This Bakery Makes Millennial Lao Po Bings With Flavors Like Tokyo Banana, Thai Milk Tea And More
If you frequently travel to Thailand, you’ll probably have heard of or seen April’s Bakery around.
With 60 outlets scattered across the country, their home-made pies are now available in Singapore not just in Tampines, but also in the CBD. Located at the bustling food hall at the basement of One Raffles Place, this branch is much more accessible to those of us who, well, don’t live in the extreme east of Singapore.
[caption id="attachment_29516" align="alignnone" width="1484"]
April’s Bakery at One Raffles Place[/caption]
While April’s Bakery has its roots in Thailand, their pies are unmistakably Cantonese at heart. Bearing some similarity to the traditional Wife Cake, or lao po bing, April’s Bakery puts its own spin on the pie by switching up its flavours and fillings!
Think Thai Milk Tea, Matcha Latte, Tokyo Banana, Sweet Potato… The list goes on.
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Flavors from top to bottom: Thai Milk Tea, Taro, Matcha, Tokyo Banana, Purple Potato (Image Credit: @oo_foodielicious)[/caption]
Some of their pies come filled with a tasty paste and custard combo, while others have a purely paste filling.
Priced at at just $2, these affordable pies are perfect for breakfast or a midday snack when you get a case of the munchies.
The Story Of April’s Bakery
The original April’s Bakery in Thailand started out as a small, obscure bakery in Central Plaza Ratchada-Rama III shopping centre. Selling cakes, biscuits and pastries, its founder, Nathanaporn Euawanthanakhun, started baking pies after discovering a love for roast pork pies during a trip to Hong Kong.
[caption id="attachment_29517" align="alignnone" width="1484"]
April’s Bakery Pies[/caption]
That inspired her to come up with her own signature pie recipe, which eventually led her to expand her range to include flavours like Taro, Custard and Matcha Latte. To date, the bakery has over 30 pie flavours in Thailand, including both sweet and savoury varieties!
Pies For Every Preference
Unfortunately for us, April’s Bakery’s Singapore outlets currently only sell their sweet pies.
The signature flavour at April’s Bakery is Thai Milk Tea. Filled with a mixture of custard and paste, fans of Thai milk tea will likely enjoy this pie that’s rich and creamy, without being overly sweet.
Other custard-paste pies include the Matcha Latte, Custard and the Singapore-exclusive Tokyo Banana. Not available even in Thailand, this is hands down one of our favourites of the lot.
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April’s Bakery pies all cut up![/caption]
Some favourites among the health-conscious (and apparently, the gym-going crowd at One Raffles Place) are the Pumpkin and Sweet Potato pies that come with no added sugar. While much more subdued in flavour, the natural sweetness of Pumpkin and Sweet Potato really come through in these pies.
Durian lovers, here’s another durian-flavoured pastry to add to your must-try list. The latest flavour to hit the shelves at April’s Bakery, these will surely not disappoint.
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durian season should be all year round (Image Credit: @aprilbakerysg)[/caption]
While most of these pies are best enjoyed warm, we were told that you can also enjoy the custard-paste pies cold – and even with a scoop of ice cream!
If you’re working in the CBD area and are ever feeling peckish, grab one of April’s Bakery’s delicious pies. With such a wide variety of flavours, it’ll take you a while to work your way through all the pies to figure out which ones are your favourites.
Whether you’re in the mood for something sweet, something healthy, or something to fill you up, April’s Bakery got just the thing!
April’s Bakery
Address: #B1-38 1 Raffles Place, One Raffles Place, Singapore 048616
Opening Hours: Mon – Fri: 7am – 7pm
Contact: 8122 7604
Website
Also read This Cafe Created A Diner-Themed Dessert Menu, And Our Eyes Are Confused
(Header Image Source: Burpple User Kat X, Burpple User Amanda Ang)
Pumpkin Spice Lattes Are Finally Arriving In Singapore, So We Can All Become Basic AF
If you spend more hours than you care to admit online, watching YouTube videos of beauty and style gurus, you’ll probably have noticed that one thing always happens once fall rolls around – everyone starts talking about Pumpkin Spice Lattes.
[embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/BYcHDQiF36V/?tagged=pumpkinspicelatte[/embed]A drink that makes a regular appearance on the Starbucks menu around this time of the year in various parts of world, the drink has never been released in Singapore – that is, until now.
Yesterday, Starbucks teased its arrival with this Facebook post:
With a caption reading “One week before I finally land in Singapore. The name’s _um_kin S_ice L_tt_.“, it’s basically a dead giveaway.
A blend of Starbuck’s signature espresso and milk, with flavor notes of pumpkin, cinnamon, nutmeg and clove, the drink comes toppped with whipped cream and real pumpkin pie slices.
If the hashtag on the post is any indication, the Pumpkin Spice Latte will be dropping on 6 September. We don’t know about you, but we’re excited to finally find out what it is about these drinks that has everyone raving about them!
Also read Singaporeans, Here’s What Your Go-To Hawker Food Says About You
(Header Image Source: NBC News)
This Poke Stop Serves Aburi-Style Poke, And That’s Not Their Only Twist On The Trend
It’s been a good couple of months, and still, the poke bowl trend doesn’t seem to be losing steam here in Singapore.
A healthy, Hawaiian-inspired version of our favourite chirashi don, that’s filled with raw fish and healthy to boot, it’s no wonder there seems to be a new poke place springing up every other week!
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Look out for this sign to find Torched[/caption]
Yet another poke stop has surfaced, specifically in the Bugis area of Singapore. This one is a little different from the rest, and we think those of you who love aburi-ed sashimi will especially like this.
Have Your Poke Torched
Located just a stone’s throw away from LASELLE College of the Arts, Torched shares a counter and dining space with specialty coffee concept One Man Coffee.
[caption id="attachment_29460" align="alignnone" width="5184"]
Torched was started by a brother-sister duo[/caption]
The brainchild of 2 siblings – a brother-sister duo – the concept of torched poke bowls was a product of experimentation and spontaneity. After fooling around with a blowtorch in the kitchen, the pair stumbled upon a way to separate their poke bowls from the rest – serving up bowls with their ingredients torched!
The result is a poke bowl that has all the usual suspects – raw fish, rice, seaweed – but with their flavours fired up.
[caption id="attachment_29461" align="alignnone" width="5184"]
Poke galore[/caption]
Like most poke places, you get to take your pick of either a signature bowl – where all the big decisions are made for you – or a customised bowl, where you can put all your favourite ingredients into one bowl!
Torched offers 3 signature bowls: the Signature Torched Poke Bowl ($15), the Torched Tofu Bowl ($9), and the Roast Pork & Kimchi Bowl ($10).
[caption id="attachment_29466" align="alignnone" width="5184"]
So many colours in one poke bowl![/caption]
The Signature Torched Poke Bowl is a colourful mixture of torched salmon, tuna and tamago mentaiko on a bed of sushi rice and salad. The fish is fresh and lightly seasoned, so you won’t feel jelat halfway through your bowl. A fuss-free, flavourful bowl, this is an easy pick if you have trouble deciding what to put into your poke.
Vegetarians, Torched hasn’t forgotten you.
Their Torched Tofu Bowl is a vegetarian option that comprises torched sesame tofu and avocado on a bed of rice and salad. Cherry tomatoes, edamame, pomelo and seaweed are also added into the mix to give your poke bowl a tantalising variety of textures and flavours.
Torched Snacks
Poke bowls aside, their torched ingredients also come served in tacos and kueh pie tee “shots”.
[caption id="attachment_29467" align="alignnone" width="5184"]
Taco with Tamago Mentaiko filling[/caption]
Fill your tacos and “shots” with tamago mentaiko ($6), spicy poke ($7), or roast pork & kimchi ($8). We recommend the spicy poke, which is spicier than we expected – not that we mind.
If you’re considering pairing these snacks with your poke, we suggest going for the kueh pie tee shots. Perfect for popping into your mouth, the kueh pie tee cups work interestingly with the fillings. That, and we love the crunch when you bite into these little cups.
While we enjoyed the poke shots, we didn’t fancy the tacos nearly as much because the filling, rice, and taco made for a strange combo. With nothing tying the different elements together, the three tasted like completely separate entities that were just thrown together.
[caption id="attachment_29471" align="alignnone" width="5184"]
Kueh Pie Tee “Shots” with Spicy Poke[/caption]
While poke bowl spots are becoming more common in our local food scene, Torched has taken a unique approach with its poke, and we think it’s pretty clever. After all, who doesn’t love the smokey-raw combo of aburi-style fish?
The next time you’re in the Bugis area and are craving a hearty bowl of poke, drop by Torched! Simple, delicious and oh-so-photogenic, these rice bowls are a straightforward choice for a lunch break or a quick friend-date with the girls.
Torched
Address: 128 Prinsep St, Singapore 188655
Opening Hours: Mon – Fri: 11am – 5.30pm; Closed on Sat & Sun
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Also read Singaporeans, Here’s What Your Go-To Hawker Food Says About You
Singaporeans, Here’s What Your Go-To Hawker Food Says About You
It’s no secret that we Singaporeans love our food. We will queue for them, travel for them, pay for them; we will go to any lengths to get ahold of the foods we love.
While we’re always on the lookout for the next big food craze, we’ll admit, there’s a special place in our hearts for our very own local delicacies – our messy, greasy plates of char kway teow, our savoury, vinegary bowls of bak chor mee, our deliciously sinful, spicy bowls of laksa…
Most of us have a go-to local dish – the dish we head straight for when we’re in a food court; the one we miss when we’re out of the country; the dish we absolutely cannot imagine our lives without.
Whatever your go-to may be, it reveals plenty about you. Here’s what your go-to Singaporean food says about you:
1. Yong Tau Fu
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Yong Tau Fu from Ding Hao Yong Tau Fu (Image Credit: Deliveroo)[/caption]
You’re either someone who is very health conscious, or someone who likes to feel like you’re making at least some healthy choices in your life. You can be a picky eater, and when ordering food online, you will browse through the entire Deliveroo catalogue until you find something that perfectly suits your mood.
You like feeling like you’re in control at work, at home, and in life in general. You’re careful, meticulous, and reliable. You prefer to err on the side of caution and more often than not, you stick with the safer option.
2. Chicken Rice
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Chicken Rice from Buffet Town (Image Credit: Deliveroo)[/caption]
You like your food like you like your days – good, but in a safe, predictable kind of way. You are a creature of habit and you truly believe you can eat chicken rice every single day.
You take great comfort in routine and familiarity, and you are faithful and loyal to the people and the things you love. You are simple, easy-going, and you don’t sweat the small things.
3. Laksa
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Image Credit: AspirantSG[/caption]
You live for a bit of risk. You’re adventurous, fiery and passionate. You say go big when others say play it safe. You’re always jio-ing your friends to try cool new eateries with you and you’re often drawn to the most unusual items on the menu.
The Deliveroo catalogue is like a playground to you, and you often have a hard time nailing down what to eat, and where you should even order from. Novelty and things that are outrageous excite you, and you constantly seek out these experiences in your life.
4. Bak Chor Mee
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Bak Chor Mee from Yammee Teochew Fishball Noodles (Image Credit: Deliveroo)[/caption]
You’re someone with very particular tastes. With food and with every other aspect of your life, you know exactly what you want, and you will go out of your way to get it. You have your go-to pick for everything from the supermarket, to the place you do your hair, to the app you use to order your food. If Deliveroo is your go-to, there’s a good chance you’re sticking with it till the end of time.
While you do get distracted once in a while, you always remember to get back on track – that’s just the laser-focused kind of person that you are.
5. Char Kway Teow
[caption id="attachment_29450" align="aligncenter" width="640"]
Image Credit: Burpple[/caption]
Your favoute phrase is ‘treat yo’self’ and you whip it out as often as you can. You love indulging in the things that make you happy and you couldn’t care less what others have to say about it. You’re independent, smart, sassy, and have a mind of your own. Whether it’s bubble tea, pasta, or Chinese food, your Deliveroo order is always at least a little bit different from the rest – and you take pride in that individuality.
Aside from the ones closest to you, what others say or think about you and your decisions don’t faze you. When your mind is made up, there’s no stopping you.
6. Cai Fan/Nasi Padang
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Image Credit: Malay Mail Online[/caption]
You’re an impatient character and you want your food, chop chop, right now. You don’t ask for your food to be amazing – decent is good enough. While you’re normally quite sui bian when it comes to food, you like to spoil yourself once in a blue moon. That’s when you go all out, ordering all the delicious grub you’ve heard and read about.
That said, food is not where your passion lies. You prefer to spend your time, effort, and energy improving yourself, nurturing your interests, or on your work; these are the things that give your life meaning, and you pour yourself wholeheartedly into them.
7. Roti Prata
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Roti Prata from Casuarina Curry (Image Credit: Burpple)[/caption]
You’re the life of the party. You have plenty of close friends, and you’re the person everyone calls (or texts) to talk to in the middle of the night. You’re outgoing, extroverted, a little bit cray, and you believe in making good memories over food.
To you, both with food and with people, the more, the merrier. You’re always that person who orders extra sides to share – and you’re happy to pay for it too. You’re all about having a good time, and your infectious energy never fails to light up the whole room.
Were your food “readings” accurate?
We Singaporeans are spoiled for choice when it comes to good food. Now, we’re even more spoiled by Deliveroo, who will bring all these tasty hawker staples right to our door step! (Well, all except for cai fan, but you can always order tze char and make your own cai fan.)
Whether you’re up to your neck in work at the office or decide to spend a lazy day at home, Deliveroo is just a couple of clicks away, and they’ll have all your dining needs covered!
This article is written in collaboration with Deliveroo.
Also read Lady M Created A Light-Up Lantern For Its Mooncakes, Because Boxes Are So Mainstream
10 High-Octane Events To Kick Off The First Half Of September [1-15 September]
It’s finally here – September!
September is always a busy month because of the Singapore F1 Grand Prix stop. As the drivers descend upon our shores, we are armed with loads of parties and festivities to welcome them to our sunny island.
If you aren’t into the racing and/or partying scene, here are some ideas on what else you can get up to the first half of this month.
Play & Discover
1. Star Wars: Experience The Force
On the stroke of midnight of 1 September, you’ll be able to get first dibs on exclusive merch from the upcoming movie, Star Wars: The Last Jedi, at Ion Orchard.
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(Image Credit: Expat Living SG)[/caption]
The celebrations will continue with pop-ups and installations like the Millennium Falcon and a super adorable BB-8 virtual reality experience.
It’s never too early to start, so bring your young ones to their very first Padawan training class to kick start their journey to being a Jedi Master.
The festival will culminate in an entire zone dedicated to fans of the galaxy at the annual Singapore Toy, Game & Comic Convention (STGCC). Go crazy taking photos with replicas of Kylo Ren’s TIE Silencer, J.J. Abrams’ autographed Rey’s Speeder, and a film replica of the interior of the Millennium Falcon.
Star Wars: Experience The Force Festival
Address: Ion Orchard and Sands Expo & Convention Centre Hall D, E & F, Level B2, Marina Bay Sands
When: 1 – 10 Sep
The Imaginarium Of David
The greatest suspense is the feeling of mystery!
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Image Credit: Andsoforth[/caption]
Andsoforth, who is well known for bringing whimsical fantasies to life in a theatrical dinner setting, are back again with another hit production.
This time round, the tale of David and Goliath is re-imagined in a modern disco setting, with b-boys, swan ballerinas, Shaolin Ballerinas, and a cabaret that will ensure you won’t have a peaceful dinner.
Here’s what went down at their previous show:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wam9Iq6eSvM
The food will also be extraordinary, with a four course meal to tease your tastebuds and a sneaky cocktail thrown in at the end to finish off the night.
The Imaginarium Of David
Address: Secret location – only revealed on the day of the event itself
When: Every Fri & Sat till 30 Sep
Website
3. Dashboard Confessional Live In Singapore
Relive your childhood with one of the icons of the 2000s emo era – Dashboard Confessional!
[caption id="attachment_29423" align="aligncenter" width="300"]
Image Credit: LAMC Productions[/caption]
Even though they’ve been to Singapore twice previously, they were both stripped down, acoustic shows. This time round, they will come at us full force, with the entire band in attendance.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j82FBbgpUy4
You can expect old favorites like ‘Belle Of The Boulevard’, ‘Stolen’, and also newer material off their latest album, such as ‘Hopes Up’. Their sound has changed slightly over the years, but still retains the same poignancy and rawness that we loved in our teen years.
Dashboard Confessional Live In Singapore
Address: D’Marquee@Downtown East
When: 9 Sep
Tickets
4. Singapore Toy, Game & Comic Convention 2017 (STGCC)
Our local version of Comic Con is celebrating its tenth year this year!
[caption id="attachment_29426" align="aligncenter" width="300"]
Image Credit: STGCC[/caption]
Anything from manga, anime, comics to cosplay and collectibles goes at STGCC. Attendees can score limited edition drops, meet artists and famous cosplayers, and take part in the festivities by dressing up as their favorite characters.
C.B. Cebulksi, editor of Marvel Comics and talent scout, will be here doing his portfolio review rounds for aspiring cartoonists and illustrators. Also visiting are Japanese toy designers Hinatique and Yasu, who will be visiting Singapore for the first time.
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A replica of the Millenium Falcon (Image Credit: STGCC)[/caption]
This year, there will be a dedicated zone for Star Wars fans, with a live replica of the Millenium Falcon.
An entire hall dedicated to competitive and casual gamers will also see three gaming tournaments – ROG Masters 2017 – DOTA 2 – Singapore Qualifier and ROG Masters 2017 – CS:GO – Singapore Qualifier finals, and semi-final to finals Tickets
5. West Side Story
Pretty much the underworld version of the Shakespearean romance tragedy Romeo And Juliet.
One of Broadway’s biggest spectacles will be making its way to Singapore after selling out shows in Sydney, Tokyo and London.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=evqC4HTIOjY
West Side Story is a tale of two star-crossed lovers from rival teenage gangs, set in the slums of 1950s New York. The musical will take to the stage in a flurry of explosive choreography and jazzy tunes.
We’re sure you won’t be able to resist singing along to this ill-fated violent romance that painfully reveals the injustice of the social system in America back in the 1950s.
West Side Story
Address: Grand Theatre, Mastercard Theatres at Marina Bay Sands
When: 13 – 30 Sep
Tickets
6. Music Matters Live 2017
Held in conjunction with the All That Matters Live Conference and Apple Music, Music Matters Live is back again this year, happening from 9 – 13 Sep! Artists from all over the world will gather to showcase the best of their country’s burgeoning music scene.
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Image Credit: DANakaDAN[/caption]
This event will see rapper DANakaDAN from USA, indie outfit Fairchild from Australia and Taiwanese rock heavyweights Elephant Gym 大象體操 making up some of the international acts.
Repping Singapore, we have Falling Feathers, M1ldl1fe and Tabitha Nauser.
[caption id="attachment_29429" align="aligncenter" width="240"]
Image Credit: Falling Feathers[/caption]
Head over to the Various locations, including CHIJMES and Timbre outlets The highlight of the racing world is finally here!
When: 9 – 13 Sep
Singapore Grand Prix: Singapore F1 2017
Image Credit: 
Image Credit: Singapore Grand Prix: Singapore F1 2017
When: 15 – 17 Sep
CHIKIN
Spice up your yakitori with CHIKIN’s Szechuan-style yakitori.
[caption id="attachment_29347" align="aligncenter" width="300"]
Chikin skewers[/caption]
Instead of using the usual tare sauce, CHIKIN uses mala to season their yakitori. Expect to find over 11 parts of the chicken available on the menu, as well as various other kushiyaki like veggies and other meats.
[caption id="attachment_29349" align="aligncenter" width="300"]
Cocktail[/caption]
The pop-art inspired bar also has an extensive range of Japanese whiskies and sakes to choose from, as well as an entire menu of cocktails that reinterpret old favorites with a twist.
CHIKIN
Address: 6 Bukit Pasoh Rd, Singapore 089820
Opening Hours: Mon – Fri: 5pm – 12am; Sat: 6pm – 12am
Contact no.: 6634 2916
Website
9. Ben and Jerry’s new flavors: Frozen Flakes and Cocoa Loco
We just cannot get enough of Ben & Jerry’s new ice cream flavors!
This time, their two new flavors remind us of breakfast. Cocoa Loco is a chocolate cereal milk ice cream with crisp chocolate cereal swirls. Frozen Flakes is the normal milk ice cream version of Cocoa Loco, just without chocolate.
[caption id="attachment_29430" align="aligncenter" width="240"]
Image Credit: @nylonsg[/caption]
Who says we can’t have ice cream for breakfast?
Ben & Jerry’s
Address: Various outlets
Website
Shop
10. Superga X Disney collection
No matter how old we are, Disney characters will always have a place in our hearts.
[caption id="attachment_29431" align="alignnone" width="300"]
Image Credit: Superga[/caption]
The classic 2750 cut gets an adorable update with a baby pink Minnie mouse print and a fire-truck red shade covered in Mickey’s handprints.
These shoes also comes in kid sizes, so that you can be all matchy-matchy with your younger siblings.
These shoes can be found in-store at Wheelock and Vivocity, and you can also purchase them online.
Superga
Address: 501 Orchard Road, Wheelock Place #B2-04, Singapore 238880
Opening Hours: Mon – Sun: 10am – 10pm
Contact no.: 6634 2916
Website
With such an exciting and star-studded month ahead, we can’t wait for it to come! You definitely won’t want to stay in and miss out on all the fun.
Also read Make Your Heart Go “Dookki Dookki” At Singapore’s First Ever Tteokbokki Buffet
(Header Image Source: Expat Living)
Lady M Created A Light-Up Lantern For Its Mooncakes, Because Boxes Are So Mainstream
As August draws to a close, it means two things – Halloween is coming, but before that, Mid-Autumn Festival.
That means breaking out the paper lanterns, sparklers, and of course, mooncakes.
This year, so many brands are putting out their own spin on the traditional delicacy. Some are sticking to tradition with classic mooncakes with lotus paste, white lotus paste or red bean paste; others are breaking tradition with alcoholic mooncakes, cheesecake mooncakes, ice cream mooncakes, and more.
[caption id="attachment_29409" align="aligncenter" width="1034"]
Image Credit: Lady M[/caption]
With brands from the usual hotels to Mr Bean hawking their own versions of the confection, it takes something truly special to pierce through the competition – and we think Lady M‘s version takes the (moon)cake!
Snowskin Mooncakes In A Grand Lantern
This Mid-Autumn Festival, Lady M will be selling sets of 4 snowskin mooncakes, which will be available in 2 flavours: Cranberry Cheese White Chocolate Truffle and Peanut Butter Chocolate Truffle.
[caption id="attachment_29410" align="aligncenter" width="960"]
Snowskin Mooncake – Cranberry Cheese (Image Credit: Lady M)[/caption]
While these flavours sound completely non-traditional, don’t worry, the people at Lady M haven’t completely thrown tradition out the window.
The mooncakes, which come in pink and white respectively, are filled with white lotus paste, with a luxurious chocolate truffle core that’s filled with either cranberry cream cheese or smooth creamy peanut butter.
[caption id="attachment_29411" align="aligncenter" width="960"]
Snowskin Mooncake – Peanut Butter (Image Credit: Lady M)[/caption]
Each mooncake bears Lady M’s trademark “M”, embossed in place of the usual Mandarin characters or flowers.
While the mooncakes are special in and of themselves, their packaging is what’s won our hearts – these mooncakes are housed in a gorgeous lantern!
Limited Edition Lanterns
At first glance, you’ll see a pretty pink lantern, but only upon closer inspection will you see the intricacies of its design.
Battery-lit from the inside, you’ll notice the sides of the lantern are actually three dimensional windows. You’ll even spot tiny silhouettes of people having tea! The whole lantern resembles an ornate building, with pretty windows, columns, and Lady M’s “M” weaved seamlessly into its design.
[caption id="attachment_29412" align="aligncenter" width="861"]
Image Credit: Lady M[/caption]
Coming with a dainty, metallic chain attached for carrying around, lift the top piece and you’ll find the four mooncakes stacked one on top of the other!
Super pretty, this is far from your typical mooncake box or tin.
“M” For Mooncake
The Grand Lantern Mooncakes will only be available till 1 October 2017, and will be available in limited quantities, so make an order quickly!
Priced at $109.50 per box (set of 4 mooncakes), make an order by 3 September and you can also enjoy an early-bird price of $99.50.
Thinking of sending mooncakes to friends or family, but have no idea which mooncakes to buy? With such pretty packaging, this is definitely a winner. Heck, you might want to just get these for yourself – the lantern is definitely a unique piece you’ll want to keep around the house.
Pre-order Lady M’s Grand Lantern Mooncakes Marina Bay Sands Is Throwing A Festival That Lets You Have Fun And Do Good At The Same Time
Make Your Heart Go “Dookki Dookki” At Singapore’s First Ever Tteokbokki Buffet
Omo-ya, it’s Singapore’s first ever tteokbokki buffet!
If you’ve ever watched a Korean drama, you would definitely have salivated watching your favorite actors feast on tteokbokki, a spicy stir fried rice cake dish that can be eaten as a snack or as a meal in itself.
Dookki, one of Korea’s leading tteokbokki places, has set up shop at Suntec City. The best part about Dookki is that you can customize your own tteokbokki down to the sauce at their free flow bar stocked full of Korean dishes.
Dookki directly translates to ‘two meals’ in Korean, as Koreans like to start off their meal with a hotpot dish and finish off with a kimchi fried rice.
[caption id="attachment_29393" align="aligncenter" width="300"]
Anything goes with tteokbokki – ramen, cheese, eomuk… (Image Credit: mandyzn_)[/caption]
Tteokbokki your way
Instead of providing a base sauce, Dookki lets you create your sauce from scratch. Go crazy on the spice – you can make it as spicy or as salty as you want!
[caption id="attachment_29390" align="aligncenter" width="300"]
You can’t complain that the tteokbokki ain’t good cos you mixed it! (Image Credit: dookki_sg)[/caption]
If you don’t know where to start, there is a DIY guide sheet at the sauce station which marks out the ratio of Dookki sauce, tteokbokki sauce, gungjung sauce and flame sauce for the various spiciness levels.
Most people are accustomed to the red, spicy tteokbokki sauce, but the original tteokbokki was made stir-fried with soy sauce.
After mixing your sauce and leaving it to boil, move on to the tteokbokki station to pick out your rice cakes. Besides the typical cylinder-shaped rice cake that is commonly served by Korean eateries, the tteokbokki station also has options like Flat, Slim, Square, Hollow, Special, Square Wheat, Potato Sujebi.
The Potato Sujebi has a little surprise in the middle – each piece of tteok is stuffed with a creamy sweet potato filling. Bonus: see if you can find the heart-shaped tteok!
[caption id="attachment_29389" align="aligncenter" width="300"]
The widest selection of tteokbokki under one roof! (Image Credit: dookki_sg)[/caption]
Load up on leeks and onions for an added layer of sweetness. There are also mushrooms and other veggies to jazz up your tteokbokki creation. Hardboiled eggs are also a huge hit with tteokbokki lovers.
Other than tteokbokki, Dookki also has counters overflowing with other popular Korean street foods like Kimmari (fried seaweed spring rolls) and eomuk (fish cake skewers). The fried chicken and mandu always runs out really quicky, so be sure to get them while they are hot!
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Fishcake on sticks! (Image Credit: dookki_sg)[/caption]
It’s like having a free flow buffet at a Korean street cart!
Say CHEESE
If you are addicted to cheese, add on a double cheese ring for just $9.80. The cheesy dip comes with corn in it for an extra crunch when you dip your tteok or sausages in it.
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SHIOKKKK (Image Credit: dookki_sg)[/caption]
The stretchy cheesy dip also makes for good photos – but make sure to stir your cheese from time to time so that it does not harden too quickly.
Round 2 anyone?
Once you’re done stuffing your face with tteokbokki, clean up all the leftover sauce by adding some rice, kimchi, seaweed and corn and frying it all together. Drizzle some sesame oil for a nuttier finish.
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Trust me, it tastes better than it looks! (Image Credit: stalker_jiaan)[/caption]
If you prefer noodles, Dookki also has instant ramen that you can add into your tteokbokki broth as well. Just remember to leave out the flavor packet, as it might ruin the taste of your delicious tteokbokki soup!
With the buffet going at just $18.80 for adults and $10.80 for children, you can stuff your face with as much tteokbokki and eomuk as you want without emptying your wallet. The only catch is that you need to finish your entire meal in 90 minutes.
Dookki screams of comfort food, and is the perfect place to go to when its raining and you are just craving some warm, hearty soup. We hear that the lines can be rather long during peak hours, so go early!
Dookki Singapore
Address: Suntec City, 3 Temasek Boulevard #B1-107 (East Wing), Singapore 038984
Opening Hours: Mon – Sun, 11.30am – 10.30pm
Contact: 6266 2425
Website
Also read This Bar Is Serving Yakitori With A Mala Twist That’s Sure To Make You Chikin Out
(Header Image Source: Dookki Singapore Facebook)
Marina Bay Sands Is Throwing A Festival That Lets You Have Fun And Do Good At The Same Time
Breathtaking views, exciting entertainment options, delicious food – these are some of the things many of us have come to associate with the iconic Marina Bay Sands.
A destination that draws visitors of all sorts, from lovers to families, to foreigners, the integrated resort makes it a point to create a positive impact on the local community using its unique resources and position.
Through Sands for Singapore, its corporate social responsibility programme, Marina Bay Sands has raised over S$16 million for the underprivileged in our community.
An annual event which raises funds and awareness for local charities, Sands For Singapore Charity Festival 2017 will be back again this year, taking place from 8 – 10 September.
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Marina Bay Sands ArtScience Museum[/caption]
The Sands For Singapore Charity Festival will include a line-up of fun and meaningful charity events that will take place across all facets of the integrated resort, including the theatres, retail mall, restaurants, convention centre, and museum.
All you have to do is turn up, have fun, and you too can do good for those in need!
1. Enjoy a picnic at sundown
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Sundown Picnic[/caption]
Got a thing for picnics?
Marina Bay Sands will be hosting a picnic at sundown. Happening at Marina Bay Sands’ Event Plaza, you’re in for an evening of food, drink and music in the plaza, which will be transformed into a cosy picnic space.
Feast on food and drinks from Marina Bay Sands’ dining establishments and award-winning celebrity chef restaurants including db Bistro & Oyster Bar, Osteria and Pizzeria Mozza, and Adrift.
On 8 and 9 September, wine and dine to tunes performed by home-grown talents Too Much Drama and The Summer State; and on the final day of the picnic, be treated to sweet melodies during a musical fiesta led by Grammy-nominated Singaporean conductor Darrell Ang.
Venue: Event Plaza
Date: 8 – 10 Sep
Time:
Friday, 8 September
7.15pm–8pm | Too Much Drama
8.15pm–9pm | The Summer State
Saturday, 9 September
7.15pm–8pm | The Summer State
8.15pm–9pm | Too Much Drama
Sunday, 10 September
7:15pm – 8:00pm | Fiesta! – Music at Marina Bay Sands with Darrell Ang and Friends
8:15pm – 9:00pm | Fiesta! – Music at Marina Bay Sands with Darrell Ang and Friends
Admission: Free
2. Catch A Spectacle Called Spectra
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Spectra[/caption]
Done with dinner? Stick around for a stunning final act, Spectra, Marina Bay Sands’ brand new light and water show which combines state-of-the-art lasers, lighting, water effects and projections. A kaleidoscopic explosion of colour, this spectacular display will excite both young and young-at-heart.
Venue: Event Plaza
Date: 8 – 10 Sep
Time: 8pm, 9pm (Sunday to Thursday) and 10pm (Friday & Saturday)
3. Play It Forward
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Play It Forward[/caption]
On 10 September, come join the action and show your support for the participants of Play It Forward, a property-wide charity challenge organised as part of the Sands for Singapore Charity Festival. In teams of six, participants will represent a local charity and compete to win up to $120,000 worth of cash prizes for their chosen charity.
This year, kids too can participate in a Junior version of Play It Forward adapted for children aged 7 – 12.
Come down to the Event Plaza to catch the live broadcast of the teams as they play fun and creative games across various locations within Marina Bay Sands.
Venue: Event Plaza
Date: 10 Sep
Time: 9am – 12pm
Admission: FREE
4. Do Good Just By Experiencing Marina Bay Sands
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Human + The Future Of Our Species (Image Credit: 
Community Chest Heartstrings Walk[/caption]
Join this year’s Community Chest Heartstrings Walk, a 4km fun walk that will take you on a scenic tour around the Marina Bay waterfront circuit. The walk will involve thousands of fun walkers, competitive vertical marathoners, volunteers and beneficiaries – all in support of an inclusive nation
Venue: Marina Bay Sands, Event Plaza
Date: 9 Sep
Time: Flag-off at 8.15am
Admission: $10 (Registration fee includes a sponsored goodie bag)
Register to participate in Community Chest Heartstrings Walk here.
6. Race To The Sky
Want something more your speed – and by that, you mean faster?
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Infinity Pool (Image Credit: here.
This September, let’s do some good for those in need!
Eat, play, and experience Marina Bay Sands while keeping the less privileged in our community in mind. While there, find out more about the charities and their causes; if their message speaks to you, find your own ways to help these people in your own time!
As cliched as it is, every little bit counts. So, do and give of what you can and it will be a huge blessing to those who truly need it.
Also read This Bar Is Serving Yakitori With A Mala Twist That’s Sure To Make You Chikin Out
This Cafe Created A Diner-Themed Dessert Menu, And Our Eyes Are Confused
If you’ve ever wished you could switch out all the food on your dinner plate for something sweeter (basically, dessert for dinner), there’s a cafe in Singapore where you can do just that; that is, seem like you’re having a sensible meal, but in fact be enjoying dessert.
Nestled in Lorong Kilat, this place serves up typical diner-style food – except, the foods here aren’t what they seem.
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Image Credit: Cake Avenue[/caption]
A spot called “Cake Avenue“, its name should be the first clue that you’re not in for a regular meal of burger and fries.
Look closer and you’ll find burger buns that are actually made of cake, soup that’s made of jelly, salsa that’s made of strawberry compote… You have to see it to believe it.
A Diner-themed Dessert Menu
Cake Avenue has released a new diner-themed dessert menu, and if you’re a sweet tooth, you’ll love all 6 new menu offerings they’re plating up.
First up is the classic burger and fries combo – or rather, its dessert twin.
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Image Credit: Cake Avenue[/caption]
Instead of burger buns sandwiching a beef patty, what you’re seeing here is a dark chocolate ice cream “patty” sandwiched by vanilla butter cake “burger buns”. The vibrantly coloured “mustard” is passionfruit purée, and raspberry purée serves as the “ketchup”.
For sides, you get “fries”, which comprise more vanilla cake.
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Image Credit: Cake Avenue[/caption]
Dessert nachos – bad idea or totally genius? Decide for yourself!
This dish of nachos contains flatbread nachos topped with strawberry compote “salsa”, chocolate mousse “refried beans”, julienned peach “cheese” and pistachio ice cream “guacamole”.
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Image Credit: Cake Avenue[/caption]
Now, this is a dish we find quite intriguing.
A simple bowl of Alphabet Soup, scoop into it and you’ll find that beneath the rose jelly “tomato broth” is a lychee mousse with lychee and raspberry. If you’re wondering if the “alphabets” are actually alphabet pasta, think again – the people at Cake Avenue went all out, crafting the alphabets out of sweet milk agar.
More Unicorn Food
If there’s one foodie trend that seems to be powering on, it has to be unicorn food.
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Image Credit: Cake Avenue[/caption]
Pretty to look at and super Instagrammable, Cake Avenue has created a range of unicorn-themed shakes that come complete with ears and a horn!
In pastel hues of yellow, pink, and green, take your pick from mango, strawberry and matcha flavours respectively!
Raring to try these inventive creations? So are we! Unfortunately, these new desserts will only be available from 1 September onwards, so we’ll all have to wait for just a bit before we can get our hands on these adorable treats.
Cake Avenue
Address: 33 Lorong Kilat, #01-01/02 Kilat Centre, 598132
Opening Hours: Daily, 10am – 8.30pm; Closed on Mon
Contact no.: 6877 9008
Website
Also read 8 Corny Pick Up Lines To Use On That Cutie You Spot On Your Next Fun Run
This Bar Is Serving Yakitori With A Mala Twist That’s Sure To Make You Chikin Out
Have you ever tried mala yakitori? Probably not. Because CHIKIN is the first place in Singapore to serve up Szechuan-style yakitori!
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Step into mala and pop art heaven[/caption]
Besides bar bites, CHIKIN has also curated an extensive selection of sake and created an exciting cocktail menu that will make you want to keep coming back until you’ve tried everything.
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Neon lights[/caption]
Pop art vibes
When you first step into CHIKIN, you’ll be greeted by neon signs and walls covered in pop icons, especially everyone’s favourite mouthless kitty. There’s even a wall covered with tuna cans.
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Tuna cans featuring the Boba Kori[/caption]
Sit at the bar to soak in the bustling atmosphere of the open bar and kitchen, or head to the second floor for a more relaxed and quieter lounge area.
The third floor, vibing hard with the same pop art furnishings, opens up to a cosy attic that also comes with karaoke machine, so you can sing a few tunes with your friends. The room is open from 8pm onwards, although you need to make a reservation for it. The space can also be rented out for an intimate event.
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Pop art fills the walls[/caption]
Sticks and chikin parts
CHIKIN is not your typical yakitori joint. Instead of using the typical tare sauce to season their meats, they use a mala – a Szechuan peppercorn – sauce for a spicier kick.
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It’s chikiiiiiiiiiiiin time![/caption]
Other kushiyaki like vegetables and other meats are also available. Must-tries include their Quail Egg, Iberico Pork Collar With Leek and Shiitake Mushrooms.
If you like various body parts, you can try the Beef Tongue or Foie Gras skewers.
The yakitori and kushiyaki sticks are all grilled over Binchotan flames to order, before being transferred onto a super cute plate designed to look like a square in a Japanese action comic.
Skewers are priced individually, starting from $3 a stick. Alternatively, grab a tasting platter at $30 for 10 sticks or 15 sticks for $40.
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Unagi Garlic Fried Rice With Fish Roe[/caption]
If you need your carbs, load up on their rice. Chikin makes a delicious Plentiful Ikura Garlic Rice and Unagi Garlic Fried Rice With Fish Roe to pair with your yakitori. The rice is seasoned with their homemade garlic and tare sauce, which means you cannot get the same taste anywhere else!
Other popular bar bites like Umami Fries, Chikin Karaage and even a Chikin Collagen Onsen Soup are also available.
Tip: Add some homemade miso into your food, which is mixed with their Szechuan peppercorns if you just cannot get enough of mala.
Cocktails for everyone
No matter how diverse your tastes are, we’re sure there is something for everyone on the cocktail menu.
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Sake sangria for a fruity finish[/caption]
The cocktails are created by Sam Wong, who has won various bartending awards in and around Singapore, and is quite well known in the bartending scene for his creative cocktails.
You might even have tasted his creations at Ah Sam Cold Drink Stall and Nutmeg and Clove. For CHIKIN, Wong recreated a range of classic cocktails with a twist, inspired by Japanese flavors.
A large part of the cocktail menu is made up of whisky and sake infusions, although there are also gin and cognac infusions. The cocktails are usually left aside for a few days to infuse with the alcohol, before they are served. The result is a more blended, smooth concoction.
[caption id="attachment_29349" align="alignnone" width="300"] Smoky nights ahead with the Sumoki Raisin[/caption]
Sweet-tooths will love the Sake Sangria, a fruity infusion of sake and gin. Those who do not like the taste of alcohol can give the Boba Kori a go, as it is similar to a bubble-tea-slash-slushie drink which masks the taste of gin (unfortunately, there isn’t actually boba inside).
Whisky fans are in for a treat, with an Oolong-inspired Oold Fashioned on the menu. The Sumoki Raisin is a smoky whisky and sherry infusion that leaves behind a strong aftertaste, and comes topped with raisins that were left to soak in the whisky infusion for three days – they are sure to pack a punch!
If the Sumoki Raisin doesn’t give you enough of a kick, then CHIKIN challenges you to the ultimate cocktail spice challenge – the Szechuan Bloody Mary.
The vodka cocktail is mixed with Szechuan peppercorn, tomato, chilli oil, and comes in 5 different spicy levels: Novice, Hungover, Expert, Hao Lian, and WTF.
How daredevil are you?
CHIKIN
Address: 6 Bukit Pasoh Rd, Singapore 089820
Opening Hours: Mon – Fri: 5pm – 12am; Sat: 6pm – 12am
Contact no.: 6634 2916
Website
Also read No Holds Bar-ed – 5 Bars That Let You Take On Karaoke, Arcade Games And More
