Category: Others

Scrumptious Hidden Gems in Singapore

Post author By Cheryl Koo
Post date November 8, 2017
No Comments on Scrumptious Hidden Gems in Singapore

With Singapore’s diverse variety of cuisines, classic or fusion, we’re a must-stop for culinary connoisseurs. As many famous restaurants as there are in Singapore, there will often be hidden gems. Some are simply local secrets, while others have taken a step beyond to actively hide with innocuous storefronts and clever camouflaging. Here are some of the more secluded spots that your even your Singaporean friend may not know of!

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Chin Lee Restaurant

Founded in 1973, this family-run restaurant for families is located in the heartland of Singapore, Bedok. A considerably “ulu” (rural) area, the restaurant is mostly known to only locals living nearby. Chin Lee has been serving humble Teochew fare to Singaporeans for years, adhering to their promise of comfort, scrumptious food, and excellent service. Visitors and fellow Singaporeans alike, don’t miss out!

Find it at Blk 115 Bedok North Road #01-285, Singapore (460115)
Click here for more information on Chin Lee.

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Cafe Colbar

Trek through the bushes for a taste of Colonial Singapore. Cafe Colbar was established by a Mr and Mrs Lim in 1953, making it 64 years old this year. A former military canteen, this colonial bar was originally located on Jalan Hang Jebat. It was, however, moved to its current location due to the construction of a flyover, and hence is no longer the original bar but a recreation by both owners and fans. The rustic eatery hasn’t changed its menu much since establishment, with local eats and Hainanese-styled British food. So take a walk down Singapore’s heritage lane and check them out!

Find it at 9A Whitchurch Rd, Singapore (138839)
Click here for more information on Cafe Colbar.

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ENAQ Restaurant

What’s that? You have a craving for ab-so-lute-ly awesome Prata? Well, hold onto that hunger just a little longer to make the drive all the way to Jurong West for some Enaq Prata! As a self-proclaimed Prata Connoisseur, I profess to favour crispy prata over the softer prata. There’s just no comparison between the two. Between the regular chewy version and the crunchy one, crispy prata wins hands down. And this is one of the rare places to get said crispy prata! There’s another outlet in Ghim Moh now, which caters to the hipster crowd unlike the original mamak stall style, so if you want to get your #Instastories, hop on over there instead.

Find it at 303 Jurong East Street 32, Singapore (600303) or 21 Ghim Moh Rd, Singapore (270021)
Click here for more information on ENAQ.

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Chong Wen Ge Cafe

Have I come to the wrong place? This is a temple…or is it? Chong Wen Ge is a Peranakan cafe hidden in plain sight! Sharing the same tiling as Thian Hock Keng Temple (just next door), it definitely blends in well with the traditional look. Blink, and you’ll miss it. Serving up piping hot local favourites like Nyonya laksa and Nyonya Mee Siam (Nyonya also referring to Peranakan), this camouflaged spot is certainly worth squinting for!

Find it at 168 Telok Ayer St, Singapore (068619)
Click here for more information on Chong Wen Ge.

Bincho

Despite its disguise as a heritage shop in Tiong Bahru, this classy gastrobar is no kopitiam stall. You’ll have to creep through the back lanes of Moh Guan Terrace alley, spot the entirely metallic door with the tiny Bincho lettering, and then watch as the world transforms around you as you walk through. Do try the custom cocktails and specialty yakitori, for they are sure to blow your mind.

Find it at 78 Moh Guan Terrace #01-19, Singapore (162078)
Book a table at Bincho and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG.

The Dragon Chamber

While speakeasies are not uncommon in Singapore, they’re not usually Chinese. A large group of them are admittedly Japanese or Western concoctions, so I have to say that there was a little me squealing in excitement when I learned of this secret “speakeasy dining experience” by Tunglok. Head to Lokkee, a restaurant also under the Tunglok group, and ask to enter the Dragon Chamber. You’ll be lead to a red door through which you’ll enter this secret bar. There’s a secret menu that boasts exotic dishes. I won’t ruin the surprise, but do check out the Dragon Claw dish there—it’s proof that Chinese do eat everything!

In keeping with the speakeasy style, The Dragon Chamber does not have an official page, so you’ll only be able to access its front restaurant, Lokkee’s, website.

Find it at #03-02, 68 Orchard Road, Plaza Singapura, Singapore (238839)
Book a table at Lokkee and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG.

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Guac & Go

This trendily named restaurant doles out healthy and yummy salad/grain bowls in generous helpings. Started by two avocado lovers, it claims to serve the “best guacamole bowls in the CBD” and seems to be living up to this promise. Be sure to look hard for them, as they’re hidden behind Maxwell Chambers. This hipsterific place has seasonal menus that keep customers on their toes and absolutely instagrammable desserts. Check out their Supergreens Chai Parfaits!

Find it at 32 Maxwell Road #01-08, Singapore (069115)
Click here for more information on Guac & Go.

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Lau Wang Claypot Delights

I navigated the narrow streets of Serangoon to this back-end alley corner coffee shop just to satiate my desire for clay pot. Perhaps we should remove “just”, for a craving is certainly no small deal! And I definitely got my wish at Lau Wang Claypot Delights, for a very reasonable price. This humble family-style kopitiam has been around since 1985, which only goes to show that they’ve been doing things right. So if you ever crave clay pot dishes, do take a short trip to Serangoon!

Find it at 263 Serangoon Central Drive, #01-43, Singapore (550263)
Click here for more information on Lau Wang Claypot.

Maggie Joan’s

As a popular spot for irresistible Mediterranean-inspired cuisine, this hidden gem isn’t exactly ‘hidden’ for those in the know. Go through the unassuming metal door entrance and you’ll find yourself emerging into the underground edgy atmosphere; thereafter, your taste buds are in for a treat! From the juicy, perfectly marinated Braised Beef Cheeks, Bacon & Cabbage to the irresistible Egg fried in Dukkha with Saffron Mayo, you simply cannot fault any of the dishes that fly out of the kitchens here.

Find it at 110 Amoy Street, #01-01, Singapore 069930
Book a table at Maggie Joan’s and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG.

Tags Bars, Chinese, Cocktails, Drinks, Healthy, Hidden Gems, Japanese

Features Others Restaurants Singapore

Achieving Golden Kushikatsu Perfection at Panko

Post author By Cheryl Koo
Post date November 6, 2017
1 Comment on Achieving Golden Kushikatsu Perfection at Panko

If you’re done wandering food streets Arab Street and Haji Lane, check out the quirky watering hole that sits on the corner between the two: Panko, the newest baby from Unlisted Collection, is a cyberpunk-themed kushikatsu restaurant and bar. The concept of the bar is “casual, playful, and accessible”, and it’s headed by Chef Ishikawa who hails from a family of sushi chefs with 105 years of history and tradition. While Chef Ishikawa had followed faithfully in his family’s footsteps, the sushi chef has since branched out (to our great fortune) to a greater variety of flavours.

As the brainchild of Unlisted Collection, expect Panko to dish out extraordinary creations that are in line with those that come out of Salted & Hung, Cheek by Jowl, and Bincho. In fact, it’s run by the very same team behind Bincho. The table sitting area facing Arab Street has a wall projection displaying Tokyo’s street life, while Japanese-style murals decorate the walls around the bar area.

Panko is currently the restaurant with the lowest price point on Unlisted’s team of restaurants. Their aim is to provide exquisite Japanese food with fresh ingredients at affordable prices. Lunch sets start at $17++, with skewers ranging from as low as $2 to $8 per stick.

We were served with some of the delicate skewers that they have on the menu: the first on top is Salmon with Ikura ($6), while the foreground boasts Prawn ($6), and Young Corn ($2). Sauces offered to us, from left to right, were ponzu, lemon, Japanese Sea Salt, and Panko’s own secret Kushi Sauce (we only managed to discern Worchester sauce and sake in this, alas, it shall remain a true mystery).

Note how the skewers are angled towards the secret sauce? A clever tip that lets you know which sauce that skewer should be dipped into! Diners have free reign over which sauces they’d like to go with their skewers but of course, chef knows best.

The secret sauce was just right for the prawn and corn kushi, being neither too salty or too sweet. (We had a moment of rebellion and gave the Ponzu a try, but, while also pretty good, it was a little too acidic for the corn.)

With the sound of sizzling kushikatsu covering your whispered sweet nothings, the bar setting can make for a pretty intimate date night. Here’s a tip for those wondering how to impress even more at Panko’s. While not explicitly stated on the written menu, diners can actually request an omakase set. Meaning, “I’ll leave it up to you” or “entrust”, ordering omakase will leave the chef to decide what he wants to puts on your plate, be it a menu staple or special dishes he’ll create just for you. Wallet warning: be prepared to splurge at least $100. You’ll be asked your budget beforehand, but that’s the minimum for Omakase. This doesn’t include drinks, so make sure to do the sums! Personally, we feel that the quality and quantity more than justifies the price.

So how does Panko make these tasty fun-sized skewers, you ask? Here’s a sneak peek into the kitchens to see how the magic happens:

These delicately-prepared kushi are first skewered with utmost care, making sure that the bamboo skewers have a split at the end – this prevents meat from falling off. Then, they are dipped in batter before being left to drip on the rack for a minute. Chef helpfully informs us that this is to prevent too much batter from coating your food. The rule of thumb for kushikatsu, as the good chef tells us, is that less batter is better.

Next comes the dusting of bread crumbs, a.k.a. panko! Chef Ishikawa gently pats the kushikatsu down with an even coating of homemade panko.

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And finally, the deep-frying. Look at that sizzle! The kushikatsu is deep-fried forexactly 2 minutes (we timed it), before taken out and allowed to “rest” for a few seconds.

Finally, it’s decorated and served, like so!

(We’re betting our bottom dollar that you’re salivating just as much as we are right now.)

We’re head-over-heels for the Mochi Bacon with Mentai Mayo ($5) Kushikatsu, which is bacon wrapped around mochi and dusted with panko. The crispy outside complements the soft and chewy insides. By then, the mochi has taken in enough “juice” to hold a slight taste of bacon as well, which fills your mouth the more you chew. A small dollop of mentaiko mayonnaise is squeezed on top and sprinkled with tobiko, which burst with each bite and leave delicate hints of umami.

The first skewer is the Hokkaido Scallop with Nori Dashi Foam ($6). For seafood lovers, especially those who love Hotate (Japanese scallops), these are a must-try! The first bite starts with a crunch, and then your teeth sink into the tender, bouncy flesh. When you dip it into dashi foam, it’s a delightful combination of slight saltiness and shellfish-sweetness. Yum! And if you love Uni (Japanese sea urchin) as much as we do, you should definitely go for the latter dish which is the Hokkaido Scallop with Sea Urchin ($8).

Whether you’re looking for a casual but quirky setting for a date or if you simply want to try a new bar with an extensive collection of good Japanese alcohol and food, Panko is a place that will tease, please, and overall guarantee you a good time.

Find it at 33 Arab Street, Singapore (199732)
Book a table at Panko and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG.

Tags Japanese, Kushikatsu, New Restaurant, Newly-opened, Panko, skewers, Unlisted Collection

Destination Others Singapore Singapore

Fresh Eats: New in November

Post author By Ashley Reem Nebil
Post date November 3, 2017
No Comments on Fresh Eats: New in November

Can you believe that it’s already November? The year might be coming to an end, but these restaurants are just starting out. Here’s what’s in store: new eateries along Nanson Road and plenty of exciting concepts from the Alley on 25 at Andaz Hotel.
Let’s get to it then.

monkeywarung

Monkey Warung

Let’s welcome Capitol Piazza’s latest addition, Monkey Warung! Now, you don’t need to travel to Bali to get these sinfully succulent pork ribs. Monkey Warung is all for communal dining with family and friends, and leaves their mark with a contemporary twist on traditional Balinese cuisine. Savour a lip-smacking plate of Legendary Ribs straight from the grill, or an Ayam Panggang glazed with secret sauce. You know what would make your warung experience even better? Some ice cold beers at just $5 for every half pint!

Find it at 15 Stamford Road, #01-84, Singapore 178906
Book a table at Monkey Warung and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Publico Deli

Publico’s concept encompasses three parts: a deli, a restaurant, and a bar. The authentic Italian fare here and cosy dining space will make you feel like you’re in an actual trattoria in Italy. Whet your appetite with a scrumptious Quinoa-Power Salad before tucking into selections of all-day breakfast mains, including the popular Pancakes & Berries or the Mediterranean Scramble. After sunset is when this eatery transforms into a dessert parlour and bar: pop by for an Irresistible Tiramisu, Publico’s spin on the classic Italian treat, and wash it down with some sparkling wine!

Find it at 1 Nanson Road, InterContinental Singapore Robertson Quay, Singapore 238909
Book a table at Publico Deli and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Wolfgang’s Steakhouse

Nanson Road delivers with another new hot spot—Wolfgang’s Steakhouse! ‘Classic never goes out of style’ is Wolfgang’s motto, and they certainly live up to it. This globally renowned steakhouse uses USDA prime beef that is dry-aged for approximately 28 days before being cut into steaks. Dry-ageing makes the beef ultra-tender and soft, heightening the dining experience unlike any other – that’s a plus in our books! Some notable mentions include the shareable Porterhouse as well as the Prime Filet Mignon which pairs perfectly with Creamed Spinach.

Find it at 1 Nanson Road, #02-01 Intercontinental Singapore Robertson Quay, Singapore 238909
Click here for more info on Wolfgang’s Steakhouse

Blue Lotus Mediterranean Kitchen & Bar

This new hot spot is perfect for those of you who love a dining place with an outdoorsy feel. Spend your weekends chilling out at their cosy and comfy outdoor dining area with mini wooden tables and matching cushioned chairs. The best way to unwind is to get in touch with mother nature. At Blue Lotus, you’ll do just that as you are surrounded by lush greenery and pretty potted plants. As you relax, have yourself any of the Mediterranean delights such as the Grilled Atlantic Octopus Leg with Herbs. The pizzas here are also some of the freshest in town: take the cheesy Serrana Pizza for example! For some spicy sensations, sink your teeth into the signature Chilli Pomelo Crab Pasta or the Chilli Pomelo Crab Balls.

Find it at 991B Alexandra Road, #01-10, Singapore 119970
Book a table at Blue Lotus Mediterranean Kitchen & Bar and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Auntie’s Wok & Steam @ Alley on 25

Alley on 25 at Andaz Hotel is the ultimate all-day dining spot to reminisce Singapore’s street and hawker food. They’ve got 5 new exciting restaurant concepts on the 25th level in store for you. The first of which is Auntie’s Wok & Steam, a homage to Singapore’s popular Tze Char culinary culture, this time in a more sophisticated setting. Choose from endless selections of traditional dim sum, rice, noodle, and meat dishes before watching the chefs prepare your food in real time. Sounds exciting, doesn’t it? For dessert, indulge in a uniquely local Teh Tarik Ice Cream with Love letters!

Find it at 5 Fraser Street, Level 25 Andaz, Singapore 189354
Book a table at Auntie’s Wok & Steam @ Alley on 25 and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Plancha’Lah! @ Alley on 25

As you walk along the alley, you’ll come across Plancha’Lah, which is a clever play on the Spanish ‘la plancha’, which translates to ‘hot plate’. It’s hard to miss Plancha’Lah with it’s open hotplate concept where guests can get up close and personal as they witness what’s cookin’ before their very eyes. What’s on the plate: international classics like the Boston Lobster and Atlantic Cod Papillote.

Find it at 5 Fraser Street, Level 25 Andaz, Singapore 189354
Book a table at Plancha’Lah! @ Alley on 25 and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Icehaus @ Alley on 25

Did you know, before electricity, food was preserved and kept cool in cabinets filled with ice? That should give you an idea on the inspiration behind the concept of Icehaus. As it’s name suggests, Icehaus specialises in serving up dishes meant to be eaten cold, such as the Scottish Smoked Salmon with chive crème fraiche. If you’re just looking for a quick, light bite, you’ve come to the right place. Grab yourself a Caesar Salad, or a croissant from the pastry selection. And we all know what you’re thinking: what’s an ‘icehaus’ without ice cream? Head on over to the specialist dessert machines for some soft-serves, or enter gula melaka and coconut heaven with an Andaz Chendol Pop!

Find it at 5 Fraser Street, Level 25 Andaz, Singapore 189354
Book a table at Icehaus @ Alley on 25 and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Smoke & Pepper @ Alley on 25

Next up, we’ve got Smoke & Pepper, the largest occupant of the concepts at Alley on 25. Here, you’ll find barbecued goodness lacing the menu but with an Asian spin. If you have trouble eating your greens because they’re too bland, the barbecued vegetarian options such as the Asian Slaw might solve that problem. Relish in the buttery Grilled Diver Scallops and the drool-worthy Black Angus Beef Burger. Just thinking about these grilled delicacies is making our mouths water!

Find it at 5 Fraser Street, Level 25 Andaz, Singapore 189354
Book a table at Smoke & Pepper @ Alley on 25 and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

The Green Oven @ Alley on 25

Last – but definitely not least – at Alley on 25 is The Green Oven. Every baked delight served here is popped fresh out of the star of the kitchen: a green breech oven. Bring back childhood memories with a bowl of Mac & Cheese (but of course, The Green Oven adds a touch of fancy by serving it with savoury morel mushrooms and lobster!). For something more meaty, chow down on a juicy Braised Lamb Shank with Tzatziki dip on the side. Finish off with a classic warm chocolate Brownie topped with a scoop of peanut butter ice cream.

Find it at 5 Fraser Street, Level 25 Andaz, Singapore 189354
Book a table at The Green Oven @ Alley on 25 and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Tags Fresh Eats: Singapore, New Restaurants, Newly-opened

Destination Others Singapore

Green and Good: Vegetarian Eats

Post author By Cheryl Koo
Post date November 1, 2017
No Comments on Green and Good: Vegetarian Eats

As a meatatarian, I’ve always wondered if the grass is greener on the other side. After all, avoiding an entire portion of the food pyramid has always seemed very much like limiting your choices. And indeed, when I undertook a mission to look for good, green food for Vegan Month, it definitely took some serious (soul) searching.

Perhaps meat and I are never meant to part, but that doesn’t mean that there isn’t room for alternatives. The same goes for everyone, be it pure vegan, vegetarian, or even just a regular omnivore feeling peckish for some green food. The road to healthy greens is long, but those embarking on the journey can check out these nine vegetarian-friendly restaurants to get a good dose of healthy eating.

Restaurant Ards

This new Asian fine-dining establishment is located along Duxton Road and helmed by a mighty pair of chef-owners Ace Tan and David Lee with a mission to celebrate Asia’s rich variety of culinary cultures and exquisite techniques with the world. Their vision is to bring nature to the table, which means the freshest of ingredients. Of course, this includes all things green!

As a vegetarian-friendly restaurant, there is a special 15-course vegetarian dinner apart from their normal dishes which you have to book 2 days in advance for! (Trust me, it’s worth it.) With dishes named Touch of Asia and The Art of Roots, you’ll definitely be in for a treat.

Find it at 76 Duxton Road, Singapore (089535)
Book a table at Restaurant Ards and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG.

Cafe Salivation

If the name doesn’t make you drool, it just means you haven’t been there. This casual dining place has found the secret to drool-worthy healthy food that keeps customers coming back for more. The most amazing part? It is completely, 100% vegetarian.

With bright and bold aesthetics and an equally disarming mix of Mexican, Asian, and Italian cuisines available on the menu, Cafe Salivation does not disappoint. The Enchiladas Remo or Desi Sandwich will surely have you hooked!

Find it at 176 Race Course Road, Singapore (218607)
Book a table at Cafe Salivation and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG.

Open Farm Community

A unique combination of urban farmland, horticultural hub, and restaurant, this concept is a revolutionary collaboration between the Spa Espirit Group, celebrity chef Ryan Clift, and award-winning food garden specialists, Edible Garden City. The food here is a fresh as you can get, and you can admire the sprawling gardens as you tuck in. There’s a strict no-no policy towards processed ingredients, imported produced, and unsustainable farming practices which means that everything is locally-sourced and, I repeat, absolutely fresh!

While Open Farm Community isn’t 100% vegefied, there are more than enough vegetarian dishes to satisfy the most discerning of palates! (And if you’re like me and have lesser willpower, take a stab at some of the meat dishes too. Shhh.)

Find it at 130E Minden Road, Singapore (248819)
Book a table at Open Farm Community and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG.

Real Food

What does it mean to eat real food? This popular cafe-bistro demonstrates with plate after plate of juicy burgers, hearty stews, and rich pastas. Take the idea that vegetarian = salad and throw it out the window right now! This place turned my belief in the deliciousness of meat upside down. Turns out, you don’t need to eat meat to have a delicious and satisfying meal. Hands-down, this is now at the top of my list for luncheons. But don’t leave just yet! Take a sip at their wonderful selection of aromatic teas and tisanes. After such a heartening meal, a hot cup of Listen to Your Heart tea sounds heavenly.

Find it at 44,45 Pekin Street, #01-01, Far East Square, Singapore (189768)
Book a table at Real Food and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG.

Original Sin

When you think of vegetarian food, you definitely can’t avoid Original Sin. This is, after all, one of the first vegetarian restaurants in Singapore. It’s been here serving locals since 1997 – that’s 20 years of constantly perfecting an already exquisite menu right there! Mediterranean, Greek, Italian, and Middle Eastern tastes converge at this famous hot spot. There are both indoor and al fresco dining here. If you didn’t know, you an also save 10% at Original Sin when you purchase vouchers from the Chope Shop!

Find it at Blk 43 #01-62 Jalan Merah Saga, Chip Bee Gardens, Singapore 278115
Book a table at Original Sin and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG.

Afterglow

Since we’re talking about vegetarianism, why not push the boundaries a little and go vegan? And with the impressively innovative dishes at Afterglow, they’ll have you forgetting that you’re tucking into cuisines that are meat-free and void of any animal by-products. You really need to applaud their creativity, and boy do those efforts pay off. What to try: Raw Vegan Nut ‘Cheese’ Platter with Crackers and Afterglow Kimchi Nori Rolls (psst, the rice is not rice). Fans of desserts need not fret either because their Raw Chocolate Salted Caramel Fudge is 100% indulgence with 0% guilt.

Find it at 24 Keong Saik Road, Singapore (089131)
Book a table at Afterglow and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG.

KARA Cafe & Dessert Bar

Here’s the grain bowl I’m sure you were waiting for! KARA is a cute little cafe in Bukit Timah that dishes out absolutely yummy grain bowls! While it may not be completely vegefied, there’s absolutely no reason for true blue vegetarians to avoid it. There are more than enough selections for you to choose from, and you’ll definitely have more than just a salad.

Oh, but grab their special Chope Exclusive lunch set now! For the entire month of October, you get a complimentary bowl with every lunch set purchase. Make a reservation with us and use promo code CE10KC to get it! (And yes, there’s a vegetarian bowl: the Coco Cashew Pomelo Quinoa grain bowl)

Find it at 617 Bukit Timah Road, Singapore (269718)
Book a table at KARA and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG.

Open Door Policy

We’ve saved the best for last, so don’t hold back! Open Door Policy has just recently updated its menu to be completely gluten and dairy free. Vegetable Tempura Risotto, anyone? ODP is always looking to improve their menu to provide healthier meals to its guests, without sacrificing taste. From the taste of their Signature Fluffy Souffle (acai berry créme anglaise), it’s a definite rousing success.

There’s no vegan stamp just yet, but there’s definitely plenty of vegetarian dishes to choose from. Seats are always filled, so be sure to Chope those tables fast and early!

Find it at 19 Yong Siak Street,Singapore (169650)
Book a table at Open Door Policy and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG.

Tags Healthy, Vegan, Vegan Month, Vegetarian

Deals & Specials Others Singapore

Happy Halloween Horror Nights: Special Menus and Promos

Post author By Cheryl Koo
Post date October 26, 2017
No Comments on Happy Halloween Horror Nights: Special Menus and Promos

There’s less than a week to Halloween and the spirit of spookiness is already in the air. Won’t you join us for a good scare? This year we have plenty of great events to satisfy our hunger for all things tongue-tingling and spine-chilling!

Universal Studios welcomes Halloween with their first ever Zombie Laser Tag (until 29 Oct). Form a platoon, pick a captain, arm yourselves. And lastly: kill as many zombies as you can. If racing along with your heartbeat is not your thing, then get your thrills exploring the winding walkways of the old colonial house on Emily Hill, where Kult has brewed an enticing cauldron of haunting tunes and fangtastic cocktails.

But that’s not all that’s happening this week: there are restaurants and bars cooking up a bunch of Halloween Specials, with limited edition menus and promotions that are sure to have you drooling. Read on and brace yourselves for a ghouly good time!

Captain K

Watch out, Captain K’s here with some hair-raising treats this Halloween! This Korean restaurant famous for their Seafood Tier is doling out 3 new soup bases: Sze Chuan Ma La, Tomato, and Clear Tomyum Mushroom Soup. Plus, snag 15% off new soup bases with their No Tricks, Only Treats promotion, as well as an additional 5% off the total bill if you snap, post, and like them on Instagram or Facebook with #captainkonlytreats.

But that’s not all! Their partner K-Ju’s got a special Halloween set for two (or one hungry person) at $65, with unlimited orders. With one army stew pot, two rice bowls, six skewers, and two Hallowee-nie cocktails, that’s definitely a value for money deal. If you’re still thirsty for more drinks, there’s 1-for-1 Asahi draft beer or Ju-Packs too!

Find it at 112 Middle Road, #01-00 Midland House, Singapore (188970) or 30 Prinsep Street, #01-02 Income@Prinsep, Singapore (188647)

Book a table at Captain K and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG.

CÉ LA VI

Offering excellent contemporary Asian cuisine paired with yummy tipples and a glorious view of the Singapore skyline, CÉ LA VI sets the stage for a thrilling date. For Halloween this year, CÉ LA VI Club Lounge has partnered with London nightclub Cirque le Soir for a crazy night of burlesque and booze! Details can be found on their Facebook page.

Find it at 1 Bayfront Avenue, Level 57 Tower 3, Marina Bay Sands SkyPark, Singapore (018971)

Book a table at CÉ LA VI and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG.

Melt Cafe

The all-day-dining buffet here may look innocently delectable, toting their TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence and maintaining their position as a reviewer favourite on the site, but on 31 Oct their menu transforms into the wet dreams of zombies and vampires alike. With names like Cemetery Garden and Faces of Death, Melt certainly goes all out to impress for just one day. It’s certainly no surprise why they’re so popular!

Find it at 5 Raffles Avenue, The Mandarin Oriental, Singapore (039797)

Book a table at Melt Cafe and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG.

Oscar’s

Yet another buffet awarded with the TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence, Oscar’s is a kid-friendly international buffet mecca that dishes up both Western and local favourites in generous portions. For Halloween this year, they’ve organised a chef’s pumpkin carving competition as a treat for kids to watch, while adults get free-flow house pour or premium wines at $138++ or $178++ respectively.

Find it at 2 Temasek Boulevard, Conrad Centennial Hotel, Singapore (038982)

Book a table at Oscar’s and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG.

Don’t forget to check out the Chope Shop for offers up for grabs, but do be sure to confirm with the restaurants if they are applicable with Halloween promotions before purchase! For fellow spooks looking for a more liquid diet on All Hallow’s Eve, bars along the Singapore river are shaking it up with a little extra gasp to their drinks, so make sure to wander over during your midnight haunting!

Tags Deals & Specials, Events, Halloween, Limited Edition, Trick or Treat

Others Singapore Singapore

Singapore Snags 6 spots on World’s 50 Best Bars list

Post author By Chope
Post date October 20, 2017
1 Comment on Singapore Snags 6 spots on World’s 50 Best Bars list

Hear ye, hear ye, this year’s World’s 50 Best Bars was officially released on 5th October 2017 and, while there are the usual New York bigwigs and London suspects, Singapore proved a force to be reckoned with, with an impressive 6 spots on the list. All the better to toast ourselves with!

7th Place: Manhattan at the Regent Hotel

Manhattan_Bloody_Mary_Cart_jpg_1457457150

Ah yes, the bar we go to if we’re feeling in the mood for some Prohibition Era America (as one does). We love the regal drapes, textures of velvet and leather, and rich bronze tones, but our favourite ogling spot has got to be the staggering display of custom casks, filled with expertly reconstructed classics, in The Rickhouse.

Don’t try to finish everything on the incredibly extensive menu all at once; we recommend starting with the cocktail menu, which uses a few of the spirits anyway. It’s sorted by era (beginning with the 1520s!), so grab a group and have every person select one drink from each period to try.

If you’ve been there, you’ll know why this super swish hotel bar totally deserves its 7th place spot and, ahem, the title of Best Bar in Asia 2017.

Find it at 1 Cuscaden Road, Level 2, The Regent Singapore, A Four Seasons Hotel, Singapore 249715
Book a table at Manhattan and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

15th Place: Atlas

From Atlas Bar

Looks like we’ve stumbled upon the formula for success when it comes to getting Singaporean bars on the World’s Best list – grand, historical-style decor coupled with excellent liquors. Of course, the interiors miiight need to look like it was transplanted from a time when Art Deco ruled, and the spirits miiight need to be 1,000 gins from countries near and far, stocked in a looming tower behind the bar – but if you can hack it, then we think you stand a good chance.

Pro tip: Because haters gonna hate, Atlas also stocks some pretty fabulous champagne for those who aren’t quite fans of the taste of juniper.

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

24th Place: Operation Dagger

From Operation Dagger Facebook

Remember what we just said about opulent design? Operation Dagger bucks that trend and make us eat our words. Forget in-your-face glamour, this tiny bar requires you to stretch your detective skills just to find the entrance. Spy an inconspicuous doodle on the outside, peer into the glass blocks on the ground, and bingo, you’ve cracked the case.

The underground den is lit only by a cloud of light bulbs dangling overhead, casting a burnished glow on concrete tables and open shelving packed with mysteriously labelled bottles. Great for cool, Instagram selfies, but you might need a posse of torch-shiners to get well-lit food shots.

Minimal though the look may be, the drinks themselves aren’t shy to wallop you in the face with unique pairings and strange ingredients. What exactly? You’ll have to find out for yourself. #somysterious

Find it at 7 Ann Siang Hill, #B1-01, Singapore 069791
Click here for more info on Operation Dagger

28th Place: 28 Hong Kong Street

From 28 Hong Kong Street Facebook

Back in our younger hipster days, dear reader, 28 Hong Kong Street’s nameless exterior and plain, panelled storefront made us feel like the coolest bunch around. We’re older now, and a little lousier in the sense of direction department, so it’s a good thing the bar’s name doubles up as its address, but the jazzy tunes and cosy booth seats of this 1920s American-style drinking hole still holds a special place in our hearts. We come here to snack on indulgent bar bites like mac ’n’ cheese ball and wash them down with lip-smacking iterations of alcoholic classics.

Find it at 28 Hongkong St, Singapore 059667
Click here for more info on 28 Hongkong Street

31st Place: Tippling Club

tippling

If we’re in the Tanjong Pagar neighbourhood, it’s probably to stuff our faces with fried chicken or Korean barbecue. Occasionally, however, when we feel like ending the night with drinks and people watching, we wind up at Tippling Club – outside of course, so the miasma of barbecue smells radiating from us won’t suffocate the folk within. The drinks here aren’t just about flavour, although there’s plenty of the good stuff to go around, but play a lot with aromas and scents too. If you like the fun factor, quality food, and creative drinks that evoke leather, rain, and fire, then come right on in because you’ve hit the jackpot.

Find it at 38 Tanjong Pagar Rd, Singapore 088461
Book a table at Tippling Club and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

47th Place: Native

From HoneyCombers.com

And the final Singaporean spot to make a coveted appearance is newcomer Native. Sure, it only opened in 2016, but when a bar boldly claims to use foraged ingredients in their creations, wouldn’t you sit up and take notice too? The idea is to connect the drinks with our surroundings so be prepared for familiar items like coconut yoghurt and sugar cane, plus a dash of the unknown in the form of weaver ants, turmeric leaves, and more. Nope, not a typo, that’s A. N. T. S. Ants. Full disclosure, we have yet to pay a visit to this Amoy Street resident (mainly because our foodie lifestyle is strictly regulated by our budgets) but we’re already making plans to remedy that. Let us know if you guys are already fans!

Find it at 52a Amoy St, Singapore 069878
Click here for more info on Native

While you’re at it, be sure to check out our guide to the best bars in Singapore.

Tags Bars, Cocktails, Dinner, Drinks, Feature, Guide

Destination Others Singapore

Fresh Eats: Our Top 8 Picks For October!

Post author By Ashley Reem Nebil
Post date October 6, 2017
No Comments on Fresh Eats: Our Top 8 Picks For October!

This month, we’ve got loads of new and exciting eateries in store for you to both save and splurge on. From fast food options to buffets and fine dining, we’ve got you covered! Here are our top 8 picks for the month of October, and fair warning: these will have you drooling in no time!

Maru Dine & Bar

Maru is an interesting fusion of Western and Asian cuisine including French, Japanese, and Vietnamese flavours. Their rustic and unconventional interior was designed to transport you to a virtual reality of the street scenes of the Old Quarter of Hanoi. Using only the freshest and finest ingredients, Maru does not compromise on the quality of their dishes. Wet your appetite with some crunchy Chicken Katsu Tacos, then tickle your taste buds with a Steamed Spicy Asari that is truly an explosion of flavour. For up to 90 minutes, enjoy an unlimited flow of soft drinks, beer, and house wines.

Find it at Icon Village, 12 Gopeng Street, #01-05 – 11, Singapore 078877
Book a table at Maru Dine & Bar and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Ginger Thai

Orchard Road is renowned for being Singapore’s ultimate hub for fine dining and retail therapy. Finding scrumptious meals at affordable prices can be a struggle. With the opening of Ginger Thai at the shophouses along Cuppage Road, you can now relish in authentic Thai classics that are totally value for money!

What is a Thai restaurant without Tom Yum, right? Go for their classic Tom Yum Soup with either chicken or seafood if you’re a fan of tart, clear soup, or try the Tom Yum Chicken With Coconut for a more creamy base. Other Thai favourites include Pineapple Rice, Pad Thai, Green Curry, and Mango Sticky Rice! Ginger Thai also mixes things up by incorporating local delicacies into their menu such as the succulent Chicken Satay with Thai herbs.

Find it at 37 Cuppage Road, Singapore 229460
Book a table at Ginger Thai and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Trattoria Amanda

Located along the quaint shophouses of Stanley Street, Trattoria Amanda is an oasis of quality Italian cuisine. It’s homely ambience is sure to take you away from the usual humdrum of city life and into the realm of Italian culture. Revel in authentic Italian fare that is cooked to perfection.

Be sure to try the mouth-watering Burratina e Parma Ham— juicy slices of Parma ham encircling creamy Burratina cheese! Dine anytime from 5pm to 8pm and participate in an Aperitivo—pre-dinner drinks to get your tummy rumbling. Choose from their selection of opulent wines, cocktails, and liqueur. Trattoria Amanda leaves no man behind with their vegetarian friendly specials which include Risotto Con Porcini, Ravioli Formaggi, and a Classic Margherita. Buon appetito!

Find it at 14 Stanley Street, Singapore 068733
Book a table at Trattoria Amanda and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Sea & Blue

Brace yourself for an unforgettable buffet experience featuring Japanese, Italian, Korean, and local delicacies. Sea & Blue is more than just seafood. With over 100 food items to indulge in, you’re sure to find yourself in foodie heaven. Feast on endless rolls of sushi, succulent slices of beef bulgogi, wheels of pizza, and so much more! Don’t forget to head over to the dessert bar where you can construct your very own Korean bingsu. Need we say more?

Find it at 10 Bayfront Avenue, #B2-01/01A, The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands, Singapore 018956
Book a table at Sea & Blue and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Blackwattle

Chef Clayton Wells, owner of renowned Sydney restaurant ‘Automata’ is bringing his expertise to our Little Red Dot with the opening of Blackwattle on Amoy Street. At Blackwattle, expect a fine dining experience that is impressively casual and unpretentious, yet comfortable and elegant. Order from a frequently changing three and five-course menu, as well as an a la carte menu. Try the noteworthy Grilled Black Angus Short Rib and savour a pretty Pumpkin Seed Sorbet for dessert! Head upstairs for some carefully concocted bar snacks and cocktails.

Find it at 97 Amoy Street, Telok Ayer, Singapore 069917
Book a table at Blackwattle and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Burger Monster [closed]

Formally introducing Burger Monster—the first Korean burger joint to mark it’s territory in Singapore. From the company that opened Singapore’s top Korean fried chicken food chain; Burger Monster is Chicken Up’s newest sister! Forget regular beef and chicken, Burger Monster takes things up a notch by utilizing fish like unagi and shark in their burger creations. The signature beef Monster Burger is monster-sized; spanning up to 20cm and can be shared among as many as 4 persons. Besides burgers, check out their scrumptious rolls, fried chicken, and fish! What’s more, experience the true taste of Korean flavours and free flow drinks at economical prices that won’t burn a hole in your wallet!

Find it at 10 Jurong East Street 12, #01-01 Jurong East MRT, Singapore 609690
Book a table at Burger Monster and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Shin Minori (Katong Square)

‘Shin Minori’, translates to ‘new harvest’ in Japanese and is well-known at their UE Square outlet for being an all-you-can-eat Japanese buffet with dozens of noodle, sushi, and sashimi selections to choose from. Treat yourself to a feast of Japanese delights at pocket-friendly prices that won’t break the bank at the new Katong Square outlet. Shin Minori exudes creativity with their unique maki rolls such as the Spider Temaki which is interestingly shaped and filled with deep fried crispy soft shell crab. Or how about the colourful Harvest Maki Roll consisting of avocado wrapped with boiled shrimp and topped with almonds, coconut flakes, mango, and eel sauce!

Find it at 88 East Coast Rd, #02-08, Singapore 423371
Book a table at Shin Minori (Katong Square) and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Restaurant Ards

The opening of Restaurant Ards by dynamic duo Chef Ace Tan and Chef David Lee is a celebration of Asian cuisine and culinary cultures. The team at Restaurant Ards is devoted to showcasing the best aspects of Asian culture, not just with their diverse culinary expertise but even through their warm and hospitable nature toward their diners. The fifteen-course dinner menu tells an imaginative story through distinct flavours of dishes like Ear of the Sea and Art of Beef.

Find it at 76 Duxton Rd, Singapore 089535
Book a table at Restaurant Ards and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Tags Buffet, Cocktails, Featured, Fresh Eats: Singapore, Italian, New Restaurants, Seafood

Destination Others Save/Splurge Singapore

Bank Cracker: Splurge-worthy Dim Sum

Post author By Cheryl Koo
Post date October 2, 2017
No Comments on Bank Cracker: Splurge-worthy Dim Sum

You’ve seen our list of affordable dim sum eats, now here’s one that’ll give you a run for your money! It is indeed rare to find dim sum that merits breaking the bank for, but we assure you that we’ve found some real lofty dishes. Prepare yourself for some truly extravagant and exquisite dim sum!

Mitzo Restaurant & Bar

A sleek and modern take on the traditional Chinese restaurant, Mitzo is a unique gem in the middle of Orchard Road. This classy space mixes Cantonese cuisine with artisanal cocktails in a sexy and heady blend. Restaurant by day, bar and club by night, diners will surely not be disappointed!

Find it at 270 Orchard Road, Grand Park Orchard, Singapore (238857)

Book a table at Mitzo with code TASTYBLOG to get 2x Chope-dollars now!

Photos from janicewong.com.sg

Janice Wong Singapore (National Museum)

Native Singaporean Janice Wong may be Asia’s Best Pastry Chef, but she dishes out equally yummy savoury treats. Her dim sum dishes are artfully decorated, the perfect subjects for photo shots. Of course, they taste just as good as they look! Most of them are only available at her flagship store at National Museum, so be sure to check first. Tables are always full, so make a reservation before going down to eat!

Find it at 93 Stamford Road, National Museum Singapore, 01-06, Singapore (178897)

Click here for more information on Janice Wong Singapore.

Summer Palace

Come down now to this Michelin-starred restaurant for some truly drool-worthy bites! The executive chef, Chef Liu Ching Hai, is a veteran in fine Cantonese cuisine with over 20 years of experience under his belt as well as a Best Culinary Skills Award. His philosophy is to bring diners Cantonese comfort using the freshest quality ingredients, presenting innovative creations with nuances of traditional flavours. Wow!

Plus, you can bag 10% off when you get the vouchers on The Chope Shop here!

Find it at 1 Cuscaden Road, Level 3, The Regent Singapore, A Four Seasons Hotel, Singapore (249715)

Book a table at Summer Palace with code TASTYBLOG and get 2x Chope-dollars now!

Tien Court

One of Singapore’s best “undiscovered” Chinese restaurants, Tien Court is a hidden gem tucked away on the second level of Copthorne Kings Hotel. A classical and traditional Chinese restaurant headed by Master Chef Ho Tien Tsai, this elegant dining place serves choice dim sum dishes like Steamed Shark’s Fin Dumpling with Enoki Mushroom in Superior Broth. Mmmmmm…

Find it at 403 Havelock Road, Copthorne Kings Hotel Singapore, Singapore (169632)

Book a table at Tien Court with code TASTYBLOG to get 2x Chope-dollars now!

Jiang-Nan Chun

For luxurious, top-notch dim sum in an award-winning restaurant fit for an emperor, check out Jiang-Nan Chun on the second level of the renowned Four Seasons Hotel. This establishment has been presenting meticulously created masterpieces to diners for years. Come and be wowed by their exquisite gastronomy! Tables are always full so be sure to book.

Find it at 190 Orchard Boulevard, Level 2, Four Seasons Hotel Singapore, Singapore (248646)

Book a table at Jiang-Nan Chun with code TASTYBLOG to get 2x Chope-dollars now!

Tags Chinese, Cocktails, Drinks, Featured, Fresh Eats, Fresh Eats: Singapore, Guides, New Restaurants, Newly-opened

Deals & Specials Destination Others Singapore

Up to 50% off, 1-for-1s, and more – it’s a Foodie’s Paradise!

Post author By Ashley Reem Nebil
Post date September 26, 2017
No Comments on Up to 50% off, 1-for-1s, and more – it’s a Foodie’s Paradise!

You can’t call yourself a foodie unless you’ve got the dibs on the best food deals in town. Want to achieve that foodie status? We’ll help you get a headstart with a sneak peek of The Foodie Paradise Sale!

Starting from 27th September 2017 at 8am to 1st October 2017 at 11pm, this mega sale comes bearing deals that would make foodies go wild: imagine bagging up to 50% off top restaurants such as Braci and Pince & Pints, scoring 1-for-1 buffet starbuys, and enjoying complimentary goodies with the Foodie Pass. It’s a steal that foodies can’t miss!

Visa Flash Sale

Symmetry_03 pince

Do you happen to have a Visa card? Now’s the chance to make full use of it and snag the best deals on this one-day-only Flash Sale! Only available on 27th September 2017, pay with your Visa card to purchase vouchers from Dancing Crab, Symmetry, Wild Honey, and more top spots to score an additional $20 off! Did we mention that you can even get a Seafood boil and Grilled Lobster at 50% off? With $50 vouchers going for only $25 and $100 vouchers at $70, it’s definitely a steal!

Here’s the 411 on the restaurants you can score up to 50% off at:

Dancing Crab Vivocity
Dancing Crab Grandstand
TungLok Signatures Vivocity
Pince & Pints
8 Korean BBQ (Shaw Centre)
Braci
Kelly Jie Seafood (Formerly Mellben Seafood)
Wild Honey (Scotts Square) & (Mandarin Gallery)
Xiao Ya Tou
The Lokal
MOJO
Shin Yeh
The Market Grill
Salted & Hung
Salt Tapas & Bar
Morsels
&SONS
Aura
Symmetry
Grub
Clinton Street Baking Company
Tsukiji Fish Market

Buffet Starbuys

Buffet fanatics rejoice! We know you love to eat. Now, you can relish in a lot more with less: with buffet deals starting at just $22.50++ per pax, you’d be hard-pressed to say no to these irresistible buffet spreads. How awesome would it be to enjoy a 1-for-1 Grand Copthorne Laksa from Food Capital or a Slipper Lobster & Ridged Gourd Curry from the kitchen table? You already know the answer.

Foodie Pass

What’s a real foodie without your very own Foodie Pass? Sink your teeth into special promotions from Jerry’s BBQ & Grill with their 1-for-1 Pasta & Tex Mex and Baby Back Ribs (Half Slab). If that’s not tempting enough for you, we still have bucketloads in store: score complimentary deals on Chicken Up‘s scrumptious Spicy Fried Chicken, Cali‘s Norwegian Salmon, and REDPAN‘s Truffle Duck Confit Taco! Sounds good? Mix and match these deals to create your foodie passes and get them at the following prices:

3 deals for $15
5 deals for $20
10 deals for $30

So what are you waiting for? With so much to save, make the most of these 5 days at The Foodie Paradise Sale! For more information, click here. T&Cs apply.

Tags Buffet, Cafe, Coffee, Seafood, Shop

Destination Others Singapore

Fresh Eats: Spying on Chope’s September Picks

Post author By Cheryl Koo
Post date September 8, 2017
No Comments on Fresh Eats: Spying on Chope’s September Picks

How was your August? Probably busy. Busy shopping that is! With GSS coming together with National Day, many of us were definitely hoping to catch some last-last-minute discounts. Now that our recyclable bags are full (#savetheearth), we’ve tracked down some bars and cafes to kick back and chill!

Propeller

Want to feel on top of the world? Re-energize yourself with a gorgeous evening view of Keppel Harbour and Sentosa. Propeller is the first rooftop bar at Harbourfront, and specialises in concocting creative cocktails. It’s tough to pick a favourite from their selection of delicious tipples, but if we had to choose, The Propeller Bay – a delicious mix of vodka, orange juice, raspberry syrup, and thyme – would be it. The homemade lime espuma topping can be torched for extra zest and is the perfect touch to propel our spirits to greater heights.

Of course, great drinks must be paired with great tapas! The bar offers a mighty combination of modern inventions, like the incredibly indulgent Pan-seared Scallops with Citrus Fennel Salad or the Seared Beef Cubes with Truffle Mayonnaise. Of course, that’s not all: if you’re lucky, you can watch the Sentosa Boardwalk fireworks from Propeller’s plush sofas. (Pro tip: it’s at 8pm.)

Find it at 50 Telok Blangah Road, Rooftop, Bay Hotel Singapore, Singapore 098828
Book a table at Propeller and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

Upeh Cafe

If you’re craving authentic Malay food, look no further! Upeh Cafe aims to bring traditional Malay cuisine to the world through heritage recipes prepared with innovative techniques. Stroll down to Outram to dine at this cozy café and go for their signature Nasi Lemak Rainforest, complete with different types of spicy sambal sauces that will make you sweat your heart out. Dig into one of their fragrant coconut-based curries and pair it up with a refreshing glass of Lemongrass Juice.

What’s a full meal without desserts? Sink your teeth into the sweet and sticky Pulut Durian, featuring pandan-flavoured glutinous rice slathered with creamy durian paste, finished with a dollop of whipped cream, caramel drizzle, and almond bits for an extra crunch.

Find it at 67 Kampong Bahru Road, Singapore 169317
Book a table at Upeh Cafe and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

Credit: Chef Wan’s Kitchen Facebook

Chef Wan’s Kitchen

Chef Wan is back with yet another restaurant, and this time with the self-evident name of Chef Wan’s Kitchen. He’s making his comeback with a new mix of Moroccan, Javanese, Peranakan and Spanish recipes passed down from his grandmother to mother to auntie! (Don’t we all wish that our family had heirloom recipe books too?!) With dishes like Lawar Salad, Lontong, and Lemak Noodles, we’re head over heels for the lineup of heritage eats on the menu! The restaurant is currently pending its Halal certification, post-MUIS audit, so all Muslim friends are welcome too!

Find it at 8 Raffles Avenue, #02-14 Esplanade Mall, Singapore 039802
Click here for more info on Chef Wan’s Kitchen.

Credits: Photos from Love in the Pot Facebook

Love in the Pot 美颜锅

Are you a lover of hot pot? Visit this new addition to the hot pot scene, Love in the Pot 美颜锅! Open until 1:00AM, this place is a good spot for a warm and relaxed supper with friends. Try out their nutrient soup broths, in particular their specialty Collagen Soup broth. If you can’t decide, you can just order all four types in a partitioned pot for the best of all the flavours they have to offer! Don’t miss out on their handmade prawn balls and beef “ice-kacang” either – you’ll see what we mean!

Find it at 18 Lorong Mambong, Holland Village, Singapore 277678
Click here for more info on Love in the Pot美颜锅.

Photo from EagleWings Loft website

EagleWings Loft

Need a spot that has everything you need to satisfy your hunger pangs/cravings? EagleWings Loft has just about any kind of cuisine you could ask for. From Asian to Western, the awe-inspiring list of dishes will stop you in your tracks! The restaurant is affiliated with the EagleWings Yacht Charter that provides its own dining experience for events, which is why they are not new to the food scene at all. In fact, their gorgeous desserts are a delight to both our eyes and taste buds!

Find it at 6A Shenton Way #01-01, Singapore 068815
Click here for more info on EagleWings Loft.

Credits: Photos from The Autobus Facebook

The Autobus

Everyone agrees that this bicycle-themed café deserves praise for its relaxing ambience and hip decorations. Providing healthy rice bowls through a DIY menu that you can choose from (Carbs, Proteins, sides & dressing), this café was conceived by a bike enthusiast and his athlete wife to encourage female athletes! (and healthy eating) They’ve recently added Nitro Cold Brews to the drinks bar, so be sure to stop by to enjoy a refreshing respite from the heat!

Find it at 6A Shenton Way, #01-01 Downtown Gallery, Singapore 068815
Click here for more info on The Autobus.

Tags Bars, Cafe, Cocktails, Coffee, Dessert, Drinks, Fresh Eats, Fresh Eats: Singapore, Good View, Healthy, New Restaurants, Newly-opened

Destination Others Singapore

Fresh Eats: 9 New Restaurants To Check Out This August

Post author By Averlynn Lim
Post date August 4, 2017
No Comments on Fresh Eats: 9 New Restaurants To Check Out This August

It’s August, and we’re welcoming a brand new month with 9 new restaurants, hot off the press! From heritage cuisine reflecting Singapore’s multicultural heritage to bespoke cocktails infused with Asian herbs and spices, this month’s gonna be an egg-citing one!

COMO Cuisine

Part of the complex under Singapore luxury hotel group COMO Dempsey, COMO Cuisine is a new restaurant concept presenting signature cuisines from COMO Hotels and Resorts properties around the world. Boasting a clean, elegant, and relaxed ambience, the space is designed by world-renowned architect and designer, Paola Navone, and reflects the essence of COMO Cuisine’s offerings.

Here, you’ll get exposed to a myriad of contemporary flavours. The restaurant’s menu brings a light touch to the big flavours of the region, reflecting Singapore’s heritage as a culinary melting pot. Generous in flavour and quality, the refined and modern fare amalgamates ingredients and techniques from different regions to produce something new and unexpected.

After a hearty meal at COMO Cuisine, head over to the other stores located in the same compound – indulge in retail therapy at world-renowned retail concept store Dover Street Market or down some after meal tipples at The Dempsey Cookhouse & Bar, opened by acclaimed Michelin chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten.

Find it at Block 18A Dempsey Road, Singapore 249677

Provisions

Also located in the hip and trendy Dempsey enclave is Provisions, a 1,600 sq ft space serving up comfort food on skewers, claypot rice, and bespoke Asian-inspired cocktails. Set in an industrial-chic space with high metal chairs, wooden fixtures, and low-hanging warm fluorescent bulbs, the ambience here will remind you of the charms of yesteryear.

Provisions is an ideal dining destination for groups as communal dining is encouraged here; it was his love for bonding with family and friends over food that sparked Singaporean Chef/ Owner Justin Foo to open this place.

While they serve humble, local dishes, the chefs at Provisions are certainly not taking their craft lightly. A great amount of emphasis is placed on the origins and quality of the ingredients, with a majority hailing from the Southeast Asian region. Menu highlights include the Seafood Rice and a decadent Oyster & Uni Rice, which brings to the table two of the most amazing and rich flavours of the sea. Finally, finish your meal with tipples from their well-tended cocktail bar; the inventive cocktails are tailored to your tastes and preferences, and infuse a blend of Asian herbs and spices.

Find it at 7 Dempsey Road, Singapore 249671

Nouri

Former Executive Chef of Michelin-starred restaurant Bacchanalia Ivan Brehm is creating waves in the dining scene yet again with the opening of Nouri, a restaurant serving up ‘crossroads cooking’. Inspired by the shared common traits of different cultures across the world, the fare here aims to build community through a shared experience – dining communally and connecting with the chef and other diners.

Nouri will be open for both lunch and dinner, offering a Teishoku-style a la carte menu and a quick service 5-course tasting menu ideal for work lunches. For dinner, there are two tasting menus, priced at S$140 for 5 courses, and S$170 for 7 courses.

If you’re looking to up your knowledge about booze, then the restaurant’s adjacent bar’s beverage programme will stand you in good stead. A certified sake sommelier and a trained bartender, Matthew will be conducting programmes which will expose enthusiasts to an extensive sake list and Asian-inspired cocktails, created to reflect the unique heritage of our region.

Find it at 72 Amoy Street, Singapore 0698891
Book a table at Nouri and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Panko

With an ambience that’s casual yet energetic and chic, Panko, Haji Lane’s new kid on the block, is Singapore’s first Japanese Kushikatsu Restaurant and Bar. Kushikatsu, also known as Kushiage, is an entire cuisine of deep-fried skewered meat and vegetables. There’s a stunning simplicity in meat, seafood, and vegetables skewered onto bamboo sticks, coated in a special egg batter, dipped in fine panko bread crumbs, and fried to a beautiful golden brown. Mmmmm.

Not only can you find a wide range of Kushikatsu here, Panko also offers diners an extensive Japanese menu to complement your skewers – sushi, sashimi, donburi, noodles, and more. Prices start from S$2 per skewer, and they also have lunch sets starting from S$17 including soup, pickles, and dessert.

Find it at 33 Arab Street, Singapore 199732
Book a table at Panko and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Blue Lotus Chinese Grill House

If you’re looking for an interactive and immersive dining experience that has both Western and Chinese influences, then Blue Lotus Chinese Grill House is your best bet.

Part of Blue Lotus Concepts International that launched the award-winning flagship Blue Lotus Chinese Eating House in 2013, this Grill House is a high-energy dining establishment which doles out dynamic, avant-garde Chinese cuisine marrying traditional Chinese flavours and essences with Western culinary techniques. Here, you’ll find remixed presentations of classic comfort foods such as a Chicken Rice Paella, Pomelo Chilli Crab La Mian, and a Hot Stone Truffle Pork Lard Rice, all cooked sans added MSG.

As for the space, this sprawling 2,133 square-feet establishment has an open kitchen, and a signature 6-seater chef’s table to play host to regular happenings such as a “Chef for a Day” experience. Patrons will get to work with the Grill House team on a theme dinner in which the organizer plays host and cooks up three dishes with the help of the full kitchen, as does the restaurant’s team for a full table of friends.

Find it at 5 Wallich Street, #01-13, Tanjong Pagar Centre, Singapore 078883
Book a table at Blue Lotus Chinese Grill House and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Amò

Gather your friends and head to Amò – short for “amore”, a colloquial term of endearment used in Italy – for some antipasti, big plates, and hearty pizzas. Opened by established restaurateur-chef Beppe De Vito of the ilLido Group, this smart-casual Italian eatery located along Hong Kong Street also has a relaxed bar with a beverage list boasting an all-Italian selection of wines, beers, and spirit-forward cocktails.

The menu here features a feast of reimagined Italian classics inspired by seasonality, tradition, and produce. Pasta lovers shouldn’t miss out on their homemade pastas freshly made with eggs and semolina, and crafted with traditional bronze die. If you’re coming with a group, the pizzas here are great for sharing. Choose from classic Neopolitan style pizzas such as the Margherita DOP ($26), to signature pizzas like the Bone Marrow, Wild Garlic Pesto and Anchovy Salsa Verde ($29) and Stracciatella, Prosciutto, Rucola and Fig Vincotto ($29).

Find it at 33 Hongkong Street, Singapore 059672
Book a table at Amò and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

CHIKIN Bar

Translated to “chicken” in colloquial Japanese, CHIKIN is an Asian restaurant-bar specializing in Szechuan Yakitori and Cocktail Infusions. As its name suggests, the menu offers grilled skewers from different parts of the chicken (priced from S$3 to S$4.50 nett per stick) – thigh, skin, liver, heart, gizzard, cartilage, and more, marinated with a punchy Szechuan Peppercorn sauce. Additionally, they also have grilled beef, pork, foie gras, and vegetables, along with a variety of Izakaya style dishes to complete your dining experience.

CHIKIN spans over 3 floors of a conservation shophouse, with a long bar and open kitchen on the ground floor, group seating on the second floor, and private room on the third for hosting small gatherings. They offer a comprehensive range of tipples – cocktails, beer, sake, wine, and more. For the bolder ones, give “CHIKIN’s Challenge” a shot; it’s a Szechuan Bloody Mary with 5 levels of spiciness. Go big or go home, as they say!

Find it at 6 Bukit Pasoh Road Singapore 089820
Book a table at CHIKIN and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Folklore

Dining at Folklore will be a blast to the past. Dishing up nostalgic flavours, Folklore aims to tell stories of Singapore’s heritage through food. The chefs at Folklore take pride in their craft; each dish is meticulously prepared, whether it’s mortar and pestle or just elegant knifework, everything that leaves the kitchen shows the love and attention.

The cuisine at Folklore reflects Singapore’s multi-ethnic culture and heritage, where dishes like a Sambal Buah Keluak Fried Rice, Babi Assam, Garang Assam, and Sweet Potato Leaves with Prawns line the menu. As for desserts, indulge in old-school sweet treats such as Kueh Kosui, Sago Gula Melaka, Pulot Hitam with Dried Longan, and more.

Find it at 700 Beach Road, Level 2, Destination Singapore Beach Road, Singapore 199598
Book a table at Folklore and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Gaig

Located on Stanley Street between Telok Ayer Street and Cecil Street, Gaig, opened by award-winning chef Carles Gaig serves up classic Catalan fare. Washed in white, the restaurant boasts a contemporary, calm ambience that’s great for a casual meal.

Lining the menu are Spanish classics such as an assortment of Bites, Tapas, Paellas, to Fish and Meat-based dishes such as Pig Trotter Catalan style with Turnips. As for desserts, diners with a sweet tooth can sup on an Orange Ice-cream Souffle while cheese connoisseurs can sample a variety of cheeses from their Cheese Platter.

Those working around the area can kick back and enjoy their Set Lunches available from 12pm – 2pm everyday. Two set meals are available – your choice of 3 tapas dishes + 1 main priced at $38, or top up $7 for an additional dessert of your choice.

Find it at 16 Stanley Street, Singapore 068735
Book a table at Gaig and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Tags Chinese, Cocktails, Dessert, Dinner, Drinks, Fresh Eats, Fresh Eats: Singapore, Guides, High Tea, Japanese, Lunch, Michelin, New Restaurants, Newly-opened

Destination Others Singapore

Fresh Eats: 7 Restaurants You Shouldn’t Miss in July!

Post author By Rebekah Lee
Post date July 7, 2017
No Comments on Fresh Eats: 7 Restaurants You Shouldn’t Miss in July!

Ready for a brand new month of fresh eats? We know we are, so let’s just dive right in!

Thyme @Rochester

This beautifully furnished garden-themed outdoors cafe is a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of Singapore’s busy city life, and the perfect place for laid-back get-togethers with the people you love – made even better with generous portions of delicious food and various gluten free and vegetarian options, so there’s something for everyone!
Dishes we love: Traditional Cream of Mushroom with Truffle Oil, Quatro Formaggi, Boeuf a la Bourguignon

Find it at 44 Rochester Park, Singapore (139248)
Book a table at Thyme @Rochester and earn 2X-Chope Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Five Marbles Craft Beer Restaurant

Here’s the recipe for a perfect night out: great ambience, delicious food, and a glass of ice cold beer – and lucky for you, Five Marbles Craft Beer Restaurant has got you covered on all fronts! There are 12 amazing craft beers on tap for you to try out at amazingly affordable prices, and a mouth-watering selection of dishes and bar bites to complement your drink of choice.
Dishes we love: Beer Braised Pork Belly Linguine, Youngsters Double Chocolate Stout, Gosnells Citrus Sea Mead, Beer Fat Grilled Marbles

Find it at 9 Bras Basah Rd, Singapore 189559
Click here for more info on Five Marbles Craft Beer Restaurant

Craft Feeds

Calling all beer lovers: you’re in for a real treat, for there’s one more boozy option for you this month! Craft Feeds has fifteen varieties of draught and bottled beers lined up for your drinking pleasure, along with cocktails, a couple of wine options, and sharing plates; so invite a couple of friends along and make this a group affair!
Dishes we love: Pork Cheeks with Marmite Butter, Parsnip, Charred Baby Corn and Mustard Mayo, Flame-seared Salmon, Lost Coast Indica IPA

Find it at 13 Duxton Hill Singapore 089597 Duxton Hill, Singapore 089597
Click here for more info on Craft Feeds

Jiakpalang Eating House Jiakpalang Eating House mushroom

Jiakpalang Eating House

Singapore’s hawker scene is well-known worldwide for a reason – our local food is simply too good to pass up! This restaurant capitalises on our love for local cuisine with Singaporean zi-char, but with a modern twist. Pay them a visit to experience the novelty of it all, and return for great comfort food at affordable prices.
Dishes we love: Signature Sesame Soy Chicken Rice, 24 Hour Wagyu Beef Brisket Bowl

Find it at 456 Alexandra Road, #01-04/ 06 Fragrance Empire Building, Singapore 119962
Book a table at Jiakpalang Eating House and earn 2X-Chope Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Venue by Chef Sebastian

Chef Sebastian Ng of the popular former Ember Restaurant is back at it again, but this time with casual, contemporary European cuisine! It’s casual, unpretentious and right in the heart of central Singapore, so you have every reason to visit!
Dishes we love: Chilean Seabass with Mushroom & Bacon Ragout and Truffle Yuzu Butter, Grilled Octopus with Burnt Butter, Capers and Bean Puree

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

Harāru Izakaya

This Izakaya (casual Japanese gastropub) isn’t much of an Izakaya at all, as it’s one of the few that doesn’t serve alcohol simply because it’s Muslim-owned and halal certified – great news for our Muslim readers and for those of us trying to cut back on our alcohol intake! That shouldn’t be your only reason for visiting though – they also serve up delish finger food, a plethora of indulgent grilled items, and all sorts of Japanese delights that are bound to satisfy all your cravings!
Dishes we love: Gyu Nitsuke, Surume Ika, Matcha Soy Tea

Find it at 16 Bussorah Street, Singapore 199437
Click here for more info on Harāru Izakaya

Pura Brasa

Pura Brasa is a gastronomic grill restaurant that hails from the land of great tapas, seafood, and all things bright and beautiful (Spain, if it wasn’t obvious enough); so look no further if you’re a fan of delicious, high quality meats prepared by a top-of-the-line JOSPER Charcoal Oven, sangrias, and tapas – Pura Brasa is definitely the place to be!
Dishes we love: Grilled Gilthead, Mussels, Grilled Lamb Chops

Find it at 5 Wallich Street #01-16, Tanjong Pagar Centre, 078883
Click here for more info on Pura Brasa

Tags Cafe, Cocktails, Coffee, Drinks, Fresh Eats, Fresh Eats: Singapore, Guides, High Tea, Japanese, New Restaurants, Newly-opened, Seafood

Highlander @ Clarke Quay

Octapas Spanish Tapas Bar