Location: Central

Someone Finally Opened A Durian Specialty Cafe, And It Serves More Than The Typical Puffs And Cakes

Love them or hate them, durians are Singapore’s national fruit; unofficially, at least.

A fruit that is beloved for its sweet, creamy flesh that melts in your mouth, few varieties can match the almighty Mao Shan Wang variety when it comes to flavour.

A nice mix of sweet and bitter – and sometimes, both – it’s no wonder Mao Shan Wang durians are the most popular among Singaporeans.

Simply called Mao Shan Wang Cafe, this durian specialty cafe is opened by Four Seasons Durian.

Situated in Chinatown, it serves fresh durian in a tantalising array of desserts including mochi, strudel, ice cream and coffee (yes, coffee) made using the king of fruit.

The First And Only Durian Specialty Cafe in Singapore

Considering the fanaticism this fruit inspires, it’s a wonder it’s taken this long for someone to open a durian specialty cafe.

Step into the cafe and you’ll be welcomed by the strong, unmistakable smell of durian – a heavenly scent for hardcore durian fans.

With a simple, industrial aesthetic featuring brick walls and exposed beam ceilings, this cafe is the perfect place for an mid-day tea durian break.

The King And Its Subjects

If you think there are only so many things you can do with durian, think again – this cafe takes the fruit in both sweet and savoury directions.

On the sweet – and more familiar – side of things, there are durian puffs, ice cream, pancakes and mochi.

On a sweltering hot day, order the Mao Shan Wang Delight ($15.80).

Consisting of a mountain of Mao Shan Wang durian soft serve ice cream, this dessert comes on a bed of brownies, with mini marshmallows and almond flakes scattered all over it.

If you’re looking for a light bite, opt for either the D24 Durian Mochi ($5 for four) or the richer Mao Shang Wang Durian Mochi ($8.80 for four). Encased in a chewy mochi skin, the D24 mochi has a milder flavour while the Mao Shan Wang Mochi packs more of a punch with each mouthful.

On the savoury side of things, there is the Black Charcoal Mao Shan Wang Durian Pizza ($18.80), which consists of a charcoal pizza base topped with a mixture of Mao Shan Wang puree and cheese.

If you’re feeling even more adventurous, try their Durian French Fries ($3.80) and Durian Nuggets ($6).

With fries and nuggets served with a dipping sauce made of D24 puree, your tastebuds are in for an unusual experience when you order yourself a serving of either of these.

Craving some durian? Whatever you’re in the mood for, your needs will be well taken care of at Mao Shan Wang Cafe!

Mao Shan Wang Cafe
Address: 49 Temple Street Singapore
Opening Hours: Mon – Fri: 1.30pm – 10pm; Sat: 11am – 10pm; Closed on Sun
Contact no.: 6221 2338 
Website

Also read Teppei Syokudo Is Releasing Self-Heating Bento Boxes And It’s Like We’re Living in The Future

(Header Image Source: Burpple User Dex Neo, 

Because Flat Whites Are Boring, This Cafe Serves Up Latte In A Gorgeous Lavender Hue

If a pastel purple sweet potato latte is not something you find beautiful, we don’t know what is. This gorgeous concoction can be found on the menu at Abbie’s Coffeehouse at Havelock II.

Slaying The Coffee Game

Abbie’s Coffeehouse, previously known as Slayer Coffee, is a local mobile coffee catering service opened by Abbie Tok.

They offer specialty coffee catering for events, barista and latte-art courses, and coffee appreciation events. The cafe space at Havelock II can also be booked for events. Generally, a great one-stop space for all things coffee.

The cafe offers 10 different types of coffees priced from $3.50 to $5.50, 5 different types of teas at $4.50 each, 2 unique latte flavours and also hot chocolate for those seeking a caffeine-free option.

Unique latte flavours and Chocolate go for $5 and iced versions of all drinks are an additional $1.

For those looking for a bite, they have a Matcha Infusion Cheesecake ($7), Espresso & Matcha Jinglepuffs (Jigglypuff?) and a 70% Dark Cacao Brownie.

We are obsessed with the stunning Roasted Sweet Potato Latte ($5), which easily stands out in a sea of brown and flat whites.

The unique colour is really pleasing to the eyes. The drink may sound carb-loaded and heavy, but it’s surprisingly creamy and light, with bits of sweet potato for a subtle texture contrast.

However, if the taste doesn’t appeal to you, at least your Instagram will enjoy this cup of pastel brilliance!

Havelock II is a relatively quiet mall as it is more of a commercial space than a shopping mall but if you’re in the Clarke Quay area, do drop by for a coffee!

Abbie’s Coffeehouse
Address: Havelock II, 2 Havelock Road #02-14, Singapore 059763 (Nearest MRT: Clarke Quay MRT Exit A/B)
Opening Hours: Mon – Sat: 11am – 6pm; Sun: Closed
Contact no.: 8688 4256
This Juicery Is An Explosion Of Millennial Pink And We Want To Take Photos Against Every Wall

(Header Image Source: Abbie’s Coffeehouse)

This Juicery Is An Explosion Of Millennial Pink And We Want To Take Photos Against Every Wall

Just as we thought millennial pink was making its way out of trend, A Juicery has just opened up its first physical store, and it’s splashed in the unmistakable hue.

Image Credit: A Juicery Instagram

Located at Lorong Telok, you might want to put on shades when you enter this store because it is PINK AF. It reminds us of Charli XCX’s “Boys” music video. Where are the boys? Jay Park, hello?

Even the staff are decked in pink lab coats. Talk about commitment.

Founded in 2014, A Juicery started off as an online store selling a variety of unique juices.

There are 4 categories of juices available for selection.

Choose from green vegetable-based juices (‘Pure’), root vegetable-based juices (‘Fuel’), citrus fruit-based juices (‘Invigorate’) and nut-based milks (‘Calm’).

A 100ml bottle is tagged at $4, a 250ml bottle will cost $7, and the largest 400ml bottle will set you back $9 each.

Aesthetics aside, what’s cool about A Juicery is that they use local produce. Their juices use local vegetables such as bok choy, kai lan, chye sim, watercress, sweet potato leaves, lotus root, and bitter gourd.

A Bite, A Cleanse, An Instagram Chance

The store has very limited seating as it is meant to be a takeaway spot rather than a dine-in. In addition to their current range of juices, the store also sells different types of coffees ($3 – $6) and wraps if you’re looking for a bite.

The 3 wraps available are the Turkey Ham & Cheese, Roast Chicken & Mango, and Tangy Thai Chicken ($6.80 each).

We also got wind of a secret menu so do check with the baristas and juice staff. We know that one of the items on the secret menu is the Strawberry Latte.

It makes sense that there would be a strawberry-flavoured item on the menu, considering how everything is pink.

This store may be small, but it definitely has character.

So if you’re on a hunt for Instagram-worthy spots, this is one you should definitely check out, and get some drinks while you’re at it! Because we’re all about that LA juice cleanse life.

A Juicery
Address: 21 Lorong Telok Singapore 049033
Opening Hours: Mon – Thu: 8.30am – 5pm; Sat – Sun: Closed
Contact no.: 6533 1303
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(Header Image Source: A Juicery)

Jurassic Park Stomps Into Esplanade With A Complete Orchestra And We’re Quaking

In celebration of the 25th anniversary of Jurassic Park, the Metropolitan Festival Orchestra presents “Jurassic Park In Concert” at the Esplanade Theatres, from 22 to 23 December.

(Header Image Source: entertainment-focus.com)

Teppei Syokudo Is Releasing Self-Heating Bento Boxes And It’s Like We’re Living in The Future

In July this year, there was a Chinese brand, Ba Shu Lan Ren, which was selling self-heating “Lazy” Ma La Hotpot.

This innovative meal comes with its own heating pack which reacts with water to generate enough heat to cook a small container of food.

Teppei Syokudo’s Hot New Creation

Teppei Syokudo is a casual dining concept brought to you by the same people who founded Teppei Restaurant. They are popular for their fuss-free, customisable Kaisen Dons which are a hit with Chirashi Don and Sashimi lovers.

Fast forward to 27 September, Teppei Syokudo is releasing their own series of self-heating bentos which utilise the same heating pack concept.

Out Of The Kitchen And Into Your Belly

There are 4 types of bentos: the Gyu Don ($15.80), Oyako Don ($12.80), Minced Meat Mapo Tofu Don ($12.80) and the Napolitan Pasta With Hamburg ($15.80).

Instead of the usual vacuum-packed ingredients, these bentos come ready to eat. All you have to do is prepare the heating pack and water.

The heating pack will take only 5 minutes to heat up the bento, so you don’t have to wait long to dig in!

For those of you who are fans of their Kaisen Don, do give these self-heating bentos a try. They can be ordered at any Teppei Syokudo outlet in Singapore. They definitely look more appetising than a microwaveable meal from a convenience store.

Also read Because Teh Is Better Than Kopi, Here Are All The Ways To Show Your Loyal-teh

(Header Image Source: Burpple User Joe Yang)

BAKE Is Warming Up The Oven Again, And They’re Serving A Zesty Twist On Their Classic Cheese Tarts

If you’re reading this, you probably love cheese tarts as much as we do.

Well, rejoice because the good folks at BAKE are launching a new flavour on 29 September.

When Life Gives You Lemons…

Introducing the new Lemon Cheese Tart With Honey ($3.90/pc or $22/6pcs).

With the tanginess of the lemon cutting through and balancing the richness of the cheese mousse, each carefully-prepared tart is then coated with honey as a finishing touch. This creates a triple layer of flavour that melds together beautifully with each bite.

Singapore will be the only country outside of Japan to sell these limited edition cheese tarts.

The new flavour will be available at all BAKE outlets for a limited time from 29 September to 13 October so hurry down and grab a box to share with your friends and family!

BAKE Cheese Tart
Address: NEX, 23 Serangoon Central, #B2-34, Singapore 556083
Opening Hours: Mon – Fri: 8.30am – 10pm; Sat, Sun & PH: 10am – 10pm
Contact no.: 6920 3960
Website

Address: WESTGATE, 3 Gateway Drive, #B2-04, Singapore 608532
Opening Hours: Daily, 10am – 10pm
Contact no.: 6265 1228

Address: ION Orchard, 2 Orchard Turn, #B4-33, Singapore 238801 
Opening Hours: Daily, 10am – 10pm

Address: Tampines Mall: 4 Tampines Central 5, #B1-K7A, Singapore 529510
Opening Hours: Daily, 10am – 10pm

Also read Prodigal Roasters Has The Most Bizarre Cheese Tart Flavors To Complement Their Seasonal Coffee Menu

(Header Image Source: BAKE Cheese Tart)

A New Character Cafe Is Popping Up In Singapore – And This Time, The Spotlight Is On Miffy

Singapore has seen a spate of character-themed cafes, from Hello Kitty to Gudetama, and my personal favourite, the Pokemon Café. Now, get ready for Miffy the Dutch bunny.

From 5 October to 31 December, the Miffy cafe x Kumoya will be here in Singapore to bring you meticulously-prepared Japanese dishes featuring the adorable bunny.

The Miffy Menu

Conceptualised by Shirley Wong from Little Miss Bento, who also worked on the Cinnamoroll and Gudetama cafes, the food will not disappoint. Ready your cameras and stomachs because these dishes look super cute.

If you’re as Asian as I am and rice is a must in your meal, then the Splashing Good Fun Japanese Seafood Curry Rice ($24.90) is great for you. Hainanese Chicken Riceball step aside, the bunny riceball is here.

The Miffy burger bun of the You, Me & Miffy makes 3 Chicken Katsu Burger ($18.90) looks absolutely adorable. Potato wedges, a mesclun salad along with the Chicken Katsu burger, and a side of ketchup makes this a rather substantial meal. So if you’re there to eat, this is a good choice.

Wonderfully Waffles With Karaage Chicken ($21.90) is a cute take on the traditional Chicken & Waffles, complete with maple syrup on the side. Served with bunny-shaped croutons and carrot slices, the dish is beyond cute.

Desserts are always a crowd favourite.

The café has a Shibuya Toast variant and a sponge cake which looks a lot like a Panna Cotta. And every dish comes with a Miffy face that stares into your soul.

Last but definitely not least, is this cotton-candy topped air balloon-esque Miffy Original Orange Soda ($14.90) which looks like it might be blown away with the wind.

The café will also be selling Shirley Wong’s Miffy-themed cookbook, so pick up a copy if you feel like getting down in the kitchen to replicate these Miffy dishes for your own little Insta-session at home.

Prices are upwards of $15 so prepare your wallets. Don’t miss this pop-up cafe as Miffy will only be here for a limited time!

Miffy Café x Kumoya
Address: 8 Jalan Klapa, Singapore 199320
Opening Hours: Sun – Fri: 12pm – 9.30pm; Sat: 12pm – 10.30pm; Closed on Mon
Contact No.: 6297 3727
Facebook

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90s Kids, Get On Board The Feels Train Because We’re Taking A Trip Down The ‘Backstreet’

Fans of the Backstreet Boys (BSB) rejoice, as they will be returning to Singapore for a one-night only performance on 21 October.

Happening as part of the 2017 Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) Finals, this will be their only stop in Asia.

As 90’s kids, we are no strangers to the boppy pop tunes from these 5 vocally-gifted princes. Did you know Kevin Richardson used to work in Walt Disney World as a cast member and performer, with roles such as Aladdin and Prince Eric? What a man.

To prepare you for the one-night only BSB concert, here are 5 of their hit singles for you to jam to and reminisce in your pajamas. Or in the bathroom. We don’t judge.

A Trip Down Memory Lane

1. Quit Playing Games (With My Heart)

The Backstreet Boys singing in the rain with exposed torsos, telling US to quit playing games with THEIR hearts!? Do they see the irony? Who’s playing games with whose hearts now?

2. As Long As You Love Me

We’re looking at you, Kevin. Our beautiful Prince Ali.

3. I Want It That Way 

As an 8 year old, I vividly remember belting this song in the car with the vigour of a heartbroken teen. I had a tough childhood. Don’t judge me.

4. Larger Than Life

This song makes us FEEL larger than life. We’re not even kidding right now. The song comes with complimentary swagger.

5. Everybody (Backstreet’s Back)

This song has been immortalized for its iconic dance and mainly also because it’s a really solid comeback song for the Backstreet Boy brand.

If you cannot get enough of the Backstreet Boys, you can show them the shape of your heart in person at the National Stadium on 21 October, for one night only.

Ticket prices start from $108 to $248. VIP Meet and Greet upgrades can be purchased here for all valid ticketholders. Doors open at 6.30pm, so come dressed in your BSB memorabilia and be prepared for a wild night of fangirling.

Backstreet Boys: Larger Than Life Singapore
Venue: National Stadium
Date: 21 October
Time: 8pm
Admission: Cat 5: S$108 | Cat 4: S$148 | Cat 3: S$188 | Cat 2: S$208 | Cat 1: S$248
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We Asked Muay Thai Fighters What It Means To Be A Fighter In And Out Of The Ring

Muay thai is a sport that’s known for a few things – power, efficiency and simplicity.

One of the most popular martial arts in Singapore, it doesn’t take someone who does muay thai to appreciate the beauty and excitement of the sport.

Those who have watched a muay thai fight will know exactly how thrilling it is to see two people sparring, pitting not just their strength but their technical prowess against each other as they throw it down in the ring.

As spectators of the sport, often, it can seem like fighting and being a fighter is all about winning – but it is in fact about so much more.

With the inaugural Asia Fighting Championship (AFC) – an event dedicated to the sport of muay thai – coming up, we decided to ask some of the fighters what it means to be a fighter not just inside, but out of the ring. Here’s what they had to say.

Bryan Tee

Age: 19
Weight: 57kg

If this is a face you find familiar, it’s probably because you’ve seen him at the recent SEA Games – the first time Singapore was represented in muay thai at the Games since 2008.

Bryan got his first taste of muay thai at the tender age of 12, as he was often picked on for being a “tiny guy” growing up. He was drawn to the sport as it is the art of eight limbs; you learn to be a complete fighter by using your hands, legs, elbows and knees.

After his first fight at the age of 14, he’s gone on to compete in numerous competitions including IFMA Royal World Cup 2015, IFMA Youth World Championship 2016, 5th Asian Beach Games, and the IFMA World Championship 2017.

When asked what his favourite part about fighting is, he says, “To hit, to get hit by a stronger opponent, and to WIN!”

What it means to be a fighter:

“Being a fighter in muay thai is to be someone who has a lot of heart and determination. One that doesn’t give up. You have to be strong and ready at all times,” he shares.

Outside the ring, muay thai has also instilled in him many lessons.

“Muay thai has taught me respect, to honour not only my parents, but also my teachers. Apart from helping me stay in top physical condition, muay thai has helped to supplement me with a good support system in the form of the great brothers and friends I have met along the way.”

He adds, “To be at the top of the game, you have to keep persevering, and [you have] to give 110 per cent each time. This principle applies to life outside muay thai as well. I will never give up — I will also strive relentlessly towards my goals.”

Bryan will be going up against Hong Kong’s Pan Ieong at the AFC. This will be his first ever pro fight.

Wynn Neo

Age: 21 
Weight: 60kg

With his lean physique, you wouldn’t have guessed that Wynn is a huge fan of McDonald’s.

As a child, Wynn watched a fair bit of martial arts movies. It was this that inspired him to want to learn how to fight, and at age 15, he started training.

The more he trained, the more his passion and love for the sport grew, and it was just one year later that he fought his first amateur fight.

For him, the best part of a fight is winning and knowing that all his hard work during training has paid off. There is nothing he likes more than going head to head with his opponent, and “[seeing] who wants to win it more”.

What it means to be a fighter:

Wynn shares that in the context of muay thai, being a fighter means “Being disciplined to attend training consistently. Even during training, when no one is watching, you must still put in your very best because you are doing it for yourself and not for others.”

“In a fight, one must have the heart to fight, which means even when you are up against a highly skilled opponent and you are losing the fight, you’re still going to do all that is in your ability to put up a fight,” he adds.

In life, he believes the same principles apply.

He shares, “Muay thai has taught me to never give up no matter how tough training or the fight gets. I feel that life is like a fight too. Each day, there will be different obstacles and challenges that are placed in front of me but I press on and never give up until the goal is reached.”

Wynn will be going up against Malaysia’s Saifullah Bin Ismail at the AFC.

He says, “I am excited to put on a good fight and represent Singapore on our home ground. Knowing that my opponent is a much more experienced fighter, if I get a win over him, it would be my greatest win yet.”

Never Throw In The Towel

Being a fighter is not simply a matter of knocking out your opponent in the ring. It is a matter of putting in the work, putting in the time, and putting on a fight, even if the odds are stacked against you.

On 23 September, Bryan Tee and Wynn Neo will be among the 6 representing our country, going up against top champion fighters from Korea, Macau, Malaysia, and more at the inaugural AFC.

Watch these talented fighters battle it out for the title of champion, and all the glory that comes with it.

Happening at Marina Bay Sands Singapore, the event is jointly organised by Muse Fitness Club Singapore and Axseed Events.

Advance Tier tickets (corner) are selling at $58; Advance Tier at $81.35** (U.P. $91); and VIP at $117.05** (U.P. $133). Get your tickets here.

Asia Fighting Championship
Venue: Hall A, Sands Expo And Convention Centre at Marina Bay Sands
Date: 23 Sep
Time: 6pm
Price: VIP: $117.05** (U.P. $133) | Advance Tier: $81.35** (U.P. $91) | Advance Tier (Corner): $58
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Drown Your Problems At This Pharmacy-Themed Bar Cos There’s Nothing Alcohol Can’t Cure

Ann Siang Hill is chock full of bars and rooftop clubs that come alive at all times of the night, and it’ll take you forever to uncover the hidden gems. Here’s another one for you to add to your list of bars to visit – The Apothecary.

Oxwell and Co. has introduced a secret apothecary (read: bar) somewhere on the third floor of their shophouse, where you have to locate a hidden door to enter the cosy dining room.

The bar, simply called The Apothecary, specializes in elixirs, tonics and potions, with a promise to ‘treat all that ails you’. Side note: just in case you haven’t realized, their potions are age-old remedies of booze.

All sorts of remedy for everyday life problems

Don’t believe us yet? Here’s one to cure that cough virus going around – the Croak And Wheeze Relief. The Glenfiddich 12-year-old whisky is infused with honey sage syrup, orange bitters in a concoction that is sure to soothe any throat irritations.

If you have a headache from staring at a computer screen all day, take the Sailor Painkiller. The tonic uses Sailor Jerry Rum as a base, and has notes of orange, pineapple, cream of coconut, palm sugar and nutmeg. After a couple of shots, you won’t remember your day’s problems anymore.

The Butterfly Corpse Effect is an interesting mix of Hendrick’s, fortified wine, blood orange and pea flower tea for a herbal remedy. It didn’t escape our notice that gin and wine both have health benefits if taken in moderation.

A playground for dinner and drinks

The medieval pharmacy-themed bar is filled with mismatched vintage bobs and ends, transporting you back to the primitive times. It really feels like you’re having a sneaky cocktail, or two, after work in the intimate room big enough for only 12 people.

Other than drinks, there are also bar bites like Salt And Pepper Squid and Crispy Salmon Fingers and Tartare Sauce that you can snack on the road to recovery. Head back down to the dining restaurant on the first floor for more substantial fare.

If you start to feel too claustrophobic after a couple of drinks, just head up a two floors to the rooftop bar that is also part of Oxwell and Co to continue your night with a breath of fresh air.

Are you feeling better yet?

The Apothecary at Oxwell And Co.
Address: 5 Ann Siang Road, 069688
Opening Hours: Wed – Sat, 6pm till late
Contact: 6438 7036
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