6 German Food Places In Singapore For A Guten Appetit Time!

German cuisine is all about big and hearty portions. Think Bratwurst, Pork Knuckles as well as meat and sausages of all sorts. Besides meat, German food also includes tantalising desserts such as the popular Blackforest Cake. Of course, Germans love to have their beer at almost every meal time.

If that has already roused your taste buds, guess what? Here are 6 places in Singapore where you can enjoy authentic German food without having to fly all the way to Germany to enjoy it!

1. Stew Küche

Located within one of the hipster coffee shops in Singapore, Salute, is Stew Küche. Occupying the position typically set aside for zi char stalls, this hawker stall is clearly the anchor tenant here. What draws crowds from island-wide to this stall is their extremely affordable German / Bavarian cuisine.

Once you are here, there is absolutely no missing out on ordering their famous signature Pork Knuckle!

Available as a half or whole portion, you will be treated to a well-marinated and oven-baked pork knuckle with tender meat. This dish is served with thick mashed potatoes set in a savoury brown gravy, and with a Singaporean twist of Peranakan spicy pickled achar.

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Of course, no meal here is complete without ordering a pint of cold beer from their extensive selection of German lager. They serve mostly German and Bavarian brands, from beers on tap to craft beers for you to choose as well.

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Besides the Pork Knuckle, there are several other German dishes worth trying as well, such as Oxtail Stew & Pretzel as well as a range of pastas. Either way, dining at Stew Küche will make you feel as if you are in eating in Germany itself.

Stew Küche
Address: 
Blk 119 Bukit Merah Lane 1 #01-40, Singapore 151119
Opening hours: Tue – Sun, 11am – 3pm, 5.30pm -10pm; Closed on Mondays
Website

2. Erich’s Wuerstelstand

Erich’s Wuerstelstand claims to be the last sausage stall before the equator. While we cannot ascertain the truth behind that statement, one thing is for sure here – their Currywursts are absolutely to-die for!

Sink your teeth into their currywurst, a bratwurst (the standard German sausage) that is dressed up with curry sauce.

Top it off with curry powder and you get the all-time favourite German snack. Understandably, one piece is usually not enough so we highly recommend that you pair it with one of their classic German side, sauerkraut or fermented chopped cabbage.

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Just beside Erich’s Wuerstelstand sits Erich’s Backstube, which essentially is a bakery stall. Here, be spoilt for choice with the numerous muffins and cupcakes baked fresh daily.

[caption id="attachment_21293" align="aligncenter" width="1280"] Credit: wuerstelstand.blogspot.sg[/caption]

Despite being located in a rather odd place in Chinatown, you can still find a small piece of Germany right there at Erich’s Wuerstelstand.

Erich’s Wuerstelstand
Address: 
5 Banda St, Singapore 050005
Opening hours: Daily, 11am – 9pm
Website

3. Baden Restaurant & Pub

For a rustic, quiet atmosphere, and of course, good German fare, Baden Restaurant & Pub is the best place to go. Located within the hipster enclave of Holland Village, this restaurant certainly exudes Bavarian-style with the extensive use of teak wood. You will certainly feel as if you are in a real German tavern itself.

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The wide range of beer here will definitely keep you and your beer-drinking friends happy. Additionally, complement your cold yummy beer with their selection of authentic hearty German dishes!

From the classic pork knuckles and sausage platters to pretzels as well as currywurst, you will have a hard time choosing what to order.

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For a cosy dining ambience, go for the indoor seating. Else, do it the German way by dining alfresco at their outdoor seating.

Baden Restaurant & Pub
Address: 
42 Lor Mambong, Singapore 277698
Opening hours: Mon – Thu, 2pm – 1am; Fri – Sat, 12pm – 2am; Sun 12pm – 12am
Website

4. Stuttgart Blackforest Boutique S-Café

Set at the classy Rendezvous Hotel Gallery, Stuttgart Blackforest Boutique S-Café serves up classic, traditional German (also known as Swabian) fares. Its whimsical ambience and rustic wooden furniture is reminiscent of the lush forests and picturesque villages of the Black Forest region in southwest Germany.

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Indulge in traditional hearty German comfort food such as the Beef Goulash Stew or the Maultaschen, which is a traditional Swabian dumpling. Besides the delectable Swabian dishes, an ice-cold German beer is a definite must-order.

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The main crowd-puller here is, without a doubt, their signature Blackforest Cake. Stuttgart’s rise to fame is because of their delectable Blackforest Cake and it goes to show that the Germans do love their desserts too.

Stuttgart Blackforest Boutique S-Café
Address: 
9 Bras Basah Road, #01-01 Rendezvous Hotel Gallery, Singapore 189559
Opening hours: Daily, 11am – 11pm
Website

5. Brotzeit German Bier Bar & Restaurant

The origin of Brotzeit’s name is derived from Bavarian origin, which is the local expression for bread and time. This restaurant boasts several outlets across our little red dot, making it extremely convenient to satisfy your German food cravings.

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Brotzeit stays true to its Bavarian roots with its selection of tantalising Bavarian cuisines. Savour the rich honey Bavarian pork ribs, or a platter of sausages, perhaps even their pretzels and cold cut salads.

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There are even seasonal specialties during the German festive periods, such as Oktoberfest and Christmas Day. Needless to say, the month of October is the best time to head down to Brotzeit for some German beer binge session while soaking up the festive atmosphere.

Brotzeit
Address: 
Discovery Walk at 313@Somerset, 313 Orchard Road, #01-27, Singapore 238895
Opening hours: Mon – Thu, 12pm – 12am; Fri 12pm – 1am; Sat 11am – 1am; Sun 11am – 12am
Credit: www.groupon.sg[/caption]

Given its location within the heartlands, Wilder Mann is a popular hangout spot for EPL fans to catch some soccer action while gulping down ice-cold German beers.

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For some simple, authentic German fares without the nasty GST and service charge, Wilder Mann is the best place to go.

Wilder Mann
Address: 
906M Upper Thomson Road, Singapore 787110
Opening hours: Mon – Fri, 6pm – 1145pm; Sat 6pm – 1am; Sun 6pm – 1am (closes at 10.30pm on days without English Premier League games)
Best Mala Xiang Guo Stalls: It’s Going To Be A Fiery Hot Affair

7 Nearby Travel Destinations To Consider For Your 2017 Long Weekends!

Wanderlusters rejoice! This 2017 brings about a fantastic slew of seven long weekends, signalling you to dig out that travel bucket list and finally tick off some places.

If you are stumped for ideas on where to head to, here are some travel destinations you should totally consider. Whether you fancy a romantic getaway or an adventurous trekking expedition, we have complied a list of seven nearby travel destinations you can consider heading to for your 2017 long weekends!

1. Hua Hin, Thailand

Forget the shopping paradise of Bangkok. Thailand’s seaside beach town, Hua Hin, boasts a delightful mix of cosmopolitan meets seaside ambience. Located a short 3.5 hours bus ride away from Bangkok, Hua Hin is a cheaper and more convenient location than heading to the other resort islands!

[caption id="attachment_20731" align="aligncenter" width="1200"] Credit: Credit: Heading To Thailand? Here Are Two Places You Must Visit For An Epic Holiday!

2. Boracay, Philippines

Located right in the heart of Philippines, Boracay is no doubt the ideal weekend island getaway for sun-lovers and young couples. Its pristine white beaches and clear turquoise-blue waters are postcard perfect and will certainly make you want to lounge in the sun all day.

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Besides suntanning, Boracay also offers various exciting water sports that are bound to keep you occupied the whole time! Indulge in exhilarating activities such as diving, snorkeling, paragliding, windsurfing and many more in the day.

At night, choose from a huge variety of restaurants and bars dotting the beach that serve up delectable multi-cuisines and cold drinks.

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While the trek up both Mount Merbabu and Mount Merapi is relatively challenging, the views are absolutely breathtaking. Likewise, both treks can easily be completed within a day, though we highly suggest an overnight climb as climbing in the day would prove to be extremely hot.

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Yogyakarta is also known for its rich culture and traditional arts. Of course, no trip is complete without paying a visit to the world-famous Borobudur Temple!

Ideal weekend getaway for: beginner and intermediate climbers

4. Sapa, Vietnam

Set in the mountainous region of Northern Vietnam, Sapa is increasingly becoming a hotpot for photography-enthusiasts. Host to several hill tribes, expansive rice terraces and lush vegetation, Sapa is a no doubt a picturesque town.

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Take a stroll by along the seafront at Gurney Drive to walk off those full stomachs. Alternatively, explore the artsy-fartsy side of Penang by finding the numerous hidden street art located within the UNESCO Heritage site of Georgetown.

Ideal weekend getaway for: foodies and friends of foodies

6. Melbourne, Australia

Heading to Melbourne over the long weekend might seem a little far-fetched but it certainly is possible with the numerous flight deals! If cafe-hopping and getting high on caffeine sounds like your idea of a perfect long weekend getaway, then Melbourne is the place for you!

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Host to an overabundance of cafes, you will easily be able to pop into any one along the streets and grab one of Melbourne’s signature cuppas. In addition, Melbourne also boasts a wide selection of shopping options, from local designers to international brands.

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You absolutely cannot miss trying their local army stews, bibimbap and korean pancakes. Likewise, a food trip to Seoul will not be complete without indulging in delectable and savoury meats at a Korean barbecue restaurant! Additionally, if you have the time, you might even be able to catch a concert featuring some of Korea’s famous music artists or bands.

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With the onslaught of shopping and departmental malls, coupled with plenty of night markets, restaurants and cafes, Seoul is undeniably a heaven for foodies and avid shoppers alike!

Ideal weekend getaway for: major Korean pop fans, foodies and those seeking some retail therapy

Escape the hustle and bustle of the Singapore city life by heading to these destinations over the long weekends! Whether you are looking for a mad weekend getaway or a quick digital detox, these travel destinations will certainly fit the bill.

It is never too early to start making those travel plans for the upcoming long weekends in 2017! Furthermore, with the brand new year already starting, we highly suggest that you start scouring for exclusive travel deals now. As the saying goes: if not now, then when?

(Header image credit: pexels.com)

Also, read 7 Incredible Places In SEA To Discover With Friends!

Best Mala Xiang Guo Stalls: It’s Going To Be A Fiery Hot Affair!

The latest food craze hitting Singapore shores is mala xiang guo, a spicy and mouth-numbing stir-fry that comprises of a variety of ingredients handpicked by diners.

While this dish is popular among the Chinese nationals, having originated from the Sichuan and Chongqing provinces, Singaporeans are fast catching onto this chilli bug as well!

If you are up for this spicy challenge, then we promise you that it is going to be a fiery hot affair at these five mala xiang guo places!

1. Ri Ri Hong Mala Xiang Guo

As one of the pioneering stalls in the mala xiang guo scene in Singapore, Ri Ri Hong Mala Xiang Guo is now so hotly-popular that they have two outlets at People’s Park Food Centre just to cater to the crowd.

Credit: Credit: Credit: Credit: Credit: Credit: Credit: Count Yourself As A True Blue Singaporean Only If You Have Tried These 9 Local Dishes!

10 International Music Festivals Happening 2017 That Are Worth The Flight Tickets

With origins pointing back to the hippy era, music festivals have evolved over the years to become more mainstream. The popularity of music events the likes of Coachella and EDM paradise, Tomorrowland, have proliferated in recent years. To add on, the music festivals calendar is seemingly getting more packed each year.

Nonetheless, the international music festival scene for 2017 certainly promises some unforgettable experiences for all. Whether you are looking for sun-kissed beaches, green fields or even non-stop partying, here are 10 international music festivals happening 2017 that are worth the flight tickets!

1. It’s The Ship (Singapore & Malaysia)

Sailing across the seas between Singapore and Malaysia for three days straight, there is nothing more exhilarating than partying on-board this luxury cruise ship to non-stop EDM and dance music by globally-renowned DJs.

[caption id="attachment_20533" align="aligncenter" width="1050"] Credit: to avoid missing out when the tickets go on sale.

It’s The Ship 2017
Festival haven for:
EDM music lovers and those whom are willing to risk their sea-sickness
Dates: TBC
Website

2. Java Jazz Festival (Jakarta, Indonesia)

As one of the largest jazz music festivals in the world, 2017 will see the 13th edition of Jakarta International Java Jazz festival.

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3. Armin Only Embrace (Jakarta, Indonesia)

Avid fans of Armin, it is time to rejoice!

Organised by The Livescape Group and Euphorics Events, the Armin Only Embrace World Tour has decided to add Jakarta to their 2017 global tour.

[caption id="attachment_20539" align="aligncenter" width="2048"] Credit: 4. Fuji Rock (Niigata Prefecture, Japan)

How often do you get to take a cable car trip up a mountain just to see a rock band?

Set at a ski resort atop Mt. Fuji in Japan, Fuji Rock definitely has one of the most ideal settings for a music festival.

Expect an impressive lineup of alternative and pop music by world-acclaimed artists, backed by Japan’s breathtaking countryside of lush green forests and hills as backdrop. Past headliners included Foo Fighters, Muse, and Red Hot Chili Peppers.

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5. Glastonbury (Somerset, United Kingdom)

Dubbed as the Big Daddy of UK music festivals, Glastonbury commanders a sizable chunk of Somerset for five days of music, jubilee and of course, lots of booze.

Boasting an incredible number of eight stages dotting the woods and fields, you can expect an amazing musical line-up featuring top-notch international artists the likes of Disclosure, Coldplay, Adele and many more.

[caption id="attachment_20544" align="aligncenter" width="2560"] Credit: 6. Coachella (Indio, USA)

This annual star-studded music festival is a staple in every celebrity’s calendar and of course, marked and circled in every music festival goer’s calendar as well.

Held across two weekends in April, this music fest will be played out across five main stages.

[caption id="attachment_20545" align="aligncenter" width="1200"] Credit: 7. Tomorrowland (Boom, Belgium)

When it comes to throwing outrageous EDM music festivals, no other party can compete with Tomorrowland.

This yearly Belgium festival, which takes place in the town of Boom, has attracted the biggest DJs and electronic music makers throughout its entire history. Naturally, this EDM paradise just keeps getting bigger, wilder and even more sparkly.

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8. Ultra Music Festival (Downtown Miami, USA)

Ultra Music Festival is perhaps the only EDM bash that comes close to competing with Tomorrowland.

Party goers from around the world descend on Miami for this incredible high-energy EDM festival. This 2017, Ultra Music Festival will definitely not disappoint with its amazing line-up of DJs  and electronic music makers, featuring the likes of Armin van Buuren, Afrojack, DJ Snake, David Guetta and many more.

[caption id="attachment_20547" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] Credit: Website

9. Sunset Music Festival (Tampa, USA)

The sixth-consecutive Sunset Music Festival returns in 2017 with more in-demand dance music! Slated to take place over the USA Memorial Day weekend, it is the perfect soundtrack for a fun-filled weekend holiday celebration.

With three stages, a huge line-up, and elaborate stage set-ups, you are definitely setting yourself up for a raving dance party.

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10. St. Jerome’s Laneway Festival (Across Australia)

St. Jerome’s Laneway Festival (or Laneway in short) has grown over the years to become one of Australia’s biggest and best festivals.

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Also, read Laneway Festival Singapore 2017 – 5 Underrated Acts That Even Hipsters Haven’t Heard Of!

Count Yourself As A True Blue Singaporean Only If You Have Tried These 9 Local Dishes!

We Singaporeans are certainly proud of our vibrant and thriving culinary scene.

However, besides fine dining, typical cafe dishes and fast food, there is a category of quintessential Singaporean dishes that only a true blue Singaporean would know!

Think you know it all when it comes to these true blue Singaporean dishes? Rate yourself with our ultimate list of dishes only a true Singaporean heartlander would have tried.

Time to find out if you deserve the bragging rights of being a true blue Singaporean.

1. Curry Fish Head

Largely influenced by Nonya cuisine, Curry Fish Head is now a staple weekend dinner indulgence for most Singaporean households.

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A red snapper’s head is typically used and stewed in a bubbling pot of fragrant curry broth. It is usually cooked together with an assortment of vegetables as well, such as lady’s finger and eggplant.

Where to get: Ocean Fish Head Curry
Address: No. 181 Telok Ayer Street, Singapore 068629
Opening hours: Mon to Fri 10.30am – 3pm, 5pm – 8.30pm; Sat 10.30am – 3pm (Close on Sun & PH)
Credit: startaster.com[/caption]

 

Think fried egg tofu served atop a large fried egg. It comes topped with an assortment of vegetables, such as sliced carrots, cauliflower and mushrooms. The entire dish is then completely covered in thick bubbly gravy that includes minced meat, oyster sauce and chilli bean paste.

Where to get: Two Chefs Eating Place
Address: 409 Sin Ming Ave #02-01, Singapore 570409
Opening hours: Daily, 11am – 10.30pm

3. Mee Rebus

Image delicious yellow noodles drenched in thick gravy with a slight nutty taste, topped with Chinese celery and a squeeze of calamansi for that extra flavour, it leaves little to wonder why Mee Rebus is a popular Malay dish among Singaporeans.

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3. Prawn Paste Chicken Wings (Har Cheong Gai)

Affectionately known as Har Cheong Gai at most zi char stalls, this particular dish is a local alternative to fried chicken wings.

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Comprising of stir-fried water spinach with sambal belacan, this dish delivers a spicy kick to the taste buds! No wonder this is a popular veggie dish among Singaporeans.

Where to get: Tan Chin Lee Sea-Fresh Restaurant
Address: 71 Pioneer Road, #02-06 Tuas Amenity Centre, Singapore 639591
Opening hours: Daily 11.30am – 2.30pm, 5.30pm – 10pmm

5. Putu Mayam

Putu Mayam is a popular Indian dish that is commonly eaten for breakfast. It consists of steamed vermicelli-like rice noodles with the addition of aromatic pandan leaf as flavouring.

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6. Chilli Crab

Chlli Crab is a long-standing national dish of Singapore.

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7. Ice Kachang

Singaporeans are certainly no stranger to Ice Kachang, which is the Singaporean-version of a slurpee/ shaved ice in a bowl. Made entirely of shaved ice and drizzled with brightly-coloured sweet syrup, it is typically paired with sweet corn, grass jelly, atap chee and red beans.

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This savoury dish is typically served at auspicious events such as weddings or during the Chinese New Year reunion dinner. It certainly is getting harder to find this rare dish around so we highly recommend you try it before it is forgotten!

Where to get: Mei Zhen Hakka Delicacies
Address: Shunfu Mart Food Centre, 320 Shunfu Road, #02-26, Singapore 570320
Opening hours: Tue – Sun, 7am – 2pm (Closed on Mon)

9. Sugee Cake

For some true Singapore-Eurasian food, look no further than Sugee Cake.

[caption id="attachment_20207" align="aligncenter" width="960"] Credit: 15 Delectable Meals In Singapore Below $2.50 That Will Make You Question Reality

Struggling With Gifts? Try These 6 Customisable Gifts For That Special Person In Your Life!

Whenever it comes to buying gifts, the saying that it’s the thought that counts rings true. There is no denying the immense impact of receiving unique, personalised or customised gifts from another. It’s that warm, fuzzy feeling of knowing that a particular present was carefully thought out, curated, or crafted specially for you.

Time to get those creative juices flowing and create something stunning for the special someone in your life! Here are some places in Singapore to buy unique and customisable gifts that are suitable for all occasions.

1. Make Your Own

Terrariums make beautiful customisable gifts and are great decorative pieces as well.

There is no better way to impress your friends or loved ones than with a gorgeous terrarium! Here at Make Your Own, sign up for their plethora of terrarium-making workings to create these pretty-looking and intricate mini gardens.

[caption id="attachment_19954" align="aligncenter" width="960"] Credit: Credit: Make Your Own, Facebook[/caption]

Alternatively, there are other workshops offered at Make Your Own such as calligraphy (S$99) and copper pipe lamp workshops (S$99 to S$199) as well!

Make Your Own
Address: 
Blk 4 Upper Aljunied Lane, #01-06, Singapore 360004
Opening hours: Daily, 9.30am – 6pm (Closed on Sun & Thu)
Credit: Credit: groovicity.com[/caption]

Furthermore, these bottles of perfume are truly one-of-a-kind customisable gifts!

Jetaime Perfumery
Address:
90 Good Man Road, Block O, #01-57, Singapore 439053
Opening hours: Mon & Tue: 9am – 4pm; Wed – Sun: 9am – 9pm
Website

3. Crafted Prints

There is no better gift than a shared memory. With Crafted Prints, convert your favourite pictures and wondrous moments into actual prints!

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4. Gifts Less Ordinary

For some truly extraordinary gift ideas, look no further with Gifts Less Ordinary! Their extensive range of unusual customisable gifts such as wallets, cufflinks, blankets and even sport bags, are suitable for anyone and for all occasions.

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5. Bynd Artisan (Atelier)

Instead of the usual factory-made notebooks or leather items, you can create a personalised notebook or stationery for that special someone. Here at Bynd Artisan, you get to create custom-made leather items such as notebooks, key holders and even pouches!

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With their Leather Quadro Workshop (S$88), you have the chance of creating a personalised set of 4 items – coin pouch, card holder, key tab and bracelet. In addition, you get to choose the type of leather and colour while piecing it all together in any way you like it!

Credit: 6. Clik Clok

Clik Clok offers an extensive selection of customisable gifts to choose from. Ranging from curating one-off thumbdrive designs and lens cap to cutleries and even mahjong tiles, expect nothing short of uniquely handcrafted gift ideas.

[caption id="attachment_19981" align="aligncenter" width="960"] Credit: Clik Clok Facebook[/caption]

For a locally-inspired gift idea for the avid gambler, check out their customisable mahjong set! Starting at just S$110, personalise mahjong tiles in any way that you want!

Be it black with gold glitter, hot pink colour or even Pokémon-themed, there are no restrictions on how you can design it.

[caption id="attachment_19982" align="aligncenter" width="1280"] Credit: What If We Told You, You’ve Been Choosing Your Christmas Gifts Wrong All Along?

Lunch Is The Only Reason For Work: 7 Cheap & Good Meals In CBD Below $5

Eating out in our bustling Central Business District (CBD) is undeniably an expensive affair.

Most of the working population is aware that meal prices in the CBD are exorbitantly high. Many lament that finding cheap yet wholesome and delectable meals are almost impossible.

Or at least that is what you may think!

We have scouted every nook and cranny in the CBD district to bring you this list of cheap and good meals for $5 or less in the CBD!

1. Good Day @ Amoy Street Food Centre

Good Day is the perfect hawker stall to satisfy your persistant lunch cravings that might have started at 11am. Their signature Beef Hor Fun is literally unbeatable, in terms of both taste and price!

[caption id="attachment_19034" align="aligncenter" width="1284"]Credit: Credit: Credit:  Credit: chinesecochorn.wordpress.com[/caption]

Topped with braised pork, fish, beansprouts and fried ngoh hiang, this bowl of goodness is priced at just $3!

If you decide to opt for additional toppings, the price goes up to either $4 or $5 respectively. Either way, you can indulge in this delectable bowl of lor mee without going over budget!

Yuan Chun Famous Lor Mee
Address: 
Amoy Street Food Centre, #02-79/80, 7 Maxwell Rd, Singapore 069111
Operating hours: Wed – Sun, 8am – 3.30pm

3. Aussie Roll @ Chevron House

Despite being located in a relatively obscure corner at the basement of Chevron House, you’ll be surprised to find snaking queues during lunchtime here at Aussie Roll!

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Originating from Australia (hence the name), this particular food stall services up delicious handmade gigantic sushi-like hand rolls, all priced between $2.60 and $2.80!

[caption id="attachment_19033" align="aligncenter" width="960"]Credit: Burpple - Aussie Roll Credit: Burpple – 4. Song Kee Fishball Noodles @ Lau Pa Sat

Song Kee Fishball Noodles prides itself on their handmade fishballs that are made from pure yellowtail fish meat. Priced at a mere $4, you get a sizeable portion of mouth-watering fishball noodles!

[caption id="attachment_19096" align="aligncenter" width="800"]Credit: sethlui.com Credit:
Stall 19, Lau Pa Sat, 18 Raffles Quay, Singapore 048582

5. Market Street Nasi Lemak @ Golden Shoe Hawker Centre 

For tasty bargain food, Market Street Nasi Lemak is the stall for you!

This Malay stall offers several nasi lemak sets, with none of them exceeding the price of $3.

[caption id="attachment_19095" align="aligncenter" width="1585"]Credit: ramblingsofaretiredgirl.blogspot.sg Credit: Credit: Credit: Credit: Facebook – The Salad Corner[/caption]

On top of their delectable and affordably-priced salads, The Salad Corner allows you to pre-order a salad bowl anytime between 8am and 10.30am!

All you need to do is to drop them an sms in the format specified on their website and wait for their “OK” reply. Thereafter, skip the long queues during lunch hour and collect your salad from the cashier directly! It is that simple.

The Salad Corner
Address: 
Amoy Street Food Centre, #01-41, 7 Maxwell Rd, Singapore 069111
Operating hours: Mon – Fri, 9am – 7pm
15 Delectable Meals In Singapore Below $2.50 That Will Make You Question Reality

Not IKEA: 4 Places To Buy Good & Cheap Furniture So You Don’t Have To DIY

When it comes to sprucing up your new home, IKEA is typically the first place that pops into mind. There’s no doubt that it offers cheap furniture at decent quality.

However, this option is sometimes not ideal, because you’ve got to put the furniture together yourself. Also, when friends and family start spotting the same furniture as you, it gets a little too predictable.

In order to differentiate your home interior from your family and friends, here are four places to go furniture shopping at without burning a hole in your pocket!

1. Second Charm

Going for a vintage or retro-style for your living space? Look no further with Second Charm!

Carrying vintage-retro furniture including antiques and collectibles, this is the perfect place to source for one-of-a-kind pieces that is bound to induce envy amongst your home visitors. Additionally, Second Charm also carries customised furniture and has even ventured into Scandinavian and Danish-inspired furniture.

Most of their furniture pieces are made of teak, so they ensure high quality while keeping the price tag low.

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With antique chairs looking like these, you will almost get a nod of approval from the old folks! These chairs will certainly create a tinge of nostalgia and homely feel to your living space – which is exactly how a home should be!

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Do note that you will have to drop Second Charm an email on the specific measurements for your furniture in order to receive a quotation from them. Though it might seem troublesome, perhaps the thought of knowing that most of your furniture pieces are exclusively customised for YOUR home might make you think otherwise!

Second Charm
Address:
Blk 21 Kallang Avenue, #05-165 Mapletree Industrial Building, Singapore 339412
Operating hours:  Tue – Sat, 11am – 5.30pm;  Sun, 11am – 5pm (Closed on Mondays)

[caption id="attachment_18154" align="aligncenter" width="1348"]Credit: jousk.com Credit: Browse through HipVan’s extensive range of designer-inspired furniture which comes in quirky colours and designs.

With sturdy dining tables starting at just S$59.90, gorgeous plush sofas from just S$39, as well as bean bags and many more, home products here are undoubtedly a steal!

Add a touch of fun to your living room with this bright orange Hippo Bean Bag (SGD129.90).

[caption id="attachment_18953" align="aligncenter" width="550"]Credit: HipVan Credit: HipVan[/caption]

Definitely a great chair-subsitute to laze in during the afternoons or when your friends are over.

Infuse some Scandinavian-inspired furniture designs to your living room with this Stockholm Coffee Table (SGD149).

 

[caption id="attachment_18954" align="aligncenter" width="500"]Credit: HipVan Credit: HipVan[/caption]

The table legs are made of solid wood, ensuring that you get a premium quality furniture piece at an affordable price.

Furthermore, if pink is not a colour you fancy, there are other colours such as black, white and even mustard to choose from.

If you envision an industrial modern-chic interior as your ideal dream house, HipVan is the place to consider.

HipVan
Website

3. Comfort Furniture

As its name suggests, Comfort Furniture provides furniture that promises ultimate comfort at highly affordable prices.

At Comfort Furniture, you can find exact replicas of designer furniture such as the Noguchi Coffee Table and many more.

Also dubbed “The Chair & Table People” for good reason, Comfort Furniture carries a diverse range of Eames and Danish Design replica chairs and tables with prices slashed to more than half of the price of the original!

[caption id="attachment_18165" align="aligncenter" width="1000"]Credit: comfortfurniture.com.sg Credit: 4. FortyTwo

FortyTwo is yet another online furniture retailer that sells appliances as well.

With an extensive range of furniture that boasts low starting places, FortyTwo also sells home decorations such as lightnings, mirrors and many more.

[caption id="attachment_18973" align="aligncenter" width="1748"]Credit: fortytwo.sg Credit: FortyTwoSprucing up and decorating your home need not be an expensive affair! With these cheap furniture retailers offering a diverse range of designer and unique furniture pieces, you’ll have your home looking like a million bucks without breaking the bank!

(Header image credit: comfortfurniture.com.sg)

Also, read Secrets From Experts: Tips On Buying The Right Furniture & Personalising Your Home

15 Delectable Meals In Singapore Below $2.50 That Will Make You Question Reality

A Singaporean’s love for food can be seen by the multitude of culinary delights found in almost every corner of the island! Despite the increasing rent and food prices, these stalls have miraculously withstood the test of time and the ever-growing inflation rates. Check out this list of food places for mouth-watering cheap meals to fill your tummies at just $2.50 or less!

EAST

1. 820 Hainan Chicken Rice

Enjoy a basic serving of Singapore’s unofficial national delicacy for as low as $1.50!

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Savour this fine bowl of noodle goodness with black vinegar or enjoy that extra zest with their fiery chilli sauce.

58 Minced Meat Noodles
Address:
3 Yung Seng Road #03-150 Taman Jurong Food Centre, Singapore 618499
Operating Hours: Daily, 6.00am to 2.30pm (Closed on Tuesday)
Price: $2.50

11. Boon Lay Power Nasi Lemak

Looking for cheap supper spots at wee hours? Head down to Boon Lay Power Nasi Lemak!

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Try their Set A which comes with two fishes, ikan bilis and an egg. Pair it with that slightly sweet sambal chilli and soft fragrant coconut rice. A great supper place to placate those midnight hunger pangs!

Boon Lay Nasi Lemak
Address:
#01-06, Boon Lay Place Market and Food Centre, 221 Boon Lay Place
Operating Hours: Daily, 5.00pm to 2.00am
Price: $2.50

12. Fried Carrot Cake @ Clementi Food Centre

A mere short walk from Clementi bus interchange lies cheap and good fried carrot cake – just look out for that large sign board ‘Fried Carrot Cake’.

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We recommend you to order five fishballs together with their springy noodles. A generous serving of bean sprouts, spring onions, and pork lard will be mixed in. It’ll all be drenched in vinegar to bring out that sourness. Alternatively, savour 10 bouncy fishballs at just $2.50!

Xiang Xiang Fishball Noodle
Address:
Blk 105 Yishun Ring Road #01-153 Chong Pang Food Centre Singapore 760105
Operating Hours: Tue to Sun, 6.00am – 10.00pm (Closed on Monday)
Price: $2.50

14. Lik Ming Toa Payoh Laksa

Laksa is undeniably one of Singapore’s popular noodle dishes – you can find it in almost every food centre or coffeeshop!

[caption id="attachment_18939" align="aligncenter" width="1600"]Credit: foodkmaestro.blogspot.sg Credit: Credit: These Super Worth It Student Meals Make Us All Wish We Were Students Again!

Life Hack: How To Save $100K Before You Hit 30 In Singapore

Most of us wish to see a six-figure sum in our bank account. We all hope that that day would come sooner.

We have read the news of how young and savvy bankers or entrepreneurs have already made their first 100k well before they hit their 30s.

While most of us do not run businesses and are not born with a silver spoon in our mouths, it is still possible for us to see those golden six numbers before we turn 30!

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There are numerous popular savings accounts such as OCBC 360 or UOB One Account that offer attractive yearly interests rates of up to 3.25% and 3.33% respectively.

Here is a breakdown of how much additional interest you can earn simply by saving with OCBC 360 and fulfilling some of their requirements!

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The total interest per month may seem like a small amount, but do note that interest is calculated on a cumulative basis.

This means that the more money you have in your bank, the more interest you’ll earn! Additionally, you’ll earn even more interest by adding to a lump sum in the bank over many months and years.

3. Lock Your Money In Fixed Deposits

For some of us, we simply cannot resist the urge to spend.

This does not mean that it is impossible to achieve that 100k goal – it simply means that an alternative measure has to be taken, such as locking your money in a fixed deposit.

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Some examples include AIA Wealth Pro Advantage policy, where you can enjoy the flexibility of customising your investment portfolio while enjoying certain insurance coverage.

Additionally, you can even opt to withdraw your earnings before the plan matures without incurring additional fees. All with just a single premium of S$5,000.

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However, one thing to be careful of here.

These investment-linked policies typically do not have a guaranteed cash payout as the policy value is built upon the performance of the sub-funds invested in.

If the stocks that the fund manager invests in performs poorly, you might very well end up at the losing end.

Look for policies that offer a fixed guaranteed cash payout in addition to the non-guaranteed payout.

Do not be misled by the high non-guaranteed rate that is typically advertised and jump straight into it without doing your market research!

5. Buying stocks or shares

This is perhaps one of the quickest yet riskiest ways to boost your savings.

While there is no denying that investing in stocks can make you rich literally overnight, it can completely wipe out your entire savings if you are not careful as well.

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It could be anything – from being an Uber driver to giving private tuition or making use of existing skill sets (software skills, for example) for side gigs.

For instance, a part-time private tutor teaching at secondary school level could earn an average of about S$35 to S$40 per hour per subject. Assuming a frequency of twice per week for 2 hours, this adds up to approximately S$560 to S$640 per month.

Definitely a great way to supplement your savings!

7. Cut Back On Unnecessary Spending

Finally, save more by cutting back on unnecessary spending. Do you really need to get your caffeine fix at Starbucks or dine at cafes every weekend? Less spending translates to more savings!

A old-school trick to curb these “persistent” spending habits is to avoid credit cards.

These plastic cards offer you the temptation to spend with ridiculously high credit limits and promises of fantastic rebates and cashback.

[caption id="attachment_17859" align="aligncenter" width="1280"]Credit: gbtimes.com Credit: A Day In The Life Of An Uber Driver – All You Need To Know And Tips Included!