BiTES - The Scoop on Good Eats (March 2015) by BiTES - The Scoop on Good Eats

DINNER ON US!

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Food events galore including Savour, CafÃ© Asia and Singapore Cocktail Week

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BUFFET BOUNTY p16

5 Thai mookata under $50 nett and 20 family-friendly hotel spreads

DESTINATION: HILLVIEW p20 The hills are alive in Upper Bukit Timah with fresh eateries and old faves

A platter of galician octopus, $18 nett!

t r a m +s ys bu $10 under

PI(E) DAY p25

How many pies do you know?

ADVERTORIAL

Drinking in the joy

Life is complete when you have good friends, good beer and good food. At these four hangouts, whether you’re in the city or escaping it, a pint of Kronenbourg pairs perfectly with the cuisine as you toast to The French Way of Life. Kakis Bistro and Bar

In a verdant space off Changi Village, you’ll find a respite at Kakis Bistro, where they even grow and harvest some of their own greens. Prawn aglio olio is the firm favourite here, with shredded home grown kaffir lime leaves lending more zestiness that goes nicely with the subtle citrus notes of the Kronenbourg 1664 Blanc. The al fresco concept even plays host to live band The Passerby on weekends, making it more convivial to stay and shoot the breezes with your own kakis. 289 Farnborough Road. Tel: 6214 2956. www.kakis.sg The Rustic Bistro

Rustic is the name, comfort is its aim. Chef Eddy Wan has combined his passion for casual and unpretentious food to bring you modern-inspired western cuisine in an eclectic and welcoming bistro. Their signature beef burger and truffled fries are an ideal match for the light malty aroma of the Blanc, while the pork belly pasta with a 63°C egg, slow cooked salmon and braised beef cheeks are even more refreshing after the flowery hops of the lager. 21 China Street, Far East Square. Tel: 6438 6508. www.facebook.com/theRUSTICBistro Lime House

Sport your French cobalt-blue bottle of Blanc as you ‘lime’ (meaning: hang out) with friends at Singapore’s first Caribbean restaurant, located in a restored shophouse in the heart of Chinatown. The restaurantlounge space offers a real taste of the Caribbean islands created by Trinidadian chef Hasan DeFour. Nosh on baby back ribs glazed with in-house Trinidad BBQ sauce, and Jamaican jerk chicken, perfect spiced foods for the bubbly, citrusy beer with a hint of sweet orange peel. 2 Jiak Chuan Road. Tel: 6222 3130. www.limehouse.asia Lime Deli

Step into this deli and be transported into a tropical oasis whisking you to the Caribbean islands. The sister outlet of Lime House offers the convenience of grab-and-go as well as dining in with a great range of classics such as Trinidadian roti wraps and Jamaican patties. For those quick lunches, Kronenbourg’s light alcohol content at 5% gives you a refreshing buzz while ensuring you’ll be back to work in a wink. 51 Telok Ayer Street. Tel: 6226 7530. www.facebook.com/limedelisingapore

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Cover image Milagro Spanish Restaurant

Orchard Central • Parkway Parade (Pedestrian Crossing) National Tourism Offices Australia Tourism • Japan National Tourism Organization • Korean Tourism Organization Petrol Kiosks Caltex • ExxonMobil • Shell • SPC Salon Jean Yip Hairdressing schools •Temasek Polytechnic supermarkets Four Seasons Gourmet MarketMBLM • Four Seasons Organic Market-Great WorldCity • Four Seasons Organic MarketParkway Parade • Meidi-Ya Singapore • Rochester Market Also hand-distributed at: OUTSIDE MRT Stations Ang Mo Kio • Bedok • Bishan • Boon Lay • Bugis • City Hall • Clementi • Dhoby Ghaut • Eunos • HarbourFront • Holland Village • Jurong East • Lavender • Orchard Road • Pasir Ris • Raffles Place • Serangoon • Tampines • Telok Blangah • Tiong Bahru • Woodlands • Yishun

Publisher Cecilia Goh

Web Developer Jun Evangelista

Editor June Lee Staff Writer Meredith Woo Editorial Intern Timothy Lam Contributors Kylie Ng, Justina Tan

Accounts Manager Christina Tan

Designer Benjamin Soh Contributing Senior Designer Loh Wai Sum Regional Business Director Carlos Loh Business Directors Penny Ho, Ashad Shah Business Manager Cherin Ong Publishing Admin Manager (Admin & Circulation) Siti Haneymah Senior Digital Media Manager Eugene Koh

Group Publisher Ho Sum Kwong Group Managing Editor Adeline Wong Group Creative Director Thng Wee Nee Bites is published 12 times a year by Magazines Integrated Pte Ltd 85 Playfair Road, #04-02 Tong Yuan Building, Singapore 368000 Tel: +65 6848 6884 Fax: +65 6748 3453 Website: www.bites.com.sg Advertising enquiries: 6848 6882 bites.editorial@magsint.com bites.advertise@magsint.com bites.marketing@magsint.com Distributed by Region Periodicals Distributor. Printed by Times Printers Company Reg No: 200918015G MCI (P) 187/03/2014

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Japanese Makan & Drinks Place

Networking & Sake Tasting Party with a Guest Appearance by Chef Eric Teo! DATE : TIME : FEE :

@wlee76

9th March, 2015 (Mon) 07:00PM SGD 88.00 (inc. GST)

Limited to 10 persons ONLY!! @4u_n8

OPEN:

MON-SAT 11:00AM-11:00PM 18 #01-01 Mohamed Sultan Road 238967 Tel: +65 6733 4794

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ippincafebarms18

E-mail: ippin.cafebar@gmail.com

c a l e n dA r :

m a r c h sunday

monday

tuesday

AMOY STREET FOOD CENTRE REOPENS

FROM $43 | 10AM-8PM | CITY SQUARE MALL This 10.5km trail follows the former KTM rail line from Tanjong Pagar Rail Station to the old Bukit Timah Rail Station with scenic nature on all sides. Check out what to eat at the finish line, on page 20. www.greencorridorrun.com.sg

12 KPO CHIVAS NIGHT

SINGAPORE COCKTAIL WEEK

FROM $14 | 7-14 MAR Signature cocktails from almost 30 participating bars is a dream come true for connoisseurs. Get close and personal with some of the best bartenders both locally and globally and attend workshops that teach you how to make your own bubbly wonder. singaporecocktailweek.com.sg

16 GOODWOOD PARK DURIAN FIESTA

16 MAR–2 AUG | GOODWOOD PARK HOTEL The annual durian craze starts once more at Goodwood Park with six new creations lined up this year. Taking the spiky crown is the Mao Shan Wang Horn which is a play on popular cream horns, now filled with creamy durian pulp. festivepromotions.goodwoodparkhotel.com

FROM $25 | 14-22 MAR The bi-annual week is back with the theme of “Something Old, Something New—A Modern Take on Comfort Favourites”. Fastest fingers book in advance! www.diningcity.sg/

FREE | 19-21 MAR | MARINA BAY SANDS, HALL E The international coffee and tea industry expo returns for the third time, corresponding with the rise of cafés in Singapore. Also check out Sweets & Bakes Asia 2015 at the same venue for the latest bakery innovations. Not only for hipsters. www.cafeasia.com.sg

FROM $60 | 26-29 MAR | F1 PIT BUILDING Back in its 4th edition, Savour offers over 50 signature dishes from local and visiting chefs, along with exhibits, workshops and a gourmet market. Look out for fave chefs Alvin Leung and Emmanuel Stroobant! www.savour.sg

25-26 MAR | 11AM8PM | TOTT STORE Satisfy all your culinary needs at Asia’s largest kitchen store while you browse through other stalls offering fashion and home decorations. More stalls can be found on level two. www.theexpatfairs.com

NATIONAL CHIFFON CAKE DAY

EXPAT FAIR

coming up in april Easter, 5 April World Street Food Congress, 8-12 April World Gourmet Summit, 14-25 April

13-15 MAR | BOAT QUAY Gear up for three days of music and concerts while bars offer up Irish inspired fare, leading up to the annual parade on 15 March. www.facebook.com/ stpatsdaySG

$450 NETT | 1 KILLINEY ROAD A platter of KPO’s signature wagyu beef cubes, and pork and veal cheese sausage slathered in Chivas sauce is served complimentary with every purchase of two bottles of Chivas 18. imaginings.com.sg/

13 ST PATRICK’S DAY STREET FESTIVAL

18 SINGAPORE RESTAURANT WEEK

SAVOUR

saturday 7 SATURDAY SOCIAL BBQ

FREE | FROM 4PM | TIMBRE @ GILLMAN Come dressed for the occasion for this St Patrick’s Day edition, as baby back ribs and chargrilled duck burgers sizzle on the BBQ while the little ones invade wading pools and bouncy castles. www.facebook. com/SatSocialBBQ

4 MAR | 10AM-3PM | IPPIN CAFÉ BAR Stop by this trendy Japanese café for some tantalising nosh, and browse through accessories, aprons for kids, luncheon mats and bags during this special pop up event. Catch retail brands such as Phu-hiep, Benda..benda, Moody Mo and ChiC selling their unique wares right here. orrs.exblog. jp/23679456/

8 GREEN CORRIDOR RUN

FREE | 1-6PM | ZOUK The ice cream man returns, along with cup corn and kueh tutu in this Pasar Malam edition. Local merchandise is also available for sale; however they all come with a special Zouk twist. www.zoukclub.com/ fleaandeasy/

wednesday thursday friday

IPPIN POP-UP STORE

After a three-month hiatus, the popular food centre finally reopens, with improved ventilation and better sanitation. Now to find out if Amoy stalwarts Yuan Chin Famous Lor Mee and Amoy Fried Kway Teow are still there.

15 ZOUK FLEA & EASY

2 01 5

CAFÉ ASIA

27 THE TINY ROASTER

14 PI DAY

March 14=3.14, you see? Check out Last BiTES p.25 for more on pi(es)!

21 GELATO INTERNATIONAL

FREE | 20-22 MAR | MARINA BAY SANDS CONVENTION CENTRE Be dazzled by the best in the world as they showcase their creations in the competition narrowed down to just 16 flavours from Asia Pacific. www.gelatoworldtour.com

$80 | 8PM | 612 CLEMENTI WEST STREET 1 Take a session to learn the art of brewing with advanced techniques such as the Kalita Wave, Bee House Dripper and the Chemex in this advanced techniques workshop, part of the ‘Learn to Brew at Home’ series. If unsure, go for the basic techniques lessons instead. www.thetinyroaster.com

Maka

# b e s t b i t e s

on BiTES GUESS AND WIN!

Each month, we’ll feature a fresh makan place—whether it’s a new outlet of a familiar brand, revamped concept or completely new entrant—for you to guess what/ where it is. Correct answers will be entered in a draw to win a dining experience with us!

Congratulations to February winners

who correctly guessed the restaurant as Carnivore (BBQ restaurant) at their 3rd and latest outlet, Grandstand (surrounded by greenery): Ngion Lee Sa and Suzanna Lim. The BiTES team look forward to meeting you on 10 March!

Dream HIGH Dimmable windows and a simulated cabin sky are just some of the cool perks on Scoot’s new Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner. Here, Justina Tan shares her experience on board its inaugural flight from Singapore to Perth.

Scoot’s first Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner airplane made its inaugural flight from Singapore to Perth on 5 February 2015, and we had the chance of tagging along for the ride. This marks the beginning of the airline’s transition from its current Boeing 777-200 fleet to a new fleet of 20 Dreamliners that will be rolling out over the next few years. Scoot is touting the size of the new aircraft as one of its benefits: wider aisles, a more spacious cabin, and larger seats and windows. In addition, the overhead compartments on the 787-9 are the roomiest in the industry. Designed to

MARCH: 5 readers stand to win SET DINNER FOR TWO This month, we head west for a Japanese restaurant that prepares their signature Soo Gyu Don with premium A4 beef from Kagoshima, Japan. Give us your best guess between 1-16 March to dine at the restaurant on 7 April with us!

To enter, email us between 1-16 March to bites.editorial@magsint.com with the following: Name: Contact number: Address: Guess name of restaurant: Guess the location:

BiTES reserves the right to publicise the winners’ names and pictures in print and online. By entering the contest, you grant us a nonexclusive, royalty-free license to publish publicity photos and video in any format without limitation. Participants to ensure they can dine on 7 April at the restaurant. More details at www.bites.com.sg/promotions/contests

accommodate a variety of carry-on lugguages, each bin is big enough for every passenger to stow a bag above. You might also notice the small touches. In place of physical shades on the windows are high-tech electronically controlled ones that can be dimmed and brightened at the press of a button. To create a soothing ambience for passengers, the cabin ceiling is illuminated by energy-efficient LED lights—the brightness and colour can be adjusted by cabin crew to simulate daylight or a beautiful nighttime sky. If you can’t do without your electronic devices, rest assured that both ScootBiz and Economy seats on the Boeing 787-9 come with in-seat power. While this is included in ScootBiz, you’ll be charged per use ($5-8) in Economy.

Besides being fitted with Rolls-Royce’s powerful Trent 1000 engine, the Dreamliner also utilises advanced technologies to create a more comfortable ride. Featuring the same technology used in hospital operating rooms, the aircraft has a gaseous filtration system that removes contaminants, including offensive odours, and reduces symptoms such as throat irritation. The cabin has an improved climate control system that enables higher humidity than other commercial jetliners, thereby reducing symptoms of dryness. To create a conducive environment for rest, the engines have been specially designed to produce lesser noise both inside and outside the cabin, making the airplane a more peaceful space. Scoot flies to Perth six times a week. Find out more at flyscoot.com.

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Food fests

Savour returns for its fourth year with a well-loved format of restaurants, gourmet market and master classes. Indulge in the best talents Singapore has to offer as well as an impressive line-up of foreign chefs, who will be serving over 50 signature dishes to visitors. Take part in activities such as master classes where you learn from Michelin starred chefs and get down to recreating your favourite foods. In addition, check out the gourmet market where exclusive products such as Japanese white strawberries are available, while also appreciating the expanded selection of wines and sake. From $55. 26-29 March 2015. F1 Pit Building, 1 Republic Boulevard. www.savour.sg

instant cauliflower mash (US$10.90 or about S$15/four servings) in garlic, herbs and sea salt or wasabi and chives. To prepare each 60-calorie serving, boil 120ml of water and add three tablespoons of the dehydrated product to it. Shipping's free. heavenly chocolate dome

st patrick’s day 2014

#HASHTAG Happenings

What’s trending on social media. (P.S. Like us! @bitessg on Instagram and BitesSingapore on Facebook) #MealsWithMyParents by A Call To Care. The campaign’s helmed by four NTU undergrads who worked with 16 cafes like SPRMRKT, Holqa Cafe and The Quarters to push the social media movement through selfies and discounts. Check out their digital exhibition at library@Orchard till 31 Mar. acalltocare.com Calling #creativesghomecooks! Take part in the monthly-themed cooking challenge and nominate your friends on Instagram to follow suit. The fun initiative is to encourage Singaporeans to cook more at home. thesilverchef.blogspot.sg/2015/01/ creativesghomecooks-monthly-cooking.html

On the day when green runs rampant, expect a celebration like no other with pipe bands from St Patrick’s School playing in the streets and Gaelic Lions GAA players giving classes on Ireland’s national sport: Gaelic Football. Enjoy the food trail at this year’s 10th annual St Patrick’s Day Parade, as bars showcase their take on Irish fare like the Irish lamb stew with Monster Green lager ($38) at RedDot Brewhouse. Molly Malone’s being the original Irish pub in Singapore will serve up their famous Guinness battered fish with chips ($10 nett) over at BQ Bar, while concocting some drinks like The Rusty Gael ($15 nett) and The Shot Toddy ($10 nett) over their counters. 13-15 March, Boat Quay. www.facebook.com/stpatsdaySG

The elegance of this pastry shop covered in white and gold stands out in stark contrast to the surrounding neighbourhood. Les Delices pairs their cakes and choux pastries such as the Heavenly Chocolate Dome ($10.90) and Earl Gray Choux ($5.90) with premium Chinese teas to bring out even more flavour. The pastry chef trained in France and these delicacies that are often inspired by personal events have been painstakingly created to suit the local palate. #01-14 333 Kreta Ayer Road. Tel: 6536 8087 flame flat iron steak

New on the scene If you're cutting carbs and need a Paleo option, check out Spinacas (www.spinacas.com), or spinach in Spanish, for healthy and speedy salad deliveries. Protein options include Moroccan spiced chicken and BBQ pulled pork, while vegetarians can choose the sesame tofu patties and ratatouille (from $11, min. $30/ order, limited locations for delivery). Also check out Zero Cuisine’s (www.zerocuisine.com)

pizza fabbrica

Bar watch

With a band (Fri-Sun & PH) playing at the only live music venue on Siloso beach, enjoy Sand Bar’s fruity mojitos as you immerse yourself in the rhythmic waves and feel the sand between your toes. Head next door to Flame, Singapore’s first beach rotisserie, where they serve up their signature Flat Iron Steak and wood-fired oven

Support the #MotherandChildProject through buys such as a fishball mee pouch by @gracesmiths on www. batch.sg. The local social enterprise helps low income and single mothers by providing them home-based sewing contract work under the label. www.motherandchildproject.com #growgreatnessSG with #fnnmagnolia and #magnoliaFSC. Protect the earth with F&N Magnolia’s new Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) milk cartons—made with paperboard from responsibly managed forests and other controlled sources. Go a step further by recycling your carton as a planter. Upload your snaps on Instagram with the hashtags and you could win a 3D2N family staycation at the ecofriendly Sentosa Siloso Beach Resort. Till 31 Mar. www.fb.com/ MagnoliaSG

pizzas to dine in or take away for a picnic on the beach. 52 Siloso Beach Walk. Tel: 6631 8938 The new player in the Italian food scene, Pizza Fabbrica focuses on primarily Italian artisanal beer. Pair these with the food from the open kitchen, helmed by Italian chef Matteo Boifava. Some highlights include thick caramel-ish 32 Via dei Birra and the light and refreshing Fabbrica della birra Perugia. A copper woodfired oven takes centerstage in the kitchen, churning out traditional pizzas with a playful twist. A vegetarian menu is also available, in which its namesake Pizza Fabbrica will cause you to reconsider the herbivore route. 69/70 Bussorah Street. Tel: 6291 0434

10 best sandwich lunches

The perennial dilemma: a seemingly infinite slew of cafe openings and finite stomach space. But fret not as we bring you the lowdown on the best of the wonder ‘wiches around the island. Hyde & Co. (785 North Bridge Road. Tel: 9369 4369) Sub-lime: Lady Hyde ($12.90), a spruced-up version of the Croque Madame with the addition of pineapple slices.

Sub-lime: Truffle house baked baguette ($17), homemade pastry crowned with truffle mushroom ragout, a hard-boiled egg and fresh greens. Club Meatballs (#01-35 China Square Central, 20 Cross Street. Tel: 6222 8660) Sub-lime: The Spaniard ($9.50), featuring wagyu beef meatballs, sobrassada, blue cheese, green chillies and roasted onions in a wrap. Top up $1 for a ciabatta bun instead. korean “fried” chicken

Boufé Boutique Café (#01-01 Phoenix Park, 308 Tanglin Road. Tel: 67347656)

Marco Marco (23 Circular Road. Tel: 6820 0119) Sub-lime: The Milan ($12), a piquant pack of prosciutto crudo, brie, truffle oil and arugula. Moc Quan (#01-23 UE Square, 81 Clemenceau Avenue. Tel: 6736 0123) Sub-lime: Banh Mi Thit ($6.50), fresh crisp baguette with homemade pork paté, Vietnamese sausage and crunchy greens.

Sacha & Sons (#03-02 Mandarin Gallery, 333A Orchard Road. Tel: 6735 6961) Sub-lime: Grilled Reuben with pastrami (from $18), hearty servings of meat dressed with Swiss cheese, sauerkraut and Russian dressing. The Lab SG (#01-01, 1 Jalan Pisang. Tel: 6299 5681) Sub-lime: The Lab Chick ($10.90), Cwajun grilled chicken with mesclun salad on sourdough, a straight-up NOLA import that’s easy on the palate.

marco marco

The Daily Press (#01-561, 126 Toa Payoh Lorong 1. Tel: 6258 0167) Sub-lime: It’s a tie between the house-cured salmon ($15) and the Korean “Fried” Chicken ($12). The former’s got subtle smokey tones and hidden walnut crumble crunches, while the latter is an Asian spin with tangy kimchi and a juicy sous-vide-then-baked chicken cutlet to match.

The Hangar (25 Arab Street. Tel: 6291 0127) Sub-lime: Lotus Crockeroot ($10), a vegetarian option featuring lotus root croquettes and an invigorating mint chutney. Le Halo (#01-162, Block 4 Jalan Bukit Ho Swee. Tel: 9736 8087) Sub-lime: Otak Egg ($8.50), featuring a thick ‘patty’ of Muar otak with a sunny side up egg on toast.

For advertising enquiries please contact us at: 6848 6868 / 6848 6860 bites.advertise@magsint.com

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Value buys

Silicone ice ball maker mould Make professional looking ice balls with this ice ball mould. Besides making your drinks look prettier, the ice sphere dilutes less quickly, ensuring your drinks stay cold without too much unwanted water. Available in green, orange and white. $6.90 from www.sosoon.com.sg

Flush with red notes after Chinese New Year? Here’s how to put them to good use, and even get some change back. We went hunting for stuff you actually need, at less than what you thought you’d pay. By Timothy Lam, Photography by Benjamin Soh

Shotglass Bargain hunters have long known about Hock Siong, the karang guni in a warehouse. You’ll find furniture, bedding and kitchenware galore—sometimes used, sometimes brand new. Lucky us—we stumbled across this unopened set of fine champagne shot glasses. Do note that many items are one-off, so be prepared to go treasure hunting. $9 from Hock Siong, 153 Kampong Ampat. Tel: 6281 8338

Letterpress wooden letter Stand these up to personalise your desk, or hang them up and spell out your name just as we did here at BiTES. These sturdy letters are also easily decorated, making great gifts for friends and family. Smaller Micro wooden letters are also available at $3.50 each. $5.95 each, $13 for three from Typo, #01-53 Bugis Junction, 201 Victoria Street. Tel: 6337 3101

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Mi Power Bank 5200mAh Who says you need to pay over $50 for this necessary phone accessory? The portable battery fits easily into your pocket—at just 5.5cm wide, it's only as large as your business card and has enough juice to charge an iPhone 5S… twice. $8.99 from www. mi.com/sg/ mipowerbank

Air plant The cactus has met its match, with the air plant claiming top spot in the low maintenance department. This plant with no need for soil and just minimal watering comes in various shapes and sizes like this ‘Cotton Candy’ variant, and can be grown in a pretty bauble. $9.80 from Big Box, 1 Venture Avenue. Tel: 6801 6688

Earthen pot in cherry blossom pink Sakura season will soon be upon Japan, so celebrate with this surprise find. This pretty claypot sports a cheery blush, and measures 15cm across. Use it over an open flame, as induction cookers, microwaves and ovens are not recommended. $2 each from Daiso, #B2-02 Chinatown Point, 133 New Bridge Road. Tel: 6702 0042

JANSJÖ LED USB lamp Need a light? We're talking about this USB lamp that you plug into your laptop for maximum portability. The lamp arm is easily adjustable and the warm-white LED would last you about 20,000 hours. Available in wine red or turquoise and copper. $5.90 each from IKEA Tampines, 60 Tampines North Drive 2. Tel: 6786 6868

Cookbooks Find good books at a fraction of the cost at this shop dealing in used books. Sell off your old pageturners or trade them for gems such as Le Cordon Bleu Home Collection: Christmas, one of our faves for its professional pictures and clear instructions. $4.90 from Evernew Book Store, #01-07 Bras Basah Complex, 231 Bain Street. Tel: 6338 1753

chijmes special

Dining at the Grand Dame

On-Yasai The shabu-shabu restaurant's CHIJMES outpost is its first foray out of Japan, where it has 330 outlets. Literally meaning boiled, or warm, vegetables, “on-yasai” also symbolises the brand’s service promise paired with a wide variety of quality meats, fresh vegetables and appetisers. Choose from six types of broths, which include the Secret sukiyaki soup that’s perfect for beef; or the mild soya milk soup, best enjoyed with ponzu sauce. Buffet courses start at $29.90 for four types of meat: pork belly, pork collar, chicken thigh, chicken tsumire (hotpot meatballs); in addition to vegetables, appetisers, pot dishes and dessert. #0103/04. Tel: 6336 4002. www.on-yasai.com.sg

soya products are a great source of amino acids, iron, calcium and other micronutrients. The menu also features other items which support health and beauty from within such as ‘Bishoku-nabe’, a special hotpot brimming with the goodness of collagen. For tipples out of the ordinary, go for the signature frozen Calpis Kirin beer or a lycopene-packed tomato sour. #01-05-06. Tel: 6337 5188. www.shirokiya.com.sg/en/index.html

Lunch deal: Receive a stamp for every set lunch purchase and redeem a FREE set lunch with six stamps. Valid now till 31 Dec 2015

Lunch deal: Set lunch with dessert at $18.80++ onwards. Valid daily 11.30am-2.30pm

Tonkatsu & Sake Bar TONZAEMON by Ma Maison

Shirokiya We find ourselves pining for Shirokiya's specialty homemade tofu, because the

Fondly referred to as the grand old dame (she turns 160 years young this year) and known for her iconic Anglo-French Gothic chapel, CHIJMES is brimming with F&B options. Stroll through the courtyard, reminiscent of an elegant European garden; and within the charming cloistered walls you'll find dining establishments perfect for casual, chirpy gatherings or to wine and dine your date. BiTES uncovers some lunch gems for leisurely AND business OCCASIONS.

The pork cutlets to beat are at Tonzaemon. Juicy and flavourful, the top-grade rosu (loin) and hire (fillet) breaded beauties first undergo a highly-developed signature meatageing and marinating process before being perfectly coated in panko, deep-fried and served, piping hot, to your table. Choose also from a wide variety of appetisers and other katsu (cutlet) items. Opt to pair your meal with an exquisite selection of sake from the special sake bar, shochu and wines. #01-09. Tel: 6338 5907. www.ma-maison. co.jp/shop/tonzaemon/index.php

premium outlet which features a prime selection of all-day dining menus—not available at other branches. Only using quality and fresh ingredients, each dish is chock-full of local flavour with a modern and creative twist. #01-10. Tel: 6336 1046. www.toastbox.com.sg

Toast Box

Paprika & Cumin

Pop into this familiar coffeeshop-styled café for a cup of traditional Nanyang kopi and kaya toast during the sluggish late afternoon, or a hearty lunch or dinner. CHIJMES houses their first

This Mediterranean bistro scores Brownie points for being eco-friendly and serving a healthy selection of mostly-grilled dishes such as Mediterranean chicken kebabs and tournedos Rossini (steak) with an abundance of fresh greens and fruits. Nimble noses will have a field of a time here: herbs and spices are an integral part of the décor, and over 238 wine labels luxuriate on wine racks, calling to be popped open and sniffed. #01-15/16. Tel: 6883 2294. www.pnc.sg

Lunch deal: Three's a Lunch Party! Enjoy a complimentary Big Plate with two ordered (complimentary Big Plate will be the same or lowest value). Valid now till 31 Mar 2015, Mon-Thu 12pm-3pm

Privé Lunch deal: Three delightful selections for your indulgence: Value Lunch ($16++), Executive Lunch ($21++), Premium Lunch ($28++). Valid now till 31 Mar 2015, Mon-Fri 12pm-4pm

Like an old friend, Privé’s dishes are approachable and make for fantastic company. Try the award-winning eggs benedict & fluffy pancakes for brunch, or hearty favourites such as Wagyu beef burgers, grilled meats, stone-baked pizzas and delectable desserts. Unwind with your buddies at the lively al fresco bar which gives a shaded view of CHIJMES’ lush greenery in the day or an expanse of starry sky at night. #01-33. Tel: 6776 0777. www.privechijmes.com.sg

EL MERO MERO “The go-to guy" (that's what "el mero mero" means in the local lingo) for contemporary Mexican cuisine with housemade salsas and sauces. For lunch, nosh on Vuelve a la Vida, an appetiser comprising seafood, clam tomato cocktail and avocado; and Tacos al Pastor, a rustic kurobuta pork paired with pineapple, onion, coriander and corn tortilla. For the adventurous, try the guacamole, served in a stone mortar with a side of roasted crickets for crunch; or their grilled octopus. Handpicked tequilas, mezcales and Hispanic wines also available. #01-20. Tel: 6337 1377. www.elmeromero.sg

Harry’s No need to wait till dusk before you step into this bar. Lunch in this chic and casual setting is a communal affair with burgers, flatbreads, pulled pork sandwiches, wings and some hops to go along—guaranteed to strengthen office camaraderie. We also recommend the Harry’s Premium Lager, a light and crisp ale with floral notes from gently toasted malt barley and fine hops. #01-14. Tel: 6337 0618. harrys.com.sg

Lunch deal: Weekday sandwich & salad / soup combo ($18). Includes sandwich of the day plus choice of salad or soup of the day. Valid now till 31 Dec 2015, Mon-Fri 11.30am-5pm

Lunch deal: Complimentary dessert with every two-course set lunch ordered at $28++ (regular price: $32++). Dine-in only; minimum two pax. Not valid in conjunction with other promotions and discounts. Valid now till 31 Mar 2015, Mon-Fri 12pm-2pm

Applebee’s Applebee’s Singapore spot is but the tip of the iceberg for this popular American casual dining chain with over 2,000 outlets in 19 countries. You’re in good hands in this all-encompassing, convivial diner which specialises in mainstream U.S. fare like Shrimp Trio, steak Freshcado and threecheese chicken penne. Keep your eyes peeled for Kids Menu, Lunch Combo and Happy Hour promos. #01-31. Tel: 6694 4341

Lunch deal: Choose any two dishes from the menu to create your favourite combo! Comes with free soft drink or brewed iced tea. Valid till 31 Mar 2015, Mon-Fri 12pm-4pm

That's not all! check out these other lunch spots at chijmes: LEI Garden restaurant, Prime Gyu-Kaku, Ikkousha Ramen, Tatsu, Dimbulah coffee and carnivore brazilian churrascaria.

Continue your dining experience in the evening at: Oyster Bar & Dining Wharf, Giardino Pizza Bar & Grill, Highlander, Bobby's, Berlin and Irish Times. CHIJMES is located at 30 Victoria Street Singapore 187996. Tel: 6337 7810. www.chijmes.com.sg

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from value lunch sets at atas places to free condiments, We’ve crossed the island to uncover our favourite restaurants without corkage charges, and a hotel buffet that offerS a discount as high as the heels you wear. For the ravenous ones among us, take your talents to a food challenge. ALL THESE AND MORE, TO STRETCH YOUR DOLLAR AS FAR AS IT CAN GO! By Meredith Woo Greenhouse’s Stiletto Tuesdays

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Baskin-Robbins’ 1-for-1 Pink Wednesday Ladies AND gentlemen, if you love ice cream, strive to wear pink on hump-day. This will net you a free Junior Scoop for every Value Scoop purchase at the 31 Flavours chain—and we don’t mean just showing them your tongue. baskinrobbins.com.sg

Ah Hoi’s Kitchen "12 AT 12" Nasi Padang

Syun ES

Here's a great deal with an amazing view: hit up this French-inspired bar at glass penthouse Fifty Raffles Place, or 50RP, for 1-for-1 tipples (Mon: Moet Imperial Brut, Tue: Heineken

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pints, Thu: sangria) and $1 oysters (Wed). On Fridays, the ladies get a free Garden Pimm's till 7pm, and Saturdays are reserved for a stuff-your-face-silly oyster and beer buffet ($68, till 8pm). #45-01 Singapore Land Tower, 50 Raffles Place. Tel: 6221 9555

Angie’s Oyster and Champagne Bar’s 1-for-1 Promos

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Visit chef Hal Yamashita's swanky Resorts World Sentosa restaurant for lunch. No, we're not crazy. Sets start at $18 for a vegetable sushi roll, served with Kansaistyle udon, steamed egg custard with dashi sauce, and green salad with yuzu ginger dressing. Festive Walk, 8 Sentosa Gateway. Tel: 6577 6688

watching the section like a hawk. Same goes for the roast items at Cold Storage (www.coldstorage.com.sg)—if you’re lucky you might score a whole pork knuckle at half price. For the next day’s breakfast buys, head to Crystal Jade My Bread (www.crystaljade.com), for 20 percent off buns, pastries and dim sum, and up to 40 percent off whole cakes (from as early at 7pm at The Central outlet); and if you’re near 313 Somerset, drop by Marché (www.marcherestaurants.com) just before closing time (varies daily) to nab one-for-one items at the takeaway counter.

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Ah Hoi gets our vote for most unbelievable value. Just $12 nett per person (till April, Mon-Fri from 12pm) for 12 refillable nasi padang dishes which include tahu telur, nangka masak lemak and ayam penyet—with rice, soup and a drink. P.S the 12th person dines free. Hotel Jen Tanglin Singapore, 1A Cuscaden Road. Tel: 6831 4373

It’s after 8.30pm and you’re hungry. Go to the supermarket, we say. The sushi, sashimi and bento sets at Meidi-Ya (#B1-50 Liang Court Shopping Centre, 177 River Valley Road) and Isetan (www. isetan.com.sg) often bear 50 percent discount stickers—but you better be quick, because other shoppers are

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If you prefer to totter in killer five-inch heels rather than sport Hello Kitty colours, make a date with your chicas for a Tuesday dinner buffet at Greenhouse (till 24 March; U.P. $72, 6.30-10.30pm). Discount starts at 10 percent off for 1-1.9 inches of heel and up to 50 percent for five inches or more. After feasting on lip-smacking seafood paella, suckling pig, seafood on ice and dessert, do remember to support your fellow stiltwearing girlfriend. Strictly women only. The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore, 7 Raffles Avenue. Tel: 6434 5288

For $9.50++, this Japanese-style hotpot restaurant serves up freeflow veg and sides along with three trays of meat, with two soup bases. Valid for lunch Mon-Thu at eight of their outlets island-wide. suki-ya.com.sg

100g Korean Charcoal BBQ What we like: free-flow banchan (side dishes) and cold tea. 100g has both, plus 15 percent off during lunch—just like paying nett prices. Savour kimchi stew ($10), or nourishing ginseng chicken ($11), prepared by a Korean chef. 93 Amoy Street. Tel: 6220 7176

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Roadhouse’s 1kg Terminator

though—the meal is only free if you beat the fastest timing (oh no!). Are you a fire-breather instead? Try Southwest Tavern’s Spaghetti from Hell (southwesttavern.com.sg). Finish the flaming mass (level 18) in 10 minutes and win two towers of Heineken Draught Beer or a $100 dining voucher. It's so hot you need to sign an indemnity form and be in the pink of health before they’ll even let you near it.

So hungry you think you could eat a cow? Mow down a 1kg Wagyu beef burger (worth $58) in 20 minutes (A.K.A. the Terminator Challenge) and you eat for free plus have your name on the Wall of Fame. No kick? Opt for the spicy Red Hot Terminator burger (worth $60) and you could win an additional $20 voucher. 13 Dempsey Road. Tel: 6476 2922 ROADHOUSE

SOUTHWEST TAVERN SPUDS & APRONS

You Must Be Crazy Oh? You’ve done the above without a hitch? Try the 60-minute The Beast Burger Challenge (thebeast.sg), a seven-pounder (3.2kg) monstrosity of fried chicken, pork, coleslaw and a humongous beef patty in between two large buttered buns, AND a bucket (big enough to be a main) of sweet potato fries. So you're a speedy Gonzales, huh? Go for Little Hiro's Eternal Glory Challenge (www.hirobbq.com) of eight patties and 500g of fried potato. One catch

Spuds & Aprons’ Mountain of Happiness For ice cream fiends only. You have 15 minutes to swallow 16 scoops of Häagen-Dazs (worth $58) in chocolate, vanilla, strawberry, rum & raisin, green tea, mango and raspberry. Don’t forget the toppings: nuts, cherries, chocolate chips and wafers—same thing, succeed and it’s free, plus receive a special apron and your name on the wall of fame. Warning: serious brain freeze ahead. Level 2 Faber Peak, 109 Mount Faber Road. Tel: 6377 9688

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milagro spanish

The BiTES team loves our ramen, here’s why: a basket of eat-all-you-want hardboiled eggs is placed on the table,

Other *free* extras

medz bistro & bar

we freeb ies

Welcome back, Barossa Esplanade! The newlyrenovated bar celebrates with the launch of an barossa exclusive Ladies Champagne Cocktail Night (Thu, $6 cocktails). But we're gonna be all-inclusive and tell you about their Happy Hour free Angus beef sliders (Mon-Fri 6-8pm)—just buy a selected tipple from the menu and you can (m)eat all you want! #01-11 Esplanade Mall, 8 Raffles Avenue. Tel: 6534 5188. www.barossa.com.sg

alongside free-flow beansprouts and condiments. Check out B IT E S B Keisuke’s various outlets ES ITE T I S B (keisuke.sg), Hakata BI S Ikkousha (www. T E ikkousha.com/enabout), and Ramen Bar Suzuki (fb. com/Ramen.Bar. Suzuki0525) for protein power-ups. If you want to literally sit pretty while waiting, get a free manicure at TE China hotpot chain S Hai Di Lao, in addition BI B IT S E E to free snacks, drinks and S BI TES BIT other entertainment. We’re also partial to the free chocolate ‘lipstick’ and bottled in-house tomato sauce from SKIRT at W Singapore – Sentosa Cove, soup “free-fills” from for free (Tue-Fri with every main course Song Fa Bak Kut Teh and Soup Guru, order) at The Marmalade Pantry while kids aged 12 and under eat lunch at The Stables.

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Barossa Happy Hour Free Angus Beef Sliders

Perk #1: Coffee's free with any breakfast order (Mon-Fri 8-11am). Try the laugenbrotchen with pork bierschinken and red cheddar cheese ($12.90)—it's fluffy German brot with a heaping of ham and cheese. Perk #2: Get 50 percent off takeaways from the display counter (till 31 Mar)—so help yourself to the viennoiseries (mini croissants) in pork ham and cheese (U.P. $3.90) or homemade cured salmon (U.P. $3.90). #01-01 Clifford Centre, 24 Raffles Place. Tel: 6536 1917

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buy a bottle of house wine per BYOB. For tze char aficionados, New Ubin Seafood (ubinseafood.com) is also known for steak and fried rice made from the meat’s drippings. Free corkage for duty-paid wine and liquor (strictly no beer, you’ll have to buy that there). Or venture to Cafe de Hong Kong (#01-01 Eastpac Building, 586 Balestier Road) for bamboo charcoal tofu, nam yu (red fermented beancurd) chicken and HK milk tea. On top of no corkage charges, both places provide proper stemware for your treasured vino. da Paolo bistrobar

or basa fish with wedges ($12 each) and indie Milagro Spanish Restaurant (#08-06/07 Orchard Central, 181 Orchard Road) for slow-cooked Galician octopus ($17) and an ice-cold Kronenbourg.

Nett Prices

Bring Your Own Booze

What you see is what you pay. At Peperoni Pizzeria (peperoni.com.sg), have a modest nine-inch pizza (15 varieties) at $19 or go for the XXL 21-inch (feeds 4-6 pax) at $50—wait for it—nett. For dishes like benedict quinoa ($16) or a chicken avocado sandwich ($13.80), hit up the newly-opened East Manhattan Bakery Café (#01-03, 19 Lor Kilat). Add on a slice of cake for $4.50. Other worthy nett mentions include dog-friendly bistro Torte (96 Waterloo Street) for daily staples like roast chicken leg

Stake-out steakhouse Bedrock Bar & Grill (bedrock. com.sg) on Mondays to have corkage waived up to your fourth bottle ($50/bot for fifth bottle onwards)—just order a main course each to enjoy the offer. Or if you prefer crabs with your carbs, Jumbo Seafood allows you one bottle corkage-free (subsequently $10/wine, $20/liquor). We’ve also heard that Da Paolo BistroBar (www.dapaolo.com.sg) goes the middle route by compromising—corkage is 1-for-1, which means you

HSBC special

Find your gourmet match Salon Gourmet 2015 in partnership with HSBC cards kicks off its year-long gourmet festival this March with fine culinary events. BITES helps you discover flavours and wines to your taste

At Salon Gourmet 2015, more than 12 culinary events range from indulgent wine and spirits pairing dinners, sophisticated evening soirees to informative cooking demonstrations. The headliners include two Michelin-starred guest masterchefs Jean-Yves Leuranguer (Paris) and Ronan Kervarrec (Nice), the first at Raffles Grill and the latter at Clifford. The venues too, are stars in their own rights—sky-high Stellar at 1-Altitude, black-and-white bungalow Scotts 27, and heritage shophouse Buyan, among some of the eye-catching restaurants. How then to make the most of your dining experiences? We bite into the schedule to see the interesting themes presented. Plus, there's no better time to be an HSBC cardholder: exclusively for cardmembers, enjoy 15% savings on dining promotions and 20% off monthly dinners at selected leading European restaurants all year round.

Le Bihan, Martin Satow, Victor Caballe Molina and Gottfried Shuetzenberger’s turn to strut their stuff. 7-8 Mar; 10am, 12pm, 2pm, 4pm. ToTT Cooking Studio, 896 Dunearn Road.

bam!

If you love: buyan russian restaurant

Home cooking

tott On 7 and 8 Mar, head over to ToTT for Flavours of Europe Culinary Workshops, where eight of Singapore’s top European chefs will help make you a better chef through an hour-long demonstration. On Saturday, you’ll find chefs Lorenz Hoja, Stephane Istel, JeanPhillipe Patruno and tott Christopher Millar at the helm. On Sunday, it’s chefs Damien

with a twist. Check out items such as cold capellini with soft shell crab paired with Cepa 21, a Tinto Fino grape with a candied black fruit nose and sweet rounded palate. 4 Mar, 8.30pm. Bam! Tapas-Sake Bar, 38 Tras Street. A Gastronomic Journey Through Ribera Del Duero now awaits, with the wines of Grupo Vega Sicilia, one of the most sought after classic labels. Chef Ng Wei Han will be presenting signature favourites such as suckling pig confit

Cocktails Rustic Russian Flavours brings together culture and cuisine in authentic and exciting ways. The six-course menu, comprising authentic dishes from Russia and the former Soviet Union, will be paired with specially created Snow Leopard vodka cocktails for a night of spirited fun. 11 Mar, 7pm. BUYAN Russian Restaurant & Caviar Bar, 9 Duxton Hill.

Spanish food and wine The fiesta continues with two events at famous tapas bars. Modern Spanish Cuisines is presented with the wines of Emilio Moro from Ribera Del Duero, in the most innovative way as Bam!’s chef Pepe Moncayo prepares Catalan dishes

visit

la taperia

Look to Alsace for the ancient Roman vineyards of Domaines Schlumberger wines, and be dazzled by their fine Riesling and Grand Cru Pinot Gris, among six of their best wines served over an exceptional dinner. Chef Stephane Istel takes his inspiration from Heirloom Recipes From Alsace for one night only, where he will be serving up Alsatian tarte flambee, seafood choucroute, and mom’s apple pie with milk ice cream. 25 Mar, 7pm. Bar-Roque Grill, #01-00 Amara Hotel, 165 Tanjong Pagar.

barroque Turn to Domaine Giraud Chateauneuf-du-Pape for this family-run winery’s stellar blends of fruity, silky red Grenache, Syrah and Mouvedre. Chefs Jean Philippe Patruna from UNA and Chritopher Millar from Stellar at 1-Altitude will dazzle you with dish pairings such as octopus, tomato and garlic stew from the former, and guinea fowl stew from the latter, drawing on their European and Australian heritage. 12 Mar, 7pm. Stellar at 1-Altitude, Level 62 1 Raffles Place.

Absinthe with calanda peach, caramelised onion and sherry vinegar, paired with Macon 2010 from Rioja—elegant, balanced and medium bodied Tempranillo. 28 Mar, 7pm. La Taperia, #0210/11 Shaw Centre, 1 Scotts Road.

Exploring French wine regions

stellar at 1-altitude

Dining with the stars Be star-struck as Salon Gourmet’s highlight event features the Culinary Stars of Europe dinner, with the impeccable wines of Domaine Barons de Rothschild (Lafite). This is your chance to catch, for the first time, the signature dishes from chefs Julien Bompard, Damien Le Bihan, Victor Cabelle Molina, Martin Satow and Gottfried Scheutzenberger, each featuring one course. The wines are no less stellar, coming from a classified first growth label known the world over. 27 Mar, 7pm. Grand Residence, Grand Hyatt Singapore, 10 Scotts Road.

For more information, please visit www.salon-gourmet.com.sg or call 6319 4038.

From Burgundy comes the wines of Domaine Fernand Et Laurent Pillot, a father-and-son team that cultivates grapes with traditional Burgundian practices such as barrel fermentation for whites. You’ll be enjoying six of their wines paired with chef Nicolas Reynard’s Classic French Journey cuisine such as lobster bisque with lobster ravioli, and panfried foie gras at this convivial shophouse space. 19 Mar, 7pm. Absinthe, 72 Boat Quay.

Exclusively for HSBC credit and debit cardholders

20% off Salon Goumet Events

15% off

International Guest Chef Menus & Dining Promotions

FoodPanda.Sg

Exclusively for HSBC credit and debit cardholders:

25% off

total bill with a minimum order of S$25

Offer is valid till 31 March 2015. Enter first 6 digits of Card No. followed by HSBC25 Visit www.hsbc.com.sg/dining for more dining privileges.

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Wish you had a reliable buffet resource available to guide you to the best all-you-can-eat spots? Buffet Bounty is your go-to resource on buffets for all budgets, tastes and locations. Take the whole family out for one of our 20 hotel buffets pick, or get hot and steamy with affordable Thai mookata. Then footsie along with SG Food on Foot, blogger Derrick Tan, to find out where your next feast is going to be. Log on to www.bites.com.sg for these buffets and more!

Bites guide: Price guide (nett) $ wallet-friendly (below $50) $$ just can’t resist a splurge ($50-100) $$$ a special occasion ($100-150) $$$$ indulgence galore (above $150) Certified halal Does not serve pork or lard Kid-friendly facilities Veg-friendly

family friendly hotel buffets

21 on Rajah [ ] Days Hotel Singapore at Zhongshan Park, 1 Jalan Rajah. Tel: 6808 6847 Retreat from the weekend crowd at this brunch buffet ($39++, Sat-Sun & PH 12-3pm). There is a carving station serving up prime ribs, ‘live’ eggs station and waffle & pancake station to keep the restaurant lively, not forgetting their signature slow braised lamb shank. Children eat at half the price and even have a supervised kids’ activity corner on Sunday. HSBC CARDHOLDERS ENJOY: ◆ 10% off total bill

flavours at zhongshan park

6.30-9.30pm). Dig into Hainanese lamb stew and satay before ending it off with Nyonya pastries and ice cream. Children are charged $12++. Orchid Café [ ] Level 3 Orchid Hotel, 1 Tras Link. Tel: 6818 6818 Food that warms your soul is what you’ll find here at this humble buffet ($23.80++, daily 6-10pm) that serves local fare with European alternatives. Teochew porridge, pig’s trotters, soups and pastas are available at this homely café that is quick to attend to your children’s needs with high chairs and special cutlery.

10 at claymore

brizo restaurant

[$$] 10 at Claymore Pan Pacific Orchard Hotel, 10 Claymore Road. Tel: 6831 6686 Entice your family with petite gourmet delights for high tea (daily 2-5pm: $42++, Mon-Fri; $52++, Sat-Sun) as homemade macaroons and parma ham melons are served in their elegant three-tiered stands. Their famous Peddlers char kway teow and Penang prawn noodles are also prepared a la minute. Children aged 5-12 dine at half price. 21 on rajah

Bar and Billiard Room Raffles Hotel, 1 Beach Road. Tel: 6412 1816 Dress up to dine at ‘The Connoisseur’s Haven’, with European fare such as tiger prawns, ratatouille, pilaf rice and Basquaise vegetables served at this spread ($55++ adult, $27.50++ child, Thu-Sat 11.30am-2pm; $78++ adult, $39++ child, Thu-Sat 7-10pm). Smart casual dress code is expected. HSBC CARDHOLDERS ENJOY: ◆ 20% off total bill Brizo Restaurant Level 1 Park Hotel Clarke Quay, 1 Unity Street. Tel: 6593 8855 Catch a crab feast like no other with more than 26 seafood and crab creations offered at this buffet ($60++ adult, $30++ child, Thu-Sun 6.30-10.30pm). Salted egg, golden fragrance, creamy butter are some of the variations these crabs have been prepared in. Top up $40++ to enjoy free flow champagne, wine and beer.

Bayview Café Bayview Hotel Singapore, 30 Bencoolen Street. Tel: 6550 9516 Enjoy local perennial favourites such as mee siam, mee rebus, laksa and prawn noodles at the DIY station in this local Asian styled buffet ($16.80++, daily 12-2.30pm &

visit

In partnership with

cafÉ mosaic

Kintamani Indonesian Restaurant [ ] Furama RiverFront Singapore, 405 Havelock Road. Tel: 6739 6463 Find comfort in the halal Indonesian buffet ($48++ (adult) $16++ (child), daily 12-2.30pm; $50++ (adult) $20++ (child), daily 6-10pm) with chefs preparing both traditional Indonesian fare as well as a modern fusion spin on the cuisine. Try the signature sayur lodeh (coconut vegetable stew) and beef rendang, and if you’re lucky, you might catch the sop buntut (oxtail soup). HSBC CARDHOLDERS ENJOY: ◆ 1-for-1 buffets

Pete’s Place Grand Hyatt Singapore Hotel, 10 Scotts Road. Tel: 6738 1234 Canadian lobsters, chicken cacciatore, eight stations of Italian cuisine with their famous wood fired pizzas and signature desserts await those who feast at this Sunday brunch buffet ($58++ (adult) $29++ (child), 11.30am-2.30pm). Top up $24++ for free flow Villa Sandi prosecco extra dry, Italian red and white tipple and Campari cocktails. Children aged 6 and below dine for free.

kintamani indonesian restaurant

Café Mosaic [ ] Carlton Hotel Singapore, 76 Bras Basah Road. Tel: 6311 8195 Let the children be entertained by cupcake decoration classes and balloon sculpting (12.30-2.30pm) as you sip a cup of tea at this high tea buffet ($48++ adult, $24++ child, Sat-Sun 12-4pm). Dig into a menu that appeals to both young and old with items such as seafood cottage pie, baked salmon in puff pastry and seafood assortments. Children under 5 dine for free. Feast@East Buffet Restaurant Grand Mercure Roxy Hotel, 50 East Coast Road. Tel: 6340 5665 Indulge in the Singapore laksa as well as other Peranakan delights at this heritage buffet (daily: $52++ (adult) $26++ (child), 12-2.30pm; $55++ (adult) $28++ (child), 6-10pm). Durian connoisseurs will swoon at the sight of the famous durian paste available every day and children below 5 can eat for free. Indulge at Park Level 1 Grand Park City Hall, 10 Coleman Street. Tel: 6432 5888 Let the waterfall in the backdrop soothe you as you take in the food at this Sunday brunch buffet ($55++, 123pm), which includes BBQ meats that are usually only available during the Fri-Sat dinner buffet. Their signature durian pengat, usually only served during dinner, will also be available. Children aged 6-12 dine at half price.

melt~ the world cafÉ

[$$$] Melt~The World Café Mandarin Oriental Hotel, 5 Raffles Avenue. Tel: 6885 3500 Gather the family to enjoy their favourite molluscs and crustaceans during this buffet ($82++, Sun-Wed 6.30-9.30pm). Take note that oysters are featured on Sunday and Tuesday, crabs on Monday, and lobsters on Wednesday. From Thursday to Saturday, an outdoor barbecue grill ($88++, 6.30-9.30pm) will serve up Maine lobster, wagyu tenderloin, and even whole suckling pig in the rotisserie. HSBC CARDHOLDERS ENJOY: ◆ 15% off food bill

Atmosphere by the sea [ ] Shangri-La’s Rasa Sentosa Resort, 101 Siloso Road. Tel: 6371 1966/6275 0100 Ice cream sundae bar will be their battle cry as the children charge towards their own buffet line-up with magic shows and balloon sculpting on the side. Meanwhile, adults indulge in a seafood tower ($128++, Sun 12-3pm) of fresh prawns, Alaskan king crab legs and lobsters. One child dines for free with every paying adult, and additional children are charged $28++ each. pete’s place

Oscar’s Conrad Centennial Singapore, 2 Temasek Boulevard. Tel: 6432 7481 Let the children create their very own vegetable masterpiece at the largest Caesar salad station in town, with live carving stations and an outdoor noodle bar in this buffet (12-2.30pm: $59++ Mon-Sat, $80++ Sun; 6-10pm: $69++ Sun-Thu, $80++ Fri-Sat). Try their signature homemade waffles with ice cream in this restaurant that is open around the clock. Children dine at half price. HSBC CARDHOLDERS ENJOY: ◆ 15% off food bill

Days Hotel Singapore At Zhongshan Park - 21 on Rajah Exclusively for HSBC credit and debit cardholders:

10% off total bill

Offer is valid till 31 December 2015. For more dining privileges visit, www.hsbc.com.sg/dining

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Blogger Hot Seat

dolce vita

We go toe-to-toe with Derrick Tan of SG Food on Foot at the Siam Square Mookata buffet. The down-to-earth aviation specialist tells us about his favourite MRT stop amid chuckles and meaty conversation. Services via the Ultimate Hawker Fest 2014, together with Miss Tam Chiak and The Silver Chef. ULTIMATE COMFORT FOOD: Sungei Road Laksa, make it two bowls. (From Lavender MRT, walk through the HDB flats for about 10 minutes.) DON’T OFFER HIM: “I don’t eat a lot of carbs, ‘cause I find they make me very fat (chuckles). I cut these to maintain my weight.” Also nay for food that’s too exotic.

WHO: Derrick Tan (www.sgfoodonfoot.com) BLOGGING SINCE: 2010. The concept arose while dating his then-girlfriend (married last year)—they’d travel home via the MRT: “Which station to go? What food is there for our dinner?” His special skill: great sense of direction. WITH MORE MRT STATIONS OPENING… “That’s the beauty of it. I’m even hoping for the MRT line to be extended to Malaysia.” He updates previous blog entries with alternative routes, and visits nearby eateries prior to station openings. THE MOST HAPPENING LINE: The North-East Line (NEL). “It covers Hougang, Serangoon, VivoCity, Outram, Chinatown and Little India—it’s a multicultural line. Punggol is also up-and-coming.” Favourite station is Farrer Park for its mix of interesting cultures: old heritage along Kitchener Road like Hillman Restaurant and a vegetarian restaurant with great-grandmotheresque curios, staples like scissors-cut curry rice, bak kut teh and PUTIEN restaurant, and trendy eats like Grub Noodle Bar, Old Hen Coffee Bar and Hungry Heroes. LOOKING FORWARD TO: The northern part of Downtown Line for Bukit Timah (1Q 2016). “Most drive there now, but the MRT stops will make it really accessible.” WHAT ABOUT THE FARE HIKE? “I have to top up more often, but it’s part and parcel of my travel costs, as blogging is still a passion and it’s part of my three meals. I actually have a car at home, but that’s more for my property agent wife. I enjoy taking public transport, as you can think through things and sit back and enjoy. I even saw an uncle doing tai chi on the train.” HELPING OTHERS: Raised funds for Touch Community

THE BUFFET: Siam Square Mookata at #01-309, 134 Jurong Gateway Road ($29 nett per person, daily

12pm-11pm) TIME OF VISIT: 8 February, 12pm INITIAL DOUBTS: “When the concept of mookata was introduced, I wondered how people could eat like that. I couldn’t accept the pork lard dripping into the soup and making it oily. Slowly I accepted it, and now find the soup aromatic.” STRATEGY: Go low-carb, pick the meats and seafood. Start with the meat, then when the soup is more flavourful, add in the seafood and the fish/meat balls. “Actually, those contain flour and fill you up too.” Focus on protein, and try not to drink so much water. BEST DISH: The black pepper beef was nicely marinated with a peppery kick. Interesting items were the Fuzhou fishballs while the fish ‘pasta’ which had a nice springy texture. THE SAUCES: The spiciest sauce is “Wah, shiok ah! Maybe can ask if they sell it.” The mildest is sweet, very kiddy, and the medium one is more Thai. NOT ON HIS MIND: “I like innards like liver (didn’t order), but I will be more cautious with new dining companions. Usually I go through the menu for unique items.” SHOULDN’T HAVE ORDERED: The veggies were too shredded but you “can’t blame them due to the mookata ‘moat’ size.” The chicken was too fatty and sliced too small but tasted OK. MOST MEMORABLE: The non-stick pan. HOW MANY BiTES? Taste: 3.8/5 Value for money: 4.2/5 Service/Ambience: 3.5/5 Cleanliness: 4/5

Clifford The Fullerton Bay Hotel, 80 Collyer Quay. Tel: 6597 5288 Enjoy the stunning waterfront view from the 10-metrehigh floor-to-ceiling windows as you tuck into seafood such as crabs and meats from the carving station at this buffet ($98++ (adult) $54++ (child), Sat-Sun 12-3pm). Fork out another $30++ to enjoy champagne and wines. HSBC CARDHOLDERS ENJOY: ◆ 15% off Saturday brunch Dolce Vita Mandarin Oriental, 5 Raffles Avenue. Tel: 6885 3500 Spoil the family with this decadent brunch buffet ($118++, Sat-Sun 12-3pm) that embraces Italian cuisine, offering up Fine de Claire oysters, wild forest mushroom soup with white truffle foam and homemade linguine. Children aged 4-11 pay $70++ and will love the indulgent dessert buffet while the adults can top up $50++ for free flow Ruinart R de Ruinart Brut NV champagne. HSBC CARDHOLDERS ENJOY: ◆ 15% off food bill LIME PARKROYAL on Pickering, Singapore, 3 Upper Pickering Street. Tel: 6809 8899 Step into this revamped Sunday brunch buffet ($98++ adult, $49++ child, Sun 12-3pm) and savour pan-seared foie gras with caramelised apple flambé au cognac, homemade ravioli with lobster served with grated parmigiano and reggiano. Children under 6 dine for free, for adults: top up $40++ for free flow champagne.

Swissotel Merchant Court - Ellenborough Market Café Exclusively for HSBC credit and debit cardholders:

1 dines free

with every three paying adults for lunch and dinner buffet and Hi-Tea

Offer is valid till 31 December 2015. Hi-Tea only available only on Saturdays, Sundays and Public Holidays. Visit www.hsbc.com.sg/dining for more dining privileges.

In partnership with

thai mookata buffets

under $50

for free. You have two hours to get through this buffet (Mon-Thu $25.90+, Fri-Sun, eve of PH & PH $28.90+) which boasts a selection of Thai-style pork collar, Chinese-style pork belly, tom yum chicken thigh, pork lard—yum, seafood and vegetables. Premium items like scallop, oyster and beverages not included, while wastage’s charged at $5/100g. Daily 6pm-5.30am, 9 Townshend Road. Tel: 8686 9990 / Sun-Thu 4.30pm11pm, Fri-Sat & PH 4.30pm-2am 244R Upper Thomson Road. Tel: 8588 9990 kin mookata

NETT

At night, the industrial park canteen transforms into a bustling mookata hangout ($22 nett, min. two to dine; daily 5pm-12am). If you can’t decide to have sesame chicken, squid or Thai fish cake, you can opt for the “a little of everything” option on the checkbox chit. Add on some watermelon ($2.90) and VIZZ’s unique sauce ($5)—but whatever you do, don’t waste food (charged at $5/100g). Techplace 1, 4011 Ang Mo Kio Ave 10 (opp. Blk 401). Tel: 8655 6555

Happy Mookata

Huay Kwang Thai Kitchen Measure your tot because those below 1m dine

oneninety

With five branches islandwide, this Thai-owned mookata stall is on a roll ($29 nett, daily 5pm-12am). Go for the succulent tiger king prawns direct from Thailand, teriyaki pork neck, their signature chilli sauce, and sometimes shishamo and green noodles. If you’re craving for a lunchtime fix, head to their air-conditioned Jurong East branch (#01-309, 134 Jurong Gateway Road. Tel: 8247 0444; daily 12pm-11pm). Main outlet at #01-14, 22A Havelock Road. Tel: 8119 6664. www.fb.com/SiamSquareMookata

VIZZ Delights

They come and go; here are five lesser-known but worthy Thai BBQ finds you can eat your fill at.

Follow your nose to Golden Mile Tower where you’ll find hungry mookata fans deftly flipping their meats on a gas-powered brass-domed hotplate near the entrance to the carpark ($25.90 nett, daily 6pm-3am). Opt for best-sellers grilled chicken and grilled pork, and fried-upon-order popcorn chicken and Thai fish cake. Drinks not included. #01-55D Golden Mile Tower, 6001 Beach Road. Tel: 8113 0774 (Tex)/9380 9028 (Leon)

Siam Square MooKaTa

Kin Mookata If you’re in the Telok Kurau area, zip over to Kin Mookata ($25 nett, daily 5-9pm). Meat lovers, you’ll swoon over their garlic pork collar, garlic pork belly, minced pork, pork liver and pork lard. Choose also from seafood, chicken, beef, veg, quail eggs and tung hoon. They score brownie points with us for still using an authentic charcoal mookata, having housemade sauce, and being an awardee of a Fine Culinary Skills certification. Opposite 271 Joo Chiat Place. Tel: 9068 1638

One-Ninety [ ] Four Seasons Hotel Singapore, 190 Orchard Boulevard. Tel: 6831 7250 A kiddie wonderland awaits the little ones with balloon sculpting and activities such as face painting in addition to their very own special mini buffet, free for kids under five. Grown ups feast ($72++, Sun 11.45am3pm) on main courses such as Rangers Valley Wagyu accompanied by a charcuterie station with freshly shaved truffles. Optional add-ons that start from $50++ will see you enjoying free flow prosecco or champagne. TRIPLE THREE [ ] Level 5 Mandarin Orchard Singapore, 333 Orchard Road. Tel: 6831 6288 Swing by on Sunday for a family brunch ($98++, 12noon-2.30pm). Adults feast on sumptuous seafood on ice—oysters, Boston baby lobsters, scallops

vizz delights

and Alaska snow crab legs; kids will love the special play area. Help yourself to pan-fried duck liver with brioche bread and raspberry vinegar sauce, and seasonal chef specials prepared à la minute.

[$$$$] Edge [ ] Pan Pacific Singapore, Marina Square, 7 Raffles Boulevard. Tel: 6826 8240 With a dedicated kids corner that screens cartoons, parents can kick back and enjoy the four-hour buffet ($178++ (adult) $59++ (child), Sun 12-4pm). Free flow champagne and wine goes down smoothly with the nosh served at seven live food kitchens such as Boston lobsters, artisanal cheese and raclette. Children under the age of 6 dine for free.

California Pizza Kitchen

For HSBC credit and debit cardholders:

S$10

dining voucher with every S$50 spent

Offer is valid till 31 December 2015. Voucher is valid for use on next visit. Maximum of S$20 dining vouchers are given for each visit. Visit www.hsbc.com.sg/dining for more dining privileges.

d e s t i n a t i o n

d i n i n g H ILLVIE

The hills are alive

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Look no further for nature’s therapeutic calmness. Former industrial area Hillview along Upper Bukit Timah is flanked by slopes of rolling greenery, making for scenic nature trails even as new malls and eats spring up to cater to condodwellers. BiTES breathes in the green while taking in old and new eats. By Timothy Lam, Photography Benjamin Soh

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(4 Hillview Rise)

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Kewalram Hillview Canteen

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Black Angus Steakhouse (#01-06/07) Black Angus Steakhouse takes extra pride in their meats, with the assurance that their USDA choice beef are aged 21 days or more. Their signature prime ribs start from $45.90++ for a half pound cut, and beef sliders ($18.90++) are good for starters. Mon-Sun 11.30am-2.30pm, 6-11pm. Tel: 6710 7137 DEAN & DELUCA (#01-01) The one stop destination for fine food, explore their wide selections of cakes such as their signature DEAN & DELUCA original cheesecake ($38), as you browse through gourmet delights that include smoked fish & speciality food and infused olive oils. Mon-Thu 1-am10pm, Fri 10am-10.30pm, Sat-Sun 8am-10pm.

R OA

AVE

Nestled within the prime estates of Upper Bukit Timah, this mixed-used development set in an al fresco format boasts prime lifestyle outlets such as Spa by Traditional Javanese Massage Hut (#02-18) and Epi Treatz (#02-14). Browse for your favourite tipple at Wine Connection Bistro (#02-05/06) to pair with a meal at iO Italian Osteria (#02-01). Kinsa Sushi (#02-02) Step into this Japanese restaurant boasting Singapore’s first levitating sushi belt. Indulge in premium items at a fraction of the cost such as their Soo Gyu Don ($24.80++) which uses A4 grade beef from Kagoshima paired with an onsen egg, or their fresh fish selection where you pick out your own seafood and decide on its preparation method for no extra cost. Prices vary according to fish. Mon-Thu 11.30am-3pm, 5.30-10pm; Fri-Sun & PH 11.30am-10pm. Tel: 6710 7278

Dean & DEluca

RIS E

kinsa sushi

Burgerup Classix (#01-11) Gourmet burgers at fast food prices are a welcomed treat anytime. Customise your own burgs at the signature full self-ordering system, and chomp your way through. At this locally born brand, chicken burger sets start from $7.65 while beef and fish burger sets go for $8.55. Daily 11am-10pm.

Around HillView

burgerup classix

Hillview MRT and Community Club Come 2016, witness the change The Downtown Line will bring to the Hillview area, drastically reducing the time taken to travel to the city and bringing greater access into this quiet neighbourhood. The new Community Club planned to be situated near HillV2 will also help to foster community activities and amenities. rail corridor

Getting around Don’t miss the shuttle service from Bukit Gombak MRT to HillV2 for quick and free transport. If you are feeling healthier and more sporty, venture a walk down the park connector from Bukit Batok Nature Reserve that leads past HillV2 to Dairy Farm Nature Reserve and enjoy the view of the quarries in the area. Continue on to Bukit Timah Nature Reserve for a quiet walk in the rainforest. Rail Corridor Walk along railway tracks that are still preserved in certain sections of this trail with the magnificent truss bridge next to Rail Mall still spanning across the road for picturesque moments and spend time surrounded by nature, birdwatching and even catching glimpses of the notorious monkeys of Bukit Timah.

DAIRY FARM crescent

Rail Mall

(380 Upper Bukit Timah Road)

FA DAIRY

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Two rows of single-storey shophouses make up this shopping arcade of sorts that gets its name from the antiquated railway line that runs right alongside it. It services the residents nearby with 24-hour eateries, a gourmet deli and supermarket.

RK A CARPA

The Coffee Bean & Tea leaf Hide away from the heat in this cozy little space with a book or two and sip on some premium brews (White Chocolate Dream Latte) and rare loose-leaf teas that the company is known for. Their ice blended drinks (The Original Mocha Ice Blended Drink) are not to be missed in sunny Singapore.

praisehaven family store thrift

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Praisehaven Family Thrift Store (500 Upper Bukit Timah Road) Thrift shopping every day of the week? We’re in! The retail arm of the not-for-profit organisation Salvation Army processes and retails donated items of good condition to help those in need. Get Macbook 15” retina display covers at a mere $10, or furniture and paintings at a fraction of the cost in this iconic ship-like building. Weekdays 10am-6pm, weekends 10am-9pm. Tel: 6349 5312

Blooie’s Roadhouse Kick back and enjoy an icy beer while surrounded by the eclectic design of a North American roadhouse. Try the BlooiE’s special portobello cheese burger ($19.90++), or their signature BBQ beer butt chicken ($38.80++) which is

CH D OA

Sunny Choice Give health a chance when you stop by award winning Sunny Choice, a vegetarian café as well as a mini supermarket for all things healthy and organic. Gobble up local Hakka health food Thunder Tea rice ($8.50 nett) or go for a Korean original, bibimbap ($8.50 nett) and have vegetarian sushi ($7 nett) on the side whilst shopping for a healthier option. Wed-Mon 10am-9pm. Tel: 6892 2383

timah bu kit nature reserve

blooie's roadhouse

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RESTAURANT HOME Let Iron Chef Thailand winner Tan Yong Hua tantalise your tastebuds with exquisite Chinese cuisine such as Peking duck ($48++ half, $88++ full) roasted with lychee wood in a custom oven and braised vermicelli with pork knuckles ($24++) which are braised daily for five hours. Daily 12-3pm, 6-11pm. Tel: 6465 1698

a whole chicken marinated and cooked upright on a full can of beer, one day advanced order is required. Sun-Thu 11.30-1.30am, Fri-Sat 11.30-3am. Tel: 6766 1588

lam soon industrial building

Industrial Eats

Dairy Farm nature park A 63-hectare area that once supplied Singapore with locally produced fresh milk has been converted to a nature park that links up to Bukit Timah Nature Reserve. An old cowshed converted into the Wallace Education Centre provides exhibits to learn about changing landscapes and conducts research studies.

Though surrounded by condominiums and landed properties as far as the eye can see, the BiTES team uncovered two elusive, humble eateries hidden away for workers in the area. If you’re craving simple hawker favourites for lunch, then these are the best options within walking distance. Lam Soon Industrial Building (63 Hillview Avenue, level 6) Ascend to the carpark on level 6, turn right and head to the innermost corner, and you will be greeted by a hidden canteen with four stalls surrounded by greenery from the cliffside it faces. Savour mee rebus ($2.50) or mixed vegetable rice (from $2.20) in the hidden tranquility of an industrial building. Mon-Fri 7am-2pm Kewalram Hillview Canteen (120 Hillview Avenue, level 7) Take a walk through long windy corridors paired with vintage designs and bygone technology and arrive at a homely cafeteria right at the top of the building. Free soup of the day is available with local offerings of ayam penyet ($3.50), mee goreng ($3) or even fish and chips ($4). No pork and lard used. Mon-Fri 7am-4pm.

Nature Reserves

kewalram hillview canteen

Singapore Quarry Keep a lookout for local woodland birds and try identifying the flora in the underbrush during this 20-minute hike that leads to the stunning backdrop of a granite quarry surrounded by a lake. Admire the wetland habitat from the viewing platform and bask in the tranquility of nature.

singapore quarry

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One-pot pastas

On days when even pasta seems too hard to make, here’s the laziest way to get dinner ready: throw your ingredients into a pot and let it cook itself. Whether you like it meaty, vegetarian or even Thai, pair the results with a fizzy Italian fruit soda to spruce up a reinvented meal at home. By June Lee, Photography Benjamin Soh B i T E S PAID FOR OUR OWN GROCERIES AT FAIRPRICE; SANPELLEGRINO SODA FROM SELECT PREMIUM RETAILERS AND SUPERMARKETS

Linguine cut in half

Thai style Spring onion and coriander

Carrots and red bell pepper, sliced into sticks

Sliced young ginger

Crabsticks or fishballs

Lime slices, add after cooking

Canned straw mushrooms

Chicken broth or water

Dollop of peanut butter

Roasted salted peanuts, chopped

+ 22

PAIR WITH: Sanpellegrino Pompelmo

(grapefruit) makes a good match for the tangy peanut, lime and ginger base of this pasta. The 16% fruit juice content in this can (more than the glass version) of Sicilian grapefruit has a bittersweet and zesty flavour to complete the Thai-inspired meal.

Garnish with more chopped peanuts and coriander after cooking

PASTA TIPS

• Cut fresh vegetables to roughly the same size to standardise their cooking time. • Wash pasta before cooking to remove extra starch, which can make the dish mushy. • Submerge pasta with just enough water to cover, add more later if needed. Too much will result in a soggy dish. • Stir your dish at least 3-4 times, to ensure the ingredients are mixed together while cooking down. The dish should cook down into a dry pasta with saucy gravy. • Cooking times vary from 10-15 minutes depending on amount of ingredients.

Sausage + tomato Pasta such as fusilli

Chicken broth or water

sliced onion and garlic

quartered tomatoes or tinned tomato

+ PAIR WITH:

Cheese sausage or any kind of meat

Sanpellegrino Chinotto has

a really unique, bittersweet and sharp taste. Chinotto is a kind of Sicilian orange which is made into a quintessential Italian drink the colour of amber, and which matches perfectly with robust, hearty Italian cuisine such as a classic pasta with sausage and chilli.

chilli powder to your taste

Garnish with grated Parmesan after cooking.

Veg

Pasta such as penne

Vegetarian broth or water

PAIR WITH:

Zucchini, chopped

Sanpellegrino Limonata is

bursting with ripe lemon flavours, the most thirstquenching of the trio we tried. Its fresh, tart and sweet taste worked very well with the mellow zucchini and peas, enhancing the creamy and cheesy pasta with the lift that it needed.

Peas, canned or frozen

Snow peas

Sliced button mushrooms

Stir in cream once pasta is removed from the heat, then stir through with grated Parmesan.

t h e

d r i n k

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A happier hour Don’t brave the sleaze just to get cheap drinks, as BiTES rounds up 10 top hot spots to bring you greater value for your dollar. By Timothy Lam

Acid Bar ➽

Loof ➽

Peranakan Place, 180 Orchard Road. Tel: 6738 8828 Opening hours: SunThu 5pm-2am, Fri-Sat & Eve of PH 5pm-3am Happy hour: Daily till 9pm The deal: $6++ house pour liquors, $9.90 nett martini (selected flavours) Cheap drinks in the heart of Orchard are getting rarer than the Peranakan architecture and ornaments in this colonial-styled arcade that houses the acoustic energy of Acid Bar. Going strong since 2003.

#03-07 Odeon Towers, 331 North Bridge Road. Tel: 9773 9304 Opening hours: Mon-Thu 5pm-1am, Fri-Sat 5pm-3am Happy hour: $5++ 5-5.59pm; $6++ 6-6.59pm; $7++ 7-7.59pm The deal: House pours only. Includes beers, wines and spirits. Ending work early just got even better with the view from this rooftop bar complementing the beverages that go nicely with signature bites such as the crispy whitebait or Ramly burger.

Café Iguana ➽ #01-03 Riverside point, 30 Merchant Road. Tel: 6236 1275 Opening hours: Mon-Thu 4pm-1am, Fri & Eve of PH 4pm-3am, Sat 12pm-3am, Sun 12pm-1am Happy hour: SatSun–$5.50, 11am-3pm; $7.50, 3-6pm; $9.50, 6-8pm The deal: Draft beer and Margaritas Authenticity of the 100% blue Agave used in tequilas will delight any Mexican as you enjoy the progressive happy hour that includes the Iguana lager & Steam beer, specially crafted by Brewerkz.

Five Izakaya Bar ➽ 16 Collyer Quay #0105B. Tel: 6536 8955 Opening hours: Mon-Sat 12pm-12am Happy hour: $5++ daily, all-day The deal: Red & white wine, Asahi draught, sake, shochu, Choya, house spirits Five’s the name of the game here with no rushing for those coveted few hours of wallet-friendly drinks. Live music sweetens the deal.

Standing Sushi Bar ➽ #01-03 Singapore Art Museum, 8 Queen Street. Tel: 6333 1335 Opening hours: Daily 12-2.30pm, 6-10.30pm Happy hour: Daily, 6-10pm The deal: $2++ sake, $5++ beer, wine, hot sake, and umeshu A different bargain everyday on the fresh sushi available is overshadowed by the tipple on offer with sake going at $2 per glass and $5 for a hot flask.

TAPS ➽ 27 Smith Street. Tel: 6225 7354 Opening hours: Daily 4pm-1am Happy/Taps hour: 4-8pm The deal: Beers from $4.50 nett, wines and spirits from $10 nett Cool off after feasting at Chinatown’s hawker street in this threestorey watering hole with different themes at each level. Staying true to its name, there are 10 beer taps on every floor.

Grandma’s ➽ #B1-42/43 Paragon, 290 Orchard Road. Tel: 6737 7931 Opening hours: 11.30am-10pm Happy hour: Daily, all-day The deal: $4.80++ Tiger & Kirin beer, $6.90++ Erdinger Nothing soothes the soul more than a home cooked meal and an ice cold beer. It doesn’t get any cheaper in the city.

BeerFest (BREWERY) ➽ 4 Rochester Park. Tel: 9722 7446 Opening hours: MonThu 5-11pm, Fri 5pm1am, Sat 11am-1am, Sun 11am-11pm Happy hour: Tue-Fri 5-8pm; Sat-Sun 12-8pm The deal: $6.50++ (mug), $8++ (pint) Fresh brews made in this colonial black and white bungalow are a steal with varieties such as Amber Sun and Greenpiece available among six special brews.

Barraka ➽ #01-18/29 11 Unity Street. Tel: 6737 9130 Opening hours: MonThu 5pm-1am, Fri 5pm2am, Sat noon-2am, Sun noon-1am Happy hour: All-day The deal: Wines from $7 nett Everyone knows Wine Connection, but in our books, Barraka offers wine deals that are just as good. Fill your glasses with their sparkling Cava Brut Do, or the sweeter Rosado Do (rose wine). Bottles start from $39.

Club Kyo ➽ #B1-02 Keck Seng Tower, 133 Cecil Street. Tel: 8299 8735 Opening hours: Wed-Thu 9pm-4am, Fri 9pm-3.30am, Sat 11pm4.30am Happy hour: Fri 9pm-12am The deal: $5 nett house pour spirits and half pint draught beers Art and dance music meet in the confines of a former bank. The drinks deals reward those who stay till late.

last

Life of pie

The world celebrates Pi Day (π) on 14 March, and what better way than to tuck into some delicious circumferences right here in Singapore. By Meredith Wu

ANCIENT PIES The galette, or a rustic French pie made without a dish, appeared as early as 9500BC. A recipe for the humble chicken pie was also written on a tablet (not the iPad variety) before 2000BC.

U.K. Cottage or shepherd’s pie was the “poor people’s” pie in the 18th and 19th centuries. We guess that’s why they’re naked (no pastry) and the meat (usually beef or mutton) hides under a bed of mashed potatoes.

FRANCE Doesn’t rhyme with “twitch”. The Quiche Lorraine (pronounced keesh), or savoury open-faced custard pie, is proof that everyone loves bacon and cheese.

X’MAS PIE What exactly is in a mince pie? If you’re looking for meat, move along. Usually sold during Christmas, these are made with spiced dried fruits and sometimes brandy; no meat but sometimes lard. What a confusing pie.

FAST FOOD PIE What? There’s such a thing as a fried pie? Yes, just think of the ones from McDonald’s or Burger King.

U.S.A The Mississippi mud pie oozes chocolate-y goodness from crust to filling. Not the kind your kid makes in the garden.

THE ‘BIG APPLE’ PIE New Yorkers often refer to pizza as pie. It’s also referenced in Dean Martin’s 1953 hit song That’s Amore, and was used as early as 1944 in The New York Times. The debate’s still ongoing, but for sure if you order a pie here, you’ll rarely get a pizza!

AUSTRALIA/ NEW ZEALAND Respect meat pies. They're national icons and regularly paid homage to. Countrywide contests, awards, and even outrage when an Australian pie company was bought over by the Americans (it's back on home soil now). 25