Location: Central

Into The Looking Glass: A Local Exhibition You Must Not Miss!

If you haven’t heard, the Singapore Biennale is in town right now, as part of Singapore Art Week 2017!

From now till 26 February, grab your friends and family and attend this eye-opening arts exhibition. We visited Project Dreamcatchers 2016: Into The Looking Glass and it was a rewarding experience.

Project Dreamcatchers 2016: Into The Looking Glass

Project Dreamcatchers is an initiative to help youths with chronic illnesses express their aspirations through art. Despite the many odds these youths face, they soldier on and reveal their struggles through the art they produce.

This year, the exhibition at the Singapore Biennale is called ‘Into The Looking Glass’. Aptly named, this exhibition invites visitors to see the world through the artists’ eyes. ‘Into The Looking Glass’ certainly caught our eyes with its display of vulnerability and invitations to connect with its viewers.

Here are four reasons why you should drop by!

Support Local Artists

These budding local artists are partnered with mentors who guide and help them through the production of their art pieces.

Mentors include local artists Samantha Lo, Ho Wai Kit, Noor Iskandar and Tan Jia Hui, who worked closely with the youths to bring their messages to life through art.

Sparked by the initial question of what they wish to tell the public, these artworks are personal messages from the youths.

A Stunning Array of Unique Artwork

The artists and youths used mixed mediums and materials ranging from mirrors to plants. They were chosen carefully to best represent the artist’s journey and message, and to elicit the desired response from the viewer.

While touching the artwork is not permitted, viewers can interact with the artworks in different ways, like seeing themselves in the reflections of Rayna’s art piece.

From this, we can better experience and appreciate the depiction of the artists’ personal journey through life.

Touching Stories

Accompanying each art piece is a personal message by the artist about the inspiration behind their artwork.

Titled ‘Imperfect’, this plywood art piece was painted over with acrylic paint, and the words were scratched out using pigment ink.

Her words of truth, as of those of the other artists, come from a yearning to be heard, recognised and understood.

End Discrimination

Art is an expression of oneself, and a means throughout history of breaking down barriers. When we take the step to understand and look from the perspectives of these youths, we’re helping to end the discrimination they face.

In this art piece, items essential to the artist are put together and held up. When light is projected on these items, a silhouette of a human heart is formed.

Syringes and tablets may not be our essential items, but Toh’s art piece reminds us that we’re all the same inside.

With ‘Into The Looking Glass’, visitors stand to appreciate and support the fight against the discrimination of our youths. Listen to their stories through their art and acknowledge the difficulties they face, and their creativity and presence.

In our ever-increasing world of connectivity, it is exhibitions like Into The Looking Glass that will truly connect us with others on a deeper level.

Disconnect from the bombardment of stories and listen to individual ones by our local youths and artists.

A List Singapore – Your Guide To The Arts And Culture Scene In Singapore

If this exhibition has ignited a desire in you to attend more of such arts and culture happenings in Singapore, why not follow A List Singapore?

As Singapore’s first full-fledged arts and culture guide, you can find comprehensive event listings from music to dance, visual arts to theatre, and literary to family activities. Besides event listings, you can also be updated to the arts and culture scene with their plethora of thought-provoking articles.

Be in the know as they feature up-and-coming promising artists and the shakers and makers of the art industry.

For the latest arts & cultural events happening in Singapore, follow them on their Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

If you love the smell of a fresh magazine, keep a look out on their social media channels for when their January hard copy issue will be distributed at SMRT Stations island-wide!

Take the step to explore the rich and rewarding art and culture scene in Singapore; you never know what you might learn and experience along the way!

Also, read 10 Places To Fly Your Drone For Amazing, Never Seen Before Photos Of Singapore!

6 Best Places For A Customised Burger So You Can Really Have It Your Way

Have you ever pulled out a certain ingredient from your burger because you didn’t like it? Or felt disappointed because the burger didn’t match up to your expectations or was just different from the description? Well, these are legit burger woes and we identify with you. For that, we’ve found the prefect solution: our own customised burger!

Everyone has preferences and we will always want our food to be done to our liking. So, here’s a list of 6 places where we can enjoy a customised burger. Hurray to picking and choosing our own buns, vegetables (if any), meat or fish, toppings, and sauce!

1. The Burger Joint

Come try what some people call the ‘Best Burger in New York City’ in Singapore.

Tucked away at the back in Gemmill Lane, this burger joint is literally what it is: The Burger Joint.

Do it like the Americans and chug down some milkshakes while you have a taste of your very own customised burger. You’ll be able to choose the level of doneness for your patty, toppings like lettuce or pickles, and sauces like mustard or ketchup, and more!

2. Brewerkz

Unique hand-made craft beer and awesome burgers. Need we say more?

[caption id="attachment_20638" align="alignnone" width="800"] Image Credit: Hungry Go Where[/caption]

Here at Brewerkz, beer goes hand in hand with almost everything on their menu.

Try your hand at the Bistro and Brewhouse Build Your Own Burger and pair it with a beer of your choice. Choose from a variety of toppings like Blue Cheese, Sauteed Onions, Bacon or Beer Chilli to name a few for your very own customised burger.

Known for their home brewed beer, Brewerkz serves up beer that you’ll surely enjoy with your food. If you’re looking to create a spicy customised burger for example, the Iguana Lager will be splendid with it.

Brewerkz
Prince range: $20- $50
Website here
Outlets here 

3. Roadhouse

Wagyu beef burger? Cue Roadhouse, a burger joint at Dempsey that you’ll be desperate to try once we tell you what’s on the menu.

Beef lovers can rejoice as Roadhouse offers premium Japanese Wagyu Beef as one of their three patty options. Non-beef eaters need not fret as Roadhouse also offers two equally good alternatives: Cajun-Spiced Chicken and Chunky Pork Belly.

There are rules when it comes to ordering at Roadhouse and that is to keep your toppings below $6. Choose from a variety like Jalapeno Peppers, Caramalised Onions, Garlic Mayonnaise and the odd Baconnaise to name a few.

Roadhouse
13 Dempsey Road, Singapore 249674
Tel: 6476 2922
Website Credit: Image Credit: Smitthankyou[/caption]

Only 3 kinds of meat are offered at Burger Up and they are beef, chicken and fish. Like the meat, three types of buns are available. The joint though, offers interesting sauces. Think oriental, citrus and black pepper mayonnaise to slather on your burger.

Not keen on customising? Burger Up also serves up their own house burgers along with rice sets.

We wouldn’t suggest picky eaters to visit due to the limited choice of meat and bun types. However, if you’re a fan of simplicity then Burger Up is definitely up your street.

Burger Up
Price range: $6- $13 (Depending on what you order)
Website 5. Fatboy’s The Burger Bar

Head back to the days of retro dining with a modern twist.

Trust us when we say you’re going to have a hard time deciding exactly what you want because Fat Boy’s has a whopping 25 toppings and 11 sauces for you to choose from. There are 4400 possible combinations so customise away!

Not in the mood to DIY? Fret not as Fatboy’s also offers great mains. Take on the Fat Basterd which comes with 2 beef chuck patties or Maholo which comes with a bacon stuffed pork patty. Sides like Beer Battered Onion Rings and Jalapeno Poppers are also some unique offerings by the burger joint.

Fatboy’s The Burger Bar
Price range: $30 – $50
Website

If this joint sounds really familiar, it’s probably because it has the same name as Fatboy’s. Started by The Muttons (DJs on Class 95FM) and co-owner of Fatboy’s is The Burger Bar where only whatever you want matters.

Despite being touted as the cheaper version of Fatboy’s due to the fact that only yours and a few basic burgers are on the menu, The Burger Bar doesn’t skimp on quality. It provides the same number of toppings (25), sauces (11), and types of buns and patties you can choose from. A cheaper alternative with equally good standards? Yes please!

Ordering is absolutely fuss-free with iPads made available at the counter.

The Burger Bar
Price range: $10- $30
Website Image Credit: Odyssey[/caption]

Header Image Source: The Garden Mall

Also, read 5 Fast Food Restaurants So Pretty You’ll Want To Spend Your Dates Here

Huat Ah! 8 Restaurants To Book For Your CNY Reunion Dinner 2017!

That’s right, it’s that time of the year. Christmas and New Year have barely passed and here you are, planning for another big family gathering – CNY reunion dinner. Tables at the ever-popular restaurants are definitely filling up and you are starting to feel the heat. Why does Chinese New Year have to be so darn close to Christmas!?

Well have no fear, because obviously, we are here to save you from the festive stress (as much as we can). Whether you’re looking to book a restaurant or are in search of one that’s different from the usual go-to restaurants, listed below are eight restaurants to host your CNY reunion dinner at!

1. Tiffany Café & Restaurant

Situated at Furama City Centre is Source: Singsaver[/caption]

At $59.80++ for lunch and $69.80++ for dinner, embark on a gastronomical journey and indulge in festive dishes such as Braised Eight Treasures Chicken in Claypot and Torched Pacific Wrasse with Ebiko Wasabi Hollandaise & Chili Thread.

Enjoy a slate of discounts that include 20% off the first reunion seating (5.30pm – 7.30pm) and 30% off the second reunion dinner seating (8pm – 10.30pm). What’s more, there is a one-for-one credit card promotion running from 16^th January – 11^th February 2017! (excluding dinner on 27^th January). How awesome is this?

Tiffany Café & Restaurant
Address: Furama City Centre, 60 Eu Tong Sen Street, S059804
Tel: 6531 5366
Email: [email protected]

2. Mitzo

Located at Grand Park Orchard is Source: Mitzo[/caption]

Besides the popular Pearls of Prosperity Kanpachi Kigfish Yu Sheng, pamper your family with the Prawn/Lobster Grouper Fortune Pot, Lobster Fried Rice with Pork Liver & Preserved Sausage and Fish Maw Soup with Pumpkin, Bamboo Pith & Chicken. The CNY reunion dinner menu will be available from 14^th January to 11^th February 2017.

Do also take the opportunity to sample Mitzo’s artisanal cocktails such as the Spring Blossom, a smoky and sweet mescal cocktail.

Mitzo
Address: Level 4 Grand Park Orchard, 270 Orchard Rd S 238857
Tel: 6603 8855
Email: [email protected]

 3. Ban Heng

With five outlets in Singapore, Source: Ban Heng[/caption]

This year, Ban Heng Group offers a mouth watering Reunion Dinner Set menu that features dishes such as the Salmon Yu Sheng, Suckling Pig, Herbal Chicken and Wok-Fried Spare Ribs. Indulge in this reunion feast at a price ranging from $498 to $998 for a family of ten!

CNY reunion dinner on 27 January is available with two seatings from 5.30pm to 10pm.

Ban Heng
For locations and contact information for a specific outlet, click 4. Yan

Fans of Cantonese cuisine would have heard of this one. Located at the iconic National Gallery Singapore, Signature Shun De Style Yu Sheng with Yellowtail Fish & Golden Flakes
Source: Yan[/caption]

At prices from $118++ to $268++ per individual, indulge in dishes such as the Signature Yellowtail Fish Yusheng with Golden Flakes, the new Doubled-boiled Chicken Soup with Black Garlic Sea Whelk and the return of the popular Danggui Roast Duck and succulent Baked Half Lobster with Supreme Stock.

Prices may seem a little steep but for Yan, we’d say it’s worth the splurge. Yan’s CNY menus are available for lunch and dinner, from 9^th January to 11^th February 2017. Two reservation slots for dinner at 5.30pm and 8.15pm are available on Chinese New Year Eve.

Yan
Address: National Gallery, 1 St Andrew’s Road #05-02, S178957
Tel: 6382 5585
Email: [email protected]

5. Moi Lum

A traditional Chinese restaurant that is almost a decade old, Source: Openrice.com[/caption]

In light of Chinese New Year, Moi Lum has provided three (not very) different menus to cater to the size of your company. At ($80+/pax, $388+/6pax, $568+/10pax), indulge in dishes such as the Prosperity Abalone, Sautéed Broccoli with Scallops & Prawns, Braised Shark’s Fin Soup with Crab Meat and of course, the Majestic Roast Chicken.

Available from 18^th January to 27^th January 2017, the menu is available for both lunch and dinner. Lunch will be held from 11.30am – 3.30pm, whilst dinner will consist of two seatings; 6pm – 7.50pm and 8pm – 10pm.

Moi Lum
Address: 38 Maxwell Road S069116
Tel: 6226 2283
Email: [email protected]

6. Xi Yan Shaw Singapore

Hailing from Hong Kong is the much-acclaimed Roasted Herbal Chicken
Source: Xi Yan Shaw Singapore[/caption]

For really affordable rates, you’ll get to enjoy dishes such as its signature Prosperity Yu Sheng, Roasted Lychee Duck, Stewed Pork Belly in Sour Plum & Black Vinegar Sauce and Fried Pork Trotter Chestnut Bee Hoon.

Needless to say, Xi Yan Shaw Singapore enjoys overwhelming popularity during Chinese New Year so we’d start making our reservation now if we were you. Do note that Xi Yan Shaw Singapore will be closed on 28^th and 29^th January 2017. 

Xi Yan Shaw Singapore
Address: Shaw Centre, 1 Scotts Road #03-12/13, S228208
Tel: 6733 3476
Email: [email protected]

7. Golden Peony

Award-winning Chinese restaurant  Roast London Duck
Source: Golden Peony[/caption]

At $1198++ for a table of ten, enjoy an eight-course meal with dishes such as the Signature Roast London Duck, Fortune Glutinous Rice with Assorted Chin ese Sausages and Fried Nian Gao with Sweet Potato and Yam.

Looking to accommodate a smaller company? Golden Peony offers another option where you get to enjoy dishes including the Fortune Salmong Yu Sheng, Braised Pork Kunckle served with Seasonal Vegetables and Steam Nian Gao with Coconut Flakes at $100++ per person.

The CNY menu will be available for both lunch and dinner, from 10^th January to 11^th February 2017.

Golden Peony
Address: Conrad Centennial Hotel Level 3, 2 Temasek Boulevard, S038983
Tel: 6432 7482
Email: [email protected]

8. Jade

If you’re looking for an elegant, minimalistic restaurant that serves great food, Jade at The Fullerton is your answer.

At $68+ per person, you’ll get to enjoy a 5-course menu consisting of a medley of gourmet plates. Start off with the Eight Happiness Gold Rush Yusheng, served on a platter with the cutest rooster accompanied by raw salmon slices, house-made champagne jelly and drizzles of olive oil and pineapple dressing.

After which, tuck into the Poached Cockscomb-shaped Chicken Dumplings, Stewed Chicken and Crab Meat Duo with Red Wine and Chinese Wine in Claypot, where the Chef Leong Chee Yeng showcases his Cantonese rendition of the Surf and Turf.

Jade
Address: The Fullerton Hotel, 1 Fullerton Square S049178
Tel: 68778188

So there you have it, crisis averted. Of course, with just three weeks left to go, we highly recommend you to get started on those reservations because whilst we can help, we cannot ensure a table for you.

Also, read The Prosperity Burger IS FINALLY BACK!

5 Fast Food Restaurants So Pretty You’ll Want To Spend Your Dates Here

Who remembers the secondary school days of having dates at fast food chains? With a packet of fries to share with your girlfriend or boyfriend while chatting about nothing, the classic fast food date will have you reminisce the good old days.

You can now relive the beautiful memories of bonding over burgers and fries again, as we have collated a list of 5 gorgeous fast food restaurants with stunning interior designs. This list will have you brimming with date ideas for you and your significant other.

1. Super Loco

Against the picturesque Robertson Quay lies a gem that serves hearty Mexican street food.

Teal countertops, wooden furniture with tinges of bright summer colours, and neon lightings on the walls – Super Loco is definitely hard to miss.

Loud splashes of orange, mint, and yellow colours in the store show the liveliness and warmth of Mexican culture, tacos anybody?

Be prepared to feast on a wide array of traditional Mexican food, from esquites to tortas. For late-risers – Super Loco has extended it weekend brunch menu to 3:30pm, so head down for authentic Mexican cuisines!

Super Loco
Address: 60 Robertson Quay, #01-13 THE QUAYSIDE, The Quayside, Singapore 238252
Operating hours: Monday to Friday, 5pm – 10:30pm; Saturday to Sunday, 10am – 3:30pm (lunch) and 5pm – 12am (dinner)
Website:  Credit: Hungry Ang Mo[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_19750" align="aligncenter" width="1600"] Credit: Ching Yi Cheng[/caption]

The simple industrial design of the restaurant carries an ambience of class and elegance, while the spots of greenery tie closely with their vegetarian menu.

[caption id="attachment_19767" align="aligncenter" width="800"] Credit: Indefinite Adventure[/caption]

With the tagline “Think Fast Food is Junk Food? Think Again”, VeganBurg caters not only to vegetarians, but also customers who will like to try out a healthier version of fast food.

VeganBurg
Address: 44 Jalan Eunos, Singapore 419502
Operating hours: Monday-Sunday and Public Holidays: 11:30am – 10pm (last order 9:45pm)
Website:  Credit: RUNNINGMAN from Hungrygowhere[/caption]

The slanted ceilings, wooden furnishing, coupled with white brick walls bring to mind countryside farmhouses.

[caption id="attachment_19752" align="aligncenter" width="640"] Credit: Cavin Teo[/caption]

Chic-a-boo is the place for you and your partner if you love indulging in fried chicken served up with hearty mashed potatoes, fries, and their special corn muffins.

[caption id="attachment_19806" align="aligncenter" width="2048"] Credit: Chic-a-boo Facebook Page[/caption]

Chic-a-boo Fried Chicken
Addresses: 

1. 4 Hillview Rise HILLV2 #02-12 Singapore 669554 (Tel: +65 6710 5605)
2. Marina Square #03-147/148 Singapore 039594 (Tel: +65 6837 100)
3. Sembawang Shopping Centre #01-02 Singapore 758459 (Tel: +65 6570 8766)
4. Viva Business Park 750 Chai Chee Road, #01-31 Singapore 469000 (Tel: +65 6243 0032)

Operating hours: Daily, 11:30am – 11pm
Website: Chic-a-boo Fried Chicken Facebook Page

4. Fatboy’s The Burger Bar (Orchard)

The strong red, black, and white palette screams nothing but bold. With burgers’ names spanning from “Fat Basterd” to “Wimpy”, this burger joint is definitely not for the faint-hearted.

Opened in 2009, Fatboy’s The Burger Bar is a local burger joint that has a BYOB (Build Your Own Burger) feature, where you and your partner can put your creativity to use and come with your own burger combination. According to the restaurant, there are 4400 different combinations in total!

Fatboy’s The Burger Bar
Address: 38 Orchard Road, Singapore 63373834
Operating hours: 12pm – 11pm
Website: 5. McDonalds’s JEM

This traditional fast food joint is where many couples go to for their burger and fries fix or the classic Vanilla Cone. What’s so special about this McDonald’s outlet that makes it date-worthy though?

Beside the entrance on the second floor of this McDonald’s outlet lies a staircase, hiding a gem unknown to many.

Once you’ve climbed up the flight of stairs and reached the top, you will see a garden perfect for a McDonald’s date.

[caption id="attachment_19757" align="aligncenter" width="2816"] Credit: Goh Jia Xuan[/caption]

The roof garden overlooks the Jurong East MRT station, lending one a moment of peace amongst the hubbub of Jurong, which is known for its crazy human traffic.

[caption id="attachment_19756" align="aligncenter" width="2816"] Credit: Goh Jia Xuan[/caption]

Grab your burger and fries and escape to this secret garden.

McDonald’s JEM Address: 50 Jurong Gateway Road, #01-63, #02-55, JEM, Singapore 608549
Operating hours: 24 hours
Website: McDonald’s

The classic fast food dates will always bring us back to the good old days. Armed with this list, you will never find you and your significant other troubled over coming up with novel date ideas. With such a wide variety to choose from, who says fast food chain restaurants are not perfect for date places?

Header Image Source: 9 Unique And Romantic Date Ideas That Will Have You Falling In Love All Over Again

Tonight’s Fireworks: Alternative Places To Go To So You Don’t Squeeze With The Crowd!

What do you think of when someone mentions New Year’s Eve? Parties? First Kiss of the New Year? If you’re like us, you’re probably thinking of the spectacular fireworks over at The Float @ Marina Bay!

However, watching the fireworks can be less than pleasant when you’re pressed up against thousands of other people who had the same location in mind. Here are some alternative places to catch the fireworks if you want to avoid the massive crowds.

Bay East Garden

The lesser known portion of Gardens By The Bay, this tranquil park is filled with lush lawns, elegant palm trees, and an unobstructed view of the fireworks!

Open daily 24 hours, admission is absolutely free, so bring your picnic mats and hunker down for a peaceful night.

Bay East Garden
18 Marina Gardens Dr, Singapore 018953

Faber Peak

Get an unobstructed view of the fireworks right at the peak of Mt Faber!

With Cable Cars, bars and restaurants, you’ll be living in the lap of luxury with food, drinks, fireworks and tons of breathing space this New Year’s Eve.

Faber Peak
Telok Blangah Rd, Singapore 099448
Tel: 6377 9688

Smoke and Mirrors

The National Gallery’s snazy rooftop restaurant and bar boasts a gorgeous view of the MBS and CBD.

Smoke and Mirrors has been gaining a rather loyal following for their cocktail menu, so grab a drink and settle in for the upcoming fireworks!

Smoke and Mirrors
St Andrew’s Rd, 01 National Gallery, Singapore 178957
Tel: 9234 8122

The Helix

Located right next to where the fireworks will be released, but a good distance away from the crowd at The Float @ Marina Bay, The Helix may get crowded, but is nonetheless better than squeezing at The Float.

What’s more, with 4 viewing platforms, it is a great place to get up close and personal with the fireworks!

The Helix Bridge
Helix Bridge, Singapore

Starbucks at The Fullerton Waterboat

Not one for alcohol? Start your new year with a caffeine fix at Starbucks at The Fullerton Waterboat House!

With its full length windows and a great view of the MBS, you’ll be able to catch the fireworks in a comfortable, air-conditioned space.

Tel: 6536 0849

St. John’s Island

Fireworks too loud for your liking? Hate the crowd?

[caption id="attachment_20704" align="alignnone" width="1000"] (Photo Credits: https://arrowtransports.com)[/caption]

Take a boat to St. John’s island and appreciate the muted thundering from afar without compromising on the view. Enjoy the clean air, gentle lapping waves, and fireworks in the distance. You can even stay the night at one of their Bungalow Chalets!

St John’s Island
Find out more With these alternative places to view fireworks, we hope you’ll have a great New Year countdown! For supper after the countdown, read this. For information about the extended opening hours for buses and trains, click here. Here’s wishing you a ball of a time bidding goodbye to 2016 and welcoming 2017!

Also, read It’s Never Too Late For A Decadent New Year’s Eve Feast At FOO’D by Davide Oldani!

Best Mala Xiang Guo Stalls: It’s Going To Be A Fiery Hot Affair!

The latest food craze hitting Singapore shores is mala xiang guo, a spicy and mouth-numbing stir-fry that comprises of a variety of ingredients handpicked by diners.

While this dish is popular among the Chinese nationals, having originated from the Sichuan and Chongqing provinces, Singaporeans are fast catching onto this chilli bug as well!

If you are up for this spicy challenge, then we promise you that it is going to be a fiery hot affair at these five mala xiang guo places!

1. Ri Ri Hong Mala Xiang Guo

As one of the pioneering stalls in the mala xiang guo scene in Singapore, Ri Ri Hong Mala Xiang Guo is now so hotly-popular that they have two outlets at People’s Park Food Centre just to cater to the crowd.

Credit: Credit: Credit: Credit: Credit: Credit: Credit: Count Yourself As A True Blue Singaporean Only If You Have Tried These 9 Local Dishes!

10 International Music Festivals Happening 2017 That Are Worth The Flight Tickets

With origins pointing back to the hippy era, music festivals have evolved over the years to become more mainstream. The popularity of music events the likes of Coachella and EDM paradise, Tomorrowland, have proliferated in recent years. To add on, the music festivals calendar is seemingly getting more packed each year.

Nonetheless, the international music festival scene for 2017 certainly promises some unforgettable experiences for all. Whether you are looking for sun-kissed beaches, green fields or even non-stop partying, here are 10 international music festivals happening 2017 that are worth the flight tickets!

1. It’s The Ship (Singapore & Malaysia)

Sailing across the seas between Singapore and Malaysia for three days straight, there is nothing more exhilarating than partying on-board this luxury cruise ship to non-stop EDM and dance music by globally-renowned DJs.

[caption id="attachment_20533" align="aligncenter" width="1050"] Credit: to avoid missing out when the tickets go on sale.

It’s The Ship 2017
Festival haven for: EDM music lovers and those whom are willing to risk their sea-sickness
Dates: TBC
Website

2. Java Jazz Festival (Jakarta, Indonesia)

As one of the largest jazz music festivals in the world, 2017 will see the 13th edition of Jakarta International Java Jazz festival.

[caption id="attachment_20538" align="aligncenter" width="2400"] Credit: Website

3. Armin Only Embrace (Jakarta, Indonesia)

Avid fans of Armin, it is time to rejoice!

Organised by The Livescape Group and Euphorics Events, the Armin Only Embrace World Tour has decided to add Jakarta to their 2017 global tour.

[caption id="attachment_20539" align="aligncenter" width="2048"] Credit: 4. Fuji Rock (Niigata Prefecture, Japan)

How often do you get to take a cable car trip up a mountain just to see a rock band?

[caption id="attachment_20541" align="aligncenter" width="1050"] Credit: Website

5. Glastonbury (Somerset, United Kingdom)

Dubbed as the Big Daddy of UK music festivals, Glastonbury commanders a sizable chunk of Somerset for five days of music, jubilee and of course, lots of booze.

Boasting an incredible number of eight stages dotting the woods and fields, you can expect an amazing musical line-up featuring top-notch international artists the likes of Disclosure, Coldplay, Adele and many more.

[caption id="attachment_20544" align="aligncenter" width="2560"] Credit: 6. Coachella (Indio, USA)

This annual star-studded music festival is a staple in every celebrity’s calendar and of course, marked and circled in every music festival goer’s calendar as well.

[caption id="attachment_20545" align="aligncenter" width="1200"] Credit: 7. Tomorrowland (Boom, Belgium)

When it comes to throwing outrageous EDM music festivals, no other party can compete with Tomorrowland.

[caption id="attachment_20546" align="aligncenter" width="938"] Credit: Website

8. Ultra Music Festival (Downtown Miami, USA)

Ultra Music Festival is perhaps the only EDM bash that comes close to competing with Tomorrowland.

Party goers from around the world descend on Miami for this incredible high-energy EDM festival. This 2017, Ultra Music Festival will definitely not disappoint with its amazing line-up of DJs  and electronic music makers, featuring the likes of Armin van Buuren, Afrojack, DJ Snake, David Guetta and many more.

[caption id="attachment_20547" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] Credit: Website

9. Sunset Music Festival (Tampa, USA)

The sixth-consecutive Sunset Music Festival returns in 2017 with more in-demand dance music! Slated to take place over the USA Memorial Day weekend, it is the perfect soundtrack for a fun-filled weekend holiday celebration.

With three stages, a huge line-up, and elaborate stage set-ups, you are definitely setting yourself up for a raving dance party.

[caption id="attachment_20549" align="aligncenter" width="2048"] Credit: Website

10. St. Jerome’s Laneway Festival (Across Australia)

St. Jerome’s Laneway Festival (or Laneway in short) has grown over the years to become one of Australia’s biggest and best festivals.

[caption id="attachment_20552" align="aligncenter" width="960"] Credit: www.theodysseyonline.com)

Also, read Laneway Festival Singapore 2017 – 5 Underrated Acts That Even Hipsters Haven’t Heard Of!

It’s Never Too Late For A Decadent New Year’s Eve Feast At FOO’D by Davide Oldani!

The New Year’s weekend is upon us, and everyone is already gearing up for a long weekend of gatherings and the oncoming slew of treats.

However, while most would have already made plans for New Year’s Eve dinner weeks ago, there are some of us who are…busier (*ahem* procrastinators), and are still on the look out for a spot to indulge in a year end feast.

Don’t fret! We’ve found an elegant restaurant that will be serving up some mouthwatering and decadent eats this festive season!

FOO’D by Davide Oldani

Located within the iconic Victoria Theatre, FOO’D by Davide Oldani serves modern European fare. Fusing tradition with innovation, the food at FOO’D by Davide Oldani strikes the perfect balance between simple and refined.

Founded upon the principles of Cucina POP, which simultaneously means “for everyone” and “belonging to everyone”, the menu at FOO’D was conceptualized by Italian celebrity Chef Davide Oldani.

Chef owner of Michelin-starred D’O in Cornaredo, Italy, Oldani strives to blur the lines between fine dining with accessibility, and tradition with innovation.

Hazelnut And Lambrusco Sorbet Dessert

Chef Davide Oldani’s hazelnut and lambrusco sorbet dessert is a testament to his creative culinary journey. Pairing hazelnut, lambrusco sorbet, and popcorn, this impeccable dessert showcases Oldani’s gift for intertwining complementary textures in his dishes.

The satisfying crunch of popcorn matches well with the refreshing and slightly sweet lambrusco sorbet. A unique and decadent culinary creation, this modern dessert is the perfect end to a decadent meal at FOO’D!

Oldani’s Marsala And Truffle Risotto

Looking for something a tad more traditional?

Then Oldani’s risotto is a must-have!

Crafted with handmade sourdough breadcrumbs, peppercorn, Marsala and Umbrian truffle, the risotto has the rich creaminess of a perfectly cooked risotto.

With a dash of vinegar and the underlying touch of sweetness from the Marsala, Oldani’s risotto is an innovative culinary creation that is a must-have for any self-proclaimed food connoisseur.

The sleek and modern interior that diners at FOO’D enjoy alongside their meal is also due in part to Oldani dabbling in industrial design.

Seeking to make every diners’ experience comfortable, Oldani has utilized innovative flatware such as wine glasses with one rim set higher than the other, allowing diners to not only fully appreciate the full bouquet of the wine but maintain eye contact with their partners as well. An overall elegant and comfortable dining experience, FOO’D puts diners’ needs at the forefront.

New Year’s Eve isn’t complete without a mouthwatering decadent feast. Tagged at $158++ and $188++ for its 5 and 7 course New Year’s Eve Dinner Menu, end your 2016 right with FOOD’s by Davide Oldani decadent feast.

So experience a culinary adventure with loved ones at FOO’D by Davide Oldani, as you indulge in modern European fare that pushes the boundaries and tantalizes the taste buds!

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Also Read: Dessert Buffets In Singapore: So You Can Gorge On Ice Cream, Cakes & Chocolate!

Count Yourself As A True Blue Singaporean Only If You Have Tried These 9 Local Dishes!

We Singaporeans are certainly proud of our vibrant and thriving culinary scene.

However, besides fine dining, typical cafe dishes and fast food, there is a category of quintessential Singaporean dishes that only a true blue Singaporean would know!

Think you know it all when it comes to these true blue Singaporean dishes? Rate yourself with our ultimate list of dishes only a true Singaporean heartlander would have tried.

Time to find out if you deserve the bragging rights of being a true blue Singaporean.

1. Curry Fish Head

Largely influenced by Nonya cuisine, Curry Fish Head is now a staple weekend dinner indulgence for most Singaporean households.

A red snapper’s head is typically used and stewed in a bubbling pot of fragrant curry broth. It is usually cooked together with an assortment of vegetables as well, such as lady’s finger and eggplant.

Where to get: Ocean Fish Head Curry
Address: No. 181 Telok Ayer Street, Singapore 068629
Opening hours: Mon to Fri 10.30am – 3pm, 5pm – 8.30pm; Sat 10.30am – 3pm (Close on Sun & PH)
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Think fried egg tofu served atop a large fried egg. It comes topped with an assortment of vegetables, such as sliced carrots, cauliflower and mushrooms. The entire dish is then completely covered in thick bubbly gravy that includes minced meat, oyster sauce and chilli bean paste.

Where to get: Two Chefs Eating Place
Address: 409 Sin Ming Ave #02-01, Singapore 570409
Opening hours: Daily, 11am – 10.30pm

3. Mee Rebus

Image delicious yellow noodles drenched in thick gravy with a slight nutty taste, topped with Chinese celery and a squeeze of calamansi for that extra flavour, it leaves little to wonder why Mee Rebus is a popular Malay dish among Singaporeans.

3. Prawn Paste Chicken Wings (Har Cheong Gai)

Affectionately known as Har Cheong Gai at most zi char stalls, this particular dish is a local alternative to fried chicken wings.

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Comprising of stir-fried water spinach with sambal belacan, this dish delivers a spicy kick to the taste buds! No wonder this is a popular veggie dish among Singaporeans.

Where to get: Tan Chin Lee Sea-Fresh Restaurant
Address: 71 Pioneer Road, #02-06 Tuas Amenity Centre, Singapore 639591
Opening hours: Daily 11.30am – 2.30pm, 5.30pm – 10pmm

5. Putu Mayam

Putu Mayam is a popular Indian dish that is commonly eaten for breakfast. It consists of steamed vermicelli-like rice noodles with the addition of aromatic pandan leaf as flavouring.

6. Chilli Crab

Chlli Crab is a long-standing national dish of Singapore.

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This savoury dish is typically served at auspicious events such as weddings or during the Chinese New Year reunion dinner. It certainly is getting harder to find this rare dish around so we highly recommend you try it before it is forgotten!

Where to get: Mei Zhen Hakka Delicacies
Address: Shunfu Mart Food Centre, 320 Shunfu Road, #02-26, Singapore 570320
Opening hours: Tue – Sun, 7am – 2pm (Closed on Mon)

9. Sugee Cake

For some true Singapore-Eurasian food, look no further than Sugee Cake.

[caption id="attachment_20207" align="aligncenter" width="960"] Credit: 15 Delectable Meals In Singapore Below $2.50 That Will Make You Question Reality

A Look Back At 2016: 7 Food Trends That Got Singaporeans Queuing

As true blue Singaporeans, we are definitely no strangers to crazy long queues. And by crazy, we mean queues lasting for a good 2 hours and more. Year after year, we see them forming. Year after year, we joined them. Now that 2016 is coming to an end, let’s do a quick round-up on the food trends that got us voluntarily joining the queues.

1. Michelin-Starred Hawker Stalls

Earlier in July, when two hawker stalls were awarded a Michelin star each, we witnessed people of all ages chiong down in throngs to try their food.

Who wouldn’t, if it means getting to taste Michelin-approved food for less than $5?

Hong Kong Soya Sauce Chicken Rice and Noodle at Chinatown Food Complex dishes out its famous chicken rice at $2 per plate. Even its most expensive dish, the Pork Ribs Rice, is priced at $3.

At Crawford Lane, the other Michelin-starred Hill Street Tai Hwa Pork Noodle also saw long queues forming. Singaporeans wanted to have a go at their $5 bowl of Bak Chor Mee.

We Singaporeans know our stuff. When we see good deals like this, we flock down like birds, even if it means queuing for hours in the heat.

Also, read The Full List Of Michelin Guide Singapore 2016 – How Many Have You Tried?

2. Salted Egg Yolk Anything and Everything

Remember that period of time, when almost every other food item seemed to be infused with salted egg yolk? Even McDonald’s had hopped on the bandwagon.

Salted egg yolk croissant, salted egg yolk chips, salted egg yolk lava toast… the list goes on.

Snaking queues in eateries, bakeries and even coffee shops became a common sight when the salted egg yolk craze was at its peak. And we reckon it will still be that way in the new year ahead.

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

3. Cheese Tarts

The cheese tart trend started when Hokkaido based BAKE opened its first store in Singapore in April.

With its signature yellow box, this is a brand most cheese lovers are familiar with. Yet eating BAKE cheese tarts do not come easy at all. It comes at the expense of having to queue for more than 2 hours for them.

In its heyday, cheese tarts were the rage. Even neighbourhood bakeries jumped on the bandwagon and hawked cheese tarts. Prominent bakeries like BreadTalk and Prima Deli created their own versions of the cheese tart too.

Perhaps there is just something about that measured sweetness of fluffy cheese atop a flavourful crust that draws in the crowd.

Also, read BAKE Cheese Tart Continues Singapore Invasion At Its Second Outlet In Westgate Mall!

4. Themed Cafés

The feverish craze for cutesy cartoon characters seemed to have translated to widespread popularity in their themed cafes as well.

When Hello Kitty Café first opened at Changi Airport in May, more than 100 people waited to enter, queuing for two hours or more just to get inside.

Sounds long? Wait till we get to Pokemon.

At Pokemon Cafe’s first opening, which was also in May, fans of Pokemon had to wait for as long as 5 hours just to enter the café.

Yet the most amazing thing is, 5 hours was not any form of deterrence at all.

The latest themed café to open its doors to customers with much fanfare is the Gudetama Café.

Queues stretched for up to 2 hours and are expected to remain this way for the upcoming few months at least.

5. Tai Cheong Bakery

Famous for its egg tarts and other pastries, Tai Cheong Bakery, a renowned Hong Kong brand, made its way onto Singapore shores in mid-November.

With a dine in-concept introduced, it has become common for customers to queue for close to 2 hours to get seats. Yet the crowd just keeps growing.

At a slightly pricey cost of $1.90 per egg tart, egg tart lovers have no qualms about waiting in line to have a taste of the buttery crust that is all the rage in Hong Kong.

6. Froyo

It all started with Llao Llao, queues were formed for a cup of frozen yogurt with toppings that cost $6.95. With that, new players entered the fray.

Kokopanda serves your regular froyo, but with a twist. It has a new product called Black Yogo Frozen Yoghurt, which is made from edible activated charcoal as well as roasted coconut husk.

This latest innovation to the frozen yoghurt family has led to long queues for froyo stores once again and it certainly does not look like it’s going to become a dying trend anytime soon.

7. Man Man Japanese Unagi Restaurant

Unagi may not have caught on with Singaporeans quite as well as some other items on this list, but this sweet Japanese eel looks like it has the potential to become something big.

Man Man Japanese Unagi Restaurant opened in October this year to healthy crowds and looks set to maintain its strong customer base. Perhaps it might even become a trend of 2017.

Now that we have looked back on the food trends that got us voluntarily joining long queues in 2016, perhaps it is time to take a step back for a quick reflection. Which of these queues resulted in a new experience and were worth our time?

Come 2017, a host of new food options may take our country by storm. But how many of 2016’s trends will remain? Will froyo continue to evolve in 2017 and become more popular? Will our love for cheese tarts disappear?

Whatever it is, I am sure we can all agree that Singaporeans know no boundaries when it comes to food. The amount of time and money that we are willing to spend on food trends is astounding, but at least we can be comforted that our F&B industry will continue to thrive even in a slowing economy.

Also, read Serious Foodies Only: Here Are The Best Restaurants In Singapore For 2016!