9 Incredible Yu Sheng To Toss So You Get Good Luck In The Year Of The Rooster

It wasn’t too long ago that we bade goodbye to 2016 and welcomed 2017. In the blink of an eye, Chinese New Year is fast approaching, and those who celebrate it can welcome a ‘new year’ again. Traditionally, Chinese New Year activities involve aiaving a reunion dinner with family, tossing Yu Sheng, giving red envelopes, and visiting relatives’ houses.

During the festival, Yu Sheng, a raw fish salad, is eaten by families. Originating from the Cantonese phrase ‘Lo Hei’, which means ‘tossing up good fortune’, the prosperity salad symbolises an ‘abundance of wealth and long life.’

Here are 9 places in Singapore where you can enjoy this colourful salad.

1. Man Fu Yuan @ InterContinental Singapore

Usher in the Year of the Rooster with an exquisitely crafted Yu Sheng.

The Fullerton Hotel
Address: 1 Fullerton Square, The Fullerton Hotel Singapore, S049178
Prices:
Jade’s Reunion Set Menu (Dine-in): from $68++ per person, for a 5-course menu.
Eight Happiness Gold Rush Yu Sheng (Takeaway): $94.16 (serves 6-8 pax) / $136.96 (serves 9-12 pax)
Available from 2 January to 11 February.
Tel: 6877 8911 / 8943
Email: [email protected]
Website: The Fullerton Hotel

4. Wan Hao Chinese Restaurant @ Singapore Marriott Tang Plaza Hotel

Looking for a unique Lo Hei gastronomic experience? Check out Wan Hao’s CNY menu for a list of exquisite prosperity Yu Shengs.

These salads include decadent options such as caviar, scallops, lobster, black truffle, and even a chicken bak-kwa flavour. Additional servings of salmon, tuna, scallop, abalone and lobster are available upon request.

Wan Hao Chinese Restaurant
Address: Singapore Marriott Tang Plaza Hotel Level 3, 320 Orchard Road, S238865
Prices: 
Caviar Yu Sheng: $258 (L)
Black Truffle Vegetarian or Chicken Bak-Kwah Yu Sheng: $68 (S) / $136 (L)
Sliced Abalone & Crispy Fish Skin Yu Sheng: $88 (S) / $176 (L)
Available from 9 January to 11 February for both takeaways and dine-ins.
Tel: 6831 4708
Website: Credit: Pan Pacific[/caption]

The Flourishing Wealth Reunion Yu Sheng, a Rooster-shaped platter, is the star of the show, featuring fresh Boston lobster, Norwegian salmon and surf clams.

Hai Tien Lo
Address: 7 Raffles Blvd, Level 3, Marina Square, Pan Pacific Singapore, Pan Pacific, S039595
Prices:  
Flourishing Wealth Reunion Yu Sheng: $88+ (serves 4-6 pax), $168+ (serves 7-10 pax)
Fortune Yu Sheng: $58+ (serves 4-6 pax), $98+ (serves 7-10 pax)
Available from 9 January to 8 February for both takeaways and dine-ins.
Tel: 6826 8240
Website: Hai Tien Lo

5. Goodwood Park Hotel Singapore

Perhaps you’re sick of the usual Yu Sheng. Why not try something fusion at Min Jiang, where they serve the popular Cantonese dish with wild arugula salad and a homemade creamy plum sauce?

7. Gourmet Carousel @ Royal Plaza on Scotts

Inspired by Singapore’s heritage, the Rice of the Phoenix Yu Sheng is a rendition of the iconic chicken rice dish.

[caption id="attachment_20918" align="alignnone" width="1024"] Credit:

Golden Peony
Address: Two Temasek Boulevard, Conrad Centennial Singapore, S038982
Price:
Fortune 3D Fiery Rooster Yu Sheng (Dine-In): $888.00++ (30 persons & above)
Fortune Salmon and Crispy White Bait (Takeaway): $68 (S) / $128 (L)
Fortune Abalone and Salmon (Takeaway): $98 (S) / $178 (L)
Fu Lo Shou Tri-star with Lobster, Abalone and Salmon (Takeaway): $118 (S) / $218 (L)
Available from 10 January to 11 February.
Tel: 6432 7482
Email: [email protected]
Website: 

Also, read NEWSFLASH: Beat the Jam to JB this Chinese New Year!

Savvy Local’s Guide: Fill Your Calendar To 15 Jan With These Must-Not-Miss Events!

Rise and shine, peeps! It’s time to add another resolution to your list, “to make 2017 the greatest year ever” (if you haven’t already done so). In keeping with that, our calendars are fully marked till 15 January and we’re GOOD TO GO!

Calendar of Events (1 – 15 January 2017)

1. Singapore Art Week 2017

The fifth edition of Singapore Art Week is back with a dazzling array of installations ranging from visual treats, exhibitions, art workshops, to tours and performances.

All this will be take place across art galleries, museums and exhibition spaces across the island.

Singapore Art Week 2017
When: 11 January 2017 – 22 January 2017
Where: Various venues
Explore: https://www.artweek.sg and Into The Looking Glass: A Local Exhibition You Must Not Miss!

2. Legend of the Moon 3D Musical

Known as the first 3D musical of its kind, the Legend of the Moon showcases the life, culture and art of the Dong people, a minority race in China.

3. Chinese New Year 2017 happenings at Chinatown

Usher in the year of the Rooster with a bang!

[caption id="attachment_20948" align="alignnone" width="740"]

[caption id="attachment_20945" align="alignnone" width="960"] 5. Pongal Festival 2017

With its name derived from the Tamil term “pongu”, meaning to “boil over” or “overflow”, this Tamil harvest festival is traditionally celebrated from 14 – 16 January in India.

[caption id="attachment_20949" align="alignnone" width="640"] 6. DIY Prosperity Yu Sheng With Vegan ‘Raw Fish’ Class

[caption id="attachment_21028" align="alignnone" width="800"] Eventbrite[/caption]

If raw fish was never your thing, there’s no better time than now to learn how to DIY this Yu Sheng dish. What’s best is, vegans can dig in too.

DIY Prosperity Yu Sheng With Vegan ‘Raw Fish’ Class
When: 14 January 2017, 10.30 am – 12 pm
Where: Mahota Commune, Kitchener Complex, Level 3, 809 French Road
Explore: Eventbrite – DIY Prosperity Yu Sheng with Vegan Raw Fish

7. Simply Organic Brunch (Cooking Class Series)

8. Thaipusam Festival 2017

Join throngs of devotees as they partake in a traditional kavadi ceremony

[caption id="attachment_20955" align="alignnone" width="3456"] 9. Art Stage 2017

[caption id="attachment_20960" align="alignnone" width="1600"] 10. PJ Harvey (Mosaic Music Series 2017)

Musician, poet and artist PJ Harvey started out two decades ago, earning numerous Grammy and Brit awards nominations along the way. That’s not all – the iconic master of all trades has also worked alongside Thom Yorke, Nick Cave, Björk and more.

[caption id="attachment_21026" align="alignnone" width="752"] Esplanade Mosaic Music Series[/caption]

Stopping over in Singapore for her international tour, she and her band present music from her latest release The Hope Six Demolition Project.

PJ Harvey
When: 13 January 2017, 8 pm – 9.15 pm
Where: Esplanade Theatre
Explore: Esplanade Mosaic Music Series 2017 – PJ Harvey 

11. Michelin Guide Local Chef Showcase: Chen Kentaro

In this fifth instalment of the Local Chef Showcase, pursue the legacy behind renowned Szechuan delicacies with 2-star Michelin chef Chen Kentaro.

Michelin Guide Local Chef Showcase: Chen Kentaro
When: 13 January 2017, 7 pm – 10 pm
Where: Shisen Hanten, 333 Orchard Road, Mandarin Orchard Singapore
Explore: Eventbrite – Michelin Guide Local Chef Showcase (Chen Kentaro)

12. CNY Japanese Sake Warehouse Sale

Ready for a tipple or two, or heaven forbid, three?

[caption id="attachment_21031" align="alignnone" width="650"] Eventbrite – CNY Japanese Sake Warehouse Sale

If you thought this was all, well… We’re right smack in the middle of the Singapore Biennale which winds up on 26 February.

On top of that, Mulan the Musical is currently in full swing at the Resorts World Theatre till 5 February. Now, the countdown begins… Here’s to ticking off these unmissable activities on your bucket list!

Header image credits: Blacklimosg

Also, read Into The Looking Glass: A Local Exhibition You Must Not Miss!

6 Best Places For A Customised Burger So You Can Really Have It Your Way

Have you ever pulled out a certain ingredient from your burger because you didn’t like it? Or felt disappointed because the burger didn’t match up to your expectations or was just different from the description? Well, these are legit burger woes and we identify with you. For that, we’ve found the prefect solution: our own customised burger!

Everyone has preferences and we will always want our food to be done to our liking. So, here’s a list of 6 places where we can enjoy a customised burger. Hurray to picking and choosing our own buns, vegetables (if any), meat or fish, toppings, and sauce!

1. The Burger Joint

Come try what some people call the ‘Best Burger in New York City’ in Singapore.

Tucked away at the back in Gemmill Lane, this burger joint is literally what it is: The Burger Joint.

Do it like the Americans and chug down some milkshakes while you have a taste of your very own customised burger. You’ll be able to choose the level of doneness for your patty, toppings like lettuce or pickles, and sauces like mustard or ketchup, and more!

2. Brewerkz

Unique hand-made craft beer and awesome burgers. Need we say more?

[caption id="attachment_20638" align="alignnone" width="800"] Image Credit: Hungry Go Where[/caption]

Here at Brewerkz, beer goes hand in hand with almost everything on their menu.

Try your hand at the Bistro and Brewhouse Build Your Own Burger and pair it with a beer of your choice. Choose from a variety of toppings like Blue Cheese, Sauteed Onions, Bacon or Beer Chilli to name a few for your very own customised burger.

Known for their home brewed beer, Brewerkz serves up beer that you’ll surely enjoy with your food. If you’re looking to create a spicy customised burger for example, the Iguana Lager will be splendid with it.

Brewerkz
Prince range: $20- $50
Website here
Outlets here 

3. Roadhouse

Wagyu beef burger? Cue Roadhouse, a burger joint at Dempsey that you’ll be desperate to try once we tell you what’s on the menu.

Beef lovers can rejoice as Roadhouse offers premium Japanese Wagyu Beef as one of their three patty options. Non-beef eaters need not fret as Roadhouse also offers two equally good alternatives: Cajun-Spiced Chicken and Chunky Pork Belly.

There are rules when it comes to ordering at Roadhouse and that is to keep your toppings below $6. Choose from a variety like Jalapeno Peppers, Caramalised Onions, Garlic Mayonnaise and the odd Baconnaise to name a few.

Roadhouse
13 Dempsey Road, Singapore 249674
Tel: 6476 2922
Website Credit: Image Credit: Smitthankyou[/caption]

Only 3 kinds of meat are offered at Burger Up and they are beef, chicken and fish. Like the meat, three types of buns are available. The joint though, offers interesting sauces. Think oriental, citrus and black pepper mayonnaise to slather on your burger.

Not keen on customising? Burger Up also serves up their own house burgers along with rice sets.

We wouldn’t suggest picky eaters to visit due to the limited choice of meat and bun types. However, if you’re a fan of simplicity then Burger Up is definitely up your street.

Burger Up
Price range: $6- $13 (Depending on what you order)
Website 5. Fatboy’s The Burger Bar

Head back to the days of retro dining with a modern twist.

Trust us when we say you’re going to have a hard time deciding exactly what you want because Fat Boy’s has a whopping 25 toppings and 11 sauces for you to choose from. There are 4400 possible combinations so customise away!

Not in the mood to DIY? Fret not as Fatboy’s also offers great mains. Take on the Fat Basterd which comes with 2 beef chuck patties or Maholo which comes with a bacon stuffed pork patty. Sides like Beer Battered Onion Rings and Jalapeno Poppers are also some unique offerings by the burger joint.

Fatboy’s The Burger Bar
Price range: $30 – $50
Website

If this joint sounds really familiar, it’s probably because it has the same name as Fatboy’s. Started by The Muttons (DJs on Class 95FM) and co-owner of Fatboy’s is The Burger Bar where only whatever you want matters.

Despite being touted as the cheaper version of Fatboy’s due to the fact that only yours and a few basic burgers are on the menu, The Burger Bar doesn’t skimp on quality. It provides the same number of toppings (25), sauces (11), and types of buns and patties you can choose from. A cheaper alternative with equally good standards? Yes please!

Ordering is absolutely fuss-free with iPads made available at the counter.

The Burger Bar
Price range: $10- $30
Website Image Credit: Odyssey[/caption]

Header Image Source: The Garden Mall

Also, read 5 Fast Food Restaurants So Pretty You’ll Want To Spend Your Dates Here

Huat Ah! 8 Restaurants To Book For Your CNY Reunion Dinner 2017!

That’s right, it’s that time of the year. Christmas and New Year have barely passed and here you are, planning for another big family gathering – CNY reunion dinner. Tables at the ever-popular restaurants are definitely filling up and you are starting to feel the heat. Why does Chinese New Year have to be so darn close to Christmas!?

Well have no fear, because obviously, we are here to save you from the festive stress (as much as we can). Whether you’re looking to book a restaurant or are in search of one that’s different from the usual go-to restaurants, listed below are eight restaurants to host your CNY reunion dinner at!

1. Tiffany Café & Restaurant

Situated at Furama City Centre is Source: Singsaver[/caption]

At $59.80++ for lunch and $69.80++ for dinner, embark on a gastronomical journey and indulge in festive dishes such as Braised Eight Treasures Chicken in Claypot and Torched Pacific Wrasse with Ebiko Wasabi Hollandaise & Chili Thread.

Enjoy a slate of discounts that include 20% off the first reunion seating (5.30pm – 7.30pm) and 30% off the second reunion dinner seating (8pm – 10.30pm). What’s more, there is a one-for-one credit card promotion running from 16^th January – 11^th February 2017! (excluding dinner on 27^th January). How awesome is this?

Tiffany Café & Restaurant
Address: Furama City Centre, 60 Eu Tong Sen Street, S059804
Tel: 6531 5366
Email: [email protected]

2. Mitzo

Located at Grand Park Orchard is Source: Mitzo[/caption]

Besides the popular Pearls of Prosperity Kanpachi Kigfish Yu Sheng, pamper your family with the Prawn/Lobster Grouper Fortune Pot, Lobster Fried Rice with Pork Liver & Preserved Sausage and Fish Maw Soup with Pumpkin, Bamboo Pith & Chicken. The CNY reunion dinner menu will be available from 14^th January to 11^th February 2017.

Do also take the opportunity to sample Mitzo’s artisanal cocktails such as the Spring Blossom, a smoky and sweet mescal cocktail.

Mitzo
Address: Level 4 Grand Park Orchard, 270 Orchard Rd S 238857
Tel: 6603 8855
Email: [email protected]

 3. Ban Heng

With five outlets in Singapore, Source: Ban Heng[/caption]

This year, Ban Heng Group offers a mouth watering Reunion Dinner Set menu that features dishes such as the Salmon Yu Sheng, Suckling Pig, Herbal Chicken and Wok-Fried Spare Ribs. Indulge in this reunion feast at a price ranging from $498 to $998 for a family of ten!

CNY reunion dinner on 27 January is available with two seatings from 5.30pm to 10pm.

Ban Heng
For locations and contact information for a specific outlet, click 4. Yan

Fans of Cantonese cuisine would have heard of this one. Located at the iconic National Gallery Singapore, Signature Shun De Style Yu Sheng with Yellowtail Fish & Golden Flakes
Source: Yan[/caption]

At prices from $118++ to $268++ per individual, indulge in dishes such as the Signature Yellowtail Fish Yusheng with Golden Flakes, the new Doubled-boiled Chicken Soup with Black Garlic Sea Whelk and the return of the popular Danggui Roast Duck and succulent Baked Half Lobster with Supreme Stock.

Prices may seem a little steep but for Yan, we’d say it’s worth the splurge. Yan’s CNY menus are available for lunch and dinner, from 9^th January to 11^th February 2017. Two reservation slots for dinner at 5.30pm and 8.15pm are available on Chinese New Year Eve.

Yan
Address: National Gallery, 1 St Andrew’s Road #05-02, S178957
Tel: 6382 5585
Email: [email protected]

5. Moi Lum

A traditional Chinese restaurant that is almost a decade old, Source: Openrice.com[/caption]

In light of Chinese New Year, Moi Lum has provided three (not very) different menus to cater to the size of your company. At ($80+/pax, $388+/6pax, $568+/10pax), indulge in dishes such as the Prosperity Abalone, Sautéed Broccoli with Scallops & Prawns, Braised Shark’s Fin Soup with Crab Meat and of course, the Majestic Roast Chicken.

Available from 18^th January to 27^th January 2017, the menu is available for both lunch and dinner. Lunch will be held from 11.30am – 3.30pm, whilst dinner will consist of two seatings; 6pm – 7.50pm and 8pm – 10pm.

Moi Lum
Address: 38 Maxwell Road S069116
Tel: 6226 2283
Email: [email protected]

6. Xi Yan Shaw Singapore

Hailing from Hong Kong is the much-acclaimed Roasted Herbal Chicken
Source: Xi Yan Shaw Singapore[/caption]

For really affordable rates, you’ll get to enjoy dishes such as its signature Prosperity Yu Sheng, Roasted Lychee Duck, Stewed Pork Belly in Sour Plum & Black Vinegar Sauce and Fried Pork Trotter Chestnut Bee Hoon.

Needless to say, Xi Yan Shaw Singapore enjoys overwhelming popularity during Chinese New Year so we’d start making our reservation now if we were you. Do note that Xi Yan Shaw Singapore will be closed on 28^th and 29^th January 2017. 

Xi Yan Shaw Singapore
Address: Shaw Centre, 1 Scotts Road #03-12/13, S228208
Tel: 6733 3476
Email: [email protected]

7. Golden Peony

Award-winning Chinese restaurant  Roast London Duck
Source: Golden Peony[/caption]

At $1198++ for a table of ten, enjoy an eight-course meal with dishes such as the Signature Roast London Duck, Fortune Glutinous Rice with Assorted Chin ese Sausages and Fried Nian Gao with Sweet Potato and Yam.

Looking to accommodate a smaller company? Golden Peony offers another option where you get to enjoy dishes including the Fortune Salmong Yu Sheng, Braised Pork Kunckle served with Seasonal Vegetables and Steam Nian Gao with Coconut Flakes at $100++ per person.

The CNY menu will be available for both lunch and dinner, from 10^th January to 11^th February 2017.

Golden Peony
Address: Conrad Centennial Hotel Level 3, 2 Temasek Boulevard, S038983
Tel: 6432 7482
Email: [email protected]

8. Jade

If you’re looking for an elegant, minimalistic restaurant that serves great food, Jade at The Fullerton is your answer.

At $68+ per person, you’ll get to enjoy a 5-course menu consisting of a medley of gourmet plates. Start off with the Eight Happiness Gold Rush Yusheng, served on a platter with the cutest rooster accompanied by raw salmon slices, house-made champagne jelly and drizzles of olive oil and pineapple dressing.

After which, tuck into the Poached Cockscomb-shaped Chicken Dumplings, Stewed Chicken and Crab Meat Duo with Red Wine and Chinese Wine in Claypot, where the Chef Leong Chee Yeng showcases his Cantonese rendition of the Surf and Turf.

Jade
Address: The Fullerton Hotel, 1 Fullerton Square S049178
Tel: 68778188

So there you have it, crisis averted. Of course, with just three weeks left to go, we highly recommend you to get started on those reservations because whilst we can help, we cannot ensure a table for you.

Also, read The Prosperity Burger IS FINALLY BACK!

5 Fast Food Restaurants So Pretty You’ll Want To Spend Your Dates Here

Who remembers the secondary school days of having dates at fast food chains? With a packet of fries to share with your girlfriend or boyfriend while chatting about nothing, the classic fast food date will have you reminisce the good old days.

You can now relive the beautiful memories of bonding over burgers and fries again, as we have collated a list of 5 gorgeous fast food restaurants with stunning interior designs. This list will have you brimming with date ideas for you and your significant other.

1. Super Loco

Against the picturesque Robertson Quay lies a gem that serves hearty Mexican street food.

Teal countertops, wooden furniture with tinges of bright summer colours, and neon lightings on the walls – Super Loco is definitely hard to miss.

Loud splashes of orange, mint, and yellow colours in the store show the liveliness and warmth of Mexican culture, tacos anybody?

Be prepared to feast on a wide array of traditional Mexican food, from esquites to tortas. For late-risers – Super Loco has extended it weekend brunch menu to 3:30pm, so head down for authentic Mexican cuisines!

Super Loco
Address: 60 Robertson Quay, #01-13 THE QUAYSIDE, The Quayside, Singapore 238252
Operating hours: Monday to Friday, 5pm – 10:30pm; Saturday to Sunday, 10am – 3:30pm (lunch) and 5pm – 12am (dinner)
Website:  Credit: Hungry Ang Mo[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_19750" align="aligncenter" width="1600"] Credit: Ching Yi Cheng[/caption]

The simple industrial design of the restaurant carries an ambience of class and elegance, while the spots of greenery tie closely with their vegetarian menu.

[caption id="attachment_19767" align="aligncenter" width="800"] Credit: Indefinite Adventure[/caption]

With the tagline “Think Fast Food is Junk Food? Think Again”, VeganBurg caters not only to vegetarians, but also customers who will like to try out a healthier version of fast food.

VeganBurg
Address: 44 Jalan Eunos, Singapore 419502
Operating hours: Monday-Sunday and Public Holidays: 11:30am – 10pm (last order 9:45pm)
Website:  Credit: RUNNINGMAN from Hungrygowhere[/caption]

The slanted ceilings, wooden furnishing, coupled with white brick walls bring to mind countryside farmhouses.

[caption id="attachment_19752" align="aligncenter" width="640"] Credit: Cavin Teo[/caption]

Chic-a-boo is the place for you and your partner if you love indulging in fried chicken served up with hearty mashed potatoes, fries, and their special corn muffins.

[caption id="attachment_19806" align="aligncenter" width="2048"] Credit: Chic-a-boo Facebook Page[/caption]

Chic-a-boo Fried Chicken
Addresses: 

1. 4 Hillview Rise HILLV2 #02-12 Singapore 669554 (Tel: +65 6710 5605)
2. Marina Square #03-147/148 Singapore 039594 (Tel: +65 6837 100)
3. Sembawang Shopping Centre #01-02 Singapore 758459 (Tel: +65 6570 8766)
4. Viva Business Park 750 Chai Chee Road, #01-31 Singapore 469000 (Tel: +65 6243 0032)

Operating hours: Daily, 11:30am – 11pm
Website: Chic-a-boo Fried Chicken Facebook Page

4. Fatboy’s The Burger Bar (Orchard)

The strong red, black, and white palette screams nothing but bold. With burgers’ names spanning from “Fat Basterd” to “Wimpy”, this burger joint is definitely not for the faint-hearted.

Opened in 2009, Fatboy’s The Burger Bar is a local burger joint that has a BYOB (Build Your Own Burger) feature, where you and your partner can put your creativity to use and come with your own burger combination. According to the restaurant, there are 4400 different combinations in total!

Fatboy’s The Burger Bar
Address: 38 Orchard Road, Singapore 63373834
Operating hours: 12pm – 11pm
Website: 5. McDonalds’s JEM

This traditional fast food joint is where many couples go to for their burger and fries fix or the classic Vanilla Cone. What’s so special about this McDonald’s outlet that makes it date-worthy though?

Beside the entrance on the second floor of this McDonald’s outlet lies a staircase, hiding a gem unknown to many.

Once you’ve climbed up the flight of stairs and reached the top, you will see a garden perfect for a McDonald’s date.

[caption id="attachment_19757" align="aligncenter" width="2816"] Credit: Goh Jia Xuan[/caption]

The roof garden overlooks the Jurong East MRT station, lending one a moment of peace amongst the hubbub of Jurong, which is known for its crazy human traffic.

[caption id="attachment_19756" align="aligncenter" width="2816"] Credit: Goh Jia Xuan[/caption]

Grab your burger and fries and escape to this secret garden.

McDonald’s JEM Address: 50 Jurong Gateway Road, #01-63, #02-55, JEM, Singapore 608549
Operating hours: 24 hours
Website: McDonald’s

The classic fast food dates will always bring us back to the good old days. Armed with this list, you will never find you and your significant other troubled over coming up with novel date ideas. With such a wide variety to choose from, who says fast food chain restaurants are not perfect for date places?

Header Image Source: 9 Unique And Romantic Date Ideas That Will Have You Falling In Love All Over Again

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

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

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

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

1. Ri Ri Hong Mala Xiang Guo

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

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

The Prosperity Burger IS FINALLY BACK!

McDonald’s has always been a go-to comfort food for Singaporeans. Convenient, affordable, and always consistent in great taste, McDonald’s has hundreds of outlets all over the island so that we can get our fix anywhere.

While we love the McSpicy, the French Fries, and of course the curry sauce, what we love best about McDonald’s are the special promotions! From Twister Fries to the exclusive Hello Kitty plushies, McDonald’s keeps us constantly salivating (and queuing) when it comes to their exciting new offerings!

Chinese New Year Decadence

Chinese New Year is upon us and that can only mean one thing… THE PROSPERITY BURGER IS BACK!

Blessing us with its yearly appearance once again, the Prosperity Burger has become a favourite among Singaporeans, many of whom wish that it isn’t just a time-limited menu item.

Because really, what’s not to love about the Prosperity Burger?Dipped in a generous serving of fragrant black pepper sauce, the succulent grilled beef or chicken patty is topped with slivered onions and served in-between soft sesame seed buns.

What’s a meal without a little appetizer on the side? The long-awaited Twister Fries also makes its come back this festive season! Lightly coated with the right amount of seasoning, it’s no wonder that the Twister Fries is a crowd-favourite.

Not just the Twister Fries, this new year, McDonald’s is spoiling us with even more exiting food. Complete your meal with a set of sweet and savoury BBQ Drumlets. Available in 2 and 10 piece options, these juicy mini drumlets will have you fighting with your meal buddies for more!

Ending the meal on a sweet note, McDonald’s also offer Gula Melaka McFlurry with Rainbow Bites, that hits all the right spots in the most local way ever. This limited-time-only treat gives that extra bit of sweetness that goes oh-so-well with the classic vanilla ice-cream. Topped off with Rainbow Bites, this dessert is the perfect end to a satisfying meal!

So one thing’s for sure – we are super excited about Chinese New Year already, and we can’t wait to lay out hands on the new Prosperity Burger after one full year!

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

It’s Never Too Late For A Decadent New Year’s Eve Feast At FOO’D by Davide Oldani!

The New Year’s weekend is upon us, and everyone is already gearing up for a long weekend of gatherings and the oncoming slew of treats.

However, while most would have already made plans for New Year’s Eve dinner weeks ago, there are some of us who are…busier (*ahem* procrastinators), and are still on the look out for a spot to indulge in a year end feast.

Don’t fret! We’ve found an elegant restaurant that will be serving up some mouthwatering and decadent eats this festive season!

FOO’D by Davide Oldani

Located within the iconic Victoria Theatre, FOO’D by Davide Oldani serves modern European fare. Fusing tradition with innovation, the food at FOO’D by Davide Oldani strikes the perfect balance between simple and refined.

Founded upon the principles of Cucina POP, which simultaneously means “for everyone” and “belonging to everyone”, the menu at FOO’D was conceptualized by Italian celebrity Chef Davide Oldani.

Chef owner of Michelin-starred D’O in Cornaredo, Italy, Oldani strives to blur the lines between fine dining with accessibility, and tradition with innovation.

Hazelnut And Lambrusco Sorbet Dessert

Chef Davide Oldani’s hazelnut and lambrusco sorbet dessert is a testament to his creative culinary journey. Pairing hazelnut, lambrusco sorbet, and popcorn, this impeccable dessert showcases Oldani’s gift for intertwining complementary textures in his dishes.

The satisfying crunch of popcorn matches well with the refreshing and slightly sweet lambrusco sorbet. A unique and decadent culinary creation, this modern dessert is the perfect end to a decadent meal at FOO’D!

Oldani’s Marsala And Truffle Risotto

Looking for something a tad more traditional?

Then Oldani’s risotto is a must-have!

Crafted with handmade sourdough breadcrumbs, peppercorn, Marsala and Umbrian truffle, the risotto has the rich creaminess of a perfectly cooked risotto.

With a dash of vinegar and the underlying touch of sweetness from the Marsala, Oldani’s risotto is an innovative culinary creation that is a must-have for any self-proclaimed food connoisseur.

The sleek and modern interior that diners at FOO’D enjoy alongside their meal is also due in part to Oldani dabbling in industrial design.

Seeking to make every diners’ experience comfortable, Oldani has utilized innovative flatware such as wine glasses with one rim set higher than the other, allowing diners to not only fully appreciate the full bouquet of the wine but maintain eye contact with their partners as well. An overall elegant and comfortable dining experience, FOO’D puts diners’ needs at the forefront.

New Year’s Eve isn’t complete without a mouthwatering decadent feast. Tagged at $158++ and $188++ for its 5 and 7 course New Year’s Eve Dinner Menu, end your 2016 right with FOOD’s by Davide Oldani decadent feast.

So experience a culinary adventure with loved ones at FOO’D by Davide Oldani, as you indulge in modern European fare that pushes the boundaries and tantalizes the taste buds!

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Also Read: Dessert Buffets In Singapore: So You Can Gorge On Ice Cream, Cakes & Chocolate!

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

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

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

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

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

1. Curry Fish Head

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

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

Where to get: Ocean Fish Head Curry
Address: No. 181 Telok Ayer Street, Singapore 068629
Opening hours: Mon to Fri 10.30am – 3pm, 5pm – 8.30pm; Sat 10.30am – 3pm (Close on Sun & PH)
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Think fried egg tofu served atop a large fried egg. It comes topped with an assortment of vegetables, such as sliced carrots, cauliflower and mushrooms. The entire dish is then completely covered in thick bubbly gravy that includes minced meat, oyster sauce and chilli bean paste.

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

3. Mee Rebus

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

3. Prawn Paste Chicken Wings (Har Cheong Gai)

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

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

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

5. Putu Mayam

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

6. Chilli Crab

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

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

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

9. Sugee Cake

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

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

A Look Back At 2016: 7 Food Trends That Got Singaporeans Queuing

As true blue Singaporeans, we are definitely no strangers to crazy long queues. And by crazy, we mean queues lasting for a good 2 hours and more. Year after year, we see them forming. Year after year, we joined them. Now that 2016 is coming to an end, let’s do a quick round-up on the food trends that got us voluntarily joining the queues.

1. Michelin-Starred Hawker Stalls

Earlier in July, when two hawker stalls were awarded a Michelin star each, we witnessed people of all ages chiong down in throngs to try their food.

Who wouldn’t, if it means getting to taste Michelin-approved food for less than $5?

Hong Kong Soya Sauce Chicken Rice and Noodle at Chinatown Food Complex dishes out its famous chicken rice at $2 per plate. Even its most expensive dish, the Pork Ribs Rice, is priced at $3.

At Crawford Lane, the other Michelin-starred Hill Street Tai Hwa Pork Noodle also saw long queues forming. Singaporeans wanted to have a go at their $5 bowl of Bak Chor Mee.

We Singaporeans know our stuff. When we see good deals like this, we flock down like birds, even if it means queuing for hours in the heat.

Also, read The Full List Of Michelin Guide Singapore 2016 – How Many Have You Tried?

2. Salted Egg Yolk Anything and Everything

Remember that period of time, when almost every other food item seemed to be infused with salted egg yolk? Even McDonald’s had hopped on the bandwagon.

Salted egg yolk croissant, salted egg yolk chips, salted egg yolk lava toast… the list goes on.

Snaking queues in eateries, bakeries and even coffee shops became a common sight when the salted egg yolk craze was at its peak. And we reckon it will still be that way in the new year ahead.

Also, read 6 Seriously Addictive Salted Egg Yolk Snacks You Must Try In SG!

3. Cheese Tarts

The cheese tart trend started when Hokkaido based BAKE opened its first store in Singapore in April.

With its signature yellow box, this is a brand most cheese lovers are familiar with. Yet eating BAKE cheese tarts do not come easy at all. It comes at the expense of having to queue for more than 2 hours for them.

In its heyday, cheese tarts were the rage. Even neighbourhood bakeries jumped on the bandwagon and hawked cheese tarts. Prominent bakeries like BreadTalk and Prima Deli created their own versions of the cheese tart too.

Perhaps there is just something about that measured sweetness of fluffy cheese atop a flavourful crust that draws in the crowd.

Also, read BAKE Cheese Tart Continues Singapore Invasion At Its Second Outlet In Westgate Mall!

4. Themed Cafés

The feverish craze for cutesy cartoon characters seemed to have translated to widespread popularity in their themed cafes as well.

When Hello Kitty Café first opened at Changi Airport in May, more than 100 people waited to enter, queuing for two hours or more just to get inside.

Sounds long? Wait till we get to Pokemon.

At Pokemon Cafe’s first opening, which was also in May, fans of Pokemon had to wait for as long as 5 hours just to enter the café.

Yet the most amazing thing is, 5 hours was not any form of deterrence at all.

The latest themed café to open its doors to customers with much fanfare is the Gudetama Café.

Queues stretched for up to 2 hours and are expected to remain this way for the upcoming few months at least.

5. Tai Cheong Bakery

Famous for its egg tarts and other pastries, Tai Cheong Bakery, a renowned Hong Kong brand, made its way onto Singapore shores in mid-November.

With a dine in-concept introduced, it has become common for customers to queue for close to 2 hours to get seats. Yet the crowd just keeps growing.

At a slightly pricey cost of $1.90 per egg tart, egg tart lovers have no qualms about waiting in line to have a taste of the buttery crust that is all the rage in Hong Kong.

6. Froyo

It all started with Llao Llao, queues were formed for a cup of frozen yogurt with toppings that cost $6.95. With that, new players entered the fray.

Kokopanda serves your regular froyo, but with a twist. It has a new product called Black Yogo Frozen Yoghurt, which is made from edible activated charcoal as well as roasted coconut husk.

This latest innovation to the frozen yoghurt family has led to long queues for froyo stores once again and it certainly does not look like it’s going to become a dying trend anytime soon.

7. Man Man Japanese Unagi Restaurant

Unagi may not have caught on with Singaporeans quite as well as some other items on this list, but this sweet Japanese eel looks like it has the potential to become something big.

Man Man Japanese Unagi Restaurant opened in October this year to healthy crowds and looks set to maintain its strong customer base. Perhaps it might even become a trend of 2017.

Now that we have looked back on the food trends that got us voluntarily joining long queues in 2016, perhaps it is time to take a step back for a quick reflection. Which of these queues resulted in a new experience and were worth our time?

Come 2017, a host of new food options may take our country by storm. But how many of 2016’s trends will remain? Will froyo continue to evolve in 2017 and become more popular? Will our love for cheese tarts disappear?

Whatever it is, I am sure we can all agree that Singaporeans know no boundaries when it comes to food. The amount of time and money that we are willing to spend on food trends is astounding, but at least we can be comforted that our F&B industry will continue to thrive even in a slowing economy.

Also, read Serious Foodies Only: Here Are The Best Restaurants In Singapore For 2016!