Seafood So Fresh, They’re Still Alive! 6 Best Places To Get Them

Cooking with seafood is a delicate process. While it requires both meticulous preparation and the right techniques, working with quality ingredients is also paramount in the execution of the perfect seafood number.

Here in Singapore, we often find ourselves limited to the measly seafood selection at chain supermarkets (no offence NTUC). Sometimes, sourcing for the freshest seafood can be more challenging than cooking itself. This is why we’ve taken upon ourselves to uncover a list of places to buy the best of seafood. These 7 honest-to-goodness places are guaranteed to sell you only the freshest seafood. In fact, for Ah Hua Kelong, Eating Crabs, Emporium Shokuhin, and Greenwood Fish Market & Bistro, some seafood can be bought or delivered live!

1. Song Fish Dealer Pte Ltd

[caption id="attachment_9216" align="aligncenter" width="680"] Source: greatnewplaces[/caption]

The super ulu location may not be as convenient as your Giant or Cold Storage. However, the fresh and extensive range of seafood sold at wholesale prices make the visit to Taman Jurong worthy. At black cod, king crab leg, lobster, rohu, shark fillet, tuna loin.

Song Fish Dealer
Address: 19 Fishery Port Road (retail showroom)
Opening Hours: 8 am – 5 pm (Mon-Sat), 830 am – 12 pm (Sun & PH)
Tel: 6777 3939

2. Ah Hua Kelong

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Situated amongst the hipster vendors at PasarBella is 

Fish is only hauled up on the actual day of your delivery to ensure optimum freshness. Ah Hua Kelong’s highlights include the barramundi, pearl grouper, live mussels, flower crabs and seabass.

Picking out fresh seafood isn’t exactly second nature to us millennials so major props to them for providing an Seafood that can be bought or delivered live: clams, mussels, and crabs.

Ah Hua Kelong
Address: #02-K2 PasarBella, 200 Turf Club Rd
Opening Hours: Mon to Thu, 1 pm-930 pm; Fri to Sun 12 pm -10 pm
Tel: 8655 3074

3. Tekka Wet Market

[caption id="attachment_9167" align="aligncenter" width="700"]Source: macomberproductions Source: macomberproductions[/caption]

This vibrant, two-storey wet market located at Little India is possibly the largest and most iconic wet market in Singapore. Housing over 284 tenants, expect to find a good handful of stalls selling fresh ocean catches at Tekka. This is also where you’ll experience bargaining – a quintessential aspect of the authentic wet market experience. The better the vendor knows you, the lower the prices. If you are a first-time buyer, put on your sweetest smile and maybe bat your eyelashes a little. For the guys, try flexing a little and see how far that gets you. Be sure to look out for squids, snappers, salmon, tiger prawns.

Lee Yit Huat Trading is one of the stalls to check out. They are known for their bountiful array of seafood, including squid and stingray. You will be pleasantly surprised by how much cheaper the seafood here can be. Tekka is open until late afternoon, so you have the luxury of sleeping in and avoiding the jostle with the morning marketing crowd.

Tekka Wet Market
Address: 665 Buffalo Rd, L1 Tekka Centre S210665
Opening Hours: Daily 6.30 am-5 pm

4. Eating Crabs 

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This one’s for all crab lovers out there – Apart from crabs, they also offer a range of fresh Canadian oysters, sea bass, green or blue mussels and prawns of all varieties.

Seafood that can be bought or delivered live: oysters, mussels, clams, lobsters, and crabs.

Eating Crabs
Opening Hours: Daily 9 am – 6 pm (4pm last order)
Tel: 83337436

5. Emporium Shokuhin

[caption id="attachment_9168" align="aligncenter" width="700"]Source: wheretoeat Source: wheretoeat[/caption]

This new Japanese supermarket at Marina Square has its own in-house, live seafood market with fresh imports from Japan, US, Australia and Europe. Armed with 22 specially-designed water tanks that house over 20 variations of live fish and shellfish, chances are you will be able to find what you are looking for at Oyster lovers, this is also the place to get your indulgent fix – Emporium Shokuhin has over 10 live oyster varieties freshly imported from countries like France and Canada. If you find the traditional, rowdy wet markets and giant warehouses too overwhelming, you can now shop for all your favourite seafood at this gourmet supermarket – all in the comfort of air-conditioning without compromising on quality.

Oysters aside, keep a look out for their Alaskan king crab, Dungeness crab, abalone, flounders, Japanese saba and Boston lobsters. Delivery is also available for those who prefer shopping from the comfort of their homes.

Seafood that can be bought or delivered live: crabs, oysters, lobsters, and more.

Emporium Shokuhin
Address: 6 Raffles Boulevard, #01-18 Marina Square
Opening Hours: Daily 8.30 am-10 pm
Tel: 6224 3433

6. Greenwood Fish Market & Bistro

[caption id="attachment_9169" align="aligncenter" width="700"]IMG_4319 Source: thesilverchef[/caption]

This cosy neighbourhood fish market and bistro is dedicated to bringing in only the freshest of seafood. Greenwood Fish Market and Bistro specialises in importing cold water fish from the coasts of Australia, New Zealand, Canada and the U.S.

The staff here is well trained and extremely knowledgeable. They’ll dish out recommendations and cooking tips to ease you into the seafood-buying process. They also have a bistro section; you can choose to bring your buys home or have their in-house chef prepare it for you on the spot. Highlights include its smoked Haddock, swordfish, mahi mahi, tuna steak and live Boston lobsters.

Seafood that can be bought or delivered live: lobsters and oysters.

Greenwood Fish Market & Bistro
Address: 34 Greenwood Ave
Opening Hours: Daily 11 am-1030 pm
Tel: 6467 4950

7. Senoko Fishery Port

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For the benefit of those who have no idea what Senoko Fishery Port is, this one’s for you.

A familiar name to most, the Senoko Fishery Port, unlike our local wet markets, only roars to life when the sun is down. Open from 2am-6am, be prepared to stay up if you want to snag the freshest ingredients at this wholesale fish market. As this is a wholesale market, you can expect an extensive range of seafood; from fish to squid to the ever indulgent lobster and even guitar sharks at bargain prices. Do also check out the stingray, shark, sea bass, tilapia, red and white snapper.

For those keen on exploring the market, you can find an informative guide to Senoko So the next time you’re on the hunt for fresh seafood, do check out the aforementioned places. You no longer have to be confined to the limited range at your nearest supermarket or settle for anything less than fresh. Apart from obvious health reasons, the quality of the seafood you use does make a world of difference to your final dish.

(Header image by crystalcovesingapore)

Also, read Watermelon Fried Rice In Singapore, Have You Tried It?

5 Local Eateries You Never Knew Are Owned By Celebrities!

It may come as a surprise to some, but albeit their hectic work schedules, there has been an increasing trend of celebrities venturing in the F&B industry, where they take time off-screen to open their own bars and restaurants. From seafood goodness to sweet treats, here’s our list of 5 local eateries you never knew are owned by our celebrities!

1. Wholly Crab by Felicia Chin

[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="1622"] Image credit: todayonline[/caption] [caption id="attachment_10023" align="alignnone" width="640"]wholly crab Image credit: burpple[/caption]

Started by MediaCorp actress Felicia Chin in May 2015, Wholly Crab is a seafood eatery specialising in American/Louisiana seafood. This casual seafood joint serves their seafood by the bucket where portions are usually catered for sharing. Instead of the traditional chilli and black pepper crabs, you’ll be able to find unique sauces like Kung Pao, Marmite, Creamy Cheese, Laksa and more.

Wholly Crab has affordable combo buckets to choose from. These include the Love Buckets ($60), good to share among 2-3 dinners or their Wholly Bucket ($120) for a larger group of 5-6. One of their must-try is their signature Nori Tempura Soft Shell Crab ($12), a crispy and succulent dish. For those who aren’t exactly fans of crabs, Wholly Crab has other food options such as mussels, prawns and even pasta.

So if you’re craving for a casual dinner, try Wholly Crab for your seafood fix.

Wholly Crab (Satay by the Bay)
Address: 18 Marina Gardens Drive, #01-17 Satay By The Bay, S018953
Opening hours: Sun to Thu 2pm-10pm, Fri-Sat 2pm-11pm

Wholly Crab (Bedok Market Place)
Address: 348 Bedok Road, #02-10 Simpang Bedok Market Place, S469560
Opening hours: Tue to Sun 4pm-10pm, Closed on Mon

2. Mischief by Cynthia Koh, Michelle Chong & Daniel Ong

[caption id="attachment_10026" align="alignnone" width="1024"]mischief Image credit: todayonline[/caption] [caption id="attachment_10027" align="alignnone" width="640"]burpple St Louis Ribs. Image credit: mischief[/caption]

Helmed by Daniel Ong, Cynthia Koh and Michelle Chong, Mischief is an eatery that focuses on American street food. With its lively ambience, this establishment is a great place for gatherings of any kind. Sink your teeth into delicious American cuisines such as the Sloppy Joes, Philly Cheesesteak or Chicken Waffle before washing them down with a pint of cold beer. For the health-conscious, there’s always the Heirloom Tomato Salad, a dish comprising of juicy tomatoes, basil pesto, cheese and olive crumb.

Not a fan of beer? Mischief also offers a selection of alcoholic drinks such as cocktails, spirits and wines. Did we also mention that there’s neither service charge nor GST?

Mischief
Address: 8 Raffles Avenue, Esplanade Mall #01-12, S039802
Contact: 6532 0106
Opening hours: Mon-Thu 5pm-1am, Fri-Sat 5pm-3am, Sun 5pm-11pm 

3. Dulce and Sucre by Jaime Teo & Daniel Ong

[caption id="attachment_10038" align="alignnone" width="650"]Dulce & Sucre Image credit: danielfooddiary[/caption] [caption id="attachment_10039" align="alignnone" width="650"]dulce Image credit: danielfooddiary[/caption]

They may be known as the founders of Twelve Cupcakes, but did you know that duo Jamie Teo and Daniel Ong are also behind the concept of Dulce and Sucre? An extension of Twelve Cupcakes, this establishment sells a variety of puddings, crunchies, whoopies, and tarts with prices ranging from S$3.30 – S$6.00.

If you happen to be in the Orchard area, do head down to the basement of Orchard Gateway to try their tarts, cake pops and loaves that are baked using top ingredients such as French butter and top notch chocolate. Also, expect great service here at this little quaint cafe!

Dulce and Sucre
Address: 277 Orchard Road, B1-01 Orchard Gateway, Singapore 238858
Tel:
+65 6509 1255
Opening hours: 
Daily 10am-10pm

4. PARK at Holland Village by Adam Chen

[caption id="attachment_10029" align="alignnone" width="1024"]PARK Image credit: googlemaps[/caption] [caption id="attachment_10028" align="alignnone" width="640"]PARK Truffle Mac and Cheese. Image credit: burpple[/caption]

Located in bustling Holland Village, PARK is a one of a kind Gastro Bar opened by actor Adam Chen, whose passion for the creation of spaces paved the way for his introduction to the F&B industry. Reconstructed out of an old shipping container and powered by solar energy, PARK is a stand-alone restaurant that is pretty hard to miss.

PARK operates as a cafe by day and bistro by night. The must-try items include its Spam Chips ($8.50) and Truffle Mac and Cheese ($13.50). Do arrive early as seating is limited and establishment tends to fill up pretty fast during peak hours.

PARK at Holland Village
Address: 281 Holland Avenue, #01-01, S278996
Contact: 6532 0106
Opening hours: Fri-Sun 10am-2am, Tue-Thu 10am-12am, Closed on Mon

5. Dancing Crab by Dick Lee

[caption id="attachment_10030" align="alignnone" width="780"]dancing crab Image credit: The Straits Times[/caption] [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="960"] Image credit: Dancing Crab[/caption]

Other than Slappy Cake, the renowned songwriter is also the owner of Start your meal with some Crab Cakes ($13) or you know, dive straight into the Boston Lobsters ($9.50/100g) or Dungeness crabs ($8.50/100g). Other must-try dishes include classics such as the Po’boy Sandwiches ($15) and Seafood Gumbo ($11). That said, do be prepared to get your hands dirty at Dancing Crab!

Check out all the four outlets location Dancing Crab (The Grandstand)
Address: The Grandstand 200 Turf Club Road
Contact: 65 6566 3303
Opening hours: Mon-Fri 5pm-10.30m, Sat-Sun/PH 11.30am-3pm; 5pm-10.30pm

Sure, the combination of fame and food may sound like a winning formula, but we’ll leave it to you to decide if the celebrities should venture further into their second careers. However, we do salute their passion for food and they are indeed, inspiring people to look up to. If you do decide to drop by their restaurants, do let us know how they fare by dropping a comment below!

(Header image by todayonline, danielfooddiary and The Straits Times, edited by writer)

Also read: A Teppanyaki Dinner That Hits All The Right Spots – Teppan Bar Q

A Teppanyaki Dinner That Hits All The Right Spots – Teppan Bar Q

Part of a chain of restaurants by the Ishida Kikaku Group, originating from Hakata city in Kyushu, Japan, Teppan Bar Q is the group’s second restaurant in Singapore. This newly opened restaurant is set in the hip and stylish Robertson Quay area.

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The founder, Mr Kyota Ishida, also known as Mr K, promotes the taste of Hakata in all his dining ventures. Mr K has been in the industry since he was sixteen when he started working in a French restaurant. His passion for bringing a sense of excitement and discovery to customers through food has led him to open various restaurants around Japan, and now, Singapore.

Teppan Bar Q

Teppan Bar Q

Teppan Bar Q is a contemporary teppanyaki restaurant that offers Spanish Tapas with a creative twist. This cosy and inviting diner seats 21 pax around the counter. Indoor and outdoor seatings are available for drinks and light bites. You can also pair a wide selection of wine from Spain to Japan, private-label sakes, fruit liqueurs, cocktail, and beers,  with its dishes.

[caption id="attachment_9966" align="alignnone" width="1024"]Teppan Bar Q Sake Sake which pairs well with the dishes.[/caption]

Roasted Hakata Mentai

Roasted Hakata Mentai

One of Hakata region’s speciality is their Roasted Hakata Mentai ($12.90) – marinated roe of Pollock and Cod, specially flown in from Hakata. The roe is sliced into small nuggets, gently roasted on its grill, and topped with capsicum, chilli flakes.

We found this dish a little too savoury for our taste buds. However, it paired well with sake for a full bodied flavour.

Octopus Galician Style

octupus

This is an interesting combination – octopus on potatoes ($13.90). The octopus is well-cooked and seasoned to perfection. Topped with paprika powder, olive oil and spring onions on a bed of soft potatoes, this dish tantalised the taste buds. The dish was delightful – tangy, slightly peppery, and just the right amount of savoury.

Foie Gras with Daikon

[caption id="attachment_9969" align="alignnone" width="1024"]Foie Gras and Daikon Foie Gras and Daikon[/caption]

The Foie Gras with Daikon ($26.80) is our favourite dish and totally stole the limelight. This dish is chef Kyota’s signature Mediterranean-inspired dish. After grilling to perfection, the foie gras is set to rest for 2 minutes. This makes it more juicy and tender.

The smooth and rich foie gras melted in my mouth. The daikon (white radish), soaked in dashi broth, was heavenly. It oozed with unami and dashi and left me wanting more. This is a truly unforgettable dish.

Tonpei Yaki with Rice Cake & Cheese

Tonpei Yaki

One of Teppan Bar Q’s must-haves is definitely their Tonpei Yaki with Rice Cake and Cheese ($25.90). The Tonpei Yaki is a thin batter layered with finely chopped cabbage with slivers of pork, egg, and white sauce. The white sauce is a secret mixture of mountain yam paste and mayonnaise. The restaurant’s mayonnaise is homemade with plum-infused soymilk – a healthier choice. Also, good quality eggs from Okinawa are used for this dish. What’s also special is that this dish is served on special earthenware plates. These plates have an infrared effect that draws out the taste of the ingredients evenly. Definitely a must-try dish!

US Ribeye Angus Steak

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steak

The US Angus Ribeye Steak ($58.90 for 200g) was cooked to perfection. It was not tough at all and was juicy and tender. Choose from three accompanying sauces – sesame sauce, soy sauce with wasabi, and garlic ginger onion sauce. Out of all the sauces, we felt that the sesame sauce added a punch to the flavour of the beef. If you want to enjoy the natural flavour of the beef, simply opt for the soy sauce with wasabi.

Garlic Fried Rice

Garlic Fried Rice

A good garlic fried rice consists of loads of garlic fried to a delectable aroma with eggs and rice. This garlic fried rice ($12.90) totally nailed it! On top of all these goodness, the chef added in a fatty portion of the steak from our previous dish which gave our fried rice a surprise burst of flavour for each bite.

Vanilla Ice Cream Kinako

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To wrap up your dinner, try their Vanilla Ice Cream Kinako ($6.90). The ice cream is made from kinako – roasted soybean paste which is a healthy option for diners. A brown sugar syrup at the bottom provides a sweet finish to the dessert.

All in all, we love how quaint and cosy this little restaurant bar is. If you’re looking to unwind with friends or would like to have a family gathering in an intimate casual setting, we definitely recommend visiting Teppan Bar Q!

Do note that the servings seen in the pictures are in mini portions as this was an invited food tasting. Besides the ala carte dishes, Teppan Bar Q also offers a set course menu from $60.

In Singapore, Teppanyaki is either found at food courts or at the high-end restaurants. Teppan Bar Q fills the mid-range gap. To find this restaurant, walk along Muhammad Sultan Road instead of Unity Street.

This was an invited food tasting session.

(All photos are taken by the writer)

Teppan Bar Q
11 Unity Street, #01-21/22 Robertson Walk, Singapore 237995
Tel: 
65 6235 0629
Opening Hours: Daily, 6pm – 12am

Also, read Decadent Yet Light Cakes You’ll Love – Waku Ghin @ Marina Bay Sands

The Singaporean Bucket List – 10 Challenges You Die Die Must Complete

Boy does time fly. With half of the year now gone, it’s time to do possibly to a mini reflection, to ask if you’ve done anything worthy of a #throwback post for your future social media feeds. Oh the troubles of millennials, are we right?

Seriously, though, if you’re looking to create worthy memories you can churn into bar talk, here’s a bucket list of 10 challenges to complete before the year ends.

1. Go On  A Solo Bike Trip

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You’ve heard about all the good things about Pulau Ubin. How about taking things up a notch and experiencing them through a solo bike tour? Rental bike shops are aplenty on the island and once you’re good to go, cycle along the dedicated cycling track into the wetlands and see for yourself the beauty of the island.

The off-road track (especially the uphill climb) might get a little tough for the inexperienced cyclists but trust us, the scenery is worth all the effort. A little tip from us: check out the 2. Re-Visit Haw Par Villa

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Whilst Tiger Balm is a great invention, Haw Par Villa, the home of the Aw brothers, isn’t exactly the most youngster-friendly of spots. Remember being scared witless by the countless sculptures situated all around the premise? Or the Ten Courts of Hell that had you promise your parents that you’ll never, ever lie to them again?

Now that you’re all grown-up and brave, take the chance to re-visit the park and see what Haw Par Villa really is about. It may come as a surprise, but hidden behind the sculptures are some very meaningful moral values we can learn from. For the thrill-seekers, get some extra ‘hao pa’ (Chinese translation: scared ) experience by visiting the place during the Hungry Ghost Festival. We dare you.

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Haw Par Villa
Address: 262 Pasir Panjang Road, Singapore 118628
Operating Hours: Daily 9:00am-6:00pm

3. Complete the Southern Ridges Walk

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Measuring a good 9km, the Southern Ridges trail consists of four parks spanning across the western half of Singapore. Several parts of the trail are suspended high above the canopy, giving hikers a great view comprising of the contrast between Singapore’s modern buildings and the primaeval greenery around the trail.

The most scenic part of the hike can be found in the section between Hort Park and Mount Faber. The Southern Ridges Walk is pretty accessible, where you can choose to enter from West Coast Park, Kent Ridge Park, Hort Park or Mount Faber Park.  Do note that anything with wheels (bicycles, roller skates) are not allowed on most of the trail!

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4. Attend A Trivia Night

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Do you know how many Storm Troopers appeared in Empire Strikes Back? Can you name all the members of Backstreet Boys?

Whether you’re a walking Wikipedia or someone who loves quizzes, attend for a trivia night and have some fun with your friends! There are a few bars that host trivia night but our personal favourite will have to be Molly Malone’s Quiz Night, held on Mondays 7.30pm. They usually cover a variety of genres, ranging from movies to fashion.

Got your A game on? Stand a chance to walk away with a bucket of St. Miguel/St. Miguel light. Not available on Mondays? Molly Malone’s Quiz Night
Day/Time: Mondays / 7:30pm
Address: 56 Circular Rd, Singapore 049411
Contact number: 
+65 6536 2029

5. Take Up The Escape Room Challenge

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Think you’re the next Sherlock Holmes? Then it’s time to recruit your friends and take on an Escape Room challenge! The game objective is too simple: solve the puzzles and escape from a locked room within a given time. The difficulty levels and themes vary according to the type or rooms you pick.

We’re pretty blessed to have a variety of escape games available here in Singapore-,

6. Beach Hop At Sentosa

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Sentosa is famous for its 3 beaches – Siloso, Palawan, and Tanjong. It’s hard to say which is better than the other so why not experience all three beaches on the same day? We suggest you start your beach hopping with the Siloso Beach, followed by lunch or a picnic at Palawan before relaxing at Tanjong.

Do check out our Beach Guide before if you’re intending on planning a beach day out!

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7. Hunt The Haunted

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This is obviously not for the faint-hearted. You’ve probably heard of the Old Changi Hospital, but have you tried exploring the abandoned Fort Serapong,  and Old Tanglin Camp?

Whilst you’re at it, strap on a camera, film your adventure and make your very own ‘True Singapore Ghost Stories’. But remember, safety is of utmost importance and try to be respectful when visiting these places.

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8. Try All Salted Egg Yolk Dishes

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One of the biggest food trend in Singapore this 2016 has got to be having the salted egg yolk in every dish. There is the  Xiao Long Bao, Croissants, molten Cheese Tarts, Lava Toast, Onion Rings, Ice cream, Prata and also the super addictive someone-stop-us-from-eating-more Salted Egg Yolk Chips.

How many of these have you ticked off from your gourmet list? We’re not sure if Salted Egg Yolk is here to stay but be sure to try everything whilst the fad lasts. Do try to space out your dishes as y’know, high cholesterol.

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9. Volunteer For A Cause

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Let’s be honest. When was the last time you did something without expecting any returns? (and we’re not talking about mandatory volunteer work that you had to do to earn CIP hours). So take this time to do something good this year and volunteer at one of our many volunteer organisations!

If you’re more of an animal person, check out . All in for gender equality? Sign yourself up at Volunteer Guide for a thorough list of organisations where you can contribute to.

10. Bungy Jump

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Doesn’t matter if AJ Hackett Sentosa has yet to open but according to their For those who are not too fond of free falling, there is also the Vertical Skywalk (used by Navy Seals, The Army and Hollywood), Skybridge and Giant Swings (swing side by side reaching 120km/hr) to keep your adrenalin going.  Do follow their Facebook page for the latest updates.

Did our list get you all fired up? Do tell us how many challenges you managed to tick off the list!

(Header image by AJ Hackett, words by editor)

Also read: It’s Now Or Never – Snag These 8 Best Lifestyle Deals This GSS

Choo Choo! JR East To Open Very First Overseas Japan Rail Cafe In SG

Train enthusiasts, cafe hopper, or lover of all things Japanese, we have great news for you! East Japan Railway Company (JR EAST) has just announced that they will be opening their very first out-of-Japan, tourism-themed cafe this November. And the best part of all, this ‘train’ will be arriving in Singapore!

[caption id="attachment_10000" align="alignnone" width="1665"]Image source: JR East Image source: JR East[/caption]

Get your Japan rail passes at the cafe

Set to open their doors on the ground floor of Tanjong Pagar Centre, the Japan Rail Cafe will be a one-stop Japanese-experience for fans of the country. Besides dishing out yummy gourmet food and displaying kawaii items, prospective Japan tourists can also find information about lesser known regions of Japan and even purchase their Japan rail passes here. Now that sure is convenient!

[caption id="attachment_10001" align="alignnone" width="1500"]Image source: JR East Image source: JR East[/caption]

Monthly menu and display updates

If you think this is just another ‘one visit and you’re done’ themed cafe, you’re missing out the fun here. The kawaii display items imported from Japan will be changed EVERY MONTH. The menu, which adopts the latest recipes developed by JR EAST’s F&B outlets in Tokyo, will also be updated on a monthly basis.

[caption id="attachment_10005" align="alignnone" width="720"]1 Image source: Rene Chong[/caption]

Workshops, pop-up booths, and seminars

On top of that, Japan Rail Cafe will also be hosting monthly workshops, and pop-up booths selling items from shopping malls inside JR EAST’s train stations. If you’re too broke to make a trip to the land of rising sun, you can experience Japanese culture at the seminars and get your Japanese (gift or souvenirs) here!

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Get advice for your Japan itinerary

Planning the itinerary of an overseas trip can be a bit of a pain but we have a feeling that this cafe will be the perfect place to work on your Japan trip’s rundown. What’s better than having a local help you with your travel plans? At the Japan Rail Cafe, there will be Japanese service staff (fluent in English) who will introduce their home country to you.

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2016 marks the 50th anniversary of Singapore-Japan Diplomatic Relations and having a cultural exchange in a casual setting sure is a great way to celebrate the relationship. #relationshipgoals

Japan Rail Cafe
Address: 5 Wallich Street, #01-20/21, Tanjong Pagar Centre, Singapore
Estimated opening date: November 2016

(Header image source: Wikimedia, words by writer)

Also read: Popular Nightspots – Unwind To Recommended Izakayas in Singapore

Need A Break? Here’re 9 New & Hip Hotels For Your Next Staycay!

Half of 2016 is officially gone! Congrats on making it this far, and after all the hard work, we’re sure you’ll want to rest your tired souls with a quick break. Too busy/tired to plan an overseas trip? A staycay is your answer.
Since late 2015, multiple new hotels have been opening their doors to travellers and staycationers alike. Whether you’re into quirky boutique hotels or extravagant luxury stays, here are 9 spots to book your upcoming staycations.

1. The South Beach

[caption id="attachment_9319" align="alignnone" width="1000"]Image credit: The South Beach Image credit: The South Beach[/caption] [caption id="attachment_9317" align="alignnone" width="1920"]Image credit: The South Beach Image credit: The South Beach[/caption]

If you’re looking for an elaborate stay, the The South Beach
Address: 30 Beach Rd, S189763
Contact:6818 1888
Price: From 
S$442 per night

2. Hôtel Vagabond

[caption id="attachment_9916" align="alignnone" width="700"]Image credit: Hotel Vagabond Image credit: Hotel Vagabond[/caption] [caption id="attachment_9559" align="alignnone" width="700"]Image credit: Hôtel Vagabond Image credit: Hôtel Vagabond[/caption]

From its massive gold elephant to the shiny bronze rhinoceros at the reception, the quirky Hotel Vagabond
Address
: 39 Syed Alwi Rd, S207630
Contact:6291 6677
Price: From 
S$209 per night

3. The Club Hotel

[caption id="attachment_9918" align="alignnone" width="700"]Image credit: The Club Hotel Image credit: The Club Hotel[/caption] [caption id="attachment_9329" align="alignnone" width="700"]Image credit: homeanddecor.com.sg Image credit: homeanddecor.com.sg[/caption]

Head straight to Mr & Mrs Maxwell’s, the bar and lounge at The Club Hotel
Address: 28 Ann Siang Rd, 069708
Contact:6808 2188
Price:From 
 S$268 per night

4. Hotel Jen Tanglin

[caption id="attachment_9325" align="alignnone" width="700"]Image credit: Hotel Jen Tanglin Image credit: Hotel Jen Tanglin[/caption]

Image credit: Hotel Jen TanglinImage credit: Hotel Jen Tanglin

Based on the imaginary persona of Jen, a professional hotelier, Hotel Jen Tanglin offers a cosy staycation spot at the end of Orchard’s shopping district. With Tumblr-ish quotes printed on its cushions and a lounge that looks more like a cafe than a hotel, Jen offers a charming and personal touch. This is also seen from its dabao (takeaway) box at the buffet, where you can help yourself to a little extra with the courtesy of Jen. They certainly know how to satisfy the auntie in us.

Hotel Jen Tanglin
Address
: 1A Cuscaden Rd, 249716
Contact:6738 2222
Price: From $202 per night

5. Sofitel Singapore Sentosa Resort & Spa

[caption id="attachment_9930" align="alignnone" width="700"]Image credit: Sofitel Singapore Sentosa Resort & Spa Facebook Image credit: Sofitel Singapore Sentosa Resort & Spa Facebook[/caption] [caption id="attachment_9321" align="alignnone" width="700"]Image credit: Sofitel Singapore Sentosa Resort & Spa Facebook Image credit: Sofitel Singapore Sentosa Resort & Spa Facebook[/caption]

The newly refurbished Sofitel Singapore Sentosa Resort & Spa
Address
: 2 Bukit Manis Road Sentosa, Singapore 099891
Contact:6708 8310
Price: From 
S$354 per night

6. Hotel YAN

Image credit: Hotel YANImage credit: Hotel YAN

[caption id="attachment_9324" align="alignnone" width="700"]Image credit: Hotel Yan Image credit: Hotel Yan[/caption]

This industrial-chic hotel has a chill, cafe-like vibe that hipsters will die for. Built from a former industrial warehouse, Hotel YAN
Address
: 162 Tyrwhitt Rd, 207581
Contact:6805 1955
Price: From 
S$104 per night

7. Park Hotel Alexandra

[caption id="attachment_9406" align="alignnone" width="700"]Image credit: Park Hotel Alexandra Image credit: Park Hotel Alexandra[/caption] [caption id="attachment_9926" align="alignnone" width="700"]Image credit: tripadvisor Image credit: tripadvisor[/caption]

Want to avoid the hustle and bustle of the city? Park Hotel Alexandra
Address
: 323 Alexandra Road, 159972
Contact:6828 8888
Price: From 
S$148 per night

8. ibis Styles Singapore On Macpherson

[caption id="attachment_9927" align="alignnone" width="700"]Image credit: booking.com Image credit: booking.com[/caption] [caption id="attachment_9557" align="alignnone" width="700"]Image credit: ibis Styles Singapore On Macpherson Image credit: ibis Styles Singapore On Macpherson[/caption]

Located at the top level of Macpherson Mall, ibis Styles Singapore On Macpherson
Address
: 401 Macpherson Road Corner of MacPherson & Aljunied Rd, S368215
Contact: 6622 6000
Price: From
S$99 per night

9. Oasia Hotel Downtown

[caption id="attachment_9929" align="alignnone" width="700"]Image credit: Oasia Hotel Downtown Image credit: Oasia Hotel Downtown[/caption]

Image credit: Oasia Hotel DowntownImage credit: Oasia Hotel Downtown

With natural foliage and sleek modern designs, Oasia Hotel Downtown
Address: 100 Peck Seah St, 079333
Phone:6812 6900
Price from
S$240 per night

Parisian-inspired stays, tropical retreats and more, there’s definitely no lack of new hotels to book a staycation this year. So if you’re too caught up with work for an overseas trip, a staycation is probably the next best thing for a quick getaway.

(Header image credit: original images (in clockwise direction) by Hotel Jen TanglinSofitel Singapore Resort & Spa, edited by author.)

Also read: 8 Cool Places For An Ultimate Chill Out Weekend At Kampong Glam

Decadent Yet Light Cakes You’ll Love – Waku Ghin @ Marina Bay Sands

In September last year, renowned chef, Tetsuya Wakuda, launched Waku Ghin Patisserie Platine at RISE Lounge, offering 18 types of intricate pastries and petit cakes from the award-winning restaurant Waku Ghin.

The exclusive selection, which changes seasonally, is beautifully handcrafted and lovingly created by Waku Ghin’s pastry team. The cakes are available for takeaway or dine in at RISE lounge, located in the lobby of Marina Bay Sands Hotel, Tower 1.

Each cake is made in-house, using premium ingredients and fresh seasonal fruits from Japan and Europe. The picture-perfect creations are not only easy on the eyes but also on the palate, hitting the right notes for texture and flavour.

Dining at Waku Ghin’s Patisserie Platine is, of course, an experience by itself. Enjoy the stream of natural light from all directions while you sip tea at the lounge – a place where businessmen and tourists frequent any time of the day – and feel like a total tai tai.

Chocolate mousse with raspberry and pistachio

The chocolate mousse with raspberry and pistachio ($12) is a decadent dessert – though there’s a rich cocoa taste, the texture remains light. The cakes here are not at all dense, in fact, it is so light, that it is dangerously easy to polish off an entire cake by yourself without realising it. The ingredients are fresh, as promised, and this rings true in every bite.

Ghin’s cheesecake

Ghin’s cheesecake ($12), a house speciality, is feathery light and it is almost like eating a cloud. For a cheesecake, it goes against the grain of what a typical cheesecake would be like. Waku Ghin’s team pushes boundaries with the cake, making it refreshing and almost airy. It is the type of cake you would eat for a good pick-me-up after a long work day.

Matcha Opera cake

The matcha opera cake ($10) also offers the same fluffy texture as the cheesecake and is very reminiscent of a tiramisu cake. We noted a hint of alcohol in this cake and for each bite, the tastes hit the taste buds quite strongly, but there are so many layers to the taste that the alcoholic tinge is soon forgotten.

Coconut mousse with passionfruit and mango

This bright coconut mousse with passionfruit and mango ($10) also carries the same lightness in texture as the other cakes despite being so dense in the fruit department. The coconut is so subtle in the mousse that it is almost undetectable. This was one of my favourites out of the lot we tried. All the desserts were surprisingly not too sweet either.

Waku Ghin has certainly pushed boundaries to create decadent, yet light desserts. You’ll never feel jelak polishing off an entire cake yourself! Every bite and calorie is worth it, satisfaction guaranteed.

Waku Ghin Patisserie Platine
Address: Rise Lounge, first floor, Marina Bay Sands Tower 1
Opening hours: From 11am daily
Tel: 6688 5568

Brought to you by Discover SG x Foodie Vs The World

This was an invited food tasting session.

Also, read Popular Nightspots – Unwind To Recommended Izakayas in Singapore

Chill Like The Japanese! 6 Izakayas To Wind Down Your Work Week

Looking to unwind over a large variety of sakes or whiskies while indulging in some tapas, yakitori or some good Japanese food? With Izakayas growing in popularity as a spot for after-work drinks and chill out, we have hunted down the best bars and restaurants for your top-notch sake, cocktails and Japanese-inspired bar bites.

Pop by our list of recommended hidden izakayas in Singapore, we’re sure you’ll enjoy the relaxing, chill-out vibes while you hit the bottles.

1. Hokkaido Izakaya

[caption id="attachment_9645" align="alignnone" width="1000"]hokkaido izakaya Image credit: 95 Tanjong Pagar Road, Singapore 088516
Contact:
65 6221 7118
Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat 11.30am-2.30pm; 6pm-12am, Sun/PH 11.30am-2.30pm; 6pm-10.30pm

2. Bar Ippudo

[caption id="attachment_9626" align="alignnone" width="851"]
Bar Ippudo Image credit: Bar Ippudo Facebook Page[/caption]

This recently opened bar by the famed Ippudo ramen brand specialises in over 80 Japanese sake labels. These sake labels are from more than 20 sake breweries from Japan. With such a large variety, Bar Ippudo caters to both retail and dine-in customers. With tons of Japanese bar bites to everyone’s favourite Hakata-style ramen, you’ll always have something to pair with your sakes.

This minimalist 12-seater bar is the place to go if you’re looking for a cosy yet intimate sake dining experience.

9 Bras Basah Road, RendezVous Hotel Gallery, #02-02A, Singapore 189559
Contact:
65 6235 2547
Opening Hours:
Sun-Thu 11.30am-10pm, Fri-Sat 11.30am-11pm

3. Bam! Tapas-Sake Bar

[caption id="attachment_9628" align="alignnone" width="626"]
Bam! Tapas-sake bar Image credit: 38 Tras St, Singapore 078977
Contact:
65 6235 2547
Opening Hours:
Sun-Thu 11.30am-10pm, Fri-Sat 11.30am-11pm

4. JINzakaya

[caption id="attachment_9659" align="alignnone" width="1024"]
JINzakaya Image credit: JINzakaya Facebook page[/caption]

Tucked at a backstreet off Rangoon Road beside its sister concept restaurant Sushi Jin, lies the new retro-chic JINzakaya. JINzakaya is a small quaint restaurant refurnished as an old Tokyo train station with Japanese commercials playing in the background. The restaurant displays retro posters on dark walls and uses rustic wooden furniture. Choose to dine at the main dining area or simply sit at the counter seat to watch chefs prepare your food.

JINzakaya offers a wide range of yakimono (grilled items), bar bites, and noodles in its cosy small restaurant. For drinks to go along, try their Shichi Hon Yari Junmai Ginjo Tamasakae for a refreshing and slightly tangy taste. If you appreciate a good Japanese meal with a dose of sake, this intimate restaurant is highly recommend! Do book before coming as space at JINzakaya is limited.

1 Farrer Park Station Road, #01-08/10 Owen Link, Singapore 217562
Contact:
65 62443 1173
Opening Hours: 
Daily 12pm-3pm; 7pm-11pm

5. Neon Pigeon

[caption id="attachment_9643" align="alignnone" width="700"]
neon pigeon Image credit: chope[/caption]

Located at the hip enclave of Keong Saik Road lies Neon Pigeon. Serving up Japanese small plates to go along with its lists of craft sakes and other liqueurs, this restaurant is fit for both after-work drinks and intimate dates. The restaurant has a lively atmosphere. Its interior has a funky vibe as its decor is a mix of industrial concrete and wood. Huge graffiti murals adorn the walls.

Their artistic cocktails are to die for. Try their house signature “Throw a Kyuri-ken” which is a refreshing mix of vodka tossed with cucumber. If you prefer sticking to sake, the bar’s special in-house junmai daiginjo sake features a lighter taste that pairs well with food. With a huge crowd flocking to this well-loved restaurant, do make a reservation to secure the best seats! What’s more, what we love about Neon Pigeon is their no-service-charge policy!

1 Keong Saik Rd, Singapore 089109
Contact:
65 6222 3623
Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat 6pm-12am, Closed on Sun

6. Izakaya 95

[caption id="attachment_9660" align="alignnone" width="650"]
izakaya95 Image credit: danielfooddiary[/caption]

Looking for a no-frills, relaxing place to enjoy good Japanese dishes with perfectly matched Japanese beers, whiskies, sakes and shochus? This hidden gem at Punggol settlement has it all! At Izakaya 95, wind down to a relaxing seafront view and enjoy bar food and traditional charcoal grill dishes paired with premium beers and a wide selection of alcohol. Try their Hakurakusei Tokubetsu Junmai Sake for a smooth, clean and crisp light body with unami.

Though this location is quite inaccessible, it is certainly well-worth the trip! Do note that driving to Izakaya 95 would be the best way to get there.

Izakaya 95
Address: 
3 Punggol Point Road, #02-05 The Punggol Settlement
Contact:
65 6384 1132
Opening Hours:
Mon-Thu 5pm-12am, Fri/PH eve 5pm-1am, Sat 1.30pm-1am, Sun/PH 12.30am-12am

There’s so much more to look forward to after a hard day of work. Call your friends, book a reservation at one of these spots and unwind to great food and drinks!

(Header Image by JINzakaya Facebook Page, edited by writer)

Also read: Wind Down Your Week – 6 Whisky Bars All Whisky Lovers Must Visit

Wind Down Your Week – 6 Whisky Bars All Whisky Lovers Must Visit

Imagine a long day at work rushing though deadlines and submissions, attending meetings in and out, all you need to wind down the work week is a glass of whisky. With whiskies becoming more popular, everyone wants to try out unique whiskies, from Scotch to Japanese to American and even Australian and Indian.

Whether you are a casual drinker or a zealous whisky lover, here’s our list of recommended whisky bars you must visit.

1. B28

[caption id="attachment_9576" align="alignnone" width="1024"]B28 Image credit: sgwhisky[/caption]

This bar is one of Singapore’s best kept secrets. Located in the basement of The Club along Ann Siang Road, B28 offers a bespoke selection of more than 200 different Scottish Single Malts. With live jazz performances ($15/person) from Thursdays to Saturdays, the ambience is more than perfect.

Aside from their huge whiskey selection, they have great cocktails mixed by their resident mixologist too. As the bar is small and intimate, do get there before 10pm for a good seat. Otherwise, simply make your reservations Basement No. 28, Ann Siang Road, The Club Hotel, Singapore 069708
Opening Hours:
Mon-Wed 6pm-12am, Thu 6pm-1am, Fri-Sat 6pm-2am, Closed on Sundays 

2. The Auld Alliance

[caption id="attachment_9577" align="alignnone" width="893"]
theAuldAlliance Image credit: The Auld Alliance Facebook page[/caption]

Known to have the largest collection of whiskies in Southeast Asia, The Auld Alliance has a comprehensive selection of over 1400 whiskies available for purchase with whiskies from every distillery in Scotland available. For those looking for an introduction, the bar has entry level whiskies from bigger distilleries like Talisker, Balvenie, The Glenlivet, Springbank and many others. There are also tasting sets to introduce you to different whiskies, so you can find your favourite.

If you’re not looking for whiskies, there is a fine selection of other Absinthes and cocktails available. So the next time you are around the Bras Basah area, be sure to pop by The Auld Alliance, you certainly won’t be disappointed!

9 Bras Basah Road, RendezVous Hotel Gallery, #02-02A, Singapore 189559
Contact:
65 6337 2201 (from 5pm)
Opening Hours:
Mon-Thu 5pm-1am, Fri-Sat 5pm-2am, Sun 5pm-12am

3. Quaich Bar

[caption id="attachment_9582" align="alignnone" width="1024"]
quaich bar Image credit: lifestyleasia[/caption]

Recognised as “a Great Whisky Bar of the World” by The Whisky Magazine, The Quaich bar is one of the most exquisite whisky bars you will find in Singapore. Be spoilt for choice as you wind down and enjoy more than 500 types of whiskies at the bar. To assist you in your journey to discover more whiskies, The Quaich bar has crafted distinctly-themed sampling sets of whiskies. Other than whiskies, they also offer a variety of beers, wines, tequilas, rums, and vodkas.

390A Havelock Road, #01-09/10 Waterfront Plaza Singapore 169663
Contact:
65 6732 3452
Opening Hours:
Mon-Thu 5pm-1am, Fri-Sat 5pm-2am, Sun 5pm-1am

4. The Single Cask

[caption id="attachment_9584" align="alignnone" width="1024"]
the single cask Image credit: The Single Cask[/caption]

Located in the heart of the city at Chijmes, The Single Cask is a cosy destination for cafe goers and liquor lovers. This quaint joint operates as a cafe and liquor shop by day and whisky bar by night. Specialising in quality whisky and spirits, this whisky shop sells over 250 labels for take away from 11am to 10.30pm. Its bar opens at 6pm and you get to enjoy a range of whisky flights and drams as well. At the Single Cask, they offer lockers to store your unfinished bottles for a 2nd encounter.

The Single Cask
Address:
390A Havelock Road, #01-09/10 Waterfront Plaza Singapore 169663
Contact:
65 6732 3452
Opening Hours:
Mon-Thu 5pm-1am, Fri-Sat 5pm-2am, Sun 5pm-1am

5. The Connoisseur Divan

[caption id="attachment_9589" align="alignnone" width="1024"]The Connuisseur Divan Image credit: The Connuisseur Divan Facebook page[/caption]

The Connoisseur Divan offers great acoustic live music. With its luxurious interior and charming bar setting, The Connoisseur’s bar houses more than 90 rare and exclusive premium single malt Scotch whisky, wine and champagnes. If you are into smoking cigar, The Connoisseur Divan has a cigar smoke room on the second floor. You may also purchase from their wide range of Cuba cigars. Outdoor seating is also available if that’s what you prefer.

The Connoisseur Divan
Address:
207 River Valley Road, #01-62 UE Square, Singapore 238275
Contact:
65 6733 7141
Opening Hours: Mon-Sat 2pm-1am, Sun 4pm-11pm, Closed on PH

6. The Secret Mermaid

[caption id="attachment_9590" align="alignnone" width="1024"]The Secret Mermaid Image credit: 10 Collyer Quay, B1-08 Ocean Financial Centre, Singapore 049315
Contact:
65 6733 7141
Opening Hours: Mon-Fri 5pm-11pm, Closed on Sat & Sun

If you consider yourself a whisky lover and haven’t been to any of the places listed above, you are missing out big time! So what are you waiting for? Head down to these venues and cheers to a great drink or two.

(Header image by 8 Cool Places For An Ultimate Chill Out Weekend At Kampong Glam

Escape The Assassination – An Escape Game You Don’t Want To Miss!

Missed the special edition ‘Escape the Assassination Classroom’ Escape Game? Here’s the chance to put your wits to the test as Real Escape Game in Singapore announced that the game will be extended to another two days (June 18, 19) due to overwhelming response!

escape

Produced by SCRAP in Japan, the pioneers of real escape games, the very first escape game of this series was held in Japan from February 2015 – April 2015.  Based on the first season of the anime Assassination Classroom, participants for this Assassination Classroom Real Escape game will be playing as Class 3-E students. They must use their wits and knowledge to solve puzzles and problems, and help Koro-sensei save his students.

Game Story

[caption id="attachment_9495" align="alignnone" width="700"]Image source: Manganel Image source: esc Image source: Real Escape Game in Singapore[/caption] [caption id="attachment_9492" align="alignnone" width="960"]esc Image source: Real Escape Game in Singapore[/caption]

Ticketing Information

[caption id="attachment_9493" align="alignnone" width="960"]esca Image source: Real Escape Room In Singapore[/caption]

Held at Funan DigitalLife Mall, each escape session is 2 hours long and priced between $23-25 per ticket. If you have 5 other friends who’d like to join, the group entry of 6 participants is priced at $132.

You can buy your tickets on-site BUT do note that if the tickets are sold out on Peatix (link below), it won’t be available on-site as well. So if you didn’t manage to escape on your first attempt, or would like to give this challenge a go, do get your tickets ASAP to guarantee a spot. And we can assure you that they’re selling like hot cakes.

Do note that you might be grouped with other participants on the day depending on your group size. 

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Escape The Assassination Classroom
Date & Time:

June 18: 11AM/2PM/5PM/8PM (Duration: 2 hours
Ticket price: $23 (early bird), $25, $132 (group of 6)
Venue: Funan DigitalLife Mall
Address: 109 North Bridge Road, Singapore 179097
Facebook:
Real Escape Game in Singapore

Header Image source: YouTube

Also read: 8 Cool Places For An Ultimate Chill Out Weekend At Kampong Glam