6 Affordable Japanese Buffets So You Can Gorge On Fresh Sashimi!

With free flow of fresh sashimi and more, who can resist Japanese buffets? Though some restaurants at hotels charge exorbitant prices for a buffet, we’ve found 6 places where you don’t need to spend a bomb.

Here’s our list of affordable and good Japanese buffets to indulge in. At the same time, you don’t have to burn a hole in your pockets!

1. Shin Minori Japanese Restaurant

[caption id="attachment_9068" align="alignnone" width="800"]shiminori Image credit: sethlui[/caption] [caption id="attachment_9093" align="alignnone" width="800"]shiminori Image credit: sethlui[/caption]

Tucked away at a corner of UE Square’s Level 3, Shin Minori offers high quality Japanese buffet at an affordable price. Diners can enjoy their meal watching sushi chefs prepare sashimi and sushi while sitting at an open sushi bar. Alternatively, opt for a window seat with views to Robertson Quay area.

There’s a wide range of fresh sashimi, sushi, maki, yakitori, teppanyaki and many more. If you are looking for a private gathering with some privacy, call them to book their private rooms. They have 2 adjourning table sitting rooms which can accomodate 12 pax in each room and also a tatami room that can sit a total of 12 pax for a cosy setting.

irodori jap restaurant Image credit: burpple[/caption] [caption id="attachment_9094" align="alignnone" width="695"]irodori jap restaurant Image credit: Irodori[/caption]

With many positive reviews from customers, Irodori Japanese Restaurant in Riverview Hotel consistently draws crowd for their fresh seafood and selection of over 100 dishes. Prepared by skilful chefs, the restaurant only uses fresh seafood from Australia, New Zealand, Norway and Europe.  They serve appetisers, sashimi, sushi, teppanyaki, tempura and many more.

Three private rooms that sit 8, 10 and 12 are available for your business meetings or for some private family time. Be sure to make reservations as this restaurant may be packed even on a weekday!

(Selegie Road)
Price: $36.80++ (Adult); $23++ (children under 10 years old)
Address: 1 Selegie Road, #01-14/15 POMO, Singapore 188306
Contact: 65 6337 7230 
Opening Hours: Daily 1130am-2.30pm; 6.00pm-10.30pm

3. Ikoi Japanese Restaurant

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Ikoi Japanese Restaurant Image credit: misstamchiak[/caption] [caption id="attachment_9104" align="alignnone" width="1024"]Ikoi Japanese Restaurant Image credit: misstamchiak[/caption]

Located just opposite Riverview Hotel lies another affordable yet delightful Japanese buffet. Ikoi Japanese Restaurant is located in the lobby of Hotel Miramar. This small and cosy restaurant keeps diners happy with an extensive selection of fresh Japanese cuisine.

Simple, no-frills and usually full house, this restaurant is highly popular and recommended for its buffet. To keep customers happy while they wait for their food to be served, Ikoi serves complimentary side dishes from salmon sashimi to Japanese teapot soup. On their menu, the fresh cuts of sashimi and wide selection of tempura dishes are the most popular.

It’s best to make reservations at least 1 week in advance.

momiji sethlui Image credit: sethlui[/caption] [caption id="attachment_9106" align="alignnone" width="682"]momiji Image credit: sethlui[/caption]

Be spoilt with endless servings of snowcrabs, oysters, Häagen-Daz ice cream and free-flow Sapporo Beer at Momiji! With a wide range of quality Japanese cuisine, you probably won’t be able to try every item in a single visit. You can even make your own waffles at their DIY waffle stations!

The servers at Momiji are quick and attentive. Plates are cleared quickly to make room for more food. If you are looking for an intimate dining space, do book their private rooms available at their Revenue House outlet. Be sure to arrive at 6.30pm for their free-flow beer which lasts till 7.30pm!

6509 1193
Opening Hours: Mon-Fri 12pm-3pm (Lunch); Mon-Thu 6pm-10pm (Dinner); Sat, Sun, Eve of PH, PH 11.30am-3.30pm (Brunch); Fri-Sun, Eve of PH, PH 5.30pm-10pm (Dinner)

6253 2469
Opening Hours: Daily 5.30pm-10pm (Dinner); Sat, Sun, Eve of PH, PH 11.30am-3.30pm (Brunch)

5. Senki Japanese Restaurant

[caption id="attachment_9109" align="alignnone" width="640"]senki Japanese restaurant Image credit: burpple[/caption]

Located right in the heart of the city, yet away from the hustle and bustle, Senki serves up a wide range of dishes for its buffet menu. With many items available on their menu (138 items to be exact), it would be best to skip lunch if you are coming for dinner.

Priced reasonably, the service at Senki is efficent. This is the place to go if you are looking to unwind and have an unhurried meal in the city.

himawari japanese restaurant Image credit: burpple[/caption]

Hidden in a low-rise office complex in Alexandra, the restaurant is surprisingly crowded at 8pm on a weekday. Premium sashimi cuts including swordfish, yellowtail and tuna are fresh and melt in your mouth! Not only do they serve the usual sushi, maki and tempura, but diners are also able to have a shabu shabu or sukiyaki hotpot. There is also teppanyaki at their Alexandra outlet too! With such a wide variety of over 150 items, including appetizers to desserts, this is definitely a spot worth returning for more! Check out their menu  (Alexandra)
Price: Lunch $41.80++; Dinner $45.80 (Mon to Thu), Lunch $44.80++; Dinner $48.80 (Fri-Sun, Eve of PH & PH), Lunch/Dinner $30.80 (Child), Lunch/Dinner $33.80 (Adult above 65 yrs old)
Address: 991B Alexandra Rd, #01-08/09, Singapore 119970
Contact: 65 6272 1110
Opening Hours:  11.30am-2.30pm; 6pm-10pm

For Dad – A Perfect Meal With Free-flow 48-Day Prime Rib & Beer

7 Best Eats You Must Try Along Tanjong Katong For That Great Meal

The Tanjong Katong neighbourhood is one with cafes and eateries spouting out relatively fast. Coupled with old school eateries and stalls, it’s an eclectic neighbourhood with a wide range of food options.

With its large residential crowd and people flocking from all parts of Singapore, it is undoubtedly a prime spot for cafe owners and eateries.

Well, the East has practically everything for food! Yes, we East siders do take our food very seriously. Do join us for a gastronomic tour down Tanjong Katong Road as bring you 7 best cheap eats all under $15.

1. Punggol Nasi Lemak

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Don’t be fooled by its name. Although this stall is named Punggol Nasi Lemak, it is located along Tanjong Katong Road. Though it is priced slightly highly than your usual plate of Nasi Lemak, you get to choose from a wide array of dishes.

What we recommend – their crispy chicken wings fried to perfection, crunchy on the outside and juicy on the inside; and their spicy Otah. Their French Beans fried with dried shrimps is also one of our must haves. For any Nasi Lemak dish, the sambal chilli is the most important condiment and we must say it is on point.

The queue starts as early as 6pm. Fret not, as their staff work quickly and it won’t take too long before it’s your turn (about 15 minutes). Each plate will cost from about $5 to $7 depending on what dishes you pick. Overall, its fried chicken wings and otahs undoubtedly win our hearts.

Punggol Nasi Lemak 
Address: 238 Tanjong Katong Rd, Singapore 437026
Tel:
65 6287 0020
Opening Hours: 5.30pm-2.30am, Closed on Thu

2. Eng’s Noodles House

Noddle House(image credit: wanton mee. This place has come a long way from the 1950s where it started out from a pushcart at Duku Road to a stall at Dunman Food Center and now a shophouse unit along Tanjong Katong Road.

Their noodles are custom made according to Eng’s specifications. Thicker than the usual wanton noodles, they’re springy and firm. Bottles of hot chilli sauce are also provided at each table. Their wontons, though smaller in size, are seriously addictive. Priced at $4.50 for a small bowl of wanton mee and $5.50 for a large one.

Tip: Order an extra plate of wonton (we prefer the non-fried version), you won’t regret it!

Eng’s Noodles House
Address: 287 Tanjong Katong Rd, Singapore 437070
Tel:
8688 2727
Opening Hours: Daily 11am-9pm

3. Little Ice Cream Kafe

[caption id="attachment_8419" align="alignnone" width="640"]Little Ice Cream Kafe Image credit: burpple[/caption]

Known as LICK in short, this homely ice cream palour is opened by a pair of sisters-in-law. Serving up 30 flavours ranging from the good old classics, zesty fruity flavours to local delights, this is the place to go for a late night ice cream fix!

Some of their best sellers include Gula Melaka, Sea Salt Caramel, and Mao Shan Wang. This place also makes really good crispy waffles which are fluffy and soft on the inside.

The cafe is quite small and it is difficult to get a seat on weekends as it is usually crowded. $3.30 for a single scoop, $5.30 for double scoop and approximately $10 for 2 scoops of ice cream and waffles.

Tip: Half-price for waffles every Tuesday. Free Wi-Fi available.


Address: 258 Tanjong Katong Rd, Singapore 437046
Tel:
65 
6440 8526
Opening Hours: Mon-Thu 1pm-11pm, Fri-Sat 12pm-12am

4. Maekhong Thai Cuisine

[caption id="attachment_8438" align="alignnone" width="640"]Basil Seafood Fried Rice Image credit: burpple[/caption]

If you’re looking for affordable and good Thai food, check out Maekhong Thai Cuisine. With over 100 dishes on the menu, Chef Kuan and his team cook for the Singaporean’s tastebuds while retaining the authenticity of each dish.

Try their Basil Seafood Fried Rice (pictured above) at $6.80 nett. A very affordable price for big pieces of squid, sliced fish and prawns. Their Pineapple Rice ($6.80) with lap cheong (chinese port sausage) is delectable to say the least. For the sweet tooth, order their Red Ruby or Mango Sticky Rice for the perfect end to a great meal.

Maekhong Thai Cuisine
Address: 228 Tanjong Katong Road, Singapore 437053
Tel:
65 6440 7714
Opening Hours: Mon-Fri 11am-3pm, 5-10.30pm, Sat-Sun 10am-10pm

5. Nan Xiang Chicken Rice

[caption id="attachment_8497" align="alignnone" width="800"]nan xiang chicken rice Image credit: yelp[/caption]

Nan Xiang Chicken Rice is the stall to visit if you are looking for some good chicken rice at Tanjong Katong. Located in a coffee shop along Tanjong Katong Road, this stall not only serves chicken rice but also the best char siew (cantonese roasted meat), roasted to perfection! Its char siew is done old school style – charred with fatty cuts. They also serve good roast duck and sio bak (crispy roast pork belly).

With quality food at affordable prices, this stall often gets crowded during meal times but it is well worth the waiting time for a good plate of chicken rice and char siew. A plate of chicken rice or char siew rice starts from $3.

Nan Xiang Chicken Rice 
Address: 271 Tanjong Katong Road, Singapore 437054
Tel:
65 6397 6823/ 9752 3448 (Jimmy)
Opening Hours: 9.30am-10pm, Closed on Tue

6. The Laneway Market

[caption id="attachment_8489" align="alignnone" width="800"]laneway market Image credit: foodiepink[/caption]

Located at a laneway (at Boscombe Road) off the busy Tanjong Katong Road lies a cosy cafe where people come together to enjoy good food. Serving up casual breakfasts to dinner mains, with speciality coffee and in-house baked pastries to go along, this cafe presents a welcoming atmosphere for its customers.

If you’d like to enjoy a chill out evening, drop by The Laneway Market. Its coffee, tea and desserts are decent with no extra GST or service charge. The cafe also provides free Wi-Fi and iced water. You can spend almost the whole day in the comforts of the cafe catching up with friends or work.

For the coffee lovers, try their Laneway Cuppa ($6), a special blend of Sumatran and Ethiopian beans infused with a shot of coconut essence. Their Earl Grey latte ($6) and cold brewed coffee are worthy of mention too. For the mains, we recommend their Laneway Carbonara – Bacon, Chipolatas, Sous Vide Egg ($15).

Whats more – download the Hollerout app and receive 10% discount with $40 min spent (code: DISCOVERSG).

The Laneway Market
Address: 266 Tanjong Katong Road, Singapore 437053
Tel:
65 6719 8832
Opening Hours: Wed-Sundays: 11am-930pm, Closed on Mon & Tue

7. Do.Main Bakery

Do Main(Image credit:
Address: 226 Tanjong Katong Road, Singapore 437015
Tel:
65 6348 1406
Opening Hours: Tue-Thu 8am-9pm, Fri-Sun 8am-10.30pm

With so much good and cheap food along Tanjong Katong Road, there’s no reason to procrastinate. Head down soon to explore the place!

For those driving to Tanjong Katong, parking may be difficult to find along the main road, but there is a big public carpark if you turn into the road just beside Caltex. If you know of any other affordable must eats at Tanjong Katong, do drop us a comment and let us know!

(Header image by Instagram user @howicworld, edited by writer)

Also read: Here’s An Ingenious Way To Easily Save 10% Off Your Dining Bills

Going To Singapore Coffee Festival? Here Are The Details You Need To Know

The very first Singapore Coffee Festival (SCF) is finally here at F1 Pit Building!

Set to take place from 10 to 12 June (11am-9pm), this three-day event boasts over 100 exhibitors from the coffee and cafe industry. If you want to learn how to make a decent cup of coffee at home, or want to sample top coffee roasts from around the word, this is your one stop shop!

But what else is happening and where to get tickets? Don’t worry, we’re here to answer your brewing questions.

1.Getting there

https://www.instagram.com/p/BGdnbNODtlh/?tagged=sgcoffeefest

To get to F1 Pit Building, you can take the MRT to Promenade (Exit A – 0.38KM to venue), Nicoll Highway (0.94 KM to venue) or Esplanade (0.98 KM to venue).

Alternatively, you can take the bus (click General: 1-day access, workshops and lab sessions, music stages, SCF tote bag full of goodies ($18)

  • Group: 4 General tickets ($44)
  • VIP 1 Day: 1-day access, VIP fast track entry, VIP lounge experience with complimentary cocktail and canapes, workshops and lab session, music stages, VIP SCF tote bag full of goodies ($43)
  • DBS/POSB Cardholders: same as general admission ($15)
  • DBS/POSB Cardholders (group): Same as group admission ($38)
  • DBS/POSB Cardholders (3 Days): 3 days access, workshops and lab sessions, music stages, SCF tote bag full of goodies ($28)
  • DBS/POSB Cardholders (VIP): Same as VIP admission ($38)
  • Grab your tickets now HERE. Do note that you need to bring the printed ticket as a proof of purchase to be exchanged for a spiffy non-transferable wristband at the venue entrance.

    Do note that the festival may be a ticketed event BUT drinks, food and certain workshops are chargeable (A cuppa coffee starts from as low as $4). 

    3. What to expect?

    https://www.instagram.com/p/BGdSHKnSxCu/?tagged=sgcoffeefest

    The festival promises to be an interactive multi-sensory experience and a platform to showcase local craftsmanship in speciality coffee, without forgetting Singapore’s unique and rich kopi heritage.

    You get to experience live on-site home barista challenge showcases, education talk sessions, local kopi showcase and have a chat with baristas, cafe owners, wholesale retailers and coffee lovers alike.

     4. What workshops are available?

    https://www.instagram.com/p/BGV9bjerjQf/

    A series of workshop ranging from Fundamental Barista Skills to Latte Art and even Coffee and Chocolate Pairing are available at the festival.

    If you’re one of those who wonder why you have to pay so much for a cup of coffee, we highly recommend you to check out the An Introduction to Specialty seminar. There’s also a Women In Coffee which piqued our interest. Click 5. Is the SCF ALL about coffee?

    https://www.instagram.com/p/BGdApWdDkwG/?tagged=sgcoffeefest

    https://www.instagram.com/p/BGdfktHq1lA/?taken-at=1029992736

    The Singapore Coffee Festival may be a celebration of coffee but there are non-coffee vendors as well.

    There’s Prana Chai from Melbourne, Amazin’ Graze with their amazingly healthy any yummy snacks, Boulangerie Asanoya (2 loaves of tea bread at $5!) and salted egg yolk chips from The Golden Duck.

    If you’re feeling hungry, fill up your tummy with some noms from Symmetry, The Coastal Settlement, The Hangar and top it all off with some delicate French pastries as dessert from Paul.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/BGcCIPnk4bi/?taken-at=1029992736

    F&B aside, ToTT store will also be having 20-30% discount on some of their kitchen items and the Jamie Oliver’s kitchen line can be found there too. Click On top of that, great music goes really well with a good cuppa coffee right? While you’re at it, don’t forget to catch performers such as Charlie Lim, Inch Chua, Cashew Chemist and many more. Click 6. On-site Facilities

    https://www.instagram.com/p/BGdOgWBKYvM/?taken-at=1029992736

    With the indoor air-conditioning and all that coffee, don’t worry, restrooms are available at the festival venue. Also, the festival takes place over multiple floors. For those who find it difficult to take the stairs, the F1 Pit Building has elevators to ensure access to both levels of event.

    7. Lastly, any recommendations?

    https://www.instagram.com/p/BGbBPWHP_PD/?taken-by=cshhcoffee

    Cold Brew lovers out there, you have to try Chye Seng Huat Hardware’s Bottled Cold Brew Coffee. It is only available at the festival and has a great rich flavour you won’t wanna miss.

    Looking for something warm with a kick? Check out Common Man Coffee Roasters for your pick me up cuppa.

    Singapore Coffee Festival
    Date: 10-12 June 2016
    Time: 11am- 9pm
    Venue: The F1 Pit Building
    Address: 1 Republic Boulevard, 038975
    Website:
    SG Coffee Fest

    For Dad – A Perfect Meal With Free-flow 48-Day Prime Rib & Beer

    Tucked away on the seventh floor of the one-year-old Park Hotel Alexandra, The Carvery can be best described as a classy and quiet restaurant that doesn’t scrimp on quality. A restaurant that will definitely wow Dad’s tummy this Father’s Day (19 June).

    Walking in, instead of the usual suspects from soda machines to thinly-sliced salmon sashimi, you’ll find high-quality appetite-whetting salad starters like Greek Beets with Feta Cheese, roasted sweet potatoes and figs, and charred okra with tomato, garlic and preserved lemon. Even the freshest seafood is available from blue swimmer crabs to chilled tiger prawns to Canadian black mussels to white clams and others.

    [caption id="attachment_9076" align="alignnone" width="700"]salad Well-stocked salad bar with fresh olives[/caption] [caption id="attachment_9077" align="alignnone" width="700"]White clams with chardonnay White clams with chardonnay[/caption]

    While the greens are nutritious, and the seafood delicious, most diners head to  The Carvery for their premium meats. After all, The Carvery is most well-known for its signature roasts, from Beef Prime Rib that seduces with a rosy pink centre to a delightfully juicy New Zealand Roasted Leg of Lamb to the crispy Pork Knuckle with Crackling, and a well-marinated Rotisserie Chicken.

    chef1

    Just next to the meats – if you can take your eyes away from the aromatic roasts for just a second – is a rack of condiments and sauces. Although the myriad of sauces, butters and salts may intimidate some of us, don’t hesitate to ask the friendly chef on standby what you should pick to go along with the meats you have selected.

    [caption id="attachment_9080" align="alignnone" width="700"]Beautifully and exquisitely made steak knives for you to cut your meat Beautifully and exquisitely made steak knives for you to cut your meat[/caption]

    Do also keep in mind that the meats are on rotation, so not all of the dishes mentioned will be available, especially if the meat procured by the restaurant for a certain dish is not up to par. The meats, all selected by Executive Chef Robert Chan, a top chef in Singapore with more than 20 years of experience in the culinary sector, are also curated to go well with a line up of side dishes better known as trimmings.

    “When curating the lineup of sides, we wanted to ensure that each item would offer the customer a classic pairing that will completely enhance their enjoyment of the premium meats. Different cultures combine their roasts with different sides and we have made the effort to provide these selections at The Carvery.” – Top chef, Robert Chan.

    So, as you walk by the side dishes, you’ll find classy choices from beetroot crusted seabass with cream sauce (which was said to be an option for folks who don’t really like meat that much) to beef bourguignon to corn on the cob to fragrant mashed potatoes and polenta fries.

    [caption id="attachment_9049" align="alignnone" width="700"]polentafries Polenta Fries for the taking[/caption] [caption id="attachment_9082" align="alignnone" width="700"]Beef Beef bourguignon — soft, succulent and mouth-watering[/caption]

    But that’s not all. When you’re done with your main courses, clean your palette with some bread, cheese, fruit and dessert! The Carvery bakes its own bread with natural yeast, and its wood-fried pizzas were surprisingly good for a meat-focused restaurant. And as for desserts, you won’t go wrong with a panna cotta, creme brulee, or an English Trifle (a dessert layered with custard). Then again, it is a buffet — have all of them!

    [caption id="attachment_9083" align="alignnone" width="700"]Bread made with natural yeast Bread made with natural yeast[/caption] [caption id="attachment_9084" align="alignnone" width="700"]Pizza baked that trumps any store-bought alternative Pizza baked that trumps any store-bought alternative[/caption]

    One important thing that we liked while dining at The Carvery was the relaxed ambience. On a weekday afternoon, the restaurant was quiet without a single hint of a mad rush, and allowed guests to speak to each other at ease.

    [caption id="attachment_9087" align="alignnone" width="700"]High ceilings, chic interior and great service at The Carvery High ceilings, chic interior and great service at The Carvery[/caption]

    Look out and let your eyes rest on the lush greenery in the background and gorgeous infinity pool and bar concept – also known as the Aqua Luna. You may even take advantage of the al fresco seating to enjoy a little summer breeze.

    [caption id="attachment_9085" align="alignnone" width="700"]Hotel guests only, but nothing is stopping you from enjoying the view Hotel guests only, but nothing is stopping you from enjoying the view[/caption] [caption id="attachment_9086" align="alignnone" width="700"]Fancy a drink at The Carvery's sister bar Aqua Luna? Fancy a drink at The Carvery’s sister pool bar Aqua Luna?[/caption]

    While some of the dishes mentioned may not be available this Father’s Day weekend, The Carvery is celebrating the occasion with confirmed show-stealers like a special 48-day dry-aged Prime Rib, which was slow-cooked and roasted for eight good hours then served medium-rare.

    For all daddies – unlimited Asahi Black beer, and other usual favourites like the Rotisserie Chicken, New Zealand Roasted leg of lamb, crispy Pork Knuckle, Pan Roasted Halibut with lemon butter and capers, as well as its Chocolate Armagnac shooters will be served.

    What are you waiting for? Make your reservations for Father’s Day now!

    Pan Pacific Oyster Buffet! All You Can Eat From $49++ Per Person

    Got A Minute? Here’s How You Can Save Yourself From A Disastrous Dining Experience

    What can you do in a minute? You can make your bed, do 20 burpees, stretch your body good, prepare instant coffee… But what if we were to tell you that in one minute you could also save yourself from making a bad dining decision? Not buying the idea? Wait till you check out The Minute List!

    What’s unique about The Minute List is that all the venues have been curated by Chefs, Bartenders and Baristas that live and breathe all things food, booze and coffee in the city AND instead of endless words and the occasional photo all the content is Video, all compiled for your viewing and eating pleasure!

    [caption id="attachment_9099" align="alignnone" width="851"]1506638_400252240166937_8205603856812438906_n Image source: The Minute List [/caption]

    All you have to do is head to their website (The Minute List), choose according to category (restaurant, bar or cafe) and pick one that interests you. A minute long video will pop up. Like what you see? Just navigate to the ‘About’ icon to find out about the eatery. You can also click on ‘book’ to make a reservation.

    The films are easily viewable on your mobile so you can whet your appetite on the way out the door, share with friends where to grab a drink after work or with the extended content see how the best bartenders in town make a Pina Colada.

    [caption id="attachment_9098" align="alignnone" width="768"]Image source: The Minute List Image source: The Minute List[/caption]

    Let’s be honest. How many of us here have made dining plans and were left disappointed by the quality of the food and ambience?

    [caption id="attachment_9097" align="alignnone" width="960"]Image source: The Minute List Image source: The Minute List[/caption]

    With The Minute List, you’re not only checking out recommendations by the makers and creators behind Singapore’s F&B scene, but you can also scrutinise the ambience of the place for one good minute beforehand. Life is too short for bad food and trust us, you don’t wanna pick the wrong place with the wrong ambience for your date or any other special occasion.

    [caption id="attachment_9096" align="alignnone" width="960"]Image source: The Minute List Image source: The Minute List[/caption]

    The best part of all, if your partner and you can’t decide what to eat, all it takes is just a few videos and minutes to choose where you’ll be heading for dinner. The Minute List, saving you from bad food, a minute at a time.

    The Minute List
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    Brought to you by Discover SG x The Minute List

    (Header image credit: The Minute List)

    Also read: 5 Exceedingly Unique Dining Places – Restaurants With A Twist

    7 Reasons Every Neighbourhood Deserves A Kick-Ass CC Like Ci Yuan

    For those living at the North East, odds are you’ve heard of Ci Yuan Community Club (CC). Opened by our Prime Minister last September, this CC has its own food court, clinic and karaoke establishment. Did we also mention that it has a 500-seater performance theatre that is fully furnished with light and sound equipment?

    The reasons every neighbourhood deserves a CC like Ci Yuan are pretty self-explanatory by now, but we thought we’ll add more to the list to prove our point.

    1. Affordable food from $2.80

    [caption id="attachment_8284" align="alignnone" width="1024"] Image Credit: MCI[/caption]

    The cost of living in Singapore can get pretty high and sometimes, all you want to do is to tuck in a bowl of affordable and frills-free bak chor mee. For those on a tight budget, you’ll be glad to know that food at the hawker centre situated in the CC are priced as low as $2.80. From Nasi Goreng to Chicken Rice, enjoy a variety of your favourite hawker dishes without feeling the burn!

    Besides the low cost, this is also a non-profit hawker centre. Half the profits earned from the relatively low stall rental prices (from $1500 to $1800 per month) go into community funding like coupons for the poor. The other half is used to help hawkers ‘upgrade’ themselves. So you are doing a good deed whenever you dine at Ci Yuan.

    2. Self-payment kiosk

    [caption id="attachment_9063" align="alignnone" width="900"]selfpaymentkiosk_straitstimes Image Credit: Straits Times[/caption]

    This hawker centre is the first and only in Singapore to go ‘cashier-less’. There’s a self-payment kiosk at every stall that accepts cash (notes and coins), and returns the exact amount to you. What a great way for stalls to increase productivity. Diners don’t have to worry about counting change; it’ll never be wrong!

    It also shows how our hawker scene has caught up with times. These places are no longer the stereotypical ‘old and dirty’ food places in Singapore!

    3. Great variety, good food

    One dish we recommend is the Salted Egg Prawn Ball ($18) from the Hong Kong Chef’s Kitchen stall. It is run by a former Crystal Jade chef from Hong Kong. Talk about having good credentials!

    Our food recommendations:

    Hong Kong Chef’s Kitchen Stall

    [caption id="attachment_9012" align="aligncenter" width="1024"]24274044201_30ea1e0d96_o Salted Egg Prawn Ball, $18. Credit: Hong Kong Chef’s Kitchen Stall:
    Stall number: #01-23/24
    Operating hours: Daily, 11.30am to 2pm and 5pm to 11pm

    Traditional Pork Ribs Prawn Noodle

    [caption id="attachment_9013" align="aligncenter" width="960"]88340ea893b124681338951_original. Prawn Mee with shrimps and pork slices, $2.80. Credit: Traditional Pork Ribs Prawn Noodle
    Stall number: #01-29
    Operating hours: Daily, 6am – 9.30pm (usually sells out by 7pm)

    ABC Fatty Cheong

    [caption id="attachment_9014" align="aligncenter" width="640"]1b3f4f876c82d49be1012496_original. ABC Food Centre’s wildly popular Fatty Cheong Char Siew Rice has opened an outlet at Ci Yuan. Credit: ABC Fatty Cheong
    Stall number: #01-22
    Operating hours: 11am to 8.30pm, closed on Thursday. Usually sells out by 7pm.

    4. 24/7 food stalls

    [caption id="attachment_9015" align="aligncenter" width="1024"]Credit: misstamchiak.com Teochew Handmade Fishball Noodle, $2.80. Credit: Since some stalls at Ci Yuan’s hawker centre, like Teochew Handmade Fishball Noodle, are opened around the clock, feel free to grab your khakis for a supper session whilst catching up on the latest gossip.

    Teochew Handmade Fishball Noodle stall
    Stall number: #01-07
    Operating hours: Daily, 24hrs

    5. More Job Opportunites

    [caption id="attachment_8289" align="alignnone" width="1024"]elderlyworking_straitstimes Image Credit: Straits Times. (Not pictured at Ci Yuan)[/caption]

    This CC has also created more job opportunities, especially for the elderly residents living nearby.

    Not only are the elderly workers at Ci Yuan given the freedom to work at their own pace, but each of them is also assigned to a specific area. They do not have to comb the entire hawker centre to clean and collect used cutlery. Also, the use of dishwashers help lessen the burden of the elderly workers. You won’t see any elderly scrubbing the dirty dishes at the back of the stalls.

    Besides the elderly, more jobs are available for youngsters as well. Amongst the grey-haired hawkers, you will be able to spot some young adults. They are likely to be recent graduates from the 6. Elderly Care Services [caption id="attachment_8290" align="alignnone" width="1024"]silvercircle_onlywilliam Image Credit: Onlywilliam.blogspot.com[/caption]

    If you don’t already know, Ci Yuan is the first CC so far that offers a Senior Care Centre. For some, this comes as a relief as some elderly may need constant supervision. For those who are unable to afford domestic help or are from low-income families, government subsidies for the Care Centre are available as well.

    To make it even more convenient, transport can be arranged at a nominal cost. For patients who are bedridden, fret not for they do offer at-home services besides day care.

    7. Entertainment [caption id="attachment_8292" align="alignnone" width="1024"]teoheng_toggle Image Credit: Toggle[/caption]

    Yes, there is a Teo Heng tucked away in the CC. It may be no KBox, but at $18/3 hours for a small room, we think its ambience and convenience is well worth the price.

    Since Teo Heng sells only beverages, feel free to da pao some food from the hawker centre below. However, do remember to clean up after yourselves and you’re good!

    Besides Teo Heng, there is a Toastmasters Club as well! Interested to improve your public speaking or leadership skills? Look no further for the Toastmasters Club has got it all covered. Get your khakis (friends) to join in! Best of all? It is free, nuff said!

    Address: Ci Yuan Community Club, 51 Hougang Avenue 9 Singapore, 538776 Singapore
    Operating hours: Every 1st Saturday of the month at 2pm
    Contact: 9847 2509

    If you are a North Eastsider who has yet to visit Ci Yuan, we’d recommend you to explore the place and make use of its facilities. For non-North Eastsiders, all that’s left to do is seethe in jealousy. We kid.

    Have you been to Ci Yuan CC before? What do you like most about it? For those of you who have not, what would you like to see? Which facility do you use in your CC the most? Let us know in the comment box below!

    (Header image by Today and words by writer)

    Also read: Hipster Hawkers: 5 Stalls That Are Redefining Hawker Culture

    The Ultimate Guide For Supper At Siglap – 6 Places You Can’t Miss

    SUPPER SPOTS IN siglap

    Walk around the neighbourhood of Siglap and you’ll notice rows of bars, cafes and restaurants along both sides of the road. Well, we dare say this is the place to go for a night to chill out with friends or even for a date night at one of its many great restaurants.

    In this pristine, quaint neighourhood, you’ll see locals flock to their favourite pubs for a soccer screening, group of teens meeting their friends for some ice cream time, and even expats chilling out at the restaurants. As a certified east-sider who grew up in the east, here’s our ultimate guide to supper at Siglap. Yes, only the best of the best gets on our list!

    1. LTN 936 Food Village

    [caption id="attachment_8343" align="alignnone" width="640"]LTN Image credit: burpple[/caption]

    This la mian dumpling stall is opened by a quiet couple from Xi’an, China. Their dumplings are all handmade on the spot, freshness at its best. Each dumpling is soft and tender, with its skin not too thick, filled with a nice amount of meat and doused with vinegar and chilli oil. You can get these guilty pleasures at $4 for 10 pieces. Xiao Long Baos are also available at $4 for 6 pieces.

    If you are in for some Zi Char, do check out the Thow Yen Seafood stall too. They serve up great Beef Hor Fun and Fried Rice for your hungry tummy!

    LTN 936 Food Village
    Address:
    936 East Coast Road, Singapore 459129
    Opening Hours: Daily till late

    2. Mas-Ayu Restaurant

    [caption id="attachment_8364" align="alignnone" width="960"]mas ayu Image credit: burpple[/caption] [caption id="attachment_8374" align="alignnone" width="640"]mas ayu Image credit: burpple[/caption]

    How about some Seafood Kway Teow Goreng Pattaya and Teh Tarik for supper? Reputed to be one of the best Malay food you can find around the area, this homely restaurant serves up the best Seafood Kway Teow Goreng Pattaya and Nasi Pattaya! Its noodles are nice, springy, wrapped around with egg and drenched in tomato ketchup. Each plate is at $6.50. Another recommendation would be their Mee Bundung ($5.50). Its sour, sweet and spicy gravy are well balanced with fish cakes, prawns, vegetables, tender beef pieces and an egg to top it off! It is a good soupy bowl for a rainy cold night!

    If you have trouble sleeping at night or feel hungry after a midnight movie, do drop by for some homely malaysian kampong cuisine at Ayu-Mas. This food outlet is open 24 hours, thus taxi uncles like to frequent this place and it gets crowded from early evenings till the early mornings.

    Mas-Ayu Restaurant
    Address:
    55 Upper East Coast Road, Singapore 455215
    Tel:
    65 6449 2844
    Opening Hours: Daily 24 hours

    3. Springleaf Prata Place (Jalan Tua Kong)

    [caption id="attachment_8375" align="alignnone" width="640"]Springleaf Prata Place (Jalan Tua Kong) Image credit: burpple[/caption]

    Open till 11pm or 12am depending on the day, this prata place is a 3 to 5 mins walk from Upper East Coast Road at Siglap. They offer an innovative array of prata, thosai and murtabak in unusual must-try flavours! Eggs Benedict Prata? Yes, you saw that right! Crispy prata, poached egg, turkey ham and hollandaise sauce all in one dish, priced at $5. Another must not miss item is their Umani 50. One of their newest item on their menu, this prata is stuff with chicken luncheon meat, chicken floss, mozzarella cheese, mayonnaise and egg. Their menu is quite extensive which means there is always something new to try!

    This prata place has not only become popular for diners at night but residents flock to this place for a good brunch which serves up a fresh spin to your usual prata!

    Springleaf Prata Place
    Address:
    57B Jalan Tua Kong, Singapore 457251
    Tel: 
    8693 5393
    Opening Hours: Sun-Thu 7am-11pm, Fri-Sat 7am-12am

    4. FLAVA Asia Bistro and Grill

    https://www.instagram.com/p/BBCVLmQHsIP/?taken-at=1025782518

     

    https://www.instagram.com/p/BFSswWlDs22/?taken-at=1025782518

    Opened by the team behind the former Cafe Mondo at Orchard Central, FLAVA is the new kid at the estate which serves up contemporary Asian grill. If you’re in for some late night chow or some cakes and ice cream to satisfy your craving, head down to FLAVA. With their Kapiti New Zealand range of ice cream to choose from, you will love all the flavours and end up ordering their 12 mini putts. Perfect for a couple’s sharing or with some friends with 12 flavours of mini ice cream. Select your own ice cream flavours at $20, or let the house decide for you at $17. Do check out their menu
    Address:
    907 East coast Road, #01-03 Springvale, Singapore 459107
    Tel: 
    65 6702 0302
    Opening Hours: Mon-Thu 11am-11pm, Fri-Sat/Eve of PH 11am-2am, Sun/PH 9.30am-11pm

    5. Udders and Kook

    [caption id="attachment_8341" align="alignnone" width="640"]udders and kook Image credit: burpple[/caption] [caption id="attachment_8342" align="alignnone" width="1024"]Burger Image credit: udders[/caption]

    If waffles and ice cream are your supper eats, Udders and Kook will never fail! From liqueur based to the all time favourite flavours such as Thai Milk Tea, chocolatey, to choose from, we must say Udders do know their customers’ taste palates well. Order their waffles to go along with your favourite ice cream! Imagine, crispy waffles on the outside, soft and fluffy on the inside, topped with a scoop or 2 of ice cream and drizzled with chocolate sauce. Heavenly!

    Whats more, Udders and Kook recently upgraded itself to serving you not only your favourite ice-cream, but burgers and snack bites also! Feast on their delightful Mario Mushroom Burger ($15.90) or their Angmoh Burger ($15.90) filled with scrumptious cheddar, bacon, onions, tomato, rocket leaves and a well-grilled beef patty. These calories are well worth it! Juicy burgers and ice creams are a great combination for a satisfying supper.

    Udders and Kook  
    Address:
    81 Upper East Coast Road, Singapore 455220    
    Tel:
    65 6448 8732
    Opening Hours: Sun-Thu 12pm-11pm, Fri-Sat/eve of PH 12pm-1am

    6. Mikawa Yakitori Bar

    [caption id="attachment_8382" align="alignnone" width="960"]mikawa yakitori bar burpple Image credit: burpple[/caption]

    If you enjoy Japanese Tapas, you’re going to like this one. Opened recently at Siglap, Mikawa Yakitori Bar is a cosy place offering traditional Yakitori. This small Yakitori Bar has a wide range of almost 50 items of kushiyaki skewers on its 53 Upper East Coast Road, Singapore 455214
    Tel: 
    6444 8484
    Opening Hours: Tue-Thu 6pm-10.30pm, Fri-Sun 12-2.30pm, 6pm-12am, Closed on Mon

    If you are driving to this area, free parking is available at the big open space carpark after 10pm. So, it’s time to make your way to Siglap. Chill to your heart’s content and start feasting away! With all these late night spots for supper at Siglap, you’ll never have to go to sleep with a growling stomach ever again.

    (Header image by Instagram user, _rimiroo, edited by writer)

     Also read: Go Ga-Ga Over Geylang With These Seriously Good Eats Under $15

    Go Ga-Ga Over Geylang With These Seriously Good Eats Under $15

    Geylang Sipaku Geylang!

    The atmospheric district of Geylang is known for many things (if you know what I mean…), but do you know that it is also home to a huge selection of food at penny-pinching prices? Well, now you do. We’ll be happy to take the credit!

    Let us take you on a trip down the streets, past whimsical shophouses and great period architecture to get your fill of some of the best local food in the country. On offer is a greedy grab of choices that will make you go gaga with glee!

    1. Penang Seafood Restaurant

    Craving for authentic Penang dishes but don’t want to travel across the causeway? Don’t pout, leave your passports at home and opt for the popular Penang Seafood Restaurant instead, a worthy alternative. Aside from traditional favourites, they also serve a wide array of local zi char dishes.

    [caption id="attachment_8946" align="alignnone" width="640"]Image Credit: burpple Image Credit: burpple[/caption] [caption id="attachment_8947" align="alignnone" width="640"]Image Credit: burpple Lala Hokkien Mee ($8)
    Generous fresh sotongs and clams on a bed of delicious wet noodles!
    Image Credit: burpple[/caption]

    Penang Seafood Restaurant
    Address:
    76 Lorong 25A Geylang, S 388258
    Opening Hours: Daily: 11am – 12mn
    Tel: 6841 3002

    1. Geylang Claypot Rice

    A specialist at their craft, Geylang Claypot Rice takes an estimated 30 minutes – an hour (during peak hours), to serve the food. Good food must wait. For interested diners, it’s advisable to call them in advance. Served with an array of wholesome ingredients, kick up the taste with the recommended two rounds of dark sauce. Believe me, the wait is well worth it.

    [caption id="attachment_8949" align="alignnone" width="640"]Image Credit: burpple Claypot Rice ($13, good for 2 pax)
    Tender chicken with a good amount of Chinese sausage, salted fish and veggies. Is this the pot of gold we’ve been searching for?
    Image Credit: burpple[/caption] [caption id="attachment_8948" align="alignnone" width="640"]Image Credit: burpple Pork Ribs
    Tender meat with a rich batter – a good option for sharing!
    Image Credit: burpple[/caption]

    Geylang Claypot Rice
    Address:
    No. 639, Lorong 33 Geylang, S 389570
    Opening Hours: Tues – Sun: 11.30am – 2.30pm, 5pm – 12am
    Tel: 6744 4574

    1. Hong Qin Fish & Duck Porridge

    This stall offers a variety of Teochew fare such as braised duck and pig trotter platters (in other words, Kway Chap side dishes) to go with their signature porridge. Of course, their best would be the sliced Batang fish, which is often sold out a few hours into business (there’s the fried fish option too). The early bird catches the fish!

    [caption id="attachment_8966" align="alignnone" width="640"]Image Credit: burpple Fish Soup ($6)
    A simple dish with complex flavours!
    Image Credit: burpple[/caption]

    Hong Qin Fish & Duck Porridge
    Address:
    #01-127, 134 Geylang East Avenue 1, S 380134
    Opening Hours: Daily: 5.45am – 3.30pm
    Tel: 9061 4988

    1. L32 Kopitiam Ban Mian

    When it comes to handmade noodles, the phrase “one of the best” often gets thrown around a lot. But this time, we’re going to make an exception. On the surface, L32 Kopitiam may look ordinary, until you take a glance at the queue at this stall. Such is the power of their Ban Mian, which comes equally slurp worthy, dry or soup.

    [caption id="attachment_8964" align="alignnone" width="640"]Image Credit: burpple Pork Ban Mian ($3.50)
    Dry?
    Image Credit: burpple[/caption] [caption id="attachment_8963" align="alignnone" width="640"]Image Credit: burpple Pork Ban Mian (Soup) ($3.50)
    Or soup? That is the question.
    Image Credit: burpple[/caption]

    L32 Kopitiam Ban Mian
    Address:
    558 Geylang Road, S 389509
    Opening Hours: Tue – Sun: 11am – 9pm
    Tel: 9770 2829

    1. 126 Dim Sum

    Also featured in best 24-7 food places, it’s impossible not to include Wan Dou Sek in this list too. Head down for a no-frills dining experience of value for money dim sum. Nevertheless, be wary of the quality inconsistency of some of their dishes (sometimes good, sometimes bad). At their prime however, this eatery deserves to be on everyone’s list.

    [caption id="attachment_8944" align="alignnone" width="640"]Image Credit: burpple Siew Mai ($3.20)
    Siew Mai is love. Siew Mai is life.
    Image Credit: burpple[/caption] [caption id="attachment_8956" align="alignnone" width="640"]Image Credit: burpple Carrot Cake ($4)
    What’s a dim sum without carrot cake? 126’s carrot cake is crispy and one of their consistently good dishes.
    Image Credit: burpple[/caption] [caption id="attachment_8968" align="alignnone" width="612"]Image Credit: burpple Image Credit: burpple[/caption]

    126 Dim Sum
    Address:
    126 Sims Avenue, S 387449
    Opening Hours: Daily: 24 hours
    Tel: 6746 4757

    1. Lorong 9 Beef Kway Teow

    When you plaster the word “famous” in bold white front at your eatery, you are either arrogant or your food really is damn good. Fortunately, it’s the latter. Arguably one of the best Hor Funs in Singapore, the thick sauce is irresistibly shiok. Although I’ve heard that standards have dropped, it still remains somewhere along the pinnacle.

    [caption id="attachment_8959" align="alignnone" width="640"]Image Credit: burpple Beef Hor Fun ($6)
    Generous, unnaturally tender portions of beef on a bed of soft kway teow with legendary gravy.
    Image Credit: burpple[/caption]

    Must try: Beef Hor Fun ($6)

    [caption id="attachment_8955" align="alignnone" width="640"]Image Credit: burpple Seafood Hor Fun
    Image Credit: burpple[/caption]

    Lorong 9 Beef Kway Teow
    Address:
    237 Geylang Lorong 9, S 388756
    Opening Hours: Daily: 4.30pm – 2.30am
    Tel: 9388 0723

    1. The Ranch Cafe

    Astons? Chargrill Bar? Collins Grille? With all of them offering affordable Western delights and much to the chagrin of our tummies, we can only be at one place at one time. Well, when in Geylang, add The Ranch to that list, which is also same same, but different. Their economical set lunches and dinners on menu are to die for.

    [caption id="attachment_8952" align="alignnone" width="640"]Image Credit: burpple Fish & Chips Set ($8.90, lunch only)
    No description needed. You can never go wrong with fish & chips!
    Image Credit: burpple[/caption] [caption id="attachment_8953" align="alignnone" width="639"]Image Credit: burpple Grilled Chicken Set ($8.90, lunch only)
    No description needed again. Has anyone never tried a chicken chop? Seriously.
    Image Credit: burpple[/caption]

    The Ranch Cafe
    Address:
    71 Lorong 27 Geylang, S 388198
    Opening Hours: Daily: 11.30am – 11pm
    Tel: 6747 0788

    1. Little Vietnam Café

    Little Vietnam is quite literally, a little Vietnamese-run eatery that serves an extensive menu of Vietnamese staples. You’ve got your phos, banh mis, spring rolls and the likes. Not forgetting to mention, this place is uber popular because prices are middling cheap. Add to that a chill atmosphere and you’ve got yourself a winner.

    [caption id="attachment_8958" align="alignnone" width="640"]Image Credit: burpple Beef Pho
    Image Credit: burpple[/caption] [caption id="attachment_8950" align="alignnone" width="640"]Image Credit: burpple Lemongrass Chicken Rice
    Image Credit: burpple[/caption] [caption id="attachment_8943" align="alignnone" width="640"]Image Credit: burpple Beef Combo Pho ($7.50)
    Looking at beef slices swimming joyfully with beef balls before putting them in your mouth makes for a satisfying hearty meal!
    Image Credit: burpple[/caption]

    Little Vietnam Café
    Address:
    #01-25, Grandlink Square, 511 Guillemard Road, S 399849
    Opening Hours: Daily: 5pm – 3am
    Tel: 6547 8587

    1. Brawn & Brains Café

    We’ve now headed into café territory so how can we neglect Brawn & Brains, one of the best cafes Singapore has to offer? Brawn & Brains ticks all the boxes. Instagram-worthy food? Check. Artisanal drinks? Check. Good vibes? Triple check. For a genuine wholesome dining experience, make this place your next destination.

    [caption id="attachment_8945" align="alignnone" width="630"]Image Credit: burpple Smoked Salmon and Avocado on Brioche
    A real handful to say but damn, it’s good!
    Image Credit: burpple[/caption] [caption id="attachment_8951" align="alignnone" width="630"]Image Credit: burpple Oven Baked Molten Eggs ($12.90)
    A melody of flavours – 2 half boiled eggs and an overwhelming yet satisfying amount of melted cheese atop a thin pizza crust.
    Image Credit: burpple[/caption]

    Brawn & Brains Café
    Address:
    #01-02, Singapore Badminton Hall, 100 Guillemard Road, S 399718
    Opening Hours:
    Tue – Fri: 9am – 7pm
    Sat – Sun: 9.30am – 7pm
    Tel: 6348 0501

    1. The Real Hut

    Need a break from the meat fare? Head down to this Asian-Western fusion inspired vegetarian café, a relatively new player in the culinary scene. The Real Hut’s dishes are eloquently presented and they look outstanding, giving our favourite greens the extra zing (you have to admit it’s hard to make veggies look appetizing). Psst, there is no service charge and GST too.

    [caption id="attachment_8960" align="alignnone" width="640"]Image Credit: burpple Sushi Veg Wrap Roll ($4)
    So pretty! 
    Image Credit: burpple[/caption]

    The Real Hut
    Address:
    #01-197, Blk 46 Sims Place, S 380046
    Opening Hours: Mon – Sat: 11am – 8.30pm
    Tel: 6846 9976

    There you have it! A world of delectable food for you to explore. So, when in Geylang, you know what to do… Oei! You know what I meant!

    Are these places worthy of this list? Did we miss out anything in our food series? Let us know!

    Also read: 8 Best Laksa In Singapore For Thick, Flavourful & Spicy Broth

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

    The salted egg yolk trend has taken Singpapore by storm and all foodies would have craved for anything salted egg yolk. You have seen salted egg yolk buns, croissants, crabs and even on cakes and waffles! With salted egg yolk, everything tastes better – from chips, salmon skin, to even lotus root. With this in mind, we’ve hunted down some seriously addictive salted egg yolk snacks.

    Here’s our take on these snacks.

    Warning: They’re seriously addictive!

    1. The Golden Duck

    [caption id="attachment_8851" align="alignnone" width="1024"]the golden duck Image credit: nkikichua[/caption] [caption id="attachment_8860" align="alignnone" width="1024"]the golden duck Image credit: The Golden Duck Facebook[/caption]

    These are not your usual ordinary chips. Hand-crafted using an original Taiwanese-inspired recipe, The Golden Duck is Singapore’s #1 purveyor of premium gourmet salted egg snacks.

    Packaged conveniently in a resealable bag, each chip is baked to golden perfection with its Taiwanese Salted Egg Yolk coated evenly onto its potato crisps. Its authentic salted egg yolk flavour leaves you wanting for more after each bite! These gems get sold out quickly so do order online before picking them up in stores. Retails at $7 per pack, it’s definitely worth it!


    Address: 133 New Bridge Rd, Chinatown Point, B1 next to lift lobby
    Opening Hours: Mon-Sun 11am-7pm

    2. Irvins Salted Egg

    [caption id="attachment_8863" align="alignnone" width="960"]
    Irvins salted egg Image credit: Irvins Salted Egg Facebook[/caption]

    The guys at Irvins Salted Egg Yolk makes delicious potato chips and deep fried salmon skin seasoned in amazing salted egg yolk sauce! Imagine crisp potato chips coated with a layer of salted egg yolk sauce, spiced with curry leaves, and bits of red chilli that leaves a tinge of spiciness. These chips and fried salmon skin are perfect for stay-home weekends or to satisfy your salted egg yolk cravings. Best consumed within 2 weeks, it was so good we could finish it within hours! Their Salted Egg Yolk Potato Chips and Salted Egg Yolk Fish Skin retail at $15 per pack.

    If you’re craving for more salted egg yolk dishes, simply purchase their Salted Egg Yolk Sauce sold in a bottle for $15. You can now cook up any dishes with its addictive sauce! Free delivery if you order over $100. Alternatively, delivery charge is $15. Do check their updated locations on their Facebook page.

     (Pickup)
    Address: Leban HK Cafe2 Jalan Leban, Singapore, 577547
    Contact: 65 6257 8801
    Opening Hours: Tue-Sun 5pm-2am

    Address: Raffles Xchange B1, Raffles Place MRT, Across Pop In store
    Opening Hours: Weekdays 11am-7pm (Pickup 11-630pm)

    3. TungLok Seafood

    [caption id="attachment_8874" align="alignnone" width="700"]
    Tunglok Seafood Image credit: goingmerrily[/caption]

    Offering the freshest catch to welcome seafood lovers, TungLok Seafood specialises in the best of Singapore-style seafood prepared with the freshest ingredients. Not to be missed is the unique salted egg yolk fish skin! This is a must try. The crispy fish skin is so crispy you can literally hear the crunch when you bite into it.

    Indulge in their ala carte lunch buffet on weekdays at $26.80++, on weekends or public holidays at $28.80; or their buffet dinner at $35.80++ at their Orchard Central restaurant. You’ll be able to order countless servings of this addictive snack! Reservations are highly recommended! Do note that prices differ for their Upper Jurong Outlet. Click
    Address: 181 Orchard Road, Orchard Central #11-05, Singapore 238896
    Contact: 65 6834 4888
    Opening Hours: Mon-Sat 11.30-3pm (Last order 2.30pm); 6pm-10.30pm (Last order 10pm), Sun/PH 10am-3pm; 6pm-10.30pm (Last order 2.30pm); 10.30pm (Last order 10pm)

    blue lotus chinese eating house fried salmon skin

    Located at the idyllic Quayside Isle at Sentosa Cove, Blue Lotus is a casual dining restaurant that serves traditional Chinese dishes. Sit at their alfresco area and enjoy the gentle breeze and stunning views of the marina. Their signature dishes include Chilli Pomelo Crab, Szechun Style Spicy Boston Lobster, and also their Crispy Fried Salmon Skin. Coated with salted egg yolk and lime zest, its skin is fried to crispy perfection. Great as a starter but one portion will be never enough to share! Though it’s a whooping $16 for a plate, the salmon skin is crunchy and tasty. So difficult to practise restraint and self control here!

    wan he lou Image credit: asiaone[/caption]

    You might have heard of Wan He Lou’s award winning Signature Lobster Porridge. Well, this place not only specialises in lobster porridge. Their Crispy Lotus with Salted Egg Yolk ($11.90) is a must try! Thin pieces of lotus root deep fried to perfection are coated with generous crumbs of salted egg yolk. Let’s just start our diet plan the next day instead…

    tao seafood asia Image credit: sethlui[/caption]

    At Tao Seafood Asia, it is highly recommended to start your meal with their Crispy Fish Skin with Salted Egg Sauce ($10). This is served as an appetizer. The fish skin used is from Eel, deep fried and pan tossed with generous amount of salted egg yolk sauce. While it looks a little sinful and oily, it turns out to be light to the bite, rich and highly addictive! The savoury goodness makes it a good pair with a cold pint of beer.

    Ivrins Salted Egg, edited by writer)

    Also read: 12 Best Breakfasts To Start Your Day Like A Typical Local

    8 Local Dishes Modified To Look Modern, Can You Recognise Them?

    Modern Singaporean cuisine (local dishes modified to look modern), or mod-sin in short, amalgamates our familiar Singaporean hawker flavours with international dishes of the world. Very much like our Singaporean culture, mod-sin cuisine takes inspiration from various food cultures and adapts it into an experimental new dish that’s both bold and unique in taste.  

    Let us explore the creativity and culinary concept behind some of these innovative creations that are only made possible thanks to our bustling local culture.

    1. Hainanese Chicken Rice + Sushi

    12052370_778286908960685_443650953480842510_o

    Image credit: Lepark

    Picture a plate of steamed chicken rice served in bite-sized tapas portions. The Poached Chicken Sushi is unique to Lepark, a rooftop bar that’s situated on the roof of People’s Park Complex. A thin strip of nori sheet wraps around a tender poached chicken and Hainanese chicken sushi rice. Each morsel is topped with some garlic chilli. It ticks all the elements that goes into making a traditional chicken rice dish, but made more portable as side to some beer.

    Lepark
    Address: 1 Park Road, People’s Park Complex Level 6
    Opening hours: Tue – Thu: 4pm – 11pm; Fri: 4pm – 12am; Sat: 12pm – 12am; Sun: 12pm – 11pm

    2. Buah Keluak + Pasta

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    Image credit: Violet Oon Singapore

    The distinctive ingredient used in traditional Nonya cuisine has now found its way into a marriage with Italian spaghetti. Admittedly, the fruit’s nutty and earthy profile makes it an acquired taste, but those who enjoy the rich and slightly bitter profile will appreciate Violet Oon’s take on Buah Keluak Noodle. This aromatic dish is tossed with chilli padi to lend a subtle kick, along with coconut milk and minced prawn.

    Violet Oon Singapore
    Address:
    881 Bukit Timah Road
    Opening hours: 
    Tue – Sun: 12pm – 3pm, 6pm – 10:30am

    3. Ondeh Ondeh + French Toast

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    Image credit: Crystalwee

    Deconstructing an ondeh ondeh and infusing the sweet flavours into a classic breakfast dish makes the Ondeh Ondeh French Toast at Hyde & Co. a great dish that doubles as both dessert and tea break. The egg-washed brioche slices come loaded with grated pandan coconut and drizzled with gula melaka sauce. Topped with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for good measure and you have for yourself an oozing cold dessert with all the reminiscent flavours of an ondeh ondeh.

    Hyde & Co.
    Address:
    785 North Bridge Road
    Opening hours: 
    Sun – Mon: 11am – 6pm; Wed – Sat: 11am – 10:30pm

    4. Chilli Crab + Bun

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    Image credit: Baomakers

    The thought of having a chilli crab bun might sound off putting initially, but they actually make sense if you think about how Singaporeans like to soak up the leftover chilli crab sauce with deep fried mantous. Making this Chilli Crab Bao possible is Bao Makers. They take deep fried crab meat and slather it with chilli sauce and top it off with coriander and fried shallots. Essentially a combination of various Asian flavours, think of it as our version of a slider with a local twist.

    Bao Makers
    Address: 78 Horne Road
    Opening hours: 
    Mon – Fri: 12pm – 10pm; Sat: 11am – 10pm; Sun: 11am – 6pm

    5. Charsiew + Fries

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    Image credit: Redpan

    Give the standard truffle fries a miss the next time you’re hit with a fries craving. At Redpan, they top their Char Siew Chilli Fries with a charsiew ragout and dolloped with sour cream and some jalapeno salsa. The seemingly contrasting ingredients come together nice to form an addictive starter that you’ll polish off in no time.

    Redpan
    Address: 6 Raffles Boulevard, #02-03/04
    Opening hours: Mon – Fri: 9am – 10pm; Sat – Sun: 11am – 10pm

    6. Roasted Pork Belly + Pasta

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    Image credit: @cayceemeows

    Not for the health-conscious, this Sio Bak Aglio Olio from Froth serves up chunks of roasted pork belly that sits on a bed of aglio olio, topped with a slice of their homemade bak kwa. The salty and crispy pieces of fats serve as a good contrast to the al dente pasta, creating a decadent dish that’ll fill you up with satisfaction.

    Froth
    Address: 2 Finlayson Green
    Opening hours: Mon – Sun: 11:30am – 10pm

    7. Rendang + Lasagna

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    Image credit: Makankaki

    Replace the tomato sauce in a plain old lasagna with some authentic rendang gravy and what you’ll find yourself with is an explosion of taste comprising of Italian and Malay cuisine. Alternating layers of pasta sheets, beef briskets and bechamel make for the perfect Ren Dang! Lasagna. But top it with a scoop of rendang gravy and you get a savoury spicy kick in this updated dish. Regular lasagna will never cut it for you again.

    Sunday Market
    Address: 22 Lim Tua Tow Road
    Opening hours: Mon – Fri: 11am – 11pm; Sat: 9am – 11pm; Sun: 9am – 9pm

    8. Bandung + Latte

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    Image credit: Infuse your cuppa with floral accents of rose with Bandung Latte. Getting your caffeine fix just got a whole lot sweeter, with a drink that comes in a pretty pastel shade of pink. The rose floral notes mask the bitterness of the coffee, making this a delicious drink that even non-coffee fans will enjoy.

    Working Title – Burger Bar
    Address: 48 Arab Street
    Opening hours: Mon – Thu: 11am – 10pm; Fri: 11am – 11pm; Sat – Sun: 10am – 11pm

    So the next time you’re deciding between local delights or contemporary creations, you’ll be able to get the best of both worlds with these local dishes modified to look modern!

    (Header image from Bao Makers, words by writer)

    Also read: 9 Of SG’s Best Local Street Snack, How Many Have You Tried?