Author: Rebekah Lee

Categories
Destination Others Singapore

Fresh Eats: 9 Restaurants You Don’t Want to Miss in April!

Chope’s taking you on a culinary adventure this April with amazing restaurants from Hokkaido to LA – perk up your palate with nine new dining spots for you to check out this month!

Firebake-Woodfire-Oven-(1)Firebake-Cured-Norwegian-Salmon

Firebake

A well-baked loaf of bread is just as crucial to a good sandwich as an al-dente plate of pasta is to a good carbonara – it’s an art form to be cultivated, and Firebake aims to do just that in sunny Singapore. Tear into freshly baked artisanal loaves baked to perfection in their wood fire oven and tuck into other European classics while you’re at it – like their Cured Norwegian Salmon ($25++)! It’s cured in-house, is incredibly moist and tender, and exhibits none of the dry flakiness that’s frequently associated with a salmon dish. Have a sweet tooth? Their Bread & Butter pudding is bound to satisfy and is made with that same amazing bread!

Find it at 237 East Coast Road, 428930
Book a table at Firebake and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

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Don Ho

Want to feel like you’re sharing dinner with a group of friends on vacation even if you’re just getting together after a long day at work? Don Ho’s definitely the place to be – it’s perfect for group settings and beautifully furnished to boot: a step into the hidden restaurant on Keong Saik Road (the entrance faces the alley) instantly transports you to a lush tropical paradise. Chow down on bar food with an Asian twist by giving their kimchi-topped Pork Cheeks Char Siu Sliders ($20+) a go, or order an entire Crispy Whole Suckling Pig ($230) on a spit to get the party started!

Find it at 1 Keong Saik Road, Singapore 089109
Click here for more info on Don Ho

Violet Oon SBG-Pork-SatayViolet Oon SBG-Local-Feast

Violet Oon Satay Bar & Grill

Violet Oon is at it again with flavorful nonya dishes; immerse yourself in peranakan delights ranging from amazing Dry Laksa (at $22it’s really everything you’ve ever wanted) to Sambal Bajak Udang (grilled tiger prawns with a chili padi sambal, $35) and celebrate the diversity that Singapore has to offer. Even if you’re not a satay fan (are you sure you’re Singaporean?) Violet Oon is bound to convert you with her latest masterpiece.

Find it at 3B River Valley Road, #01-18, 179021
Book a table at Violet Oon Satay Bar & Grill and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

ATLAS Gin Tower

ATLAS

This bar looks like it’s straight out of one of Gotham City’s exclusive nightclubs; art deco fixtures and all – except you can actually pop by for breakfast! Enjoy a pastry, fruit salad, and a greek yogurt pot with tea or coffee for $18, or get a tulip of champagne ($22) for a morning libation. Breakfast not your thing? Choose from a wide assortment of gin labels from around the globe (or more champagne, if you’d like) and pair it with decadent desserts, an assortment of hors d’oeuvres, or a hearty meal like their Gindara Black Cod with red grapes, glazed chervil roots & cauliflower ($34) instead!

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

MenyaMenya TONKOTSU GYOKAI JUKUSEI RAMEN SPECIAL

Menya Sakura

Fun fact: there are over 20 types of ramen and they can be drastically different from one another because they all hail from various regions all over Japan. Take your taste buds on a holiday to the Chūbu region today with the newly opened Menya Sakura! This well-loved ramen chain hails from Nagoya City, specializing in (you guessed it) Nagoya-style ramen. Give their Chuka Soba (a flavourful broth of chicken soup and fish dashi, $10.90) a slurp, and don’t miss out on their signature Tonkotsu Ramen ($10.90) that features a thick pork bone soup simmered for 12 hours. Oishi!

Find it at 69 Boat Quay, 049857
Click here for more info on Menya Sakura

the new yorker

Schmear

First Japan, now halfway across the globe to America’s concrete jungle (where dreams are made of). Enjoy fresh New York-style bagels with a schmear of cream cheese or crammed full of goodies like bacon, cheese and a fried egg (if you’re craving something more substantial) while chilling out at Quayside Isle! Good food with a great view, what more could you possibly ask for?

Find it at 31 Ocean Way, 098375
Book a table at Schmear and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Dooki Ramen Dooki 1

Dookki

Dookki means ‘two meals’ in Korean, and this popular establishment promises to provide just that! Here’s a quick breakdown: the first meal consists of everyone’s favourite Tteokbokki, or stir fried rice cakes (they offer EIGHT types, all air flown from Korea), cooked to your preferred level of spiciness. Add rice, kimchi, and a couple of your favourite mix-ins (like sweet corn, yum) into your Tteokbokki pot and you get a second meal – Kimchi fried rice! You can also splurge on a Double Cheese Ring ($9.80++) for the ultimate cheesy indulgence. The best part? This will only set you back $18.80, and comes with free flow soft drinks!

Find it at 3 Temasek Boulevard #B1-107 (East Wing), 038984
Click here for more info on Dookki

Tengawa

Tengawa Hokkaido White Curry

This Japanese restaurant takes you to another part of Japan – all the way from the north this time! Tengawa Hokkaido White Curry comes from (you guessed it) Hokkaido, and is the first of its kind in Singapore. The curry is reminiscent of the Cremesuppe (cream soups) you’d get in Europe, but one taste reveals its true provenance: it exhibits a kick that is omnipresent  in  Japanese curry. Try the curry with their juicy Iberico Pork patty ($15.80) for a deliciously creamy, yet crunchy, explosion of textures and flavours all in one bite!

Find it at Millenia Walk, #02-16, 9 Raffles Blvd, Singapore 039596
Click here for more info on Tengawa White Curry

25 Degrees-Burgers

25 Degrees Singapore

25 Degrees serves up juicy, mouthwatering burgers approved by Hollywood A-listers (not kidding – they’ve been mentioned by multiple celebrities as their go-to burger joint). Sink your teeth into one of these bad boys and you’ll see why! Their Number One burger ($14) is made out of 200g USA Angus beef, caramelized onions, aromatic and creamy prelibato gorgonzola and crescenza (stracchino) cheese, smoky bacon, arugula, and thousand island sauce. If that isn’t enough to lure you there, go during 3-7pm and take advantage of their 1 for 1 deals on selected items. Sounds like our idea of heaven!

Find it at 200 Middle Road, 188980
Click here for more info on 25 Degrees Singapore

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Categories
Destination Singapore

#TreatYoSelf to the Best Lobster Rolls in Town!

Contrary to popular belief, you don’t actually have to pay exorbitant prices or dress up to visit a fancy restaurant to enjoy a mouthwatering lobster meal! Here are some amazing places where you can indulge in succulent chunks of lobster meat tucked in a buttered brioche bun – simple, messy comfort food; the perfect guilty pleasure.

Lobster Roll

  1. Dancing Crab

First up on the list is the ever-popular Dancing Crab. Two buttered buns toasted to perfection and stuffed with large lobster chunks covered in mayo, served with a side of cajun fries for $29.90. Could you ask for anything better? (Well, aside from three lobster rolls of course!)

Find it at 1 Harbourfront Walk, #03-10, VivoCity, 098585
Book a table at Dancing Crab and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

PP Truffle Roll

  1. Pince & Pints

If you’re feeling indulgent, Pince & Pints has upped up the ante with their Truffle Lobster Rolls ($68)! A live whole lobster weighing at least a whopping 600g is seared in butter and truffle sauce, then topped with actual truffles and caviar; served with a side of shoestring fries, mesclun salad and garlic aioli sauce. This is the very definition of “Treat Yo Self” food.

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Find it at 32 Duxton Road, 089496
Book a table at Pince & Pints and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the promo code TASTYBLOG

The-Clifford-Pier-Lobster-Roll

  1. The Clifford Pier

What better way is there  to enjoy lobster rolls than pairing them with an amazing view at one of the most beautiful restaurants in Singapore? Sink your teeth into The Clifford Pier’s sumptuous roll overflowing with butter-poached half lobster that’s been delicately tossed in light mayo and topped with chives, and served in a brioche bun. Plated with a side of crispy truffle fries, ‘natch. ($32).

Find it at 80 Collyer Quay, Lobby Level, The Fullerton Bay Hotel, 049326
Book a table at The Clifford Pier and earn 2X Chope Dollars with the promo code TASTYBLOG

Greg's-Seafood-Shack-Maine-Lobster-Roll

  1. Greg’s Seafood Shack

Maybe you’re more of a traditionalist who hates the idea of a gussied up roll. Greg’s Seafood Shack does things a little differently – their roll comes with lobster mixed with bits of mayonnaise and a good chunk of unmarinated meat on the side. It’s all placed atop a bed of lettuce for a satisfying crunch for all you texture eaters out there ($40).

Find it at 10 Coleman Street, Grand Park City Hall, 179809
Book a table at Greg’s Seafood Shack and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the promo code TASTYBLOG

the naked finnPhoto Credits: The Straits Times

  1. The Naked Finn

The Naked Finn is hidden away at Gillman Barracks, but don’t let that deter you – they serve up a mean lobster roll! 90g of American lobster that’s pan fried in butter and tossed in homemade mayonnaise or crème fraîche, sandwiched in a crisp buttered bun and served with a side of shoestring truffle fries and mesclun salad ($35). Worth the hike? Definitely.

Find it at 39 Malan Road, Gillman Barracks, 109442
Click here for more info on the Naked Finn

TMG-Lobster-Roll

  1. The Market Grill

The Market Grill knows exactly how to create the perfect roll (in our humble opinion)  – generous chunks of whole lobster (approx 500g) with herbed pommery mayo tucked neatly in a toasted brioche roll and served with salad and fries ($48). Sweet, succulent lobster meat seasoned perfectly – just the way it should be!

Find it at 208 Telok Ayer St, 068642
Book a table at The Market Grill and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the promo code TASTYBLOG

Lobster Roll (1)

  1. Angela May Food Chapters

Fancy something more exotic instead of the classic fare? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered – Angela May Food Chapters serves an amazing charcoal grilled lobster and crab roll slathered with spiced laksa yoghurt sauce ($29) for a nice kick.

Find it at 260 Orchard Road, #02-02 The Heeren, 238855
Book a table at Angela May Food Chapters and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the promo code TASTYBLOG

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Categories
Features Restaurants

Try your luck @ Lucky Bar!

Lucky-Bar-Exterior

Lucky Bar has all the mystery and magic of an exotic cocktail bar right out of Gotham City’s Chinatown. It’s a secret rooftop bar  in the heart of Holland Village that belongs to Full of Luck Club, a contemporary Cantonese restaurant serving up both Chinese food with a modern twist (Moonlight Truffle Beef Hor Fun, anyone?) as well as classics we all know and love.

Walk through a hidden back entrance and you’ll be greeted with twinkling fairy lights, plush chinoiserie chic decor and rich dark wood furnishings – the whole place exudes exclusivity without the stuffiness, and instead has a very chilled-out vibe. It’s the perfect place for after work drinks to unwind and watch the sky fade into varying shades of purple and pink.

Lucky-Bar-Cocktail
Featured: Potion No.8

Lucky Bar managed to break into Singapore’s competitive cocktail bar scene with a wide array of specialty concoctions that sets them apart from the rest; share a tea-infused booze-fest with a couple of friends with their Teapot Cocktails like their twist on the classic Old Fashioned (aptly named the Jade Old Fashioned instead), which contains green tea-infused scotch whisky, peach liqueur, honey and lemon bitters ($45, serves 4). The Oolong Negroni is also a must-try; its an all-time bartender’s favourite with oolong-infused fords gin, sweet vermouth and campari ($45).

Tea cocktails not your thing? Fret not, you can treat yourself to a variety of other tipples their bartender expertly whips up. Their signature Lucky Cocktails are smooth and citrusy – Potion No.8 ($24) is especially satisfying as it incorporates the fragrance of exotic fruit and flowers with its a refreshing blend of rum, homemade hibiscus grenadine syrup, fresh pineapple & lemon juice. Want something more mellow? Try their Dragon’s Breath ($22) instead (we do realize that this doesn’t sound all that mellow, but you have to trust us on this)! It’s a smooth blend of High West campfire whiskey, artisanal Mezcal, homemade goji & wintermelon syrup and fresh lemon.

Lucky-Bar-Food-Spread
Featured: One Ton Nachos, Golden Sand Corn, Braised Pork Belly Bao

Feeling peckish? Sprawl out on their cushy seats and enjoy some of their scrumptious grub; their One Ton Nachos ($12) are a crowd favourite with crispy wonton skins in place of tortilla chips loaded up with Chinese-style BBQ pulled pork, pineapple, lots of melted cheese and a dollop of sour cream for good measure. You could also get a portion of Golden Sand Corn (crunchy sweet corn coated with salted egg yolk, $4.80), a side so surprisingly addictive you’ll find yourself licking the bowl clean before you know it!

Pop by Full of Luck Club if you’re craving something more substantial and we guarantee you’ll find anything you’d possibly want from delights like Kung Pao Fried Chicken baos (2 for $9.80) to Black Bean Smoked Duck Claypot Rice ($16) – comfort food at its best!

Find it at 243 Holland Avenue, Singapore 278977
Book a table at Lucky Bar and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

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Categories
Destination Singapore

10 Delicious Chirashi, Sushi & Sashimi Places That Won’t Break the Bank

If there’s one thing Singaporeans will never tire of, it’s Japanese food! Happily, new Japanese restaurants are popping up every year to satiate our enormous appetites, but our favourite Japanese culinary exports (like fresh slabs of sashimi) can also be one of its most expensive, and if you’re not careful, that delicious sushi dinner can easily set you back hundreds of dollars.

Not to worry – for the benefit of your wallet we’ve taken on the trying task of eating our way through Singapore’s multitude of Japanese restaurants to bring you some of the best and most affordable spots on our sunny island. Itadakimasu!

teppei
Photo credits: Teppei Japanese Restaurant

Teppei Japanese Restaurant

You’ve probably seen a couple of Teppei Syokudo stalls all around Singapore serving up bowls of Kaisen-Don tossed in their signature specialty Bara Chirashi sauce (Teppei-san has it specially manufactured in Japan), but the original restaurant at Tanjong Pagar is where the party’s at! An assortment of generously cubed fresh Salmon, Tuna, Cuttlefish, Scallop and Swordfish sashimi pieces lies atop a bowl of warm, fluffy Japanese rice, topped with seaweed flakes, spring onions, sprouts and a sprinkling of Ikura ($17.60). The Bara Chirashi sauce is reminiscent of Japanese Soy Sauce, but with a touch more umami flavour. Oishi!

(Tip: they have different Higawari (daily specials) lunch bowls every day, so check out their Facebook page for what they have on offer before you go!)

Dishes We Love: Kaisen Don, Negitoro Kaisen Don, Japan Gyudon, Steamed Unagi Don, Sukiyaki Don

Find it at 1 Tras Link, #01-18 Orchid Hotel, 078867
Click here for more info on Teppei Japanese Restaurant

Sashimi3

Shin Minori Japanese Restaurant

Shin Minori has been named the winner for ‘Best Buffet’ in Chope’s Diners Choice Award in 2016, and for good reason: you can treat yourself to 8 different types of fresh sashimi, a large variety of sushi, temaki and makimono, and a plethora of grilled and fried options – all for the low price of $37++ for lunch and $39++ for dinner! It’s the perfect place for get-togethers, made even better with their 10th anniversary promotion menu (available till the 31st of May 2017) – free flows of red wine, white wine, sake, beer, umeshu soda, fruit juice and soft drinks for an additional $10! If you’re looking for a reason to celebrate, this is it.

Dishes We Love: Maguro Sashimi, Kani Tempura, Zaru Soba, Spider Temaki, Ebi Tempura Maki, Harvest Maki Roll

81 Clemenceau Avenue, #03-15/16, UE Square, 239917
Book a table at Shin Minori and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

ssb

Standing Sushi Bar

Despite its name, Standing Sushi Bar doesn’t actually require its customers to stand and consume their sushi. Just as well, for it’s going to take us a while to take full advantage of the restaurant’s generous promotions. On Mondays and Thursdays, gorge yourself on tender Salmon Sashimi with Standing Sushi Bar’s promise of 5 slices for a mere $3. Then come back on Try Us Tuesdays and eat your way through the restaurant’s nigiri sushi selection, including classics like Mackerel, Yellowtail, Salmon, Ebi, and Tuna for half-price. It’s probably a good thing they don’t offer these promos every day of the week because we’d never leave!

Dishes We Love: Salmon Sashimi, Mackerel Nigiri Sushi, Shake Aburi, Salmon Avocado Maki

Find it at 8 Queen Street, #01-03 8QSAM, 188535
Book a table at Standing Sushi Bar and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

sushiro james
Photo credits: @jael.__

Sushiro

Sushiro is situated at Thompson Plaza and serves up amazing bowls of Bara Chirashi don as well, and among one of the cheapest at only $12.90! Their generous bowls contain large cubes of sashimi – namely Salmon, Tuna, Octopus, Scallop and Prawn, along with a sprinkling of Ikura for a burst of umami flavour. The sashimi is covered with a slightly sweet and sticky sesame sauce, definitely your cup of tea if you’re into sweet-savoury foods. There’s usually a queue outside before the tiny store even opens, so go early or be prepared to wait in line!

Dishes We Love: Bara-Chirashi Don, Chu-toro Don, Salmon Mentaiyaki Don, Salmon Sushi Nigiri Set

Find it at #01-113F, 301 Upper Thomson Rd, 574408
Click here for more info on Sushiro

the sushi bar
Photo credits: The Sushi Bar

The Sushi Bar

We’re pretty sure you already know about The Sushi Bar – how can you not? This place serves up amazingly fresh and thick cuts of sashimi, specialty rolls and chirashi dons at affordable prices. We’re obsessed with their Chirashi Don ($19.90) and their phenomenal Soft Shell Crab Salmon Aburi Roll ($17.90) – truly the stuff of dreams! Their Far East Plaza joint was so incredibly popular that they’ve expanded and opened up a second branch at Ngee Ann City.

Dishes We Love: Basic & Normal Chirashi Don, Soft Shell Crab Salmon Aburi, Ebi Salmon Aburi

Find it at 391B Orchard Road, #05-34/35, Ngee Ann City, 238874
Click here for more info on The Sushi Bar

Mitsuba

Mitsuba Japanese Restaurant

Did someone say buffet? Mitsuba Japanese Restaurant offers an all-you-can-eat sushi and sashimi buffet from its a la carte menu for less than $40, with a 25% discount for groups of four adults. We threw restraint out the window and immediately indulged in delicious Sashimi Moriawase ($30): two of each of the six types of sashimi, Negi Toro (Tuna belly) Handroll ($10), and Tobikko Sushi ($4). For the less voracious, choose a set meal like the Unagi Kagayaki ($28): grilled, soft freshwater eel accompanied by a bowl of rice, an appetizer, fruit and miso soup.

Dishes We Love: Unagi Kagayaki, Dobin Mushi, Sashimi Moriawase, Bifu Yakiniku, Ebi Tempura Temaki, Oyako Don

Find it at 6 Eu Tong Sen Street #03-88, The Central, Singapore 059817
Book a table at Mitsuba Japanese Restaurant and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Shinagawan ramen

Shinagawa Ramen & Izakaya

Tucked away in Anson Road, Shinagawa Ramen & Izakaya offers simple, unpretentious and (most importantly) delicious Japanese fare. We loved the Salmon Mentai’s tender slices of salmon sashimi topped with salted cod roe ($5.00), and the restaurant’s Chirashi Don: generous slices of mouthwatering sashimi atop a bed of perfectly prepared sushi rice. To sweeten the deal, visit the restaurant during weekdays for its promotional specials, which include a main course, a side dish and dessert for under $20. With value like that, how can we decline?

Dishes We Love: Chirashi Don, Salmon Mentai, Char Siew Ramen, Salmon Popiah, Beef Tataki, Shake Teriyaki

Find it at 10 Anson Road, #02-35/36/37, International Plaza, 079903
Book a table at Shinagawa Ramen & Izakaya and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

otaru suisan

Otaru Suisan

With its widely diverse menu we guarantee you’ll be spoilt for choice in Otaru Suisan. Start with classic appetizers like a refreshing Takoru ($6.80): cool, chewy slices of fresh octopus with cucumber and seaweed in a sweet vinegar sauce, or order the Pan Fried Chicken Gyoza ($7.00) and crunch into juicy chicken tucked in a crispy dumpling skin. Sushi lovers can also sample from the restaurant’s numerous sushi dishes, but if you’re having trouble choosing (truly, we sympathise), order the Nigiri Ume, which promises nine different nigiri for less than $20. We were also fans of the Barachirashi Don, which pleases both the stomach (thanks to hearty pieces of assorted sashimi on a heaping bowl of rice, accompanied by a steaming bowl of miso soup) and the bank account for under $25.

Dishes We Love: Takoru, Pan Fried Chicken Gyoza, Maguro Tataki, Baked Seafood with Cheese and Mentaiko, Nigiri Ume, Barachirashi Don, Sanshoku Don

Find it at Unit No 04-10, 201 Victoria Street, 188067
Book a table at Otaru Suisan and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Watami-Sushi-Moriawase

Watami Japanese Casual Restaurant

As the restaurant’s name suggests, Watami Japanese Casual Restaurant caters to diners looking for a tasty, leisurely, and, of course, affordable meal. Sink your teeth into a crunchy Spider Roll ($19.90) – fret not, it’s not actually made of spiders, but heavenly deep fried soft shell crab – or order a melt-in-your-mouth Kagoshima Wagyu Beef Sushi ($7.90). For heartier fare, go for the Hokkaido Salmon Roe Sushi Rice Bowl. With its abundance of soft, piquant, salmon roe on rice for less than $25 it’s a bargain you can’t beat with a stick.

Dishes We Love: Unagi Roll, Spider Roll, Kagoshima Wagyu Beef Sushi, Salmon Roe Rice Bowl, Grilled Beef Short Ribs Rice Bowl

1 Vista Exchange Green, #02-16, The Star Vista, 138617
Book a table at Watami Japanese Casual Restaurant and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Marukyu-Chirashi-Sushi

Marukyu

Japanese Fine Dining for less than $30? Sign us up please!

We especially loved Marukyu’s Yaki Sakana Lunch Set ($16): its salty, flaky grilled mackerel was perfect when enjoyed with fluffy white rice, and comes with a side of sashimi and miso soup. The Salmon Teriyaki & Scallop Butter Yaki set ($21) is a must try as well, consisting of grilled salmon with sweet teriyaki sauce and large scallop medallions with butter sauce. Indulgent tip: if you’re feeling particularly flush from all the money you’ve saved up from dining at the previous restaurants on the list, spring for Marukyu’s Omakase sets ($68 or $88) and let the chef decide your meals for you.

Dishes We Love: Yaki Sakana Lunch Set, Salmon Teriyaki & Scallop Butter Yaki Set, Australian Wagyu Set, Senkai Set, Omakase Fue

Find it at 116 Telok Ayer Street, 068585
Book a table at Marukyu and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Prices accurate as of 23rd March 2017

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Categories
Features Interviews

Instagrammer @Katepurk Bares All Things Food Related

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You may be slightly intimidated by her cool and effortlessly chic demeanor, but rest assured, the beautiful Instagrammer and lifestyle blogger Katie (@KatePurk on Instagram) is incredibly sweet (unlike her taste in food!), and her love for local dishes is definitely something we can all relate to. She has kindly agreed to sit down with me this week for a little chat, and to give us some of her food recommendations!

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RL: Hi, thanks for meeting me! Let’s kick-start this with a simple question: what is your ultimate comfort food?

Fries are my ultimate guilty pleasure! I love the standard ones from McDonalds – I think they make the crispiest, perfectly golden-brown variety – but Nosh is my go-to place to get amazing truffle fries. I also love chicken wings, and my favourite ones are the BBQ wings from Newton Food Centre! The best (and only) way to eat them is with lime and chili sauce.

RL: God, truffle fries and BBQ wings really are the best. Pretty standard fare though – what would you say is the weirdest food item you like?

Chicken’s feet! I love how chewy they are, and their jelly-like consistency. I also love pig’s trotters, hum (cockles) and pig intestines. [Editor’s note – if you’re interested in finding out if chicken’s feet really makes you look younger check out our post to get the facts.]

RL: Woah, that’s intense! What about desserts? Are you a salty or sweet kinda girl?

Salty, for sure. If I have to have sweet desserts I’ll definitely go for the Asian variety – stuff that’s fruity and refreshing. I like making cupcakes and macarons but I don’t like eating them all that much! It’s just too much cream and everything’s too gao (thick and overwhelming) for my liking.  I don’t remember the exact name of it, but I really love dessert no. 66 on Honeymoon Dessert’s menu!

(I checked that for you guys – it’s the Double Boiled Milk with Baked Walnuts & Almonds)

RL: You clearly have a soft spot for Asian food. What would you say are your favourite restaurants or cafes in Singapore?

I LOVE BUFFETS. Triple Three at Mandarin Hotel is my favourite! They have a wide assortment of fresh seafood, and most importantly oysters and sashimi. I’m a very aunty sort of eater, I just eat as much of the expensive stuff I can stomach. I also love the steaks at Meat n’ Chill.

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RL: In that case, if you could only eat one thing forever, what would it be? Something expensive?

I’ll definitely have to be something healthy and covers all food groups – so ginseng chicken soup with rice, but with spinach cooked in it! I love veggies in general – I try to eat them everyday. My mum or grandmother stir fries spinach with olive oil with ikan bilis (anchovies) for me before I leave the house and I just gobble everything down to kick-start my day. So delicious, easy to eat and so good for you!

RL: Hmm, I’ll have to try adding spinach to my next bowl of chicken soup. So what’s the best meal you’ve ever had in your life? Is it something spinach-related as well?

Ha, while I love spinach it didn’t make my top meal of all time! This may sound weird, but the best meal I’ve had was at Vatos Urban Tacos in Seoul. It’s Korean-Mexican food and it’s SO GOOD. I was with my boyfriend and it was freezing in November, and nothing warmed us up like these tacos did. They’re delicious and the queue was so long, there was even a waiting room for people so they didn’t have to stand in the cold.

(P.S. There’s also a Vatos Urban Tacos branch in Singapore if you want to try it out!) Try my personal favorite, the Kimchi Carnitas Fries!

RL: So, who would you say is the best cook in your family?

I AM THE BEST COOK IN MY FAMILY. I make really fancy dishes that I learn from cookbooks or recipes online, but I only prepare them when my boyfriend’s over for dinner as I make very rich food, like stuff drenched in salted egg yolk, for example. I usually make him brown rice and Thai basil chicken, and I even got him to like spinach!

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RL: Impressive! Does he ever return the favour?

I got him to cook me chicken breast once and he randomly whipped something up with cheese and a bunch of other ingredients. It was actually really good, but he doesn’t know how to replicate it! He can only really cook maggi mee, but that’s okay!

RL: I love that confidence, he’s really lucky to have you! What else would  you like your followers to know about you?

– I have three dogs (a Jack Russell, a Maltese and a Poodle mix), a rabbit and a bird.
– I’m big on interior design, I designed the current flat my family’s staying in!
– My biggest pet peeve is when people sit on my bed in their dirty clothes – the stuff they’ve already worn out. There’s dirt and germs on your clothes, don’t transfer that to my bed!
– I used to work at Matt’s The Chocolate Shop so I know how to treat service staff.
– I hate it when people just think I’m sexy, I’m much more than that.
– Bangkok is like a second home to me, I love everything about it!

Interested in visiting some of the places that Katie has recommended? Here’s where to find them:

Nosh
Find it at 9 Rochester Park, 139220
Book a table at Nosh and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Honeymoon Dessert
Find it at 200 Victoria St, 70 Bugis Junction, 188021
Click here for more info on Honeymoon Dessert

Triple Three at Mandarin Hotel
333 Orchard Road Level 5, Mandarin Orchard Hotel Singapore, 238867
Book a table at Triple Three and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Meat n’ Chill
Find it at 805 Bukit Timah Rd, #01-04 6th Avenue Centre, 279883
Click here for more info on Meat n’ Chill

Vatos Urban Tacos
Find it at 36 Beach Road, #01-03, 189766
Book a table at Vatos Urban Tacos and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Matt’s The Chocolate Shop
44 Amoy St, Singapore 069868
Click here for more info on Matt’s The Chocolate Shop

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Categories
Destination Singapore

Does Eating Chicken Feet Actually Give You Youthful-Looking Skin?

The Myth – Eating Chicken Feet Will Keep You Looking 16 Forever

I’m sure many of you have been on the receiving end of this exchange – female relatives crowding around you during family gatherings while you pick at the slimy, alien-looking talons on your plate.

steamed-steamed-chicken-feet
Doesn’t that make you hungry? (Photo: Dim Sum Central)

“Eat it, it’s good for your skin!” they insist. “It’s full of collagen, and eating collagen keeps your skin looking young.”

So you reluctantly take a bite and then realize – hey, this isn’t all that bad! Chicken feet has actually been incorporated into various cuisines and is considered a delicacy in many parts of the world, but does it actually help with attaining youthful skin?

Sorry ladies, but the answer is no. You can eat as many of those talons as you can ‘stomach’ (no pun intended) but it won’t keep that dewy glow you rocked in secondary school!

Scientifically Speaking, Here’s Why

1. Facts about Collagen

– It’s a structural support protein in the dermis (inner layer) of your skin.
– Your cells produce less collagen as you age.1
– This is inevitable. Valar Morghulis.

2. Does Chicken Feet actually contain as much collagen as people say it does?

Long story short: it does.2 Sort of. Let us explain:

It’s actually high in gelatin content, which is what you get when you boil/steam food rich in collagen. It’s the stuff you find in jelly and gummies.3

Braised Peanut Chicken Feet
Yum, can’t get enough of that! (Photo: LilyAnette)

3. Does ingesting collagen (or gelatin) actually help with regenerating collagen fibres?

Not exactly.

Despite what a small number of research papers and dermatologists claim, collagen really is just a clever marketing tool. Attempting to regenerate collagen fibres is affecting the way your body produces a protein, not just the way it absorbs and stores something like fat, for example.

Here’s a quick breakdown:

– Your body digests collagen and/or gelatin into amino acids (the basic ‘building blocks’ for protein) that it can utilize.4
– These amino acids are important and useful as your body does need them to produce collagen, BUT
– You can get these from various other sources – like eating eggs and meat, or soybeans and asparagus if you’re vegan.

Is There Any Health Benefit To Eating Chicken Feet?

Of course! Superficial improvements shouldn’t be the only reason for healthy eating habits. Not only are chicken feet delicious, (hey, we’re fans!) they’re also a good source of amino acids, and glucosamine and chondroitin5 – one of the most common dietary supplements taken to maintain joint health.

Here are a couple of places that serve #chopeapproved chicken feet if you’re keen on getting your hands on some!

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(Photo: Alpha on Flickr)

Swee Choon Tim Sum Restaurant
If you must have chicken feet, you have to do it right – with dim sum, of course!
Find it at 183-191 Jalan Besar, s208882
Book at table at Swee Choon Tim Sum Restaurant and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Crystal Jade Dining IN Restaurant
Chicken feet with a view. Could you ask for anything better?
Find it at 1 Harbourfront Walk, #01-112 VivoCity, 098585
Book a table at Crystal Jade Dining IN Restaurant and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Tim Ho Wan
Braised chicken feet stewed with abalone sauce. Yum!
Find it at 68 Orchard Rd, #01-29A, Plaza Singapura, Plaza Singapura, 238839
Click here for more info on Tim Ho Wan.

Closing Notes

I’m sure you’ve heard this all before, but the best things you can do to slow the effects of ageing are to apply sunscreen regularly, exercise, stay hydrated, happy and relaxed, and ensure that your nutritional needs are properly met. It’s a good thing that you have Chope to help you make stress-free bookings to satisfy all your food and beverage needs then, huh? 😉

1. http://ajp.amjpathol.org/article/S0002-9440(10)62205-5/abstract
2. http://www.waset.org/publications/9997777
3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11592686
4. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/368634
5. http://www.efsa.europa.eu/en/efsajournal/pub/1099

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Categories
Destination Others Singapore

Fresh Eats: 5 New Places You Don’t Want to Miss in March!

There’s something for everyone this month – rich decadent desserts, exciting fusion cuisines, cheesy indulgent burgers, smoky grilled yakitori, exotic new cocktails, a hidden bar, rustic barnyard settings, family-friendly spaces… Time to dive right in!

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MEET Dining

Adding to the slew of restaurants that cater to the family-crowd in City Square is MEET Dining, a dining concept inspired by French and Japanese cuisines. There’s plenty of space for communal dining, and its sturdy industrial wood furnishings gives the restaurant a relaxed, homely vibe. The owners must have also taken the gripes of Singaporean parents and youngsters in mind – portions are large and perfect for filling the hungry bellies of growing children and large groups of teenagers without breaking the bank.

A portion of Crispy Baby Squid is priced at $10 and is both visually appealing and guaranteed to satisfy your taste buds – it’s covered in squid ink and deep-fried to perfection, served with garlic mayonnaise and zesty lemon slices. Get an entire Honey Spiced Chicken for $16, perfectly tender and juicy with a side of sauteed button mushrooms and buttery mashed potatoes – large enough for sharing with a friend or two (that is, if you don’t finish the entire thing yourself).

Find it at 180 Kitchener Road, #02-37/38, City Square Mall, Singapore 208539
Book a table at MEET Dining and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

lucky-bar-interior

Lucky Bar

If Full of Luck Club is your down-to-Earth girl-next-door, then Lucky Bar would be her cheeky younger sister with a rebellious streak. Barely a month old, Lucky Bar has already begun making ripples (which will soon turn into waves, we’re sure) in Singapore’s competitive cocktail bar scene. Diners can access Lucky Bar through Full of Luck Club; those who prefer to give others the slip, however, can choose to go through the restaurant’s back entrance along a secluded alley. Pro tip: look out for the red lantern!

The stairs make way for a rooftop bar at the landing, furnished with Chinese ceramic stools and fairy lights overhead. Moving indoors, the ambience take on a more intimate setting. Head bartender Darren Lim whips up quirky tipples with even quirkier names: we’d recommend Dragon’s Breath & Baccarat, both of which are guaranteed to take your taste buds for a spin. Have a couple of classic crowd-pleasers like Duck Spring Rolls with Hoisin Sauce ($7.50) or Golden Sand Corn with Salted Egg Yolk ($6.80), but it’s highly recommended that you give their One Ton Nachos ($12) a shot – these come with crispy fried wonton skin, pulled pork, pineapple, lots of melted cheese and sour cream. YUM.

Find it at Full of Luck Club, 243 Holland Ave, Singapore 278977
Book a table at Lucky Bar and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

half-pound-burger

[Closed] Half Pound Burger Bar & Grill

There’s honestly nothing better than tucking into a rich, hearty meal; whether it’s a greasy plate of char kway teow or a succulent, juicy burger – especially one that’s topped with truffled gouda, monterey jack, pan seared foie gras, candied bacon, pickled daikon and pineapple chips (talk about a mouthful)! Enter the Mother of All Burgers ($24) – it’s all that and more; their patty not only weighs a whopping half a pound (220g) but is made out of 100% imported Angus beef, no fillers whatsoever. If you feel like having something especially cheesy, give their Blue Cheese & Bacon Pasta ($18) a shot. It’s just as decadent and sinful as it sounds, and it comes with a sprinkling of tart dried cranberries to cut through the richness of the Blue Cheese.

The owner of this brightly coloured burger bar is on the road to fulfilling his lifelong dream when he set it up after being retrenched from his previous job; sink your teeth into the indulgence they have on offer and watch all your dreams come true as well.

Find it at 8 Purvis Street, #01-01, Singapore 188587
Book a table at Half Pound and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

mojo-uni-soba-1mojo-pork-belly-yakitori

MOJO

This tiny establishment located right smack in the CBD isn’t as simple as it seems. MOJO serves a wide variety of nutrient-packed, build-it-yourself protein bowls ($14) along with fresh agua frescas and antioxidant rich teas by day but their menu undergoes a complete transformation at night; the mouthwatering aroma of grilled meat permeates the air as the sun starts to set and you now have the option of various assortments of yakitori and sharing plates, all of which you can wash down with specialty Japanese craft beers and a plethora of cocktails with a Japanese twist.

Their Uni Soba ($38) is not to be missed – cold noodles topped with buttery uni (sea urchin), ebi (prawn), plump hotate (scallop) and ikura (salmon roe). Fancy something hot? Give their Pork Belly yakitori ($6) a whirl; it’s grilled to perfection and topped with nanami (leek). Truly magical.

Find it at 204 Telok Ayer Street, Singapore 068640
Book a table at MOJO and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

morsels-dining-roommorsels-octopus-risotto

Morsels at Dempsey

It doesn’t matter if you’re looking for a quaint little spot for a relaxed, romantic date or if you’d like to don floral maxi dresses on a Saturday morning with your girlfriends and pretend you’ve taken a trip out of the hustle and bustle of Singapore; Morsels at Dempsey is just the place for you. This homely, barnyard style restaurant focuses on combining the simplest ingredients and flavours in a novel way, and they’ve done so perfectly.

Their Charred House Poached Octopus ($26) is to die for – slices of perfectly grilled octopus sits on top of a bed of squid ink pearl rice risotto and is drizzled with a pale yellow salted egg sauce, and this is all topped with tobiko (flying fish roe) for an explosion of flavour and textures. Their Firecracker Duroc Pulled Pork ($24) is also a must-try; shell pasta cooked al-dente comes tossed in a tangy, spicy habanero cilantro pesto that meshes perfectly with chunks of caramelized pulled pork, topped with a dollop of sour cream.

This picturesque rustic space only accommodates 40, so be sure to make reservations before you go!

Find it at 25 Dempsey Road #01-04 Singapore 249670
Book a table at Morsels at Dempsey and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

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