Tag: Drinks

ULTRA-Awesome Places to Get Your Party Started

Post author By Rachel Ho
Post date June 13, 2018
No Comments on ULTRA-Awesome Places to Get Your Party Started

ULTRA is round the corner, and if you need some drinks to power through those sets, we’ve got a few bars in the vicinity for you to get your buzz on.

1. CE LA VI

What better way to kick off a party with a fabulous view and great cocktails? At 57 storeys high, let your spirits soar as you sit atop the Marina Bay Sands. If you are feeling peckish, indulge in some modern Asian cuisine at the restaurant, or take that perfect ‘gram by the infinity pool. The club is only an elevator ride away from the festival if you ever find that you need a breath of fresh air from the fun but sweaty dancing.

Find it at 1 Bayfront Avenue, Level 57, Tower 3, Marina Bay Sands SkyPark, Singapore 018971.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

2. Adrift Bar & Lounge

This bar may boast a swanky address and luxe furniture like plush sofas and a large marble table, but the vibe is still cozy-chic. With delicious light bites available from the restaurant, and a drinks menu curated by New York bar and cocktail icon Sam Ross, you’ll be spoiled for choice. You might, however, want to start off with the Penicillin, a combination of Scotch, lemon, honey, ginger and Islay float — a grown-up version of the Manhattan.

Find it at 10 Bayfront Avenue, Tower 2 Lobby, Marina Bay Sands, Singapore 018956.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

3. Lantern Rooftop Bar

When it comes to rooftop bars, it’s hard to beat Lantern, which gives you the perfect vantage point to catch the Marina Bay Sands light show. A place to be seen at, you can lounge next to the infinity pool with a drink or two in your hand. There is a good selection of champagnes, wines, spirits and beers available, or you can pick its Latin American-inspired cocktails.

Find it at 80 Collyer Quay, Singapore 049326.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

4. Monti

Get amped for a party at one of Singapore’s architectural marvels. Situated in a glass dome on the river, you’ll get an unparalleled 360-degree view of the Marina Bay — you might even get to hear earlier festival sets from across the water! This Italian restaurant also takes its Italian cocktails seriously — start your night with an Aperol Spritz or, if you prefer something more full-bodied, have the Godfather, which is whiskey mixed with amaretto.

Find it at 82 Collyer Quay, Singapore 049327.
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

5. OverEasy

If you are looking for a laidback bar without compromising on location, why not skip across the river and relax with a pint at OverEasy? Even the cocktails promise a tantalising dose of Southern hospitality, what with drinks like the Breakfast of Champions, which mixes rye, Dutch liqueur, maple syrup, lemon, and a waffle biscuit. Plenty of bar snacks too, so this is a great place to refuel.

Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG at the following outlets:

6. The Secret Mermaid

Cr: sgasiatatler.com

It may be located in the underbelly of the Ocean Financial Centre, but this semi-speakeasy (it transforms from Japanese eatery Salmon Samurai in the evenings) serves some of the yummiest cocktails in town. The drinks start off with spirits brought in by Liberty Spirits Asia — the bar also doubles (triples?) up as a showroom — but morph into some pretty amazing concoctions in the hands of their talented mixologists. Be sure to check out their monthly specials!

Find it at 10 Collyer Quay, B1-09, Ocean Financial Centre, 049315.
Click here for more information on The Secret Mermaid.

7. Operation Dagger

Cr: awol.junkee.com

This speakeasy might be half an hour away from the festival (or a 10-minute cab ride), but it’s worth making the detour for one of the World’s 50 Best Bars. The menu is short but that means less room for indecision: the drinks are among some of the most creative in Singapore. The hip, industrial vibe makes for a perfect place to get yourself pumped up for some music or unwind after being on your feet for hours.

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

Tags Drinks, Party, Singapore, Tipples, ULTRA

Lifestyle Singapore Singapore

10 Best Places to Get Your Craft Beer Fix

Post author By Kenneth Fong
Post date May 23, 2018
2 Comments on 10 Best Places to Get Your Craft Beer Fix

Considering our ever-evolving palate and a burgeoning interest in learning about the origins of our food, it’s unsurprising that Singaporean foodies would be curious about the story behind our coffees, cocktails, and now… beers. More specifically, our ever-growing obsession with independent craft breweries from right in our backyards to all over the world. And why not? The myriad of craft beers available means that you’ll always have a medley of amazing flavours, aromas, and colours to choose from. So much so that you’ll often find yourself spoilt for choice.

Here’s a list of ten places offering craft beers where you can hang out with your BFF (Beer Friends Forever), find the next cult favourite to call yours, or simply to just kick back and relax in after a long week at work.

1. The Armoury

First on the list is The Armoury, which has international craft beers on tap, and is situated in the up and coming South Beach Quarter. The brews on offer have a strong American focus, so if you make this your regular watering hole, you could very well drink your way around all 48 contiguous states. Besides the East-Meets-West menu offerings like Salted Egg Chicken Burger and Chilli Crab Mantou, the real star is The Armoury Burger: a perfectly seared 200g house-ground wagyu beef patty between a toasted brioche bun, topped with caramelised onions, bacon, American and cheddar cheese, and lettuce.

Find it at 36 Beach Road, Singapore 189677
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

2. Alchemist Beer Lab

Need something exciting to perk you up after a dreary week at work? Introducing the first beer infusion bar in the world: Alchemist Beer Lab (Yes, you read right. Beer Infusion.) Ingredients like fruits, flowers, and snacks (think chocolate, marshmallows, and caramel popcorn) are placed in a fusion chamber, where a compressed gas is released and finally, beer is injected into the contraption. This allows optimal flavour extraction from the ingredients and produces delicious concoctions like, “Honey Trap” (Honey Mead, Ginger Root, and Lemongrass) and “Pomiscuity” (Pomegranate, Tangerine, and Ginger Beer). The bar has eight signature infusions available daily, and eight other infusions that change regularly to keep the adventurous intrigued.

Find it at 26 Beach Road, #B1-16, South Beach Avenue, Singapore 189768
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

3. Brewerkz

Brewerkz has been a mainstay on Singapore’s craft beer scene since 1997 and has won awards like the World Beer Cup gold medal for its English-Style India Pale Ale (IPA), along with eight Australian Beer awards and three Singapore Asia Beer awards for its internationally recognised craft beers. So if you’re a serious beer connoisseur, you’ll definitely find something to your liking at Brewerkz. They also have an extensive menu, which features crowd favourites like the Spicy Chicken Satay, 3 Little Pigs Pizza (pulled pork, bacon, and spice house fennel sausage), and the King Brew (a hearty two patty beef burger with bacon, cheese, sautéed mushrooms, and a house made beer chilli).

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

4. Druggists

Cr: spiritedsingapore.com

Housed in an 80-year-old shophouse, you might just walk past Druggists if you didn’t know that that it shares the same premises as the Singapore Chinese Druggists Association ‒ the latter’s a leading expert of Singapore’s Traditional Chinese Medicine scene. But Druggists is no slouch either, considering that they’re leading Singapore’s craft beer scene with a healthy mix of eclectic and speciality brews like Mikkeller, To Øl, and Prairie Artisan Ales. So if you’re ever feeling the midweek blues, Druggists’ got the perfect remedy for your weary soul.

Find it at 119 Tyrwhitt Road, Singapore 207547
Click here for more information on Druggists.

5. Freehouse

With 16 craft beers and ciders on rotation, as well as an extensive bottle list from all over the world, Freehouse is strict on their “No Strangers Here” policy, so count on the friendly staff to make everyone feel right at home. We recommend the Tasting Paddle, which will most likely get you an IPA, a Lager, a Stout, and a Cider ‒ feel free to pick and choose whatever you would like to try though. They also have a decidedly Asian selection of bar bites, like The Bacon Tempura and Cereal Frog Legs, that will expedite your ascent to #craftbeerheaven.

Find it at 21A Boon Tat Street, Singapore 069620
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

6. The 1925 Brewing Co. Restaurant

Cr: the1925.com.sg

If there’s ever an award for an establishment that takes beer seriously, then The 1925 Brewing Co. Restaurant would win hands down. Besides brewing their own beers ‒ like the well-balanced Yellow Van Pale Ale, the hoppy Small Monster IPA, the creamy Blk 622 Dark Ale, The General (a spicy ginger beer), and the honeyed Manuka Stout ‒ even their food and recipes are beer inspired. Their grilled meats are enhanced with special house-made beer reduction glazes and the pasta is handmade with the same grains used to brew their beers. This place is definitely up the alley of beer geeks, who can explain what “sessionable” is without looking it up (hint: it means suitable for a lengthy drinking session).

Find it at 261 Joo Chiat Road, Singapore 427515
Click here for more information on The 1925 Brewing Co. Restaurant.

7. LeVeL33

LeVeL33 is literally the world’s “top” brewery. How lofty is its perch you ask? Well, it’s located on the 33rd floor of the Marina Bay Financial Centre so you can bet that the view of Singapore’s skyline is pretty sweet. A carefully curated Modern European menu pairs beautifully with the five signature craft beers ‒ 33.1 Blond Lager, 33.15 India Pale Ale, 33.3 Stout, 33.4 House Porter, and the 33.9 Wheat Beer ‒ available, and really elevates the experience (see what we did there?). Great food, delicious brews, a spectacular view; this one’s going to be hard to top.

Find it at 8 Marina Boulevard, #33-01, Marina Bay Financial Centre, Singapore 018981
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

8. Little Island Brewing Co

Located on the easternmost edge of Singapore, Little Island Brewing Co is where brew-master Steve Spinney serves eight innovative, hand-crafted beers. Some of the options include a malty Singapore Pale Ale, a bittersweet Irish Dry Stout, and a honeyed Red Ale. If you ever fancy pulling yourself a pint, or simply have exacting standards when it comes to dispensing your favourite tipple, you’ll be pleased to know that all brews are dispensed via a self-service system. The brewery also offers a 15-Hour Smoked Beef Brisket, a crispy Ale Battered Sea Bass, and a melt-in-your-mouth Pork Belly that all pair perfectly with your beverage of choice!

Find it at 6 Changi Village Road, #01-01/02, Singapore 509907
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

9. Necessary Provisions

Cr: timeout.com

Deep in the heart of Bukit Timah is where you’ll find Necessary Provisions. The establishment is run by a group who is passionate about excellent coffee, fine teas, great food, and you guessed it: craft beers. They’ve partnered with British brewery Moor Beer Co. and Melbourne’s Mornington Peninsula brewery to offer a solid selection of ales on tap. Come in the afternoon for brunch and coffee, and return in the evening for drinks and a great time.

Find it at 21 Eng Kong Terrace, Singapore 598993
Earn 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

10. TAP Craft Beer Bar

Cr: drinksomewhere.com

TAP Craft Beer Bar is an open concept bar, which features 20 rotating international craft beers on draft, as well as 80 different bottled varieties of craft beers, wines, spirits, and juices ‒ which should keep any craft aficionados happy, whatever your poison of choice may be. On tap are cult favourites like Lost Coast, Modern Times, and Strand, while the bottled options feature names like Black Market, Green Flash, and Left Coast. Best of all, TAP is offering pints and wines for $10 (before service charge and GST of course) all day, every day.

Find it at 26 Beach Road, #B1-16, South Beach Avenue, Singapore 189768
Click here for more information about TAP Craft Beer Bar.

Tags Afterwork, Bars, Craft Beer, Drinks, Hops, Singapore

Lifestyle Singapore Singapore

Where to get turnt on St Patrick’s Day

Post author By Veena Vinod
Post date March 15, 2018
2 Comments on Where to get turnt on St Patrick’s Day

From an authentic Irish bar to a fabulous street party, here are five places to party it up this St. Patrick’s day. Grab your friends, down some Guinness, and get ready to paint the town green! Remember, everyone’s Irish on St Pat’s – Slainte!

Cr: SilverKris

McGettigan’s

Whether you want to let loose to trad tunes or watch some rugby, this spot in Clarke Quay is the place to be! With beloved Irish act The Broken Pokers playing from Friday to Sunday, and the NatWest Six Nations telecast live, you’ll feel like you’re in the heart of Dublin at this cosy bar. Dig into one of their rich meat pies, grab a pint of Guinness from the friendly staff, and get ready for a wild weekend of merrymaking at McGettigan’s!

Find it at 3A River Valley Road #01-01, Merchant’s Court, Singapore 179020
Book a table at McGettigan’s and get 2X Chope-Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG.

Cr: SilverKris

St Patrick’s Day Street Festival

This street festival has come a long way since its humble beginnings as a Sunday afternoon concert outside Singapore’s first Irish pub. Circular Road is closed to cars this weekend and open to revellers. Rock out to some Celtic tunes from the live bands, then fuel up with traditional bar grub like Scotch Eggs and Guinness Beef Pie. You can drink to your heart’s content – there’s beer, whisky, and Irish Coffee for everyone!

Find it at Circular Road, Singapore 049411
Click here for more information on the St Patrick’s Day Street Festival.

Cr: The Best Singapore

St Patrick’s Day Countdown at Muddy Murphy’s

This bar is located in the heart of Orchard Road and is the perfect place to kick off a three-day bender. With $12 whiskies all day and $10 pints of Guinness on offer, you can indulge your love for beer here without burning a hole in your pocket. With live Irish music, authentic bar bites, and friendly staff, the party here will take you right to the heart of Dublin. This is our go-to place to welcome a weekend of drinking, dancing, and making merry!

Find it at 442 Orchard Road, #01-02, Singapore 238879
Click here for more information on the Muddy Murphy’s.

Cr: Seth Lui

Party with DJ Dynamiq at Bang Bang

Pub too mellow for you? Here’s a place to see and be seen. The Official DJ of the San Francisco 49ers is in town this weekend, and you can rock out to his tunes at the swish Bang Bang! With residencies at top American clubs under his belt, DJ Dynamiq’s setlist looks to be an impressive one. Having performed alongside some of the biggest names in modern music, this spot is your go-to if you’re looking to let your hair down this weekend.

Find it at 7 Raffles Boulevard, Marina Square, Singapore 039595
Click here for more information on Bang Bang.

Cr: The Smart Local

Take it slow at the Cider Pit

If parties in the city aren’t exactly your forte, fret not, as this place has got you covered! Enjoy a quieter celebration at this laidback bar in Joo Chiat. With over 50 ciders on tap, as well as an extensive selection of beers and other beverages at ridiculously affordable prices, you won’t miss anything by getting down to this quaint enclave. While you’re at it, try their delicious steak fries – thick, crisp and perfect with an ice-cold beer.

Find it at 328 Joo Chiat Road Singapore 427585
Click here for more information on The Cider Pit.

Tags Drinks, Party, Singapore, St. Patrick's Day

Destination Others Singapore

Scrumptious Hidden Gems in Singapore

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

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

Source

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.

Source

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.

Source

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.

Source

Chong Wen Ge Cafe

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

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

Bincho

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

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

The Dragon Chamber

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

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

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

Source

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.

Source

Lau Wang Claypot Delights

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

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

Maggie Joan’s

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

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

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

Others Singapore Singapore

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

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

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

7th Place: Manhattan at the Regent Hotel

Manhattan_Bloody_Mary_Cart_jpg_1457457150

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

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

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

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

15th Place: Atlas

From Atlas Bar

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

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

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

24th Place: Operation Dagger

From Operation Dagger Facebook

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

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

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

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

28th Place: 28 Hong Kong Street

From 28 Hong Kong Street Facebook

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

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

31st Place: Tippling Club

tippling

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

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

47th Place: Native

From HoneyCombers.com

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

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

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

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

Destination Others Save/Splurge Singapore

Bank Cracker: Splurge-worthy Dim Sum

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

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

Mitzo Restaurant & Bar

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

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

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

Photos from janicewong.com.sg

Janice Wong Singapore (National Museum)

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

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

Click here for more information on Janice Wong Singapore.

Summer Palace

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

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

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

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

Tien Court

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

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

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

Jiang-Nan Chun

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

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

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

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

Bali Destination Others

Top 10 Pocket-friendly Restaurants in Bali

Post author By Chope
Post date September 13, 2017
No Comments on Top 10 Pocket-friendly Restaurants in Bali

Bali’s well-known for its stunning beaches and exotic cuisine, Indo dishes, and believe it or not, there are countless places to splurge on a hearty feast without shelling out a small fortune. We’ve taken the liberty of compiling a quick guide to 10 restaurants, so you can eat your way across this beach paradise on a budget. It includes a variety of cuisines, from authentic Indonesian to Western fusion—whatever your pick, we guarantee both your appetite and your wallet will leave satisfied.

Spice by Chris Salans

If you’re looking for solid, unpretentious Indonesian food in a hip setting, Spice is the place to go. This gastro-bar, helmed by acclaimed chef Chris Salans, has three classy but comfortable locations spread across three destinations: Ubud, Sanur, and Seminyak. The menu is divvied up into sections like “Seafood”, “Raw”, and “Sliders”, and standouts include the indulgent Crispy Pork Belly given an update with turmeric dressing and dukkah spice or Tuna Tataki with sambal kecicang and tempe crackers. The cuisine here is infused with Western influences, so it’s no surprise that the affordable sliders (with ingredients like papaya, sambal hijau, and wakame bread) are absolutely scrumptious. Wash it all down with a milkshake or signature cocktail—Salans’ tipples only use fresh fruits and local spices. Pro-tip: give the Jackfruit Bourbon Cocktail a spin!

Find it at Jalan Raya Ubud No. 23, Ubud, Bali 80571; Jalan Danau Tamblingan No. 140, Sanur, Bali 80228; or Jalan Batu Belig No.7, Kerobokan, Seminyak, Bali 80361
Book a table at Spice by Chris Salans and earn 2X-Chope Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Grain

Grain’s affordable menu belies the effort put into it: from locally-sourced produce, pies baked in-house, to a unique blend of 100% Arabica beans. You can find classic Indo dishes here too, but the All Day Breakfast and Western dishes are where it’s at. Go for a Bali Benedict or the luxurious Breakfast Board, which offers an assortment of components like marinated feta and sourdough rosti for a steal. For something heartier, you can’t go wrong with a Pulled Pork Burger showcasing slow-roasted pork with homemade apple sauce. Pair it with a cup of coffee and while away a lazy afternoon in Seminyak. The art-adorned walls, matching cushions, and industrial vibe make for a beautifully Instagrammable interior, too.

Find it at Jalan Raya Seminyak No. 16B, Bali 80361
Book a table at Grain and earn 2X-Chope Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Scratch

When an entire section of a restaurant’s menu is dedicated to comfort food, you know they’re serious about it. This casual eatery, with its homely interior and downright good food, is hidden away near Oberoi and Kerobokan streets. Scratch is devoted to serving up rustic pasta and meaty mains that are easy on the wallet—most dishes are priced below IDR 120,000! Each plate is an explosion of flavours, and we love the Scratchatouille, a roasted crispy skin chicken on a ratatouille comprising ten vegetables and five herbs, garnished with gorgonzola and toasted almond olive oil. Other favourites are the Philly Cheese Steak Poutine and slow-cooked Baby Back Pork Ribs in two styles, whether you’re craving eastern or western flavours. Salivating yet? There’s even an outdoor patio, so gather your friends and toast to their happy hour specials.

Find it at Jalan Pengubengan Kauh, Kerobokan, Bali 80361
Book a table at Scratch and earn 2X-Chope Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Zibiru

Impress your date with a romantic evening that won’t break the bank. In Zibiru’s charming garden setting, treat yourself to well-executed Italian specials as you retreat from the buzz of Seminyak. Their pasta dishes truly shine, and no wonder, since it’s all freshly handmade in their kitchen daily. Try the Ravioli di Carne Al Midollo, with a luxuriant bone marrow sauce and refreshing citrusy garnish, or the Gnocchi di Zucca con Cime di Rapa, pumpkin gnocchi served with sautéed kale, anchovies, and ricotta. If you’re feeling peckish before dinner, get an early seating and sample all of the chef’s picks. Diners get a free degustation with every glass of wine or cocktail purchased between 4-6pm, so that’s more bang for your buck!

Find it at Jalan Drupadi No.7, Seminyak, Bali 80361.
Book a table at Zibiru and earn 2X-Chope Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Ulekan Bali

Hop up to Canggu for this new, delicious concept from The Good Food Brotherhood. Ulekan Bali prides itself in bringing people together for a communal meal of traditional Indonesian food. Of course, they’re not just limited to the ulekan—enjoy dishes from the grill and wok too while you lounge around in the open-concept space, which reflects the authentic cuisine in vibrantly patterned décor. Besides sate and stir-fries, they offer sharing plates for dinner and a dizzying selection of sambals for the true Indonesian foodie! Opt for the Nasi Campur Plate for lunch (available daily), or their Special Ulekan Rijsttafel, a traditional local meal which lets you sample a broad array of small bites and flavourful sauces over rice. Cocktails go for just IDR 50,000 all night on Saturdays, in case you needed any more reason to visit.

Find it at 34 Jalan Tegel Sari, Pantai Berawa, Canggu 80361
Book a table at Ulekan Bali and earn 2X-Chope Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

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Nostimo

Craving a taste of the Mediterranean? Pop by Nostimo, a Greek grill in Seminyak. It’s only been open slightly over a year but Nostimo’s already established itself as the destination for delicacies from the Grecian coast. You can opt to dine alfresco, or in the blue-and-white themed interior, styled to look like an airy pavilion. Come with a group, and mix-and-match from a staggering selection of mezze platters, gyros and souvlaki. The star of the show is the tender, toothsome soutzoukaki, a type of spiced kebab—wrap it inside a thick fluffy pita with a crisp salad on the side, and find your little piece of Grecian heaven in Bali!

Find it at Jl. Petitenget No. 17B Seminyak Kerobokan, Badung, Bali 80361
Click here for more info on Nostimo.

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Tiffin

For some light Indian cuisine, get yourself over to Tiffin in Seminyak. At this casual eatery opened by Indians, you can be sure everything’s authentic, from their recipe for garam masala to their piping hot naans. The restaurant’s reinventing the wheel of heavy Indian dishes with their specialty tapas and small plates—all the better for sampling a greater variety of their mouthwatering cooking. Some must-tries are the moreish Kheema Samosas, appetizing chaat and heavily spiced Prawns Tadka—the plates may be small, but they’re big on flavour! They’re also open for an Indian-inspired breakfast/brunch so you can fulfill your spice craving first thing in the morning.

Find it at Jalan Petitenget 17C, Denpasar, Bali 80361
Click here for more info on Tiffin.

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Biku

Tucked away inside a quaint teak joglo, this home-wares and bookstore also houses a tea lounge and restaurant, marrying Indonesian cooking with international influences and flavours. The lounge serves up cake specials paired with an exotic selection of teas (over 50 varieties!) and alcoholic tipples. Besides breakfast, lunch, and dinner, we recommend their delightful high tea menu, split into either Traditional Afternoon Tea or Asian High Tea for Two—the latter runs the gamut of Asian cuisine, from Ayam Sisit with Sambal Matah Tart to Middle Eastern Orange Cake with rose tea syrup, all at the pocket-friendly price of IDR 250,000 for two. Enjoy sipping your tea off fine-bone china as you bask in the 150-year-old history of the Javanese joglo around you!

Find it at Jl. Petitenget No.888, Kerobokan Kelod, Kuta Utara, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361
Click here for more info on Biku.

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May’s Urban Thai Dine

If you’re looking for a break from Indo cuisine and Thai’s what you’re after instead, May’s Urban Thai Dine offers delectable street food in a casual indoor setting. The beautifully-decorated space is bedecked with industrial-style lighting and hanging potted plants for a cozy dining experience. Start with a plump and fresh Spicy Mussel Salad, then move on to the crowd favourite Tom Kha Gai. There’s also a comprehensive list of Thai curries heady with spices—you won’t have to travel out of the country for a taste of the Land of Smiles! Head down soon to take advantage of their Pad Thai festival, where variations of the classic dish go for a bargain.

Find it at Jalan Petitenget no 200, Seminyak, Bali 81361
Book a table at May’s Urban Thai Dine and earn 2X-Chope Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

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Warung Eropa

Warung Eropa is a popular eatery, serving up cheap and cheerful Indonesian food for every occasion, whether it’s a family outing or a casual dinner with friends. In a rustic, fuss-free setting, tuck into traditional soul-warming soups like Surabaya Soto Ayam and Oxtail Soup. They’re also known for the finest Crispy Duck in Bali, so be sure not to miss that! Each bite of tender meat and fragrant crackling skin truly pops with a piquant touch of sambal. Get it in one of their seven convenient Special Packages with an assortment of accompanying sides for a proper feast on a dime.

Find it at Jl. Petitenget No. 9D, Seminyak, Bali 80361
Click here for more info on Warung Eropa.

Tags Alfresco, Breakfast, Breakfast and Brunch, Brunch, Cheap, Cheap and Good, Cocktails, Coffee, Dinner, Drinks, Featured, Guides, High Tea, Lunch, Pocket-friendly, Seafood

Destination Others Singapore

Fresh Eats: Spying on Chope’s September Picks

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

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

Propeller

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

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

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

Upeh Cafe

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

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

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

Credit: Chef Wan’s Kitchen Facebook

Chef Wan’s Kitchen

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

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

Credits: Photos from Love in the Pot Facebook

Love in the Pot 美颜锅

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

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

Photo from EagleWings Loft website

EagleWings Loft

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

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

Credits: Photos from The Autobus Facebook

The Autobus

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

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

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

Destination Hong Kong

Our picks for Hong Kong’s best restaurants with a view!

Post author By Michelle Tan
Post date August 29, 2017
No Comments on Our picks for Hong Kong’s best restaurants with a view!

Restaurants with soaring vistas of the city might be known to break the wallet but when you save it for the right occasion, the splurge (we’re looking at you, brunches that cost $1,998 per head) can be worth it.

These seven restaurants pack a mighty punch: whether you’re off to show Hong Kong’s best to visitors or sharing that date night with that special someone, we’ve got you covered! Be sure to snap a table ahead with Chope, and earn yourself 2X Chope-Dollars with the promo code TASTYBLOG.

AVA Restaurant Slash Bar

Perched on the thirty-eighth floor of Hotel Panorama by Rhombus, AVA Restaurant Slash Bar flaunts spectacular views of Victoria Harbour and beyond. With the aim of providing top quality international cuisine to their diners, they serve up dishes such as Milanese style risotto with bone marrows, saffron, and Parmigiano, as well as our favourite Homemade Tagliolini with Sea Urchin Sauce. Their Sicilian Red Prawns Marinated in Herbs, New Zealand Lamb Shank, and French Spring Chicken would be our top picks at AVA. Another crowd-pleaser is their signature nitrogen liquid ice cream made tableside with raspberries & rose water to complement those stunning 270 degree panoramas.

Find it at 38/F, Hotel Panorama by Rhombus, 8A Hart Avenue, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong
Book a table at AVA Restaurant Slash Bar and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

Grissini

This authentic Italian mainstay may not be located on the highest floor of its building, but trust us, the views are still Insta-worthy. Sitting on the second floor of Grand Hyatt in Wan Chai, you get the best of HK skyscrapers, sights from Kowloon, and the magnificent sweeping waters that HK takes pride in. Grissini lives up to its name as the air is filled with the irresistible smell of Italian breadsticks (‘grissini’ in Italian). Their interior is chic and as divine as their Italian fare; think succulent Roasted Wild Grouper and Homemade Potato Gnocchi with Mediterranean seafood and zucchini. Finish off with their Lemon Dome Cake served with vanilla sponge and lemon cream. It’s the ideal hot spot for a ravishing night.

Find it at 2/F, Grand Hyatt Hong Kong, 1 Harbour Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong
Book a table at Grissini and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

Alto 88

Head over to the thirty-first floor of Regal Hotel in Causeway Bay and step into a posh interior and dining environment with plush velvet chairs and delicate enchanting chandeliers. Our luscious and flavourful favourites would be Grilled Lamb Chop served with creamy Black Truffle Sauce and Sauteed Italian Mussel with Cherry Tomato and Vernaccia Wine.

Looking to impress? Opt for their Italian Business Semi-buffet Lunch, which includes a highlight of an antipasti buffet with Fennel Salad, Mozzarella Roll Filled with Tomato and Pesto, and more! Too busy during the week? They have a Sunday Oyster and Bubble Brunch as well, which is a fantastic way to end a stress-filled week and revitalise yourself with the cityscape.

Find it at 31/F, Regal HongKong Hotel, 88 Yee Wo Street, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong
Book a table at Alto 88 and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

Qi – Nine Dragons (Tsim Sha Tsui)

Qi – Nine Dragons is nestled atop of the towering Prince Tower in Tsim Sha Tsui where diners are spoilt by sunset views of Hong Kong Island. Step in for a splendid dining experience at the city’s only Michelin-starred Sichuan restaurant with their fiery flavours that include their famous Bang Bang Chicken in Spicy Peanut Sauce, Wok Fried Prawns with Sichuan Chilli Miso, and (for something less spicy) their Flaky Scallion Pancake which is for sure, a top pick!

Don’t miss the delish Chilli Dungeness Crab, a delicacy that has to be reserved in advance to ensure that diners enjoy the freshest seafood. Kick back and savour in the fantastic panorama while imbibing their special chilli-infused tequila cocktail, Red Dragon, under the stars on their expansive 1,600 sq ft. rooftop terrace.

Find it at 20/F, Prince Tower, 12A Peking Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong
Book a table at Qi – Nine Dragons and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

Above and Beyond

As the name suggests, this TST mainstay at Hotel Icon is indeed ‘above and beyond’ in terms of location and dining experience! To start, savour on the Smoked Egg with Oolong Tea Leaves and Black Truffles, followed by their Steamed Garoupa Fillet with Egg White in Superior Chicken Broth: the chicken is soaked in a hot broth with freshly caught Garoupa and is simmered for 12 hours.

Our fan fave, though, has to be the Claypot Rice with Chinese Preserved Duck and Sausages (think poached duck pieces on top of piping-hot rice, giving the meat a firm-yet-tender texture). Above & Beyond truly spoils us when it comes to dishing out beautiful views and delectable dishes.

Find it at 28/F, Hotel ICON, 17 Science Museum Road, Tsim Sha Tsui East, Hong Kong
Book a table at Above and Beyond and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

Uptop Bistro and Bar

Rooftops usually have priceless views, and Uptop Bistro and Bar has exactly that in store for you. Located in Popway Hotel’s Sky Deck, prepare to be ensconced with 270 degree views and top modern fusion comfort food. Whether it’s the Canada Organic Pork Loin, Uptop Signature Chicken with carrots on the side, or if you’re looking for something lighter: the delicate, just caught Pacific Black Cod – there’s certainly something for everyone.

Fan of tea? Indulge in their Afternoon Tea Menu that offers diners two options starting at just $388 for two! While you’re up there, knock down a few cocktails like their Full Moon made with Gin, Yuzu Juice, and Jasmine Syrup, or some Dessert Wine Exquisite vistas of Victoria Harbour from Uptop are guaranteed. Pinky promise.

Find it at 19/F, Popway Hotel, 117 Chatham Road South, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong
Book a table at Uptop Bistro and Bar and earn 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG

Tags Buffet, Chinese, Cocktails, Dessert, Drinks, Good View, Guides, High Tea, Lunch, Michelin, Seafood

Destination Singapore

7 Hotel Happy Hours for the Gang

Post author By Amanda Seah
Post date August 25, 2017
No Comments on 7 Hotel Happy Hours for the Gang

What’s better than sipping on champagne while swaying to soothing jazz tunes playing in the background? Happy hour, of course. That’s when you get to guzzle down your favorite tipples at a fraction of the price. If you’re looking for places to hang out with your mates for post-work drinks, then look no further. Check out these 7 hotel happy hours – the perfect places to unwind after a long day of work, and have a tipple or three without breaking the bank!

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Atrium @ Pan Pacific Singapore

Get ultimate privacy in one of Atrium’s cosy floating pods, located right in the heart of Pan Pacific Singapore’s spacious lobby, while tipping back glasses and nibbling on savoury finger food.

Happy Hour runs 4pm to 8pm, Sundays to Thursdays, where Tiger or Heineken Draught, house wines by the glass, and house pour spirits are all $12++ per serve.

For serious wine lovers, don’t miss out the “WINESday on Wednesday” promotion available from 6pm to 9pm. At just $48++ per person, you can down an unlimited amount of red and white wines – three types of each will be offered – so drink away!

Find it at Pan Pacific Singapore Lobby, 7 Raffles Boulevard, Singapore 039595
For more info on Atrium, click here

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Astor Bar @ St. Regis Singapore

Come in your best dress to this elegant bar, hidden behind mirrored doors, and feel like royalty as you take your pick from premium alcohols and spirits. For one hour only, between 6.30pm to 7.30pm, partake in their Champagne Ritual, where their House Champagne will be going for just $19++ per glass.

Find it at The St. Regis Singapore, Lobby Level 29, Tanglin Road, Singapore 247911
For more info on Astor Bar, click here

Bar Canary @ Grand Park Orchard

The early bird catches the worm here, with drink prices increasing as the hours tick by! At 6pm, the bundle will set you back $66++, at 7pm, $77, and at 8pm and 9pm… you get the idea. Mix and match 8 drinks from their selection of beers, ciders, wines, Champagne (additional charge), spirits, cocktails, and of course, Bar Canary’s famous boozy popsicles.

Find it at 270 Orchard Road, Grand Park Orchard, Singapore 238857
Book a table at Bar Canary and earn 2X-Chope Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Manhattan Bar @ Regent Hotel

As its name suggests, Manhattan Bar is inspired by the grandeur of fine hotels of the old New York City, with a touch of mystery of the Prohibition Era. Their happy hour, dubbed the Violet Hour, is thus unsurprisingly in line with this theme.

Upon arrival, receive a complimentary welcome tipple, and for every subsequent cocktail you order, you get a free Raines Law sandwich to go along with it! If you’re in luck, you might just be able to get their ever-popular pastrami-spiced sandwich! And chow down those sandwiches fast, because Violet Hour only lasts from 5pm to 7pm.

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

Martini Bar @ Grand Hyatt Singapore

Check out Hyatt’s newly-refurbished Martini Bar at Mezza9, a high-ceiling, glass-enclosed bar filled with natural light.

Everyday from 5pm to 9pm, enjoy selected house pour martinis, cocktails, wines and spirits by the glass for $14++, all beers for $9++, as well as $56++ for house pour wines by the bottle. Be sure to try their signature Lychee Martini and Espresso Martini!

After 9pm, hold onto your seats because the selected house pour martinis, cocktails, and spirits go at a special price of $18++, which is way cheaper than their regular pricing of $20++ to $34++.

Find it at Mezzanine Level, Grand Hyatt Singapore, 10 Scotts Road, Singapore 228211
For more info on Martini Bar, click here

Post Bar @ Fullerton Hotel

Complete with an iconic red postbox to commemorate Post Bar as the former General Post Office, this golden-hued bar is the go-to destination to end the day in style.

Not only does Happy Hour include draught beers ($10++/$12++), five house-pour spirits ($12++ per glass), wines ($12++ per glass), and Champagne ($118++ for a bottle of Perrier Jouet Grand Brut NV), it also offers all cocktails at $15++, save for their bubbly cocktails. Traditionalists will love timeless classics like the Singapore Sling or Classic Martini, while adventurous souls will be intrigued by unique creations like their Almond Sling or Gold Sling. With more than 20 cocktails to choose from, you’ll definitely be back for more!

When your work day’s done and dusted, make a beeline for Post Bar as happy hour runs from 5pm to 8pm on weekdays. On weekends, happy hour extends all the way till midnight, so round up your mates and head over here for a merry time!

Find it at 1 Fullerton Square, Singapore (049178)
Book a table at Post Bar and earn 2X-Chope Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

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Celebrity Chef restaurants at MBS

If you’re still reading this paragraph, congratulations! You’re in for a treat. Because here we have not just one Happy Hour location, but 14!

A mix of celebrity chef restaurants and casual fine dining restaurants are participating in Marina Bay Sands’ Social Hour, every Tuesday from 6pm to 9pm, and they are offering 50% off selected cocktails! From classics like the Singapore Sling to funky new creations, there’s definitely a drink for everyone.

Participating restaurants are:

Adrift (Book on Chope)
Bread Street Kitchen
Caffé B (Book on Chope)
Carnivore Brazilian Churrascaria (Book on Chope)
Club55
CUT
db Bistro and Oyster Bar (Book on Chope)
High Society
Long Chim (Book on Chope)
Osteria Mozza
Pizzeria Mozza
Spago
The Bird Southern Table & Bar
Waku Ghin

Check out the individual restaurants’ details here.

Tags Cheap, Cheap and Good, Cocktails, Drinks, Guides, Pocket-friendly

Destination Hong Kong Singapore

7 New Lunch Hotspots in the City

Post author By Chope
Post date August 4, 2017
No Comments on 7 New Lunch Hotspots in the City

Don’t waste your lunch hour deciding where to munch! Here’s a list of our favourite restaurants for you to hop by for an easy (and pretty affordable!) lunch. Save even more time and skip the line by booking a table ahead with Chope, and earn yourself 2X Chope-Dollars with code TASTYBLOG.

Tango Elements

Bold. Assertive. Sexy. Just like its namesake, this mainstay in Tsim Sha Tsui produces fantastic fare and absolutely alluring hospitality. Get your lunch hour going with their delish Pumpkin Soup or the succulent Salmon with quinoa salad, or Milanesa (breaded beef, and provolone)! We’d definitely recommend the Truffle Fries, and their Panqueques is to die for – crepes with caramel sauce and vanilla ice cream. What’s not to love? Head over to experience a truly fun, vibrant meal!

Find it at Shop R008, 3/F, Rooftop Garden, Civic Square, Elements, 1 Austin Road West, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon, Hong Kong
Book a table at Tango Elements and earn 2X-Chope Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Bao Bei

Located in the heart of Central, Bao Bei (meaning “babe”), serves up wallet-friendly, Asian-themed comfort food. Start your midday meal off with some starters, such as a Cream of Tofu Soup that’s served with preserved vegetables and Jin Hua ham that’s perfect for warming your tummy up on cold days. Spaghetti alla Soy with Chicken, Char Siu Pork and Egg Rice Burger, and Chinese Cured Pork Belly and Sausage Risotto are just a few delectable dishes showcasing the ingenious yet playful twist towards Chinese culture. Another hot favourite is their Homemade Vitasoy Ice Cream with fresh berries – now that’s a truly innovative move!

Find it at B1/F, 75-77 Wyndham Street, Central, Hong Kong
Book a table at Bao Bei and earn 2X-Chope Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Barg

Lunch Sets at Barg start out at a wallet-friendly $78, so be sure to make a booking ahead of the lunch hour rush to skip the queue! Dishing out fine European nosh, this restaurant located in the heart of Causeway Bay is modern, hip, and uses only the finest ingredients sourced both locally and internationally. Featuring a large variety of finely-executed dishes, the menu here is fashioned to please. Get cosy with their Porcini Mushroom Spaghetti, Scallop Risotto with Saffron Cream Sauce, Slow Cook Duck Breast with Balsamic Reduction, and many more. They also have a list of Chef’s Recommendations, so just ask them to get the lowdown!

Find it at 1/F, Bartlock Centre, 3 Yiu Wa Street, Causeway Bay
Book a table at Barg and earn 2X-Chope Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

CHIC by The Oyster House

It’s the cosy elegance, delectable western fare, and warm ambient lighting that makes this restaurant by The Oyster House so CHIC (pun intended!). If you’re looking for something lighter on the wallet, then opt for their Set Lunch Menu with prices not exceeding $200. Highlights on the menu include Sous-vide Chicken Breast with Brussels Sprout and Bacon, Tiger Prawn Linguine, Grilled Sirloin Steak with Asparagus, and Sautéed Potato with Mushroom Sauce. Beautifully presented and served on sleek Italian plates, the dishes here complement the restaurant’s romantic interior. If you’re looking for something to end your meal with, then go for their Lemon Cheesecake, a decadent slice of heaven that’ll leave you clamoring for more.

Find it at 2/F, The Cameron, 33 Cameron Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong
Book a table at CHIC and earn 2X-Chope Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Chi Chi Cham

It’s all excitement and adventure at Chi Chi Cham! With Chinese umbrellas hanging from the ceilings, this funky hideout exudes an old-world charm. As for the menu, expect toothsome Japanese Fusion nosh and a comprehensive beverage list featuring crazy Happy Hour deals and a wide array of inventive cocktails, sakes, beers, and wine. Deal-seekers will love their Lunch Bento sets, featuring choices such as American Angus Beef Sliced Beef with Egg Yolk and a Whole Grilled Eel, starting from $48. And, while you’re here, don’t forget to order a serving of Chi Chi Cham Oysters, known to be some of the freshest oysters in town!

Find it at 53 Peel Street, Central, Hong Kong
Book a table at Chi Chi Cham and earn 2X-Chope Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Chico Chica

With their fun and quirky exterior complete with a sleek al fresco seating area, it’s not difficult to spot Chico Chica from afar. Nestled in one of Hong Kong’s oldest areas, this Spanish-style tapas restaurant at Sai Ying Pun dishes out tantalizing tapas dishes made with a contemporary Asian twist. From their a la carte menu, you’ll find classic Spanish dishes such as Burrata Rolls, Pumpkin Croquetas, Octopus, and Eel Toast. As for the mains, you’ll find a selection of indulgent dishes, such as Roasted Spanish Suckling Pig and Iberico Bellota Pork Ribs. Fried to a beautiful golden brown and then coated with a generous dose of cinnamon sugar, the Churros here will end your meal on a sweet note.

Find it at Shop J, G/F, 70 Third Street, Sai Ying Pun, Western District, Hong Kong
Book a table at Chico Chica and earn 2X-Chope Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

MEXUS

MEXUS is where Mexico meets USA, and MEXUS aims to bring an ultimate Latin-American culinary fiesta to Hongkongers! Set in a beautiful space, the interior features an open kitchen, where diners can feast their eyes on some live cooking action. Their delectable Set Lunch Menu offers a huge range of starter options, such as Watermelon Salad, BBQ Chicken Cobb, and Fish Tacos. Don’t miss out on their signature mains, such as a mouthwatering King Kong Burger, Sirloin Steak, and Rigatoni pasta tossed with San Marzano tomatoes, buffalo mozzarella, and topped with basil and black pepper. For post-meal tipples, head up to the 1960’s Havana inspired drinking cantina on the 6th floor!

Find it at 5-6/F, 8 Lyndhurst Terrace, Central, Hong Kong
Book a table at MEXUS and earn 2X-Chope Dollars with the code TASTYBLOG

Tags Chinese, Cocktails, Drinks, Guides, High Tea, Japanese, Lunch

Destination Others Singapore

Fresh Eats: 9 New Restaurants To Check Out This August

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

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

COMO Cuisine

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

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

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

Find it at Block 18A Dempsey Road, Singapore 249677

Provisions

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

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

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

Find it at 7 Dempsey Road, Singapore 249671

Nouri

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

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

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

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

Panko

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

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

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

Blue Lotus Chinese Grill House

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

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

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

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

Amò

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

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

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

CHIKIN Bar

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

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

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

Folklore

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

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

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

Gaig

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

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

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

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

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