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

E E R

bites a p r i l

2 0 1 5

m . s g t e s .c o w w w. b i

MCI

(P)

makan on bites

T h e s c o o p o n

g o o d

e at s

Indulge

2014 187/03/

IN GUSTO ITALIANO WITH HSBC

k l ' s o y e h t

inside

u o y n o

kitchen playground p24

Picture-perfect and functional gadgets

dishes in town t n e l l e P12 s g g 10 e eggs And

p er o t t s ' o! p22 o a s t E e M E t r H i T u B + y o

buffet bounty p14

24 Easter buffets and 10 semi-buffet spreads not to miss

r y f t eep a +E d

destination: East coast p20 East Coast Park spruces up with restaurants galore

*FIND THIS dish AT EGGS & BERRIES

wok & talk p8

Great hawker eats under $2!

ADVERTORIAL

From day to night

Somersby apple cider is so refreshing and natural, you'll toast to many more fun moments together when you're visiting these CBD hangouts with your friends Fordham & grand

Fordham & Grand

Whether you’re hankering for dinner or supper, this speakeasy-style restaurant has something for you. Step into a 1920s inspired interior with dark walls, leather banquette seats, cool concrete floors and a centrepiece bar. Chef Fong Kean Hun’s cuisine with creative flair includes Asian-inspired lobster linguine with ginger, chili, coriander and olive oil; and slow-roasted duck leg, sunchoke (Jerusalem artichoke) and foie gras, both which are suited to the crisp, delicate apple flavours in Somersby. Fordham & Grand’s late night menu till 3am is the perfect spot to unwind with chips and salsa, minute steak and fries, and a charcuterie selection, perked up with Somersby in hand. 43 Craig Road. Tel: 6221 3088, www.fng.com.sg

Leopold

The dynamic 23-year-old Austrian mixologist and chef Klaus Leopold is the face behind this vibrant and comfortable gastrobar in the heart of the CBD. Amongst the European finger food, daily main course specials and Austrian nibbles, you’ll find refreshing Somersby cider pairing well with the house platters. The touch of brightness and fruit in the drink opens the palate for treats like Manchego and Camembert cheeses, Iberico Bellota, chorizo, Parma ham, Tyrolean speck and beef salami, alongside gastro snacks and homemade pizzas. Along with that, Somersby’s low 4.5% alcohol by volume and its lively effervescence makes for a refreshing beverage to start or end the night as you choose. 96 Tanjong Pagar Road. Tel: 6534 7644, www.gastrobar.com.sg

w e l c o m e

Where to find your BiTES?

DOWNLOAD THIS ISSUE at www.bites.com.sg PICK US UP! Free at over 100 venues Cafes & restaurants &Sons • Alfresco Gusto • Black Angus Steakhouse • Bonta Italian Restaurant & Bar (District 10) • Brussels Sprouts - Big Splash • Brussels Sprouts - Robertson Quay • Brussels Sprouts - Sentosa Cove • California Pizza Kitchen - Forum • Chijmes • Dean & DeLuca - Orchard Central • 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 - Singapore Post Centre • Delifrance Cafe - Thomson Medical Centre • Delifrance Cafe - UE Square • dr CAFE COFFEE (all outlets) • Hung Kang Teochew Restaurant • Eggs & Berries Changi City Point • Eggs & Berries Westgate • Emicakes @ Kovan • EN Grill and Bar • Ginza Lion Beer Hall • IPPIN • Joe & Dough (Kallang) • Kakis Bistro and Bar • Medzs Millenia Walk • Medzs Orchard Central • Milagro Spanish Restaurant • Ootoya Japanese Restaurant • Outback Steakhouse • Oyster Bar & Grill

Wharf • Ramen Champion • Picotin Express - East Coast • Picotin Express - Sentosa Cove • Potato Head Folk • Roti Mum • Selfish Gene Cafe • Spinelli (all outlets) • Starbucks (all outlets) • SQUE Rotisserie & Alehouse • tcc - The Connoisseur Concerto (all boutiques) • The Alley • The Catch Seafood • The Rustic Bistro • 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 • My Private Pantry • 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 • Orchid Country Club • Raffles Marina • Republic of Singapore Yacht Club • 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 Albert Court Village Hotel • Amara Singapore • AMOY Hotel • Bay Hotel • Carlton City Hotel • Changi Village Hotel • Concorde Hotel Singapore • Copthorne King’s Hotel Singapore • Dorsett Singapore • Furama City Centre • Furama RiverFront • Grand Mercure Roxy Hotel Singapore • Hilton Singapore • Holiday Inn Singapore Atrium • Hotel Miramar • Hotel Re! • ibis Hotel Singapore • Intercontinental Singapore • Link Hotel • Mandarin Orchard • Moon Hotel • Nostalgia Hotel • Novotel Singapore Clarke Quay • Orchard Hotel Singapore • Pan Pacific Orchard • ParkRoyal on Kitchener Road • Peninsula Excelsior Hotel • Ramada and Days Singapore at Zhongshan Park • Riverview Hotel Singapore • Studio M Hotel Singapore • The Club Hotel • The Elizabeth Hotel • The Quincy Hotel • The Scarlet Hotel • Traders Hotel • Village Hotel Bugis • Wangz • York Hotel MallS Far East Square • Katong V • Orchard Central • Parkway

Cover image Eggs Florentine by Eggs & Berries

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 Market-MBLM • Four Seasons Organic Market-Great WorldCity • Four Seasons Organic Market-Parkway 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 Julia Kwan Contributors Timothy Lam, Desmond Lim

Accounts Manager Linda Ng

Designer Benjamin Soh Contributing Senior Designer Loh Wai Sum Design Intern Lim Kay Li Regional Business Director Carlos Loh Business Director 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

Bring us with you! BITE INTO US ONLINE www.bites.com.sg

BitesSingapore

@bitessg

c a l e n dA r :

a p r i l sunday

monday

tuesday

i’m watching you

8 WORLD STREET FOOD CONGRESS 8-12 APR | $450/ PERSON FOR DIALOGUE | BUGIS Expect street food bites, a two-day conference and a networking dialogue event featuring international speakers. www.wsfcongress.com

EASTER SUNDAY

If you haven’t booked your Easter buffet yet, bunnyhop on to p14 for our 24 Easter brunch listings!

14 WORLD GOURMET SUMMIT

14-25 APR Sign up for events such as dinners and culinary workshops by renowned chefs in this annual epicurean festival. www. worldgourmetsummit. com

19 THE BIG OHM THEORY

18-19 APR | FREE | 10AM-6PM | THE NATIONAL DESIGN CENTRE This free two-day event offers a place for you to shop, eat, rest, practise yoga and even participate in workshops. thebigohmtheory.com

27 BAJA FRESH FREE CHICKEN BURRITOS

9-12 APR | FROM $169 | RAFFLES HOTEL SINGAPORE This immersive show will have you laughing through your meal at the ‘Faulty Towers’ restaurant. www.sistic.com.sg

10 MAAD MARKET

FREE | 5PM-12AM | RED DOT DESIGN MUSEUM Pop by for some late-night shopping at Singapore’s largest creative marketplace! Browse through original crafts by indie designers. www.museum.red-dot. sg/maad

17 $95 | 9.30AM5.30PM | CHANTILLY CULINARY STUDIO Learn to make your fave brunch classics! www.lessonsgowhere. com.sg

30 29 SHAKESPEARE IN THE PARK— THE TEMPEST FROM $40 | 29 APR-24 MAY | FORT CANNING PARK Picnic under the stars while experiencing an outdoor theatre experience of Shakespeare’s final play. www.sistic.com.sg

FREE (REGISTRATION REQUIRED) | 9AM & 10AM | Singapore Botanic Gardens Visit the Healing Garden and view the medicinal plants traditionally used in Southeast Asia. www.sbg.org.sg

11 THE MUSIC RUN

$50/75 | 2.30-4PM | SENTOSA ISLAND Pump yourself up for this aural run and chill by the beach after! www.themusicrun.com

18 FARM & FLEA BRUNCH FAVOURITES

Earth day 28

saturday 4 HEALING GARDEN TOUR

good friday

We nominate our best ‘Bens on p12

$80 | 1-6PM | CREATIVE CULINAIRE You’ll also learn how to make the vegetarian curry to go with prata, and the meat fillings for murtabak. www.creativeculinaire. com.sg

9 FAULTY TOWERS THE DINING EXPERIENCE

EGGS BENEDICT DAY

20 ROTI PRATA & MURTABAK MAKING HANDS-ON CLASS

11.30AM-3PM | THE SAIL @ MARINA BAY To celebrate its third outlet, popular US-based Mexican casual dining chain Baja Fresh is giving away free chicken burritos on its official opening day. Go early!

wednesday thursday friday 3 1 2 EASTER SPECIAL APRIL HANDS-ON FOOL’s! CLASS $80 | 1-6PM | CREATIVE CULINAIRE Bake your own goodies for Easter, such as hot cross buns, plaited Easter breads and cinnamon rolls. www.creativeculinaire. com.sg

5 12

2 01 5

FREE |10am-4pm | Tanjong Pagar Railway Station As part of Heritage Fiesta 2015, this themed event organised by Tanjong Pagar Community Club focuses on all things vintage and green in the rustic, disused station. Tel: 6221 9898

25 CHANGING LANDSCAPES OF SINGAPORE

FREE | 2-4PM | NATIONAL LIBRARY BUILDING Understand the changes in our city and places we used to eat at, during this talk by Associate Professor Victor R. Savage. www.nlb.gov.sg

coming up in m ay 1 MAY: Labour Day 10 MAY: Mother’s Day 23 MAY: Food & Socialikes Conference

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!

APRIL: 5 readers stand to win set DINNER FOR two

This month’s restaurant just underwent a major renovation to include a refurbished vintage bar and match area for customers to enjoy Archipelago beer on tap while watching sports games. Clue: its iconic dish is the Wild Wild West Burger.

Give us your best guess between 1-15 April to dine at the restaurant on 11 May! 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 non-exclusive, royalty-free license to publish publicity photos and video in any format without limitation. Participants to ensure they can dine on 11 May. More on www.bites.com.sg/makanonbites

top prize winner lee shu hui

All Thai’d up Bangkok Jam’s Facebook photo contest winners, with all the pictures that will make you hungry!

In February, Bangkok Jam launched their first photo contest to spread the love of Thai cuisine. The contest, with BiTES as the official media, drew participants from all walks of life. The team at Creative Eateries then narrowed the field to the lucky number 9, pronounced as “gaao” in Thai, which brings good luck. Commented Bonnie Wong, manager of finance & marketing communications, “When sifting through, we looked for photos that best expressed the vibrant colour and nature of Thai food.” Finally, the nine photos were shared on the Bangkok Jam Facebook page, where public voting accounted for 30 percent of the total judging. The BiTES and Creative Eateries teams accounted for the remaining, with 35 percent each. The winning photo belonged to Lee Shu Hui, a

final year student who is a frequent traveller to Thailand. Shu Hui was quite confident of nabbing a prize, she shares, as she would usually bring three cameras on her trips to take good food photos for her blog. And last but not least, fans may have more to look forward to, as Bonnie noted, “The photos also revealed a range of Thai food that Bangkok Jam has yet to put on its menu, giving us renewed inspiration for our next edition!”

Top Prize: Lee Shu Hui

A pair of economy air tickets to Bangkok courtesy of Thai Airways, and a $300 Bangkok Jam Dining Voucher.

Makan on BITES February winners had a great time at Carnivore at The Grandstand. Some walked to the venue to work up an appetite, one guy was too shy to take off his sunglasses, and others had their first taste of Caipirinha, the restaurant's signature cocktail. The meaty buffet more than satisfied with unlimited beef, chicken, pork and grilled pineapple. We took a video for memories' sake—scan the QR code to catch the action!

Second Prize: Heng Kai LE

$200 Bangkok Jam Dining Voucher

Where did you eat this dish? Jim Thompson Café 9 (Located at 9 Surawong Road, Bangkok) What is it about this dish that you enjoy? The Yum Woon Sen is made up of different ingredients like prawns, vegetables and crushed nuts but all these ingredients harmonise quite nicely. Also, the spicy lime dressing unravels in tiny delightful bursts. Plus, the Khao Niow Mamuang was sweet and luscious; its marvelously rich taste kept me hankering for more.

Third Prize: BLANCHE Zephynin TAN YAN LING

$100 Bangkok Jam Dining Voucher

Where did you eat this dish? Phuket, Nai Harn Beach What is it about this dish that you enjoy? The fragrance of basil leaves complements the gravy of a simple plate of minced pork. The spiciness of the pork gives another kick to the tastebuds and leaves one craving for more.

Where did you eat this dish? Chatuchak Weekend Market (Cart Right Outside Section 7) What is it about this dish that you enjoy? Unlike other carts that sell the same thing, this particular cart owner outside section 7 allows you to add your own toppings in a buffet style. The texture is also not ‘icey’; and has a light creamy texture to bring in the coconut flavour without being too fake; especially great for hot weather! What’s more, it costs less than SG$1.20 (28 baht).

n e w s

NEW eats

b i t e s

Skip the long suppertime queues at Kovan and Tanjong Katong outlets and head to Ponggol Nasi Lemak's new Jalan Besar digs. The 35-year-old brand's fast-food style eatery is the brainchild of third generation owner, Edmund Ang and his fourth aunt Madam Ang. The uninitiated will find it easy to order the nasi lemak combo sets, while long-time fans will go early for outlet-only specials: triple-fried chicken skin ($1.50/serving), and grilled Japanese squid ($7.50) with kicap manis. Other spanking new highlights include hibiscus ice tea ($1.90), ice cream and sorbet ($2.50/cup). #01-01, 371 Jalan Besar. Tel: 6293 0020 Xi Men Ding Taiwan Cuisine just got a facelift—and a new menu. Fans of their San Bei dishes (from $14.90), Buddha Jumps over the Wall ($23.80), Lion Head meatball ($16.80) and xi men ding taiwan cuisine Taiwanese beef noodles ($12.90) needn't worry about those mainstays. What's new: healthy salad options (from $8.90) with homemade flavours at zhongshan goma dressing and deep-fried Dancing Fish ($18.90). park #01-51A VivoCity, 1 Harbourfront Walk. Tel: 6376 8018 Local takes priority at Flavours at Zhongshan Park’s updated a la carte menu. In the Wok Series ($17.90-24.90), diners are offered beef, pork and other selections cooked in sauces such as ginger and onion, and chef Melvin Lim’s Flavour’s Signature Sauce. He’s also increased the choices for Twist of Flavours, so there are more creative items such as assam sambal octopus ($28.90) and balsamic caramelised lamb rack with dried chilli in kung po style ($38.90). 16 Ah Hood Road. Tel: 6808 6846

Italian Spotlight

From the same folks at Otto Locanda and Otto Ristorante comes an Italian pizzeria that’s modern, industrial-chic and friendly. Helmed by young (and handsome!) Italian chefs, 2it & drink’s stringently made pizza dough is proofed for 36 hours for a well developed crust, while all pastas are made in-house. Opt for familiars such as spaghetti with mixed seafood ($28), or the creamy braised beef agnolotti with mushroom ($22). The Golosa pizza ($26) has been the runaway seller: buffalo mozzarella, Sicilian tomatoes, pesto, mortadella and pistachio. There’s Peroni beer on tap and plenty of well chosen wines from $48 a bottle to keep you lingering. #01-01 Valley Point Shopping Centre, 491 River Valley Road. Tel: 6737 3001 New cool kid in town, +39 Gelato Bar, brings a taste of Italy to the CBD area. Using a state-of-the-art IdeaTre machine, the gelato is made fresh without any preservatives or chemical additives. The result? A light and smooth consistency which went down easily with us. There are plans to rotate flavours throughout the day and offer savoury flavours like mashed potatoes. +39 also stocks a range of liquors for a more decadent +39 gelato treat. From $5.50/scoop. 29 Circular bar Road. Tel: 6532 0380

ADVERTORIAL

FROM DAY TO NIGHT

SOMERSBY APPLE CIDER IS SO REFRESHING AND NATURAL, YOU'LL TOAST TO MANY MORE FUN MOMENTS TOGETHER WHEN YOU'RE VISITING THESE CBD HANGOUTS WITH YOUR FRIENDS FORDHAM & GRAND

Fordham & Grand

Leopold

n e w s

b i t e s

Healthy BiTES

We're rolling in the #fitspo direction with Mission's new curry wraps ($5.35 per pack of eight pieces). Each is an aromatic combination of cumin, aniseed, black peppercorns, chilli, coriander, cinnamon, clove and cardamom. Made from high quality wheat flour, the flatbread eases worries of spillage, making for hearty, generous mouthfuls. Available in all major supermarkets. www.missionfoods.com.sg F&N Foods’ OISHI Green Tea is brewed with 100 percent organic tea leaves without added preservatives and artificial colourings, these lightly-sweetened teas come in two flavours: Original and Genmai (roasted Japanese rice). Retails at $1 (380ml) and $2.05 (1.5L) at major supermarkets and hypermarkets. www.fraserandneave.com Hit up Starbucks for its new Coffee Break menu which features snacks made without artificial trans-fat, artificial colouring, and high fructose corn syrup.

Rabbit Food

Starbucks

What we're eyeing: the warm and savoury chicken floss muffin ($4.20), the rose and cranberry scone ($3.90), and the chewy yet fluffy chicken pretzel puff ($4.90). Till 5 April, shave $1 off: buy a coffee and get a discounted snack (3-6pm). www.starbucks. com.sg Ain't nobody got time for doubleboiled soup. Oh wait, we do! Indulge in the instant (just reheat) yet nutritious variety from Freshen Food—new in: radish and carrot chicken soup ($5.95, 103 calories). Each pouch packs a broth brewed lovingly from chicken bone, dried scallop and dried octopus, and the product is Health Promotion Board Healthier Choice certified for having less sodium and saturated fat. No MSG or other additives either. Available in FairPrice outlets and Kee Song Online (online. keesong.com).

skinny

salads Shaking up things is Skinny Salads, a new concept by the folks behind Skinny Pizza. Debuting with eight salad combinations and seven grilled wraps by chef Philip Davenport of Toque 12 TV show fame, the eatery tosses together flavours from Thailand, Europe, Japan and further afield. We like the seared tuna & radicchio salad ($13.50) a treat with red onion jam, quail eggs and basil. The fermented cabbage & yuzu ($11.50) packs enoki mushrooms and a spicy citrus kick. Add $3 for confit salmon or tuna. An easy pick would be the egg & bacon wrap ($8.50), but we're eyeing the master stock pork belly ($8.50), which incorporates Vietnamese salad with mint, coriander, nuoc cham and kimchi aioli. Don't forget to reach for their vitamin-rich juices too. Daily 8am8pm. #01-03, 100AM, 100 Tras Street. Tel: 6444 2136 Hop over to Green Rabbit Crepe & Salad Gastrobar—it's great to know someone understands our calorie-counting days, our cheat days, and those days in between (compromise, right?). Nit-pick your salad's contents (from $7.90) or opt for pre-assembled ones (from $8.90) with funky names like Mona Laksa and Tom Yummy. Crepes from $4.90—try the banana chocolate, strawberry shortcake and cheesy mushroom. #B2-06 Orchard Central, 181 Orchard Road

Will swim for seafood

Celebrate SG50 and win yourself a trip to Belgium while you do it. New monthly mussel dishes at BRUSSELs SPROUTS are multi-ethnic mouthfuls: go Nonya in April with an earthy buah keluak infused broth of coconut cream, tamarind, chilli paste, shallots and ginger. Look out for crab broth, Indian fish head curry and Japanese miso in the following months. Get two pots (main-sized and startersized) for $50—and be sure to get a stamp card. brussels Completion nabs you sprouts a chance to win a flight and four-night stay in Brussels, which includes a brewery tour (till 31 Dec). brusselssprouts.com.sg Hello, Boston lobster. This affordable $19.90 crustacean (market price $39.90) will only be available at The Manhattan FISH MARKET till 30 April. First poached to seal in the ocean catch’s sweetness, the lobster is then bathed in flaming sauce, topped with ebiko, and flamed just before serving. www. manhattanfishmarket.com/ singapore.html

#Hashtags & App-enings

@NETS.SG Bargain hunters like us can’t wait for NETS RSVP (Retailer Stored Value Programme) prepaid discount programme. This means you get rebates and redemptions from 20 merchants per FlashPay card with reduced paper waste. There's even an app (Google Play) to track your RSVP balance. Buy the new Toast Box FlashPay card ($12) at TransitLink offices and the first 100,000 will enjoy a free cup of kopi or teh. You might even win a condo in Pasir Ris (till 31 Dec). www.nets.com.sg Download BRAND’s 180 app and use it to scan the QR code when you purchase a BRAND’S 180 Years Royal Pack to score a royal reward. Over $38,000 worth of cash prizes are up for grabs till 30 April. www.brandsworld.com.sg #crabbuffetatpark could net you a weekend staycation when you dine at Brizo Restaurant & Bar for the return of 'Crazier about Crabs'. Just share your mouth-watering photos on Instagram and Facebook with the hashtag. The buffet (till 28 Jun, from $68) features 22 types of crab dishes, 26 kinds of seafood brizo and new a la minute dish restaurant Crab in a Pan. 1 Unity Street. & bar Tel: 6593 8888

w o k

t a l k

Six meals for $11

We scoured the island to figure out if a whole day’s worth of cheap eats under $2 is possible. it is—and you’ll still have change for drinks after. $1.50 for a bowl of bubur ayam, or chicken porridge, to warm our stomachs. It’s a smooth gruel with shredded chicken and fragrant fried shallots. Flavourful but a tad on the salty side.

doo e l d o o d cocka

Timecheck: 7am. Our wallet’s loaded with $2 notes and we head to the Geylang Serai Market & Food Centre before the queues start.

zzz so full... .

We’re still feeling like fowl, so we get a full-sized plate of chicken rice at Jurong East bus interchange—such a bargain at $1.50 that even chain eatery Ananas has to match the price here.

By noon, the sun’s blazing. It’s time to duck into Santhi Vilas Veg Restaurant for plain thosai, with all-you-can-scoop curry and coconut chutney. We paired this with creamy teh tarik for a total of $2. It’s a largely Indian crowd, so blend in and eat with your fingers—there’s a sink on-site.

ho jiak!

Aid digestion by strolling to the next location via the Sunday Thieves’ Market at Sungei Road. Lots of cheap second/third-hand buys to be found. Nothing beats hipster Tiong Bahru for real retro eats. this old timer STALL from the 1960s has kept his supper fave at $2! the simple, wok hei'd portion includes cockles (optional) and slices of fishcake.

p queue u ! please~

Join the laksa line. Watch the uncle expertly handle the charcoal flame. For $2 we picked out eight cockles, tiny but juicy in the delicious gravy, and four slices of fish cake. Order two bowls for maximum satisfaction.

For early dinner, we hunted down roast meat stall Shao Ji Hainan that also serves claypot rice in the evenings (from $10/two pax). Our only gripe? Our meaty $2 char siew rice came without any cucumber.

The bill

The score

1 pax: $11 #1 ➔ Geylang Serai Nasi Ayam Bubur Ayam (#02-131 Geylang Serai Market and Food Centre, 1 Geylang Serai) $1.50 #2 ➔ Chicken rice (Jurong East Bus Interchange, 155 Jurong Gateway Road) $1.50 #3 ➔ Santhi Vilas Veg Restaurant (8 Cuff Road) plain thosai $1, teh tarik $1 #4 ➔ Sungei Road Laksa (#01-100, 27 Jalan Berseh) $2 #5 ➔ Shao Ji Hainan (826 Tampines Street 81) $2 #6 ➔ Tiong Bahru Fried Kway Teow (#02-11 Tiong Bahru Market, 30 Seng Poh Road) $2

➔ Food ➔ Value for money

THE VerdicT ➔ No complaints for cheapand-good plates. You’ll spend more on (public) transport than food for these $2 finds, but it’s still worth it!

Have a favourite hawker hunt? Talk to us at [bites.editorial@magsint.com] *BiTES dined incognito and paid for our own meaL

c o v e r

s t o r y

The Yolk's on you April bodes the springtime celebration of Easter, traditionally a Christian festival. But if you pop into supermarkets this month, you'll find candy eggs (usually chocolate) of all origins and flavours nested in the shelves (see Supermarket Sleuth p22), a delicious symbol of rebirth and fertility. Other Easter egg-tivities include egg painting, egg hunting (look out for the Easter bunny!), and even rolling eggs down a hill. And just 'cause we love these fragile spheres, we bring you fun facts, our very own BiTES Egg Station, plus 10 brunch spots for your fill of #eggporn. By Meredith Woo

Shell (calcium carbonate)

Air cell

• semi-permeable

• grows larger as egg ages

Bloom/Cuticle • thin outermost coating that keeps out bacteria and dust

Chalazae (cord-like yolk "anchor") • holds the yolk in the middle • prominence means freshness

Tiny pores (17,000) • bumpy and grainy texture

Vitelline membrane • yolk casing

Inner membrane + Outer membrane

Yolk • protein, fat, dense in vitamins and minerals, water • also an emulsifier (lecithin)

• defense against bacteria invasions • partly made of keratin • can be used as temporary bandaid!

Germinal spot/Blastodisc

Thick albumen (white) • major source of egg riboflavin and protein

• small, circular, white spot (2-3mm) • chick embryo will form here (if fertilised)

Thin albumen (white) • nearest the shell

To egg you on Brown or white? Don't judge an egg by its shell. Usually indicative of feather colour.

High cholesterol?! Don't be deterred. Studies show it's not linked to an increased risk of heart disease. Daily dose: Egg-laying is an everyday business. The journey from hen ovary to nest takes just 24-26 hours.

Much ado about yolk: You'll only be privy to the fowl's diet: dark yellow = green veg, medium yellow = corn and alfalfa, light-yellow = wheat and barley.

That green ring: Usually accompanied by a chalky, crumbly yolk. Your egg is overcooked.

The white of the matter: Fresh, cloudy whites are best for poaching for that desired "ball" shape.

Uh oh, Salmonella: Counter the risk by storing eggs in the fridge, thoroughly cooking them, having them within two hours, and buy pasteurised eggs if you like ‘em raw.

Power-packed: Each sphere contains 11 vitamins and minerals: A, D, B2, B12, folate, biotin, pantothenic acid, choline, phosphorus, selenium and iodine. Cake chemistry: More yolks = moister/richer; more whites = crispier/fluffier Eggs-tremely useful: Being protein rich, eggs are also great on your hair and face. Water used for boiling eggs is rich in calcium—great for your garden. Do rub a warm egg on a bruise, it will help to dissipate the blood clot. Use leftover whites to clean leather goods for a natural shine.

B i t e s' egg station Egg styles 101 Hard-boiled Put whole egg into pot of boiling water and cover. Peel and consume when boiled and cool enough to touch. 10 minutes

Soft-boiled Similar to previous style, but to boil for a shorter time. Put into a cute egg cup and crack shell with spoon or crack egg and scoop out contents onto platter. Best eaten with kaya toast. 4 minutes

Poached Ready a pot of steadily simmering water with an added teaspoon of vinegar. Create a "whirlpool" and gently tip the cracked egg, white first, into the vortex. 3-5 minutes

Scrambled Crack egg into a bowl, whisk then pour into hot pan and "scramble" with spatula. Milk, butter and cheese optional. 1 minute, or until desired doneness.

Omelette Similar to making scrambles, but whisk egg with seasoning before pouring onto greased/non-stick pan. Let set, add toppings (ham, veg, tomatoes, onions, etc) if desired, flip if needed and fold to serve. 5 minutes

Toad-in-the-hole Oooh, thick toast with a runny egg in the middle. Hollow out bread with a knife, fingers or a cookie cutter. Just pop the egg into the middle and cook on skillet or bake the whole shebang.

Ramen egg A.K.A. ajitsuke tamago or ajitama for short. Characteristic runny yolk and flavoured with soy sauce and mirin. Boiled for an exacting seven minutes and quickly placed in cold water before marination.

Sunny side-up/ Bulls-eye Crack egg onto hot pan (be careful!) and cook till white sets but yolk remains wwrunny. www 3 minutes

Getting eggs-travagant Tamagoyaki Typically needs a rectangular pan. Combine four eggs with soy sauce, mirin, and salt. The omelette's formed through layering and rolling, then usually sliced and served with nigiri sushi.

Devilled Hard-boiled eggs with the yolks taken out, mixed with mayonnaise, mustard, salt and pepper to taste, and then piped/spooned back into the hard whites. Great tapas snack.

Chawanmushi Yum. Savoury egg custard topped with ikura is what weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re dreaming about. Really simple to make with soy sauce, dashi and mirin. Just mix, strain and steam in cups.

Scotch egg Similar to making ramen eggs, but boiled for 3-4 minutes. The cooled and peeled eggs are then wrapped in minced meat, crumbed and fried.

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B i t e s ' to p 10 eggs-ellent dishes in town

There are eggs-aplenty out there, but which are really worth your precious brunch time? After much discussion and eggs- aspiration, the BiTES team lists the dishes with our stamp of approval.

Open Door Policy has revamped their brunch with more fusion focus. Case in point—eggs Benedict with poached chicken on sourdough ($21) in an unexpected shade of green. Enjoy piquant homemade green curry hollandaise sauce, accented with fried shallots, lime, laksa leaves and baby spinach alongside runny organic poached yolks. Brunch hours: Sat-Sun, 11am-3pm. 19 Yong Siak Street. Tel: 6221 9307

A little retro and a whole lotta fun—that’s Erwin’s Gastrobar’s relaxed second outlet, which offers beers, cocktails and Western classics, ranging from English breakfast ($18) to haloumi salad ($14.50). Regulars come for the burgers and rightly so—the juicy beef patty is made from chuck cuts. The Brunch Burger ($19) loaded with sunny side up, bacon, avocado, rocket, chipotle mayo and onion chutney hits the spot for all late-risers (ahem, like us). Brunch hours: Sat-Sun 11am-5pm. #01-21/22/23 Valley Point, 491 River Valley Road. Tel: 6235 1613

Don’t scoff at this student hangout—Late Plate’s breakfast offerings include bacon mac 'n cheese ($11.90) and corned beef hash ($13.90). But oh those eggs Benedict: poached orbs served on crumbly kalamata rosemary scones instead of toast, topped with citron hollandaise and choice of smoked ocean trout or shaved lamb prosciutto. Brunch hours: Mon-Wed 10am-6pm, ThuFri 10am-8pm, Sat 10am-4pm. #01-03 Shaw Foundation Alumni House, 11 Kent Ridge Drive. Tel: 8328 3127

Move aside Benny. We're opting for Eggs & Berries' greener dish—the all-new eggs Florentine ($13.90). In addition to the usual spinach substitution, there's also generous cured salmon and slender spears of asparagus. Also on their refreshed menu: yuzu crab salad and fellow egg dish basil and prosciutto di Parma. Brunch hours: daily 8am-10pm. Various outlets including #02-06 Westgate, 3 Gateway Drive. www.fb.com/eggsnberries

It was love at first bite. Good honest American Southern-style brunch at The Beast comprises finger-lickin’ combos like chicken & waffles ($20) and mac & cheese burger ($22). But what draws us back again and again is the luscious pulled pork hash ($18), which is 10-hour slow cooked shreds of pork on baby potatoes and BBQ sauce with quivering poached eggs. Perfect hangover food when coffee and cakes just don’t cut it. Brunch hours: Sun 10am-5pm. 17 Jalan Klapa. Tel: 6295 0017

Scrambled eggs go great with pork sausage, syrup and Selfish Gene Cafe's crisp, moist and fluffy waffles. The secret lies in the homemade yoghurt, so you're getting your dose of healthy cultures while indulging in this protein-packed Waffle Brekkie ($18). They've recently expanded upwards with a patisserie for plated desserts like Soya (tofu cheesecake, red bean, mochi, red miso and green tea ice-cream). Brunch hours: Sat-Sun 10am-4pm. 40 Craig Road. Tel: 6423 1324

Aptly named Casa Verde, which means ‘green house’ in Italian, this glasshouse nestled in lush greenery serves up a wide variety ranging from pastas (from $12) to burgers (from $15.50). But we find that their wood-fired oven pizzas (from $21) are the ones to come back for. The Pizza Rustica is topped with smoked streaky bacon, asparagus and (still runny) sunny side up egg, which elevates it to the next level of deliciousness. Brunch hours: Mon-Thu 11am-9.30pm, Fri-Sat 11am-10pm. Singapore Botanic Gardens, 1 Cluny Road. Tel: 6467 7326

Apart from Suprette's brunch items like The Besar Breakfast ($21) and Western omelette ($12), the shakshuka ($19)—a generous portion of eggs poached in spicy tomato sauce—is our fave dish to share. It comes with cubes of melting feta cheese (to add sharpness between bites), lamb sausages and crusty bread—great for soaking up the remaining sauces. Brunch hours: MonFri 7.30am-3pm, Sat-Sun 7.30am-4pm. Lobby Kam Leng Hotel, 383 Jalan Besar. Tel: 6298 8962

Paddy Hills is not just another pretty face. This stylish Melbourne-vibe café by day and tapas bar by night corner shophouse is tastefully decked out in natural textures. We found a breakfast option that made us happy vegetarians: the bruschetta ($14) with tangy, lip-smacking beetroot cream cheese mousse, roma tomatoes, avocado and oh-so-fluffy poached eggs. Brunch hours: daily 9.30am-5pm. 38 South Buona Vista Road. Tel: 6479 0800

Wild Honey has an undisputed reputation for being the all-day brunch spot. Offering both sweet and savoury, their loaded dishes include Carribean breakfast ($18) with coconut waffles. But we always crave the Norwegian ($26) breakfast—smoked salmon wrapped around two perfectly poached eggs on whole-wheat brioche, with avocado and grilled asparagus; salty pops of ikura complete the experience. Brunch hours: Sun-Thu 9am-9pm, Fri-Sat 9am-10pm. Outlets at Mandarin Gallery and Scotts Square. Tel: 6235 3900/6636 1816

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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. This month, we hunt down Easter buffets for all budgets, and suss out 10 semi-buffets with eat-all-youcan sides. We hit up five Italian outfits under (almost) $50, and find out how Johor Kaki blogs about his Causeway adventures. 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)

buffet spreads and feast on dishes such as the Crowne Roasted Baby Lamb and oven roasted snow fish with fresh thyme and capers. Kids will be in for a treat with bar ’75 transforming into a kiddie wonderland on the day itself, complete with a balloon sculptor, animated movies and an Easter egg hunt. Children aged 5 and below dine for free.

Certified halal Does not serve pork or lard Kid-friendly facilities Veg-friendly

21 on rajah

Café Mosaic [ ] 76 Bras Basah Road, Carlton Hotel. Tel: 6311 8195 From 4 to 5 April, those with a sweet tooth will enjoy the line-up of Easter-themed desserts at Café Mosaic’s high tea buffet ($65++ adult, $33++ child aged 5-12, 12-4pm), which includes hot cross buns, bunny chocolate tartlets, assorted chocolate eggs and pumpkin pudding. A variety of seafood on ice, main dishes and a live station can be expected as well. Children can be entertained by the storyteller and balloonist on site and take part in the egg painting competition and win prizes for the entire family.

easter brunches

[$] 21 on Rajah [ ][ ] Days Hotel Singapore at Zhongshan Park, 1 Jalan Rajah. Tel: 6808 6847 Nothing says Easter like the 21 egg dishes—such as the eggs Benedict and spinach frittata—at the egg-themed brunch buffet (12-3pm; $42++ adult, $21++ child aged 4-12) and the a la minute eggs station which serves up eight varieties. Also, expect a fresh crustacean bar and a ‘Uniquely Singapore’ pasta station with locally-inspired sauces. Kids can look forward to activities at the Kids’ Corner like face painting, balloon sculpting and an eggpainting competition, where prizes can be won.

[$$] Azur Restaurant [ ][ ] Level 2 Crowne Plaza, 75 Airport Boulevard. Tel: 6823 5354 If you’re heading east, why not drop by for an Easter brunch ($68++ adult, $34++ child aged 6-11; 12.303.30pm) at Crowne Plaza? Dine on the Asian and Western

Café Mosaic

stellar at 1-altitude

Brizo Restaurant & Bar Park Hotel Clarke Quay, 1 Unity Street. Tel: 6593 8829 Enjoy a barbeque and seafood feast with your family at this spread ($70++ adult, $40++ child aged 6-12; 123pm), with robust flavours of the German pork knuckles and oven slow roasted leg of lamb at the chef’s carving station. The seafood offerings will also include goodies like Chilean scallop and fresh oysters, and their signature chilli crab. Kids won’t be left out of the fun with the children’s buffet and a special programme line-up, which include fun contests and Mr Bottle’s Magic Show, at Brizo.

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Indulge at Park Grand Park City Hall, 10 Coleman Street. Tel: 6432 5888 Tuck into classic Easter dishes at Park ($68++ adult, $34++ child aged 5-12, 12-3pm) with savoury options like the pistachio-encrusted rack of lamb—a recognised symbol of Easter, and the chilli-brined fresh ham on carving—known to bring good luck. Enjoy sweet treats of the holiday like the perennial hot cross buns and basil seed cupcakes. Families can gear up for an Easter egg painting competition on giant balloons and even participate in the Easter egg hunt together.

window on the park restaurant

Catalunya 82 Collyer Quay. Tel: 6534 0886 If you’re planning your Easter-themed brunch a day ahead, say hola to Catalunya’s lavish spread ($98++ adult, $40 child aged 4-9, 12:30-4:30pm) from 3 to 5 April, which will include more than 40 Spanish dishes and their signatures, such as the jamon Iberico, suckling pig and seafood paella. The little ones can take part in their Garden Hunt where they can win prizes as well. catalunya

indulge at park

Starz Restaurant [ ] 26 Sentosa Gateway, Resorts World Sentosa. Tel: 6577 8899 Kids will definitely love the egg-citing Easter party prepared for them, with activities like face painting, egg hunting a movie screening. While the kids are having fun, adults can dig into the extensive buffet spread ($68++ adult, $28++ child aged 4-12; 12-4pm) which features a selection of special Easter dishes, international cheeses, seafood, a range of Asian and Western mains, and also a carving station. End on a sweet note with traditional desserts like the Easter almond rice tart. Stellar at 1-Altitude Level 62, 1-Altitude, 1 Raffles Place. Tel: 6438 0410 Enjoy treats for both the eye and tummy from level 62 of 1-Altitude at Stellar while dining on the Easter spread (11am-3pm; $85++ adult, $45++ children aged 6-12) of seafood, egg pastas, brunch favourites and a foie gras station. Meat lovers shouldn’t miss out on the carving station featuring slow-roasted Angus beef, Moroccan spiced leg of lamb and crispy pork belly. Kids can also take part in interactive activities at the various workshops as well. Children aged 5 and below dine free.

Window on the Park Restaurant Holiday Inn Singapore Orchard City Centre, 11 Cavenagh Road. Tel: 6733 8333 In their three-day Easter buffet special (12-2.30pm, from $51 per person, $35.70 per child; 6.30-10pm, $64 per person, $44.80 per child) from 3 April, the restaurant will bring in chefs from overseas for new signature dishes such as their grilled tumeric fish with Kemangi leaf and U.S. Angus beef. Kids can take part in the Easter egg and face painting activities and even pose for a few photos at the photobooth.

[$$$] 10 at Claymore Lobby at Pan Pacific Orchard, Claymore Road. Tel: 6831 6686 Chow down on this buffet spread (5 Apr; from $98++ adult, $49++ child aged 5-12), which includes a selection of succulent chilled seafood, sashimi and freshly shucked oysters, if you’re up for some seafood lovin’. Their roast Australian wagyu and bone-in honey glazed gammon ham take centrestage at the carving station. Their interpretation of Asian flavours in Asian Gourmet Plates of Pleasure will also be prepared à la minute and served in petite portions. Kids will be entertained with a dedicated area for movies and craftwork. Top-up $35++ for free-flow wine and beer. HSBC CARDHOLDERS ENJOY: ◆ 1 dines free with every 3 other full paying adults for buffet lunch (Mon-Sat) and buffet dinner (Mon-Sun), and Sunday brunch

Clifford The Fullerton Bay Hotel, 80 Collyer Quay. Tel: 6597 5288 Take in the stunning waterfront view at the Easter semibuffet ($128++ adult, $64++ child aged 6-11; 12:303:30pm) as you dine on seafood such as the Boston lobster, freshly-carved roasts, and with a pick from wide array of enticing main dishes—which includes the braised red wine lamb shank and black truffle chicken with mushroom rice. Fork out another $40++ for free flow of champagne and Virgin Mary drinks. HSBC CARDHOLDERS ENJOY: ◆ 15% off a la carte dinner bill and Saturday brunch 10 at claymore

Pan Pacific Orchard Singapore - Lobby Lounge For HSBC Credit Cards

every 3 other full paying adults 1 DINES FREE with for Gourmet High Tea Offer is valid till 30 June 2015. Visit www.hsbc.com.sg/dining for more dining privileges.

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Blogger Hot Seat

We catch up with Tony Boey of joHoR kAki over the semi-buffet at Bistro 1855. The jovial true-blue Singaporean retiree (former Singapore Air Force) has discovered his calling as a not-so-secret food anthropologist.

BLOGGING SINCE: Dec 2011. Often day-tripping in Johor (“I got time, energy, but not much money.”), he would search for places to eat but there was hardly any info online. Started the blog to “put every good Johor hawker on the world wide web”. WHAT’S IN A NAME? Kaki means ‘friend’, and the blog aims to help those who can’t find information on our neighbour. Initially wanted to include tips on where to wash one’s car, find a good haircut or a decent massage, but focused on food. SECRETLY A: Food anthropologist. Tony is on a quest to seek out artisanal hawkers who do things from scratch, as they did 50 years ago, and their stories. He also wants to give them validation, because “when I talk to them and

they realise what I’m trying to do, they’re very happy.” LABOUR OF LOVE: Driving into Johor thrice a week is intense. Tony spends about hours commuting and waiting in traffic; and about three hours at each location (“I try to speak to the boss as far as possible; thus I’ve to wait till he knocks off”). Back home, it’s another 5-6 hours crafting each post, editing photos and inserting links. “There is no money involved and I pay my own way, but it is very meaningful. And I don’t need to be a wealthy man, I am just an ordinary man.” FOOD FOR THOUGHT: “Hawkers need to face commercial realities such as manpower, rental etc. Thus home cooking is where our food heritage will be saved. What we do at home, we do out of love. As bloggers, what role can we play and what can we do about this instead of complaining about hawkers not doing things the right way?” ULTIMATE COMFORT FOOD: Wanton mee: Fei Fei Roasted Noodle from Yuhua Village (Jurong East Street 24). DON’T OFFER HIM: Food made without care or love (“some places, the staff look like they hate themselves”). Seal meat and water beetles—“to me bad things always smell like cockroach!” He tried the former as an undergrad in Canada (a fibrous paw for $5) and the latter while in Guangzhou (“the thorax is like a peanut but the belly has that chemical stench with a texture of warm butter”).

Dolce Vita Mandarin Oriental, 5 Raffles Avenue. Tel: 6885 3500 Mark the calendar for 4-5 April, where you can pick from a range of authentic Italian fare at Dolce Vita ($128++ per person, 12-3pm). Indulge in Italian cold cuts, Tasmanian rock oysters, and main courses such as squid ink risotto and braised veal cheek. End off with sweet treats like their Easter Farmhouse Macaroons and limoncello curd.

lime restaurant

THE BUFFET: Bistro 1855 at #01-643 Suntec City Tower 4, 3 Temasek Boulevard ($12.90++ for salad

buffet, add $6++ for main; Mon-Thu 11am-12am, Fri 11am-1am, Sat 11am-12am) TIME OF VISIT: 11 March, 2.30pm THE VIBE: “I like this place, it’s accessible, easy to find, spacious and welcoming. It’s got a big bar and quite a good selection of drinks. The no-frills decor makes me feel comfortable. The music’s easy listening and the live band (Wed-Fri nights) seems to take requests. Good for big gatherings but not for a ‘food hunting’ day.” ON SALAD: Loves veggies but won’t specifically go to get a salad, especially if it involves self-assembly. A salad is an appetiser, not a main. STRATEGY: “Just take what I like to eat then see if it meets my expectations.” Veggies partly for colour, some nuts. “Splash it with olive oil and a bit of balsamic vinegar. Looks very messy but that’s me.” As a fish person, fish and chips is his main: the dory is juicy, buttery and tender but not mushy, and the batter is not too thick. NOT ON HIS MIND: The creamy salad dressing. GOOD PICK: Bangers and mash. Not greasy nor fatty, and no rubbery skin. Not too salty or overlyseasoned and not much gristle. SHOULDN’T HAVE ORDERED: The breaded pork loin: thin, dry and fibrous. MOST MEMORABLE: The chef. “I feel that I should return and try more of the stuff on his menu ‘cause he looks like an experienced old hand.” HOW MANY BiTES? Taste: 3.5/5 Value for money: 3.5/5 Service: 3.5/5

There will also be a carving station featuring U.S. prime rib and open kitchens where chefs will be serving up rosti potato with Balik smoked salmon and trout caviar. Participate in their Easter egg hunt within the restaurant and stand a chance to win prizes such as vouchers and a staycation. Top up $20++ for free flow of housepour red and white wine. Oasis Restaurant Level 5, Grand Hyatt Singapore, 10 Scotts Road. Tel: 6732 1234 Retreat from the hustle and bustle to Oasis and dine amidst lush greenery at their Easter BBQ brunch ($98++ adult, $58++ child aged 5-12, 11:30am-3pm). Expect hearty dishes such as Cajun spiced sustainable market fish and beef iron steak. Enjoy these with a selection of free flow premium beverages. Kids can spend the

Lime Restaurant PARKROYAL on Pickering, 3 Upper Pickering Street. Tel: 6809 8899 Savour premium egg dishes such as the homemade scotch eggs with black truffle hollandaise and egg cocotte with lobster bolognese at this delightful Sunday brunch (12-3pm; $108++ adult, $54++ child aged 6-12).

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every week, so you can always expect something different. #02-06 One Fullerton, 1 Fullerton Road. Tel: 6690 7564 HSBC CARDHOLDERS ENJOY: ◆ 20% off a la carte bill

Italian BUFFETS

under $50* NETT

Italian food at affordable prices are hard to come by, much less Italian buffets. Never fear, here are our great finds to fit your cravings! *Includes two quality picks at $52 and $58!

pete’s place

Pontini A weekend lunch doesn’t get better than this new Italian lunch buffet spread ($48++, Sat & PH 12-3pm) with a wide variety of antipasti, soups, main courses, Italian specialties–such as the oven-baked Norwegian salmon mignon in pistachio crust–and desserts. Pasta lovers should also look for favourites being whipped up à la minute at the live station. Level 2 Grand Copthorne Waterfront Hotel, 392 Havelock Road. Tel: 6233 1100 alkaff mansion ristorante

Capricci Those working at the CBD area can rejoice— for a hearty meal, Capricci offers a weekday lunchtime buffet option ($15 nett, Mon-Fri 11:30am-2pm). We love the selection of soups, salads, pastas and pizzas from this authentic Italian restaurant. 27 Tanjong Pagar Road. Tel: 6221 6761

historical Alkaff mansion boast live stations, a selection of pastries and also a dessert bar. Make a beeline for their chocolate fountain and crepe suzette flambé. 10 Telok Blangah Green. Tel: 6510 3068

Pete’s Place

Forlino

Alkaff Mansion Ristorante

For a classy all-you-can-eat affair, dress up and head down to Forlino’s for a weekend brunch ($44++, Sat-Sun 12-2:30pm) with their range of soups, salads and mains. The menu changes

Retreat to Alkaff Mansion for a relaxing yet indulgent Saturday tea buffet ($40++, Sat 11.30am-3pm), complete with teas from Gryphon Tea Company and a soothing live band in the background. The spread at the

Enjoy a free flow of soups, salads and desserts for $28++ at this 42-year-old institution’s buffet lunch (Mon-Sat 12-2:30pm). However, if you’d like to opt for a heartier lunch, top up $7++ to eat your fill of pastas and mains as well. Round off your satisfying meal with a round of coffee or tea. Grand Hyatt Singapore Hotel, 10 Scotts Road. Tel: 6732 1234

afternoon taking part in craft-work, face painting and an Easter egg hunt. Prego Level 1 Fairmont Singapore, Swissotel The Stamford. Tel: 6431 6156 Spoil yourself with this Easter brunch ($88++ adult, $44++ child aged 6-12, 12:30-3pm), which comes complete with a roving balloon sculptor, live duo band and bunny mascot. Top up $20++ for free flow of house wines, Easter cocktails and beers. Children aged five and below dine for free.

oasis restaurant

The White Rabbit 39C Harding Road. Tel: 9721 0536 Partner-chef of The White Rabbit, Benjamin Tan, will be

prego

One Farrer Hotel & Spa - Escape Restaurant & Lounge Exclusively for HSBC credit and debit cardholders:

15% OFF The Best of Thai Promotion Offer is valid till 16 April 2015. For reservations, call 6705 7828. For more dining privileges visit, www.hsbc.com.sg/dining

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wagyu sliders, a foie gras station and even an Easter waffles eggs station, where farmhouse eggs are cooked in a waffle machine and served with premium garnishes. Kids can go egg hunting amidst greenery and egg painting at the playroom.

preparing an indulgent brunch buffet spread ($108++ adult; $58++ child aged 6-12; two-hour sessions between 10am-3pm–call to enquire) which includes hearty offerings of roasted leg of lamb, braised beef cheeks, roasted Spanish pork rack and desserts like the lemon pound cake and palm and coconut madelines. UNA 1 Rochester Park. Tel: 6773 0070 Tuck into classic Spanish Easter treats at UNA’s brunch buffet (11am-3pm; $88++ adult, $48++ child aged 6-12) such as the hornaza (bread stuffed with sausage, bacon and eggs), torrijas (Spanish version of French toast served during Easter) and arroz con leche (rice with milk pudding). Don’t forget to leave some stomach space for their signature paella and Easter lamb roast. Kids can also take part in a forest-themed Easter hunt where they can win special treats and prizes.

edge MELT ~ The World Café

Mezza9 Mezzanine Level, Grand Hyatt Singapore, 10 Scotts Road. Tel: 6416 7188 Gather your friends for a meaty brunch affair ($178++ adult, $79++ child aged 7-12), with selections such as a whole spit-roasted Welsh lamb, slow-roasted Kurobuta pork leg and sustainable seafood on ice. Pair your choices with the free-flow champagne for a luxurious meal. Kids will love the extended buffet and activities prepared especially for them—fresh popcorn, candy floss, magic acts, face painting and an Easter egg hunt!

[$$$$]

Alkaff Mansion Ristorante [ ] 10 Telok Blangah Green. Tel: 6510 3068 This indulgent Italian brunch buffet ($138++ adult, $58++ child aged 5-12, 11.30am-3pm) is sure to thrill both children and adults alike. Kids can play in the bouncy castle, take part in the Easter egg hunt or be a junior pastry chef while the adults head to the Easter live stations, featuring a roasted whole suckling pig and foie gras, and drink their fill of Prosecco and wines. una

Edge [ ] Level 3 Pan Pacific Singapore, 7 Raffles Boulevard. Tel: 6826 8240 Savour your food slowly at the four-hour Easter buffet ($198++ adult, $69++ child aged 7-12, 12-4pm), which will feature their brunch signatures such as the roast leg of lamb. Their stand-out dessert offerings include the black glutinous cheesecake and 30 varieties of Easter eggs including the sea salt caramel, yuzu and sesame. Kids can look forward to an Easter egg hunt at Keyaki’s Zen Garden and face painting sessions. Equinox Restaurant Level 69 Swissotel The Stamford, 2 Stamford Road. Tel: 6837 3322 Immerse yourself in culinary delights at this lavish Easter brunch ($168++ adult, $86 child aged 6-12, 11am2.30pm) featuring fresh seafood and hearty roasts. Also, enjoy live entertainment and activities such as the magic show and balloon sculpting. MELT ~ The World Café [ ] Mandarin Oriental, 5 Raffles Avenue. Tel: 6885 3500 Spend the Easter afternoon luxuriously with brunch at MELT ($158++, 12-3pm). The international spread features a gnocchi and ravioli station, premium festive roasts, a BBQ extravaganza serving up suckling pig and

mezza9

The Kitchen Table W Hotel, 21 Ocean Way. Tel: 6808 7268 Treat the entire family to a lavish buffet fare ($188++ adult, $78++ child aged 6-12; 12.30-2.30pm & 3-5pm) at The Kitchen Table with decadent foodie options ranging from their Seafood Fridge, carving and grill station and live cooking stations to whet your appetites. There will be a bouncy castle and a line-up of activities to entertain the kids. All guests will also enjoy complimentary access to the WET pool from 3-7pm. The Knolls The Grand Ballroom Capella, 1 The Knolls, Sentosa Island. Tel: 6591 5046 Be spoilt by the epicurean Mediterranean brunch (12.30-3pm; $188++ adult, $118++ child aged 7-12) at the grand ballroom as you dig into their world-class selection of fresh salads, succulent seafood and gourmet meats. Family will have a blast participating in the Easter hunt in Capella’s lawn together, where the top prize is a one-night stay in a one-bedroom garden villa.

Sofitel So Singapore - Xperience Restaurant & Bar For HSBC credit and debit cardholders:

10% OFF total bill

Valid till 31 December 2015. Offer is also for Easter Sunday Menu. Please call 6701 6800. Visit www.hsbc.com.sg/dining for more dining privileges.

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Top 10 Semi Buffets Love your variety but just can’t give up on that succulent main course? Have both!

Burger VS Wings + Bar Sides to go alongside that giant burger or plate of wings is exactly what this buffet (daily 11.30am-3pm & 5.3010pm) is about. Just top up $4.90++ (lunch)/$7.90++ (dinner) to enjoy free flow salads and desserts with every main course such as Tyson peanut butter burger ($21.90++) or Buffalo wings ($15.80++). #11-03/04 Orchard Central, 181 Orchard Road. Tel: 6634 0423

Astons Steak & Salad Ponderosa fans who lament the loss of this institution, here’s something just as good: Astons offers up to 80 items in its semi buffet ($19.90++, daily 11.30am10pm). Side dishes such as baked potatoes or fries, greens and soups accompany the chargrilled mains: different cut of steaks (from $31.90++) and Wagyu burgers ($13.90++). #03-45/46/47 The Centrepoint, 176 Orchard Road. Tel: 6235 0556

Brizo Restaurant & Bar

As far as their mains are concerned, roast is the way to go. Try their signature rotisserie chicken (from $19.90++), honey bourbon ribs ($23.90++), and beer battered fish & chips ($23.90++). All mains are served with a salad buffet ($16.90++, Mon-Fri 11.30am-5pm) that includes hot side dishes, homemade soups and desserts. #0415/17 City Square Mall, 180 Kitchener Road. Tel: 6509 5751

Makan @ Jen

Bistro 1855 A bistro with $8++ tapas housing a bottle shop with over 500 labels in their wine cellar, and a $7++ happy hour all day long is not enough to get you excited? Then indulge in their salad buffet ($12.90++, daily 11am-3pm) featuring an ice cream dispenser and soup of the day, with the choice to top up $6 for a main course. #01-643 Suntec City, Tower 4. Tel: 6836 5994

Javier Rotisserie & Salad Bar

Earle Swensen’s

Earle Swensen’s [

Have lunch with a view, in the heart of the city away from the crowds, at this semi buffet ($19.90++, Mon-Fri 12-2.30pm). Choose from main courses that will only be revealed on the day itself to accompany the salad and dessert spread available. Six flavours of ice cream, cakes and tarts are available along with their signature ice tea. Hotel Jen Orchardgateway Singapore, 277 Orchard Road. Tel: 6708 8899 Seasonal Salad Bar

]

With a range of compound salads, crisp greens and fresh fruits in addition to pastas and chips with Earle’s exclusive salad dressing, this salad buffet bar ($13.90++, daily 10.30am-10.30pm) is good enough to be eaten on its own. The salad buffet comes free with any main ordered. #02-117 VivoCity, 1 Harbourfront Walk. Tel: 6272 3306

Hanare Japanese Café Their famed bara chiraishi set ($17.60++) comes with unlimited servings of four side dishes and miso soup to accompany the sashimi on rice. The Hanare buffet set ($19.90++, Mon-Sat 12-2.30pm & 6.30-10pm) on the other hand consists of a main course and more than 20 free flow side dishes. Check Facebook daily for the main course of the day. 99B Tanjong Pagar Road. Tel: 6222 1976

Brizo Restaurant & Bar

Hifumi

Seasonal Salad Bar [

Have your choice of both Western and local delights for your main course, with Angus ribeye and prawn mapo tofu on the menu for April. Follow it up with the semi buffet ($40++, Mon-Wed 6.30-10.30pm) that offers freshly shucked oysters, and varieties of smoked bratwurst and veal sausages. Finish it all off with their signature Brizo durian pengat. Level 1 Park Hotel Clarke Quay, 1 Unity Street. Tel: 6593 8855

Appetisers are a big deal at this semi buffet (from $12++, Mon-Fri 11.30am-2.30pm & 5-10pm; Sat-Sun 11.30am-10pm), as they change every month and even reflect the seasons. All main courses, such as the fried chicken leg black ($15.99++), include the appetiser buffet that may feature items such as chasoba or white fish nambanzuke. #04-68 Plaza Singapura, 68 Orchard Road. Tel: 6338 4712

Be spoilt for choice with over 60 items at the salad bar buffet (daily $17.90++, 11am-2.30pm; $20.90++, 2.309.30pm). Choose from hot soups and pastas with sides such as potato wedges, not forgetting the essential greens to pair with your mains like the Asian hibachi sirloin steak ($31.90++). All mains include the salad bar. #04-18/20 One@KentRidge, 1 Lower Kent Ridge Road. Tel: 6734 2652

10% OFF

]

total bill with minimum spend of $50

Offer is valid till 31 December 2015. Offer is not valid on Saturday and Sundays. Visit www.hsbc.com.sg/dining for more dining privileges

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East side story One of Singapore’s well-loved spaces, East Coast Park, has been sporting little pockets of new. An ideal destination for cycling, skating and water sports, the family-friendly park will soon feature more greenery and places for playtime with Parkland Green and Marine Cove (to be rolled out mid-2016), and, of course, more foodie finds. BiTES mall-crawls through Parkway Parade and strolls down East Coast Park for these sunny discoveries.

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By Julia Kwan, Photography Benjamin Soh

PARKWAY PARADE

(80 Marine Parade Road) Overview This suburban mall has served families and the office crowd well for over two decades. It houses a comprehensive range of shops and F&B outlets alongside Isetan, Marks & Spencer, Best Denki and Giant.

THAIEXPRESS (#01-17) The menu hits the spot with their offerings served conveniently in individual portions. Check out their special dishes (available till 19 April), like their pla muk khi khem—the Thai take on our fave salted egg calamari—in celebration of Songkran. Prices start from $10.30 for mains. Daily 11.30am-10.30pm. Tel: 6346 4178

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TOBY’S THE DESSERT ASYLUM (#02-68/69/70) Hidden gem alert: come for its extensive range of main courses (from $13.90), but we suggest starting with dessert first. Have a decadent mud pie (from $10.90) for lunch. We won’t judge. d oa er Mon-Fri 11am-10pm, ad ar p Sat-Sun 9am-10pm. ne ri ma Tel: 6346 2435

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PAPPARICH (#01-17A) Step into this cosy Malaysian chain for hearty and authentic Malaysian delights. Tuck into familiar favourites such as chicken rice ($10.90) and curry laksa ($9.90). Daily 10am-10pm. Tel: 6344 6323

SAKAE SUSHI (#B1-84B/C) Feast with no limit on the homegrown brand’s little rice rolls. Prices start from $28.99 (adult) and $18.99 (child) for their sushi buffet. Mon-Fri 11.30am-10pm, Sat-Sun 11am-10pm. Tel: 6348 6218

DIN TAI FUNG (#01-15) Peek through the glass windows as the chefs expertly craft their signature 18-folds xiao long baos ($7.30 for six pieces) in their open-concept kitchen. The Taiwanese chain has also earned a mention in the Michelin guide. Daily 11am-9.30pm. Tel: 6345 7077

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BIG SPLASH

(902 East Coast Parkway) Overview Many will remember Big Splash as the huge playground with tall water slides and swimming pools. Now it has made way for a lifestyle hub which counts a childcare centre, yoga studio and numerous F&B establishments as its tenants. We love the free parking (30min) and the shuttle bus service which traverses Parkway Parade, I12 Katong and One Amber (daily 8.30am-11pm). www.bigsplash.com

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FISH@BIG SPLASH (Block H #01-30) This 24-hour fishing and prawning ($18/hr) pond is possibly the most bustling area at Big Splash—even on lazy weekday afternoons. If you haven’t experienced longkang fishing, do so here ($12/hr). At the fish spa ($10/15min), dip your feet in for a tickle and smooth skin after. Tel: 8338 6530

THE SEAFOOD INTERNATIONAL (Block A #01-01) Enjoy the catch of the day with the gorgeous view of the beach at this 32-year-old seafood dining destination. For your viewing pleasure too is the open-concept kitchen, and pair your sea gems with their wines (from $44). Daily 11am2.30pm, 5pm-12am. Tel: 6345 1211 MOOKATA HOUSE (Block B #01-11) If you’re up for a hearty, meaty dinner, settle in at Mookata House for Thai BBQ and steamboat. Enjoy premium cuts such as kurobuta and wagyu slathered in their traditional Thai homemade sauces. Set prices start from $39.90 (two pax). Tue-Sun 5.30-11pm. Tel: 6348 1275 BRUSSELs SPROUTS (Block F #01-27) Have your hearty mussels and clams ($20 onwards) fix in one of 12 fabulous styles—our vote’s for the laksa and tom yum flavours. All pots come with all-you-can-eat frites. On weekend mornings, stop by for brunch from 10am-12pm. Tue-Fri 5-11pm, Sat 12-11pm, Sun 10am-11pm. Tel: 6346 4344

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Dos & Don’ts at ECP thaiexpress

Do:

Stay in your lanes!

There are designated lanes for cyclists, skaters and joggers; be considerate for the safety of other park-goers.

Show our parks some lovin’

Dispose of your litter, keep the park facilities in great condition and refrain from smoking and spitting to keep ECP pollution-free.

Pet etiquette

We love bringing our pets to ECP for their walks, but remember to keep your furry friends on a

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leash and keep them on their best behaviour. Don’t forget clean up after them as well—no one likes to step on poo!

Don’ts

Don’t swim alone

It’s always great to have a companion to look out for you. Also, double the splashing fun!

Don’t pluck out the plants

Some of them look so pretty that you’ll be tempted to.

Don’t approach any wildlife or animals If you feed them, you may adversely affect their health and behaviour.

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PARKLAND GREEN

(920 East Coast Parkway) Overview This newly revamped area looks set to be the next hip place to see and to be seen at. A five-minute walk from Marine Parade Central via the underpass, Parkland Green features an eclectic mix of F&B establishments and a one-hectare open lawn where you can picnic and play at. PICK ME UP CAFÉ (#01-02) This cheery cafe aims to do what their namesake claims: to give you a “pick-me-up”. Dine in with their extensive offerings which include all day breakfast, cold pressed juices, and homemade yogurt gelato ($4.50/scoop). Their beer with ciambella gelato was one of the 16 flavours vying for the World's Best Gelato title! Mon-Thu 3-11pm, Fri 3pm-12am, Sat-Sun 9-12am. Tel: 6348 1909 SANDBANK (#01-28/29/30/31/32) Hop into their dipping pool with an ice-cold beer (from $12 nett)

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and bar snacks (from $6 nett) for some chill summer vibes. After working up an appetite, feast on their handmade pizzas, char-grilled meats and seafood—we hear they have an in-house bakery as well. Tue-Fri 4pm-12am, Sat-Sun 1112am. Tel: 6247 7988 HVPER (#01-14/15/16) Established in 1999, Hvper stocks a range of sporting goods that you can use right away at the park; and if you need skating lessons from the pros, pop in here too. Lessons start from $60 onwards (Tel: 8444 6638). We also spotted mini skateboards going for $39. Mon-Fri 12-8pm, Sat-Sun 11am9pm. Tel: 6342 0280 TAG TEAM (#01-03) Looking for a great family activity away from the scorching sun? Bring your troop down to Singapore's largest indoor laser tag arena to battle it out. Rates start from $12 per person (15 mins) onwards. Wed-Fri 3-9pm, Sat-Sun 11am9pm. Tel: 6348 2696

How to get a camping permit at East Coast Park

It’s easy peasy to get ready for an outdoorsy weekend! But note: no barbecuing and open fires. Leave the campsite as it was: clear of rubbish! 1) Head over to an AXS machine 2) Key in the particulars of all occupants 3) Print out the camping permit 4) Set up your tent within the designated campsite. 21

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EGGSidentally in love We went on an Easter hunt of our own, egged on by our love of little orbs of chocolate. Here’s a basket of five great picks to celebrate the season with. By Julia Kwan, Photography by Desmond Lim and Benjamin Soh

The Hatch: Nestlé Smarties Mini Eggs ($5.90) Taste Test: Comes in a variety of colours like your regular Smarties—just double the size. The chocolate isn’t very rich, but the candy shell is too sweet for our liking. Though not particularly delicious, we find ourselves reaching out for more of these pop-in-yourmouth candy chocs. We also like that these need no refrigeration. Verdict:

Great for kids and your Easter candy bowl . From Cold Storage

The Hatch: Lindt Poussin ($14.95 for 6) Taste Test: The white chocolate filling in the velvety milk chocolate shell was rich and smooth, but too sweet to finish in a sitting. Prettily presented with patterns on the shell, but its hefty price tag doesn’t quite justify the quality. Verdict:

Best savoured with a cuppa tea to complement the sweetness of the chocolate. From Market Place by Jasons at Raffles City

The Hatch: Cadbury Dairy Milk Egg ‘n’ Spoon ($8.95 for 4) Taste Test: Bite off the top of the egg, and there it is—the chocolate mousse! Use the provided matching spoon to scoop it up. The mousse, though light and interesting, was just a fluffed version of the Cadbury chocolate. It’s a struggle to finish the entire thing because of sugar overload and its size. Verdict:

The concept is more appealing than the taste of it. From Cold Storage

Bites Feb (1).pdf 1 23/1/2015 1:50:36 AM

CMY

EGGSperiment Like fried Mars Bars and ice cream, deep-fried chocolate eggs sound immediately appealing. We put the recipe to the test, and give it our official B i T E S seal of approval.

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Tee Yih Jia spring roll wrappers (with egg)

($1.70)

Fairprice canola oil

($3.65)

Chocolate eggs from our Easter haul

• Wrap chocolate egg tightly with spring roll wrapper twice for extra crisp! Dab water to seal edges. • Heat oil in pan. Once oil starts to smoke, fry each for 30 secs or less, depending on size and 'doneness' of egg. • Take them out and drain the oil on paper towels. The Hatch: Jacquot Funny Egg Amus’ Oeuf ($8.95 for 6 eggs) Taste Test: We like the idea of the chocolate buttons encased in the hollow milk chocolate shell—almost like a maraca when shaken. 3-in-1 fun! The thin chocolate shell breaks apart easily and was not too overly sweet. Be careful when you open it to prevent spilling the chocolate buttons. Verdict:

Perfect Easter party favours for kids. From Jasons The Gourmet Grocer at ION Orchard

The Hatch: Ferrero Hazelnut Eggs ($6.95 for 10) Taste Test: The milk chocolate wafer lends a light crunch to the rich and creamy hazelnut filling, which we found a tad too sweet. The egg-shaped version is reminiscent of its more famous sister but sans all the nuts, so fans of the original may be disappointed. Despite that, we were surprised by how much we like it. Verdict:

Comes in a great snack size and at a great price. From Cold Storage

Verdict SIN ALERT! The eggs with fillings all had a lovely molten centre. Though delicious, they were a mess to eat. Using the Jacquot, the chocolate buttons sank into the lightly melted chocolate shell which resembled little baby eggs inside another egg. Our pick for frying: The Ferrero Hazelnut Egg. We love the extra crisp to the already textured chocolate. The molten centre oozed right out to sweeten the entire deal. Excuse us while we head to the gym.

Bites Feb (2).pdf 1 23/1/2015 1:52:55 AM

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Prawn Peel If you belong to the I-loveprawns-but-I’m-too-lazy-to-peelthem camp, then somebody has heard your prayers. Now you can shell your prawns by sliding this nifty gadget under the shell and clamping it down.

Pin my kitchen! Time to Jazz up your repertoire of culinary tools. these picture-worthy pieces look great on your Instagram feed and Pinterest pinboards.

$13.95 from Howards Storage World, #02-19 Millenia Walk, 9 Raffles Boulevard. Tel: 6338 8550

By Julia Kwan, Coordination Timothy Lam

Food covers Add a pop of colour to the dining table with retrolicious food covers that everyone in the family would love. They may keep debris and insects from the food, but not our hands from getting more of these functional units.

$23 from iwannagohome, #02-17/20 Tanglin Mall, 163 Tanglin Road. Tel: 6733 0983

Jamie Oliver’s Kitchen Kit Stacking Coffee Cups Matching cups for the family do not have to be a cheesy affair with these fun pop art-inspired ones designed by Jamie Oliver.

$17.90 from ToTT, #01-01A 896 Dunearn Road. Tel: 6219 7077 www.tottstore.com

RIMFORSA tablet stand Keep your tablets clean in the kitchen with this classy wooden stand while you’re scrolling through recipes online. The best thing? It doubles up as a cookbook stand too.

$15.90 from IKEA, 317 Alexandra Road. Tel: 6786 6868 Tefal Fruit Sensation If you have been religiously bookmarking recipes for healthy fruit juices but haven’t found the ideal workhorse, this might be your answer. There are different blend options and interchangeable blades are for making dips, baby food and even margaritas, plus it's dishwasher friendly!

$109 from Elements by Home Fix, #02-248, 249 Marina Square, 6 Raffles Boulevard. Tel: 1800-4663-349

The Sweet Stand Do your pretty cupcake creations justice by showcasing them on this simple and clasic treats stand when you upload your #homebaked pictures on Instagram. You don’t even have to add a photo filter.

$30 from ClusterCluster, www.cluster-cluster.com

LÉkuÉ Popcorn Maker Fresh popcorn in the comfort of your own home? Just add onequarter cup of popcorn kernels to the dishwashersafe bowl, cover with the lid, and microwave it for 2-3 minutes. Voila! Lékué even includes some popcorn recipes to try, but go the extra mile and experiment with your own flavours—how about kimchi and seaweed?

$32 (U.P. $46) from The Home Shoppe, www. thehomeshoppe.com.sg

Wilton 6-cavity Eggs Easy Decorate Cookie Pan Bake your own Easter goodies this year with the help of this non-stick cookie pan! Just add icing to decorate and watch the kids go gaga over these sweet treats.

$15 from Bake It Yourself, 9 Circular Road. Tel: 6100 2253, www.b-i-y.com. Sparrow server set Let these sparrows pick your food up with kooky servers that are sure to bring some chirpiness to the kitchen—perfect as a housewarming gift, too.

$53.90 from Lazada, www.lazada.sg