Category: Lifestyle

[Egg Hunt Hint!] Must-try Cocktails at 12 of Asia’s 50 Best Bars of 2018

Post author By Chope
Post date May 7, 2018
No Comments on [Egg Hunt Hint!] Must-try Cocktails at 12 of Asia’s 50 Best Bars of 2018

The winners of Asia’s 50 Best Bars have just been announced last Thursday, and Singapore’s nabbed 12 out of the 50 spots from the list. Want to know how to order like a pro at these top drinking spots? Read on!

Asia’s #1: Manhattan, Singapore

It comes as no surprise that this lush establishment has kept its top spot as Asia’s best for the second year running. Reminiscent of a grand hotel bar, it’s easy to see how people are immediately enamoured by Manhattan’s old New York glamour and sophistication. But of course, what won the hearts of many is their phenomenal creations, meticulously crafted from the world’s first in-hotel rickhouse and the bar’s mindblowing treasure trove of house-made ingredients.

While the name of the place is a dead giveaway for the signature cocktail that reigns supreme, we find ourselves smitten by the classic Negroni and whisky-based Mad Dog.

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

Asia’s #4: ATLAS

Cr: ATLAS

Atlas is probably one of the most gorgeous bars you’ll ever visit in Singapore, aptly located at the Gotham-esque Parkview Square. Decorated with ornate, neo-gothic interiors, vast lounge sofas, and a massive glass tower holding one of the largest collection of gin in Singapore, you won’t want to leave this space once you’ve set foot in it.

A visit to this speakeasy-inspired bar is a must and when you do, have yourself the signature Atlas Martini with orange bitters and Champagne vinegar. If you’re feeling a little fancy, try the Cecil Beaton, a herbaceous little gem comprising of rare Australian spiced dry gin, hibiscus water, Earl Grey tea and milk.

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

Asia’s #7: Tippling Club

Great drinks are made even better with amazing food, and Tippling Club does this to a tee. The edgy restaurant and bar in Tanjong Pagar exudes elegance and flair that extends from its interiors down to its creations. As a cult favourite among epicureans, the bar is also known for its innovative and ‘out-of-the-box’ take on gastronomy.

In the bar’s latest endeavour to create ‘the world’s first edible menu’, diners get to experience specially scented gummy bears that represent 12 avant-garde cocktails that come with intriguing names like Baby, Happiness, and Lust. If that doesn’t pique your interests, we don’t know what will!

Find it at 38 Tanjong Pagar Rd, Singapore 088461
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Asia’s #8: Native Cocktail Bar

Cr: CityNomads.com

“Open your eyes, beauty and inspiration are all around us. This is where we’re from, this is where we are. We don’t have to travel far. NATIVE is our home.”

With an introduction like that, how can one not sit up and take notice? Drawing inspiration from its surroundings, Native uses locally and regionally foraged ingredients in its cocktails which inevitably helps them stand out from the slew of bars that ride on the American speakeasy bandwagon.

Some of the more exotic ingredients you’ll find on the menu include jasmine blossom, turmeric leaves, tapioca, soursop, and – get ready for this one – weaver ants (you read that right). If you’re popping by to give their creations a try, we’d recommend the Ceylon Arrak that’s derived from coconut flower sap aged in Sri Lankan wood. If you’re feeling antsy to try something unique, leave your fears at the door and order Antz, a Thai rum-based drink that’s topped with ants on a frozen basil leaf.

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

Asia’s #12: 28 HongKong Street

Cr: StraitsTimes.com

Those well-versed in the cocktail scene in Singapore wouldn’t need an introduction to this local speakeasy; 28 HongKong Street has long been a landmark destination for locals and visitors alike for its chill vibes and outstanding cocktails. While this establishment keeps everything on the down low – from the lack of online presence to its discreet entrance – many have gone through the trouble of hunting it down for a taste of what the team behind 28 has to offer – and boy, are you in for a ride.

One of the popular drinks here is the 6 Foot 7 Foot, a whirlwind of a drink filled with rum, cognac, rye, and absinthe with torched bananas. Prefer to keep it simple? You can’t go wrong with an Old Fashioned or Zaya Rum.

Find it at 28 Hongkong Street, Singapore 059667
Click here for more information

Asia’s #19: Operation Dagger

Cr: The Vanderlust

Joining the ranks of “prominent” hidden bars in Singapore comes Operation Dagger, a secretly successful drinkery that oozes minimalistic chic with its striking interior of raw concrete and rugged furniture, complete with bottles upon bottles of alcohol that line its shelves. Forget about the theatrics here – owner and head mixologist Luke Whearty helms the bar, whipping up some of the most innovative cocktails from house-made meads and house-infused spirits.

A creation that you must not miss include the Cabbage, a drink comprising of sous vide natural wine from fermented red cabbage with apple and rose. Better yet, go ‘omakase’ and try a flight of cocktails chosen especially for you by the bartender!

Find it at 7 Ann Siang Hill, #B1-01, Singapore 069791
Click here for more information

Asia’s #22: Gibson

Much like its namesake, Gibson is just the type of place for non-conformists and those who aren’t afraid to venture into flavours of the unknown. The bar is also located in an old Singaporean shophouse, which adds to the charm of the place that most diners find themselves inevitably drawn to.

Besides the usual classics such as Old Fashioned and Whiskey Sour, we urge you to take a walk on the bold side and try more enticing concoctions such as the charcoal-based Sling it Back with jasmine-infused vodka, or even the famous Gibson which they’ve tweaked with a dash of sake vermouth and pickled ginger.

Find it at 18/20 Bukit Pasoh Road, Singapore 089832
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Asia’s #23: Employees Only Singapore

Since its addition to the local drinking scene in June 2016, Employees Only’s American appeal quickly won the hearts of many, earning its stripes as one of the most coveted names in the cocktail community. Visiting this speakeasy is similar to its New York counterpart: find the neon pink sign that flashes ‘psychic’, go beyond the fortune-teller’s lair, and enter a world of flavourful possibilities.

Complementing the mouth-watering array of light bites and hearty eats are the stellar tipples that guests come back for. Churning out classic cocktails and new signatures made from a hefty selection of boutique spirits, house-made syrups, tinctures, and other goodies, the drinks here are one of a kind. You’d want to try the EO Gimlet, where Perry’s Tot Navy Strength Gin is shaken with Employees Only Lime Cordial and served over ice. Simple, yet oh-so-satisfying.

Find it at 112 Amoy Street, Singapore 069932
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Asia’s #32: D.Bespoke

Cr: D.Bespoke

As their name suggests, ‘bespoke’ is the name of the game at this Ginza-style bar, and owner Daiki Kanetaka sees this through. From the interior space to its cocktails, everything here is carefully and meticulously crafted to ensure an experience that’s tailored to everyone and anyone that comes through D.Bespoke’s doors.

The bar houses an excellent selection of sherries, vintage rums, Armagnacs, and Calvados, so you know that you’re getting the real deal. Whether you prefer to stick to the conventional (and there’s nothing wrong with that) or if you’d like to leave it in the hands of those Kanetaka-san’s trusty team of bartenders, we guarantee you won’t be disappointed.

Find it at 2 Bukit Pasoh Road, 089816 Singapore
Click here for more information.

Asia’s #33: Nutmeg & Clove

Everything from its location in Ann Siang Hill to the drinks inspired by William Farquhar’s drawings of Singapore’s natural history exudes heritage at Nutmeg & Clove. Sip on exciting and innovative cocktails made with fresh local ingredients while taking in the luxe, old-world Chinese interior.

Classic cocktails become refreshingly familiar, infused with local flavours so that there’s a bit of Singapore in every drink. The menu has a cocktail for everyone, with drinks like the dark and intense Bayside, made with bay leaf-infused gin and spiced apples, to the sweet Call Me Old Fashion, which is light and coconutty and laced with fragrant pandan sugar.

Find it at 10A Ann Siang Hill, 069878 Singapore
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Asia’s #42: Jigger & Pony

Cr: Jigger & Pony

In this age of fancy, creative inventions jazzing up our drinks, the charming Jigger & Pony pays homage to the old-school simple pleasures of life: classic, timeless drinks that never go out of style. The bar’s jovial atmosphere is great for large parties and practically guarantees you’ll have a good time, so gather ’round the sleek bar and watch the bartender dole out your cocktails with 20th-century style and finesse.

You’ll only find vintage cocktails here, but the staff execute them to perfection. The Moscow Mule with ginger-infused vodka and ginger ale is a heartwarming and comforting favourite, while the Ramos Gin Fizz is a fragrant New Orleans treat that’s been widely loved since the 1880s.

Find it at 101 Amoy Street, 069921 Singapore
Click here for more information

Asia’s #50: The Other Room

Think big wooden barrels are only for wines? Think again! The Other Room is a spectacular hidden gem tucked away in the Marriott Hotel, and a leading bar in the use of cask-aged spirits. With more than 150 spirits aged in various wooden casks, each drink has layers and layers of flavours to create a truly unique experience. Have them on their own in a tasting flight, or try them in a carefully-crafted cocktail like the Old Fashioned Way, which featured sherry cask-finished rum.

The drinks are served with impeccable style as well, arriving in front of you in beautiful cups and decorations that are nothing short of works of art, all while you’re seated comfortably in the classy gold and black-themed interior.

Find it at 320 Orchard Road, Singapore Marriott Tang Plaza Hotel, Singapore 238865
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

It’s the final week to score your promo codes with our Egg Hunt! Whip out your updated Chope app and try your luck by digging through our Most Instagrammable Guide. Plus, we’re going big this week with one giant golden egg worth 600 Chope-Dollars for the first 50 diners who manage to find and apply their promo codes. Good luck!

Tags Asia's Best Bars 2018, Bars, Bespoke, Cocktails, Must-try, Singapore, Speakeasy

Lifestyle Singapore Singapore

10 Elegant Restaurants with Business Lunch Sets Under $50

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

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

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

ATLAS

Cr: robbreport.com.sg

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

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

The Black Swan

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

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

Fat Cow

Cr: rockabitebaby.com

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

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

The Halia at Singapore Botanic Gardens

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

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

Manhattan

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

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

Venue by Sebastian

Cr: lifestyleasia.com

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

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

The White Rabbit

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

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

Wild Rocket

Cr: cntraveler.com

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

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

Xin Divine

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

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

Zafferano

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

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

Tags Bars, Budget, Business Lunch, Classy, Sophisticated

Lifestyle Others Singapore Singapore

Plan Your Dream Holiday and We’ll Tell You What Food You Are!

Post author By Chope
Post date April 24, 2018
No Comments on Plan Your Dream Holiday and We’ll Tell You What Food You Are!

Like all imaginative foodies, we firmly believe that we all have a dish that matches our personality, that embodies most (if not all) of our qualities in a single delicious bite. There is one problem, though. There are so many weird and wonderful foods in the world, so how are we supposed to know what our spirit dish is? No need to worry, Chope is here with a personality quiz to help you find your culinary soul mate. You’ll even get to plan an amazing trip!

If you’d like to get a bite of your spirit dish, then visit these restaurants and get 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

Borscht: Shashlik Restaurant
Spanakopita: Blu Kouzina
Tortilla Espanola: Don Quijote
Tagine: Qasr Grille & Mezze Bar
Tacos al Pastor: Senor Taco

Do you agree with your result? Tell us in the comments section below! Let us know if you’d like to see other dishes featured as well.

Tags Exotic Food, Personality Quiz, Travel

Lifestyle Singapore Singapore

Restaurants in Singapore that Go Green!

Post author By Chope
Post date April 20, 2018
1 Comment on Restaurants in Singapore that Go Green!

Earth Day’s just two days away! In commemoration, we’ve collated a list of restaurants in Singapore that go green so you can dine with an ease of mind. If you’re curious about sustainable food, check out this post where you can find delectable and flavourful dishes made with sustainable ingredients!

The Lokal

One visit to The LoKal at Neil Road surprised us – but in a positive way. Apart from providing us with comfort food like the Grilled Mortadella Ciabatta and Crabmeat Pasta, we had our iced drinks served without plastic straws! The staff explained that they were trying to rid of plastic straws, a topic that made headlines in Singapore just last month.

So if you’re looking for a cosy space that offers mouthwatering grub with an environmentally-friendly stance, don’t hesitate to pay them a visit!

Find it at 50 Telok Blangah Road, Bay Hotel Singapore, Singapore 098828.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

Carousel

A widely-popular buffet spot and named Best Halal Spot in Chope’s Diner’s Choice Award in 2016 and 2017, Carousel at Royal Plaza on Scotts is famed for its extensive buffet spread ranging from seafood to Asian favourites, and even a massive dessert selection.

What’s even more noteworthy, though, is that they’re recently rolled out an initiative by recycling daily food wastage and converting them into liquid fertiliser. Now that’s impressive.

Find it at 50 Telok Blangah Road, Bay Hotel Singapore, Singapore 098828.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

Open Farm Community

Serving up innovative dishes, this innovative restaurant at Dempsey is not just about sustainable dining. With a vision to “strengthen our understanding and respect for food and its origins,” they encourage growing food at spaces like rooftops and sidewalks, in the interim creating a sense of community.

Don’t just settle for their delectable nosh, though. Partake in some of the activities that they regularly organise, which include farming events and recreational activities.

Find it at 50 Telok Blangah Road, Bay Hotel Singapore, Singapore 098828.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

HRVST

Cr: Kilter Avenue

As part of Kilter Avenue which also comprises of a bar and a gym, this three-in-one space at Shenton Way is one to look out for. Advocating for a healthy lifestyle outside the confines of an office’s four-walls, they’re on a mission to “promote food for the gut, drinks from the heart, and movement that changes the mind”.

To do that, they’ve established their own sustainable garden, and even encourages people to go vegan three times a week to help combat animal abuse, world hunger, energy consumption, and even water wastage. The Chefs themselves are even vegan, and have both worked at restaurants like Tippling Club, Esquina, and Cheek by Jowl!

Fitness, mouthwatering food, and helping the environment at the same time? Sign us up!

Find it at 6A Shenton Way, OUE Downtown Gallery, #05-01, 068815.

Mahota Commune

Cr: Mahota Commune

Seeking to blur the lines and bring man and nature closer together, Mahota Commune is a sleek all-in-one restaurant, cafe, and grocery store. By decorating with plants and utilising eco materials, it seeks to “show how our food and consumption choices affect the world we live in.”

Their menu, which includes dishes like the Crab Meat Pumpkin Capellini and Garlic Duck Leg Confit, are even annotated by whether they are Vegetarian, Dairy Free, Gluten Free, Egg Free, Sugar-Free, or Nut Free!

Find it at 809 French Road, Level 3, Kitchener Complex, 200809

Tags Go Green, Singapore, Sustainability, Sustainable Dining

Lifestyle Singapore Singapore

How to Order Kopi Like a Pro

Post author By Chope
Post date April 18, 2018
1 Comment on How to Order Kopi Like a Pro

Understanding coffee shop lingo is no easy feat, especially with the barrage of terms available to customize your cup of joe. In this article, we break down the common kopitiam lingo for you so that the next time you’re at a coffee shop, you can order like a true blue Singaporean!

TYPES OF COFFEE
Kopi O	‘Kopi’ means ‘coffee’, and ‘O’ translates to no milk. Therefore, Kopi O is black coffee served with sugar.
Kopi C	Coffee made with evaporated milk and sugar.
Kopi	Coffee made with condensed milk.

OTHER TERMS
Kosong	No sugar
Siew Dai	Less sugar/sweet
Gah Dai	More sugar/sweet
Peng	Iced. You can add this suffix to any of the terms above to get your beverage with ice/cold. For example, a black coffee without sugar and with ice will be Kopi O Kosong Peng.
Pua Sio	Literally translates to 半烧 (half warm). Some of the hot water is replaced with room temperature water to give you a lukewarm beverage that’s ideal for drinking.
Gao	Thick coffee. The coffee they serve at coffee shops is usually diluted with some hot water before serving. To get a stronger dose of coffee with less water, order it gao.
Po	Thin coffee. If you want to hold on the caffeine, order it po, where more water is added to dilute the coffee.
Di Lo	Extra Thick coffee. This gets you coffee poured straight from the metal kettle, without any dilution.
Sua	Get a double order of the same beverage.
Dabao / Bao	Get your beverage as a takeaway.

Prefer tea? Replace ‘Kopi’ with ‘Teh’. Mix and match the above terms to customize your coffee/tea! Some examples:

1. Kopi C Gao Siew Dai = Strong/Thick Coffee + Evaporated Milk + Less sugar
2. Teh O Kosong Peng = Tea + No milk + No Sugar + Ice
3. Kopi Po Gah Dai = Thin Coffee + Extra Condensed Milk
4. Teh Peng Dabao = Tea + Condensed Milk + Ice + Takeaway
5. Teh C Siew Dai Pua Sio Dabao = Tea + Carnation Milk + Less Sugar + Lukewarm + Takeaway

Milo Dinosaur
Cr: TimeOut

OTHER COMMON BEVERAGES
Milo / Tak Kiu	A powdered chocolate malt beverage made with condensed milk and water. Tak Kiu is Hokkien for “kicking a ball”, and this describes the packaging of a Milo tin.
Milo Kosong	Hot milo without milk and sugar.
Milo Dinosaur	Iced milo with an additional scoop of milo powder on the top.
Teh / Kopi Tarik	Tea/Coffee with condensed milk, pulled back and forth to create a frothy top. This process helps to perfectly incorporate the milk into the tea/coffee, giving the drink a better flavour. It also helps to cool the beverage down to an optimal drinking temperature.
Teh Halia	Tea with condensed milk and ginger. The added ginger gives the tea a tinge of spiciness.
Yuan Yang	Kopi + Teh. A harmony of coffee and tea to give you the best of both worlds.
Kopi/Teh Cino	Milk with a layer of tea or coffee on top. Kopi/Teh is made the normal way and layered on top of hot milk to give you an extra milky beverage.
Diao He	Chinese tea. The term literally translates to ‘fishing’, similar to how one dips a tea bag into hot water to make tea.
Michael Jackson	Freshly brewed soya bean milk with grass jelly.

Now that you’ve gotten a crash course on coffee shop lingo, you are all set to conquer the kopitiams of Singapore with your new-found knowledge. Sharing is caring; don’t forget to share this guide with your friends, and bookmark this page for future reference!

Where should I get my ‘kopi‘ fix?

Prive ACM is a classy joint that looks just like your run-of-the-mill coffee shop (albeit a very well-kept one), but you won’t see any kopitiam uncles here! Chill on the banks of the Singapore River and sip your favourite coffee while chowing down on comforting local and western meals.

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

Peranakan delights aren’t the only thing you’ll find at the National Kitchen by Violet Oon. After all, a restaurant dedicated to Singapore’s cuisine wouldn’t be complete without our favourite coffee shop drinks. Celebrate Singapore’s culture with the unique flavours of Peranakan and Eurasian cuisine, all with a cup of kopi.

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

Pssst… if you’re still craving for more caffeine, then you have to check out our Ultimate Coffee Guide where we dish out some of the best cafes in Singapore with absolutely delicious grub and thirst quenchers.

Tags Coffee, Kopi, Kopitiam, Lingo, Singapore

Lifestyle Singapore Singapore

Clean, Green, and Irresistible: Sustainable Restaurants for the Ethical Diner

Post author By Chope
Post date April 17, 2018
No Comments on Clean, Green, and Irresistible: Sustainable Restaurants for the Ethical Diner

As we become more aware of the ethical issues surrounding unsustainable food sources, even the simple joy of eating becomes fraught with worry. Thankfully, it’s not just diners that want to save the Earth – restaurants do, too!

Ease your conscience and feast in peace at these restaurants using sustainable foods and local produce that’s farm-fresh, delicious, and eco-friendly.

Rumah Rasa

Indonesian food has always been a favourite among Singaporeans. Filled with fragrant herbs, piquant spices, rich coconut milk, and decadent gula melaka, it’s an immensely satisfying meal. Rumah Rasa takes all that goodness and brings it a step higher with their focus on sustainable dining and bringing fresh, delicious ingredients to your plate. Many of the herbs and spices used in their homestyle dishes, like kaffir lime, pandan leaves, galangal, and chillies, can be found in their rooftop garden so you can be sure you’re only getting authentic, traditional flavours that all Indonesians know and love.

Find it at 50 Telok Blangah Road, Bay Hotel Singapore, Singapore 098828.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

Open Door Policy

One of the most accommodating restaurants in Singapore, Open Door Policy is dedicated to doing right by both nature and ourselves by serving healthy, dairy and gluten free foods grown in their own urban farms. We know that the words “dairy and gluten free” have probably sent you running, but stop right there! The food at Open Door Policy is lip-smackingly amazing, even without our beloved butter and cream. You’ll be in for a unique dining experience as well, with rows of herbs and veggies lining every vertical surface available in their bistro. With food that’s yummy, healthy, and eco-friendly all at once, there’s no reason for you not to drop by.

Find it at 19 Yong Siak Street, Singapore 169650.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

Open Farm Community

When was the last time you saw your food alive and growing in a garden? Open Farm Community, a restaurant, urban farmland, and horticultural hub rolled into one, reconnects diners with what they eat. Featuring a thriving edible garden outside and an open kitchen inside, you’ll see the journey of vegetables and produce, starting from growing in the soil to being harvested and prepared in the kitchen, and finally served on your plate. Your taste buds will reap the rewards of farm-to-table dining as well. Everything tastes so bright and vibrant that your supermarket groceries will never be the same again!

Find it at 130E Minden Road, Singapore 248819.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

Artichoke

You can’t visit Artichoke without bringing along a hungry pack of friends. This funky restaurant, full of life and joy, serves up staggering artisanal communal plates inspired by Greek, Moroccan, and Turkish cultures. Imagine hearty, family-sized platters of meats, dips, and salads full of Middle Eastern flavours, but with innovative twists to keep things interesting. They’re huge fans of sustainable food sources, changing their menu seasonally to keep up with nature. A third of their ingredients are from local farms, and they’ve got a herb garden out the back as well.

Find it at 161 Middle Road, Singapore 188978.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

Verde Kitchen

The newest eco-friendly kid on the block, Verde Kitchen is dedicated to serving real food full of natural flavours. Almost all of their food is prepared from scratch every day. Their menu also includes gluten-free, dairy-free, vegetarian, and raw food options – suitable for any diet plan. Sustainably-sourced fish, organic free-range chicken, and locally-grown produce fill the plates of bellies of diners, the quality ingredients elevating every dish. Their wholesome take on dining ensures that everything you eat will be good for your body, good for Mother Earth, and most importantly, delightful for your palate.

If you’d like more details about Verde Kitchen, check out this blog post where we tell you all about their amazing food!

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

Afterglow

How do you like your veggies: stir-fried, baked, or raw? Afterglow brings eating and dining back to its roots, with a vegan menu that’s filled mostly with raw foods. Livestock deals the most damage to the environment, so by cutting meat from their menu and preparing plant-based meals that are vibrant and full of flavour, they’re making a huge impact on the environment. The Deconstructed Sushi Bowl is a healthy and wholesome favourite, while Raw Salted Caramel Fudge is rich and decadent despite containing no dairy. It’s surprising how satisfying vegan food can be!

Find it at 24 Keong Saik Road, Singapore 089131.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

Poison Ivy Bistro

Cr: happyhappymaruko.blogspot.sg

It’s not every day we get to see what Singapore was like in its kampong era, so a visit to the farm-to-table Poison Ivy Bistro is nothing less than a nostalgic journey back to simpler times. Seated in a rustic, old-school building nestled in a 10-acre farm, you’ll be served comforting local foods like nasi lemak and laksa. Most of their vegetables are organic and straight from the sprawling farm, while the fish is locally farmed. Even the laksa noodles are handmade by the chef, intensifying the heartwarming home-cooked vibes. Take the chance to stroll through the farm, see hundreds of everyday veggies, and breathe in the refreshing farm air.

Find it at 100 Neo Tiew Rd, Singapore 719026.
Click here for more information on Poison Ivy Bistro.

JAAN

Cr: epicureasia.com

This Michelin-starred restaurant combines sophisticated modern European fare with the charm of classic comfort food, presenting diners with exquisite dishes that are at once hearty, satisfying, and refined. Seasonal menus bring out the best of premium ingredients, creating distinctive flavours and textures that are a delight to eat. Head Chef Kirk Westaway is an avid champion of sustainable dining as well. His kitchen uses sustainable rainbow trout, sea bass and grouper. He also uses organic herbs from the garden shared by Fairmont Singapore and Swissotel The Stamford.

Find it at 2 Stamford Road, Level 70, Equinox Complex, 178882.
Click here for more information of JAAN.

Tags Earth Day, Singapore, Sustainability, Vegan, Vegetarian

Chope Egg Hunt 2018 Lifestyle Singapore Singapore

[Egg Hunt Hint!] 12 Must-Try Restaurants in Vivocity

Post author By Chope
Post date April 16, 2018
4 Comments on [Egg Hunt Hint!] 12 Must-Try Restaurants in Vivocity

As the biggest mall in Singapore, you can be sure that you won’t go hungry after a day’s shopping spree at Vivocity! From the most tantalising Japanese grills to exquisite Chinese creations, check out these 12 restaurants that are at the ready to satisfy your stomachs.

Brotzeit

Stepping into this restaurant is akin to getting a big hug; the warm lighting and cosy ambience draw you in and the next thing you know, you’re settling in and enjoying a good, tall glass of Deutsche bier. And don’t worry if you aren’t particularly well versed in beer: their menu has a Beer Taste Chart that allows you to choose based on your preferences, so you’re in good hands.

Try their Fleischbällchen (mini beef-pork meatballs) or Gebackene Schwammerl (Fried Mushrooms), both irresistibly finger-licking good. For sharing, the Wunderplatte (good for 6) is a sure winner if you can’t choose among their selection of sausages and meats. We wouldn’t hold it against you if you want to tackle their Crispy Oven Roasted Pork Knuckle solo either – it’s rendered so crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, it’s almost impossible to resist!

Find it at 1 Harbourfront Walk, #01-149, VivoCity, Singapore 098585
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Jamie’s Italian

At Jamie’s, not only will you enjoy a fabulous (and sustainably sourced) menu of Italian eats from a world-famous chef, but the VivoCity location also boasts a crowd-pleasing live pasta bar in addition to stunning views of Sentosa from the main dining area. Soak in that beautiful trattoria ambience without leaving the mall, and tuck into an extensive array of quality bites like the daily house-made pasta, succulent grilled dishes or hearty vegetable sharing ‘planks’. With kids menus and plenty of veggie & fish options Jamie’s caters to a variety of palates, so don’t worry about bringing any fussy eaters along.

Find it at 1 Harbourfront Walk, #01-165/167, VivoCity, Singapore 098585
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Crystal Jade Jiang Nan Vivocity

Taste the very best of Jiang Nan, an understated region south of Yangtze River where its cuisine is skillfully crafted and carry delicate flavours. While there may be no lack of Chinese food in Singapore, Crystal Jade Jiang Nan brings a touch of uniqueness to the table. Diners sing praises of their intensely fragrant Deep Fried Pork Ribs. Those looking for a healthy respite from the usual stir-fries will love the delicious yet nutritious Double-boiled Chicken Soup. Last but not least, their Pan Fried Shanghai Pork Buns are must-haves before you wrap up the meal.

Find it at 1 Harbourfront Walk, #01-52, VivoCity, Singapore 098585
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Dancing Crab

If you’re looking for a soulful seafood kick to sit back and dig into, Dancing Crab on the top floor is a top-notch pick. They’ve earned their spot as one of the most reputable country-style Cajun culinary masters in S’pore, with a huge variety of spicy combo bags, fried seafood, hearty gumbos, and more. Indulgent? Maybe just a bit, but you’ll have done so much mall power-walking that you will have more than earned a feast this epic.

Find it at 1 Harbourfront Walk, #03-10, VivoCity, Singapore 098585
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

JPOT

From the brains behind JUMBO group comes JPOT, an establishment that redefines the classic hot pot (or steamboat). If you prefer having your own hot pot and not digging through a communal one, this is the spot for you. Enjoy your individual pot with contemporary soup bases such as Fish Head and Bak Kut Teh (that’s right, they have BKT people!) alongside fresh steamboat ingredients.

Since JPOT’s from JUMBO, you know the seafood here’s going to be excellent. From firm fish slices to gleaming prawns, trust that introducing these hot pot additions will leave your broth tasting even better. On top of that, pamper yourselves with luxurious ingredients such as Kurobuta Pork and Wagyu Beef. Pro tip: instead of your usual rice or noodles, skip the carbs and go for the Fish Noodles option instead.

Find it at 1 Harbourfront Walk, #01-53, VivoCity (Lobby F), Singapore 098585
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Tunglok Signatures

It’s time to treat yourself to a fine Chinese dining feast after a long day’s ~~work~~ shopping. Tunglok Signatures serves up a detailed menu with variations of Chinese cuisine. From Canton to Shanghai, Sichuan and back to modern-day Singapore, you can pick and choose from a variety of flavourful dishes that highlight the best of the regions, without leaving VivoCity.

Find it at 1 Harbourfront Walk, #01-57, VivoCity, Singapore 098585
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Bakerzin

This household name is one of the pioneers who introduced the wonders of oozy warm chocolate cakes and rich soufflés to Singapore. While they’re known for their luscious cakes and baked goods, Bakerzin also offer stunning cafe nosh that will have your mouth watering in no time!

If we could sum up the dishes served at Bakerzin in three words, it would be comforting, familiar, and delicious. Tired after a day’s shopping? Retire to this relaxing spot and tuck into their Seafood Pasta that holds the treasures of the ocean or their hefty Signature Burger. Round off the meal with top-notch desserts and a good cuppa joe – we can’t think of anything better, really.

Find it at 1 Harbourfront Walk, #01-207, VivoCity, Singapore 098585
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

The Chop House

Meat is the focus at The Chop House, and boy do they do it well. You can expect expertly grilled cuts of imported meat, at a fraction of the price you’d pay at fancy steakhouses. They place equal emphasis on quality beer (as do we), from bottled craft brews to boutique brands on tap that you actually serve yourself and pay by mmillilitre– a method that embodies the cool and casual vibe of the joint. Tuck in and dine at the waterfront al fresco tables, or get more intimate in the chic interior. When the food is this good for such great value, we promise you’ll leave satisfied and refuelled.

Find it at 1 Harbourfront Walk, #01-161, VivoCity, Singapore 098585
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Shin Kushiya

From wallet-friendly conveyour-belt sushi to opulent omakase, you can probably find all types of Japanese cuisines in Singapore. But if you want something simple and authentic, Shin Kushiya is your best bet. The interiors here are minimalistic and the presentation of food is clean and straightforward, so you know that Shin Kushiya means business – no frills and all flavour.

As one of the first Japanese restaurants to introduce the Kushiyaki dining concept in Singapore, you’d be missing out if you didn’t go for their signature Kushiyaki. With over 50 different types to choose from, there’s no denying that these tantalising sticks made from fresh and quality seafood, meat, and vegetables are sure winners. Diners can also choose from the usual selections such as sashimi, sushi, donburi, and more. It’s also worth a mention that Shin Kushiya uses imported Bincho Charcoal from Japan that’s known for the clean-charcoal smokiness it imparts to food during grilling.

Find it at 1 Harbourfront Walk, #02-120, VivoCity, Singapore 098585
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Soup Restaurant

Cr: Eatbook.sg

For food just like Grandma made (and isn’t that a relaxing feeling after a shopping spree?), Soup Restaurant has our vote. They’ve been cooking up authentic ‘Singapore Chinatown Heritage’ cuisine since their humble beginnings in 1991, and have since grown to over 15 branches across Southeast Asia. They’ve still managed to retain that home-cooked feel and taste, with warming double-boiled soups, deliciously marinated meats and tofu, and stir-fried veggies.

Find it at 1 Harbourfront Walk, #02-141, VivoCity, Singapore 098585
Click here for more information on Tajimaya Yakiniku.

Tajimaya Yakiniku

***Cr:* *SG Magazine***

If Tajimaya’s quality grills with a gorgeous panoramic view of Sentosa Island is not enough to convince you, then we don’t know what will. This gorgeous spot allows diners to grill their own meats at the table, having full control over how they prefer them.

Deck your tables with the tantalising seafood, or splash out on delectable Kurobuta Pork and luxurious Wagyu beef selections. Whichever way you fancy, Tajimaya makes sure that you’re in for a treat. Plus, their high tech exhaust systems also ensure that you won’t be leaving Tajimaya smelling like your food either. The best things to go with your grills are sake and shochu; here, you get both of the finest quality that will appease any true yakiniku connoisseur.

Find it at 1 Harbourfront Walk #01-102/103 Vivocity, Singapore 098585
Click here for more information on Tajimaya Yakiniku.

Barrio by Mex Out

Put on your sombreros because it’s time to salsa! The chilled out vibes at the spacious Barrio by Mex Out makes it the perfect place to rendezvous with your closest friends and have a good time.

If the ambience isn’t enough to tempt you, their food certainly will. Kick things off with a bang when you order their cheese-filled Jalapeno Poppers or whet your appetite with the refreshing Prawn Ceviche. From tacos to burritos, the mains at Barrio do not disappoint either; but if you need help deciding, you can’t go wrong with their Taco Fiesta where you get 10 tacos on one platter.

Find it at #01-116 Vivo City, 1 Harbourfront Walk, Singapore 098585
Click here for more information on Barrio by Mex Out.

Ready for another round of promo codes? It’s time to scour for your hidden eggs in 10 of the restaurants listed on our new Sentosa Guide!

Tags Guides, Harbourfront, Singapore, Vivocity

Lifestyle Singapore Singapore

Too Thai’d Up for Songkran?

Post author By Chope
Post date April 12, 2018
No Comments on Too Thai’d Up for Songkran?

Songkran, the Thai New Year, is a festival now marked with a nationwide water fight. Meant as a Buddhist purification ritual, the three-day affair helps bring in a flood of tourists eager to take part in the fun that accompanies the start of a new year.

If you’re drowning in work, and unable to make it to Thailand, here are a few restaurants to satiate your Thai craving till next year.

1. Diandin Leluk

Cr: fmeansfoodie.wordpress.com

Golden Mile Complex, Singapore’s ‘Little Thailand’, stocks almost everything you need from the Land of Smiles, short of taking a flight out. No exception when it comes to food, too. One of our favourites is Diandin Leluk that has been operating for over three decades in Singapore by a Thai couple. The food is affordable, authentic, fuss-free and delicious. Must-try: their Crispy Catfish with Mango Salad, which combines texture and the sour-sweet tango of the mango into a great starter.

Find it at 5001 Beach Road, Golden Mile Complex #01-67/68/69, Singapore 199588.
Click here for more information on Diandin Leluk.

2. Jim Thompson

This beautiful restaurant in the historic Dempsey enclave should be on your list if you’re looking for somewhere classy and elegant for a dinner date, but you want to ramp up the spice (with your choice of cuisine). Keep an eye out for the gorgeous cutlery and Thai dances, and be prepared to weigh your options, with over 80 dishes on the menu. Prices are on the higher end but worth it, given the ambience, service and quality of food.

Find it at 45 Minden Road, Singapore 248817.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

3. Joe’s Kitchen

Cr: joeskitchen.com

It’s easy to dismiss this heartland restaurant in the Alexandra area, with its orange signboard and questionable choice of fonts, but it would be your loss. The food here is hearty and wallet-friendly: our favourites include the stuffed chicken wings (generously packed to the brim), fragrant pandan leaf chicken and the fried vermicelli with a subtle wok hei flavour.

Find it at Blk 125 Bukit Merah Lane 1 #01-182, Singapore 150125.
Click here for more information on Joe’s Kitchen.

4. Long Chim

Australian celebrity chef David Thompson has brought street food with pizzazz at his Marina Bay Sands outlet, decked out in hipster grunge. He has upped the glam factor on some familiar street snacks, like using wagyu for his beef skewers. With others, there is a no-holds-barred approach to his dishes, like the sweat-inducing Chiang Mai Chicken Larp with Cabbage, Chilli and Mint. It’s almost like being in a Bangkok soi, minus the grime, plus the air-conditioning.

Find it at 10 Bayfront Ave, #02-02, Atrium 2, The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands, Singapore 018955.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

5. Nakhon Kitchen

Cr: eatbook.sg

There are always long lines outside every Nakhon branch, but grab a highly coveted seat and it’s easy to see why. Prices are low (aided by the fact that the outlets are not air-conditioned), and the vibe, authentic (we love listening to the Thai hits playing on the radio). Most importantly, the food is good. The curries here never fail to satisfy, and the Thai milk tea has mastered the perfect ratio of tea to milk.

Click here for more information on Nakhon Kitchen

6. Blue Jasmine

At this Halal-certified restaurant, diners can enjoy rustic Thai dining in a contemporary setting (be sure to grab an Instagram-worthy pic of those floor tiles). The food is decent too, ranging from the familiar (tom yum soup, pad thai), to the less common (prawn doughnuts and orange curry stingray). From Thursdays to Saturdays, there is also a buffet option — perfect for that Thai binge eating we need on some days.

Find it at 10 Farrer Park Station Road, Level 5, Park Hotel Farrer Park, Singapore 217564.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

If you are headed to Thailand to celebrate Songkran, check out this blog post! We give you the low-down on where to go for Songkran celebrations, and of course, where to find the best restaurants.

Tags Instagrammable, Singapore, Songkran, Thai cuisine

Bangkok Destination Lifestyle

The Best Places in Bangkok to Celebrate Songkran

Post author By Chope
Post date April 11, 2018
No Comments on The Best Places in Bangkok to Celebrate Songkran

Thailand’s favourite national celebration is just around the corner! Every year during Songkran (13-15 April), local flock back to their hometowns to visit their families, while foreigners fly into Bangkok to take part in the water-splashing festivities.

If you’re thinking of spending the weekend in Bangkok to celebrate Songkran, here are the best places to join in the fun.

Khao San Road

Cr: khaosodenglish.com

Every year, the entire Khao San Road turns into a huge, messy, water fight. Stalls selling bucketfuls of water, as well as hoses and water guns, pop up along the street overnight. Tourists spill out of the backpacker hostels to douse anyone and everyone with water. Don’t forget to grab some of that clay powder sold at the roadside stalls too, as it symbolises protection – though not from the revellers! Nobody shows mercy here, so be prepared for a wild party and expect to leave thoroughly soaked.

When the party winds down in the evening, dry off and swing by Chakrabongse Dining for a luxurious dinner by the riverside. Quiet and effortlessly elegant, the restaurant is one of Bangkok’s hidden gems, serving hearty, authentic, and delicious Thai food. Its menu, which changes every day, serves everything from familiar favourites like Tom Yum to more exotic dishes like Flower Omelette.

Find it at 396/1 Maha Rat Road, Tatian, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok, Thailand.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

Silom Road

Cr: blog.takemetour.com

If you prefer to hang with the locals, then head to the party happening at Silom Road. All 5 kilometres of the road becomes packed with locals pelting each other with water. Stalls selling food, refreshments and, of course, lots and lots of water stand both sides of the road. The festivities here are even bigger and more extravagant than at Khao San, especially when firetrucks roll up in the middle of the day to make sure everyone on the road gets a good splash. You can also stay high and dry up on the Skybridge, where you can watch the shenanigans without getting splashed.

Reward yourself for surviving the festivities at Brasserie 9, a gorgeous Parisian restaurant where you can eat your fill of indulgent French gourmet cuisine, guaranteed to hit the spot. Here, the food is made to perfection using only the best quality ingredients, each dish bursting with delicious richness and decadence.

Find it at 27 Soi Piphat, North Sathorn Road, Silom, Bang Rad, Bangkok, Thailand
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

Lumpini Park

Cr: passenger6a.in

For a calmer celebration rooted in the origins of the holiday, head down to Lumpini Park to take part in some traditional Songkran activities. On 12 April, the Phra Buddha Sihing statue, which is usually kept in the National Museum, will be brought on a parade. Buddhists can sprinkle scented water on the statue over the weekend, give alms, or receive blessings from elders. Non-Buddhists can also enjoy the traditional performances and browse the stalls selling speciality products from all over Bangkok.

After paying your respects, amble over to Erawan Tea Room to continue your peaceful and relaxing day. The charming restaurant, decked out in plush seats, serves impeccable Thai favourites we all know and love. Its wonderful location also gives you enchanting, sweeping panoramas of the city below. Taste the high life as you lounge in its cushy chairs and sip on tea, eat great food and enjoy the view.

Find it at Grand Hyatt Erawan Bangkok, 494 Rajdamri Road, Pathumwan, Bangkok, Thailand.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

Siam Paragon

Cr: bangkokundercover.com

Thailand’s April weather is swelteringly hot, so escape from those heat waves at the Siam Paragon mall. You’ll be pleasantly surprised to see that the mall is organising a series of Songkran activities. An exhibition explains the history of Songkran, and you can also learn how to make traditional perfume and fold pandan leaf flowers. Best of all, there’ll be a food festival showcasing authentic Thai foods!

Lovers of Japanese seafood will be thrilled to hear that Nippon-Kai, a Japanese market-cum-restaurant, sits in the middle of Siam Paragon. Feast on an array of fresh, delicious premium sashimi and seafood, from classics to exotic seasonal options like fugu (pufferfish) and okoze (stonefish). You can also head to the market area to stock up on Japanese snacks.

Find it at G/F, Siam Paragon, 991/1 Rama I Road, Pathumwan, Bangkok, Thailand.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

W Bangkok

Cr: bkasia-city.com

Dive into the hottest pool party in town at W Bangkok! The hotel is organising its Songkran Splash Away pool party for the 6th year running so you can celebrate Songkran in style. Expect the pool to be filled with extravagant floats, while the deck sports over-the-top decorations and top DJs spin tunes all day long. Don’t worry about not having enough booze either – there’s a booth selling drinks too. From 1-9pm on 13 April, you can let loose and dance, swim, and drink your worries away.

The pool party might end at 9pm, but that doesn’t mean you can’t continue enjoying yourself. The glamorous WOOBAR, located in W Bangkok, lets you keep the good times going. Sip on some intoxicating speciality cocktails while munching on their delicious bar bites. There’ll also be a DJ here for you to dance all night long.

W Hotel 106, North Sathorn Rd, Silom, Bangrak, Bangkok, Thailand.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

Tags Holiday, Songkran, Thai cuisine, Thailand, Travel

Lifestyle Singapore Singapore

Fancy Local Flavours Worth Splurging On

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

MSocial Auckland Food Photography - Sept 2017

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

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

Chicken Rice

Privé Asian Civilisations Museum

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

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

Town Restaurant

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

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

Laksa

Beast & Butterflies

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

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

Straits Cafe

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

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

Nasi Lemak

Sinpopo

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

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

Chatterbox

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

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

Bak Chor Mee

The Lobby Lounge at Shangri-La Hotel

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

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

Restaurant Labyrinth

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

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

Roti Prata

Big Street Singapore

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

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

Zaffron Kitchen (East Coast)

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

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

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

Bali Destination Lifestyle

5 Reasons You Should Go to Ubud This Month

Post author By Chope
Post date April 6, 2018
No Comments on 5 Reasons You Should Go to Ubud This Month

The first quarter of the year is over – we think it’s about time to treat yourself to a little getaway. Give yourself a well-deserved break with an impromptu trip to one of the Zen-est places on earth: Ubud, Bali!

Here are 5 things you can look forward to in Ubud this month.

1. Amazing Food at the Ubud Food Festival

Cr: wanderingwok.com.au

Check out the most anticipated foodie event in Bali! The Ubud Food Festival, where culinary masters explore the best of Indonesia’s food, puts Indonesian cuisine in the spotlight. Over three days, chefs from all over Indonesia will gather to celebrate the country’s stunning produce, diverse cuisines, and fascinating culinary traditions.

This year, the Ubud Food Festival focuses on the theme of “Generasi Inovasi”, exploring future of Indonesian cuisine. A multitude of events is taking place from masterclasses, where experts impart a few tricks of the trade, to food tours, where you can see how food goes from farm to plate. The festival only takes place once a year, so make sure you take the chance to explore Indonesia’s rich culinary culture.

Chope also has a booth at the Ubud Food Festival, so come down and say hi! You can find out more about our Chope Exclusives deals, where we team up with some of Ubud’s best restaurants to bring you offers you won’t want to miss. Here’s a list of some of the participating restaurants:

2. White Water Rafting

Cr: ayungriverrafting.net

If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush and an exciting afternoon, look no further than the Ayung River. The Ayung is one of the most challenging rivers for whitewater rafting in Bali, filled with waves up to four feet high and narrow channels that will send the boat jostling. There’s plenty of splashing to go around too!

Apart from the thrilling ride, you’ll also get to see plenty of fascinating sights. As you paddle through the 10-kilometre stretch of river, you’ll pass by magical unspoiled rainforests, exquisite wildlife (if you’re lucky, you may see the Blue Javan Kingfisher), and enchanting rice fields. The river also contains several surprises, like hidden waterfalls and ancient stone carvings on its walls.

Hungry? Grab a bite at the gorgeous Kubu at Mandapa

We’re sure you’ll be hungry at the end of your exciting ride. Lucky for you, we’ve got just the place to satisfy your growling tummy. Kubu at Mandapa serves up European and Mediterranean in a cosy setting inspired by the traditional huts used by Balinese farmers to store rice. It’s the perfect place to unwind and relax, tucked away snugly in the restaurant’s cocoon tables with a view of the Ayung gurgling just below your feet.

Find it at Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, Jalan Kedewatan, Banjar Kedewatan, Ubud 80571.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

3. Shopping at Jalan Raya Ubud

Cr: bismacottagesubud.com

Ubud is the centre of culture and art in Bali, so it’s no surprise that the town is a great shopping destination. Let your inner shopaholic run free at Jalan Raya Ubud, which is lined with a multitude of boutique clothing shops, art galleries, and museums for your perusal.

Don’t forget to turn into one of its small side roads and explore the hidden treasures there as well. Monkey Forest Road is definitely worth a visit, and not just because it’s got some of the best clothing shops. It’s also the road which passes by the intriguing Ubud Monkey Forest, a sanctuary for grey macaques.

Fight the hunger at Hujan Locale

Another thing that makes Jalan Raya Ubud a great place to spend your afternoon is the amazing food. Here, you can find a variety of restaurants and cafes to fill your stomach, including Hujan Locale by Will Meyrick. This Scottish chef fell head over heels for the spices and flavours of Southeast Asian food and has since set up several stellar restaurants around the region celebrating this unique cuisine. At Hujan Locale, you’ll find authentic Balinese classics with a slight twist, served in a rustic restaurant that has a quaint yet sophisticated charm. Here’s a small tip: try to get a window seat on the upper floor, so you get great views of the streets below.

Find it at Jalan Sri Wedari No.5, Ubud, Bali 80571.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

4. Enchanting rice paddy fields

There’s nothing as quintessentially Balinese as its rice paddy fields. Imagine rolling fields of supple green stalks rustling in the wind, stretching out as far as the eye can see. If you’re there close to the harvest, you’ll be treated to a golden sea of bowed ears of ripened rice. Take a day to cycle or walk along the fields, soaking in the beautiful vistas Bali has to offer.

Dine under the stars at The Restaurant at The Chedi Club

Walking along paddy fields is an amazing experience, but eating in the middle of the paddy fields is equally fulfilling. At The Restaurant at The Chedi Club, you can view enchanting vistas of Tanah Gajah’s emerald paddies, set against the backdrop of Bali’s sacred mountains, while dining on gourmet Asian and Western cuisine. Don’t miss their authentic Balinese foods, complete with bumbu spices that are prepared fresh every day.

If you loved the food so much, you wish you could have it every day, go for the cooking class conducted by the restaurant’s very own “Mama Bali”. Ibu Ni Myoman Adriani dishes out pearls of culinary wisdom to classes of up to six guests, so you can have a taste of Bali in your own kitchen.

Find it at Tengkulak Kaja, Jalan Raya Goa Gajah, Ubud, Gianyar, Bali 80571
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

5. The extravagant Blanco Renaissance Museum

Cr: warjulian.com

Philippine-born Spanish maestro Don Antonio Blanco is the most famous painter to have called Bali home. His enthralling and fanciful works will capture your imagination with their depictions of regal Balinese women in elegant, exquisite poses. In the museum, you’ll enter Blanco’s world, an exotic mix of oriental Balinese and extravagant Spanish influences.

Perched on a hilltop overlooking the lush Campuhan valley, the museum was, in fact, Blanco’s home. Visitors can explore the entire museum grounds, which includes not only the extravagant house but also family’s temple and its paradisal gardens. You’ll also get to eat at a brand-new gourmet restaurant dedicated to giving you the best dinner of your life.

Satisfy your stomachs at BLANCO Par Mandif

BLANCO Par Mandif is a snazzy new restaurant sporting an impressive degustation menu. You’ll fall head over heels in love with the delectable dishes, made by the award-winning chef Mandif. Everything on the menu is a celebration of Balinese cuisine. Full of local flavours and using only the best of the best seasonal ingredients, Chef Mandif will take you on a gastronomic journey you’ll never forget.

Find it at Kompleks Museum Blanco, Jalan Raya Tjampuhan, Ubud, Gianyar, Bali 80571.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

Lest we forget, check out these Chope Exclusives in Bali while you’re at it! Trust us – your wallet (and stomach) will thank you.

Tags bali, Travel, Ubud, Ubud Food Festival

Lifestyle Reviews Singapore Singapore

Popeye’s Chicken & Waffle Review + A Guide to Chicken & Waffles in Singapore

Post author By Chope
Post date April 5, 2018
2 Comments on Popeye’s Chicken & Waffle Review + A Guide to Chicken & Waffles in Singapore

A few weeks ago, we told all of you that Popeye’s has released Chicken & Waffles, which will only be on their menus until 28 April. Today, we’re going to give you the low-down on this new contender in the Chicken-Waffle arena. Is it worth the hype?

Cr: popeyes.com.sg

Popeye’s is all about fried chicken, so it’s no surprise that their “chicken” side of this dish would be tasty. The fried chicken was crispy on the outside, and tender on the inside. It was also full of smoky Cajun flavours that Popeye’s is best known for. Slightly spicy and with a satisfying crunch, we haven’t got much to complain about here. However, it could definitely have done without the nacho cheese and chili sauce which were both a tad too artificial-tasting.

A really good waffle should look something like this: thick and golden-brown, crisp on the outside and soft and fluffy on the inside. Sadly, the waffles at Popeye’s aren’t exactly to die for. They definitely had the crispness nailed but sans the soft and fluffy.

Verdict

Overall, Popeye’s Chicken & Waffles are pretty ok, considering the low price point ($6.90 for ala carte, $8.90 for a meal including a drink and side). While it wasn’t terrible, it’s not quite a list-topper either. The dish is a pretty good low-budget option but it would have been nice if it was more satisfying.

Check out this list of restaurants that you can go to for more spots to get your Chicken & Waffle treat!

1. Montana: With a Southern twist

If you’re in love with all the smoky spices of Southern cuisine, then this is the place to get it. Their fried chicken has a golden-brown and crispy batter, which breaks open to release a mouthful of juicy, tender, and flavourful chicken meat. As for the waffles, we’re delighted to say that they’ve achieved that perfect balance between crisp and fluffy, resulting in a light, comforting waffle that’s a worthy complement to the chicken. The dish is served with homemade spicy coleslaw and corn salsa that keeps it from being too heavy.

Find it at 1 Selegie Road, #02-25, PoMo, Singapore 188306.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

2. OverEasy: All-American, always satisfying

This cheeky restaurant brings the classic American diner to Singapore, complete with thick milkshakes, juicy burgers, and everyone’s favourite chicken wings. But wait, there’s more: the chicken wings are served on top of waffles. Tender and packed full of flavour, the wings are some of the best we’ve ever eaten, while the waffles don’t let us down either. The entire ensemble comes with whipped honey butter and maple syrup. They come in American-sized portions too, more than enough for two.

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

3. The Beast: Making the most of your cheat day

Cr: ladyironchef.com

You either go big or go home at The Beast, Singapore’s first ever bourbon bar. Apart from a huge selection of quality bourbon, they’ve also got an amazing kitchen cooking up a chicken and waffles dish that’s a worthy addition to your cheat day menu. You’ll be served a generous piece of juicy fried chicken that’s absolutely irresistible and indulgently sinful, sitting on a bed of airy waffles. Just wait till you get to the bourbon-infused syrup. One does not simply waste alcoholic syrup.

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

4. Clinton Street Baking Company: Flavour Heaven

What we really love about Clinton Street’s chicken and waffles is the seasoning on the chicken, which is absolutely on point! The buttermilk adds a rich flavour to round out the intense spices, and the chicken breast remains tender while the batter is fried to crispy, golden perfection, while the waffles are soft and fluffy, infused with vanilla and more buttermilk. What really lifts this dish is the maple butter, which tastes as good as it sounds. Put all three parts together and you’ve got paradise in your mouth.

Find it at 31 Purvis Street, Singapore 188608
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG.

5. Arteastiq: A healthier option

Cr: onlywilliam.blogspot.sg

Now, we understand that there are two types of people: those who pig out on their cheat day, and those who still try to maintain some semblance of health consciousness. If you belong to the latter, then the chicken & waffles here are perfect for you. Instead of deep-fried chicken, the buttermilk chicken is pan-fried then placed on a bed of red onions, veggies, cashew nuts, and Thai mayonnaise. Underneath, the waffles are whole-wheat. Who says healthy foods can’t be yummy?

Find it at 333A Orchard Road, Mandarin Gallery, #04-14/15, Singapore 238867.
Click here for more information on Arteastiq.

6. Revelry: Comforting and classic

Cr: adelinesays.blogspot.sg

Dedicated wholly to waffles, this bright and cheery cafe in Bukit Timah is already one of our favourites. Among many other waffle-based concoctions, their version of chicken and waffles is a flawless rendition of a timeless classic. It’s the ultimate comfort food: simple, straightforward, and absolutely delicious. A large, tender piece of chicken thigh with a crunchy batter sits invitingly on a golden-brown waffle that’s thick and fluffy, but still crispy. Nestled on the side of the plate is a generous serving of maple syrup you can drown the chicken in. Yum!

Find it at 21 Lor Kilat, Singapore 598123.
Click here for more information on Revelry.

7. Monniker: The ultimate level-up

Cr: angieisagirl.wordpress.com

The good people at Monniker looked at chicken and waffles and said “you know what this needs? Cheese and an egg.” And boy, were they right. Get the ultimate brunch meal with their immensely indulgent dish. You’ve got a slab of juicy chicken covered in melted cheddar, and sandwiched between two pieces of waffle. As if that wasn’t enough, the stack is topped with a sunny-side up smiling up at you. Are you salivating yet? We definitely are.

Find it at 387 Balestier Road, Singapore 329795.
Click here for more information on Monniker.

Tags Brunch, Chicken and Waffles, Fried Chicken, Popeye's, Singapore

Asia’s #1: Manhattan, Singapore

Asia’s #4: ATLAS

Cr: ATLAS

Asia’s #7: Tippling Club

Asia’s #8: Native Cocktail Bar

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Asia’s #12: 28 HongKong Street

Cr: StraitsTimes.com

Asia’s #19: Operation Dagger

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Asia’s #22: Gibson

Asia’s #23: Employees Only Singapore

Asia’s #32: D.Bespoke

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Asia’s #33: Nutmeg & Clove

Asia’s #42: Jigger & Pony

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Asia’s #50: The Other Room

ATLAS

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Venue by Sebastian

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Wild Rocket

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HRVST

Cr: Kilter Avenue

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Milo Dinosaur Cr: TimeOut

Where should I get my ‘kopi‘ fix?

Cr: happyhappymaruko.blogspot.sg

Cr: epicureasia.com

Cr: Eatbook.sg

Cr: SG Magazine

Cr: fmeansfoodie.wordpress.com

Cr: joeskitchen.com

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Cr: blog.takemetour.com

Cr: passenger6a.in

Cr: bangkokundercover.com

Cr: bkasia-city.com

Cr: wanderingwok.com.au

Hungry? Grab a bite at the gorgeous Kubu at Mandapa

Cr: bismacottagesubud.com

Fight the hunger at Hujan Locale

Dine under the stars at The Restaurant at The Chedi Club

Cr: warjulian.com

Satisfy your stomachs at BLANCO Par Mandif

Cr: popeyes.com.sg

Cr: ladyironchef.com

Cr: onlywilliam.blogspot.sg

Cr: adelinesays.blogspot.sg

Cr: angieisagirl.wordpress.com

Milo Dinosaur
Cr: TimeOut

***Cr:* *SG Magazine***