Location: Central

Under $25: 9 Super Local Christmas Gifts That Will Surely Amaze Your Friends!

Christmas is around the corner and Discover SG is here to save you from cracking your brains for the perfect Christmas gifts for your friends and family.

Read on for the best wallet-friendly picks from local brands and unleash your inner shopaholic!

1. For the couch potato

“I don’t want to go out lah, I’m very tired. I  just want to stay at home and nua.”

Know a friend who is just like that? This is the gift for him or her!

[caption id="attachment_17117" align="alignnone" width="514"] Credit: Naiise[/caption]

Designed by I am not a couch potato notebook
Naiise
3 Gateway Drive, Westgate Mall #01-30, Singapore 608532
6 Eu Tong Sen Street Central, #02-23,Singapore 059817
112 East Coast Road, I12 Katong, #01-31/32, Singapore 428802
3 Temasek Boulevard, Suntec City North Wing #01-477, Singapore 038983
Opening Hours: 11am-10pm daily
Cost: $10.60
Website: Naiise

2. For the everything also DIY friend

If you know someone who loves DIY projects, this starter kit will allow your friend to express his or her creativity.

Who knows, maybe your Christmas gift next year will be created from this kit?

Cost: $15
Website: Credit: Naiise[/caption]

Not only will this Christmas gift allow our men to reminisce about their ah boys to men days, it will also keep them hydrated.

NS Jerry can bottle
Cost: $15.60
Naiise
3 Gateway Drive, Westgate Mall #01-30, Singapore 608532
6 Eu Tong Sen Street Central, #02-23,Singapore 059817
112 East Coast Road, I12 Katong, #01-31/32, Singapore 428802
3 Temasek Boulevard, Suntec City North Wing #01-477, Singapore 038983
Opening Hours: 11am-10pm daily
Website: Naiise

4. For the super local friend

Soy milk and youtiao are a common sight in our heartlands. Who doesn’t enjoy dipping a youtiao into a piping hot cup of soy milk?

If your friend is crazy about all things local, she will be squealing in delight when she sees this cute little tote bag that can be paired easily with casual wear.

5. For the colleague:

Need we say more? We are in love with this sketchpad full of humorous Singlish phrases that most of us can identify with!

[caption id="attachment_16605" align="alignnone" width="809"] Credit: Naiise[/caption]

The sketchpad also comes with blank pages for your colleague to express his creativity or include his toilet humour to explain why he is not at his desk.

TEE-SAURUS Office Buddy sketchpad
Cost: $18.90
Naiise
3 Gateway Drive, Westgate Mall #01-30, Singapore 608532
6 Eu Tong Sen Street Central, #02-23,Singapore 059817
112 East Coast Road, I12 Katong, #01-31/32, Singapore 428802
3 Temasek Boulevard, Suntec City North Wing #01-477, Singapore 038983
Opening Hours: 11am-10pm daily
Website: Naiise

6. For the fashionista:

What better way to surprise a fashionista than with this chio little lip and cheek tint from Credit: Shophouse Sixtyfive[/caption]

Your friend can pack this niffy beauty kit into her make-up pouch and start being a chio bu immediately after receiving your Christmas gift.

Wah Chiobu Lip & Cheek Tint
Cost: $18.90
Shophouse Sixtyfive
Spurhauswerks, Orchard Central, #02-22, 181 Orchard Rd, Singapore 238896
The Nail Social, 42A Haji Lane  2nd floor (opposite vaingloriousyou)
Website: Credit: Ette Tea Company[/caption]

This Nasi Lemak tea – yes, you heard us right, was inspired by one of our popular local dishes. It is made up of a fragrant mix of houjicha, genmaicha, coconut flakes, as well as local favorites such as dried pandan, dried chilli and flavouring. Don’t say Discover SG bojio!

Naiise
Address:
3 Gateway Drive, Westgate Mall #01-30, Singapore 608532
6 Eu Tong Sen Street Central, #02-23,Singapore 059817
112 East Coast Road, I12 Katong, #01-31/32, Singapore 428802
3 Temasek Boulevard, Suntec City North Wing #01-477, Singapore 038983
Opening H0urs: 11am-10pm daily
Website: Naiise

8. For the bookworm:

If your friend always has his nose in a book and fancies a quiet Christmas, this debut collection of short stories by local author Credit: Books Actually[/caption]

In “Fourteen Entries from the Diary of Maria Hertogh”, Amanda Lee Koe shows what it is like to explore Singapore’s history through the eyes of Maria Hertogh, a Dutch girl who sparked riots in Singapore in the 1950s.

While another story, “The Ballad of Arlene and Nelly”, traces the past of two lesbians over a thirty-year period.

Apart from winning the and selected by The Business Times as one of the Cost: $22
Books Actually
9 Yong Siak Street Singapore 168645
Opening Hours: Sunday & Monday 10am – 6pm, Tuesday – Saturday 10am – 8pm
Website: Credit: Naiise[/caption]

It can hold notes, cards and even loose coins! Your man will feel proud when he uses this money clip.

Tilea Leather Money Clip
Cost: $25
Naiise
3 Gateway Drive, Westgate Mall #01-30, Singapore 608532
6 Eu Tong Sen Street Central, #02-23,Singapore 059817
112 East Coast Road, I12 Katong, #01-31/32, Singapore 428802
3 Temasek Boulevard, Suntec City North Wing #01-477, Singapore 038983
Opening Hours: 11am-10pm daily
Website: Naiise

Now that you have read our quick cheat sheet to Christmas gift shopping, what are you waiting for? It’s time to get shopping!

Header image source: 8 Korean BBQ: For Premium Pork Belly That Will Leave You Begging For More!

10 Crazy & Unusual Ice Cream Flavours You Would Have Never Dreamed Of!

Think you might have heard it all when it comes to whacky ice cream flavours? Think again! These ice cream parlours have managed to come up with unbelievably innovative and creative renditions of ice cream flavours.

Here are some truly out-of-this-world ice cream flavours that you can find in Singapore. Question is – are you game to try them all?

1. Bacon Ice Cream – Oh My Bacon

It is literally Oh My Bacon! with this extremely unconventional ice cream flavour – Bacon ice cream!

[caption id="attachment_17720" align="aligncenter" width="640"] Credit: Website

2. Pineapple Tart – Island Creamery

There is no denying that we love our traditional pineapple tarts during the Chinese New Year.

[caption id="attachment_17708" align="aligncenter" width="434"] Credit: 3. Soya Ginger – Tom’s Palette

In an attempt to recreate our locally-loved soya beancurd, Tom’s Palette has come up with a unique concoction – the Soya Ginger ice cream!

[caption id="attachment_17712" align="aligncenter" width="1080"] Credit: Tom’s Palette Facebook[/caption]

Topped with gula melaka ginger sauce, this soy beancurd ice cream flavour is surprisingly wholesome and addictive.

Tom’s Palette
Address: 100 Beach Rd ,#01-25 Shaw Tower, Singapore 189702
Operating hours: Mon-Thu 12nn – 9.30pm,  Fri-Sat 12nn – 10pm, Sun 1pm – 7pm (Closed every last Sunday of the month)
Credit: Website

5. Champion Chendol – Udders

It seems like the traditional Chendol dessert has taken a slightly different dessert form – as an ice cream flavour!

[caption id="attachment_17717" align="aligncenter" width="420"] Credit: 6. oKAYAlah! – The Daily Scoop

It is bread spread-turned-ice cream flavour with this oKAYAlah ice cream from The Daily Scoop!

Inspired by our local food flavours, this is essentially a kaya-flavoured ice cream with its strong flavour brought out by the richness of the eggs and coconut.

[caption id="attachment_17727" align="aligncenter" width="3264"] Credit: jiaksimipng.wordpress.com[/caption]

With a great consistency almost like a kaya spread itself, it might very well tempt you to replace the typical breakfast bread spread with this delectable ice cream instead!

The Daily Scoop
Address: 43 Jalan Merah Saga, #01-78 Chip Bee Gardens, Singapore 278115
Operating hours: Mon – Thu 11am – 10pm, Fri – Sat 11am – 10.30pm, Sun 2pm – 10pm
Credit:

8. Sea Salt Matcha – FATCAT Ice Cream Bar

FATCAT Ice Cream Bar has certainly raised the bar on the all-familiar matcha ice cream – by sprinkling some sea salt and swirling in some Azuki red beans.

[caption id="attachment_17724" align="aligncenter" width="1080"] Credit: Instagram @fatcatsag[/caption]

The end result? A unique blend of green tea flavour with just a tinge of saltiness!

FATCAT Ice Cream Bar
Address: Blk 416 Bedok North Avenue 2, #01-25, Singapore 460416
Operating hours: Mon, Wed – Thu 1pm – 10pm, Fri 1pm – 11pm, Sat 12nn – 11pm, Sun, 12nn – 10pm (Closed on Tuesdays)
Credit: Blk 501, West Coast Drive, #01-250 Singapore 120501
Operating hours: Sun – Thu 11am – 1opm, Fri – Sat 11am – 11pm
Website

10. Miso Gula Melaka – Seriously Ice Cream

Seriously? Miso Gula Melaka?!

[caption id="attachment_17725" align="aligncenter" width="640"] Credit:

There are no limits to one’s creativity when it comes to new ice cream flavours. With so many exotic and unusual ice cream flavours popping up all over Singapore, you absolutely HAVE to try them to believe it!

(Header image credit: Eyescream And Friends: Shaved Ice GELATO That’s Super Cute, All Natural, And More!

8 Korean BBQ: For Premium Pork Belly That Will Leave You Begging For More!

Heads up, fellow Korean BBQ lovers, for we have some good news for you! The ever-popular E!GHT Korean BBQ has just opened its second outlet at Shaw Centre with a bigger and juicier menu to boot.

Good things should be shared, and after a delectable experience at E!GHT’s flagship outlet at Clark Quay, we just can’t wait to tell you more about our experience.

Here’s why E!GHT Korean BBQ ought to be on your to-eat list:

E!GHT’s Signature 8 Colours Set

With the restaurant named after this dish, the 8 Colours Set is without doubt, the pride and joy of E!GHT Korean BBQ.

As its name suggests, you’ll be able to savour 8 mouth-watering strips of pork belly, all marinated in 8 different flavours.

The list of flavours to expect, in the recommended order of tasting are: wine, original, garlic, herb, curry, miso, red pepper paste, and finally kalbi.

Included in the set are some side dishes (such as kimchi) as well as seafood bean paste stew.

How’s that for a fulfilling meal?

The proper and oh-so-good way to eat Korean BBQ: wrap the meat inside a lettuce leaf, add kimchi and sauce, and stuff it all into your mouth!

Here’s the seafood bean paste stew that comes with the set!

The 8 Colours Set costs $98, and serves 3-4 people.

If you’re looking for something less filling, you could also go for smaller sets such as the Flower Pork Set ($68) or the 4 Colours Set ($58).

As with the 8 Colours Set, all of these sets come with side dishes and seafood bean paste stew.

If you’re wondering why the meat appears to be slightly pricey, it’s because all of these sets feature Mangalitsa pork, a top-grade Hungarian variety. We can vouch for its quality – it is incredibly juicy and tender.

In fact, Mangalitsa is said to be the “Kobe beef” of pork! Apparently, it is lower in cholesterol, and possesses higher levels of zinc and iron as compared to other types of pork. You’re definitely getting your money’s worth here.

More than just pork

If you’d like more than just BBQ pork, don’t worry, because the restaurant serves other dishes too!

From Beef Bulgogi Bibimbap ($18) to Kimchi Fried Rice ($8) and Seafood Pancake ($20), there’s definitely enough variety for you to complete your meal as you wish.

Those who’re on a tighter budget can also consider the weekday set lunches and specials -rice and stew sets from $8.

One of the comfort foods of Korean cuisine – Kimchi fried rice!

Some house brew, anyone?

As any Korean will know, no Korean BBQ meal is complete without some good alcohol.

Keeping in line with this practice, E!GHT Korean BBQ offers a great selection of drinks on its menu as well.

While standard fare such as beer and soju can be found on the drinks menu, the highlight we feel has definitely got to be their flavoured makgeoli (fermented Korean rice wine), all of which are brewed in-house.

Diners can choose from several flavours, such as the new Organic Honey Makgeolli ($35), as well as the Yucha Makgeolli ($35), Passionfruit Makgeolli ($35) and Joo Brew ($28).

We particularly liked the Yucha Makgeolli since it was so refreshing, with the right amount of sweetness – definitely the perfect complement to a savoury meal!

Full service amidst a comfortable setting

With a seating capacity of 80, the new outlet at Shaw Centre looks to be just as spacious – if not even more so – than its Clark Quay counterpart. [=

The place is large and spacious – no worries about bringing a large group of friends here then!

You can also expect full service at E!GHT, where staff will prepare all the food for you. All you really need to do is eat.

Perhaps the most attractive point of all – besides the food – would be the restaurant’s effective ventilation system, which guarantees that you’ll leave the place without smelling like BBQ for the rest of the day. How awesome is that?

So there you have it!

Sounds delectable, doesn’t it?

Now that you know what lies in store for you, all that’s left to do is to head to town and satisfy your carvings!

Best of all, both outlets are centrally located and easily accessible, which means they are convenient for everyone.

Bon appétit!

E!GHT Korean BBQ
Address: 
1 Scotts Road, Shaw Centre, #04-20/21, Singapore 228208
6 Eu Tong Sen Street, The Central, #02-79/90
Opening hours: 
Mon – Fri: 11:30AM – 14:30, 17:30 – 22:30
Sat & Sun: 11:30 – 22:30
Tel: 90189212
For more information, check out E!IGHT Korean BBQ’s Official Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/8koreanbbqshaw

Unless otherwise stated, image credits: E!ght Korean BBQ.

This was an invited tasting session.

Also, read Korea Town In Singapore? Satisfy All Your Kimchi Cravings Near Beauty World MRT!

Singapore’s Largest Wine & Whisky Event Is Back With 100+ Free Tastings!

Wine & Whisky Week, Singapore’s largest wine & whisky event presented by 1855 The Bottle Shop, is back by popular demand.

Following the successful debut of the Wine & Whisky Week in July this year, the second installation will be held from 8th t0 13th November.

Located at Suntec City Tower 4 East Atrium Level 1, the event will be hosted by 1855 The Bottle Shop. 

The brand was awarded ‘Singapore Wine Retailer of the Year’ at the World Gourmet Summit Awards earlier in the year. This speaks volumes about their reputation as the go to place for wine enthusiasts.

What’s So Special About Wine & Whisky Week?

With more than 500 labels by over 200 producers, we are pretty sure you’ll be able to find something that suits your wine and whisky preferences.

1855 The Bottle Shop organised Wine & Whisky Week to cater to everyone, whether connoisseurs or amateurs, through diverse brand offerings at great value.

When asked about the motivations behind such a quick successive event, Mr. Sng, CEO of 1855 The Bottle Shop stated,

“With the second edition of WWW, we are committed to up the ante in terms of customer experience and deliver yet again an exceptional portfolio of international products. It is crystal clear to us that wine and whisky consumers crossover and we want to offer them a platform where they can elevate that discernment.”

What Other Activities Can We Engage In Wine & Whisky Week?

The Wine & Whisky Week is open to public and will be free to attend.

You can take part in tastings of renowned wine and whiskies (100+ tastings available) and receive educational experiences by wine connoisseurs.

Moreover, you can look forward to attractive discounts of up to 50% on the labels. These include sought after wines from renowned vineyards and rare whiskies from notable distilleries.

Highlights include Karuizawa 12, the sadly discontinued Japanese Whisky, Big Peat Christmas 2016, an “All Islay”, Cask Strength Limited Edition and Champagne Henriot Brut Souverain (Non-Vintage).

There’s More!

Customers with a minimum spending of $500 will be entitled to an exclusive 1855 Neoprene Wine Bottle Tote Bag.

The first two customers who spend S$8,000 in a single receipt will walk away with a Vintec V30SGME wine fridge – valued at $958 each.

Attractive prizes will also be up for grabs during the period of 8 to 13 November 2016.

Prizes include Chateau Pichon Longueville 2011 (worth S$180), Macallan Edition 2 (worth S$150), Nikka From The Barrel (worth S$90) and Bollinger Special Cuvee Brut (worth S$80).

What Are You Waiting For?

1855 The Bottle Shop Wine & Whisky Week 
Date: 8 November to 13 November 2016.
Time: 8 November, Tue (11am-5pm); 9 – 13 November, Wed – Sun (11am-10pm)
Address: Suntec City, Tower 4 East Atrium, Level 1.

The Wine & Whisky Week is a free admission event

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

10 Labels You Need To Know From Singapore Fashion Week 2016

The orgy of high fashion hit all the right notes this year at Singapore Fashion Week 2016. Held at the National Gallery, this year’s style extravaganza topped last year’s venue at Ngee Ann City Civic Plaza.

During the 5-day fashion festival (26 – 30 Oct), the spotlight was trained on an eclectic mix of Asian designers whose collections were showcased on not just one, but two different stages.

This year’s highlights

Indeed, the highlight of this year’s Singapore Fashion Week was none other than its emphasis on Asia; be it Asian-born designers, or designers based in Asia.

Out of nearly 22 featured creations, 20 in the show were from Asian designers – the greatest number in all of 15 years.

This was a distinct departure from the previous year, where American designer Diane von Furstenberg opened the show, and British style meister,Victoria Beckham, closed it.

Today, we bring you a quick round-up of some noteworthy designers at this year’s Singapore Fashion Week and their spectacular collections!

1. Day 1 – Guo Pei opens the event

Kicking off the event on the main stage was designer Guo Pei.

The Chinese born-and-raised dressmaker is best known for dolling Rihanna up in a canary-yellow, floor-trailing gown during the MOMA 2015.

Kyoaji Dining: Affordable & Exquisite Japanese Food With A Surprising Twist!

If any of you were disappointed by the closure of Fukuichi Dining at TripleOne Somserset, you’ll be relieved to know that Kyoaji Dining is helmed by the same team.

Executive Chef John Phua, with over 30 years of experience in Japanese cuisine, continues to wow our taste buds with a thoughtfully conceived menu featuring familiar and well-loved dishes!

The rebranded name “Kyoaji” literally translates to “A taste of Kyoto”. Situated on the 4^th level of the newly revamped wing of Centrepoint, Kyoaji Dining promises to serve authentic Japanese fare at reasonable prices. Read on for our experience!

1) Kani Tofu

A unique spin on the traditional chawanmushi, the Kani Tofu (tamago with tofu) is topped with a decadent layer of century egg puree with juicy crab meat!

The cold handmade tofu is incredibly silky while the liberally sprinkled Tobikko packs a subtle crunch with each bite.

Crab Meat Bean Curd ($6)

2) Shio Maguro Aburi Maki

Tired of the usual salmon aburi maki dominating the menu in almost every Japanese restaurant?

We have here a beautifully presented seared white tuna roll topped with Tobikko and green caviar.

We would aburi everything if we had it our way! Nice and smoky, each thick slice of tuna, wrapped around a california roll base, was fully savoured.

Seared White Tuna Roll ($22)

3) Caterpillar Maki

If you thought that Japanese food automatically translates into Insta-worthy captures, the Caterpillar Maki is a great example.

The avocado slices give the illusion of a caterpillar coming to life – it even has eyes (made of Tako) to boot!

On a low carb diet? This maki is made without rice.

Pop each little segment of the caterpillar body in your mouth and be overwhelmed from the freshness of each light bite.

Avocado roll ($20)

4) Ebi Almond Tempura 

If you’re a fan of almonds, this dish might just hit the spot! Here’s an ebi tempura with extra crunch and flavour.

Each tempura is generously coated with sliced almonds and deep-fried to perfection. We liked how the nutty profile complemented the sweeetness of the prawns. The batter coating was not too thick too!

Deep Fried Prawns with Almonds ($15)

5) Fukiyose Beinsu

This is one of Chef’s Phua’s signature creations.

A whole eggplant is sliced and stuffed to the brim with a seafood lover’s dream.

The fresh scallop and prawns are coated with a thick, savoury base braised with Japanese soya sauce, mirin and sake. Expect to pick up light notes of yuzu as well. This is one said to be one of their top signature dishes. A must-try!

Egg Plant with Seafood ($25)

6) Fagura Chawan Mushi

Kyoaji Dining sure knows how to get their chawanmushi right- They have an entire menu page dedicated to this particular dish.

This silky steamed egg custard is layered with foie gras liver sauce and cubes (an elevated version of the common chawanmushi) stole the show. The liver sauce tasted almost caramalized and gave the chawanmushi a lot more depth in flavour. The foie gras cubes were oh so sinful, but extremely satisfying.

Goose Liver Steamed Egg ($25)

If you were a fan of Fukuichi Dining, expect to find your favourite Japanese dishes resurrected at Kyoaji Dining. Have a look at their set lunches, they are affordably priced as well!

To celebrate the opening of their new restaurant, you can enjoy 15% of your total bill, valid till 30^th November so head on down soon! We know, good news and great food have to be shared.

This was an invited food tasting session.

Kyoaji Dining
Address: 176 Orchard Road #04-17/18 The Centrepoint
Opening hours:
For lunch, Monday – Friday: 11.30 am-3pm (last order at 2.30pm)
For dinner, 5.30pm – 10.30pm (last order at 10pm)
Sat, Sun & PH: 11.30am – 10.30pm (last order at 10pm)
Website: Facebook, Instagram

Also, read New Hangout Spot, Chip Bee Gardens, Is Where All The Cool Things Are

5 Apartments In Singapore That Are Role Models ‘Cos They’re So Green

Today, there are more than 1 million public housing flats in 23 towns with over 80% living in HDB flats. With a focus on eco green living, other “vertical villages” like high-rise and high-density private condominiums and apartments are on the rise as well.

But, are these ‘green’ apartments merely just buildings with expensive solar panels and high technology mechanisms?

Well, we debunk this myth by introducing 5 high rise apartments that are role models because they’ve successfully incorporated eco green living in Singapore.

You’d totally want to live in a home like that.

1. The Topiary

Located at the west of Sengkang New Town along Fernvale Lane, The Topiary Fernvale EC is the first Executive Condominium launched in Sengkang.

It is equipped with full Condo facilities including aerobic/yoga rooms, hydrotherapy beds and even an onsen!

Designed by DP Architects, The Topiary was built with sustainable materials, and its building configuration and site orientation promotes natural ventilation and daylighting.

Not only can residents enjoy the common sky terraces outdoors, but they can also enjoy energy-efficient air-conditioners indoors that all units come with!

The Topiary
Address: 11 Fernvale Lane

2. Punggol Waterway Ridges

We all know Punggol is increasingly popular with many up and coming developments. But what we may not know is that many of these developments promote sustainable living.

One of these is Punggol Waterway Ridges, which was recently awarded the HDB Design Award in September and is due for completion this December.

Located along Edgefield Plains and on the northern bank of the Waterfront town, residents can enjoy waterfront living while conserving water!

Punggol Waterway Ridges
Address: 669 Edgefield Plains

3. SkyTerrace @ Dawson

Located in Dawson Estate in the Alexandra area, this project has ecologically conscious technologies like drip irrigation, rainwater harvesting, bio-retention basins and solar energy systems.

[caption id="attachment_17260" align="alignnone" width="1600"] Image Credit: SCDA Architects[/caption]

At SkyTerrace @ Dawson, there are five towers ranging from 40 to 43 storeys and elevated gardens with lush greenery.

These link through bridges, allowing residents to enjoy the natural environment and enjoy interaction with fellow residents.

Sky Terrace @ Dawson
Address: 89 Dawson Road

4. Casa Clementi

Landscaping in public housing has definitely reached a whole new level.

Casa Clementi in Clementi Avenue 1 has an award-winning landscaped deck that links ten blocks in the estate.

Not only is the green roof multi-functional with paved open plazas, but there are also children’s play stations and perimeter pathways.

These pathways can double as a 660m jogging track. They serve many purposes – as a water irrigation system, and also to conceal the carpark.

Residents can unwind in this gardenscape after a long day and enjoy the feel of what may otherwise be mistaken as a private condominium!

Casa Clementi
Address: Clementi Ave 1

5. NTU North Hill Residential Hill

Who would have thought that a residential hall in a school could be so popular?

Not only are these NTU’s residential halls the first public high-rises in Singapore to use a “Lego-style” construction method, but they are also one of the newest eco-friendly high-rise buildings.

There are sustainable features such as energy-saving lighting and solar-powered systems. One of the green features is that all rooms in the residential halls have special “Low-E” glazed windows. These windows reflect heat using a special coating.

NTU North Hill Residential Hall
Address: 50 Nanyang Walk

Singapore has definitely upped its green game in the recent years.

The next time you’re looking for a new home, you may want to consider if it is eco-friendly!

Also, read The Only Guide You Need To Exploring Lavender: Food, Cafes, Fitness & More!

The Only Guide You Need To Exploring Lavender: Food, Cafes, Fitness & More!

What is the one thing that is most synonymous with Lavender?

Most would say the ICA, but there’s so much more to Lavender than expired passports, automotive shops and hardware resellers.

We decided to spend some time in the neighbourhood to see if there is truly plenty to see, eat and do to keep us entertained throughout the day.

Things to do

CrossFit Fire City

If you aren’t already familiar with the jargons WOD, AMRAP and EMOM, the idea of CrossFit might sound daunting to you.

It is a common misconception that CrossFit is only for the fit, or the very strong. But that’s not true because the WODs (Workout Of the Day) are tailored to each individual’s abilities.

At CrossFit Fire City, box owner, Sam (affectionately known as Uncle Sam), and his friendly community of CrossFitters will ease you right into the workout.

Because the WODs are different each time, your muscles will never get used to any particular routine. This makes CrossFit one of the most effective ways to tone up those muscles.

Just an hour-long WOD will get you pumped up and energised for a day of exploring.

CrossFit Fire City
Address: 111C King George’s Ave, Singapore 208559
Tel: 9113 8587
Opening Hours:
Mon – Thu: 06:30 – 21:00
Fri: 06:30 – 20:00

Trium Fitness

Just a stone’s throw away from Sam’s box lies Trium Fitness – a newly opened fitness studio specialising in yoga and pilates.

Floor-to-ceiling windows allow natural light to flood the studio as you breathe in your downdog, or invert in aerial silks.

The studio not only teaches conventional yoga styles, but also allows you to stretch your head (and body) in classes like wheel or aerial yoga.

Wheel yoga is relatively new in Singapore.

The class makes use of the Dharma wheel to open the shoulders and arch the back for a deeper stretch. This will aid in your poses on the mat.

Aerial yoga needs no introduction – cirque du soleil style, aerial yoga helps yogis gain confidence in being upside-down. Also, it helps to build arm and upper body strength.

You’ll have so much fun that you wouldn’t even remember that you’re working out.

Trium Fitness
Address: 12 Kallang Ave, Aperia Mall, #03-01, Singapore 339511
Tel: 8782 8633
Opening Hours:
Mon – Fri: 8AM – 9PM
Sat: 9AM – 5PM
Sun: 9AM – 2PM

What to eat

The Refinery

The Refinery is just a couple units down from Sam’s box, perfect for post-CrossFit refuelling.

High ceilings, local art, marble table tops, and wooden communal tables – The Refinery is one of the most Instagram-worthy cafes on the island.

But that’s not all this cafe has to offer.

The Refinery boasts an extensive menu that changes depending on whether you’re heading over for a weekday dinner or weekend brunch.

The food is Japanese-inspired with a local twist, so expect yakitori-style skewers from the grill, donburis, and local cafe classics such as food laced with truffle and salted egg flavours.

We loved ‘The Epic’ Beef Gyudon with Foie Gras because, really, who can resist rib eye beef, foie gras, onsen egg and truffle flavouring in a single dish?!

The Refinery
Address: 115 King George’s Ave, Singapore 208561
Tel: 6293 1204
Opening Hours:
Tue – Thu: 12:00 – 15:00, 18:00 – 00:00
Fri: 12:00 – 15:00, 18:00 – 01:00
Sat: 11:00 – 16:00, 18:00 – 01:00
Sun: 11:00 – 16:00

AEIOU

At the other end of CrossFit Firecity lies an understated cafe, its signage reading “Oriental Antique House”.

Though it is actually a cafe called AEIOU, its signage hasn’t proven to be entirely wrong.

AEIOU is adorned with upcycled furniture – rattan chairs, wooden tables and all things vintage. It is pretty much like a modern karang guni’s very well put-together home.

Their upcycling extends to tableware, where vodka bottles are cut into cups that hold their drinks and desserts.

Bask in nostalgia as you sip on your avocado coffee – one of the highlights of their menu.

Creamy avocado blend in one hand, and a shot of espresso in the other, marry the two for a party in your mouth.

You’ll be pleasantly surprised by how the butteriness of the avocado mellows out the bitterness of the coffee.

AEIOU
Address: 111 King George’s Avenue
Tel: 6291 2698
Opening Hours:
Tue – Thu: 11:00 – 22:00
Fri: 11:00 – 23:00
Sat: 10:00 – 23:00
Sun: 10:00 – 21:00

To shop/ explore

Mahota Commune

If you find joy in shopping for fresh produce, then Mahota Commune is as close to food heaven as you’ll get.

Mahota Commune occupies the entire third level of Kitchener Complex – all because they are a market, kitchen, pantry, clinic and wellness studio all rolled into one.

Windows surround the area, allowing natural light to pour in – complementing the home-grown greenery and wooden furniture in this relaxing space.

At Mahota Market, load your basket with fresh, organic produce like fresh meats and vegetables, to imported condiments and whole food snacks.

Credit: Mahota Commune

Then, enjoy garden-to-table goodness at Mahota Kitchen.

The restaurant serves up an interesting choice of italian fare or hot pot choices. You can delight in vegetables grown organically in their farm in Shanghai, and sustainably sourced meats that are reared without antibiotics or hormone injections.

Before you leave, pick up some cold pressed juices and pastry for the family at Mahota Pantry. The pastries are baked fresh in-house using unbleached, wholemeal flour, no less!

As mentioned, the space is also home to a TCM clinic and a wellness studio. The studio conducts yoga, meditation, tai chi and HIIT classes – some of which are complimentary.

I can totally envision myself spending the entire day here, winding down and indulging in the goodness of whole foods.

Mahota Commune
Address: Blk 809 French Road, Kitchener Complex, #03-31, Singapore 200809
Tel: 62996809
Opening Hours: Daily, 9AM – 10PM

Though seemingly understated, Lavender is oozing with charm, making it the perfect spot for cafe-hopping over the weekend.

Got a favourite haunt in the Lavender area? Let us know in the comments below!

Also, read Feeling Experimental? Try Alchemist Beer Lab’s Super Funky Infused Beers!

Monkey Goes West Is Back This Year With More Laughs & Catchy Tunes!

With the year of the Monkey coming to an end, here’s how you can send it off with a bang – by checking out the award-winning Monkey Goes West.

Set to take stage at Drama Centre Theatre from 18 November to 17 December 2016, Monkey Goes West is cheeky retelling of our beloved Chinese fantasy classic – Journey To The West.

Unlike the original story that ended in India, this one will take you on an epic Singaporean thrill ride from Haw Par Villa to Jurong West.

Adventure of a Lifetime

Monkey Goes West tells the tale of an orphan named Ah Tang who ran away from home after a argument with his family.

He then finds himself transported to a strange land and he befriends a trio of fellow travellers: Wukong the cheeky Monkey King; Pigsy, a brave but always-hungry warrior; and Sandy, a stubborn but loyal river ogre.

Together, the fearless four embark on an adventure of a lifetime, one filled with trials and dangers.

Can they tame the rowdy fire-breathing Red Boy? Will they be able to defeat the monstrous King Bull and his man-eating wife, Princess Iron Fan?

And more importantly, will Ah Tang ever find a place that he can call home?

Award Winning Production & Team

Monkey Goes West was completely sold out on its first run in 2014, playing to more than 15,000 theatre goers.

It then went on to dominate the 2015 Straits Times Life! Theatre Awards with a whopping 7 nominations, more than any other production that year.

They eventually bagged the awards for Production of the Year, Readers’ Choice Award for Production of the Year, and Best Costume Design (Tube Gallery by Phisit & Saxit).

This time round, the play will be directed by Broadway Beng Sebastian Tan, written by Alfian Sa’at, with music composed by Elaine Chan.

Both Sebastian and Elaine were nominated for the Best Director and Best Sound Design or Original Score category of the 2015 awards respectively.

On top of that, the cast of the play includes some of Singapore’s most experienced veteran actors and rising stars – Sugie Phua (nominated for Best Actor) and Siti Khalijah (nominated for Best Supporting Actress) will be sharing the stage with familiar faces like Chua Enlai, Darius Tan, Joshua Lim, and many more talented actors and actresses.

Packed with catchy tunes, hilarious gags, cool wushu moves and magic, you can count on Monkey Goes West to brighten up your day and keep you laughing, so you can end your year with a blast.

Monkey Goes West
Date: 18 November – 17 December 2016
Venue: Drama Centre Theatre, 100 Victoria St, #05-01 National Library Building, 188064
Time: 2:30pm and 7:30pm
Ticket Price: Restricted View ($50 – $60), Standard ($45-$80)
Seating Plan: Website: