Michael Kors: New Flagship Store At Mandarin Gallery & Orchid Diplomacy

You might have heard of ‘Koala Diplomacy’ or ‘Panda Diplomacy’ but in Singapore, we have our own unique twist in the form of ‘Orchid Diplomacy’. Now, a new public figure, Michael Kors, has joined our list of celebrities and notable people who’ve been honoured with a namesake orchid.

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American designer Michael Kors now join big names like the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, Barack Obama, Jane Goodall, Bae Yong Jun, Shah Rukh Khan, and Jackie Chan to name a few who have had an orchid named after them.

Held at the National Orchid Garden, the Dendrobium Michael Kors was unveiled to the fashion designer by Kirk Wagar, U.S. ambassador to Singapore, and Serene Tan, a member of the Singapore Tourism Board.

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This is to commemorate Mr Kors’ trip to Singapore and the opening of his new Mandarin Gallery flagship store.

Largest flagship store in Southeast Asia

Kate Hudson, Jeanette Aw, Velda Tan, Arissa Cheo, and Nathan Hartono were some of the big names who graced the ribbon-cutting ceremony of the brand’s first free-standing location in the region.

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Apart from offering watches, jewellery, eyewear and several of the brand’s fragrances, the ground floor of the shop will also feature a shoe salon. It will offer collections from Michael Kors and MICHAEL Michael kors footwear.

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This will also be the first store in the region to offer a full selection of Michael Kors Men – located on the upper level.

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With exclusive rooms, spacious layout, and almost the full range of products, this flagship store is set to be everyone’s favourite MK store.

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Our ambassadors, Jessie and Vanessa, attended the flagship store’s opening party. Here’s what they had to say:

https://www.instagram.com/p/BM3mEwwhwZZ/?taken-by=jessiecupcakegirl

 

https://www.instagram.com/p/BM59WzihyQ0/?taken-by=vaneszs.h

As Christmas approaches, it’ll be the perfect excuse for you to snag up that MK bag you’ve always been eyeing.

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Celebrate the end of the year in style and be ready to shop till you drop.

Michael Kors Mandarin Gallery Flagship Store
Address:
391A Orchard Rd, Ngee Ann City, Singapore 238873
Phone: 6723 8038
Hours: 10AM – 9:30PM

All images by Getty Images for Michael Kors.

Also, read Benjamin Barker 2016 Collection Ditches Its Usual Dapper Style For The Adventurous Traveller

Riverside Grilled Fish – For Lovers Of Tongue-Numbing And Spicy Ma La Goodness!

Singaporeans love their Ma La dishes and steamboat. So much so that many restaurants specialising in Si Chuan or Chong Qing cuisine have set up shop in our sunny little island. Riverside Grilled Fish 江边城外 is one of the latest restaurants to take the bait and join the fray. It specialises in Chong Qing style grilled whole fish.

Discover SG has got the scoop on it and we are here to share more.

Riverside Grilled Fish’s History

Riverside Grilled Fish was founded by two friends who happened to try grilled fish topped with Ma La sauce while travelling in Wushan Town, Chong Qing.

[caption id="attachment_18809" align="aligncenter" width="1500"] Grilled Fish with Double Cut Red and Green Chillies Sauce[/caption]

Needless to say, both of them were so taken with the robust flavours of the grilled fish that they set up their first restaurant in Beijing in 2005. Their restaurants all over China see long queues every day, much like what we experience at Hai Di Lao here in Singapore.

The rest as they say, is history.

Have your fish and eat it

Diners can choose from 4 types of locally sourced saltwater fishes priced between $35 and $42.

These include red tilapia, sea bass, black promfret and garoupa. The chef will cook the fish in the sauce of your choice.

Riverside Grilled Fish offers 8 sauces for you to choose from.

[caption id="attachment_18812" align="aligncenter" width="2000"]Riverside Grilled Fish - Signature Fragrant Spicy Sauce Riverside Grilled Fish – Signature Fragrant Spicy Sauce[/caption]

According to the team at Riverside Grilled Fish, their Signature Fragrant Spicy Sauce (spicy and sweet) is a must try!

[caption id="attachment_18813" align="aligncenter" width="2000"]riverside-grilled-fish-ma-la-sauce Riverside Grilled Fish – Ma La Sauce[/caption]

For those who die die must eat something spicy for every meal, the Ma La sauce is specially concocted for you!

However, if you can’t take spicy food at all, opt for the black bean sauce. It is the only non-spicy sauce in the menu.

[caption id="attachment_18773" align="alignnone" width="1654"]Riverside Grilled Fish in black bean sauce Riverside Grilled Fish – Black Bean Sauce[/caption]

Once you have decided the fish and sauce of your choice, you can choose the ingredients to go with your fish.

Riverside Grilled Fish offers 18 items priced from $2.50 to $4.50 per dish. These include sausages, pork belly, tofu sheets and flat vermicelli.

Side dishes

The Si Chuan Crispy Duck ($12.80) is a must try, because it looks oh-so-tender on the inside, yet so crispy on the outside!

According to the Riverside Grilled Fish team, the duck is first marinated in Juniper spice, then steamed. Lastly, it is deep fried for that crispy taste and golden brown exterior.

[caption id="attachment_18664" align="alignnone" width="940"]Si Chuan Crispy Duck from Riverside Grilled Fish Credit: The Ranting Panda[/caption]

Another item you’ll love is Si Chuan flat noodles ($4.80).

The translucent looking flat noodles is made with quality soya beans directly sourced from Si Chuan. This explains its chewy texture. The red sauce of the flat noodles is spicy yet sour, which is refreshing to the palate!

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Finally, end your meal with the popular pan-fried rice cake with soya powder ($6.80).

The rice cake is first pan fried with eggs then sprinkled with soya powder.

Pan fried rice cake at Riverside Grilled Fish

You can also choose to dip your rice cakes in white sugar to sweeten it.

Big fish in a little red dot at Raffles City

Since opening its first outlet in Beijing, Riverside Grilled Fish has expanded to 54 outlets in 12 cities in China.

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Its Raffles City outlet in Singapore marks its first foray overseas.

Occupying a sprawling 5000 sq ft at the basement, Riverside Grilled Fish seats 150 pax.

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Its interior is tastefully furnished to resemble a traditional fishing village so you see fishing nets, lanterns and wooden doors all around.

Tantalising Lunch Deal

Fish and spicy food lovers can now look forward to a tantalising lunch deal at Riverside Grilled Fish.

The restaurant is offering a weekday set lunch for two at $25++.

This includes a Japanese saba fish, white rice, and two drinks (soya or barley).

Credit: Riverside Grilled Fish

This deal will run till 31 December 2016, so bring your friends, family, colleagues for a meal before it ends!

Do make a reservation in advance as the restaurant can be packed during peak hours.

Our ambassador, Stephanie, visited Riverside Grilled Fish. Here’s her experience:

https://www.instagram.com/p/BM87NTHAfts/?taken-by=piinkmasquerade

Now that you have our cheat sheet of mouth-watering dishes to try, what are you waiting for?

It’s time to make a reservation and start indulging in the spicy delights that Riverside Grilled Fish has to offer!

One last thing, don’t forget to bring packets of tissue. These will come in useful when you tear or sweat after eating the spicy dishes.

Riverside Grilled Fish
Address: 
Raffles City Shopping Centre, #B1-06/07, 252 North Bridge Road
Opening Hours: 11am – 10pm daily
Tel:  +65 6352 2035  
Website

All images are courtesy of Riverside Grilled Fish unless otherwise stated.

Also, read G’day Mate! 7 Australian Cafes In Singapore That Feel Just Like The Real Deal

Always Wanted To Be A Pilot? Get Your Licence To Fly Without Emptying Your Bank Account!

Always wanted to try flying a plane but never had a chance? You can now realise your dream to fly at Singapore’s very first private Flight School!

Formed by a group of experienced private aviators, Flight School is the only private school in Singapore. Additionally, it provides realistic training with sophisticated full-motion flight simulator.

Get Your Private Pilot Licence at Flight School

If you’ve seriously considered learning to fly, you would have thought that getting a Private Pilot Licence (PPL) is an unrealistic and unattainable dream.

Just thinking about how much you’ll have to pay in order to practice with a real plane would have made your knees go weak.

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However, Flight School keeps the cost low, and your unattainable dream may just be possible!

At Flight School, they offer a comprehensive 12-week ground school in-classroom programme to help aspiring aviators like you prepare for the FAA (USA) Private Pilot Knowledge Test.

The best part of all, the full-motion Redbird MCX flight simulator is being used instead of a real plane, making it a whole lot more affordable to train for a license.

“By removing the need to practise in a real plane, it is possible for a learner pilot to prepare for the FAA Private Pilot test at a fraction of the time and cost of going the traditional route,” said Mr Lim who is, himself, a certified private pilot.  “Flight training is now more accessible, affordable, and within reach of anyone.”

 

Redbird MXC Flight Simulator

Learning to fly on a flight simulator?

It sure doesn’t sound like the real deal – it’s definitely different from manoeuvring a real plane, right?

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Fret not, because this badass simulator accurately replicates the controls of single and twin engine aircrafts that are commonly used for flight training.

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Furthermore, the Redbird can also be configured for advanced flight training, including multi-engine and instrument flight training.

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Trainees can clock up time ‘abroad’, train under any weather conditions and ‘land’ at any airport in the world with this simulator.

It is very much cheaper than renting an aircraft, and a whole lot safer too!

By the time trainees get into a real plane, they will feel a sense of familiarity with the instrument layout, controls, and sensation of flying an aircraft.

Full Motion Flight Simulator Experience For Everybody

What if you’re interested to try but not keen on the license?

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Flight School also offers simulation sessions for adults and children aged 7 years and above.

You can explore the joy of flying an aircraft from as short as 45 minutes to as long as 180 minutes!

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Teenagers aged 13-16 can also join Flight School’s Young Aviator’s Programme.

This special programme aims to spark students’ interests in Math, Science, Technology and Engineering through hands on learning.

Flight School Open House

Flight School will be hosting an open house from 26 to 27 November and 3 to 4 December 2016!

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There will be fun games for children, aviation-related talks for adults, all day long snacks and FREE flight simulation sessions for all (aged 7 years and above).

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While the Open House does not require any pre-registration, you will need to book your flight simulation session in advance to guarantee a spot.

Slots are running out really fast, so click Noreen and Clare, had the opportunity to try the flight simulator. Here’s their experience:

https://www.instagram.com/p/BM1Htpkg8OK/?taken-by=claregwendolyn

Flight School Open House
Date: 26 & 27 November, 3 & 4 December 2016
Time: 9am – 7pm
Venue: Flight School, WingsOverAsia Hangar 66, 66 Seletar Aerospace View, 797509 (Next to Seletar Airport Control Tower)
Website:

Programmes available at Klook x KopiPass: Enjoy Free Coffee While Planning Your Holiday Activities!

Perfectly Nailing It! This Lacquer Bar Can Make Any Nail Polish Colour You Want

Nail Deck – you could call it a nail polish GPS – guiding you to that oh-so-specific hue of nail paint you’ve been lusting over. Or better yet, think of it as the Shazam of nail polishes.

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Not only will homegrown , it’s the real life version of the virtual Nail Deck app.

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Nestled in acclaimed nail salon, esBoudoir, in Vivo City, customers can watch their perfect nail colour being mixed by hand.

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Despite being tailor-made to cater to your wildest whims, a 5-ml bottle of your desired colour only costs $11, while a 10-ml bottle goes for $16.

From 17 October 2016 to 31 December 2016, feel free to bring in discontinued lacquer and a picture or an item of colour you wish to bottle. Within 10 minutes, Lacquer Bar will have that colour blended and packaged like a genie in a bottle.

If you have no colour in mind, the colourist will most gladly assist you.

Our Experience at the Lacquer Bar

We popped by, and were blown away by the warmth of the colourist in session and the staffs’ level of professionalism.

For the first time in our lives, we felt as though we were peeking behind a magician’s curtain.

Except, instead of pulling rabbits out of hats, we were creating concoctions that went onto our nails.

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At the lacquer bar, we had an impromptu flash of inspiration from a pair of beloved faded denim shorts.

During our one-on-one consultation with the colourist, we asked for the nail polish colour to resemble “old jeans”, an all-time comfort wear close to our hearts.

We pointed at a sky blue pamphlet close by for reference, and requested for the colourist to “add a bit of grey into that blue”.

The Science of Beauty

Now, here’s where some technical jargon comes in.

The colourist used a device, called a spectrometer, to analyse the colour of the pamphlet and pick out the exact shade of blue on it. After that, the spectrometer used an in-house algorithm to convert the digital colour to a formula. How cool is that?

From there, the colourist used chemistry laboratory equipment to blend the colours by hand.

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After the colours were blended, we were given small samples to test on our nails, under white and warm lights respectively.

We thought that this was especially thoughtful of them!

This countered one of our greatest worries as discerning nail polish buyers.

Our major pet peeve when buying a nail polish, is when it turns out looking like a new colour under a different lighting from the one we tried it under. Say, when it looks like a lovely violet indoors but ends up like a Barney purple outdoors.

Once the colourist had finished making adjustments to the hue, he bottled up the lovely shade for us.

FYI, never be afraid of commenting on the colour, because the Lacquer Bar accurately tailors your polish according to all the information you tell the colourist.

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We even got to name our newly-created colour! We called it “Ripped Jeans” because we’ll always be rebels at heart. 

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Our ambassador, Diana, also visited the Lacquer Bar! Here’s what she had to say:

https://www.instagram.com/p/BMWUmTdDtvz/?taken-by=dianabakar_

Modus Operandi

Lacquer Bar keeps a record of every colour made by any customer, so you can always go back to purchase a colour you previously created.

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To shake things up, the Lacquer Bar comes up with new colours every month. This November, their signature colour is a sumptuous dark plum, heralding the start of the winter season.

According to the colourist, Tiffany Blue and nude hues are the most popular nail polish shades created at the Lacquer Bar. Just so you know, this is where you can lay your hands (and nails) on them!

What is in the Works

Though crème is the only finish available at the moment, other finishes such as shimmer and glitter will be unleashed very soon.

Currently, the Lacquer Bar has an internal catalogue and a database of every colour they’ve ever made. Yes, yours and ours too.

We’re over the moon to know that they’re working on a catalogue for customers to choose colours and derive inspiration from.

Last but not least, Lacquer Bar’s upcoming Collaboration Collection will see them cooperating with local businesses and iconic personalities, so stay tuned!

Nail Deck
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Download the app

Lacquer Bar

Also, read Amoy St Bloc Party Is Not Holding Back! Feast, Explore And Chill Your Sunday Away

Amoy St Bloc Party Is Not Holding Back! Feast, Explore And Chill Your Sunday Away

Amoy St Bloc Party is here to make sure your Sunday is a day of feasting, playing and drinking…in style!

[caption id="attachment_17707" align="alignnone" width="560"]Image source: Not on Orchard Image source: Not on Orchard[/caption]

Amoy Street has a special significance in our local culture and dining scene. More so with the recent move of many award-wning F&B brands to the area. As such, they’re throwing a welcome party, so you can get to know these new kids on the block!

The Fun Stuff

Set to take place on the 20th of November, the party will see Amoy Street transform into a street festival filled with fun, food, drinks and community activities.

Cool Music & Art Display

There will be a variety of vendors, exciting activities, and live performances featuring acts by DJ KFC and DJ Roscius hailing all the way from the UK.

[caption id="attachment_17711" align="alignnone" width="542"]Image source: Roscius Official Image source: Roscius Official[/caption]

For those who need their art fix, there will also be limited edition prints and paintings from local and uprising artists from The Artling along the street.

Get Your Fit On

We know too much good food will make you guilty, and guilty feet have got no rhythm!

That’s why one of the world’s faster growing studios, F45, is here to whip the guilt out of you.

[caption id="attachment_18456" align="alignnone" width="851"]Image source: F45 Image source: F45[/caption]

For the curious but intimidated, this is the perfect chance to try a HIIT class.

You’ll get a taste of a legit workout class in an all fun no stress environment. Just go with the flow and enjoy the good vibes.

Grow Your Own Edible Garden

Amoy St Bloc Party is not all about eating, drinking and dancing.

Besides taking home Instagram moments, you’ll head back with skills of growing your own edible garden.

[caption id="attachment_18457" align="alignnone" width="960"]Image source: Edible Garden City Image source: Edible Garden City[/caption]

Learn a trick or two from our favourite urban farming collective, Edible Garden City, to grow food at under-utilised spaces like roofs and sidewalks.

In-Car Party With Jeep

The best part of all, you can hop on the Jeep Wrangler and it will take you on a ride around the block!

[caption id="attachment_17709" align="alignnone" width="861"]Image source: Autoblog Image source: Image source: Uwishunu Image source:Image source: Paper Kitties Image source: Paper Kitties[/caption]

Their modern interpretation of Southeast Asian cuisines are executed using progressive techniques with a hint of Western influence.

While you’re at it, don’t forget to try their cocktails too.

2boCHINChe 

Fuelled by chef Diego Jacquet, boCHINChe is all about bold Argentinean flavours.

[caption id="attachment_17692" align="alignnone" width="593"]Image source: bochinchesg Image source: bochinchesg[/caption]

Just like us, Argentina is a melting pot of cultures and Argentineans loveeee their food. boCHINChe’s passion is reflected on their menu, prepare your palate for an explosion of flavours.

3. Employees Only (Cocktail Bar)

What?? A craft cocktail bar from New York is in Singapore?

[caption id="attachment_17693" align="alignnone" width="597"]Image source: asia.cocktails Image source: asia.cocktails[/caption]

Yes, and it’s one with unpretentious NY vibes, buzzing energy, shoulder shaking music, and mighty fine cocktail techniques (that’s what they’re famed for).

The place can get really busy but trust us, it’s worth the wait.

4. Le Binchotan

What do you get when you combine French and Japanese cuisine? Le Binchotan!

[caption id="attachment_17697" align="alignnone" width="594"]Image source: Franny Wanny Image source: Frannywanny[/caption]

Named after the white charcoal used to smoke French-Japanese tapas, this super chic eatery dishes some of the best skewers in town.

There’ll be 10% off selected sake bottles in conjunction with the Bloc party! Now, that calls for a Kampai!

5. Burger Joint

Dubbed the best burger in NYC, Burger Joint is all about yummy burgers done to perfection!

[caption id="attachment_17698" align="alignnone" width="480"]Image source: Kendricljx Image source: Kendricljx[/caption]

From cheese to portobello, and of course, bacon burger, their patties are extremely juicy and well seasoned. Top if off with craft beer (there’s a selection of 16 taps!) and that’s how every day should end.

6. Maggie Joan’s

Looking for Maggie Joan’s can be a lil tricky. It’s an underground Mediterranean restaurant located in the alleyway just off Gemmill Lane (literally a hidden gem).

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Famed for their cosy ambience and gastronomical food, every dish here is so pretty that you’ll want to feed your camera first before digging in.

7. Gemmills

Gemmills has a split personality – it’s a cafe by day and a wine bar by night.

[caption id="attachment_17700" align="alignnone" width="597"]Image source: The Silver Chef Image source: The Silver Chef[/caption]

Expect a range of fresh pastries, sandwiches and coffee during the day and once the sun is down, bring the vinos out!

8. Birds of a Feather

Sichuan food can be a little intimidating. Just thinking about the flower pepper gives us chills!

[caption id="attachment_17702" align="alignnone" width="540"]Image source: Bing_leow Image source: Bing_leow[/caption]

But at Birds of Feather, the Sichuan-ness actually enhances the flavours of the Western cuisine served. And the ambience there will make you feel like you’re in Chengdu… well, minus the giant panda bears!

Party All Night

The event might start at 3pm, but once the sun is down (10pm onwards), step into Ding Dong as the playful restaurant space is reimagined into a retro dance floor on this day!

[caption id="attachment_17705" align="alignnone" width="776"]Image source: Ding Dong Image source: Ding Dong[/caption]

Bust a move to 80s and 90s hits at the afterparty and get a Ding Dong Daiquiri or two while you hit that high!

What are you waiting for? Get your peeps together and start planning your Amoy St Bloc Party trail.

Amoy St Bloc Party
Date: 20 November 2016 (Sunday)
Time: 3pm – 12:00am
Venue: Amoy Street
Event page: Amoy St Bloc Party
Instagram: @amoystblocparty

Header image source: What’s Up, November! 13 Exciting Activities To Check Out [16 Nov – 30 Nov]

Meat Lovers, Renga-Ya’s Hokkaido and Kagoshima Beef Are All You Need!

Meat lovers, listen up! Think you’ve tried the best Japanese beef Singapore has got to offer? Renga-Ya is here to top your must-try Wagyu list.

[caption id="attachment_18143" align="alignnone" width="932"]Party Platter Party Platter[/caption]

Rejoice, because Renga-Ya Japanese BBQ & Steak Restaurant has officially opened its doors at Chijmes. And they’ll be dishing the best of beef from the prefectures of Hokkaido and Kagoshima.

Oakleaf Hokkaido Prime Beef

All Oakleaf prime beef served in Renga-Ya is carefully sourced from Hokkaido.

[caption id="attachment_18136" align="alignnone" width="851"]Hokkaido Platter Hokkaido Platter[/caption]

The cows there are breed naturally without the use of antibiotics and genetically modified feed. Instead, herbs are mixed to the feed, so the meat has a natural refreshing flavour.

Kuroge A5 Grade Wagyu

Kagoshima may be well known for its active volcano but their Kuroge (Black Hair) beef is definitely a MUST TRY among meat lovers.

[caption id="attachment_18137" align="alignnone" width="852"]Kagoshima Platter Kagoshima Platter[/caption]

What makes it really special is the well-balanced fat marbling and full-bodied flavour of the meat.

Beef Two Ways

Renga-Ya is as much a Yakiniku restaurant as a steak house.

As they import whole cows from Hokkaido and Kagoshima, diners can look forward to a wide-range of cuts in Japanese BBQ or flamed-grilled style.

[caption id="attachment_18134" align="alignnone" width="837"]Renga Ya Platter Renga Ya Platter[/caption]

We highly recommend the Renga- Ya BBQ Platter (300g at $89.00 and 500g at $139.00) if you’d like to savour the best of both worlds (50:50 of Oakleaf and Wagyu).

[caption id="attachment_18140" align="alignnone" width="923"]Renga Ya Zen Set Renga Ya Zen Set[/caption]

The Karubi (short rib) and Jou Rosu (chuck roll) are hands down our favourite.

Cut to precise thickness, it’s so tender that it melts in your mouth!

[caption id="attachment_18144" align="alignnone" width="960"]Hokkaido Steak Image source Renga-Ya Hokkaido Steak Image source Renga-Ya[/caption]

Steak lovers, you can try the juicy Hokkaido or Kagoshima striploin (200g at $89.00), ribeye (200g at $59.00) or tenderloin (200g at $69.00), complemented with a choice of in-house steak sauce, ponzu radish sauce or peppercorn sauce.

Side Dishes That Are To Die For!

Main star aside, Renga-Ya also specialises in other dishes such as the Hokkaido Beef Tataki with Japanese Onions and Beef Carpaccio, which is eaten raw.

[caption id="attachment_18138" align="alignnone" width="749"]Beef Tataki Beef Tataki[/caption]

The Oyster dish is a must try if you’d like to heighten your dining experience.

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Featuring succulent oysters imported from Hiroshima and seasonal vegetables from Hokkaido, this dish will make you feel less guilty from the overload of meat.

[caption id="attachment_18142" align="alignnone" width="904"]Ika Yuzu Jelly Salad Ika Yuzu Jelly Watercress Salad[/caption]

While you’re at it, don’t forget to order the super refreshing Ika Yuzu Jelly Watercress Salad. The acidity of the Yuzu jelly goes extremely well with the watercress, it’s like summer in your mouth.

Our ambassador, Valerie, visited Renga-ya. Here’s what she had to say:

https://www.instagram.com/p/BMT3DrrA3mq/?taken-by=cheeriosvalerie

Are you drooling already? Time to recruit your Meat Squad and declare it Protein Day! And don’t forget to make a reservation in advance!

Renga-Ya Japanese BBQ & Steak
Address: 30 Victoria Street #01-11/12 Chijmes, S187996
Contact number: +65 6352 1966
Operating Hours:
Lunch (Daily 12:00 pm – 2:30 pm)
Dinner (Mon- Sat 6:00pm – 11:00pm), (Sun 5:00pm- 10:00pm)
Website: Renga-Ya sg
Instgram: @rengayasg

All photos are by Japan PR Agency

Also, read Sarnies’ New Menu Packs A Solid Punch: From Curry Pasta To Overflowing Burgers!

8 Korean BBQ: For Premium Pork Belly That Will Leave You Begging For More!

Heads up, fellow Korean BBQ lovers, for we have some good news for you! The ever-popular E!GHT Korean BBQ has just opened its second outlet at Shaw Centre with a bigger and juicier menu to boot.

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Good things should be shared, and after a delectable experience at E!GHT’s flagship outlet at Clark Quay, we just can’t wait to tell you more about our experience.

Here’s why E!GHT Korean BBQ ought to be on your to-eat list:

E!GHT’s Signature 8 Colours Set

With the restaurant named after this dish, the 8 Colours Set is without doubt, the pride and joy of E!GHT Korean BBQ.

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As its name suggests, you’ll be able to savour 8 mouth-watering strips of pork belly, all marinated in 8 different flavours.

The list of flavours to expect, in the recommended order of tasting are: wine, original, garlic, herb, curry, miso, red pepper paste, and finally kalbi.

[caption id="attachment_17810" align="aligncenter" width="454"]Cooking in progress! (Image Credits: Author) Cooking in progress! (Image Credits: Author)[/caption]

Included in the set are some side dishes (such as kimchi) as well as seafood bean paste stew.

How’s that for a fulfilling meal?

[caption id="attachment_17811" align="aligncenter" width="527"]img_0925 Fully cooked! (Image Credits: Author)[/caption]

The proper and oh-so-good way to eat Korean BBQ: wrap the meat inside a lettuce leaf, add kimchi and sauce, and stuff it all into your mouth!

[caption id="attachment_17812" align="aligncenter" width="523"]img_0939 (Image Credits: Author)[/caption]

Here’s the seafood bean paste stew that comes with the set!

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The 8 Colours Set costs $98, and serves 3-4 people.

If you’re looking for something less filling, you could also go for smaller sets such as the Flower Pork Set ($68) or the 4 Colours Set ($58).

As with the 8 Colours Set, all of these sets come with side dishes and seafood bean paste stew.

If you’re wondering why the meat appears to be slightly pricey, it’s because all of these sets feature Mangalitsa pork, a top-grade Hungarian variety. We can vouch for its quality – it is incredibly juicy and tender.

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In fact, Mangalitsa is said to be the “Kobe beef” of pork! Apparently, it is lower in cholesterol, and possesses higher levels of zinc and iron as compared to other types of pork. You’re definitely getting your money’s worth here.

More than just pork

If you’d like more than just BBQ pork, don’t worry, because the restaurant serves other dishes too!

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From Beef Bulgogi Bibimbap ($18) to Kimchi Fried Rice ($8) and Seafood Pancake ($20), there’s definitely enough variety for you to complete your meal as you wish.

Those who’re on a tighter budget can also consider the weekday set lunches and specials -rice and stew sets from $8.

Kimchi Fried Rice with Mozzarella, Mangalitsa Pork, Bonito Flakes, and Egg

One of the comfort foods of Korean cuisine – Kimchi fried rice!

Some house brew, anyone?

As any Korean will know, no Korean BBQ meal is complete without some good alcohol.

Keeping in line with this practice, E!GHT Korean BBQ offers a great selection of drinks on its menu as well.

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While standard fare such as beer and soju can be found on the drinks menu, the highlight we feel has definitely got to be their flavoured makgeoli (fermented Korean rice wine), all of which are brewed in-house.

Diners can choose from several flavours, such as the new Organic Honey Makgeolli ($35), as well as the Yucha Makgeolli ($35), Passionfruit Makgeolli ($35) and Joo Brew ($28).

[caption id="attachment_17821" align="aligncenter" width="384"]img_0961 Yucha Makgeolli! (Image Credits: Author)[/caption]

We particularly liked the Yucha Makgeolli since it was so refreshing, with the right amount of sweetness – definitely the perfect complement to a savoury meal!

Full service amidst a comfortable setting

With a seating capacity of 80, the new outlet at Shaw Centre looks to be just as spacious – if not even more so – than its Clark Quay counterpart. [=

The place is large and spacious – no worries about bringing a large group of friends here then!

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You can also expect full service at E!GHT, where staff will prepare all the food for you. All you really need to do is eat.

Perhaps the most attractive point of all – besides the food – would be the restaurant’s effective ventilation system, which guarantees that you’ll leave the place without smelling like BBQ for the rest of the day. How awesome is that?

So there you have it!

Sounds delectable, doesn’t it?

Now that you know what lies in store for you, all that’s left to do is to head to town and satisfy your carvings!

Best of all, both outlets are centrally located and easily accessible, which means they are convenient for everyone.

Bon appétit!

E!GHT Korean BBQ
Address: 
1 Scotts Road, Shaw Centre, #04-20/21, Singapore 228208
6 Eu Tong Sen Street, The Central, #02-79/90
Opening hours: 
Mon – Fri: 11:30AM – 14:30, 17:30 – 22:30
Sat & Sun: 11:30 – 22:30
Tel: 90189212
For more information, check out E!IGHT Korean BBQ’s Official Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/8koreanbbqshaw

Unless otherwise stated, image credits: E!ght Korean BBQ.

This was an invited tasting session.

Also, read Korea Town In Singapore? Satisfy All Your Kimchi Cravings Near Beauty World MRT!

A Poke Theory’s Alter Ego Serves Up Irresistibly Sinful Food You Cannot Say No To

It has only been a few months since the official opening of A Poke Theory but they have successfully spinned a Poke Bowl craze. And this ain’t stoping them. Their sister concept, Alter Ego, will be opening its doors to the public on 5th November 2016.

Alter Ego at the Esplanade

Alter Ego is the second food concept launched by the Tandem Collective group.

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Wanting to reignite the F&B space amongst locals, they have chosen to venture into the Esplanade as it is a familiar space to our local musicians and creatives.

Food

Just like A Poke Theory, Alter Ego will not compromise on their menu.

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Their ever famous healthy and delectable poke and smoothie bowls are still the primary focus during the daytime.

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But as night falls, you get to choose from a delightful selection of entry-level craft beers and diet-ruining bar grubs.

Try the Loaded Taters if you are more adventurous.

Credit: Alter Ego

Crisp tater tots are doused mercilessly in spicy jalapeño cheese sauce, maple-glazed bacon & sour cream.

Different layers of flavours bursting in your mouth all at once is definitely going to give your taste buds a treat. Oh yum.

Their Buffalo Wings look tantalising too.

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Twice-baked and tossed in their spicy and tangy buffalo sauce, the wings look oh so good! We can’t wait to get our hands dirty.

Decor

Decked out in raw industrial fittings of oxidised iron, copper, cement and organic teak, Alter Ego is set to be an open and creative space in the daylight.

But as the sun sets, it transforms into a darker, dangerously inviting place with scrawling secret messages unveiling themselves on their dimming wall murals.

Credit: Alter Ego

Here is a big cheer to a new creative and beautiful space perfect for long awaited catch-up sessions with our mates!

Feeling Experimental? Try Alchemist Beer Lab’s Super Funky Infused Beers!

Still recovering from last month’s Oktoberfest? Well, the Alchemist Beer Lab might just be the cure for this hangover – more beer for you!

Alchemist Beer Lab

Located at the snazzily glamorous Beach Road, this first and only beer lab in Asia may look very experimental. However, they’re actually the brainchild of the team behind Little Island Brewing Co. at Changi.

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Rest assured that they know what they’re doing!

What is Infused Beer?

The idea of infused beer may sound new, but it has been around for a while in Europe.

Basically, ingredients are first placed into the fusion chamber. Compressed gas is then released before the beer is injected into a tower.

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Flavours from ingredients are extracted as pressure is being released from the process. This produces a surprising and delightful twist to the beer.

If this sounds too rocket science for you, just think of it as cold pressed juice, but the beer version.

For Those Who Love Classics

At Alchemist Beer Lab, a whopping 16 infused beer towers are available for brewers to experiment.

Out of the 16 glass towers, eight taps consist of familiar creations by Little Island Brewing Co., such as Sister Golden Ale, Singapore Pale Ale and the award wining That Old Black Magic, that clinched a Gold Medal at the 2016 Asia Beer Awards.

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Other popular flavours such as sweet and semi-dry cider, red and white wines are also available for drinkers who prefer classics.

If you’re up for some funk, any choice of the remaining eight towers would make for a great pint of beer.

New & Best Flavours to Try 

It’s all about experimenting!

The infused beer for the eight towers are refreshed every week. This means you get to try new flavours all the time.

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What caught our attention is ‘Obama‘, a dry Irish stout infused with marshmallow, vanilla pod and mint leaves!

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On top of that, we heard a crowd favourite is the Ugly Sister Golden, a combination of ale infused with grilled pineapple and anise, a type of eastern Mediterranean spice.

If those sounds too avant-garde for you, go for the 50 Shades of Pink, a pretty safe yet fun mix of cider and pink guava.

One word of advice – we know it’s super satisfying to gulp your drink down but when it comes to these test tubes of alcohol, its best to take it slow and savour every single sip.

For The Peckish Drinker

It’s normal to get the hunger pangs when drinking and fortunately Alchemist Beer Lab has got some grub to fill your tummy up.

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From Sticky Thai Chicken Wings, Duck Fat Chips to even Smoked Wagyu Brisket Tortilla, you can count on these tapas to complement your drink.

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If you’re feeling really hungry, or so happen to drop by the place around lunch time, you would not want to miss their set lunch menu priced from $15.90++.

Why Visit?

The beer (duh), the food, and of course the ambience! The place is really intimate and cosy, perfect for a date or a catch up sesh with your friends.

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It’s quiet enough for conversations and the decor is modern and edgy.

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All beers are priced at $12 before 7pm and $15 after 7pm.

If you’re there with a couple of friends, go for the party pack. You’ll get to pick 3 beers and enjoy them at a price of $30 (before 7pm) and $38 (after 7pm). Red and white wine are priced at $12 all day, everyday.

Overall, Alchemist Beer Lab is the new hangout spot for all beer and tapas lovers. With such interesting and experimental infused beers, you’d surely want to grab your buddies for a night out!

Alchemist Beer Lab
Address: 26 Beach Road, #B1-16 Singapore
Contact number: +65 6386 4365
Operating Hours:
12pm -12am (Mon- Thurs)
12pm- 2am (Fri)
4pm -12am (Sat)
Closed on Sunday
Facebook: Alchemist Beer Lab

Also, read New Hangout Spot, Chip Bee Gardens, Is Where All The Cool Things Are 

SNSD’s Yoona Gets Decked Out By H:CONNECT, Now You Can Too At Its First Singapore Outlet!

From ombre lips and dewy skin to layering and sneakers, Korean fashion and beauty trends have a huge following here in Singapore! And let’s be honest if K pop stars and celebrities look amazing showing off these trends why cant we?!

H:CONNECT

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Good news for those of you who love Korean fashion, leading Korean fashion label H:CONNECT has just opened its doors in Singapore! Located at Bugis Junction, H:CONNECT is known for setting trends in Korea’s pop movement. Known for dressing some of the hottest names in the K-pop industry (BoA, f(x) and SHINee, just to name a few), H:CONNECT supplies its outlets with only the hottest apparel pieces on a weekly basis so you’re bound to find something you love!

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While Bugis Junction is H:CONNECT’s first Southeast Asian outlet, it is joining the ranks of more than 300 outlets across Korea, Taiwan and China!

H: CONNECT Fall/Winter 2016 Collection

To mark its debut in Southeast Asia, H: CONNECT is bringing in 500 designs from its Fall/Winter 2016 Collection! Inspired by three themes; City Dweller, Nostalgic Insta and AthleisureH:CONNECT offers up apparel for the constantly evolving lifestyle of the fashion conscious!

City Dweller 

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One of Korea’s hottest trend, City Dweller is all about classic understated pieces in chic cuts and colour. Sleek and minimalist, this is the epitome of Korean style!

Nostalgic Insta

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[caption id="attachment_17391" align="alignnone" width="750"]untitled-design-88 Nostalgic Insta Men’s Collection[/caption]

Effortlessly stylish and chic, Nostalgic Insta features a combination of vintage pieces and different textures.  The layering of different pieces like bomber jackets, floral prints and embellishments all add a romantic twist to classic street casual pieces!

Athleisure

[caption id="attachment_17393" align="alignnone" width="750"]untitled-design-90 Athleisure Men’s Collection[/caption]

H: CONNECT’s signature street fashion collection, Athleisure brings together two very different concepts, ‘athletic’ and ‘leisure’! Featuring statement sweaters, pullovers and denim this Athleisure puts a unique spin on Korea’s popular street style!

So if you’re keen on emulating the style that your favourite Korean celebrity is carrying off right now or if you’re on the look out for a brand that offers up a variety of different styles and personas, head on down to H:CONNECT!

Find out more about Korean’s hottest apparel brand at H: CONNECT Official Facebook Page!

H: CONNECT
Bugis Junction #01-101
200 Victoria Street, S188021
Opening Hours: Sun – Thu 11am – 10.30pm; Fri, Sat, PH 11am – 11pm;
Contact: 6264 9872/ 6264 9882

Also Read Melissa’s 2017 Spring/Summer Collection Is All You’ll Want For Christmas