Categories
Lifestyle Singapore Singapore

8 Local-Inspired Meals to Feed the Singaporean in You!

Celebrate National Day in a truly Singaporean way: by eating! There’s nothing that brings the country together like our unique food, so loosen your belt and showcase your Singaporean appetite with these meals that capture what we love most about Singapore.

1. Urbana Rooftop Bar

Urbana Rooftop Bar ViewUrbana Rooftop Bar Cocktails

Have a bit of fun this National Day and treat yourself to some tipples and bar bites at Urbana Rooftop Bar. Boasting fine wines, signature cocktails, and a beautiful view that stretches all the way to Marina Bay, it’s a great place for a patriotic party. Your favourite hawker center supper of satay and Milo gets a boozy, classy upgrade here too!

The signature Pork and Pineapple Satay is everything we look for in a satay and more. Chunks of tender, juicy pork melt satisfyingly away from the stick, carrying hints of smoky char, while the pineapple provides bursts of sweetness. It also goes perfectly with the Chocoloco, a smooth, creamy, chocolatey cocktail. Made with Baileys, chocolate syrup, and vodka then topped with Milo powder, it’s inspired by none other than our childhood favourite Milo Dinosaur.

Find it at 99 Irrawaddy Road, Level 33, Courtyard by Marriott Singapore Novena, Singapore 329568.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.
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2. Sky22Sky22 Tiger Prawn Laksa LemakSky22 Singapore Chilli Crab Pizza

Well, maybe satay and cocktails aren’t quite enough for a properly filling dinner. In that case, you can always count on Sky22, with its menu of Singaporean foods made indulgent with premium ingredients, for a hearty meal of local favourites. It’s in the same building as Urbana Rooftop Bar too, so you can always head upstairs for post-dinner drinks and a spot of supper!

Make sure you’re prepared for some heat, because both their signature items pack quite a punch! Slurp up a generous bowl of Tiger Prawn Laksa Lemak, topped with quail eggs, fishcakes, and huge, sweet tiger prawns. The coconut gravy is a masterpiece, balancing the spiciness with its creamy texture and fragrance. And of course, the Chilli Crab Pizza, with generous chunks of crab and lots of chilli, is far too tempting to resist.

Find it at 99 Irrawaddy Road, Courtyard by Marriott Singapore Novena, Singapore 329568.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.
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3. Caffe Fernet

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bl4kphFnt_p/?taken-by=caffefernetsg

Once you have kids, National Day celebrations become a family affair. Still, that doesn’t mean staying home and watching Channel 5 broadcasts of the parade. Head down to Caffe Fernet for their National Day menu, featuring delicious family-style Italian eats sporting local touches.

The Atlantic Lobster & Prawn Ravioli, with its laksa leaf and chilli, looks a lot like an Italian rendition of laksa. As for meats, there’s a Beef Short Rib Rendang to quell those curry cravings. End your dinner with an array of local-inspired sweets, while the magnificent fireworks colour the night sky.

Find it at 70 Collyer Quay, #01-05, Customs House, Singapore 049323.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.
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4. Forlino

Imagine yourself in a luxurious dining room, right by a window enjoying an unobstructed view of Fullerton Bay and the fireworks, savouring gourmet Italian foods infused with Singaporean flavours. That’s exactly what you’ll get at Forlino, an Italian fine-dining restaurant with a local-inspired National Day menu to die for.

Their set menu includes creative delights like a Nasi Lemak Arancino with Sambal Mayo for appetisers. Feast on irresistible mains such as Raviolini in Brodo – essentially, laksa ravioli – and the Cacciucco al Curry, a flavourful Italian take on curry fish head. Finally, dessert comes in the form of Kaya Toast, featuring kaya-flavoured panna cotta, toasted brioche, and pandan cream. Are you drooling yet? We sure are!

Find it at 1 Fullerton Road #02-06, One Fullerton, Singapore 049213.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.
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5. Dian Xiao Er

Chilli Soft Shell Crab

Love our iconic Chilli Crab, but just can’t get the hang of digging the meat out of the shell? The solution to your problem lies in Dian Xiao Er. Though this restaurant chain is famous for its crackling roast duck, they’re offering a National Day Special that takes the mess and hassle out of your favourite seafood.

Enter the Chilli Soft Shell Crab! A fried soft shell crab drenched in a fragrant chilli crab sauce and served with fluffy mantou, it’s an innovative (and much more convenient) version of the Chilli Crab. Tuck in and enjoy without having to struggle with the hard shell or clean your hands after! You’ll get an addictive crunch from the soft shell crab too!

Book a table at these outlets:

And earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

6. Bella Pizza

Bella Pizza National Day

Here’s your chance to show how much you love Singapore by eating our flag! Well, it’s not really our flag – just a half-and-half pizza that looks like the flag. Bella Pizza, a lively pizzeria on the shores of the Singapore River, is just what you need to dye your dinner a patriotic red and white.

The red half is a tangy, punchy tomato base pizza, with salami, fresh tomatoes, and ricotta on top. In contrast, the white half is creamier and more subtle, featuring a cheese sauce with egg, mascarpone, and black truffle.

Find it at 30 Robertson Quay, #01-14, Riverside View, Singapore 238251.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.
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7. NOX – Dine in the Dark

Nox_1Nox_2

Let NOX take your taste buds on a trip around Singapore town with dishes inspired by local flavours. NOX provides you with a one-of-a-kind experience by dining in the dark this National day. Be greeted with a special National Day cocktail or mocktail before you begin this mysterious dining journey.

Meticulously designed by the head chef, a 4-course Mystery Set Menu comprising of 14 dishes will be served. Feed on your curiosity and treat yourself to a little surprise! You can uncover the surprise after dinner by looking at pictures of the food you had in the dark while sipping on coffee and tea in the lit up bar lounge area.

Find it at 269 Beach Road, Singapore 199546.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.
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8. Colony

Ritz Colony Laksa with Lobster BallRitz Colony Long Journey Cocktail

Embrace the kiasu spirit of Singapore and eat your money’s worth at Colony. Reminiscent of a classy British lounge, the upscale hotel buffet with its open kitchens where you can watch the chefs at work offers both a delicious meal and an exciting show.

Get your fix of whatever local dish you fancy. We’re talking dim sum, wok-fried hawker foods, smoky treats straight out the Tandoor, and more – all in one dining room. Remember to keep a corner of your stomach free for dessert. There’s an irresistible smorgasbord of pastries and sweet delights just begging to be gobbled up!

Find it at Level 3, 7 Raffles Avenue, Singapore 039799.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.
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Categories
Events Lifestyle Singapore Singapore

8 Things You Don’t Want to Miss at This Weekend’s STREAT

The Singapore Food Festival is back, and it kicks off with STREAT 2018, the two-day culinary carnival taking place this Friday and Saturday (13 and 14 July). Come feast, take part in workshops and drink to your heart’s content at this giant party held at Empress Lawn. Bookings close on Thursday (12 July), but besides securing a place, you also get $15 worth of credits to spend when you do so. Still overwhelmed? We shortlist what you need to check out.

1. A Singapore-themed cocktail from the best bar in Asia

Manhattan SG50 Singapura Nacional

For the first time, Streat has a dedicated bar — and Asia’s best at that. What’s more, the Manhattan pop-up will appeal to every deal-hunting Singaporean with special prices of $15 nett. And to round it off, you’ll get to try the Singapura Nacional, which won the SG50 Toast to the Nation cocktail contest several years ago. Combining ingredients from two iconic cocktails, the Hotel Nacional Special and the Singapore Sling, this refreshing concoction of gin pineapple and lemon juices, apricot brandy, and grapefruit bitters is said to complement our tropical climate.

Want more? Level up your wine appreciation here! Or, take things one step further and learn how to make your own cocktails here!

2. Locally inspired cuisine by two chefs from Michelin-starred restaurants

Alma X Saint Pierre.jpg
Cr: ticketing.igo.events

Indulge in a ‘four-hand, five-course’ dining experience put together by the chefs of two Michelin-starred restaurants. Haikal Johari of Alma by Juan Amador and Emmanuel Stroobant of Saint Pierre give their take on a Singapore-inspired menu. It features beef short rib with everyone’s favourite poisonous fruit, buah keluak, and a flourless chocolate cake comprising hazelnut and dehydrated longan. Tickets are $60 and some seatings have sold out, so book them here soon.

3. The ‘It’ ingredient of the year in a delicious cake

Butterfly Pea Flower Mille Crepe.jpg
Cr: ticketing.igo.events

Mandarin Hotel’s executive pastry chef Winnie Goh — the World Gourmet Summit’s Pastry Chef of the Year — demonstrates how to make a cake with a traditionally Peranakan ingredient now in vogue with the millennial crowd. Attendees will learn to work with the butterfly pea flower and make a 15-layer mille crepe cake the perfect shade of robin egg blue. Spread a light mousse made with coconut jelly and Inaya™ Chocolate and you have a dessert that will be the talk of the town.

Sign up for the class here.

4. Lessons on gut-friendly foods

Kimchi.jpg
Cr: chowhound.com

Make your own kimchi in this workshop by Mahato Commune, a multi-concept wellness store and organic grocer in Jalan Besar. Learn how to pick and pickle the right ingredients, and why these fermented foods are good for you.

Come and be proactive about probiotics in this class.

5. Tips on how to make a popular Singaporean snack

Ang Ku Kueh
Cr: epochtimes.today

Cooking school Rainbow Lapis shares how to make this beloved Fujian snack in its ang ku kueh workshop. With pro tips, a special recipe and a crash course on its origin and evolution, you’ll learn everything there is to know about the ang ku kueh. The fun continues at home too! Participants can take home a pre-mixed flour set (mould included!) so they can apply what they learnt at home.

Join the fun here.

6. A culinary ‘trip’ to Japan

Sakura Somen
Cr: ticketing.igo.events

No time or money to go to Japan? Sign up for a workshop by Angus Chow, head chef of Boruto and World Gourmet Summit Chef of the Year, to make sakura hiyashi somen! The dish comprises sweet noodles made from cherry blossoms and accompanied by a perfectly cooked onsen egg and crunchy sakura ebi.

Learn from the master here.

7. Limited edition beers and great music

Trouble Brewing.jpg
Cr: thepeakmagazine.com.sg

Grab a couple of limited edition beers (and waters, for the teetotalers among us), crafted by local brewery Trouble Brewing for the Singapore Food Festival’s 25th anniversary. Pop open a bottle as you listen to local acts serenade you!

8. Food galore

What food festival is complete without, well, food stalls? Some of your Chope favourites like Lolla, Morsels, and Gayatri Restaurant will be there, offering both traditional and modern takes on local classics.

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Categories
Hong Kong Interviews Singapore

Gagan Gurung, the Adventurous Mixologist at Fang Fang in Hong Kong

Eng | 

Fang Fang’s Bar Manager and Mixologist, Gagan Gurung, uses the traditional Chinese five elements as inspiration for his creations. We recently had the opportunity to sit down with him and ask him a few questions:

Fang Fang_Edited_02.jpg

Q1. Where are you from?

G: “I am from Nepal, but have been living in Hong Kong for half my life.”

Q2. When did you become interested in tending a bar?

G: “I started out as a waiter, then became a chef when I grew more interested in working with different flavours. However, people that work in the kitchen are usually individuals with more quiet personalities, which I don’t have. I saw that being behind the bar was my perfect opportunity – I can work with flavours but be a host and chat with diners at the same time.”

Fang Fang_drinks
Trái DÂt (Left): The combination of pineapple, turmeric and coconut milk is refreshing and a reminder of Southeast Asian flavours.
Omikuji Girl (Right): Made of yuzu, shiso and tequila, this cocktail is sweet and smooth on the palate.

Q3. Can you share with us the most memorable experience in your career?

G: “I once spilt a glass of red wine on a lady who was on her first date. She was wearing a white dress too!”

Q4. What is your current favourite, or go-to cocktail?

G: “Daiquiri – because I have a huge love for rum – and it’s a cocktail which doesn’t have too many ingredients but is still flavourful. It only has rum, lime, and sugar, but it tastes amazing. Give it a try!”

Fang Fang_Edited_05.jpg
Daiquiri: A classic cocktail with the natural sourness of lime and an astringent spirit.

Q5. Can you name 3 behind the bar essentials you cannot do without?

G: “Music, which sets the vibe and ambience for the night. Then sugar syrup, because it’s hard to create most of the delicious cocktails without it. The last one is sanitizer liquid which plays a vital role because of the importance of hygiene.”

Q6. What is the most frequently requested drink by customers?

G: “The most frequently requested drink is the Old Fashioned, probably because the Hong Kong cocktail culture is still relatively young compared to other big cities. Most customers in other cities go for the drinks they know well, as there’s no risk if you know the flavour. On the other hand, consumers in Hong Kong are very willing to try out different cocktails that they haven’t tasted before.”

Q7. What is the most unusual drink request you have received?

G: “Someone once said to me ‘make me a non-alcoholic margarita, but it has to taste like a margarita’… but margaritas are supposed to taste like tequila. It’s like ordering pizza without dough!”

Q8. What do you think are the qualities of the perfect cocktail?

G: “I would say a balanced proportion of ingredients because if you’re not careful enough with the measurements, you can turn a beautiful drink into a terrible drink. Consistency is also important, as you don’t want your the cocktail tasting different if it was reordered. To ensure this, we need to train our team well.”

Fang Fang_Edited_04.jpg
South Easterian: A special cocktail made by Gagan, which is sour and complex. Lemongrass is used as a straw, which is interesting and adds another layer to the drink.

Q9. Can you introduce Fang Fang’s features?

G: “Our cocktails are very experimental and a little bit out of the box in terms of flavour, but we also have easy low-risk cocktails too. By risky drinks, I mean we have cocktails featuring kimchi, squid ink and chickpea, so it depends on the guest’s palate and preference. The low-risk cocktails include classic cocktails with a slight twist, such as Garden Old Fashioned, Forgotten Sour (Whiskey Sour) and Fangroni (Negroni). Environment sustainability is also one of Fang Fang’s concerns. Our cocktails are all served with eco-friendly straws made from potato starch, paper or lemongrass.

【Limited Time Offer】Chope now and enter the promo code: FFPANDA to enjoy 25% off at Fang Fang during dinner, when you book through the Chope app or website from now until 31 August 2018!

Terms and Conditions:

  • Offer is valid for dinner.
  • Offer is valid from 6 July 2018 to 31 August 2018.
  • Offer cannot be used in conjunction with Chope vouchers, other offers, discounts and/or promotions.
  • Offers are non-transferable and cannot be redeemed for cash or credit.
  • In cases of any disputes, Fang Fang reserves the right to make the final decision.


【專訪調酒師Gagan Gurung  最尷尬的時刻是什麽?】

Eng

燈紅酒綠的蘭桂坊,是賣醉狂歡的天堂。吧檯後的調酒師,用一杯杯美酒,陪伴客人渡過歡樂與憂傷的時候。這次我們來到蘭桂坊的Fang Fang,專訪酒吧經理Gagan Gurung ,了解他當調酒師的難忘經歷和趣事!

Fang Fang_Edited_02.jpg

Q1. 你來自哪裡?

G:我在尼泊爾出生,年幼時搬到香港。

Q2. 你什麼時候開始對在酒吧工作感興趣?

G:在廚房工作的人性格通常會獨立工作,工作環境較爲安靜,而我卻較喜歡與人互動。我最初任職侍應,後來發現當調酒師更自由,寓工作於娛樂。

Fang Fang_drinks
Trái DÂt(左): 熊貓造型可愛,菠蘿、薑黃、椰奶等的組合味道偏甜,帶東南亞風味。
Omikuji Girl(右) : 柚子、紫蘇葉、龍舌蘭酒的配搭酸中帶甜,容易入口。

Q3. 你在職業生涯中最難忘的經歷是哪一次?
G:我曾經不小心灑了一杯紅酒在一位女士身上。她當天穿了白色的裙子,更是第一次約會,我幾乎被大家殺死,哈哈!

Q4. 你最喜歡什麼雞尾酒?
G: 「Daiquiri」,因為我很喜歡朗姆酒,Daiquiri中沒有太多配料,只包含朗姆酒,青檸和糖,味道令人驚嘆,值得一試!

Fang Fang_Edited_05.jpg
Daiquiri:經典的雞尾酒,青檸的天然酸味和微澀令人精神爲之一震。

Q5. 你認爲酒吧中最重要的三個元素是什麽?

G:第一是音樂,因爲它可令環境和氣氛更好。第二是糖漿,因為如果沒有它,就很難製作出大部分美味的雞尾酒了。最後一個是衛生消毒液,在酒吧衛生很重要,不能忽略。

Q6. 哪一款飲料最受歡迎?

G: 最多客人點的是「 Old Fashioned 」,可能因為香港對比其他大城市,雞尾酒的文化還未普及,大家都很樂意嘗試不同口味的雞尾酒,而其他城市的人則偏好經典口味,因為味道熟悉,不會不合口味。

Q7. 你收過最奇怪的客人要求是甚麼?

G: 曾經有一次,客人希望我調製一杯沒有酒精的瑪格麗特,但味道要像瑪格麗特一樣。可是瑪格麗特的主要成分是龍舌蘭酒,若沒有酒,就像披薩沒有麵糰一樣!

Q8. 你認為一杯完美的雞尾酒應具備甚麼條件?

G: 我覺得成分的比例平衡最重要,要是不能拿捏準確,那麼整杯雞尾酒便會毀掉。另外,保持品質一致亦很重要,水準不一會影響客人的印象。為了確保出品,我們需要多次的訓練。

Fang Fang_Edited_04.jpgSouth Easterian:由Gagan調製的特色雞尾酒,酸味濃烈且複雜,用香茅作飲管相當有趣,更能令飲品添上層次。

Q9. 你可否介紹一下Fang Fang的特色?

G: 這裡的雞尾酒大致上課分爲兩大類,除了經典雞尾酒的變奏,如Garden Old Fashioned, Forgotten Sour和Fangroni外,當然亦有些非常實驗性的,如加入泡菜、墨汁、鷹嘴豆等等,味道頗為創新,取決於客人的口味和偏好。另外,我們注重環境保護,因此選用以香茅、薯粉及紙製作飲管,天然又環保。

【限時優惠】由即日起至2018年8月31日,透過Chope網上或手機應用程式訂座,輸入促銷代碼 : FFPANDA 於 Fang Fang 訂座及享用晚餐,即可獲75折!

條款及細則:

  • 此優惠只適用於晚餐時段。
  • 此優惠有效日期為 2018年7月6日至 2018年8月31日。
  • 優惠不可與Chope美食優惠劵、酒店其他推廣或優惠同時使用。
  • 此優惠不可轉讓他人、兌換成現金或電子貨幣。
  • 如有任何爭議,Fang Fang對此優惠的所有相關事宜保留最終決定權。
Categories
Lifestyle Singapore Singapore

7 Great Spots for DIY Food Options in Singapore

Feel like you have little agency in your life? Have no fear, a list of customised food options is here! At these restaurants, you can use your imagination to create dishes that sit well with you. From alcohol to salad bowls to dessert, the motto here is: you do you.

 

1. Superfudo

Superfudo
Cr: misstamchiak.com

The only thing better than a restaurant with healthy options is one that lets you customise your grain bowl down to a T. This Holland Village cafe boasts a range of sous vide meats, a whole bunch of sides, but more importantly, enough different sizes to cater to all. The Petite option ($9) is not only affordable by Singapore grain bowl standards but also filling and delicious.

Find it at 15 Lor Liput, Singapore 277730.
Click here for more information.

2. Roadhouse

Roadhouse_Burger

Roadhouse_Breakfast

Pick one of Roadhouse’s 10 burger combis (sign me up for a Mac n’ Cheese burger!) or make your own. Choose a classic beef patty or upgrade to wagyu if you feel like treating yourself. Then pick your extras, like streaky bacon or avocado, next your cheeses, and finally your sauces. If you’re proud of your creation, top it off with an American milkshake. It’s hard not to feel good about something you (kind of) made.

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


3. Good Chance Popiah

Good Chance Pohpiah
Cr: sgfoodonfoot.com

If you head here, there’s a good chance you’ll come away with a popiah (spring roll) you’ll like. This three-generations-old restaurant uses traditional Hokkien ingredients, but also lets you bedazzle your popiah with additional ingredients like lapcheong (sliced Chinese sausage), prawn or crabmeat.

Find it at 149 Silat Ave, Singapore 160149.
Click here for more information.


4. The Spiffy Dapper

Spiffy Dapper_FoodSpiffy Dapper_Drink.JPG

This dive bar in the CBD has more than its fair share of ‘bar snacks’ (we liked the Spanish meatballs and garlic butter shrimp), but where it stands out is its drinks. There’s enough on the drinks list to keep you coming, but the bartenders can whip up something according to your palette. Always lovely when you can make your ideas come to fruition in some very capable hands.

Find it at 73 Amoy Street, Second Floor, Singapore 069892
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG
Book Now


5. Mad About Sucre

Mad About Sucre_Foie GrasMad About Sucre_Dessert

Fine dining restaurants may appear to be stuffy, but not at Mad About Sucre, which lets you feast on fancy dishes like oxtail penne or salt-cured and beer-marinated pork belly, and then ups the ante with top-ups for foie gras or prawns. If you really want to go down the extra-customised route, order a bespoke French cake. But be warned: the waiting list is currently three months long, so plan ahead.

Find it at 27 Teo Hong Rd, Singapore 088334
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG
Book Now


6. Fasta

Fasta_Salmon Confetti.jpgFasta_Tuna Poke.jpgFasta breaks all the rules about authentic Italian dining — but sometimes that’s just what we need. With a dedicated create-your-own-pasta menu, diners can have angel hair in pesto or even truffle quinoa in BBQ sauce, if that’s what their hearts desire. The bowls also come with four sides and two garnishes.

Find it at 26 Beach Road, #B1-23, South Beach Avenue, Singapore 189768
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG
Book Now


7. Fremantle Seafood Market

Fremantle_Chilli Crab.jpgFremantle - Whole Lobster Therimidor.jpg

You can get your chilli/black pepper/butter crab at any decent tze-char shop, but Fremantle also offers a spicy Cajun sauce that pairs perfectly with a crustacean of your choice. Continue to exercise your free will by choosing the perfect tapas to go with your Make Merry set, or what sauce sits well with your mussels.

Find it at 3E River Valley Road, #01-05, Singapore 179024
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG
Book Now

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Categories
Links We Love Singapore Singapore

Weekend Reads: 22 – 24 June

Loads of exciting things are happening this week, from the chance to actually have breakfast at Tiffany’s to World Cup cocktails. If you’re a fan of vodka, Audrey Hepburn, or Mac & Cheese, then you’ll love this edition of Weekend Reads!

This is what happens when you get a bot to write an ad for restaurants.

Planning a U.S.A. road trip? Take home these edible souvenirs so you can remind yourself and your tummy of your awesome holiday.

Blue Box cafe
Cr: ny.eater.com

If you’d rather just stay in New York, you have to check out breakfast at Tiffany’s. No, not the movie – you can actually have breakfast in the iconic jewellery shop on 5th Avenue!

It’s time to dive into the Jelly Belly of the beast and find out how jellybeans are made.

Here’s another reason to celebrate: it’s been scientifically proven that Mac & Cheese is the perfect food for humankind.

White russian cocktailCr: mycocktailmasterclass.co.uk

Complete your World Cup viewing party with these Russian-inspired cocktails.

Then, stave off the hangover with these Filipino comfort foods that are the perfect end to a boozy night.

Feed your Meghan Markle obsession and find out about what she eats in a day.

 

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Categories
Lifestyle Singapore Singapore

Need a Go-To Date Night Spot? Say Hello to The Palmary.

So, #bae has been hinting for another date night. Instead of going to another popular restaurant that’s likely to be crowded, you’re looking to impress. You want a discreet venue that sets the mood and dishes out amazing cuisine.

We’ll let you in on a little secret: suss out The Palmary, a quaint little eatery situated along Owen Road, for a tranquil getaway that you and your partner deserve. Choose from the selection of course-meals available and prepare yourselves for a night to remember!

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The Palmary’s known for Head Bartender Moses’ inventive tipples but if there’s one drink that they’re known for, it’s their Matcha Sour. For those who don’t like alcohol, this may just be the drink to start you off proper.

It’s an extremely smooth cocktail, despite containing matcha which is known to be extremely earthy. The description beneath the drink on the menu aptly says: “We got creative one drunken night and created this smooth and tangy baby”. And what a creation they have made! It’s light, it’s easy, it’s everything you never thought you needed – until you take your first sip, that is.

IMG_2155.jpg

Searching for something a little stronger before your meal? Enter the Lavender Negroni. This is probably what we’d imagine a femme fatale would be sipping on at the bar after hours. A Gin, Aperol, and Rosso concoction that’s laced with lavender bitters, this floral tipple packs quite an alcoholic punch. If you love your drinks with a little kick, you can’t go wrong with this one.

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Ease yourself into the courses with a Soup of the Day, in which case we had the privilege to sample the luxurious Lobster Bisque. And trust us, The Palmary doesn’t just do an average lobster soup – it’s all about flavour, flavour, flavour.

Chef Timothy transforms good lobster into a creamy bowl of comfort. Your first mouthful (and all others that follow) conjures up the essence of the sea. Meanwhile, flavours from the garden – onions, celery, and carrots – help to round off the palate. Creamy and pleasant, it’s a great way to start the meal.

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Forget about everything you know about laksa because The Palmary will have you rethink your allegiance for the local favourite. Again, Chef Timothy does justice to the fresh Boston Lobster, cooking it to perfection and plated with a creamy laksa sauce, topped with crisp laksa leaves. The Palmary’s Boston Lobster Tail Laksa has all the flavours that it’s meant to have, but the fresh sweetness of the lobster still shines through.

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Once you’re done with the lobster, return to land and tuck into the Westholme Wagyu Beef Rump Cap. With a marbling score between 6 and 7+,  you know you’re getting the good stuff without breaking the bank.

Utmost care has gone into the grilling that ensures a beautiful charring on the beef, lending a deeper flavour to the meat. A dashi reduction is cooked with burnt shallots and a medley of mushrooms, amping up the earthiness.

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Everyone knows that after the mains, it’s on to sweeter indulgences – and might we interest you in the Grapefruit Crémeux, Lavender Jelly, Berry Granita? Cleanse your palate with a refreshing berry granita nestled in a light grapefruit pudding, finished with berries and lavender jelly. Inviting, soothing, and overall revitalising, this little treat will brighten up your taste buds. Essentially, it’s the ultimate balance of goodness in a dessert.

If you’d rather have something warm, look no further than the Black & Red Jujube Pudding Gelato. Give your heart a little hug with a pudding consisting of the perfect blend of smokey black and sweet red dates, accompanied with a light salted wolfberry toffee. That’s how you end a smokey hot date on a sweet note.


Here’s a pro tip to give your plus one a meal they deserve without burning a hole in your wallet: plan your date night between Tuesdays and Thursdays and purchase a time-based discounted voucher to score 30% off your bill!

Find it at 142 Owen Road, Singapore 218941.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.
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Categories
Chope Egg Hunt 2018 Lifestyle News Singapore Singapore

[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

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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

EK YAP Creative Director Photographer www.ekyap.com www.flickr.com/ekyap58b5beb3a51b9586110553
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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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!

Categories
Features Singapore Singapore

Fresh Eats: May’s Munchies

Looking for something new and exciting to try this month? Look no further than these brand new restaurants. Whether it’s a new place to lounge around at or to chat over a few drinks, May’s fresh eats are sure to tickle those taste buds!

1. So France

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Cr: sgasiatelier.com
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Cr: sgambafrance.org

Be transported to France when you eat at So France, a bistro that looks, smells, and tastes authentically French. Explore flavours from all corners of France at the bistro, and indulge in premium French wines by the wine bar. Haven’t heard of French tapas before? It’s about high time you do! Get educated with French staples such as Duck Liver Choux Pastry Puffs or Assorted French Cheeses. Operating as a bistro, wine bar, and epicerie under one roof, you’ll get a full gastronomic experience that you can bring home with you.

Find it at 7 Fraser Street, Duo Galleria #01-51/56, Singapore 189356.
Click here for more information on So France.

2. Nostimo Greek Deli

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Cr: jiaksimipng.wordpress.com

If a Mediterranean diet is more up your alley, then visit Nostimo Greek Deli for a meal full of the bright, refreshing Greek flavours we all know and love. Sink your teeth into classics like flaky, light filo pastry, flavourful bowls of hummus, and smoky grilled meats. Their sharing platters and amazing coffee make for a great family brunch in the city, while the traditional desserts guarantee a sweet and satisfying end to any meal.

Find it at 3 Temasek Boulevard #01-365, Convention Centre Entrance, Singapore 038983.
Click here for more information on Nostimo Greek Deli.

3. Sbagliato Kitchen & Bar

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Enjoy casual Italian eats and indulge in a few drinks at Sbagliato Kitchen & Bar. Located in Telok Ayer, it’s a great place to hang out for a few after-work drinks. Its laid-back and comforting ambience practically invites you to kick up your feet and let your hair down. With a generous spread of classic Italian favourites and an equally extensive list of wines, an evening at Sbagliato is guaranteed to be a good one.

Find it at 3/4 Amoy Street, Singapore 049947.
Click here for more information on Sbagliato Kitchen & Bar.

4. The Spot

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Dine and drink in style at this luxurious restaurant in the stunning Marina One. Chic and sophisticated, The Spot’s all set to be the most fashionable restaurant in the city. The menu here is the epitome of refinement and elegance, with food cooked to perfection and plated with flawless finesse. There’s a bar for you to wind down with a classic cocktail after your meal, and even a cigar lounge – how classy is that?

Find it at 5 Straits View, #01-26/27, Marina One The Heart, Singapore 018935.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG.

5. Tapas 26

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The popular La Ventana has gotten a makeover and turned into Tapas 26. It’s a casual dining space where you can get all your favourite tapas with a glass of carefully selected Spanish wine. With a menu that changes every few months, we can guarantee that Tapas 26 is anything but predictable. Sit back and soak in the friendly atmosphere, enjoying an eclectic selection of popular tapas, lesser-known homestyle recipes, and seasonal dishes.

Find it at 26B Dempsey Road, Singapore 247693.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG.

6. Past & Present Restaurant and Bar

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Explore Singapore’s rich and unique heritage at Past & Present. The restaurant blurs the line between history and modernity, offering a fine dining experience accessible to young and old alike. With a skillfully crafted menu featuring both European and Asian influences, you’ll experience east and west, as well as past and present, melding together on your tongue as you explore Singapore and its stories through impeccable gastronomy.

Find it at 1 Old Parliament Lane, Singapore 179429.
Click here for more information about Past & Present Restaurant and Bar.

7. Men Men Tei

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Cr: 8days.sg

Chef Teppei Yamashita (of Man Man Unagi fame) is opening his 16th eatery in Singapore. The talented chef is loved by fans of Japanese food all over the island, so we’re outrageously excited to try his new offering – ramen. This is his first ramen restaurant in Singapore, with 13 types of ramen and 3 types of delicious, flavourful broth. With affordable and generous bowls, you’re sure to leave happy and satisfied.

Find it at Marina One #B2-28, The Heart, 5 Straits View Singapore 018935.
Click here for more information on Men Men Tei.

8. The Salted Plum

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Cr: eatbook.sg

Anyone who’s returned from a Taiwan trip knows how hard it is to say goodbye to the country’s amazing food. Now, with the opening of The Salted Plum at Circular Road, you don’t have to. With classic dishes like braised pork belly and fried chicken going for just $5 or $10 each, the restaurant embodies everything we love about Taiwanese food: affordable, comforting, and oh-so-delicious.

Find it at 10 Circular Road Singapore 049336.
Click here for more information on The Salted Plum.

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Categories
Destination Others Singapore

Scrumptious Hidden Gems in Singapore

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

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Chin Lee Restaurant

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

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

 

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Cafe Colbar

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

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

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ENAQ Restaurant

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

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

 

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Chong Wen Ge Cafe

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

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

 

Bincho Chicken HeartsBincho Yakitori Don
Bincho

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

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

 

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The Dragon Chamber

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

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

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

 


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Guac & Go

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

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

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Lau Wang Claypot Delights

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

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

Maggie Joan's Fried Pig's Head
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Maggie Joan’s

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

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

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Categories
Others Singapore Singapore

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

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

7th Place: Manhattan at the Regent Hotel 

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

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

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

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

 

15th Place: Atlas

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From Atlas Bar

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

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

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

 

24th Place: Operation Dagger

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From Operation Dagger Facebook

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

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

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

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

 

28th Place: 28 Hong Kong Street

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From 28 Hong Kong Street Facebook

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

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

 

31st Place: Tippling Club

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

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

 

47th Place: Native

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From HoneyCombers.com

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

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

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

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Categories
Destination Others Singapore

Fresh Eats: Our Top 8 Picks For October!

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

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Maru Dine & Bar

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

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

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Ginger Thai

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

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

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

 

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Trattoria Amanda

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

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

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

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Sea & Blue

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

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

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Blackwattle

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

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

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Burger Monster [closed]

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

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

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Shin Minori (Katong Square)

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

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

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Restaurant Ards

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

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

 

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Categories
Destination Others Save/Splurge Singapore

Bank Cracker: Splurge-worthy Dim Sum

You’ve seen our list of affordable dim sum eats, now here’s one that’ll give you a run for your money! It is indeed rare to find dim sum that merits breaking the bank for, but we assure you that we’ve found some real lofty dishes. Prepare yourself for some truly extravagant and exquisite dim sum!Dimsum_jpg_1422948082.jpgDim_Sum_jpg_1422948193.jpg

Mitzo Restaurant & Bar

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

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

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

Photos from janicewong.com.sg

Janice Wong Singapore (National Museum)

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

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

Click here for more information on Janice Wong Singapore.

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Summer Palace

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

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

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

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

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Tien Court

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

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

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

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Jiang-Nan Chun

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

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

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

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