Get your groove on: must-visit Noise Singapore events in 2019
Dedicated to making noise about the creative talent of young people, the annual Noise Singapore is back this year with its anticipated Noise Anchor Programmes and Noise Music Mentorship.
This year’s edition of Noise Singapore focuses on bringing co-creation to the forefront with several programmes, exposing participants to varied forms of digital and urban arts through mentorships, as well as creation and showcase opportunities. Members of the public will have the opportunity to explore various immersive programmes happening from 23 February to 19 April.
If you’re looking for some events to keep you occupied for the weeks ahead, here are some highlights of this edition of Noise Singapore!
Get A Taste Of An ‘Alternate’ Reality At Noise Metaverse
Quite a few Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) game shops have popped up around our island in the past year. Movies like Ready Player One was a hit as well, exemplifying the wonders of immersive technologies.
Now, you can get a chance to delve into the world of AR, VR, and Mixed Reality at the Noise Metaverse Exhibition happening from 23 February to 3 March at *SCAPE Ground Theatre!
A two-month mentorship programme paired youth with mentors from iMMERSiVELY, a creative start-up that specialises in immersive media technologies, and provided participants with a platform to explore how art can intersect with immersive technologies. The mentorship programme then culminates with the Noise Metaverse Exhibition.
Check out the final art x tech projects to appreciate the hard work of these young mentees who were guided by the various industry experts at the Noise Metaverse exhibition starting this weekend!
Hang Out At The Noise Invasion Festival
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Image Credit: Time Out Singapore[/caption]
Happening on 23 March, the Noise Invasion Festival held at Parklane Shopping Mall (Level 8 Carpark) aims to engage youths through relatable Urban Arts content. Some highlights that you can expect include a showcase of emerging electronic musicians, dance performances and art installations sure to liven your Instagram feed.
Be sure to follow #NoiseInvasionFest on social media prior to the festival and check out the exciting activities for a Saturday hangout with your friends!
Ogle At The Doodles At Noise Local Motif
If you’ve always wondered how to appreciate art, let Noise Local Motif show you how art can be relatable and challenge some of your preconceived ideas.
As a peer-to-peer learning programme by Band of Doodlers, Noise Local Motif aims to showcase illustration works inspired and co-created by participants and beneficiaries of various social sector organisations. With the illustrations displayed across trains on the Downtown Line, commuters can now enjoy arts on the go quite literally so.
So, take a break from your screens on your next train ride and prepare to be mesmerised by some of the dynamic works on display from 22 March to 19 April!
Get Drawn To The Magic Of GIFs At Noise GIF Fest
Some say that art creates magic, and that’s exactly what Noise GIF Fest aims to do.
Organised by The Unusual Network and a Noise Anchor Programme, this year’s festival theme is “Magic” featuring GIFs as the digital art format that suits the bill. Catch the Noise GIF Fest at Blk 7 Gillman Barracks from 28 March to 1 April, where you can enjoy a display of themed digital works! Apart from that, you can also expect to attend workshops and talks on how GIFs are used to bring a piece of art to life at the festival.
Noise Singapore is currently also accepting submissions for original digital artwork from anyone ranging from amateurs to professionals. If you’ve been creating GIFs for your cliques on Telegram, channel that creativity in you and submit your GIFs by 10 March to have your pieces showcased at the festival’s exhibition! More details on submission guidelines can be found at Noise Music Mentorship
Ever wondered how Ed Sheeran created that hook, or how The Sam Willows writes such zestful music that you can’t help bopping to in the car? Well, here’s your chance to learn more about music-making through a two-day showcase by mentees under the 11th edition of Noise Music Mentorship (NMM). This year, the iconic NMM programme saw young, budding artists being guided by seasoned professionals the likes of turntablist DJ KoFlow and musician Tim de Cotta. From 16 – 17 March, the participants of will also be conducting workshops and feedback sessions on their music at Plaza Singapura (Level 1 Outdoor Front Plaza). The best part? You could catch a glimpse of your favourite local artists, including Mandopop artist Tay Kewei, hip hop icon KoFlow, and singer-songwriter Inch Chua at the event alongside the showcases of the mentees. https://www.instagram.com/p/BpwlDzSlat8/ For more details on Noise Singapore and the individual programmes, click Singapore Bicentennial – The History And Debate Around It If you’ve been active on social media recently, you probably would have noticed the phrase “Singapore bicentennial” marked in bold on the titles of various posts and articles. The recent budget announcement also included a $1.1 billion Bicentennial Bonus to be given out to Singaporeans to commemorate the bicentennial year. You probably would have also noticed that while some have termed the bicentennial as a “celebration”, others have ascribed less than favourable descriptions to it. So what exactly is the bicentennial, and why is the ongoing debate surrounding it significant? In essence, 2019 marks the 200th anniversary of Singapore’s founding by the British, including Sir Stamford Raffles who is frequently touted as the “founder of modern Singapore”. This has galvanised the Singapore Bicentennial Office (SBO) to organise a slew of events including exhibitions, seminars, and even a Bicentennial Edition of the annual Light to Night Festival to commemorate this historical milestone. While some have deemed these efforts as acceptable given the occasion, others have criticised them as glorifying colonialism and white superiority. For instance, in a piece for Esquire, Singapore-based writer Neil Humphreys challenged, “How can the subjugation of indigenous people, in any context, be called a celebration? … Praising Raffles acknowledges a white man’s superiority over repressed colonial subjects”. Others who grew up during the colonial era have also labelled the British as “imperialists” who not only exploited locals and the working class, but also failed in their capacity as leaders and protectors during the Japanese occupation. Moreover, some individuals have taken issue with the concept that a celebration of the bicentennial could indicate a lack of regard for Singapore’s history before 1819 – that is, before the arrival of Raffles. For instance, some key events include gem trader Jacques de Coutre’s recognition of Singapore’s strategic location and proposal to the King of Spain to construct a fortress here in the 1630s, as well as Singapore’s already bustling seaport that was established in the 14th century. 
How The Term “Bicentennial” Came About
The Good And The Bad
Image Credit: Marketing Interactive[/caption]
All of these transpired well before the arrival of the British, and a bicentennial celebration could thus be perceived as perpetuating the notion that Singapore’s history in the pre-colonial era is non-existent.
There are, however, many who view the bicentennial in a more positive light.
Some have highlighted the positive impact that the British left on Singapore’s education and legal systems, and the way in which our colonial past has helped foster our amicable relations with Britain in the present.
Given SBO’s reassurance that the commemoration “will not shy away from addressing elements in history that may not be always positive”, fears that only a selective—rather than an all-encompassing and unfiltered—version of Singapore’s history will be presented have also been allayed. This official statement has addressed concerns that the bicentennial might adopt a celebratory tone which extols the British’s economic contributions.
But perhaps the most critical contribution that commemorating the bicentennial has delivered is the fervid debate which has arisen surrounding Singapore’s history.
The average Singaporean, armed with bits of information he managed to retain from social studies lessons in primary school, would likely be able to explain the oft-cited narrative on our country’s struggle for independence. Yet, the pre-1965 period generally remains hazy and unfamiliar, let alone fervently debated on or discussed.
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The forgotten founder of Singapore – Major-General William Farquhar. Image Credit: Under The Angsana Tree[/caption]
Why has only been featured as a footnote in our textbooks, whilst hotels, schools and statues have been established in honour of Sir Stamford Raffles? What of the other officials and figures whose contributions have been obscured by the long shadow cast by Raffles? Does Singapore owe its lingua franca, economic and political systems and, by extension, the foundations of its society, to the British? And finally, should our colonialist past be extricated and embraced, or should it be stored away in the dusty past?
These are questions that the ongoing debate seeks to address, even if they can never truly be answered.
So, the next time you hurry past Boat Quay, perhaps stop in your tracks to consider whether the pristine white statue of Raffles blends in with the immaculate, glass-encased skyscrapers, or if it sticks out like a sore thumb against the backdrop of charcoal grey.
Featured Image Credit: Yahoo Finance
McDonald’s Prosperity Burger Returns, Along With A New Breakfast Item: Hotcakes With Fried Chicken
Year after year, we all look forward to Chinese New Year for one thing only – McDonald’s Prosperity Burger.
It should honestly be a staple on the menu because it is one of our greatest national treasures. It’s also probably the only burger we’re all willing to fight the crowd for.
If you love the Prosperity Burger as much as we do, great news, McDonald’s is bringing back the long awaited burgers on 24 Jan 2019.
Come Home To Prosperity
Starting 24 January, McDonald’s Singapore presents Singaporeans with a collection of returning Chinese New Year classics – the Prosperity Burger and Twister Fries – and new additions to the menu!
Savour the perfect reunion of flavours! Bite into a mouth-watering beef or chicken patty drenched in McDonald’s black pepper sauce,
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GIF Credit: McDonald’s Singapore[/caption]
topped with crisp, sliced onions and tucked between warm, fluffy sesame buns. The Prosperity Burger is truly the most anticipated burger every year!
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GIF Credit: McDonald’s Singapore[/caption]
Prosperity Burgers And Twister Fries
Just like previous years, the Prosperity Beef or Chicken Burger returns in single and double patty options, available from S$5.50 and S$7.50, respectively. You can also get the Prosperity Twister Fries à la carte at S$3.40 or upgrade Extra Value Meal fries with an additional top-up of S$0.70.
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Image Credit: Discover SG[/caption]
Or go all out and get the Prosperity Feast (from $9.50) – the perfect combination of their delicious Prosperity Burger (Beef or Chicken), Prosperity Twister Fries (M), Peach Pie, and Iced Milo (S).
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Image Credit: Discover SG[/caption]
With every purchase of the Prosperity Feast, you will also receive a set of ang baos, consisting of four different designs whether in-stores or via McDelivery® and GrabFood, available from 24 January, while stocks last.
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Image Credit: Discover SG[/caption]
Hotcakes with Golden Chicken
You probably had or heard of Chicken and Waffles once in your lifetime. Usher in the new year with McDonald’s all-new Hotcakes with Golden Chicken – three pieces of hotcakes drizzled with syrup and butter, paired with a golden chicken cutlet.
The breakfast platter will be sold from S$6.50, providing a savoury option for hotcakes lovers!
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Image Credit: McDonald’s Singapore[/caption]
There’s no better way to usher in the prosperous new year than catching up with friends and family over a Prosperity Burger!
McDonald’s Chinese New Year 2019
Must-try: Golden Prosperity Burger, Hotcakes With Golden Chicken
Date: From 24 January, while stocks last
Also Read From BBT To Stinky Tofu, Get A Taste Of Taiwan At S’pore’s Very Own Shilin Night Market This April
(Header Image Source: McDonald’s Singapore)
From BBT To Stinky Tofu, Get A Taste Of Taiwan At S’pore’s Very Own Shilin Night Market This April
No visit to Taiwan is complete without visiting the one of the largest and iconic night markets in town. Located in Taipei’s Shilin District, Shilin Night Market is a maze of alleyways filled with a variety of local and traditional Taiwanese fare and international merchandise that attract local and foreigners alike.
Many of Taiwan’s traditional food can be found and bought for reasonable prices from the friendly locals such as Giant Fried Chicken Steak, Tempura, Bubble Tea, Oyster Vermicelli, Oyster Omelet, Fried Buns and of course, the most notorious Taiwanese goodie, Stinky Tofu.
Now here’s the good news. You can save on that flight ticket to Taiwan as Shilin Night Market is coming to Singapore for the very first time this April!
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Image Credit: Taiwan Tourism Bureau[/caption]
Most Popular Night Market In Taiwan
Taking place over two weekends in April (19-21 April and 26-28 April) at TheGrounds @ Kranji, Invade is introducing Shilin Night Market for the very first time in Singapore. Invade also previously hosted Artbox Singapore and Artbox Malaysia which brought the best of markets to the region with each city’s installation infused with the local flavour.
Get a taste of Taiwan as they will be bringing in a wide variety of Taiwanese and Singaporean street delicacies, creative eats, pop up artisan stores, arcade games and even movie screenings.
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Image Credit: Taiwan Tourism Bureau[/caption]
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Image Credit: migrationology.com[/caption]
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Image Credit: Eurokulture[/caption]
Not much information has been released regarding the stalls that will be there but we’re pretty sure this will be the most anticipated pop-up market of the year. If you’re interested in opening a stall at the upcoming Shilin Night Market, more information on stall rental can be found here.
For updates on the event, visit https://www.facebook.com/events/2281067658779536/ or check out their Instagram page here.
Till then, we’ll be dreaming of bubble tea and stinky tofu!
Shilin Night Market
Address: The Grounds @ Kranji (Singapore Turf Club Carpark B)
Dates: 19 – 21 April and 26 – 28 April
Opening Hours: 3pm – 11pm
Instagram | Event Page
Also Read Save More, Huat More – 10 Wholesale Stores In S’pore To Stock Up On CNY Goodies And Groceries
(Header Image Source: Taiwan Tourism Bureau, migrationology.com)
10 New Bubble Tea Options In Singapore That Are Not Gong Cha Or Koi
If there’s anything that 2018 gave us, it was a slew of new bubble tea brands – not that we’re complaining.
Over the years, we’ve seen bubble tea stores come and go – from the good ol’ days of Sweet Talk to big name chains like Gong Cha, Koi and LiHo conquering the BBT game. But in recent months, many new bubble tea kiosks have been springing up, giving those long standing favourites a run for their money.
If you’re looking for to switch up your go to order, here are 10 new bubble tea brands you should totally hunt down in 2019.
1. Ten Ren Tea
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Image Credit: @tenrenteasg[/caption]
For those of you who are unfamiliar, Ten Ren Tea was established in 1953 and is THE leading tea retailer in Taiwan. That’s not all, they have over 2000 outlets in Australia, Japan, Canada, Malaysia, and North America.
The 800-square feet store at ChinaTown Point offers bubble tea, traditional tea drinks, as well as tea leaves, snacks and tea ware.
Ten Ren Tea puts a spin on our traditional teas with our love for bubble, sourcing quality tea leaves from the mountains of Taiwan. A must-try here is its signature 913 King’s Oolong Tea Latte ($3.50 for medium, $4.90 for large). Another popular pick is the Taro Green Tea Latte ($4.70 for medium, $6.50 for large).
Ten Ren Tea
Address: Chinatown Point, 133 New Bridge Rd, #01-07, Singapore 059413
Opening Hours: Daily: 10am – 10pm
Contact no.: 6593 4333
Website
2. TP Tea
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Image Credit: @tptea.sg[/caption]
Bless the bubble tea gods as TP Tea is considered Singapore’s first 24hrs Taiwanese Bubble Tea shop – which means they’re open to satisfy your 3am cravings. They’re also Halal-certified which provides a peace-of-mind to Muslim customers.
The bestseller at TP Tea includes the Tie Guan Yin Tea Latte ($4.60) which uses premium tea leaves from Taiwan and Pearl Black Tea Latte with Red Bean ($5.30). The star on the menu is also the Pearl Milk Tea Soft Serve Ice Cream ($3.60) which comes topped with sweet, chewy QQ Pearls made fresh every 3 hours.
TP Tea Changi Airport
Address: Level 2 (Departure Hall) Changi Airport Terminal, 260 Airport Boulevard, Singapore 819643
Opening Hours: 24 hours, daily
Website
TP Tea Suntec City
Address: Suntec City, #01-312, 3 Temasek Boulevard Singapore 038983
Opening Hours: 11am – 10pm, daily
Website
3. Hollin
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Image Credit: @cweizhi[/caption]
Gone are the days of basic black pearls. Hollin, which in Hokkien means “Good to drink”, specialises in freshly made pearls.
Other than the Honey White Pearl which is a fixed flavour, you can expect daily rotating pearl flavours with the likes of Cocoa, Matcha and Coconut. So if you happen to be craving for a particular flavour, you have to head down on the day itself or you’ll end up waiting for another week for your bubble tea fix. Pearls are priced at an additional $0.70 for both Medium and Large cups.
A must-try is their signature Matcha Latte ($4.20) which has a subtle bitterness from the matcha powder. You can also get the Hollin Black Tea Latte ($3.20 medium, $4.20 large) has a strong floral flavour from the roasted tea leaves.
Hollin
Address: Blk 190 Lorong 6 Toa Payoh, #01-538, Singapore 310190
Opening Hours: 10am – 10pm, daily
Contact No.: 6252 2456
Website
4. HEYTEA
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Image Credit: @heytea[/caption]
Touted as the OG creator of cheese teas, the highly-raved Chinese tea connoisseur finally made its way to Singapore back in November.
We recommend getting the King Fone ($5.50) which uses premium Oolong tea leaves that have been smoked to bring out the strong fragrance of the tea. The saltiness from the cheese foam gives the brew a savoury kick with every sip.
HEYTEA will be opening their second outlet at Clarke Quay and adding alcoholic bubble tea creations to the menu.
HEYTEA
Address: 2 Orchard Turn, #B4-29, Singapore 238801
Opening Hours: 10am – 10pm, daily
Website
5. Answer Tea
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Image Credit: @answertea.sg[/caption]
Have a question you don’t have an answer to? Answer Tea may be able to help you out. Simply write your questions on the cup holder and order a drink from their Macchiato Series (from $4.30) and you’ll get your answer printed on the surface of your macchiato froth with edible ink.
If you need a drink for the ‘gram, we highly recommend the Lemon Butterfly Milk Tea with Black Pearl (from $4.20) which has a gorgeous blue hue derived from butterfly pea flowers.
Answer Tea
Address: Dhoby Ghaut MRT, B2, Singapore 238826
Opening Hours: 11am – 10pm, daily
Contact No.: 9117 1277
Website
6. MuYoo
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Image Credit: @thefussyfoodie_[/caption]
As if we don’t have enough options already, here’s another newcomer to the cheese tea scene: MuYoo. Launched by a Singaporean duo, the brand claims to have a healthier version of cheese tea compared to everyone else.
Its signature “Cheese Cloud,” is whipped up with a mixture of “naturally derived milk powder” from New Zealand, cheese powder from Holland, and sea salt from Bolivia. This is what makes their cheese tea different, since the other brands usually use creamer, which is full of trans fat and artificial flavouring.
You can get that “Cheese Cloud” as an add-on to standard cold-brewed teas like Roasted Oolong ($3.50-$3.90) and Lapsang Souchong ($3.90-$4.50).
MuYoo
Address: 252 North Bridge Road #B1-67 Raffles City Shopping Centre Singapore 179103 (City Hall MRT)
Opening Hours: 10am – 10pm, daily
Website
MuYoo+
Address: Bedok Mall, 311 New Upper Changi Road, #01-94 (Bedok MRT)
Opening Hours: 9am – 11pm, daily
7. Tiger Sugar
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Image Credit: @hobijajan[/caption]
Those who have had a sip of this drink have claimed that the hype is very real, dubbing it as the most popular milk tea in Taipei.
Since its opening late last year, Tiger Sugar has been getting all the hype from hard core milk tea lovers in Taipei. They got their name from the ‘tiger stripes’ it forms when the caramalised syrup mixes with the thick milk tea mixture.
Many have praised their Brown Sugar Fresh Milk for its undiluted taste, a mistake often made by most bubble tea stores who scrimp on flavour affecting the overall taste and experience of milk tea addicts.
Tiger Sugar – Capitol Singapore
Address: Capitol Singapore #B2-32, 13 Stamford Road, Singapore 178905
Opening Hours: 11am – 10pm, daily
Tiger Sugar – Chinatown Point
Address: 133 New Bridge Road #B1-42 Singapore 059413
Opening Hours: 11am – 10pm, daily
8. Bobii Frutii
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Image Credit: Bobii Frutii Singapore Facebook[/caption]
Brought over from Taiwan by local actor, Nat Ho, Bobii Frutii puts a spin on bubble tea with colourful drinks and quirky drink names.
Known for its colourful pearls, Bobbii Frutii have since attracted crowds to both their outlets at Clementi Mall and Suntec City due to its distinct coloured and “Instagram-worthy” layers. Each drink is made using milk, tea, colourful pearls with no artificial flavouring, man-made essences, preservatives and creamer.
The menu features a total of 37 drinks divided into 5 categories – Tea Au Lait, Ice Blended, Matcha, Fruit Tea and Cheese Tea (exclusive to Singapore). The pearls come in 3 different flavours – Original, Butterfly Pea and Brown Sugar and are made made in Taiwan and air flown to Singapore to ensure freshness and consistency.
Get the signature Mermaid’s Tears, which a blend of Butterfly Pea extract, Mango Juice with honey, yogurt and butterfly bobii.
Bobii Frutii The Clementi Mall
Address: 3155 Commonwealth Avenue West, The Clementi Mall, #04-K4, Singapore 129588
Opening Hours: 10am – 10pm daily
Bobii Frutii Suntec City
Address: 3 Temasek Blvd, #02-376, Singapore 038983
Opening Hours: 11am – 10pm daily
Website
9. Bober Tea
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Image Credit: @lloydworth[/caption]
A new contender to the ever-expanding bubble tea scene is Bober Tea. Situated right outside Bishan MRT, Bober Tea serves unique concoctions using premium ingredients. What makes them stand out amongst the other bubble tea joints is their strict philosophy of serving beverages that take on the pure authentic flavours of the ingredients used as well as their emphasis on keeping their drinks as healthy as possible.
Bober Tea seems to be very popular for their Brown Sugar Boba Milk Cap Fresh Milk, the drink that has been in trend as of late. If you’re a huge match fan, then you’ll love the Uji Matcha Latte – made using pure matcha powder and fresh milk.
Other creative blends from by Bober Tea includes the Hokkaido Milk Cap Green Tea, Matcha Strawberry Latte and Black Glutinous Rice Milk Tea.
Bober Tea
Address: 200 Bishan Road, #01-01, Singapore 579827
Opening Hours: 11am – 10pm daily
Website
10. R&B Tea
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Image Credit: @tjang.fonda[/caption]
R&B Tea provides the perfect blend for those with a sweet tooth.
The Brown Sugar Boba Milk is a must try for everyone as the pearls are soaked in brown sugar and slow cooked for a full 3 hours. And if that isn’t enough sugar for you, get the Brown Sugar Boba Milk With Cheese Brulee which is only available at their Marina Bay Sands outlet.
R&B Tea
Address: Find your nearest outlet here
Website
Also Read Save More, Huat More – 10 Wholesale Stores In S’pore To Stock Up On CNY Goodies And Groceries
Save More, Huat More – 10 Wholesale Stores In S’pore To Stock Up On CNY Goodies And Groceries
Scrumptious reunion dinners and house visits chock full of festive treats are part and parcel of Chinese New Year celebrations. With the festive season just round the corner, there is absolutely no time to lose when it comes to shopping for goodies and groceries.
Whether you’re planning on shopping with the family or relying on your parents to bring food to the table, shop at these wholesale stores with prices lower than your neighbourhood supermarkets. You’ll definitely have to travel a little further than your normal trip to Sheng Siong, but fret now, the money you save from shopping at these places will more than offset the cost of your petrol.
Budget Singaporean or not, here are some wholesale stores to check out before Chinese New Year!
1. Hai Sia
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Image Credit: Hai Sia Seafood Supplies[/caption]
“Yu” in Chinese means both “prosperity” and “fish”. With that, large quantities of fish and other seafood should be consumed to ensure maximum huat throughout the new year.
If you’re looking for the freshest seafood at compatible prices, head down to the source itself. Situated opposite the Central Fish Market at Jurong Fishery Port, Hai Sia is in a prime location to purchase fresh seafood products from the region. They carry a wide range of fish, including familiar names such as Pomfret, Red Grouper, Red Snapper, Salmon, Seabass and Threadfin.
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Image Credit: Hai Sia Seafood Supplies[/caption]
The fluctuations in seafood prices during CNY can be quite dampening, especially for our wallets. However, the seafood from Hai Sia will be kept at their original prices this festive season!
If the location is too ulu for you, check out their whole range on RedMart and get them delivered to you instead.
Hai Sia Seafood Supplies
Address: 35A Fishery Port Road, Singapore S619743
Contact No.: 6264 1356
Website | Facebook | RedMart
2. Cellarbration
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Image Credit: Cellarbration Singapore[/caption]
What’s a gathering without a round of drinks?
Cellarbration, one of the largest online alcohol retailer in Singapore, will be selling their drinks at discounted prices this Chinese New Year. Cellarbration’s Chinese New Year sale boasts an impressive selection of spirits, wines, and beer! This includes crowd-favourites like Chivas Regal ($56, U.P. $82), Absolut Vodka ($40, U.P. $58), and Carlsberg 24x320ml ($48, U.P. $60) , and most of their wines are selling at prices lower than what you will get at Duty-Free.
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Image Credit: Cellarbration Singapore[/caption]
Get your drinks from their website or head down to any of their retail stores to enjoy their Chinese New Year promotion.
Cellarbration
Address: Find Their Nearest Store Here
Website | Facebook
3. Victoria Wholesale Centre
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Image Credit: @camarozetri[/caption]
Victoria Wholesale Centre is the only private wholesale centre in Singapore for dried goods. Head down to the shops on the first level where you can purchase goods in bulk and at lower prices than retail shops.
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Image Credit: @chaitehlatte[/caption]
From dried ikan bilis and dried shrimps to bird’s nest and fish maw, this wholesale centre has all the essential ingredients to recreate ah ma’s tonic soups!
Victoria Wholesale Centre
Address: 101 Kallang Avenue, Singapore 339508
Opening Hours From Now Till 2 Feb : Mon – Sun: 9am – 7pm
Contact No.: 6291 2349
Website | Facebook
4. Ben Foods
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Image Credit: Ben Foods’ Website[/caption]
Ben Foods is the best place to go for great deals on frozen food, canned sauces and dairy products. You will also find other familiar brands under them such as Farmland, Spices of the Orient and Orchard Fresh. Online purchases are available with self-collection and delivery options.
Despite their rather ulu location, the journey is well worth it as many have raved about the attractive wholesale prices at Ben Foods.
Ben Foods
Address: No 1 Fishery Port Road, Singapore 619729
Opening Hours: 26 Jan & 2 Feb: 10am – 1pm, 30 Jan – 1 Feb: 3pm – 5pm
Contact No.: 6267 4385
Need to much on nuts and snacks while you play a round of mahjong? Swing by Tai Sun‘s factory outlet for a snack shopping spree before CNY. You can expect your favourite snacks such as cashews, roasted almonds, assorted fruits and nuts all at cheap prices as compared to external retailers.
Great news is that their factory will be open to public a month before festive periods like Chinese New Year and Hari Raya – so you have plenty of time to stock up on snacks!
Tai Sun
Address: 255 Pandan Loop, Singapore 128433
Opening Hours: 9.30am – 5.30pm, daily
Contact No.: 6779 6611
Website
6. Hosen Singapore
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Image Credit: HOSEN Singapore[/caption]
The brand Hosen is synonymous with their famous canned fruits amongst all things.
Besides the syrup-soaked fruit slices they’re known for, you can also find stacks of canned drinks – perfect for serving when guests come over. From now till 1 February 2019, head down on weekdays and have a go at their “Sure Win Lucky Dip” with every $50 spent and stand a chance at winning a $88 hamper every week.
Hosen Singapore Annual Warehouse Sale
Address: 267 Pandan Loop, Singapore 128439
Date: 9 Jan 2019 – 1 Feb 2019
Opening Hours: Weekdays: 9am – 6pm, Weekends: 8am – 6pm
Facebook
7. QB Food Trading
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Image Credit: QB Food Trading[/caption]
QB Food offers a diverse range of products—including chilled and frozen meats, dairy products, dry goods, processed foods, and beverages. However, they are experts in fresh meat and cheese in particular.
So if you’re looking for top quality meats for your steamboat gatherings, you’ll be pleased to know that they’re selling it at discounted prices this festive season – Iberico Pork Collar Shabu Shabu 330g ($9.80, U.P. $14.50), Pork Belly Shabu Shabu ($5.90).
Do note that they are an “all members” store. All you have to do is simply sign up on their website prior to shopping with them. Don’t worry, membership is completely free!
QB Food Trading
Address: 8 Chin Bee Crescent, Jurong, Singapore 619893
Opening Hours During CNY: Mon – Fri: 9am – 6pm, Sat: 9am to 1pm | With Exceptions: 26 Jan: 9am to 3pm, 2 Feb: 9am to 3pm, 4 Feb: 9am to 1pm, 5 and 6 Feb: Closed
Website
8. Li Chuan Food Products
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Image Credit: Li Chuan Food Products[/caption]
Looking for a one stop place to get all your steamboat needs like fish balls, crabmeats and cheese tofu?
Hop over to Li Chuan for some frozen food shopping so you can hold an amazing steamboat that your guests will be sure to fawn over. The frozen food come in various sizes so you can feed a family of 5 or even entertain a group of 20 friends!
From 11 January to 1 February, head down to Li Chuan to cop the best deals.
Li Chuan Food Products
Address: 40 Woodlands Terrace, Singapore 738456
Opening Hours: 11 Jan – 1 Feb: 9am – 5pm
Contact No.: 6755 7688
Facebook
9. Zac Butchery
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Image Credit: Zac Butchery Facebook[/caption]
Zac Butchery is heaven on earth for carnivores. If you need to satisfy your meat cravings, you’ll be able to purchase various cuts of meats, sausages and cold cuts here!
From now till 19 February, get a FREE packet of Cheesy Chicken Cocktail (300gm, worth $4.40) with purchase of any 750gm of beef shabu shabu! While stocks last and valid only at ZAC Butchery Singapore Post Centre outlet.
Zac Butchery
Address: Find your nearest outlet Facebook
10. NTUC FairPrice’s Warehouse Club
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Image Credit: NTUC FairPrice Warehouse Club[/caption]
In celebration
With the flurry of preparation that needs to be done, save yourself time and money by buying more and paying less for all your goodies at Warehouse Club!
NTUC FairPrice Warehouse Club
Address: 1 Joo Koon Circle (next to Joo Koon MRT Station), Level
Date: Now to 4 Feb 2019
Contact No.: 6710 4584
5 Underrated Local Fashion Boutiques To Buy Your CNY Clothes From
Don Don Donki’s Third And Largest Outlet At City Square Mall Has A Food Court And Bargains Section From $2
DON DON DON, DONKIII~
If you find yourself humming to the addictive theme song of the famous Japanese store, we have exciting news for you. Don Don Donki just opened their third outlet at City Square Mall!
Their first outlet at Orchard Central is already enough of a big maze, but their third outlet will be its largest one yet at 26,000 sqf!
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Image Credit: Don Don Donki[/caption]
Don Don Don, Don’t You Wish Your NTUC Was Hot Like Me?
If you’re wondering why we need a bigger Don Don Donki outlet, here’s why.
The new outlet will offer three unique features everyone will appreciate – a food court, bargain section and fresh groceries.
A Japanese Food Court
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Image Credit: Don Don Donki[/caption]
When you’re done with shopping or simply craving for Japanese food, swing by the in-store food court to get your ramen or hokkaido ice cream fix.
The food court will house five different stores,where mains like ramen, donburi (rice bowl), Japanese barbecue, and fried chicken will be available.
Indulge in a piping hot bowl of ramen from the famous Hokkaido Ramen Santouka – the ideal comfort food after a long day at work and grocery shopping.
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Image Credit: Hokkaido Ramen Santouka Facebook[/caption]
Round off your meal with Naganuma Ice Co’s creme brulee soft serve ice cream.
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Image Credit: Naganuma Ice Co Facebook[/caption]
Treasure Hunting At The Bargain Section
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Image Credit: Don Don Donki[/caption]
If you’re secretly a Singaporean auntie who loves her discounts, then you’re going to love Don Don Donki’s bargain section.
Set in a corner of the store, customers can hunt for treasure bargains starting from $2. This area will also mimic the signature Don Quijote displays in Japan that use carton boxes and handwritten price tags.
Snatch all the good deals you can get and reflect on your life decisions afterwards. No regrets, we promise!
Extensive Japanese Delicatessen Offering
Looking to whip up a Japanese feast at home?
Don Don Donki City Square Mall boasts an extensive range of fresh produce and perishables that is much wider than its other outlets, so you can pretty much find everything you could dream of here.
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Image Credit: Don Don Donki[/caption]
If you’re not in the mood to cook, grab some freshly-made Japanese dishes from the delicatessen section and you’re good to go.
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Image Credit: Don Don Donki[/caption]
Opening Day Promotions
Don Don Donki City Square Mall officially opens today (11 January 2019)!
To celebrate its launch, new and existing Don Don Donki mobile app members get a chance to spin a wheel of fortune. Prizes up for grabs include:
- Limited edition Donpen plushies
- 10 pairs of tickets to Airzone, the suspended playground in City Square Mall
- 100 Don Don Donki Eco Bags
The first 1,000 customers who spend at least S$50 will win a limited edition Don Don Donki Tote Bag so make sure you get there early.
Pokemon fans can also swing by Don Don Donki as Pikachu will be making special appearances on 11-13 Jan at 1pm, 3pm and 5pm.
Don Don Donki City Square Mall
Address: Basement 2, City Square Mall, 180 Kitchener Road, Singapore 208539.
Opening hours: 9.00am – 12am, daily
Nearest MRT station: Farrer Park
(Header Image Source: Don Don Donki)
Keisuke Is Opening A New Omurice Joint At Bugis+ – Prices Start From $9.90 And You Can Upsize For Free
You may have already seen that viral video of Japanese chef, Yukimura Motokichi, who wows his customers with his theatrics whenever he prepares the famous omurice in his resturant, Kichi Kichi.
Originating more than 100 years ago in Kyushu, this Japanese soul food is a staple dish in many Japanese homes and restaurants as they are reasonably priced and affordable to the masses. Most Japanese diners have grown up eating omurice and this yōshuku (Japenese-style Western food) brings back many childhood memories for them.
Comfort Food For The Soul
Celebrity Chef and Ramen King, Keisuke Takeda kicks off the new year with the opening of Keisuke Group’s 17th outlet in Singapore, Omurice Keisuke. This classic Japanese dish consists of a wrapped omelette (“omu”) over western fried rice with ketchup.
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Image Credit: Discover SG[/caption]
While it may seem like the typical “Nasi Goreng Pattaya” you can get at most hawker centres, omurice is actually quite challenging to make. The key to perfecting this dish is that the egg has to be soft, creamy on the outside and smooth on the inside.
Situated on the fourth floor of Bugis+, Omurice Keisuke is a cozy 22-seater outlet, perfect for dinner with the family or a night out with your partner. As the eatery is not exactly spacious and they don’t take reservations, you might want to avoid peak hours if you plan on bringing more than 4 people.
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Image Credit: Discover SG[/caption]
You can also choose to sit at the bar counter so you can watch the chefs prepare the dishes right in front of you.
While it may not be as entertaining as it is at Kichi Kichi, the food here definitely does not disappoint.
The Omurice ($9.90) features Keisuke’s own locally-farmed eggs which come from hens fed with omega-rich grains. The difference is that you’ll get a richer and creamier omelette that pairs perfectly well with the fried rice. The rice is simple and perfectly seasoned with ketchup dashi, diced chicken and corn.
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Image Credit: Discover SG[/caption]
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Image Credit: Discover SG[/caption]
There is also an option to customise your omurice by choosing from a range of sauces including wafu, demi-glacé, creamy white sauce or chilli tomato sauce. We highly recommend pairing your omurice with the wafu or dami-glacé sauce as it cuts the richness of the eggs. We had the creamy white sauce as well, however it got pretty jelak by the time were halfway through our meal.
You can also have the option of adding cheese ($2.00) to your Omurice. The cheese is a combination of mozzarella and two types of cheddar which will be melted and prepared right in front of you over your main dish.
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GIF Credit: Discover SG[/caption]
Best part, if you have a bigger appetite, you can choose between the regular or large size at NO additional cost. Honestly, we were already struggling to finish the regular portion so a large portion will be perfect for two.
There’s also an option of getting Spaghetti instead of the Omurice. They serve two types of spaghetti here – Mentaiko Spaghetti and Neapolitan Spaghetti ($9.90). There’s nothing outstanding about the pastas but it definitely gave us the comfort of a home-cooked meal.
For those who can’t choose between the omurice and spaghetti, you can choose to have the best of both worlds in one plate. For $12.90, you can get the Omurice Combo which comes with omurice, spaghetti and a refreshing side salad – potato salad, coleslaw, green salad or spinach and miso soup.
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Image Credi: Discover SG[/caption]
Diners can also order additional side dishes such as deep fried chicken wing, ebi-fried, teriyaki chicken hamburg and pork spare ribs which cost between $2 – $3. If you’ve been to Hamburg Steak Keisuke, then you’ll definitely want to get the teriyaki chicken hamburg here. The seared patty itself has a lovely char, but was still very tender and juicy in each bite.
Omurice Keisuke officially launches in Singapore on Monday, 14 January 2019. This is the 17th outlet under the Keisuke Group with plans to open more locations with different concepts later this year.
Omurice Keisuke
Official Launch: Monday, 14 January 2019
Address: 201 Victoria Street, #04-01, Singapore 188067
Opening Hours: 11.30am – 10pm, daily
Contact No.: 6634 4558
Facebook | Instagram
Also Read The McVerdict: Are McDonald’s New Items As Bad As Everyone Says They Are?
(Header Image Source: Omurice Keisuke & Discover SG)
The McVerdict: Are McDonald’s New Items As Bad As Everyone Says They Are?
It’s a lovely Friday. We’re so close to the weekend. And I thought, “You know what, treat yo’self. You gon’ have Macs today.”
I got on GrabFood, ordered my usual McSpicy meal with cheese no veg, coke zero (cos I’m on a diet), no upsize. But this time I changed the fries to their latest ‘Salted Egg Yolk Loaded Fries‘ to see if it’s worth my money, calories and effort to write this article.
Within the next 30 minutes, my abang delivery arrived and gave me a bleak stare before handing over my food.
Was this already a bad sign?
Is It Worth It?
Just like anyone else, I quickly reached out for the box of Salted Egg Yolk fries first to see if got enough sauce anot? And to my surprise, they poured a pretty decent amount of sauce all over my fries.
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Image Credit: Discover SG[/caption]
So I thought, “How bad could this be right?”
I took my first bite and everything froze in time. The wind stopped blowing. The birds stopped chirping. I saw dark clouds looming in the distance.
It. Was. Terrible.
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Image Credit: Discover SG[/caption]
It tastes nothing like Salted Egg Yolk. It was strangely tangy and creamy and it left a really unpleasant aftertaste in my mouth. It was sad as Donald Trump would’ve said. Thanks McDonald’s for the generous amount of sauce but did QC seriously approve of the taste?
Instead of finishing my fries, I got on McDonald’s Singapore Facebook page to put together a list of my favourite comments:
And my favourite one of all:
Calling it “Salted Egg Yolk” sauce was definitely a bit of a stretch.
Sorry McDonald’s but thank u, next.
The Peach Pie on the other hand sounded like a pretty good contender to take on the classic Apple Pie. According to pictures, it has a vibrant pink crust pocketing a hot peach filling.
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Image Credit: Discover SG[/caption]
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Image Credit: Discover SG[/caption]
All pretty in pink, I surprisingly enjoyed it as compared to the fries (pretty low benchmark, I must admit). It smells exactly like Peach Tea or Pink Dolphin. I’ve grown super familiar and comfortable with the classic Apple Pie but I won’t mind going back to McDonald’s for another Peach Pie.
Also don’t lie and say “but Apple Pie more authentic leh”. Let’s be real, when was the last time you ordered one?
The only great thing that came out of my meal today was the McSpicy add cheese no veg. Trust me, just skip the Salted Egg Yolk Fries the next time you’re at McDonald’s.
Thanks McDonald’s for the effort you put into releasing the new items but seriously have you tried Salted Egg Yolk man?!
Also Read McDonald’s Rings In The New Year With Salted Egg Yolk Fries – Available From 3 Jan
(Header Image Source: Discover SG)
McDonald’s Rings In The New Year With Salted Egg Yolk Fries – Available From 3 Jan
Feeling sleepy and groggy at work today?
We feel you.
If you’re feeling as down as we are, then we have some great news for you. McDonald’s is here to make your day a little better – they’ll be launching the all new Salted Egg Yolk Loaded Fries from 3 January for a limited time only.
New Year, New Menu
Sure, it’s 2019 and we should really start saying goodbye to Salted Egg Yolk but this combination seems pretty promising. Imagine your favourite French Fries topped with a generous serving of Salted Egg Yolk sauce. It’ll be topped with curry leaves for that sweet and savoury taste. Enjoy the Salted Egg Yolk Fries for $1.20 when you upgrade your fries with any meal.
As if that wasn’t enough, they’re bringing back the highly popular Ha Ha Cheong Gai Drumlets which was released in July last year. Yes, our favourite prawn paste chicken is making a comeback and you can now have it in the Happy Sharing Box (Special Edition) from just $7.90.
Moving on to desserts – McDonald’s is launching 2 new desserts! The first is a Pandan Soft Serve – think pandan chiffon cake but in ice cream form. You can have it in a cone, ChocoCone, Sundae or McFlurry (from $1).
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Image Credit: McDonald’s Singapore[/caption]
Next up is the all-new Peach Pie ($1.40). It’s filled with juicy white peach chunks and the crust is wait for it…pink.
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Image Credit: McDonald’s Singapore[/caption]
So if you’re feeling a little moody at work today, look forward to these tasty treats that will brighten up your week. You can definitely count on food to make it all better!
Also Read Cereals-ly? Get Your Cereal Fix At The New Kellogg’s Cafe For Just $2 A Bowl
(Header Image Source: McDonald’s Singapore Youtube)
