FORT By Maison Ikkoku – An Exquisite 4 Course CNY Menu With A Twist

I could hardly contain my excitement when I was invited to FORT by Maison Ikkoku to savour its latest Four-Course Chinese New Year Menu, which was carefully whipped up and conceptualised by Executive Chef and Head Mixologist, Ethan Leslie Leong. Available from 1 Jan – 29 Feb 2016, the 4-course menu, set at $48++ per person, and an additional $40++ for four unique cocktails, boasts 4 dish that are named after auspicious Chinese wishes.

Having stepped foot to the newly-minted Pinacotheque De Paris at the historical site of Fort Canning Hill for the first time, I was immediately enchanted by FORT’s 30-seater restaurant bar. The place was adorned with luxurious velvet curtains, copper pipes & Edison filament bulbs, creating an ambience that epitomises both modern chic and ancient industrial.

Four-Course Chinese New Year Menu at FORT by Maison Ikkoku

Starting the prosperous dining journey was the 招财进宝 (Joyous Treasure): a delectable starter of pan-seared Hokkaido scallop, heaps of seaweed and a generous amount of golden roe, sprinkled all over with edible gold flakes. This was paired with喜气洋洋 (Jubilant Festivity), a sake infused with fragrant lemongrass that whets my appetite for the upcoming dish.

Second in the menu was the 好事连连 (Bountiful Harvest), a reinterpretation of the classic Roast Goose. This is certainly one of my favourites, being an avid Roast Goose fan. The puree, made using ingredients such as lotus, beet, sweet potatoes and kaffir lime, complements the Roast Goose so perfectly, both in terms of the palate and sight. This was paired with a visually stunning cocktail, 珠光寶氣 (Bejewelled Radiance), which was made with sparkling bubbly and floating daisy caviar.

Moving on to the mains, the auspiciously named 年年有余 (Sea of Fortune), features a succulent Salmon steak that was cooked to perfection. Presented on a bed of sweet, tart green apple, grapefruit and passion fruit, the dish was perfectly balanced with a copious dollop of salmon roe. The cocktail pairing was the carefully concocted 招財進寶 (Opulent Prosperity), made specially in-house with citrus sugar, whiskey and bitters.

The 金玉满堂 (Golden Royale) is such an adorable dessert that I couldn’t help falling in love with. Bursting with zesty and citrus aroma, this sorbet was served alongside frozen Kumquats. As I savoured the tantalising flavours and observed with fascination the gold colour of the dessert, I came to a realisation that the dish was so aptly named. I was then treated to a beautiful sight when the mixologist concocted 歩歩高升 (Passion Abundance), an earthy drink made with a base of spiced rum, a dash of Himalayan salt, a hint of caramel and passion fruit, that was served with heaps of dry ice, for that added drama.

Signature Ala Carte Dishes at FORT by Maison Ikkoku

Apart from the festive menu, I was kindly treated to one of its signature dishes from the ala carte menu – The Fort (4 pcs S$18++ / 8 pcs S$28++), which was a beautifully created spicy maguro hand-roll.

For Omakase Lovers

In addition, since 1 December 2015, FORT by Maison Ikkoku has launched their 12-course Omakase for just S$68++ per person. Diners will be taken through a gastronomical journey with dishes using the freshest ingredients presented in a form that brings out the best in them. Given the delightful experience with the 4-course menu, I would certainly visit Fort again, for the Omakase.

FORT by Maison Ikkoku

Address: Pinacotheque De Paris, 5 Cox Terrace, Fort Canning Hill, S(179620)

Telephone: +65 6336 0507

Opening Hours: Daily 4P.M till Late

Getting There:

• Nearest MRT Station -Dhoby Ghaut (5 – 8 minute walk from Park Mall towards Fort Canning Park)
• Nearest Car Park
Car Park B, Fort Canning Park (Free parking after 5pm)
• Nearest Bus Station
04223 – Old Hill Street Police Station
(5 minute walk up the stairs leading to Fort Canning Park)

This article is written by Yi Shiean (@yishiean), our brand ambassador for Discover SG. We are looking for more ambassadors to join us, so email us at [email protected] to find out more!

Top 7 Things To Do At Sunset Way – One Of Singapore’s Hidden Neighbourhoods!

Tucked away in the west, the quiet estate of Sunset Way is Clementi’s best kept secret. Most of us might not even know of its existence!

But if you happen to stay in the vicinity, or feel like exploring a relatively unpopular place, you’d soon realize that there are actually quite a number of things you can do there.

Here are 7 things for you to check out the next you are in the area:

1. Café hop in the most unassuming of locations

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Spice up your Instagram feed with these instaworthy desserts! One cafe you should visit is Buttercake n Cream, famed for their chocolate pudding and other homemade desserts. Order a cuppa from The Tiny Roaster a few doors down, which brews the much raved about coffee. Over at Drips Baker’s Playground, get tempted by their glass display of pretty quiches and tarts.

2. Brunch: oriental-­‐style

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Alternatively, go for the wide variety of dimsum available at Foodpark. They come at pocket-­‐friendly prices, and definitely give the salted egg custard buns a try!

3. Go for old school cakes and pastries

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For handmade cakes and pastries, be sure not to miss Balmoral Bakery with its brick red exterior. Their chicken pies and swiss rolls are a hit with all ages!

4. Treat yourself to sinful desserts

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Not many know this, but The Daily Scoop opened their first outlet here at Sunset Way. Indulge in a scoop of homemade ice cream, which tastes even better on top of a waffle!

5. Take a good walk and enjoy a rare moment of tranquility

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So what do you do after all the good food? Take a stroll along the Ulu Pandan Park Connector and enjoy the tranquility of your surroundings. You may even catch a glimpse of kingfishers and komodo dragons if you’re lucky.

6. Explore the abandoned railway track

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Trek this hidden railroad as an alternative to the one at Bukit Timah. There’s just something satisfying about hearing gravel crunch beneath your feet. Remember to bring along mosquito repellant though, you have been warned!

7. Take an #OOTD

With foliage that adds a different dimension to your photos and the railway bridge as a unique backdrop, be sure to pose for a picture. What better way to commemorate your visit to Sunset than with an #ootd!

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Ready to explore Sunset Way?

Sunset Way is accessible via bus services 52, 154 and 184 from the bus stop at Clementi MRT Station’s Exit B. If you do happen to be nearby, share your adventures with us!

Bonus: Shop for pet supplies

For the animal-­‐lovers and pet-­‐owners out there, stock up on your pet supplies here. Also, the pet clinics in the area allow you to swoon over cute little animals!

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This article is written by Samanthan Chua.

Katong Welcomes Its Newest Dog Cafe – And We Think You Will Love It!

Looking for a place to eat, chill and play with your beloved canine friends? Well, the newly opened 3 Barks Cafe has got you covered!

Finally, you can say goodbye to the pangs of guilt that strike as you walk out of the door and see your dog gazing up sadly at you..

Photo credits: Katong Kids Inc

 Located beside Scanteak in Joo Chiat, 3 Barks Cafe is situated beside an open car park and 200m away from a bus stop (Take Bus 16 from Bedok Interchange). So getting here is not difficult at all!

Photo credits: Katong Kids Inc

3 Barks Cafe was recently founded by 3 passionate dog lovers whose aim is to deliver the best dog cafe experience in Katong for you and your loved ones.

Photo credits: 3 Barks Cafe

Friendly staff are also on site to play with your furry friends and attend to their every need!

Upon entering, the homely decor and aroma of hot, tasty food making you feel welcome instantly.

Photo credits: Katong Kids Inc

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The first floor is the cafe area for food, chilling and good times. Dig into hearty finger food with options such as sesame chicken wings, pepperoni pizza and even a mixed platter  for the indecisive folks.

Artisanal ice cream sandwiches, molten lava cake and waffles are also available to satisfy your post-meal sinful dessert cravings.

And don’t feel guilty about your pet going hungry while you dig into your food – there is a menu just for your beloved dogs! Options include a nutritious serving of chicken breast or salmon complete with brown rice, mashed sweet potato and steamed carrots!

Watch the pups play with each other as you savour your delicious food! / Photo credits: Katong Kids Inc

After a satisfying meal downstairs, head up to the Fun House on the 2nd floor and be greeted by…

Photo credits: Katong Kids Inc

…A wide collection of obstacles for your furry friend to train his/her agility and simply have a good time!

Watch in delight as your dogs repeatedly conquer the mini hill and race through the tunnels / Photo Credits: Katong Kids Inc 

And you know they will absolutely love this doggy slide! / Photo credits: 3 Barks Cafe

Photo credits: 3 Barks Cafe

The 3rd floor is the Sky Suite – 3 Barks Cafe’s event space. This is perfect for your dog’s birthday party or a gathering for friends with fellow pooches.

So if you’re thinking of what to do this weekend, why not take your four-legged friend and family out for a meaningful bonding experience?

ADDRESS:
327 Joo Chiat Rd
Singapore 427584

OPENING HOURS:
12pm – 9pm (Mon – Thu), 12pm – 10pm (Fri), 10am – 11pm (Sat), 10am – 9pm (Sun)

Featured image credits: Katong Kids Inc

Top 5 Most Underrated Places In Singapore To Escape The City Life This Weekend!

The alarm goes off every day at 7. Squeezed into peak hour trains like canned sardines. Tons of paperwork and emails piled up. Before you know it, you’re in bed by 9 after a tiresome day of work.

Rinse. Recycle. Repeat.

Singaporeans, we get it. More often than not, we work too hard for our own good. Sometimes, we just need to escape all the craziness of a bustling metropolitan life. Desperate times call for desperate solitude. Instead of the usual getaway spots, these 5 rather clandestine and less well-known locations each offers a totally new experience that will leave you totally refreshed and relaxed.

1. Library@Orchard

Nestled in the heart of Singapore’s lively shopping district, Library@Orchard is perhaps one of the lesser-known libraries due to its rather obscure location. Decked with white sleek shelves, colourful arrays of books, and a rich rustic smell of wooden floors and chairs, it is the ideal location for bookworms and jaded workers. Lose yourself in the realms of literature in this little oasis of peace.

Location: 277 Orchard Road, #03-12 and #04-11, Orchard Gateway, Singapore 238858

2. The Projector

Originally an ambitious project on crowdfunding website Indiegogo, The Projector is now a newly established independent cinema that sets out to revive the old-school nostalgic feelings of yesteryear. Showing a selection of arthouse, classic, and cult films, The Projector is a cavernous paradise for cinephiles and of course, a perfect getaway spot to immerse yourself in the crazy world of film (without the explosions).

Location: 6001 Beach Road, #05-00, Golden Mile Tower, Singapore 199589

3. Farmart Centre

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Truly a brilliant showcase of the best of both worlds, Farmart Centre is tucked in a pastoral and tranquil part of Singapore. During the day, get up-close with adorable farm animals and witness the production of the freshest fruits and vegetables. During the night, take your feet off the gas and tuck into a wide variety of delicious food, and perhaps, have a drink or two. Relive the good vibes of the kampong spirit!

Location: 67 Sungei Tengah Road, Singapore 699008 

4. HortPark Garden

Although there are arguably better parks in Singapore, this is the perfect place to absorb the quaint surroundings of nature. Aesthetically pleasing, HortPark Garden greets you with a collection of well-manicured gardens and a luscious landscape of greenery. Whether for a picnic or a gentle stroll, this park is a one-stop hub for your recreational escapades. Highlights include the Butterfly Garden and the Flora Walk.

Location: 33 Hyderabad Road, Singapore 119578            

5. Mr Punch Public House

No list is a complete list if it doesn’t include a place to get your drink on. A retro gastropub that shares the same location as the charming Mint Toy Museum, Mr Punch Public House is a hotspot decorated with vintage architecture and home to a quirky and capricious atmosphere. At reasonable prices, Mr Punch also offers a range of delectable dishes and drinks. This cozy little establishment is the quintessence for a quiet and enjoyable nights out.

Location: 26 Seah Street, Mint Museum, Singapore 188382

What are your underrated places to escape the city life?

This article is written by Moses Xiao.

Jalan Besar’s Hidden Secret – The Intricate Art Of Leather Crafting

Take a minute to think: When was the last time you made something?

In a day and age where most goods are mass produced, creating something with your own hands is truly memorable and worthwhile.

Hence, we were delighted to spend a Saturday afternoon attending a 2-hour long basic Leather Craft workshop at Lucky Apron Studio.

Photo Credits: Lucky Apron Studio

The cosy studio is tucked away on the 2nd floor of a shophouse along Jalan Besar. The unmistakable whiff of leather is the first thing you notice, followed by the neatly arranged tools on the table for students.

The tools you will be using: A metal ruler, a silver pen, a pen knife and a paper cutting board

Alongside with the tools, all the materials and hardware you need will be provided. And do not worry – no prior experience whatsoever is required!

During the workshop, you will make 3 functional and stylish items:

• Envelope Cardholder – for name cards or credit cards.
• Key Chain Strap – for hanging quick access keys off your belt.
• Smartphone Wristlet – for use as a smartphone stand for movie playback or taking photos.

All of these will be made from premium quality leather – full-grain buffalo hide in vegetable tan or cow hide in crazy horse tan to be exact.

After a quick introduction to leather, enjoy a live demonstration by your facilitator on how to make each item that is interspersed with fundamental leather crafting techniques.

As we watched the demonstration, we realised the high level of conscientiousness required for an activity like this. Small mistakes like not holding your penknife straight or shifting your ruler whilst cutting will cause you to make an untidy cut. Making a cut in the wrong direction could cause an irreparable damage to your product. So attentiveness is a must during the demonstration!

Lawrence, our instructor and founder of Lucky Apron studios, demonstrating how to cut leather

If all this sounds too intimidating for you, fear not – your friendly facilitator will be there to guide and correct you if you are on the wrong track.

After the demonstration, it was our turn to start on our envelope cardholder and we were beyond excited to get our hands dirty.

A steady hand and precision is required for the perfect cut

The first few cuts were slightly awkward, but we quickly learned the amount of pressure and number of repetitions required to make a clean cut.

The product of a tedious yet oddly satisfying session of cutting

Before we knew it, our envelope cardholder template was ready for folding and hole-punching. There are bound to be some minor imperfections along the way, but take them as a testament of your handicraft and don’t get too caught up in it.

Do bring a packet of tissues along, as the leather dust can be slightly irritating to the nose. (You don’t want to be sneezing all over your precious leather goods!)

The finished product in all its handmade glory!

Next on the agenda was a smartphone wristlet, a functional yet stylish piece created by Lucky Apron Studio’s founder Lawrence himself.

Photo Credits: Lucky Apron Studio

After tracing the template out for the wristlet

More cutting ensued, but the simple template made for a much easier ride.

However, the cutout in the center of the wristlet was rather tricky to manoeuvre and required a certain level of delicacy.

Be sure to choose the correct size when punching any hole!

Bring a friend, sibling, significant other, etc.. – they will come in handy! 😉

The final item was a simple keychain strap, which was a breeze to make after more than an hour of experience with handling and cutting leather. Both the length of the strap and the colour of the keyring can be customised

Photo Credits: Lucky Apron Studio

Voila!

After 2 hours of hard work, our 3 products were finished – all that was left was a good ol’ slab of leather conditioner. Free initial embossing (pictured above on the envelope cardholder) is also provided – say, any birthdays coming up?

Needless to say, the feeling of creating handmade and functional goods with your own hands from a single piece of leather is simply euphoric.

So if you are interested in creating some useful products to take home, are obsessed with leather goods or simply want to try something unique and memorable, why not head down to Lucky Apron Studio for a fun-filled afternoon?

In addition, Discover SG is delighted to offer you a..

 15% DISCOUNT on ALL of Lucky Apron Studio’s Classes!

Simply use the discount code “DSCVRSG2016EVENTS” before purchase.

So what are you waiting for? Head over to to check out their classes today!

ADDRESS:

Lucky Apron Studio
#02-01
141 Jalan Besar
Singapore 208859

CONTACT:

+65 9863 2724