From Surviving Horrific Monsters To Epic Intergalactic Battles, Escape Reality At V-Room Singapore

Want to know what the future looks like?

[embed]https://vimeo.com/208456241[/embed]

With virtual reality, now you can!

Experience anything from fighting intergalactic invaders to surviving terrifying monsters with a virtual reality experience. Rather than spend thousands on a lonely VR experience at home (~$2000 for a good gaming PC + ~$600 for a VR headset), have a ball in another dimension, surrounded by your friends!

You and your real life friends can spend an hour at V-Room and experience up to 23 unique VR games, available for both solo and team players!

DiscoverSG Ambassador Evelyn headed down to V-Room SG at Jcube to experience virtual reality for herself.

To ensure participants are suitable for the virtual reality experience, each participant is required to sign an indemnity form and attend a 10 minute VR trial experience. This is to ensure that if you have a history of motion sickness, this experience will not be physically uncomfortable.

Armed with hands-on experience on how to navigate the virtual reality world and a feel for the hand-sets, Evelyn headed off to experience some of the 23 games available!

There were tons of genres for all the different gamers out there: Zombie fighting, intergalatic space-fighting… You can even be a robot chef/waiter!

Here’s a sneak peak of one the games Evelyn enjoyed the most!

Tasked as either the chef or the robot waiter, this game is best played with 2 players. The player playing as the chef dons the VR headset while the player playing as the robot waiter controls his character with a computer keyboard.

Facing a flood of hungry robots craving handmade burgers, the two of you struggle to cook and serve food as quickly as possible, to keep your customers happy. Also, each time you successfully complete a round, balloons and confetti appear everywhere!

Headed by the owner of Lockdown SG and CoffeeMin, V-Room SG also has an adjoining CoffeeMin! A timed cafe concept, customers pay a small fee of $6 (weekday) or $8 (weekend, PH) per person for the first hour, with an additional $1 each for every 10 additional minutes spent there. With that, all drinks, snacks, board games, Xbox and even PC games are free of charge!

At JCube’s CoffeeMin outlet, there’s even a snooker table to help you and your friends acclimatize back to the real world!

Suitable for people above the age of 17 and perfect for friends, family and colleagues, try your hand at virtual reality with V-Room SG for an out of this world experience!

After paying a one time fee of $5 for the 10 minute VR trial before your actual VR session, you automatically become a lifetime member at V-Room SG. Also, with every 4th visit, you get amazing vouchers and promotions when you present your membership card!

So, grab your friends and get ready to travel beyond your wildest imaginations!

V-Room Singapore
Address:
2 Jurong East Central 1, JCube, #02-11, Singapore 609731.
Contact no.6904 4045
Operating Hours: 11am-10pm daily
Price: $30/hour on weekdays, $36/hour on weekends/PH for 1 VR Room (max. 3 persons/room)
Website

Bob’s Bar At Capella Singapore: Kick Off Singapore Cocktail Festival With A Summer Twist!

It’s time to mix up your evening plans! Singapore Cocktail Festival is just around the corner.

Bob’s Bar at Capella Singapore will be presenting a thrilling 6-day line-up from 16 – 21 March.

The only participating bar in Sentosa Island for this festival, Bob’s Bar is the perfect escape in island paradise.

Pomaika’i

Throughout the Festival, Bob’s Bar will be serving its signature Festive Cocktail, Pomaika’i. So fiery.

[caption id="attachment_23826" align="aligncenter" width="834"] Image credit: Singapore Cocktail Festival[/caption]

Need all the good luck you can get this year? One sip of this cocktail should do the trick! Its name means ‘good luck’ in Hawaiian. It’s made with sweet rum and fresh citrus juices. Extra refreshing on a hot night!

At S$20++, this drink will be served with its recipe card and a hands-on cocktail making kit. More fun!

Diplomático World Tournament – Singapore National Final 2017

The event will see 8 local bartenders compete for a chance to represent Singapore. This year’s Continental Finals will be held in Venezuela.

[caption id="attachment_23827" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] Image credit: Ingmar Drinkt[/caption]

Be prepared to be wowed by insane amounts of bartending talent!

There’ll be live music, good food and a special Diplomàtico Cocktail Bar. They are all set up on the picturesque alfresco terrace.

When: Thursday, 16 March 2017, 3:30pm to 10:00pm
Find out more here.

Havana Nights

To shake up your evenings, we present everyone’s favourite Havana Nights! This is a usual Friday affair on the breezy outdoor terrace.

[caption id="attachment_23824" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] Image credit: Hungry Go Where[/caption]

Look forward to a groovy beach-themed affair and an unforgettable evening of salsa dancing and live music.

There’ll be succulent barbecue meats and a pop-up Pomaika’i Cocktail Bar.

When: Friday, 17 March 2017; 6:30pm to 10:00pm

Guest Bartender Hiroyasu Kayama

What’s a more perfect way to end your Sunday evening than to unwind with a cocktail? To have a glass made by Japan’s top mixologist perhaps!

[caption id="attachment_23829" align="aligncenter" width="2340"] Image credit: Punch[/caption]

Hiroyasu Kayama hails from Ben Fiddich Tokyo. The bar ranks 21st in Asia’s 50 Best Bars Awards 2016. Impressive.

Be sure to order Kayama’s cannot-be-missed drink, “The Botanist Forest”. It’s a creative and refreshing botanical concoction. All made with an assortment of exotic herbs.

[caption id="attachment_23844" align="aligncenter" width="1440"] The Botanist Forest[/caption]

Consider your Sunday night plans made.

When: Sunday, 19 March 2017, 8:00pm to 10:00pm

All these are happening at Singapore’s premier resort destination: Capella Singapore on Sentosa Island.

[caption id="attachment_23830" align="aligncenter" width="1000"] Image credit: DestinAsian[/caption]

 

Are you ready to mix it up at Asia’s largest celebration of cocktails?

Bob’s Bar @ Capella Singapore
Address: 1 The Knolls Sentosa Island Singapore 098297
Dates: 16 – 21 March 2017
Tel: +65 6377 8888
Also, read An Acai Affair: Fall In Love With Healthy, Delicious & Instagram-able Acai Bowls

9 Exciting Ways To Kill Time In Changi Airport When You’re Stuck In Transit

changi

Changi Airport – the pride and joy of Singapore.

Yesterday, its status as a world class airport was further confirmed as Changi Airport was once again crowned Best Airport in the World. This would be the eighth time it’s won the honour!

While most, if not all of us Singaporeans have been to Changi Airport at some point, not all of us have explored it enough to know everything it has to offer.

Whether you’re stuck in transit or have arrived at the airport hours too early for your flight, here are 9 exciting things you can do at the airport to pass the time!

1. Entertainment Deck

The Entertainment Deck is the place to go for a group with diverse interests. You’ll find more than just a few sets of Xbox 360s and Playstation 3s, a Wii room, and even a LAN cafe you can use for free!

[caption id="attachment_23781" align="aligncenter" width="1600"] Image Credit: Image Credit: Image Credit: Image Credit: Image Credit: Image Credit: Image Credit: Image Credit: Image Credit: These Innovative Kickstarter Products Show That S’poreans Have Brilliant Ideas Too

6 Places In Singapore With The Dreamiest Bespoke Cakes For Your Special Day

All celebratory occasions call for cake and whether you are celebrating your 21st birthday, wedding or baby shower, nothing is more perfect for the occasion than a bespoke cake!

Why go for the conventional Blackforest Cake or Strawberry Cheesecake? Let your imagination run free and create one-of-a-kind bespoke cakes at these bakeries in Singapore!

1. Temptations Cakes

Established in 1985, there is a reason why homegrown bakery Temptations Cakes has stuck around for so long. Their classic cakes and selection of sweet treats will certainly leave you wanting more.

Naturally, this is one of the best places to customise your very own cake for your special occasion.

[caption id="attachment_23375" align="aligncenter" width="768"] Image Credit: Temptations Cakes Facebook[/caption]

Whether you are looking for a fancy wedding cake or a festive-themed cake, Temptation Cakes is sure to nail it. Of course, like any other bakery, it is best to place your order in advance. After all, these bakers and cake designers definitely need the time to craft out that perfect bespoke cake for your special day.

Temptations Cakes
Address: 42 Joo Chiat Place, Singapore 427766
Opening hours: Daily, 11am – 7.30pm
Tel: 6440 9200
Image Credit: @bloomsburybakers[/caption]

While Bloomsbury Bakers specialises particularly in buttercream, fondant and fresh floral cakes cake designs, if you have something else in mind, feel free to let them know!

Besides the bespoke cakes, you can also order dessert tables as well as baby shower gift boxes for your special moment as well!

Bloomsbury Bakers
Address: Blk 30 Bendemeer Road, #01-889, Singapore 330030
Opening hours: Tue to Fri 11am – 7pm; Sat 10am – 7pm; Sun 10am – 6pm (Closed on Mondays)
Tel: 6299 3450
Image Credit: @winifredkristecake[/caption]

Their handcrafted cakes and hand-made sugar flower petal decorations are all meticulously hand-painted by the team at Winifred Kristé Cake. You can choose from cake flavours ranging from the classic Vanilla Bean to the popular Earl Grey Chocolate.

Winifred Kristé Cake
Address: 271 Bukit Batok East Ave 4, Block 271, Singapore 650271
Opening hours: Tue to Sat 11am – 7pm (Closed on Sun & Mon)
Email: [email protected]
Image Credit: @nglitying[/caption]

Whether you are a macaron lover or adore rainbow-layered cakes, it will be perfectly reflected in the cakes Li Tying creates!

Website

5. Little House Of Dreams

Create your dream cake right here at Little House Of Dreams! Their specialty lies in creating fondant cakes, which essentially means they can re-create literally any cake theme that you have in mind!

A gorgeous-looking cake should also taste equally delicious, which is why all their fondant cakes are also ganached in premium chocolate!

[caption id="attachment_23700" align="alignnone" width="960"] Image Credit: Little House Of Dreams Facebook[/caption]

From castle fondant cakes to carousel fondant cakes, each of the cakes are carefully crafted with amazing designs such as watercolour and even graffiti effects! With their team of talented and creative fondant artists, Little House Of Dreams will certainly make your dream cake a reality!

Little House Of Dreams
Address: Block 8 Dempsey Road #01-14, Singapore 247696
Opening hours: Mon to Thu 11am – 10.30pm; Fri to Sun & eve of PH 9am – 10.30pm, PH 9am to 11pm
Tel: 6472 4977
Image Credit: @shibertybakes[/caption]

Besides her cakes, you can also indulge in some of Shiberty’s other specialty desserts such as honey toasts and all-day brunch at her cafe located along Owen Road.

Shiberty Bakes
Address: #01-277, 46 Owen Rd, Singapore 210046
Opening hours: Tue to Sun 1pm – 10pm (Closed on Mondays)
Tel: 6291 5221
Website

If you have an upcoming occasion that calls for it, customise your own cakes at these bakeries! While prices might be on the steeper side compared to other off-the-shelf cakes, it beats having a conventional cake at your special event!

These novelty cakes will no doubt impress your guests with their unique designs. Most importantly, a bespoke cake design best reflects you, your personality and your preferences as you celebrate your special and important moment!

(Top Image Credit: singaporebrides.com)

Also read, The Wicked Cream: Gourmet Marshmallows To Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth

10 Uniquely Singaporean Cocktails You Can’t Find Anywhere Else In The World

In the 1900s, the first cocktail with a local twist was born: the Singapore Sling. Fast forward 100+ years later, and we are seeing a new wave of locally inspired cocktails handcrafted all over bars in Singapore! 

These unconventional concoctions are the genius works of Singaporean bartenders who have delved deep into their roots to create drinks that capture different aspects of Singapore. Kudos to these guys who’ve created some amazing drinks out of flavours and elements that hit so close to home!

Without further ado, here’s our guide to 10 uniquely Singaporean cocktails you can’t find anywhere else in the world!

1. The Red Ruby – Hopscotch Bar

Kicking off this list is The Red Ruby, a crowd favourite at Hopscotch, a craft cocktail bar tucked away in the colonial Red Dot Traffic Building.

[caption id="attachment_23498" align="aligncenter" width="700"]red ruby Red Ruby ($22), Image Credit: Topped with an Ang Ku Kueh Agar Agar, the Red Ruby will definitely get people looking over. The drink is a mixture of homemade coconut sorbet, Angostura Light Rum, and pandan syrup. A coconut-y cocktail that doubles as a dessert, this drink is guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth!

Hopscotch2. Laksa Cocktail – Ah Sam Cold Drink Stall

Ah Sam Cold Drink Stall is a hidden speakeasy with limited seating. Here, they make almost every syrup and ingredient from scratch, and boast a wide variety of cocktails with a local flair.

[caption id="attachment_23697" align="alignnone" width="640"]
Address: 60A Boat Quay, S049848
Contact: 6535 0838
Opening hours: Mon to Thu, 6pm – 12am; Fri & Sat, 6pm – 3am
Website

3. Raspberry Milo Moonshine – The Secret Mermaid

By day, this space operates as an unassuming Shinkansen, a Japanese Salad Bar, in the CBD. But once dusk falls, it transforms into The Secret Mermaid.

[caption id="attachment_23502" align="aligncenter" width="1620"]moonshine milo Milo Moonshine ($15), Image Credit: Topped with sticks of Pocky, this drink is perfect for all who are young at heart!

The Secret Mermaid4. Prawn Noodle Cocktail – Kuvo

Located in the heart of Orchard road, Kuvo, which means ‘blend’ in French, offers a fusion of flavours through their food and beverages.

Pretty much an alcoholic version of the well-loved prawn noodle soup, Kuvo’s Prawn Noodle Cocktail mirrors the dish as a savoury and warm cocktail.  

[caption id="attachment_23510" align="aligncenter" width="640"]prawn noodle cocktail Prawn Noodle Cocktail ($20), Image Credit: Address: 321 Orchard Road, #02-01 S238866
Contact: 6733 8272
Opening hours: Mon to Thu, 12pm – 1am; Fri & Sat, 12pm – 2am; Sun 12pm – 1am
Mr. Bean ($23), Image Credit:
Address: 49 Tras Street, Singapore 078988
Contact: 6222 3349
Opening hours: Mon to Thu, 6pm – 1am; Fri & Sat,6pm – 2am
Website

6. Tomyum Martini – Maison Ikkoku Bar

Also known for it’s cafe of the same name, Maison Ikkoku Bar is situated right above it. There, amidst the cosy chic vibe going on, you will find their gutsy Tomyum Martini.

A concoction leaning on the savoury side with salty, sour and peppery notes, it has a lingering spiciness that may prove too exotic for some.

[caption id="attachment_23623" align="aligncenter" width="1024"]tomyum martini Tomyum Martini ($28), Image Credit:
Address: 20 Kandahar St, 1F, Singapore 198885
Contact: 6294 0078
Opening hours: Sunday to Thursday – 4pm to 1am, Friday to Saturday and PH Eve – 4pm to 2am
Website

7. Pipagao Cocktail – Ding Dong

Pipagao is a traditional Chinese medicine many of us have taken at some point in our lives to relieve a cough or sore throat.

Who would have thought to turn it into an alcoholic drink? Well, the guys at Ding Dong did, which is why the Pipagao Cocktail now exists.

[caption id="attachment_23522" align="aligncenter" width="800"]pipagao Pipagao ($22), Image Credit:
Address: 23 Ann Siang Road, Singapore 069703
Contact: 6884 6884
Opening hours: Mon to Fri, 12pm – 3pm, 6pm – 12am; Sat, 6pm – 12am
Website

8. Kaya Toast Cocktail – Bitters and Love

A play on a local breakfast favourite, Bitters and Love’s Kaya Toast Cocktail is fittingly served in a kaya jam jar.

[caption id="attachment_23526" align="aligncenter" width="975"]kaya toast cocktail Kaya Toast Cocktail ($23), Image Credit:
Address: 118 Telok Ayer Street, Singapore 068587
Contact: 6438 1836
Opening hours: Mon to Thu: 6pm – 12am, Fri to Sat: 6pm – 2am
Website

9. Singapore Sazerac – The Warehouse Hotel Bar

The newly opened Warehouse Hotel has an unmistakable slant towards Asian/Singaporean influences. This is clearly reflected especially in the hotel’s lobby bar, where they serve a unique Singapore Sazerac.

[caption id="attachment_23593" align="aligncenter" width="1600"]warehousehotel.com Singapore Sazerac ($20), Image Credit:  a mix of spices, raisin bourbon, pandan bitters, rye, cognac, and absinthe. You can expect a kick from this cocktail!

The Warehouse Hotel Bar10. Kopi Cat – Loof

Loof, which affectionately pokes fun at the Singaporean pronunciation of ‘roof’, is a casual rooftop bar steeped in 90’s Singapore nostalgia. With a food and drink menu that gives off a distinctively local vibe, one of the must-tries here is The Kopi Cat.

[caption id="attachment_23534" align="aligncenter" width="1200"]kopi cat Kopi Cat ($19), Image Credit: Address: 331 North Bridge Road, #03-07, Odeon Towers Extension Rooftop, Singapore 188720
Contact: 6337 9416
Opening hours: Mon to Thurs, 5pm – 1am; Fri to Sat, 5pm – 2am

Ambassador Highlights #7 – Empire, iFly, Singapore Arts Biennale & A Beauty Boost!

February, our favourite month of the year. Not only is it Valentine’s Day, but here at DiscoverSG, we were busy heading down to events that got us seeing a whole other side to sunny rainy Singapore! Here’s a look at the events we dropped in on this month.

1. Girls Night Out @ Empire Lounge

Here at DiscoverSG, we are strong advocates of the philosophy “work hard, play harder”, which is why we were ecstatic to hear that we had snagged invites to Empire Lounge.

[caption id="attachment_23333" align="alignnone" width="1024"] Fifty Raffles Place[/caption]

Not only is Empire Lounge right smack in the middle of the CBD (it’s located at Singapore Land Tower, a minute’s walk from Raffles MRT) it also boasts breathtaking views of the Marina Bay area thanks to its location 48 floors above the CBD.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BQImD4yg3it/?taken-by=gracekowie&hl=en

The DiscoverSG team headed down to Empire Lounge with our ambassadors, Shivon, Victoria and Grace. We were psyched to bond over drinks, enticing eats and the amazing view! The best part about Empire Lounge? The ‘cannot miss’ drink deals of course!

So if you’re keen to kick back after a long day at work, head on down to Empire Lounge!

Empire Lounge
Address: 50 Raffles Place, S048623
Opening Hours: Mon – Thu: 5pm – 1am; Fri – Sat: 5pm – 3am
Facebook

2. Indoor Skydiving Experience @ iFly

Adrenaline junkies out there, we’re guessing skydiving is somewhere at the top of your bucket list. Unfortunately, its not something you would do at a whim, what with it being so expensive. Luckily for us, iFly Singapore offers a similar experience at a fraction of the price!

[caption id="attachment_23334" align="alignnone" width="3318"] iFly @ Sentosa[/caption]

Located a stone’s throw away from Sentosa’s Beach Station, iFly Singapore is a state-of-the-art flight facility that is also the largest themed indoor skydiving simulator in Southeast Asia!

We were lucky enough to have a go at the First Timer Challenge Package ($119), which consists of 2 skydives of 45 seconds each. That is the same time it takes to free fall from 12,000 to 3,000 feet, as with an actual skydive!

https://www.instagram.com/p/BQ5C6_IhBx8/?taken-by=vaneszs.h

Our ambassadors Vanessa and Nicholas had a blast having a go at the simulated skydiving experience! Definitely a one-of-a-kind experience, whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or someone seeking a new experience, indoor skydiving is definitely an experience worth trying!

Check out our article to find out more about our experience at iFly Singapore!

iFly Singapore
Address:
43 Siloso Beach Walk #01-01 Singapore 099010
Opening Hours:
Mon-Tue, Thu-Sun: 9.00am – 9.30pm; Wed: 11.00am – 9.30pm
Contact No.:
6571 0000
Palate Sensations[/caption]

We were keen to pick up a few (much needed) kitchen skills, so we headed to Palate Sensations Cooking School! Palate Sensations is a culinary school which offers cooking classes for both novice and seasoned cooks. Classes range from $125 to $1,400, depending on the duration of the class and your choice of cuisine.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BRHt8mtBV4x/?taken-by=rachaelwong

Good news? The class is a hands-on experience, so you know you’ll definitely pick up a few skills to impress your family and friends. Palate Sensations can also play host to your hen parties, team building events and even birthday parties!

So head on down to Palate Sensations and indulge in your very own hand-crafted creations!

Palate Sensations
Address: 
Chromos #01-03, 10 Biopolis Road, S138670
Contact No: +65 6589 8843
Website 

5. Beauty Bootcamp With La Roche-Posay

Having perfect complexion is no easy feat. Singapore’s unpredictable weather and the daily use of cosmetics can cause our skin to *gasp* break out. Most of us know the basics of skincare, but not the itty gritty details when it comes to caring for our skin. La Roche-Posay got us learning so much more about our skin!

[caption id="attachment_23344" align="alignnone" width="601"] La Roche-Posay Singapore [/caption]

Our ambassadors headed down to #123acnefree bootcamp to get all the deets on skincare and how to get our skin glowing and acne-free!

https://www.instagram.com/p/BQ-FNuHju1c/?hl=en

https://www.instagram.com/p/BRDZrmBjMGd/?taken-by=omgkrystle

6. Beauty Boost @ Clifford Clinic

Let’s admit it, most of us go the extra mile when it comes to looking good for a special occasion. Manicures, a fresh hair cut and even a new outfit can be a huge confident booster. So, we were pretty excited when we got the chance to head down to Clifford Clinic for some laser treatments.

[caption id="attachment_23392" align="alignnone" width="1000"] February Events[/caption]

It’s been such an amazing month, chock full of events and happenings! We can’t wait to head to even more events going on in March!

If you’re looking to increase your brand’s awareness and want to introduce products or services both old and new to more Singaporeans, drop us an email at [email protected]. We would love to work with you!

We’re also on the lookout for more ambassadors who are on a mission to discover the fun and exciting things in Singapore. If you love eating, shopping, and discovering new places in Singapore, drop us an email at [email protected].

Also, read Discover SG Ambassador Highlights #6 – Pizza Party, An Acai Date, Food Tastings & More!

A Super Insta-Worthy and Trendy Hotel Has Just Opened In Singapore

Looking for a new place for a quick stay-cay? Look no further than the trendy and very insta-worthy Warehouse Hotel that just opened at Robertson Quay!

The hotel recently opened in January this year, and used to be a heritage building that was built in 1895.

[caption id="attachment_22835" align="aligncenter" width="2000"]The Warehouse Hotel Image Credit: Image Credit: Image Credit: Image Credit: Image Credit: Image Credit: Image Credit: Image Credit: Image Credit: Image Credit: . Their names add a local flair, and ingredients are sourced locally too.

[caption id="attachment_23086" align="aligncenter" width="1149"]cocktails Image Credit: The Warehouse Hotel 
Venue: 320 Havelock Road, Robertson Quay, Singapore 169628​
Price: ranging from $285 to $545 per night (depending on the room selection)
Reservations: (65) 6828​ 0000

These 8 Social Enterprise Eateries Serve Food From The Heart

If there’s one thing Singaporeans share, it’s a common love for food. Local eateries are constantly competing to whet our appetites with new flavours, but some have taken their fare one step further by making a social enterprise out of their businesses.

Whether it’s providing employment opportunities to the marginalised or donating profits to the less fortunate, these eateries have made it their mission to do good.

Check out these 8 social enterprise eateries! The causes they stand for only give us more reason to head out to try the cuisines they have to offer.

1. Art Bar

Get your daily coffee fix at Art Bar, a community project with Starbucks Singapore. Art Bar trains young adults with autism to handle cash and work the coffee machine, and ultimately, become fully-fledged baristas!

[caption id="attachment_23043" align="aligncenter" width="1280"] Image credit: The Art Faculty by Pathlight[/caption]

Art Bar is one of the various job sites at the E2C campus of Enabling Village. Enabling Village is a cosy community in Singapore where people with different disabilities can move independently, feel accepted for who they are, and be valued for their contributions.

While you’re there, you must try the rich, chocolatey and moist Double Chocolate Chip Muffin. It goes especially well with the Cafe Latte! Other drinks include Cafe Americano, Cafe Mocha and Milo Smoothie.

Art Bar
Where: The Art Faculty By Pathlight, 01-07 Enabling Village, 20 Lengkok Bahru
Hours: 9am to 8pm, Monday to Saturday; closed on Sunday
Phone: 6513 0706
This quiet bao shop just off Upper Thomson Road is more than just another dim sum shop. Its owner, Madam Sarah Tan helps the less fortunate by giving them employment and having them make and sell their steamed buns. 

[caption id="attachment_23044" align="aligncenter" width="1200"] Image credit: The people you’ll see running Choon Ming Bao Dian include those with a history of mental illness, the homeless, single mothers, ex-offenders and foreign workers who were cheated by their agents. Her home has even doubled as a temporary shelter for these people!

Have one of the many yummy types of bao and dimsum available for breakfast! The Dinosaur Bao, Char Siew Bao, Har Gow, and Siew Mai are just some of them. You’ll be sure to feel the warmth from your belly all the way to your heart!

Choon Ming Bao Dian
Where:
203 Toa Payoh North, #01- 1121, Singapore 310203
122 Ang Mo Kio Ave 3, Singapore 560122
628 Ang Mo Kio Market & Food Centre, #01-91, Singapore 560628
Facebook

3. Crossings Cafe

The aptly named Crossings Cafe seeks to provide employment opportunities, personal development and dignity to the disadvantaged. The hope is that they will be able to cross boundaries and chart more paths in society.

[caption id="attachment_23045" align="aligncenter" width="1000"] Image credit: This quaint little social enterprise is sure to not only nourish your stomach, but make you feel more connected to your community as well!

All profits made here are channeled to charitable causes. Also, it is currently collaborating with Assumption Pathway School, taking on students to work at the café as servers, cooks and baristas.

Come down and try their delicious comfort food at affordable prices. Their Signature Chilli Crab Pasta, Gula Melaka Pancake Stack, Grilled Pork and Fennel Burger, and Sweet Potato Fries are sure-bets!

Crossings Cafe
Where: 55 Waterloo Street, Singapore 187954
Open: Mon-Fri 8am-10pm; Sat-Sun 10am-10pm
Phone: 6336 6203
Email: [email protected]
Facebook

4. Dignity Kitchen

Tucked away in Serangoon is Singapore’s first ever hawker training school. It gives practical training to people with disabilities, so they can secure stable jobs as chefs or hawkers!

[caption id="attachment_23047" align="aligncenter" width="2560"] Image credit: Adobe Spark[/caption]

80% of its staff is disabled, and another 20% is made up of the elderly and the poor–all of which are able to achieve financial independence working here.

Dignity Kitchen is home to Singaporean favourites like rojak, chicken rice, baked goods and local desserts. You can even pre-order bento boxes for large scale events here!

Dignity Kitchen
Where: Blk 267 Serangoon Avenue 3, #02-02, Singapore 550267
Phone: 8189 7678
Email: [email protected]
Facebook

5. Eighteen Chefs

Opened by an ex-convict himself, Eighteen Chefs inspires troubled youths and people with conviction backgrounds to find positive ways to reintegrate back into society.

[caption id="attachment_23048" align="aligncenter" width="1600"] Image credit: NEX Serangoon, 23 Serangoon Central, #01-57, Singapore 556083 (And other outlets)
Hours: Monday to Sunday, 11.00am to 10.00pm
Telephone: 6634 4642
Facebook

6. Joan Bowen Cafe

Originally opened by the owners to fulfil their special needs daughter’s wish to be a chef, Joan Bowen Café has since employed more than 10 special needs youths.

[caption id="attachment_23049" align="aligncenter" width="1600"] Image credit: 9 Jalan Wangi, Singapore 349354
Open: 11am to 4pm, Monday & Tuesday; 11.30am to 2.30pm, Wednesday; 11.30am to 2.30pm, 6.30pm to 9.30pm, Thursday & Friday; 1pm to 9.30pm, Saturday; Closed on Sundays & Public Holidays
Phone: 6281 3629
Email: [email protected]
is another cosy social enterprise that provides training and employment opportunities to the disadvantaged, so they can be integrated back into society.

[caption id="attachment_23050" align="aligncenter" width="1000"] Image Credit:
New Rasa Singapura[/caption]

Those working in this establishment include people with physical or hearing impairments, recovering stroke patients and mature, vulnerable individuals.

Expect Singaporean favourites like fish head curry, beef rendang, soup kambing, hainanese chicken rice, dry laksa, char kway teow, fried carrot cake, chap chye, and many more!

New Rasa Singapura
Where: 56 Tanglin Road B1-02 Tanglin Post Office Singapore 247964  (opposite Tanglin Mall)
Open: 12noon-10pm; Closed Sundays and public holidays
Phone: 9818 8102
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8. Qita In The Park

A contagious passion to help the less fortunate was what drove the owner, Genevieve, to leave her cushy lawyer job to run a social enterprise of her own. 

[caption id="attachment_23051" align="aligncenter" width="1200"] Image Credit: This cafe-cum-retail shop showcases beautiful artwork on its walls for sale, in support of the artists at Pathlight. Singapore-themed gifts made by home-bound women and senior citizens are also on display. 

Popular picks here include the traditional Singaporean breakfast of half boiled eggs and toast with homemade kaya, made from fresh coconut milk. Lunch sets include fragrant Kampong Chicken Curry with organic basmati rice. Yum!

Qita In The Park
Where: 20 Upper Pickering Street, Telok Ayer Hong Lim Green Community Centre
Open: 7.30am to 6pm, weekdays; 9am to 3pm, Saturday; closed on Sunday.
Phone: 6225 4318
Email: [email protected]
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These eateries are doing a world of good for those who truly need it, and it has definitely warmed our hearts. If it’s warmed yours too, come show your support for those less fortunate and taste what they have to offer!

Not only will you leave with a full belly, your heart will also be full.

Also, read Bon Appétit! 6 Legit French restaurants In Singapore That Won’t Burn A Big Hole In Your Wallet

10 Marvellous Activities to Kick Off Your March  [1-15 March]

Here we are once again at the beginning of a brand new month.

If work or school has fallen into that inevitable lull, don’t worry! As always, we’ve got some awesome events lined up to help you keep things interesting this month!

Here’s a calendar of 10 not-to-be-missed activities to kick start a month to remember!

Play & Discover

1. The Pillowman

Who says the theatre scene in Singapore is dead?

Enter Pangdemonium’s restaging of The Pillowman, a nail-biting, nightmarish nursery story for grown-ups.

The dark comedy, written by Irish playwright Martin McDonagh, will have you squirming at the edge of your seats, even as you roar with laughter.

[caption id="attachment_23258" align="aligncenter" width="1372"] Image credit: Time Out[/caption]

The story revolves around writer, Katurian, who is interrogated in a dark prison cell. His crime? Penning gruesome fairy tales that bear an uncanny resemblance to a series of child murders. Tensions soon mount as the line between real and fictional worlds blur in this darkly comic psycho thriller.

This sinister stunner of a play is a vicious whirlpool of thrilling storytelling and a scary examination of the very nature and purpose of art.

The Pillowman
Where: 9 Empress Pl, 179556
When: 24 February – 12 March 2017
Timings: Tue-Fri: 7.30pm, Sat: 2.30pm & 7.30pm, Sun: 2.30pm, Sun: 7.30pm (12 Mar 2017)
Website

2. Singapore International Jazz Festival

Put on your jazz shoes, because the Singapore International Jazz Festival (SingJazz) is back!

#SingJazz2017 promises to be a dazzling musical extravaganza, set against Singapore’s glittering, iconic skyline at Marina Bay Sands.

[caption id="attachment_23260" align="aligncenter" width="900"] Image credit: Viilevent Photography[/caption]

Get ready for 3 days and 2 nights of world class music entertainment by some of the biggest names in jazz. Headliners include David Foster, Corinne Bailey Rae, Gilles Peterson and more! Kick back by the water as you enjoy the wind in your hair, amazing music in the air, all with a glass of bubbly in your hand!

Also, proceeds from the festival go towards the Foundation for Arts and Social Enterprise, which provides funding to nurture local jazz talents through the Jazz Academy.

Singapore Jazz Festival
Where: Marina Bay Sands Events Plaza (The Main Stage); MBS Expo and Convention Centre (The Late Show)
Address: 2 Bayfront Ave Singapore 018972
Date: 31 Mar-2 Apr 2017
Time: 4pm to 10.30pm (The Main Stage); 10pm to 4am (The Late Show)
Email: [email protected]
Website
Facebook

3. Garden Beats Festival

This March, get ready for the #summervibes at Garden Beats!

Groove to the hottest electronic tunes at Sunshine Nation’s Electronic Picnic Festival. Expect a multi-sensory experience of music, food and games, all at Fort Canning Park.

[caption id="attachment_23256" align="aligncenter" width="1280"] Image credit: Fort Gate, Fort Canning Park, 11 Canning Walk Singapore 17888
Date: 18 March 2017
Time: 1pm to 10.30pm
Website
Facebook
Instagram

4. Choking Hazard: An Exhibition About Toys

You’re never too old for toys–at least not the ones in this exhibition.

Kult will be showcasing the works of 30 artists and toy makers, in a great coming together of international artists and designers.

[caption id="attachment_23261" align="aligncenter" width="2048"] Image credit: kult[/caption]

Inspired by the waste of mass production and over consumption, these artists have torn apart existing toys sourced from toy markets, and remixed them into new objects. Some are gruesome, some are hilarious, and all are witty as hell.

You can even make your own art! An assembly line of pre-loved toys will be available at the gallery to take apart and re-build into your own Frankenstein-ian art piece.

Choking Hazard: An Exhibition About Toys
Where: kult, C2-5, 11 Upper Wilkie Road, Singapore 228120
Dates: 17 FEB – 18 MAR 2017
Time: Mon-Fri 11am to 7pm, Sat 2pm to 7pm
Facebook

5. Singapore Design Week

Bet you didn’t know there was a national agency for design.

Well, the Design Singapore Council’s mission is to develop our design sector to make life better. Sounds good to us.

[caption id="attachment_23263" align="aligncenter" width="2048"] Image credit: Design Singapore[/caption]

What’s better, its annual Singapore Design Week is back!

Get artsy home goods at the International Furniture Fair, experience robust collaborations between local designers and the industry at Singaplural, or get inspired at the ‘Innovation By Design’ Conference.

Expect a week of Singapore’s creative culture and ecosystem that integrates design and creativity into our everyday life!

Singapore Design Week
Where: Multiple venues
When: 3012 March 2017
Phone: 6333 3737
Email: [email protected]
Website
Facebook

Eat

6. PasarBella & Friends Go to Town

Here’s the perfect post workday idea: PasarBella & Friends Go to Town returns for the third iteration of its special pop-up market at this year’s i Light Marina Bay!

[caption id="attachment_23264" align="aligncenter" width="1800"] Image credit: Marina Bay Sands Event Plaza, 10 Bayfront Avenue 018956
Date: 3 – 26 March 2017
Time: 5.00pm – 11.00pm (Sunday – Thursday) 5.00pm – 12 midnight (Friday – Saturday)
Website
Facebook
Instagram

7. terratoria OLA

Prep your stomachs for a gastronomical adventure.

Michelin starred Chef Daniel (OLA Cocina Del Mar) and Chef Seita (terra) will come together for a one day only affair that is terratoria OLA!

[caption id="attachment_23259" align="aligncenter" width="1000"] Image credit: OLA Cocina Del Mar
Address: Marina Bay Financial Centre Tower 3, #01-06 12 Marina Boulevard, Singapore 018982
Date: 12 March 2017, 12pm to 4pm
Price: $150++
Reservations: +65 6604 7050
Email:
[email protected]
Website
Facebook

8. Singapore Cocktail Festival

Mix it up at Asia’s largest celebration of cocktails this March!

The inaugural Singapore Cocktail Festival promises to be an immersive experience that will excite the palates of novices and aficionados alike.

[caption id="attachment_23265" align="aligncenter" width="1372"] Image credit: Time Out[/caption]

With a mish mash of activities to Taste, Learn and Play, you’ll get to interact with a truly global lineup of mixologists. Features include some of Singapore’s best cocktail bars, as well as world class bartenders from cocktail cities like Hong Kong, London, New York, Seoul and Tokyo.

Excite your palate at the experiential cocktail village, nurture the budding mixologist in you at the workshops, or jump in a themed cocktail party!

Singapore Cocktail Festival
Where: Multiple venues
When: Thursday March 16 2017 – Tuesday March 21 2017
Email: [email protected]
Website
Facebook

9. Singapore Restaurant Week

The concept of Restaurant Week is unbelievably simple.

Dining City is offering limited seats for a special 3-course lunch and dinner at established local restaurants–for a fraction of their usual prices.

[caption id="attachment_23266" align="aligncenter" width="2560"] Image credit: 1919 Waterboat House[/caption]

This 3-course menu will be offered at an irresistible fixed price of S$35++ for dinner and S$25++ for lunch all through the week.

Some of these luxe restaurants include the fancy 1919 Waterboat House, Wooloomooloo Steakhouse Singapore, Privé Grill, and Lewin Terrace.

What are you waiting for? Reserve your tables as soon as possible–we don’t know when’s the next time you’ll be able to savour this spread at such good prices.

Singapore Restaurant Week
Where: Participating restaurants
Date: 25 March 2017 – 1 April 2017
Email: [email protected]
Website
Who can resist a good flea and art market?

Much less one in the heart of 20 dazzling light art installations from 9 different countries. Enter Hypefest @ i Light Marina Bay!

[caption id="attachment_23255" align="aligncenter" width="850"] Image credit: MAAD[/caption]

Here is your one stop shop for artisanal goods featuring over 50 indie labels. Find eco-friendly crafted gifts and even personalized merchandise!

We won’t say more! Come down and experience it all for yourself. It’ll be an evening of pleasant discovery that’s sure to excite!

Hypefest @ i Light Marina Bay
Date: 3 Mar 2017 – 26 Mar 2017
Time: 4.00pm to 11.00pm
Venue: Marina Bay Seating Gallery Platform 20 Raffles Ave, Singapore 039805
Website

Excited yet? With this list of the freshest events, yummiest food spots, and shopping opportunities, there’s no reason to say “Singapore got nothing to do”!

Grab your friends and family, and kick back at these cannot miss activities! They’re sure to offer a well-deserved break from the work desk to keep you going all through the month.

Keep calm and March on!

Also read, These Light Art Installations Popping Up At Marina Bay Will Make You See Nature In A Whole New Light

7 Crazy Things You Won’t Believe Singaporeans Would Eat (Or Sell!)

Remember the television show ‘Fear Factor’? The show where contestants would face their fears, which often required them to do gross things like bob their heads in tubs of blood or eat live earthworms. Despite it being a blood-curdling, stomach-churning 60 minutes, it was hard to look away.

What if you could experience Fear Factor for yourself, right here in Singapore?

We went out and found the craziest things you wouldn’t believe Singaporeans (or anyone for that matter) would eat! The only difference is that true to Singapore’s Foodie Nation title, these foods are actually pretty yummy.

Let’s kick things off with Imperial Restaurant. Formerly known as Imperial Herbal, this branch, located at Riverview Hotel, was first opened in 1988, specialising in traditional Chinese health concepts incorporated into unique, gourmet dishes.

[caption id="attachment_22076" align="aligncenter" width="980"] Photo Credit: As per most Chinese restaurants, you can find items like Buddha Jumps Over The Wall and Eight Treasure Rice in Lotus Leaf on the menu. Besides its use of Chinese herbs as ingredients, what makes Imperial Restaurant particularly unique is its use of ingredients such as crocodile, scorpion, deer penis, and goose web.

1. Crocodile: Braised Crocodile Tail

A tough, gamey meat that would usually have you on its plate, it comes as no surprise to anyone that crocodile is an uncommon dish. The chefs at Imperial Restaurant have mastered this protein by adding fragrant herbs to it and by braising it for hours.

[caption id="attachment_22068" align="aligncenter" width="800"]
Photo Credit: A collagen-heavy portion of the crocodile, the Braised Crocodile Tail is soft and gelatinous in texture. Fragrant herbs and spices are infused into every inch of this jelly-like dish, which is also great for smooth skin and strong hair! 

2. Penis: Deer Penis Soup

[caption id="attachment_22070" align="aligncenter" width="512"] Photo Credits:
A natural aphrodisiac that’s right up there with ginseng and saffron, Deer Penis soup is often thought to be beneficial for men in the bedroom. Besides helping create a new generation of little you’s, this dish is savoury and delicious too! Much better than swallowing a tiny blue pill, wouldn’t you say?

3. Web Of Feet: Braised Goose Web

Who knew you could eat the web of a goose’s feet?

[caption id="attachment_22069" align="aligncenter" width="800"] Photo Credit: Braised to succulent perfection, the web is delicate but flavourful, having absorbed the herby fragrance of the soup it was braised in. Having been braised for hours, each morsel of meat falls easily from the bone, making it a great dish for toddlers and elderly alike.

4. Insects: Fried Scorpions & Black Ants

This special dish is an off-menu specialty at Imperial Restaurant, one of the only dining establishments in Singapore allowed to serve cooked insects due to its reputation as a traditional Chinese herbs restaurant.

[caption id="attachment_22071" align="aligncenter" width="1024"]
Photo Credits: Fried golden brown and satisfyingly crunchy, scorpions are sometimes recommended by practitioners for treating headaches and joint aches. Black ants, on the other hand, can help regulate the immune system, relax fatigue and have anti-aging properties. Or you could just order this to show off your daredevil side!

Imperial Restaurant
Address: Riverview Hotel Level 2, 382 Havelock Road, Singapore 169629
Tel: 6337 0491
Opening Hours: Mon to Fri: 1130 – 1430; 1800 – 2230; Sat & Sun: 1130 – 2300
Website

5. Fallopian Tubes: Fried Fallopian Tubes

Fried eggs are a breakfast staple, but what about fried fallopian tubes?

[caption id="attachment_22072" align="aligncenter" width="640"] Photo Credits: A delicacy that is essentially flavourless, the fallopian tubes of a female pig are actually quite juicy. Stir-fry them with a little garlic, ginger and soya sauce, and you’ve got a delicious meal!

Old Mother Traditional Herbal Soup
Address: Blk 59 New Upper Changi Road, Singapore 461059
Tel:
6841 8789
Opening Hours: Daily: 1100 – 1400; Daily: 1700 – 0130

6. Sperm: Cod Fish Sperm (Shirako)

Bend (your stomach) like Beckham, who had a taste of this dish in 2015 when he visited Singapore.

[caption id="attachment_22073" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] Photo Credits: koi-thailand.net[/caption]

Shirako can be eaten either raw or cooked, and it melts in your mouth like butter! If you can swallow the knowledge that you’re eating fish sperm, give it a try at Teppei Japanese Restaurant!

Teppei Japanese Restaurant
Address
: #01-18, Orchid Hotel, 1 Tras Link, Singapore 078867‎
Tel: 6222 7363
Opening Hours: Daily 1200 – 1430; Daily 1800 – 2230
Website

7. Squid Innards: Shiokara

Cream cheese goes well with so many things: salmon, chives, and even shiokara! To those of you not in the know, that’s fermented squid innards to you.

[caption id="attachment_22074" align="alignnone" width="1024"] Photo Credits: @Izakayamita[/caption]

Briny and creamy, similar in texture and taste to that of uni (sea urchin), the cream cheese helps mellow the intense flavour of the shiokara.

Shukuu Izakaya
Address: 8 Stanley St, 068727
Tel: 6327 9240
Opening Hours: 1:30AM–2PM, 5:30–11PM

While the thought of eating deer penis and cod fish sperm might make your stomach turn, these restaurant have mastered these unusual ingredients and made incredibly tasteful delicacies out of them.

If reading this article has piqued your interest, maybe you should head down to one of these places to try some of these out. It’s one thing to read about them, but it’s another altogether to experience them for yourself!