A Peek At NDP 2016 – Fireworks Both Indoors AND Outdoors!
If we could describe NDP 2016 (National Day Parade 2016) in one word, it would be ‘spectacular’.
With a catchy theme, ‘Building Our Singapore Of Tomorrow‘, and set against the refreshing backdrop of Singapore Indoor Stadium, here are the reasons NDP 2016 will be the best one yet!
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Image Credits: Benjamin Ong[/caption]
NDP 2016 – The First NDP at Indoor Stadium
Singapore will celebrate her birthday in the newly-renovated Singapore Indoor Stadium for the first time. That’s right! Fret not about the hot sun and enjoy the show indoors while staying cool! In addition, the venue boasts a huge seating capacity of up to 12,000. You can also look forward to conveniently located restrooms.
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Image Credits: Chua Zhan Teng[/caption]
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Image Credits: Benjamin Ong[/caption]
Jaw-dropping Light Shows
Next up, the dazzling light shows are undoubtedly the most impressive part of NDP 2016 itself. Be awed by the ingenious use of light effects throughout the parade. Keep a lookout for Act 3 and 4 when the stadium lights go off.
In fact, every spectator can be part of the performance simply by wearing the LED wristbands distributed in goodie bags! The LED wristbands pulsate with colours. It even syncs with the parade’s live music, light shows and body movements. Just imagine the stadium as the night sky, and your wristbands form part of the galaxy of twinkling stars!
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Image Credits: Benjamin Ong[/caption]
Our Prime Minister has remarked that “Singapore is like a unicorn. One of a kind, a special animal, no other in the world. It works well, (and) has unique solutions.” Indeed, NDP 2016 even stars a sparkling unicorn dancing gracefully above the audience.
Watch in awe as dancers and aerialists clad in kaleidoscopic LED costumes execute a perfectly synchronised performance. Our favourite segment was Act 5, where Singapore’s future cityscape took shape right before our eyes, made possible by 3D projections!
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Image Credits: Benjamin Ong[/caption]
Drawing Inspiration from the Past
NDP 2016 features the lesser-known story of Badang. In the act ‘Bandang and The Singapore Stone‘, impressive boulders are hurled across the stage together with artistic depictions of a tribe war.
Notably, Badang represents the strength and resilience of our nation in the face of hardships. The story is set in ancient times. Incorporating the Singapore Stone into a thrilling adventure, the story tells of true bravery in times of adversity.
In a truly engaging way, Singaporeans can learn more about this national treasure!
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Image Credits: Benjamin Ong[/caption]
We’re All in This Together
Do you know that this year’s parade features a performance put together by the special needs community? In the act “What A Wonderful World”, a beautiful mass display formation is inspired by creative paintings drawn by the special needs community.
You’ll even see members of the disabled society joining in the iridescent show on stage! Also, the audience will have a chance to sign together to songs like “Count On Me Singapore” and everyone’s favourite “Home”. This is to raise awareness for the deaf community.
We found it especially heartwarming to see the entire audience singing together with the performers on stage at NDP 2016. The effortless blend of engagement and emphasis on Singapore as an inclusive society will certainly impress audiences of all ages!
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Image Credits: Rebecca Ong[/caption]
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Image Credits: Benjamin Ong[/caption]
To Top It All Off: Fireworks
Finally, as Singaporeans, one of our favourite parts of the national parade has to be the dazzling fireworks to end the night. Though the indoor stadium maintains a partially-closed roof during the spectacle, audience members can still catch a glimpse of the ‘night-time flowers’ comfortably from their seats.
In addition, NDP 2016 features indoor fireworks as well. We say yes to the best of both worlds: indoor AND outdoor fireworks!
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Image Credits: Rebecca Ong[/caption]
NDP 2016 – The Final Verdict
NDP 2016 is similar, yet extremely different from all the previous parades we’ve ever witnessed. That is, different in the best way possible. We feel that the parade does an excellent job of fostering Singaporean pride and creatively showcasing the bright future of our ever-developing country.
Therefore, you’ll be in for a treat at NDP 2016 for sure, and don’t forget to bring those cameras to capture the spectacular parade!
Also, read Comfort Food Always Wins! 7 Local Desserts That Steal Our Hearts
Verdict Is Out! Michelin Bib Gourmand Singapore For Best Food Under $45
Where to get the best Curry Laksa? Which hawker stall has the best Hainanese Chicken Rice? Don’t know where to bring your tourist friends for the best Chai Tow Kway?
Worry no more because some of Singapore’s best eateries have been awarded a”Bib Gourmand” (high-quality menu at reasonable prices) by the very first edition of the Singapore Michelin Guide! So who made the cut? Here are the 34 hawker stalls, restaurants and food establishment that made the list.
What is Bib Gourmand?
“Not quite a star, but most definitely not a consolation prize, the Bib Gourmand…is a just-as-esteemed rating that recognises friendly establishments that serve good food at moderate prices. ” In Singapore – the meal must be under SGD$45 to qualify.
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Credit: Michelin Guide[/caption]
Michelin Bib Gourmand Singapore – Hawker Stalls
Without further ado, here’s the full list!
1. Claypot Laksa – Alexandra Village Food Centre
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Image source: kate2.0[/caption]
23. New Ubin Seafood – Sin Ming Road
24. Peony Jade at Keppel Club (Cantonese) – Bukit Chermin Rd
25. Shish Mahal (Indian) – Albert Street
26. Song Fa Bak Kut Teh – New Bridge Rd
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Image source: Yayforfries[/caption]
27. 328 Katong Laksa – East Coast Road
28. True Blue Cuisine (Peranakan) – Armenien Street
(image credit: 
Image source: 
Image source: Bismillah Biryani[/caption]
33. JB Ah Meng Kitchen (Cantonese) – Geylang Road
34. Sin Huat Eating House (crab rice noodle) – Geylang Road
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With so many yummy approved food to choose from, we reckon you bookmark this page (and share with your friends) for future reference. You’ll always know “what to eat” and “where to eat” from now. No more arguments about who has to decide meal plans!
Header image source: Clearing All Your Doubts – How Exactly Does The Michelin Guide Work?
Take That, McD’s! KFC Strikes Back With Must Try Umakara Chicken!
In what can only be described as “a taste beyond words”, the stage is all set for the new KFC Umakara Chicken. It’s sure to confound your taste buds with tantalising flavours during its limited release from 13 Jul to 5 Aug.
Umami Taste Profile
So here’s the lowdown. We all know about the four widely accepted and recognised taste profiles. Sweet, sour, salty, and bitter. Chefs and cooks everywhere craft their dishes based on these four tastes. Mastering the perfect balance of these tastes is the key to creating delicious dishes.
But, do you know that we have a 5th taste Described as ‘moreish savoury’, this savoury taste profile is commonly known to us as ‘umami’. Foods rich in umami components include mushrooms, tomatoes, and cheeses.
Drawing inspiration from this 5th taste, KFC has launched the new KFC Umakara Chicken.
“Juicy, fresh chicken marinated in savoury shoyu and Japanese spices, hand-coated in a spicy, crispy batter, then sprinkled with an umami spice sprinkle”
Umakara Chicken
To precede its official launch, the team at DiscoverSG had the delightful opportunity to attend an exclusive tasting session before its release to the public.
“The addictive lure of umami and the kick of heat from the Japanese spices make for an indescribable flavour combination. It gives you uninhibited taste enjoyment that is truly out of this world!”
Step aside, McDonald’s. This is how you do it.
In comparison to the much maligned Salted Egg Yolk Chicken Burger, the KFC Umakara Chicken doesn’t disappoint. After savouring this perfectly crispy chicken, we can confidently proclaim that this is perhaps, the best seasonal release from a fast-food chain we have seen since like, ever!
Deep fried to a delicious golden brown, every bite into the spicy batter contained very satisfying tinges of heat. It was not only tasty, but also addictive. There was a lingering, pleasant smell of the shoyu marinade that remained on our fingers after we were done with our meal. Talk about finger lickin’ good!
Side Dishes
Besides the Umakara Chicken, the meal also came with Crispy Tenders and Shroom Poppers. The Shroom Poppers are potato bites stuffed with mushrooms, vegetables, meatloaf, and onion. The crispy tenders were not much to shout about, and the shroom poppers were a tad underwhelming, to say the least. It was a tad disappointing considering the Umakara Chicken was fantastic.
Verdict
The Umakara Chicken is definitely going to feature in our meals for the next few weeks. You could skip the Crispy Tenders and Shrooms Peppers, and save your tummy for the Umakara Chicken! Do mark your calendar, as it’s only available for limited release from 13 Jul to 5 Aug.
KFC Umakara Chicken Meal, $7.90:
2 pieces Umakara Chicken, 1 regular Whipped Potato, 1 regular Coleslaw and 1 regular SJORA Mango Peach
KFC Umakara Chicken Box, $9.50:
2 pieces Umakara Chicken, 2 pieces Crispy Tenders, 2 pieces Shrooms Poppers, 1 regular Whipped Potato and 1 regular SJORA Mango Peach
This was an invited tasting session.
Also, read Comfort Food Always Wins! 7 Local Desserts That Steal Our Hearts
Blue Wine: What It’s All About & How To Get Your Hands On One!
Just when you thought food can’t get any more colourful (that’s right rainbow cakes/coffee/god knows what else, we’re looking at you!) This latest trend in foodie haven we’re going to talk about is something else. Today, we’re introducing to you the Blue Wine. Its natural colour has taken the internet by storm. Here’s the low-down on what we know so far.
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Image Credit: @giklive[/caption]
The creators of blue wine
GikWines is a Spanish firm that has decided that the world’s current selection of red, white, and rose wine is getting a little meh. The team of 6 has said, with a punny reference to the acclaimed book “The Blue Ocean Strategy”, that there’s potential in capturing a relatively uncontested market.
This led to the inception of the Blue Revolution as the wine company affectionately dubbed. There’s also a barrage of #EnjoyTheRevolution hashtags popping up all over Image Credit: @giklive[/caption]
How is the colour produced?
The wine gets its unique electric blue colour from anthocyanin, a pigment derived from grape skins and an indigo tint sourced from a particular plant. These hues are then added to a base blend of red and white wine.
Interestingly, the Gikblue carries no added sugar and instead sweetens over time due to the natural sugar fermentation process.
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Image Credit: @giklive[/caption]
How is the world reacting to it?
The original (and peculiar) colour of the wine has proven to be an extremely successful selling point for the company. It sold out last week due to huge demand!
Fret not, wine lovers! GikWines has assured its many fans via social media that its stocks will be replenished the following week. The company has also reached out to thank its customers for what they call an incredible and unanticipated international response on their trending Image Credit: @giklive[/caption]
A little bit more on blue wine itself…
With an alcohol level of 11.5% and a signature sweet taste, this wine exclusively retails internationally via GikWine’s online website. It goes for an affordable €10 (S$14.99) for a 750ml bottle. The company is currently working on plans to launch a new version of the wine. It’ll be specifically targeted at the Millennial generation.
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Image Credit: @giklive[/caption]
The Final Verdict
With many positive up-and-coming reviews about its taste and business concept, we’d say GikBlue is well positioned to revolutionise the wine industry. But, only time will tell if GikWines will be a timeless breakthrough in wine history or simply a passing fad.
Sadly, Singaporeans need to wait a little more to order GikWines’ exquisite Blue Wine via their online website, https://gik.blue. Presently, it only ships to select countries such as Spain, France, the United Kingdom, Germany and the Netherlands. If you desperately want to get your hands on it, consider using a freight forwarding service or have your friends who are overseas buy and bring it back for you.
Cover Image Credits: Business Insider
Also, read Seafood So Fresh, They’re Still Alive! 6 Best Places To Get Them
7 Local Desserts So Good, They’ll Remind You Of Your Childhood Sweetheart
Topped with tropical fruits and a side of condensed milk for a Snapchat worthy sweet treat, Bingsus are the go-to dessert on a hot summer’s day. Not forgetting a warm and freshly baked Belgian waffle, topped with a scoop of creamy gelato and almond sprinkles. Mmm.
Local Dessert – Comfort Food That Never Disappoints
But when it comes to hitting that sweet spot for dessert, nothing does it better than local dessert. Affordable, nostalgic and ultimately delicious, local dessert is not only part and parcel of our culture, but also a quick and delicious way to seek respite from the blistering heat. Be it a cooling snack, a mid-day treat or a post-meal dessert, here’s a list of where you can go to get your local dessert fix!
1. Mei Hong Yuen Dessert
Image credit: www.burpple.com/@sharonista
A name familiar to most, this local dessert chain serves traditional hot and cold dessert. It is one of the “Singapore Chinatown Heritage Brands”. These brands are the ones that have been operating in Chinatown for at least 30 years. Through the years, Having eaten at this dessert stall for years, we heavily recommend the Almond with Egg White, Red Bean Lotus, and Chee Cheong Fun. They have also recently opened more stalls, so you don’t have to travel to Chinatown just to savour one of the best local dessert stalls.
From its smooth and comforting bowl of peanut paste to the classic and juicy bowl of mango with pomelo and sago, you’ll never be disappointed.
Outlets: Image credit: With a wordy menu filled with a huge variety of local dessert options, being spoilt for choice is an understatement. Ah Chew Desserts often sees large crowds of both locals and foreigners alike. It has even received media spotlight from NHK Broadcasting Corporation. Other must-try dishes include Hawaiian Papaya boiled with Fresh Milk, Black Glutinous Rice with Vanilla Ice-cream, Mango Sago & Pomelo, Watermelon Honeydew with Sago, and Durian Hong Kong Red Bean Ice. Ah Chew Desserts Image credit: www.burpple.com/@Kirschwarm
Chinatown: No. 63 – 67 Temple Street, #B2-32 Chinatown Point
Orchard: #B4-34, ION
Novena: #02-03 Velocity@Novena Square
Clementi: #03-02 321 Clementi Ave 3
Opening Hours:
Click 2. Ah Chew Desserts
Address: 1 Liang Seah Street, #01-10/11; 181 Thomson Road, Goldhill Shopping Centre
Opening Hours: Mon – Thu: 12:30pm – 11.30pm; Fri: 12.30pm – 12.30am; Sat: 1.30pm – 12.30am; Sun: 1.30pm – 11.30pm3. Ji De Chi
Traditional flavours still have a place in today’s age. Ji De Chi’s dish of sweet mangoes and black glutinous rice wrapped in green tea mochi is the perfect example. This eatery serves up a good selection of traditional and modern desserts.
Image credit: www.burpple.com/@rachellelinggg
Their rendition of the Taiwanese shaved ice dessert is a cheaper alternative to the pricier bingsu, but it definitely does not lack in terms of sweetness and flavour.
Ji De Chi
Address: 8 Liang Seah Street, #01-03
Opening Hours: Mon – Sun: 11am – 11pm
4. Annie’s Peanut Ice Kachang
With numerous modern spins on the old ice kachang dish, perhaps the best combination is still some roasted peanut and red bean, doused with a colourful blend of syrup.
Annie’s Peanut Ice Kachang
Address: 3 Yung Sheng Road, #01-01
5. Ye Lai Xiang Cheng Tng
Image credit: Sticking to a traditional recipe passed down since 1939, Ye Lai Xiang has been churning out bowls of cheng tng.
Their bowl of cheng tng comes loaded with 10 different ingredients, a class above the rest (the usual cheng tng contains only a handful of ingredients). The painstaking preparation process of double boiling the sago and sunning the dried longans is evident in the end result – a clear sweet broth that’s almost addictive.
Address: Bedok Food Centre, 1 Bedok Road, Stall 31
6. Jin Jin Hot/ Cold Dessert
Image credit: www.burpple.com/@iceblossom
The owners weren’t kidding when they named their dish ‘Power Cendol’. Using premium gula-melaka to give it that distinctive palm sugar richness, this is one decadent dessert. It packs all the punches at only a fraction of the price. Coupled with sweet coconut milk and red beans, you’ll find yourself polishing the bowl in jiffy.
Image credit: If you love Mango and Durian, this one’s for you! Tangy Mango cubes are topped with condensed milk and a scoop of Durian puree! There’s also a version without the durian topping. From our visits to Jin Jin Dessert, we also learn that the mango cubes are soaked in a secret sauce for that tangy and refreshing bite. Their hard work pays off, as there’s nothing like this bowl of mango goodness elsewhere!
Jin Jin Hot/ Cold Dessert
Address: ABC Brickworks Market & Food Centre, 6 Jalan Bukit Merah, #01-20
Opening Hours: Mon, Tues, Thurs, Sun: 12:30PM – 10PM; Fri, Sat: 12:30PM – 10:30PM
Closed every Wednesday
7. 75 Ah Balling Peanut Soup
Image credit: www.burpple.com/@jiaknonstop
We are all accustomed to the usual glutinous rice balls with peanut and black sesame filling. But at 75 Ah Balling Peanut Soup, they even have red bean, yam, and green tea fillings to up their ball antics. Best of all, those special flavours are hand-made!
As their name suggests, they are famous for their peanut soup. The soup is simmered for hours for soft and tender peanuts. They also offer options like almond milk and ginger soup. No matter what you choose, you can be sure you’re digging into a bowl of comforting goodness.
75 Ah Balling Peanut Soup
Address: #01-75, Golden Mile Food Centre, 505 Beach Road; #01-25 Blk 85 Bedok North Street 4
Certainly, there are numerous other dessert stalls out there that serve up that familiar bowl of traditional dessert. When the queues of artisanal desserts grow too long, know that you can always fall back on stalls like these to satisfy your sweet tooth.
(Header image: www.burpple.com/@sharonista)
Also, read Wisma Atria Brings Japan To S’pore – Tsukiji Sushi To Wagyu Beef!
Cycling Routes In S’pore Just Got Better – Round Island & Coastal!
Guess what? Cycling around Singapore will no longer be a dream. It will not be occurring anytime too soon but it is definitely happening in the near future. So start pumping on your leg days and prepare your calves for some action. With major cycling routes underway, we reckon you’re gonna be cycling…real soon!
Round Island Route – Cycle Around The Island!
The Round Island Route, a continuous 150km park connector that goes around the island is set to begin development work by the end of this year. Spanning three times the length of Singapore, most areas of this cycling routes will be 6 metres wide (the current park connectors are 4 metres), giving cyclist and joggers more space to exercise. It also reduces the risk of bike-related accidents.
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Source: Urban Redevelopment Authority[/caption]
The developer will also be jazzing up the cycling routes with amenities such as shelters, washrooms, bike parking lots and self-help bike repair facilities.
Inter-town Cycling Routes
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Souce: gov.sg[/caption]
Currently, the government plans to develop more inter-town cycling routes to connect commuters from their homes to the city. We should be able to see a Queenstown-City and Geylang-City routes soon. Towns such as Bishan, Hougang and Bukit Timah will also be connected to the existing cycling routes to the city.
We can’t wait for these cycling routes to be ready! For now, we just have to make do with existing cycling loops – in yellow, orange, pink, green, and blue. Do you know of other great cycling routes around Singapore? Do drop us a comment and let us know!
Also, read Cycle X Makan – 5 Best Food And Night Cycling Paths In SG
Can You Believe It? This Dinner In Singapore Costs SGD $2.7M!
Money can’t buy you everything, but lots (and lots) of it – SGD $2.7M to be exact – can now buy you the world’s most expensive dining experience in Singapore.
Russian diamond group World of Diamonds (WOD) and Credit: by Rezwana Manjur[/caption]
Most Expensive Dining Experience – Getting There
This eight-hour expensive dining experience with your partner kicks off with a 45-minute helicopter ride. The ride will give you an unobstructed view of the city skyline against the backdrop of a setting sun. A Rolls-Royce pulls over upon landing, and you proceed to get chauffeured in style to catch a luxury private cruise along the Singapore River. This opulent river adventure ultimately takes you to your end destination – Marina Bay Sands.
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Credit: by source: cnn[/caption]
2.08-carat Jane Seymour Vivid Blue Diamond Ring
Fireworks promptly go off in the night sky as your approach the end of your meal. The starry highlight of the evening – a 2.08-carat Jane Seymour Vivid Blue diamond ring – is presented alongside Louis XII de Rémy Martin cognac to cap off the expensive dining experience. This masterpiece of a jewellery is in a class of its own. Blue diamonds of this size and saturation are known to be among the rarest and most sought after gems in the world. An overnight stay at this 5-star hotel is complimentary, if desired. You will wake up the following morning wanting to relive the moment over and over again.
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Credit: by Rezwana Manjur[/caption]
Be it a wedding proposal, an anniversary or a celebration of a good, good life, this elaborate execution by WOD and CÉ LA VI is one of epic proportions. There is a catch, though – this diamond-studded package will only be sold to qualified individuals. You will need both the riches and the fame to be worthy of this beyond royalty experience. The rest of us? We can just dream.
(Header image source: by Rezwana Manjur, words by editor)
Also, read Wisma Atria Brings Japan To S’pore – Tsukiji Sushi To Wagyu Beef!
We Never Bluff – Local Food Going For Only 50¢ At Chinatown!
Ever wished you could stuff yourself silly with local delights without breaking the bank? At this year’s 50 Cents Festival, you can! For as little as – you guessed it!- 50 cents, enjoy a great variety of authentic local favourite dishes that will propel you right back to the good old 1950s.
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Image Credits: Chinatown Food Street[/caption]
50 Cents Festival at Chinatown
The entire food street at Chinatown will be transformed into a “pasar”, or street hawker food scene. It’s specially designed to transport visitors to an authentic recreation of the 1950s and 60s! Treat yourself to delectable local delights – 35 iconic traditional dishes cooked by 20 stores!
Do also watch out for the mobile hawkers who roam the streets selling old-time favourites.
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Ice Ball, $0.50[/caption]
50 Cents is Bigger Than a Bull Cart Wheel
An old Hokkien saying (translated) goes: “50 Cents is Bigger Than a Bull Cart Wheel!” What does this mean? In the 1950s, SGD 50 cents was enough to buy so much food that most would consider it a ridiculous amount to spend on a meal! Singaporeans and tourists alike will be pleased to note this will be a reality at the 50 cents festival!
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Rickshaw Noodles, $0.50[/caption]
35 Iconic Local Delights at as Little as 50 Cents Only
That’s right budget hunters, 50 cents for your favourite Char Kway Teow, UFO (Fried Oyster Cake), Rickshaw Noodle, Ice Balls and Fried Carrot Cake. Other 50 cent dishes include BBQ Chicken Wings, Nasi Lemak wrapped in banana leaf, Satay and Roti Prata. For an additional 50 cents or one dollar, customers can even enjoy specialities such as Hainanese Chicken Rice Balls, Bak Kut Teh and Singapore’s signature Chilli Crab!
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Pig trotter with vinegar, $0.50 x 3[/caption]
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Hainanese Chicken Rice Balls, $0.50 x 2[/caption]
Fringe activities
To truly make the experience an unforgettable one, there will be a myriad of Fringe Activities lined up for all ages. Families can indulge in outdoor movie screenings, marvel at performances by martial arts professionals and opera singers. These activities will mimic “kampong-style” communal activities. Get your Chinese name artfully written by calligraphers, or you could also pay a visit to letter writers and fortune-tellers. All these while munching on your food spoils of the day!
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Steamed Glutinous Rice (Sweet & Savoury), $0.50[/caption]
50 Cents Festival Details
With so much happening along this street bazaar, we say this is a must-visit for everyone! So, what are you waiting for? Mark your calendars and get ready to have a feast!
50 Cents Festival
Address: Chinatown Food Street, Smith Street
Date: 30 July, Sat, 3PM – 11PM; 31 July, Sun, 11AM-11PM
Menu: click here.
Also read, A Timbre+ Event: Expect Only The Best Food & Music @ Open Stoves!
A Rundown Of What’s Cooking At Food Opera – 8 Stalls You Must Check Out!
Orchard Road has always been a convening point for us Singaporeans. It is a glitzy, world-famous shopping stretch that is adorned with restaurants dishing out fine dining selections. However, when it comes to eating at Orchard, we know how you feel; hunting down affordable (apart from fast food) comfort food can be tougher than scouting out the best bargains during GSS.
If you’ve got your head in your hands about what to eat at Orchard, fret not! We’ve discovered this hidden food gem of a place, and we’re letting the cat out of the bag. The reopening of Food Opera at Set C ($25)[/caption]
The white bee hoon at this new stall differs slightly from the Singaporean version we’re familiar with – Xing Lou’s unique rendition has wok-fried vermicelli simmered in shellfish gravy. The gravy is not as viscous as our local version but has a complex depth of flavour and a sweet aftertaste. The bee hoon has an ultra-soft, springy bite that breaks easily with each mouthful.
We all know how grimy stale seafood tastes like, and Xing Lou goes the extra mile to ensure this never happens. Expect only the freshest of crustaceans as seafood is imported from Endau, one of Malaysia‘s largest fishing ports, almost every other day.
Set C is perfect for sharing as it comes with a generous serving of bee hoon and an impressive seafood medley of prawns, crayfish, scallops and clams. If you’re not into sharing (we totally understand), you can opt to have your own bee hoon with any crustacean of your choice from just $6.90.
2. Ya Hua Bak Kut Teh
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Signature Prime Ribs ($10.50)[/caption]
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Claypot Tofu ($8.70)[/caption]
Bak kut teh (pork bone soup) has always been a familiar favourite; a warm and comforting broth that fills both your heart and stomach with joy on a cold day. Ya Hua, a long-time contender in the bak kut teh scene, is helmed by founder Madam Gwee Peck Hua who believes in cooking healthy, unpretentious food that is humble yet comforting at best.
This bak kut teh recipe of hers underwent countless revisions after years of trial and error before the broth was finally perfected. Boiled for hours, the soup is flavourful with just the right hint of pepper – it won’t leave that burning sensation down your throat, yet will warm the cockles of your heart. The meat is well-cooked and tender and glides off the bone effortlessly. If you find chewing off the pork bone a hassle, Ya Hua also has a boneless sliced pork soup option ($7.50) – now you’ve got no excuses.
Apart from her iconic bak kut teh, Madam Gwee has also introduced new, homely dishes into her menu at her new stall. The Claypot Tofu – silken tofu simmered with steamed egg and pork balls – is laced with a nostalgic taste of home. Every mouthful of this humble dish will remind you of grandma’s cooking.
3. Ah Yat Kitchen
Ah Yat Shredded Roasted Chicken with Fries ($6.50)[/caption]
Ah Yat may be a new tenant at Food Opera, but it has been a household name since the 1970s. While they’re undeniably known for their abalone, do give their Roasted Chicken a try! With meticulous care, the chicken is marinated and roasted to coax out flavours that will delight your taste buds. After the chicken is roasted to perfection, it is seasoned with sesame oil and sesame seeds to further enhance the flavour of this traditional Chinese dish.
The texture of the shredded chicken is impeccable – you won’t have to worry about it being too dry! All these tedious preparations contribute to fragrant, hand-pulled chicken so tender you have to try it to believe it – it might possibly give your favourite Hainanese chicken rice stall a run for its money. For $6.50, you get a quarter-chicken serving of meat and a choice of crispy fries or a bowl of rice on the side.
Another gem to try Ah Yat would be their Abalone Baked Rice ($8.80); a fragrant and delectable mix of egg fried rice with baby abalone.
4. Scotts Hwa Heng Beef Noodle
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Beef Noodle Combo Set Meal ($7.50). Credit: Fishball Noodle ($5.50)[/caption]
Fishball noodle – a satisfying, fuss-free Singaporean dish that needs no further introduction. Forget about all day breakfast! Fishball noodle has been a go-to for breakfast, lunch and even supper for as long as we can remember.
Here at Li Xin, they take great pride in serving quality, handmade fishballs. Their fresh fishballs are made of top-grade yellowtail fish meat and chilled in cold water (no freezing!) to ensure freshness. According to second-generation owner Mr. Eddie Lim, this is an age-old method used to keep the fishballs bouncy and succulent. These rustic balls have a unique, ‘meaty’ texture to them – a world apart from the processed ones you find in supermarkets, in a good way of course.
The dry version of their mee pok noodles is tossed in an otherworldly concoction of chilli and ketchup, striking a perfect balance between sweet and savoury. It does not have that strong vinegar sourness but rather a mild, tangy aftertaste, much like good sourdough bread. As for its soup counterpart, the broth is refreshingly addictive – you will be down to your last slurp before you know it. Fans of pork lard, you’re in luck. Li Xin is extremely generous with their self-prepared, fried pork lard – sinful at best but irresistibly good.
6. Riverside Indonesian BBQ
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Ayam Panggang Set ($6.50)[/caption]
You can’t call yourself a true blue Singaporean if you haven’t heard of Riverside. We’re kidding, it’s never too late to introduce this hearty dish into your world. Their bestseller, the Ayam Panggang (Indonesian grilled chicken) set, heralds snaking queues at Food Opera daily.
Riverside goes to great lengths to serve this scrumptious dish. The chicken thigh is first dipped in a secret sauce – a combination of Indonesia spices. After being set to rest, the thigh is barbequed till it exudes a smoky aroma. That’s not all! Before being served, the thigh is dipped in a homemade special black sauce. This is THE sauce that defines their legendary ayam panggang.
The dish is served with a slab of omelette, homemade sambal chilli and rice slathered with curry gravy. The coconut-heavy curry is slightly on the sweeter end and is not too spicy, so go ahead and raise the spice level with their killer sambal chilli. All in all, this divine combination of grilled chicken in black sweet sauce, rice smothered with curry and sambal chilli gets a resounding nod of approval from us – and probably half the population in Singapore already.
Seafood lovers, you can also rejoice! Riverside serves up equally delish BBQ squid and fish too.
7. Padang Padang
Ikan Assam Pedas ($3.50),Ayam Kari ($3.50/drumstick or $5.50/quarter chicken)[/caption]
If you, like every other Singaporean, live for cai png (economical rice), then this Indonesian version of our everyday staple provides a refreshing twist. You are more than free to mix and match a variety of meats and vegetables that are prepared daily, but we’d say go straight for the Ayam Kari and Ikan Assam Pedas.
The Padangnese-style ayam kari is essentially chicken simmered in a rich, coconut curry gravy that boasts a blend of at least seven spices. The chicken has a firm, silky texture and slides off the bone with a simple tug.
The ikan assam pedas, on the other hand, is a sour-spicy stingray dish prepared with a medley of fresh laksa leaves, tamarind and lemongrass – so rejuvenating, it’s almost like a wake-up call for your taste buds. The stingray is fresh with a nice succulent texture. We absolutely love the spot-on tanginess of the gravy – it is not too sour and has an addictive aftertaste that leaves you salivating for more.
The folks behind Padang Padang only cook with raw spices specially imported from Indonesia. You’ll also be pleasantly surprised to know that Padang Padang uses no preservatives or MSG in any of their dishes. Kudos to them! We now have the liberty to order anything here without setting the MSG alarms off.
8. Ice Shop
Bobo Chacha with Taro Balls ($3.20)[/caption]
You know what they say, there is always a dessert stomach – the happy ending to any meal. We love our rainbow cakes and churros, but traditional desserts will always hold an uncontested place in our hearts. This stall has a lengthy menu of over 35 hot and cold selections to satisfy your sweet cravings. The portions are not monstrous, so you won’t get jelat of the milk-based treats.
The Chendol here is remarkably different from the ones served elsewhere. Topped with jackfruit, it is a rich and flavourful thirst-quencher in a bowl. The red bean and sago jelly balances out the sweet and salty coconut milk nicely, and the shaved ice is doused in the ever familiar Gula Melaka. No doubt an ideal finish to a satisfying meal, or a midday indulgence.
If your palate gravitates more towards the warm desserts, the Bobo ChaCha with Taro Balls is a traditional option with a twist. The usual, transparent tapioca pearls you would expect to find in this coconut milk-based broth are replaced with taro balls instead. These purple, jelly-like balls have a strong, natural taro taste to them. No bobo chacha is complete without sweet potato and yam chunks, and the ones at Ice Shop are delightfully soft, but not to the point of mushy.
The next time you’re in town (we’re guessing soon), do drop by Food Opera for your local hawker and street food fix. Apart from old favourites, the new tenants are also part of a carefully curated bunch with authentic and quality food to offer – all in the comfort of air-conditioning. Now you’ll know where to get the best eats at Orchard.
Food Opera @ ION Orchard
Address:
#B4-03/04 Ion Orchard
2 Orchard Turn
Singapore 238801
Tel:
+65 6509 9198
Operating Hours:
Sunday to Thursday, and Public Holiday 10am – 10pm
Eve of Public Holiday, Friday to Saturday 10am – 11pm
Brought to you by Discover SG x
That’s Not A Fish! 4 Places In Singapore Where Crocs Roam Free
Nature photographers who are expecting birds, otters, or monitor lizards are now also able to spot crocodiles in Singapore. Well, you don’t have to visit the zoo or a safari to see these crocodiles. In recent years, there is a growing number of crocodile sightings in Singapore. Wander around the wetland reserve or nature park and you will
Wander around the wetland reserve or nature park and you might just find yourself up close and personal with these reptiles. For some of you, you may know that crocodile sightings in Singapore are common at Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve. However, do you know that they are spotted in the Northern and Eastern part of Singapore too?
Whether you are a reptile fanatic or an adventure seeker, the park, reserves and reservoirs are where crocodile sightings in Singapore are common. You may want to keep a close eye on family and friends if you’ll be around the area, as these are the spots where crocs roam free.
1. Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve
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Image credit: The Straits Times[/caption]
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Image credit: Youtube[/caption]
Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve is a great place to walk around. You get to escape the hustle and bustle of Singapore city. Walk along its boardwalk and if you are lucky, you may be able to spot a Saltwater crocodile. Also known as the Estuarine crocodile, these crocs are also usually found lying across the main footpath, soaking up the sun or lying under the waters.
Free guided walks at the reserve are available on selected Saturdays. Check out the details on the Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve website.
2. Kranji Reservoir
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Image credit: The Straits Times[/caption]
Enjoy the panoramic view of Johor Straits at Kranji Reservoir Park. There are as many as ten saltwater crocodiles living in the north-west coast of Singapore, as reported in the Straits Times in June 2013.
In recent years, a 400kg, 3.6m-long saltwater crocodile – one of the largest to have roamed wild here – was found dead on the Kranji Reservoir grounds.
3. Tampines/Pasir Ris River Canal
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Image credit: The Straits Times[/caption]
Several years ago, an angler fishing at Pasir Ris Park snared an unexpected catch of a one-metre-long crocodile. Some of these reptiles have been seen in a mangrove swamp near Tampines/Pasir Ris River Canal. They are likely visitors from Malaysia! The reptiles are known to swim freely in the Straits of Johor.
4. Woodlands Waterfront Park
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Image credit: Asiaone[/caption]
Recently, an angler fishing at the jetty snared a crocodile which had bitten on his fish hook.
“The fishing rod was suddenly yanked by a huge force. On closer look, I realised it was a crocodile about 3m long that was caught,” Suhairi told the newspaper reporter.
These reptiles feed and rest in mangroves and freshwater bodies along Singapore’s North coast. Crocodiles and sharks have also been sighted lurking in the sea off Woodlands Waterfront Park.
The “no swimming” notices along these stretches do not warn about sharks or crocodiles. However, the park’s jetty and promenade are fenced off from the waters of Strait of Johor with railings. Despite this, children are often seen sourcing for crabs on the marshland bordering the sea.
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Image credit: giphy[/caption]
Whatever it is, when visiting nature reserves, always keep within designated land trails and footpaths. Don’t venture too near the water’s edge, you never know what could be lurking. Also, keep a close eye on family and friends!
(Header image by The Straits Times)
Also, read Kranji Marshes Opens With Free Guided Walks To Restricted Areas, Perfect For Nature Lovers!
