Tag: art and culture

13 Cool Activities You Should Know About To Wrap Up Your February [16-28 Feb]

February has been such a busy month! There was Chinese New Year and the endless Yu Sheng dinners, Valentine’s Day… and now, here are 13 cool activities you should know about from 15 to 28 February. They’ll chase away your post-festive blues!

Play & Discover

1. Urban Ventures x House Of Noise

Our favourite street party is back! And this time round, it’s all about #supportlocalSG.

For their very first road transformation of the year, Urban Ventures partners up with Noise Singapore to transform good old Keong Saik into a one-night only, feet tapping , head banging music party!

Featuring 21 fantastic local musicians and acts from Noise Music Mentorship 2016 (programmed by Thunder Rock School), your ears are in for a real treat!

On top of that, you can party your night away with DJs Brendon P, Oliver Osborne and Sivanesh, with free manicure and face painting sessions, thanks to Vaniday.

Urban Ventures x House of Noise
Date: 18 February  2017
Time: 3:30pm – 10:30pm
Venue: Keong Saik Road
Admission: Free
Facebook page: Urban Ventures x House of Noise

2. Choking Hazard : An Exhibition About Toys (Launch Party)

No one is ever too old or too young for… toys!

Unlike any other toy exhibition, Choking Hazard is…visually different. The toys here look a little odd and you probably won’t be able to find them elsewhere.

This is because the artists involved in this show have dismantled existing toys sourced from toy markets and remixed them into new objects.

While you’re at it, you can also try making your own toys. An assembly line of pre-loved toys will be available for you to tear apart and rebuild. Whether you’d like to make Chucky, or your own little Frankenstein, we’re sure you’ll have a blast!

Choking Hazard: An Exhibition About Toys
Date: 17 February  (Exhibition from 17 February – 18 March)
Launch Party Time: 7:00-11:00pm
Exhibition Time: Mon-Fri (11:00am-7:00pm), Sat (2:00pm-7:00pm)
Venue: kult, C2-5, 11 Upper Wilkie Road, Singapore 228120
Admission: Free
Facebook Page: Choking Hazard

3. Talk Cock Comedy feat. The Latecomers (Improv)

Need some laughter to get through the week? Just sit back, relax, and let The Latecomers entertain you.

They may be late to the game but the Latecomers sure are on time with punchlines.

4. Say It With Love

Say It With Love
Date: 24 & 25 February, 2017
Time: 6:30-10:30pm
Venue: Meadow, Gardens by the Bay 18 Marina Gardens Drive, Singapore 018953
Admission: Free
Picnic Bag: $60 (Online pre-sale), $65 (On-site)
Facebook Page: Say It With Love 2017

5. Red Dot Cinema ~ Asian Short Film Screening

Need new inspiration? How about rediscovering Asian narratives that have shaped our values and culture?

There are many independent film festivals in the world, but not many focus on Asian films. Fortunately there’s Red Dot Cinema – they amplify the Asian voice, one screening at a time.

Founded in 2015, Red Dot Cinema curates inspiring Asian short films and organises screenings around the world. They aim to bring Asia’s culture, social issues and entertainment to the global audience.

In this second edition, they’ll be screening 7 shorts from 5 different countries including Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand and our very own award winning “Hentak Kaki” by James Khoo.

Red Dot Cinema~ Asian Short Film Screening
Date: 24 February, 2017
Time: 7:00-9:00pm
Venue: JustCo 6 Raffles Quay #16-01 Singapore 048580
Admission: $15 (Early bird), $18 (All tickets are inclusive of a popcorn)
Ticketing Website: Red Dot Cinema

6. Holi 2017

The official Holi festival only takes place in March but in Singapore, we’re celebrating it a little earlier this year!

Singapore’s biggest Holi Festival will be organised at Wavehouse Sentosa and it’s gonna be an experience like no other.

A line up of DJs, including the all time Holi favourite DJ Milan, will keep the festival rolling while water jets, rain dances and live performances will keep you entertained and Instagram-busy.

If you’re concerned about the coloured powder used at the festival, fret not as the organisers had it lab tested and it’s certified to be safe.

Holi 2017
Date: 25 February, 2017
Time: 9:00am – 5:00pm
Venue: Wavehouse Sentosa
Admission: $20.00 via Eventbrite
Facebook Page: Singapore’s Biggest Holi Returns

7. PRISM

In the spirit of #supportlocalSG, here’s another local production to check out!

8. Crossings

Remember Britney Spear’s ‘Crossroads’? Here’s one that is more relevant, realistic and…updated.

The new young & W!LD cohort will be staging their very first public performance- Crossings, at Centre 42’s Black Box!

Bold, dark and funny, Crossings follow characters who have arrived at a critical crossroads in their lives. (Not your daily what to wear, what to eat kinda decisions).

The choices they make will change their journeys forever – its either a road to self-discovery or self-destruction.

If you need a fresh perspective about how the decisions we make will change our lives, Crossings will only be staged for 7 performances and 4 shows are SOLD OUT already! Grab your tickets now before its too late!

Crossings
Date: 15 – 19 February, 2017
Time: 3pm (18 & 19 February), 8pm (15-19 February)
Venue: Black Box, Centre 42, 42 Waterloo St, Singapore 187951
Admission: $30.00 via

Also, read CROSSINGS – A Play Dark And Bold Enough For A Different Kind Of Valentine’s Day

Eat

9. An Afternoon of Art + Food with Mamakan

Have a thing or two for heritage food? This is a culinary journey that you won’t wanna miss!

Featuring an 8-course taster menu, the Mamakan Art Collective will inspire you to get creatively in touch with nature. You’ll taste your way through botanical treasures available locally in Singapore.

They will also be serving cocktails ranging from Bathing Princess on the Hill, a purple liqueur made from Fort Canning flowers, to SpiceBomb of Diversity, an infusion of native spices.

If you’re hesitating because you overate during Chinese New Year, all taster items served are vegetarian, gluten-free and free of pesticides. It’s guilt free and delish at the same time.

An Afternoon of Art + Food with Mamakan
Date: 18 February, 2017
Time: 3-5:00pm
Venue: Singapore Art Museum, 71 Bras Basah Rd
Admission: $49.00 (Individual), $490.00 (Table of 10) via 

Crab lovers, raise your claws! A crab party is happening this February and everyone is invited!

All crabs are handpicked from Dapur Melaka’s very own crab farm and go at $18 each. Freshness of every crab is guaranteed or you get your money back.

It’s based on a first come first served basis so do make your reservations to avoid disappointment!

Dapur’s Crab Party
Date: 16 & 17 February, 2017
Time: 5:30pm onwards (last order at 8:30pm)
Venue: Dapur Melaka Singapore 56 Sembawang Road, Singapore 779086
Contact number: +65 6455 0857
Admission: $18 via Oh crab, it’s a party

Shop

11. Majestic Market

You’ve probably done a whole lot of shopping for Chinese New Year and Valentine’s. One more pop-up market doesn’t harm right?

In conjunction with their 10th anniversary celebration, New Majestic Hotel will be hosting a collaborative 3-day pop up weekend bazaar!

Set in a 1928 shophouse, the market aims to celebrate and revive Bukit Pasoh’s heritage by showcasing local design, culture and its rich colourful history.

The hotel rooms will also be transformed into carefully curated retail spaces for vendors to display their products.

Heritage and shopping? That sure sounds like a pretty refreshing retail experience.

Majestic Market
Date: 16-19 February, 2017
Time: 6:00pm
Venue: New Majestic Hotel 31 – 37 Bukit Pasoh Road, Singapore 089845
Admission: Free
Facebook Page: Majestic Market

12. Wanderlust Market

You probably have a million reasons to save your angpao money but here’s one good one for you to spend ’em!

Don’t worry about coming back from Travel Revolution empty handed because this year, the organiser actually included Wanderlust Market, a curated artisanal market by Makers Market at the event venue.

There will be a variety of products ranging from artisanal creations to mouth-watering food, children products and many more adorable items that will make you go “take my money!”.

Wanderlust Market
Date: 24-26 February, 2017
Time: 11:00am to 9:30pm
Venue: Marina Bay Sands L1 Expo Halls A & B 10 Bayfront Avenue, 018956
Facebook Page: Wanderlust Market

13. EMU Australia Pop-up

Fans of Aussie fashion and shoes, EMU from the land down under is finally on our Singaporean shores!

Pronounced as eem-you, EMU is a premium lifestyle brand best known for their super comfy yet stylish footwear and accessories for women and children alike.

This 3-weeks special pop-up event will showcase the brand’s Spring Summer 2017 collection. There are strong bursts of colours, exotic prints, metallics designs with sports-inspired elements.

The collection, ranging from heels, sandals, summer wedges, slip-ons to covered shoes, is functional yet chic.

Women’s shoes start from $79, while children’s sneakers start from $59.

EMU Australia Pop Up
Date: February 10, 2017 onwards
Time: 10:30am – 10:00pm daily
Venue: Robinsons The Heeren, Robinsons Raffles City, Metro Paragon
Facebook Page: EMU Australia Singapore

With 13 funtastic activities to explore, it seems like life is not slowing down at all this February! And there goes our ‘hard earned’ angpao money!

Also, read Bon Appétit! 6 Legit French restaurants In Singapore That Won’t Burn A Big Hole In Your Wallet

A #TBT To How S’pore Looked Like 20 Years Ago – We Felt A Wave Of Nostalgia Looking At #2!

10 years ago, it was the year 2007. And the 90’s were 20 whole years ago. Does anyone else feel old?

From the 1990s to the current day, Singapore has gone through a tremendous change. Take a trip down memory lane with us through these 20 pictures of 1990s Singapore. You’ll be surprised at how different Singapore is now compared to your childhood days.

1. Capitol Theatre

Then

Now

This 87-year-old landmark was first built in 1930, and could seat more than 1600 people in the auditorium.

By 1998, it screened its last movie and closed down, unable to compete with newer, more technologically advanced cinemas around Singapore. After 9 years, it was reopened again on May 19 2015. Now, there are movies as well as in-house theatre and dance productions featuring local and Asian repertoire.

2. Marina Bay Sands

The area where Marina Bay Sands now stands was initially just a huge reclaimed land.

With plans that have been in the works since 1983, the entire Marina Bay Sands project took 34 years to become the impressive integrated resort we know today.

With the completion of the Sands Theatre and Grand Theatre, we are now treated to globally renowned acts like The Lion King and Wicked. Coupled with the ArtScience Museum, Marina Bay Sands has become THE place to be for everything cool, from arts and culture to shopping and eating!

3. National Library at Stamford Road

Then

Now

The original National Library of Singapore at Stamford Road was first completed in 1960, and for many of us, the place where our love for reading began.

On 31 March 2004, our collective hearts broke as the doors of the library closed for the last time. While we may miss the old library, the new national library is a sight to behold. Home to the Black Box, an outdoor garden and 7 full floors dedicated to the Lee Kong Chian Reference Library, the new National Library at Bras Basah helps to keeps our love for reading alive.

4. Bugis Street

Then

Now

Our very own Singapore-style version Taiwan Night Market, Bugis Street was where we flocked to for cheap clothes and apparels after school.

With our miniscule pocket money, Bugis Street was a godsend for the blossoming shopaholics in us. Cleaner, more fashionable and slightly pricier, new Bugis Street now hosts even more shops, some are even air-conditioned!

5. Playgrounds

Then

Now

[caption id="attachment_22139" align="alignnone" width="1024"] Photo Credits:

Back in the 90’s, going to the playground meant playing with kids from the neighbourhood, porcelain tiled dragon architecture, as well as bloody knees if we had the misfortune of falling in the sand.

These days, playgrounds are more avant-garde in design, with safe rubber-foam flooring. There is also a growing trend in inclusiveness, starting with playgrounds for children with special needs and special wheelchair swings.

6. Buses

Then

[caption id="attachment_22772" align="alignnone" width="640"] Photo Credits: remembersingapore.org[/caption]

Now

Decked in the iconic red and white colours of our nation, the buses of the past were stuffy, non-air conditioned, and dispensed paper tickets when you boarded the bus.

20 years down the road, we now see buses in different colours. Not just that, they’re also air-conditioned, wheelchair accessible and bus fares are now payable with cards.

7. National Stadium

Then

Now

The old Kallang Stadium was THE place to be for every primary 5 child a few days before National Day. Wearing red or white t-shirts to school, we were proud to wave our miniature national flags (all while digging through the goody bags for the yearly signature gifts).

On 30 June 2014, Singapore welcomed the new and improved National Stadium. An all-weather sports and events venue, it has a retractable roof that keeps out the rain and doubles as a huge projector screen. It even has a state-of-the-art cooling system, allowing for cool air at 23 degrees to be pumped out from beneath the seats. Partially powered by solar panels, the cool air is even environmentally friendly!

Having played host to singers like Stefanie Sun and Jay Chou, as well as the 28th SEA Games in 2015, the National Stadium provides a comfortable, yet magnificent stage for arts, culture and sports alike.

8. Sentosa

Then

Now

Do you remember having to take a ferry to Sentosa island? Back then, we were easily excited by the wax museum depicting Singapore’s past, as well as climbing up the huge Merlion statue.

Fast-forward 20 years and Sentosa island is now home to a huge amusement-resort. You’ll be surprised to know that this island is no longer just for the beach lovers and thrill seekers.

Theatre geeks and concertgoers can enjoy amazing performances like Yellowcard – The Final World Tour at Resorts World Theatre, and the daily Monster Rock show at Pantages Hollywood Theatre at Universal Studios Singapore.

9. MRT

Then

Now

Back then, there were only 2 lines: Red and Green. More accurately, the North-South line and the East-West line. After that, you had to take a bus to get to your specific destination.

These days, there are 5 MRT lines with 2 more on the way, and 3 LRT lines. In the past, we didn’t need to refer to the System map when travelling somewhere new. Now, I find myself googling ‘MRT map’ very often.

10. Hard Rock Cafe

Then

Now

[caption id="attachment_22760" align="alignnone" width="644"] Photo Credits: ordinarypatrons.com[/caption]

The ever-famous Cadillac was taken down on May 16 2016 in preparation for a makeover of the Hard Rock Cafe. The 1961 Cadillac Series 62 Deville represented the Rock and Roll times that Hard Rock Cafe stood for.

Fortunately, Hard Rock Cafe is still rocking even without its signature Cadillac. With Kumar taking the stage alongside live music performances and open mic shows, Hard Rock Cafe keeps our love for music and comedy alive.

11. King Albert Park

Then

Now

Students of Bukit Timah, namely MGS, ACS, Nanyang Girls’, NJC and many others will always have fond memories of King Albert Park (affectionately known as KAP). Many after school hours were spent studying in McDonald’s, shopping at Cold Storage, and eating ice cream at Island Creamery.

Closed on 16 March 2014 for its transformation into a condominium, this is yet another childhood memory that we say goodbye to in our ever-developing Singapore.

12. Big Splash Complex at East Coast Park

[caption id="attachment_22788" align="alignnone" width="645"] Photo Credits: Akitek Tenggara Collection, courtesy of National Archives of Singapore[/caption]

Before Wild Wild Wet or Adventure Cove, there was the Big Splash! Slides which were more than 6 storeys high. They were supposedly the tallest slides in the world back in 1977.

After 40 years of bringing water-related thrills to Singaporeans, the water park closed on 21 October 2016, and the land was returned to the government for redevelopment.

13. Marine Aquarium at Wisma Atria

A cheap alternative to Underwater world was to take a trip to Wisma Atria and stare at the fishes in the Marine Aquarium. Filled with exotic seawater fishes, corals and even tiny sharks, we would chase the swimming fishes round and round the 1.5m tall tank.

Sadly, good things don’t last forever. The Marine Aquarium was taken down in 2008 and the aquatic creatures were transferred to their new home at Underwater World Singapore.

14. Tang Dynasty Village

Then

Now

[caption id="attachment_22756" align="alignnone" width="600"] Photo Credits: Lam Chun See[/caption]

Opened in 1992, Tang Dynasty Village was a literal blast to the past where visitors could visit a replica of the Tang Dynasty Capital in Singapore.

Featuring an army of terracotta warriors, a courthouse, geisha house, camel rides and a wax museum among other displays, this attraction was totally cool but did not come cheap. Back then, $30 entrance fees were not affordable for some families.

Coupled with the 90’s Asian Economic Crisis, it closed down in 1999, after a short 7-year run.

15. Escape Theme Park

Then

Now

Escape Theme Park made way for an expansion of Wild Wild Wet

Who can forget travelling all the way to Pasir Ris to race in go-carts, splash down the Wet & Wild log-ride and be tossed about the insanely fast Panasonic/Alpha 8.

On November 26, 2011, we said goodbye to Escape Theme Park as plans for the Downtown East revamp began. Wild Wild Wet was opened next door shortly after the closure, but it just wasn’t the same.

16. Queenstown Cinema

A cinema right beside a bowling alley, not to mention a KTV outlet, this was the best after school/work hang out for Queenstown residents.

I remember coming here after dinner with my cousins to bowl, even though we mostly watched the balls enter the gutters. Closed in 1999 and demolished in 2011, the rubble may be gone but the memories remain.

17. Istana Kampong Gelam (now Malay Heritage Centre)

The Istana Kampong Gelam used to be the palace of Sultan Hussein Shah of Johor in 1819, where it went on to house generations of Sultan Hussein’s successors.

In 1999, after the Sultan Hussein Ordinance was enacted and revised for the last time, residents living in the Istana were resettled. In time, the building was restored and transformed into the Malay Heritage Centre in 2004.

With 6 permanent galleries showcasing stories and artefacts that tell of Kampong Gelam’s historical significance, as well as new monthly exhibits, visitors are given a precious insight into our country’s culture and history.

18. HMV at Heeren

Then

Now

Home to the first and last HMV store in Singapore, teens would flock here to listen to the latest album releases for free.

Opened in 1997, the 25,000-sqf store saw 8 years of music lovers pass through its 3 levels before closing officially on 30 September 2015.

19. Underwater World Singapore

The fishes from Wisma Atria’s Marine Aquarium found their way here and lived happily until 26 June 2016 when Underwater World Singapore closed down.

While the ‘bigger and better’ version, namely S.E.A Aquarium, held a whopping 100,000 plus marine animals of over 800 species, Underwater World’s 2,500 plus marine animals of 250 species was more than enough for our childhood.

20. A&W

[caption id="attachment_22798" align="alignnone" width="700"] Photo Credits:

These days, ask most teens if they know A&W and they’ll answer that it’s a carbonated root beer beverage. Back in the 90’s, it was a fast food restaurant on a boat! Stationed on the Stewards Riverboat at the Sentosa Coastline, it was the only fast food franchise that felt classy as you chow down on burgers, fries and an A&W Root Beer Float.

Singapore’s Transformation

These 20 pictures show us the immense change that Singapore has undergone since the 90’s, and with the ever-increasing development of our country, who knows whether our favourite places will stick around in 2037?

Make as many memories as possible by visiting and attending events, attractions, and activities in Singapore. So start visiting and get your cameras clicking away, before time takes away more of our monumental places in Singapore.

(Header image credit: With Over 1,000 Stalls, This Year’s Geylang Bazaar Will Keep You Coming Back For More 

10 Fantastic And Cannot Miss Activities To Kick Off Your February [1-15 Feb]

It is February already?! So, it seems like we’ve dived into the second month of the year. If you’re getting post Chinese New Year holiday blues, don’t fret! There’s still a ton of things to do in Singapore this month, and we’ve covered some of the most unmissable ones for you.

Whether you’re a cultural guru looking for your next immersive experience, an art fanatic hunting down new (and free) exhibitions, a cafe hopper, or self-confessed compulsive shopper–there’s definitely something for you.

February is also the month of love, so why not grab that special someone and try something new together! There’ll surely be lots of great memories to make.

Here’s a calendar of 10 fantastic and cannot miss activities to keep you occupied this February 1st to 15th!

Play & Discover

1. Chingay Parade

To continue ringing in the Lunar New Year, Singapore’s favourite annual Chingay Parade is back.

Themed ‘Singapore’s Soundwaves Chingay, We Care Singapore’, this year’s parade promises two nights of vibrant floats, dancing dragons, prancing lions, stilt walkers, wushu masters and performers of varying ages, races, religions, and groups.

This year’s edition, the 45th, includes especial highlights: from fresh pyrotechnics and fireworks displays, to classic sing-alongs to Singaporean “Xinyao” music. The brilliant noise and gaiety even stretches from the main parade site all the way to the heartlands.

This national event is also the largest street performance and float parade in Asia–certainly something not to be missed!

Catch a glimpse of this treasured event where age, race, language and creed hold no barriers.

Chingay Parade
Where: F1 Pit Building, next to Singapore Flyer
Date: 10-11 February 2017
Time: 8pm, pre-parade @ 7pm
Tickets: $50-60 (Cat 1), $40-50 (Cat 2), $28.50 (Cat 3)
Tel: 6348 5555
Email: [email protected]
Website

2. Thaipusam Festival

On the full moon day of the Tamil month, Hindus will celebrate the Thaipusam thanksgiving festival.

In Singapore, thousands of devotees fulfil their vows through a 4km walk between two temples.

Come immerse yourself in this exciting and culturally-rich atmosphere–that sees devotees have their flesh pinched, pulled and pierced, all whilst carrying the weight of 30kg kavadi structures–and learn more about the Hindu culture.

The large, colourful annual procession that anchors this religious festival is sure to tantalise. But it’s the devotees’ faithful strength, perseverance and dedication to perform the exceptional that will wow you.

Thaipusam Festival
Venue: Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple to Sri Thendayuthapani Temple
Address: 397 Serangoon Road Singapore 218123
Date: 9 February 2017
Time: 6.30am-noon, 6-9pm
Tel: 6728 5711
This one’s for the Studio Ghibli fans! A collection of original production celluloids from director Hayao Miyazaki has been released and is now on display at Polar Bear Gallery.

My Neighbour Totoro, Princess Mononoke and Laputa: Castle in the Sky… Come and see how the most breathtaking scenes from your favourite Studio Ghibli films are painstakingly drawn by hand, and melded together frame by frame.

[caption id="attachment_22046" align="aligncenter" width="990"] Image credit: Studio Ghibli[/caption]

Today, Studio Ghibli remains the most successful ex-hollywood animation production studio in the world. Why not come discover the magic behind it all? The Polar Bear Gallery also contributes 10% of their annual income to protect the environment through related groups.

Studio Ghibli Production Cel
Venue: Polar Bear Gallery
Address: 69A Haji Lane Singapore 189262
When: Friday-Saturday 12pm to 8pm; Sunday 12pm to 6pm
Price: Free
The Chinese New Year festivities never quite end do they?

Huayi Chinese Festival of Arts is an annual cultural festival at the Esplanade Theatres. It is introduced for the new year, with a vibrant mix of both local and international artists.

[caption id="attachment_22055" align="aligncenter" width="1140"] Image credit: Esplanade[/caption]

Traditional, contemporary, mainstream and cutting edge Chinese artists congregate in this festival to showcase their works.

Performances to look out for include the Chinese version of Shakespeare’s A Midsummer’s Night Dream, the cool street dancers of Cloud Gate 2, and Singapore’s very own Offending the Audience play.

A bright array of theatre, dance, music, workshops, and talks will give you a taste of the most dynamic forms of Chinese artistic expression. Be prepared to be inspired and touched through this diverse showcase of programmes (some are free!).

Huayi Festival of the Arts
Venue: The Esplanade
Address: 1 Esplanade Drive, Singapore 038981
Tel: 6828 8377

Eat

5. The Summerhouse

Want a taste of the idyllic English countryside without having to travel?

The Summerhouse is a newly opened restaurant, cafe, garden, and bar tucked away amongst the conserved colonial bungalows at Seletar Aerospace.

The chill vibe of this food sanctuary will give you quiet time with your loved ones.

[caption id="attachment_22053" align="aligncenter" width="800"] Image credit: Singapore Brides[/caption]

This unique farm to table destination sees the freshest food sourced from a farming collective of Singaporean and Malaysian growers, as well as a Singapore kelong, and garnish harvested from the inhouse edible garden.

While you’re there, you must try the buckwheat porridge with bacon bits, Parmesan crisp, Chinese spinach and pumpkin and sunflower seeds ($16), and the raspberry pickled beetroot with ricotta cheese ($18).

Specially for this Valentine’s day, there’s even a ‘Wildseed Tea Party’ happening from 10 to 12 & 14 February.

The Summerhouse
Where: The Oval @ Seletar Aerospace Park
Address: 3 Park Lane, Singapore 798387
Open:
The Summerhouse Dining Room
Wednesday-Saturday 6pm to 10pm
Sunday 6pm to 9pm

Wildseed Cafe & Poppy Flora Studio
Tuesday-Friday 10am to 7pm
Saturday-Sunday 9am to 7pm

Wildseed Bar
Tuesday-Thursday & Sunday 4pm to 10pm
Friday-Saturday 4pm to 11pm
Email: [email protected] / [email protected]
Tel: 6262 1063
Facebook

6. The Garage

Just a stone’s throw away from Botanic Gardens MRT Station is The Garage, a two-storey colonial house now home to two dining concepts: Bee’s Knees and Botanico.

By day, Bee’s Knees serves hearty pizza, pasta, sandwiches, desserts, and coffee on the first floor.

Once night falls, Botanico, on the second floor, dishes out delicious, beautifully plated dishes in a gorgeous setting.

For tea break, you should try the Banoffee Tart ($7) made from banana, cream and toffee. And for dinner, the juicy and crisp Chargrilled Iberico Pork Belly ($26) steals the show for many customers.

Whether you’re stopping by for a bite from your stroll along Botanic Gardens’ walking trail, or paying a special visit, The Garage is surely the place to dine. After all, it is surrounded by lush greenery, and flora and fauna.

The Garage
Where: 50 Cluny Park Road, Singapore Botanic Gardens, Singapore 257488
Open:
Bee’s Knees
Tuesday-Sunday 10am to 6pm

Botanico
Wednesday-Sunday 6pm to 10pm
Tel: 6264 7978 / 9831 1106
Email: [email protected]
For some good old comfort food, slip into One Night Only, the newest cheekily named joint that serves timeless and classic American diner food.

Its blue brick walls, diner booths, warm mood lighting, and cosy and personable service is sure to teleport you to an out-of-this-country experience.

[caption id="attachment_22051" align="aligncenter" width="900"] Image credit: Daniel Food Diary[/caption]

While you’re there, the Buttermilk Fried Chicken ($19.50) is a sure bet, though the Maple Bacon Pancakes ($16.50), Brioche French Toast, Nashville Hot Chicken ($21), and Grilled Maine Lobster are signatures too.

Choose from a selection of sides including fries, baked beans, and creamed corn to complete a hearty American meal right here in Singapore.

One Night Only
Address: 397 River Valley Road, Singapore 248292
Tel: +65 6235 1248
Open: 12pm to 10pm (Tues – Fri), 9am – 10pm (Sat, Sun, PH), Closed Mon

8. Platform 1094

Potterheads rejoice! A new Harry Potter-themed cafe named Platform 1094 has magically sprouted up just 10 minutes away from Boon Keng MRT.

With wizard themed starters, main dishes, desserts and cocktails, it’ll certainly be a spell-binding dining experience like no other.

[caption id="attachment_22048" align="aligncenter" width="625"] Image credit: Lonely Planet[/caption]

Signature dishes include the tender Pesto Mayo Pork Ribs ($22), Suhnitzel Sous-vide Duck Breast ($19), the mystical Bloodberry ($18) for desert. And of course, you have the try the Goblet of Fire ($15), an enchanting mixture that actually comes aflame.

Platform 1904, together with its homey food, wood panelled and brick interior, warm lighting, and themed decorations, is sure to grant you a truly immersive, magical, and Instagram-friendly experience.

Platform 1094
Address: 1094 Serangoon Road, Singapore 328192
Open: Tuesday-Friday 11am to 10pm; Saturday-Sunday 10am-11pm; closed on Monday
Tel: 6204 6003
Facebook

Shop

9. Market Of Artists And Designers (MAAD)

One Friday night of each month, the Red Dot Design Museum Singapore hosts a creative platform, the Market of Artists And Designers (MAAD).

MAAD is the largest recurring creative marketplace (a step up from your usual flea market) in Singapore.

Promoting design and originality, MAAD serves as a space for budding and veteran artists alike to showcase their works. Expect a vibrant mish mash of creatives and live music from home grown bands. You can also get your portrait drawn at #PortraitsAfterDark.

Join in for a night of pop-ups, inspiring design, originality, creativity, and late night shopping!

Market Of Artists And Designers (MAAD)
Venue: Red Dot Design Museum Singapore
Address: 28 Maxwell Road, Ground Floor, Red Dot Traffic Building, 069120
Date: 10 February 2017
Time: 5pm to 12am
is returning to SOTA again this February!

Indulge your inner shopaholic here as there are plenty of artisanal goodness you can’t find in mainstream shops.

[caption id="attachment_22049" align="aligncenter" width="1000"] Image credit: Makers’ Market[/caption]

Expect hand woven bags and pouches, special Valentine’s Day terrariums, hand crafted jewellery, personalised gifts, and even active gear! The one thing in common? They’re all super artsy–sure to impress even the most aesthetically-inclined.

SOTA Maker’s Parade
Venue: SOTA, School of the Arts, Level 1
Address: 1 Zubir Said Drive, 227968
Date & Time: 10 February 3pm to 9pm; 11 February 2017 12pm to 9pm
Email: [email protected]
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Just looking at this line-up of exciting events, newest food havens, and shopping districts is enough to have us all raring to start the new month! After all, it’s the new spring season even here in Singapore’s perpetual summer, and that means going out and trying new things.

Whether you have someone special to spend this Valentine’s Day with, or just want to hang out with your loved ones, checking out these activities and food places together will surely make it a month to remember.

Keep the good vibes from January going by cruising through these easy breezy activities. Have fun!

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