Goodbye Gong Cha, LiHo Is Taking Over – We Tried Their New Cheese Bubble Tea To See If They’re Worth It

Bubble tea lovers, and specifically Gong Cha lovers, we’ve got some very bad news for you.

Gong Cha will be shuttering all its stores, and in its place will be a new home-grown bubble tea brand–LiHo.

Change is already underway, with 30 Gong Cha outlets already converted into LiHo shops. By 5 June 2017, all 80 Gong Cha outlets island-wide will be replaced. #RIPGongCha

Long story short, this drastic change comes because of a change in ownership of Gong Cha’s parent company, leading to new franchising terms that are no longer favourable to its Singapore franchisee, RTG Holdings.

LiHo – Singapore’s Newest Bubble Tea Spot 

[caption id="attachment_26707" align="alignnone" width="816"] Image Credit: Yeo Khee[/caption]

Brought to you by the same RTG Holdings, LiHo is Singapore’s answer to Gong Cha with a very cheesy twist!

For those of you who don’t speak Hokkien, LiHo translates into ‘How are you?’.

Not only is the phrase quintessentially Singaporean, it distances the brand from its predecessor. Aside from the name change, here are some things we’ll be saying goodbye to and some new things we can get excited about.

New Flavours 

[caption id="attachment_26714" align="alignnone" width="1024"] Image Credit: passerbyshaz[/caption]

The biggest pull at LiHo is their new line of Cheese flavoured drinks. Yes, CHEESE flavoured.

While some of you might recoil in disgust at the mere thought of having cheese added to your bubble tea, the cheese flavour will only be in the froth of the tea! From Cheese Black Tea to Cheese ‘n’ Choc Smoothie, you won’t find these unique flavours at any other bubble tea shop.

We managed to try a few of their cheese bubble teas and were honestly quite underwhelmed by the experience.

There was no discernible cheese flavour, and even when we tasted the foam directly, the cheese flavour was very, very subtle. Some of our colleagues did note that the cheese froth tastes similar to the salty froth you find in some of Gong Cha’s teas, so that’s good news!

[caption id="attachment_26715" align="alignnone" width="1500"] Image Credit: passerbyshaz[/caption]

While there are novel additions to LiHo’s menu, Gong Cha lovers will be pleased to know that there are old favourites that taste exactly the same!

Keen to try something different? The Cheese Guan Yin Ji is a good bet. Traditional Chinese tea with milk, this tea is a refreshing addition to the menu.

Looking  for something that’s both sweet and refreshing? LiHo has a range of Lemon & Vitagen beverages. The crowd-pleaser, Fresh Lemon Juice Honey, is tagged at $2.90 for a medium-sized cup and the array of Vitagen beverages go for $3.60 – $4.50.

New Packaging 

[caption id="attachment_26716" align="alignnone" width="1500"] Image Credit: passerbyshaz[/caption]

Another change we were pretty psyched about was their new packaging. LiHo has given the old bubble tea cup–complete with its plastic sheet cover–an upgrade. Firm, reusable plastic containers with plastic lids are what your LiHo bubble teas will come in. Not only is it a sleeker option, the lid lets you choose between sipping from the cup or drinking from a straw!

LiHo’s plastic cups are re-usable so we foresee our kitchens filling up with empty LiHo cups!

Price Points 

[caption id="attachment_26705" align="alignnone" width="3264"] Image Credit: Yeo Khee[/caption]

The classic milk teas at LiHo will set you back between $2.80 – $3.50 for a medium sized cup and $3.80 – $4.50 for a large cup. Cheese smoothie drinks come in a standard large and will set you back a jaw-dropping $6.90!

While the serving is generous, the price tag is pretty steep for bubble tea. That said, most of the large-sized drinks will cost you under $5. (Phew!)

Price-wise, add-ons like custard pudding and Nata de Coco are comparable to other bubble tea spots, with only the cheese froth setting you back $2.

Out With Old And In With The New 

[caption id="attachment_26717" align="alignnone" width="1500"] Image Credit: passerbyshaz[/caption]

In all, the new LiHo has a more ‘atas’ vibe, with its sleeker, higher quality cups and lids. They definitely have the novelty factor with their cheese flavoured drinks. Their drink selection is also significantly smaller, at 2/3 the size of Gong Cha’s. The price point is also higher, which is a big deterrent for us long-time lovers of Gong Cha.

With Gong Cha stores still open from now till 5 June, you’ll want to make sure you get as much Gong Cha in before they disappear across the country!

Want to try LiHo for yourself? Head to their outlets at Bedok Mall, Bugis+, Bukit Merah Central and Tiong Bahru. While we were lucky enough to avoid long queues when we headed down, we can’t guarantee the wait time will stay short once word gets out!

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

This Boutique Hostel In Tiong Bahru Is Nothing Short Of A Visual Feast

Tiong Bahru is known for a couple of things. Chiefly, brunch. And coffee.

But here’s one other thing you should look out for the next time you’re in the area: COO Hostel, a place that’s nothing short of coo-l. Not only does it look great, it’s affordable too!

[caption id="attachment_24957" align="aligncenter" width="1000"] Entrance of COO Hostel (Image Credit: (Image Credit: COO Hostel offers 24-hour reception daily (Image Credit: COO Hostel has its own bistro! (Image Credit: (Image Credit: You pay $30 per room/bed at COO Hostel (Image Credit: This room comes with a built-in mirror! (Image Credit: Toilet facilities (Image Credit: Punny soap and shampoo dispensers (Image Credit: Mingle with fellow guests at the open terrace (Image Credit:

Also read, This New Black And White Hotel In Singapore Is A Minimalist’s Dream Come True

Mai Tu Liao! Up Your Cafe Game And Visit Sin Lee Foods For Some Sinfully Good Food!

Sick of the same old cafe food at your typical neighbourhood cafe? Drop by Sin Lee Foods and tuck into unique creations for some sinfully good food!

The ambience

Located in the tranquil neighbourhood of Bukit Ho Swee, Sin Lee Foods was converted from an old coffeeshop. Its original name and signboard remains!

Choose between al fresco dining under a sheltered pavilion or head indoors for respite from the afternoon heat.

[caption id="attachment_14762" align="alignnone" width="1024"]sinleefoods Credit: soshiok.com[/caption]

Decked in wood, metal and red bricks, the cosy interior space exuded a rustic and homey feel.

[caption id="attachment_14699" align="alignnone" width="1024"]Sin Lee Foods Credit: Sin Lee Foods Facebook[/caption]

We sat at the bar table outside and really enjoyed the peaceful estate and environment Sin Lee was situated in.

The ambience, especially with the overhanging lights, gave off a warm and cosy comfort that immediately drew us to the place.

The food

You won’t find your usual egg benedict at Sin Lee Foods, but you’ll surely devour awesome food and beverages. With the owners being trained in Guy Savoy and Les Amis, they sure know flavours well.

Aburi Mentaiko Burger ($14)

We particularly enjoyed the Salted Egg Yolk Fries and the re-introducd Aburi Mentaiko Burger. The savoury creamy housemade mentaiko sauce made it taste so good!

[caption id="attachment_14700" align="alignnone" width="721"]aburi-mentaiko-burger Credit: Sin Lee Foods Facebook[/caption]

The torched aburi pork shoulder was tender, lathered with the sauce, and topped with a gorgeous amount of salmon roe. All the flavours went well together!

Prepare to get your hands dirty and dig in to this delicious burger.

Besides the Salted Egg Yolk fries and the re-introducd Aburi Mentaiko Burger, here are other items on the menu you should try!

Chirashi Rice Bowl ($14)

[caption id="attachment_14695" align="alignnone" width="1024"]chirashi-rice-bowl Credit: Sin Lee Foods Facebook[/caption]

All those sashimi and tuna lovers, hands up!

Fresh tuna and salmon, fish roe, spring onion, and black sesame seeds are served atop rice. This dish is definitely for those who love salmon and tuna sashimi.

Yakiniku Beef Bowl ($14)

[caption id="attachment_14701" align="alignnone" width="960"]yakiniku-beef-bowl Credit: Burpple[/caption]

If pork or fish is not your choice of food, why not try the Yakiniku Beef Bowl? Runny yolk oozes out into the tender beef slices. Tuck into a warm bowl of beefy goodness!

There you go! Who’s ready for some awesome good food?

Thumbs up to Sin Lee Foods for its constant innovation and take on cafe food. Sin Lee Foods is indeed satisfying and definitely worth future visits.

Not the easiest to get to, so get your GPS out and track down this unique cafe at Tiong Bahru!

You can get a 10% discount at Sin Lee Foods with HollerOut. Read here for details!

Sin Lee Foods
Address: Blk 4 Jalan Bukit Ho Swee #01-164, Singapore 162004
Contact: 6377 3170
Opening Hours: Tues-Fri 11am-9pm; Sat 9.30am-9pm; Sun 9.30am-6pm; PH 11:30am-6pm. Closed on Mon
Official Website: 5 Local Bakers With Cake Creations So Pretty, You’ll Give Everyone Else #CakeEnvy

Keong Saik Carnival: The Event All Hipsters Shouldn’t Miss

Those who love the rustic charm of the shophouses and bars along Keong Saik Street won’t want to miss the first-ever Keong Saik Carnival. This all-day family-friendly affair is organised by the team behind Potato Head Folk, the popular hipster bar at Keong Saik.

[embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/BCr7ZKQoTdO/[/embed]

With the theme ‘Old Streets New Treats’, the carnival will celebrate the heritage of the historic neighbourhood – Tiong Bahru, “where past inspires present, traditions meets contemporaries”.

Street Bazaar

During the carnival, explore the street bazaar where you’ll find everything from antiques, to vinyl records, to a limited edition fashion collection by Fergadelic created for Three Buns.

[caption id="attachment_8288" align="aligncenter" width="960"]13260025_1745026879073884_3345806583193697268_n Three Buns X Fergadelic Capsule Collection. Credit: Three Buns[/caption]

Activities

That aside, expect art installations, heritage tours, pop-up food stalls, and cultural workshops as well. Plus, families with children will be glad to know that there will be a lion dance troupe putting on a show, a story telling session, balloon sculpting, along with an Uncle Ringo to keep the young ones occupied.

[embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/BE2CtW9DpNc/[/embed]

Music

The carnival will also see collaborations of traditional Chinese musicians with cutting-edge electronic DJs, as well as the freshest beatsmiths livening up the atmosphere with sounds of Hip-hop, Bass, House, Funk, Soul and Disco. From international names like Beijing’s Howie Lee to homegrown acts including Pushin’On and Syndicate, the live music stages are to be anticipated!

[caption id="attachment_8286" align="aligncenter" width="2048"]13246290_837293313043324_243498457384347881_o Music: Darker Than Wax. Credit: Keong Saik Carnival[/caption]

Details

MUSIC:
HOWIE LEE + ZHANG YANG (LIVE)
CHACHA (LIVE) & HOWELL
AL ROCCO & BLOW FEVER
THE OBSERVATORY
SYNDICATE (KIAT, KOFLOW, INTRIGUANT)
ATTAGIRL!
PLEASURE (BERGAS, TARA)
SUN DOWN CIRCLE
MR. HAS
SA
PUSHIN’ON (MARVIN GOLD, TOM SHELLSUIT)
FAUXE
HOME (DJR, KNIVES, JERLS, REIKI)
DARKER THAN WAX (FUNK BSTRD, KAYE, DARYL C)
DONN
#VINYLOFTHEDAY (KURT, EDEN)

VISUALS:
EMPYREAL
HOODLAM
TELL YOUR CHILDREN

STREET BAZAAR:
A Juicery
Behave Behave X Oak & Bindi
Curious creatures
Custom Burner
Gallery & Co
get.give
Hounds of the Baskervilles
kapok singapore
Leica Store Singapore
Lime House
Luxe Singapore
Magpie
Sundays Sg
Sunday Market
Supplies & Co.
The Analog Vault
Three Buns
Underscore X Triceratops
Vinyl of The Day #vinyloftheday

SPONSORS:
Official Credit Card: UOB YOLO (UOB Cards)
Official Food on Wheels: Deliveroo
Official Projector Sponsor: Epson
Official Photography Partner: Leica
Official Ride: Uber
Official Hotel: Park 22 hotel Singapore
Official Beer: Heineken
Official TV: LI TV Asia
Official Bespoke Motorcycle: Custom Burner
Official Irish Whiskey: Jameson Ambassador Singapore
Official Rum: Mount Gay Rum
Official Gin: The Botanist
Official Soda: Fever Tree – Singapore
Official Music Partner: W Hotels Worldwide
Official Radio Station: Lush99.5
Official Magazine: JUICE Singapore
Official Production House: Blackvine Pte Ltd
Official Sound & Light: The Show Company

SUPPORTED BY:
The People’s Association
Urban Redevelopment Authority

BAR PARTNERS:
Ketel One
Tanqueray
Pimms
Hendrick’s Gin
Sailor Jerry

Schedule

[caption id="attachment_8278" align="aligncenter" width="1597"]13235450_841018522670803_3482207729733624812_o Credit: Keong Saik Carnival[/caption]

Map

[caption id="attachment_8279" align="aligncenter" width="2048"]13244268_841019539337368_2940450186250751786_o Credit: Keong Saik Carnival[/caption]

Keong Saik Carnival has also tied up with Uber for up to $20 off your first ride to or from the carnival with promo code “KSC2016”. Do note that this promotion is only valid for first time Uber riders. Download the Uber app for more details.

Excited for the carnival yet? Let your friends know about it and have a blast this Saturday!

Keong Saik Carnival
Date: Saturday, 28 May 2016
Time: 12:00NN to 10:30PM
Address: Keong Saik Road

(Header image credit: original image by Les Haines, edited by author.)

Also read: Everything For Free? Introducing SG’s Really Really Free Market!

10 Best Places in Singapore That Are Specifically For Coffee Lovers

For every Singaporean, there is perhaps one constant in our hectic lives – coffee. Gone are the days when a simple “kopi” would suffice. With so many cafes offering their finest brews and beans, it is often difficult to avoid the temptations. Hoping to jump on the bandwagon? Your prayers have been answered, because the team at Discover SG has compiled a list of the best places in Singapore that are made specifically for coffee lovers.

1) The Coffee Academics

Voted one of the best coffee shops in the world, The Coffee Academics’ first flagship store at Scotts Square stays true to its reputation. It houses some of the best and most premium coffee beans from around the world within its chic and pharaonic locale. Albeit on the pricier side, it’s worth every expense.

[embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/BAWG-ekQkNq/?taken-at=1020889924[/embed] [embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/BAT5xkmo2et/?taken-at=1020889924[/embed]

Location: Level 2, Scotts Square, 6 Scotts Road, Singapore 228209

Opening Hours: Daily: 9.00am – 9.00pm

2) The Populus Coffee & Food Co.

Brought to you by the caffeinated minds of the now defunct Department of Caffeine, The Populus Café is an amalgamation of pretty latte art, expensive coffee equipment, and good looking serving staff (intentional?). Situated in one of the most popular café districts in Singapore, this is one place you definitely shouldn’t miss out during your café-hopping adventures.

[embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/BBRAaJOCCXt/?taken-at=1018904002[/embed] [embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/BBOoOsnGpvc/?taken-at=1018904002[/embed]

Location: 146 Neil Road, Singapore 088875

Opening Hours: Mon & Wed: 9.00am – 7.00pm; Thu & Fri: 9.00am – 10.30pm; Sat: 9.30am – 10.30pm; Sun: 9.30am – 7.00pm; Closed on Tuesdays

3) The Assembly Ground

Fronted by the guys behind fashion label Benjamin Barker, you’re in for one hell of a stylish ride. The Assembly Ground’s predominant wooden interiors offers a cozy experience amidst the bustling crowd in town. Upon entering, coffee lovers are treated to a warm and welcoming ambience. The hanging bicycle fixtures are a nice touch too!

[embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/98Je-0TcTs/?taken-by=theassemblyground[/embed] [embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/6wG5J0zcVN/?taken-by=theassemblyground[/embed]

Location: 2 Handy Road, #01-21 The Cathay, 229233

Opening Hours: Daily: 11.00am – 10.00pm

4) Common Man Coffee Roasters

Boasting a “coffee counter” similar to a bar, Common Man Coffee Roasters is a chameleon among others. Known for constantly making tweaks to their menu to ensure novelty among its competitors, Common Man’s menu is definitely crafted out with lots of care. Although pricier than average, the coffee is exquisite.

[embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/BA7M_buCaTm/?taken-by=commonmancoffee[/embed] [embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/_qH99riaVI/?taken-by=commonmancoffee[/embed]

Location: #01-00, 22 Martin Road, Singapore 239058

Opening Hours: Daily: 8.00am – 6.00pm

5) Chye Seng Huat Hardware Coffee

Chye Seng Huat Hardware, aka CSHH for short, is one of the hippest coffee places in Singapore. Don’t be fooled by the rather unusual name as CSHH is the successive establishment owned by Papa Palheta, specialists in the coffee roasting business. With an exterior resembling an old shophouse, this quaint coffee joint emanates a nostalgic and retro 70s vibe.

[embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/9OPch7P_H7/?taken-by=cshhcoffee[/embed] [embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/45dM_Ov_Gt/?taken-by=cshhcoffee[/embed]

Location: 150 Tyrwhitt Road, Singapore 207563

Opening Hours: Tue – Fri: 9.00am – 7.00pm; Sat & Sun: 9.00am – 10.00pm; Closed on Mondays

6) Paddy Hills

Featuring really, really Instagram-worthy views, Paddy Hills has certainly caused a big ruckus for its aesthetically gorgeous renditions of coffee and food. The center of the café also lies a coffee counter similar to the one found in Common Man, but even critics would agree that Paddy Hills is easily the prettiest café in Singapore.

[embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/_TxXrHQBjB/?taken-by=paddyhills.sg[/embed] [embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/8p4uSbQBid/?taken-by=paddyhills.sg[/embed]

Location: 38 South Buona Vista Road, Singapore 118164

Opening Hours: Daily: 8.30am – 10.00pm

7) Dutch Colony Coffee Co.

Although there is another outlet situated at Upper East Coast, the ideal place for the most “feel” is located within the food paradise of PasarBella. Be wary, as this place gets overcrowded easily during the weekends unlike during the weekdays, when it is quiet and spacey with lots of natural light. Their coffee is widely regarded as intense and strong, so be prepared!

[embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/BBMNzhJvuF_/?taken-by=dutchcolony[/embed] [embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/_QuwD6PuA7/?taken-by=dutchcolony[/embed]

Location: #02-K67/68, PasarBella, The Grandstand, 200 Turf Club Road, Singapore 287994

Opening Hours: Mon – Thu: 9.00am – 7.00pm; Fri & Sat: 9.00am – 9.00pm; Sun: 9.00am – 7.00pm

8) Forty Hands

Forty Hands burst onto the scene as one of the very first coffee establishments in Singapore. Among others, they were part of the coffee revolution. Breathing new life into the dormant specialty coffee industry, Forty Hands takes coffee to a whole new level, with every sip a sensory experience. Fun fact: Harry Grover, genius behind this coffee joint, is also one of the founding fathers of Common Man!

[embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/BBJB_Vuioii/?taken-at=214881949[/embed] [embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/BA9XjWOjlwM/?taken-at=214881949[/embed]

Location: #01-12, 78 Yong Siak Street, Singapore 163078

Opening Hours: Tue – Thu: 8.00am – 7.00pm; Fri & Sat: 8.00am – 10.00pm; Sun: 8.00am – 7.00pm; Closed on Mondays

9) Ronin

With its name meaning wandering samurais, it’s easy to forgive if you miss this little hidden gem. Despite being tucked away in a rather obscure location at Clarke Quay, Ronin is hugely trendy among coffee lovers. Unlike other cafes that are often glimmered with cheery vibes, Ronin takes no prisoners. With its dimmed lighting industrial-style decorations, Ronin is all serious in its passion for great coffee.

[embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/BBPoaTcxtIk/?taken-at=223877583[/embed] [embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/BBJTnIlP0qk/?taken-at=223877583[/embed]

Location: 17 Hong Kong Street, Singapore 059660

Opening Hours: Daily: 8.00am – 8.00pm

10) Necessary Provisions

To end off the list, it is necessary (pun intended) to include Necessary Provisions. Essentially a coffee joint with limited food choices on their menu, it still manages to pull in quite a huge following. A haunt for students due to its convenient location near SIM and NP, Necessary Provisions is a must-visit for coffee lovers. Rumor has it, they were the first in Singapore to pioneer iced coffee cubes!

[embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/BBMfUD_Qa8e/?taken-at=92185357[/embed] [embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/BBMGwMfIMlq/?taken-at=92185357[/embed]

Location: Eng Kong Park, 21 Eng Kong Terrace, Singapore 598993

Opening Hours: Tue – Thu: 10.00am – 10.00pm; Fri & Sat: 10.00am – 12.00mn; Sun: 10.00am – 6.00pm; Closed on Mondays

 

Where are your favorite places to grab a cuppa?

7 Best Non-Local Cuisines Under S$10 You Can Find In The CBD

If you’re working in Singapore’s CBD, you would have experienced the bittersweet feeling that floods you when lunch hour arrives. Your growling tummy has been waiting all morning for food, but you secretly crave something other than typical local dishes like hokkien mee or chicken rice – you want something different. 

Fear not, for we have collated 6 different types of cuisines in various CBD hawker centres (and a bonus Italian store at the end!) that you can try during your next lunch break. And don’t worry, they won’t burn a hole in your pocket.


1. Mamacitas @ Lau Pa Sat or Amoy Street Food Centre (Costa Rican food)

[caption id="attachment_310" align="alignnone" width="695"] Mamacitas at Lau Pa Sat. Photo Credits: Mypaper.sg[/caption] [caption id="attachment_311" align="alignnone" width="640"] Mamacitas at Lau Pat Sat. Photo Credits: Burpple[/caption]

If you’re working in the Tanjong Pagar or Raffles Place area, chances are you already know about or have tried Mamacitas. But their store is definitely unique enough to deserve another mention!

Since 2012, Costa Rican owner Ms Cindy Castro Vega has been serving up traditional Costa Rican cuisine such as beef burritos ($6.90), crispy taco bowls ($7.90, pictured), chicken fajitas ($6.80) and their signature dish, arroz con mariscos (seafood fried rice, $6.80).

And remember, all these prices include a side of rice and stewed potatoes! So trust us when we say a meal at Mamacitas is value for money.

And where else in Singapore can you get a generous topping of avocado for just $1? 😉

ADDRESS

18 Raffles Quay
Lau Pa Sat Stall 6
Singapore 048582

OPENING HOURS

11:30am – 09:00pm (Daily)


2. A Noodle Story @ Amoy Street Food Centre (Japanese/Hong Kong noodles)

https://www.instagram.com/p/_eNSMSG1fk/?taken-at=68974909

https://www.instagram.com/p/-uu93qg3Bq/?taken-at=68974909

Run by 2 Shatec-trained chefs who have worked for top restaurants like Iggy’s, A Noodle Story is dedicated to serving gourmet noodles at affordable prices.

Coming in 3 different sizes ($5.50, $6.50 and $7.50), their Singapore Style Ramen is an ingenious fusion of HK style wonton noodles and Japanese ramen.

Dig into a delectable bowl of chinese egg noodles, pork cha-su, hot spring egg, HK style wontons and potato prawn fritters. And don’t slurp up the accompanying bowl of pork broth too quickly!

Whilst waiting for your order, take a peek into the kitchen: A Noodle Story uses unique cooking techniques such as an immersion circulator for precision cooking of the eggs and cha-su.

ADDRESS

Amoy Street Food Centre
7 Maxwell Road
#01-39
Singapore 069111

OPENING HOURS

11.15am – 2.30pm, 5.30pm – 7.30pm (Mon-Fri)
10.30am – 2.00pm (Sat)
Closed on Sundays and Public Holidays

 


 

3. Soi 55 @ Golden Shoe Food Centre (Thai drinks)

[caption id="attachment_313" align="alignnone" width="650"] Soi 55 @ Golden Shoe Food Centre. Photo credits: DanielFoodDiary.com[/caption] [caption id="attachment_314" align="alignnone" width="650"] Soi 55 @ Golden Shoe Food Centre. Photo credits: DanielFoodDiary.com[/caption]

https://www.instagram.com/p/8uyH5VsYDb/?taken-at=328387006

We really have to hand it to this young couple for bringing another treasured piece of Thailand’s food/drink scene to Singapore.

Soi 55 serves famous Thai drinks such as Thai Milk Tea, Thai Milk Coffee, Thai Rose Milk Tea and Thai Green Milk Tea at very affordable prices (Hot for $2.30, Cold for $2.50). They are also well-praised for taking it easy on the milk, sugar and ice, thus creating the perfect balance.

Top ups of sago, red ruby and pearls are available (50c each) to add some texture and childhood nostalgia.

ADDRESS

50 Market Street
Golden Shoe Food Centre#02-19,, Singapore 048940

OPENING HOURS

8:30am – 5:00pm (Mon-Fri)
Closed on Sat and Sun


 

4. Taqueria @ Golden Shoe Food Centre (Mexican tacos)

[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="617"] Taqueria at Golden Shoe. Photo credits: Timeout Singapore[/caption] [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="640"] Taqueria at Golden Shoe. Photo credits: @kayarocks[/caption]

Cheap. Halal. Mexican. Tacos.

Need we say more? 😉

If you’re feeling peckish, opt for an individual taco – you can choose from chicken ($2.50), breaded fish ($3), prawns ($3.50) and grilled steak ($4).

Each taco come with a generous serving of pico de gallo (a Mexican topping of diced tomatoes, onions and cilantro) and are wrapped in soft tortillas that are handmade every morning with love. The considerate owners even provide plastic gloves for a hygienic eating experience.

a $12 set of all four variations is available for those looking for a complete meal. What’s more, you get free mild or hot salsa AND guacamole!

ADDRESS

50 Market Street
Golden Shoe Food Centre #03-29,
Singapore 048940

OPENING HOURS

11.30am – 2pm (Mon-Fri)
Closed on Sat and Sun


 

5. Fork N’ Fingers @ Chinatown Complex (Japanese Izakaya-style bites)

[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="638"] Spicy Sesame Tofu with Spinach at Fork N’ Fingers. Photo credits: Burpple[/caption] [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="638"] Japanese Oden at Fork N’ Fingers. Photo credits: Burpple[/caption] [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="638"] Hae Bee Hiam Rice at Fork N’ Fingers. Photo credits: Burpple[/caption]

Located in one of Chinatown’s most famous eating hubs, Fork N’ Fingers is a  Japanese store selling izakaya-style food (that goes perfectly with #6 on this list!)

If you’re looking for something heartier, dig into a bowl of Oden – a mild japanese stew of shitake mushrooms, hard boiled egg, daikon and carrots in a dashi broth ($3). Pair this with a plate of Hae Bee Hiam Rice ($3) to meet your daily carb requirements.

Don’t forget to try the Spicy Sesame Tofu with Spinach ($2)- served cold. You’ll love this refreshing side dish that is great for Singapore’s sweltering heat.

ADDRESS
335 Smith Street
Chinatown Complex Food Centre #02-54
Singapore 050335
OPENING HOURS
12pm – 8.30pm (Tue – Sun)
Closed on Mon

6. The Good Beer Company @ Chinatown Complex (Craft beers)

https://www.instagram.com/p/4jvZselG33/?taken-at=5647455

https://www.instagram.com/p/-goKK7Huen/?taken-at=5647455

Yes, beers count as a cuisine. Especially when it comes to the huge variety of craft beers, which The Good Beer Company serves up at its humble hawker stall. With over 50 different types of beers and ciders from all over the word, you will definitely be spoilt for choice!

Unfortunately, it’s not open for lunch. But why not swing by after a hard day’s work to chill out with your colleagues?

ADDRESS

335 Smith Street
Chinatown Complex Food Centre #02-58
Singapore 050335

OPENING HOURS

6pm – 10pm (Mon-Sat)
Closed on Sun


 

 

 

[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="710"] Ah Bong’s Italian. Photo credits: Ladyironchef[/caption]

https://www.instagram.com/p/95QXQBGoIR/?taken-at=354619407

https://www.instagram.com/p/BAOJPxRlEYk/?taken-by=ahbongsitalian

[BONUS]  7. Ah Bong’s Italian @ Tiong Bahru

For those who don’t mind travelling a teensy bit  further or who work in the Tiong Bahru area, you’ve surely heard of Ah Bong’s Italian. This non-pretentious and simple eatery serves up super affordable Italian fare – where else can you get Basil Pesto Pasta or Squid Ink Pasta for just $7-$10?

We can’t give you the exact items/prices because their menu changes every single day. Guess you’ll just have to head down there to check it out yourself 😉 Trust us, it is definitely worth the extra distance.

ADDRESS

56 Eng Hoon St
#01-46
Singapore 169793

OPENING HOURS

10am – 2pm (Daily)