These 8 Social Enterprise Eateries Serve Food From The Heart
If there’s one thing Singaporeans share, it’s a common love for food. Local eateries are constantly competing to whet our appetites with new flavours, but some have taken their fare one step further by making a social enterprise out of their businesses.
Whether it’s providing employment opportunities to the marginalised or donating profits to the less fortunate, these eateries have made it their mission to do good.
Check out these 8 social enterprise eateries! The causes they stand for only give us more reason to head out to try the cuisines they have to offer.
1. Art Bar
Get your daily coffee fix at Art Bar, a community project with Starbucks Singapore. Art Bar trains young adults with autism to handle cash and work the coffee machine, and ultimately, become fully-fledged baristas!
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Image credit: The Art Faculty by Pathlight[/caption]
Art Bar is one of the various job sites at the E2C campus of Enabling Village. Enabling Village is a cosy community in Singapore where people with different disabilities can move independently, feel accepted for who they are, and be valued for their contributions.
While you’re there, you must try the rich, chocolatey and moist Double Chocolate Chip Muffin. It goes especially well with the Cafe Latte! Other drinks include Cafe Americano, Cafe Mocha and Milo Smoothie.
Art Bar
Where: The Art Faculty By Pathlight, 01-07 Enabling Village, 20 Lengkok Bahru
Hours: 9am to 8pm, Monday to Saturday; closed on Sunday
Phone: 6513 0706
This quiet bao shop just off Upper Thomson Road is more than just another dim sum shop. Its owner, Madam Sarah Tan helps the less fortunate by giving them employment and having them make and sell their steamed buns.
Image credit: The people you’ll see running Choon Ming Bao Dian include those with a history of mental illness, the homeless, single mothers, ex-offenders and foreign workers who were cheated by their agents. Her home has even doubled as a temporary shelter for these people!
Have one of the many yummy types of bao and dimsum available for breakfast! The Dinosaur Bao, Char Siew Bao, Har Gow, and Siew Mai are just some of them. You’ll be sure to feel the warmth from your belly all the way to your heart!
Choon Ming Bao Dian
Where:
203 Toa Payoh North, #01- 1121, Singapore 310203
122 Ang Mo Kio Ave 3, Singapore 560122
628 Ang Mo Kio Market & Food Centre, #01-91, Singapore 560628
Facebook
3. Crossings Cafe
The aptly named Crossings Cafe seeks to provide employment opportunities, personal development and dignity to the disadvantaged. The hope is that they will be able to cross boundaries and chart more paths in society.
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Image credit: This quaint little social enterprise is sure to not only nourish your stomach, but make you feel more connected to your community as well!
All profits made here are channeled to charitable causes. Also, it is currently collaborating with Assumption Pathway School, taking on students to work at the café as servers, cooks and baristas.
Come down and try their delicious comfort food at affordable prices. Their Signature Chilli Crab Pasta, Gula Melaka Pancake Stack, Grilled Pork and Fennel Burger, and Sweet Potato Fries are sure-bets!
Crossings Cafe
Where: 55 Waterloo Street, Singapore 187954
Open: Mon-Fri 8am-10pm; Sat-Sun 10am-10pm
Phone: 6336 6203
Email: [email protected]
Facebook
4. Dignity Kitchen
Tucked away in Serangoon is Singapore’s first ever hawker training school. It gives practical training to people with disabilities, so they can secure stable jobs as chefs or hawkers!
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Image credit: Adobe Spark[/caption]
80% of its staff is disabled, and another 20% is made up of the elderly and the poor–all of which are able to achieve financial independence working here.
Dignity Kitchen is home to Singaporean favourites like rojak, chicken rice, baked goods and local desserts. You can even pre-order bento boxes for large scale events here!
Dignity Kitchen
Where: Blk 267 Serangoon Avenue 3, #02-02, Singapore 550267
Phone: 8189 7678
Email: [email protected]
Facebook
5. Eighteen Chefs
Opened by an ex-convict himself, Eighteen Chefs inspires troubled youths and people with conviction backgrounds to find positive ways to reintegrate back into society.
[caption id="attachment_23048" align="aligncenter" width="1600"]
Image credit: NEX Serangoon, 23 Serangoon Central, #01-57, Singapore 556083 (And other outlets)Hours: Monday to Sunday, 11.00am to 10.00pm
Telephone: 6634 4642
6. Joan Bowen Cafe
Originally opened by the owners to fulfil their special needs daughter’s wish to be a chef, Joan Bowen Café has since employed more than 10 special needs youths.
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Image credit: 9 Jalan Wangi, Singapore 349354Open: 11am to 4pm, Monday & Tuesday; 11.30am to 2.30pm, Wednesday; 11.30am to 2.30pm, 6.30pm to 9.30pm, Thursday & Friday; 1pm to 9.30pm, Saturday; Closed on Sundays & Public Holidays
Phone: 6281 3629
Email: [email protected]
is another cosy social enterprise that provides training and employment opportunities to the disadvantaged, so they can be integrated back into society. [caption id="attachment_23050" align="aligncenter" width="1000"]
Image Credit: New Rasa Singapura[/caption]
Those working in this establishment include people with physical or hearing impairments, recovering stroke patients and mature, vulnerable individuals.
Expect Singaporean favourites like fish head curry, beef rendang, soup kambing, hainanese chicken rice, dry laksa, char kway teow, fried carrot cake, chap chye, and many more!
New Rasa Singapura
Where: 56 Tanglin Road B1-02 Tanglin Post Office Singapore 247964 (opposite Tanglin Mall)
Open: 12noon-10pm; Closed Sundays and public holidays
Phone: 9818 8102
Facebook
8. Qita In The Park
A contagious passion to help the less fortunate was what drove the owner, Genevieve, to leave her cushy lawyer job to run a social enterprise of her own.
[caption id="attachment_23051" align="aligncenter" width="1200"]
Image Credit: This cafe-cum-retail shop showcases beautiful artwork on its walls for sale, in support of the artists at Pathlight. Singapore-themed gifts made by home-bound women and senior citizens are also on display.
Popular picks here include the traditional Singaporean breakfast of half boiled eggs and toast with homemade kaya, made from fresh coconut milk. Lunch sets include fragrant Kampong Chicken Curry with organic basmati rice. Yum!
Qita In The Park
Where: 20 Upper Pickering Street, Telok Ayer Hong Lim Green Community Centre
Open: 7.30am to 6pm, weekdays; 9am to 3pm, Saturday; closed on Sunday.
Phone: 6225 4318
Email: [email protected]
Facebook
These eateries are doing a world of good for those who truly need it, and it has definitely warmed our hearts. If it’s warmed yours too, come show your support for those less fortunate and taste what they have to offer!
Not only will you leave with a full belly, your heart will also be full.
Also, read Bon Appétit! 6 Legit French restaurants In Singapore That Won’t Burn A Big Hole In Your Wallet
10 Marvellous Activities to Kick Off Your March [1-15 March]
Here we are once again at the beginning of a brand new month.
If work or school has fallen into that inevitable lull, don’t worry! As always, we’ve got some awesome events lined up to help you keep things interesting this month!
Here’s a calendar of 10 not-to-be-missed activities to kick start a month to remember!
Play & Discover
1. The Pillowman
Who says the theatre scene in Singapore is dead?
Enter Pangdemonium’s restaging of The Pillowman, a nail-biting, nightmarish nursery story for grown-ups.
The dark comedy, written by Irish playwright Martin McDonagh, will have you squirming at the edge of your seats, even as you roar with laughter.
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Image credit: Time Out[/caption]
The story revolves around writer, Katurian, who is interrogated in a dark prison cell. His crime? Penning gruesome fairy tales that bear an uncanny resemblance to a series of child murders. Tensions soon mount as the line between real and fictional worlds blur in this darkly comic psycho thriller.
This sinister stunner of a play is a vicious whirlpool of thrilling storytelling and a scary examination of the very nature and purpose of art.
The Pillowman
Where: 9 Empress Pl, 179556
When: 24 February – 12 March 2017
Timings: Tue-Fri: 7.30pm, Sat: 2.30pm & 7.30pm, Sun: 2.30pm, Sun: 7.30pm (12 Mar 2017)
Website
2. Singapore International Jazz Festival
Put on your jazz shoes, because the Singapore International Jazz Festival (SingJazz) is back!
#SingJazz2017 promises to be a dazzling musical extravaganza, set against Singapore’s glittering, iconic skyline at Marina Bay Sands.
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Image credit: Viilevent Photography[/caption]
Get ready for 3 days and 2 nights of world class music entertainment by some of the biggest names in jazz. Headliners include David Foster, Corinne Bailey Rae, Gilles Peterson and more! Kick back by the water as you enjoy the wind in your hair, amazing music in the air, all with a glass of bubbly in your hand!
Also, proceeds from the festival go towards the Foundation for Arts and Social Enterprise, which provides funding to nurture local jazz talents through the Jazz Academy.
Singapore Jazz Festival
Where: Marina Bay Sands Events Plaza (The Main Stage); MBS Expo and Convention Centre (The Late Show)
Address: 2 Bayfront Ave Singapore 018972
Date: 31 Mar-2 Apr 2017
Time: 4pm to 10.30pm (The Main Stage); 10pm to 4am (The Late Show)
Email: [email protected]
Website
Facebook
3. Garden Beats Festival
This March, get ready for the #summervibes at Garden Beats!
Groove to the hottest electronic tunes at Sunshine Nation’s Electronic Picnic Festival. Expect a multi-sensory experience of music, food and games, all at Fort Canning Park.
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Image credit: Fort Gate, Fort Canning Park, 11 Canning Walk Singapore 17888Date: 18 March 2017
Time: 1pm to 10.30pm
Website
4. Choking Hazard: An Exhibition About Toys
You’re never too old for toys–at least not the ones in this exhibition.
Kult will be showcasing the works of 30 artists and toy makers, in a great coming together of international artists and designers.
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Image credit: kult[/caption]
Inspired by the waste of mass production and over consumption, these artists have torn apart existing toys sourced from toy markets, and remixed them into new objects. Some are gruesome, some are hilarious, and all are witty as hell.
You can even make your own art! An assembly line of pre-loved toys will be available at the gallery to take apart and re-build into your own Frankenstein-ian art piece.
Choking Hazard: An Exhibition About Toys
Where: kult, C2-5, 11 Upper Wilkie Road, Singapore 228120
Dates: 17 FEB – 18 MAR 2017
Time: Mon-Fri 11am to 7pm, Sat 2pm to 7pm
Facebook
5. Singapore Design Week
Bet you didn’t know there was a national agency for design.
Well, the Design Singapore Council’s mission is to develop our design sector to make life better. Sounds good to us.
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Image credit: Design Singapore[/caption]
What’s better, its annual Singapore Design Week is back!
Get artsy home goods at the International Furniture Fair, experience robust collaborations between local designers and the industry at Singaplural, or get inspired at the ‘Innovation By Design’ Conference.
Expect a week of Singapore’s creative culture and ecosystem that integrates design and creativity into our everyday life!
Singapore Design Week
Where: Multiple venues
When: 3012 March 2017
Phone: 6333 3737
Email: [email protected]
Website
Facebook
Eat
6. PasarBella & Friends Go to Town
Here’s the perfect post workday idea: PasarBella & Friends Go to Town returns for the third iteration of its special pop-up market at this year’s i Light Marina Bay!
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Image credit: Marina Bay Sands Event Plaza, 10 Bayfront Avenue 018956Date: 3 – 26 March 2017
Time: 5.00pm – 11.00pm (Sunday – Thursday) 5.00pm – 12 midnight (Friday – Saturday)
Website
7. terratoria OLA
Prep your stomachs for a gastronomical adventure.
Michelin starred Chef Daniel (OLA Cocina Del Mar) and Chef Seita (terra) will come together for a one day only affair that is terratoria OLA!
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Image credit: OLA Cocina Del Mar
Address: Marina Bay Financial Centre Tower 3, #01-06 12 Marina Boulevard, Singapore 018982
Date: 12 March 2017, 12pm to 4pm
Price: $150++
Reservations: +65 6604 7050
Email: [email protected]
Website
Facebook
8. Singapore Cocktail Festival
Mix it up at Asia’s largest celebration of cocktails this March!
The inaugural Singapore Cocktail Festival promises to be an immersive experience that will excite the palates of novices and aficionados alike.
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Image credit: Time Out[/caption]
With a mish mash of activities to Taste, Learn and Play, you’ll get to interact with a truly global lineup of mixologists. Features include some of Singapore’s best cocktail bars, as well as world class bartenders from cocktail cities like Hong Kong, London, New York, Seoul and Tokyo.
Excite your palate at the experiential cocktail village, nurture the budding mixologist in you at the workshops, or jump in a themed cocktail party!
Singapore Cocktail Festival
Where: Multiple venues
When: Thursday March 16 2017 – Tuesday March 21 2017
Email: [email protected]
Website
Facebook
9. Singapore Restaurant Week
The concept of Restaurant Week is unbelievably simple.
Dining City is offering limited seats for a special 3-course lunch and dinner at established local restaurants–for a fraction of their usual prices.
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Image credit: 1919 Waterboat House[/caption]
This 3-course menu will be offered at an irresistible fixed price of S$35++ for dinner and S$25++ for lunch all through the week.
Some of these luxe restaurants include the fancy 1919 Waterboat House, Wooloomooloo Steakhouse Singapore, Privé Grill, and Lewin Terrace.
What are you waiting for? Reserve your tables as soon as possible–we don’t know when’s the next time you’ll be able to savour this spread at such good prices.
Singapore Restaurant Week
Where: Participating restaurants
Date: 25 March 2017 – 1 April 2017
Email: [email protected]
Website
Who can resist a good flea and art market?
Much less one in the heart of 20 dazzling light art installations from 9 different countries. Enter Hypefest @ i Light Marina Bay!
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Image credit: MAAD[/caption]
Here is your one stop shop for artisanal goods featuring over 50 indie labels. Find eco-friendly crafted gifts and even personalized merchandise!
We won’t say more! Come down and experience it all for yourself. It’ll be an evening of pleasant discovery that’s sure to excite!
Hypefest @ i Light Marina Bay
Date: 3 Mar 2017 – 26 Mar 2017
Time: 4.00pm to 11.00pm
Venue: Marina Bay Seating Gallery Platform 20 Raffles Ave, Singapore 039805
Website
Excited yet? With this list of the freshest events, yummiest food spots, and shopping opportunities, there’s no reason to say “Singapore got nothing to do”!
Grab your friends and family, and kick back at these cannot miss activities! They’re sure to offer a well-deserved break from the work desk to keep you going all through the month.
Keep calm and March on!
Also read, These Light Art Installations Popping Up At Marina Bay Will Make You See Nature In A Whole New Light
New Hangout Spot, Chip Bee Gardens, Is Where All The Cool Things Are
Situated opposite Holland Village, Chip Bee Gardens is home to a few of our favourite hangouts. Located in a quieter, more peaceful, and relaxing district, Chip Bee Gardens is that perfect hideout for a little bit of me-time as well as a great choice for a laid back catch up session with friends.
You can be sure that the little cafes and ice cream parlours here serve up some really decent fare that will not disappoint.
1. Baker & Cook
At the very top of this list is Baker & Cook. Conceptualised by New Zealander Dean Brettschneider – one of the best bakers on the globe, this spacious and cosy cafe serves up a good selection of bread, pastries, salads and mains.
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Credit: Sg Asia City[/caption]
A bonus for coffee addicts – their lattes are to-die for.
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Credit: The Chosen Glutton[/caption]
Be sure to try their chocolate Lamingtons. It’s two layers of light and airy sponge cake filled with chocolate cream and covered with a thin layer of desiccated coconut.
Not overbearingly sweet and empowering, the flavours are also simple. Less is more, and we can’t help but reach out for seconds.
Baker & Cook Chip Bee Gardens The wide selection of professionally curated Italian fare they serve will leave you spoilt for choice. Pasta? Checked. Pizza? Checked. Did we mention that most food are homemade as well? That’s surely a bonus. Well, an Italian meal should always end with this one dessert, Tiramisu. This dangerously addictive espresso-infused dessert consists of Italian Savoiardi biscuits soaked in Italian coffee and Marsala, layered with creamy Mascaarpone, and finally topped with shaved Valrhona chocolate. What goodness! Da Paolo Gastronomia Besides their freshly churned ice-cream and oh-so-yummy looking waffles, Sunday Folks has their own array of freshly baked cakes as well! The latest addition to their cake collection is the Bailey’s Cheesecake with Speculoos. Slow-baked and made with both Philadelphia light cream cheese and rich Bailey’s Irish cream, the cake is then topped with a splash of chocolate sauce and Speculoos. These different layers of flavours are undoubtedly a surprise to your palette. Sunday Folks Ice cream in a cone or a cup is forever a classic, and this humble ice-cream parlour does its ice-cream the right way. Ice-cream at The Daily Scoop is made fresh, on a daily basis. Imagine that! Also, extra brownie points to them for creating their goodness with locally-sourced and fresh ingredients. Artificial flavourings are a big no-no to them. We love their Cha Earl Grey. It is basically an Earl Grey sherbet. Imagine having your Earl Grey tea ice cold. That’s totally a big yay for us because that will be extra refreshing on the hot, sunny days. The Daily Scoop We all need a break sometimes from the hustle and bustle of the city. Why not give yourself a break and enjoy a little tea-time over at Chip Bee Gardens? Header Image Source: Urbandesis Singapore Also, read The Game Plan – Explore The Best Of Bedok Cafes With This Trail!
Address:
44 Jalan Merah Saga, #01-56 Chip Bee Gardens, Singapore 278116
Opening Hours:
Sun to Thurs, 7:30am to 8pm
Friday, 7:30am to 10pm
Credit: Traveling Tomatoes[/caption]
Credit: jacqsowhat[/caption]
Address:
43 Jalan Merah Saga, #01-74, Singapore 278115
Opening Hours:
8:30am to 9:30pm
Credit: Entree Kibbles[/caption]
Credit: Sunday Folks[/caption]
Address:
44 Jalan Merah Saga, Chip Bee Gardens #01-52, Singapore 278116
Opening Hours:
Closed on Monday
Tues-Thurs, 1pm-10pm
Friday, 1pm-11pm
Saturday, 12pm-11pm
Sunday, 12pm-10pm
Website4. The Daily Scoop
Credit: Dedicated To Durians[/caption]
Credit: OpenRice[/caption]
Address:
43 Jalan Merah Saga, #01-78, Chip Bee Gardens, Singapore 278115
Opening Hours:
Sun to Thurs, 11am-10pm
Fri to Sat, 11am-10:30pm
Website
9 Unique And Romantic Date Ideas That Will Have You Falling In Love All Over Again
If you’re in a relationship, you’ll most likely have heard your significant other (SO) ask this dreaded question plenty of times, “What to do next weekend?” After all, good date ideas are few and far between.
Sure, with many popular attractions like the Singapore Zoo and Universal Studios Singapore, it seems like Singapore is a never-ending city of fun. But what happens when you do exhaust that date ideas list of ‘Best places couples can go on a date’?
With this article, we’ll bring you date ideas that will make you go, ‘Why didn’t I think of that before?” Here are 9 that will surely up you and your SO’s street cred.
1. Arteastiq
I have art… I have tea… Ugh… Arteastiq! (Sorry, we just had to.)
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Image Credit: Working With Grace[/caption]
This place is a paradise for those who have a passion for both the arts and food. With free canvases, unlimited art supplies and a free drink courtesy of 
Image Credit: Arteastiq[/caption]
Arteastiq has a one-for-one deal on Monday for couples, so you should probably take advantage of that.
It’s totally killing two birds with one stone because you can chase those Monday blues away.
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Image Credit: Arteastiq[/caption]
Trade away your teh-si and kaya toast for one day and enjoy some high tea.
Arteastiq
Mandarin Gallery, #04-14/15
Weekday, 11am – 10:30pm; weekend, 10am – 10:30pm
6235 8705
Plaza Singapura, #03-70/72
Daily, 10am – 10pm
6336 0952
2. Kayak
Escape the concrete jungle for a real jungle!
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Image Credit: Asian Detours[/caption]
If you’re a stranger to kayaking, you need not worry. At [email protected]
3. Stargaze
If you’ve heard or even used the line, “I see stars in your eyes” then you’ll want to come here.
At the 
Image Credit: Scrobbers
These sessions, called Night Sky Ramblings are free. The activity takes place every Friday from 7.45pm to 10pm. The Science Centre also offers free solar observations if that’s your kinda activity.
Depending on the month you go, you might be able to see Jupiter, Mars, Saturn and Venus.
So why not pop over on a Friday night and gaze at something besides your SO’s eyes for once?
Stargazing @ Science Centre
From now – 18 Nov 2016; From 1 Jan 2017 onwards
Every Friday, from 7:45pm – 10pm
The Observatory at the Omni-Theatre building
Solar Observation @ Science Centre
22 Nov 2016 – 30 Dec 2016
Every Tuesday and Friday, from 10am – 12pm
The Observatory at the Omni-Theatre building
Website 
Image Credit: SportDiver UK[/caption]
Though these dive spots are no Great Barrier Reefs, there is no shortage of beautiful sea creatures like the Fan-bellied Leatherjacket and the Ocellated Pipefish.
At Look! I found Nemo! OrpheusDive Also, read 6 Absolutely Beautiful Spots In Singapore That You Can Actually Dive In It’s like cafe-hopping, but with islands. And yes, in Singapore too! Did you know that Singapore is actually part of an archipelago? Singapore is made up of 63 islands with both natural and artificial islands. Well-known islands include Sisters island, Kusu island and St Johns island. Some of these islands are accessible by boat and will make for a nice relaxing day trip. However, pack your own food as most of them don’t have food places. An excuse to have a nice romantic picnic! There are also lagoons around some of the islands where you and your date can take a dip and chill. If your date wants to you to bring them overseas, bring them here! I mean it is over the seas right? Also, read Singapore’s 63 Islands! Here Are 6 Islands You Can Visit To Get Away From The Crowd Not dinosaurs obviously. What were you thinking? You’ve heard of the famous goat farm and alligator farms but a turtle/tortoise museum? At this museum, you’ll be able to learn all about these ancient creatures and also, have a hand at feeding them. Look out for rare creatures like the matamata (No, not the police!) and the snake headed turtle. The Live Turtle and Tortoise Museum Ever experienced a blackout and had to eat in the dark? Well, at The restaurant is located at Beach Road and is reservation only so make sure you call before you head over. Nox – Dine in the Dark Old but gold. Nothing beats feeling the wind while cycling down a slope. There’s also no other feeling like hanging out with your love. Combine the two together and you have a nice cycling date in one of Singapore’s most popular islands. You can even try the coconuts from the famous Pulua Ubin ah ma. Or head down to the quarry – a piece of Singapore’s past and check out the scenery at the same time! Take a break from hunting Pokémon and explore animals like boars and tide creatures at the nearby Chek Jawa. Wearing matching clothes isn’t the ‘hip’ thing anymore – smelling like each other is the new black! At Je taime, you’ll be able to blend all kinds of fragrance ingredients to create your very own scent. Both you and your partner will be required to take a personality quiz to determine the right kinds of scent for you. Or you could always go with your imagination and mix away! Feels kind of like a science experiment but with a ton of nice smelling chemicals, no? When you’re done with your concoction, you’ll probably be like this: We know it’s difficult to plan a really good date so we’ve taken the initiative to help you out. You’ll thank us one day when everyone starts commenting on those Instagram photos with #relationshipgoals! Header Image Source: Huffington Post Also, read 6 Romantic & Secluded High-Tea Spots That Your Date Will Surely Approve Of!
Image Credit: KT Tan[/caption]
16 Zion Road, Singapore 247733
6887 3631
Monday to Friday, 12pm to 8pm; Saturday & Sunday, 12pm to 6pm5. Island hop
Source: The Smart Local[/caption]
Source: The Smart Local[/caption]
6. Feed some prehistoric creatures
Image Credit: The Wacky Duo[/caption]
Image Credit: Trip Advisor[/caption]
1 Chinese Garden Road, Singapore 619795
6268 5363
Daily, 9am – 6pm
Image Credit: Nox[/caption]
Image Credit: Nox[/caption]
269 Beach Road Singapore 199546
Monday to Friday, 6pm to late; Saturday, 5pm to late; Sunday, 5pm to 11pm
6298 07088. Cycling in Pulau Ubin
Image Credit: Viator[/caption]
9. Custom make your very own perfume
Image Credit: Minorinc[/caption]
Image Credit: Trip Advisor[/caption]
Zika Has Been Lurking In SG For A Month Now, But There’s Actually Little To Worry About
With new cases of Zika continually popping up on our shores, do we have reason to panic?
Well, like the saying goes, Knowledge is power and Prevention is better than cure.
Instead of hiding at home and sealing your windows, you can arm yourself with these information and lower the risks of contracting the virus. Besides, our Zika timeline shows that there’s little to worry about.
Zika timeline in Singapore
Although the virus originated from Africa, it has found it’s way to our shores.
The first case of locally transmitted Zika Virus was jointly announced by the Ministry of Health (MOH) and the National Environmental Agency (NEA) on August 27. That’s exactly one month ago.
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Zika timeline[/caption]
There are 387 confirmed cases as of September 23. 16 of which are pregnant women.
Zika clusters in Singapore
Currently, there are 9 known Zika clusters in Singapore.
Starting with Aljunied – which also houses the largest cluster (291 cases), onto more recently, Sengkang and Hougang.
If you want to know more, NEA regularly updates their website with detailed information on existing or new clusters.
The number of cases are on the decline
Although Zika sounds pretty scary, there is no reason to panic!
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credit: Here’s Your Chance To Truly #FlipTable, Swap Books & More At This Year’s Archifest!
Your Ultimate Guide To The Most Decadent And Epic Singapore F1 After Parties
Unless you’ve been living under a rock for the past few months, you would already know that the 
(image source:
If you live by the quote ‘Go big or go home’ then [email protected]
Amber-Lounge (Singapore)
9 Raffles Boulevard, Millenia Walk, Temasek Reflections,S039596
Contact: +377 97 77 16 34
2. Boudoir Noire
(image source: [email protected]
Capitol Theatre
11 Stamford Rd, Capitol Piazza, S178884
3. CE LA VI
(image source: [email protected]; +65 6508 2188
CE LA VI
1 Bayfront Ave, SkyPark at Marina Bay Sands, Tower 3, Marina Bay Sands, S018971
Contact: 6688 7688
4. Sky Grande Prix
Empire
Level 45 Singapore Land Tower, 50 Raffles Place, S048623
5. Podium Lounge
(image source:
Get your tickets here: [email protected]
Ritz-Carlton Millenia Singapore
7 Raffles Ave, S039799
Contact: 6337 8888
6. 1 – Altitude
(image source: [email protected]; 6438 0410
1-Altitude
1 Raffles Place (Former OUB Center), S048616
7. Sunshine Nation Block Party
(image source: Feature Image: F1 Singapore 2016 – 7 Concerts That Are Wickedly Good, They’re Better Than The Race!
16 Insanely Awesome Eats In Yishun That You’ll Brave The MRT Red Line For
Yishun is probably not one of the first few places we’ll think of when we wanna look for great yummy food in Singapore. But don’t dismiss this new town up north quickly as a pathetic and boring place for foodies yet.
Let the hidden yummy food in Yishun make you relook at this suburban neighbourhood. Read on to discover the top 16 yummylicious all time best eats and new eats so good, you wish you could have them now!
All Time Best Eats
1. Hojiak Black & White Rojak
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Image Credit: Cavin Teo[/caption]
As the name of this stall implies, they sell real “ho-jiak” (“delicious” in Hokkien) rojak, a popular local delight.
Hojiak Black & White Rojak has been faithfully serving the palatable delight to residents around Khatib MRT for a long time. While it has moved from one coffee shop to another within the same neighbourhood, it is always strategically located next to the drinks stall.
Rojak served with the black shrimp paste (“hae ko”) is considered a sinfully unhealthy food. But who can resist the plate of crisp tofu and dough fritters, with crunchy cucumber and turnip slices drizzled with lots of diced peanuts? I can’t!
If you prefer a healthier version, try the white rojak which is served with sour plum sauce, a refreshing tangy taste that is equally yummy too!
Hojiak Black & White Rojak
Address: Blk 846 Yishun Ring Road
Open: 1.30 pm till sold out
Price: From $3
2. Yishun 925 Hainanese Chicken Rice
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Credit: 
Image Credit: Ellena Guan[/caption]
Shami Banana Leaf Delights is a popular Indian food stall that started operations at Northpoint Shopping Centre food court since 1993. There were crazy queues in front of the stall during meal times back in the good old days.
Their signature dish has to be the nasi briyani set that comes with flavourful meat served on fluffy briyani rice. With the expansion of 2 outlets at Food Republic Causeway Point and Sembawang Road, it’s now more convenient to get your briyani fix!
Shami Banana Leaf Delights
Address:
Northpoint Shopping Centre, 930 Yishun Ave 2 #B2-10;
349 Sembawang Road;
Causeway Point, 1 Woodlands Square #04-01
Open: 10 am to 10 pm (Northpoint & Causeway Point); 7 am to 10 pm (Sembawang Road)
Price: $7 for the chicken briyani set
4. Chuan Kee Braised Duck Rice
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Image Credit: The Burnt Fork[/caption]
Enough of chicken, folks in Yishun love duck meat too! And so, we love Chuan Kee Braised Duck Rice in Chong Pang Food Centre. The boneless braised duck meat here comes in a generous serving doused with thick dark gravy, accompanied by slices of soft braised tofu and flavourful peanuts.
No wonder there is always a queue at the stall!
Chuan Kee Braised Duck Rice
Address: Chong Pang Food Centre, 105 Yishun Ring Road, #01-159
Open: Tue to Sun 10 am to 8 pm
Price: From $3
5. 928 Yishun Laksa
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Credit:
Image Credit: Hawker Hunters[/caption]
Yet another perennial favourite of the northlanders, Chong Pang Nasi Lemak started as a humble stall in the Chong Pang Village Hawker Centre in 1973. Over the years, it has gained such a huge following with its freshly cooked dishes that it has since relocated to a coffee shop along Sembawang Road to cater to a larger crowd.
The coconut rice is aromatic but not overpowering. Popular dishes include the specially marinated chicken wings fried to perfection, spicy long beans and sambal brinjal. For a really satisfying meal with a kick, don’t forget to add their signature chilli sauce!
Chong Pang Nasi Lemak
Address: 447 Sembawang Road
Open: 5 pm to 7 am the following day
Price: varies based on the dishes you order
Official website: 
Image Credit: Johor Kaki[/caption]
Also found in Chong Pang Food Centre, Xiang Xiang Fishball Noodles is one of my favourite comfort food. This is a familiar name to many of those who grew up in the old kampung days in Nee Soon.
As one of the rare hawker stalls that still serves food to your table, Xiang Xiang’s fishballs are big and springy, made with fresh yellowtail fish or ikan parang. Try the dry spicy version for a savoury bowl of noodles tossed with a generous mix of lard, chilli paste and soy sauce. The accompanying soup is lightly flavoured with “chye poh” (preserved turnip) which adds to the fragrance!
Xiang Xiang Fishball Noodles
Address: Chong Pang Food Centre, 105 Yishun Ring Road, #01-177
Open: Tue to Sun 6 am to 4 pm
Price: $3 (small), $3.50 (big)
8. 618 Sim Carrot Cake
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Image Credit: Foodie FC[/caption]
Nestled within the quiet Nee Soon South district at Fujo Eating House, 618 Sim Carrot Cake is the place to satisfy your cravings early in the morning! Located about 10 min away from Khatib MRT station, count your lucky stars if you manage to tuck into a yummy plate of fried radish cake mixed with a plentiful amount of “chye poh”.
On weekdays till 9.30 am, you can ask for either black (fried in dark sweet sauce) or white carrot cake. However, only the white carrot cake is available on weekends. Be prepared to wait around 10 minutes or so on weekdays, and up to 30 minutes on weekends!
618 Sim Carrot Cake
Address: Fujo Eating House, Blk 618 Yishun Ring Road #01-3230
Open: Wed to Sun 6.30 am to 3 pm. Closed on Tue
Price: From $2.80
9. Heng Hua Restaurant
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Image Credit: Uniquelicious[/caption]
Do you know that there is a Heng Hua Restaurant tucked in a quiet corner of Yishun, serving heartwarming Fujian Henghua cuisine? It is a homely zi-char style eating house serving a variety of authentic dishes at reasonable prices. Classic dishes include the Heng Hua Style Lor Mee and Fried Bee Hoon. Who needs Putien when we have such a nice cosy eatery in Yishun?
Heng Hua Restaurant
Address: Blk 748 Yishun Street 72 #01-212
Open: 11 am to 11 pm
Price: From $4.50
10. Bei Sheng Taste of Thailand Restaurant
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Image Credit: The Burnt Fork[/caption]
For a taste of Thailand, Yishun residents can find comfort at Bei Sheng Taste of Thailand Restaurant in Chong Pang City. Tuck into your favourite zi-char dishes with Thai influence. A must-have at this restaurant is the Tom Yam Soup, with plenty of seafood cooked in the aromatic broth. As its name implies, enjoy a variety of fresh and yummy seafood here, such as the signature Thai Deep Fried Fish Delight.
There’s also another outlet, Taste of Thailand, run by the same family, at 1001 Yishun Industrial Park A.
Bei Sheng Taste of Thailand Restaurant
Address: Blk 701A Yishun Ave 5 #01-01, 1001 Yishun Industrial Park A, 18 Sin Ming Lane (new outlet)
Open: 11.30 am to 2 pm (lunch) and 5.30 pm to 10 pm (dinner)
Price: From $4
11. Zi Zai Vegetarian
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Image Credit: Gurkhason[/caption]
Vegetarians in Yishun are not left out. Zi Zai Vegetarian is a popular vegetarian eatery in the community. With a myriad of vegetarian dishes available, you’ll never be done trying them all! Must-try dishes include the signature crispy yam ring filled with lots of yam, cereal vegetarian prawns and claypot tofu. If you think vegetarian food is boring, you haven’t been to Zi Zai Vegetarian!
Zi Zai Vegetarian
Address: 236 Yishun Ring Rd #01-1000
Open: 7.30 am to 9.30 pm
Price: From $3
12. Jing Ma Che (H.K) Roasted Porridge Noodle House
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Image Credit: Mr. & Mrs. Glutton[/caption]
Jin Ma Che (H.K) Roasted Porridge Noodle House is another mean foodie place where you can satisfy your craving for roast meat delights. Strategically located opposite Chong Pang Camp, be prepared to fight with army personnel for your steaming plate of fragrant rice topped with thick cuts of roasted meat.
What sets this apart from other roast meat stalls in Yishun is its rich and flavourful sauce. Their porridge, only available on weekend mornings, is worth the wait too. Try some yourself and you will know what I mean!
Jin Ma Che (H.K) Roasted Porridge Noodle House
Address: 101 Yishun Ave 5
Open: 7.30 am to 8.00 pm
Price: From $4
New Eats
13. The French Table
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Image Credit: Food Hunting For Us[/caption]
Yishun not only has yummy hawker delights to boast of, we are also able to savour cool French cuisine at The French Table. Sink your teeth into traditional French dishes like their signature Duck Confit, and Roasted Chicken. The best part of the deal, this casual dining restaurant is wallet friendly!
The French Table
Address: Northpoint Shopping Centre, 930 Yishun Ave 2 #01-44
Open: 10.30 am to 10.30 pm
Official website: Credit: 
Image Credit: The Moose[/caption]
Coba Coba is a retro-looking cafe tucked in a quiet corner of a HDB block that serves traditional Nasi Padang. Tuck into favourite dishes such as Terung and Sayur Lodeh that taste just like homecooked food. No worries about the meal burning a big hole in your pocket though. A great meal with drink costs less than $10 in such a cosy ambience!
We recommend choosing your own sides as compared to ordering the Nasi Ambeng.
Coba Coba
Address: 156 Yishun Street 11 #01-106
Open: 7.00 am to 9.00 pm
Official website: https://www.facebook.com/cobacobasg/
16. Nakhon Kitchen
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Image Credit: Wendy Huin[/caption]
Nakhon Kitchen is a popular casual Thai eatery that started in the Kovan neighbourhood. Since last year, Yishun residents need not travel all the way to northeast Singapore just for a taste of authentic Thai food at wallet-friendly prices. Hooray!
Satisfy your Thai cravings with Nakhon’s affordable and quality eats. Best part of the deal? No GST and service charge to be paid here!
Nakhon Kitchen
Address: 233 Yishun Street 21 #01-03
Open: 12.00 pm to 3.00 pm (Lunch); 5.30 pm to 10.00 pm (Dinner). Closed on Wednesdays.
Instead of drooling over mouth-watering images of these yummylicious Yishun eats, make a move up north! Don’t just envy us northlanders. Discover these best food yourself for a satisfying culinary experience. Enjoy 🙂
Also, read 7 Insanely Cool Places To Chill At In Yishun That You’ve Not Heard Of
OH. MY. GAWD! A F.R.I.E.N.D.S – Themed Cafe Is Opening In Singapore!
If you grew up watching re-runs of the popular sitcom FRIENDS, you might have heard news of a Central Perk opening its doors on our sunny island! As an avid FRIENDS enthusiast myself (I have VCDs to prove it. Yes, VCDs.), I was a tad skeptical when I first saw the crowdfunding project on Indiegogo.
(image credit: CentralPerkSG)
The One With The Owner
Let’s be honest a lot of spinoffs and fan-made projects rarely pan out ( I have yet to see a FRIENDS movie, even after 12 years of waiting!) so when I chanced upon a “Central Perk SG Friends Themed Cafe” it attracted my attention but I didn’t have much hope it would pan out.
And boy am I glad I was wrong, theCentral Perk SG Facebook page has more than 16,000 likes (obviously there are MANY FRIENDS fans here in Singapore)!
Lim Jit Min (like a lot of us), fell in love with FRIENDS back when he was a student in Anglo-Chinese School. He says that he saw Central Perk SG as a place when friends could gather and reminisce about the popular show.
(image credit: CentralPerkSG)
(image credit: CentralPerkSG)
The One with Central Perk
What we really want to know is what does Central Perk SG look like? Lim Jit Min is bringing in the trademark aspects of the show and original cafe to Central Perk SG. Look out for the coffee bar, the Central Perk logo, a recreation of Monica’s kitchen, Pat the Dog and of course not forgetting the trademark orange couch!
Lim Jit Min, brought the aspect of FRIENDS to the menu as well; cheesecake from Little Mama’s bakery and the “Moist Maker” are just some examples of just how much Lim Jit Min is tying the FRIENDS concept to his themed cafe. If you’re keen on bringing something back to remember your time spent here, get your hands on caps, apparel and mugs printed with FRIENDS quotes!
(GIF credit: https://www.facebook.com/centralperksingapore/
In the meantime, why not re-watch the whole 10 seasons again!?
(Feature image: NBC )
Also Read: South East Asia’s First Pompompurin Cafe Is Coming to Singapore this April!
6 Real Reasons Why We Secretly LOVE Changi Airport
Changi Airport has consistently topped the list of the ‘World’s Best Airport’, we’ve actually won this award for 4 consecutive years! Let’s be honest, this isn’t a surprise. Changi Airport is clean, comfortable, has great 24 hour eateries and being a Singapore product is (of course) efficient! While Changi Airport has great basic amenities it’s the other attractions that make our airport the best in the world. Here’s 5 reasons why Changi Airport is great for travellers and locals alike!
1. The Exhibitions
Honestly, I’ve been to a handful of airports across the world and I’m pretty sure Changi Airport might just be one of the rare airports where locals head over just for the fun of it. There are a probably a few reasons for that;
- The open layout; So while the airport may be crowded, you don’t feel overwhelmed.
- Don’t lie: You’ve spent late nights here cramming for exams.
- THE EXHIBITIONS.
One thing that non-travellers can enjoy when they’re at Changi Airport is the exhibitions. Changi seem to come up with a theme ever few weeks because every time I head down there to pick or send someone off there’s a new display up!
SG 50
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A theme park in a mall, has been seen and done. But a rollercoaster in the airport? Now that’s something I have to see. The Great Adventure exhibit targeted children from everywhere around the world. The exhibit has sand pits, stamps engraved with Chinese characters and of course the mini roller coaster!
Star Wars: The Force Awakens
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Christmas means huge Christmas trees, falling snow, Father Christmas and of course presents! Changi Airport held its own by erecting its own miniature castle!The kids were in for a treat with a glimpse of Santa Clause and falling (artificial) snow! Who needs crowded shopping malls when Changi Airport is already providing some Christmas cheer!
2. Charging Points
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If you’ve been crazy about Pokemon Go and are on the look out for Hotspots, look no further. Like many shopping malls and local attractions, Changi Airport has jumped on the bandwagon of making it a Singapore Pokemon Hotspot. Don’t just take my word for it, look at what a friend of mine caught in just 2 hours at Changi Terminal 1 and 3!
5. The Entertainment
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Flight delays and transits can be frustrating and boring. But at Changi Airport you might just be glad you get a few more hours to experience these entertainment attractions. There’s something here for any traveller whose bored out of their wits. You can head over to the movie theatre which shows up to date movies, if you’re more of a gaming buff you can head on over to the Entertainment Deck. This place is a Disneyland for anyone itching to get their hands on a gaming platform. Xbox Kinects and PS4s are filled with the most popular games. If you’re a fan of LAN gaming you’re in luck! Changi Airport has their own LAN gaming area!
6. The Giant Slide
(image credit:Also Read: 6 Absolutely Beautiful Spots In Singapore That You Can Actually Dive In!
WOW! Against The Current Is Coming To SCAPE THIS THURSDAY!
I’ll be the first to admit, I have never heard of Against the Current. Unfortunately for me, I tend to stick to the Top 40s and the tried and tested favourites (Queen). One thing about me, I am extremely sentimental almost to a fault. I love breaking out the old hits from my secondary school days. Blonde highlights, bright colours and over lined eyes were all the rage back then. The world fell in love with female singers that had amazing pipes. Paramore, Hey Monday and Avril Lavigne dominated the charts. Their songs were catchy, the lyrics meaningful and the melody interlaced rock and pop for a perfectly balanced hit.
To describe their sound would be a monumental task in itself. Against the Current’s current album In Our Bones seems to glide seamlessly between pop, punk and rock. What’s uniform throughout their album is the strong vocals by lead singer Chrissy Costanza whose pipes are the perfect accompaniment to each track; (think Cassadee Pope from Hey Monday with a fresh and light twist). Check out their Youtube channel and you’ll know what I mean!
https://www.youtube.com/user/againstthecurrentNY
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GwF5KzrazXU
If you’re on the look out for a band that incorporates your old secondary school favourites and fresh beats, Against the Current may just be your new favourite in Spotify! What’s better? They’re headed down to our sunny island THIS THURSDAY! VIP and Early Bird tickets have already sold out! So What are you waiting for?! Get your tickets here:
(Image credit: ATC Official)
Also Read: F1 Singapore 2016 – 7 Concerts That Are Wickedly Good, They’re Better Than The Race!
