[Review] Yunomori Onsen @ Kallang – The Place To Soothe All Aches
This spa, Yunomori Onsen @ Kallang, has been making waves around social media as of late. It has only been open recently. However, the hype surrounding it made us curious about its offerings. We decided to head down early one Wednesday morning to see what having an onsen in sunny Singapore would be like.
Yunomori Onsen @ Kallang – Hot water in the forest
The name Yunomori means hot water in the forest, and since Singapore is a garden city, I suppose it is quite fitting.
The interior is very evidently a nod to Japanese culture – clean, white and neat. But there’s a little sign on the warming list that says no yakuzas allowed inside the Onsen. That made me laugh out loud.
Yunomori Onsen @ Kallang – Shower facilities & onsen
The men’s and women’s sections are predictably segregated.
Yukatas are available at the counter as you enter each area. Yunomori Onsen @ Kallang recommends onsen users to experience it the Japanese way by going commando. However, women have the option of requesting for disposable underwear if they are uncomfortable going in commando. When we were there, many younger women covered themselves up but the older women seemed to be very comfortable in their own skin.
The dressing room area is equipped with a hairdryer, cotton wool and buds, and a Yunomori branded moisturiser for after the onsen experience.
The showers are very much like the ones you see in Japan. They come with a stool for you to sit on. Before and after the Onsen experience, you are expected to take a shower at these shower areas. It was quite an odd experience as I don’t sit while showering. But huge bottles of shampoo, conditioner and body wash were readily available at each shower stall.
Yunomori Onsen @ Kallang – Men’s sauna & onsen
For some reason, the men have a much larger open shower area (pictured below) right next to the sauna. Women do not have access to the sauna. It is believed that women’s skin is too delicate for the extreme heat.
The men have a total of 6 pools, one more than the women do. The men have an additional pool, known as the hot bath, in which the temperature goes up to 44 degrees Celsius.
Yunomori Onsen @ Kallang – The pools
Apart from that, the rest of the pools are the same. There is the soda bath, featuring Japanese imported technology, and the first of its kind in Southeast Asia. The 38.5-39.5 degree Celsius water in the soda bath is enriched with a high concentration of natural carbon dioxide. The CO2-rich water is said to increase blood oxygen levels, improve circulation, reduce high blood pressure and also detoxify the blood.
The Silk Bath is hot water (38.5-39.5 degrees Celsius) reacting with large amounts of micro-bubble containing hydrogen. These jets of tiny bubbles give the water a sensual and silky texture, which makes the skin really smooth. The soothing nature of the bath is said to relax the muscles and alleviate problems like rheumatism, arthritic aches and pains, as well as mental stress.
Other baths include the Bubble Bath, imbued with the nutrients of carefully balanced minerals. It feels just like a jacuzzi, except you will be stewing in water of about 38.5-39.5 degrees Celsius.
The Jet Bath consists of full-body jet streams of air that is said to help stimulate blood circulation. This bath is slightly hotter at 39.5-41 degrees Celsius. Personally, I find it best to start with the lower temperature pools then move up to the Jet Bath last before taking a dip into the last pool, the cold bath.
The Cold Bath is an invigorating jolt to the senses and almost has a numbing effect as the water is set at 17-19 degrees Celsius. The almost icy cold water will stimulate the body’s natural energy and nerve endings. It is also touted to boost anti-ageing effects by closing the pores and tightening the skin.
Yunomori Onsen @ Kallang – Steam bath
Both the men and women also get to enjoy the steam bath, with sea salt scrub readily available in a huge wooden bucket. The steam bath is set to 100% humidity, up to 49 degrees Celsius.
You would think, after all of the heat in Singapore, you’d be used to it. But there’s really nothing better than taking that final dip into the cold bath.
After that, guests are welcome to lounge at the lounge area, complete with pillows and blankets. Otherwise, a cafe is also available to serve meals to hungry clientele.
Yunomori Onsen @ Kallang – Other services
Other services include:
- Thai Traditional Massage (starts from $88+ for 60 mins): With techniques developed over thousands of years, this massage is steeped in physiology and traditional oriental medicine. Using an ancient mix of body rocking, rhythmic acupressure and stretches, therapists will help you balance your essential energies, improve flexibility and stimulate circulation.
- Aroma Oil Massage (starts from $138+ for 90 mins): This therapy blends the best massage techniques around the world. Fragrant essential oils boost the effects of the massage with their natural healing benefits. Alleviate problems such as headaches, muscle and tendon injuries as well as aches and pains.
- Herbal Compress (Add-on, $38+ for 30 mins): This is an art that has been preserved for thousands of years. It combines the benefits of Thai massage and Thai herbal remedies to create a stimulating yet soothing therapy. Aromatic medicinal herbs are cocooned within a cloth and steamed to release their healing properties. These remedies are known to help with stress, anxiety, chronic pain and arthritis.
- Foot Massage (starts from $38+ for 30 mins)
- Head & Shoulder Massage (starts from $38+ for 30 mins)
Yunomori Onsen @ Kallang – Prices
Onsen:
- Adult – $38 ($40.66 w/gst)
- 15 year-old & below OR 65 year-old & above – $28 ($29.96 w/gst)
Onsen & Spa Packages:
- Onsen + 60 mins Thai Massage – $118 ($126.26w/gst)
- Onsen + 90 mins Thai Massage & Herbal Compress – $156 ($166.92 w/gst)
- Onsen + 90 mins Aroma Oil Massage – $168 ($179.76 w/gst)
- Onsen + 120 mins Aroma Oil Massage & Herbal Compress – $206 ($220.42w/gst)
- Onsen + 30 mins Foot Massage – $68 ($72.76 w/gst)
- Onsen + 30 mins Head & Shoulder Massage – $68 ($72.76 w/gst)
NUS Opens Yet Another Overseas College. This Time, In Germany!
In what must be exciting news for NUS students, NUS has just announced a new partnership with The Technical University of Munich (TUM). This is its 8th NUS overseas college programme.
The Technical University of Munich (TUM), Germany
The TUM is one of the most innovative universities in Europe and is known for its cutting-edge research in various engineering and science-related fields. This partnership will allow students to gain engineering knowledge by working in “deep tech” start-ups based on scientific discoveries and technological innovations.
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TUM is ranked the fifth most innovative university in Europe Image Credit: www.straitstimes.com[/caption]
New NUS Overseas College focuses on engineering knowledge
NUS president Tan Chorh Chuan said TUM, which has produced 13 Nobel Prize winners since 1927, will have a different emphasis from others.
“We want students to gain practical engineering knowledge to be able to start or work in deep technology start-ups. These are start-ups that are founded on a technological innovation or scientific discovery.”
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Highlighting how the NUS overseas college programme underpins the development of a growing start-up community in Singapore, he said that through this programme, NUS aims to be a key driver of the entrepreneurial scene in Singapore.
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Echoing his sentiments, TUM president Wolfgang Herrmann said his university, like NUS, emphasises the development of the entrepreneurial mindset in its students and faculty.
“It’s not necessarily about getting students to set up companies, but about developing the entrepreneurial mindset – being innovative and able to recognise opportunities and seize them.
“When they have that mindset, business ideas will come naturally,” he said, adding that in the past 20 years, TUM professors and students have created over 700 spin-off companies.
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NUS Overseas College (NOC) – creating tomorrow’s entrepreneurs
Since 2001, NUS has set up seven overseas colleges – in Silicon Valley, Stockholm, New York, Beijing, Shanghai, Israel and Switzerland. NUS sends students to these colleges to take courses in the prestigious partner universities and to work in innovative start-ups.
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Colourful bungalows serve as student hostels in the Olympic VillageImage Credit: www.tum.de[/caption]
With such diverse opportunities awaiting NUS students, will we see the germination of the next Lazada or GrabTaxi anytime soon? We can’t wait!
For more information on NUS’s NOC programme, NUS Clinches 1st Place In Asian University Ranking For Third Year Straight; NTU Rises To 3rd
A Party In Our Mouths – Watermelon Fried Rice Is Just Amazeballs!
Nestled among an array of other gastronomic selections and retail shops in Sentosa, Gin Khao Bistro stands out with its red in black facade, catching many a passers-by’s eyes. It was quiet as we were early for dinner, allowing us a moment to enjoy the evening breeze and yacht marina view.
Thai Iced Rose Milk Tea
We start off the meal with a classic Thai Iced Milk Tea, a staple drink to have at every Thai eatery. Gin Khao Bistro ups its Thai Iced Milk Tea game by adding a special ingredient to it.
Their version is a Thai Iced Rose Milk Tea ($5.80), a shot of rose syrup is added to the iced tea. Rose syrup can be a tad sweet and cloying, but what is special about this blend is that the rose adds a layer of flavour to the milk tea, giving it an overall pleasant yet refreshing aftertaste.
Som Tam
Our next dish was a perfect contrast to the sweet Thai Iced Milk Tea. Som Tam ($8.80), also known as Papaya salad, is possibly an all-time favourite appetiser for Thais. The first few bites can be slightly acidic, but is expected. The papaya they use here is fresh and crunchy. Gin Khao’s Som Tam is indeed tantalising, a great choice to whet the appetite of diners early on in the meal.
Tom Yam Tulay
Our next dish was the Tom Yam Tulay ($13.80), a soup base accompanied by a generous amount of seafood such as mussels, squid, and shrimp. The seafood contributed a rich flavour in the broth, but its addictive nature is in the aftertaste.
Phat Neua
After the appetiser and the soup, we were ready for more. The next dish that came piping hot was Phat Neua ($14.80). This generous serving of stir fried spicy beef got our appetites raring to go. We sank our teeth into the tender well-seasoned beef and were hooked after the first bite. It is best enjoyed with steamed rice.
Watermelon Fried Rice
As always, we save the best for last. Recommended by the restaurant manager, Kevin, we tried the Watermelon Fried Rice ($25.80). The dish is a new creation by Gin Khao, an unexpected twist to the traditional pineapple fried rice. The Instagram-worthy dish is a sculpted watermelon bowl containing fried rice, mussels, sliced squids, shrimps, beancurd skin, cashew nuts, chicken floss, and of course, watermelon balls.
We were rather sceptical of how this would taste. It sounded a little absurd to eat watermelon balls with rice but if we could eat pineapple and mango with rice, why not watermelon!
We were right to trust Gin Khao’s creation. It felt like a party in my mouth with the sweetness of the watermelon contrasting the saltiness of the fried rice. The ingredients were seasoned and cooked to perfection. The fluffiness and chewiness of the fried rice complemented the juiciness of the watermelon balls, and it had us drooling for more. We relished the entire dish to the very last mouthful.
I must say, we had a scrumptious Thai dining experience with Gin Khao Bistro and would come back anytime. Visit Gin Khao Bistro for delectable Thai food with a special twist!
Gin Khao Bistro @ Sentosa Cove
Address: 31 Ocean Way #01-12 Quayside Isle
Opening hours: Mon to Thurs: 12pm to 3pm, 530pm to 10pm
Fri: 12pm to 12am
Sat/Eve: 11am to 12am
Sun/PH: 11am to 10pm
Brought to you by Discover SG x Foodie Vs The World
This was an invited food tasting session.
Also, read A Teppanyaki Dinner That Hits All The Right Spots – Teppan Bar Q
A Malaysian’s Unbiased Opinions Towards Singapore Food
In my opinion, the perennial debate over whether Malaysia or Singapore has better food is something that need not exist. Having lived in both countries and tasted food at every level, it is hard to say whose food is better.
Just like everything out there, both have its strengths. While I personally believe Malaysia probably fares slightly better for hawker food in general, I believe Singapore easily overtakes Malaysia for speciality dishes such as the chilli crab and chicken rice.
Red House Seafood
When I was down in Singapore for two weeks, I got to try 
The dish is only made more memorable after the crabs have been finished and all that is left is to dip the fried mantou into the sinfully good sauce. Not a single drop should be wasted.
The charcoal bun with chilli crab filling was a pleasant surprise. The innovative dish incorporates charcoal powder into the bun, which makes it softer than anyone can imagine. Packed with the chilli crab filling, these buns were quite a treat. I don’t think I would be able to find anything close to this back home.
The trio of squid was another stunning dish. While I think this can be easily found in Malaysia, this dish is special because it has all three types of squid in one dish.
We also tried its crab bee hoon at Red House seafood, a slightly upscale seafood restaurant along Prinsep Street, just a stone’s throw away from the bustling Orchard Road. Again, this is a dish uncommon to Malaysia. The Sri Lankan crabs used in Singapore are easily three times larger than those found in Malaysia. My theory is that the best crabs go to Singapore, and Malaysia gets the rest.
For some unknown reason, I’d expected the dish to be fried, but to my surprise, the dish consisted of a cold water crab bathed in rich, deeply flavoured broth and surround by thick bee hoon. The milky sheen of the broth reminded me very much of fish head bee hoon soup and indeed, the taste of this broth bore some similarities to the fish head bee hoon soup, but with more depth.
The crab seemed to have enhanced the flavour of the soup, bringing it up a notch. Again, I have to admit that I probably wouldn’t be able to find an eatery in KL that could serve a rival dish.
Roast Paradise
But if we talk about dishes that could contest each other in flavour and consistency between the two countries, it will have to be Roast Paradise’s char siew. Admittedly, Randall and Kai, the two Gen-Y owners of the hawker stall in Old Airport Road Food Centre, completed a four-week training course in Kuala Lumpur before opening their stall. But they have taken the best of what they could learn from an expert in KL before making the char siew in a uniquely Singaporean way.
I had the utmost privilege of speaking to Randall, a 26-year-old entrepreneur who was so passionate about food, he was willing to go against his parents’ wishes to enter the hawker trade. In only four weeks of training, he and Kai had mastered the art of preparing char siew and now serves to a strong crowd almost daily.
The sweet marinade of the char siew meat ($4.50 for 100gm), coupled with an unparalleled expertise in the technique of achieving tender roast meat, is what makes this dish memorable from start to end. The trip to the food centre might be a hassle for some, but it is worth it.
The dishes come with garlic rice ($0.60) or freshly made Hakka noodles ($2.20). They had, unfortunately, ran out of garlic rice and roasted pork ($4.50 for 100gm) when we were there at about 4pm (towards the end of their second service). However, we did manage to try the Hakka Mee.
In comparison, hawker food in Singapore is incredibly affordable compared to Kuala Lumpur, where an average bowl of noodles can cost up RM5.50.
Would I say either country’s food is better? I strongly believe they’re both good in their own way. Healthy competition is always encouraged.
Red House (Prinsep Street)
Address: 68 Prinsep Street, S188661
Tel: 6336 6080
Email: [email protected]
Operating hours: Mon-Fri, 11.30am-2.30pm, 5pm – 10.30pm; Sat-Sun, 11am-10.30pm
Roast Paradise 烧味天堂
Address: Old Airport Road Food Centre Stall #01-122
Brought to you by Discover SG x Foodie VS The World.
Also, read Watermelon Fried Rice In Singapore, Have You Tried It?
6 Bag Labels Every Stylish Guy Should Be Familiar With
When putting together an outfit, the one problem that almost every man will have will be picking out the right bag. While the ladies have an array of purses, clutches, totes and god knows what else to choose from, men usually face the challenge of finding a practical yet aesthetic bag that doesn’t look like one they borrowed from their girlfriends/sisters. Well, step aside ladies, because this article is where men rock the runway.
If you think a man’s bag is a ‘murse’, it’s time to join in the crowd. From bag packs to tote bags, here’s a list of six labels to kickstart your man bag predilection and to complete your outfits with.
1. Brownbreath
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Designed with a distinctive minimalist colour palette, each bag is carefully fashioned for maximum convenience while assuring that your appearance remains on point
Where to Get:
The Assembly Store
Address: #01-22/23, The Cathay, 2 Handy Rd, S229233
Megafash Outlets
https://www.megafash.com/
2. Gnome & Bow
Gnome & Bow is a Singaporean label started by local Quanda Ong. Since its infancy, the brand has been getting stirring reviews for its quality materials, workmanship, and storytelling. Wait, what?
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As a novel entry into the local fashion scene, each bag is imbued with a whimsical storytelling element such as The Hare & The Tortoise and Dr. Jekyll & Mr. Hyde. Harmonising functionality, class and fun, Gnome & Bow bags are designed for the discerning individual.
Where to Get:
The Assembly Store
Address: #01-22/23, The Cathay, 2 Handy Rd, S229233
3. Herschel
Renowned for its quality and innovation, Herschel‘s bags are perhaps the most prominent among Singaporeans. Their collection is diverse with various styles to complement your outfits. The design behind Herschel is rooted in vintage mountaineering and travel, as evident from their great emphasis on functionality.
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Herschel bags are fitted with big compartments, ideal for wanderlusts and leisure travel shoppers. Rugged and sturdy, they are also the perfect companions for Secondary School and Tertiary School students bearing laptops or textbooks whilst commuting to and fro.
Where to Buy:
The Assembly Store
Address: #01-22/23, The Cathay, 2 Handy Rd, S229233
4. Porter
The Porter label is split into two different categories – Porter International.
Head Porter/Porter Tokyo is from Japan and carries exclusive tote bags, backpacks and shoulder bags that are nearly impossible to find in brick-and-mortar stores. Their bags are catered towards affluent young to middle-aged adults and are on the pricier side.
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The Porter International bags on the other hand, are widely available. Porter bags are generally considered affordable luxuries with a strong fan base comprising of working adults. Melding aesthetics with practicalities, their collection features folios and shoulder bags optimal for the professional office look.
Where to Buy:
Wisma Atria (Porter International)
Address: #03-06, 435 Orchard Rd, S238877
TANGS (Porter International)
Address: Level 3, TANGS Orchard, 310 Orchard Rd, S238864,
#01-187 & #02-189, TANGS Vivocity, 1 Harbourfront Walk, S (098585)
5. STATE
STATE is probably so indie most would have never heard of it. This American bag-makers pride themselves as crafters of style and durability. The best feature of this bag is undoubtedly the company behind it.
STATE is a philanthropic company that employs the “Buy One, Give One” model, whereby for every bag sold, one containing school supplies is given to a needy American child for free.
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From the eye-catching colours of The Kane to the unique fireman clip closure of The Smith, the little-known brand of STATE is generating massive amounts of hype. So, before it goes mainstream, win yourself a couple of hipster style points by getting a hold of one of these babies now!
Where to Get: Premium Danish label RAINS was established in the rainy (duh) streets of Copenhagen. With a name as simple as its concept, RAINS does exactly what you expect it to do – it protects your beloved from getting soaked by rain. Their collection includes designer tote bags, messenger bags, and duffel bags; all of which is a reflection of modern city life. As we all know, Singapore is host to unpredictable weather and you wouldn’t want to be caught off-guard when it starts pouring. Practical for use be it to protect precious documents or electronics on a hike, you won’t have to worry anymore. Yes, gone are the days of Crumplers or Kankens. These bags may not necessarily come cheap, but they are definitely investments worth making. Not only will they complete your look and keep your style on point, you’ll get your money’s worth with the bags’ durability. (Header images by Pinterest) Also, read 5 Hipster Barbers You Should Visit For That Dapper Kingsman Look
6. RAINS
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Decadent Yet Light Cakes You’ll Love – Waku Ghin @ Marina Bay Sands
In September last year, renowned chef, Tetsuya Wakuda, launched Waku Ghin Patisserie Platine at RISE Lounge, offering 18 types of intricate pastries and petit cakes from the award-winning restaurant Waku Ghin.
The exclusive selection, which changes seasonally, is beautifully handcrafted and lovingly created by Waku Ghin’s pastry team. The cakes are available for takeaway or dine in at RISE lounge, located in the lobby of Marina Bay Sands Hotel, Tower 1.
Each cake is made in-house, using premium ingredients and fresh seasonal fruits from Japan and Europe. The picture-perfect creations are not only easy on the eyes but also on the palate, hitting the right notes for texture and flavour.
Dining at Waku Ghin’s Patisserie Platine is, of course, an experience by itself. Enjoy the stream of natural light from all directions while you sip tea at the lounge – a place where businessmen and tourists frequent any time of the day – and feel like a total tai tai.
Chocolate mousse with raspberry and pistachio
The chocolate mousse with raspberry and pistachio ($12) is a decadent dessert – though there’s a rich cocoa taste, the texture remains light. The cakes here are not at all dense, in fact, it is so light, that it is dangerously easy to polish off an entire cake by yourself without realising it. The ingredients are fresh, as promised, and this rings true in every bite.
Ghin’s cheesecake
Ghin’s cheesecake ($12), a house speciality, is feathery light and it is almost like eating a cloud. For a cheesecake, it goes against the grain of what a typical cheesecake would be like. Waku Ghin’s team pushes boundaries with the cake, making it refreshing and almost airy. It is the type of cake you would eat for a good pick-me-up after a long work day.
Matcha Opera cake
The matcha opera cake ($10) also offers the same fluffy texture as the cheesecake and is very reminiscent of a tiramisu cake. We noted a hint of alcohol in this cake and for each bite, the tastes hit the taste buds quite strongly, but there are so many layers to the taste that the alcoholic tinge is soon forgotten.
Coconut mousse with passionfruit and mango
This bright coconut mousse with passionfruit and mango ($10) also carries the same lightness in texture as the other cakes despite being so dense in the fruit department. The coconut is so subtle in the mousse that it is almost undetectable. This was one of my favourites out of the lot we tried. All the desserts were surprisingly not too sweet either.
Waku Ghin has certainly pushed boundaries to create decadent, yet light desserts. You’ll never feel jelak polishing off an entire cake yourself! Every bite and calorie is worth it, satisfaction guaranteed.
Waku Ghin Patisserie Platine
Address: Rise Lounge, first floor, Marina Bay Sands Tower 1
Opening hours: From 11am daily
Tel: 6688 5568
Brought to you by Discover SG x Foodie Vs The World
This was an invited food tasting session.
Also, read Popular Nightspots – Unwind To Recommended Izakayas in Singapore
Red House Seafood – Comfort Food That Will Chase Away The Blues
Just a stone’s throw away from buzzing Orchard Road sits Red House Seafood along Prinsep Street. Designed to look like a classic old school restaurant for both the interior and facade, Red House has a certain vintage charm to it.
Its fare is far from vintage, very modern local cuisine is offered to its patrons. When we paid a visit to Red House, we sampled their signature dishes such as the charcoal buns with chilli crab fillings ($10 for 3, 40% during lunch from now till December in conjunction with their 40th anniversary). I have always loved how charcoal powder makes the bun so soft. The bright orange filling also pops from the dark grey exterior of the bun, giving it a nice contrast.
We also tried the trio of squid ($32 for S, $64 for L) which was recommended by the manager of the restaurant. When I saw salted egg squid, I was sold, of course. Anything with salty, savoury coating makes me go nuts (I didn’t like the salted egg croissant, just on a side note). The salted egg squid retained its crispiness despite the thick coating of soft salted egg, which gave it a nice contrasting texture. There was also barbequed squid and crispy baby squid.
The barbequed squid was cooked perfectly. Squid, if overdone, gets too chewy and hard, but this was done to perfection and cooked through. The crispy baby squid was crispy as promised and had a pleasant sweetness to it, almost like caramelised Ikan Bilis.
Of course, the chilli crab is a favourite for foreigners to try when they’re in Singapore for the first time. I do believe this is one of the only dishes Malaysians don’t argue with Singaporeans over when it comes to its taste and origins. The thick, gooey gravy complements the crab meat well. I go on a little rant in my other post about how huge Singapore crabs are compared to Malaysian crabs (take a look here).
I love the mantous that come with the chilli crab. In fact, as a kid, I had always hoped my parents would let me take more than one. As an adult, little has changed. Heh.
The last dish we tried that evening at Red House was a nice soupy, crab bee hoon. The broth was thick with crab taste and it was very aromatic. My dining companions were commenting about how the soup here is better than Mellben Seafood’s. That isn’t for me to judge as I haven’t tried the latter. But I was incredibly impressed by the quality of the food here at Red House.
Needless to say, if you’re craving for quality seafood that will never disappoint, head to Red House Seafood @ Prinsep Street. This is the kind of comfort food that will chase away all blues and warm the cockles of your heart.
Red House Seafood @ Prinsep Street
Address: 68 Prinsep St
Opening hours:
Weekdays: 3PM – 10:30PM
Weekends: 11Am – 10:30PM
Brought to you by Discover SG x Foodie Vs The World
This was an invited food tasting session.
Also, read Old Is Gold – 12 Best Food Finds In Mature Estate Toa Payoh!
PS.Cafe & Prawn Mee – It Will Wow Your Tastebuds
PS.Cafe is one of those names that every Singaporean knows and now, slowly, Malaysians are getting introduced to. The Malaysian managing editor at Foodie Vs The World, Sarah, has heard rave reviews about this place from her friends and has indeed also tried one of the outlets when she was visiting Singapore. We’ve mostly heard about the widely known truffle fries, but PS.Cafe serves up more than just great truffle fries.
We made a trip down to the Palais Renaissance outlet one day to try their dry prawn mee, a classic local dish, sure to please many a tastebud.
PS.Cafe has a lovely al fresco seating area for those who like to enjoy a little piece of nature while eating.
PS.Cafe has an asian menu comprising 9 different Asian dishes, all of which are instilled with a little bit of creativity to bring out the fusion between the East and the West. We were introduced to one of people’s favourite, the Dry Prawn Mee.
According to the head chef of PS.Cafe, Chef Wai, the uniqueness of this dish comes from the preparation of the prawn paste. Unlike the usual hawker way of adding different condiments (black sauce, dried chilli etc) together, the chef makes use of prawn shell reduce as well as other ingredients to create the prawn concentrate.
The ingredients in the Dry Prawn Mee are pork belly, prawns, kang kong, bean sprouts and 2 quail eggs. Pasta noodles instead of egg noodles are used to marry the very Asian style of preparation with the very Western styled noodles. Noodles are prepared al dente to give it that perfect texture.
The noodles itself are tangy and full-flavoured as the prawn concentrate is very well absorbed into the noodles. Like the pasta, the shrimps are perfectly cooked to bring out the firmness when first bitten into, before yielding to a softness on the inside. The pork belly is also another element that is cooked to perfection. At the first sip, the soup broth is rich in flavour and slightly spicy. Readers be warned: this dish is highly addictive. If the soup is simply not enough for you, there is a little pot that comes with the dish containing additional prawn soup.
The only setback, we believe, is that the dish can get a little oily, but it is worth every calorie consumed.
Singapore’s best prawn mee may well be at an unexpected location – not at our beloved hawkers, but at a cosy cafe. For a delightful twist of our local favourite dish, head on down to PS.Cafe and savour the sweet soup with prawns and pasta noodles done to perfection.
PS.Cafe @ Palais Renaissance
Adddress: 390 Orchard Rd, Palais Renaissance, Singapore 238871
Opening hours: Open 11:30AM to 12AM on weekdays, 09:30AM to 12AM on weekends.
Brought to you by Discover SG x Foodie Vs The World
This was an invited food tasting session.
Also read: Roast Paradise @ Old Airport Food Centre: Serving Great Char Siu!
Roast Paradise @ Old Airport Food Centre: Serving Great Char Siu!
It isn’t often you find young hawkers. The trade has seen a sad decline due to the aging population. Without much of the younger generation taking the places of older, tired hawkers, the hawker food trade is at serious risk of being lost to foreign talent and also diminishing quality.
But hawker food is so deeply ingrained in the Singapore culture that it would be a waste to see it die off. This is something that Randall and Kai, who run the Roast Paradise hawker stall at the Old Airport Road Food Centre, hopes to prevent. The 26 and 28 year-olds are a rare pair who dare (check out that rhyme) to break out from the norm in pursuit of their dreams.
Both were from a PR background but wanted to switch trades. After training with a well-known char siu chef in Selangor for a mere 4 weeks, the duo were ready to take on the Singapore hawker scene by storm. At their corner stall in the food centre, located near the back, Randall and Kai expertly slice up char siu and roasted pork belly with the swiftness and precision of well-trained chefs.
According to Randall, for their char siu dishes, there are two types of cuts they use. One is a leaner, typical char siu cut and the other is a premium cut with more fat. The difference lies in how they are prepared. Though both carry the same sweet, flavourful body, the meats differ slightly in texture. The normal char siu, though already tender and juicy, almost pales in comparison to the premium cut. Each bite absolutely melts in your mouth like butter.
The meats alone are enough to satiate a hungry belly, but what is also popular at their stall is the garlic rice and pork belly. In fact, they are so popular that it ran out by the time we went to their stall! But our tastebuds and appetites were well compensated with a piping hot bowl of mee poh. The springy noodles, also known as Hakka noodles, come with minced pork and spring onions. A dollop of chilli sauce is added for those who like a little spice in their noodles.
Dishes at Roast Paradise start at a reasonable $2.20 (for the noodles). For the amount of love and passion that is translated into their dishes, I’m more than willing to pay twice that amount.
Randall (right), sharing his thoughts on the hawker scene in Singapore.
The next time you’re around the area, do pop by Roast Paradise for a plate of their garlic rice and roast meat!
Roast Paradise 烧味天堂
Address: Old Airport Road Food Centre Stall #01-122
Brought to you by Discover SG X Foodie Vs The World
This was an invited food tasting session.
(Header image credit: Desmond Teo)
Also read: Hipster Hawkers: 5 Stalls That Are Redefining Hawker Culture
10 Food In Bukit Merah So Good That They’ll Make You Weep Tears Of Joy
We’ve always harbored the assumption that Bukit Merah was a ghost town with little or nothing to offer. We had no idea what started it but my oh my, how foolish we were. Turns out, Bukit Merah is home to so many great places that offer quality food.
With this, Discover SG has completed yet another food listicle that takes you on a foodgasmic tour of the best spots to grab an affordable meal (under $15) at Bukit Merah.
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Tian Tian Curry Rice
It’s hard to walk by Tian Tian without passing a look at all its endorsements displayed at the stall front. Boasting at least 6 different types of curries to suit your palate, enjoy a collision of sweet and savoury gravies together with your standard cai fan fare.
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Image Credit: burpple[/caption]
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Hainanese Pork Chops + Pork Belly + Stewed Cabbage with Rice ($5) No curry, no honey! A mouthful of pork chop and rice slathered with curry is the best way to kick-start a sloppy morning!
Image Credit: burpple[/caption]
Tian Tian Chicken Rice
Address: #01-253, Blk 116, Bukit Merah View, S 151116
Opening Hours: Daily: 10am – 10pm
Tel: 9109 6732
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Wow Wow West
Aside from generous portions at bargain prices, this Western food stall has a unique story. Ex-owner Eric is part of the Yellow Ribbon Project and he hires ex-convicts to run his stall. So yea, the food here is prepared by people with criminal records. But as the saying goes: don’t judge by a book by its cover, because the food here is fantastic.
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Chicken Chop ($6) Image Credit: burpple[/caption] [caption id="attachment_9289" align="alignnone" width="641"]
Fish & Chips ($7) Image Credit: burpple[/caption]
Wow Wow West
Address: #01-133, ABC Brickworks Market & Food Centre, 6 Jalan Bukit Merah Lane 1, S 150006
Opening Hours: Tues – Sat: 10.30am – 7.30pm
Tel: 9380 8571
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Bukit Merah View Carrot Cake
Meh, what’s so special about carrot cake? Don’t they all taste the same? Well, this 60+ year old stall nestled in the heart of Bukit Merah is probably the last of its kind in Singapore that serves true blue carrot cake. What we mean is, they actually mill their own rice to make the fried radish cake we all so fondly love. That’s maybe why they taste so much better.
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Black Carrot Cake ($2.50) Crazy good carrot cake at even crazier prices!
Image Credit: burpple[/caption]
Bukit Merah View Carrot Cake
Address: #01-279, Bukit Merah View Market and Food Centre, 115 Bukit Merah View, S 151115
Opening Hours: Daily: 7am – 2pm; 6pm – 1am
Tel: –
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Yan Fried Bee Hoon
Remember when Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong was photographed queuing for chicken wings? Yup, this is the one! Don’t be deceived by the stall’s ordinary exterior. It may seem like any other typical Nasi Lemak stall, but beneath the façade is one of the juiciest, crispiest, and finger-licking chicken wings you can find at a hawker centre. PM Lee approves!
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Chicken Wings ($1.20) + Bee Hoon ($0.60) A simple meal for the complex tummy!
Image Credit: burpple[/caption] [caption id="attachment_9285" align="alignnone" width="612"]
Deep-fried Chicken Wings that will make Colonel Sanders proud! Image Credit: burpple[/caption]
Yan Fried Bee Hoon
Address: #01-09, Redhill Food Centre, 85 Redhill Lane, S 150085
Opening Hours: Tues – Sun: 3pm – 10pm
Tel: –
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Stew Küche
Pronounced Ku-Shay, not Ku-chi, this German (yes, German!!!) food joint is a Bukit Merah gem at the very hip and atas coffee-shop Salut. Served with authentic German flair, some dishes are approaching the expensive threshold. But still, it is really affordable compared to other German food joints like Brotzeit.
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Spaghetti with Sausage ($11.50) Juicy sausage on a bed of al dente pasta – magnifique!
Image Credit: burpple[/caption] [caption id="attachment_9293" align="alignnone" width="640"]
Pork Knuckle ($15) Well-marinated & herb-infused, a meal for champions!
Image Credit: burpple[/caption]
Stew Küche
Address: #01-40, Salut Coffeeshop, 119 Bukit Merah Lane 1, S 151119
Opening Hours: Tues – Sun: 11.30am – 3pm; 5.30pm – 10pm
Tel: 6276 6445
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Keng Eng Kee Seafood
Award-winning Keng Eng Kee is a specialist seafood eatery serving local zi char dishes. Most patrons go in groups to bask in the joys of eating a cooked crustacean together. Not to worry though, they also serve meal-sized dishes such as the fan-favourite Moonlight Hor Fun (why moonlight? Check out the picture, no explanation needed!)
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Moonlight Hor Fun ($8) Tip: break the yolk and fold it with the hor fun to make the dish smoother and tastier!
Image Credit: burpple[/caption] [caption id="attachment_9288" align="alignnone" width="634"]
Mingzhu Roll ($9) Fried beancurd skin wrapped with egg, ham and mushrooms! Wew!
Image Credit: burpple[/caption]
Keng Eng Kee Seafood
Address: #01-136, 124 Bukit Merah Lane 1, S 150124
Opening Hours: Daily: 12pm – 2.30pm; 5pm – 10pm
Tel: 6272 1038
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Joe’s Kitchen
With a name like Joe, you’d probably expect the owner to be a Singaporean. But nope, Thai blood runs in his veins. So don’t worry that the food about the food being unauthentic. Here you’ll find the mandatory dishes like Green Curry, Phad Thai, Basil Leaf Pork, Tom Yum… we could go on, but we won’t because our tummies are already starting to growl.
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Authentic Thai Cuisine Image Credit: burpple[/caption] [caption id="attachment_9296" align="alignnone" width="640"]
Dry Curry Chicken ($10.90) Spicy, creamy, and thick, pair it with a bowl of rice and you get a delicious meal!
Image Credit: burpple[/caption]
Joe’s Kitchen
Address: #01-182, 125 Bukit Merah Lane 1, S 150125
Opening Hours: Daily: 11am -3pm; 5pm – 10pm
Tel: 6270 8484
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Butterscotch
Heading into café territory now, let’s begin with this Muslim-owned café. As its name suggests, the menu consists of quite a number of butterscotch-infused dishes. Together with aesthetically appealing desserts, they also serve some of the most creative halal mains you can find at the heartlands.
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Chili Crab Burger Image Credit: burpple[/caption] [caption id="attachment_9301" align="alignnone" width="640"]
Ramly Meets Wendy Burger ($14) The popular Pasar Malam burger is given the atas treatment!
Image Credit: burpple[/caption] [caption id="attachment_9291" align="alignnone" width="642"]
Smoked Salmon on Brioche Toast with Poached Eggs Pavlova
Image Credit: burpple[/caption]
Butterscotch
Address: #01-3625, 164 Bukit Merah Central, S 150164
Opening Hours: Tue – Sun: 10am – 10pm
Tel: 6271 1164
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The Bakery Chef
The Bakery Chef is one of the best cafes in Singapore specialising in your favorite baked goods drizzled with your favourite sauces. Making the rounds on Instagram are their picture-perfect desserts that will make you wish you could grab food out of the screen.
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Image Credit: burpple[/caption]
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Charcoal Custard Toast with Matcha Ice Cream ($12.80) Oh my goodness :O
Image Credit: burpple[/caption]
The Bakery Chef
Address: #01-3711, 161 Bukit Merah Central, S 150161
Opening Hours:
Tues – Thurs: 10am – 7pm
Fri – Mon: 10am – 9pm
Tel: 6273 9211
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Pan Delights
The décor is clean, simple, and white. There are beautifully drawn pictures on the wall. That’s Pan Delights for you, a café that serves quality food at reasonably wallet-friendly prices. On weekdays, you can indulge in the pleasure of pasta sets at $12. For food that yummy, it’s daylight robbery!
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Feeling Like Crispy Chicken ($14.50) Yep, we definitely feel it too!
Image Credit: burpple[/caption] [caption id="attachment_9283" align="alignnone" width="645"]
Squid Ink Pasta & Prawns Image Credit: burpple[/caption] [caption id="attachment_9281" align="alignnone" width="640"]
Pan’s Salmon A hint of sweet and sour!
Image Credit: burpple[/caption]
Pan Delights
Address: #01-3725, 161 Bukit Merah Central, Bukit Merah Estate, S 150161
Opening Hours: Mon – Sat: 11.30am – 3.30pm; 5.30pm – 9pm
Tel: 6377 4009
Bukit Merah is the undervalued neighbourhood with food so good, even PM Lee approves. Teeming with delicious hawker and cafe favourites, you’ll certainly regret not visiting and trying the food here. If this is already your go-to place for good food, did we miss out anything? Let us know!
Also read: Beerfest Asia 2016 – Bottoms Up To Your Favourite Beers & More!
