Tag: Tea

Sip But Don’t Spill – Enjoy Blends From Local And International Brands At Singapore Tea Festival 2018

For all you tea lovers out there, I suggest you take a sip of that chamomile for your nerves and grab on to something because we’ve got news.

Following its popularity when it debuted last year, the Singapore Tea Festival is back for its 2nd edition this coming 21 to 23 September 2018!

Tea Bazaar By teapasar

Organised by teapasar, the Singapore Tea Festival 2018 will be held at the ION Orchard’s Basement 4.

For those of you wondering, teapasar is the first global marketplace that features both local and international tea brands, and even rare teas direct from tea farms. Talk about exclusivity.

This year’s Singapore Tea Festival will be bigger than before, with 28 tea and tea-related brands all under one roof!

A Fes-Tea-val For Everyone

You can find single-origin tea merchants in the Timeless Classics section.

With vendors such as Tea Chapter, experts of the art of Chinese Tea and Chinese Tea appreciation, and Parchmen Academy, a school dedicated to the art of tea appreciation.

The Modern Blends section will feature Singapore’s own local tea brands. You can expect to find unique tea blends inspired by local flavours, such as Durian Tea from SUCRE, and Nyonya Kaya tea from The 1872 Clipper Tea Co.

You can also get your hands on Botanically Cold Brewed Sparkling Teas from Gryphon Tea and even 100% compostable tea pods from A.muse Projects, that are compatible with Nespresso machines!

For those of you with more sophisticated tastebuds, the International Flavours section has got you covered with selections from Matchaya, Ito En, and Bali Organic Tea.

To go along with your tea purchases, you can also get tea-related items at the Lifestyle section, such as tea illustrations from Troops On Print and handcrafted ceramics from &Natural and Euphoramics!

If you love your tea as much as we do here at DiscoverSG, then you should head down to the Singapore Tea Festival 2018, happening from 21 to 23 September 2018!

Singapore Tea Festival 2018
Venue: ION Orchard Basement 4 Atrium, 2 Orchard Turn, Singapore 238801
Date: 21 – 23 Sep 2018
Website

Also read Carouselland Is Back With Over 500 Popular Sellers, Entrepreneurship Talks, And An IG Photography Trail

(Header Image Source: Singapore Tea Festival)

These 15 Hipster Cafes In Johor Bahru Are Worth Braving The Customs For

Love discovering new cafes?

So do we! Over the past couple of years, we’ve seen a surge of new cafes popping up all over Singapore, and it seems the cafe scene has grown across the border too. With plenty of hipster cafes with cool, unique decor and delicious brunch-fare in JB, there’s one more reason to cross the border.

If you live for decadent brunches, chill vibes and lazy, care-free afternoons, you’ll fall in love with these hipster cafes. Not only do they have their own distinct aesthetic, they also have signature foods (and drinks!) you won’t find in Singapore.

Here are 15 hipster cafes in JB we think are worth crossing the border for.

1. Bev C (Halal)

Housed along the street, along with a string of other hipster cafes is this nook that’s easy to miss if you’re not looking for it. With its entrance bedecked in rustic, earthy tones of wood and brick, it certainly has a homely quality to it.

With its in-house boutique merging seamlessly with its cafe, Bev C proves that one can master both the crafts of coffee and fashion with finesse. Check out its clothing label here.

Feast your eyes on their Chocolate Mint Pies that you’ve probably squealed over a thousand times on Instagram. For fans of Windowsill pies, you’ll love this one as well.

Yummy pies aside, this cafe offers the renowned Ice Cube Espresso with Milk and Caramel, which ensures diluted coffee will not be an issue as you sit and chat with your pals.

Must Try: Charcoal Croissant with Smoked Salmon, Chocolate Mint Pie, White Chocolate Truffle Pie, Ice Cube Espresso

Bev C
Address: 54 Jalan Tan Hiok Nee 80000 Johor Bahru
Opening hours: Tue – Fri: 1 pm – 11 pm; Sat & Sun: 12 pm – 11pm, Closed on Mon

2. B.LO.C. (Halal)

B.LO.C, short for The Banana LOver Cafe, will take your goreng pisang love to new heights.

Situated opposite Taman Sentosa, at B.LO.C, you can drown your crispy goreng pisang in cheese or dark chocolate; you can even dunk it into creamy ice cream! Better yet, coat it with crunchy golden cereal, drizzled with hot caramel sauce. The flavour combinations are limited only by your imagination.

Handcrafted artisan teas with 5 bases, 15 flavours (e.g. saffron rose, pure yoghurt, winter melon) and a selection of 9 different toppings (e.g. coffee jelly, pearls, nata de coco), these customisable drinks are the perfect pick-me-up as you go on your cafe hunt.

Must Try: Thai Iced Milk Tea, Iced Chai Latte

Chaiwalla & Co. Honest Tea
Address: Lot 2810, Jalan Tan Hiok Nee, 80000 Bandar Johor Bahru
Opening hours: Mon – Thu: 9.30am – 6.30pm; Fri – Sun: 9.30am – 6.30pm, 8pm – 1am

4. Coffee Signature

It’s raining, it’s pouring Sweet Little Rain. As its name would suggest, expect a large, poofy cloud to deliver melted droplets of cotton candy into your piping hot black coffee or tea.

Other beverages served here include Green Tea Latte served in a big light bulb, and their unique Huevos Rancheros egg dish that’s more than just a run-of-the-mill Eggs Benedict.

In Mini Sunshine Brilliant, you’ll find a crispy ham bowl bearing a yummy mixture of eggs, cream and cheese.

Must Try: Sweet Little Rain, Huevos Rancheros, Mini Sunshine Brilliant, Ice Blended Green Tea

Coffee Signature
Address: 53, Jalan Serampang, Taman Sri Tebrau, 80050 Johor Bahru
Opening hours: Mon – Sun: 12pm – 10pm; Fri – Sat, 12pm – 11pm

5. Coffee Valley (Halal)

The feasting doesn’t end there; their waffles are pretty sensational too.

Must Try: Egg Slut, Four Seasons Waffle, Mixed Berries Waffles

Coffee Valley
Address: 12A Jalan Trus, Bandar Johor Bahru 80000 | L2-550A, Sutera
Opening hours: Mon, Tue, Thu – Sun: 11.30am – 8pm; Closed on Wed

6. EH HE Art Cafe

Stepping through the doors of this cafe is almost like entering the home of a quirky collector who’s obsessed with art in all its forms. Everywhere you turn, you’ll be greeted with one-of-a-kind sculptures and paintings.

If you’re craving something a little different, give the coffee here a shot. You’ll notice their coffee has a distinct aroma, for they use traditional beans that are homegrown in Johor, unlike the trendy Arabica beans brewed in countless other cafes.

Besides their old-timey drinks, EH HE serves up wonderfully old school nosh too. Red Bean Soup, Chendol, Nasi Lemak and Curry Chicken are some of the items that make an appearance on their menu.

Must Try: Chendol, Kopi-O, Fried Mee Siam, Red Bean Soup

EH HE Art Cafe
Address: No. 1, Jalan Trus, Bandar Johor Bahru 80000, Johor Bahru (Around the corner of Hiap Joo Bakery)
Opening hours: 12pm – 11pm daily

7. Faculty of Caffeine (Halal)

Great interior decor aside, this cafe offers food and drinks that’ll exceed most expectations. Sink your teeth into Madam Lim’s chewy chocolatey brownie, and feast on their waffles for some great food therapy.

Must Try: Dark Churros with Salted Egg Yolk Dip, Curry Soft Crab Waffles, Friendly Eggs Benny

Faculty Of Caffeine
Address: 33, Jalan Dhoby, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru
Opening hours: 10am – 10pm daily

8. Flowers in the Window  

Brought to us by the same team behind the famed Roost cafe, this two-storey cafe is lush with greenery and overflowing with flowers from every nook and cranny.

If you’ve ever fantasised about stumbling onto a Fairies’ Tea Party in the woods, this comes very close.

In keeping with its theme of flora and fauna, this cafe sells flowers and plants, and incorporates edible greenery and flowers in its food. That makes for some pretty whimsical food which will no doubt gain you several more Instagram followers.

Their cakes, freshly-baked daily, come in a bunch of unique and yummy flavours, such as their Rose Pistachio Cake, Pina Colada Cake and Pomegranate Brownie.

For a real surprise, try the Rosemary, Chilli and Lemon Drink. It’s unexpectedly tasty! Who knew these flavours would work so well together?

Must Try: Rose and Pistachio Cake, Lemon Meringue Tart, Pina Colada Cake, Rosemary, Lemon and Chilli Drink, Watermelon Strawberry Juice

Flowers in the Window
Address: 9, Jalan Dhoby, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru
Opening hours: 10am – 9pm daily

9. The Ice Cream Project

It turns out that the secret to creamy, delicious ice cream is liquid nitrogen, as we learnt at this cosy, yet roomy cafe.

The Butterscotch Ice Cream is a silky dollop of milky cream and smooth butterscotch–an utterly tasty combo. While savouring the ice cream, sip on some of their many teas for an interesting flavour contrast.

Must Try: Butterscotch Ice Cream, Brownies & Cream Ice Cream

The Ice Cream Project
Address: 31 Jalan Dhoby, 80000 Johor Bahru
Opening hours: Sun – Thu: 1pm – 10pm; Fri & Sat: 1pm – 12am

10. Kafuka Cafe & Music Studio

At this quaint little space, you’ll be able to find refuge from the busy, modern cafes and their ubiquitous hipster decor.

Inspired by Japanese elements, the cafe space doubles as a music studio where instruments are displayed, complementing the serenity of the place. Here and there, mini potted plants add a touch of life to the otherwise zen space.

Not only do they offer plenty of matcha-flavoured foods for those who love their matcha, their menu features a wide variety of good ol’ cafe nosh too.

Must Try: Matcha Red Bean Pancake, Crushed Oreo Belgian waffle, Chocolate and Banana Pancake, Matcha Latte

Kafuka Cafe & Music Studio
Address: 16A, Jalan Bendahara 12, Tmn Ungku Tun Aminah, Skudai, Johor
Opening hours: Sun – Wed: 11am – 10pm; Fri – Sat: 11am – 11pm; Closed on Thursday

11. Maco Vintage

Started up by Singapore pastry chef, Maco, this cafe is famed for its mille crepe cakes.

As photogenic as they are tasty, the cakes come in flavours ranging from Trio Chocolate to Musang (mao shan wang 猫山王) durian flavour. You won’t have trouble finishing a slice all by yourself, as the cream is light and not overly gelat like some cakes can get. 

If you’re thinking of having it to go, their dry ice sachets will keep the cakes chilled for about an hour.

Besides the cakes, you’ll find a satisfying selection of appetizers, mains, desserts, and hot and cold beverages served here.

Must try: Matcha Azuki, Bailey’s, Rainbow, and Musang Mille Crepe Cakes

Maco Vintage
Address: Jalan Ibrahim, 80000 Johor Bahru
Opening hours: Mon – Fri: 12.30pm – 11pm; Sat: 11am – 12.30am; Sun: 11am – 11pm

12. Miyakori Cafe (Halal)

Coffee with cute, stenciled animals and cakes with faces–these are some of the things you’ll find at this lovely cafe. It was an immense struggle deciding on the animals for our cakes and drinks. Not to mention, having to destroy these cute works of art killed us a little bit inside.

Sip on a cute kitty with this “Cat-puccino”, a brew with a nutty, chocolate-y aroma and a lingering sweetness. If you’re wondering, Miyakori’s coffee beans are imported from El Salvador, Sumatra, and Brazil.

Their cutesy image is backed up with substance, for the cafe serves pretty good cheesecake and brownies. The cheesecake is warm and light, while the brownie leaves no chocolate lover in want with its rich and dark aftertaste.

Must Try: Oreo Cheesecake, Brownie, Strawberry Shortcake, Matcha Latte, Cat-puccino

Miyakori Cafe
Address: 41, Jalan Indah 22/14, Bukit Indah 2, Johor Bahru
Opening Hours: 12pm – 10pm daily

13. Monsta Cafe

Old school meets cute-slash-psychedelic at this cafe. Retro school lockers, carpet grass and cloud motifs on the walls… We love the eclectic vibe of this coffee spot. At the entrance, look out for a large pink behemoth, the guardian of this 2-storey cafe.

Try their much raved about Cold Brew coffee, and sip on one of their lattes, which come with customisable latte art. Pick your design, or let the barista surprise you!

Dig into their Monsta Espresso Chicken Chop that comes with a shot of Espresso, lending the sauce a unique kick of flavour. The Monsta Mamee Burger is also crunchy and addictive, but we advice eating it deconstructed, as it’ll fall apart after a bite.

Must try: Cotton Candy Affogato, Cold Brew Coffee, Monsta Mamee Burger, Monsta Espresso Chicken Chop

Monsta Cafe
Address: 157 Jalan Bestari ⅕ Taman Nusa Bestari Skudai. 81300 Johor Bahru
Opening Hours: Mon – Thu: 10am – 12mn; Fri – Sun: 11am – 1am

14. Roost Repurposed & Recycled

An old beer crate, a plastic container and empty glass bottles are given a new lease of life at this cafe that really knows how to turn waste into wonder.

Not only are they pros at recycling, they’re just as adept at serving tasty grub. Share a plate of chicken meatballs and mashed potatoes with your friends. After that, have a bowl of their signature frozen yogurt for dessert.

Must Try: Frozen Yogurt, Chicken Meatballs with Mashed Potatoes, Smoked Salmon Salad, Eggs Benedict

Roost Repurposed & Recycled
Address: 14 Jalan Trus, 80000 Johor Bahru
Opening Hours: Mon – Sat: 12pm – 4pm, 6pm – 12am; Sun: 6pm – 12am

15. Victoria Rossa English Tea Room (F.K.A. The Teavana)

In this English princess-themed cafe, you’ll can’t help but lift your pinky while taking a sip of your latte.

With its porcelain tea sets, pastel colour scheme and floral printed furniture and crockery, dining here will awaken your inner princess.

Not only do they serve delicious mains, their deserts and pastries do not disappoint. Choose from cakes, scones or muffins, and a selection of coffees and teas.

Must Try: Pasta Sampler, Korean Beefy Cheesy Fries, Cloudy Toast, Lavender Latte

Victoria Rossa English Tea Room
Address: 128 Jalan Dato Sulaiman Taman Abad, 80250 Johor Bahru
Opening Hours: 12pm – 10pm daily

If looking at these pictures worked up an appetite, there’s only one thing left to do: cross the border for some delicious, wallet-friendly eats! Plus, there’s no better time than now, with the KTM shuttle charging ridiculously lows prices and taking you to JB in under 10 minutes.

Also read 8 Instagram-Worthy Drinks That Will Have Your Followers Spamming The Like Button

(Header Image Source: @bevccafe)

7 Oozy Choux Pastries That Will Have You Scrambling To Lick Everything Up

Is there anything better than sinking your teeth into a creamy, oozy choux pastry? No matter the shape or size, they’re a guaranteed flavour bomb!

For all you sweet tooths out there, we’ve put together a list of 7 places where you can get your hands (and lips!) on these tasty cream puffs!

1. Châteraisé Singapore

Originally from Japan, the immensely popular Châteraisé patisserie opened up in Singapore in April 2015. The outlets offer a huge variety of cakes and pastries, including their famed Double Fantasy Cream Puff ($1.90).

Filled with Hokkaido cream and egg custard, they occasionally offer flavours like sweet potato and matcha. This palm-sized pastry is possibly the best thing you can get for under $2!

Châteraisé
Outlets: Jurong East, Shaw House, Novena Square 2, Serangoon Nex, City Square Mall, CityLink, Chinatown Point
Opening Hours: Daily, 10am – 10pm
Website

2. Pulse Patisserie

Combining the classic French pastry with the local passion for salted egg yolk, the Salted Egg Yolk Cream Puff ($12 for a half dozen) was born. Pulse Patisserie’s bite-sized creations have a cookie crust top that gives it a crisp texture, perfectly complementing the unique sweet-savoury filling inside.

It’ll probably get messy, but where good food is concerned, who cares! These pretty, petite golden puffs are perfect for a snack, especially when accompanied with a hot cuppa.

Pulse Patisserie 
Address: 180 Depot Road #01-06, The Interlace, Singapore 109684
Opening Hours: Mon, Wed – Fri, 11am – 7pm; Sat, 9am – 7pm; Sun, 9am – 5pm
Website

3. Angela May Food Chapters

Among other sweet treats, you’ll find a range of sweet and savoury choux pastries at Angela May Food Chapters. Not afraid to push the boundaries of pastry, the puffs here contain unconventional ingredients like cucumber, jasmine, mint, sesame, ricotta, and even prawns!

[caption id="attachment_23746" align="aligncenter" width="1600"] Image Credit: 6. Les Délices

Translating into “The Delights” in French,  choux pastries are the specialty of Les Délices. Crisp on the outside and hollow and chewy in the middle, it’s perfect for filling up with their delicious pastry creams.

[caption id="attachment_24786" align="aligncenter" width="640"] Image Source: Burpple[/caption]

Their signature puffs come in 3 different flavours – Valrhona Guanaja Choux, Matcha Choux, Earl Grey Choux ($5.90 each). Topped with a crunchy cookie layer, it’s definitely a treat for both the eyes and the tastebuds.

Les Délices
Address: 333 Kreta Ayer Road, Singapore 080333
Opening hours: Mon, 12.30pm – 5.30pm; Tue – Thu, 12.30pm – 10pm; Fri – Sat, 12.30pm – 10.30pm
Image Credit: Website

If any of these delicate creations grab your fancy, head down to these top spots for one (or more) delicious choux pastry to sweeten up your day!

Also read 10 Uniquely Singaporean Cocktails You Can’t Find Anywhere Else In The World

(Top Image Credit: Anakjajan)

Beat The Heat! 5 Irresistible Thirst Quenches To Make At Home!

Remember how dry and hot it was around this time last year? This year round, .  So when life gives you heat wave, make lemon water!

Recipe from

1. Cut watermelon into cubes
2. Freeze watermelon cubes completely (about 3 hours)
3. Add about 2 cups of water melon ice cubes into the blender
4. Add two table spoons of freshly squeezed lime juice
5. Blend the content and garnish the glass with a slice of lime before serving

Slushie hack: Basil tastes surprisingly fresh when paired with watermelon. Throw in about 1/4 cup of basil along with the watermelon and blend it all together.

5. Goji Berry Tea

Are you hearing more throat clearings and people coughing on the MRT lately? If you too are feeling under the weather, how bout adding some Goji Berry into your cup of tea.

Goji Berries are know to

also read: 

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