Location: Queenstown

This Hawker Stall In Queenstown Sells Fluffy Soufflé Pancakes For Just $1.50 Each

When I was a kid, I looked forward to Sunday mornings because that meant hotcakes from McDonald’s. I never quite understood why their hotcakes made me happy but all I knew was that the more maple syrup I poured and the more butter I spread, the happier I felt.

There’s just something comforting about digging into a plate of pancakes drenched in maple syrup and butter on a Sunday morning.

About a year ago, Insider released a video of the jiggliest most fluffiest pancakes I’ve ever seen in my entire life. Ever since then, everyone forgot about good ol’ buttermilk pancakes because these Soufflé Pancakes were the next big thing.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FBaRWq0gXAk

Just like any foodie, I searched high and low for affordable Soufflé Pancakes in Singapore.

Until recently, I came across these cute soufflé pancakes selling for $1.50 each at Mei Ling Hawker Centre!

Wiggle, Wiggle, Wiggle

If you’re not familiar with soufflé pancakes, they’re lighter and fluffier than regular pancakes. Which explains why everyone has been jiggling this dessert for the ‘gram.

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bgpt04kgP35/?tagged=soufflepancakes

You can get these pancakes in cafes and restaurants but they’ll definitely cost you more than $10.

The soufflé pancakes from Sweet Rex comes in a set of 2 for just $3!

The fluffy pancakes from Sweet Rex are freshly made and served with a sauce of your choice – caramel, strawberry or chocolate. It’s everything you ever want in a pancake – light, airy and not too sweet.

If you could bite into clouds, then this is how I’d describe eating the soufflé pancakes from Sweet Rex.

Additionally, the stall also sells cheesecakes and puddings you can get at a low price. Here’s evidence that you can eat good even when you’re on a budget!

There’s chocolate, Thai milk tea, kopi, ginger and matcha pudding – which you can get at $2 each.

We highly recommend getting the Lemon Cheesecake ($3.80) which looks like “tofu”. The cake is a perfect balance of creamy and tangy, making it easy on the palate.

If you’re ever in Queenstown, then head down for Sweet Rex’s affordable desserts. However, they are only opened on weekends, and sporadically on weekdays. If you’re ever heading down on weekdays, best to give them a call!

Sweet Rex
Address: 159 Mei Chin Road, #02-47, Mei Ling Market & Food Centre, Singapore 140159
Opening Hours: Sat – Sun: 10am to 9pm, Opens on random days on weekdays. 
Contact No.: 8163 7630
Website

Also Read Hong Kong’s Famous Tsui Wah Cafe To Open First S’pore Outlet This June

(Header Image Source: @foodiegoh and Burpple User Doreen Tan)

If You Like Blackball, This Dessert Shop Will Have You Questioning Your Loyalties

If you’ve been to Taiwan, you’ll know that one of the snacks the country is well-known for is its Jiu Fen Taro Balls.

Sold along the streets of bustling Jiu Fen, these coloured balls are chewy and are served alongside other ingredients such as sweet potato and green tea balls, in red bean, green bean or sweet potato soup.

A party of flavours and textures, if you’re a fan of these dessert bowls and are a strong believer that ‘the more the toppings, the better‘, you’ll love Nine Fresh‘s local spin on the Taiwanese classic.

Nine Fresh

If this is the first time you’re hearing of Nine Fresh, you’re missing out!

Nine Fresh is a dessert stop that has been serving up quality cups of the delicious dessert for almost 5 years now.

That is, cups of grass jelly, beancurd, or ai-yu jelly (or a mixture of the three) heaped with beans (red bean, green bean, pinto bean, eight treasure bean), balls (mini taro ball, taro ball, durian ball), flavoured pearl jelly (aloe vera, mango, lychee, passionfruit), black pearls, and many more toppings.

At Nine Fresh, they’re all about keeping traditions fresh, and recently, they’ve done exactly that by rolling out 2 new series of desserts.

Nine Fresh Goes Local

The first is its Local Flavours series, which consist of dessert creations inspired by some of our favourite local desserts, including Chendol and Cheng Teng.

The Chendol Cup ($3.80) has a grass jelly base and is topped with green chendol jelly, attap seeds, red bean, and taro balls.

With (almost) all the ingredients you’d typically find in a chendol dessert, this is a far less sweet variant of the coconut milk-heavy dessert.

The Cheng Teng Cup ($3.80) also has all the good stuff you’d find in the traditional dessert: pong tai hai, lotus nut, barley, and sago. These are served over a wobbly ai-yu jelly base. And of course, you can’t forget the taro balls!

As durian lovers, our favourite is the Durian Yin-Yang, a half beancurd, half grass jelly base that’s topped with black sugar jelly dice, taro balls, and a generous scoop of rich durian puree – yes, actual durian flesh. The flavourful and creamy durian, combined with the array of chewy and QQ ingredients in the cup make it a winner – and all for just $3.90.

Singapore’s Favourites, According To Data

Another exciting addition to Nine Fresh’s offerings is the Fanspiration Series, a bunch of cups and flavours that are essentially customer-generated.

The best-selling flavour and ingredient combinations based on Nine Fresh’s data, gathered from its create-your-own-cup promo this year, you can’t go wrong with these flavours that are beloved by many, many Singaporeans.

Some of these items in this series include the all-black The Black Cup ($2.90), the all-white The White Cup ($2.60), and The Yin-Yang Cup ($2.90), which is half black and half white – at least when it comes to the base.

If you simply can’t decide between the bases (or love them all equally), the Aww In One Cup cup contains all three of them.

This cup comes piled with black pearls, taro balls, and mini taro balls on top. If you’re a first timer to Nine Fresh, we suggest you go for this so you can sample a little bit of everything and figure out which you prefer!

From there on, you can customise your own cup and create your own perfect combination of ingredients.

With so many decadent desserts out there, from rich chocolate treats to lava toasts, Nine Fresh is – literally – a refreshing change from the lot.

Priced very affordable from $2 to $3.90 for one of their pre-set cups, Nine Fresh’s desserts are a lighter option with so much to offer in the way of taste and flavour!

The next time you’re craving a refreshing dessert, make sure to pop by one of Nine Fresh’s 16 outlets – you won’t be disappointed!

Nine Fresh
Address: Find your nearest Nine Fresh Also read This Thai Bakery Is Baking Up A Storm Of Fluffy Loaves – And You Knead To Try It 

IKEA Extends Shopping And Dining Hours Till 12MN This Ramadhan – Adds Halal Buffets To Menu

IKEA is a name that needs no introduction.

Whether you pronounce it ‘ee-kia’, ‘ee-kay-a’ or ‘eye-kay-a’, we can all agree that it’s great for two things: good, affordable furniture and meatballs.

This month, the Swedish company will be celebrating Ramadhan and Hari Raya alongside its Muslim friends by giving everyone a special treat between 26 May – 22 June.

IKEA Tampines Buffet Istimewa

For two weeks in June (12 – 16 June & 19 – 22 June), IKEA Tampines will be holding its very own buffet feast.

Limited to 200 seats, this Buffet Istimewa is priced at $19.90 for adults and $9.90 for kids. The buffet starts at 7pm and with limited seats available, we recommend grabbing a spot early!

IKEA Tampines Buffet Istimewa
Date: 12 – 16 June, 19 – 22 June
Time: 7pm – 10pm
Price: Adult: $19.90, Child: $9.90

IKEA Family Midsummer Buffet Dinner 

For one day only, IKEA is set to hold a buffet dinner for IKEA Family members to indulge in IKEA Favourites.

For $20 per pax, an IKEA Family member and 3 guests will be able to feast on a never ending supply of IKEA’s famed meatballs! Tickets are only available for purchase at the IKEA restaurant, so you’ll have to head down early to secure a spot!

IKEA Family Midsummer Buffet Dinner 
Date: 23 June
Time: 5.30pm – 7.30pm, 8pm – 10pm
Price: (Only applies to IKEA Family members & 3 guests) Early bird: $20/pax; Regular: $30/pax; Child: $10

Extended Hours & $2 Meal Deals 

For selected weekends in June, IKEA will be extending its shopping hours till midnight! That means you’ll be able to drop by IKEA to pick up that side table you’ve been eyeing, right after work.

IKEA knows that shopping can really work up an appetite, so they’re also offering an assortment of local eats at only $2 a bowl. From Curry Mee to Mee Rebus, dig into a comforting bowl of noodles after shopping the night away!

Extended Hours & $2 Meal Deals 
Date: 26 May – 17 June
Time: 9pm – 11pm

Love yourself some IKEA food? Make sure you seize this opportunity to feast, and make sure to share the love with all your Muslim friends!

IKEA Alexandra
Address: 317 Alexander Road, S159965

IKEA Tampines
Address: 60 Tampines North Drive 2, S528764

Also read, Grab Your Foodie Friends And “Buka Puasa” At These 11 Halal Buffets

Queenstown Is More Than Just IKEA – Here Are 10 Other Eating Spots You Should Not Miss

Most people know Queenstown for two things: IKEA and Queensway Shopping Centre. What many people may not know is Queenstown is also Singapore’s first satellite town.

An area rich with history, those who live in Queenstown know it is more than just a place to get cheap furniture and cheap sport shoes. In fact, Queenstown is home to many underrated food gems that residents have been keeping to themselves!

Offering tasty local grub, trendy desserts, and everything in between, even the pickiest eater will be able to find something here!

For those with a taste for local delights,

1. Depot Road Zhen Shan Mei Claypot Laksa

Believe it or not, this Michelin-starred laska only costs $3/$4/$5, depending on the portion you order.

Here, they are generous with their prawns, tau pok (fried beancurd), cockles and fish cakes, which are all soaked in their deliciously thick, savory broth. Serving the laksa in a claypot is a stroke of genius, as it keeps the broth nice and warm up till the very last mouthful.

Depot Road Zhen Shan Mei Claypot Laksa
Address: Blk 120 Bukit Merah Lane 1 #01-75, Alexandra Village, Singapore 150120
Opening Hours: Mon – Sat, 9am – 3.30pm; Closed Sun

2. Master Prata

Hidden between a row of shops at Alexandra Central Mall, you might miss this prata shop if you’re not looking out for it. Master Prata has an extensive menu, featuring a whopping 108 flavors of prata, alongside items like mee goreng and roti john.

The plain prata ($1.20), or kosong prata, as we Singaporeans affectionately know it, is crispy without being excessively oily. You can choose from 3 different curries: chicken, fish and mutton.

Another popular choice is the tissue prata with chocolate sauce ($3). It is crispy on the outside, and light and fluffy on the inside. The dark chocolate sauce plays the role of the supporting character well, and doesn’t overpower the prata.

Be prepared to be spoiled for choice when you pay this eatery a visit. Go for a safe option with the egg prata or opt for a more daring alternative, such as the milo prata and egg floss prata! You can even order one of each–who says you have to stop at one?

Master Prata
Address: 321 Alexandra Road, Alexandra Central Mall, #01-02, Singapore
Opening Hours: Daily, 10am – 12am
Website

3. Wow Wow West

Wow Wow West whips up value for money food that warms the heart. As supporters of the Yellow Ribbon Project, they hire ex-offenders and ex-drug addicts to help in the kitchen.

Try their Dory Fish & Chips ($6). With its outside cooked to a perfect golden brown, it reveals tender fish meat when you cut into it.

Alternatively, try the chicken chop, which is priced at a super affordable $5. The huge portion of meat is juicy and well-seasoned with basil and tarragon. Paired with coleslaw, this dish beats KFC’s fried chicken hands-down.

Wow Wow West
Address: 6 Jalan Bukit Merah, #01-133 ABC Brickworks Market & Food Centre, Singapore 150006
Opening Hours: Mon, Wed – Sat: 10.30am – 7.30pm; Closed Tue and Sun
Website

For the hipsters,

4. The Bakehouse (Permanently Closed)

The Bakehouse is a quaint joint opened by artisan café Carpenter and Cook–and you can tell the instant you walk in.

Both cafes boast a rustic aesthetic, with vintage furniture strategically placed in every nook and cranny of the area. Pleasing on the eyes, it’s also very Insta-worthy.

One thing that sets this café apart from its sister counterpart is their focus on main courses such as pizza, pasta and sandwiches.

The chili crab linguine ($22) has finely shredded crab meat tossed into the springy pasta noodle. Its fusion chili sauce is reminiscent of the sauce in chili crab–spicy, with the tang and sweetness of tomato sauce. It’ll take you more than a little effort to keep yourself from licking the whole plate clean!

Another fantastic dish worth a taste is the Parma Ham Pizza ($18), which is good for sharing between 4 people. Topped with tomato, parma ham, mozzarella and shaved parmesan cheese, with truffle oil drizzled over it, every bite of this pizza delivers a kick of flavour.

If you like your pizza crust thin and crispy, you’ll love this pizza. Baked to perfection, it won’t leave you feeling bloated from all that extra pizza dough.

The Bakehouse
Address: Alexandra Central, 321 Alexandra Road, #01-14, Singapore 159971
Opening Hours: Sun – Thurs: 8am – 10pm; Fri, Sat, eve of PH: 8am – 11pm
Image Credit: Boufe Boutique Café Facebook[/caption]

Just take a look at the Milky Way cake, a masterpiece in terms of both looks and taste. Beneath the star spangled layer lies an Italian sponge cake with white chocolate and yogurt mousse. There is also calamansi jelly interspersed through the cake, keeping the cake from being overly sweet.

One of those foods that look too good to eat, you’ll be torn on whether to eat it or to keep admiring it.

If you swing more savoury than sweet, try the smoked salmon croissant ($19). The buttery croissant is served in bite-size portions, accompanied by smoked salmon and fluffy scrambled eggs. A brunch classic that never gets old!

Boufe Boutique Café
Address: 308 Tanglin Road, Phoenix Park #01-01, Singapore 247974
Opening Hours: Tues – Sun: 10am – 10pm; Closed Mon
old-school bakery located just opposite Alexandra Food Village will have you reliving your childhood with their wide array of pastries.

Another must try at this confectionery would be their pandan chiffon cake ($0.80). Fragrant, with its subtle flavour lingering on your palate even after you’ve finished eating it, it’ll have you craving for a second slice. If you want to give this a try, make sure to do it early in the day! We hear these cakes run out fast!

Love Confectionery
Address: Blk 122 Bukit Merah Lane 1, Singapore 150122
Opening Hours: Daily, 12pm – 9pm

7. King Avocado

It is a well-known fact that Alexandra Food Village is the home of avocado juice. Of the 5 stalls selling avocado juice there, King Avocado, the pioneer of avocado juices, emerges victorious.

The top-grade avocadoes used here blends well with the infusion of gula melaka, giving the avocado juice served at this particular store a smoothness and creaminess that’s hard to beat. At $3.50 for a regular-sized cup and $5 for the large cup, it may not be the cheapest, but it’s definitely worth every dollar.

King Avocado
Address: Blk 120 Bukit Merah Lane 1, Alexandra Village Hawker Centre, Stall 01-19, Singapore
Opening Hours: Mon – Fri, Sun: 9.30am – 9.30pm; Closed Sat

8. The Milky Way

Opened by Campus Superstar alumni Renfred Ng and managed by his brother Alfred Ng, The Milky Way serves a host of delectable, unique ice-cream flavours. Priced at $3.80 for a regular scoop and $4.50 for a premium scoop, this is the perfect pick-me-up for a hot summer day typical day in Singapore.

One interesting flavour the Ng brothers have created is the ‘Smurf’. Coloured blue like a Smurf, no artificial colouring was used to give the ice-cream this blue hue. Instead, the colour comes from blue butterfly pea flowers. Flavour-wise, it tastes like a cross between bubblegum and a paddlepop ice-cream.

Another must-try flavour would be the Strawberry Cheesecake. Expect chunks of biscuits and strawberry hidden within the velvety texture of this ice-cream.

You can also pair your ice-cream with waffles here! The waffle batter is home-made daily by Renfred and Alfred’s mum. With a crispy exterior that doesn’t turn soggy from the ice-cream, a whole waffle will set you back $8.80, while a half waffle will only set you back $5.

The Milky Way
Address: Blk 48, Tanglin Halt Road, Singapore 142048
Opening Hours: Sun, Mon, Wed, Thu: 1pm – 10pm; Fri – Sat: 1pm – 1am; Closed Tue (except PH)
Website

9. All The Batter

Some of you have tried banoffee pies (a dessert pie made from bananas, cream and toffee) before, but how many of you have tried a banoffee pie drink?

All The Batter has taken a creative approach to making the English classic by using fresh bananas, chocolate chips, caramel, honey and milk to make a liquid version of the pie. Priced at $4.90, wholesome ingredients are used to create this drink, such as their hand-made honey cream.

One of their latest creations is the Fruit Bran ($4.90), a hand-roasted rolled oats drink blended with fruits and honey. It is a refreshing mid-day perk for those working in the area.

All The Batter also sells a range of superfoods such as granola and flax seeds, so to all the health nuts out there, don’t say bojio!

All The Batter
Address: 370 Alexandra Road, #B1-46 Anchorpoint, Singapore 189953
Opening Hours: Mon – Wed, Fri – Sun: 11.30am – 9.30pm; Closed Thurs
Image Credit: Nine Fresh Facebook[/caption]

Beat the sweltering Singapore heat with Nine Fresh Signature, a mixture of bean curd and grass jelly, generously topped with red beans, green beans, pinto beans, peanuts and taro balls. A perfect harmony of tastes and textures, this is a real treat for the taste buds.

The customers’ favourite here is the Grass Jelly Special. This $2 bowl of goodness has aloe vera, pearl jelly, taro balls, black sugar jelly dice and milk balls. You won’t be able to get a scoop of grass jelly without all the other ingredients getting into your spoon!

Don’t be deceived by the size of their portions–these desserts are so filling, they could pass as a full meal.

Nine Fresh
Address: Blk 169 Stirling Road, #01-1149, Singapore 140169
Opening Hours: Mon – Fri: 11am – 9.30pm; Sat – Sun, PH: 10am – 9.30pm
Lok² And Load – Prepare Yourselves For This All-You-Can-Eat Buffet For Only $24.60 Per Pax

Taste The Goodness Of Sarawak At Face To Face – An Eatery That Stays True To Its Roots

There’s nothing like digging into a hearty bowl of noodles to soothe a hungry stomach and a tired soul.

Here in Singapore, we’re lucky to have such a huge variety of cuisines that can be found (and indulged in!) on our very own shores.

One such cuisine is Sarawakian.

Part of East Malaysia, one thing Sawarak is known for (other than their stunning natural scenery) is its amazing food! Luckily for us, we don’t have to hop onto a plane to get a taste of Sarawkian eats.

Face To Face is one of only a handful of eateries that serve up authentic Sarawakian cuisine here in Singapore!

Face To Face 

Housed in City Square Mall, this spacious eatery has a small and focused menu. With 10 noodle dishes and a small array of light bites, don’t think that Face To Face doesn’t take their food seriously.

The speciality at Face to Face is their noodles. Made in-house daily, their noodle recipe goes back 100 years!

Face To Face has such a compact menu due to the fact that their ingredients are carefully sourced. From the chilli they use to the oils and sauces that go into their dishes, founder and Sarawakian Aidan Goh ensures all the ingredients used at Face To Face taste and are identical to those found in their Malaysian outlets.

Traditional Sarawak Noodles (also known as Kolok Mee) and Sarawak Laksa are the best sellers at this humble eatery.

The Traditional Sarawak Noodles was–according to a Sarawakian–“very very close to the original”.

The Sarawak Laksa on the other hand was pretty similar to its original counterpart, and a lot less creamy and dense than the Chinese laksa we’re so used to.

If you’re looking for something a tad more soothing on the throat, opt for the Genki Herbal Chicken Soup. Served piping hot, the soup is filled with herbs, giving it an earthy flavour. The chicken is served whole so its meat might be a tad difficult to tear off with chopsticks, but you can’t say they’re stingy with their servings here!

Looking for something to wash down all these decadent dishes? Face To Face serves up some pretty interesting (and sweet) concoctions! Caramel 3 Layer Tea and Three Musketeers are two beverages you cannot miss when you head to Face To Face.

The Caramel 3 Layer Tea comprises 3 distinct layers: caramel syrup, milk and tea. Reminiscent of milk tea, the Caramel 3 Layer Tea is a tad sweeter but not cloyingly so.

The Three Muskateers, on the other hand, is crafted with soda, plums and lime, and was a refreshing companion to the heavier dishes.

With over 30 outlets across Malaysia, you know Face To Face serves up the real deal! Whether you’re craving a humble bowl of noodles or just looking for something delicious to dig into, head to Face To Face!

Face To Face
Address: #02-23/24 City Square Mall, 180 Kitchener Rd, S398628
Opening Hours: 11am – 10pm
Website

Also read, Goodbye Artbox, Hello Thai Festival – Authentic Thai Eats Without The Heat Or The Crowd

This Tom Yam Hot Pot Lets You Dine Like Royalty With Its Premium Seafood

Love the rich, unique flavours of Thai cuisine? Considering how much Singaporeans love their Thai food, there aren’t many places you can go for some good, authentic Thai fare.

So, imagine our excitement when we found out about Soi Thai Soi Nice! After hearing about their Tom Yam hot pot, we knew we had to have a taste.

As its name suggests, Soi Thai Soi Nice is a restaurant serving Thai food.

Located at Alexandra Central Mall, the inside of the restaurant is a sight to behold with plush, red velvet dining chairs, gorgeous artwork on the walls, and a huge chandelier in the middle of the room!

With soft Thai pop music playing in the background, it’s not hard to imagine that you’re actually in Bangkok!

It was even harder to believe we were still in Singapore when the food started arriving at our tables!

First up was the Royal Thai Hot Pot ($68.80, for up to 4 pax), the signature dish at this restaurant, and boy did it make us feel like royalty.

This hot pot was an entire culinary experience in and of itself.

Filled to the brim with premium ingredients like crayfish, prawns, mussels, pork belly, enoki mushrooms, sausages, and hard boiled eggs, it came atop a bed of springy noodles, and in a home-made Tom Yam Soup base.

A fun fact we found out was that all the spices and ingredients used at this restaurant are directly imported from Bangkok to ensure authenticity. Also, we heard that their Head Chef, Worawong Phairat (Olay), also waited to have his personal kitchen utensils, woks and knives imported from Bangkok. Talk about attention to detail!

Next up was the Yum Khai Dao (Fried Egg Salad) ($6.80), the Kai Jiao Cha Om (Fried Omelette with Thai herb Cha Om) ($7.80) and the Kho Moo Yang (Grilled Pork Neck) ($9.80) that all came at once – not that we’re complaining.

Apparently, Cha Om is a very common Thai herb that can be found pretty much anywhere in Thailand. Our first bite left us speechless. No really, the flavours of the Kai Jiao Cha Om were hard to describe. All we could do was nod enthusiastically when asked if we enjoyed it, and hold ourselves back from licking the plate clean.

Next, we tried the Moo Sam Chan Tord (Deep Fried Pork Belly) ($9.80)…

…as well as the Chuchee Pla Kra Pong (Curry Seabass Fillet) ($13.80) and the Kung Chuchee (Curry Prawns) ($15.80).

To be honest, by this time, we were so overwhelmed by how delicious everything was, we forgot to take proper pictures of each dish.

Both the Curry Seabass Fillet and the Curry Prawns were super creamy, and were only mildly spicy.

Soi Thai Soi Nice provides dipping sauces with 4 different levels of spiciness: Mild, Spicy, Very Spicy and Extra Spicy. Considering how spicy Thai food can get, we love the fact that you can tailor the spiciness to your own tolerance levels!

The final dish was their Hor Mok Ma Praw Talay (Coconut Seafood Otah) ($12.80).

For this dish, prawns, squid and otah came served in a coconut husk, alongside bits of soft, sweet coconut flesh. The gentle crunch of the coconut served as a pleasant surprise, in contrast to the other more tender components of the dish. Overall, this dish is definitely one for the coconut lovers.

And finally, dessert! By this time, we were all stuffed, but our second stomachs (yes, we have a second stomach for dessert) were ready the moment dessert arrived.

No Thai meal is complete without Kao Niao Ma Muang (Mango Sticky Rice) ($5.80), but we were certainly surprised to see the ever famous Coconut Ice Cream presented in the same manner in the Kao Niao I-Team (Sticky Rice with Coconut Ice Cream) ($5.80).

With dessert comes heavy hearts–for it means dinner is coming to an end.

In all, the food here not only looked great but tasted fantastic as well. Coming in perfect sharing portions and boasting a huge array of Thai flavours, it’s definitely a great place to take your friends or the whole family!

Soi Thai Soi Nice
Address: 321 Alexandra Rd, #02-01 Alexandra Central Mall, S159971
Operating Hours: Mon to Fri: 11.30am-3.30pm and 6pm- 10pm; Sat-Sun, PH: 11.30am to 10pm
Contact no.: 6250 4863

Also read Goodbye Artbox, Hello Thai Festival – Authentic Thai Eats Without The Heat Or The Crowd

Healing Touch Is The Busy Millennial’s Solution To Stubborn Fat And Difficult Skin

We millennials are a busy bunch. Between sitting on our butts all day, balancing school, work, our social lives and the 101 other commitments we keep these days, there are definitely some things that fall by the wayside, including our fitness, skin health, and sometimes, even our general well-being.

Who has the time to hit the gym three times a week or to religiously go through a 5-step skin routine? Well, every now and then, it’s good to stop, take a break, and find a fix for some of the things you’ve been neglecting until now.

If you’re all about quick fixes when it comes to your weight, skin, or if you just want to purge your body of all the tiredness within it, Healing Touch has your back. The beauty chain whose core services include facials, massages and slimming has won awards from CLEO, Women’s Weekly and TripdAdvisor, sealing its status as a peoples’ favourite.

Its staff are friendly and highly experienced, they use quality products and the latest technologies. And the best part? It won’t cost you a bomb!

Last week, I popped by the branch in Orchid Country Club to give its slimming treatment and facials a go and this was what went down.

Slimming Treatment

The slimming treatment I tried was the Slim Lipo-Laser Treatment ($230 excl. GST) and the staff there guaranteed—as they do with all their first time customers—that I would lose 5cm around my waist. A little bit skeptical at first, I went for it and wound up losing a total of 8.5cm within the 60 minute session! I was definitely surprised by the results.

The treatment uses a machine called a ‘Lipo Laser’. During the treatment, after the skin is prepped with a Complex AHA fruit acid, a total of 8 laser light emitting plates are strapped across the tummy region. It sounds scary, but trust me, it isn’t!

The lasers penetrate the skin, targeting fat cells and releasing water and free fatty acid. This effectively causes the fat cells to “shrink”, which is how you lose the inches around your tummy! After this, the slimming therapist conducts a Manual Lymph Drainage massage to flush out all that water and nasty toxins that was released earlier.

The heat from the metal plates can be a little painful, especially if you’re on or near the beginning/end of your period (like I was), because the skin tends to be more sensitive during this time. Don’t try to bear with it like I did! Feel free to let the attentive staff know if it’s too hot, and she will make adjustments accordingly.

As the lasers were working away at “melting” my fats, the therapist went through a questionnaire to find out more about my lifestyle habits—how much water I drink, how often I exercise, etc.—as well as my weight loss goals—what my goal weight is, when was the last time I was at my goal weight, etc.

When the session was over, we had a short consultation where she advised me on how to lead a healthier lifestyle, and made sure I had realistic expectations when it came to achieving and maintaining my goal body, i.e. it takes a total lifestyle change. Slimming treatments without any accompanying changes to your nutritional habits or exercise frequency won’t do the trick, especially not in the long run.

While the Lipo-Laser Treatment is definitely a quick fix when you need it, I think it’s great that Healing Touch employs a holistic approach toward weight loss, providing nutritional coaching and motivating customers to live healthier beyond just administering the treatment, so they can better achieve their goal physiques.

Facial

For the facial, I tried the NEO Energy Advanced Facials ($226 excl. GST), a 90 minute bespoke facial where you get to use 2 of 5 cutting edge technologies, depending on your skin issues.

The 5 are Meso Infusion, which facilitates the penetration of serum for more hydrated, firmer skin; D-Sonic Deep Cleansing for a deep clean of the skin; Sonic Muscle Toning for firming and lifting; LED Multi-Purpose, to promote the production of collagen; as well as Bio-Mask Refining, to minimize pores as well as to brighten.

Because the beautician identified uneven skin tone, blackheads and enlarged pores as my key skin issues, she recommended Meso Infusion and Bio-Mask Refining. The treatment was so relaxing I actually fell asleep!

After giving my face a thorough double cleanse, as well as a routine extraction, the beautician applied a customized serum to my face and gently massaged it in using the Neo Energy Mesotherapy probe which was tuned to the optimal frequency for penetration (Meso Infusion).

Next, she applied 6 pairs of electrodes to the face through a face mask. While the positive ion plates helped with detoxification and removal of dirt and oil, the negative ion plates helped with the delivery of the active ingredients of the serum used, as well as with brightening the face and the minimizing of pores (Bio-Mask Refining).

What struck me as quite unique about the facials here was that they pluck your eyebrows as part of the treatment. I was so surprised I actually asked “Is this part of the facial?” when the beautician offered to pluck them! Aside from that, the facial included a face and shoulder massage—again, an unexpected touch, but definitely a plus by me.

All the products used were lightly and beautifully scented and felt super luxurious, and as promised, at the end of the treatment, my pores were noticeably smaller and my skin felt soft and youthful again!

From my experience, it’s clear to see that the staff at Healing Touch are truly dedicated to serving its customers. With a strong no hard-selling policy, you don’t have to worry about having to commit to anything you’re not comfortable with. Whether it’s slimming, a facial, or a relaxing massage you’re in for, you’ll sure to leave feeling very, very satisfied.

Healing Touch
Outlets: Healing Touch has seven branches islandwide. Click Healing Touch 
Instagram: @healingtouchspasg

A #TBT To How S’pore Looked Like 20 Years Ago – We Felt A Wave Of Nostalgia Looking At #2!

10 years ago, it was the year 2007. And the 90’s were 20 whole years ago. Does anyone else feel old?

From the 1990s to the current day, Singapore has gone through a tremendous change. Take a trip down memory lane with us through these 20 pictures of 1990s Singapore. You’ll be surprised at how different Singapore is now compared to your childhood days.

1. Capitol Theatre

Then

Now

This 87-year-old landmark was first built in 1930, and could seat more than 1600 people in the auditorium.

By 1998, it screened its last movie and closed down, unable to compete with newer, more technologically advanced cinemas around Singapore. After 9 years, it was reopened again on May 19 2015. Now, there are movies as well as in-house theatre and dance productions featuring local and Asian repertoire.

2. Marina Bay Sands

The area where Marina Bay Sands now stands was initially just a huge reclaimed land.

With plans that have been in the works since 1983, the entire Marina Bay Sands project took 34 years to become the impressive integrated resort we know today.

With the completion of the Sands Theatre and Grand Theatre, we are now treated to globally renowned acts like The Lion King and Wicked. Coupled with the ArtScience Museum, Marina Bay Sands has become THE place to be for everything cool, from arts and culture to shopping and eating!

3. National Library at Stamford Road

Then

Now

The original National Library of Singapore at Stamford Road was first completed in 1960, and for many of us, the place where our love for reading began.

On 31 March 2004, our collective hearts broke as the doors of the library closed for the last time. While we may miss the old library, the new national library is a sight to behold. Home to the Black Box, an outdoor garden and 7 full floors dedicated to the Lee Kong Chian Reference Library, the new National Library at Bras Basah helps to keeps our love for reading alive.

4. Bugis Street

Then

Now

Our very own Singapore-style version Taiwan Night Market, Bugis Street was where we flocked to for cheap clothes and apparels after school.

With our miniscule pocket money, Bugis Street was a godsend for the blossoming shopaholics in us. Cleaner, more fashionable and slightly pricier, new Bugis Street now hosts even more shops, some are even air-conditioned!

5. Playgrounds

Then

Now

[caption id="attachment_22139" align="alignnone" width="1024"] Photo Credits:

Back in the 90’s, going to the playground meant playing with kids from the neighbourhood, porcelain tiled dragon architecture, as well as bloody knees if we had the misfortune of falling in the sand.

These days, playgrounds are more avant-garde in design, with safe rubber-foam flooring. There is also a growing trend in inclusiveness, starting with playgrounds for children with special needs and special wheelchair swings.

6. Buses

Then

[caption id="attachment_22772" align="alignnone" width="640"] Photo Credits: remembersingapore.org[/caption]

Now

Decked in the iconic red and white colours of our nation, the buses of the past were stuffy, non-air conditioned, and dispensed paper tickets when you boarded the bus.

20 years down the road, we now see buses in different colours. Not just that, they’re also air-conditioned, wheelchair accessible and bus fares are now payable with cards.

7. National Stadium

Then

Now

The old Kallang Stadium was THE place to be for every primary 5 child a few days before National Day. Wearing red or white t-shirts to school, we were proud to wave our miniature national flags (all while digging through the goody bags for the yearly signature gifts).

On 30 June 2014, Singapore welcomed the new and improved National Stadium. An all-weather sports and events venue, it has a retractable roof that keeps out the rain and doubles as a huge projector screen. It even has a state-of-the-art cooling system, allowing for cool air at 23 degrees to be pumped out from beneath the seats. Partially powered by solar panels, the cool air is even environmentally friendly!

Having played host to singers like Stefanie Sun and Jay Chou, as well as the 28th SEA Games in 2015, the National Stadium provides a comfortable, yet magnificent stage for arts, culture and sports alike.

8. Sentosa

Then

Now

Do you remember having to take a ferry to Sentosa island? Back then, we were easily excited by the wax museum depicting Singapore’s past, as well as climbing up the huge Merlion statue.

Fast-forward 20 years and Sentosa island is now home to a huge amusement-resort. You’ll be surprised to know that this island is no longer just for the beach lovers and thrill seekers.

Theatre geeks and concertgoers can enjoy amazing performances like Yellowcard – The Final World Tour at Resorts World Theatre, and the daily Monster Rock show at Pantages Hollywood Theatre at Universal Studios Singapore.

9. MRT

Then

Now

Back then, there were only 2 lines: Red and Green. More accurately, the North-South line and the East-West line. After that, you had to take a bus to get to your specific destination.

These days, there are 5 MRT lines with 2 more on the way, and 3 LRT lines. In the past, we didn’t need to refer to the System map when travelling somewhere new. Now, I find myself googling ‘MRT map’ very often.

10. Hard Rock Cafe

Then

Now

[caption id="attachment_22760" align="alignnone" width="644"] Photo Credits: ordinarypatrons.com[/caption]

The ever-famous Cadillac was taken down on May 16 2016 in preparation for a makeover of the Hard Rock Cafe. The 1961 Cadillac Series 62 Deville represented the Rock and Roll times that Hard Rock Cafe stood for.

Fortunately, Hard Rock Cafe is still rocking even without its signature Cadillac. With Kumar taking the stage alongside live music performances and open mic shows, Hard Rock Cafe keeps our love for music and comedy alive.

11. King Albert Park

Then

Now

Students of Bukit Timah, namely MGS, ACS, Nanyang Girls’, NJC and many others will always have fond memories of King Albert Park (affectionately known as KAP). Many after school hours were spent studying in McDonald’s, shopping at Cold Storage, and eating ice cream at Island Creamery.

Closed on 16 March 2014 for its transformation into a condominium, this is yet another childhood memory that we say goodbye to in our ever-developing Singapore.

12. Big Splash Complex at East Coast Park

[caption id="attachment_22788" align="alignnone" width="645"] Photo Credits: Akitek Tenggara Collection, courtesy of National Archives of Singapore[/caption]

Before Wild Wild Wet or Adventure Cove, there was the Big Splash! Slides which were more than 6 storeys high. They were supposedly the tallest slides in the world back in 1977.

After 40 years of bringing water-related thrills to Singaporeans, the water park closed on 21 October 2016, and the land was returned to the government for redevelopment.

13. Marine Aquarium at Wisma Atria

A cheap alternative to Underwater world was to take a trip to Wisma Atria and stare at the fishes in the Marine Aquarium. Filled with exotic seawater fishes, corals and even tiny sharks, we would chase the swimming fishes round and round the 1.5m tall tank.

Sadly, good things don’t last forever. The Marine Aquarium was taken down in 2008 and the aquatic creatures were transferred to their new home at Underwater World Singapore.

14. Tang Dynasty Village

Then

Now

[caption id="attachment_22756" align="alignnone" width="600"] Photo Credits: Lam Chun See[/caption]

Opened in 1992, Tang Dynasty Village was a literal blast to the past where visitors could visit a replica of the Tang Dynasty Capital in Singapore.

Featuring an army of terracotta warriors, a courthouse, geisha house, camel rides and a wax museum among other displays, this attraction was totally cool but did not come cheap. Back then, $30 entrance fees were not affordable for some families.

Coupled with the 90’s Asian Economic Crisis, it closed down in 1999, after a short 7-year run.

15. Escape Theme Park

Then

Now

Escape Theme Park made way for an expansion of Wild Wild Wet

Who can forget travelling all the way to Pasir Ris to race in go-carts, splash down the Wet & Wild log-ride and be tossed about the insanely fast Panasonic/Alpha 8.

On November 26, 2011, we said goodbye to Escape Theme Park as plans for the Downtown East revamp began. Wild Wild Wet was opened next door shortly after the closure, but it just wasn’t the same.

16. Queenstown Cinema

A cinema right beside a bowling alley, not to mention a KTV outlet, this was the best after school/work hang out for Queenstown residents.

I remember coming here after dinner with my cousins to bowl, even though we mostly watched the balls enter the gutters. Closed in 1999 and demolished in 2011, the rubble may be gone but the memories remain.

17. Istana Kampong Gelam (now Malay Heritage Centre)

The Istana Kampong Gelam used to be the palace of Sultan Hussein Shah of Johor in 1819, where it went on to house generations of Sultan Hussein’s successors.

In 1999, after the Sultan Hussein Ordinance was enacted and revised for the last time, residents living in the Istana were resettled. In time, the building was restored and transformed into the Malay Heritage Centre in 2004.

With 6 permanent galleries showcasing stories and artefacts that tell of Kampong Gelam’s historical significance, as well as new monthly exhibits, visitors are given a precious insight into our country’s culture and history.

18. HMV at Heeren

Then

Now

Home to the first and last HMV store in Singapore, teens would flock here to listen to the latest album releases for free.

Opened in 1997, the 25,000-sqf store saw 8 years of music lovers pass through its 3 levels before closing officially on 30 September 2015.

19. Underwater World Singapore

The fishes from Wisma Atria’s Marine Aquarium found their way here and lived happily until 26 June 2016 when Underwater World Singapore closed down.

While the ‘bigger and better’ version, namely S.E.A Aquarium, held a whopping 100,000 plus marine animals of over 800 species, Underwater World’s 2,500 plus marine animals of 250 species was more than enough for our childhood.

20. A&W

[caption id="attachment_22798" align="alignnone" width="700"] Photo Credits:

These days, ask most teens if they know A&W and they’ll answer that it’s a carbonated root beer beverage. Back in the 90’s, it was a fast food restaurant on a boat! Stationed on the Stewards Riverboat at the Sentosa Coastline, it was the only fast food franchise that felt classy as you chow down on burgers, fries and an A&W Root Beer Float.

Singapore’s Transformation

These 20 pictures show us the immense change that Singapore has undergone since the 90’s, and with the ever-increasing development of our country, who knows whether our favourite places will stick around in 2037?

Make as many memories as possible by visiting and attending events, attractions, and activities in Singapore. So start visiting and get your cameras clicking away, before time takes away more of our monumental places in Singapore.

(Header image credit: With Over 1,000 Stalls, This Year’s Geylang Bazaar Will Keep You Coming Back For More 

Hello, December: 13 Fun Activities To End Your Year With A Bang [1-15 Dec]

December is finally here! If 2016 was an average year for you, here are 13 fun activities to help you wrap up the year with a bang!

Play & Discover

1. ZoukOut

Party people, it’s time for ZoukOut again!! Woohoo.

And the lineup for this year’s beach blowout is mega exciting, with more activities to keep you happy from dusk to dawn.

From headliners like Zedd and Hardwell to a food village fuelled by Park Bench Deli, Decker Barbecue and more, ZoukOut is going to be a weekend of non-stop partying.

We are heading to ZoukOut with our ambassadors, follow us on instagram for updates!

ZoukOut
Date: 9 & 10 December 2016
Time: 8pm- 4am (Day 1), 8pm – 7am (Day 2)
Venue: Siloso Beach, Sentosa
Website:ZoukOut Official
Instagram:@zoukoutofficial

Also, read ZoukOut 2016 Returns With Amazing Headliners Like Zedd, Hardwell And More!

2. Distant Worlds: Music From Final Fantasy

Remember the days where we thought Cloud Strife from Final Fantasy was super hot?

We might have outgrown that phase but it’s never too old to relive those memories through a different format.

Watch newly produced Final Fantasy video footages as an orchestra perform pieces composed by Nobuo Uematsu for the much loved game.

Distant Worlds: Music From Final Fantasy
Date: 3 December 2016
Time: 7:30pm
Venue: The Star Performing Arts Centre  #04-01, 1 Vista Exchange Green, 138617
Ticket Price: $75-$215
Event/ Ticketing Website: Image source: Paloma Rincon[/caption]

For two weekends over the month, IKEA will be hosting a series of events to celebrate Christmas!

There will be a gift wrapping demonstration, tea light decoration workshop, origami workshop and even a Santa walkabout!

It’s definitely going to be about the Christmas spirit and festival cheers, not just the furniture!

IKEA Xmas
Date: 3-4 and 10-11 December 2016
Time: 1:30pm- 6:45pm
Venue:
IKEA Alexandra, 317 Alexandra Rd, 159965
IKEA Tampines, 60 Tampines North Drive 2, 528764
Website & Event Schedule:  4. Lang Leav Book Tour

Our favourite poet Lang Leav is coming to town! Mark your dates!

Come and get your 2016 bittersweet sentiments together and join Lang on a 3-day bookstore hop around Singapore.

Lang Leav SG Book Tour
Date: 9 December
Time and Venue: 10:30am (Popular Bookfest, Suntec Convention Hall), 4:00pm (Kinokuniya Bugis Junction)
Date: 10 December
Time and Venue: 10:30am (Times Bookstore, Tampines 1), 4:00pm (Kinokuniya Singapore Main Store, Level 4 Ngee Ann City)
Date: 11 December
Time and Venue: 3:00pm (Kinokuniya Jurong Store)
Event Page: Lang Leav Book Tour

5. Project Happy Feet Slipper Race 2016

Mums… they nag you for wearing flip flops all the time. But this time round, she won’t nag you because it’s flip flop for a good cause.

A good pair of shoes will get you to places. But what’s it like to walk in the shoes of underprivileged children?

Head down to Safra for a 3.5km walk on 10 December. You’ll get to flip flop your way down the scenic waterway!

With the aim of inspiring Singaporeans to be part of a community-driven effort, The Slipper Race 2016 intends to raise SGD$100,000 in funds to empower educational programmes in Singapore and Cambodia.

Since it’s the season of giving, why not contribute a little to charity?

Project Happy Feet Slipper Race 
Date: 10 December 2016
Time: 9:00am – 12:00pm
Venue: SAFRA Punggol, 9 Sentul Crescent, Punggol, Singapore 828654
Price: $15 (4-12 years old), $30 (Students), $40 (Adults & SAFRA members), $144 (Group of 4 adults)
Ticketing Website: Project Happy Feet Slipper Race 2016

6. Doggie Retreat Xmas Fundraiser

Looking for something fun to do with your fur babies? This event lets you do something good at the same time!

Join the Doggie Retreat, a Christmas fundraiser, for the less fortunate dogs on the streets and in the shelter.

All you need to do is to enrol your doggie as a participant of the walkathon, walk with them, and raise funds in their name to donate to the cause.

Proceeds of the fundraiser will be channelled to Causes for Animals (Singapore), a no-kill shelter that strives towards a stray free Singapore.

Registration is currently closed due to overwhelming response, but you can still donate to the cause or just head to the event to spend time with furry friends.

Doggie Retreat Christmas Fundraiser
Date: 10 December 2016
Time: 9:00am
Venue: Big Splash, 902 East Coast Parkway, Singapore 449874
Donation Page: giveasia
Event Page: Doggie Retreat

7. SCAPE Naughty or Nice Xmas Special – Art Jamming Experience

If shopping is not your kinda therapy, painting might just be it!

Bring your family and friends down to SCAPE for a mass art jamming event this festive season.

It’s a no stress art jam session. All you need to do is to let your creative juices flow. Go wild on your own canvas – no one will judge you.

Art jamming slots are limited, so hurry up and sign up today!

SCAPE Naughty or Nice Art Jamming
Date: 10 December 2016
Time: 3:00pm – 6:00pm
Venue: SCAPE 2 Orchard Link #04-01, Singapore 237978
Price: $30/ pax (free flow of acrylic paint is provided)
Ticketing Website: SCAPE Naughty or Nice Art Jamming

Eat

8. Indie Wine Tasting

There’s indie music, indie films, and of course Indie Wine!

This December, head to Kith Cafe at Millenia Walk for your one of a kind vino tasting.

At just $48 nett per person, you get to taste 5 very hard to pronounce yet exquisite French wine! On top of that, they will also be serving some grub to go with your wine.

Be it Chardonnay or Cabernet, we bet you’ll be extremely happy with your grape fix.

Indie Wine Tasting
Date: 9 December, 2016
Time: 6:30pm – 8:30pm
Venue: Kith Cafe Millenia Walk 9 Raffles Boulevard, #01-44/45, 039596
Ticket Price: $48
Ticketing Website: Indie Wine Tasting

9. A Taste Of Ishikawa At Keyaki

You’ve worked hard this year, so how about rewarding yourself with some Japanese Snow Crab and Premium Beef?

For the second time, Keyaki at Pan Pacific is bringing back the Ishikawa taste for us to savour this December.

Known as the ‘Food Treasury’ of Japan, the Ishikawa Prefecture is all about the good stuff (read: high quality seafood)!

From the soft textured with high quality fat Noto Beef to the King of the Sea Kanougani (Snow Crab) that is famed for its delicately sweet meat, you are in for a treat!

A Taste Of Ishikawa At Keyaki
Date: 16 November – 16 December 2016
Time: 1.30am-2.30pm, 6.30-10.30pm
Venue: Keyaki 4/L Pan Pacific Singapore 7 Raffles Boulevard, 039595
Price: Sets at $180++, Ala carte at $15++
Reservation: +65 6826 8240 or email [email protected].
Website: Pan Pacific Singapore

10. Fundraising Supper Club for Oogachaga

Fancy the idea of a menu curated by celebrity chef Bill Ho while doing charity at the same time?

Head to 8 Cafe & Bar for a 3-course dining experience while contributing to Oogachaga’s fundraiser.

Oogachaga is Singapore’s only community-based support and development organisation working exclusively with LGBTQ individuals and families since 1999.

As their main funders have cut back on their fundings, Oogachaga is organising a series of fundraisers, seeking the community’s support so that they can continue supporting the local LGBTQ’s community in the years to come.

Fundraising Supper Club
Date: 10 December 2016
Time: 7:00pm- 10:00pm
Venue: 8 Cafe & Bar, 8 Bukit Pasoh Rd, 089822
Price: $90, $160 (for 2 pax), $300 (for 4 pax)
Ticketing Website: Fundraising Supper Club

Shopping

11. MAAD Pyjamas Xmas Pop Up

Tis’ the season to be giving. Still struggling with your Xmas shopping?

Head to the Red Dot Design Museum for a different kind of flea market.

Featuring 130 artists, designers, crafters and creators from the community, this will be one of the largest art and design marketplaces.

The best part of all, it only ends after 12AM!! Late night shopping, anyone?

MAAD Pyjamas Xmas Pop Up
Date: 2 December 2016
Time: 5:oopm – 12:00am
Venue: Red Dot Design Museum 28, Maxwell Road
Event Page: MAAD Pyjamas Xmas Pop Up

12. Sunset Pasar

If shopping is your thing and you’re sick of the same old malls, head over to Sunset Pasar for some alternative retail therapy!

This pasar is not just about shopping. There will also be live open mic sessions, music, cocktails, art & craft workshops and it’s pet friendly!

That sure sounds like a good vibes Saturday!

Sunset Pasar
Date: 3 December 2016
Time: 12:00pm- 7:00pm
Venue: CANVAS 20 Upper Circular Road, B1-01, The Riverwalk, 058416
Event Page: Sunset Pasar

13. Christmas Farmers’ Market

Want to cook up a storm but don’t know where to look for super fresh ingredients?

The Farmers’ Market at Loewen Garden is the perfect place to go to for some organic vegetables and fresh food.

If you’re too lazy to cook, there will also be vendors selling gourmet meals, wines, home-made baked goods, as well as handicraft.

Pretty sure you won’t go home empty handed… or in this case, with an empty stomach.

Christmas Farmers’ Market
Date: 3 December 2016
Time: 9:00am – 2:00pm
Venue: Loewen Gardens 75E Loewen Road 248845
Event Page: Farmers Market

With so many fun activities and charity events going on, December is set to be a feel good month! Keep the good vibes going by dropping us a comment!

Header image source: Not IKEA: 4 Places To Buy Good & Cheap Furniture So You Don’t Have To DIY

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

Situated opposite Holland Village, Chip Bee Gardens is home to a few of our favourite hangouts. Located in a quieter, more peaceful, and relaxing district, Chip Bee Gardens is that perfect hideout for a little bit of me-time as well as a great choice for a laid back catch up session with friends.

You can be sure that the little cafes and ice cream parlours here serve up some really decent fare that will not disappoint.

1. Baker & Cook 

At the very top of this list is Baker & Cook. Conceptualised by New Zealander Dean Brettschneider – one of the best bakers on the globe, this spacious and cosy cafe serves up a good selection of bread, pastries, salads and mains.

A bonus for coffee addicts – their lattes are to-die for.

Be sure to try their chocolate Lamingtons. It’s two layers of light and airy sponge cake filled with chocolate cream and covered with a thin layer of desiccated coconut.

Not overbearingly sweet and empowering, the flavours are also simple. Less is more, and we can’t help but reach out for seconds.

Baker & Cook Chip Bee Gardens
Address: 
44 Jalan Merah Saga, #01-56 Chip Bee Gardens, Singapore 278116
Opening Hours:
Sun to Thurs, 7:30am to 8pm
Friday, 7:30am to 10pm
Credit: Traveling Tomatoes[/caption]

The wide selection of professionally curated Italian fare they serve will leave you spoilt for choice.

Pasta? Checked. Pizza? Checked.

Did we mention that most food are homemade as well? That’s surely a bonus.

[caption id="attachment_17267" align="alignnone" width="1070"] Credit: jacqsowhat[/caption]

Well, an Italian meal should always end with this one dessert, Tiramisu.

This dangerously addictive espresso-infused dessert consists of Italian Savoiardi biscuits soaked in Italian coffee and Marsala, layered with creamy Mascaarpone, and finally topped with shaved Valrhona chocolate. What goodness!

Da Paolo Gastronomia
Address: 
43 Jalan Merah Saga, #01-74, Singapore 278115
Opening Hours:
8:30am to 9:30pm
Credit: Entree Kibbles[/caption]

Besides their freshly churned ice-cream and oh-so-yummy looking waffles, Sunday Folks has their own array of freshly baked cakes as well!

[caption id="attachment_17269" align="alignnone" width="960"] Credit: Sunday Folks[/caption]

The latest addition to their cake collection is the Bailey’s Cheesecake with Speculoos.

Slow-baked and made with both Philadelphia light cream cheese and rich Bailey’s Irish cream, the cake is then topped with a splash of chocolate sauce and Speculoos. These different layers of flavours are undoubtedly a surprise to your palette.

Sunday Folks
Address: 
44 Jalan Merah Saga, Chip Bee Gardens #01-52, Singapore 278116
Opening Hours: 
Closed on Monday
Tues-Thurs, 1pm-10pm
Friday, 1pm-11pm
Saturday, 12pm-11pm
Sunday, 12pm-10pm
Website

4. The Daily Scoop

Ice cream in a cone or a cup is forever a classic, and this humble ice-cream parlour does its ice-cream the right way.

[caption id="attachment_17270" align="alignnone" width="3648"] Credit: Dedicated To Durians[/caption]

Ice-cream at The Daily Scoop is made fresh, on a daily basis. Imagine that!

Also, extra brownie points to them for creating their goodness with locally-sourced and fresh ingredients. Artificial flavourings are a big no-no to them.

[caption id="attachment_17271" align="alignnone" width="640"] Credit: OpenRice[/caption]

We love their Cha Earl Grey. It is basically an Earl Grey sherbet.

Imagine having your Earl Grey tea ice cold. That’s totally a big yay for us because that will be extra refreshing on the hot, sunny days.

The Daily Scoop
Address: 
43 Jalan Merah Saga, #01-78, Chip Bee Gardens, Singapore 278115
Opening Hours: 
Sun to Thurs, 11am-10pm
Fri to Sat, 11am-10:30pm
Website

We all need a break sometimes from the hustle and bustle of the city. Why not give yourself a break and enjoy a little tea-time over at Chip Bee Gardens?

Header Image Source: Urbandesis Singapore

Also, read The Game Plan – Explore The Best Of Bedok Cafes With This Trail!