5 Must-Order Dishes At Hougang’s Hainanese Village For $4 And Under

Growing up, I’ve always envied the ones living outside of the West side of Singapore because the food was always guaranteed to be better, more varied, and even cheaper.

So after hearing my colleagues rave about food in Hougang for months, I decided to head to Hougang and try the food for myself.

The destination? Hougang Hainanese Village.

And here are the 5 dishes to go for when you’re there.

1. Qiu Yun – Tom Yum Ban Mian

Ban Mian is a standard coffeeshop and hawker centre staple. There’s always a stall that sells ban mian, sliced fish soup and the likes. But not all are good.

However, that’s not the case at Hainanese Village. Qiu Yun is a simple store selling ban mian, mee hoon kway, sliced fish soup, and some Pu Tien-style dishes.

They even have Garoupa Head Fish Soup for those with a more adventurous palate.

I got the Tom Yum Ban Mian ($4) and wasn’t really expecting much. I’ve never been a big fan of ban mian. I’m okay with it but it’s usually not a first choice.

So I was genuinely surprised when the noodles remained springy without becoming soggy, even though I left it for a good 10 to 15 minutes, just busy getting more dishes.

The Tom Yum soup isn’t too spicy or salty either, which is good because I know of stall owners who are heavy-handed with their Tom Yum paste.

That being said, $4 for a decent-sized bowl of Tom Yum Ban Mian is actually worth it, though they could be a BIT more generous with the minced meat.

Qiu Yun
Unit: #02-17

2. Yi Liu Xiang – Nasi Lemak

Yi Liu Xiang serves up Chinese-style Nasi Lemak and you know it’s good because the queues are crazy long.

I managed to jump into the queue before 6 others hastily lined up behind me. Lord. I remember thinking to myself, “It’s JUST Nasi Lemak, why is it so hyped?”

First off, $2.50 for a simple plate of Nasi Lemak with a fried fish fillet, omelette and ikan bilis seemed a bit ridiculous to me. I can probably get the same at Ananas for $2.

Boy, was I wrong. The fried fish fillet was STILL crispy despite being left out for a while, and it wasn’t too oily. It also had a satisfying crunch that was lacking in most fish fillets.

Now, as with all Nasi Lemak dishes, the make-or-break ingredient is the chilli. Yi Liu Xiang’s chilli was a perfect balance of sweet and spicy, and not too spicy that it’ll make you reach for your drink.

12/10 will return and queue for this. Do come early though (before 10am), some of the ingredients sell out VERY early.

Yi Liu Xiang
Unit: #02-30

3. Hup Huat White Carrot Cake

As its name suggests, this stall only sells white carrot cake.

For $2.50, you get a plate of White Carrot Cake that looks more like a fuyong omelette.

Each plate is cooked upon order and the smell is DIVINE. If you like your carrot cake crispy, this is it.

The chilli doesn’t overpower the taste of the carrot cake, and the omelette has a tinge of wok hei to it, making this extremely satisfying to eat.

Honestly, this is how carrot cake should be prepared islandwide. Make this a thing please.

Hup Huat White Carrot Cake
Unit: #02-35

4. Lai Xing Cooked Food – Duck Kway Chap

Kway Chap is traditionally served with pig offal and pork belly. But not here.

At Lai Xing Cooked Food, they serve up Duck Kway Chap. And for $2.50, it’s actually a very decent portion for one.

You get a small platter of fish cakes, tau pok, braised hardboiled eggs, and duck intestines. Since I shun offal like the plague, I decided to acquaint myself with the remaining ingredients.

The fish cake is fresh and springy with bits of vegetable in the fish paste.

Though the tau pok today seemed a little undercooked, I’m going to give them the benefit of doubt considering that it was early and the tau pok hasn’t been braised thoroughly enough to be sufficiently soft.

But all in all, Duck Kway Chap is an interesting dish and I highly recommend that you try it too.

Lai Xing Cooked Food
Unit: #02-09

5. Shun Quan – Soya Beancurd With Gingko Nut

As I was busy getting the other 4 dishes, I saw a few tables with soya beancurd.

And let me just clarify that I LOVE SOYA BEANCURD. So I tracked the source and found Shun Quan.

I was very surprised and had to double confirm the price when I ordered the Soya Beancurd with Gingko Nut. It’s only $0.80. WHAT.

Price aside, the beancurd was so soft, it’s barely solid. It just disintegrates as soon as it leaves the spoon.

The gingko nuts provide a nice contrast in texture from the (literally) silky smooth beancurd.

By far the best tau huay I’ve ever had. Rochor beancurd who?

Shun Quan
Unit: #02-38

So there, if you’re at Hainanese Village in Hougang, eat these. Legit no horse run. Also, all 5 dishes cost us a total of just $12.30.

The place is nestled deep within the Hougang neighbourhood so here’re some buses that you can take to the Hainanese Village.

Oh, and come with at least 1 other person because seats are hard to come by.

Happy eating!

Also read This Shop In Outram Sells Customised ‘Kim Zua’ Handmade By A 65-Year-Old Uncle

(Header Image Source: DiscoverSG)

8 Hawker Food Haunts That Are Tried, Tasted, And Recommended By True Blue S’poreans

Sometimes, with so many food options available in Singapore, I tend to forget what my favourite food is. It’s Mee Hoon Kueh.

Everyone has like, 3 favourites so it’s really hard to choose one. But here are some favourites that I’ve managed to source from my friends, with their favourite place to go for that particular dish.

Here we go.

Bak Chor Mee

1. Meng Kitchen

Meng Kitchen has been around since 1946, serving up bowls of fishball noodles and mushroom minced pork noodle (bak chor mee).

They’re better known for their Bak Chor Mee. For just $4, you get a bowl of minced pork, meatball, springy mee pok coated with chilli, vinegar, and garnished with crispy pork lard.

Meng Kitchen used to be 24 hours though now they close from 5am. It still remains a popular supper spot for many.

Meng Kitchen
Address: 246B Upper Thomson Road, Thomson Garden Estate, Singapore 574370
Opening Hours: Daily: 9am – 5am
Contact no.: 6455 4890

Fish Soup

2. Blanco Court Fish Soup

Blanco Court Fried Fish Soup is one of the old greats that used to reside in the now-demolished Blanco Court Food Centre.

The broth here is flavourful though some find the soup too salty.

The fried fish is crispy and chunky and the broth is served with plenty of deep fried egg batter.

They also use spinach in their soup (we LOVE spinach), which imparts a different texture and taste to the dish compared to the more bitter chye sim variants.

They’ve moved to a new standalone shophouse at Beach Road and they added other dishes such as Black Bean Fish Head with Bittergourd, Prawn Rolls and Chicken Wings besides their signature Fried Fish Soup.

Blanco Court Fried Fish Soup
Address: 325 Beach Road, Singapore, 199559
Opening Hours: Mon – Sat: 10am – 7.30pm
Contact no.: 9151 2401

3. Yong Lai Fa Ji Shu Shi

Yong Lai Fa Ji Shu Shi looks like a run-of-the-mill fish soup stall, but the queues are always long – a clear indicator of good food.

The fish is always freshly picked every morning by the stall owner, and each bowl of fish soup is cooked only upon order.

For $4, you get a no-frills bowl of fresh sliced fish soup with lettuce, seaweed and white tofu. Add on 50 cents for a bowl of rice to go with your soup for a more substantial meal.

Do expect a bit of a wait though.

Yong Lai Fa Ji Shu Shi
Address: Circuit Road Food Centre #01-66, 79A Circuit Road, Singapore 370079
Opening Hours: Fri – Wed: 12pm – 8pm, Thu: Closed

Ban Mian

4. Qiu Lian Ban Mee

Qiu Lian Ban Mian first started in Bishan and has since expanded, with multiple outlets all over the island.

They’re known for their Ban Mian ($4.50), I mean it’s in the name after all.

If you love your Ban Mian, this is one that you need try. There’s really nothing much to say about this except that it’s really good Ban Mian.

The ingredients are pretty standard – egg, minced pork, vegetables, and their handmade ban mian in the signature broth.

You can find the full list of Qiu Lian Ban Mian below.

Qiu Lian Ban Mee
Website

5. Yumen Hut

Yumen Hut is the only place I know of that sells halal Ban Mian and Mee Hoon Kueh.

Instead of pork, they use chicken. Which seems odd, but it works, surprisingly.

Apart from their Ban Mian and Mee Hoon Kueh, other bestsellers include their unique noodles made with different vegetables – pumpkin noodles, spinach noodles, and carrot noodles.

Yumen Hut
Address: 1 Pasir Ris Close, #02-113 Downtown East E!Hub, Singapore 519599
Opening Hours: Daily: 10am – 10pm
Contact no.: 6581 5191
Image Credit: iristansl[/caption]

And Mee Hoon Kueh should ALWAYS be hand-pulled. There’s just something about the texture that makes it that much better than the flat, uniform slices favoured by generic Mee Hoon Kueh stalls these days.

If you’re not a fan of Mee Hoon Kueh, the stall also has Pork Porridge and Koka Noodles available.

Ci Yuan Community Club Hawker Centre Mee Hoon Kueh
Address: 51 Hougang Avenue 9, Ci Yuan Community Club Hawker Centre #01-08, Singapore 530917
Opening Hours: Daily: 7am – 11pm

Chicken Rice

7. Katong Shopping Centre Delicious Boneless Chicken Rice

Every time Katong Shopping Centre is mentioned, I hear about this chicken rice stall. And as someone who shuns chicken rice because bone-in chicken is too much of a hassle for my liking, boneless chicken rice is a God-send.

[caption id="attachment_34511" align="aligncenter" width="645"] Image Credit: Burppler Nobelle Liew[/caption]

And that’s not all, their boneless chicken rice comes with complimentary soup and free-flow achar. One thing to note is that the soup they serve is not your generic MSG water – they actually cook proper soups to go with their chicken rice.

After all, good chicken rice should not overlook any aspect of the meal.

Delicious Boneless Chicken Rice
Address: 865 Mountbatten Road, #B1-85/87 Katong Shopping Centre, Singapore 437844
Opening Hours: Tue – Sun: 10.30am – 8pm, Mon: Closed
Contact no.: 9789 6073
Website

8. Tong Fong Fatt Boneless Chicken Rice

Tong Fong Fatt Boneless Chicken Rice is probably the ONLY chicken rice brand that’s primarily non-halal, but has a halal outlet at Bedok.

Good guy Tong Fong Fatt.

For $4.50, you get a plate of traditional Hainanese boneless chicken rice. The chicken is generously doused in their soya sauce, so you can be guaranteed that it’s not bland.

[caption id="attachment_36258" align="aligncenter" width="645"] Image Credit: Burppler M[/caption]

The chilli sauce still has a spicy kick without being too overpowering. If you’re looking for another chicken rice spot to try, go for this.

Tong Fong Fatt Boneless Chicken Rice
Address: 6 Jalan Bukit Merah, #01-32 ABC Brickworks Market & Food Centre, Singapore 150006
Opening Hours: Thu – Tue: 10am – 9pm, Wed: Closed

Oyster Omelette

9. Hougang Fried Oyster

Oyster Omelette, or Orh Luah, is a dish that I usually avoid because I don’t understand what compels people to eat something as slimy as oysters.

Hougang Fried Oyster has been around for over 25 years, serving plate after plate of fried oyster omelette.

[caption id="attachment_36259" align="aligncenter" width="645"] Image Credit: Burppler Bryan Lee[/caption]

For $4, you get a crispy yet fluffy omelette cooked in lard with 4 oysters, fish sauce and sambal chilli.

There’s also a $5 option which gives you 6 oysters. The chilli here is homemade using fresh chilli, pork lard, and dried shrimp. Don’t underestimate this potent concoction because it packs a really strong punch.

Hougang Fried Oyster
Address: Blk 435 Hougang Ave 8, Singapore 530435
Opening Hours: Tue – Sun: 12pm – 9.30pm, Mon: Closed

Masala Thosai

10. Ananda Bhavan

“Ananda Bhavan has the BEST Masala Thosai in Singapore”, said my overenthusiastic friend.

And for good reason too. It’s the most popular South Indian recipe and Ananda Bhavan does it well.

[caption id="attachment_36260" align="aligncenter" width="550"] Image Credit: TripAdvisor[/caption]

Simple plain thosai is served with a side of mashed potatoes. No frills and extremely comforting.

If you’re craving for a prata, I suggest you give Masala Thosai a try instead. It might (will) become your new favourite.

Ananda Bhavan
Address: Find your nearest outlet here
Website

So there you have it. The food that Singaporeans cannot live without, and the best places for each dish.

We’ll keep expanding this list as we go on.

Do you have any you’d like to recommend? Let us know in the comments!

Also read I Paid $400 To Make My Own Watch From Scratch – And It Was Totally Worth The Price Tag

(Header Image Source: Burppler M and Burppler Casey 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.

[caption id="attachment_30985" align="alignnone" width="3975"] Image Credit: Chee Kuen[/caption]

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.

[caption id="attachment_30980" align="alignnone" width="2787"] L-R: The Cheng Teng Cup, Durian Yin-Yang, The Chendol Cup (Image Credit: Chee Kuen)[/caption]

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!

[caption id="attachment_30984" align="alignnone" width="3024"] Image Credit: Chee Kuen[/caption]

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.

[caption id="attachment_30981" align="alignnone" width="3024"] The Yin-Yang Cup (Image Credit: Chee Kuen)[/caption]

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.

[caption id="attachment_30982" align="alignnone" width="4032"] Aww In One Cup (Image Credit: Chee Kuen)[/caption]

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 

These 10 Places Serve Waffles That Are Sweet, Savoury, And Batter Than The Rest

Waffles are such a versatile food. You can have them sweet or savoury, and you can have them any time of the day.

Although they can be found everywhere, not all waffles are created equal. The perfect waffle is fragrant, light, with just the right amount of crunch. From taro waffles to Korean fried chicken waffles, here is a list of the best waffles in Singapore. Try not to salivate while reading.

For those with a sweet tooth,

1. Hatter Street Bakehouse & Cafe

Hatter Street Bakehouse & Cafe is probably one of the more underrated cafes selling waffles in Singapore. Their waffles are baked to the perfect level of crispiness, while remaining moist within, and the texture of the waffle is consistent throughout.

The Pandan Ice Cream with Gula Melaka Sauce Whoa’ffles ($9.50) was rich with local flavours. Instead of honey or chocolate sauce, Hatter Street drizzles Gula Melaka over the waffles. The Pandan Ice Cream was a nice accompaniment, with its light pandan fragrance. The waffle was perfect for soaking up the mixture of Gula Melaka and the melted scoop of creamy ice cream.

Hatter Street Bakehouse & Cafe
Address: 212 Hougang Street 21,#01-333, Singapore 530212
Opening Hours: Daily, 1pm – 10pm
Chocolate Root Beer Float Waffle (Image Credit: Burpple User Cafehoppingkids .)[/caption]

The Chocolate Root Beer Float Waffle ($12) is an aesthetically pleasing dessert creation. The rectangular waffle comes with a chocolate chip cookie, and an ash grey charcoal vanilla soft serve to top it all off. The charcoal soft serve had a hint of root beer in every mouthful, which did not overwhelm the original vanilla taste.

Because Red Velvet is so 2015, The Cold Pantry has taken their waffles to the next level by introducing Pink Velvet Waffles with Baileys Coffee Ice Cream and Sea Salt Caramel drizzle ($13.50). The rose-infused waffle and slightly bitter Baileys Coffee Ice Cream combo is a sure-win on two fronts: your stomach and your Instagram feed.

The Cold Pantry
Address: 88 Rangoon Road, #01-01, Singapore 218374
Opening Hours: Mon – Fri: 4pm – 10pm; Sat – Sun: 12pm – 1opm
Website

3. Froth

Served with one scoop of gourmet ice cream, the Taro Waffles ($15.90) has a rich taro taste, with beautiful purple hues. The waffle screams “Taro Heaven” as there was taro infused within the batter, and a generous spread of yam paste all over the buttery waffles. While the ice cream is nothing too special, the waffles more than made up for it.

Froth Cafe
Address: Ascott Raffles Place Singapore, 2 Finlayson Green, Level 2, Singapore 049247
Opening Hours: Mon – Sat: 11.30am – 10pm; PH: 11.30am – 5pm; Closed on Sun
Image Credit: Facebook

5. PrimaDeli

PrimaDeli serves some of the best affordable waffles in Singapore. Done in a traditional Singaporean style, the waffles are dense and soft on the inside. They’re made fresh and right before your eyes when you order, so you can munch on them while they’re nice and warm.

PrimaDeli
Address: City Square Mall, 180 Kitchener Road #B1-K09, Singapore 208539
Opening Hours: Daily, 9am – 10pm
For adventurous tastebuds,

6. Revelry

[caption id="attachment_27457" align="aligncenter" width="960"] The Revelry Signature Burffle (Image Credit: theurbanwire)[/caption]

For those of you who prefer your waffles savoury instead of sweet, Revelry is the place for you. They serve ‘Burffles’, a cross between burgers and waffles. The Revelry Signature Burffle ($18) comes with juicy beef patties, lettuce, tomatoes and cheese sandwiched between crispy waffles. The waffle quarters are crisp and light, making the dish less heavy on the stomach.

The Waffles Royale ($17.50) is a spin on the classic all-day breakfast favourite, Eggs Royale, but with a waffle in place of the usual English muffin. The waffle has a light, fluffy texture and with its subtle flavour, pairs nicely with the runny poached eggs and creamy Hollandaise.

Revelry
Address: 21 Lorong Kilat, #01-02, Singapore 598123
Opening Hours: Mon, Wed – Friday: 11am – 10pm; Sat – Sun: 10am – 10pm; Closed on Tue
Facebook

7. Griddy

Imagine old school waffles but with chunks of succulent meat piled into it. That’s what Griddy specialises in – savory waffles for adventurous foodies.

The Griddy Burger ($9.90) is generously stuffed with a juicy beef patty and black pepper mushrooms. With a relatively thin and buttery waffle, this waffle burger hybrid is a real crowd-pleaser.

Alternatively, try the Ocean Catch ($7.90). The golden brown fish fillet is tender, with bonito flakes and mayonnaise scattered and splattered over it. Fish and Chips lovers should definitely give this a try as the Ocean Catch is a unique twist on savoury waffles.

Griddy
Address: Westgate, 3 Gateway Drive, #B2-K12, Singapore 608532
Opening Hours: Mon – Thu, Sun: 11am – 10pm; Fri – Sat: 11am – 10.30pm
8. The Beast [caption id="attachment_27458" align="aligncenter" width="700"] Chicken & Waffles (Image Credit: 9. 23 Jumpin

Am I the only one who eats pizza without the crust? For those of you who shun the pizza crusts like I do, why not try the waffle ‘pizza’ at 23 Jumpin?

[caption id="attachment_27193" align="aligncenter" width="2448"] Image Credit: Image Credit: Burpple User Alexander Chiew[/caption]

And if you want the best of both worlds? Simply opt for the half-half option of Mushroom and Hawaiian!

23 Jumpin
Address: The Commerze Building, 1 Irving Place, 01-25, Singapore 369546
Opening Hours: Tue – Sun: 11am – 9pm; Mon: 11am – 2pm
Website

10. Stateland Asian-Fusion Cafe

Many of you may know Stateland Asian-Fusion Cafe for their Red Velvet or S’mores Waffles, but how many of you have tried their newest creation–the Korean Fried Chicken Waffle?

The chicken was nicely fried, with a crispy outer layer and tender meat on the inside. Paired with a waffle that was tossed in cinnamon, this is a dish that we daresay even the Koreans can’t re-create.

Also, the kimchi slaw that is served on the side is so rich with flavour, you’ll be wishing there was more of it!

Stateland Asian-Fusion Cafe
Address: 32 Bali Lane, Singapore 189866
Opening Hours: Mon, Wed – Sun: 12pm – 10pm; Tue: 6pm – 10pm
Website

No matter your personal preference when it comes to waffles, I’m sure we can all agree that waffles can bring a smile to your face any day. So, text your friends and jio them out for a waffle date if your stomachs are up for it!

Also read 9 New Desserts So Wacky, You Need To Try Them At Least Once!

Beijing 101 Has Been Around For 43 Years, But What’s Their Secret To Survival? We Found Out

Male or female, young or old, we all want to look and feel good.

While some of us struggle with difficult skin, some of us struggle with something else: our hair. Whether it’s flaky scalp, oily scalp or hair loss, hair issues can be a huge source of confidence loss for both men and women.

While there are many shampoos, tonics, and serums out there that claim to help with these issues, few of them truly deliver on their promises, leaving us right back at square one: without a solution.

Enter Our ambassador, Vanessa, at Beijing 101 at Tiong Bahru Plaza, #01-129[/caption]

Beijing 101 has been in the business of hair loss solutions for a good 43 years and has won many international awards from different countries! They also have a stellar track record, with 9 in 10* of customers seeing visible hair growth and long-lasting results.

An authority in hair care, Beijing 101 employs Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) principles in its service. Not only do they use premium-grade natural herbs like ginseng, lingzhi and dang gui to treat scalp issues, all their consultants are TCM trained!

We sent our ambassador, Vanessa, down for a scalp treatment. After all, who would say no to better, healthier hair?

Consulting With The Specialist 

The session began with a 20 minute consultation with the hair consultant, which took place in a welcoming private consultation room.

The consultant asked her a series of questions pertaining to her lifestyle, hair- and health-related habits, before proceeding to scan and analyse her scalp. She found that Vanessa’s hair was thinning at the crown, and that some empty pores were prominent.

She suggested that this could be due to stress and a lack of sleep (#studentlife), and she recommended that Vanessa go for the Herbal Scalp Treatment, which helps to cleanse and keep the scalp clean, preventing hair follicles from getting clogged.

Treatment Begins!

Vanessa was led to a private VIP room, where she got all the privacy she wanted, to browse through the magazines provided and to enjoy her tea.

The procedure began with the application of the Deep Cleansing Scalp Mask to her scalp, a concoction of TCM herbs. The mask was spread evenly throughout her head, and a steamer was used to help open the pores of her scalp so it could absorb all the good stuff packed within it!

The mask was left to sit for about 40 minutes, before being thoroughly washed off.

For the next part of her treatment, 2 coats of serum were applied to her scalp to balance its pH level. The serum was massaged into her scalp to, once again, aid absorption.

There were 3 different types of massages she could choose from: one for better sleep, one for soothing tense muscles, and another for overall well-being. She picked the one for overall well-being–the signature Meridian Herbal Treatment Massage–which was very calming and relaxing!

Seeing A Visible Difference

To conclude the session, she was given a second scalp analysis, where you could actually see much fewer pores clogged with sebum. While there was–of course–no visible hair growth within that 1 session, she left with a cleaner, much healthier scalp than she came in with!
To check out her experience, watch the video below!

If you’ve been struggling with your scalp for the longest time and have tried almost everything out there in a bid to remedy it, make a trip down to Beijing 101—you won’t regret it!

Beijing 101 will be running a Also read Goodbye Artbox, Hello Thai Festival – Authentic Thai Eats Without The Heat Or The Crowd

7 Places To Buy Whacky Games That Aren’t Monopoly: From Game Of Thrones To Cards Against Humanity

What happened to the good old days when we sat around playing Monopoly with friends and family? That’s right, that game made or broke relationships with its ridiculous rules on land and property owning.

If you’re looking for board, card or team games that don’t jeopardise your relationships, check out these 7 places to go game shopping!

1. Toy Brick Station – Cards Against Humanity

Find all your board and card game needs at Toy Brick Station, where games suitable for all ages can be found.

That includes the outrageously funny, sometimes inappropriate but always a treat to play – Cards Against Humanity!

Cards Against Humanity

Unlike most card and board games, where victory and ruthless strategy is required to win, this card game brings people together with laughter.

A party game for anywhere between 3-20 people, each player first draws 10 white cards.

In each round, 1 player will be the Card Czar pull out a black card and show it to the group.

Everyone else will have to answer the question or fill in the blank on that black card with 1 of their white cards, placed facedown on the ground.

Going in a circle, everyone presents their answer, and the funniest card wins the round!

Multiple versions of Cards Against Humanity can be found in their store, and it’s time to check out what else can be answered to the age-old question: What is Batman’s Guilty Pleasure?

Toy Brick Station
Address: 10, Jalan Serene, # 02 – 09/10/11, Serene Centre, Singapore 258748
(Photo Credits:

Constantly updating their stock with the latest in board and card games, you’ll most likely find latest releases with ToyTag.

7 Wonders

One of which is 7 Wonders. To be played in groups of any number between 2 and 7 players, this card game is split into three ages (rounds).

[caption id="attachment_21522" align="alignnone" width="1024"] 7 Wonders Board Game[/caption]

The premise of the game is simple: Each player is first given an ancient civilisation (one of the 7 wonders of the world).

Each player gets 1 resource, 3 coins and 7 cards and plays a card by placing it in their play area.

Some cards require resources to be played. If you don’t have that resource, you can buy it from the player next to you.

After everyone has had a turn playing and paying for their cards, everyone passes on their deck to the person to their right or left (based on the age of the players).

This continues until everyone is left with 2 cards in their hands, at which point one of the cards must be discarded, and the second age begins.

[caption id="attachment_21524" align="alignnone" width="1000"] (Photo Credits:

With each age comes cards that are more powerful, but they’ll also require more resources. Apart from buying them or using what you have, you can use chaining, where the earlier cards tell you what it can build for free and how. Alternatively, you can discard a card for 3 coins.

The game ends after the 3rd age, and the player with the most victory points wins.

With the Pantheon Expansion, Leaders Expansion and Wonder Pack, 7 Wonders fans buy all of them from ToyTag and have a ball of a time with friends.

ToyTag
Address: 1 Maritime Square, #03-58, HarbourFront Centre, Singapore 099253
Tel: 6276 7268
Website

3. Gamesaurus Rex – A Game of Thrones: The Card Game

Dedicated to board and card game fanatics who are looking for a place to play, Gamesaurus Rex was founded in 2012 to meet the needs of its passionate audience.

A FLGS (Friendly Local Game Store) and a Gaming Events venue, Gamersaurus Rex allows you to buy a wide range of Board Games, Card Games and Miniature wargames amidst the daily gaming events in store.

[caption id="attachment_20572" align="alignnone" width="960"] (Photo Credits: Gamesaurus Rex, featuring winner of A Game of Thrones: The Card Game)[/caption]

A Game of Thrones: The Card Game

Season 7 of Game of Thrones is coming soon, and what better way to start theorising away than to play the Game of Thrones yourself?

A Game of Thrones: The Card Game is a Living Card Game (LCG) from the second edition onwards. Unlike a Collectible Card Game (CCG), a LCG offer regular expansion packs and deck-buildings. You’ll also be able to avoid the blind-buy purchase of CCGs.

Played between 2-6 players, each player plays as 1 of the 8 different factions of Westeros in a bid to control the Game of Thrones.

The game starts with 2 cards: a draw deck that represents the forces a player has at his/her command, and a plot deck for developing and managing a long term strategy.

As the game progresses, with Faction, Plot, Player and Title cards, Gold, Influence and 1st Player Tokens and Power Counters, the first player to get 15 power wins the game.

Thankfully, the core game set includes a booklet explaining the rules of the game in detail. To get the best out of this game, purchasing the many expansion packs is a must.

You can find fellow A Game of Thrones: The Card Game players at one of Gamesaurus Rex‘s many daily, weekly and monthly events.

Gamesaurus Rex
Address: 259A, Upper Thompson Rd, Singapore 574386
Tel: 86931060
Board Games Rejuvenate has even set up its storefront in a certain manner because they wanted customers to be able to look, see and touch the board games itself.

Cold War: CIA vs KGB

A fast-paced 2 player card game, each player assumes the role of either the CIA or the KGD in determining the outcome of the Cold War.

With each round representing a year of conflict, a single country or event becomes the main focus of the USA and the USSR. Each player will send in a spy (Agent Card) to infiltrate and manipulate locals (Group Cards).

[caption id="attachment_21529" align="alignnone" width="955"] (Photo Credits:

The ultimate aim is to win victory points through the Objective Cards upon successfully controlling the situation. The first player to reach 100 victory points wins the game.

[caption id="attachment_21530" align="alignnone" width="1024"] (Photo Credits:

Board Games Rejuvenate gives Cold War (and we mean the card game, not the historical event) a solid 8.5/10, so if you’ve always wished to change the events of the Cold War, your dream comes true at Board Games Rejuvenate.

Board Games Rejuvenate
Address: The Central, #03-81, 6 Eu Tong Sen Street, Singapore 059817
(Photo Credits: Team Board Game)[/caption]

Codenames

You can play Codenames with your buddies in store, and bring home a brand new set when you’re officially obsessed.

Two teams of up to 4 (red vs blue) pit themselves against each other in a bid to uncover all the agents first.

There are code name cards, each bearing one word, that are laid out 5×5 on the table. Some belong to the red agents, some to the blue agents, one to the assassin and the rest are innocent bystanders.

An opposing spymaster is held hostage by each team, and each spymaster will give one-word clues that point to words on the board. Their team mates must try to guess who their team’s agents are, while avoiding the cards of their opponents.

With 25 secret agent identities hidden from all but 2 of your fellow board game players, no one can be trusted…

Team Board Game
Address: 1 Sophia Rd, #04-14, Peace Centre, S(228149)
Tel: +65 9856 2565 (SMS and Whatsapp only)
(Photo Credits: Games@PI)[/caption]

Blood Rage

This is the place to purchase Blood Rage, the ultimate Viking and Norse Mythology game.

Ragnarök, aka the end of the world, fast approaches. Choosing from 1 of 4 Viking Clans (Bear, Wolf, Raven, Serpent), 2-4 players will fight to lead their clans to ultimate glory and they take their rightful place at Odin’s side before Ragnarök,.

[caption id="attachment_21543" align="alignnone" width="1024"] (Photo Credits: https://www.shutupandsitdown.com)[/caption]

Each player is dealt a deck of cards, from which they must pick 1 card, before passing the deck clockwise and picking another card from the new deck.

This repeats until the decks run out, and you’ve got your specially curated hand.

Using the cards on hand, players must plan and battle, or go on quests and increase their clan’s stats, to be the ultimate winner.

This is a game that tests your strategic skills, battle acumen, and passion for Nordic Mythology.

Win as many battles against rival clans, pillage as many villages as possible, and reach the tree Yggdrasil for ultimate pillaging and glory.

Perfect for gamers who are sick of zombies and vampires.

Games@PI
Address: Midpoint Orchard, #03-01, 220 Orchard Road, Singapore 238852
Tel: 6734 3858
(Photo Credits: Dueller’s Point)[/caption]

Magic: The Gathering

Published back in 1993, this 24-year-old game is still a favourite of Collectible Card Game lovers.

The ultimate CCG with over 17,000 cards to collect, build your deck, and battle with, Magic: The Gathering requires dedication and a low-level obsession.

[caption id="attachment_21578" align="alignnone" width="1024"] (Photo Credits:

Typically a 2-player gamer, you assume the role of a planeswalker – a powerful wizard – as you battle other players for glory.

You start each game with twenty “lifepoints” and the aim is to reduce your opponent to 0 life. You can achieve this through spellcasting, equipping your allies with weapons, and blocking damage during combat.

[caption id="attachment_21577" align="alignnone" width="800"] (Photo Credits:

Best of all, this is another store where gamers are more than welcome to play with friends or make new ones!

Dueller’s Point
Address: Blk 450 Hougang Ave 10, #B1-541, Singapore 530450
Tel: 9476 6080
These Homes In Singapore Are Indisputably The Gems Of Singapore Property

This Chinese New Year, Let’s Not Forget About The Less Fortunate

With Chinese New Year (CNY) on the horizon, what comes to mind is the abundance of food, the new clothes, and the joyous gatherings – all a display of wealth and fortune. Every year, we sit around a table with family and close friends, and dig into costly delicacies. These are but expected routines and traditions.

However, we forget that not everyone can afford such luxuries.

So while we’re about to celebrate this festive season, let us not forget the less fortunate, for whom these luxuries may not exist.

Here are 4 upcoming charity events that will make your CNY more meaningful this year.

1. AsiaMalls Food Collection & Distribution Initiative

In the spirit of inclusiveness, AsiaMalls has partnered Food from the Heart (FFTH) for a CNY food distribution initiative.

More than 150 volunteers will come together this month to pack and distribute over 500 bags of Chinese New Year goodies and AsiaMalls vouchers to the less privileged.

All food items will go towards supporting Food from the Heart’s 25,000 beneficiaries, especially those living in the surrounding areas of the malls.

Head on down to any of the malls below to donate goodies, volunteer to pack or distribute them!

Items to contribute include:

• Non-perishable food (Instant noodle, canned food etc.)
• Non-food grocery (Toiletries, detergent etc.)
• Condiments (Soy sauce, salt etc.)
• Instant beverages (Milo, coffee etc.)

AsiaMalls Food Collection and Distribution Initiative (in partnership with Food from the Heart)
Century Square: 13 – 19 Jan 2017, Level 1, opposite Universal Optical
Tampines 1: 13 – 19 Jan 2017, Level 1, opposite Sephora
Hougang Mall: 20 – 26 Jan 2017, Level 4, next to The Manhattan Fish Market
Tiong Bahru Plaza: 20 – 26 Jan 2017, Level 1, lift lobby.
Collection time: 11AM – 9PM, daily

2. Have A Reunion Lunch With Stay-Alone Seniors

The eve of every CNY sees members of the family, young and old, bond over a sumptuous meal that is the reunion dinner. But some seniors who live alone in rental flats don’t have anyone share this special occasion with.

GoodLife! Makan by Montfort Care is planning a charity CNY reunion luncheon for 80 to 100 stay-alone seniors in the Marine Terrace. There will also be games and activities, and a red packet for each senior for good health and luck in the new year.

Consider sharing a meal with these seniors in the afternoon before your own reunion dinner with family!

GoodLife! Makan
Address: 52 Marine Terrace, #01-189 Singapore 440052
Tel: 6702 0212
Email: [email protected]

3. Donate Your Pre-Loved Items To Salvation Army

While you’re in the midst of your CNY spring cleaning, don’t throw all your items out yet! Old clothes, toys, books, and even furniture can be given to someone who needs it more.

The Salvation Army is a good place to start. With more than 10 centres across Singapore, their programmes reach out to children and the aged who need care, families in material need, and other needy persons in society.

As long as they’re in good condition, drop your pre-loved items at any of their Redshield centres. Otherwise, if your item is bulky, like furniture or big appliances, you can arrange for collection at your doorstep.

The Salvation Army
Tel: (65) 6288 5438
Email: [email protected]
Address: 20 Bishan Street 22 Singapore 579768 (Open car park)
Operating Hours: Mon – Sun, 24 hours
Image credit: Choo Yut Shing[/caption]

Each wishing card costs $2 and all proceeds will go to the Kreta Ayer Seniors’ Activity Centre.

Also, read 10 Activities To Do During Chinese New Year That Doesn’t Involve Empty Malls

A Breath Of Fresh Air: 7 Insanely Unique & Crazy Activities In Singapore!

When we do miraculously squeeze out free time to kickback and engage in the recreational activities that we so desperately need, we find ourselves swept up in this disconsolate state of inertia.

What you need is something different, something with a kick to get you right out of this slump.

Here at DiscoverSG, we might just have the right thing for you. Here are 7 recreational activities so outlandish and so unheard of, you might just have to try them out.

1. Jetpack

As far as unique activities go, JetPacking really takes the cake.

Imagine hovering across the water courtesy of a pressurised, water-propelled jetpack.

Capable of soaring to a whopping 30ft and hitting speeds of up to 25mph, Location: 36 Siloso Beach, Sentosa, Singapore 099007
Price: Cadet Training – $228 (45 mins) & First Officer Training – $298 (60 mins)
Tel: 6376 4336
Email: [email protected]

2. European Swordsmanship

Let’s face it, we’ve all wanted to try swinging swords around like they do in the movies. This is now possible with growing interest in European Swordsmanship in Singapore.

3. Slacklining

Slacklining will quite literally have you on your toes as you sidle across suspended lines of cord.

Choose from a multitude of varying heights and distances and put your balance to the test in this enthralling activity.

[caption id="attachment_15513" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] Credit: The Straits Times[/caption]

While incredibly unique and engaging, slacklining also promotes good body posture and core strength.

Credit: The Borneo Post[/caption]

Essentially a medieval-themed combat archery with elements of dodgeball and paintball – quirky doesn’t even begin to describe it.

Hone your dexterity, team spirit, and focus, all while having a great time with your peers.

[email protected]

Aside from being safer and more environmentally-friendly, Laser Clay Shooting offers you a realistic shooting experience.

Use authentic deactivated 12-bore shotguns which produce lifelike gun shots and clay breaking sound effects. Take your focus and coordination to the next level and fire away!

Credit: MyActiveSG[/caption]

Derived from volleyball, Bossaball also incorporates principles from football, gymnastics and even capoeira.

Now take into account the trampolines and you get one of the craziest, most exhilarating modern team sports. Time to show off some spectacular flips and tricks.

Bossaball Singapore
Location: 10 Raeburn Park #02-08, Singapore 088702
Tel: 6100 6292
Email: [email protected]

 7. SurfSet

Touted as one of the world’s most peculiar workout routines, SURFSET draws inspiration from the sport of surfing.

Workout routines are carried out on the SURFSET board, designed to accurately simulate the physical demands of surfing in the ocean.

Furthermore, elements of aerobic fat burning, muscle building and core training are integrated into the workout. This makes for an extremely intense workout.

The multitudinous physical benefits of this activity however, are there for all to see. Get in surfer shape (without getting sunburnt or even wet).

Cycle X Makan – 5 Best Food And Night Cycling Paths In SG

6 DIE DIE Must Visit Stalls For Lovers Of Seafood White Bee Hoon!

The seafood white bee hoon buzz is one of the latest food craze in our sunny island.

This unassuming tze-char dish has been around for ages in Singapore, with no one paying so much attention to it until now.

With so many wannabes in the market riding on the wave of the craze, it’s rare to come by stalls that genuinely know their stuff.

Here are some of the places we recommend for a good plate of our favourite local seafood white bee hoon!

1. Woon Woon Pek Beehoon

This small hawker stall at Changi Village Hawker Centre brings in long lines of customers every week.

Their speciality is the seafood that goes with its bee hoon. Choose from a top-up of fish, crab, prawn, crayfish or mussels. If you’re feeling hungry (or are in a group), you can try the seafood platter ($30 or $40).

Woon Woon Pek Bee Hoon
Address: Blk 2, Changi Village Road #01-52, Singapore 500002

2. East Seafood White Beehoon

Led by a chef with 30 years of culinary experience, East Seafood hawker chain prides itself on offering affordable seafood white bee hoon amidst rising seafood prices.

Image: facebook.com/eastseafood

With three hawker branches located in Toa Payoh, Hougang (Ciyuan CC) and Ang Mo Kio, they also offer great seafood add-ons with their bee hoon (crayfish, lala and crabs).

East Seafood White Bee Hoon
Address:
Blk 210 Toa Payoh Lorong 8, #01-06, Singapore 310210
Blk 407 Ang Mo Kio Ave 10 #01-733, Singapore 560407
No.51 Hougang Ave Ci Yuan Hawker Centre, Singapore 538776

3. Jia Wei White Beehoon

Quietly tucked away in an HDB coffee shop in Jalan Bukit Merah (near ABC Brickworks hawker centre), Jia Wei brings a homey taste to its tze char specials.

Image: uncletehpeng.com

White Restaurant The Original White Beehoon is one of the pioneers of the famous Sembawang White Bee Hoon. Their version is dressed in thick sauce and copious ingredients (eggs, sotong, chai sim, and prawns – yum!). Beware of the long queues on the weekends!

White Restaurant The Original White Beehoon
Address: 22 Jalan Tampang (Opp Sembawang Shopping Centre) Singapore 758966

5. Hualong Fishhead Steamboat

Though not seafood white bee hoon specialists, Hualong manages to differentiate its rendition of the dish by making it drier than usual.

The seafood white bee hoon is served on an opeh leave, and topped with sliced cabbage, fried garlic and lime for flavour.

Complete your meal with one of their delicious dishes, such as fish maw soup, fried sotong and fuyong omelette.

Hua Long Fishhead Steamboat
Address: Block 347, #01-2142 Ang Mo Kio Ave 3, Singapore 560347

6. Hong Yun Seafood

One of the more successful coffee shop stalls in Toa Payoh, Hong Yun is known for the crispy – and huge – pork lard that they generously scatter across several of their dishes. Same goes for their seafood white bee hoon dish!

Image: uniquelious.blogspot.sg

While you’re there, try out their sambal kangkong and potato leaves – shiok!

Hong Yun Seafood
Address: Block 124, Toa Payoh Lor 1, #01-459 Singapore 310124

What is it about seafood white bee hoon that keeps drawing customers – new and old – week after week?

Could it the salty rice noodles that make up the core of the dish? Is it the prawns and sotong that accompanies it? Or could it be the fragrant, hot gravy that tops it all off?

It’s pointless to think too much into it – just join the queue this weekend and find out!

Also, read Wanna Share? 7 Steakhouses With Portions So Huge, You Need To Call Your Entire Squad!

6 Eats Around Singapore That Are Bound To Bring Your Tastebuds To Life!

Everyone knows that Singapore is a food paradise, it can get pretty difficult to choose when Singapore has such an extensive array of delicacies. We’re always sourcing for new places to get our food on so we asked some of our favourite brand ambassadors where were their favourite underrated places to eat, and they did not disappoint!

Here are a list of the most underrated places to get some food here in Singapore recommended by Discover SG’s brand ambassadors :

Novita Lam

Boon Tong Kee

(Image credit: Novita is that she really wants to see polar bears in their natural habitat. This talented 22 year old NUS Business student designs on the side and she can speak 6 languages!

Novita loves .

(Image credit: as her favourite underrated place to fill her tummy! Noreen tells us that the rice bowls are really healthy yet still satisfy her hunger, her favourites? The ‘Yasai’ and ‘Noka’ rice bowls.

(Image credit: 6222 8055
Contact: Mon – Fri: 9.30am – 9pm; Sat – Sun: 9am – 6pm

Kimberley Yong

Last week we did a feature on Kimberley, talking about her life, fashion and her love for Starbucks. The 20 year old blogger and model loves capturing memories through the medium of photographs and blog entries. Her love for eyeliner (“it makes me feel sexy”) and her wish to one day visit Cambodia (“I really want to visit the country I was born in”) is just the tip of the iceberg!

Brownice Ice Cream

(Image credit: Brownice Ice Cream)

(Image credit: Brownice Ice Cream)

It can be difficult to find eateries in Singapore which targets vegans, but Kimberley has got you covered! One of her favourite places to grab a slice is Brownice. Vegan friendly and delicious, Kimberley loves indulging in food especially when she doesn’t feel guilty after (“After all it’s vegan!”).  Brownice is primarily an ice cream place that serves up some milk-free ice cream, which is great news for our vegan and lactose intolerant friends!

Brownice Ice Cream
8 Sin Ming Road, #01-03 Sin Ming Centre, S575628
Opening Hours: 12pm – 10pm
Contact: 6456 6431

Flavour Flings

(Image credit: (Image credit: Flavour Flings her top pick for something salty and filling! She tells us that Flavour Flings is her favourite place to grab a quick bite. On why she keeps coming back to this quiet eatery? “I tired my very first salted egg fried there and it tasted so good.” At Flavour Flings you can find some unique dishes that are served up doused in salted egg!

Flavour Flings
Blk 121 Hougang Avenue 1, #01-1348, S530121
Opening Hours: Mon: 11am – 4pm, 5.30pm – 9pm; Tues – Weds: Closed; Thu – Fri; 11am – 4pm, 5.30pm -9pm; Sat-Sun: 9am – 4pm, 5.30pm – 9pm
Contact: 6286 005

Here in Singapore we’re lucky to never run out of food options, we pretty much have it all. But it can be pretty difficult to choose a place to eat when we’re surround by so many makan places! Head on over to any of these places if you’re looking for something unique, underrated and delicious!

This article is part of our ongoing Brand Ambassador Series!

Also Read: Ambassador Highlights #1: Food Tastings, Secret Life of Pets Preview & Beers!