnificent view. However, that’s not the only highlight of the establishment. Head Chef Jake Kowalewski’s menu has a strong focus on serving only the best Australian produce and is a perfect showcase of Asian classics, signature dishes, as well as premium Australian beef. Be sure to try the beautifully made desserts and hand-crafted cocktails as you take in the panoramic view.

Find it at 2 Orchard Turn, Level 55, ION Orchard, Singapore 238801.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

Tags Breakfast and Brunch, Good View, Romantic, Seafood, Singapore

Lifestyle Singapore Singapore

8 Delicious Places to Catch the 2018 World Cup

Post author By Kenneth Fong
Post date June 18, 2018
No Comments on 8 Delicious Places to Catch the 2018 World Cup

The 2018 World Cup is just around the corner, but unlike our lucky neighbours across the Straits of Johor who can catch the matches for free on local tv, we’ve got to rely on our trusty cable service providers if we wish to follow the game. And sure, we can enjoy the matches in the comfort of our homes, but nothing gets the adrenaline pumping faster than being surrounded by your fellow and rival football fans, all while cheering and shouting in unison.

Here are a few establishments that we’ve found that will allow you to indulge in quality grub and drinks, while you kick back, relax, and have a great time with your football loving friends.

1. Bar Bar Black Sheep (Cluny Court)

Featuring a variety of Thai, Western, and Northern Indian cuisine that is dished out from three specialty kitchens, Bar Bar Black Sheep (Cluny Court) is the perfect place to catch the World Cup with friends who can never seem to decide what they would like to have. From Seafood Phad Thai, to crispy Beer-Battered Fish and Chips, to creamy Butter Chicken; there’s something here for everyone. Bar Bar Black Sheep (Cluny Court) also has a large al fresco dining area where they will be screening all 64 matches live. And best of all, they will continue to provide full table service with no extra surcharge.

Find it at 501 Bukit Timah Road,#01-05C, Cluny Court, Singapore 259760.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

2. Brewerkz (Riverside Point)

Cr: brewerkz.com

Imagine this: you’re halfway through the game and you’re feeling peckish, but you’re stuck at home and you’ve only got a cup of tom yum seafood noodles in the kitchen. But hey, if you’re watching the match at Brewerkz (Riverside Point), you can order snacks like Spicy Chicken Satay or the Party Platter – which consists of generous servings of calamari, buffalo wings, quesadillas, and mini sausages. It says “serves three to four”, but I suppose it could mean “times”? Yes, it’ll serve one person three to four times, perfectly (disclaimer: the words of this writer does not reflect Chope’s view of the appropriate serving size).

If you and your mates are still hungry, they’ve got plenty of heartier offerings like the ever popular 3 Little Pigs Pizza (pulled pork, bacon, and spice house fennel sausage). And if all that cheering’s got you thirsty, why not try one of their famous craft beers? They’ve even got a lucky draw going on from now till 28 Jun 18, where you can stand a chance to win a year’s supply of craft beer!

Find it at 30 Merchant Road, #01-05/06, Riverside Point, Singapore 058282.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

3. Harry’s

Cr: harrys.com.sg

Any sports fanatic worth their salt would know that Harry’s is the place to be for live telecasts of pretty much any sports event (including all the 2018 World Cup matches), quality brews, and a delectable menu, which features their Mirin Soy-Glazed Beef Cubes, addictive Laksa Popcorn Chicken, and Signature Wings dressed in their proprietary blend of spices. Harry’s outlets are also always conveniently located in key business districts and suburban neighbourhoods, which make them the perfect place to meet up with friends or colleagues after work for a round of drinks, and to stay to catch the latest World Cup match. Click here for their latest World Cup screening schedule.

Find it at River Valley Road, #01-01, Singapore 179023.
Click here for more information on Harry’s.

4. Muddy Murphy’s

Cr: waikayphotography.com

Muddy Murphy’s is a well-known Irish pub that is a crowd favourite whenever it’s World Cup season – or during any major sporting ever for the matter. The pub offers more than 15 varieties of ales, beers, ciders, and stouts on tap including Erdinger Weißbier, Guinness, Heineken, Kilkenny, Old Speckled Hen, Strongbow, and even local brews like Tiger. So if you and your buddies are looking for a place, which is serious about their booze, you know where to go. And considering that Muddy Murphy’s screened the 2018 World Cup Qualifier matches earlier, it’s no surprise that they would be screening all 2018 World Cup matches live, on get this: not one, not two, but SIX big screens, so you’ll never have to be afraid that you’ll miss an amazing tackle or a momentous goal.

Find it at 442 Orchard Road, #01-02, Singapore 238879
Click here for more information on Muddy Murphy’s.

5. Media Bar

Media Bar is the gastropub to visit if you wish to elevate your bar food game while cheering on your favourite team. The menu features burgers made from Australian wagyu beef, roti paratha rolls served with fragrant curried chicken, and even a signature ice cream sundae if you need something sweet to celebrate after your team’s win. Choose your libation from a healthy mix of craft beers, hand-crafted cocktails, and spirits that should satisfy any thirst. Most importantly, adorning the bar counters are 24 LCD screens, which ensure that you’ll never miss a second of the beautiful game.

Find it at 30 Beach Road, JW Marriott Singapore South Beach, Singapore 189763.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

6. The Penny Black

Cr: asia-bars.com

Though situated in the heart of Boat Quay, you’d think that you were magically transported to London when you step into The Penny Black – probably because the decor of the establishment is painstakingly modelled after a traditional Victorian London pub. The pub also offers traditional London pub-style fare such as traditional Roast Beef complete with mash and Yorkshire pudding, as well as a hearty Beef and Guinness Pie. And there’s nothing better than a tall glass of refreshing Pimm’s Lemonade – a traditional English summer cocktail that is made with Pimm’s No.1 liqueur, lemonade, plenty of lemon and orange slices, and lots of mint – as you shout “Goal!!!” and celebrate when your favourite team scores.

Find it at 26 – 27 Boat Quay, Singapore 049817.
Click here for more information on The Penny Black.

7. Stellar at 1-Altitude

Want to treat that special person in your life, who is also a diehard football fan, to an unforgettable night out? Stellar at 1-Altitude offers an epicurean experience, which promises a showcase of seasonal produce as well as Executive Chef Christopher’s masterful interpretation of progressive Australian cuisine. Not only will the food impress you, but the lofty view from the 62nd floor of One Raffles Place will have you feeling like you’re dining amongst the stars.

After you’re done with the aptly named Constellations Gastronomic menu (choose from 6 or 8 courses), head up to the 1-Altitude Gallery & Bar – currently the highest al fresco bar in the world – where you can nurse your favourite cocktail while you watch a live screening of the latest match.

If your significant other does this for you, you’ve found yourself a keeper (pun intended).

Find it at 1 Raffles Place, 62F, Singapore 048616.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

8. TONIC

Love the game but can’t stand the chaos of a sports bar? TONIC is the perfect hangout for sophisticated aesthetes and cocktail snobs, who would like to appreciate the screening of the World Cup in a more atas setting. The main focus of the bar is a dazzling array of gin in all its different renditions, but there’s also an equally impressive list of spirits and handcrafted cocktails should you wish to expand your drinking repertoire. The bar’s interior is designed by famed designer Phillip Starck (for the uninitiated, he’s responsible for the lucite Louis Ghost Chair aka the world’s best selling designer chair), and is reminiscent of an eclectic living room – perfect for your lowkey flex on your Insta Story.

Find it at 30 Beach Road, JW Marriott Singapore South Beach, Singapore 189763.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

Tags Late Night Drinks, Pubs, Singapore, World Cup

Hacks & How-Tos Lifestyle Singapore Singapore

7 Quirky Tips to Help You Nail The Perfect #FoodPorn Shot

Post author By Kenneth Fong
Post date May 23, 2018
No Comments on 7 Quirky Tips to Help You Nail The Perfect #FoodPorn Shot

If you’re a foodie like us, then you probably follow one (or a hundred) Instagram accounts that fill your feed daily with drool-inducing images. You might have even tried replicating some of them yourself. Somehow, you just can’t get your bowl of ramen to look half as good. Ever wonder how these Instagrammers manage to take such perfect pictures?

Here are seven quirky tips that might sound a little strange or bizarre, but are guaranteed to help you nail that perfect #foodporn shot.

1. Soft, Natural Light Is Your Friend

Cr: @sarkababicka

You’ve probably heard this before: soft daylight is the best lighting for food (or any) photographs. So if you want to take advantage of the best lighting conditions you can get, always ask to be seated at a table that is close to a window or door. If your dining companions get suspicious of your need to always be seated by a window, tell them that you simply like watching the world go by while sipping on your cuppa.

2. Stuck in the Dark but You’re My Flashlight

Cr: Tom’s Guide

We’ve all tried taking a picture in a candlelit dining room. And when we can’t seem to get enough light, we turn on the flash, and voila! Your picture turns out dull and flat, so you give up and dig in before your White Alba Truffle Risotto gets cold. Sounds familiar?

If your cell phone’s flash won’t cut it, why not ask your friends to turn on their cell phone’s flashlight and hold it above your food instead? Lighting a little too harsh now? Simply put a thin napkin between the light source and your food, to diffuse the light and get it just right. Want a more even lighting? Always keep a piece of paper or a sheet of aluminium foil (essentially a makeshift bounce card) in your handbag or backpack. By placing your makeshift bounce card on the shaded side of your dish, you can brighten up the dark areas and soften the shadows of your food!

3. Light Up Your Drink

Cr: @epicurious

You know how we suggested using a friend’s cell phone flashlight to light your food from above? The same trick can be used to illuminate your drink (It goes without saying that this only works with beverages served in glassware. Duh.) by lighting it from the side or behind! The waitstaff might think that you’re checking the drink for impurities but what you’re really getting is a beautiful glow ‒ which really highlights the effervescence in a fizzy drink ‒ that you usually see in those slick Coca-Cola commercials. Pro tip: a pinch of salt right before you take your picture, reinvigorates the bubbles in carbonated beverages like beer, champagne, and sodas.

4. Look Alive!

Cr: @saveurmag

Food is alive and sensual, so it goes without saying that it doesn’t always have to sit perfectly still either. You can show it being sliced, served, with a bite taken out of it, or held out to the camera. And contrary to what you might think, the perfect #foodporn shot doesn’t necessarily mean that the picture of your food should only be taken the way the chef intended it to look. So don’t worry about that lime wedge that is slightly off-kilter after your waiter brought your fish tacos to you, or that you have water rings dotting the table which your egg benedict is sitting on. In fact, professional food photographers have stylists that create these “imperfections” in order to make a scene more realistic ‒ case in point, a slightly messy table top with a summer barbecue spread suggests an epic get-together with family or friends.

So go ahead, embrace the chaos, and stand out from the sea of “perfect” food images (Disclaimer: we are not encouraging you to make a mess at your table). These “action” shots and “imperfections” are guaranteed to add a certain je ne sais quoi to your feed.

5. Pops Of Colour

Cr: @taramilktea

Not every restaurant or cafe has gorgeous marble counters, colourful plates, or a stunning feature wall to add colour to your #foodpic. But fret not, you can always introduce colour to your photo via other ways.

Having spaghetti bolognese? Ask the staff for a couple of sprigs of parsley and some extra shaved parmesan cheese to add life to your brown-hued plate. Dining out with a friend who’s got nicely manicured nails, or multi-coloured bracelets and rings? Get them to hold your plate of food or cup of coffee. Getting some ice cream? Always, ALWAYS ask for sprinkles on top (only if it makes sense of course. You can’t have rainbow sprinkles on a scoop of Mao Shan Wang ice cream. Or can you? Hmm…).

6. Show Your Good Side

Cr: @grubspot

Everyone has a “good side” when it comes to taking pictures, so it’s no surprise that different foods will look their best at different angles. Food with height (like burgers and sandwiches) are best photographed from the side, so you can better see all the glorious layers and textures; while two-dimensional options (like açaí bowls and pizzas) look best in overhead shots.

The rules aren’t exactly fixed, so always take pictures from different angles and also play with both landscape and portrait modes in order to choose the best image. This might require you to stand on a chair for the ultimate flat lay shot of your brunch, or for you to squat in front of a tiled counter to get the perfect backdrop for your ice cream. Either way, get comfortable with the judgemental stares and finger-pointing because it’s all worth it for the Gram!

7. Phone-Ception

Cr: @glazeteriyaki

If you’ve tried all our tips so far and still have friends or a partner who’s willing to dine out with you, cherish them because you’ve found a keeper, and you’re going to need to borrow their phone again…

Besides experimenting with angles, ever thought of experimenting with frames? Well, instead of taking a photo of your food, the most meta thing that you can do is to take a picture of YOURSELF taking a picture of YOUR food. And it would really help if you or your friend has a colourful cell phone cover (no cracked cell phone screen protectors please!), or if one of you has nicely painted nails or accessories to boot. You will also want to pay attention to what is within the frames of your photos. And if the shot is too hard to nail, involve the afore-mentioned friend and get them to frame the food shot, while you take the phone-ception shot.

Now that you’ve got your #instaworthy picture, why not tag it with #ChopeBites* and be part of the largest food collage in Singapore that will be revealed in mid-June!

Oh, and make sure that your Instagram page is visible to the public so that your picture will be part of the collage.

*By posting your picture(s) on Instagram with the hashtag #ChopeBites, you consent to your photos being used in the Food Collage, as well as for other Chope marketing campaigns, including (but not limited to) both online and offline collaterals and editorials.

Tags ChopeBites, Food Photography, Instagram, Singapore

Lifestyle Singapore Singapore

10 Best Places to Get Your Craft Beer Fix

Post author By Kenneth Fong
Post date May 23, 2018
2 Comments on 10 Best Places to Get Your Craft Beer Fix

Considering our ever-evolving palate and a burgeoning interest in learning about the origins of our food, it’s unsurprising that Singaporean foodies would be curious about the story behind our coffees, cocktails, and now… beers. More specifically, our ever-growing obsession with independent craft breweries from right in our backyards to all over the world. And why not? The myriad of craft beers available means that you’ll always have a medley of amazing flavours, aromas, and colours to choose from. So much so that you’ll often find yourself spoilt for choice.

Here’s a list of ten places offering craft beers where you can hang out with your BFF (Beer Friends Forever), find the next cult favourite to call yours, or simply to just kick back and relax in after a long week at work.

1. The Armoury

First on the list is The Armoury, which has international craft beers on tap, and is situated in the up and coming South Beach Quarter. The brews on offer have a strong American focus, so if you make this your regular watering hole, you could very well drink your way around all 48 contiguous states. Besides the East-Meets-West menu offerings like Salted Egg Chicken Burger and Chilli Crab Mantou, the real star is The Armoury Burger: a perfectly seared 200g house-ground wagyu beef patty between a toasted brioche bun, topped with caramelised onions, bacon, American and cheddar cheese, and lettuce.

Find it at 36 Beach Road, Singapore 189677
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

2. Alchemist Beer Lab

Need something exciting to perk you up after a dreary week at work? Introducing the first beer infusion bar in the world: Alchemist Beer Lab (Yes, you read right. Beer Infusion.) Ingredients like fruits, flowers, and snacks (think chocolate, marshmallows, and caramel popcorn) are placed in a fusion chamber, where a compressed gas is released and finally, beer is injected into the contraption. This allows optimal flavour extraction from the ingredients and produces delicious concoctions like, “Honey Trap” (Honey Mead, Ginger Root, and Lemongrass) and “Pomiscuity” (Pomegranate, Tangerine, and Ginger Beer). The bar has eight signature infusions available daily, and eight other infusions that change regularly to keep the adventurous intrigued.

Find it at 26 Beach Road, #B1-16, South Beach Avenue, Singapore 189768
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

3. Brewerkz

Brewerkz has been a mainstay on Singapore’s craft beer scene since 1997 and has won awards like the World Beer Cup gold medal for its English-Style India Pale Ale (IPA), along with eight Australian Beer awards and three Singapore Asia Beer awards for its internationally recognised craft beers. So if you’re a serious beer connoisseur, you’ll definitely find something to your liking at Brewerkz. They also have an extensive menu, which features crowd favourites like the Spicy Chicken Satay, 3 Little Pigs Pizza (pulled pork, bacon, and spice house fennel sausage), and the King Brew (a hearty two patty beef burger with bacon, cheese, sautéed mushrooms, and a house made beer chilli).

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

4. Druggists

Cr: spiritedsingapore.com

Housed in an 80-year-old shophouse, you might just walk past Druggists if you didn’t know that that it shares the same premises as the Singapore Chinese Druggists Association ‒ the latter’s a leading expert of Singapore’s Traditional Chinese Medicine scene. But Druggists is no slouch either, considering that they’re leading Singapore’s craft beer scene with a healthy mix of eclectic and speciality brews like Mikkeller, To Øl, and Prairie Artisan Ales. So if you’re ever feeling the midweek blues, Druggists’ got the perfect remedy for your weary soul.

Find it at 119 Tyrwhitt Road, Singapore 207547
Click here for more information on Druggists.

5. Freehouse

With 16 craft beers and ciders on rotation, as well as an extensive bottle list from all over the world, Freehouse is strict on their “No Strangers Here” policy, so count on the friendly staff to make everyone feel right at home. We recommend the Tasting Paddle, which will most likely get you an IPA, a Lager, a Stout, and a Cider ‒ feel free to pick and choose whatever you would like to try though. They also have a decidedly Asian selection of bar bites, like The Bacon Tempura and Cereal Frog Legs, that will expedite your ascent to #craftbeerheaven.

Find it at 21A Boon Tat Street, Singapore 069620
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

6. The 1925 Brewing Co. Restaurant

Cr: the1925.com.sg

If there’s ever an award for an establishment that takes beer seriously, then The 1925 Brewing Co. Restaurant would win hands down. Besides brewing their own beers ‒ like the well-balanced Yellow Van Pale Ale, the hoppy Small Monster IPA, the creamy Blk 622 Dark Ale, The General (a spicy ginger beer), and the honeyed Manuka Stout ‒ even their food and recipes are beer inspired. Their grilled meats are enhanced with special house-made beer reduction glazes and the pasta is handmade with the same grains used to brew their beers. This place is definitely up the alley of beer geeks, who can explain what “sessionable” is without looking it up (hint: it means suitable for a lengthy drinking session).

Find it at 261 Joo Chiat Road, Singapore 427515
Click here for more information on The 1925 Brewing Co. Restaurant.

7. LeVeL33

LeVeL33 is literally the world’s “top” brewery. How lofty is its perch you ask? Well, it’s located on the 33rd floor of the Marina Bay Financial Centre so you can bet that the view of Singapore’s skyline is pretty sweet. A carefully curated Modern European menu pairs beautifully with the five signature craft beers ‒ 33.1 Blond Lager, 33.15 India Pale Ale, 33.3 Stout, 33.4 House Porter, and the 33.9 Wheat Beer ‒ available, and really elevates the experience (see what we did there?). Great food, delicious brews, a spectacular view; this one’s going to be hard to top.

Find it at 8 Marina Boulevard, #33-01, Marina Bay Financial Centre, Singapore 018981
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

8. Little Island Brewing Co

Located on the easternmost edge of Singapore, Little Island Brewing Co is where brew-master Steve Spinney serves eight innovative, hand-crafted beers. Some of the options include a malty Singapore Pale Ale, a bittersweet Irish Dry Stout, and a honeyed Red Ale. If you ever fancy pulling yourself a pint, or simply have exacting standards when it comes to dispensing your favourite tipple, you’ll be pleased to know that all brews are dispensed via a self-service system. The brewery also offers a 15-Hour Smoked Beef Brisket, a crispy Ale Battered Sea Bass, and a melt-in-your-mouth Pork Belly that all pair perfectly with your beverage of choice!

Find it at 6 Changi Village Road, #01-01/02, Singapore 509907
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

9. Necessary Provisions

Cr: timeout.com

Deep in the heart of Bukit Timah is where you’ll find Necessary Provisions. The establishment is run by a group who is passionate about excellent coffee, fine teas, great food, and you guessed it: craft beers. They’ve partnered with British brewery Moor Beer Co. and Melbourne’s Mornington Peninsula brewery to offer a solid selection of ales on tap. Come in the afternoon for brunch and coffee, and return in the evening for drinks and a great time.

Find it at 21 Eng Kong Terrace, Singapore 598993
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

10. TAP Craft Beer Bar

Cr: drinksomewhere.com

TAP Craft Beer Bar is an open concept bar, which features 20 rotating international craft beers on draft, as well as 80 different bottled varieties of craft beers, wines, spirits, and juices ‒ which should keep any craft aficionados happy, whatever your poison of choice may be. On tap are cult favourites like Lost Coast, Modern Times, and Strand, while the bottled options feature names like Black Market, Green Flash, and Left Coast. Best of all, TAP is offering pints and wines for $10 (before service charge and GST of course) all day, every day.

Find it at 26 Beach Road, #B1-16, South Beach Avenue, Singapore 189768
Click here for more information about TAP Craft Beer Bar.

Tags Afterwork, Bars, Craft Beer, Drinks, Hops, Singapore

Lifestyle Singapore Singapore

10 Elegant Restaurants with Business Lunch Sets Under $50

Post author By Kenneth Fong
Post date April 26, 2018
No Comments on 10 Elegant Restaurants with Business Lunch Sets Under $50

Business lunches: it’s where deals are made and partnerships are forged, while appetites are satiated. Ideally, service should be attentive, food should be spot-on, and the restaurant should be as accommodating as possible. But let’s face it, not all of us can afford to host our clients regularly in a MICHELIN starred restaurant.

Fret not as we’ve identified ten establishments with great ambiences that serve quality nosh. The best part: they’ll only cost you a crisp $50 bill. Some of these options might work out to be slightly over $50 after factoring in service charge and GST. But hey, a fantastic lunch never fails to elevate our moods. What’s more, it might just be the sweetener to close that deal you’ve been waiting for.

ATLAS

Cr: robbreport.com.sg

Forming the heart of Parkview Square, ATLAS is a celebration of the 1920’s rich culinary and beverage traditions. Think of ATLAS as the place where Bruce Wayne (aka Batman) would meet clients ‒ if he ever visited Singapore in his fictional universe that is. The ATLAS Lunch (two courses at $38++ and three courses at $48++) is a showcase of extraordinary European cuisine. It is created by the talented Executive Chef Daniele Sperindio, who honed his craft in Michelin-starred kitchens all over the globe. End a celebratory meal with an elegant European cocktail, or take your pick from one of Asia’s finest collections of gin, spirits, and champagnes sourced from around the world.

Find it at 600 North Bridge Road, Parkview Square, Singapore 188778.
Click here for more information on ATLAS.

The Black Swan

Another establishment that borrows from the Art Deco aesthetic is The Black Swan, which offers chophouse classics paired with a wine list ‒ comprising labels from unexpected locations, such as the Canary Islands, Lebanon, Syria, and Greece ‒ that would pique the interest of any discerning wine lover (read: a great way to get into the good books of a client with a penchant for wine). Go for the two-course ($39++) or three-course ($45++) set lunch and choose from favourites like The Black Swan Burger or the Steak & Frites ($8 supplement). Impress your pickier client in the private room: a hidden, underground dining room for no more than twelve persons.

Find it at 19 Cecil Street, Singapore 049704.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

Fat Cow

Cr: rockabitebaby.com

For your clients who love all things Japanese and have a healthy appreciation of quality wagyu beef, Fat Cow is a Japanese steakhouse which promises an experience like no other. The restaurant’s overall design is a contemporary take on wabi-sabi, the art of finding beauty in the simple and the modest. The Set Lunch menu mirrors this aesthetic and features simple dishes, which are executed beautifully. The most notable of them is the Fat Cow Donburi (charcoal-grilled wagyu beef with onsen egg and shredded leeks, over rice) and comes with a salad, chawanmushi, miso soup, and dessert.

Find it at 1 Orchard Blvd, #01-01, Camden Medical Centre, Singapore 248649
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

The Halia at Singapore Botanic Gardens

Situated in the historic UNESCO World Heritage Site that is the Singapore Botanic Gardens, The Halia (Malay for ginger) is an inviting space with lush foliage, wood-carved tables, and open verandas. The ambience of the establishment complements the carefully curated European-Asian menu, which features specialties like the Singapore-Style Chilli Crab Spaghettini, and is perfect for foreign clients seeking a taste of Singapore. Besides the Weekday Set Lunch (two courses at $28++; three courses at $34++), a Communal Menu (serves four or six) is also available if you’re hosting a large group. For those with Muslim clients or colleagues, you’ll be happy to know that The Halia is Halal-certified.

Find it at 1 Cluny Road, Ginger Garden, Botanic Gardens, Singapore 259569
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

Manhattan

We’re cheating a little with this one: Although technically not a place for lunch, Manhattan is the perfect place to go to after closing the biggest business deal of your life. Manhattan is an upscale hotel bar, awarded #1 in Asia’s 50 Best Bars and #7 in the World’s Best Bars. It reminds us of Old World opulence, New York glamour, and celebrity-studded party scenes. If you make it for Violet Hour (weekdays, 5 to 7pm), you can enjoy a complimentary warm cheese sandwich with your tipple of choice, while you bask in the glow of the sunset and your most recent corporate success.

Find it at 1 Cuscaden Road, Level 2, The Regent Singapore, Singapore 249715
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

Venue by Sebastian

Cr: lifestyleasia.com

Many a business lunches have been hosted at the now-defunct Restaurant Ember, where Chef-Owner Sebastian Ng served classic French-style cooking with an Asian touch. After taking a three-year break, he is back with Venue by Sebastian, which offers a more casual dining experience. The dining hall is minimal and contemporary, while the communal style light wood tables encourage conversation. The lunch menu is divided into five courses and is perfect for sharing. For those looking for a quick catch-up or a business pitch, they offer an Early Lunch Set from 11.15am to 12.30pm (ranges from $15++ to $19++), which comes with a side of fries, salad, and drink of the day.

Find it at Downtown Gallery, #01-02, 6A Shenton Way, Singapore 068815.
Click here for more information on Venue by Sebastian.

The White Rabbit

Housed in a beautiful, restored chapel, The White Rabbit offers an epicurean escape amidst Dempsey’s verdant surroundings. The dining room features white buttressed ceilings, stained glass windows, intricate wrought-iron window grills, and stunning stained glass windows, all of which will make for the most memorable business lunch for you and your guests. Equally unforgettable are Head Chef Benjamin Tan’s perfectly executed, European dishes infused with Asian flavours. The two-course set lunch costs $38++, while the three-course option is $42++.

Find it at 39C Harding Road, Singapore 249541.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

Wild Rocket

Cr: cntraveler.com

Wild Rocket is a tranquil space with a decidedly Japanese aesthetic (think: traditional Japanese tea room), which serves Modern Singaporean cuisine inspired by Lawyer-turned-Chef Willin Low’s travels, childhood in Singapore, and love for hawker food. The Set Lunch starts at an agreeable $38++ for four courses and $48++ for five courses. To truly experience Chef Low’s ingenuity, opt for the omakase menu to sample signatures like his laksa pesto creations and Iberico pork char siew.

Find it at 10A Upper Wilkie Road, Singapore 228119
Click here for more information on Wild Rocket.

Xin Divine

Dressed in soothing blue and white, the Xin Divine dining room is reminiscent of delicate Kangxi porcelain. The four-course Executive Lunch Menu ($48++) starts with an earthy Porcini Mushroom Broth or the Sichuan Style Tortellini. We highly recommend the latter, which consists of two pieces of tortellini stuffed with minced Kurobuta and chives. It is served in a piquant broth of Sichuan peppercorns, Zhejiang vinegar, and ginger. An absolutely divine start to the meal.

Find it at 10 Duxton Hill, Singapore 089594
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG.

Zafferano

Possibly the priciest entrant in our list, Zafferano is a beautiful Italian restaurant, which offers a priceless view of the Marina Bay skyline. Read: the perfect backdrop to a multi-million dollar deal. The set lunch changes regularly to reflect the seasonality of ingredients. It costs $42++ for two courses, and $52++ for three courses (yes, we know that it’s above our $50 limit but the view is really something else!). Insider tip: to celebrate Administrative Professional Week, Zafferano is offering an exclusive three-course set meal. Curated by Head Chef Emanuele Faggi ($35++), it is available from 23 to 27 Apr 18 (quote “Bosses Treat” when making your reservation!).

Find it at Ocean Financial Centre, Level 43, 10 Collyer Quay, Singapore 049315.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG.

Tags Bars, Budget, Business Lunch, Classy, Sophisticated

Lifestyle Singapore Singapore

Fancy Local Flavours Worth Splurging On

Post author By Kenneth Fong
Post date April 10, 2018
No Comments on Fancy Local Flavours Worth Splurging On

MSocial Auckland Food Photography - Sept 2017

If you’ve got friends from faraway lands coming to visit, where should you bring them for lunch? The nearest hawker centre would be an obvious choice, but there’s just one problem: the sweltering Singapore heat doesn’t really help when you’re eating a spicy bowl of laksa.

Beat the heat and grab some local classic dishes at these upscale, air-conditioned restaurants! They offer mouth-watering, uniquely Singaporean hawker foods that have gotten an atas makeover. We’re also exploring two levels of fancy, so you don’t have to burn a hole in your wallet… unless you want to, of course.

Chicken Rice

Privé Asian Civilisations Museum

Our mums and dads will love the chicken rice served at Privé Asian Civilisations Museum ($17). The chicken is slightly pink – trust us, it’s completely safe to eat – just the way it was in the good old days. You can be sure you’re getting quality chicken too, as the chickens are from Toh Thye San Farm, where they are raised without hormones or antibiotics and allowed to roam freely. The result is flavourful and succulent meat that makes this dish a resounding hit with both locals and tourists. Pro tip: there are only 20 portions prepared daily, so call ahead to avoid disappointment.

Find it at 1 Empress Place, Singapore 179555.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG.

Town Restaurant

Located in the majestic Fullerton Hotel near the mouth of the historic Singapore River, Town Restaurant’s menu of local delights features their take on an iconic dish: the Fullerton’s Boneless Hainanese Chicken Rice. For $29, you’ll get a bowl of rice bursting with the fragrance of pandan and lemongrass, silky and tender chicken, and a flavourful soup with cabbages, tofu, and wolfberry. Trust us, it’s worth every cent. Best enjoyed at the breezy al fresco waterfront terrace.

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

Laksa

Beast & Butterflies

You’ll never have a boring meal at Beast & Butterflies, a bold fusion restaurant with an adventurous take on the classic Laksa. The laksa ($16) features mee tai mak noodles in a creamy yet piquant broth, served with prawns, fishcake, and tau pok. Instead of cockles, cherrystone clams are used instead, giving a sweeter, less briny flavour. Another welcome twist is the deep-fried tau pok, which is delightfully crispy and makes for an enjoyable variation in texture.

Find it at 90 Robertson Quay, Singapore 238259.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG.

Straits Cafe

Offering buffets showcasing cuisine from the Straits Settlement, the delectable spread at Straits Cafe features their award-winning laksa that is too good to be missed! The star of this dish is undoubtedly the laksa broth, which is rich, satisfying, and overflowing with classic Peranakan flavours. Be prepared to splurge a little as lunch starts at $42++, while dinner starts at $50++. On the bright side, you’ll get to stuff your face with as many local treats as you can handle, so the buffet’s definitely worth the price tag.

Find it at 9 Bras Basah Road, Lobby Level, Rendezvous Hotel, Singapore 189559.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG.

Nasi Lemak

Sinpopo

There’s only one word that comes to mind when you step into Sinpopo: nostalgia. However, the vintage furniture and retro interior isn’t the real gem of this throwback to the 70s. Sinpopo’s Nasi Lemak for Two ($28; so that works out to be $14 per person) is a masterful dish that will bring back memories of the Singapore of days gone by. Everything is cooked using traditional methods, from the coconut rice steamed in traditional muslin cloth to the homemade sweet onion ikan bilis sambal. Each portion of rice also comes with a soft-centre egg, Har Jeong Kai wings, pork belly marinated in lam yu, deep fried luncheon meat crisps, rojak slaw, and sambal fishballs.

Find it at 458 Joo Chiat Road, Singapore 427671.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG.

Chatterbox

For a uniquely Singaporean meal with a touch of class, look no further than Mandarin Orchard Hotel’s Chatterbox. The restaurant is a green and earth-toned oasis that offers a respite from the sweltering weather as well as upmarket versions of our local favourites, including a delicious Nasi Lemak ($26). Expect fragrant coconut rice, with crispy fried chicken wing, a fried egg, and an otah. You don’t need to worry about your ang moh friend either, as the sambal has a little less kick than what locals are used to, making it perfect for foreigners.

Find it at 333 Orchard Road Level 5, Mandarin Orchard Hotel Singapore, Singapore 238867.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG.

Bak Chor Mee

The Lobby Lounge at Shangri-La Hotel

The Lobby Lounge at Shangri-La Hotel offers an enticing array of local heritage hawker dishes. However the Bak Chor Mee with Fish Maw Soup ($28) stands out as the star of the show. This noodle dish is inspired by the famous Seng Kee Mushroom Minced Meat Noodle, in Serangoon Gardens Market & Food Centre, so expect the noodles to be cooked perfectly al dente and the soup to be rich, filled with umami, and brimming with quality threadfin fish maw. It’s served in delicate porcelain bowls (the kind you can find in your grandmother’s house) as well, to give an extra serving of nostalgia and authenticity.

Find it at 22 Orange Grove Road, Lobby Level, Tower Wing, Shangri-La Hotel Singapore, Singapore 258350.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG.

Restaurant Labyrinth

Presenting a feast of atas Singaporean food that’s a treat for all the senses, Restaurant Labyrinth deconstructs Singaporean classics and presents them in delicious, yet innovative ways. The Chef’s Tasting Menu (SGD$118) features Chef LG Han’s unique spin on Bak Chor Mee – the noodles are made from strips of squid while the pieces of fish cake are sliced Hokkaido scallops. With his adventurous expectation-defying dishes, you’ll soon come to realise that nothing is ever as it seems.

Find it at 8 Raffles Avenue, #02-23, Esplanade Mall, Singapore 039802.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG.

Roti Prata

Big Street Singapore

Nestled in a two-storey shophouse, Big Street Singapore is a local heritage restaurant that serves Singaporean staples like roti prata. Their prata sets give you plain or egg prata, with a choice between the fragrant Curry Chicken Thigh ($9) or the moreish Rendang Mutton Mysore ($11). If you prefer to customise your order, you can get two pieces of plain prata for $3, while a murtabak costs $10. They even offer innovative dishes incorporating local favourites like the Chilli Crab in a Prata Bag (market price) and Salted Egg Prata Bom ($6).

Find it at 104/106 Jalan Besar, Singapore 208828.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG.

Zaffron Kitchen (East Coast)

Although roti prata is commonly eaten for breakfast or supper, Singaporeans love their Indian food and can have it anytime. One of the best places to indulge in perfectly executed Indian cuisine is Zaffron Kitchen. The restaurant, awarded the Michelin Bib Gourmand in 2017, is a hip, modern space in Katong perfect for large gatherings. The Curry Chicken Prata Set ($12.90) features thick chicken curry with generous servings of meat and flaky prata you can mop up every last drop of curry with.

Find it at 135-137 East Coast Road, Singapore 428820.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG.

Tags Bak Chor Mee, Chicken Rice, laksa, Local Flavours, nasi lemak, Prata, Singapore

Lifestyle Others Singapore Singapore

7 Supper Places To Satisfy Your Late Night Munchies

Post author By Kenneth Fong
Post date March 14, 2018
No Comments on 7 Supper Places To Satisfy Your Late Night Munchies

Feeling hungry after you finished a late night movie or karaoke session? Famished after finishing a really late shift that ended at 1am? Stomach growling after watching too many food videos on YouTube because you can’t sleep?

Here are 7 of our favourite late night supper places that will take you beyond McDelivery and instant noodles!

Cr: EatBook.sg

Beach Road Scissor-Cut Curry Rice

Beach Road Scissor-Cut Curry Rice is the go-to place when you’re craving for a huge plate of rice, heaving with a selection of fried and braised meats, all drowned in curry and a dark braised sauce. That might sound really specific right now, but once you’ve tried their scissor-cut curry rice, you’ll know what we mean.

It may not be the most Instagrammable, but there’s something comforting and satisfying about this chye png (mixed dishes with rice) style fare. For first-timers, stick with the classics like braised pork belly, crispy pork cutlet, chap chye (stewed cabbage), fried egg, as well as a copious amount of gooey curry and braised sauce.

The Hainanese style curry is light, slightly sweet, with just a hint of spice – very unlike the lemak (creamy, coconutty goodness) you would associate with a coconut-based curry. Best of all, it acts as a “glue” which binds all that fried and braised goodness, and makes it perfect for guzzling down at 1am in the morning. Walk it off at Mustafa Centre, which is just around the corner.

Opening Hours: 11:00am to 3:30am (Mon to Sun)

Find it at 229 Jalan Besar, Singapore 208905

Cr: Miss Tam Chiak

Boon Lay Power Nasi Lemak

The ever-popular Boon Lay Power Nasi Lemak always has a queue in front of the store so you might have to wait for a little to get your nasi lemak fix. But the good thing about such a rapid turnover is that you will almost always get a steaming plate of freshly cooked rice and sizzling hot, crispy chicken wings, just out the fryer!

We really like that Boon Lay Power is relatively affordable too, as a set meal starts at SGD$3.50. The chicken set, for example, will get you fragrant coconut rice, a fried chicken wing, one fried egg, peanuts and ikan bilis (dried anchovies), sliced cucumbers and their famous sambal chilli. Many would agree that the soul of a good nasi lemak is the sambal chilli, and Boon Lay Power’s has a punch with just the right amount of sweet.

For those who are too lazy to head out, fret not as Boon Lay Power Nasi Lemak offers delivery till 2am. Delivery starts at SGD$5 for addresses within Jurong, and $10 for outside the Jurong area. For corporate events or really, REALLY ravenous individuals, you can place your orders online but there’s a minimum order of SGD$100. Power lah!

Opening Hours: 4:30pm to 3:30am (Mon); 6:30am to 3:30am (Tue to Sun)

Find it at Boon Lay Place Market and Food Centre, 221 Boon Lay Place, #01-106, Singapore 641221

Chicken Up (Tanjong Pagar)

Are you and your friends looking for a place that opens till late, serves drinks, and has great food as well? Why not try some chimaek (a portmanteau of chicken and maekju, Korean for beer) at Chicken Up? It’s so good that it just might become a Friday night tradition.

Twice fried to give it a crunchier skin with less grease (and less guilt), nobody does fried chicken better than the Koreans! Our favourites for supper (or anytime of the day) include the Yangnyum (a sweet and spicy sauce made with garlic, ginger, chilli, soy sauce, honey, and sesame oil) fried chicken, Kimchi fries (golden fries loaded with kimchi, drenched with cheese and mayo, shredded pork, onions, and jalapeños), as well as the UFO Bulgogi Stew (well marinated bulgogi with fresh vegetables and glass noodles on a hot skillet, surrounded by a trio of melted cheese, fried rice, and fluffy, cooked eggs).

After that decidedly decadent meal, Chicken Up has a variety of refreshingly, light bingsu (shaved ice dessert, topped with ingredients like mango, watermelon, and Oreos) to choose from, and they are all sized for sharing. Mmm… Mah sit sso yo (Korean for “Delicious”)!

Opening Hours: 5:30pm to 2:00am (Mon to Thu); 5:30pm to 3:00am (Fri to Sat); 5:30pm to 12:00am (Sun)

Find it at 48 Tanjong Pagar Road, #01-01, Singapore 088469
Book a table at Chicken Up (Tanjong Pagar) and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG.

Cr: calvinteo.blogspot.sg

Bedok 85 Fengshan Market & Food Centre

You’re not really an Eastie until you’ve had at least one late night meetup at the famous Bedok 85 Fengshan Market & Food Centre.

From bak chor mee or minced meat noodles (Xing Ji Rou Cuo Mian and Seng Hiang Bak Chor Mee), to barbecued sambal stingray (Chan BBQ), to satay (Lin Yuan Satay), to fried carrot cake, oyster omelette, fried Hokkien noodles (Bedok North 85 Fried Oyster), and more… You’ll be spoiled for choice!

Pro tip: order a sugarcane juice with a wedge of lemon, for a drink that is rich in antioxidants and an excellent thirst quencher.

Opening Hours: Till late daily (varies from store to store)

Find it at 85 Bedok North Street 4, Singapore 460085

Siam Square Mookata (Golden Mile Tower)

For the uninitiated, mookata or mu kratha (Thai for “pork” and “skillet”) is Thai Barbeque Steamboat. As its name suggests, mookata is a delicious combination of barbecue and hotpot. And it is the perfect option for when you and your friends can’t decide whether you’d like some barbecue or a piping, hot bowl of umami-laden soup.

What differentiates Siam Square Mookata from other mookata places, is that their selection of ingredients is available in small servings – starting as low as SGD$1.80 per plate – rather than fixed sets. Siam Square Mookata also offers a specially created trio of nam chim (Thai for “dipping sauce”): one for seafood, one for meats, and one sweeter, less spicy sauce for those who can’t take the heat. Order the Cha Yen (iced Thai milk tea) to complete this truly authentic Thai experience!

Opening Hours: 3:00pm to 5:00am daily

Find it at 6001 Beach Road, #B1-63, Golden Mile Tower, Singapore (199589)
Book a table at Siam Square Mookata (Golden Mile Tower) and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG.

Hai Xian Lao

Ideal for big groups with huge appetites and a limited budget, Hai Xian Lao offers Sichuan style steamboat with quality ingredients, all without the three-hour long wait you’ll experience at more popular steamboat places.

Choose from a variety of soups including the spicy and numbing Sichuan Ma La, as well as the rich and flavourful Healthy Collagen, which resembles a nourishing, thickened chicken soup.Must-orders include their Fried Fish Skin, which is best enjoyed when dipped into soup; the addictive Prawn Paste Chicken Wings; and the well-marbled Kurobuta Pork Belly rolls, which just melt in your mouth.

Service is attentive as they will clear your plates frequently and even offer to deshell your prawns if you do decide to order some!

When you’re done, head across the road for some cold soybean milk or a comforting bowl of hot tau huay (soya beancurd) at Rochor Original Beancurd, to end the night.

Opening Hours: 11:00am to 5:00am daily

Find it at 8 Wilkie Road, #01-21, Wilkie Edge, Singapore 228095
Book a table at Hai Xian Lao and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG.

Cr: Miss Tam Chiak

Thasevi Food

Serving Indian Muslim food 24 hours daily, Thasevi Food is home to THE original Jalan Kayu Roti Prata (yep… that claim is even on their signboard).

You might be wondering: so what makes Thasevi’s roti prata the quintessential Jalan Kayu Roti Prata?

Well, the prata is smaller and rounder in shape, and while it is crispy on the outside, it is flaky on the inside – perfect for mopping up the curry with. But most importantly, it goes tremendously well with a mug of teh tarik (pulled milk tea). Ah… The perfect end after a long shift or a night of mugging at the library.

It might be a little on the small side for those with larger appetites, but the good thing about that is you’ll have more room for other equally well-executed dishes like the murtabak, nasi briyani, as well as a tempting selection of Indian rojak.

If Thasevi Food gets too crowded, try Thohirah Cafeela Restaurant, which is just next door. The establishment offers an equally extensive (and mouth-watering) menu that covers all sorts of Indian Muslim food.

Opening Hours: 24 Hours daily

Find it at 237 Jalan Kayu, Singapore 799461

Swee Choon Tim Sum Restaurant

Traditionally enjoyed in the day, but equally good (or better) in the middle of the night, dim sum is one of those foods that is well loved by hungry groups of friends, families, and late-night partygoers. And at 3am in the morning, no one does it better than Swee Choon, a dim sum specialist who offers a wide variety of Hong Kong and Shanghainese style fare, that is no frills and affordable.

Be sure to try their signature Mee Suah Kueh (deep fried vermicelli cake), Steamed Liu Sha Bao (salted egg custard bun), Shanghai Xiao Long Bao (steamed dumplings with meat and broth filling), and Prawn and Banana Fritters. Need something more substantial? The Dried Scallop and Egg White Fried Rice, Braised Beef La Mian (hand-pulled noodles), Crispy Pork Ribs with Salt and Pepper, and Hot and Spicy Ma Po Tofu are sure to hit the spot.

Opening Hours: 11:00am to 2:30pm, 6pm to 6am (Mon, Wed to Sat); 10:00am to 3pm, 6pm to 6am (Sun); closed on Tuesdays

Find it at 183-191 Jalan Besar, Singapore 208882
Book a table at Swee Choon Tim Sum and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG.

Tags Good for Groups, Singapore, Supper

Lifestyle Singapore

Chinese New Year Deals That Are Too Good To Miss

Post author By Kenneth Fong
Post date February 7, 2018
2 Comments on Chinese New Year Deals That Are Too Good To Miss

1-For-1 Buffet Deals

Escape Restaurant & Lounge

Ever wondered what goes on in the kitchen? Escape Restaurant & Lounge’s interactive kitchens welcome you to watch as culinary experts deftly prepare your dishes, while you decide how high you want to pile up your plate – simply because everything looks so good. Bring a friend along for the experience and enjoy a 1-for-1 Chinese New Year Buffet deal, when making your reservations through the Chope app or website to dine from now until 28 February 2018. Please use promo code CE2ES when making your reservations. To sweeten the deal, Chinese New Year goodies and takeaways are available at 30% off when purchased on the same day!

Find it at 1 Farrer Park Station Rd, One Farrer Hotel & Spa, Singapore 217562
Book a table at Escape Restaurant & Lounge and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG.

Katong Kitchen

Know a friend who loves Peranakan food as much as you do? Make a date with your buddy as you can enjoy 1-for-1 lunch and dinner buffets from Monday to Thursday, when you make your reservation through the Chope app or website to dine in the month of February! Just make sure to use promo code CE2KK when making your reservation!

Find it at 25 Marine Parade Rd, Village Hotel Katong Level 4, Singapore 449536
Book a table at Katong Kitchen and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG.

Window on the Park

If you’ve got makan kakis who love local delights and good deals, then you’re gonna appreciate Window on the Park’s 1-for-1 buffet when you reserve a table through the Chope app or website to dine in by end February. Please use promo code WOTP when making your reservation!

Find it at 11 Cavenagh Rd, Singapore 229616
Book a table at Window on the Park and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG.

Chope’s CNY Exclusives!

Grains & Hops

Looking for a place to chill with a couple of friends after work? Grains & Hops is the perfect place to unwind with its menu of craft beers and specialty rice bowls. What’s more, you can enjoy a 1-for-1 Roasted Kurobuta Pork Collar Grain Bowl when you use promo code 141PORK when making your reservations. Looking for something a bit more special to celebrate the CNY season? From 5 – 28 Feb 18, Grains & Hops is also offering a Treasure Pot at $108++ (U.P. $118 ++) when you make a reservation through the Chope app or website, to dine. The Treasure Pot is perfect for sharing between four to six friends, and contains delicacies such as baby abalone, prawns, scallops, fish maw and more. Please indicate “$108++ Treasure Pot” in the ‘Special Requests’ section when making your reservation to enjoy this exclusive promotion!

Find it at 366 Orchard Rd, Level 10, YOTEL Singapore, Singapore 238904
Book a table at Grains & Hops and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG.

Food Capital

Known for their vast spreads, Food Capital is the place to be for those who love tucking into their favourite local dishes on top of an equally impressive international selection. Enjoy 30% off Lunar New Year Festive Buffets at Food Capital, when you make your reservations through the Chope app or website to dine from 5 Feb – 2 Mar 18. Please use promo code CE2FC when making your booking!

Find it at 392 Havelock Rd, Grand Copthorne Waterfront Hotel, Singapore 169663
Book a table at Food Capital and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG.

Majestic Bay Seafood Restaurant

Worked up an appetite after visiting the Lunar New Year installation at Gardens By the Bay? If you’ve got a hankering for all things seafood, then head over to Majestic Bay Seafood Restaurant! Enjoy 10% off all Chinese New Year set menus, using promo code MJB10, when you make your reservations through the Chope app or website to dine at Majestic Bay Seafood Restaurant in the month of February.

Find it at 392 Havelock Rd, Grand Copthorne Waterfront Hotel, Singapore 169663
Book a table at Majestic Bay Seafood Restaurant and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG.

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a unique dining experience, we’ve got you covered. While you’re at it, check out some information about lo-hei, and our local lo-hei guide.

Tags Buffet, Chinese New Year, Healthy, peranakan, Seafood, Western