Gather Your Amigos For Affordable Halal Spanish Tapas At The Great Mischief

Great news for all you trendsetters, influencers, vloggers, cafe hoppers, young couples looking for a place to paktor and you!

You’ve seen this Wes Anderson style hotel in Little India but did you know that there’s more to it than just pastel walls and vintage decor? Sprawled across the lobby of The Great Madras Hotel, is a brand new cafe serving halal Catalan-inspired fare.

[caption id="attachment_33300" align="aligncenter" width="1740"] Image Credit: @thegreatmischief[/caption]

If you’re planning on where to have brunch this weekend, this hidden gem in Little India is your go-to brunch spot with your amigos.

Run by the lovely folks behind The Black Hole Group who operates Working Title, Afterwit, The Mad Sailors and Santap, you know the food served at The Great Mischief is gonna be amazing.

Gather Your Companeros

Located right smack in backpacker’s haven, The Great Mischief is a cafe located conveniently at the lobby of The Great Madras Hotel, with open air dining and al-fresco seats.

[caption id="attachment_33301" align="aligncenter" width="1962"] Image Credit: @thegreatmischief[/caption]

The Great Mischief serves some seriously amazing Spanish tapas ideal for sharing and gathering.

Even though we have zero idea on how to pronounce at least half of the food items on here, they all sound bloody amazing. Just take a look at it!

[caption id="attachment_35348" align="aligncenter" width="1954"]The Great Mischief Image Credit: The Great Mischief[/caption]

There’s a variety of tapas for you to choose from at very affordable prices. Perfect for all you individuals going on a budget but still want to enjoy quality food!

The Croquetas ($9) is what we describe as love at first bite. Choose between pulled beef or chopped mushrooms in breaded smashed potatoes.

[caption id="attachment_33303" align="aligncenter" width="1442"] Image Credit: @thegreatmischief[/caption]

Another hit on their menu is the Gambas Al Ajillo ($12). These prawns are perfectly pan fried and tossed in their homemade garlic sauce. These prawns really packs a punch of flavours.

[caption id="attachment_33304" align="aligncenter" width="1442"] Image Credit: @thegreatmischief[/caption]

They’ve recently revealed a Raciones menu as well! It is not typical to order raciones by yourself; the portions are far too large to be enjoyed without company. To do so would really limit the variety of what you are trying since you are unlikely to have the appetite to eat that much – but you do you!

The Filet De Tonyina ($24) is a yellowfin tuna with a herbed breadcrumb crust served with mix greens.

[caption id="attachment_35346" align="aligncenter" width="1348"]The Great Mischief Image Credit: @thegreatmischief[/caption]

This next one is perhaps our favourite on their menu. The Fideuà De Marisc ($22) is a squid ink paella pasta cooked in a seafood broth with prawns and aioli.

[caption id="attachment_35347" align="aligncenter" width="1352"]The Great Mischief Image Credit: @thegreatmischief[/caption]

Their new raciones are made for sharing, but will you want to after looking at those images?

What’s a good meal without desserts? The Churro Con Chocolat ($8) comes with 2 perfectly fried churros rolled in cinnamon sugar served with a dark chocolate dip.

[caption id="attachment_35351" align="aligncenter" width="1352"]The Great Mischief Image Credit: @thegreatmischief[/caption]

Complete your meal with their mocktails such as the Startled ($9) which is an interesting concoction of cinnamon, egg white, kaya, lemon, milk.

[caption id="attachment_33306" align="aligncenter" width="736"] Image Credit: Burpple User Muriel A[/caption]

If Spanish cuisine is your thing, this place is the ideal place for those sit down, chit chat sessions with your makan kakis. Great ambience, amazing food at affordable prices, what more can you ask for?

The Great Mischief
Address: 28 Madras Street, Singapore 208422
Opening Hours: Mon – Thurs: 6pm – 10.30pm, Fri: 6pm – 2am, Sat: 12pm – 2am, Sun: 12pm – 6pm
Contact no.: 9392 2762
Website

Also Read This Aroi Mak Nasi Ambeng Swaps Rendang And Achar For Green Curry And Mango Salad

(Header Image Source: The Great Mischief Facebook)

This Poke Stop Serves Aburi-Style Poke, And That’s Not Their Only Twist On The Trend

It’s been a good couple of months, and still, the poke bowl trend doesn’t seem to be losing steam here in Singapore.

A healthy, Hawaiian-inspired version of our favourite chirashi don, that’s filled with raw fish and healthy to boot, it’s no wonder there seems to be a new poke place springing up every other week!

[caption id="attachment_29468" align="alignnone" width="5184"] Look out for this sign to find Torched[/caption]

Yet another poke stop has surfaced, specifically in the Bugis area of Singapore. This one is a little different from the rest, and we think those of you who love aburi-ed sashimi will especially like this.

Have Your Poke Torched

Located just a stone’s throw away from LASELLE College of the Arts, Torched shares a counter and dining space with specialty coffee concept One Man Coffee.

[caption id="attachment_29460" align="alignnone" width="5184"] Torched was started by a brother-sister duo[/caption]

The brainchild of 2 siblings – a brother-sister duo – the concept of torched poke bowls was a product of experimentation and spontaneity. After fooling around with a blowtorch in the kitchen, the pair stumbled upon a way to separate their poke bowls from the rest – serving up bowls with their ingredients torched!

The result is a poke bowl that has all the usual suspects – raw fish, rice, seaweed – but with their flavours fired up.

[caption id="attachment_29461" align="alignnone" width="5184"] Poke galore[/caption]

Like most poke places, you get to take your pick of either a signature bowl – where all the big decisions are made for you – or a customised bowl, where you can put all your favourite ingredients into one bowl!

Torched offers 3 signature bowls: the Signature Torched Poke Bowl ($15), the Torched Tofu Bowl ($9), and the Roast Pork & Kimchi Bowl ($10).

[caption id="attachment_29466" align="alignnone" width="5184"] So many colours in one poke bowl![/caption]

The Signature Torched Poke Bowl is a colourful mixture of torched salmon, tuna and tamago mentaiko on a bed of sushi rice and salad. The fish is fresh and lightly seasoned, so you won’t feel jelat halfway through your bowl. A fuss-free, flavourful bowl, this is an easy pick if you have trouble deciding what to put into your poke.

Vegetarians, Torched hasn’t forgotten you.

Their Torched Tofu Bowl is a vegetarian option that comprises torched sesame tofu and avocado on a bed of rice and salad. Cherry tomatoes, edamame, pomelo and seaweed are also added into the mix to give your poke bowl a tantalising variety of textures and flavours.

Torched Snacks

Poke bowls aside, their torched ingredients also come served in tacos and kueh pie tee “shots”.

[caption id="attachment_29467" align="alignnone" width="5184"] Taco with Tamago Mentaiko filling[/caption]

Fill your tacos and “shots” with tamago mentaiko ($6), spicy poke ($7), or roast pork & kimchi ($8). We recommend the spicy poke, which is spicier than we expected – not that we mind.

If you’re considering pairing these snacks with your poke, we suggest going for the kueh pie tee shots. Perfect for popping into your mouth, the kueh pie tee cups work interestingly with the fillings. That, and we love the crunch when you bite into these little cups.

While we enjoyed the poke shots, we didn’t fancy the tacos nearly as much because the filling, rice, and taco made for a strange combo. With nothing tying the different elements together, the three tasted like completely separate entities that were just thrown together.

[caption id="attachment_29471" align="alignnone" width="5184"] Kueh Pie Tee “Shots” with Spicy Poke[/caption]

While poke bowl spots are becoming more common in our local food scene, Torched has taken a unique approach with its poke, and we think it’s pretty clever. After all, who doesn’t love the smokey-raw combo of aburi-style fish?

The next time you’re in the Bugis area and are craving a hearty bowl of poke, drop by Torched! Simple, delicious and oh-so-photogenic, these rice bowls are a straightforward choice for a lunch break or a quick friend-date with the girls.

Torched 
Address: 128 Prinsep St, Singapore 188655
Opening Hours: Mon – Fri: 11am – 5.30pm; Closed on Sat & Sun
Facebook

Also read Singaporeans, Here’s What Your Go-To Hawker Food Says About You

Young, Wild And Free – Live It Up This Youth Month At These Places Because You Are Only Young Once

Young, wild and free – a motto we all wish we could live by, but unfortunately, often find it difficult to because of the many stresses of living in Singapore.

Between struggling to maintain a good grade – or to pass that horror module – and juggling the expectations of all the people around us, it’s easy to forget how young we are and how these should be the best years of our lives.

For the month of July, we celebrate youth. Our youth years should be vibrant, fun and carefree, so let’s bring all that back into our lives! For the entire month, many of the places and experiences we love, or have always wanted to try, will be offering exclusive promos just for youths – thanks to the National Youth Council!

This month, let’s live it up at these 7 places. And don’t worry, each of them comes with a super sweet deal.

1. Bounce

If you haven’t heard of Bounce, where have you been? The largest trampoline park in Singapore, this grown-ups playground lets you jump, somersault, do twists and all kinds of crazy tricks!

[caption id="attachment_28512" align="aligncenter" width="700"] Image Credit: Kiasu Parents[/caption]

With a variety of trampoline zones and a Ninja-Warrior-like obstacle course, X-Park, test your mental and physical limits at Bounce.

Jump and play to your heart’s content at the Free Jumping Area, a large area comprising 28 interconnected trampolines that includes long tumble tracks and banked walls. Here, you can even defy gravity and run up walls!

[caption id="attachment_28513" align="aligncenter" width="550"] Image Credit: Coconuts[/caption]

Looking to try something that pushes your body even further? Attempt the insane X-Park! An obstacle course that combines elements of climbing, jumping and free-running, discover abilities you never knew you had at X-Park.

If reading this has got you raring to go, gather a bunch of your best friends and make plans to head down together! Conveniently located at Cathay Cineleisure, put your youthful energy to good use at Bounce.

Youth Month Promo: Enjoy 10% off on weekdays throughout the month of July. This promo only applies for general admission tickets and student session tickets. Use this to enjoy your promo.

Bounce Singapore
Address:
Cathay Cineleisure, #09-01, 8 Grange Road, Singapore 239695
Opening Hours:
Mon – Thu: 10am – 10pm; Fri: 10am – 11pm; Sat: 9am – 11pm; Sun: 9am – 10pm
Contact no.:
6816 2879
Price:
General Access: $25 first hour, $20 each additional hour | Students: $21 first hour, $16 each additional hour
Website

2. Concrete Everything

Get creative this July with a material you’ve probably never worked with before – concrete.

Started by a fellow youth with a deep passion for design, Concrete Everything doesn’t just sell beautifully crafted homeware in the natural colours and texture of cement; it also conducts workshops teaching you how you can make them!

[caption id="attachment_28514" align="alignnone" width="1080"] Image Credit: Concrete Everything[/caption]

From luxe marble lamps to concrete versions of Darth Vader and StormTroopers, the items on their slim catalogue is a minimalist’s dream.

[caption id="attachment_28515" align="alignnone" width="1430"] Image Credit: Concrete Everything[/caption]

Courses they offer include marbled planter casting, concrete mini stool casting, marble square lamp casting and more. You even get to make your own Vader and StormTrooper! Each workshop will last 2 days, and everything you need to create your own concrete masterpiece will be provided.

It’s time to unleash your creativity and get crafty at Concrete Everything!

Youth Month Promo: Enjoy 10% off all products and workshops throughout July. Workshops need not fall in the month of July, and need only be booked and paid for during July. Use this to enjoy your promo.

Concrete Everything
Price:
Workshops from $45 – $110
Website

3. Climb Central

Always wanted to try indoor rock climbing, but find it too expensive? This July, you’ll be able to enjoy the sport without burning a hole in your pocket!

Climb Central is the tallest indoor climbing venue in Singapore, boasting about 1,000 square meters of climbing wall space. Fully air-conditioned, it is conveniently located in Singapore Sports Hub.

[caption id="attachment_28516" align="alignnone" width="630"] Image Credit: TimeOut[/caption]

First timers, you’re in for a real treat because for the month of July, you get a 20% discount on all off peak First Timer Sets. That’s about $7 off the $32 adult entry fee that includes registration, 1 adult day pass and 1 equipment set!

[caption id="attachment_28517" align="alignnone" width="1100"] Image Credit: this to enjoy your promo.

Climb Central
Address:
#B1-01 Kallang Wave Mall, 1 Stadium Place, Singapore 397628
Opening Hours:
Mon – Fri: 11am – 11pm; Sat, Sun & PH: 9am – 9pm
Contact no.:
6702 7972
Price:
Click 4. Bossaball

Looking for an experience you’ve NEVER tried before? We bet you’ve never played Bossaball, and boy are you missing out.

[caption id="attachment_28518" align="alignnone" width="700"] Image Credit: Image Credit: this to enjoy your promo.

Bossaball
Address:
10 Raeburn Park #02-08, Singapore 088702
Contact no.:
6100 6292
Price:
Public Session (2 hr): $20 Per Pax | Private Group Session (2 hr): $600 (20 pax)
Website

5. HolyCrab

If gorging on delicious food is your idea of living it up, Holy Crab! We’ve got just the place for you.

HolyCrab is a cosy restaurant located along charming Tan Quee Lan. Big enough to seat only 24 people, this diner is always packed with foodies with an appetite for Holy Crab’s next level Singapore-style crabs.

[caption id="attachment_28520" align="alignnone" width="900"] Image Credit: Image Credit: Chope[/caption]

Made with the freshest crab from the shores of Singapore, Holy Crab is the place to go for an affordable plate of quality crab.

Youth Month Promo: Enjoy 10% off your total bill throughout the month of July. Use this to enjoy your promo.

HolyCrab
Address: 2 Tan Quee Lan Street, #01-03, Singapore 188091
Contact no.: 8444 2722
Opening Hours: Mon – Sat: 11.30am – 2.30pm, 6.00pm – 10:30pm; Sun: 6.00pm – 10.30pm
Website

6. 8 Korean BBQ

If you love pork belly, you’re in for a feast at 8 Korean BBQ, a Korean BBQ franchise that serves 8 different flavours of decadent pork belly including Original, Wine, Ginseng, Garlic, Herb, Curry, Miso Paste, and Red Pepper Paste.

[caption id="attachment_28522" align="alignnone" width="680"] Image Credit: Image Credit: Burpple[/caption]

A tender, juicy meat that’s seasoned with a variety of perfected flavours, treat yo’ self this month with this unique K-BBQ experience!

Youth Month Promo: Enjoy 10% off your total bill throughout the month of July. Use this to enjoy your promo.

8 Korean BBQ
Address:
6 Eu Tong Sen Street, #02-79/90 The Central, Singapore 059817
Contact no.:
8692 1188
Opening Hours: Mon – Fri: 11.30am – 2.30pm, 5.30pm – 10.30pm; Sat – Sun: 11.30am – 10.30pm

Address: Shaw Centre #04-20/21, 1 Scotts Rd Singapore 228208
Contact no.:
9018 9212
Opening Hours: Mon – Fri: 11.30am – 2.30pm, 5.30pm – 10.30pm; Sat – Sun: 11.30am – 10.30pm
Website

7. Joo Bar

No list on living it up is complete without at least one watering hole for you and your buddies to knock back a few.

Fans of Korean alcohol and Korean fare in general must check out Joo Bar, Singapore’s first Makgeolli Bar & Restaurant. Located within a heritage shophouse, Joo, which means ‘alcohol’ in Korean, offers modern Korean bites and creative drinks in an edgy setting.

[caption id="attachment_28525" align="alignnone" width="1000"] Image Credit: Image Credit: Joo Bar[/caption]

Order their multi-coloured Makgeolli sampler if you can’t decide on just one makgeolli! For a sweeter experience, go for their Makgeolli cocktails! The bites here aren’t shabby too, with tasty finger food like Baby Eel Paper, Warm Kimchi with Tofu and Spam, and more!

Drink and eat to your heart’s content at Joo Bar – just make sure you’re 18 and above!

Youth Month Promo: Enjoy 10% off your total bill throughout the month of July. Use this to enjoy your promo.

Joo Bar
Address: 5 Tan Quee Lan Street, Singapore 188094
Contact no.: 8138 1628

Opening Hours: Daily, 5.30pm – 12am
Website

This is just the tip of the iceberg. There is a total of over 40 brands collaborating with the National Youth Council to bring you exclusive perks in celebration of Youth Month.

With brands like Lazada, Crossfire Paintball, GoPro, Klipsch, The Juicy Way, Udders and more participating to give you great deals, there’s no better time than now to live it up!

For all promotions, check out Youth Month Perks 2017.

The Entertainer App

If you’re all about getting good deals and making the biggest bang for your buck, The Entertainer is an app that will make all of that much easier.

[caption id="attachment_28527" align="aligncenter" width="500"] Image Credit: Flora Isabelle[/caption]

An app that gets you amazing deals on food, attractions, spas and even hotels in Singapore, live it up every month of the year with The Entertainer.

As part of Youth Month, you get to purchase The Entertainer app for just $70 (U.P. $125)! All you have to do is use to promo code ‘SHINEWITHUS’ when you download The Entertainer App. You can also purchase the Cheers app (The Entertainer app for alcohol) at a discounted $40 (U.P. $125) when you quote the promo code ‘CHEERSHINE’.

Another app that will come in handy in your hunt for some of the best deals in town is the Lazada app, which gives you access to app only deals (daily!), app only vouchers, and app first updates!

With all these handy tools at your fingertips, enjoying the good things in life will come at a drastically reduced cost, making your experiences all the more sweeter!

They often say youth is wasted on the young, and that’s true for the most part, especially when you live in Singapore.

Let’s not be in such a hurry to grow up. Have fun, live a little, do crazy things you might regret! There will come a time when we must grow up, when we become responsible for other people, other lives, and when the stakes are truly high. But that time is not now.

We are only young once, so let’s enjoy ourselves while we can and live a life with no regrets.

To enjoy all the above promotions, make sure flash the appropriate e-vouchers to participating merchants, or use the promo code(s) stated within the relevant e-voucher. Make sure to read the fine print for all Terms & Conditions.

This article is written in collaboration with National Youth Council.

Also read Here’re 7 Of SG’s Best Prawn Mee – Soupy, Flavourful, Fragrant

(Header Image Source: Chope)

This Island-Wide Heritage Trail Will Have You Rediscovering What It Means To Be S’porean

History buffs and die-hard patriots, the Singapore Heritage Festival is back for its 14th year!

This year, the Singapore Heritage Festival is inviting both young and old to explore Singapore’s history and culture through a curated smorgasbord of programmes and activities.

From 28 April to 14 May, the festival will bring guests all over historical spots in Singapore. From Bukit Pasoh to Caldecott Hill, the Singapore Heritage Festivals will be hosting theatre performances, heritage tours and hands-on craft workshops.

Here are some of the highlights worth looking out for at Singapore Heritage Festival 2017!

Caldecott Broadcast Centre

[caption id="attachment_25562" align="alignnone" width="1000"] Image Credit: Image Credit: Image Credit: Image Credit: Image Credit: Image Credit: J. Kenji López-Alt[/caption]

What’s a Singaporean festival if there isn’t any food to indulge in? The Singapore River will be transformed into a food paradise. From food exhibitions to performances centered around food, The Singapore Heritage Festival is going all out when it comes to our favourite pastime!

[caption id="attachment_25566" align="alignnone" width="1000"] Image Credit: 2017 Is The Year Of Star Wars – Singapore Has Its First Star Wars Festival And Everyone Is Invited

Blast From The Past: 7 Nostalgic Old-School Food Spots That Your Grandparents Dined At

Singapore is labelled as a food haven where a huge variety of delicious international cuisines are offered and readily available for residents. Furthermore, the city’s architecture even pays tribute to food, such as the durian-shaped Esplanade theatre.

Singapore’s food-centric culture began way before you and I were even born. From street side hawkers to exclusive western restaurants, our parents and grandparents were the first to experience those glorious days and yummy food.

Fortunately for us and the younger generations, some of these shops are still in business, continuing to serve authentic dishes that the older generations once had. Without further ado, here are 7 food vendors and restaurants that have been around since our grandparents’ era.

1. Yet Con Restaurant 逸群雞飯

Situated along Purvis Street, Yet Con Restaurant has been serving authentic Hainanese chicken rice since the 1940s. It was also recognised as Singapore’s oldest Hainan restaurant.

[caption id="attachment_21835" align="alignnone" width="1600"] Credit: Credit: Credit: Credit: Credit: Credit: migrationology[/caption]

The two-story building has a kitchen on the bottom floor and an air-conditioned dining area on the top floor. This legendary store is most well known for serving murtabak, a giant dough pocket stuffed with minced meat and egg, and fried to a golden crisp.

[caption id="attachment_21841" align="alignnone" width="2200"] Credit: migrationology[/caption]

A few recommended dishes are the Mutton Murtabak ($8) and Chicken Masala ($3.50).

Singapore Zam Zam Restaurant
Address: 697-699 North Bridge Road, S198675
Operating hours: 7 am to 11 pm daily

5. Chin Mee Chin Confectionery 真美珍茶室

We have no shortage of traditional kaya toast and egg breakfast in Singapore. However, Chin Mee Chin Confectionery definitely tops the rest with its ascetically pleasing marble tables—perfect for a photo backdrop—and nostalgic atmosphere.

[caption id="attachment_21852" align="alignnone" width="1024"] Credit: Credit: Credit: Credit: Credit: 6 Cafes So Fancy Even Your Atas Friend Will Approve

Unconventional Halal Food Places: Dim Sum, Mexican Food, Korean Chicken & More!

Craving for some good food, but you or your friends are Muslim? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. With this list of best hidden Halal food places, you or your Muslim friends will never feel left out!

1. Fix Cafe

Craving for some Mexican Halal foodFix brings the country of chocolate and corn to you.

[caption id="attachment_17247" align="aligncenter" width="1284"]Credit: thesmartlocal Credit: Image Credit: Fix[/caption]

Fix
What:
 Mexican Food
Try: Beef Chilli Cheese Fries, Chicken Drumlets (Comes with sour cream sauce. Yum!), Prawn and Lime Fajitas, Donuts with salted egg drip
Come here if: You want to get your Mexican food fixed (Get it?).
This place is: Halal Certified
Address: 31 Ah Hood Rd #01-06 HomeTeam NS-JOM Clubhouse Singapore 329979
Opening Hours: 11am to 10pm daily. (Kitchen closes 3-530pm on weekdays)
Facebook here

2. Jinjja Chicken

Think fast food with a unique Asian twist and you have Jinjja chicken.

[caption id="attachment_16597" align="alignnone" width="960"] Image Credit: Burpple[/caption]

This casual restaurant was inspired by South Korea’s rich street food culture, its love for fried chicken and its ‘pali-pali’ (A Korean expression to mean hurry) culture of speed.

Aiming to create and define itself as ‘The Authentic Asian Fast Food Joint”, Jinjja Chicken is an affordable place for just about anyone who loves Korean food.

[caption id="attachment_16599" align="alignnone" width="960"] Image Credit: Burpple[/caption]

Jinjja Chicken
What:
Korean food
Try: Jinjja Chicken (It’s ‘jinjja’ good), Tteokbokki Fries, Shaved Milk Bingsu
Come here if: You’re craving Korean food and k-pop (MVs are played round the clock)
This place is: Halal Certified
Address: 249 Victoria Street (Bugis Village), Singapore 188032
Opening Hours: Sunday-Thursday (11am till 10pm) , Friday-Saturday (11am – 11.30pm)
Facebook here

3. Hyde and Co.

If you can’t decide between two cravings (western or local), Hyde and Co. is your place.

[caption id="attachment_15752" align="alignnone" width="960"]13754683_1728010044133661_5998904750468686835_n Image Credit: Hyde and Co.[/caption]

Hyde and Co. mixes some of our favourite dishes to create a harmony of flavours- its aim being to create food inspired by old world British charm with a modern twist.

If you’re a fan of coffee and tea, it wouldn’t harm to check this place out. Their extensive tea and coffee selection will make you giddy.

[caption id="attachment_15753" align="alignnone" width="960"]13876292_1733912040210128_5093329253278210439_n Image Credit: Hyde and Co.[/caption]

Hyde & Co.
What:
Fusion Cuisine
Try: Nasi Lemak Risotto, Hyde Specials (Rotated regularly), Ondeh Ondeh French Toast
Come here if: You want creatively named specials (Think Prince of Egypt and The Addams Family) and cute chefs
This place is: Halal Certified
Address: 785 North Bridge Road Singapore 198753
Opening Hours: Monday (12pm till 6pm), Wednesday to Friday (12pm till 10pm), Saturday (11am till 10pm), Sunday (11am till 6pm), Closed on Tuesdays
Facebook here

4. I am Cafe 

Posing for your OOTDs and shopping till you drop can take up a lot of energy. Fuel up at I am Cafe.

[caption id="attachment_16128" align="alignnone" width="960"]Image Credit: I AM Cafe Image Credit: I am Cafe[/caption]

A popular cafe located in Haji Lane (AKA Hipster Heaven), I am Cafe is the go to place for those who want an authentic cafe experience.

Take a look around the cafe and you’ll notice a wall with a photo of bicycles; that’s because I am Cafe was inspired by Amsterdam!

[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="823"] Image Credit: Burpple[/caption]

I am Cafe
What:
Western Food
Try: Charcoal Grilled Beef Burger, Fish ‘N’ Chips, Rainbow Cake
Come here if: You want to enjoy the sights and sounds of Haji Lane and alfresco dining
This place is: Muslim Owned
Address: 674 North Bridge Road, junction of North Bridge Road and Haji Lane
Opening Hours: Monday to Thursday (11.30am till 11pm), Friday and Saturday (11.30am till 1am), Sunday (11.30am till 10pm). Closed on first and third Mondays of the month.

5. Kowloon Express

All your favourite Hong Kong dishes in one place.

[caption id="attachment_15751" align="alignnone" width="960"]13697104_1731516613765550_837825967161394021_n Image Credit: Kowloon Express[/caption]

This is a great place for those who love Hong Kong fare as it is one of the rare Halal food places that serves popular dishes like Har Kow and Custard buns.

Its custard buns are filled with so much custard that a caution sign was put up on the walls of the restaurant.

[caption id="attachment_15754" align="alignnone" width="960"]13900203_1745911115659433_7859975027233396925_n Image Credit: Kowloon Express[/caption]

Kowloon Express
What:
Dim Sum, Noodles, Congee, Meat Dishes
Try: Duck Rice, Salted Egg Fish Skin, Dim Sum (Har Kow, Chilli Crab Pau, Charcoal Golden Sand Pau), Salt Pepper Roast Chicken, Cereal Prawn
Come here if: You’re craving Cantonese inspired chow
This place is: Muslim owned and Halal Certified.
Address: 321 Clementi Mall, Eng Wah Cinema, Clementi Ave 3 #01-01
Opening Hours: 11am – 10pm daily
Facebook here

6. Paddington House of Pancakes

Tired of sweet pancakes? Try some savoury ones at Paddington House of Pancakes!

[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="812"] Image Credit: AnEveryDayAffair[/caption]

Dedicated to serving up not only value for money food, but healthy options as well, Padding House of Pancakes takes their craft seriously.

They’ve sampled pancakes from around the world (America, China, France, Russia and even Czech Republic just to name a few) in order to not only make better pancakes, but to also bring the tastes of these countries to you.

[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="815"] Image Credit: GoingMerrily[/caption]

Padding House of Pancakes
What:
 Fusion Cusine
Try: Pancake Double Decker Burger, The Brussels, NICE (Yes, that’s the name), Chocolate, Peanut Butter and Jam Crepe Roll with Ice Cream (Sounds like a mouthful? It is.)
Come here if: You like your food sweet and savory, a halal alternative to Strictly Pancakes
This place is: Halal Certified
Address: 180 Kitchener Rd, #02-35/36 City Square Mall, City Square Mall, 208539
Opening Hours: 11AM–9PM
Website  Image Credit: BestofHalal[/caption]

Meaning ‘Take a break from work’, Fika is exactly what you need after a long day slogging over your desk.

If you’ve always wanted to try Swedish food and you’re looking for another alternative (You know what we mean) for the much loved meatballs, you’ll definitely want to come here.

Fika
What:
 Swedish food
Try: Swedish Meat Balls, Panbiff, Macaroni Stew with Sausages
Come here if: You want to try authentic Swedish food (The owner’s husband is from Sweden!)
This place is: Muslim owned and Halal Certified
Address: 257 Beach Road (Corner of Arab Street and Beach Road), 9 Raffles Boulevard (Millenia Walk), 11 Tanjong Katong Road (OneKM)
Opening Hours: Sunday-Thursday and PH: 11am-10pm, last order is 9.15pm (kitchen only), Friday-Saturday: 11am-11pm, last order is 10.15pm (kitchen only), Eve of public Holiday: 11am-11pm, last order is 10.15pm (kitchen only)
Locate them
Image Credit: Badoque[/caption]

If you want a place that always surprises, come to Badoque. The cafe constantly serves up new dishes that will tickle your taste buds! Whether you’re in the mood for some indoor or alfresco dining, Badoque has the option of both.

Badoque
Try: Beef Ribs, Fried Breaded Oysters, Squid Ink Risotto
Come here if: Steak, you want to try ‘Mermaid Tears’ (It’s a legit dish!)
This place is: Halal Certified
Address: 246 Upper Thomson Rd, Singapore 574370
Opening Hours: Tues – Thur, Sat & Sun 12pm till 10pm. Fridays : 2pm till 10pm
Facebook
 here

9. The Lab

If you’re a fan of cakes, pastas and everything science, visit The Lab.

[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="818"] Image Credit: HaveHalalWillTravel[/caption]

Though it sounds like the next Halloween Horror Nights haunted house, The Lab is far from that.

With syringes, flasks and all sorts of science-ish stuff, The Lab is indeed a unique dining experience. Check out their galaxy cakes – they’re out of this world.

The Lab
What:
 Western Food
Try: The Lab Drumlets, Heisenberger, Chocolate Midnight Snack
Come here if: You secretly want to be a scientist, you want to inject stuff in your food
This place is: Muslim owned
Address: 1 Jalan Pisang, #01-01, Singapore 199069
Reservations (only for 6-15 pax): + 65 6299 5681
Opening Hours: Mon-Sat: 1230pm to 10pm (last kitchen order 915pm), Sundays: 1pm to 930pm (last kitchen order 845pm)
Facebook here

10. My Secret Hideout Peachy’s

If big portions are what you’re after, look no further, because My Secret Hideout Peachy’s is here.

[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="817"] Image Credit: HaveHalalWillTravel[/caption]

Raved about for their value for money portions, Peachy’s guarantees that you leave with a full stomach.

[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="817"] Image Credit: TheLandscape[/caption]

My Secret Hideout Peachy’s
What:
 Western Food
Try: Buffalo Wings, Cheesy Fish & Chips, Chicken Chop
Come here if: You want cheap food with huge portions
This place is: Muslim Owned and Halal Certified
Address: 803A North Bridge Road Singapore 198771
Opening Hours: Daily: 12pm to 1030pm (last order 1030pm)
Facebook here

11. The Ramen Stall

A Halal food option for all ramen lovers. Yay!

[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="819"]image Image Credit: Halalicious[/caption]

If you’ve always wanted to try ramen, this is your time. The Ramen Stall is a rare gem as it is halal certified. Remember to slurp loudly!

The Ramen Stall
What:
 Japanese Food
Try: Volcano Ramen, Chicken Cha-Su Ramen
Come here if: You want ramen. Obviously.
This place is: Halal Certified
Address: 787 North Bridge Road Singapore 198755
Opening Hours: Mon-Fri: 5pm to 6am, Sat, Sun, PH: 12pm to 6am
Website Wanna Share? 7 Steakhouses With Portions So Huge, You Need To Call Your Entire Squad!

6 Kid-Friendly Eateries Perfect For Parents Who Want To FINALLY Enjoy Their Meals!

Mealtimes can sometimes be a battlefield especially when taking your young ones out to restaurants. For a quiet (and calm) mealtime when dining out, check out these 6 awesome family friendly restaurants with tons of stuff to keep your little ones occupied!

Cool de Sac

This massive entertainment center for kids is a child’s heaven like no other.

Located at Suntec City Mall, Cool de Sac is one of the best family friendly restaurants around.

It has more than enough educational play stations to keep your child entertained for the entire day!

[caption id="attachment_15703" align="aligncenter" width="920"]Credit: CooldeSac Credit: #02-379/80, Singapore 038983
Tel: 6337 0205
Email: [email protected]
Opening Hours: Sun – Thu, 10am to 8pm; Fri – Sat, 10am to 10am
W
Credit: Website

Café Melba

Take your kid outdoors. They can run about while you enjoy a picnic-style and alfresco dining.

All complete with a huge bouncy castle on weekends, only at Café Melba.

[caption id="attachment_15697" align="aligncenter" width="960"]Credit: CafeMelba Credit: CafeMelba[/caption]

There is a special menu for your kids, with well-portioned all-time favourite dishes such as Fish & Chips.

Furthermore, with a wide selection of milkshakes to choose from, rest time is almost as fun as play time!

Café Melba
Address:
90 Goodman Road, Block N #01-56, Goodman Arts Centre, Singapore 439053
Tel: 6440 6068
Email: [email protected]
Opening Hours: Mon – Fri, 10am to 10pm; Sat – Sun & PH, 8.30am to 10pm
Credit: Slappy Cakes

Right here at Slappy Cakes, the rule of do not play with your food! does not exist.

This one-of-a-kind dining experience allows your kids (and yes, adults as well) to literally play with their food!

Credit: Y.WanLing'sCredit: Mitzo Restaurant & Bar

One of the most family friendly restaurants for yum cha in town, Mitzo Restaurant & Bar is a dining establishment to consider!

[caption id="attachment_15743" align="aligncenter" width="1024"]Credit: mummyfique Credit: Grab Them Buddies! 7 Places Where We Can Have Fun Like Kids During PE!

Salted Egg Yolk Trend Is NOT Dead Yet! 7 New Creations For Those Who Just Can’t Get Enough!

Everyone knows the Salted Egg Yolk frenzy is real – and there are more unusual creations sprouting out.

Whether it’s finger-licking Salted Egg Yolk crabs to oozing croissants, Salted Egg Yolk dishes are sinfully delicious and worth the extra calories.

Here are 7 new Salted Egg Yolk creations for those who just can’t get enough of this yellow goodness.

1. Big Street: Salted Egg Yolk Prata Bomb

[caption id="attachment_14422" align="aligncenter" width="799"]Credit: sethliu.com Credit: sethliu.com[/caption]

We’re sure you’ve heard about this one – the glorious Prata Bomb with oozing Salted Egg Yolk ($6) has taken over social media. A new favourite supper destination that closes at 3am, this palm-sized prata is an extremely sinful indulgence. You just have to try it to find out for yourself!

Big Street
Address: 104-106 Jalan Besar Road
Opening Hours: Tues – Sun: 11am – 3am, Closed on Mondays

2. May May: Salted Egg Yolk Donuts

[caption id="attachment_12933" align="alignnone" width="960"]Salted Egg Yolk Donuts Image Credit: Openrice[/caption]

If you’re looking for an indulgent dessert, this hits the right spot! Little donuts coated with crunchy grains of sugar and filled with piping hot creamy sauce that oozes from within – The Salted Egg Yolk Donuts ($5++) are fried to crummy perfection. We can’t help but love these warm sugary goodness!

May May
Address: 65 Tras Street
Opening Hours: Mon – Sat: 11.30am – 3pm, 6pm – 11pm

3. Group Therapy Duxton: Salted Egg Yolk Waffles

[caption id="attachment_12932" align="alignnone" width="640"]Image Credit: Jasminemeiyin Image Credit: Jasminemeiyin[/caption]

The Gold Rush Waffle ($13) is a medley of salty and sweet flavours – a dense yet light and fluffy Waffle with Chocolate and Honeycomb crumble, topped with a scoop of Vanilla ice cream and rich sauce. Just the right combination of crunch and flavour!

Group Therapy
Address: 49 Duxton Road
Opening Hours: Tues – Sun: 10am – 6pm, Closed on Mondays

4. Operation Dagger: Salted Egg Yolk Cocktail

[caption id="attachment_12930" align="alignnone" width="1200"]Image Credit: LBB Image Credit: LBB[/caption]

A drink, seriously?

Presented in a bell jar with burnt hay and smoked star anise, The Egg ($25) comprises of a Salted Egg Yolk cured for 24 hours, infused with home-made rum, vanilla beans and caramel. The aromas from the trapped smoke settle in nicely. We weren’t sure about savoury drinks at first too, but we highly recommend this. Cheers!

Operation Dagger
Address: 7 Ann Siang Hill
Opening Hours: Tues – Sat: 6pm – 12am

5. Drury Lane: Salted Egg Yolk Eggs Benedict

[caption id="attachment_12928" align="alignnone" width="1600"]Image Credit: Jacqsowhat Image Credit: Jacqsowhat[/caption]

If you’re a fan of the all-time favourite Eggs Benedict for brunch, you should try Drury Lane’s twist on it. Doused in a creamy sauce and topped off with fried bacon, grilled prawns and sauteed kale, the Salted Egg Yolk Eggs Benedict ($17) is runny and cooked to perfection.

Drury Lane 
Address: 94 Tanjong Pagar Road
Opening Hours: Mon, Wed & Thu: 9am – 8.30pm, Fri: 9am – 10pm, Sat & Sun: 10am – 6pm

6. Bao Makers: Salted Egg Shrimp Mantou

[caption id="attachment_12927" align="alignnone" width="1206"]Image Credit: TheAsianParent Image Credit: TheAsianParent[/caption]

As the name suggests, Bao Makers specializes in Baos and the Salted Egg Shrimp Mantou ($15) is one of their best-sellers. Featuring juicy prawns drenched in creamy sauce between a traditional white bun, the medley of textures burst with different flavours in your mouth.

Bao Makers
Address: 78 Horne Road
Opening Hours: Mon – Fri: 12pm – 10pm, Sat: 11am – 10pm, Sun: 11am – 6pm

7. 7Kickstart Museum Cafe: Salted Egg Yolk French Toast

[caption id="attachment_12925" align="alignnone" width="1080"]Image Credit: Anonymous Image Credit: Anonymous[/caption]

The thick and fluffy brioche drizzled with condensed milk complements the creamy and savoury flavours. With a balance of savoury and hint of sweetness, the Salted Egg Yolk French Toast ($13) is a fun dish to try.

7Kickstart Museum Cafe
Address: 71 Bras Basah Road
Opening Hours: Mon & Tue: 8am – 8pm, Wed – Fri: 8am – 10pm, Sat: 10am – 8pm, Sun: 10am – 6pm

Tempted by these strange combinations yet? Trust us when we say these dishes are ridiculously addictive. You just have to try them for yourself. Let us know what you think! Enjoy 🙂

Header image credit: 9 New Desserts So Wacky, You Need To Try Them At Least Once!

What To Expect At The Singapore Favourite Food Village 2016!

Attention foodies, the Singapore Favourite Food Village (SFFV) is back! Themed “A Wok Through Singapore’s Culinary Heritage”, the festival will be held at Rochor Event Space (Bugis MRT Exit A) for a period of 10 days, from 22 – 31 July 2016!

[caption id="attachment_10795" align="alignnone" width="949"]Image source: SSFV Image source: SSFV[/caption]

In celebration of good food, visitors (free admission yas!) can expect a helluva unique variety of local dishes with over 20 culinary partners from three different school of thoughts – Old Favourites, Modern Take and On The Go.

Culinary Face Off: Old Favourites VS Modern Take

[caption id="attachment_10796" align="alignnone" width="740"]Image source: SSFV Image source: SSFV[/caption]

The key feature of this year’s festival is the culinary showdown between two dominant groups of culinary talents – the traditional Old Favourites and the avant-garde Modern Take. The two waves would be presenting their version of our local dishes, where the best part has to be getting visitors to taste before deciding on the winning dish.

[caption id="attachment_10797" align="alignnone" width="797"]Image source: Image source: SSFV[/caption]

On top of that, there will be food trucks and pop-up cafes dishing lip-smacking street food, live cooking demonstrations and street performances to keep the lively atmosphere going. We understand going through all 20 culinary vendors can get a little tough on your waistlines so listed below is are our top 5 picks of the festival.

1. Chilli Crab In Prata Bag by Big Street

[caption id="attachment_10794" align="alignnone" width="702"]Source: Glamour Wave Photography Source: Glamour Wave Photography[/caption]

Chilli Crab in Prata Bag sure does sound like a heavenly combination. The birth of this signature dish from Big Street however, is certainly not by chance. After many unsuccessful attempts at flavour experimentation and presentation, this uniquely Singaporean dish was created. Thank you Big Street.

2. Cow’s Taco Bowls by The Travelling C.O.W

[caption id="attachment_10812" align="alignnone" width="597"]Image source: jiaruiii_ Image source: jiaruiii_[/caption]

A favourite at any food festival, we’re more than delighted to hear of Singapore’s first gourmet food truck, sous-vide!

3. Rainbow Churros by Churros Factory

[caption id="attachment_10813" align="alignnone" width="596"]Image source: Churros Factory Image source: Churros Factory[/caption]

We’ve had salted caramel churros, chocolate churros, cinnamon coated churros, but have you head of Rainbow Churros? Inspired by the traditional Nyonya 9 Layers Kueh, Jeremy Chiang, founder of 4. Fortune Food [caption id="attachment_10814" align="alignnone" width="439"]Image source: fortunefoodsg Image source: fortunefoodsg[/caption]

With a variety of dishes that include Popiah (spring rolls), Kueh Pie Tee, Nyonya Laksa, Muah Chee to Ayam Koro Bun (a braised chicken in a bun), 5. Souperstar [caption id="attachment_10815" align="alignnone" width="596"]Image source: souperstarsg Image source: souperstarsg[/caption]

The brain child of Fortune Food, Image source: SSFV[/caption]

Now who is excited for the end of the month? We know we are! No better time than the present to make a list of dishes you wish to try at the festival, eh? What is the dish you’d love to try the most? Drop us a comment and let us know!

Singapore Favourite Food Village – A Wok Through Singapore’s Culinary Heritage
Date: 22 – 31 July 2016
Time: 5PM-11PM daily
Venue: Rocher Event Space (Bugis MRT Exit A)
Ticket: Free admission
Website: Singapore Favourite Food Official

(All images in courtesy of Singapore Favourite Food)

Also read: Lobster Chicken Rice? Gastronomic Event STREAT 2016 Is Here!

For more information about Singapore’s Food Festival, click here.

A Malaysian’s Unbiased Opinions Towards Singapore Food

In my opinion, the perennial debate over whether Malaysia or Singapore has better food is something that need not exist. Having lived in both countries and tasted food at every level, it is hard to say whose food is better.

Just like everything out there, both have its strengths. While I personally believe Malaysia probably fares slightly better for hawker food in general, I believe Singapore easily overtakes Malaysia for speciality dishes such as the chilli crab and chicken rice.

Red House Seafood

When I was down in Singapore for two weeks, I got to try
The dish is only made more memorable after the crabs have been finished and all that is left is to dip the fried mantou into the sinfully good sauce. Not a single drop should be wasted.


The charcoal bun with chilli crab filling was a pleasant surprise. The innovative dish incorporates charcoal powder into the bun, which makes it softer than anyone can imagine. Packed with the chilli crab filling, these buns were quite a treat. I don’t think I would be able to find anything close to this back home.


The trio of squid was another stunning dish. While I think this can be easily found in Malaysia, this dish is special because it has all three types of squid in one dish.


We also tried its crab bee hoon at Red House seafood, a slightly upscale seafood restaurant along Prinsep Street, just a stone’s throw away from the bustling Orchard Road. Again, this is a dish uncommon to Malaysia. The Sri Lankan crabs used in Singapore are easily three times larger than those found in Malaysia. My theory is that the best crabs go to Singapore, and Malaysia gets the rest.

For some unknown reason, I’d expected the dish to be fried, but to my surprise, the dish consisted of a cold water crab bathed in rich, deeply flavoured broth and surround by thick bee hoon. The milky sheen of the broth reminded me very much of fish head bee hoon soup and indeed, the taste of this broth bore some similarities to the fish head bee hoon soup, but with more depth.

The crab seemed to have enhanced the flavour of the soup, bringing it up a notch. Again, I have to admit that I probably wouldn’t be able to find an eatery in KL that could serve a rival dish.

Roast Paradise

But if we talk about dishes that could contest each other in flavour and consistency between the two countries, it will have to be Roast Paradise’s char siew. Admittedly, Randall and Kai, the two Gen-Y owners of the hawker stall in Old Airport Road Food Centre, completed a four-week training course in Kuala Lumpur before opening their stall. But they have taken the best of what they could learn from an expert in KL before making the char siew in a uniquely Singaporean way.


I had the utmost privilege of speaking to Randall, a 26-year-old entrepreneur who was so passionate about food, he was willing to go against his parents’ wishes to enter the hawker trade. In only four weeks of training, he and Kai had mastered the art of preparing char siew and now serves to a strong crowd almost daily.

The sweet marinade of the char siew meat ($4.50 for 100gm), coupled with an unparalleled expertise in the technique of achieving tender roast meat, is what makes this dish memorable from start to end. The trip to the food centre might be a hassle for some, but it is worth it.


The dishes come with garlic rice ($0.60) or freshly made Hakka noodles ($2.20). They had, unfortunately, ran out of garlic rice and roasted pork ($4.50 for 100gm) when we were there at about 4pm (towards the end of their second service). However, we did manage to try the Hakka Mee.


In comparison, hawker food in Singapore is incredibly affordable compared to Kuala Lumpur, where an average bowl of noodles can cost up RM5.50.

Would I say either country’s food is better? I strongly believe they’re both good in their own way. Healthy competition is always encouraged.

Red House (Prinsep Street)
Address: 68 Prinsep Street, S188661
Tel: 6336 6080
Email: [email protected]
Operating hours: Mon-Fri, 11.30am-2.30pm, 5pm – 10.30pm; Sat-Sun, 11am-10.30pm

Roast Paradise 烧味天堂
Address:
Old Airport Road Food Centre Stall #01-122

Brought to you by Discover SG x Foodie VS The World.

Also, read Watermelon Fried Rice In Singapore, Have You Tried It?