Category: Singapore

Weekend Reads: 23-25 Feb

The Chinese New Year snacks coma may be over, but here on Chope the good food never stops. From sakura pink-themed merch at Starbucks Singapore to a museum of candy to how much Bill Gates thinks groceries cost, there’s plenty to digest!

See your childhood dreams come true in New York City’s Museum of Candy, which looks like Willy Wonka’s Chocolate Factory has finally come to life.

Speaking of childhood dreams, Disney World’s Beauty and the Beast themed restaurant is getting an authentic French menu.

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bfb51cqBh11/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=embed_profile_upsell_control

This week in WTF: Surprise engagement rings in… avocados?!

Could you eat just one stew, for every meal, every day, for the rest of your career? Sumo wrestlers do.

Ellen Degeneres finds out how much Bill Gates spend on groceries.

Meanwhile, Jay-Z is casually handing out US$11,000 in tips.

Imagine spending £15 on a teapot, breaking it, then selling it for £575,000.

Closer to home, Singapore’s restaurants are embracing environmental sustainability and wildlife conservation by pledging to stop selling Shark’s Fin Soup.

Of course, Starbucks now has transparent drinks too.

Speaking of Starbucks, how pretty are these items??

Tags Avocados, Candy, Disney, Ellen Degeneres, Starbucks, Weekend Reads

Save/Splurge Singapore

Cafes & Restaurants in Singapore with No GST

Post author By Nicol Ong
Post date February 23, 2018
No Comments on Cafes & Restaurants in Singapore with No GST

Earlier this week, the Finance Ministry made an announcement that sent Singaporeans islandwide into a flurry – the Goods & Services Tax (GST) will be increased from 7% to 9% sometime between 2021 to 2025.

9% is a whopping amount, and when added with the 10% service charge, amounts to approximately 20% in additional fees when you dine out in Singapore. Whoa. But fret not! Here are some generous restaurants that waive GST so you can get the most bang for your buck.

New Rasa Singapura

Named after the iconic Rasa Singapura food centre that closed down in 1989, New Rasa Singapura aims to continue its legacy of creating the best Singaporean hawker fare while absorbing both the GST and service charges. Part beloved restaurant, part social enterprise, New Rasa combines the creation of hearty and irresistible local favourites such as beef rendang, with community efforts like providing training and employment to the underprivileged and physically or mentally impaired.

Our favourite dishes include their Angoli Fish Head Curry, the Hainanese Chicken Rice and their Dry Laksa. Good food for a good cause? Sign us up!

Find them at 56 Tanglin Road, B1-02 Tanglin Post Office, Singapore, 247964
Book a table at New Rasa Singapura and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

Food For Thought at National Museum of Singapore

It’s hard to find places in Singapore that actually serves dishes like Red Rice Wine Chicken – a familiar local favourite reminiscent of family reunions and birthdays – but good news! Food For Thought at the National Museum is one such place. Pay them a visit and you’ll find yourself on an elegant trip back in time, with its thoughtfully designed, rustic interior and delicately crafted Southeast Asian fare.

Fitting for its location, Food For Thought pays homage to Singapore’s heritage and history through its round marble table tops, wall mosaics, and wooden chairs – evocative of old-school Singaporean kopitiams. Apart from all-day brunch options, their Southeast Asian-inspired menu includes Crispy Curry Chicken and Hainanese Pork Cutlet, and even seasonal specials that reflect particular exhibitions held by the Museum.

Find them at 93 Stamford Rd, National Museum of Singapore, #01-04/05, 178897
Book a table at Food For Thought and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

SPRMRKT on McCallum Street

Inspiration is the name of the game at SPRMRKT. Incorporating a bistro and a concept shop under its roof, this place simply has it all.

We recommend you first fill your stomach. Take a gander at their revolving menu which changes depending on the day. Expect fresh eats each day, ranging from Chicken Caesar Salads on some days to Potato, Tuna, and Cucumber with Boiled Eggs the next. If you enjoyed your meal, you can even pick up their in-store groceries to recreate the dishes yourself!

Find them at 2 McCallum St, Singapore 069043
Book a table at SPRMRKT and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

Ninja Cut

The younger sibling of Ninja Bowl on Duxton, Ninja Cut follows in its big brother’s footsteps and creates hearty Japanese cuisine with an emphasis on healthy living.

Chow down on favourites such as the Oceans of Mentaiko, where stunning flavours are unveiled, stemming from the harmonious mix of crisp toast, juicy prawns, Hokkaido scallops, and New Zealand mussels, all topped with a mouthwatering helping of mentaiko butter cream sauce. A definite go-to place for a delicious yet healthy meal!

Find them at 32 Seah St, Singapore 188388
Book a table at Ninja Cut and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

Lola’s Cafe

Famed for its breakfast-themed options, brunch lovers should already be well acquainted with Lola’s Cafe – a cosy joint located along the charming Simon’s Road at Kovan.

There is a bona fide community spirit at Lola’s that can be felt the instant you walk through their doors, a bonhomie that is echoed in their delicious, no-frills, and lovingly made brunch fare.

Note: Never leave Lola’s without sampling their Honey Paprika Wings!

Find them at 5 Simon Rd, 545893
Book a table at Lola’s Cafe and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

Stateland Cafe

Looks can be deceiving, and it’s even more so for Stateland. Housed inside a nondescript shophouse within the hip enclave of Kampong Glam, its interior features an industrial theme, complete with cement walls, wooden tables, and tungsten lamps. On top of its sleek decor, it serves up bowl after bowl of experimental dishes given an Asian twist, taking inspiration from cafe classics and local favourites.

Be sure to sample their innovative waffles and thick toasts, and also unique dishes like the Hainanese Chicken Rice Risotto and BBQ Sambal Unagi Bowl!

Find them at 30 Bali Ln, Singapore 189866
Book a table at Stateland Cafe and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

*Bonus: places we love that waive service charge instead of GST!

Here are a couple of deserving gems we love that absorb the 10% service charge, instead of GST!

Wheeler’s Yard

The service charge waiver at Wheeler’s Yard isn’t the only thing we love about this quaint little joint. We’re sure many of you have seen its famed blue doors on Instagram or Facebook, and are familiar with its industrial-style interior inspired by cycling culture.

Be sure to sample their relatively familiar yet strangely exciting menu options, which meld local and international flavours, resulting in dishes like Chilli Crab Pasta, Yuzu Soy Glazed Sweet Potato, and their Ultimate Beef Yard Burger.

Find them at 28 Lorong Ampas, 328781
Book a table at Wheeler’s Yard and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

The Quarters

Featuring a local-inspired menu with items like Shiok Fries, Har Cheong Gai, and even Salted Egg burgers and wings, there’s not much here to dislike. Quaint and cosy with homey wooden floors and furniture, this tucked-away spot conjures up nostalgic memories that are reminiscent of a school classroom.

Located in the heart of Tanjong Pagar, it also offers piping hot and aromatic coffee. Even with the GST surcharge, it’s definitely worth a visit!

Find them at 16 Enggor Street, #01-09, 079717
Book a table at The Quarters and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

Tags Asian, Cafes, No GST, No Service Charge

Lifestyle Singapore

Books for Food Lovers

There are many ways we feast: most days with our tongue, often with our eyes, and on good days, on journeys through the mind. A love for food is cultivated through a deeper understanding of other culinary journeys, and what better way to do it than with a book and a good cup of coffee? We present a short list for you to get off Amazon or your favourite bookshop this weekend.

Cr: Phaidon

A Day at elBulli: An Insight into the Ideas, Methods and Creativity of Ferran Adria by Ferran Adrià

elBulli, formerly the best restaurant in the world, may have closed its doors for now, but the magic of head chef Ferran Adria lives on in this tome. A Day at elBulli is part photobook, all philosophy, and features 30 dishes that represent a full menu at a restaurant notorious for its hard-to-get reservations. The 600-page book has more than 800 photographs, menus, recipes and diagrams which will take you through a full working day at elBulli in just a few words. You might not get to taste Adria’s food, but you just might learn a thing or two about the thought processes behind his molecular gastronomy techniques. (P.S.:If you prefer something more accessible, try his homestyle cookbook, The Family Meal.)

Get it here!

Cr: Amazon UK

Heat: An Amateur’s Adventures as Kitchen Slave, Line Cook, Pasta-Maker, and Apprentice to a Dante-Quoting Butcher in Tuscany by Bill Buford

Determined to see his culinary hobby turn into something more, New Yorker writer and home cook Bill Buford takes up a stint at Mario Batali’s three Michelin stars restaurant in New York, Babbo. The result is a hilarious memoir documenting the mistakes, humiliations, and disappointments — but also the skills and triumphs — on his learning journey. It also serves as a biography for Batali, a larger-than-life character both in and out of the kitchen. The book is a breezy read, but also raises interesting questions about what and why we eat.

Get it here!

Cr: Amazon

In Defence of Food: An Eater’s Manifesto by Michael Pollan

Eat food. Not too much. Mostly plants. That’s Michael Pollan’s answer to what we should eat, in a world saturated with what the journalist-activist calls “edible foodlike substances”. Pollan presents the original ‘eat clean’ guide, and he urges us to eat things our ancestors would recognise. He also argues that despite the West’s obsession with nutrition — not about food itself — it has ironically ended up less healthy. If you’re a foodie, read this to know why good, fresh ingredient are critical to amazing food.

Get it here!

Cr: Amazon

Heartburn by Nora Ephron

From the writer of classic rom-coms like When Harry Met Sally and Sleepless in Seattle comes a side-splitting novel about the disintegration of marriage. Cookbook writer Rachel Samstat discovers her husband is in love with another woman, and dives into her recipes for solace and an attempt to win him back. It’s no secret that this book is a thinly veiled account of Ephron’s own breakup with her husband, so the ending is bittersweet. But she writes with such candour, humour, and strength that, like all good dishes, you can’t help but want more.

Get it here!

Cr: Goodreads

Fresh Off the Boat: A Memoir by Eddie Huang

If you’re a fan of the American sitcom Fresh Off the Boat, then this memoir, which the show is based on, is perfect for you. Huang is profane and profound, musing about the difficulties of growing up as a second-generation Taiwanese-American as, in the same breath, he rhapsodises about his favourite rapper and basketball team. Food is a subtle undercurrent in the book, one of the places in which he tries to fit in — Huang later goes on to open a barebones ‘bao’ eatery called BaoHaus. As he puts it, this is a story about finding love in family, friends, food, music, and culture, “and a million other surprising places.”

Get it here!

Tags Books, Foodies, Reads

Save/Splurge Singapore

5 Fancy Places to Spend Your Angpao Loot

Post author By Veena Vinod
Post date February 19, 2018
No Comments on 5 Fancy Places to Spend Your Angpao Loot

Now that you’ve raked in some money from the red packets, it’s time to treat yo’ self! Here are five (non-Chinese, don’t worry) fancy places to splash that cash.

1. Gunther’s

Any French food connoisseur will tell you that the ambience of a restaurant can make or break it. Gunther’s does not disappoint, with an elegant interior featuring luxury furniture and Art-Noveau decor. The highlight here, however, is the delicious food. Reviewers have raved about the award-winning Cold Angel Hair Pasta, and juicy Carpaccio of Wagyu Beef, and we know someone who comes here specifically for their delicious butter and bread. Nestled in a quaint shophouse and located conveniently between Bugis and City Hall, there’s simply nothing to dislike about Gunther’s fancy French done right!

Find it at 36 Purvis Street #01-03 Singapore (188613)
Book a table at Gunther’s and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

2. Shoukouwa Sushi Restaurant

Arguably the jewel in the crown of One Fullerton, this two Michelin star eatery is an intimate, 14-seater sushi spot serving up authentic Japanese gems. Think minimal wood seats paired with subtle taupe tones and sublime eats and you’ve got the right picture. The cooked dishes are excellent, but the true superstars of the menu are the raw seafood. With ingredients flown in from Tsukiji Market daily, if you’re craving some great Edomae sushi omakase or looking for elegant Japanese fare, this is the place for you!

Find it at 1 Fullerton Road #02-02A One Fullerton Singapore (049213)
Book a table at Shoukouwa and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

3. The Tavern Restaurant

We’re not saying this is the fanciest place out there, but what it lacks in grandiose flourishes, it makes up for in taste. This simple shophouse may not seem like much at first glance, but don’t let the unassuming exterior and rustic interior (we’re talking European cabin-style decor here) fool you – the service and food are top-notch. They’ve got plenty of European delights from land and sea, including Angel Hair Pasta With Lobster, plump escargots, that tough-to-find Raclette, and more. We’re pretty partial to their selection of wagyu ourselves. Located on a cosy stretch of River Valley Road, and with quick, unobtrusive service, this place will surprise you in all the best ways.

Find it at 227 River Valley Road Singapore (238285)
Book a table at The Tavern Restaurant and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

4. Yhingthai Palace Restaurant

Lovers of jazzed up Thai food should put Yhingthai Palace on their lists. Just a couple of doors down from Gunther’s, this Bib Gourmand eatery serves up authentic and flavourful nosh in an ornate setting. The food here definitely comes with the signature ‘kick’ that Thai food fanatics are so fond of, and the sight of a table filled with these aromatic masterpieces will get your mouth watering for sure. For a wide array of Thai and Chinese dishes, this is place is ideal if you and your friends can’t settle on just one cuisine to have for dinner.

Find it at 36 Purvis Street #01-04 Singapore (188613)
Book a table at Yhingthai Palace Restaurant and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

5. Yantra by Hermant Oberoi

Hailed as Singapore’s premier North Indian restaurant, this restaurant presents Indian fusion food in an extravagant manner. Helmed by Chef Hermant Oberoi, who has cooked for the likes of Barack Obama and Brad Pitt, the menu draws on culinary inspiration from all over India. With fresh spices flown in specially from the sub-continent, this is the place to go if you’re craving some curry after days of reunion dinners.

Find it at 163 Tanglin Road #01-28/33 Tanglin Mall Singapore (247933)
Book a table at Yantra by Hermant Oberoi and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

Tags Chinese New Year, European, French, indian, Japanese, Splurge, thai

Links We Love Singapore

WEEKEND READS: 16 – 18 FEB

Post author By Chope
Post date February 16, 2018
No Comments on WEEKEND READS: 16 – 18 FEB

Happy Lunar New Year to one and all! Food coma hitting you hard? Visitations not as exciting as you planned? Bored at home? Read on.

Here’s how much a billionaire spends on breakfast.

Strange illustrations of recipes for Chinese dishes.

Say Gucci and you think of…food? Introducing Gucci Osteria.

Going to the land of k-pop stars and dramas? Korean chefs choose the best Korean snacks to add to your shopping list.

Californian bakery Honey & Butter creates incredibly cute pop culture macaroons ranging from Harry Potter to Stranger Things.

14 restaurant horror stories that will have you cringing with secondhand embarrassment.

An exact replica of a Singapore kopitiam – down to the dishes on offer – exists in Sapporo.

So Starbucks Singapore just launched these Instagram-worthy drinks, but can they beat the cherry blossom-pink creations from Starbucks Japan?

Tags Weekend Reads

Others Singapore

8 Mouthwatering Mookata Joints in Singapore

Post author By Chope
Post date February 16, 2018
No Comments on 8 Mouthwatering Mookata Joints in Singapore

This house believes Singapore is a country of soup and barbecue lovers. Just look at the vast number of steamboat joints, Korean barbecue spots, and that old-school stalwart Seoul Garden. It’s no surprise then, that mookata, a Thai amalgamation of Korean barbecue and Chinese hotpot, has found tons of fans here.

Originating from Thailand, the term ‘mookata’ is actually ‘mu kratha’, with “mu” meaning pig or pork and “kratha” referring to a skillet or pan. The pan in question typically comes with a dome top surrounded by a trench for the soup. It all sounds pretty average until you see the cooking in action. Scores of meat and seafood plaster the top of that dome (stuck down by a generous layer of pork lard), bubbling and sizzling away as fat and umami goodness drip down into the moat to create some delicious, delicious soup.

Stomach rumbling and mouth watering yet? Perfect, then you’re ready to embrace these mookata must-tries. Be warned, though, fancy clothes not advised here because the smells will linger.

Cr: 1_345 Secrets

1_345 Secrets of Thai Taste

With their location in the spacious food court at The Elitist building coupled with their late opening hours, 1_345 Secrets ensures a table for those late-night owls. Their menus are pretty straightforward, no fancy twists here, but their classics, deep soup pit, and MSG-less stock are popular enough to warrant a new outlet at Seng Kang Square, cheekily named 12_45 Secrets of Thai Taste. Why the blank? Here’s a hint: future number of outlets.

Find it at 25 Bukit Batok Crescent, The Elitist, Singapore 658066
Click here for more information on 1_345 Secrets of Thai Taste.

Mookata Traditional Thai BBQ

If you’re serious about chowing down in fine clothes, here’s a restaurant that’s decided to add a dedicated exhaust system to combat that smell problem. One of the pioneers of Mookata in Singapore, Mookata Traditional Thai BBQ now has 3 branches in Bugis, Katong, and Yishun to cater to their growing crowd of fans. They have a great selection of meats including streaky bacon and pork collar, 3 levels of spice, and change up their menus on occasion to keep diners coming back for more.

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

Cr: SethLui.com

Mookalicious

Being one of the few mookata locations in Bukit Timah doesn’t mean that Mookalicious slacks on the competition! With MSG-free soup and one of the freshest prawns and fish slices in town, it’s no wonder that there’s always a crowd.

Find it at Chicken House, 17 Lorong Kilat, Singapore (598139)
Click here for more information on Mookalicious.

Cr: Tom Yum Kungfu

Tom Yum Kungfu

We love that this mookata spot fire their pans with actual charcoal. Besides the clear and light broth which is better for those avoiding too much rich foods, their offerings also include uncommon protein options like venison and a homemade fish paste. Personally, we like to pair our bubbling soups with yummy Thai dishes off their a la carte menu.

Find it at 56 Serangoon Garden Way, Singapore (555952) or 16 Circular Rd, Singapore (049372)
Click here for more information on Tom Yum Kungfu.

Cr: Ladyboy

Ladyboy Moo-ka-Cheese

We’ve had traditional mookata, we’ve had kungfu mookata, now here’s something a little (or a lot) cheesier. Besides your usual soup selections, Ladyboy Moo-ka-Cheese turns the typical mookata on its head by offering you a choice of decadent cheese dips with names as cheeky as the restaurant moniker. Try Ladyboy Cheese and Golden Salted Egg Cheese for starters, but if you’re looking to sample every type they have, prepare to stay past midnight for sure.

Find it at 644 Geylang Lorong 40, Singapore (389574)
Book a table at Ladyboy Moo-ka-cheese and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG.

Siam Square Mookata

Here’s another old hand at this hotpot delicacy, Siam Square Mookata. This chain restaurant has grown greatly since the first outlet at Siam Square and bears the coveted title as one of the largest, if not the largest, mookata chains in Singapore, with a whopping 9 outlets in total. In keeping with its tradition, it has maintained a no-frills style and continues to wow fans with a secret chilli sauce recipe (practically magic words to a Singaporean).

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

Cr: Huay Kwang Thai

Huay Kwang Thai Mookata

Sure, service here isn’t Michelin-level but with an affordable buffet that leaves your wallet feeling comfortable, does it really matter? With fresh seafood and a good selection of meats, Huay Kwang Thai is popular and gaining fans every day. Open until 2am, this place is perfect for supper seekers.

Find it at 244R Upper Thomson Road, Singapore 574369
Click here for more information on Huay Kwang Thai.

Cr: Happy Mookata

Happy Mookata

Golden Mile Tower is a haven of Thai delights and mookata is no exception. For your standard, no-frills mookata buffet paired with some of the most affordable prices in Singapore, Happy Mookata is great. Drinks are not included in the buffet, but they’re not expensive either, plus the Thai Milk Tea here is of the less sweet variety, perfect for avoiding an early death. The seafood is frozen, so depending on your luck you could get fresh ones or not so fresh ones, but the meats are usually dependable.

Find it at Golden Mile Tower, 6001 Beach Road #01-55D, Singapore 199589
Click here for more information on Happy Mookata.

Tags mookata, Singapore, Thai cuisine

Lifestyle Singapore

5 interesting facts you should know about Chinese New Year

Post author By Michelle Tan
Post date February 15, 2018
No Comments on 5 interesting facts you should know about Chinese New Year

Lion and Dragon Dance to celebrate Chinese New Year at Wynn Las Vegas in Las Vegas, NV on January 27, 2012. (C) Erik Kabik/ Retna Ltd.

It’s finally the eve of the Lunar New Year! While we prepare ourselves for the main event tomorrow, how many of these facts do we actually know about one of the world’s most celebrated festivities?

Cr: voanews.com

The longest-lasting fireworks display in the world

The Lunar New Year is celebrated by almost ¼ of the world’s population, with China being the largest population to date. It is thought that setting off fireworks at the stroke of midnight “scares off” evil spirits from the previous year and kick-starting the new one on a clean slate. The festival also sees the biggest annual fireworks usage globally; there isn’t a single hour in any other country that witnesses the lighting of fireworks at such a scale than in China – and they produce about 90% of the world’s fireworks!

Cr: CityWeekend.com

It’s the only time to catch up with the family over lively and friendly banter

… well, sort of.

Those who are in their late twenties onwards and unattached would have prepared themselves for all the “when will you get married?” ~~interrogations~~ questions from family members. Taobao, China’s largest online shopping website, even offers ‘rent-a-boyfriend’ services for single women in China to bring men of their choice back home for the festivities to appease their older relatives!

Cr: Asian Fusion Mag

Enjoying Lion & Dragon Dances

The Chinese lion and dragon are creatures that are associated with luck and prosperity. During Chinese New Year, Lion Dance troupes go from door-to-door around neighbourhoods performing dances to invite good fortune to people’s homes. In return, the residents will reward them with a red packet. The dance can range from a 3-minute performance to an elaborate 10-minute display of acrobatic feats depending on the amount awarded.

On the other hand, the Dragon Dance is usually a public performance since it requires a large number of Dragon dancers to hold up the dragon’s body (which can go up to over 200 feet long!) on poles, creating an illusion of a flying dragon in the air.

Cr: CityWeekend.com

Adhering to Chinese New Year superstitions

Starting the new year on a good note is of utmost importance, which is why it comes as no surprise that there are a number of superstitions that the Chinese follow to ensure a smooth-sailing year ahead. The following are just a few prominent ones; how many of these do you actually follow?

Avoid taking medicine during the first couple of days of Chinese New Year so that your year ahead isn’t plagued with illnesses
Don’t sweep or take out garbage on the first day of Chinese New Year to avoid “sweeping away the luck and fortune” that come to your home
Avoiding eating porridge for breakfast as porridge is seen as a sign of being ‘poor’ (since porridge is a common food for the poor in China)
Don’t do the laundry on the first and second day of the Lunar New Year because these two days are celebrated as the birthday of the Water God (‘shui shen’ / 水神)
You shouldn’t wash your hair on the first day of Chinese New Year or else you’d be ‘washing your fortune away’

Cr: Flickr @ Choo Yut Shing

Eating foods that are considered lucky

What’s a festival without some good ol’ feast fest! In Chinese culture, even the food that we eat during Chinese New Year has to have some sort of symbolism to them. Among the most popular (and important ones) to have are Nian Gao 年糕 or Glutinous Rice Cakes (to signify that one will prosper and reap better rewards in the new year), lucky fruits such as mandarin oranges and pomelos (symbolising fullness and wealth), and fish (which represents more savings to come in the following year).

Cr: CityWeekend.com

Giving and receiving red packets or ‘angpao’

This is undoubtedly one of the most anticipated reasons why children LOVE Chinese New Year. Inside these crimson envelopes are ‘lucky money’ given to children by their elders, usually from people who are married or even those who have started to earn their way, and they get to spend it however they like. #bestgiftsever

Not receiving actual angpao this year? Fret not because we’re ringing in a paws-perous Year of the Dog with Chope’s Secret Angpao!

We’re letting you relive the thrill of opening angpaos again and again when you redeem virtual angpaos for 50 Chope-Dollars each, where lucrative prizes such as $50 Chope Shop credits and $88 cash. Think you’re the HUAT-est? Try your luck today!

Tags Chinese New Year, fireworks, Lion Dance, Luck, Lunar New Year, Secret Angpao, Singapore, Superstitions

Lifestyle Others Singapore

CNY Activities For Everyone (even if you aren’t Chinese)

Post author By Veena Vinod
Post date February 14, 2018
No Comments on CNY Activities For Everyone (even if you aren’t Chinese)

If you aren’t Chinese or forego typical Chinese New Year visitations, the long weekend is a welcome respite from work, but can also be pretty boring. Most of the shops are closed, your friends are busy, and you’re stuck with no plans. But if you’re feeling the itch to get in on the festivities, here are some options for you to consider!

Bai Nian At Friends’ Places

Chinese New Year is more than just red packets, it’s also a good time to catch up with friends and wish them good luck in the coming year. Heading over to their house (with their permission, of course, Chope does not support breaking & entering) to ‘bai nian’, aka receiving well wishes in Mandarin, is a good way to join in the celebrations. Bring two oranges and exchange them with your friend or the head of their household while saying simple Mandarin wishes such as Gong Xi Fa Cai – wishing you a prosperous year, and Wan Shi Ru Yi – may all your wishes come true. Then, settle in for delicious snacking and chit chats!

Cr: little day out

Watch Lion Dance Performances

The lion dance is an icon of Chinese New Year, and no to-do list would be complete without it. If you’re in school, you may be lucky enough to watch one as part of the annual Chinese New Year festivities. If you’re not in school, fret not. There are plenty of lion dance performances complete with stunts and confetti tossing performed at heartland malls and community centres all across the island during Chinese New Year. You may even catch an orange, if you’re lucky.

Find it at various locations.
Click here for more information on Lion Dance Performances.

Cr: The Straits Times

Chinatown Light Up

Chinatown is already pretty colourful, but it’s especially bedazzled this time of year. If you missed the light-up celebrations earlier this year, now’s your chance to enjoy the elaborate, festive splendour of one of Singapore’s best-loved heritage districts. Without the large crowds thronging the area, this is the perfect time to soak in the sights without the hassle of jostling pedestrians. Start at People’s Park Complex and work your way down the streets.

Find it at various locations.
Click here for more information on the Chinatown Light Up.

Unique Reunion Dinners

If you want to have a reunion dinner but aren’t in the mood for a 10-course Chinese meal, why not opt for some unique spots instead? Here’s a roundup of fancy festive menus from all over the island at varying price points. From spicy sour Thai cuisine to delightfully fresh Japanese fare, there’s something for everyone on this list. Gather some friends together, toss some lo hei, and ring in the New Year with a twist!

Find it at various locations.
Click here for more information on unique Chinese New Year spots.

Chingay Parade

Looking to snap some stunning photos? Look no further. Organised by the People’s Association, this parade is now in its 46th installment. The parade has become synonymous with Chinese New Year, and it’s easy to see why. This gorgeous street parade, modeled after the Carnival of Brazil, features multiracial performers and colourful floats decked out in twinkling lights, as well as iconic festive props such as dragons and ingots.

Find it at 1 Republic Blvd, Singapore 038975
Click here for more information on the Chingay Parade.

Tags Chinese New Year, Singapore

Hacks & How-Tos Lifestyle Singapore

7 Unique Pancake Recipes for Shrove Tuesday

Post author By Averlynn Lim
Post date February 13, 2018
No Comments on 7 Unique Pancake Recipes for Shrove Tuesday

In the eternal debate between waffles all the way or being a pancake purist, we often find ourselves vacillating between the two. This Shrove Tuesday, aka Pancake Day, join us as we reaffirm our love for fluffy pancakes with these 7 dee-licious recipes that’ll have your kitchens smelling divine. !

From decadent over-the-top pancakes coated in butter and sugar to Nutella-stuffed pancakes (YES!), these hotcakes are worth the extra time in the kitchen.

Cr: Chopstick Chronicles

1. Soufflé Pancakes

Soufflé. Sou-fflé. Just the word itself brings to mind images of light, fluffy clouds. Unlike the usual pancakes, these are made using whipped egg whites, giving them their characteristic airy texture. The secret ingredient here is the mayonnaise, however feel free to skip it if you can’t get it!

Ingredients (serves 2)
2 large eggs
15 g sugar
½ tablespoon mayonnaise
½ tablespoon milk
20 g plain flour
¼ tsp cream of tartar

For full recipe directions from Chopstick Chronicles, click here.

Cr: The Spruce

2. Red Velvet Pancakes

We’ve heard of red velvet cakes and red velvet cupcakes. Why not up your ante by whipping up a fluffy stack of red velvet pancakes, drizzled with a luscious cream cheese frosting? Plus, these are made easy with a red velvet cake mix, so if you’re short on time, this recipe is perfect for you.

Psst, Valentine’s Day is tomorrow, so if your S/O is a pancake fanatic, you know what to do! 😉

Ingredients (serves 6)
For Red Velvet Pancakes:
1 package of Red Velvet Cake Mix (any brand)
3/4 cup plain flour
1 3/4 cup milk
2 eggs
4 tablespoons butter
Non-stick cooking spray/butter (for greasing)

Cream Cheese Icing:
4 ounces (113g) cream cheese
1/4 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

View full recipe directions from The Spruce here.

Cr: killing thyme

3. Matcha Pancakes

Matcha fans, this one’s for you. These pancakes are a beautiful shade of green, with a smooth and earthy taste. Top with fruits and greek yogurt as suggested, or to up the decadence, give it a drizzle of white chocolate.

Ingredients (serves 8)
2 eggs
2/3 cup milk
1/4 cup vegetable oil/melted butter
1/4 cup sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup plain flour
2 tablespoons matcha powder
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/8 tsp salt

For full recipe directions, head to killing thyme here.

Cr: Creme de la Crumb

4. Banana Bread Pancakes

If you love anything that’s made with banana, then you’ll love this twist on the classic banana cake. These are made with very ripe, mashed bananas, making these fluffy pancakes superbly moist. If you prefer an extra crunch, throw some chopped walnuts into the batter and griddle ‘em up!

Ingredients (serves 4)
1 cup plain flour
1 tablespoon sugar
1 tablespoon brown sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
¼ teaspoon salt
1 egg
1 cup milk
2 tablespoons butter, melted
½ teaspoon vanilla
2 medium bananas (very ripe)
⅓ cup walnuts

For full recipe directions from Creme de la Crumb, click here.

Cr: RecipeTin Eats

5. Nutella Stuffed Pancakes

Nothing says surprise more than stuffed pancakes. Slice through these fluffy golden discs to reveal a glorious molten Nutella centre. Perfect for lovers of all things chocolate or Nutella.

Ingredients (serves 6 – 7)
10 – 14 tablespoons Nutella
1 1/2 cups plain flour
3 teaspoons baking powder
4 tablespoons sugar
Pinch of salt
1 egg
1 cup + 2 tbsp milk
1 tsp vanilla essence (optional)
1 tsp butter

Find full recipe directions from RecipeTin Eats here.

Cr: Cooking On The Front Burner

6. Churro Pancakes

If you’ve never heard of churros before, they are fried dough pastries covered in melted butter and tossed in cinnamon sugar. Now, you can have it in pancake version with this recipe featuring soft, fluffy cinnamon pancakes coated with butter and cinnamon sugar. To add a kick, finish your stack with a drizzle of spicy chocolate sauce that’s made with cayenne pepper.

Ingredients (serves 8)
3/4 cup white flour
3/4 cup whole wheat flour
1/8 cup sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon
1/2 teaspoons baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 large egg
1 egg white
1 1/2 cup skimmed milk
2 tablespoons butter
1/2 cup sugar
2 teaspoons cinnamon
6 oz. (170g) chocolate chips
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons butter
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
1 1/2 teaspoon baking powder

For full recipe directions from Cooking On The Front Burner, click here.

Cr: A Pretty Life In The Suburbs

7. Dutch Baby Pancake

If you’re wondering why this pancake looks different from the rest in this article, then here’s why. Dutch babies, also known as German pancakes, are similar to the popovers served during Thanksgiving. These pancakes are baked in a cast iron pan, and puff up beautifully in the oven. Incredibly simple to make and versatile, this is one recipe you’ve got to add to your breakfast repertoire!

Ingredients (serves 6)
1 cup milk
1 cup flour
1/2 cup sugar
4 large eggs
8 tablespoons butter

For full recipe directions, head over to A Pretty Life In The Suburbs here.

Tags Dessert, Pancake Day, pancakes, recipes, Shrove Tuesday

Lifestyle Singapore

Instagrams to Follow for Foodies

Post author By Rachel Ho
Post date February 9, 2018
No Comments on Instagrams to Follow for Foodies

https://www.instagram.com/lennardy/ — @lennardy

For all the hate we dish on influencers (influencer influenza, hurhur), let’s face it: there have been times when we were nudged into trying a new restaurant just because the flat lays they featured were #onpoint. And then we head down there, only to realise it’s a big bag of crushed dreams and wasted dollars.

But fear not – here are some of the top Instagrammers in Singapore to follow to save yourselves the disappointment.

@lennardy

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A post shared by Lennard Yeong (@lennardy)

(Topmost main image also @lennardy)

Despite the lack of formal culinary training, self-proclaimed YouTube-taught Lennard Yeong joined culinary competition MasterChef Asia in 2015. He may not have been crowned the winner, but the good-looking engineer has emerged a prince in his own right, with over 62,000 followers. His Instagram features technically precise dishes he experiments with at home, all prettily plated for the ‘grams. But for those of us not so lucky to get a seat at his kitchen, Lennard provides plenty of inspiration as he makes his way around Singapore and around the globe, showing off wagyu burgers in New York alongside street eats from Bangkok.

@bibikgourmand

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A post shared by Evelyn Chen (@bibikgourmand)

Food writer Evelyn Chen keeps an Instagram that is both pleasing to the eye and informative. Each photo – none of those amateur shadows, mind you – is accompanied by the ever-useful geotag and a short caption, telling you what you’re looking at. Sometimes they read like a snippet of a diary entry – a Jan 3 post reveals what she did with 500g of squid from Ghim Moh market – and in others, a critic’s verdict on a new restaurant. It’s a personable way to keep up to date with the latest eateries – both the humble and the atas – in Singapore.

@wenoms

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A post shared by kerri (@wenoms)

Kerri Teo’s Instagram is just over a year old but has amassed more than 300 posts to date, which goes to show how often she eats. She is not afraid to tell us if a dish didn’t live up to its hype, and gives you a heads-up if there are good promotions to take advantage of (though you could also just check out our Chope Exclusives for great deals). She posts about her gastronomic adventures to fancier restaurants like Chef’s Table or Whitegrass, but isn’t ashamed to review the humble Ikea hot dog, either.

@eugenekhooyr

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A post shared by ek. (@eugenekhooyr)

Even if you were content to eat cardboard for the rest of your life, Eugene Khoo’s Instagram is still a delight to peruse, given all the aesthetic photos on his feed. Eugene is another globetrotter, travelling to cities as disparate as Melbourne, Modena and Copenhagen to satiate his desire for good food – another useful account for those who search for travel recommendations on the social media platform. Eugene’s feed is also great for the mini wine lessons he imparts, whether it’s about the way he describes a bubbly he enjoyed, or you just need some recs.

Tags bibikgourmand, eugenekhooyr, Foodies, Instagram, lennardy, wenoms

Links We Love Singapore

Weekend Reads: 9 – 11 Feb

Post author By Veena Vinod
Post date February 9, 2018
No Comments on Weekend Reads: 9 – 11 Feb

Crochet food, lobster emojis and a secret mocktail bar to check out for Valentine’s day!

Y’all, food art is really a Thing lately. Have a crocheted feast!

These cheese-wrapped chicken creations are only a causeway away!

This rooftop bar is so hidden, you have to ask staff where the secret entrance is.

We’ll finally be getting a lobster emoji later this year.

If you’re bored of white bread, you need these bread hacks in your life.

This week in WTF: Cappucino served in a carrot stick. A carrot-cino.

In other news, the Chope team put Chrissy Teigen and Martha Stewart’s Banana Bread recipes to the test to see which one reigns supreme.

From powdered orange juice to liquid salt, are some of the wacky foods astronauts eat in outer space.

No idea what to do for Valentine’s day? This gorgeous cake will wow your date and psst…it’s not hard to make.

Don’t forget to check out GlowBeat this weekend – they’ve got live music, great food and a huge illuminated ball pit for the young at heart!

Tags Bars, Mocktail, Singapore, Weekend Reads

Lifestyle Singapore

Everything you wanted to know about Lo Hei

Post author By Chope
Post date February 9, 2018
2 Comments on Everything you wanted to know about Lo Hei

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, looking for a unique dining experience, or trying to save some cash, we’ve got you covered. While you’re at it, check out our local lo hei guide!

Tags Cantonese, Chinese, Chinese New Year, Lo-Hei, Singapore, Yusheng