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From Fusion Dishes To Tea Tastings, Grids & Circles Has Everything For The Perfect Date

Cafes have become increasingly popular across the island in the recent years, favoured by millennials due to their Pinterest-worthy aesthetics and brunch menus.

However, the truth is, most cafes have a pretty basic food menu. Call me cynical but pretty latte art and a good brew can only go so far.

But there’s a newcomer in town and they’re gearing up to spoil market.

A Cafe And More

As I stepped out of my Grab, I saw the place – an entirely white shophouse save for their pastel-coloured logo and address.

Stepping in, I feel like I just walked into a Scanteak x MUJI showroom.

Of the 3 levels in the shophouse, level one houses the coffee bar, cashier, kitchen, and some seating space.

Level 2 is where you’ll find the Flex Space, which is a larger area that can accommodate up to 32 people comfortably, and can be booked for corporate or private events.

The Flex Space is divided into 2 sections.

Flex Space 1 is the larger of the 2 and provides additional seating for customers who are simply there to dine.

Flex Space 2 is primarily allocated as a work space. It can also double as a space for conducting workshops.

East Meets West

Now, for the part you’re all waiting for, THE FOOD.

The menu at Grids & Circles doesn’t really centre around a specific cuisine. Though the easiest way to describe it would be “East meets West”.

I managed to try a few dishes specially curated by the Head Chef and Co-Founder, Daryl Lim.

To start things off, I was served a Watercress Potage with Bacon.

I’m a big fan of vegetables and chunky soups and this reminded me of a chunkier cream of broccoli. All I can say is, it didn’t stand a chance against my spoon – gone in 60 seconds.

The next dish was a Tamago Sando ($12).

A fat slab of Japanese tamagoyaki sits between 2 slices of white bread, one slathered in house made konbu mayo, and the other with a thin but useful layer of pear compote.

I’m not going to lie. This sandwich comprises everything I love, so I was a little disappointed with the flavour of the tamagoyaki because it tasted a bit bland.

The konbu mayo was generous but did little to elevate the sandwich and it was quickly becoming jelak, 3 bites in. That was until the pear compote came into play.

The sweet pear compote helped to balance the flavours of the sandwich so maybe a little more pear compote and less konbu mayo would be great.

The next dishes were mains in the form of their Summer Pasta ($16) and Almond Bacon Carbonara ($16).

The Summer Pasta has tagliatelle tossed in a bacon cream sauce with fennel, watercress, Japanese cherry tomatoes, and garnished with shaved Parmigiano Reggiano.

The Almond Bacon Carbonara also uses tagliatelle tossed in bacon cream sauce, toasted almonds, an onsen egg, and Parmigiano Reggiano.

If I had to choose one, I’d go for the Summer Pasta. The textures and subtle flavours from every ingredient made it a very enjoyable dish to eat. 10/10 will order again.

For the vegetarians, vegetarian options are available for all pastas.

The next to arrive was an interesting Modanyaki Slider.

Modanyaki is a type of okonomiyaki which also contains yakisoba for a double whammy of carbs. What Head Chef Daryl Lim has done, is that he took the key ingredients of a modanyaki and turned it into a slider.

There’s the beef patty, lettuce, katsuobushi (dried bonito flakes), okonomiyaki sauce, konbu mayo, spring onions, and a unique “noodle crisp”.

The noodle crisp is made by blending cooked instant ramen into a paste, smearing it on a baking sheet and toasting. What you get is a thin, pale crisp that looks like uncooked tau kee (beancurd skin). While it’s tasteless, it does add an interesting texture to the slider.

Next, the Salmon Ochazuke ($16).

Now, I’m a huge fan of Ochazuke and it’s really hard to find good ones in Singapore.

The version here comes with seared sous vide salmon, shredded shiso leaf, nori strips, umeboshi (salted plum), brown rice, and bacon dashi green tea.

If you’re looking for something comforting for lunch, this is it. There’s no other way to describe this. You have to try it for yourself.

Ending off the meal were 2 desserts – the Matcha Affogato ($11) and the Strawberry Wonderland ($16).

The Strawberry Wonderland comes with 2 pancakes, strawberry compote, basil and mint sauce, and fresh strawberries sitting on a cloud of chantilly cream.

It’s simple, straightforward and so darn good.

You can also choose from their seasonal homemade cakes and pastries in the display at level 1.

Now, for the drinks, Grids & Circles has a rather extensive drinks menu. Choose from coffees, teas, cold brews, coffee and tea-based lattes, and even craft beers!

I got myself an Iced Hibiscus Tea with Honey and Mandarin Oranges ($7.50) because I’m boujee and I like sweet drinks. Bite me.

It was great for a while, before the ice melted and the drink started tasting a little like Ribena. But I liked it nonetheless. It’s refreshing for sure.

Finally, what makes Grids & Circles so unique, is that they hold tea degustations for the public, conducted by Clement Lim, a coffee and tea connoisseur and certified sommelier. He’s also the younger brother of Head Chef Daryl Lim.

The Fine Teas menu is separated into Classic Teas, Artisanal Teas, and Pinnacle Teas, in ascending order of quality.

Tea degustation ranges from $18 to $58, depending on the set of teas you choose for the session.

I highly recommend the tea degustation if you love your tea.

Despite their rather bustling location, Grids & Circles provides a respite from the hustle of the city. With good food, great coffee and tea, a cosy ambience, and even greater service.

I’m definitely returning for more, and if you haven’t been yet, what are you waiting for?

Grids & Circles
Address: 200 South Bridge Road, Singapore 058749
Opening Hours: Mon – Thu: 9am – 9pm, Fri – Sat: 9am – 11pm, Sun: Closed
Contact no.: 6935 3546
Website

Also read This New Cafe Serves The Dopa-st Gelato In S’pore, And You Can Choose To Have It With Croissant!

(Header Image Source: DiscoverSG)

Get Your Marauder’s Map Ready – LEGO Launches A 6,000 Piece Hogwarts Castle Set That Costs $650

Do you like Harry Potter?

Do you like LEGO’s?

Do you happen to have $650 of expendable income lying around?

If you answered “yes” to all three questions, then brace your muggle heart, because everyone’s favourite toy brick company has come up with a stunning recreation of the one and only Hogwarts Castle.

You’re A Builder, Harry!

Okay, we’ll admit that this isn’t exactly *breaking* news — according to Brickipedia, LEGO have already released four versions of the iconic HP locale, but this one is so detailed that it’s probably the closest you’ll ever get to attending a Defence Against the Dark Arts class.

“How detailed can detailed be?”, you ask? Well, for starters, the set is comprised of a whopping 6,020 pieces, a significant upgrade over the previous iteration’s brick count of 1,290.

Everything from the Great Hall to the Chamber of Secrets is included, and you’ll have 27 microfigures of Harry and the gang to really make the place come alive.

We could go on, but you should just watch this video to get a proper sense of how grand this thing is:

Avada Kedavra, Wallet

As previously mentioned, however, this collector’s item will set you back $650 ($649.90, to be exact), but if you’re undeterred by the price tag you’ll be glad to know that you won’t have to wait too long before you can get your hands on one.

The set will be released this Saturday, the 1st of September, and it’s such a big deal that LEGO is currently holding a launch event for it at Compass One mall (sorry, west siders).

To sweeten the deal, early adopters will be treated to an exclusive “mosaic gift” that supposedly can’t be bought anywhere else.

For those who don’t have the cash but still want to join in the festivities, there’s still a host of Potter-themed activities to partake in, including the building of a 152cm x 152cm mosaic of the franchise’s titular character.

The event only ends on the 9th of September, so don’t feel too pressured to make an impulse buy — considering the price, we aren’t expecting these to fly off the shelves.

LEGO Harry Potter Hogwarts Castle Launch
Venue: Compass One
Date: 1 Sep 2018

Also Read Life’s A Beach: Sentosa Offers FREE Entry for S’poreans From 1 – 16 September

(Header Image Credit: Lego)

This New Cafe Serves The Dopa-st Gelato In S’pore, And You Can Choose To Have It With Croissant!

We’ve had ice cream paired with waffles, cookies, cones, bread, but thanks to Dopa Dopa Creamery, we now have ice cream with butter croissants!

New to the slew of cafés that have been sprouting on South Bridge Road is a small artisanal ice cream cafe, Dopa Dopa Creamery.

Dose of DOPAmine

Located just 2 minutes away from Clarke Quay MRT, Dopa Dopa Creamery is the perfect place to unwind on those hot sunny afternoons.

Whether it is a scoop of refreshing sorbet in the middle of the day or an indulgent dessert to end off your night, Dopa Dopa Creamery will please you with their range of ice cream.

Selling out on their first day of operations, here is why you need to make a trip down to Dopa Dopa Creamery if you need to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Serving only a maximum of 8 ice-cream flavours a day, Dopa Dopa Creamery’s stretchy, gooey and creamy gelato is something for hot days. The thick consistency gives the icy treat a slight chewiness, which makes it great on their crunchy cone, flaky croissant and, of course, on its own.

https://www.facebook.com/dopadopasg/videos/221473108549433/

The Watermelon Mint and Apple Ginger sorbets are refreshing options, but if you’re seeking richer flavours, get the Roasted Pistachio or Speculoos with Lotus Biscuit which features bits and pieces of crushed caramel biscuits mixed into a creamy and milky base, giving it an extra crunchy texture

Premium flavours include Green Tea Toasted Rice, Hojicha, Home Roasted Pistachio, Home Roasted Hazelnut, and Speculoos with Lotus Biscuit.

Basic flavours like Banana, Apple Ginger Sorbet and Watermelon Mint Sorbet, meanwhile, are lighter and refreshing, making them a perfect accompaniment to the richer, premium flavours.

We highly recommend skipping the mainstream cups and cones and going straight for their flaky butter croissants instead ($5.50).

Plus, Dopa Dopa Creamery also serves staple coffee selection such as the flat white, black and espresso as well as a range of brewed tea from local tea retailer Leefe Tea. So coffee enthusiasts can look forward to getting a cuppa to complement the sweetness of their desserts.

If you’re looking for a decent stopover for some grab-and-go ice-cream, then head on down to Dopa Dopa Creamery for a treat.

Dopa Dopa Creamery
Address: 29 South Bridge Road, #01-01, Singapore 059665
Opening Hours: Mon – Thurs : 12.00pm – 10.00pm, Fri – Sat : 12.00pm – 11.00pm, Sun : 12.00pm – 10.00pm
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Also Read Have Breakfast At Tiffany’s: Free Croissants And Coffee From Tiong Bahru Bakery Available 27 Aug To 3 Sep

(Header Image Source: Burpple User Kat X, Burpple User Justyn Toh)

Have Breakfast At Tiffany’s: Free Croissants And Coffee From Tiong Bahru Bakery Available 27 Aug To 3 Sep

For those of you who loved the classic 1961 film starring Audrey Hepburn, having ‘Breakfast at Tiffany’s’ is no longer a dream.

Tiffany & Co. is collaborating with Tiong Bahru Bakery as part of the launch of their Tiffany Paper Flowers collection in Singapore.

From 27 August to 3 September 2018, Tiong Bahru Bakery will be handing out free croissants and coffee from their striking turquoise kiosk outside ION Orchard.

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bm-WspPHqTb/

There are, however, certain prerequisites before you proceed to claim your croissant and coffee.

First, you’ll have to take a photo of the kiosk.

Next, upload it onto Instagram or Facebook with the hashtags #tiffanypaperflowers and #tiongbahrubakery.

That’s it. You have earned your breakfast. Or lunch. Note that the kiosk operates from 10am to 2pm daily.

But if a croissant and a coffee isn’t sufficient, then you might want to head to the actual OG Tiong Bahru Bakery instead, which has also been taken over by Tiffany & Co.’s signature colour.

This is a feast for eyes, as much as it is for the stomach.

For those of you who are more interested in the Tiffany Paper Flowers jewellery collection, check out their ad below.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JTjxuqn67d4

The collection arrives in Singapore on 1 September 2018. In the meantime, can I interest you in some light refreshments? A croissant, perhaps?

Tiffany & Co. x Tiong Bahru Bakery Kiosk
Venue: ION Orchard, outside Tiffany & Co.
Date: 27 Aug – 3 Sep 2018
Opening Hours: 10am – 2pm
Website

Also read Life’s A Beach – Sentosa Offers FREE Entry For S’poreans From 1 to 16 September

(Header Image Source: @tiongbahrubakery)

Life’s A Beach – Sentosa Offers FREE Entry For S’poreans From 1 to 16 September

It’s almost September. You know what that means? It means Mercury is no longer in retrograde and that the 1-week September school holiday is almost here.

That’s right. From 1 to 16 September 2018, all Singapore residents will get free entry into Sentosa as the island gears up for Southeast Asia’s largest sand festival, the Sentosa Sandsation: MARVEL Edition!

Free Admission For All Modes Of Entry

Whether you’re entering via the Sentosa Express trains or driving in with Singapore-registered vehicles, admission fees will be waived.

What’s more, there will also be a competition where 14 of the world’s best sand sculptors will take part in a MARVEL-themed sand sculpting showdown.

You can catch the sand sculptors at work if you visit Sentosa from 1 to 3 September 2018.

Admission to Sentosa Sandsation: MARVEL Edition is free.

Dress Up And Win

Lastly, stand to win $700 worth of credits from Shangri-La’s Rasa Sentosa Resort & Spa, Singapore and $250 worth of credits from Capella Singapore when you dress up for Sentosa Sandsation: MARVEL Edition!

All you have to do is take a photo of yourself posing in your superhero costume at Sentosa Sandsation: MARVEL Edition, upload it to Instagram or Facebook with the hashtag #sentosasandsation before 2 September 2018, 11:59pm!

So this September school holiday, it’s time to take the family to Sentosa!

Sentosa Sandsation: MARVEL Edition
Venue: Siloso Beach, Sentosa
Date: 1 – 16 Sep 2018
Website

Also read Take Your Tastebuds Around The World At S’pore’s Largest Food Fair – Happening 30 Aug To 2 Sep

(Header Image Source: RSBU)

Take Your Tastebuds Around The World At S’pore’s Largest Food Fair – Happening 30 Aug To 2 Sep

As the end of August approaches, many events are taking place. If you love your booze, then you’ll be glad to know that Beerfest Asia will begin this Thursday all through the weekend.

However, if you’re not much of a drinker, then how about munching your way through the World Food Fair?

(Header Image Source:

Rev Up Your F1 Weekend With These 6 After Parties This September

Unless you’ve been living under a rock for the past few months, you would already know that the  Image Credit: Amber Lounge[/caption]

If you live by the quote ‘Go Big Or Go Home’ then  Image Credit: Grand Hyatt Singapore[/caption]

Held at the Martini Bar, Grand Hyatt, Singapore’s homegrown Formula 1 extravaganza is back for its 7th year bringing you 5 nights of themed parties from 12th to 16th September.

Kicking off as early as 12 September, is a ladies’ night dedicated to fashion and beauty (complimentary entry for the ladies). Luxurious and affordable fashion jewellery brand, Fervor Montreal, will be showcasing their latest collection.

Booze, of course, isn’t left out of the equation. On 13 September, the party will launch the Dunhill CENTURY fragrance where guests will be able to enjoy cocktails inspired by the scent.

Tickets starts from $48 per person with table bookings available from $488++ for four.

Sky Grande Prix
Address: Martini Bar at Mezza9, Grand Hyatt Singapore, 10 Scotts Road, Singapore 228211
Contact No.: +65 6738 1234

3. The Podium Lounge

[caption id="attachment_36780" align="aligncenter" width="923"] Image Credit: Image Credit: Cé La Vi Singapore[/caption]

Fasten your seat belts this Grand Prix Season as CÉ LA VI takes you into the future with a full week of exhilarating parties. Soak in the energy of the Formula 1 night race with an unmatched view of the city scape and the roaring racetracks at CÉ LA VI.

Racing enthusiasts and party aficionados are treated to a week-long of indulgent events spanning from exclusive daytime parties to nightly DJ line-ups.

Tickets starts from $38 on 13 September which also includes 1 premium pour. Or get the 3-Day All Access Pass (14-16 September) for $228 which includes a complimentary glass of champagne each day.

Get your tickets here: https://ticketing.igo.events/o/60/ce-la-vi

CÉ LA VI
Address: 1 Bayfront Ave, SkyPark at Marina Bay Sands, Tower 3, Marina Bay Sands, S018971
Contact No.: 6688 7688

5. Lulu’s Lounge

[caption id="attachment_36782" align="aligncenter" width="2048"] Image Credit: Lulu’s Lounge Facebook[/caption]

Lulu’s Lounge makes another perfect party venue with it’s decor which resembles a 1960’s New York backstreet club.

Just for the F1 weekend, Lulu Lounge will be hosting a Va Va Vroom Weekend where you’ll get to see two exclusive burlesque performers, The Sugar Dutchess and Fifi Fontaine, from Australia. They’ll be sharing the stage with  other live musicians, drag queens and homegrown DJ crew Matteblacc.

If you’re looking for something different than the usual parties, then this is the perfect spot for you!

Tickets are priced at $35 for the parties on 14 and 15 September, while entry is complimentary on 16 September. Purchase your limited pre-sale tickets at www.lulus.sg.

Lulu’s Lounge
Address: Pan Pacific Singapore, 7 Raffles Boulevard, Singapore 039595
Contact No.: 9829 1922

6. Bang Bang

[caption id="attachment_37207" align="aligncenter" width="2048"] Image Credit: Bang Bang Facebook[/caption]

Bang Bang will be kicking off theGrand Prix Formula 1 weekend on Friday, 14th September. They’ll be pulling out all the stops for a weekend of fun and good music as they bring international DJs Agent SMTH and DJ Metro to town.

Dubbed as one of the best DJs to come out of Chicago, Metro kicks the weekend off on Friday, 14 September with his distinct style of music live on the Bang Bang stage. Agent SMTH takes control of the decks on 15 September to bring Bang Bang’s race weekend festivities to a close.

Advanced tickets are priced at $45 for both days which also includes one drink. Purchase your advanced tickets at https://bangbang.peatix.com/

Bang Bang
Address: 7 Raffles Boulevard, Marina Square, 039595
Contact No.: 8127 2808

So if you’re planning to party hard, rub shoulders with celebrities or planning to keep it laid back. All these Singapore F1 after parties are offering something for everyone!

Also Read Jay Chou, Martin Garrix, And Dua Lipa Part Of Singapore Grand Prix 2018’s Headlining Acts

(Header Image Source: Luxe Society Facebook)