BiTES - The Scoop on Good Eats (March 2016) by BiTES - The Scoop on Good Eats

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food & hotel asia! page 5

inside Buffet bounty p14 Kids dine free, senior citizens get 50% off, and more!

e e f f Co tea d n a wave

le, f f a d, w + rea nut b do ou y d s n r a ke p21 ma need

DESTINATION: Ang mo kio p18 Bustling town centre offers fab food finds

+disco v your er person in a caulity p p24

Supermarket sleuth p20 Cook up a storm in your microwave

s d n a r b n w s to o r g e homand cafet at p10 ou g n ha Drink tank p22 Craft beers galore at Craft Singapore

ADVERTORIAL

Who to bring for JCB's 1-for-1 deals? Eat, drink and be merry this March and April at 10 Japanese restaurants, thanks to JCB Cards There are many reasons why we love the cuisine from the Land of the Rising Sun, from its ramen and sushi to exquisitely grilled meats and fine spirits. Now, Japan’s only international payment brand, JCB Cards brings you 10 experiences to deepen your love affair. The annual Feast Japan 1-for-1 dining offers are back till 30 April, at 10 restaurants and cafes in central locations. BiTES takes a tour of the gastronomic deals while revealing who we’d like to dine with. Bring: Best friend He or she has shin kushiya been with you through thick and thin—so celebrate your friendship in the most delicious way. Shin Kushiya’s 1-for-1 Buta Kushiyaki (pork skewers) platter enchants with chizu maki, enoki maki, buta bara, buta kimuchi maki and tomato maki. #02-120 VivoCity. Tel: 6275 8766; #01-01 Far East Square, 33 Pekin Street. Tel: 6438 8991 Slurp up the famous shio ramen together with Santouka Ramen’s 1-for-1 deals on all ramen or set menus. Their speciality is the flavourful santouka ramen white tonkotsu soup. #02-76 The Central. Tel: 6224 0668; 21 Cuppage Road. Tel: 6235 1059 Bring: Colleague Escape the madness of a work week with Kan Sushi’s fresh kan sushi sushi and sashimi. The sushi set comprising hon maguro (bluefin

tuna) otoro, chutoro and akami sushi at just $38 is a great deal, especially at 1-for-1. #0254 International Plaza. Tel: 6221 3678 Enbu—which means dance of flame— will intrigue with its straw grilling and charcoal izakaya grill methods. Say enbu yes to grilled homemade minced chicken in a rice bowl at 1-for-1. #03307 Suntec City North Wing. Tel: 6268 8043 Bring: Someone special Treat your loved ones to the eight-course omakase at gorgeous Tburu, in this contemporary designer tburu space. You’ll be saving $110 with the 1-for-1 offer, as you dine on innovative dishes from the grill, sushi bar and more. #05-01 orchardgateway@ emerald. Tel: 6221 0004 Akari Japanese Dining & Bar takes things up to the next level in a semifine dining concept. akari Enjoy their japanese 1-for-1 grilled dining & bar eel donburi, or unagi hitsumabushi, enriched in a special Japanese stock. #01-02 Ground Plaza, Marina Bay Financial Centre. Tel: 6634 0100

Nikunohi is where to bring nikunohi your meat-loving other half over the circular table grill. Don’t miss the 1-for-1 regular lean Akami beef to complement your other, more unusual cuts. #03-316 Suntec City North Wing. Tel: 6837 0263 Bring: Your #squad It’s time to kick back after work and let loose with your mates. Check out cosy Nigiro Café nigiro cafÉ for JapaneseItalian cuisine by chef Kensuke Sakai—in fact, try spelling the name backwards! Dine on 1-for-1 tapas, comprising items such as grilled scallops on half shell. #03-315 Suntec City North Wing. Tel: 6238 1669 To accompany ginza lion your ice-cold Sapporo beer at Ginza Lion, pay with your JCB Card to enjoy 1-for-1 on the signature roast Black Angus beef. #01-649/650 Suntec City Tower 4. Tel: 6836 6053; #0101/02 Rodyk Street. Tel: 6634 9113 Alternatively, enjoy 1-for-1 shochu at Kiraku, a semi fine dining Japanese restaurant specialising kiraku in shabu shabu and sushi. Be dazzled by the range of Japanese alcohol housed in a floor-to-ceiling glass sake chiller. #B1-01, 55 Market Street. Tel: 6438 6428

www.facebook.com/JCBSingapore Terms and conditions apply. For details, visit To apply for UOB JCB Platinum Card, SMS JCB<space>NRIC<space>Name to 77862 or sign up now at www.uob.com.sg/jcb

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Where to find your B i T E S ? DOWNLOAD THIS ISSUE at www.bites.com.sg PICK US UP! Free at over 100 venues Cafes & restaurants Alfresco Gusto • Bonta Italian Restaurant & Bar (District 10) • Brussels Sprouts - Robertson Quay • Brussels Sprouts - Sentosa Cove • California Pizza Kitchen Forum • Chijmes • Delifrance Cafe - Cold Storage Jelita • Delifrance Cafe - Gateway West • Delifrance Cafe - Gleneagles Hospital • Delifrance Cafe - Harbourfront Centre • Delifrance Cafe - KK Women's and Children's Hospital • Delifrance Cafe Lot One Shoppers' Mall • Delifrance Cafe - Mount Elizabeth Hospital • Delifrance Cafe - Rendezvous Gallery • Delifrance Cafe - Thomson Medical Centre • Delifrance Cafe - UE Square • Emicakes @ Kovan • EN Grill and Bar • Farisya's Kitchen • Ginkhao Restaurant • Ginza Lion Beer Hall • IPPIN • Joe & Dough (Kallang) • Kinsa Sushi HillV2 • Milagro Spanish Restaurant • Ootoya Japanese Restaurant • Oriole Coffee + Bar • Outback Steakhouse • Oyster Bar & Grill Wharf • Pu3 Restaurant • Ramen Champion • Roti Mum • Selfish Gene Cafe • Spinelli (all outlets) • Starbucks (all outlets) • tcc - The Connoisseur Concerto (all boutiques) • The Rustic Bistro • The Marmalade Pantry ION • Yellow Submarine (Toa Payoh) • ZEN Japanese Cuisine • 31 Bar Kitchen Car showrooms Chevrolet • Citroen • Honda • Hyundai • Infiniti • Kia • Mazda • Nissan • Opel Singapore • Subaru • Toyota Singapore

Cooking Schools Cookyn Inc • The Eureka Cooking Lab Country & Private Clubs British Club • China Club • Ee Hoe Hean Millionaire Club • Hollandse Club • Jurong Country Club • Keppel Club • Laguna National Golf & Country Club • NUSS - Kent Ridge Guild House • NUSS - Bukit Timah Guild House • NUSS - Suntec City Guild House • Orchid Country Club • Raffles Marina • Seletar Country Club • Sentosa Golf Club • Serangoon Gardens Country Club • Singapore Chinese Swimming Club • Singapore Cricket Club • Singapore Island Country Club • Tanah Merah Country Club • The American Club • The Swiss Club • Tower Club Hotels Amara Singapore • Carlton City Hotel • Changi Village Hotel • Concorde Hotel Singapore • Copthorne King’s Hotel Singapore • Dorsett Singapore • Furama City Centre • Furama RiverFront • Hilton Singapore • Holiday Inn Singapore Atrium • Hotel Miramar • Hotel Re! • ibis Hotel Singapore • Intercontinental Singapore • Mandarin Orchard • Moon Hotel • Nostalgia Hotel • Novotel Singapore Clarke Quay • Orchard Hotel Singapore • Pan Pacific Orchard • Park Hotel Alexandra • Peninsula Excelsior Hotel • Ramada and Days Singapore at Zhongshan Park • Studio M Hotel Singapore • The Elizabeth Hotel • The Quincy Hotel • The Scarlet Hotel • Village Hotel Bugis • Wangz • York Hotel

MallS Orchard Central • Parkway Parade (Pedestrian Crossing) • SVC@ION Orchard• The Grandstand

Cover image Dreamstime Consultant Digital Manager Eugene Koh Web Developer Jun Evangelista

Publisher Cecilia Goh

Accounts Manager Linda Ng

National Tourism Offices Australia Tourism • Japan National Tourism Organization • Korean Tourism Organization

Editor June Lee Editorial Intern Samantha Seah Contributors Ang Wei Ming, Sharon Salim, Sylvia Tan

OTHERS Pet Lovers Centre

Senior Designer Benjamin Soh

B i tes

Head of Business Development (Food Division) Carlos Loh Business Director Ashad Shah Assistant Business Manager Stephanie Tan Business Executive Phoebe Cheong

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Copyright by the Publisher. Reproduction in whole or in part without the written permission of the Publisher is strictly prohibited. Views and opinions expressed in B i tes are not neccessarily those of the Publisher and the Editors. Although every reasonable care has been taken to ensure the accuracy and objectivity of the information provided in this publication, neither the Publisher, editors and their employees and agents can be held liable for any error and omission, nor any action taken based on the views expressed or information provided within this publication. You should always seek your own professional advice. All prices are in Singapore dollars unless otherwise stated and exclude miscellaneous taxes, unless stated.w

c a l e n dA r :

m a r c h sunday

monday

tuesday 1 MACARON CRAZE

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wednesday thursday friday 2

$118 | 3-6PM | TOTT @ DUNEARN These sweets take so little effort to gobble up, and are (relatively) easy to whip up too. Learn how to create your own perfect ones with chocolate ganache and raspberry cream. www.tottstore.com

6 THE GREAT SINGAPORE HERITAGE MYSTERY

9AM-5PM | $12 | TANJONG PAGAR COMMUNITY CLUB Form a team of five for an adventure around the island. Discover the hidden gems of Singapore’s heritage and race to win attractive prizes too. www.sgheritagemystery.com

iNTERNATIONAL HUMMUS DAY

Have you eaten your bowl of hummus today? We recommend the lovely little Pita Bakery, which sells individual portions of fresh baked pita in various flavours with a rich hummus filling ($5). 29 Bali Lane, Tel: 6635 6256

SINGAPORE COCKTAIL WEEK

ST. PATRICK’S DAY STREET FESTIVAL

HAVE A hopping EASTER!

Check out One Farrer’s Food Street, 26-27 Mar. More on p.7

WORLD WATER DAY 2016

Singapore’s theme: Make Every Drop Count, a month-long event held island-wide. www.singaporeworld waterday.com

29 BLUE MAN GROUP

29 MAR-19 APR | $90155 | SANDS THEATRE, MARINA BAY SANDS This visual comedy, theatre and music fest has been seen by 35 million people across the world—catch it to find out why! In conjunction, Adrift offers a quick pre-theatre meal. www.entertainment. marinabaysands.com/

12-19 MARCH The cocktail scene will be abuzz with local and visiting bartending talents, pop-up bars, cocktail workshops, cocktail tours and the Singapore Bar Awards (SGBA), so be sure to “pour yourself” in. singaporecocktailweek. com.sg

FREE | 4-27 MARCH, 7.30-11PM | MARINA BAY WATERFRONT PROMENADE Asia’s leading sustainable light art festival showcases a glittering spectacle of over 20 best works from emerging and world-class artists. Don’t miss small bites on wheels like Old Chang Kee, Harry’s, Kerbside Gourmet and The Travelling C.O.W. (on selected dates) as you browse happenings around the bay. www.ilightmarinabay.sg

LADIES NIGHT

EVERY WEDNESDAY | SQUIRES AND SCOUNDRELS Look forward to $5+ per glass of prosecco every midweek at Squires and Scoundrels; do make a reservation early. www. squiresandscoundrels.co

12 & 19 MARCH | $12 | YORK HOTEL Sign up for this class if you want to recreate the perennial hawker favourites of Penang prawn mee, Penang laksa and ban chang kueh. Receive a $12 dining voucher from the White Rose Café too. Hurry, limited seats available. Reserve at whiterosecafe@yorkhotel.com.sg or call 6830 1156.

18 GARDEN 19 BIZARRE BEATS FOODS: $65-105 | 1-10.30PM DELICIOUS FORTGATE, FORT DESTINATIONS |CANNING PARK

I LIGHT MARINA BAY

3-5 MAR | MARINA BAY SANDS A marketplace to network and learn about new products and innovations in the café, coffee and tea scene. Visitors sample new creations before it hits stores. Open to public on Saturday. www.cafeasia.com.sg

PENANG HAWKER COOKING WORKSHOP

8-20 MARCH | NATIONAL DESIGN CENTER AND VARIOUS Raising awareness of good design, activities such as Design Trails brings you into the historic Jalan Besar/ Geylang and Joo Chiat areas. Anchor event SingaPlural 2016 will be held at 99 Beach Road. www.designsingapore.org

Till 30 Apr | Free$6 | Singapore Philatelic Museum The start of school holidays means a welldeserved trip to see this exhibition featuring your favourite characters on stamps, postcards and first-day covers.

FREE | 19-20 MARCH | SINGAPORE RIVER Go green and savour a plethora of Irish delights at this street festival. Get down for the live music and traditional parade that will also be held on the 20th starting from the Raffles Landing Site. www.facebook.com/stpatsdaySG

SINGAPORE DESIGN WEEK

FROM $95 | 4-6 MAR, 4-11PM FRI & 6-11PM, SAT-SUN | MARINA BAY WATERFRONT Singapore’s first and only specialty craft beer and cider event features more than 25 local and international brewers. Check out our beer guide on p.22! www.craftsingapore.com

WITH LOVE FROM SNOOPY, CHARLIE BROWN & THE PEANUTS GANG

CRAFT SINGAPORE

saturday 5 CAFÉ ASIA

EVERY FRI | STARHUB CH 483 Followed beloved host Andrew Zimmern and his exploits around the world as he discovers legendary foods in this second season. Debuts at 9.30pm and subsequent weeks shown at 10.20pm.

For upbeat partying, tune in to this electronic picnic festival. Marco Marco, Meat Liquor, Lime House and Selva Foods catering will be there to make sure you don’t party hungry. www.gardenbeats.com

HAPPY GOOD FRIDAY...

CRAFT TO TASTE

$89 | 4-6PM | WAKU GHIN, MARINA BAY SANDS Head bartender Kazuhiro Chii explains the technique of Japanese bartending, accompanied by bar snacks. This is part of a series of food & drink workshops every Saturday, 12 Mar-9 Apr. www.marinabaysands. com/CraftToTaste

coming up in april

5 April: World Gourmet Summit 2016 12-14 April: Food & Hotel Asia 2016

Maka

# m a k a n o n 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!

MAR: 5 readers stand to win DINNER FOR 2

Inspired by the chic sidewalk bistros of Paris, this 60-seater shophouse space serves up fresh, seasonal fine dining cuisine in a casual and welcoming ambience. It opened in late 2014 and has been gathering kudos for its modern European creations. Don't miss the signatures: thinly sliced marinated octopus with Okinawan gelato, New Zealand blue cod served with crispy scale and Spanish seaweed, and the whole Boston lobster with kombu couscous. Have you made the connection yet as to which restaurant we're talking about on Seah Street? Give us your best guess between 1-20 March to dine on 7 April, 7pm! For full details and to enter, visit www.bites.com.sg/makanonbites

BiTES reserves the right to publicise winners’ names and pictures. 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 7pm. More on www.bites.com.sg/makanonbites

BiTE Makan onElm Ash &

l Singapore Where: INtercontinenta When: 17 Feb, 7pm What we ate: • Appetisers r: House-cured beef »» Ash & Elm Platte d ked pork loin, air-drie pastrami, house-smo e foi de e ss sted beef, pre pork belly, cold-roa ck gras with smoked du t bread fla n co ba d an kin »» Pump US r: DA New York »» Beef tasting platte ribeye, and French n alia striploin, Austr companied by bavette d’Aloyau ac xed potatoes, sautéed mi grandma’s mashed d an green asparagus mushrooms, grilled al potato wedges ev ros d hand-cut bake • Choice of mains yellow , French free-range »» Seafood linguini t a la smanian salmon fille chicken supreme, Ta op ch rk Iberico po plancha, or Spanish • Dessert and lnut pizza to share, »» Chocolate-haze , apple isin -ra rum te ola oc choice of salty ch mbi co s tru or yuzu-ci tatin, peach melba, • Beverages water, and wines »» Still or sparkling

Makan on BiTES celebrated our 12th session in style in the sleek setting of Ash & Elm, with five lucky winners and their plus ones. The new restaurant at the heart of InterContinental Singapore served up a feast of their signatures from the three live theatres: the Charcuterie & Cheese room, Wood-Fired Oven and Charcoal Grill. The restaurant’s name is a nod to the use of woods for the ovens and grills. We began with platters filled with their specialties. The pumpkin and bacon flat bread from the Wood-Fired Oven was a hit, filled with aromatic sage, nutmeg, fresh mascarpone and Parmigiano Reggiano on top of perfectly crispy yet chewy

bread. The charcuterie and grilled beef platters lent well to conversation and foodie exchanges over the long table, as readers shared their impressions of the dishes. Wines by the glass complemented the meal as we segued to mains, with options for every palate though the slow-grilled Spanish Iberico pork chop was the most popular choice. For dessert, a chocolate-hazelnut pizza was Scan the QR generously rich and chocolaty, so code for a most diners opted for the refreshing slice of the action. yuzu curd and sorbet dessert.

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b i t e s

NEW MENUS

Clever new items at Bochinche include roasted beetroot, goat’s cheese and oat crumble ($16) and Hokkaido scallop tiradito ($21), a less acidic version of ceviche which does justice to the fresh, sweet shellfish. For something lighter, go for the grilled watermelon salad ($14) with mozzarella cream and a superbly refreshing minty granita. Personable head chef Fabrice Mergalet helms the grill to serve up freerange, grass-fed Argentinean sirloin (300g, $49), rare and properly sliced against the grain. The fine-textured meat was lean and smooth. Raw cuts are available at the restaurant’s bodega alongside wine, cheeses and spices for takeaway. The restaurant has also refreshed its weekend brunch menu (11am-4.30pm) to include dulce de leche pancake with caramelised banana ($19), and organic poached eggs with paleta iberico ($26). 22 Martin Road. Tel: 6235 4990

founder bak kut teh

NEW OPENINGS

Founder Bak Kut Teh's glass-fronted space at its second outlet retains a traditional feel, thanks to blackand-white photographs and retro elements, but it’s the food that comforts. The signature Bak Kut Teh ($8) features both premium long rib and premium short ribs in a lightly peppery, clear and light broth, while sliced lean meat soup ($6.50) has become a hit with the younger generation. A wide range of sides such as the addictive bean curd skin and salted vegetables ($3-5 each) keeps you reaching for more rice ($0.70). Founder Chua Chwee Whatt has handed down the secrets he learnt as a second-generation pig farmer to his son, and the brand is going international. Daily 11am-5am. #0109 Hotel Boss, 500 Jalan Sultan. Tel: 6816 2582

bochinche

potato head folk

the rotisserie

Trendy burger abode Potato Head Folk has added a new compact weekend brunch featuring cutely named dishes: We Found Nemo ($19), a bagel with cream cheese and smoked salmon; Wubenz ($18), a play on the reuben, a grilled sandwich with cooked salted beef, Sriracha style Russian dressing, charred sauerkraut and smoked cheese, while Lil' Miss Piggy ($19) is filled with classic Cumberland sausage snail and truffled onion jam. There are three Bloody Mary ($22) variants—one includes fried ikan bilis which highlights the anchovy accents in the Worcestershire sauce. All savoury dishes are served with a bowl of tater tots. Want something chaste? Go for granola ($16) of organic buckwheat, quinoa, chia and flax seed, with yoghurt, berries and gula melaka syrup. Something decadent? The table's favourite was Bak Kwa To Basics ($12), a stack of fluffy coconut milk and rice pancakes topped with bak kwa and maple syrup. 36 Keong Saik Road. Tel: 6327 1939

The Rotisserie’s newest venture in Orchard Road serves hearty helpings of their juicy, signature roast chicken—nicely tanned and redolent with a herbed spice marinade. The star item at the spacious self-serve restaurant is the quarter roasted chicken ($12.50) with choice of chips, and salad or vegetables, though the steak sandwich with bacon ($15), again with choice of sides, will keep you going all day. #02-01/17 Claymore Connect, 442 Orchard Road. Tel: 6734 4858 At the buzzy National Gallery, take a pit stop at the delightfully designed Gallery Café, with its custom tiles, wrought iron structures and custom furniture by Nathan Yong. The menu, created by chef Sufian Zain of Restaurant Ember, offers quick meals like teriyaki chicken ($9.90), otah stack sandwich ($8.90), eggplant gratin ($10.90) and beetroot and feta salad ($8.90). For something sweet, Plain Vanilla hawks goodies such as cinnamon brown sugar cupcake and lemon tart (from $3.50), perfect with a Papa Palheta coffee ($4). MonThu 10am-7pm, Fri-Sun 10am-10pm. #01-05 to #01-17 City Hall Wing, National Gallery, 1 St. Andrew’s Road.

The Quay Kitchen and Bar with its East-meetsWest fusion cuisine is a family-friendly watering hole, with a children’s play-corner (and electronic dart board). On weekends they serve brunch items like Brekkie 86 ($18) and Indian croissant ($16). Check out craft beers from Scotland, Australia, Japan and Belgium like the popular Brugse Zot. Order buffalo wings ($10), 86 Burger ($20) or Balinese skate wings ($20), with special mention for banana fritters ($10) with its light crisp batter with a scoop of gelato, and the interesting mix of durian and mango filled macarons ($12). Tue-Fri 5-11pm, Sat-Sun 8-12am. #01-02, 86 Robertson Quay. Tel: 6734 7241 the rotisserie Gallery cafÉ

the quay kitchen and bar

Vatos Urban Tacos, a wildly popular KoreanMexican tacos chain that began in Seoul has opened its first outlet in Singapore. A nice touch—the first basket of fresh corn chips with two dips, tomatillo salsa verde and roasted onion chipotle salsa is on the house! For late-night gatherings over supper, the signature honey tequila wings dipped in blue cheese ($16)—a bold combination of sweet and spicy—pair perfectly with their great selection of microbrewed craft beers and margaritas. But the tacos steal the show. Baja fish tacos ($10 for 2) features fresh apple coleslaw atop crunchy beer-battered pollock, while the Korean pork belly tacos ($10 for 2) is nicely marinated in caramelised gochujang sauce. South Beach Quarter, 36 Beach Road. Tel: 6385 6010 vato urban tacos

5 highlights of Food & Hotel Asia 2016

It’s back! Trade and food related industry folk are eagerly anticipating this year’s 20th biennial FHA 2016

Starting out as a small trade exhibition held in the carpark of a hotel, Food & Hotel Asia continues to provide fresh inspirations to F&B professionals all over the world. New exhibitors this year include OWL International, Fraser & Neave, Yeo Hiap Seng, Sodastream Professional and more. Also part of the exhibition this time around is ProWine 2016 (modelled after the globally recognised ProWein in Düsseldorf) in collaboration with Messe Düsseldorf Asia. First time country group pavilions joining the event are Algeria, Hungary, Poland and The Netherlands. Asia’s largest gathering of food and hospitality industry professionals sees 3,000 exhibitors 70 countries in a 93,000 sqm area, powered by specialised events namely FoodAsia, HotelAsia, SpecialityCoffee&Tea, Bakery&Pastry, HospitalityStyleAsia and HospitalityTechnology. So put on your most comfortable shoes as we break down the highlights. For trade visitors only: Pre-register before 31 March for free admission, $80 thereafter. 12-14 April 10am6pm, 15 April 10am-4pm. Hall 1-9 Annex, Singapore Expo, 1 Expo Drive. www.foodnhotelasia.com

ProWine Asia 2016, Singapore Expo, Hall 10

The world’s leading wine and spirits trade fair debuts its first Asian edition in Singapore. Attend masterclasses and seminars, get to know award-winning varieties around the world, learn the basics of sake and food pairing, and develop great relationships with key wine labels.

The competitions are back

FHA Culinary Challenges The most prestigious culinary competition in Asia showcases budding talents in their pursuit of excellence. There are three challenges: the individual, the team and the new Sweet High Tea. FHA Barista challenge Hosted by the specialty coffee and tea association of Europe (SCAE), participants pit their skills against one another for the title of FHS Barista challenge champion, the best in Asia. FHA Latte Art challenge The 2nd edition takes place this year. The format comprises a personal battle, where baristas challenge each other and themselves to create a stunning cup of latte art in under 5 minutes. Asian Pastry Cup 2016 The 6th edition this year offers an official pre-selection platform to the World Pastry Cup in Lyon, France.

$267.50) offers insight into botanicals and flavours with help from tea blending professionals to create harmonious tea blends. Take home two of your own creations. • Barista Skills (Foundation) is a full day course (12 or 13 Apr, 10am-6pm, $450) for those with no prior barista skills. Get the fundamentals right with proper techniques through espresso basics, milk basics and hands on practice, followed by an examination (six participants per day). • Brewing (Intermediate) is a two-day workshop (12-13 April, 10am-5pm, $401.25-$909.50) that delves in depth into the world of coffee beans. Learn about grind profile, how to match grind to brewing method, and how to scientifically measure coffee strength and period of extraction (eight participants only).

Halal Supermarket, F2-02, Foyer 2

The first-ever Halal Supermarket by Singapore Exhibition Services and Malaysia-based DagangHalal provides buyers across Asia a convenient source for quality Halal-certified products. Look out for the new Self-Guided Trail—Halal Food & Beverages that maps out all exhibitors with Halal-certified products to help buyers source more efficiently.

Get certified

There’s also the opportunity to brush up on your skills in the coffee and tea area with certified tea courses by Australian Tea Masters (www. foodnhotelasia.com/ competitions/certifiedtea-courses) and certified SCAE courses by Bettr Barista and Smitten Coffee (www. foodnhotelasia.com/ competitions/certifiedscae-courses/).

For the first time, the space at FHA2016 will be extended to accommodate exhibitors from FoodAsia. There’ll be a wider selection of products and supplies ranging from fresh produce to ready-to-eat products, and confectioneries to beverages.

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• Global tea menu (14 Apr, 10am-1pm, $267.50) brings samples of tea from all around the world to help you create your own specialty tea menu for your establishment. Mezzanine 6, Hall 6, Singapore Expo • Hands-on basic tea-blending (14 Apr, 2-5pm,

First outdoor extension

DeStInAtIon: Ang mo kIo p18 Bustling town centre offers fab food finds

+disco ver you person r ality in a cup p24

SupermArket Sleuth p20 Cook up a storm in your microwave

ands wn br egro s to homand cafet at p10 ou hang DrInk tAnk p22 Craft beers galore at Craft Singapore

26/2/16 10:55 AM

SEE YOU THERE!

BiTES is thrilled to be at FHA2016 alongside sister magazine epicure. Look for us at booth 8Q3-01.

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fukusen

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More Japanese

Tucked away in a hotel lobby is the modest but rave-worthy Fukusen Japanese restaurant. The 45-seater restaurant helmed by affable local chef Liow Wei Kim throws up creative twists in the a la carte menu, such as in the spinach scallop carpaccio ($28), beautifully arrayed like a landscape painting with fresh ikura. The wagyu tata aburi ($40) was worth the price for its tartare-like beef, perfectly moist and fresh accompanied by a piquant yuzu chilli and crisp garlic chips. Opt for the omakase (from $80 for five courses) to discover the flavours of the season, such as in the winter tomato and yuzu jelly combination imported from Japan, and hamaguri soup, a clear clam broth full of umami with bonito flakes, yuzu peel, dashi kombu and suft clam. #01-03 Clover Hotel, 33 Jalan Sultan. Tel: 6291 4818 Restaurant Hoshigaoka has been refitted, and is rolling out a creative new menu befitting of this beloved family favourite, around since 1972 and now part of JP Pepperdine Group. A smoky touch is seen in the aburi mental hotate ($10.80), a winning combi of mentai mayonnaise and tobiko, as well as aburi crackling salmon roll ($18.80), with a generous helping of crispy salmon skin and avocado wrapped with salmon and mentai mayonnaise. Surprising us with a touch of buah keluak and spices, the gyu nikomi ($9.80) is a miso-stewed beef shin and vegetable dish that’s comforting and familiar. For desserts, don’t restaurant hoshigaoka miss the creations with homegrown Udders ice cream, such as the Shinjuku toast ($8.80), a scrumptious egg toast with vanilla ice cream. Daily 11am-10pm. #0104 SAFRA Toa Payoh, 293 Lorong 6 Toa Payoh. Tel: 6258 9050 and two other locations hokkaido at The Grandstand izakaya and Woodlands Civic Centre Joining the already crowded street of Japanese (and Korean) restaurants, Hokkaido Izakaya in Tanjong Pagar is the first of the Tokyo-based chain’s expansion outside Japan. As the northernmost island is the country’s main potato producer, the root vegetable is honoured in an addictive warm smoked potato salad ($9), potato croquettes ($9) and in an unusual dessert with vanilla ice cream and red beans ($7). The three-month-old pub-like restaurant also offers grilled meat and seafood (grilled at a charcoal pit at the front), sashimi, sushi, housemade soba, and plenty of sakes and drinks. Specialties include milk hotpot with Hokkaido salmon slices ($18) where the end result is a rich, chowder-like fish soup, and a milk-enriched omelette ‘brick’ ($10) bathed in Hokkaido butter tableside and served with cottage cheese. Mon-Sat 11.30am-2.30pm, 6pm-midnight; Sun & PH 11.30am2:30pm, 6-10.30pm. 95 Tanjong Pagar Road. Tel: 6221 7118

Loving local

Celebrating 30 years of slurping Penang favourites, York Hotel is justly proud of its thrice-yearly Penang Hawkers' Fare ($29-33) in which they fly in the island’s hawkers to cook york hotel their authentic dishes here. The café has been revamped, with a new show kitchen that allows the hawkers to demonstrate a la minute live cooking and preparation of lor bak and oyster omelette. More stalls (12 this year) mean more food, and pasembur is the latest addition, a Chinese-Indian style salad. Join in the two workshops (12 & 19 Mar) where you’ll learn to make prawn broth from scratch, and master ban chang kueh at home. Spending of $80 entitles you to a lucky draw, while a grand draw after the final edition offers a trip to Penang along with an exclusive food trail. 11-27 Mar, 2-18 Sep and 16 Dec-1 Jan 2017. White Rose Café, York Hotel, 21 Mount Elizabeth. Tel: 6830 1156

NEW TASTES

Coca-Cola Freestyle is now in Singapore, giving us dozens of options of drinks for customising. The sleek touch screen dispenser designed by Pininfarina (the Ferrari car body designer) uses a technology called micro-dosing to mix and match flavours chosen by customers. Select a base—say, Fanta or Schweppes—then further choose flavours such as ginger ale or raspberry to build up your final drink. The secret is in the revamped cartridges that holds more volume of drinks than ever. Look for the first wave of machines at Buffet Town at Raffles City, 7-Eleven outlets at Cathay Cineleisure and Vista Point, and GV Plaza at Plaza Singapura. Kaya just took a flying leap into the future with its reinvention by kaya experts Fong Yit. Kayamila ($3.50) is available in original as well as three decision-splitting flavours: sea-salt caramel, vanilla pandan and calamansi citrus. The seasalt caramel is richer and more buttery, ideal for waffles and pancakes, while the citrus one is strangely addictive and refreshing. Available from April at FairPrice, Sheng Siong and Prime. Think Plink the next time you’re looking for smart party favours or looking for a new taste for your cocktails. The ice company, a venture with Singapore's Tuck Lee Ice, has created a recyclable ice tray that produces great tasting ice in pyramid shaped cubes, which also saves on space when stacked together. Choose from plain or flavoured—peach and lemon lime are the first two—cubes, which give extra dimension to a gin & tonic, for instance. Three cubes are proportionate for a half-standard pour. Buy it frozen or straight from the shelves to freeze it yourself at home. From $2 at selected 7-Eleven stores.

Asian, Japanese, European and American dishes. Many of One Farrer Hotel & Spa’s F&B establishments will be taking part. LFS eatery will dish out savoury and sweet offerings and refreshments, while you’ll be able to take part in food demos and cooking experiences from Origins of Food. escape restaurant

Food fun for all

This Easter weekend, head to One Farrer Hotel & Spa for a nostalgic food event that recalls Farrer Road’s famous food stalls in the 1970s. The One Farrer Food Street pop-up will run for one block along Race Course Road and offer both Easter related fun as well as international foods to experience. From 11am to 9pm on Saturday 26 March and 11am to 6pm on Sunday 27 March, look forward to a lineup of food stalls featuring local favourites as well as lfs popular Southeast

Guests can take the opportunity to embark on a complimentary guided tour of the property’s art collection, stroll through the numerous gardens or take a peek at The Farm at One Farrer. And of course, Easter-related activities such as face and egg painting and entertainers will also be available. All purchases will be made using Farrer Dollars, which can be bought at moneychangers along the Food Street or in advance from One Farrer Hotel & Spa. One Farrer Hotel & Spa, 1 Farrer Park Station Road. Tel: 6363 0101, www.onefarrer.com

Between 5 and 11pm on Saturday, you can enjoy a live band, casual foods and alcoholic beverages at The Boxkite lounge. 24-hour Escape restaurant will also be serving local and international plates from its interactive kitchen, all in air-conditioned comfort.

The Farrer Park Art Collection

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Cafe H t Seat

In this column, we pick a notable personality to go cafe-hopping with us. At idyllic Da Paolo Gastronomia near Botanic Gardens, local looper talent Weish lets us in beneath her aloof exterior, to the bubbly and multi-versed musician that she is. By Sharon Salim, Photography June Lee

More mainstream looper singers include Imogen Heap and Kimbra, but Weish performs live which involve aligning beats, bass lines, vocals and more—on the spot. On her biggest boo-boo, she describes: “I was recording live loops on the spot and I involuntarily burped. It came back after every two bars. At least it was on beats so it wasn’t too obvious. But everyone was laughing.” The food arrives and we are momentarily distracted, especially Weish who can’t decide what she should try first. After diving for the salmon pizza, she continues, “When Singapore Tourism Board contacted us to send us to London for Singapore: Inside Out in 2015, of course we had to say yes! Din and I were travelling with other acts like The Syndicate and Gentle Bones, and we also used the time as an excuse to go to Iceland to support a producer-musician friend as well,” she chuckled. The eclectic art-obsessed country had Weish hard in love with how creative everyone is— whether banker or teacher. Having a small local music scene in Singapore is almost a luxury, with a communal culture that includes borrowing one another’s musicians. The community ‘heroes’ Weish often mentions include Jema from The Syndicate, Pleasantry, Charlie Lim and more specialised rock groups like The Psalms, The Observatory and Cashew Chemists. Beaming with pride, she says, “There is a lot of intricacy in their writing and I would be proud to call myself a Singaporean musician anywhere in the world.”

@wweish is energetic all the time (with some help from caffeine) At our first meet in the airy and natural light-filled Da Paolo Gastronomia at Cluny Court, Chew Wei Shan, better known as Weish, shows up in a preppy ‘do— black collared short-sleeve blouse, neatly tucked into a classic midi skirt. She looks every part of a literature student that she used to be a few years ago, except that she’s now a recognised homegrown artiste. “A simple latte please,” she tinkles without a pause, when we ask for her preferred drink. “I need to be energetic and I am energetic all the time!” she enthuses. She’s just arrived from her undisclosed day job, which is why we are having our first Café Hot Seat chat in the evening. No matter—Weish is used to long tiring nights jamming and perfecting her craft, with a slew of recent albums to show for it: Soma by .gif (including first single Godspeed), ilm split EP by Qu and Sub:shaman (where Weish plays vocals and keys) and Dunce Mixtape #01 by Sub:shaman. Looping started when the hyphenated talent started playing with electronic instruments four years ago. “In university, my then- and now- boyfriend introduced me to electronic gear. He still teaches me music production and today we have a band together called .gif (pronounced as dot jif),” Weish explains. “Din got everyone to chip in for a Vox VDL1 looper as a birthday gift and we thought, why not combine everything together and see how it goes?” The selfprofessed technology noob explains that arranging and learning the software is challenging. “Writing the song takes up 20% and the remaining 80% is revisiting, recording and mixing.”

Sweet and savoury at @dapaologroup

What We Ordered:

Weish had: Café latte ($5) June had: Italian hot chocolate ($6) Sharon had: Paradise Island iced tea ($6) Everyone had: White chocolate scone ($4.40), sausage pizza slice ($8), and Wholesome Set of soup and pizza ($10.80)—we picked tomato soup and salmon pizza

Although the 25-year-old has opened for acts like Tegan and Sara and performed at Laneway 2015 (her best experience yet!) in Singapore, her dream opening act would be for “Pop Is Dead” band Radiohead, as their songs have marked different stages of her life. The down-to-earth talent defines success as being contented, and adds, “No need for Grammy’s but a soundtrack movie related award would be a dream come true.” She’s proud of the recent work she’s done for local film Eating Air, by Kelvin Tong and Jasmine Ng. Coming across as breezy and natural in her social media outlets, which include YouTube, SoundCloud, Instagram, Twitter and Facebook, Weish appreciates her small band of hardcore fans who show up for her performances. “They even picked out specific lines to tell me what they learn from my lyrics,” she exclaims. Yet, not all is rosy in the local indie music scene. “I have been cutting down a lot. My mom always nags, that I am not being human,” adding somberly, “and she is right.” There is still a stigma that local art doesn’t match up to international standards yet. “I guess this stops the growth at some point,” she reflects. Weish sees herself doing music all her life—but only as a hobby. “It is inspiring to see young teens learning new softwares where recording at home is made possible.”

@bitessg meets @wweish

#WORDSMITH

#FOODIE

FAVOURITE AUTHOR: “I did a whole thesis on Irish novelist, playwright, theatre director and poet Samuel Beckett.” WHY: “His works are uniquely humorous, yet depressing at the same time.” ON SPOKEN WORD: “I can’t listen to myself. Imagine having to listen to your own voice on repeat, while editing. Do you know that there’s a scientific reason as to why our voices sound different when it’s recorded? Our voices have two different sounds, when we hear ourselves and when others hear us. ”

HOMECOOKED: “I seldom eat outside, only when I hang out with friends or go on dates. This pic is of my mum’s hae mee—mou tak teng (fab!)” TEH FTW: “Arab Street is where we hang out the most—with rows of jamming studios around. Teh Sarahat opposite Kampong Glam still serves the best tea.” SWEET TOOTH: “Dong Po Cafe at Kanhadar Street has won me over with their strawberry shortcake and kopi-gao.”

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tossed rice powder and chilli lime dressing. Bring friends to share the larger dishes of crispy deep-fried seabream ($28), topped with Thai sambal sauce for that sweet-spicy sensation, while the slow braised beef shin ($19) is a comforting homecooked option that’s simmered for three hours to almost melt in the mouth.

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d n a e e f f Co e v a w a te

n w o r g e m o h n o t h ig A spotl , plus s d n a r b a e t d n a e e coff ut at. o g n a h o t s e f a c y specialt lim

an ythin g, it lly down the middle for ua eq lit sp be uld co If Sin gapore kopit iam culture ha s su s tea. A robust local s would be for coffee ver e– Sin gapore’s import kinds of java and tisan all for ste ta a an , us ne en giv million in 2014 alo ices tot alled US$463.2 of tea, coffee, and sp accordi n g to ASEA N nt from the year prior, increa se of 144.3 pe rce rie fin g.com). Briefin g (www.aseanb an s, Sin gapore ha s our own leaves and be Though we don’ t grow de in Asia, wi th hub for the dri nk s tra ial erc mm co a en be always around for ove r 50 e Boncafé havin g been homegrown brands lik to enter the market, ffee and tea conti nue years. Ne w styles of co brands about what ’s of the m. We chat to the ed tir t ge ver ne we d an s, and recomme nd to our mu st-have dri nk s me co it n he —w old ne w— or may not know about. special ty cafes that you

By Sharon Sa

Coffee—bl ack gol d

In every office and home across the island, the morning routine begins with the whirr of a machine, or a boiling kettle, ready to pump out a cup of energy-boosting coffee for at least one member of the family. Coffee—it practically runs in our veins.

In Singapore's context, kopi is synonymous with coffee. And at least one company is reclaiming this heritage with pride. OWL, which celebrates its 60th anniversary this year, has gone local in a big way. Joie Wong, OWL's assistant general manager (A&P) explains, ”The previous Kopitiam Roast range was produced as an instant mix. However, the current Kopitiam Roast & Ground range has been created using ground coffee in sachets to recreate the flavour and aroma of freshly brewed kopitiam-style coffee.” The move caters to two major groups of drinkers: young consumers who may not have tried kopi before, and loyal brand consumers who want an authentic-tasting product. ”OWL's aim is to bring the authentic kopitiam culture in a more convenient form,” concludes Wong. OWL, which started in 1956 under Sin Hup Huat Co., is now part of the Super Group, a slightly younger but no less robust company. Founded in 1987, Super serves up to 7.5 billion cups of smiles each year, through 150 products spanning instant coffee, cereal and tea mixes, in more than 52 countries worldwide. Its latest buzz is the new ESSENSO MicroGround

Coffee launched last year. Says a spokesperson for the group, ”It is the first 3-in-1 microground instant coffee to use 100% Arabica beans,” resulting in a deeper aroma and distinctive roasted note as well as richer taste. The product appeals to a more sophisticated coffee drinker, priced slightly higher at $7.20 in supermarkets in two variants, 3-in-1 and 2-in-1 (coffee and creamer). When it comes to Singapore's coffee drinking habits, 54-year-old Boncafé has not stopped innovating. As the pioneer European-style gourmet coffee roaster in Southeast Asia, and guided by the Swiss tradition of precision and pursuit of perfection, it has serviced blue-chip customers in foodservice over the years, including international hotels and resorts, airlines, restaurants, clubs and retail outlets. As a onestop beverage solution provider, it supplies roasted and ground coffee, tea, juices, ready-to-drink products, sauces and syrups, coffee machines, smoothies and frappé mixes.

essenso microground coffee

Marketing manager Tammy Chua observes, “We have multiple generations of consumers since the brand started in 1962. From the era of local coffeeshop coffee to today’s artisan and specialty coffee and unique blends, consumers whom are all well-travelled, educated and affluent are definitely more discerning now when it comes to having that cup of daily dose.” In 2014, Boncafé was acquired by the Massimo Zanetti Beverage Group, and now encompass brands such as Puccinos, Kauai Coffee, Chock Full of Nuts and Segafredo. On top of that, Boncafé will be premiering an extension of the Ready-To-Drink category with ”an exciting product line that is ideal for the young and old, slated to launch in second quarter of 2016,” hints Chua. "We believe the consumption of gourmet coffee will continue to rise in Singapore."

A z en for tea

Where coffee is about alertness and rushing through a to-do list, tea is about savouring the moment. Just ask founder of Gryphon Tea Company, Lim Tian Wee. He says, “When I come home from business trips, I often make myself a cup of black tea with milk. Taking time to enjoy the cup of hot tea instantly puts me in a state of calmness, a comforting moment assuring me of a place I call home.” Gryphon, which was rebooted in 2006 by Lim, was originally begun as Lim Lam Thye almost a centruy ago as a tea importer. Lim, a fourth generation member of the family, struck out on his own and has since gained a following for its maverick ideas and heady enthusiasm for tea.

the 1872 clipper tea co.

gryphon tea

Rehan Amarasuriya, director of The 1872 Clipper Tea Co. observes, “Often, I see the choice made between tea or coffee is largely due to lifestyle. For example, people that want a fast perk-me-up may opt for a strong cup of Americano, or it might be due to influence of their family or friends. For those who want a healthier or a more soothing option, tea would be their choice.” Amarasuriya's father had registered the present company in 1988—although the year 1872 represents the year that the original firm was established as a tea company. They have a wealth of expertise in the tea industry from having owned plantations and a fully integrated factory in Sri Lanka.

tend to be more traditional love the classic range. The ladies in my office are mainly tea drinkers, but due to their different personalities, they all have different favourites in the range.” The two brands we spoke to had specially introduced ranges to commemorate Singapore's Golden Jubilee year. Think Gryphon's limited edition Singapura Spice: the feisty summer picked green tea is enriched with curry leaves, sweet basil, mint and a melodious ensemble of sweet mango, pineapple and lemon—giving a hint of spiciness alongside the familiar flavours. Their recent Travel Series takes a similar patriotic tack, with teas like Di Tanjong Katong, Little Things, Singai Naadu, Blooming Gardens, Tropical Paradise and Sunny Island taking inspirations from the songs and scenes of Singapore. The City of Flavours collection from 1872 Clipper Co. also evokes pride as it reflects the spirit of the community and creating local blends is their way of paying homage to Singapore, whom we call home. Amarasuriya said, “We’re a proud local company. Having our tea available at various tourist locations,

these collections are also good options for gifts that evoke the memory of their time spent in Singapore.” DRINK TO TOGETHERNESS Finally, the tea ritual is one that's best shared. Not forgetting that the habit of tea drinking in Asia revolves around the dining table, as Lim from Gryphon reminds. ”Serving tea also represents welcome and graciousness of the host.”

FRUITING FLAVOURS As trends go, fruit or herbal tea recorded the fastest retail volume growth in 2015. And we've seen more creativity in the realm of flavours than ever, with newly dreamt up combinations appealing to millennials. Amarasuriya elaborates, “The more fun and adventure seeking types might like the fruity range or the blends that are more unique. On the other hand, people who

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10 specialt y hangouts

Tea goes from traditional to trendy with special infusions, new steeping techniques and customised blends, while the affair with coffee continues strong. We sniffed out our favourite roasters in Singapore for the best brews, and tea rooms that take tea to a whole new level.

coffee ($4-$8) made with super fresh beans. Grover originally bought all of Forty Hands’ roasted coffee from specialty roasters Five Senses Coffee Australia—which has 14 of years of experience in the industry. He then partnered with Five Senses to open Common Man Coffee Roasters while delivering fresh, locally roasted coffee ($4.50) through its own space and other various wholesale accounts in the region. 78 Yong Siak Street, #01-12. Tel: 622 58545; 22 Martin Road #01-00. Tel: 6836 4695

Coffee cafes

Chock Full Of Beans The ideal spot for a relaxing afternoon, Chock Full Of Beans with its sweet aroma of local roasted coffee ($3.50-$9.90) distinguishes themselves with their signature 2D and 3D latte art that you have probably seen regularly on your insta-feed. From iconic Hello Kitty to Chinese New Year-inspired three wise monkeys, these are specially designed by the talented in-house barista. Choose from a variety of mains and snacks such as pasta, pizza, cakes and sandwiches. #01-2090, 4 Changi Village Road. Tel: 6214 8839 Chye Seng Huat Hardware Coffees are rotated on a seasonal basis to highlight some of the best coffee farms in growing regions along the coffee belt. From espresso ($4) and nitro black matter ($7), to brewed coffee; daily brew ($3) or cold brew ($7) and hand brews; bright, balanced or bold, seasonal single origins are brewed by the cup. The owners are the same folks from Papa Palheta who practically introduced third wave coffee to local punters. 150 Tyrwhitt Road. Tel: 6299 4321

Forty Hands & Common Man Roasters Harry Grover from Perth created Forty Hands in collaboration with the Spa Esprit Group. The idyllic neighbourhood café in Tiong Bahru has won coffee lovers over by elevating the status of coffee, promoting sustainability by direct trade and offering specialty

Jimmy Monkey Café and Bar Owned by a true blue Melbournian who has lived in Singapore for the past 10 years, their signature’s a musthave espresso brewed with Singapore’s very first Slayer Espresso machine. Indulge in the whole experience with roasting of beans on-site from some of the best independent and Rainforest Alliance farms, featuring seasonal raw green beans from all over the world. Each espresso is a handpicked blend by the experienced barista or from single origin beans. The house blends change from month to month. #01-51 One-North Residences, 9 OneNorth Gateway. Tel: 6777 8470 Toby’s Estate Choose between five brewing methods: chemex ($6), siphon ($8), aeroPress ($6), woodneck ($6) and V60 ($6) after picking out either the light or medium roast single origin coffee of the day. The perfect perk-meup include espresso: double espresso ($4), piccolo latte ($4), mocha chai ($6) and flat white ($5). Steeped for over 12 hours, the cold brew ($6) option is the light roast single origin of the day. #0103/04, 8 Rodyk Street. Tel: 6636 7629

Tea cafes

Arteastiq Boutique Tea House A portmanteau of art and tea—Arteastique is located in the heart of Orchard and is well-known for its savouries and all-day breakfast and brunch menu. Crowdfavourites include the iced lychee tea ($11) and hot mint lemongrass tea ($11) that are served in a pot with side biscuits. From ‘Tea’ tox and ginger teas, to floral teas and Japanese and Chinese teas, Arteasetiq offers a wide range. Order one of these tea options while taking part in social art jamming. #04-14/15 Mandarin Gallery, 333A Orchard Road. Tel: 6235 8370

Mad About Sucre Popular for their pretty cakes and artistry, they concoct their own blend of teas to pair with desserts. Leaves sourced from all over the world are blended to suit the cake flavours. Black tea with pineapple and dried mango ($7/pot) picks up citrusy notes in the Passione (light cheese, passionfruit cake) while delightful and floral teas ($7/ pot) complement the smoky-sweet Moulin Rouge. 27 Teo Hong Road. Tel: 6221 3969 Smitten Specialty Coffee & Tea Smitten’s curated tea menu features a variety of the best teas from Japan, India, China, Taiwan and Nepal—that are freshly harvested from each season. The tea menu is refreshed daily, though now you'll have to order the products online instead of heading to their former Robertson Quay location. The wide range of tea leaves include Moroccan Rosebuds ($20), French Peppermint ($15), Himalayan Bouquet Organic ($20) and Alishan Mi Xiang Oolong ($43). They also offer a tea consultation service to help you master the complex craft of tea brewing. #0301,123 Defu Lane 10. Tel: 9876 2347

Tea Bone Zen Mind Founder Carrie Chen has been shaping a renaissance of Chinese tea for more than two decades, and has taken over two (one for tea connoisseurs and another for casual tea drinkers) threestorey shophouses in Emerald Hill to bring the art of tea appreciation to a wider audience. If you are a lover of old, rare Chinese tea, Japanese and English tea, Chen's the person to look for. Serious connoisseurs have gone to her for aged pu-erh that costs anywhere from $280$22,000 for a single disc. Other loose tea leaves selection ($25-

280) include Charcoal Oolong, Tie Guan Yin, White Peony and Cui Feng, while tea bags ($25-35) include Ginseng Tea, Lychee Oolong and Oriental Beauty. 98 Emerald Hill Road. Tel: 6336 4212 Tian Fu Tea Room Adjoining each of the three Si Chuan Dou Hua restaurants, Tian Fu Tea Room carries the distinction of being the first teahouse within a restaurant in Singapore. Savour a selection of the highest quality Chinese tea

($38/person), skilfully brewed by Tea Connoisseurs who share the art of tea appreciation with the guests. At Tian Fu Tea Room, you get to enjoy the finest brews that China has to offer, and also experience traditional Chinese arts and culture such as tea brewing and calligraphy.Â Parkroyal on Kitchener Road, 181 Kitchener Road. Tel: 6428 3170; other outlets at Parkroyal on Beach Road and UOB Plaza.

b u f f e t

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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. Families, get hold of these deals where kids eat free and senior citizens enjoy up to 50% off! Plus, affordable Thai fare and a crab-alicious buffet review.

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

BUFFET TOWN (RAFFLES CITY) #B1-44E Raffles City, 252 North Bridge Road. Tel: 6837 3793 Over 300 buffet items live up to the restaurant’s name (11.30am-3pm Mon-Fri $24.80++, Sat-Sun $31.80++ and 6-10pm Mon-Thu $36.80++, Fri-Sun $41.80++). A seating capacity of 500 accommodates a ‘town’-like size crowd, drawing them in especially with their seafood spread of chilled prawns and mussels, oysters and fresh sashimi at pocket-friendly prices too. They even have a mini playground within its premises. Senior citizens (60 years and above) enjoy special privileges of $25 nett for lunch (Mon-Fri 12.30-3pm).

FamilyFriendly buffet chomps

[Senior discounts] 21 ON RAJAH [ ] Days Hotel Singapore at ZhongShan Park, 1 Jalan Rajah. Tel: 6808 6847 Bring a Mediterranean-Asian twist to your feast (Mon-Fri 12-2.30pm; adults $29++, kids $14.50++ and Sat-Sun 12-3pm; adults $39++, kids $19.50++). A live carving station featuring U.S. Angus prime rib-eye with their homemade signature sauces and D.I.Y gelato station keep things lively for kids (children age 4 and below dine free with paying adults) and adults alike. Seniors (50 years and above) enjoy 50% off on Mon-Fri lunch buffet, prior reservations required (till 31 Dec 2016).

21 on rajah

buffet town

feast@east

FEAST@EAST Grand Mercure Singapore, Roxy, 50 East Coast Road. Tel: 6340 5665 The restaurant is decked with memorabilia from the past, from old school snacks and their tins, takeaway containers, to old childhood games lining the interior. Seniors will love the all-time favourite Singapore laksa and the famous durian paste, especially at a promotional rate (lunch: senior citizens $39.80 nett, adults $53.80++; dinner: senior citizens $42.80 nett, adults $57.80++).

kushin bo

KUISHIN BO #03-334 Suntec City North Wing, 3 Temasek Boulevard. Tel: 6341 9200 Kuishin Bo is known for their array of (11.30-3pm; Mon-Fri $36.90++, Sat-Sun $38.90++ and 5.30-10pm; Mon-Thu $54.90++, Fri-Sun $58.90++) snow crabs, sashimi and cheese lobsters (only for dinner). Live food demonstrations are held once in a while with customer participation too. Keep an ear out for the “dong dong dong Kushin Bo” chime where special items are given out at the front of house. Senior citizens (55 years old and above) enjoy 10% discount off the usual rate. SAKURA INTERNATIONAL BUFFET [ ] 600 Ponggol Seventeenth Avenue. Tel: 6385 8197 and multiple outlets The halal certified spread includes all your usual Japanese suspects of assorted sushi and sashimi, making it an international buffet with a little of everything. Grab the Boston lobster and Argentine prawn Hokkien mee (or other dinner specials), signature Portuguese bird nest egg tart, and the chocolate lava cake. 6-10pm; Mon-Thu adults $39.80nett, senior citizens (60 years old and above) $35.80nett, Fri-Sun adults $42.80nett, senior citizens (60 years old and above) $38.80nett.

seoul garden

SEOUL GARDEN [ ] #05-18/19/20 The Clementi Mall, 3155 Commonwealth Avenue West. Tel: 6659 2339 Indulge in Korean-style BBQ buffet with a selection of marinated meats like lamb bulgogi for the grill, fresh ingredients for your hotpot and cooked food while you wait for your meal to get started. For those young at heart (60 years old and above) looking for wallet-friendly fare, Seoul Garden caters for you (Mon-Thu 11.30am4pm, $15.99++ inclusive of free flow drinks). Children below 1m in height dine free with every paying adult on Sunday. SPICES CAFE Concorde Hotel Singapore, 100 Orchard Road. Tel: 6733 8855 Enjoy the flavours of Singapore weekday buffet (MonFri 12.00pm - 2.30pm; adults $35.50++, child $16.50++), where seniors (55 years old and above) have a special rate ($25.50++). Savour unlimited servings of Peranakan dishes like buah kepiting, ayam buah keluak and loh kai yik. Other notable dishes include the herbal chicken and daily variants of crab flavours. TIFFANY CAFÉ AND RESTAURANT [ ] Furama City Centre, 60 Eu Tong Sen Street. Tel: 6531 5366 Singapore pioneers (60 years old and above) pay just $25 nett every Mon and Tue to tuck into an array of international and Malay dishes (12-2.30pm: senior citizen $25 nett, adults $53.80++, child $28.80++; 6-10.30pm: senior citizen $30nett, adults $65.80++, child $28.80++). The butter prawns, sambal crayfish and durian crumble are the must-tries.

Kids eat free! 10 SCOTTS Grand Hyatt Singapore, 10 Scotts Road. Tel: 6732 1234 With a soothing two-storey cascading waterfall in the backdrop, afternoon teas (Mon-Fri $43++ with free flow coffee, tea and two selected juices or $75++ with free flow Perrier-Jouet Champagne, and Sat-Sun $53++ with free flow coffee, tea and two selected juices or $85++ inclusive of Perrier-Jouet champagne) get a touch more relaxing. Served in two seatings: 12-2.30pm and 3-5pm, are specialities like homemade sustainable crab cakes with remoulade sauce, curry puffs and macaroons stacked on a two-tier glass stand. Kids under the age of seven get to dine free too. Kids 7 to 12 years old ($30++).

plate at carlton hotel

STARZ RESTAURANT Lobby, Hard Rock Hotel Singapore, Resorts World Sentosa, 8 Sentosa Gateway. Tel: 6577 6688 A world of buffet indulgence (12-2.30pm Mon-Fri $32++, 6-10pm Sun-Thu $58++ and Fri-Sat $68++) is made more attractive when you can take advantage of dining promotions. Two kids (aged 4-12) get to dine free with every 2 paying adults (valid till 31 March). Bonus points go to the entertaining live stations and the al fresco area overlooking the Rock Pool. one-ninety

spices cafe

10 scotts

ages of 7 to 12 years old dine at 50% off. Expect your COLONY hawker favourites, barbecued meats and truly Asian desserts like ice kachang and muah chee to make an appearance.

ONE-NINETY Four Seasons, 190 Orchard Boulevard. Tel: 6831 7250 Take a break away from parent duty when you dine at One-Ninety on Sundays (11.45am-3pm, $72++ for food selection only, $128++ with free flow Bortolomiol Prosecco or Javier de las Muelas’ Singapore sangria, $180++ with free-flow Veuve Clicquot Brut NV). A supervised kids’ Playland will be set up in the ballroom complete with the kids’ own buffet spread (free for children under the age of 5, $36 for children 5-11 years old). Look out for the butcher’s trolley where the chef presents the specials of the day. PLATE AT CARLTON HOTEL Carlton City Hotel Singapore, 1 Gopeng Street. Tel: 6632 8922 Plate’s “Let’s eat lah!” buffet (6.30-10pm $58+ with free flow soda and juices, or $86+ with free flow house pour wines and beers) every Friday gives us something to look forward to. To seal the deal, children below the age of six gets to dine free, and those between the

SUNDAY GARDEN PARTY AT BARNACLES BY THE SEA Shangri-la’s Rasa Sentosa Resort and Spa Singapore, 101 Siloso Road Sentosa. Tel: 6371 1966 The hotel’s swimming pool comes with children’s waterslides and splash pad access besides the scrumptious buffet (every Sun 12-3pm, $138++ inclusive of pool access). One child (aged 11 and below) can dine free with every paying adult (additional $28 for each child). Be delighted with their grilled specialties, freshly shucked oysters and assorted cheese platter to while away the afternoon away, while your kids cool off in the pool. THE LINE Shangri-La Hotel Singapore, 22 Orange Grove Road. Tel: 6213 4275 Taking a staycation with your kids this March? Children under the age of 5 of registered hotel guests get to dine free (maximum two free diners) at The Line with its extensive line-up of international cuisine when accompanied by a paying adult. Non-registered guests

sunday garden party at barnacles by the sea

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under $50

serving an a la carte menu, they now have a dinner buffet (5pm-12am; $22.25 nett Mon-Thu, $24.60nett Fri-Sun) that’s so popular, it’s best to book in advance. Regulars rave about the chicken and cabbage soup stock prepared without MSG, as well as the traditional tom yum soup (additional $5.90++) and chilli sauces. Must-try cuts include fresh dory fish slices, prawns and pork belly. The Chicken House, 17 Lorong Kilat. Tel: 9892 2550 NETT

thai buffets

MOOKATA TRADITIONAL THAI BBQ Not new to the Mookata scene, this original branch at East Coast Road has got their Thai steamboat and BBQ buffet ($30.50nett, Mon-Thu 5pm-12am) down to a pat complete with the extendable ventilation hood which ensures that you don’t leave smelling like smoked meat. Have a go at their three special sauces from mild to extremely spicy with your grilled kurobuta pork, squid and a host of surimi choices as well. 103 East Coast Road. Tel: 6344 2985

OINKATA To celebrate their one-year anniversary, Oinkata’s steamboat buffet (Mon-Sat 5pm-5am, Sun 5-11pm) is going at a promotional rate of $21.90 nett till 31 March (usual $26.90nett) with over 50 item choices. An even greater steal is the midnight supper option at $17 nett, daily 2-4.30am for night owls looking for a steaming supper place. Youths get an additional perk of free flow Thai ice milk tea when you present your relevant student or NS pass. #01-01 @ Prinsep Place, 50 Prinsep Street. Tel: 8499 0249

Can’t get enough of sweet, sour and spicy? Time for Thai!

COCA COCA’s steamboat buffet (11.15am-10.30pm, $31.80nett lunch, $51.60nett dinner) tempts you with a slew of appetisers like roast pork, Coca fresh cockle salad or the Thai-style ‘hormok’ in crab shells. Start with handmade meatballs, house special fish glue, fresh oysters and squid, with their special dipping sauce made from a legendary in-house recipe. Add fluffy white rice, chicken eggs and a sprinkling of spring onions into your soup when you’re almost done to concoct the special COCA ‘porridge’. Various outlets including #04-23 Ngee Ann City, 391 Orchard Road. Tel: 6734 7887

mookalicious

SUANTHAI This ‘Thai garden’ (it’s name translated to English) offers all-you-can-eat a la carte Thai dishes (11.30am-2.30pm, $23.40 nett Mon-Fri and $24.60 nett Sat-Sun; 6-10pm, $25.80 nett Mon-Thu and $27 nett Fri-Sun) in a location close to town. Started in 2005, the longtime favourite serves up to 20 options such as Thai style chicken satay, boneless stuffed chicken wings and the classic tom yum soup for a taste of the motherland. Top up $3.99++ for free flow ice lemon tea. Minimum two to dine. 101 Killiney Road. Tel: 6235 4126

MOOKALICIOUS Don’t scoff at this stall located in a coffee shop, which has been dishing up great mookata (Thai BBQ and steamboat) feasts since 2014. Previously only

under the age of 11 will receive a 50% discount instead. Feast your hearts out among the 16 theatre kitchens.

[Others] AH MENG RESTAURANT (TERRACE) Singapore Zoo, 80 Mandai Lake Road. Tel: 9672 1185 Start the day with an animal encounter as you enjoy your Jungle Breakfast with Wildlife (9-10.30am daily; adult $35, child $25, not inclusive zoo entrance) feasting on a myriad of local and western-style dishes and balance the meal with a refreshing platter of fruits. The only place in the world where you can have breakfast with orang utans. KISEKI JAPANESE BUFFET #08-01/02/03 Orchard Central, 181 Orchard Road. Tel: 6736 1216 It’s a vibrant scene at this Japanese themed buffet (11.30am-3pm: Mon-Fri $19.80++, Sat-Sun $27.80++; 6-10pm: Mon-Thu $31.80++, Fri-Sun $34.80++) with teppanyaki, robatayaki, yakitori and nabemono. There’s also a pasta and pizza selection. Students get 10% off their total bill for dinner every Sun-Thu.

oinkata

ROCKU YAKINIKU JAPANESE CHARCOAL GRILL #04-06 Bugis+, 201 Victoria Street. Tel: 6634 3313 The hip and industrial space is home to a live charcoal grill experience (12-3pm: Mon-Fri $15.90++, Sat-Sun $18.90++; 5.30-11pm Fri-Sun $32.90++). A buffet island serves up hot cooked food such as fried chicken, edamame, chawanmushi, and garlic fried rice. But the main star is the meats, made up of a selection of three beef and pork parts, three types of seafood, bacon and chicken. Don’t forget your sauces such as spicy miso, ponzu and sweet miso. Students pay $13.90 for lunch buffets Mon-Fri.

ah meng restaurant

kiseki japanese buffet

buffet r ev iew

Battle of the Crabs ie @ Spice Brasser PARKROYAL on Kitchener Road 14 Jan, 8pm $65++ (Tue-Sat ) 6-10pm, till 31 Mar

holy crab

It’s back but for a limited time, so our BiTES contributor claws his way into the superpopular crab feast at this longtime favourite.

HOT DISH: sizzling mentaiko scallops

Impressions: At the time of our visit, Lunar New Year ang wei m décor abounded. The ing buffet spread was separated into three main areas: the live stations, salads and cooked food section, and dessert corner, which you should definitely leave stomach space for. Seats filled up quickly starting from 6pm in this 300-seater venue. Food stations: We’re here for the same thing— crabs, crabs and more crabs. Executive chef Low Hoe Kiat wows with his signature slow-braised pumpkin crab in claypot. The harmonious blend of savoury and slightly piquant pumpkin gravy with sweet and meaty crabs had us eating and dipping grilled buns in blissful silence. Another standout from the live station was the braised crab with tang hoon. This claypot was redolent of Chinese wine, and the rice vermicelli, having soaked up all the stock and crab essence, was a joy to eat. The fresh crab meat cakes hot out of the fryer, together with nam jim- style Thai dipping sauce, were delicious morsels brimming with seafood. Perennial favourites like Singapore chilli crab and black pepper crab were more than competent, as was salted egg yolk and butter crab. The cooking style leans more towards the drier side, with the spicy, savoury and sweet sauce clinging lovingly onto the crustaceans. At least 12 styles of crabs are served, with interesting fusions like stewed kimchi crab and stir-fried crab with jalapeno and fermented black beans. Purists can go for the rock salt-crusted crab, and savour the natural crustacean sweetness of these Indonesian mud crabs. Although slightly smaller in size to their Sri Lankan counterparts, these crabs are packed with succulent meat, and their smaller stature means you can try more different flavours before you get all ‘crabbed out’. Yes, there are non-crab items too, for a break between extirpating meat from hard shells! The live station had a charcoal fired grill and the squid was outstandingly juicy yet smoky that we went back immediately for seconds. Also on offer was a grilled scallop with a mentaiko sauce which disappeared as soon as they were served. One common favourite was

Popular selection of CRUSTACEANS ON ICE

Top PICKs1: Pumpkin crab in

claypot, with a gloriously golden and creamy sauce.

Top PICKs 2: Braised crab with tanghoon

Top PICKs 3: Durian pengat

the superbly crisp prawn koliwada – Indian-styled deep fried prawns. “I must have eaten more than 15 of these,” commented a fellow diner. Delicately spiced, well fried and immensely moreish, we agreed. For a change of pace, there is ayam buah keluak and sweetish sambal manila clams that hark back to the Asian Temptation theme of Spice Brasserie. There is also a modest Japanese selection of nigiri sushi and sashimi, and Asian mainstays such as a DIY rojak station and porridge station with various fixings. A trio of Indian dishes, two hearty crab based soups, and a cheese board round up the buffet line. People often say desserts make you feel like a kid again. We agree, when it comes to the durian pengat at Spice Brasserie. We just want the whole bowl of divinely luscious D24 durian puree all to ourselves. Not so hawt: The Indian section was small and had a lackluster chickpea curry. The naan, however, was a great delivery vehicle for chilli crab sauce—crossing cultures on a plate! Final say: Among all the crab buffets across the island, this is one you should not miss for its great value and quality of crabs. Just remember to dress in dark colours, as it will be a messy affair. Wash bowls filled with lemon water and serviettes are promptly brought to every table by friendly wait staff but the occasional flying speck of sauce would be inevitable.

WELLCOOKED: BUTTERY DRY STYLE SALTED EGG YOLK CRAB

Battle of the Crabs: $65++, dinner only. Thu-Sat 6-10pm, till 31 March. (Asian Temptation dinner runs Sun-Wed) G/F Parkroyal on Kitchener, 181 Kitchener Road. Tel: 6428 3160

d e s t i n a t i o n

d i n i n g

Bridging good food

Did You Know?

HDB’s first and only circular block of flats— designed in a clover-leaf structure—is at Ang Mo Kio Block 259, Ang Mo Kio Avenue 2. Each stack/unit has an interior layout plan; many owners have resorted to tailor-made furniture to match the circular profile of the interior. The water tank on the top of the buildings has a circular structure to fit in with the round design.

The seventh housing estate developed by HDB in the 1970s received its name from a colloquial slang. ‘Ang mo kio’ translates literally to ‘red-haired man’s bridge’, referring to Caucasians as ang mohs because of their red hair. The bridge, long demolished, is thought to refer to John Turnbull's bridge over Kallang River near what is now the junction of Upper Thomson Road and Ang Mo Kio Avenue 1. BiTES goes in search of hawker finds, unexpected contemporary cafes, and colourful HDB housing blocks—where you can find almost everything you need.

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By Sharon Salim, Overview photography by Benjamin Soh

Overview The neighbourhood’s name came from Kampong Cheng San, or ‘green hills interior’ in Hokkien. The site of a dominant village in the 1950s-70s, it comprised of Hokkien and Teochew villages. From dim sum to nasi lemak, this renovated hawker centre has it all. Ying Yi Kway Chap and Braised Duck (#01-145) The kway ($4.50) was smooth and the soup was neither too salty nor sweet—just how we like it. The intestines were perfectly braised to achieve a good chew. Dip the tau kwa in the tangy chilli for best effect. Chun Bao Dessert Stall (#01-136) This long-running dessert stall offers the most nostalgic ice-cold chng tng bowl ($1.50) chockfull of dried longan, white fungus and favourite sago pearls. Fu Hua Soya Bean (#01-108) Soya drinks are relatively common—but not when they are infused with quirky and modernised flavours like peppermint and gula melaka. Try the fresh pearl bandung soya milk ($1.60) and bean curd with grass jelly as a healthier dessert option ($1.60). Curry House (#01-119) The pocket-friendly meal satisfies traditionalists with its sweet spicy curried offerings, Hainanese ‘scissors’ style. The signatures include the curry chicken set ($3.10) and pork chop set ($3.30), though you can also pick out your preferred ingredients. Ann Hoo Cooked Food (#01-126) We spotted the snaking queues from afar and joined in, of course. Known as one of the best Teochew porridges in Singapore, Ann Hoo serves up favourite fresh steamed pomfret, sliced pork with ginger and a bowl of porridge for less than $10.

Double Scoops (Blk 226A, #01-627) A firm believer of made-from-scratch ice cream, their top sellers are homemade charcoal waffles ($5.50) with single scoop ($3.20) and ice cream shake in cotton candy flavour ($6)—plus the mini marshmallows on top! www.doublescoops.com.sg Café Mojito (Blk 338, #01-1647) No, they don’t serve mojito here. Instead, nosh on affordable brunch, mains and stunning spread of pretty cakes and desserts ($2.80-$5.80). www.facebook.com/ mojitocafesg GRUB (Blk 510) Opened by chef Mervyn Phan of Cookyn Inc back in 2013, this was one of the first idyllic cafes in the area. The inspired, light-filled space offers delicious lunch and brunch dishes (from $5-$18) while you dine among the greenery. www.grub.com.sg Ang Mo Kio AVENUE 10 Murphy’s (Blk 532, #01-2495) Murphy’s signature fish and chips ($16) was first established in award-winning Hitchin United Kingdom at Queen Street. We gulped down the earl grey lavender iced tea ($5/pot, extra $1 for ice) for a perfect hot afternoon perk-me-up in the #interiorgoals café. www.facebook.com/sgmurphys/ Rainbow Cottage Café (Blk 452, #01-1777) The homey café is famous for its rich and bright paddlepop cheesecake ($7.50), with simple ice cream, pizza and pasta rounding out the typical menu. www.facebook.com/rainbowcottagecafe

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Best Old School Peanut Pancake

The old-school 60-cent crispy pancake from Belinda’s Traditional Pancake is secretly tucked in a hawker centre. Regulars queue without hesitation and the best way to eat it: wash it down with a hot cup of fresh soya milk for breakfast. Bon appetit! You’re ready to face the day. #01-27, Teck Ghee Court Food Centre, Blk 341 Ang Mo Kio Avenue 1

grub

murphy's

(527 Ang Mo Kio Ave 10)

259

Cheng San Market & Cooked Food

Ang Mo Kio Avenue 1 Workbench Bistro (Blk 332, #01-1881) This cozy space is good for its bestselling moist beef burger ($14) that was served with paprika fries. We don’t recommend the coffee, but try the crab meat linguine ($16), truffle fries ($9) and buffalo wings ($10). For your sweet tooth, opt for gelato and sorbet in flavours such as rocky road and matcha. www.facebook. com/workbenchbistro/

Ang mo

fu hua soya bean

Overview The café scene here has grown in recent years. From waffle cafés to idyllic brunch places, check out the list below for the next cafe-hopping adventure!

chun bao dessert stall

#Cafehopping Spots

bis han a park riv

mellben seafood

Seafood Galore

Mellben Seafood The famous crab with smooth, silky bee hoon that started it all flourished from a single kopitiam stall before taking over the entire kopitiam. The chilli crab ($38/kg) will take your love for seafood to another level, and put other chilli crabs to shame. We love the egg-y and slightly sweet sauce for dipping with the favourite crispy mantou. #01-1222, Blk 232 Ang Mo Kio Avenue 3. Tel: 6285 6762 Kian Seng Seafood Restaurant Little did we know that behind its canteen façade of feeding hungry workers during lunch, is a new-age tze char serving lip-smacking dishes. Curry fish head ($22/$24), Indonesian style prawn ($20/$30/$40), golden cereal prawns ($20/$30/$40) and golden suckling pig ($190)— the chef boasts a unique paste that’s tweaked to suit local tastes. #01-450, Ang Mo Kio Industrial Park 1. Tel: 6458 2552

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Hang Jiang Fish Soup Using a slightly pricier batang fish than snakehead, the fish soup ($4/$5/$6) is a medley of sweetness and mild saltiness. #01-15 Teck Ghee Square, Blk 409 Ang Mo Kio Avenue 10 53

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Overview The nondescript-looking block, five bus stops from the MRT station, certainly has its charm. Residents will attest that it’s one of the most happening blocks that hasn’t lost its homey appeal. Pine’s Garden Cake (#01-2453) We couldn’t stop reaching out for the pulut hitam ($2.80/ slice) cake despite the queues along the humble stretch. Another must-try: toasted marshmallow cake ($29/0.5kg). Our verdict: light chiffon, not too sweet, smooth texture— as expected of this old school bakery with over 30 years of history. Next Door Deli (#01-2369) “Next door to the favourite bakery in AMK”—the tagline couldn’t be more accurate for its sister outlet. We spotted families enjoying their western lunch in an outdoor seating with synthetic grass flooring. The wide range of menu includes the new item fresh mussels white wine pasta ($12.50), cheese fries ($3.80) and special house burger ($7.80). Twenty Grammes (#01-2353) This cosily designed supper haunt will satisfy all your latenight waffle cravings. Choose from TG waffles ($6) and charcoal waffle with salted egg sauce ($8.50) for a night perk-me-up. If you can’t decide, opt for the specialty blockcoloured looking Yuan Yang Waffle, in both classic Belgian and charcoal waffle, topped with a twirl of homemade milk softserve and drizzled with chocolate hazelnut sauce. Go for the recommended flavour, Triple C (chocolate, caramel, chunks; $3.90/scoop). Other unique flavours include gingerbread and Famous Amos. Opens till 1am Fri-Sat.

o q i a ry da i m a o l pr h o sc

jubilee square

jin shan primary school

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broadway plaza

Blk 529 Ang Mo Kio 10

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Djitsun mall

Special feature

Supporting Social Causes

Bliss Restaurant Blissful indeed—the social enterprise aims to create a vibrant go-to lifestyle dining destination while offering employment (including internships) to all without discrimination. The extensive menu ranges from waffles and desserts priced under $10 to beef and lamb meal options from $15-$20. 6 Ang Mo Kio Street 53, Cheng San Community Club

Nakhon Kitchen (#01-2371) The carb-heavy creations are reasonably priced from $6 while seafood dishes ranges from $10-$12. From fragrant pandan chicken to stir-fried minced pork with basil, the family-friendly eatery is the go-to place for dinner. Beware of the after-work queue though. Haji Karim Prata Palace Strategically located at the bend of the block, the 24-hour prata place never lacks diners. They serve mushroom cheese and cheese egg prata, chocolate tissue prata, nasi goreng chilli padi and nasi goreng pattaya. Try the nasi goreng with options from chicken, beef, cuttlefish and prawn ($3.50-$5.50), mixed tom yam soup ($6) and tumeric chicken with white rice ($4.50).

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bishan-ang mo kio park

Malls & Parks

Overview The ‘heartland’ town is home to Ang Mo Kio Hub that’s connected to the bus interchange, Djitsun Mall where the kids go for their enrichment classes, and Jubilee Square to get their stationery (at Popular bookstore and Xorex Press) needs. Ang Mo Kio Hub, 53 Ang Mo Kio Avenue 3 Back-by-popular-demand, Dough Culture's (#B2-31) crispy youtiao chips with mayo and cheese ($2) is the perfect light mid-day snack. Seaweed fans can opt for the seaweed you tiao chips. Ang Mo Kio Town Park Garden West, Ang Mo Kio Avenue 6 Built on a hillock with lush greeneries, it is a haven for fitness enthusiasts and nature lovers. Regular runners

ang mo kio town park garden west

pine garden's cake

looking for more challenging paths can opt for the footpaths meandering through the forest and flowing over hillier terrains. Tip: Climb the 120-step staircase to the plaza for a refreshing bird eye’s view. Bishan-Ang Mo Kio Park, Along Bishan Road and Ang Mo Kio Ave 1 This family park with its special waterways is one of the largest urban parks in central Singapore. Featuring lush greeneries, pond gardens and river plains, it is a weekend hotspot for family bonding sessions. Under the PUB’s Active, Beautiful and Clean Waters (ABC) Programme, the old canal has been naturalised into a 3km meandering river with banks of beautiful wildflowers.

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Microwaved hacks Rushing out of the house? Trust us, you still have time for a wholesome quick meal. Just pop a mugful of ingredients in your microwave and youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re good to go. By Samantha Seah, Photography Benjamin Soh B i T E S paid for our own groceries.

brown sugar

Prima allpurpose flour $2.90, 1kg

To make the base: Combine 1/4 cup flour and 1 tbsp brown sugar together in a microwave safe mug.

Magnolia fresh milk

Magnolia Heinz fresh ketchup milk $1.25, 300g

Vita Coco coconut oil $20, 250g

Stir 3 tbsp milk and 1 tbsp coconut oil into the dry ingredients.

Allfresh Blueberries $3.45, 125g $20, 250g

Barilla mini penne rigate $3.65, 500g

water

Place 1/3 cup mini penne and 1/2 cup water in a mug and microwave on high for two minutes. Stir. (Water will boil over just a bit, which is fine). Microwave for another minute. Stir. Microwave for another minute or so, until all the water has been absorbed.

Incorporate 1/4 cup blueberries into mixture. shredded cheddar $5.95, 200g

Coconut oil

Flour

Brown sugar

To make the topping: Crumble together 1 tbsp coconut oil, 1 tbsp flour and 1 tbsp brown sugar (in a separate bowl) and sprinkle on top of the blueberries.

Magnolia fresh milk

Season with salt and pepper. Stir in 1/4 cup milk and 1/2 cup (or more if needed) shredded cheese and microwave for a final 30-60 seconds. Stir well, and enjoy.

Lowan McCormick wholegrain onion rolled oats powder $5.40, 1kg $6.70, 74g

In a microwave safe mug, combine 2 tbsp milk, 1 tbsp ketchup, 2 tbsp wholegrain rolled oats and 1 tbsp onion powder together.

Season well.

Culina lean minced beef $7.68, 200g Crumble 1/4 pound beef over mixture and mix well. Cover and microwave on high for 3 minutes or until meat is no longer pink and a thermometer reads 160Â°. Let stand for 3 minutes. Serve with additional ketchup if desired.

Microwave on high for 90 seconds. Let cool slightly before serving.

singleserving blueberry muffin

instant mac & cheese

Quickie meatloaf

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Everyday waffling Waffles, breads and donuts, oh my! These gadgets make it easier to whip up your favourite snack, any time of the day. By Samantha Seah

Kenwood Bread Maker BM250 Whether catering for family members or a party, this nifty machine doles out loafs in 500g, 700g and 1kg weights. No more twilight hour preparations for fresh bread; just prep your ingredients the night before, pre-set baking to start up till 15 hours in advance, and wake up to the smell of warm toasty bread. There’s also the handy one hour keep-warm function. Guess what? Create your own pasta dishes with the pasta setting or even jams and marmalade as well.

Mayer mini cupcake and donut maker This easy fun-sized donut and cupcake maker is ideal for kids, but don’t let that stop the adults! The interchangeable plates makes switching between each form so simple. Save time cleaning up on the mess with the dishwashersafe plates too.

Cuisinart automatic bread maker Outfitted with 12 preset baking options, crust colour and loaf size functions, including a variety of bread recipes, this stainless steel beauty is a real steal. The removable bread pan and paddle attachment also allows for easy cleaning, no excuse not to try your hand at baking up a loaf of fresh bread now.

$153.50 from www.bedbathandbeyond.com

$59 from www.rakuten.com.sg

$249 from www.kenwoodworld.com or Robinsons, #03-01 Raffles City Shopping Centre, 252 North Bridge Road. Tel: 6216 8388 Nordic Ware silver dollar waffle griddle Whip up a batch of these cute ‘coin’ shaped waffles, seven at a go, for them hungry kids or as a perfect takeand-go breakfast when you’re in a rush.

$71.90 from ToTT, www.tottstore.com

Easy bread capsule machine Everyone can be a great baker with Easy Bread capsule machine, the world’s first which bakes at the push of a button. It’s compatible with their own bread capsules (360g of ingredients which yield a 500g loaf) sold in packs of five, with six bread types ($4-7 each), like gluten free and sourdough bread. The water needed is autosupplied to the machine, taking all the guesswork out of a fresh loaf.

$399 from www.easybread.com.sg or available also at TANGS at Tang Plaza, 310 Orchard Road, and VivoCity, #01-187 and #02-189, 1 HarbourFront Walk. www.tangs.com

Happycall waffle maker Using durable die-cast iron and coated three times with Happycall’s trademark Ceratinum (ceramic and titanium) allows for easy cleaning without worrying about waffle-batter being burnt and stuck to the bottom. The doublesided pan also provides multi-purpose functionality—waffled sandwich anyone?

$72.90 from www.lazada.com.sg or Heap Seng House, 36 Liang Seah Street. Tel: 6338 1343

Babycakes non-stick coated donut maker This non-stick variant makes lifting out these circular doughs so much more pleasant. Aided with a fork tool, wire cooling rack and donut recipes, you’ll be whipping up a batch of these whenever you get the munchies. Bakes up six donuts in just four minutes.

$35 from www.amazon.com (additional $26.90 shipping and import charge to Singapore)

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Crafty beers The first edition of Craft Singapore Festival 2016 is devoted to microbrews, homebrews and specialty brews. Not to be confused with Beer Fest Asia (16-19 Jun) or Singapore Craft Beer Week (20-27 Aug), this ticketed festival by the bay features homegrown names like Archipelago, as well as 25 beer and gourmet stalls onsite. BiTES dives into a few of the bottled beauties. By June Lee, Photography Benjamin Soh

NXS (North by South)

By: Stone Brewing Co. x Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. Alcohol: 8.2% /22 fl ounce Style: Dry hopped IPA and barrel-aged IPA, in gin and rye whiskey barrels Taste: Released in December 2015, this truly delicious collaboration between two legendary Californian breweries have resulted in a citrusy, piney, woody and herbaceous IPA that tastes as good as it sounds. It’s not intimidating—more crisp with a clean aftertaste. How to drink: Best shared with friends, and paired with just about any kind of cheesy main course.

Tangerine

By: Lost Coast Brewing Company, U.S.A. Alcohol: 5.5% / 12 fl ounce Style: Wheat beer with natural flavours Taste: Immediately fruity on the nose, the aroma of tangerines translates also to the taste of the beer. The orange flavours feel like they ‘float’ on top of the wheat beer rather than being incorporated, but overall is smooth and sweet. How to drink: For something on the lighter side to cleanse the palate.

Editor's fave

La Chouette

By: France Cidre Export, France Alcohol: 4.5% / 330ml Style: French cider Taste: With a light fizz and body, this is a crisp drink that feels traditional yet fresh. It’s very fruity, not too sweet—think earthy burnt sugar, and has a sight bittersweet note that makes it easy to keep drinking without feeling saturated. How to drink: If you’re just getting to know beers, cider may be more your speed with its sweeter aftertaste.

Barley Wine

By: Lervig Aktiebryggeri, Norway Alcohol: 13% / 33cl Style: Aged in bourbon barrel Taste: Smells and tastes like Marmite—this is a love it or hate it kind of beer, but it’s superbly crafted. Aged for a year in Jack Daniels barrels, it’s full of TCMlike herbal aromatics and wildly savoury, umami rich notes. “Like drinking lightly carbonated pi pa gao,” notes a taster. How to drink: Carefully—it’s higher in alcohol. Goes well with dark chocolate and blue cheese, or on its own for connoisseurs.

Spencer Trappist Ale

Temptress

Most

By: St Joseph’s Abbey, U.S.A. likeable Alcohol: 6.5% / 33cl Style: Belgian Pale (Trappist) ale Taste: A silky, golden coloured drink with a fullbodied, rich taste that’s balanced between fruity and spicy. There’s a yeasty or malty richness, finishing with a bit of raisin tones. How to drink: The higher carbonation makes it very refreshing, while the earthier taste keeps it grounded for a drink any time of the day.

By: Holgate Brewhouse, Australia Alcohol: 6% /330cl Style: Chocolate porter Taste: Don’t mistake this for a sweet beer. Brewed with Dutch cocoa and vanilla beans, the aromas are heady with chocolate but the body is a typical robust porter tasting of roasted grain malts, with more acidic coffee than chocolate notes. How to drink: Delicious with dark chocolates or stewed beef.

Yenda Pale Ale

By: Australian Beer Co, Australia Alcohol: 4.5% / 330cl Style: Pale ale Taste: Crisp and clean drinking, this is an easy-to-like ale with light floral hops from a joint venture between Coca-Cola and Casella Family Wines in New South Wales. How to drink: Will match well to spicy foods.

4 Mar, 4-11pm; 5-6 Mar, 12pm-5pm & 6-11pm. $95 per session, or $100 for 2 consecutive sessions (inclusive $50 F&B voucher). Marina Bay Waterfront, 10 Bayfront Avenue. www.craftsingapore.com

Coffee, tea and me

last

“Detox, purify, cleanse” and some “me-time” is your mantra when you gulp down copious amounts of green tea.

Calm as tea or jittery as coffee, here’s your personality in a cup By Samantha Seah

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You need more than one cup to drag yourself to the bathroom, what more to step out of the house in the mornings.

e i m s te ! ! t no wao go too g g

You’re one busy bee, deadlines to meet, and places to go. No time for idle chitchat, no time at all. You wear your heart on your sleeve. We see your core clearly as we inspect the layers of condensed milk and coffee in your cup before you stir them up.

You’re a no nonsense, unpretentious cuppa. A blank canvas waiting to be filled, and you love cuddling under warm blankets on a rainy day.

Rest and relax, nothing too strenuous to tax those dainty hands that lift the delicate cup to your lips. Pinching at afternoon snacks and gossip are your trade.

You’re heritage and tradition all in one cuppa. You emit well-loved warmth and you love to socialise.

You’re a millennial kid, bubble tea with pearls is the new soft drink that you reach for each time.

PANCAKE CHALLENGE

BECOME A LEGEND! Are you up for the challenge? Conquer our ultimate pancake in 15 minutes and get it for free! For reservations, please call 6735 9201 or email info@roberttimms.com.sg

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SIT BAC CHALLENGER K A CUP OAND ENJOY BREW OF DAILY N US AS YOU WATCH YOU D (OR FAR FRIEND IL).

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