Michelle Chong Pays Litchfield A Visit In Latest Promo For OITNB Season 5

Michelle Chong. We know her for the many memorable characters she plays, from ditzy Barbarella to PRC hostess Lulu from Lulu The Movie. Today, she takes on yet another character in a promotional video for Netflix’s ‘Orange Is The New Black’–the Singaporean Ah Lian.

[caption id="attachment_27060" align="alignnone" width="1445"] Image Credit: Netflix[/caption]

Titled ‘Ah Lian In Litchfield’, the 1:15 long video stars Chong and Uzo Aduba, who plays everyone’s favourite Litchfield inmate, ‘Crazy Eyes’. In stereotypical Ah Lian fashion, she rocks an intense winged eyeliner look, a bold pink, glossy lip, and has an inexplicable obsession with her fringe.

[caption id="attachment_27062" align="alignnone" width="1445"] Image Credit: Netflix[/caption]

As per usual, she kills it with her delivery of Singlish phrases we all know well like ‘abuhden’, ‘kan ni na’, and ‘siam la’, leaving Crazy Eyes at a loss for words.

Watch the full video here.

[caption id="attachment_27063" align="aligncenter" width="940"] Image Credit: We Are Days Away From Ultra Singapore – These Are The Acts S’poreans Are Hyped To See

(Header Image Source: Netflix)

Salmon Samurai Is Now O-Fish-Ally Open – Create Your Own Salmon Don For Just $9.90

Salmon lovers, you’ll want to read this.

Newly opened Salmon Samurai is set to serve Singaporean’s favourite raw fish in all its delicious forms! There’s maki, sashimi, donburi, udon… the list goes on.

But let’s start from the beginning.

[caption id="attachment_26621" align="aligncenter" width="1188"] Image Credit: Justin Teo[/caption]

Matches Made In Salmon Heaven

On the menu are pre-determined salmon bowls, with salmon prepared in different ways paired with the base they go best with.

On the lighter side is the Salmon Poke with House Salad ($9.90), served with tart Wafu dressing that accents the umami flavour of the marinade perfectly.

[caption id="attachment_26617" align="aligncenter" width="1500"] Image Credit: Salmon Samurai[/caption]

You can swap out the salmon poke and get a Spicy Salmon with House Salad ($9.90), where the salmon is coated with a creamy and slightly spicy sauce for some added heat to the usual sesame salad dressing.

The Salmon Sashimi with Brown Rice ($9.90), blended with refreshing ume-yuzu Furikake, offers a surprising burst of savoury and sour flavours in each spoonful.

[caption id="attachment_26620" align="aligncenter" width="3648"] Image credit: Salmon Samurai[/caption]

If you’re in the mood for something less raw, The Garlic Shoyu Salmon with Udon ($9.90) is perfect.

The braised salmon is tender, yet rich with flavour. Burst open the onsen tamago that comes with it; the yolk coats the dish for an extra boost of flavour.

Did we also mention the yummy add-ons as the cherry on top of your dish? Choose from half an avocado ($1.50), Onsen Egg ($1.50) and Ebiko ($1.00).

[caption id="attachment_26618" align="aligncenter" width="1500"] Image Credit: Salmon Samurai[/caption]

Build Your Own Salmon

Alternatively, don’t choose from any of the above options. At Salmon Samurai, you get to build your own salmon, i.e. customise your own bowl.

Just pick from its 5 not-so-basic Donburis–Salmon Sashimi, Salmon Mentaiko, Garlic Shoyu Salmon, Salmon Poke and Spicy Salmon–and pair it with a base of your choice, be it mixed grain rice, salad or udon.

And the best part of all of this? It only costs a very affordable $9.90 to put together the salmon don of your dreams.

[caption id="attachment_26619" align="aligncenter" width="5472"] Image Credit: Salmon Samurai[/caption]

Also, don’t miss their Warrior Maki ($9.90), the perfect side to your bowl.

All the salmon is delivered fresh daily and is only sliced upon ordering to guarantee freshness and quality. Sauces are made in-house, with the wasabi freshly grated for good measure.

If salmon dishes are your go-to at Japanese eateries, check out this salmon specialist for a tasty, affordable and completely fuss-free lunch!

Salmon Samurai
Address: Ocean Financial Centre, 10 Collyer Quay, B1-08, Ocean Financial Centre
Contact no.: 6634 8593
Opening Hours: Mon – Fri: 11am – 8pm

Address: Tanjong Pagar, 100 Tras Street, 03-22, 100AM
Contact no.: 65 6543 6823
Opening Hours: Mon – Fri: 11am – 8pm; Sat – Sun: 12pm – 6pm
Website

Also read Forget Sugar Glazed, This Cafe Serves Up Savoury Donuts Like ‘Cheeseburger’ And ‘Bacon’ At Only $2.90 A Pop

(Header Image Source: Salmon Samurai)

Japan’s Largest Fugu Restaurant Chain Is Here In Singapore, And It Will ‘Blow’ Your Mind

Be prepared to be blown away by this ultimate fugu experience.

Guenpin Fugu, Japan’s largest fugu restaurant chain, has set up shop in Singapore! It boasts a whopping 96 outlets in Japan, and has just settled here in a cozy 32-seater establishment.

The secret to its success? The most exciting dish on the menu–its signature Tiger Puffer Fish.

[caption id="attachment_26645" align="aligncenter" width="1378"] Image Credit: Guenpin Fugu[/caption]

Tempting Torafugu

Not all fugu are created equal.

“Torafugu”, or Tiger Puffer Fish, is recognized as the most premium grade of puffer fish available on the market.

Rich in collagen and protein, torafugu has less calories and fat than normal puffers, making it the luxury go-to fish for health and beauty.

[caption id="attachment_26648" align="aligncenter" width="3448"] Image Credit: Alainlicious[/caption]

You can choose to have this rare fish in all its delicious forms.

There’s the thin sliced puffer fish sashimi “Tessa” ($28), puffer fish hot pot “Tecchiri” ($55), BBQ puffer fish meat ($48), puffer fish sushi ($18/3 pc, $28/5 pc), and deep fried puffer fish meat ($35).

Each dish is prepared by hand, and with the 30 years of skill and expertise of Genpin Fugu’s licensed artisan cooks.

[caption id="attachment_26646" align="aligncenter" width="1094"] Image Credit: Guenpin Fugu[/caption]

Guenpin’s torafugu is flown in from Shimonoseki, Japan’s puffer fish capital for safe and quality fugu.

If you’ve never tried torafugu before, expect a clear, translucent meat with a crisp, firm texture, and subtle flavour.

Snow Crab & Sake

For the less courageous, Guenpin’s snow crab is a great alternative.

Just like the fugu, it’s prepared in a variety of ways like sliced sashimi, sushi, grilled, hotpot or cooked with porridge.

[caption id="attachment_26644" align="aligncenter" width="2048"] Image Credit: Guenpin Fugu[/caption]

No Japanese meal is complete without sake!

While classic picks are always on the menu, the more adventurous can go for the more obscure ones. Think fin sake ($25), or tsugi sake ($15)–a cup of heated sake with grilled fish fins.

[caption id="attachment_26647" align="aligncenter" width="2048"] Image Credit: Guenpin Fugu[/caption]

If you’re looking to have a taste of pufferfish, this is the fugu specialist you need to visit.

Guenpin Fugu & Snow Crab Japanese Restaurant
Address: Guenpin Fugu, #01-06 Maxwell Chambers, 32 Maxwell Rd., Singapore, Singapore 069115
Opening Hours: Mon – Fri: 12pm – 3pm, 6pm – 12am; Sat – Sun: 5pm – 12am
Contact no.: 6634 2916
Website

Also read Forget Sugar Glazed, This Cafe Serves Up Savoury Donuts Like ‘Cheeseburger’ And ‘Bacon’ At Only $2.90 A Pop

A New Café Gem Has Opened Up On Rangoon Road, And It’s Straight Out Of A Fairy Tale

Ever wish you could escape into a perfect fairy tale world?

Now, you can! Well, at least for lunch.

[caption id="attachment_26841" align="alignnone" width="2048"] Image Credit: Enchanted Cafe Facebook[/caption]

The beautiful and charming Enchanted Cafe has just opened up along Rangoon Road, for you to dine and while away your weekends in a fantasy world.

Enchanting Ambience

First things first, the aesthetic of this place is on point!

Entering into this cafe is like stepping foot into the fairy tale garden of your dreams–the only things missing are actual fairies.

Picture a wooden shelf lined with large vintage books, twigs and potted plants hanging from the ceiling, fairy lights draped down branches and across the walls, and quirky, mismatched tables and chairs filling the space.

[caption id="attachment_26680" align="aligncenter" width="1628"] Image Credit: Image Credit: The food and drinks at Enchanted Cafe are just as dreamy, both in terms of taste and presentation.

Something you can’t miss is the theatrical Sorcerer’s Elixir ($9.90)–also the most instagram-worthy of them all.

It starts as a blue drink, set in a stone dish, surrounded by wispy smoke. Add an orange “potion”, swirl it all together, and it transforms into a deep, glittery purple.

[caption id="attachment_26678" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Image Credit: Image Credit: Enchanted Cafe Facebook[/caption]

Also on the menu are brunch favourites like the Big Breakkie ($17.90), as well as the Croque Madame ($14.90).

The standout item on the menu, however, would have to be a traditional favourite with a twist: The Ngoh Hiang Burger ($18.90).

This unique burger adds a touch of familiar Singaporean flavour to the otherwise fantasy-like setting.

Expect a tender pork patty marinated in five-spice seasoning, complete with bits of water chestnut, and black garlic sauce that’s made from scratch.

[caption id="attachment_26683" align="aligncenter" width="1188"] Image Credit: Ng Yi Yang[/caption]

And don’t leave without ordering dessert!

Your best bet here is the French Vanilla Crepe Cake.

The thin pancakes are fluffy, with generous layers of light, airy cream slathered in between. Perfect after a hearty meal.

[caption id="attachment_26684" align="aligncenter" width="1192"] Image Credit: The_XW[/caption]

Next weekend, why not bring your friends and camera here, for the perfect meal and #ootd!

Enchanted Cafe
Address: Rangoon Road, Singapore 218374
Opening Hours: Closed on Mondays; Tue: 10am – 10pm; Wed – Thu: 12pm – 10pm; Fri: 11am – 11pm; Sat: 10am – 11pm; Sun: 9am – 8pm
Contact no.: 8813 1086
Facebook

Also read Forget Sugar Glazed, This Cafe Serves Up Savoury Donuts Like ‘Cheeseburger’ And ‘Bacon’ At Only $2.90 A Pop

(Header Image Source:

Ambassador Highlights #10 – Bar Crawls, Yakitori, Fashion Shows And More!

It’s officially the end of May!

Here at DiscoverSG, that means we get to look back on and celebrate all the exciting activities our ambassadors dropped in on this month.

This month’s highlights include plenty of amazing events and yummy eats!

1. Birders

Tras Street never fails to surprise with its string of hip, tasty food spots.

Its newest addition is Birders, a snazzy, modern yakitori bar, for all the Japanese soul food you could ask for.

[embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/BTymTRclgyE/?taken-by=dianabakar_[/embed]

It’s opened by our very own local celebrity, Adam Chen too!

Our ambassadors, Diana, Shivon and Dawn headed down to see what the hype was all about.

[caption id="attachment_26783" align="aligncenter" width="1880"] Image Credit: The Ranting Panda[/caption]

They were treated to a wide selection of yummy yakitori, including the Thigh ($3.50), Breast ($3.50), Tail ($4), Sasami ($4.50), Oyster ($4.50), Tsukune ($4.50), and Skin (S$4).

[embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/BTv1khnhWWJ/?taken-by=shivonchua[/embed]

Dawn’s absolute favourite was their Bourbon infused liver mousse. It was paired with yuzu marmalade for a sweet kick of flavour, and fried mantou for that extra crunch!

Diana loved the spring rolls, as well as the sweet matcha lava cake dessert.

[embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/BTqzq6yhk1B/?taken-by=dtynx[/embed]

We were also impressed by their selection of imported Sake that even came with a reference index of the drinks’ sweetness and acidity levels.

Birders
Where: 55 Tras Street Singapore 078994
Opening Hours: Mon – Thurs: 6pm – 12am; Fri – Sat: 6pm – 1am; Closed on Sunday
Contact no.: 8748 4585

2. Sister Act

If there’s one thing we can’t pass up, it’s a good laugh.

That’s why we were elated to hear that Broadway’s Sister Act had arrived on our shores!

[embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/BT6UF0olB7d/?taken-by=dianabakar_[/embed]

This comedy-musical features a wannabe diva who witnessed a murder, and who then had to be hidden in a convent for protection.

[caption id="attachment_26791" align="aligncenter" width="1500"] Image Credit: Our lovely ambassadors Diana and Stephanie managed to snag tickets to the opening night of this hilarious show.

[embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/BT6SshfANN3/?taken-by=piinkmasquerade[/embed]

They spent half the time howling with laughter, and the other half in tears over the touching scenes of friendship.

If you love broadway musicals, we hope you didn’t miss this one, which featured music by eight-time Oscar winner Alan Menken!

Sister Act
Where: MasterCard Theatres At Marina Bay Sands, Marina Bay Sands, Singapore 018956
When: May 9 – May 20; 7.30pm – 10pm
Contact no.: 6688 8868

3. Moxie Fashion Show

Lovers of lace and all things pretty, a new boutique has opened up in town for you!

Moxie is the newest super sophisticated multi-label womenswear boutique at Mandarin Gallery.

[embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/BUauqr4lFhU/?taken-by=dianabakar_[/embed]

Our ambassadors Diana, Jia Min, Shivon, and Vanessa headed down for a fancy private fashion show!

[caption id="attachment_26789" align="aligncenter" width="800"] Image Credit: Moxie[/caption]

They lived out every girl’s dream of sitting at the front row of a runway, watching models strut their stuff in some gorgeous, immaculate pieces.

[embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/BUQjaIahTcf/?taken-by=siowjiamin[/embed]

What they loved most was that each of them could find an outfit that matched their personal style!

Diana’s favourites out of all the elegant pieces were the dainty, yet eye-catching lace tops, while Vanessa’s was the red off-shoulder lace dress.

[embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/BUOsLCzBWTX/?taken-by=vaneszs.h[/embed]

Every label featured at Moxie is picked by hand, and every design is personally crafted.

We can’t wait to go back to do some proper shopping here!

Moxie Show
Where: 333A Orchard Road, Mandarin Gallery, #03-23 Singapore 238897
Open: 11am – 9pm daily
Aloha!

There’s a new Hawaiian eatery in town, and it’s serving up the ever delicious and trendy poke bowls.

[embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/BUg9Ga_hK57/?taken-by=rachaelwong[/embed]

Our ambassadors Nicholas and Rachael had such a healthy and yummy dinner at Alakai.

They quickly felt right at home amidst the “Aloha Spirit” of this comfy restaurant.

[caption id="attachment_26784" align="aligncenter" width="960"] Image Credit: Image Credit: And we attest to this–these poke bowls are as good as they sound. 

The mashed potato with macaroni was a pleasant surprise, while the the coconut and coffee pudding dessert was the perfect sweet ending.

Alakai
Where: 3 Everton Park #01-79 Singapore 080003
Opening Hours: Tue – Fri: 11.30am – 2.30pm, 5.30pm – 8:30pm; Sat: 11.30am – 8.30pm; Closed on Sundays
Contact no.: 6904 4957
Facebook

5. Bar Crawl

If you’re wondering what to do this Friday night, we’ve got a suggestion.

Bonappetour has a not-so-secret Bar Crawl that will bring you to hidden top bars on our island!

[embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/BUjVx7PBaoU/?taken-by=shivonchua[/embed]

Our ambassadors Clare, Jia Min, Kimberly, Shivon and Stephanie were brought to investigate the unknown nooks of Central Singapore.

[embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/BUrXsEdAX6-/?taken-by=piinkmasquerade[/embed]

They discovered amazing bars they’ve never been to, like Tiger’s Milk, Native Bar and Operation Dagger!

[embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/BUhRR4ZBwu0/?taken-by=kimberleyyong_[/embed]

They got to savour all kinds of unique cocktails, like Tiger Milk’s fruity strawberry-passionfruit cocktail, and Operation Dagger’s toffee apple cocktail.

What excited them the most though, was ANTZ, an exotic cocktail at Native Bar, which comes garnished with actual ants.

[embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/BUrFFdMgwrb/?taken-by=claregwendolyn[/embed]

Sign up for the bar crawl! Who knows, it might just lead you to discover your new favourite Friday night hideout.

Secret Bars of Singapore
Where: Sssshhh, it’s a secret!
When: 1 June – 28 July; 7.30pm – 10.30pm
Contact no.: 8288 5950
Website

6. Baywatch Preview

We’ve been waiting on our toes for Baywatch to come out in Singapore, just so we can catch Zac Efron in action, in all his shirtless glory.

That’s why we were stoked to be invited to a preview of the movie!

[embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/BUosmChBv42/?taken-by=shivonchua[/embed]

Our ambassadors Chelsea, Cheryl, and Shivon got to catch the movie before anyone else!

They spent half the time laughing at all the sassy lines, and the other half bae-watching Zac Efron, we’re sure.

[embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/BUgm6uxj2gV/?taken-by=cherzinga[/embed]

We think it’s safe to say this was one of the funniest movies they’ve seen this year.

[embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/BUgk5E5gRRS/?taken-by=chel.sea.ang[/embed]

Baywatch is now showing in theatres and we suggest you head out and catch it!

7. Sama Curry & Café

We’ve found a great new spot to get our curry fix, and it’s none other than Sama Curry & Café, a popular Hokkaido soup curry shop hailing from Japan!

[caption id="attachment_26787" align="aligncenter" width="2048"] Image Credit: We sent our ambassadors Joey, Nicholas and Vanessa down to try it out, and boy was it delicious.

[caption id="attachment_26788" align="aligncenter" width="2048"] Image Credit: Next, they picked a level of spiciness from the cute categories of “Baby Bear”, “Adult Bear” and “Crazy Bear”.

Choose between 0 to 30 to make sure you get the exact level of spiciness you desire.

[caption id="attachment_26790" align="aligncenter" width="1000"] Image Credit: OUE Downtown 2 Gallery, 6 Shenton Way #03-26 Singapore 068809
Opening Hours: 11.00am – 9.00pm
Contact no.: 6224 0590
10 ‘Die Die Must Try’ Events And Eats To Rev Up Your First Half Of June [1-15 June]

Singapore: Asia’s Monte Carlo

Singapore is fast becoming the Monte Carlo of Asia and is often similarly described as the playground for the rich. Just 684 square kilometers in size, Singapore is the smallest country in Southeast Asia and at a mere 2 square kilometers, Monaco is also punching well above its weight. The Asian country shares many characteristics of its European counterpart.

Singapore can boast a low crime rate, a green environment, and an enviable public transportation system. It is considered a great place to live (and in both countries, the life expectancy is over 85 years) as well as work and play, a description that is also attributed to Monaco.

[caption id="attachment_26822" align="alignnone" width="1936"] Image Credit: Wikimedia[/caption]

In the 1970s, the Singapore Tourism Board started marketing the city as a venue for conventions and other organized events to increase occupancy rates. Eventually, occupancy rose as high as 90%, as a result. Singapore’s manufacturing sector is dwindling, but the services industries, which have been encouraged to thrive, have continued to create jobs. The World Bank has dubbed it one of the world’s “easiest places to do business” as there is high transparency, reliability, and a pro-business government. Singapore also increased its attractions within the last 10 years to include a Universal Studios theme park, gaming establishments, and the famed Singapore Flyer, a huge Ferris wheel experience with air-conditioned pods.

[caption id="attachment_26823" align="alignnone" width="1725"] Image Credit: Wikimedia[/caption]

Singapore also enjoys a thriving street racing industry. The Marina Bay Street Circuit even closely resembles Monaco, drivers claim, so enthusiasts compete on a stage that feels right at home. The Singapore Grand Prix is Formula One racing’s original night race, run on a 5.073-kilometer street track through the city’s heart. The race is held at night to avoid the blistering temperatures of the day.

[caption id="attachment_26824" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Image Credit: Wikimedia[/caption]

Singapore, like Monte Carlo, is also famous for its food festivals like the month-long food festival that was born in 1994 and is now an annual event organized by the Singapore Tourism Board. International chefs travel from all over the world to showcase delightful food to suit every palette. Clearly, Singapore is seeking to wrest that title of Image Credit: Wikimedia[/caption]

Singapore also possesses a unique and diverse culture that will help attract the adventurous food lovers to its shores. Modern Singaporean culture (mod-Sin) merges with contemporary dining and is enriched by the Malay, Chinese, Indian, and Western influences.

The safety and cleanliness of the country are comparable to Monte Carlo. Spitting in the street and chewing gum are unheard of. Green spaces are also being created in Singapore, and the country received its first sought-after UNESCO World Heritage nomination for the botanic gardens and

10 ‘Die Die Must Try’ Events And Eats To Rev Up Your First Half Of June [1-15 June]

Aaand it’s finally June!

If you’re in school, that means the long awaited June holiday break. If not, there’s always the weekend to spend some quality time with your loved ones.

With a whole bunch of exciting events to go to and new eats to sample, this month’s line-up of events surely does not disappoint!

Think fun festivals of all kinds, shopping till you drop at The Great Singapore Sale, and new cafe openings. Whether you’re a beach bum, die-hard foodie or someone who appreciates great music, we’ve got some ideas on how you can spend your weekend!

Here are 10 activities you need to head down to ASAP!

Play & Discover

1. Faber-Castell Art Festival

It’s time to pick up your colouring pencils again!

Faber-Castell, the makers of brilliant pencils and creative goods, adds colour to the month with its first ever art festival.

[caption id="attachment_26604" align="aligncenter" width="2048"] Image Credit: These include lessons on fashion illustration, brush calligraphy, hand-lettering, and watercolour painting. You can also bond with family over art competitions, badge making, and mind mapping.

There will also be an art exhibition, where proceeds from the sale of artworks will be donated to the Singapore Children’s Cancer Foundation.

Make sure you nose around the huge spread of Faber-Castell products on sale too!

Faber-Castell Art Festival
Where: Singapore ION Orchard #04-13 & Marina Square #02-190A, 6 Raffles Boulevard, S039594
When: 27 May – 4 June, 11am – 9pm daily
Contact no.: 6339 8787

If you remember watching Channel 8’s The Little Nyonya, you’ll jump at this chance to be part of that world.

The Peranakan Festival offers the most immersive chance to learn about the vibrant Straits Chinese culture in Singapore!

[caption id="attachment_26611" align="aligncenter" width="1080"] Image Credit: The Peranakan Festival[/caption]

Expect a slew of performances, including the traditional Dondang Sayang, a humourous love ballad.

Kids will love the arts and crafts workshops, where they’ll learn stamp carving, silk screen printing and book cover art. You’ll also get to have fun dressing up and taking pictures in Nyonya or Baba traditional kebayas!

Try your hand at making (or wolfing down) traditional desserts, Nasi Ulam, sireh and betel nut, at the cooking classes and food tastings here.

Finally, sit down for high tea with the less privileged elderly and children from Lengkong Bahru and beneficiaries from Prison Fellowship Singapore, and learn the heart of the Peranakan community.

Peranakan Festival
Where: Claymore Connect, 442 Orchard Rd, S238879
When: May 27 – June 17, 11am – 6pm
Contact no.: 6262 4428
Lo And Behold Group Festival

This one’s for those who live for decadent food and extravagant parties.

Lo & Behold’s month-long festival shows us Singaporeans how to party with class and style!

[caption id="attachment_26610" align="aligncenter" width="750"] Image Credit: Party like Grace Kelly at Electroball: The Golden Age of Hollywood, at swanky 1930s bistro-bar The Black Swan. Or head to OverEasy Orchard, for a Riverdale-themed bash!

If you’d rather eat than party, catch an epic Pizza-Off happening at Extra Virgin Pizza. As part of the festivities, Tanjong Beach Club will also be serving up an All You Can Eat Bottomless Brunch.

If you want to learn a little something, The Rabbit Hole will be playing host to a snazzy Gin Workshop, so bottoms up!

Lo And Behold Group Festival
Where: Various locations
When: 29 May – 25 June
Contact no.: 6338 8035
Website

4. DBS Marina Regatta

Been dreaming of the perfect beach getaway, but haven’t got the time to go?

Well, DBS brings the beach to you at this year’s DBS Marina Regatta, Singapore’s first and only urban pop-up beach!

[caption id="attachment_26607" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] Image Credit: DBS Marina Regatta[/caption]

Held at Marina Bay, there’ll be plenty to do, eat and drink–like a real beach, but better.

Laze around in hammocks with an ice cold cocktail in hand (we recommend one from Potato Head’s Coconut Bar), take yoga classes hosted by lululemon, or get your blood pumping by tackling Singapore’s largest inflatable water obstacle course.

DBS Marina Regatta 2017
Where: The Promontory@Marina Bay
When: 1 – 4 June | (1 June) 4pm – 9pm; (2, 3, 4 June) 10am – 10pm
Remember how much you loved listening to stories as a kid?

StoryFest brings that spark back, with a showcase of the best storytelling from Singapore and around the world.

[caption id="attachment_26612" align="aligncenter" width="1400"] Image Credit:
StoryFest SG[/caption]

There are workshops and performances for everyone–kids, adults, and aspiring storytellers themselves!

Families will be transported to faraway lands at Enchanted Tales, which features folk and fairy tales from Russia, Africa and France.

Adults too can choose from a selection of adult audience shows, including a monologue and a story slam in the Singapore Showcase.

There’s even a workshop where you can learn to use stories to build emotional literacy in children, and one where the audience themselves are used to form a story.

It’ll surely be a happy ending to the day, no matter which you choose!

International Storytelling Storyfest
Where: The Arts House, 1 Old Parliament Lane, S179429
When: 2 – 4 June
Contact no.: 6332 6919
Website

6. Beerkini Rocks

Beach, beer, bands and babes…

That, and a whole lot more, is what you’ll find at Bikini Bar’s quarterly beach party, Beerkini Rocks!

[caption id="attachment_26603" align="aligncenter" width="2270"] Image Credit: Music fans can look forward to rock classics and chart-toppers by talented local rock and alternative acts O.K Ready! and Rockweller.

Also not to be missed are their crazy drink offers, with Jaeger Shots at $8, Monster Bombs at $9, and Buckets of Bintang going at $40.

Bikini Babes will also be challenging rock and rollers to exciting beach games with prizes to be won!

Beerkini Rocks
Where: Bikini Bar 50 Siloso Beach Walk #01-01, Singapore, S099000
When: 3 June, 3.00pm – 11.30pm
Contact no: 6631 8938
Bangkok’s famous April’s Bakery has finally opened in Singapore!

And it’s serving up Hong Kong-style Lao Po Bing (Wife Cake) with a twist.

Choose between sweet and savoury options depending on your mood–both are stuffed with flavourful, colourful fillings, wrapped in a thin, flaky crust.

For an afternoon snack, try the fragrant Pork with Gravy, or the subtly sweet Pork with Honey.

For dessert, get the Thai Milk Tea, Green Tea, or go for the popular Taro (with a hidden gingko nut within!) and Pumpkin flavours.

These Cantonese-style pies are handmade and baked fresh daily to ensure they taste great, and they’re all priced at only $2 each!

We suggest you head down early, because the yummier flavours get snapped up real quick.

April’s Bakery
Where: April’s Bakery Singapore, Tampines MRT Station, #01-31, S529538
Opening Hours: 8.00am – 10.00pm, or till sold out (Mon-Sun)
Contact no.: 8122 7604
This newest addition to the themed cafe scene may be the most magical one yet.

The quirky Enchanted Cafe charms at first sight with its beautiful decor, complete with a magical garden and collection of spell books.

[caption id="attachment_26606" align="aligncenter" width="2048"] Image Credit:
Enchanted Cafe[/caption]

But what’s most striking is the presentation of its dishes.

Think: Bright red cherry compote, blackberries and blueberries in a vivid splash against a deep blue plate, sprinkled with seemingly handpicked bits of nuts and leaves. That’s what makes up the tangy, yet sweet Berries Compote French Toast ($14.90).

For something traditional with a twist, there’s the Ngoh Hiang Burger ($18.90), which is exactly what it sounds like, complete with bits of water chestnut and black garlic sauce made from scratch.

The most instagramable thing here is the Sorcerer’s Elixir ($9.90), a blue drink that turns glittery purple after an orange liquid is added.

This has to be the most enchanting cafe to open since the Harry Potter Cafe.

Enchanted Cafe
Where: Rangoon Road, Singapore 218374
Opening Hours: Closed on Mon; Tue: 10am – 10pm; Wed – Thur: 12pm – 10pm; Fri: 11am – 11pm; Sat: 10am – 11pm; Sun: 9am – 8pm
Contact no.: 8813 1086
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9. PC Show

Maybe you’ve been thinking of swapping out your laggy PC for a new one.

Well, there’s no better time than the annual PC Show!

[caption id="attachment_26608" align="aligncenter" width="1170"] Image Credit: Marina Bay Sands, 10 Bayfront Avenue, S018956
When: 1 – 4 June, 12pm – 9pm
Contact no.: 6299 8633
Shopping. Many of us do a whole lot of it–often, more than we should.

Well, a 10 week period starting from 9 June just gave us even more reason to do so!

[caption id="attachment_26609" align="aligncenter" width="1480"] Image Credit:
Your Singapore[/caption]

For both tourists and locals alike, there’s no better time to hit the stores than during the Great Singapore Sale!

This is the time when retail stores in Singapore feature their greatest sales and markdowns.

Had your eye on a dress, but couldn’t bear to part with that kind of cash? We say it’s now or never.

Stretch your dollar and fill those shopping bags with bargains of all kinds–from fashion to jewellery, electronics to toys, to spa treatments, hotel stays, food, and visits to local attractions!

The Great Singapore Sale
Where: All over Singapore!
When: 9 June – 13 August
The Projector: How An Abandoned Theatre Became An Artsy Alternative Cinema

Forget Sugar Glazed, This Cafe Serves Up Savoury Donuts Like ‘Cheeseburger’ And ‘Bacon’ At Only $2.90 A Pop

If the mention of donuts calls to mind sugary, sweet treats, this cafe’s savoury creations are about to turn your world upside down.

Six By Sera, a little place off Rangoon Road, serves up a collection of delicious savoury donuts! Now, we finally have an excuse to eat donuts as a full meal, and not just as dessert.

[caption id="attachment_26405" align="aligncenter" width="952"] Image Credit: Six By Sera[/caption]

Oh So Savoury Donuts

The donuts here come in 3 scrummy flavours: Smoked Salmon with Cream Cheese and Truffle Oil, Bacon and Mozzarella, and the Cheeseburger donut–a magical combination of minced beef, cherry tomatoes with a slice of melted cheddar, and jalapeño.

[caption id="attachment_26406" align="aligncenter" width="1188"] Image Credit: Six By Sera[/caption]

The best part? They are all selling at just $2.90!

Having one (or more!) of these beautifully presented babies as an afternoon snack will have us powering through the day for sure.

Pastries, Deserts & Coffee

Besides its unique savoury donuts, Six By Sera sells other amazing pastries as well, such as their signature croissants!

They are fragrant, buttery, flaky and airy–everything you could possibly want in a croissant.

[caption id="attachment_26407" align="aligncenter" width="1190"] Image Credit: Six By Sera[/caption]

Like the donuts here, the croissants comes in several unique, inventive flavours. These include the Smoky Pork Croissant ($12.90, served on weekends only), Scrambled Eggs & Bacon Croissant ($10.90), and Cheesecake Croissant ($6.60).

A local favourite with a modern twist would be the Chili Crab Croissant ($11.90).

Sweet tooths can also sink your teeth into their desserts, like the Mini Choux Pastries (in yuzu, raspberry and chocolate flavours), Dark Chocolate Mousse Cake ($5.90) and the lemon meringue tart.

Six By Sera is always coming up with new goodies too! Check out the Bandung Lychee Raspberry Macarons they created specially for Mother’s Day.

[caption id="attachment_26404" align="aligncenter" width="960"] Bandung Lychee Raspberry Macarons (Image Credit: Six By Sera)[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_26408" align="alignnone" width="960"] Image Credit: 89 Rangoon Road, #01-03 Urban Lofts, Singapore 218375
Opening Hours: Tue – Fri: 12pm – 9pm; Sat: 10am – 10pm; Sun: 10am – 9pm; Closed on Mondays
Contact no.: 9652 8141

Also read 10 Shiok Experiences And Eats To Turn Things Up A Notch The Second Half Of May [15-31 May]

(Top Image Credit: Six By Sera)

The Projector: How An Abandoned Theatre Became An Artsy Alternative Cinema

If you’ve heard of The Projector, you’ll know it is a completely alternative cinema concept.

Far from screening mainstream blockbusters, here you’ll find indie, foreign, cult favourite, classic, arthouse and local flicks.

[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="640"] Image Credit: Celluloid Junkie[/caption]

But how did the fifth floor of the slightly crummy Golden Mile Tower come to house this artsy two-screen cinema?

Seems like its vintage appeal isn’t constructed at all, but stems from a long history we think you film buffs should know about…

The Golden Theatre

Once upon a time, there was the The Golden Theatre.

Situated in said Golden Mile Tower along Beach Road, it was once the largest cinema in all of Singapore and Malaysia.

Think: an impressive 1,500 stall and circle seats, all inside one massive movie theatre.

[caption id="attachment_26312" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] Image Credit: Mapio[/caption]

For those born before 1973, you may know its constructor, Chong Gay Theatres, who are also the ones behind the homely Kallang Theatre.

Back in the day, The Golden Theatre was well-patronised for its Mandarin films, ‘adult’ artistic films, and even Bollywood hits.

Sadly, with sparkly new shopping malls sprouting up through the ‘90s, its popularity slowly waned.

The majestic theatre split up into smaller, separate halls–Golden 1 and Golden 2, both of which then sunk into disrepair.

The Fixer Uppers

Enter creative development company Pocket Projects, and design and architectural firm FARM.

This group of passionate cinephiles banded together to breathe new life into this old, derelict, but also historic space.

And so restoration works began, in the form of The Projector.

[caption id="attachment_26319" align="aligncenter" width="800"] Image Credit: Image Credit: The Projector[/caption]

The two halls also received new names, along with their new lease of life.

Golden 1 became the Green Room, and Golden 2, the Redrum–a nod to Stanley Kubrick’s classic ‘The Shining’.

Fast Forward

Today, the halls are once again as bustling as they were in the good old days.

Each of the two rooms at The Projector seats nearly 200 people, and are fitted with digital projectors.

The chairs in the front section of the Green Room have even been replaced with comfy bean bags.

[caption id="attachment_26316" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] Image Credit: Pocket Projects[/caption]

They’ve also roped in Luna Films, the people in charge of curating local film festivals, to help select and bring in films to be screened.

Finally, to complete the movie-going experience, came the addition of a café to the cinema’s foyer, manned by Group Therapy Coffee. It sells classic movie snacks like popcorn, alongside burgers, pies, and cake, along with sodas, juices and their own coffee blends.

[caption id="attachment_26315" align="aligncenter" width="960"] Image Credit: The Projector[/caption]

If you’ve ever lamented the limited range of films in Singapore, you now know where to find a great independent cinema.

For all its history, The Projector itself is definitely as fascinating as the movies it screens, and is well worth a visit.

The Projector
Address: 6001 Beach Road, Golden Mile Tower #05-00, Singapore 199589
Opening Hours: Tue – Fri: 6.30pm – 9pm; Sat, Sun, PH: 1.00pm – 9pm; Closed on Mondays
Website

(Top Image Credit: SINdie & Pocket Projects)

Also, read 10 Shiok Experiences And Eats To Turn Things Up A Notch The Second Half Of May [15-31 May]

With Over 1,000 Stalls, This Year’s Geylang Bazaar Will Keep You Coming Back For More

The month of Ramadhan is a few weeks away and while it holds plenty of cultural and religious significance for Muslims all over the world, that doesn’t mean the rest of us can’t join in on the festivities.

Two cultural events worth checking out every Ramadhan are the annual Hari Raya Light-Up and the Geylang Serai Baazar. This year’s light-up is centred around the cultural and historical aspects of Malay culture.

Hari Raya Light-Up 

[caption id="attachment_26271" align="alignnone" width="991"] Image Credit: Hari Raya Light-Up 2017 Organising Committee[/caption]

This year’s Hari Raya Light-Up will feature a 4.4-metre-tall wau (a kite originating from the Malaysian state of Kelantan), a stage area formed by a 12-metre-wide sampan and decorated arches standing at 13-meters and 9-metres tall.

[caption id="attachment_26272" align="alignnone" width="991"] A 4.4-metre-tall wau, a kite originating from the Malaysian state of Kelantan (Image Credit: Hari Raya Light-Up 2017 Organising Committee)[/caption]

This year’s light-up stretches over 2.25km, spanning Sims Avenue and Changi Road, and comprises 900,000 LED lights!

This year’s Hari Raya Light-Up will see the addition of a new, temporary exhibition. Housed in a structure modelled after the weaves of a ketupat, the exhibition serves to educate the public about the history of Hari Raya and of the Geylang Serai area.

Geylang Serai Bazaar

[caption id="attachment_26266" align="alignnone" width="1024"] Image Credit: SCAPE*[/caption]

The Geylang Serai Bazaar is returning with more than 1,000 makeshift stalls selling both traditional and fusion snacks. Happening from 25 May to 24 June, look out for “poke bowls”, candy floss burritos and “rainbow planet” ice-cream buns.

[caption id="attachment_26265" align="alignnone" width="618"] Candy Floss Burritos[/caption]

The annual bazaar spans Geylang Serai market, Joo Chiat Complex and Haig Road. Cultural performances are set to take place every weekend near Kampong Kembangan Community Club. For cultural buffs, catch free screenings of P Ramlee’s films on the big screen.

If you’re a Singaporean (or foreigner) who is keen on getting their hands on some delicious eats, head on down to the Hari Raya Light-Up. Our advice? Bring that portable fan and lots of cash!

Hari Raya Light-Up
Where:
Around Sims Avenue and Changi Road 
When: 
May 20 – Jul 7

Geylang Serai Bazaar
Where:
Geylang Serai Market, Joo Chiat Complex and Haig Road 
When:
25 May – 24 June 

Also read, DBS Marina Regatta Is Bringing The Beach To The Bay, With lululemon Workouts, Potato Head’s Coconut Bar & More!