Author: Moses Xiao

Ramen Your Way To Gastronomic Heaven – Japan’s Best Ramen Store Opens In Singapore!

With 40 stores in Japan, Menya Takeichi is a proven ramen success. Ever since it was featured on Japanese food TV shows in 2012, the queues have not stopped.

Often lauded as Tokyo’s best ramen chain, Menya Takeichi has just opened its first outlet in Singapore at Suntec City’s Eat@7. This is the fifth offering at Suntec City’s Japanese concept dining enclave, Sky Garden. With the new outlet, you can now eat to your heart’s content and enjoy the views of the civic and cultural district, and Fountain of Wealth from the Sky Garden.

Menya Takeichi’s signature dish is the famous Chicken Paitan Broth Ramen, consisting of long chewy noodles and chicken meat topped with secret sauce under a wholesome pool of collagen-rich soup made by simmering fresh chicken. Here’s how the popular ramen looks like:

At S$15.50 for a generous bowl, customers can add a side dish at S$3.50 to complement their ramen.

To sweeten the deal, customers can also adjust the taste and thickness of their soup by adding complimentary clear soup made of bonito flakes. At prices like these for the proclaimed best ramen in Tokyo, Japan, it’s worth the visit.

As for us, we’ll definitely be heading down to grab bowls for ourselves, so hopefully you will catch us there!

Be prepared for a queue!

Aerobatic Flying Displays And Captain America – Here’s What You Missed At Singapore Airshow 2016

The biennial airshow, held at our very own Changi Exhibition Centre, concluded yesterday, but that doesn’t mean people have stopped talking about it. The Singapore Airshow 2016, Asia’s largest, reached new heights (pun intended) as thousands of Singaporeans braved grey skies and slight showers of rain to witness eventful exhibitions of aeronautic wonder.

Featuring over 40 static aircrafts on display as well as aerobatics performance from 5 different countries, Discover SG has the low-down of what went down (or up) at The Singapore Airshow 2016. Here’s what you might have missed:

1. Aerobatic Flying Displays

An exciting showcase of flying displays tore up our skies with breathtaking performances of power and flair!

2. Meet & Greet with Captain Leo & Captain Leonette

Visitors had the opportunity to get up close and personal with The Singapore Airshow’s official mascots! Who could also forget their furry plushies that were also on sale!

3. Static Aircraft Displays

There were ample insta-worthy photo opportunities as an impressive array of advanced avionics lined the display area. Visitors also got the chance to sit in fighter cockpits and get inside the holds of transport giants.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BCET0s6Aa3j/

4. Meet The Pilot Sessions

Everyone’s heroes – the men and women behind their flying machines were also on deck to take your favorite pictures.

5. (Bonus) Cosplay!

From Deadpool to Kamen Rider, your favorite superheroes were also present for photographs!

For all those that had missed this year’s event, don’t worry, the Singapore Airshow will be back in 2018 and we will be sure to keep you informed!

10 Best Places in Singapore That Are Specifically For Coffee Lovers

For every Singaporean, there is perhaps one constant in our hectic lives – coffee. Gone are the days when a simple “kopi” would suffice. With so many cafes offering their finest brews and beans, it is often difficult to avoid the temptations. Hoping to jump on the bandwagon? Your prayers have been answered, because the team at Discover SG has compiled a list of the best places in Singapore that are made specifically for coffee lovers.

1) The Coffee Academics

Voted one of the best coffee shops in the world, The Coffee Academics’ first flagship store at Scotts Square stays true to its reputation. It houses some of the best and most premium coffee beans from around the world within its chic and pharaonic locale. Albeit on the pricier side, it’s worth every expense.

Location: Level 2, Scotts Square, 6 Scotts Road, Singapore 228209

Opening Hours: Daily: 9.00am – 9.00pm

2) The Populus Coffee & Food Co.

Brought to you by the caffeinated minds of the now defunct Department of Caffeine, The Populus Café is an amalgamation of pretty latte art, expensive coffee equipment, and good looking serving staff (intentional?). Situated in one of the most popular café districts in Singapore, this is one place you definitely shouldn’t miss out during your café-hopping adventures.

Location: 146 Neil Road, Singapore 088875

Opening Hours: Mon & Wed: 9.00am – 7.00pm; Thu & Fri: 9.00am – 10.30pm; Sat: 9.30am – 10.30pm; Sun: 9.30am – 7.00pm; Closed on Tuesdays

3) The Assembly Ground

Fronted by the guys behind fashion label Benjamin Barker, you’re in for one hell of a stylish ride. The Assembly Ground’s predominant wooden interiors offers a cozy experience amidst the bustling crowd in town. Upon entering, coffee lovers are treated to a warm and welcoming ambience. The hanging bicycle fixtures are a nice touch too!

Location: 2 Handy Road, #01-21 The Cathay, 229233

Opening Hours: Daily: 11.00am – 10.00pm

4) Common Man Coffee Roasters

Boasting a “coffee counter” similar to a bar, Common Man Coffee Roasters is a chameleon among others. Known for constantly making tweaks to their menu to ensure novelty among its competitors, Common Man’s menu is definitely crafted out with lots of care. Although pricier than average, the coffee is exquisite.

Location: #01-00, 22 Martin Road, Singapore 239058

Opening Hours: Daily: 8.00am – 6.00pm

5) Chye Seng Huat Hardware Coffee

Chye Seng Huat Hardware, aka CSHH for short, is one of the hippest coffee places in Singapore. Don’t be fooled by the rather unusual name as CSHH is the successive establishment owned by Papa Palheta, specialists in the coffee roasting business. With an exterior resembling an old shophouse, this quaint coffee joint emanates a nostalgic and retro 70s vibe.

Location: 150 Tyrwhitt Road, Singapore 207563

Opening Hours: Tue – Fri: 9.00am – 7.00pm; Sat & Sun: 9.00am – 10.00pm; Closed on Mondays

6) Paddy Hills

Featuring really, really Instagram-worthy views, Paddy Hills has certainly caused a big ruckus for its aesthetically gorgeous renditions of coffee and food. The center of the café also lies a coffee counter similar to the one found in Common Man, but even critics would agree that Paddy Hills is easily the prettiest café in Singapore.

Location: 38 South Buona Vista Road, Singapore 118164

Opening Hours: Daily: 8.30am – 10.00pm

7) Dutch Colony Coffee Co.

Although there is another outlet situated at Upper East Coast, the ideal place for the most “feel” is located within the food paradise of PasarBella. Be wary, as this place gets overcrowded easily during the weekends unlike during the weekdays, when it is quiet and spacey with lots of natural light. Their coffee is widely regarded as intense and strong, so be prepared!

Location: #02-K67/68, PasarBella, The Grandstand, 200 Turf Club Road, Singapore 287994

Opening Hours: Mon – Thu: 9.00am – 7.00pm; Fri & Sat: 9.00am – 9.00pm; Sun: 9.00am – 7.00pm

8) Forty Hands

Forty Hands burst onto the scene as one of the very first coffee establishments in Singapore. Among others, they were part of the coffee revolution. Breathing new life into the dormant specialty coffee industry, Forty Hands takes coffee to a whole new level, with every sip a sensory experience. Fun fact: Harry Grover, genius behind this coffee joint, is also one of the founding fathers of Common Man!

Location: #01-12, 78 Yong Siak Street, Singapore 163078

Opening Hours: Tue – Thu: 8.00am – 7.00pm; Fri & Sat: 8.00am – 10.00pm; Sun: 8.00am – 7.00pm; Closed on Mondays

9) Ronin

With its name meaning wandering samurais, it’s easy to forgive if you miss this little hidden gem. Despite being tucked away in a rather obscure location at Clarke Quay, Ronin is hugely trendy among coffee lovers. Unlike other cafes that are often glimmered with cheery vibes, Ronin takes no prisoners. With its dimmed lighting industrial-style decorations, Ronin is all serious in its passion for great coffee.

Location: 17 Hong Kong Street, Singapore 059660

Opening Hours: Daily: 8.00am – 8.00pm

10) Necessary Provisions

To end off the list, it is necessary (pun intended) to include Necessary Provisions. Essentially a coffee joint with limited food choices on their menu, it still manages to pull in quite a huge following. A haunt for students due to its convenient location near SIM and NP, Necessary Provisions is a must-visit for coffee lovers. Rumor has it, they were the first in Singapore to pioneer iced coffee cubes!

Location: Eng Kong Park, 21 Eng Kong Terrace, Singapore 598993

Opening Hours: Tue – Thu: 10.00am – 10.00pm; Fri & Sat: 10.00am – 12.00mn; Sun: 10.00am – 6.00pm; Closed on Mondays

Where are your favorite places to grab a cuppa?

14 Free Things To Do On Valentine’s Day

Ah Valentine’s Day.

A day of love, affection, chocolates, and cards. But for some, it’s a day of dilemmas and frustration. Every year, many of us whine about not knowing where to go and what to do. Plans that entail not burning a hole in our pockets or breaking the bank are high on many Singaporeans’ priorities. Lest many also forget to consider, it should also be romantic or we risk incurring the wrath of our other halves.

Alas, no more hassles and no more worries. Don’t let the absence of money spoil this wonderful day. It’s the thought that counts after all right? As Valentine’s Day falls on the 14^th, the team in Discover SG has compiled 14 free things that couples can do on this coming Valentine’s Day.

1) Take a Stroll Along Henderson Waves

Who knew the highest pedestrian bridge in Singapore would actually be such an idyllic place for romance? Not only does the bridge resemble the undulating shape of a wave, its scrupulously designed shape allows it to have recesses, where pedestrians can observe and take in the natural beauty of their surroundings. To all lovebirds out there, be sure to check this place out at dusk, when the mood is enhanced by luminous lighting and a gorgeous night sky.

Location: Southern Ridges, Henderson Road, Bukit Merah, Singapore 159557

2) Appreciate The Arts In Gillman Barracks

Gillman Barracks is the indie and lesser-known home to internationally-celebrated and contemporary art pieces. With 11 different galleries to choose from and exhibitions that change periodically, you don’t have to be an art enthusiast to find something that captures your eye. And with such diversity, there are many insta-worthy spots for couples to get their “sophistication” on!

Location: 9 Lock Road, Singapore 108937

3) Traipse Around The Garden

Gardens by the Bay, Singapore’s futuristic garden, is nothing short of unbelievable at night. With the radiating Supertrees standing stoically nearby and the signature display of lights and sounds that begin at 7.45pm, a walk around this lush and multi-colored wonderland could be one of the best Valentine’s Day ideas ever.

Location: 18 Marina Gardens Drive, Singapore 018953

4) Watch a Watershow at Marina Bay Promenade

Known as Wonder Full, Singapore’s premier light and water show is a stunning convergence of light, music, and sound. Impress your girl with this dazzling 15-minute display and witness the water transform into images that tells the tale of the journey of life. As the show begins at 8pm, for best viewing, reach early and ‘chope’ the middle seats for the optimum experience.

Location: 2 Bayfront Avenue, Singapore 018972

5) Stargaze at Tanjong Beach

For a day of tranquility and to simply unwind and enjoy each other’s company, Tanjong Beach is the ideal place. The wide expanse of pristine sand and a cool seaside breeze provides the perfect setting for a simple picnic and pleasant conversations. At nightfall, end the day off in spectacular fashion under a blanket of stars.

Location: Sentosa

6. Have Dessert At Esplanade Roof Terrace

With the panoramic views of Marina Bay serving as a dramatic backdrop, couples can forge a wonderful memory together at the top of the Esplanade. Gaze upon the bay when dusk falls and witness the gorgeous Helix Bridge light up before your eyes. Remember to sweeten the deal with some yummy desserts before heading up there!

Location: 1 Esplanade Drive, Singapore 038981

7) Marvel At The Cityscape At ION Sky

You know what they say – there’s no greater love than one that is 218 meters into the clouds. Enjoy sweeping views of the stunning cityscape through state-of-the-art BEHOLDTIM telescopes, the first telescope of its kind in Asia. Open from 3pm – 6pm daily, don’t miss out on an opportunity to take your relationships to greater heights, literally.

Location: 2 Orchard Turn, Level 56, Singapore 238801

8) Visit The Love Temple

Yueh Hai Ching Temple is one of the oldest in Singapore. It is known as The Love Temple because Yue Lao, believed to be the elder of the moon deity, sits in the center of this temple. Yue Lao is a matchmaker deity who ties red strings to couples, symbolizing marriage, love and romance. Are spiritual blessings on Valentine’s Day the best gifts of all?

Location: 30B Phillip Street, Singapore 048696

9) Have A Picnic At Marina Barrage

Who knew that this innovative facility that helps supply water to Singaporeans is also one of the nicest places in the evening? The rooftop of the barrage boasts a circular green space that’s popular for picnics and sightseeing. As one of the go-to attractions for couples in Singapore, it is perhaps mandatory to include this on the list.

Location: 8 Marina Gardens Drive, Singapore 018951

10) Watch An Outdoor Movie

MovieMob is a free outdoor drive-in movie screening that takes place in all locations around Singapore. Similar to the ones that we see in movies, this event happens on a first-come-first serve basis, so it’s best to stay updated on their social media pages. Although they don’t have fixed schedules, the people behind MovieMob are definitely planning something for Valentine’s Day. Watch this space.

11) Enjoy Some Sweet Tunes At Botanical Gardens

For a relaxing night in luscious natural settings, the Singapore Botanical Gardens is the quintessential choice. Be serenaded by the melodic vocals and romantic tunes of live bands under a moon lit sky. As this would be wildly popular, be prepared to head down an hour earlier to “chope” your seats. The performances begins at 7pm sharp!

Location: 1 Cluny Road, Singapore 259569

12) Admire The Sunset At Labrador Park

During the day, you’d expect to see many families around the area due to its scenic views of the sea. However, at sundown, Labrador Park, coupled with well-lit paths and cool sea breezes, transforms into an offbeat place in Singapore for lovebirds. Let the sounds of gentle waves and the dim golden glow of the setting sun stir up your love.

Location: Labrador Villa Road, Singapore 119187

13) Cement Your Love At Clarke Quay

Not many know about this, but did you know that there is a place in Clarke Quay for couples to hang their love locks? For the uninitiated, love locks are used by couples to symbolize their love for one another. The key is then thrown away to make it forever. Located just outside Clarke Quay Central, be sure to bring your own padlocks and Polaroids you don’t mind losing!

Location: 6 Eu Tong Sen Street, Singapore 059817

14) Quality Time At Home

To end off this list, people often underestimate the simplest gestures. Sometimes, a home-cooked meal followed by a romantic movie with wine and chocolate is really all that it takes to demonstrate your love for each other. Or perhaps, spend the evening at home sweet home in each other’s arms and cozy up with candles and ambient music.

(Image credits: The Date Report)

Whatever it is, the team at Discover SG wishes you all the best in your Valentine’s Day endeavors!

(Featured image credits: The Date Report)

Top 5 Steamboat & Hotpot Places That Rival Hai Di Lao

(Image credit: Groupon)

Does the 1 hour+++ wait at Hai Di Lao turn you off? After all, who has the time and patience to wait that long? Luckily, there are other equally great restaurants to satisfy your daily dose of steamboat and hotpot cravings. The team at Discover SG has scoured the land in search of the best alternative places to enjoy your favorite simmering stews and yummy ingredients.

1. Imperial Treasure Steamboat Restaurant

As its namesake suggests, Imperial Treasure Steamboat Restaurant is imperial and amongst the best in Singapore. A critic’s choice for its quality ingredients, this classy establishment boasts a selection of 10 soups and 12 sauces to fulfill your hotpot fantasies. Although more expensive than other places, it is money well-spent for a truly memorable and grand experience.

Outlet & Opening Hours
ION Orchard 04-09
TripleOne Somerset 01-21

Daily: 11:00am – 3:00pm, 6:00pm – 11:00pm

2. Manbok Chinatown Korean BBQ & Steamboat

With Korean BBQ restaurants flooding our little red dot, a restaurant will have to be unique to make a name for itself. In the spotlight is Manbok, a quaint restaurant that combines BBQ with steamboat, all at a reasonable price. The cosy interior and wafts of delicious food cooking only served to heighten the senses, making this an ideal choice for a great night of food.

Outlet & Opening Hours
279 New Bridge Road

Daily: 11:30am – 3:00pm, 5:00pm – 11:00pm

3. Tsukada Nojo

Tsukada Nojo is a Japanese-style steamboat restaurant synonymous with its collagen soup, BIJIN NABE. The broth gets its delectable flavours from a Jidori chicken. (Jidori chicken refers to a type of mixed-breed vegetarian free-range chicken imported from Japan within 24 hours of slaughter) The result is a special broth that is not only nutritious (great for your skin and hair!), but also savoury and fragrant. In addition, you may also enjoy a sinful selection of Japanese dishes that are available ala carte.

Outlet & Opening Hours
Chinatown Point 02-37
Plaza Singapura 03-81
Westgate 03-04

Check website for opening hours

4. Huay Kwang Thai Kitchen

Nestled in fan-favourite Upper Thomson Road, Huay Kwang Thai Kitchen is a hidden Mookata gem. For the uninitiated, Mookata is a combination of hotpot and grill. Open until 2am on Friday & Saturday, this is a great place for supper with family and friends. This lovely Thai joint offers a simple yet appetising soup base (cabbage and pork bones) to satisfy your tastebuds.

Outlet & Opening Hours
224R Upper Thomson Road

Sunday to Thursday: 5:00pm – 11:00pm
Friday to Saturday: 5:00pm – 2:00am

5. JPOT Hotpot

This steamboat franchise from JUMBO Group (famous for excellent seafood) has consistently garnered rave reviews for its good service and food. Reward your palates with eight delicious types of soup base, a smorgasbord of fresh ingredients, and to top it all off, a DIY station to mix and match your favourite sauces. A dining experience without the nitty-gritty, JPOT Hotpot is the next best thing.

Outlet & Opening Hours
VivoCity 01-53
Tampines 1 03-16
Parkway Parade B1-17

Check website for opening hours.

https://www.facebook.com/discover.sg.official/posts/1944531775772515

(Featured image credits: SG Food on Foot)

5 Exciting Events Happening This February To Go With Your Friends!

With so many happenings to look out for, there’s no better time to be a Singaporean. Be it food or entertainment, there’s definitely something for everyone. So, quit your yapping and start ticking the “try something new” check boxes of your New Year Resolutions List.

1. Jerome’s Laneway Festival (30 Jan)

Singapore’s premier indie-music festival is happening really soon. Time is of essence if you want to purchase your tickets as they are known to sell out fast. The festival boasts an exciting lineup that includes British bands, The 1975, and CHVRCHES, as well as our very own Cashew Chemists, and Riot !N Magenta. Soak up the good vibes with your friends in a mellow and carefree ambience with ice cold beers. This will make a fond and unforgettable memory.

Location: 18 Marina Gardens Dr, The Meadow, Gardens By The Bay
Damage: Standard: S$180; Group Bundle of 6: S$999

2. Kevin Hart What Now? Tour (02 Feb)

Prominent comedian and entertainer in the industry, Kevin Hart is in town for a one-night-only performance. The Hollywood megastar, with hits like Get Hard and Ride Along, is famous for his signature fast-paced comedic monologues and electrifying attitude. This will truly be a night to remember. Already touted as the most successful comedy tour in history, Hart’s unique brand of humor should not be missed.

Location: 1 Raffles Boulevard, Suntec City, Suntec Convention & Exhibition Centre
Damage: Standard: S$98 – S$188

3. MunchFlix’s Outdoor Themed Movie Night (13 Feb)

The first edition of MunchFlix, a thematic open-air cinema, is taking place one day before Valentine’s Day. With immersive theatre-quality sounds and stunning movie projections, this is an opportunity not to be missed. Guys and girls, this is your time to impress your partner without breaking the bank. Share a cuddle on a beanbag chair under the starry night sky, munch on some great food, while enjoying a perfect romcom. What’s not to like?

Location: #04-01, 2 Orchard Link, *SCAPE Playspace
Damage: Standard: S$25 – S$90

4. Chingay Festival 2016 (19 Feb)

This national event is about vibrant floats and raucous music. It is also the largest street performance and float parade in Asia. Bask in the atmosphere of costumes and masquerades and revel in the dynamic showcase of Singapore’s multicultural society. Moreover, aside from offering a glimpse into our different cultures, this extravaganza also promises to blow your mind.

Location: 1 Republic Blvd, F1 Pit Building
Damage: Standard: S$28.50 – S$60

5. Singapore Airshow 2016 (20 Feb)

Singapore’s biennial Airshow is back! As Asia’s largest Airshow, there will not be a moment of mundane for adults and kids alike. Head down with the family to witness the remarkable display of an impressive array of aircrafts ranging from fighter planes, luxury jets, to transport giants. In addition, be treated to spectacular manoeuvres as aircrafts adorn the skies with adrenaline-pumping spins and loops.

Location: 9 Aviation Park Road, Changi Exhibition Centre
Damage: Child: S$9; Adult: S$22; Group Package of 4: S$166

(Featured image credits: www.shadefotoworks.com)

Snoopy Run Singapore 2016 – Fans of the Peanuts Crew, Get Ready For The Run Of Your Life!

Everyone’s favorite beagle is coming to our shores! Fans of Snoopy, Charlie Brown, and the rest of the Peanuts crew rejoice! The very first Snoopy Run 2016 will be held in Singapore on Sunday, 24 April, and what better ways are there to stay healthy and spend those precious moments with your loved ones… at the same time?!

Featuring a giant blown up Snoopy as the center piece at the run venue, runners can also expect to meet the whimsical mascots of the Peanuts gang. Runners can even visit the iconic Lucy’s Lemonade Stand during the run.

The Snoopy Run was a hit when it was organized in Taipei back in 2015, with tickets selling out within the first day of sales. Tickets for this year’s inaugural Snoopy Run will only be on sale from 3 February 2016. Price and venue will be announced at a later date.

As usual, runners who sign up for the event will receive an exclusive runner pack containing various Peanuts themed merchandise, including:

• A. Exclusive Snoopy Run T-shirt – Made from specially formulated breathable material designed for perfect comfort. Sizes coming soon.
• B. Peanuts Gang Number Tag – Fun Run number bib made from water-proof special card, standard for marathon runs.
• C. Fun Beagle Nose – Each runner gets a unique Beagle nose to pose with friends!
• D. Postcard Collection – Collect these once-off special edition postcards.
• E. Linus’ famous Blue Towel – Runner’s towel inspired by Linus’s popular blanket.
• F. Charlie Brown iconic Bag – Cool bag with Charlie Brown’s famous signature pattern.

More information can be found at snoopyrun.com.

So mark your calendars and tell all your friends and families! Do not miss this once-in-a-lifetime event when it comes to town!

(Featured image credits: Snoopy Run 2016)

5 Awesome Places To Get Your Essential CNY Goodies

As Chinese New Year edges closer, it is perhaps mandatory to take a look at the eclectic delicacies every Singaporean should have stocked at home. Food plays a central role this holiday, so don’t forget to stock up on these 5 Chinese New Year goodies!

1) Old Seng Choong’s Nian Gao (Year Cake)

A gooey-brown and sweet confection, Nian Gao is a food prepared from glutinous rice. It is considered good luck to eat Nian Gao during this time as it is a homonym for “higher year”. As such, eating Nian Gao is a symbolism of raising oneself higher in each coming year.

We recommend Old Seng Choong’s rendition of this indispensable treat. It is made less sweet, which is perfect for the health-conscious.

Old Seng Choong
www.oldsengchoong.com
+65 6287 0709

2) Sunny Hills’ Pineapple Tart

A favorite among many, these bite-size pastries topped with pineapple jam is a rich and buttery confection. Pineapple is translated as ‘Ong Lai’ in Hokkien, which means “prosperity come”. Additionally, the yellowish-gold color of this delicacy signifies wealth.

We recommend SunnyHills’ inventive pineapple cake, made from freshly harvested pineapples imported from Taiwan. Flaky, chewy, and tasty with every bite.

SunnyHills
#03-05 Raffles Hotel Arcade
+65 8522 9605

3) Lim Chee Guan’s Bak Kwa

Bak Kwa is a thin and salty-sweet sheet of pork grilled to lovely caramelisation. This chewy snack has a rich history, Bak Kwa in Cantonese translates to “Long Yoke”, which means robust fortune. For the overly-superstitious, its bright red color is also auspicious and a good omen.

We recommend the Bak Kwa from household-name Lim Chee Guan. Amidst its competitors, Lim Chee Guan’s Bak Kwa remains the most tender and juicy.

Lim Chee Guan
203 New Bridge Rd
#01-25, People’s Park Complex
#B4-37, ION Orchard
+65 6933 7230

4) Antoinette’s Love Letters

Don’t take this literally, of course. Love letters are flavorful cylindrical biscuits made from baking sugar, eggs, and coconut milk. Aside from their resemblance to long gold bars, these wafer-thin rolls got their name because they look like notes that lovers in the past wrote to each.

We recommend the Chocolate Love Letters from Antoinette. Lavish and exquisitely handcrafted, these sinful chocolate-infused wafers are nothing short of amazing.

Antoinette
30 Penhas Road
#02-33 Mandarin Gallery
+65 6293 3121

5) King of Melon Seeds

A symbol of abundance and fertility, Melon seeds are widely eaten as a staple snack. Although there are many variations, the most notable ones during Chinese New Year are the black-colored and red-colored ones. “Gua Zi”, as it’s also known by, can imply “many sons” and “multiple coins”.

We recommend King of Melon Seeds, a popular online shop. With temporary festive retail booths located around Singapore, they offer a diverse selection of melon seeds with their most popular being the Famous Dragon Eye, which are known for their large size and thicker flesh.

(Photo Credit: King of Melon Seeds)

King of Melon Seeds

Temporary booth locations are available on their website
email: [email protected]

What are your favorite Chinese New Year goodies?

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5 Reunion Dinner Restaurants That Your In-Laws Will Absolutely Love

[caption id="attachment_643" align="alignnone" width="800"] Image Credit: Beijing Holiday[/caption]

It’s that time of the year again. Well, almost.

A time where the sounds of crackling fireworks and booming drums can be heard from miles away.

A time where streets are decked with a cascade of flamboyant lights and red couplets.

A time where oranges… You get the picture.

Chinese New Year is barely a month away and it’s time to usher in the festive cheer. Of course, ‘tis the season of celebration of all things home, family, and friends. Nowhere is this seen more clearly than in the annual tradition of Reunion Dinners.

Times are changing and Singaporeans are opting for newer choices to host their reunion dinners. Here are 5 carefully curated selections of Chinese Restaurants, each catering to a specific type of customers while offering a totally novel experience.

1. Hai Tien Lo

The epitome of traditional Cantonese dining, award-winning Hai Tien Lo remains one of the best Chinese restaurants in Singapore. Oozing class and grandeur with majestic red and gold themed elements, it feels like you are stepping in to the Forbidden Palace. Serving a range of impressive and quality fare ranging from the Roasted Barbecued Suckling Pig to handcrafted Dim Sum dishes, Hai Tien Lo is the ideal place to ring in the auspicious season.

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Location: #03-00, Pan Pacific Hotel Singapore, 7 Raffles Boulevard, Singapore 039595
Dinner Hours: Daily: 6:30pm – 10:30pm

2. Chui Huay Lim

Tucked at the corner of Newton Circus, don’t underestimate its rather obscure location. You’ll be wondering why you didn’t make a reservation. Boasting a history of more than 169 years, Chui Huay Lim specializes in Teochew cuisine, offering over 150 dishes of contemporary excellence and authenticity at its finest. Savour to delicious Pork Trotter Jelly, Braised Goose and Teochew Steamed Pomfret as you bask in the marvelous history of this quaint establishment.

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Location: #01-02, Chui Huay Lim Club, 190 Keng Lee Rd, Singapore 308409
Dinner Hours: Daily: 6:00pm – 11:00pm

3. Jing Hua Xiao Chi

Tired of all the glamour and formalities of a traditional reunion dinner? Try Jing Hua Xiao Chi for a simple one. Although there are 2 other venues situated at Neil Road and Rochor Road, the ideal location to host your dinner is the branch at Orchard Road. Combining a rich and welcoming interior while retaining its original heritage, Jing Hua Xiao Chi does not forget its roots as a small shophouse and remains dedicated to serving traditional-style Xiao Chi dishes. Be sure to indulge in their signature Xiao Long Baos, Sweet Osmanthus Flower Rice Ball, and Red Bean Pancake.

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Location: #B1-04/05, Palais Renaissance, 390 Orchard Rd, Singapore 238871
Dinner Hours: Daily: 5:30pm – 10:00pm

4. Chopsuey Café

This one’s for the hipster families and friends. Serving up Chinese-fusion food in a beautiful colonial-style environment at the particularly winsome Dempsey Hill, Chopsuey Café is the brainchild of PS Café’s first foray into Chinese cuisine. An Instagrammer’s heaven typified by aesthetically eye-catching dishes like the the Flakey Char Siew Puff, Chicken Rice Balls, and Crispy Orange Beef, you’ll be thinking twice about eating these wonderfully plated creations.

Location: #01-23, 10 Dempsey Road, Singapore 247700
Dinner Hours: Daily: 6:30pm – 12:00 am

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5. Mouth Restaurant

One can always count on something familiar. For a no-frills experience and for the acquiescent who are nonchalant about where to eat, Mouth Restaurant is the classic choice due to its household name. Perhaps, to spice it up with a “Chinese-feel”, try the one at China Square Central in Chinatown, for obvious reasons. Dive in to the instantly recognizable and legendary Baked Salted Egg Yolk Bun, as well as other mouth-watering selections like the Pipa Prawns.

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Location: #01-61, China Square Central South Bridge Court Shop House, 22 Cross Street, Singapore 048421
Dinner Hours: Daily: 6:00pm – 11:00pm

So what are you waiting for? Hurry up and place those reservations!

And tell us: Where else would you go for your reunion dinners?

Featured image credits: Amari