Search results for: dinner

6. Garcons

[caption id="attachment_20185" align="alignnone" width="1024"] For A Casual Get-Together

[caption id="attachment_20186" align="alignnone" width="1024"]
Novena Square
#02-78/79, 238 Thomson Road S307683
Opening Hours: 11.30am – 9.30pm
Contact: 6253 4650

Boat Quay
10 Circular Road, S049366
Opening Hours: Weekdays 11am – 10pm Weekends Closed
Contact: 65320607

8. Joan Bowen Cafe

[caption id="attachment_20188" align="alignnone" width="640"]
9 Jalan Wangi, S349354
Opening Hours: Mon 11am – 4pm; Tue 11.30am – 4pm; Wed – Fri 11.30am – 2.30pm, 6.30pm – 9.30pm; Sat 1pm – 9.30pm
Contact: 62813629

[caption id="attachment_20189" align="alignnone" width="1024"] asiaforgood.com[/caption]

These 8 eateries around Singapore, aren’t just serving up delectable food this festive season, they’re also social enterprises that are giving back to society. Restaurants like Professor Brawn and Flour Power are empowering special needs individuals by providing them with life skills and employment opportunities.

Keen to find out more about local cafes and restaurants that are going the extra mile? Check out DBS Asia For Good’s regional directory for businesses that are giving back and creating a positive impact in society!

Visit https://www.asiaforgood.com to find out more.

Also Read: Re-Inventing Christmas As A Time For Giving, The 21st Century Way

Get A Taste Of Argentina With boCHINche’s 5-Course Dinner Whipped Up By Argentinian Chefs

One thing that never ceases to amaze me about Singapore is the food! Possibly one of the few countries that has amazing local and international cuisine! French, Russian, Danish, Caribbean name it and Singapore has it!

boCHINche

[caption id="attachment_17100" align="alignnone" width="1000"] boCHINche[/caption]

Which is probably why it was a pleasant surprise to hear of boCHINche, a restaurant that serves up authentic Argentinian eats! Located along Amoy Street, this quaint restaurant eatery offers Empanadas (a larger meat filled curry puff), different cuts of premium beef imported from Argentina (of course) and a wide range of seafood dishes!

COMILONA

This week, boCHINche is pulling out all the stops for COMILONA, a nomad food and wine festival that celebrates the wonders of Argentina! Hosting a team of 9 expert Argentinian chefs, boCHINche will be hosting a series of exclusive dinner collaborations across 3 days!

[caption id="attachment_17105" align="alignnone" width="1024"] Assorted Empanadas[/caption]

 

[caption id="attachment_17106" align="alignnone" width="1024"] Grilled Octopus, Pickled Mussels and Black Tomatoes[/caption]

 

[caption id="attachment_17091" align="alignnone" width="1024"] Bife Angosto[/caption]

[WIN] An Extravagant Dinner Buffet For 2 At The Line, Shangri-La!

This National Day, get ready for a huge treat! The Line (at Shangri-La Hotel), one of Singapore’s best international buffets, is taking Singaporeans on a journey through our unique food culture!

You can expect innovative twists of our local favourite dishes! Exactly what kind of twists? We’re talking about out-of-this-world bizarre creations.

Have you heard of Chendol – but served in bubble form? What about Tau Huey Popcorn, or Oyster Omelette served on an Oyster shell? As weird as these dishes sound, you need not fret!

We’ve gone ahead to taste and savour these not-to-be-missed unique creations. They’re as good, if not, even better than the originals of our local favourites.

The best part? You can enjoy these local delights alongside the best international selection. That’s right – there’ll be fresh cuts of sashimi, seafood on ice, beef, and not to mention, a wide selection of desserts and pastries, including the best chocolate lava cake (we had 2 servings, guilty as charged).

Without further ado, we’ll quickly take you through a few highlights. There’s just so much good food, that we can only pick and choose the very best. Keep reading, because you will stand a chance to win this dinner buffet for two as well!

Flavours of Singapore at The Line

In celebration of National Day, Shangri-La’s famous buffet dinner at The Line will transform into a traditional food street from the 1960s.

Local Delights

Chef de Cuisine Vincent Wong is a figure you won’t miss at the buffet – passionate, tattooed, and engaging, he stands out among the others. The brains behind the delectable and innovative dishes, he brought us through the story behind each dish he conceptualised.

Chendol Bubbles

Take, for example, the Chendol Bubbles. Deftly and expertly, these bubbles of goodness were scooped into this cup. It looks deceivingly bland, but trust us, this is full of flavour. Its intriguing appearance is due to pockets of Chendol-infused air. There’s red bean mousse, and standard Chendol toppings waiting at the bottom of the cup. This is the epitome of guilt-free dessert – all the flavours you want in a Chendol, but without the guilt.

Tau Huey Popcorn

If you’re in the mood for another dish that’s out of this world, try the Tau Huey popcorn! You heard us right! Here’s a hint: the futuristic kitchen at The Line uses nitrogen gas. Our local soya bean beverage will be chilled to a point where it solidifies.. and resembles popcorn! Its extremely light and delicate texture will melt in your mouth in mere seconds, only to leave you begging for more.

Keep a lookout on our FB and IG for videos of Chef Vincent preparing and explaining these dishes!

Other Creations

There are more favourite old-time delights that are sure to bring a smile to your face. Think Chicken Rice Maki Rolls (with the best chicken rice chilli), Chilli Crab Brioche, Kaya-flavoured Arabic Bread and Nasi Lemak: canapé style!

Our local Oyster Omelette takes on an imaginative twist with deep fried egg artistically placed on each fresh and tender oyster. We couldn’t help filling our plates with these mini crowd-pleasers!

A Durian Alfresco Fruit Stall!

Durian lovers will be ecstatic to note that there will be an alfresco fruit stall full of specially-imported tropical fruits! When we were there, we were treated to D13 and Pheonix durians, all opened fresh in front of you by a charming and jovial Durian Master. So rich, creamy, sweet, and good, we had a few servings each! There may also be other tropical fruits like mangosteen, rambutan, longan, and jackfruit.

All the durians you see in the picture were wiped out at about 9:30PM! Yea, that’s how good it is.

Other Delights

Besides all these, there are stations serving Satay, Laksa, Drunken Prawn, warm food dishes, childhood snacks and drinks, and local pastries and desserts – the coconut durian cake was the best!

International Spread

Marine Harvest Seafood

The Line is well known for one of the largest buffet spreads in Singapore. Its fame stems from its generous selection during the Marine Harvest Seafood nights (Tuesday & Thursday). You name it, they have it! A few types of lobsters, oysters, clams, mussels, shrimps, crab claws, prawns, are served on a cold bed of ice.

The Oysters are also shucked live and fresh in front of you!

Other Stations

In addition, there is also a Roast Station offering salmon, and different kinds of beef. The Japanese station serves up a wide selection of sashimi; Salmon, Tuna, Yellowtail, Swordfish, Octopus, and more!  If you like to have some greens for every meal, you can count on the Salad Bar. Lovers of cheese, we counted at least 5 different types of cheeses to go with biscuits, bread, or ham!

Tip: You can request for salmon belly at the sashimi station.

Unlimited Wines, Beers, Juices, & Drinks

Only on Tuesdays and Thursdays, for Marine Harvest night, enjoy a selection of unlimited sparkling, red and white wines, beers, soft drinks, and juices!

Dessert

Our best advice? Always save space for dessert. We adore the delicate toffee and nut tartlets, chocolate lava cake with matcha ice cream, and durian coconut cake. There is even a selection of local sweet treats such as kuih and traditional cream cakes for those who want to take a walk down memory lane.

Tip + food hack: Drizzle olive oil, and sea salt (from the salad bar) on their vanilla soft serve for a delightfully sweet treat with a salty crunch. Our initial scepticism about this combination melted away the moment we took a bite.

We Never Wanted To Leave

https://www.facebook.com/discover.sg.official/videos/2051248505100841/

The Line undoubtedly remains one of the best buffets to be found on our island. We loved how approachable the chefs were at their stations. They entertained the crowd as they cooked on the spot, engaged and explained the dishes, and served up hot and fresh food along with a joke or two.

If you’d like to enjoy Shangri-La‘s The Flavours of Singapore dinner buffet at The Line, make a reservation here and revel in old-world charm, makan-style! You could also stand a chance to…

Win a dinner buffet for 2 at The Line, Shangri-La!

Simply LIKE and SHARE this post on Facebook, and LIKE Shangri-La’s Facebook to stand a chance to win The Flavours of Singapore dinner buffet* for two! Yes, it is that simple! That’s all you need to do for a chance to feast at The Flavours of Singapore dinner buffet. This giveaway ends 4th August, and the lucky winner will be notified through Facebook.

*Not valid for use on the eve of and on public holidays

The Flavours of Singapore dinner buffet will run from 18 July to 14 August 2016.
Monday, Wednesday, Sunday: $79 per adult, $39 per child
Friday and Saturday: $92 per adult, $46 per child
Tuesday Marine Harvest: $98 per adult, $44 per child
Thursday Marine Harvest: $108 per adult, $44 per child
The Marine Harvest dinner buffet includes an enhanced seafood selection, and a selection of unlimited sparkling, red and white wines, beers, soft drinks, and juices.
Click here to book a table.

All prices exclude 10% service charge and 7% GST.

This was an invited food tasting session. Thoughts and opinions are our own.

This article is brought to you by Discover SG x Shangri-La Hotel

https://www.facebook.com/discover.sg.official/posts/2050764938482531

Also, read [WIN] Tickets To A Romantic Movie With Your Date Under The Stars!

Can You Believe It? This Dinner In Singapore Costs SGD $2.7M!

Money can’t buy you everything, but lots (and lots) of it – SGD $2.7M to be exact – can now buy you the world’s most expensive dining experience in Singapore.

Russian diamond group World of Diamonds (WOD) and Credit: by Rezwana Manjur[/caption]

Most Expensive Dining Experience – Getting There

This eight-hour expensive dining experience with your partner kicks off with a 45-minute helicopter ride. The ride will give you an unobstructed view of the city skyline against the backdrop of a setting sun. A Rolls-Royce pulls over upon landing, and you proceed to get chauffeured in style to catch a luxury private cruise along the Singapore River. This opulent river adventure ultimately takes you to your end destination – Marina Bay Sands.

source: cnn[/caption]

2.08-carat Jane Seymour Vivid Blue Diamond Ring

Fireworks promptly go off in the night sky as your approach the end of your meal. The starry highlight of the evening – a 2.08-carat Jane Seymour Vivid Blue diamond ring – is presented alongside Louis XII de Rémy Martin cognac to cap off the expensive dining experience. This masterpiece of a jewellery is in a class of its own. Blue diamonds of this size and saturation are known to be among the rarest and most sought after gems in the world. An overnight stay at this 5-star hotel is complimentary, if desired. You will wake up the following morning wanting to relive the moment over and over again.

[caption id="attachment_11099" align="aligncenter" width="3000"] Credit: by Rezwana Manjur[/caption]

Be it a wedding proposal, an anniversary or a celebration of a good, good life, this elaborate execution by WOD and CÉ LA VI is one of epic proportions. There is a catch, though – this diamond-studded package will only be sold to qualified individuals. You will need both the riches and the fame to be worthy of this beyond royalty experience. The rest of us? We can just dream.

(Header image source: by Rezwana Manjur, words by editor)

Also, read Wisma Atria Brings Japan To S’pore – Tsukiji Sushi To Wagyu Beef!

A Teppanyaki Dinner That Hits All The Right Spots – Teppan Bar Q

Part of a chain of restaurants by the Ishida Kikaku Group, originating from Hakata city in Kyushu, Japan, Teppan Bar Q is the group’s second restaurant in Singapore. This newly opened restaurant is set in the hip and stylish Robertson Quay area.

The founder, Mr Kyota Ishida, also known as Mr K, promotes the taste of Hakata in all his dining ventures. Mr K has been in the industry since he was sixteen when he started working in a French restaurant. His passion for bringing a sense of excitement and discovery to customers through food has led him to open various restaurants around Japan, and now, Singapore.

Teppan Bar Q

Teppan Bar Q is a contemporary teppanyaki restaurant that offers Spanish Tapas with a creative twist. This cosy and inviting diner seats 21 pax around the counter. Indoor and outdoor seatings are available for drinks and light bites. You can also pair a wide selection of wine from Spain to Japan, private-label sakes, fruit liqueurs, cocktail, and beers,  with its dishes.

Roasted Hakata Mentai

One of Hakata region’s speciality is their Roasted Hakata Mentai ($12.90) – marinated roe of Pollock and Cod, specially flown in from Hakata. The roe is sliced into small nuggets, gently roasted on its grill, and topped with capsicum, chilli flakes.

We found this dish a little too savoury for our taste buds. However, it paired well with sake for a full bodied flavour.

Octopus Galician Style

This is an interesting combination – octopus on potatoes ($13.90). The octopus is well-cooked and seasoned to perfection. Topped with paprika powder, olive oil and spring onions on a bed of soft potatoes, this dish tantalised the taste buds. The dish was delightful – tangy, slightly peppery, and just the right amount of savoury.

Foie Gras with Daikon

The Foie Gras with Daikon ($26.80) is our favourite dish and totally stole the limelight. This dish is chef Kyota’s signature Mediterranean-inspired dish. After grilling to perfection, the foie gras is set to rest for 2 minutes. This makes it more juicy and tender.

The smooth and rich foie gras melted in my mouth. The daikon (white radish), soaked in dashi broth, was heavenly. It oozed with unami and dashi and left me wanting more. This is a truly unforgettable dish.

Tonpei Yaki with Rice Cake & Cheese

One of Teppan Bar Q’s must-haves is definitely their Tonpei Yaki with Rice Cake and Cheese ($25.90). The Tonpei Yaki is a thin batter layered with finely chopped cabbage with slivers of pork, egg, and white sauce. The white sauce is a secret mixture of mountain yam paste and mayonnaise. The restaurant’s mayonnaise is homemade with plum-infused soymilk – a healthier choice. Also, good quality eggs from Okinawa are used for this dish. What’s also special is that this dish is served on special earthenware plates. These plates have an infrared effect that draws out the taste of the ingredients evenly. Definitely a must-try dish!

US Ribeye Angus Steak

The US Angus Ribeye Steak ($58.90 for 200g) was cooked to perfection. It was not tough at all and was juicy and tender. Choose from three accompanying sauces – sesame sauce, soy sauce with wasabi, and garlic ginger onion sauce. Out of all the sauces, we felt that the sesame sauce added a punch to the flavour of the beef. If you want to enjoy the natural flavour of the beef, simply opt for the soy sauce with wasabi.

Garlic Fried Rice

A good garlic fried rice consists of loads of garlic fried to a delectable aroma with eggs and rice. This garlic fried rice ($12.90) totally nailed it! On top of all these goodness, the chef added in a fatty portion of the steak from our previous dish which gave our fried rice a surprise burst of flavour for each bite.

Vanilla Ice Cream Kinako

To wrap up your dinner, try their Vanilla Ice Cream Kinako ($6.90). The ice cream is made from kinako – roasted soybean paste which is a healthy option for diners. A brown sugar syrup at the bottom provides a sweet finish to the dessert.

All in all, we love how quaint and cosy this little restaurant bar is. If you’re looking to unwind with friends or would like to have a family gathering in an intimate casual setting, we definitely recommend visiting Teppan Bar Q!

Do note that the servings seen in the pictures are in mini portions as this was an invited food tasting. Besides the ala carte dishes, Teppan Bar Q also offers a set course menu from $60.

In Singapore, Teppanyaki is either found at food courts or at the high-end restaurants. Teppan Bar Q fills the mid-range gap. To find this restaurant, walk along Muhammad Sultan Road instead of Unity Street.

This was an invited food tasting session.

(All photos are taken by the writer)

Teppan Bar Q
11 Unity Street, #01-21/22 Robertson Walk, Singapore 237995
Tel: 65 6235 0629
Opening Hours: Daily, 6pm – 12am

Also, read Decadent Yet Light Cakes You’ll Love – Waku Ghin @ Marina Bay Sands

5 Posh Dinner Places To Bring Mom To So She’ll Be Proud Of You

May is just around the corner and that means Mother’s Day (8th May, 1st Sunday of May) is coming very soon! Remember how hard it was to get a table at the neighbourhood posh restaurant last year? And mom didn’t even enjoy her meal. This year, to save you from tears, we’ve handpicked 5 places to dine at (please book in advance!) with your mom this Mother’s Day.

1. Edge

This Mother’s Day, Edge at Pan Pacific Hotel is rolling out a vibrant culinary spread for all moms out there. Executive chef, Ken Zheng, will be curating a special selection which includes Plum Somen Shooters, Salmon Oyako Chirashi Sushi, Salt Crusted Sea Bass with Champagne Caviar Sauce, and many more one of a kind dishes. If mom has a sweet tooth, their dessert spread which includes Rasberry Meringue Tartlet, Matcha Panna Cotta with White Peach Jello, Strawberry Layer Red Velvet Cake, will definitely impress her.

Mother’s Day Dinner Buffet:
Date: 7 & 8 May, 2016
Price: $98++ (adults), $49 (6-11 years old)
Mom’s Day Special: Complimentary glass of Laurent Perrier Champagne for mothers

Mother’s Day Sunday Champagne Brunch:
Date: 8 May, 2016
Price: $198*++ (adults), $69++ (6-11 years old)
*Includes unlimited Veuve Clicquot Brut Yellow Label, selected red and white wines, selected cocktails and beers, fresh juices and soft drinks

For mother’s day only, make your reservation through Chope app and their website to enjoy 10%. Simply state “Chope Mother’s Day 10%” in the “Special Request” section.

Edge
Address: Pan Pacific Singapore, Level 3, 7 Raffles Boulevard, 039595
Contact number: +65 6826 8240
Operating hours: Sunday Champagne Brunch (12:00pm to 4:00pm), Dinner (6:30pm to 10:30pm)

2. Terra

Mom deserves the very best and we assure you, nothing tops a Tokyo Italian dining experience (except for mom’s cooking but please let her have the day off). There is an ala cart menu at Terra but we suggest you try the signature Omakase (a meal consisting of dishes selected by the chef) to experience’s Chef Seita’s artistry and craft.

What makes Terra really special is their philosophy of remaining faithful to authentic Italian cuisine without using any Japanese cooking technique; and at the same time, using seasonal fresh ingredients native to Japan. Among the dishes that diners will have the opportunity to sample include home-made in-house cured Bottarga, Acqua Pazza (an Italian seafood soup with poached fish and other treasures of the sea).

Seita’s Omakase
Price: $128++, $168++ or $208++ per person
Serving time: 6:30pm – 11:30pm (last order at 10pm)
Reservations and pre-order of the Omakase is required

Terra
Address: 54 Tras Street, 078993
Contact number: +65 6221 5159
Operating hours: Monday – Friday (12.00pm – 2:00pm, 6:30pm – 11:00pm), Saturday (6:30pm – 11:00pm)
Website: Catalunya to experience what the Land of Passion, Spain, is all about. Located at Collyer Quay, Catalunya is a fantastic restaurant that offers a terrific combination of contemporary and traditional Spanish cuisine with a breathtaking 360-degree panoramic view of the city. But what makes Catalunya really impressive is their updated menu featuring a brand-new grilled seafood section and the drool worthy Chilli Crab Txangguro tapa. For the health conscious mom, Catalunya has gluten-free, vegetarian, and non-pork options.

Catalunya
Address: The Fullerton Pavillon, 82 Collyer Quay, 49327
Contact number: +65 6534 0886
Operating Hours: Monday – Friday (12:00pm-12:00am), Saturday- Sunday (12:30pm-12:00am)
Website: Image source: Marriott Cafe[/caption]

This Mother’s Day, Marriott Cafe will be serving an extravagant Lunch buffet with more than 90 irresistible treats, making it 1.5 times more than their regular buffets! Kickstart this Queen Lunch with some fresh oysters, Boston Lobsters, Snow Crab Legs, and when mom wants something warm, head over to the Seafood Frill for more lobsters, scallops or check out the live station for some Foie Gras, roast beef, Salmon Coulibiac and more. Mom will also receive a special goodie bag that will put a smile on her face.

Image source:

5. The White Rabbit

[caption id="attachment_6304" align="alignnone" width="960"] Image source: TWR[/caption]

Want to enjoy a meal away from the crazy crowds and maddening queues? Head over to Dempsey this Mother’s Day to enjoy a luxurious Mother’s Day Buffet Brunch at The White Rabbit. From fresh oysters, Smoked Chicken Waldorf, Grilled Angus Flat Iron Steak, to Tiramisu and Muscovado Creme Brulee, mom will feel like she’s Alice in Wonderland. There will also be a little something from Yves Saint Lauren Beauty to make mama’s day special.

TWR Mother’s Day Buffet Brunch:

[caption id="attachment_6305" align="alignnone" width="960"] Image source: TWR [/caption]

Date: 8th May, 2016

First seating:
Price: $98++ (adults), $48++ (6-12 years old)
Seating time: 10:00am-12:00pm, 10:15am-12:15pm, 10:30am-12.30pm, 10:45am-12:45pm

Second seating:
Price: $108++ (adults), $48++ (6-12 years old)
Seating time: 12:30pm-2:30pm, 12:45pm-2:45pm, 1:00pm-3:00pm, 1:15pm-3:15pm, 1:30pm-3:30pm

The White Rabbit
Address: 39C Harding Rd, 249541
Contact number:+65 6473 9965
Facebook: The White Rabbit
Online Reservation: Click Here

So where would you bring your Lady Queen to this Mother’s Day? Or will you be cooking something up (like eggs) for mummy on her special day? Drop us a comment and let us know!

(Header image credit: The White Rabbit, words by editor)

Also read: 10 Annoying Things Only SG Moms Do That We Take For Granted

Where to buy Hai Di Lao Soup Base for your Reunion Dinner this CNY Eve!

Most of us have probably eaten at or at least heard of the famous Hai Di Lao Hot Pot chain of restaurants which is revered for their fresh ingredients as well as their great service. Just thinking about their amazing soup base, savoury meat and crunchy vegetables will cause just about anyone to salivate right on the spot and rush to one of their outlets for some hot pot.

Owing to their reputation, the three outlets boasts waiting times of up to 2 hours before you finally get your turn to serve the harmonious medley of piping hot soup and cooked meat into your mouth. As expected, the quality of its food and services is also accompanied by above-average price tags. Definitely not something that the average citizen would be able to afford on a regular basis.

https://www.instagram.com/p/3BRTmVPlOd/

However, there is another alternative. What if you could enjoy the tantalizing bliss on your taste buds without the hassle of the long queues and enjoy it whenever you want? What if you could answer to your cravings for Hai Di Lao hot pot in the comfort of your own home AND at a cheaper price?

Just the other day I overheard a friend saying that the Hai Di Lao soup base can be purchased at local supermarkets. The name I heard was Sheng Siong Supermarket. Of course I had to clarify, so I started digging around and did some research. I’ve not been to the local supermarkets myself yet, but I found some other people on Instagram who did!

[embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/u5v6aqqz5D/[/embed]

Look at that! Having Hai Di Lao at home.. It must be one of the greatest feelings in the world.

[embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/3bPXkhBse-/[/embed]

According to the comments of these people who have bought the product, the soup base is available at both Giant and Sheng Siong Supermarkets.

But wait: how much does it cost?

[embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/BArleGalb9K/[/embed]

According to the photo above which was uploaded recently, you can roughly see the price tag indicator displaying a big $5 with some blurred out smaller digits. It’s probably safe to say that it’s below $6! That’s quite a steal for a serving size of 3-5 people (excluding the ingredients of course). Despite a lacking in the variety of soup bases compared to what is offered within the Hai Di Lao outlets, we have to be thankful that they are even available at all!

To purchase this famous soup base, simply head down to your nearest Giant or Sheng Siong outlet.

Click

Click So what are you waiting for? If you are a fan of Hai Di Lao hot pot, head down to your local Giant or Sheng Siong Supermarket right now and get yourself some of these soup bases! (At the same time, grab some fresh ingredients from the other aisles as well.)

Better go get them before they’re snatched up by everyone else!

(Featured image credits: Wall Street Journal)

5 Reunion Dinner Restaurants That Your In-Laws Will Absolutely Love

[caption id="attachment_643" align="alignnone" width="800"] Image Credit: Beijing Holiday[/caption]

It’s that time of the year again. Well, almost.

A time where the sounds of crackling fireworks and booming drums can be heard from miles away.

A time where streets are decked with a cascade of flamboyant lights and red couplets.

A time where oranges… You get the picture.

Chinese New Year is barely a month away and it’s time to usher in the festive cheer. Of course, ‘tis the season of celebration of all things home, family, and friends. Nowhere is this seen more clearly than in the annual tradition of Reunion Dinners.

Times are changing and Singaporeans are opting for newer choices to host their reunion dinners. Here are 5 carefully curated selections of Chinese Restaurants, each catering to a specific type of customers while offering a totally novel experience.

1. Hai Tien Lo

The epitome of traditional Cantonese dining, award-winning Hai Tien Lo remains one of the best Chinese restaurants in Singapore. Oozing class and grandeur with majestic red and gold themed elements, it feels like you are stepping in to the Forbidden Palace. Serving a range of impressive and quality fare ranging from the Roasted Barbecued Suckling Pig to handcrafted Dim Sum dishes, Hai Tien Lo is the ideal place to ring in the auspicious season.

[embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/r6apaimocU/?taken-at=254531939[/embed] [embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/5FHNAYpCFu/?taken-at=254531939[/embed] [embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/_GWRiSg3dK/?taken-at=254531939[/embed]

Location: #03-00, Pan Pacific Hotel Singapore, 7 Raffles Boulevard, Singapore 039595
Dinner Hours: Daily: 6:30pm – 10:30pm

2. Chui Huay Lim

Tucked at the corner of Newton Circus, don’t underestimate its rather obscure location. You’ll be wondering why you didn’t make a reservation. Boasting a history of more than 169 years, Chui Huay Lim specializes in Teochew cuisine, offering over 150 dishes of contemporary excellence and authenticity at its finest. Savour to delicious Pork Trotter Jelly, Braised Goose and Teochew Steamed Pomfret as you bask in the marvelous history of this quaint establishment.

[embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/BApZ0f-EHAr/?taken-at=235536841[/embed] [embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/-9Dx7oFrPW/?taken-at=235536841[/embed] [embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/90yeRtpU_o/?taken-at=235536841[/embed]

Location: #01-02, Chui Huay Lim Club, 190 Keng Lee Rd, Singapore 308409
Dinner Hours: Daily: 6:00pm – 11:00pm

3. Jing Hua Xiao Chi

Tired of all the glamour and formalities of a traditional reunion dinner? Try Jing Hua Xiao Chi for a simple one. Although there are 2 other venues situated at Neil Road and Rochor Road, the ideal location to host your dinner is the branch at Orchard Road. Combining a rich and welcoming interior while retaining its original heritage, Jing Hua Xiao Chi does not forget its roots as a small shophouse and remains dedicated to serving traditional-style Xiao Chi dishes. Be sure to indulge in their signature Xiao Long Baos, Sweet Osmanthus Flower Rice Ball, and Red Bean Pancake.

[embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/2a4Z9QS0Sf/?taken-at=495365993[/embed] [embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/6quXp3lcxs/?taken-at=495365993[/embed] [embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/wLV-w6AKgN/?taken-at=495365993[/embed]

Location: #B1-04/05, Palais Renaissance, 390 Orchard Rd, Singapore 238871
Dinner Hours: Daily: 5:30pm – 10:00pm

4. Chopsuey Café

This one’s for the hipster families and friends. Serving up Chinese-fusion food in a beautiful colonial-style environment at the particularly winsome Dempsey Hill, Chopsuey Café is the brainchild of PS Café’s first foray into Chinese cuisine. An Instagrammer’s heaven typified by aesthetically eye-catching dishes like the the Flakey Char Siew Puff, Chicken Rice Balls, and Crispy Orange Beef, you’ll be thinking twice about eating these wonderfully plated creations.

Location: #01-23, 10 Dempsey Road, Singapore 247700
Dinner Hours: Daily: 6:30pm – 12:00 am

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5. Mouth Restaurant

One can always count on something familiar. For a no-frills experience and for the acquiescent who are nonchalant about where to eat, Mouth Restaurant is the classic choice due to its household name. Perhaps, to spice it up with a “Chinese-feel”, try the one at China Square Central in Chinatown, for obvious reasons. Dive in to the instantly recognizable and legendary Baked Salted Egg Yolk Bun, as well as other mouth-watering selections like the Pipa Prawns.

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Location: #01-61, China Square Central South Bridge Court Shop House, 22 Cross Street, Singapore 048421
Dinner Hours: Daily: 6:00pm – 11:00pm

So what are you waiting for? Hurry up and place those reservations!

And tell us: Where else would you go for your reunion dinners?

Featured image credits: Amari

7 After Dinner Hang Out Spots To Discover With Your Best Friend In Serangoon And Kovan!

There has been a surge of posts dedicated to dining places in the Serangoon and Kovan region as of late, and it is no surprise why.

Over the past 5 years, the area has been growing tremendously with cafes and restaurants to cater to every taste palette. From the established Ah Seah Teochew Porridge at its new Teck Chye Terrace location to the Nakhon Kitchen at Hougang Street 21, famous for its notoriously long queues, one will always be spoilt for choice when choosing to dine in this region.

The chore here always comes after dinner – where shall we go next?

Gone were the days where the only option diners had was Selegie Soya Milk along Upper Serangoon Road. There are now plenty of hang out spot that diners can go to hang out at that offers both affordable yet delicious choices. Here are 7 handpicked just for you:

1. Nunsongyee Korean Dessert Café

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Tucked away in a corner of the Serangoon Gardens Estate is Nunsongyee, a Korean dessert café that specializes in serving BingSu – a popular Korean dessert made up of milk shavings and various ingredients. Nunsongyee undoubtedly serves one of the best BingSu’s here in Singapore, with its fine and fluffy shaved ice and generous toppings that aren’t too sweet to digest.

All in all it gives a very nice and refreshing sensation when consumed. There are 2 ranges of Bingsu served here – Snowflake Bingsu ($12.90 – $15.90) and Premium Bingsu ($18.90), which in all honesty is priced considerably high compared to other Bingsu outlets here. However, for the quality and ambience you’re getting, I think it’s well worth it.

Address: 45 Burghley Drive #01-04 Singapore 559022

Opening Hours: Tuesday – Sunday: 10:00 – 22:00

Closed: Mondays

2. Chillax Café

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What’s a list of places to hang out at without Chillax Café? Located in Serangoon Gardens along Maju Avenue, Chillax Café definitely provides its customers a location to just chill out with its warm ambience, soulful music and welcoming interior design.

Their recently expanded menu offers a range of choices for customers to wind down and relax – from desserts that satisfies any sweet tooth to a range of beers, ciders and wines, this café certainly knows how to make one feel comfortable and at ease.

For the more adventurous, do try the Adult Milo Godzilla ($15) that mixes both Vodka and Milo into one delicious yet relatively potent serving, and may really leave your friends wondering how you got drunk on Milo Dinosaur.

Address: 28 Maju Avenue, Singapore 556698

Opening Hours:

Sunday – Thursday: 11:00 – 00:00

Friday – Saturday: 11:00 – 02:00

3. Dessert Bowl

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Durian lovers, this one’s for you. Another hidden gem in Serangoon Gardens is Dessert Bowl, a store specializing in your typical Hong Kong desserts.

The store is well known for their rich and delicious durian desserts that will have you coming back for more. A personal favorite is their durian mousse ($5) – a thick, creamy and flavorful bowl of goodness topped with real durian flesh that could well be a good substitute for the king of fruits itself.

For those of you that flinch at the slightest thought of durians, do not worry. Dessert Bowl is also well known for its mango dishes, especially its Mango Mousse with Pomelo Toppings ($4.50) and its Aiyu Mango ($4.20) that is extremely refreshing. The tiny space does get really crowded and noisy during peak hours, and getting a table especially for large groups may be a rather long wait. It’s worth it though, I promise.

Address: 80A Serangoon Garden Way Singapore 555976

Opening Hours:

Tuesday – Thursday: 1300 – 2230

Friday – Saturday: 13:00 – 00:00

Closed: Mondays

4. Lickers

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Of all the dining spots mentioned, Lickers is definitely the newest player in the block.

Located in the heart of Lorong Ah Soo, Lickers is definitely a good place to have after dinner desserts. The store makes their delicious ice cream in house daily with freshly supplied ingredients, and they offer their own unique range of flavors in addition to the popular favorites like Earl Grey, Vanilla Bean and Dark Chocolate. Oh and be sure to also try out the new flavors that the store comes out with every once in a while!

Address: Block 124 Hougang Avenue 1, #01-1446, Singapore 530124

Opening Hours:

Tuesday – Thursday: 13:00 – 22:00

Friday – Sunday: 12:00 – 23:00

5. Nectars and Vine

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Located comfortably between Kovan and Serangoon MRT is Nectars and Vine, a retail and wholesale store along Upper Serangoon Road that offers a wide selection of imported bottled beers and good wine at very reasonable prices.

As it opens till 1am every night, Nectars and Vine is arguably one of the best places to hang out at with friends after a long day of work. Its spacious and inviting atmosphere makes it an especially great place for large groups to hang out at. The only downside would be that they don’t serve food to munch on while downing the drinks, apart from the usual convenience store snacks like potato chips and peanuts that are on display.

Address: 752 Upper Serangoon Road Singapore 534623

Opening Hours:

Sunday – Friday: 14:00 – 01:00

Saturday: 14:00 – 02:00a

6. Saturday House

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Saturday House, located slightly out of the Kovan and Serangoon region, managed to bag a spot on our list simply because it offers good food and cheap beer, a combination you can never go wrong with. Glazed with a fusion of marmite and honey, Saturday House’s marmite mid joint wings is deliciously tasteful and crispy, and will certainly have you coming back for more.

Getting here by public transport is pretty easy – Bus 80 from Kovan MRT and Buses 22, 43 or 70 from Serangoon MRT gets you here in a jiffy. It gets extremely cooling here once the sun sets with the occasional gusts of wind from the evening breeze, this really is a great place to enjoy and sumptuous meal with a bottle of refreshing beer along with the company of your friends.

Address: 339 Upper Paya Lebar Road Singapore 534953

Opening Hours:

Sunday to Thursdays: 1130 – 2300

Fridays and Saturdays: 1130 – 0000

7. Hatter Street

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And what’s a list of after dinner hang out spots without Hatter’s Street?

Located right beside the famous Nakhon Kitchen, Hatter Street has proven to be a neighborhood favorite amongst residents here. The Alice in Wonderland inspired café serves possibly some of the best waffles in the entire country. Ask their long queue of patrons and I’m sure they will agree. Served piping hot and topped with an ice cream flavor of your choice, these waffles will definitely have you coming back for more. Their other desserts are pretty popular as well, and are well worth the queue, especially if you patronize the store on a weekend night.

Address: 212 Hougang Street 21 #01-333 Singapore 530212

Opening Hours: Tuesday – Sunday: 13:00 – 22:00

Closed: Mondays

Are there any other places that we should include in this list? Let us know on our Facebook page!

The Circuit Breaker Life: 10 Things You Never Knew You Were Thankful For

Staying home during this time has made us crave face-to-face human interaction or yearn to go back to our usual routines.

In a state of boredom, people are forced to get creative. We have quickly changed up our routines such as converting our gym sessions to home workouts, or even achieving new goals such as learning a new skill online or finishing a book that we read halfway.

But there are also some who have thought of really bizarre things. For instance, a Redditor built a life-sized Jewel Changi Airport in Minecraft to curb his boredom. 

Another Redditor even came up with a ‘Stay Home MRT Line’ to sum up a day of his life.

We may be stuck at home but that doesn’t stop people from thinking of creative ways to spend their Circuit Breaker life differently. One thing’s for sure though, here are 10 things that we’ll definitely miss once the Circuit Breaker is over.

1. Wake Up Later, Wear PJs All Day

Working from home brings about many perks for the lazybones.

Firstly, you get to snooze a little longer because we no longer have to be out the door by 8am to catch the train. If work starts at 9am, we can afford to wake up five minutes before and skip the shower.

Who cares if you’ve not brushed your teeth or if you’re wearing pyjamas to work?

Ultimately, this saves us a lot of time. You also do not have to style your hair or think about what to wear every day. Doing work in comfortable PJs and messy hair all day is a true luxury that comes with working from home.

2. Home-cooked Meals