Author: Farhanah

ULTRA Singapore Returns This June With DJ Snake And Afrojack Among Headliners

For all you party people, the long awaited Ultra Singapore is slated to return for its third instalment this June – with this year’s festival set to be the best and biggest yet.

Get ready for another round of heart racing electronic dance music by top-notch DJs and music producers from all around the globe.

With stellar line-ups boasting the likes of Above & Beyond, Afrojack, Axwell, DJ Snake, Hardwell, Kygo, Skrillex, Tiesto amongst many others, Ultra Singapore has become a prime destination for international revellers and local dance music lovers alike.

The highly anticipated global music festival will take place over the long weekend of Friday 15th and Saturday 16th June 2018 at Ultra Park on Bayfront Avenue.

An Ultra Good Time

Dedicated to the best of EDM, Ultranauts can expect another full-fledged weekend of partying and dancing – just hopefully less mud this time.

This time round, the Singapore crowd will also get to experience the famous ULTRA Worldwide stage for the first time in Southeast Asia. Straight from the bayfront of Miami, the unique arching open stage concept domes over the crowd and takes beat-hungry Ultranauts on an electronic odyssey.

The stage is set to feature DJs from the trap and future bass world such as Illenium and and Joyryde.

Ultra Singapore 2018 will span four stages on Bayfront Avenue. Aside from the inaugural debut of the Worldwide Stage, the Ultra Main Stage, the Resistance Stage, and a fourth Stage to house up-and-coming local and regional acts in the South East Asian music scene.

The Ultra Main Stage will feature headline acts while the Resistance Stage will pay homage to deep house and techno music. This year’s regional acts support features names such as Myrne, Kaku and Rave Republic.

With past acts including EDM heavyweights, Hardwell and Tiesto and over hundreds of thousands of Ultranauts, Ultra Singapore has become a force to be reckoned with.

Tickets are still available for purchase here, and are priced at $120 for single day general admission tickets, $170 for two-day general admission tickets and $210 for two-day premium general admission tickets.

If you’re looking for the best experience Ultra Singapore has to offer, the two-day VVIP tickets are going at $550 – which includes access to the festival grounds via a VVIP Entrance, VVIP Platform and the VVIP Village with exclusive bathrooms, bars and a rest area.

We’re pumped for this year’s Ultra Singapore! Hurry and purchase your tickets before they sell out.

In the mean time, here’s a recap of what went down at last year’s Ultra Singapore:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oN9uCVPBB3Q

Ultra Singapore 2018
Address: Ultra Park
Date: 15 – 16 June 2018
Tickets: From $120. Tickets can be purchased here.
Website

Also Read Pink Dot Turns 10 This July – All Are Welcome To Celebrate The Freedom To Love

(Header Image Source: Ultra Singapore)

Pink Dot Turns 10 This July – All Are Welcome To Celebrate The Freedom To Love

The annual gay pride rally, Pink Dot is back to mark its milestone tenth edition with an expanded array of activities and a strong message to Singaporeans.

This time round, Singaporeans and non-Singaporeans (yay!) are invited to celebrate Singapore’s biggest LGBTQ-affirming event.

This year, Pink Dot organisers managed to find a way to let everyone participate, no matter the citizenship.

Grab your pink outfits and celebrate Pink Dot 10 with your loved ones and stand strong together on Saturday, 21 July 2018.

#FreedomToLove

For the past nine editions, Pink Dot has worked hard to win the hearts and mind of Singaporeans to help bring the message of inclusion and diversity to everyone on this Little Red Dot.

Pink Dot spokesperson Paerin Choa said, “The 10th year is a reflection of looking back”.

Despite the challenges the organisers face each time such as the “Wear White Campaign” in 2014 where they urged followers to wear white in protest of Pink Dot on the weekend of the event, Pink Dot stands strong till this day.

Continuing from its successful debut last year, Red Dot for Pink Dot returns with another fundraising drive, calling on corporate Singapore to continue taking a stand for inclusion and diversity with a current tally of more than 60 local sponsors.

Year after year, Pink Dot attendees look forward to headlining local artistes as they declare their undying support for the Freedom To Love through song. The Pink Dot Concert will also be hosted on a purpose-built stage as Telok Ayer Hong Lim Green Community Centre undergoes renovations.

[caption id="attachment_34717" align="aligncenter" width="1365"] Image Credit: Sebastian Tan[/caption]

In addition to the usual festival tent, concert and light up, there will also be a PinkFest.

Spanning across two weekends prior to Pink Dot, PinkFest will see close to a dozen businesses, groups and individuals, LGBTQ and straight allies, organising an assortment of privately-run activities and events geared towards greater engagement with Singaporeans.

You can expect movie screenings, bake sales, art talks and more!

Similar to last year’s outing, you are required to show photo ID (pink/blue NRIC or passport) to volunteers and security personnel before being admitted into the park.

However, there will only be one dedicated entrance, which will bring you to 12 different checkpoints. Once they hit max capacity, they won’t be able to let anyone else in. You’re encouraged to come early!

If you’re attending this year’s Pink Dot, here’s a look at their first campaign video.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wsgru2aB-kE

Pink Dot 2018
Address: Hong Lim Park
Date: 21 July 2018

Also Read Skip The Geylang Crowd And Visit These 6 Ramadan Bazaars In S’pore Instead

(Header Image Source:

Skip The Geylang Crowd And Visit These 6 Ramadan Bazaars In S’pore Instead

If you’re tired of the overhyped and overpriced food at Geylang Serai Ramadan Bazaar, we get you.

Here’s a list of alternative bazaars that you should go to do all your last minute Hari Raya shopping. From kuih and dendeng to capal and baju kurung, these bazaars got you covered.

1. Jalan Jalan Makan Makan Raya Edition 2018 (Marina Bay Sands)

The Jalan-Jalan Makan-Makan Raya Edition 2018 is coming to Marina Bay Sands from 1 – 3 June. It is the first MEGA halal food and shopping bazaar at MBS that you definitely don’t want to miss out on.

You’ll get to meet your favourite celebrities, shop for your Hari Raya outfits and break your fast, all in one place!

If you’re looking for the perfect baju kurung, homegrown Muslimah fashion designer Adlina Anis, will have a pop-up booth at the bazaar. Get your wallets ready, because her Hari Raya collection is to die for.

[caption id="attachment_34665" align="aligncenter" width="1198"] Image Credit: @adlinaanisofficial[/caption]

If you’re planning on breaking fast at the bazaar, head on to Farah Diana Catering’s booth for their famous Nasi Ambeng ($7). This meal is packed with sides such as beef rendang and sambal goreng – you’re definitely going to need a power nap after eating this.

[caption id="attachment_34667" align="aligncenter" width="536"] Image Credit: Farah Diana Catering Facebook[/caption]

Their booth will be located right next to the stage so you definitely won’t miss it! Best part, there’s plenty of seating space as well so you can break fast at the bazaar itself.

With over 200 stalls at the Jalan-Jalan Makan-Makan bazaar, you won’t need to look elsewhere for all your Hari Raya needs.

Jalan-Jalan Makan-Makan Raya Edition 2018
Address: Marina Bay Sands Expo Hall E
Date: 1 – 3 June 2018
Time: 10am – 10pm

2. Bazaar Raya One World (Our Tampines Hub)

The Bazaar Raya One World at Our Tampines Hub has plenty of traditional bazaar staples including putu bambu, ayam perchik, and satay burger. So if you’re looking for real food, then this is the place to indulge.

Keep cool with a cup of original Butter Booeh from BOO:EH and bask in the atmosphere of festivities at the bazaar! Their slushie is a new crowd’s favourite as well.

[caption id="attachment_34670" align="aligncenter" width="1742"] Image Credit: @boo.eh[/caption]

Out of the 150 stalls available at Bazaar Raya One World, we highly recommend getting the Satay Burger from Famous Satay Burger. If you need an upgrade from your usual ramly burgers, this is the perfect choice for you.

[caption id="attachment_34671" align="aligncenter" width="2048"] Image Credit: Famous Satay Burger Facebook[/caption]

If you’re looking for real good food for the soul, then this bazaar won’t disappoint. No rainbow coloured food or edible balloons at this bazaar here!

Bazaar Raya One World
Address: Our Tampines Hub, 1 Tampines Walk, Singapore 528523
Date: 12 May – 13 June

3. KB Raya Fest (D’Marquee, Downtown East)

D’Marquee is the perfect location for a bazaar if you can’t stand the heat.

Get your wallets ready because you’re in for a real treat. KB Raya Fest is a one stop destination for all your Hari Raya needs. Not to mention, some of the food vendors sounds pretty damn good too!

Burgs by Project Warung will be selling their famous burgers at KB Raya Fest 2018. Unless you live under a rock, Burgs is known for selling gourmet burgers at an affordable price.

Trust me, you can’t miss out on this one.

[caption id="attachment_34672" align="aligncenter" width="1288"] Image Credit: @projectwarung[/caption]

KB Raya Fest
Address: D’Marquee @ Downtown East
Date: 25th – 27th May 2018
Time: 12pm to 11pm

4. LalooLalang Bazaar (Malay Heritage Centre)

Bring all your kakis for 3 days of food, fun and entertainment. For our non-Muslim geng, in the morning you go breakfast then in the evening you join for break fast ok!

This highly anticipated bazaar has been hugely successful since its debut in 2015.

Fashion, lifestyle, food and fun awaits you down at LalooLalang Bazaar. Be entertained by local acts and learn a thing or two about the Malay culture down at the Malay Heritage Centre galleries!

[caption id="attachment_34675" align="aligncenter" width="1950"] Image Credit: @laloolalang[/caption]

LalooLalang Bazaar
Address: Malay Heritage Centre, 85 Sultan Gate, Singapore 198501
Date: 1 – 3 June
Time: 3pm to Midnight

5. Bazaar Raya Utara (Woodlands Regional Centre)

The Bazaar Raya Utara is now in its 16th year, featuring a record of 80 stalls, selling everything from street food to homemade Hari Raya goodies.

A new air-conditioned section also houses apparel and fashion stalls, such as Muslimah fashion brand Ayu Apparels and online store Vintagewknd.

[caption id="attachment_34676" align="aligncenter" width="1302"] Image Credit: @ayuapparels[/caption]

Thankfully, traditional food stalls still comprise the bulk of the bazaar’s offerings, with the longest lines dedicated to crowd favourites such as nasi Padang and Ramly Burgers!

Bazaar Raya Utara
Address: Woodlands Regional Centre, Next to Causeway Point
Date: 14 May – 12 June
Time: 10am – 11pm

6. The Grand Bazaar (Singapore Expo)

Inspired by the famed spice bazaars in Istanbul, The Grand Bazaar will take you through the sights and sounds of Turkey.

Taking place on the final weekend of Ramadan, visitors can expect a myriad of food, fashion and furniture shopping, plus cultural performances to enjoy.

A colourful experience awaits you at the Grand Bazaar. With a wide spectrum of vendors participating, you are sure to find something unique in this gathering.

The Grand Bazaar
Address: Singapore Expo Hall 6B
Date: 8 – 10 June 2018
Time: 10am – 10pm

So grab your friends, family and most importantly, your wallet, and head down to these bazaars before the month of Ramadan ends!

Also Read $30 VS Geylang Serai Ramadan Bazaar 2018 – Can You Get Decent Food?

(Header Image Source: @projectwarung, @boo.eh, @nataliayusoff)

Boys Over Flours – These S’porean Dudes Bake And Sell Cakes For A Good Cause

This time last year, I came across an Instagram account belonging to a group of all-male bakers who call themselves “The Four Baker Boys“.

I never really had a FOMO moment in my entire life until I met them. This baking club of theirs looked so fun and exclusive and for once, I wished that I was a boy just so I could be the fifth member of their club.

I mean, Spice Girls had 5 members. Just saying.

I had the pleasure of meeting these 4 guys last year at one of their charity bake sales.

Meet Qamarul (@theboywhobake), Syahid (@prettyawkwardpastry), Aidil (@daintycandy) and Lutfi (@bkosfood), the dream team behind The Four Baker Boys.

Saving The World One Cake At A Time

These four amazing guys give back to charity by utilising their specialised skill set of baking as a way to raise funds for their chosen organisation.

The first time I met them last year, you could tell that they were four VERY different guys bonded by their love for baking. Aidil, the brainchild of The Four Baker Boys, established a baking-only charity organisation in 2014 because there was a growing trend of male bakers entering the market.

They all started off as four individuals with a passion for baking but eventually joined forces to give back to the community.

When I went to one of their bake sales last year, they were raising funds for Majulah Community who were travelling to Aceh to help the victims who were affected by the earthquake.

Their bake sales are typically held at 62A Arab Street. It’s a small but cosy space for the male bakers to all come together and set up tables full of bakes.

They’re also joined by other male bakers from a community called The Baker Boys Club. So you’ll meet other familiar male bakers like Arman (@armnrhmn), Muz (@mmuzs) and more!

Once inside, you will be given a box to stock up on desserts to your heart’s desire, proceed to the cashier and make the payment.

I especially love Syahid’s (@prettyawkwardpastry) tarts. If you’re a tart over cake kind of person, then you’ll love his Thai Milk Tea tarts which is usually available at the charity bake sales.

You can also get huge cake slices from Aidil (@daintycandy). His Pengat Pisang cupcake is to die for. This cupcake is the perfect balance of something old and new.

If you’re a cookie person, then you’ll love Lutfi’s (@bkosfood) cookies. He offered me a taste of his black pepper cookie. Which I initially thought was an extremely weird combination because cookies are supposed to be sweet but guess what, I still dream of his black pepper cookie till today.

You’ll be spoiled for choice because there’s just too many bakes to choose from. Be prepared to leave with two huge boxes if you’re craving for some sweet treats.

Not only are the bakes pretty but they taste amazing too.

This all-male bake club has a simple concept which is to combine their love for baking to help others in need. So if you’re looking to meet the 4 guys behind Four Baker Boys and the Baker Boys Club, then look out for their future bake sales.

You don’t only get to satisfy your sweet tooth but you also get to contribute to a good cause and help others who are in need.

So guys, are you opening up a slot for a fifth female member anytime soon?

Also Read Singapore Already Has A MasterChef And His Instagram Is Basically Food Porn

(Header Image Source: @fourbakerboys )

Krispy Kreme’s Nutella Donuts Are Back – But For A Limited Time Only

Remember when Krispy Kreme released their Hazelnut OG donuts and then took it away from us. Remember all the sadness and pain we felt when they took it away from us on April 1st and we all thought it was some sick April Fools Joke.

Since then, I’ve been refreshing Krispy Kreme’s Facebook page every day in hopes of a notification telling me that their donuts are finally back.

Then this happened today,

https://www.facebook.com/SingaporeKrispyKreme/photos/a.1652839674937017.1073741847.1387206084833712/2212531335634512/?type=3&theater

She’s Finally Back

I rarely get upset over food trends dying but oh wow, I never knew I could miss a particular donut this much.

Krispy Kreme just announced on their Facebook page today that the Hazelnut OG donut will be available at all outlets islandwide, whilst stocks last of course.

As usual, these donuts won’t be on the shelves forever. Back by popular demand, the Hazelnut OG donut will only be available starting from tomorrow, 19th May to 31st May.

Expect long queues at all Krispy Kreme outlets because I’m pretty sure everyone WILL be queueing for these donuts.

These limited edition donuts are $3.30 per piece and sold on a first come, first serve basis. So if you want it, you have to head down early!

Krispy Kreme, if you’re reading this, we love you and we support you. But please, can we make the Hazelnut OG donuts permanent already?

Krispy Kreme 
Address: Find your nearest location Also Read Old Chang Kee Returns To Rex With A Flagship Coffee House And A Bigger Menu

(Header Image Source: Singapore Krispy Kreme Facebook)

All Aboard Asia’s Biggest Party At Sea – It’s The Ship 2018 Returns This November

Calling all shipmates – can you guess what’s sailing ’round at the end of year? If this triggers memories of morning hangovers and shaky sea-legs, then you know exactly what’s coming for you.

It’s The Ship is back for its fifth voyage! From the 4th of November, the floating city and its residents will depart from Singapore, journeying to the tropical island of Phuket, before docking back in Singapore on the 7th of November.

If you’re in need of good music and hardcore partying, It’s The Ship is where you should be this November!

Calling All Party Mateys

It’s The Ship is anything but ordinary. There are parties to experience, friendships to be made and even some surprises to encounter…who knows? Anything is possible when you find yourself on board Asia’s largest festival at sea, alongside like-minded people on land and sea!

This year’s instalment of It’s The Ship will focus on providing shipmates with an all-inclusive festival experience that showcases an impressive array of artists.

Household trance act and fan favourite Vini Vici will showcase their signature sound and infectious energy that will undoubtedly send shipmates into a frenzy onboard this year’s 5th festival edition.

Joining them will be the Grammy award winning record producer Paul Van Dyk who is set to close IT’S THE SHIP’s most epic edition yet with his signature beats and style which earned him the title of World’s Number One DJ twice in a row.

You can check out the full line-up here!

If this is your first time, don’t fret. Here’s what you can expect on board It’s The Ship 2018.

Themed Pop-Up Parties

Remember that really weird minion costume you bought last year for Halloween that’s now hidden at the back of your wardrobe? Put it to use for the many themed pop-up up parties on board.

From everyone’s all-time favourite Onesie Party to the loud and colourful Bloc Party, get your photos taken as you dance the night away decked in the wildest costumes you own. Who knows, you might even form your very own minion army.

Side Activities With Your Favourite Artists

“Meet-and-greet passes”? “Backstage passes”?

What are those?

Bump into your favourite DJ while you’re in line for breakfast, while you’re having a dip in the pool or they might even be busting a move on the dance floor next to you.

If you think that lady luck is never by your side, then sign up for various side activities with artists including a morning yoga session, 3-on-3 basketball and some good ol’ beer pong to name a few fun stuff.

Gala Night

A staple of the festival is the much awaited Gala Night where shipmates come dressed to the nines to enjoy a swanky themed evening together.

Trade your bikinis and boardies for gowns and suits at the Gala Night event. It’s The Ship 2016 edition saw David Hasselhoff perform numerous songs during the ship’s gala night and serenaded everyone in the audience. Did we tell you that he has a great singing voice?

Who knows who will be serenading you next at this year’s Gala Night!

Relax With The Best Facilities

Take a break from all that hardcore partying to explore the ship and its facilities.

Enjoy pampering sessions at the spa with your girls (or boys), try out all their different six water slides, ping pong tables, a mini golf course, and rock climbing wall.

Or simply bask in the sun while sipping your favourite drink. This is a vacation after all!

Since 2014, It’s The Ship has captured the interest of shipmates from over 88 countries across the globe. 

This is the perfect chance for revellers to meet other music fans who have travelled far and wide as well as providing them opportunities to enjoy close encounters with their favourite artists onboard.

[caption id="attachment_34596" align="aligncenter" width="2048"] Image Credit: It’s The Ship Facebook[/caption]

The early bird promotion is now open for all shipmates with cabins going from as low as USD$398 per person. Cabin prices are inclusive of complimentary 24-hour dining, selected non-alcoholic beverages and free usage of most of the ship’s facilities.

Save an additional 5% when you pay in full at time of booking. Valid until 7 September 2018. Early bird cabin purchases can be made now at www.galactix.asia/itstheship-2018.

[caption id="attachment_34598" align="aligncenter" width="2156"] Image Credit: @itstheship[/caption]

So what are you waiting for? You’d be hard-pressed to find another festival like this in Asia which encompasses not just a music festival experience, but also a shipcation like no other.

Here’s what went down at last year’s It’s The Ship!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KXS_r0wO0RU

It’s The Ship 2018
When: 4th – 7th November 2018
Price: From $398
Website

Also Read Beerfest Asia Celebrates Its 10th Beer-thday With A Bigger Venue And Limited Edition Booze

(Header Image Source: It’s The Ship Facebook)

$30 VS Geylang Serai Ramadan Bazaar 2018 – Can You Get Decent Food?

In the past, there were plenty of stalls selling handmade songkok and traditional baju kurung. I’ll always remember the pakcik with his white towel draped over his shoulders as he grilled his satay and dendeng all night long. Not forgetting that really loud makcik who would shove her kuih in your face to sample.

But stalls selling traditional fare that once lined Geylang Serai in the lead-up to Hari Raya Puasa are dwindling or have vanished altogether.

The Geylang Serai Ramadan Bazaar used to be one of the most exciting “pasar malam” I’d look forward to every year when I was younger but I honestly don’t know what to feel of what it has become. The sanctity that is the Geylang Serai Ramadan Bazaar has been threatened and it’s worrying.

From unicorn everything to edible flavoured balloons, these are the things that my 5 year old nephew would get excited over.

Is paying $8.90 for edible air really worth the hype?

So, instead of spending all of our money to find the latest hype this year, we challenged the team to spend only $30 at Geylang Serai Ramadan Bazaar to find food and drinks that are actually worth the money.

Make Geylang Serai Bazaar Great Again

Many of the stalls are run by young entrepreneurs who have given our traditional food a modern twist, or offer creations that I could only ever dream of.

Upon reaching the bazaar, we first decided that we needed a drink. A huge one. I was dying from the heat and a small canned drink was not going to suffice.

I came across Broti, a famous stall selling teas in their signature 1 litre cups for only $4. You know how most vendors would fill your cup halfway with ice and the remaining half with water? Well, Broti is truly a bro because they don’t play you dirty like that. Best part, their teas aren’t overly sweet at all.

We ordered their Thai Iced Tea ($4) and went on our merry way. Thank god for their 1 litre drinks because there is no way I could survive the crowd and heat without staying hydrated.

Balance Amount: $26

We moved on and decided that we needed something to munch on. There were plenty of fried snacks we could have ordered such as the keropok lekor and goreng pisang. I did my quick maths and realised that they weren’t cheap too. I could have easily splurged $5-6 on finger food as well.

That’s when we came across Katoshka. They go by a very simple concept: good ol’ fries served in cups laden in different sauces, from special cheese, sour ranch, chilli beef and sambal cheese.

This stall in particular stood out to me because it wasn’t trying too hard to please the crowd.

We got their Fries with Special Cheese ($5.90) which was honestly one of my favourite food of the night. It was classic and hearty and definitely worth the $5.90. Do note that Katoshka is a pretty popular stall so you might have to wait in a long queue before getting your hands on their fries.

But I must say, Katoshka’s fries are worth the hype.

Balance Amount: $20.10

Next up, mains! We realised that most of the hyped mains were crazy expensive for the portion given. We weren’t about the $12 hotdog bun life so we searched high and low for a main that won’t cost us more than $6 at the bazaar.

I was close to getting a ramly burger ($4) until I came across Dendeng Duo selling Burger Dendeng for $4 as well!

[caption id="attachment_34554" align="aligncenter" width="1280"] Image Credit: Discover SG[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_34555" align="aligncenter" width="1280"] Burger Dendeng ($4)[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_34556" align="aligncenter" width="1280"] Image Credit: Discover SG[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_34557" align="aligncenter" width="1280"] Turkish Chicken Pide ($8)[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_34558" align="aligncenter" width="1280"] Ferrero Banana Cheese ($6)[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_34559" align="aligncenter" width="1280"] Image Credit: Discover SG[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_34560" align="aligncenter" width="1280"] 10 Mini Vadai for $2[/caption]

If You’re Living On A Budget, Here’s A List Of Crazy Cheap Eats In S’pore For Under $2

Don’t you just miss the days when life was simple, cartoons were great and food was cheap?

Now that we’ve grown up, life isn’t simple and cartoons have gone to shit. But we can still hope for cheap food. And the good news is, while prices have gone up in the last decade or so, there are some places that are still selling food at prices of the past.

So here’s a list of places that are still offering food below $2.

1. Cendol (Makan Melaka)

Because Singapore’s been experiencing a heat wave recently, we’re all clambering for the nearest air-conditioned shelter. And if that’s not available, a cold drink or dessert will have to do.

At Makan Melaka, they’re serving up a classic Singaporean dessert for less than $2. Their Cendol Melaka ($1.50) is made fresh daily.

You can also get the Cendol Melaka with Glutinous Rice for just $1.80.

Though the original Cendol Melaka is good on its own, other toppings such as corn and red bean are also available.

Makan Melaka
Address: Blk 1 Changi Village, Singapore 455207
Opening Hours: Wed – Fri & Sun: 8.30am – 10pm, Mon: 9am – 10pm, Sat: 8.30am – 11.30pm, Tue: 8.30am – 10pm, 11pm – 12am

Address: 492 Jurong West Ave 1, #01-70 Singapore 640492
Opening Hours: Daily: 7am – 7pm
Website

2. Tiong Bahru Fried Kway Teow

One of Singapore’s (debatable) most iconic dishes is Char Kway Teow. Waxed sausage slices, clams, beansprouts, and fishcake slices are stir fried with flat rice noodles (kway teow), yellow egg noodles and dark soy sauce.

The result is a dark and sticky sweet plate of kway teow full of flavour and wok hei. And that’s exactly what you’ll get for $2, at Tiong Bahru Fried Kway Teow.

As with most Char Kway Teow stalls, there’s the option of not having clams in your order. Personally, I don’t like clams in my Char Kway Teow.

You can also choose to order your Char Kway Teow with just kway teow and not a mix with yellow egg noodles.

If you’re looking for a simple, cheap, decadent plate of Char Kway Teow, this is it.

Tiong Bahru Fried Kway Teow
Address: 30 Seng Poh Road, #02-11 Tiong Bahru Market, Singapore 168898
Opening Hours: Thu – Tue: 11am – 10.30pm, Wed: Closed

3. Hum Jin Pang

Located in Maxwell Food Centre is a peculiar Hum Chin Peng (deep fried dough fritters) stall.

Aptly named Hum Jin Pang (no confusion here), what’s unique about this stall is that customers get to fry their own hum chin peng, coat it with sugar and pack it.

Crisp on the outside, and soft and fluffy on the inside, these traditional snacks prove that old truly is gold.

While some may argue that this is beyond self-service, please calm yourselves.

This practice is almost 3 decades old and it was started because customers in the past saw how busy the then-owner Li Zao was, and would offer to help him by frying their own hum chin pengs.

Smaller in size than what you might find elsewhere, Hum Jin Pang’s dough fritters come in two varieties – Five Spice Salt and Sweet Red Bean.

At six pieces for $1, these fritters are ridiculously cheap.

Hum Jin Pang
Address: Maxwell Food Centre, 1 Kadayanallur St., Singapore 069184
Opening Hours: Daily, 2.30pm – 8pm

4. Naan With Curry (Pak Kashmiri Delights)

I know of friends who have intense cravings for naan. While I don’t understand it, they’ve mentioned a certain place in Tekka Market, serving up $1 naan.

Enter Pak Kashmiri Delights, this unassuming Indian stall sells a variety of naan and curries. That’s not all, they make all their naan from scratch in the traditional tandoor.

The Plain Naan will set you back $1. Yeap, $1. For a HUGE piece of fluffy naan. For $2, you can get both the Plain naan and the Garlic naan.

Because their naan is baked in the traditional tandoor, each piece is specked with charred bits giving the naan an additional flavour profile.

While the curries will cost more than $2, if you’re willing to burst your budget a little, it’s definitely worth it.

Pak Kashmiri Delights
Address: 665 Buffalo Road, #01-250 Tekka Market, Singapore 210665
Opening Hours: Daily: 7am – 11pm

5. Rickshaw Noodles

Back at Maxwell Food Centre once again, is another stall that’s keeping a traditional dish alive, Zhong Guo Re Shi (Rickshaw Noodles).

Rickshaw noodles date back to the early days of Singapore, when vendors would peddle the noodles on a rickshaw.

While rickshaw noodles aren’t specifically defined, the stall here sells simple comforting noodle soups which are perfect on a cold day (kinda like Chicken Noodle Soup).

If you’d like a soupy option, go for the Yellow Egg Noodle Soup ($1) which comes with chye sim, carrots, dried shrimp and garnished with shallots.

There’s also the Mee Sua ($1) which comes with shitake mushrooms, chicken and fried shallots.

You can also choose from an array of ngoh hiang and fried food available. Quite a throwback to simpler times with simple food and simpler budgets.

Zhong Guo Re Shi (Rickshaw Noodles)
Address: Maxwell Food Centre, 1 Kadayanallur Street, #01-87, Singapore 069184
Opening Hours: Mon – Thu & Sat – Sun: 6.30am – 1.30pm, Fri: Closed

6. Junshin Express

Hidden in the basement of Bedok Mall, is Junshin Express. This halal-certified sushi joint sells sushi for just 50 cents per piece.

Yeap. 50 cents per piece is quite a steal considering that sushi isn’t usually cheap and even if it is, the lowest we’ve seen (till now) is $1.20 per plate.

A budget of $2 will net you 4 pieces of sushi. While it might not be filling, it’s perfect for a snack or if you just feel like eating something to occupy your mouth.

Currently, their only outlet is in the East. Here’s hoping they’ll open an outlet in the West.

Junshin Express
Address: 311 New Upper Changi Road, #B2-20 Bedok Mall, Singapore 467360
Opening Hours: Daily: 10am – 10pm
Contact no.: 6440 2893
Website

7.  Chicken Rice (820 Hainanese Chicken Rice)

Chicken rice is also one of Singapore’s most iconic dishes. Probably the most iconic.

820 Hainanese Chicken Rice sells their standard chicken rice for just $2. They do have other add-ons such as the braised egg and gizzards.

Where else can you find $2 chicken rice? Do NOT say Ananas.

820 Hainan Chicken Rice
Address: 823A Tampines Street 81, Singapore 521823
Opening Hours: Daily: 9am – 9pm, Closed: Alternate Mondays

Also read The First-Timer’s Guide To Food In Katong That Isn’t Just Laksa

This Unassuming Old School Bakery In Katong Is Home To S’pore’s Best Banana Pie

There is a familiar nostalgic feeling when I first patronised this old school bakery located in a quite corner at the basement of Katong Shopping Centre.

It reminded me of those days my nenek would take me to my neighbourhood bakery and I’d beg her to get me my favourite rainbow-sprinkled donut.

My friends claimed that Dona Manis Cake Shop in Katong makes the best Banana Pie in Singapore. I knew I had to try this one for myself to believe it. 

Famous Old School Bakery In Katong

As I headed down to the basement level of Katong Shopping Centre, all I saw were rows of domestic helper and travel agencies.

I wondered, “Why in the world would Singapore’s famous old bakery be located here?”

After making a couple of turns, there she was, in all her glory. 

Upon reaching, I met the owner of Dona Manis, Mdm Soh Tho Lang and her husband, Mr Tan Keng Eng, who were busy prepping their bakes for sale. 

At first glance, anyone can tell that running this bakery involves a lot of labour. It was a lot of hard work for someone of their age.

Their bakes are made and sold in this one unit shop. Everything about this bakery was outdated but it definitely gave off safe and homely vibes. 

Nothing about this bakery screamed “OMG I NEED A PICTURE FOR THE GRAM” but I was so excited when I saw trays of freshly baked cream puffs. 

I was immediately sold when I took my first bite. It was like biting into a cloud. I don’t know what she puts in her cream puffs, but it was highly addictive. The cream was really light and not overly sweet.

It took me less than 5 minutes to devour everything – I have zero self-control when it comes to cream puff. Each box comes with 5 cream puffs for only $3.50!

You can’t leave Dona Manis without getting their famous Banana Pie as well. A slice will cost you $2.50 and $25 for a whole pie.

This Banana Pie is what I’d describe as the perfect cure to a broken heart. The pie that will comfort you and make you forget about all your problems. This pie that knows how to treat you right. Who needs Ben and Jerry’s ice cream when you have Dona Manis Banana Pie?

Its buttery base was the perfect complement to its sweet banana filling, while the bits of grated coconut and roasted almonds on top added a new dimension of texture to each bite.

This was the Banana Pie I’ve been searching for all my life.

This was the first pie I’ve had in a long time that is perfectly balanced and not jelak at all. It’s no wonder that Dona Manis’ Banana Pie is touted as the best in Singapore.

My trip to Dona Manis was a fruitful one. I left with a bag of goodies and a huge smile on my face. I bid goodbye to Mdm Soh and told her I’ll come back for another helping of Banana Pie and Cream Puffs.

Dona Manis is Singapore’s hidden gem. Heck it should even be considered as a Singapore National Monument. You won’t find bakery shops like Dona Manis in Singapore anymore. This humble bakery is truly worth a visit.

Dona Manis Cake Shop
Address: 865 Mountbatten Road, #B1-93, Katong Shopping Centre, Singapore 437844
Opening Hours: Mon: 9am – 5pm, Tue – Sat: 9:30am – 6pm
Contact No.: 6440 7688
Website

Also Read These 10 Bakeries In S’pore Serve The Best Bread – And They All Deserve A Toast

(Header Image Source: Discover SG)

There’s Finally A Halal Boat Noodle Place In S’pore – And It’s Only $1.90 A Bowl

Upon hearing the news of this newly opened Thai boat noodles place in Singapore, I knew I had to go down to experience it for myself. My first thought was, “About god damn time we get halal boat noodles in Singapore.”

The boat noodles craze has sent plenty of Singaporeans including me going over the causeway JUST for Thai boat noodles, so imagine how excited I was when I found out there’s finally a halal boat noodle place in Singapore.

So I packed my bags, braved the weather and decided that today will be the day I finally get to indulge in this savoury delight right here in Singapore.

Cheap Cheap, Good Good

I drummed my fingers on the handrail of the escalator as it slowly descended into the basement of I12 Katong, perhaps one of my favourite malls in Singapore.

It was honestly a very small shop but I had real high expectations for the food served at Hat Yai Noodle Cafe.

Just like any other typical Thai boat noodles shop, the noodles are served in mini bowls ($1.90 each) that can be gobbled up in about 2 large mouthfuls. Each bowl comes with a slice of beef, meatball, leafy vegetables, beansprouts, spring onions and noodles of your choice (of course we got the traditional glass noodle).

I was not that blown away by their broth but honestly, for $1.90 per bowl, I’m not complaining. It’s definitely perfect if you’ve got a small appetite and looking for something light.

Ordering 3 bowls is definitely not a smart move if you’re hungry. If you’re looking for a proper heavy meal, they do have a bigger version which is the Braised Beef Tendon ($8.50). You can choose from 3 different proteins – beef, chicken, duck.

You can also choose to have it dry with soup on the side if that’s how you roll.

I was looking forward to trying out their side dishes like the Ping Gai which is basically Thai style BBQ chicken and beef sticks. Unfortunately, they weren’t selling any side dishes today.

So I settled for their Chicken/Beef Meatball Skewers ($1.90 per skewer) instead. Each stick comes with 4 beef/chicken balls. Was not too sure what they meant by “Thai Special Sauce” but ours came drenched in Thai Sweet Chilli sauce that my mom buys from Giant Supermarket.

I prayed real hard, “@ God, the least you can do is give me decent Thai Milk Tea. I headed all the way to Katong for Thai food. Please don’t disappoint.”

God heard my prayers and decided not to disappoint me any further. It tasted exactly like the famous Thai milk tea brand your friend would buy for you from Bangkok.

It helped wash all my sadness and problems away.

My total meal totalled up to $26, inclusive of a 10% service charge. I left Hat Yai Noodle Cafe feeling slightly disappointed but at least I’m pleased with the fact that there’s halal boat noodles in Singapore if I’m ever craving for it.

In the mean time, I’m gonna fix myself a cup of instant tom yum noodles and daydream of a getaway to Thailand.

Hat Yai Noodle Cafe
Address: 112 East Coast Rd, I12 Katong Mall, B1-18, Singapore 428802
Opening Hours: 11 am – 9.30 pm, daily
Website

Also Read These 10 Bakeries In S’pore Serve The Best Bread – And They All Deserve A Toast

(Header Image Source: Discover SG)