Location: Outram

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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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

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

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

1. The South Beach

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

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

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

Image 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

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 YAN

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

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

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

Image 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 Tanglin, Sofitel Singapore Resort & Spa, , edited by author.)

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

Kitchen at Bacchanalia – Send Your Taste Buds On An Adventure!

Nestled in the heart of Hong Kong Street, The Kitchen at Bacchanalia isn’t your average fine-dining restaurant. What catches the attention of passers-by is not just the well-decorated interior, but also the stunning open kitchen concept. The cosy 36 seater really makes fine dining a casual yet intriguing affair.

The Kitchen at Bacchanalia is led by head chef Ivan Brehm. This is Brehm’s first restaurant in Singapore. Born in Brazil, he uses his deep culinary knowledge and experience to create many unique and intriguing dishes. His menu is carefully thought and crafted out. All the dishes I’ve tried did not fail to excite the taste buds.

The entire restaurant exudes a relaxed vibe. The low chatter from the guests and the overall calm ambience makes dining at Bacchanalia comfortable and enjoyable. The waiters adopt a smart-casual look as they are all dressed in shirt and jeans. Upon stepping in, the delicious smell of food wafts through the air while the chefs cook.

The best part? Diners get to watch all the action! From the preparation to the cooking and even to the plating of the dishes.

The capellini pasta was chilled and perfectly al dente. The black garlic mayonnaise and sprinkles of American chilli pepper complemented the pasta and left a sharp and intriguing aftertaste, that wasn’t too overpowering. The black garlic mayonnaise sauce also gave the dish a different texture that wasn’t too soupy or thick.

Hamachi is traditionally known as Japanese Yellowtail fish. It is commonly used in sushi or eaten alone as sashimi. It is normally found in the northern part of the pacific ocean and can be eaten either raw or cooked. Chef Ivan’s dish – Hamachi “On Toast” – consists of cured Japanese Hamachi atop rice and a rice cracker. Little bits of pomelo is added to balance out the saltiness and gives the dish a touch of sourness. The rice cracker also gives the dish its special crunch. All these aspects come together perfectly to wow my taste buds.

Talk about sending taste buds on an adventure – take the popular appetiser dish “Carrot” for example. The plate is filled with… you guessed it! Carrots. The carrots are cooked in different ways; from seared carrots to carrot jams and carrot sponge cakes. Because the carrots are cooked differently, the dish gave me a different perspective of carrots. I never imagined that a carrot could be so sweet and spongy. If I had to eat one kind of vegetable for the rest of my life, I’d choose to eat Chef Ivan’s carrot dish forever!

Another intriguing dish is the sesame cake that was served for dessert. It is a delicious black sesame almond cake served with pink guava sorbet. The sweetness of the sesame cake is perfectly balanced by the tangy-ness of the guava sorbet. The cake is spongy but it also doesn’t fail to melt in the mouth. Paired with the guava sorbet, the combined flavour of this duo really packs a punch. Overall, it makes for an A-star dessert.

If you’re hungry for food that will satisfy both your taste buds and your tummy, The Kitchen at Bacchanalia is definitely the place to go!

The Kitchen at Bacchanalia
Address: 39 Hong Kong Street Singapore 059678
Tel: +65 9179 4552
Opening Hours:
Lunch – Tuesday to Friday, 12pm – 2:30pm (last order)
Dinner – Monday to Saturday, 6pm – 10:30pm (last order)

Brought to you by Discover SG x The Kitchen at Bacchanalia

This was an invited food tasting session.

Also, read Red House Seafood – Comfort Food That Will Chase Away The Blues

Red House Seafood – Comfort Food That Will Chase Away The Blues

Just a stone’s throw away from buzzing Orchard Road sits Red House Seafood along Prinsep Street. Designed to look like a classic old school restaurant for both the interior and facade, Red House has a certain vintage charm to it.

Its fare is far from vintage, very modern local cuisine is offered to its patrons. When we paid a visit to Red House, we sampled their signature dishes such as the charcoal buns with chilli crab fillings ($10 for 3, 40% during lunch from now till December in conjunction with their 40th anniversary). I have always loved how charcoal powder makes the bun so soft. The bright orange filling also pops from the dark grey exterior of the bun, giving it a nice contrast.

We also tried the trio of squid ($32 for S, $64 for L) which was recommended by the manager of the restaurant. When I saw salted egg squid, I was sold, of course. Anything with salty, savoury coating makes me go nuts (I didn’t like the salted egg croissant, just on a side note). The salted egg squid retained its crispiness despite the thick coating of soft salted egg, which gave it a nice contrasting texture. There was also barbequed squid and crispy baby squid.

The barbequed squid was cooked perfectly. Squid, if overdone, gets too chewy and hard, but this was done to perfection and cooked through. The crispy baby squid was crispy as promised and had a pleasant sweetness to it, almost like caramelised Ikan Bilis.

Of course, the chilli crab is a favourite for foreigners to try when they’re in Singapore for the first time. I do believe this is one of the only dishes Malaysians don’t argue with Singaporeans over when it comes to its taste and origins. The thick, gooey gravy complements the crab meat well. I go on a little rant in my other post about how huge Singapore crabs are compared to Malaysian crabs (take a look here).

I love the mantous that come with the chilli crab. In fact, as a kid, I had always hoped my parents would let me take more than one. As an adult, little has changed. Heh.

The last dish we tried that evening at Red House was a nice soupy, crab bee hoon. The broth was thick with crab taste and it was very aromatic. My dining companions were commenting about how the soup here is better than Mellben Seafood’s. That isn’t for me to judge as I haven’t tried the latter. But I was incredibly impressed by the quality of the food here at Red House.

Needless to say, if you’re craving for quality seafood that will never disappoint, head to Red House Seafood @ Prinsep Street. This is the kind of comfort food that will chase away all blues and warm the cockles of your heart.

Red House Seafood @ Prinsep Street
Address: 68 Prinsep St
Opening hours:
Weekdays: 3PM – 10:30PM
Weekends: 11Am – 10:30PM

Brought to you by Discover SG x Foodie Vs The World

This was an invited food tasting session.

Also, read Old Is Gold – 12 Best Food Finds In Mature Estate Toa Payoh!

5 Hipster Barbers You Should Visit For That Dapper Kingsman Look

It’s a tough time to be a man.

Gone are the days when you could get away with using the same soap for your head right down to your toes, or wear the same shirt in various colour combinations because you’re too lazy to shop. Today, the modern man is being held up to great expectations – from the way they dress to their hairdos (yes there is quite the variety of hairstyles for dudes).

In recognising this very trend, a slew of local barbers has since risen to cater to the dapper man’s every need. With services extending from haircuts to shaves and a classy interior to boot, here’s a list of local barbers you can pop by for that hipster modern hairdo befitting of every suave dapper individual. Sometimes, Snip Avenue just doesn’t make the cut.

1. Sultans Of Shave

Image credit: Sultans Of Shave

Inspired by the desire reignite the humble trade of the back alley barber,

Image credit: Sultans Of Shave

At the Ramadan Bazaar located at Paya Lebar, you can catch Sultans of Shave’s pop-up store. With services like basic haircuts that start from $48 and a comfortable deluxe shave session from $40, get ready to be groomed to look your finest.

Sultans Of Shave
Address: #02-01, North Canal Road
Opening Hours: Mon – Sun: 10am – 9:30pm

2. Hounds Of The Baskervilles

The punk rock and hardy vibes of Hounds Of the Baskervilles are so thick the store’s pretty hard to miss. From their rustic interior to grungy decorations, this place is certainly full of attitude, with hairdos to match.

Image credit: Hounds Of The Baskervilles

This kick-ass location also doubles up as a tattoo parlour, adding to the dope-ass feel of the place. If you’re one for a little spunk and grunge then there’s certainly no better place than Hounds Of The Baskervilles. Haircuts start from $35.

Hounds Of The Baskervilles
Address: 24 Bali Lane
Opening Hours: Mon – Fri: 11am – 8pm; Sat: 11am – 7pm

3. We Need A Hero

Image credit: Let

Image credit: It’s basically a one-stop-shop for all your hair needs where you’ll be guaranteed a tamed and clean look that puts Englishmen to shame.

Image credit: Helmed as the first barber concept store in Singapore, Premium Barbers
Address: #6702-6228, 277 Orchard Road
Opening Hours: Mon – Sun: 11am – 9pm

Image credit: Neighbourhood Barbershop

Neighbourhood Barbershop might sound and look like a simple barbershop. But they certainly aren’t. With a trained team dedicated to bringing dapper hairstyles and classic looks to the heartlands, this stall located in Changi will groom you to look your best.

Image credit: Neighbourhood Barbershop

They work on the basis of appointments, so do plan ahead and give them a ring should you choose to head down. Prices start from $20 for a haircut and $10 for a shave. Relatively affordable, we must say.

Neighbourhood Barbershop
Address: 228 Changi Road
Opening Hours: Mon – Sun: 11am – 9pm

Notable Mention: Geylang Adventure #backalleybarbers

Image credit: Geylang Adventures

While not exactly a business, the #backalleybarbers is an initiative spearheaded by Geylang Adventures where they provide free haircuts for migrant workers and the less fortunate during the weekends. Through these free haircuts, they hope to interact with their customers and connect with them on a personal level. So the next time you’re roaming the streets of Geylang, don’t be surprised at the sight of an outdoor make-shift barber.

To find out more about their #backalleybarber initiative and their other projects, read With this list, now you’ll know where to go when that special occasion demands a spiffy smart look!

(Header image by Also read: For Under $35, Pamper Your Feet With A Massage At These 6 Spots!

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

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

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

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

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

6 Kick-ass Oyster Omelette Fried To Perfection With Best Chilli

Named as one of the top 10 Restaurant Dishes of 2015 on the New York Times, the legendary oyster omelette, or orh-luak as locally known, is one of the most loved hawker dishes in Singapore. The chewy texture of oysters mixed with crisp flour mixture and delicious eggs, is a real treat for the taste buds.

For those who are hunting for the best oyster omelette or have yet to give this dish a try, here are 6 of the best oyster omelette stalls in Singapore that serve kick-ass oyster omelette fried to perfection, that will leave you on your knees and begging for more.

1. Ah Hock Fried Oyster

You can’t find a stall more dedicated to oyster omelette than Ah Hock Fried Oyster. The ingredients used are top notch and are self sourced by the owner himself.

Using fresh oysters from Korea, fresh eggs from Swee Choon Egg Farm and fresh flour from China, their oyster omelette is definitely one of the best in Singapore. Besides the oyster omelette itself, the chilli that comes with it is also to die for. A great mix of sour and spicy, it complements the main dish perfectly. Ah Hock Fried Oyster also has different styles and types of oyster omelettes, all of them oozing with oyster-licious goodness.

Ah Hock Fried Oyster
Address: Whampoa Drive Makan Place, #01-40 Whampoa Drive Blk 90 Singapore 320090
Opening Hours: Daily 12pm-11pm, closed on alternate Wednesdays
Price: $4-$6

2. 85 Bedok North Fried Oyster

Visit the Feng Shan Food Market and you’ll most likely recognise this popular fried oyster stall in an instant. 85 Bedok North Fried Oyster is one of the busiest and most well-known oyster omelette stalls in Bedok. Previously featured in many local newspapers, 85 Bedok North Fried Oyster is so popular, it occupies two stalls in Feng Shan Food Market.

Besides oyster omelette, 85 Bedok North Fried Oyster also offers a variety of local dishes such as fried carrot cake. Be warned though, the queue or wait can get pretty long. But remember, good things come to those who wait!

85 Bedok North Fried Oyster
Address: Blk 85 Bedok North Street 4 #01-09/10 Singapore 460085
Opening Hours: daily 11am-11pm
Price: $4

3. Katong Keah Kee Fried Oysters

(image credit: Image Credits: makansutra.com[/caption]

Search for best places to eat in Serangoon and you’d definitely come across this one! Simon Road Oyster Omelette first opened at Simon Road coffee shop and has been around for more than 20 years!

What makes this stall stand out from the rest? If you’re an oyster omelette lover, you’d know that the oyster omelette here is fried to the perfect level of crispiness. Each bite of the omelette brings out different flavours that are so delicious, you’ll want to have this oyster omelette for every meal!

Simon Road Oyster Omelette
Address: 965 Upper Serangoon Road Sinapore 534721
Opening Hours: Daily 4pm-2am, Closed on Tuesdays
Price: $5

5. Lim’s Fried Oyster

(image credit: Image Credits: thesilverchef.blogspot.com[/caption]

Any oyster omelette lover who lives near Toa Payoh will know this stall. Located in Toa Payoh Lorong 7, Ah Chuan Fried Oyster Omelette is a stall not to be missed. The crispy omelette together with fish sauce and chilli is to die for.

Many frequent patrons state that the texture and taste of the omelette are consistent and good at every visit. At only $4 a plate, this oyster omelette is definitely one of the tastiest and most affordable ones.

Ah Chuan Fried Oyster Omelette
Address: Blk 22, Toa Payoh Lorong 7 #01-25, Singapore 310022
Opening Hours: Daily 3-9pm, Closed on Tuesdays
Price: $4

Now that you know where to find the best oyster omelette, you can have this goodness every other day! Know of another great oyster omelette place? Let us know in the comments below!

(Header Image Credits: 7 Best Eats You Must Try Along Tanjong Katong For That Great Meal