BiTES - The Scoop on Good Eats (October 2014)

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ADVERTORIAL

Parched for fun Somersby apple cider is the perfect thirst-quencher this spooky season

It started with an apple. As people’s appetite for the apple grew, so did the applications. Baked into pies, blended into juice, and ultimately—and most deliciously—brewed into cider. The Somersby apple cider is an invigorating, fruity tipple that is the perfect party starter and best of all, contains just 4.5% alcohol by volume. Made from fermented apple juice, with added apple juice, sugar and natural flavouring to give a crisp and delicate apple taste. Unlike some of the scary Halloween spooks out there, it has no artificial sweeteners, flavours or colourings, ensuring the clean, sweet taste of apple cider, bottle after bottle. In fact, it's also ideal before, with or after food, as it has the natural flavour balance for all kinds of cuisines. You’ll be painting the town red—with a refreshment in hand.

Like us at www.facebook.com/SomersbySG

Congratulations to the 10 winners of the BiTES x Somersby contest!

You’ve each won a 4-pack Somersby apple cider (worth $17.50) for your Halloween celebrations.*

@annsleyw

@jarredhead @calvin_seow

@jillyeats @markchan

@shawnutd

@mimoxy

@preciouz

@william82sg

@starssandembers

* BITES will be contacting you for prize collection.

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Save on Cold Stone Creamery, Cali Café and more

inside SMART BUYS p10

You’ve ordered the food, now dress your table for the party

BUFFET BOUNTY p18

Wake up to top CBD hotel breakfasts, and 5 dessert spreads under $50

SUPERMARKET SLEUTH p28

Marmite chips and masala chai chocs— super treats (not tricks) from Meidi-Ya

WOK & TALK p31

Hey brudder, what to eat at Bedok Corner?

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 it’s

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Save on Cold Stone Creamery, Cali Café and more

inside SMART BUYS p10

You’ve ordered the food, now dress your table for the party

BUFFET BOUNTY p18

Wake up to top CBD hotel breakfasts, and 5 dessert spreads under $50

SUpERMARKET SLEUTH p28

Marmite chips and masala chai chocs— super treats (not tricks) from Meidi-Ya

WOK & TALK p31

Hey brudder, what to eat at Bedok Corner?

Cover image Extra Virgin Pizza

Publisher Cecilia Goh Editor June Lee Staff Writer Meredith Woo Editorial Intern Joel Lim Designer Benjamin Soh Contributing Senior Designers Loh Wai Sum, Lynne Wong Regional Business Director Carlos Loh Business Directors Penny Ho, Ashad Shah Business Manager Cherin Ong Events & Marketing Executive Charlene Tan Publishing Admin Manager (Admin & Circulation) Siti Haneymah Senior Digital Media Manager Eugene Koh Web Developer Jun Evangelista

Cafes & restaurants &Sons • Alfresco Gusto • Bishamon • Bonta Italian Restaurant & Bar (District 10) • Brunetti • Brussel Sprouts - Big Splash • Brussel Sprouts Robertson Quay • Brussel Sprouts - Sentosa Cove • Daikokuya • 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) • Eggs & Berries Changi City Point • Eggs & Berries Westgate • Emicakes @ Kovan • EN Grill and Bar • Joe & Dough (Kallang) • KOMMUNE • Medzs Millenia Walk • Medzs Orchard Central • Ootoya Japapnese Restaurant • Outback Steakhouse • Outpost Bar & Bistro • Ramen Champion • Picotin Express - East Coast • Picotin Express - Sentosa Cove • Roti Mum • Selfish Gene

Accounts Manager Christina Tan Company Director Yen Wong 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

Cafe • Spinelli (all outlets) • Starbucks (all outlets) • SQUE Rotisserie & Alehouse • tcc Sarika Connoisseur Cafe (all outlets) • Tsubohachi • Yantra • ZEN Japanese Cuisine Car showrooms Chevrolet • Citroen • Honda • Hyundai • Infiniti • Kia • Mazda • Mitsubishi • Nissan • Opel Singapore • Subaru • Toyota Singapore • Volkswagen Cooking Schools Cookyn Inc • My Private Pantry • The Eureka Cooking Lab Country & Private Clubs British Club • China 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 • 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 Parade (Pedestrian Crossing) National Tourism Offices Australia Tourism • Japan National

Tourism Organization • Korean Tourism Organization Petrol Kiosks Caltex • Shell • SPC Salon Jean Yip Hairdressing schools National University of Singapore •Temasek Polytechnic supermarkets Four Seasons Gourmet MarketMBLM • Four Seasons Organic Market-Great WorldCity • Four Seasons Organic MarketParkway Parade • Meidi-Ya Singapore • Rochester Market

Also hand-distributed at: OUTSIDE MRT Stations Ang Mo Kio • Bedok • Bishan • Boon Lay • Bugis • City Hall • Clementi • Dhoby Ghaut • Eunos • HarbourFront • Holland Village • Jurong East • Lavender • Orchard Road • Pasir Ris • Raffles Place • Serangoon • Tampines • Telok Blangah • Tiong Bahru • Woodlands • Yishun

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Magazines Integrated FISHING TECHNIQUES AND EXPERT OPINIONS

Connect with epicure, pets and HOOKED through our engaging websites and social media platforms.

▶www.epicureasia.com epicureasia

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LATEST DINING TRENDS

epicure Wi n! Longtail Asian Brasserie & Bar dining vouchers and Gryphon tea sets worth over $1,200

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Riding the big Asian wave

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WINNER OF BEST FEATURE ON PETS ASIAN PUBLISHING AWARDS 2013

� exclusive interview! � Minister of State for National Development Desmond Lee lets his cat out of the bag

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c Best desserts, sakes and more at Oishii Japan

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c Seoulsatisfying ginseng chicken soup

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Issue 9 SEPTEMBER - NOVEMBER 2014 MICA (P) 131/05/2014 KDN PPs 1808/10/2013 (025521)

epicure

best feature on wine-tasting excellence award & best use of typography

gold award—asian publishing awards 2013

SINGAPORE’S LEADING MAGAZINE FOR PET LOVERS THE ONLY AUDITED PET MAGAZINE IN SINGAPORE

LANDING THE SARATOGA IN THE OUTBACK REVIEW

MusT-TRY DIVING sPOTs AROuND THe WORLD

SOLUTIONS FOR THE MODERN PET LOVER

THE MAN BEHIND RIVER MONSTERS

A dynamic publisher of hobbyist magazines, one that is dedicated to pursuing the art of dining, the joy of pet ownership, and the thrill of fishing.

c a l e n dA r :

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wednesday thursday friday 1

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ChunkFest

2-10pm | The Meadows @ Gardens by the Bay

5 SELAMAT HARI RAYA HAJI

to all our Muslim friends! Treat yourself to the Halal hawker finds at Bedok Corner in Wok & Talk, p.31

Enjoy a picnic out with all your favorite Ben & Jerry’s flavours. Take part in their ‘Vermonster’ eating challenge to win a year's supply of frozen goodness.

6 Monday is the new Fryday

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Get rid of the Monday blues with free truffle fries when you dine in with a bottle of boutique wine at Merchants. www. merchantsofsingapore. com.sg

From 6pm

Singapore’s first 72-hour charity bake-a-thon kicks off under chef Eric Low. Volunteer bakers can view the schedule and book the slot at bit.ly/bringinthedough_fb

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Discover new ingredients at ASEAN’s largest Japanese F&B showcase. Trade visitors on first two days and public admission on 18 Oct. www. oishii-world.com (More on p.24)

20 Nonya Kueh Masterclass $60 | 1-6pm

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Till 26 Oct | 11am-9pm | Marina Square

Biscuit brand Julie’s exhibition displays the heartwarming entries in their social movement, which asked, “who is the best of you?” the-best-of-you.com

26 1-31 Oct

4 spooky mock- and cocktails (from $8) mark the month of All Hallows Eve. www.caffeb.com.sg

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17-31 Oct | Central Library

This project, part of the 4th Singapore International Photography Festival, documents snippets of local life. Tag #100daysofliving on Instagram; best images win Festival Passes. www.sipf.sg

Have a blessed festival of lights, and find out more about India’s culinary contributions in Last BiTES, p.33

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100 Days of Living: A Singapore Diary

HAPPY DEEPAVALI The Best of You

Asia’s first glow-in-thedark night party brings neon to electronic dance. Fuel up with food & drinks along the sand bar. www.illumination.asia

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Spooktacular Halloween at Caffe B

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Oishii Singapore

Till 18 Oct | Suntec Singapore | $4

Have a sip of over 200 limited editions and seasonal autumn sake from 35 participating breweries. sg.oriharashoten.jp

Get hands on with kueh ubi bangka and those tricky ondeh ondeh balls filled with gula melaka under the tutelage of in-house experts at Creative Culinaire. The fee includes a steamed lapis demo. www.creativeculinaire.com.sg

6pm-3am | Siloso Beach

Bring in the Dough by Electrolux

1-5pm | $80 | Suntec Convention Centre

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11 ILLUMI NATION

Every Monday, till 27 Oct | Merchants Wine Cellar

12 Sake Festival Singapore

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24 Singapore Wine Fiesta 2014 Till 26 Oct | $55

Housed in a larger venue at Clifford Square, this annual event by Straits Wine welcomes 70 winemakers and over 300 wines for sampling. www.straitswine.com

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Happy Halloween!

We suss out the best chocs and chips to play trick and treat with in Supermarket Sleuth, p.28

25 Whisky Live Singapore 2014 10am-10pm | $80

Held at Raffles Hotel, this largest-ever annual event offers tastings of a few hundred whiskies over 40 brands, as well as 25 craft spirits. www.whiskylive.sg

coming up in november

13-16 Nov: Halal International 2014 27 Nov: Thanksgiving Day

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Enjoy 50% off second pizza Daily except Saturdays

pay $9 for $20 worth of food Mondays to Sundays from 11.30am to 1.00pm

Big O Café

Cali Café

Terms & Conditions

Terms & Conditions

Buy 1 and get the 2nd at 50% off (Valid for Like it! size)

20% Off Weekend Brunch, every Saturday and Sunday 10am to 2pm

Cold Stone Creamery

Hotel Re!

#B1-08 Paragon Shopping Mall Tel: 6836 1495 Valid: 1-31 October 2014. Voucher MUST be presented before ordering. Dine in only and valid daily except Saturdays. There is no discount for GST and service charge. Other terms and conditions apply. BITES

Available at all 6 outlets. www.kitchenlanguage.com.sg/outlet-locator.html for the full list.

#01-01 Park Avenue Hotel Tel: 6684 9897 Valid: 1-31 October 2014. Offer is not valid with other promotions, discounts and other vouchers. Present coupon (original BiTES publication or printed from website) BITES

Hotel Re! @ Pearl’s Hill, 175A Chin Swee Road, Singapore 169879 Tel: 6827 8226

Terms & Conditions

Terms & Conditions

Enjoy 20% off all products Promo Code: BITES20 (Savings: 20%)

Enjoy second main course at 50% off Available daily

My Party Boutique

Poppies Bistro-Bar

Valid: 1-31 October 2014. Limited to a total of maximum 6 cups per redemption. Not valid with other promotions, discounts or privileges. Redemption valid at all Cold Stone Creamery outlets. Must present physical coupon (original BiTES publication or printed from website) BITES

Website: www.mypartyboutique.com.sg Email: orders@mypartyboutique.com.sg Terms & Conditions

Valid: 1-31 October 2014. Discount not applicable on delivery charge. BITES

Valid: 6-31 October 2014. Prices are subjected to 10% service charge and 7% GST. Offer is valid for dine-in at Re!Fill restaurant only. Cannot be used in combination with other offers, discounts, coupons and promotions.

Present coupon (original BiTES publication or printed from website) BITES

53 Upper East Coast Road, Singapore 455214 Tel: 6445 4405 Terms & Conditions

Valid: 1-31 October 2014. Applicable for dine-in or take-away. Cannot be used in combination with other offers, discounts, coupons and promotions. Present coupon (original BiTES publication or printed from website) BITES

Scan here to check out the deals online at www.bites.com.sg

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KNUCKLE DOWN

ORCHARD CENTRAL

Humble roast pork knuckles in the heartlands offer more bang for your buck With a reputation as a tourist trap, Newton Food Centre might not be on your mind for German pork knuckles (half, $20). However, roast meat purveyors La Tascas stall serves theirs traditional style, with sauerkraut (or, as they call it—“sourkraut”). Blistered, crispy skin is the key, especially when fresh and hot. #01-52 Newton Food Centre, 500 Clemenceau Avenue North. Tel: 9017 1327, www.latascas.com La Tascas

In the hawker centre of Bedok North lies Western Food 85 stall, serving up their claim to fame—crispy pork knuckles ($16). Each comes with coleslaw and fries, instead of sauerkraut, but fans of the 12-year-old stall love it. The pork is sliced into convenient bitesized chunks, with chopsticks provided to devour each crackling, juicy morsel. #01-165, 86 Bedok North Street 4 Sometimes size does matter. Especially in the case of crispy pork knuckles ($15 half, $25 whole) at Stew Küche, where portions are considerably generous—a good thing when you bring the whole family post-IKEA shopping. The succulent meat with crisp skin rests on a tangy gravy, and is accompanied by chunky mash and local pickles (i.e. achar), ideal with some rosti ($4.50) and one of over 30 beers on offer (from $8 for Erdinger). #01-40, 119 Bukit Merah Lane 1. Tel: 6276 6445 At just $8, the single portion pork knuckles at Knuckles Bistro are a steal. It does not claim to be the best you can find, but is probably the best value for money in the up-and-coming Kovan area. With crunchy crackling and soft juicy meat, and a side of mash potato and sauerkraut, the dish is worth the trek to this simple air-conditioned eatery. #01-33, 212 Hougang Street 21

HOT PLATES

The newest dishes and eateries to suit any appetite

NOODLE PLACE RESTAURANT

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Pause in the shopping belt and discover new eats in the OC (181 Orchard Road) OOTOYA JAPANESE RESTAURANT SELFISH GENE CAFE New at Selfish Gene Cafe for weekday breakfast (10am-3pm): homemade yogurt ($6), also used in waffles (from $14); and self-made ricotta which tops the mushroom tartine ($14). Chef-owner Gene Mok also serves up Mon-to-Fri lunch specials: roasted Atlantic salmon fillet with dill-scented potato and homemade slaw ($16) or soups like Soto Ayam ($4 with salad).

Bonuses are the orange yogurt cake ($6) and fullbodied cuppas. Mon-Fri 10am-5.30pm, Sat-Sun 9am5pm. 40 Craig Road. Tel: 6423 1324

PAPPARICH PLUS PappaRich’s newest Plus-sized outlet features sharing plates: sweet and sour chilli crab fried rice ($11.90); and four heavenly kings in sambal belacan ($11.90)—no Cantopop crooners here; just a solid stir-fry of brinjal, ladies fingers, long beans and petai.

Cool down with an iced Rich layer tea latte ($4.50) sweetened with palm syrup from Sarawak, and order favourites like Hainan steamed bread with butter and homemade kaya ($3.90), and the Super Rich combo ($16.90). Sun-Thu 10am-12am, Fri-Sat 10am-1am. #0135 Plaza Singapura, 68 Orchard Road. Tel: 6735 9323 It’s a feast at Noodle Place Restaurant with a whopping 29 new dishes to herald the opening of their newly-relocated branch in the heart of town. Ready your chopsticks for fried noodles with BBQ pork in premium sauce ($9.50), curry spaghetti with fresh chicken ($12.50) and special beef tendon ($16). Don’t forget the mainstays: HK-style shrimp wanton noodles ($8 for soup), and executive chef Chui Chuen Lai’s shredded chilli pork noodle ($9). Daily 10am-10pm. #01-17 Orchard Gateway, 227 Orchard Road. Tel: 6733 3171

At Ootoya Japanese Restaurant (#08-12), cholesterol levels are kept to a minimum while fresh vegetables are hand-washed and peeled daily for maximum nutrients.

They even display the calorie content of each dish. Try new menu items chicken karaage with salted rice malt ($11/$16 for a set) or grilled chicken rice with onsen tamago ($12/$15 for a set). Drop by for lunch for homemade soba (from $11). Just like okaasan’s cooking. Daily 11am-9.30pm. Tel: 6884 8901 Choose from six soup bases at Beijing chain Shi Li Fang (#07-10/11)—we like the “ravishing tomato”—for your double-flavoured personal hotpot (from $3.60) and pair it with their specialty pork tenderloin set ($14), which includes a basket of vegetables. Order DIY noodles ($1.80) for a lark, prawn “glue” ($8.60), frog ($6.80) and premium beef ($18.80). The U-shaped gastrobar counter is a great service idea, the condiment counter boasts over 30 dipping sauces, and no MSG is added. Sharing hotpots available. Daily 10.30am-10pm.

Tel: 6238 0800 Wine and dine without frills at Table @ Pip’s (#B211 to 22), formerly from Bukit Timah. The first thing you’ll notice is their display kitchen where chefs prepare BBQ crocodile rib ($29.90), fruity fish fillet ($18.90), squid ink pasta ($19.90) and Milo tiramisu served in a flowerpot ($11.90). Have a Penasoi Sangria ($8.90/glass) or yuzu sparkling sake ($19.90) with your hearty meal. Mon-Fri 11am-3pm, 6-10.30pm; Sat-Sun, PH 10am-10pm.

Tel: 6467 6867

Table @ Pip’s TIRAMISU

CHOCOLICIOUS A cocoa feast that’s savoury?

Executive Chef Sunny Goh has dreamed up a Choctober Festival (1-31 Oct) at Concorde Hotel Singapore. At the Harvest of the Sea buffet (daily 6.30-10pm; Mon-Thu $50, Fri-Sun $54), tuck into dishes that are familiar yet puzzling, such as smoked salmon dipped in white chocolate, and pan-fried beef steak with bitter chocolate sauce—challenging the perception of chocolate as dessert. The touch of cocoa unites flavours and brings a richness to the gravies. Opt for the a la carte menu for ocean prawns and avocado with chocolate mayo, or the roast rib eye with chocolate red wine. 100 Orchard Road.

Tel: 6739 8370 CHOCTOBER FEST

#HASHTAGS & APP-ENINGS

More reasons to love social media #breadtalksg BREADTALK BOO! BreadTalk thrills with spookycute HELLOween (1-31 Oct) buns and pastries.

Hallow Eve and Harlequin Demon ($7 each) are ominously tasty “Jack-O-Lantern” sponge cakes; savoury Mummy ($1.80), a sardine bun body with Tim Burton-esque ‘face’, is scarily piquant. www.breadtalk.com.sg #fishnchipsfestival Swim by The Manhattan Fish Market (till 11 Nov) for The Manhattan Fish ‘n Chips Festival. There are five more choices of fresh catch for diners, served with chips: cod ($16.95), salmon ($15.95), ocean perch ($14.95), hake ($13.95) and cherry snapper ($13.95).

They’ll also go well with your Manhattan Flaming Seafood Platter. fb.com/MFMSingapore

HÄAGEN-DAZS

#HDSG Häagen-Dazs goes classic with limited edition Classic Milk ($14.50/pint). Purists will love its sheer simplicity and velvety mouthfeel. Swing by a Häagen-Dazs café for in-store creations: Classical Medley ($24), fruity flavours atop brownie bites with crunchy toppings; and Pure Delight ($20), a prettily-dressed duo of ice-cream cakes. www.haagendazs.com.sg #LiveLoveLatte with #StarbucksSG’s new lattes French Vanilla and Dark Caramel—the Instagram hashtags could land you with a supply of 52 lattes (contest till 18 Oct). Then join their #TumblerContest and your design might net you a Starbucks Card worth up to $300 (till 19 Oct).

Perfect Day in Singapore—you bet! This free app will lead you to discover activities, events, restaurants, attractions, deals; and follow-up with a plan: detailed maps, transport info, a booking function. We’re smitten by its geo-search function and ease of use. perfectdayapp.com

chui huay lim teochew cuisine

NEXT-JEN HOTEL

A tall addition to the Orchard Road belt Enter Hotel Jen Orchardgateway Singapore. “Jen” offers you a choice of 502 rooms (from $215), meals at buffet restaurant Makan@Jen, drinks in her lounge, and a dip in the infinity pool at the aptly named Baywatch@ Jen (Level 19). Stay connected with hotel-wide WiFi, free access to over 2,500 publications through PressReader and bask in the natural sunlight as you work up an appetite in the 24-hour fitness centre or unwind at one of the three sky gardens. Levels 10-20, 277 Orchard Road. Tel: 6708 8888 Hotel Jen Orchardgateway Singapore

delicious and innovative themed recipes from culinary names like Audra Morrice, MasterChef Australia 2012 finalist and Ian Hioe, senior sous chef of Swissôtel Merchant Court. Whether it’s an Outdoor Pets Picnic, Ice Cream Social or Girly Sleepover party, it’s got you covered. $12.90 from www.tottstore.com

COOKBOOK CONQUEST

BiTES OF HERITAGE AND HOME

Tools of the Trade (ToTT) turns four, and they’ve just released 365 Days of Fun: Recipes for any Occasion, their third cookbook. It’s brimming with

Chui Huay Lim Teochew Cuisine celebrates its third anniversary with a bevy of limited edition. To go with your Teochew muay (lunch only), order the yellow

Chefs’ recipes for all occasions

A Teochew feast and a homegrown bakery

croaker (pan-fried or steamed, seasonal price) and steamed minced meat with aged radish ($12). The former, usually served pickled, is uncommon here, but is native to the waters of Tsingtao; while the latter uses aged radish native to Swatow. Don’t miss the oyster omelette (at $14, it’s a tad steep but its gooey goodness makes up for it). Other highlights: steamed crab with aged 20 years Hua Diao (seasonal price) and salt-baked prosperity chicken with whole abalone ($118, order in advance), and “jiat dot” (banquet) premium sets (from $488++/4 pax). Till 30 Nov. Daily 11.30am-3pm, 6-11pm. #01-02 Chui Huay Lim Club, 190 Keng Lee Road. Tel: 6732 3637 Five reasons why we love PrimaDéli’s new premium cakes: 1. a refined sponge recipe across the board; 2. PB Nutty Novelty’s ($55.80) clever weave of peanut butter, crushed peanuts with chocolate and vanilla sponge; 3. Salted Caramel’s ($40.80/ 52.80) Valrhona chocolate pearls; 4. Mont Blanc’s ($43.80/ 55.80) imported chestnut cream that’s power-packed with nuttiness; and 5. Valrhona Blackforest’s ($43.80/ 55.80) twist of added strawberry jam for better balance.

Whole cakes only. www.primadeli.com

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HOORAY FOR HALAL French fare, (yet another) hipster hangout, brunch and deal sweeteners

Halal-certified Hong Kong tongsui specialist Hee Kee Desserts dishes out freshly-made hot (and cold) favourites like whole coconut with coconut ice-cream and crushed peanuts ($8.80), a rich and creamy durian pancake (from $3.30) and traditional steamed milk

Bistro parisien

pudding ($3.50). Daily 11am-10pm. #03-54/55 JP 2 Jurong Point, 1 Jurong West Central 2. Tel: 6795 0765 Muslim-owned ROUSE was formerly an electrical shop, and the engraved pillars and walls with peeled paint remain. Tuck into Middle-Eastern inspired fare like Shroom Shroom ($11.90), ricotta-stuffed mushrooms topped with crisp crumbs; and Quinoa Quake ($16.90), served with lemon dill yogurt, poached egg and smoked salmon. Desserts change daily. Mon, Wed-Thu 12pm-10pm, Fri-Sat 12pm-11pm, Sun 11am-7pm. 36 Dunlop Street. Tel: 6292 2642 We're over the moon with the (re)discovery of Le Bistro Parisien. From Haji Lane, it has since relocated to V Hotel at Bencoolen Street. Its claim to fame: being the first Halal French restaurant in the region. Must tries: duck confit ($38), escargot ($23), classic French onion soup ($15) and freshly baked baguettes (free-flow with any main course). Say hi to head chef Jean Francois Nordin if you see him. Daily 7am-10pm. #01-02, 48 Bencoolen Street. Tel: 6333 1178 FIX Café will soon be Halal-certified. When you drop by this poolside eatery in the peaceful Balestier ‘hood, make sure you try their naanwiches ($10), liu sha donuts ($7), coffee brewed with Halal beans (from $4), delicious soy chicken drumlets ($7), housemade cakes and pastries (from $6), and creamy milkshakes ($7). Or get a FIX set—a main plus a drink, selected coffee or milkshake (from $12). All prices nett. Daily 9.30am-9pm, closed last Tue of the month. #01-06 HomeTeamNSJOM, 31 Ah Hood Road. Tel: 6256 1484

Brunch Bites It’s not Halal, but serves no pork or lard. Bring your date to retro-themed Hotel Re! @ Pearl’s Hill to try their Re!Freshed (sorry, we couldn’t resist) weekend brunch menu (10am-2pm). The newlyminted quintet at Re!Fill Restaurant include slipper lobster croissant ($18) which rides on lobster roll fever; and classic eggs benedict ($16) with your choice of turkey ham or smoked salmon. Free shuttle services via Outram MRT station. 175A Chin Swee Road. Tel: 6827 8226

HOTEL RE! FIX CAFÉ

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BAR WATCH

There's a bar in Barossa, and we're not just talking about its name. We were charmed by its Archipelago beer sampler ($10), which arrived on a customised placemat detailing the flavours of each. We would have gone for another round, if not for the tantalising ribeye tasting platter ($88), a pocket-friendly helping of 150

No need to dress up for this super-casual outing at The PAPA Shop (shuttle services run from Paya Lebar MRT station)—the kiosk in an industrial area only has al fresco tables and snacks from a packet, so tabao in your own nosh—that’s how they keep prices low.

We’re captivated by their fridges of craft beers, wines, Japanese sakes, ciders, and hard liquors. New in: Evil Twin Freudian Slip ($13), Stiegl Grapefruit Radler ($8.90) and Good Day Soju ($14.90). Mon-Thu 5-11.30pm, Fri-Sat 5pm-12am, Sun 6pm-12am. #01-K2 CT Hub, 2 Kallang Ave. Tel: 9191 0677

2 HEALTHY BiTES BAROSSA days grain-fed Australian Angus (120g), corn-fed US prime grade Black Angus (120g), and 500 days grainfed Australian wagyu Tajima (120g) accompanied by house sauces and salt. Regulars will notice the menu's gotten meatier (perfect with beer!), in line with its Aussie influence. Chomp down on hand-ground burgers ($24), its signature bangers platter ($58) or char-grilled king prawns ($35). Don't miss the lamington ($12), delicious cocktails and shooters (from $12). Mon-Thu 12-3pm, 5pm-12am; Fri 12-3pm, 6pm-2am; Sat 12pm-2am; Sun 12pm-12am. #01-11 Esplanade Mall, 8 Raffles Avenue.

Tel: 6534 5188

October.pdf 1 24/9/2014 12:55:10 PM

Red rice, packed with vitamins B1 and B2, rich in fibre, iron and calcium, is also believed to reduce cholesterol levels and improve circulation when eaten regularly. Golden Peony Fragrant Rice brings the premium Thai grain ($4/1kg) to your nearby supermarket, in a vibrant red-gold pack. Enjoy the nutty

fragrance and delicate sweet flavour with your next home-cooked meal.

Granny's Secret home-style juices (from $5.90) cram the pure goodness of 499 wild blueberries into each 200ml bottle. Likewise, the Serbian brand’s nine other fruit juice flavours (apricot, wild blackberry, wild cranberry, wild apple, wild strawberry and more) are brimming with nature's nectar, no sugar added. Gluten-free spicy dips and fruit spreads also available (from $8.90). www.grannyssecret.com.sg Skippy has launched its Natural range ($6/425g) peanut butter. Free from preservatives, artificial flavours and colours, the spreads come in five flavours: creamy original, creamy honey, chunky original, chunky honey, and the last with one-third less sodium and sugar. Look for creamy dark chocolate in supermarkets later this year.

Non-GMO organic soybeans, 25% higher calcium content and Nigari-seawater extract distinguish the new Vitasoy Packaged Beancurd range ($1.85-2.45).

The Tofu-Steam and Tofu-Soup are easy to use in recipes, from soups to salads and even a tofu yogurt cheesecake, while the Tau Kwa holds up well to stirfried noodles. Take part in their October Instagram (#vitasoybeancurd) contest with your own dish creations to win $50 shopping vouchers.

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It's a partay~ Whether you're catering to kids, convivial chums or entertaining colleagues, these colourful table additions WILL BE THE talking point.

By Benjamin Soh and Meredith Woo

M.Y.O. OPEN TERRARIUM This tiny ecosystem in a glass container is not just for botanists or nature lovers—the mini garden will brighten up any table setting.

Don't worry, it just contains dry plants. No insects or animals to infiltrate your nosh. $58 (large) from Mondays Off, 76 Haji Lane. www. mondays-off.com

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OEM DRINKING ROULETTE GAME Here's how we roll: spin the wheel and the ball will literally call the shot (you drink) when it settles. Fill the 16 numbered shot glasses with fruit juices if it's too early to get tipsy. $42.90 from LAZADA, www.lazada.sg

CONDIMENTS SET On ordinary days, this minimalist trio complete with mini spoons, wooden lids and tray will dole out chilli flakes, sugar cubes and grain mustard; but for a party, fill them with rainbow sprinkles, silver balls and chocolate drops. $59 from Mondays Off, 76 Haji Lane. www.mondays-off.com

CARDBOARD TIERED CAKE STAND Who said pretty partyware has to be expensive? Doll up that dinner table with cupcakes and cookies on this eye-catching and lightweight cardboard tiered stand.

Minimal assembly required. $4.90/$5.90 from Gifts Greetings, #04-07 nex, 23 Serangoon Central.

Tel: 6634 2283

TYPHOON KIDS KITCHEN TURTLE FAMILY BOWL & SIEVE This armoured creature ain’t no slowpoke. It’s quick to transform into a bowl with a non-slip base and large lip for easy pouring. When not basking on your table top, it’ll help you sift flour and wash vegetables. $21.80 from LAZADA, www.lazada.sg

FRED ROBOTTLE WINED-UP CORKSCREW This humanoid machine won't clean your house like the Jetsons' Rosie, but the little fella will help you unwind.

His extra-long steel corkscrew will tackle any vintage, while his hidden blade makes stripping off foil a snap. $19.90 from Gifts Greetings, #04-07 nex, 23 Serangoon Central.

Tel: 6634 2283

gAMAGO SUNGLASSES BAG CLIPS Put those sunnies on…your bag of chips. Pull out a deck chair, put your feet up and chill in the garden (or balcony). When you’re done munching, these dishwasher safe clips will keep the snacks fresh. $8.90 for a set of 4, from Gifts Greetings, #04-07 nex, 23 Serangoon Central. Tel: 6634 2283

TASTE EXPLOSION GRENADE SALT & PEPPER SHAKERS This monochrome pair will blast your food with flavour. Made from porcelain, they're dishwasher and microwave safe, and hold up to 100ml each. $25/set from LAZADA, www.lazada.sg

HOGWILD ANIMAL CHOPSTICKS Practise your hand-eyefood-mouth coordination skills with this colourful herd. They come in four styles: dino, farm, zoo and fish. Dishwasher safe too. $5.90 each from Gifts Greetings, #04-07 nex, 23 Serangoon Central.

Tel: 6634 2283

DINO ALARM SERVIETTES No prehistoric party will be complete without these paper napkins.

Bring the land giants back from extinction—but stay on your guard: they’re watching you. $5.90 for a pack of 16 napkins, from Gifts Greetings, #04-07 nex, 23 Serangoon Central. Tel: 6634 2283

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EXE CARVED CANDLES We can’t bring ourselves to light the wicks on these intricately carved raven candles. One is an amazing likeness of a bulldog’s head, while the other, a handsome unicorn. They’ll do well in one of those black-themed parties, or Halloween in general. $50/$80 from Mondays Off, 76 Haji Lane. www. mondays-off.com

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ICE CREAM VAN WITH CUPS Ring, ring! It’s a sweet treat delivery! Each paper vehicle contains 12 icecream cups and spoons—bring out your dinner bell and steer any celebration towards fun! $20.50 from My Party Boutique, www. mypartyboutique. com.sg

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icon village special

Growing A Gourmet Village At Icon Village in the CBD, its stellar F&B offerings have been expanded with a new wing filled with fresh and exciting food concepts.

In the heart of the Village

In this cosy dining destination, you’ll discover a range of artisanal, specialty food that gives you the feeling of neighbourliness. Check out what’s existing and new here.

flour and their own cultured sourdough. Proved overnight, their bread has a superior lightness and flavour, and is well-loved by customers and other chefs alike.

the straits wine shop

nick vina artisan bakery

shi li fang muffet's room

Muffet’s Room (#01-16 Gopeng Street) A bit of vintage, a dash of home-cooked food, seasonings of joy and a whole lot of sincerity—that’s the Muffet’s Room café in a nutshell. Step away from your desk for a crowd-pleasing traditional beer-battered fish and chips, carbonara pasta, peri-peri grilled chicken and more goodness from the kitchen.

Psst: This month, they’re offering 1-for-1 pasta every Friday from 6-9pm.

Nick Vina Artisan Bakery (#01-54/55 Gopeng Street) One in a handful of Singapore’s artisan bakeries, Nick Vina takes pride in their array of fresh and healthy artisan breads and pastries.

The dough is made the most authentic way, with no preservatives, from European

Shi Li Fang (#01-41/42/52/53 Gopeng Street) Personalised hotpot is Shi Li Fang’s innovation on the traditional cuisine. A U-shaped gastrobar counter delivers quick, satisfying meals in a clean, modern-contemporary orange interior. Choose from six soup bases, with fresh ingredients including meat, poultry, seafood, a wide selection of vegetables and high-grade beef. The highlight is 30 heavenly dipping sauces, including Shi Li Fang's signature sesame sauce.

The Straits Wine Shop (#01-43/44 Gopeng Street) Started in 2006, The Straits Wine Company is now one of Southeast Asia’s leading wine importer, retailer and distributor.

This is where you’ll find great deals. This retail wine bar showcases juicy picks from the usual wine countries such as Australia and France, in addition to Portugal, India, Lebanon, Japan, Switzerland and many more. Speak to their friendly staff to choose a favourite bottle and enjoy it on the spot at offthe-shelf prices.

The new kids in the village

Launched in late September, the Icon Village extension is a welcomed space where new epicurean concepts have room to grow. BiTES has a sneak peek of the food that you’ll want to try soon!

The Quarters (#01-09, Enggor Street) The passionate team behind this new culinary concept expresses Singapore’s heritage through their food. From the innovative buah keluak pasta to the ultimate durian crème brulee made with the freshest Mao Shan Wang durian, Asian flavours are foremost in the menu. Coffee is also a serious matter, where they source only from local specialty roasters.

sumire yakitori house

Sumire Yakitori House (#01-02 to 04, Enggor Street) Sumire is an established yakitori restaurant in Tokyo since 2009, with 25 outlets in Japan. The name is a catchy pun on “smile” and its yakitori, homemade tamagoyaki and clear chicken broth ramen will certainly make you happy. It's not just bar food at this family-friendly restaurant.

the quarters

munch

Munch (#01-10, Enggor Street) The Munch Saladsmiths are expanding their empire of freshly tossed, lovingly handcut salads. A healthy lunch will never be boring again with over 60 different salad combinations, complemented by a variety of

sandwiches and mains such as rosti, salmon fillet, dory and roast chicken. There’s magic in their addictive sauces, such as olive butter, jellied cranberry and ranch sauce supreme.

okg express

Two Men Bagel House (#01-12, Enggor Street) Do you know what a good, chewy bagel tastes like?

Check out Two Men Bagel House—literally started by two friends with a common goal of spreading the word and their love for bagels across town.

Walk in for a taste of freshly baked hand-rolled bagels with assorted spreads and fillings, which suffices for a snack or meal at any time of the day. jasper's pantry

OKG Express (#01-11, Enggor Street) At Old Kim Guan, enjoy the familiar tastes of home-cooked food the way mum used to make it—simple, wholesome and satisfying. The setting is relaxed, casual and very suitable for the gourmet village surroundings.

The restaurant has seen great success since it opened in 2009, and is now bringing its chicken curry, pork stomach soup, pig trotters and more across the island.

two men bagel house

Jasper’s Pantry (#01-13, Enggor Street) Who’s Jasper? He’s the owner’s lovable pet dog. Jasper's Pantry serves up a gourmet selection of pies, quiches and other baked specialties for takeout.

The lunch sets offer excellent value as signature savouries can be accompanied by refreshingly tasty sides. Tempting cupcakes and specialty cakes will bring your meal to a sweet end.

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Special delivery

Food deliveries are a boon to just about anyone—the busy professional, the lazy individual, the fussy, the indisposed, the desperate. Even on tiny Singapore, thousands of unique food orders crisscross the island daily. We look at how the trend is getting a boost from mobile technology, quiz the real heroes—the deliverymen—and spend a weekend surviving on delivered food.

By Joel Lim

In days gone by, tingkats were an affordable and fuss-free way to get hot, homecooked food delivered directly to the workplace or home. But as time went by, more hawker centres, food courts and in-house canteens popped up everywhere, and tingkats became less popular. Today, the reverse has happened—instead of food from home, or heading to an eating outlet, we expect our food to come to us. What started off as more of a luxury or novelty, is gradually becoming a commonplace necessity.

And the primary reason?

Convenience. Room Service Singapore’s CEO, Lance Frey, notes that food delivery is booming at the moment, with the potential to grow even more. “Euromonitor says that the Singapore food delivery market is currently making around US$100 million per year. But that is a little over 1% of the total food service sector

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in Singapore. If you look at other countries like Turkey, this could be a $500 million market in a few years. The reason for growth is because it’s so easy to choose good food on (their) website and have it delivered to your home,” he elaborates.

Fast food giant McDonald's was one of the early movers, throwing their hat into the ring in 2003, and starting their 24-hours delivery service two years later, becoming one of the first food deliveries to do so.

A McDonald's spokesperson explained that this was to accommodate the changing lifestyle needs of Singaporeans, and that their McDelivery service has seen

strong growth since its launch.

Over at foodpanda, they now receive as many orders in one day as they used to in a week, a year ago. Chinmay Malaviya, Managing Director of foodpanda Singapore & Hong Kong, tells BiTES that since they set up in 2012, they have grown from 50 restaurant partners to 300 today. Not only that, they’ve expanded to 40 countries around the world after the success in Singapore. “The majority of foodpanda’s users are working adults with young families. They are tech-savvy and always on the go, with easy access to the Internet and their mobile phones. Therefore,

people do still cook at home but definitely less frequently as they have more food option readily available,” he detailed. To capture more of the market, the company is investing in mCommerce—in all their markets, they have relaunched the foodpanda mobile app with a new layout with more convenient and simpler design as well as an online payment function.

Frey concurs, “The future of food delivery is over the internet and mobile. People now do their travel planning online, they do their shopping online—ordering food online is a natural additional purchase.” Room Service has seen mobile orders double since they launched their Android and iOS app in June. “It’s really easy to use, and we expect the bulk of our customers to shift to ordering over mobile in the next year or two, given Singapore’s position as one of the highest smartphone penetration countries in the world,” says Frey.

Food At your fingertips FAST FOOD KFC Tel: 6222 6111 McDonald's Tel: 6777 3777 Pastamania Tel: 6275 7555 Popeyes Tel: 6545 4555 Subway Tel: 6278 2929 Wendy’s Tel: 6473 7555 Pizza Canadian 2 for 1 Pizza Tel: 6241 0241 www.canadian-pizza.com Crust Gourmet Pizza Bar Tel: 6467 2224 (Holland Village), 6636 7666 (Serangoon Garden), 6456 1555 (Upper Thomson), 6444 2488 (Katong) www.crustpizza.com.sg

Domino’s Tel: 6222 6333 www.dominos.com.sg Extra Virgin Pizza Tel: 6247 5757 (United Square), 6247 5757 (Asia Square) extravirginpizza.com Napolizz Pizza Delivery Tel: 6280 8220 www.napolizz.sg Peperoni Pizzeria Tel: 6899 6899 peperoni.com.sg Pezzo Tel: 6665 6565 pezzo.com.sg Pizza Hut Tel: 6235 3535 www.phdelivery.com.sg Rite Pizza Tel: 6899 3838 www.rite-pizza.com

A tale of two deliveries Over one weekend, BiTES tested out foodpanda and Room Service from a humble abode in the west.

FOODPANDA It was the best of times while the folks were away, it was the worst of times for no meals would be forthcoming.

It was the age of technology, it was the age of laziness.

With a click of the mouse I found myself on the foodpanda website. Upon entering my postal code, many restaurant choices lay before me.

Which restaurant? My vision narrowed in on Nara after clicking through a few categories, as it stood out with alluring images of glossy Thai dishes.

What to eat? I picked out tord mun kung (Thai shrimp cakes) and kuay tiew tom yum kung.

How much? Including delivery charges ($8) and a (haha) 10% survival fee, the grand total was around $38.

How easy was the transaction? Registration was just a simple matter of providing them your name and address.

There was a choice to pay by credit card or cash—I chose cash.

Sarpino’s Pizzeria Tel: 6636 3636 sarpinos.sg Spizza Tel: 6377 7773 www.spizza.sg Timbre Tel: 6352 6266 www.timbregroup.asia Tony’s Pizza Tel: 6777 4992 www.tonyspizza.sg

Aggregators foodpanda Tel: 6589 8669 www.foodpanda.sg Gourmet to Go Tel: 6545 4555 www.gourmettogo.com.sg Room Service Tel: 6536 0065 www.roomservice.com.sg

Restaurants Brindas (Indian) Tel: 6274 6327 www.brindas.com.sg Curry Xpress (Indian) Tel: 6464 7444 www.curryxpress.com.sg Golden Pillow 933 (Curry) Tel: 6323 8933 www.goldenpillow933.com.sg Grain (Healthy meals) Tel: 8307 4253 grain.com.sg Hungry Chicho (Mexican) Tel: 6100 8226 www.hungrychico.com Komalas (Vegetarian Indian) Tel: 6444 0444 www.komalasweb.com Ponggol Seafood (Chinese/ seafood) Tel: 6448 8511 www.ponggolseafood.com.sg

How long was delivery? After placing my order at 4.30pm, it took 45 minutes before the doorbell chimed, well before the promised one hour fifteen minutes.

What did the delivery guy say? A chirpy “your delivery is here” with a smiley face and my package. I gave him a $50 bill and he passed me the change.

How did the food arrive? In a plastic bag were two dishes, each in an individual container; both dishes were just warm enough.

ROOM SERVICE Every household needs a bit of service now and then, everyone needs to take a break now and then. This weekend, the family thought mum should take a break, and so we looked to our mobile phones to bring us dinner.

The Room Service app caught our attention this time.

Which restaurant? My parents left it to me to choose the cuisine, and I decided to order from Buttercake N Cream, a restaurant I had visited before at Sunset Way. What to eat? Our family of three ordered two starters: sautéed mushroom and buffalo wings, and three mains: cheddar pork, grilled chicken and pork collar.

How much? The food was $70, but after delivery ($9.90), service charges and taxes the total came to around $93.

How easy was the transaction? Fast. Only name and address were required. This time, I paid by credit card, which required an additional step.

Sakae Sushi (Japanese) Tel: 6388 8383 sakaesushi.com.sg The Shepherd’s Pie (Pies) Tel: 6789 0707 www.theshepherdspie.com Spize (Local cuisine) Tel: 6734 9194 (River Valley), 6445 3211 (Bedok) spize.sg thaitogo (Thai) Tel: 6396 9696 www.thaitogo.com.sg Umi Sushi (Japanese) Tel: 6265 5545 www.umisushi.com.sg Yeo Keng Nam (Chicken rice) Tel: 6285 4261 (Braddell), 6299 1128 (Serangoon) www.ykn.com.sg

How long was delivery? Having the order confirmed at around 6.45pm, we waited. The time of the promised delivery came and went (60 minutes).

As we all started to get a little edgy, there came the knock.

What did the delivery guy say? Though late, he was courteous and professional. Swiftly took out our orders and passed them through the door.

How did the food arrive? Each dish was packed in an individual plastic container. Everything was at the very least lukewarm, some items being hotter then others. While they were a wee bit late we understood that it was due to the dinner rush.

VERDICT All in all, the deliveries did what they were supposed to do: feed someone without an individual leaving the comfort of his own home, but is the food restaurant quality? Definitely not, though you do pay a similar price. That said, we shouldn't expect fresh off the grill steaks or crispy fries— after all the food did come from a few kilometres away. It is a far, far better alternative than cooking or braving the blazing sun when you just don't feel like it. ➽

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The Flying Food Heroes We interview a few delivery riders to get a clearer idea of what goes on in the life of these inviduals who brave the elements and traffic of our busy streets to fill our bellies.

Name: Faizal Bin Abu Kassim Age: 35 Vehicle: Motorcycle Time on the job: 2 years and 6 months Delivers for: Room Service Tell us about your job.

I like that I get to meet new and interesting people and the job is relatively stress-free. I really do not like having to deliver food during bad weather conditions though.

Most memorable place you delivered to?

The first time I made a delivery to Ocean Drive in Sentosa Cove, I was awestruck upon arriving at the main door. I could see boats docked at the back of the house with a clear view of the ocean. Wow! Weirdest request from a customer?

There was a customer waiting for a change of 3 cents. He was staying in a landed property in a wealthy estate and wanted his 3 cents back. Really?

Where are the most dangerous roads?

Adam Road has many cross junctions. The traffic is hazardous and if one is not careful, there is a high risk of a casualty.

Hardest place you have to navigate?

Old HDB estates, because as they go through upgrading processes, many of the unit entrances

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have obstacles—no lifts, no signboards, etc. Almost like playing Cluedo.

Any special gadgets that you carry with you?

Many people tend to look towards modern gadgets for help. I still like to do things old school with my printed Mini Directory Book.

When are you the busiest?

Delivering in one hour is not a problem, however, if restaurants are late in preparing the food, it affects my delivery time and I have 15 minutes to get from the restaurant to the customer’s home. Otherwise we deliver rain or shine. The busiest nights are usually Sundays as most of the orders are coming from families at home. The peak would be between 6-9pm.

Name: Lee Jun Hao Age: 24 Vehicle: Electric bicycle Time on the job: 8 months Delivers for: Extra Virgin Pizza What is it like delivering pizzas?

My job is unique because everybody in Extra Virgin Pizza actually doubles up as a delivery rider during nonpeak periods. We try to minimise our impact on the environment, so we use electric bicycles instead of delivery vans or motorcycles. That means everyone needs to chip in to cycle a little now and then! It’s challenging at times, as there are a lot of things you can’t control—the weather, traffic and Singapore drivers.

Any place you tend to get lost?

Around United Square (where I am stationed), Balestier is definitely one of the more challenging areas. It’s such a complicated place, but after you get familiar with the winding roads, it’s less of a problem—practice makes perfect!

Weirdest person at the door?

One time, I delivered some pizzas to this guy who answered the door wrapped in a towel and nothing else.

It was all fine till the moment the towel fell to the floor.

Thank goodness we are both guys.

Most dangerous delivery you ever did?

There isn’t one particular instance that comes to mind, but cycling on Singapore roads in general can be quite dangerous, especially for cyclists. Cars can get really close to us, so we have to be extra careful.

Do you usually get a tip?

Tips are not uncommon. Customers are quite happy to have us “keep the change”. The most I’ve ever gotten

is $20 on a single delivery—it was a big delivery with numerous special requests. When we came through for him, he was extremely satisfied and tipped us accordingly.

Last but not least, if I could give advice to anyone starting to do deliveries...

It’s tough, but it’s worth it. Always stay positive!

There are (hungry) people out there depending on you!

Name: Shaun Low Age: 28 Vehicle: Motorcycle Time on the job: 6 months Delivers for: foodpanda What do you like/dislike about the job?

We get to travel around, interact with different people and not be bound to the desk. However, the job experience is sometimes marred by long waiting hours and unpleasant customers.

Strangest place you ever delivered to?

The red light districts like Geylang, because it’s assumed we are there for other purposes besides food delivery.

Weirdest delivery experience?

A six-year-old child once placed an order. We hoped it was not a prank and decided to fulfil the order. When we arrived at the address, the kid actually collected the food and made his payment in cash all by himself.

Most dangerous delivery you ever did?

Our deliveries are generally safe with rarely any accidents or danger involved as the company takes many safety measures.

Hardest places to find?

Usually new places like Marina Bay Financial District are tough to navigate as there are several new roads and we are unfamiliar with the area.

Any special gadgets that you carry with you?

Our phones with GPS function and Bluetooth headsets inside our helmets are indispensable for finding your way or calling the customer for more detailed directions while on the go.

How’s the tipping like?

My customers would usually round up the total bill to the nearest dollar.

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

Hooked is designed for anglers who want to improve their fishing skills and be kept up to date with the latest fishing news. In each issue, we’ll cover technical know-how in sections like Expert Opinions and Techniques. Our resident anglers will tell you everything you ever wanted to know about local fishing spots in the section HOOKED Team Go Fishing, while The List and Buyers’ Guide sections will feature tackle and other fishing-related gear. On top of that, The Sun Sea Surf section will cover boating and travel news. There’s all this and more in HOOKED! ISSUE 9 SEP-NOV 2014 S$6.00 | RM$12.00

#FLASHYOURCATCH Every two months we give you the opportunity to show off your

ISSUE 9 SEPTEMBER - NOVEMBER 2014 MICA (P) 131/05/2014 KDN PPS 1808/10/2013 (025521)

prized catches. Two winners will be rewarded for their efforts.

SECOND Anniversary Issue

EXPERT GUIDES

LEARN HOW TO

CATCH GIANTS IN SINGAPORE!

 Take good photos  Fight strong fishes  Hunt for snakeheads

Our exclusive interview with

JEREMY WADE

www.hooked-magazine.com

LANDING THE SARATOGA IN THE OUTBACK REVIEW

MUST-TRY DIVING SPOTS AROUND THE WORLD

THE MAN BEHIND RIVER MONSTERS

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Wish you had a reliable 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 rise to the occasion with 27 breakfast buffets in the downtown core, rouse a blogger in the early morning for a meal, treat our sweet tooth to dessert tables under $50 and check out 10 economical Indian favourites. Log on to www.bites.com.sg for these buffets and more!

Bites guide:

PLATE

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

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HOTEL BREAKFAST BUFFETS In singapore’s downtown core CBD AREA[$] Café 2000 M Hotel Singapore Level 1, 81 Anson Road. Tel: 6500 6112 Strictly walk-ins only, but once you get a table in the warm and inviting restaurant, feast on an American spread ($28++, daily 6.30-10.30am) with local embellishments like plain naan, dim sum and porridge.

There’s also a spread of yogurt, breads, muesli, bacon and an egg station.

HSBC CARDHOLDERS ENJOY: ◆ One dines free with three paying adults for buffet lunch and dinner from Sunday to Thursday.

Element Amara Singapore Hotel Lobby Level 165 Tanjong Pagar Road. Tel: 6879 2607 Chafers beckon you with a myriad of international dishes

Plate Carlton City Hotel Singapore Level 3, 1 Gopeng Street. Tel: 6632 8922 Stack your plate high with scrambled eggs, chicken wings, salad, yogurt, fruits, and croissants at this poolside getaway from the city. There’s also Hakka porridge and fried rice at the Asian section ($29++, daily 6.30-10.30am).

The Royal Mail Restaurant & Bar Ascott Raffles Place Singapore Level 2, 2 Finlayson Green. Tel: 6509 3589 Waltz in for classic British breakfast in this 60-seater Old World restaurant inspired by the vintage brass mail chute at the lift lobby ($30++, Mon-Fri 6.30-10.30am, Sat-Sun 7-11am). Choose a main: buttermilk pancakes; farm fresh eggs scrambled, made into an omelette or served sunny side up. Enjoy the buffet of bread, hot Asian and Continental specials, cold cuts, fruits, yogurt, cereals and juices.

Price guide (nett) $ wallet-friendly (below $50) $$ just can’t resist a splurge ($50-100) $$$ a special occasion ($100-150) $$$$ indulgence galore (above $150)

Orchid Café. Known for their porridge buffet, mornings however bring tidings of American breakfast ($22++, daily 6-10am). No queues for the egg station—you’ll find them prepared and laid out in the chafers.

like dim sum, nasi lemak, porridge, six types of cereals, cold cuts and prata. There are also egg and noodle stations ($37++, Mon-Sat 6.30-10.30am, Sun 7-10.30am).

For 5-10 pax, inform the restaurant in advance that you’d like to sit at Café Oriental: the hotel opens this adjoining restaurant during busy mornings.

HSBC CARDHOLDERS ENJOY: ◆ One dines free with every three paying adults for weekend brunch.

Farm to Table Café The Duxton Hotel Singapore 83 Duxton Road. Tel: 6227 7678 Hit up this pop-up café (till end 2014) run by coffee nerds who also serve plates of comfort fare. Opt for their breakfast semi-buffet ($23.55 nett, daily 7.30-10.30am) which includes gourmet coffee, two types of cereals, cold cuts, fresh fruits, French pastries, white bread, juices, milk, jam and eggs any way. They’ll take bacon requests too.

Orchid Café Orchid Hotel Level 3, 1 Tras Link. Tel: 6818 6831 Keisuke Tonkotsu King and Cake Spade are literally a few metres away, but your best bet for breakfast is

visit

The Sleeping Rhino Klapsons, The Boutique Hotel Level 1, 15 Hoe Chiang Road. Tel: 6521 9001 Ruminate as you make your way through the modest breakfast buffet ($22++, Mon-Fri 7-10.30am, Sat-Sun 7-11am) of ham, cheese sandwiches, eggs à la minute, SEASONAL TASTES

In partnership with

croissants and yogurt. Bring some friends to share your sleepy musings with: reservations are accepted.

Xperience Restaurant & Bar Sofitel So Singapore G/F, 35 Robinson Road. Tel: 6701 6800 This is a gorgeous new restaurant in a new hotel, with designer chairs in a sophisticated homely setting, a show kitchen and a spacious bar counter. As the sun’s first rays caress our island, the restaurant doles out American breakfast and French-local fusion fare for hungry early risers ($35++, Mon-Fri 6.30-10am, Sat-Sun 6.30-10.30am). Reservations accepted.

HSBC CARDHOLDERS ENJOY: ◆ 10% off total bill for all other HSBC cards.

[$$] Seasonal Tastes The Westin Singapore Level 32, 12 Marina View, Asia Square Tower 2.

Tel: 6922 6968 Fulfil your lofty palate aspirations before the sun reaches its full strength at this buffet restaurant with a view.

Eat your way through its international menu of yogurt, cereal, eggs made-to-order, hash browns, bacon and nasi lemak. Look out for the regional Asian station which cycles through Japanese, Korean or Thai cuisines as you enjoy a bird’s eye view of downtown Singapore ($45++, daily 6.30-10.30am). First come, first served.

Coleman’s Café Peninsula Excelsior Hotel Level 5, 5 Coleman Street. Tel: 6416 1132 A hidden gem in the City Hall area, walk-in for American breakfast ($28++, daily 6.30-10.30am): greet the friendly chef at the egg station and collect your order; then tuck into fresh fruit, coleslaw, Danish pastries and other sumptuous items.

Indulge at Park Grand Park City Hall Lobby Level, 10 Coleman Street. Tel: 6432 5888 Weave through the nostalgia of old shophouses to the hotel restaurant, which is set in an atrium against a gentle waterfall. Have American breakfast ($27++, daily 6.30-10.30am) with the full works: eggs as you like them, baked beans, cheddar and its dairy counterparts. Walkins only.

HSBC CARDHOLDERS ENJOY: ◆ One dines for free with three paying adults for International Lunch and Dinner Buffet, as well as Sunday Lunch Buffet

CITY HALL [$] Café Mosaic Carlton Hotel Singapore Level 1, 76 Bras Basah Rd. Tel: 6311 8195 Their breakfast buffet’s usually packed to the gills with hotel guests, but should you score a table, make a beeline for the noodle station ($33++, daily 6-10.30am).

The chefs dish out chicken mee, but specials vary. Pair it with nosh from the omelette station, bread and yogurt.

HSBC CARDHOLDERS ENJOY: ◆ One-for-one weekday lunch and daily dinner Café Swiss Swissôtel The Stamford Level 2, 2 Stamford Road. Tel: 6431 6156 Early birds, this will be your first choice as the aromatic smells of bacon, eggs made-to-order, and other American and continental delights invigorate your senses ($38++, daily 6-11am). Just beside is Kopi Tiam, which opens its doors later ($38++, Mon-Fri 7.3010.30am, Sat-Sun, PH 7.30-11am) and helps ease the ravenous crowd. Both restaurants serve from a similar menu with no Asian offerings. Walk-ins only.

indulge at park

Poolside Café The Residence, Singapore Recreation Club B1, B Connaught Drive. Tel: 6595 0537 The only way to enter the marine-themed cafe is if you’re a Singapore Recreation Club member or there’s one in your group. Ask for al fresco seats by the pool and start your day with a continental breakfast: bread, toast, juices, coffee, tea and other dishes ($15++, daily 7.30-11am).

prego

Prego Fairmont Singapore Level 1, 80 Bras Basah Road. Tel: 6431 6156 You won’t find pasta or any Italian dishes at this trattoria when it serves as a breakfast venue for hotel guests ($39++, daily 6-11am). The spread of American, continental and Asian here is larger than its eightstorey poolside counterpart Alligator Pear ($36++, Mon-Fri 7-10.30am, Sat-Sun, PH 7-11.30am). Weekday reservations at Prego only.

Straits Café Rendezvous Hotel Singapore G/F 9 Bras Basah Road. Tel: 6335 1777 Sunday is family day, so enjoy a special breakfast rate when you stroll into the restaurant with your partner, parents and kids in tow (Mon-Sat $33++, Sun $18++; daily 7-10.30am). The spread remains the same: international offerings of dim sum, noodles, porridge, western fare, a live egg station, juices and cereal.

Waffles and French toast are on rotation, while at the bakery, breads are made fresh in the morning and laid out, still warm.

Table by Rang Mahal Naumi Hotel Lobby Level, 41 Seah Street. Tel: 6403 6005 Indulge to your heart’s content with a healthy meal of fresh greens, eggs à la minute, cheeses, freshlymade yogurts, pastries, juices chockfull of super berries and beauty boosters; and a wide variety of hot entrees ($22++, Mon-Fri 7-10.30am, Sat-Sun 7-11am).

Reservations are encouraged.

The Scarlet Singapore – Breeze

Exclusively for HSBC credit and debit cardholders:

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Blogger Hot Seat We put self-professed geek and former tech PR and marketing pioneer Catherine Ling of food blog Camemberu on the morning breakfast run at Seasonal Tastes.

She tells us about her cheesy blog name and her excellent navigation skills.

future employers will look at your social media identity.

It’s great for people who want to write, take photos and be creative.”

Quote of the morning: “People who love food are nice people.”

ON HER DAUGHTERS: “One’s 6+, the other’s 8.

One’s like a vacuum cleaner, the other’s quite picky.

WHO: Catherine Ling (www.camemberu.com) BLOGGING FOR: Over seven years. ‘Camemberu’ is inspired from the Japanese pronunciation of camembert from a cheeky NSFW (not safe for work) anime. “I’m gonna regret telling!”

SAY CHEESE? Canon 400D. “Got it a year after I started my blog. It was obsolete by the time I bought it.”

MORE CHEESE: “It’s quite fascinating that the Japanese started liking cheese, especially the stinky variety, as it’s so foreign to them, like durian for the ang mos. Camembert’s one of my faves, especially the soft, milky and pungent kind (like blue cheese).”

HER “GUY” SIDE: “I like red meat, and can read a map really well. I’ve never gotten lost on holiday, and usually end up being the navigator. I’m also a geek; I used to tinker with my PC.” ON JAPAN: “I’ve been there about 10 times—Okinawa, Kyushu Island, Hiroshima, Kyoto, Osaka, Tokyo—it feels like home. I actually took JLPT4 in the late 90s, but I didn’t collect my cert.”

BLOGGING PET PEEVES: “Blogging is not easy. To do it well and consistently is a lot of hard work. There’s also a slight stigma which comes with the term ‘blogger’.

Then there are the talent management agencies who try to ‘brainwash’ us and say we can charge for this and that. Ultimately, it comes down to value. Like how a Persian carpet can go for $50k. Is it worth it? Who is going to pay? If you lose credibility, there goes your blog. Readers here are generally quite discerning.”

ON THE NEW BLOG-ERATION: “The best thing about the internet is the freedom of expression. But what you put up reflects on yourself. Several years down the road,

My younger one was twice the weight of my firstborn at birth, and now she’s into plating food. I’ll let them develop their own interests but I do bring them along for some tastings. OMG they love buffets and sushi; I’m training them to like spicy food.”

ULTIMATE COMFORT FOOD: “Hawker food like oyster omelette, char kuay teow; but if I can’t get anything else, the simplest is good bread and butter. I like rustic bread with grains.”

DON’T OFFER HER: “I’m not into runny eggs, ate too much when I was young. No liver for me too, but ang mo liver like foie gras is okay. Not a big fan of Chinese veg too.”

BEST MOMENT OF 2014: “In April, I was in London for the inaugural Global Chowzter Awards. I met bloggers from around the world, and the best part was looking for food with like-minded people from the Philippines, Indonesia and New York.”

visit

THE BUFFET: Breakfast buffet at Seasonal

Tastes at The Westin Singapore ($45++ per person, daily 6.30-10.30am) TIME OF VISIT: 8 September, 9am STRATEGY: “Go round to survey the buffet first. The layout makes it very easy to do so here. Then pick a little of everything, followed by bigger helpings of what I like. I don’t have a separate stomach for desserts, so I can skip that.” For plating and photography purposes, she started with Western, followed by Asian and then fruits to end.

ON THE BREAKFAST SPREAD: “They have a bit of everything, but the variety is a tad limited compared to other hotels of their calibre. It’s improved since they first opened in November 2013.”

DIDN’T EAT: Cereal. “Usually it comes from a box. I tried some homemade granola though.”

TOOK PHOTOS OF: Her plate and the pass-arounds (chefs make their rounds with breakfast canapés, granola mixes and smoothie shots for guests to try).

SECOND HELPINGS OF: Mutton curry. “It’s very robust, hearty and daringly spicy.” (Some chefs at the restaurant are Malaysian.) “The mango and yogurt smoothie is pretty good too.

MOST MEMORABLE: “The really great view from the 32nd storey. The food is also not in huge chafers; the small portions in the food warmers are replenished regularly—good for freshness.”

HOW MANY BiTES? Taste: 4/5 Value for money: 3/5

In partnership with

5

tiffin room

basilico

dessert Buffets under $50

➽ [$$] Tiffin Room Raffles Hotel Singapore Lobby Level, 1 Beach Road. Tel: 6412 1816 You’ll be sure to find vegetable dhal curry served with prata or plain rice and papadom at Raffles Singapore’s main dining room—even during breakfast ($45++, daily 6.30-10.30am). Find seven egg dishes at this semibuffet, including the Raffles omelette, topped with a dash of masala and grated emmental cheese; there’s also a wide selection of fresh fruits, cold cuts, breads, cheeses and tea to complement the most important meal of the day.

HSBC CARDHOLDERS ENJOY: ◆ 20% off total bill

MARINA BAY [$] The Clifford Pier The Fullerton Bay Hotel Singapore Lobby Level 80 Collyer Quay. Tel: 6597 5266 Stately chandeliers watch over you from the high arches at this restaurant on Singapore’s 1933 historical jetty.

Expect local dishes reminiscent of our forefathers, such as herbal bak kut teh, congee, nasi lemak, fried beehoon; as well as American items like a salad bar, sausages, bacon and an egg station ($38++, Mon-Fri 6-10.30am, Sat-Sun, PH 6-11am).

RISE Marina Bay Sands Hotel Lobby Tower 1, 10 Bayfront Avenue.

Tel: 6688 5525 Rise and shine, is surely what they meant when they named this restaurant. Behold, six counters serving Western, Chinese, Japanese and Indian fare; with pastry, fruit and salad, and a cereal counter ($41++, daily 6.30-11am). There’s the de facto egg station and a live noodle station dishing out fishballs, seafood dim sum or a soup-based yong tau foo on a rotational basis.

Walk-ins only. ➽

NETT

Enjoy the ultimate sugar rush when you tuck into ice cream, chocolate, pastries and all things sweet at these spreads

Basilico Specialty Italian cakes and pastries, six flavours of gelato and chocolate desserts made only from Amedei will round off your night sweetly at Basilico’s dessert buffet at $22++ (daily 9-10pm). The spread is part of the larger dinner buffet, but worth a trip on its own. Must-tries are the rich, smooth and creamy gelatos in vanilla and pistachio, and the decadent bread and butter pudding. 2/F Regent Singapore, 1 Cuscaden Road. Tel: 6725 3232

Lick (Little Ice Cream Kafe) At this humble four-year-old joint, the ice cream buffet ($15 adult, $7.50 child) happens every Friday 2-4pm and 6-8pm, where all 20+ of their flavours are available for enjoying in sample sizes. Waffles, cones and toppings are all included in the price, which is great value for daily churned, handmade ice cream with fresh ingredients. Local flavours may include Milo Dinosaur, Kaya Toast and Gula Melaka, while D24 and Lychee Martini are perennial favourites. 258 Tanjong Katong Road. Tel: 6440 8526

Swensens It’s fun for the whole family with ice cream galore, pastries, cakes and a chocolate fountain to boot.

Swensen’s at ION has been offering their ice cream dessert buffet since they opened, with up to 50 flavours of ice cream and 40 toppings to choose from. It costs $13.90++ with a food order or $20.90++ separately (daily 10.30am-10.30pm). #B1-31 ION

Orchard, 2 Orchard Turn. Tel: 6884 5967, www.swensens.com.sg

Thanying There was a time when Thai dessert buffets were popular, but these days only fine dining Thanying remains to carry the tradition. The catch? You’ll need to order something from the à la carte menu before you can tuck into the traditional desserts buffet ($9++).

These exquisitely displayed little mung bean desserts, jellies and fresh fruit will put out the flames in your mouth if you’ve had more than your share of hot spice. 2/F Amara Singapore, 165 Tanjong Pagar Road. Tel: 6222 4688

The Courtyard Singapore’s most famous chocolate buffet offers more cacao in one setting than you could imagine.

The spread, which includes free-flow tea and coffee at $38++ (Fri-Sat 8-11pm), may seem indulgent at first, but it’s a full experience of textures, temperatures and flavours that encompass cake creations, macarons, ice cream, hot chocolate, chocolate fountains, puddings and more. The Fullerton Hotel Singapore, 1 Fullerton Square. Tel: 6877 8129

Subway

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➽ Sky on 57 Marina Bay Sands Level 57 Sands SkyPark, Tower 1, 10 Bayfront Avenue.

Tel: 6688 8857 Almost as good as being on top of the world, feast your eyes on the view and fill your rumbling stomach with any two of your day-starters such as eggs benedict and croissants, or Teochew porridge and laksa. Drink in the view as you sip on free-flow freshly-squeezed juices, then saunter around the mini buffet of salads, cereals, breads, Danishes and fruit ($41++, Mon-Fri 7-10.30am, Sat-Sun 7-11am).

and curry, rosti, chicken and pork sausages, eggs à la minute, cereal, cheese and crackers, and toasty breads.

Reservations accepted.

greenhouse

MELT ~ The World Café Mandarin Oriental, Singapore Level 4, 5 Raffles Ave, Marina Square. Tel: 6885 3500 For a small party of four or below, MELT will gladly accept reservations for breakfast ($46++, daily 6.3010.30am). Partake in their Asian counter for dim sum, or choose American breakfast offerings, Indian dishes, noodles, and the must-have cold cuts, pancakes and eggs made-to-order.

HSBC CARDHOLDERS ENJOY:

[$$] Town Restaurant The Fullerton Hotel Singapore Lobby Level 1 Fullerton Square. Tel: 6877 8128 Invite your friends and family to dine with you on the American breakfast and international spread ($45++, daily 6.30-10.30am). Eggs à la minute, pancakes, grilled vegetables and waffles aside, there’s also prata, samosa, grilled salmon, kaya toast and vegetarian fare.

HSBC CARDHOLDERS ENJOY: ◆ One dines for free with every three paying adults for Buffet Dinner (daily) and Saturday Singapore Local High Tea.

EDGE

Melt ~ the world café

MARINA TRIANGLE [$] AquaMarine [ ] Marina Mandarin Singapore Level 4, 6 Raffles Boulevard, Marina Square.

Tel: 6845 1112 An American spread greets guests at this restaurant ($40++, daily 6.30-10.30am). There’s congee, turkey bacon, croissants and other Danish pastries, a live egg station, fruits, hot dishes which include fried rice and beehoon, toast and sausages. The restaurant’s central kitchen and all its food stations are Halal-certified. Open to walk-in guests.

[$$] Edge Pan Pacific Singapore Level 3, 7 Raffles Boulevard, Marina Square.

Tel: 6826 8240 Breakfast is a feast with housemade sausages, sugar cane juices, eggs any way from the live station, and other Pacific delights at this 316-seater restaurant which is famed for its food theatrics and Saturday’s Long Long Lunch. Mornings are a flurry of activity as hotel guests stream in for their first meal of the day, so seats are on a first come, first served basis ($48++, daily 6-10.30am).

Greenhouse The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore Level 3, 7 Raffles Avenue. Tel: 6434 5288 Dine with a view of a luscious green garden fresh with dawn’s dew at Greenhouse ($49++, daily 6.3010.30am). Savour international dishes such as prata

◆ 15% off food bill Oscar’s Conrad Centennial Singapore Lobby Level 2 Temasek Blvd. Tel: 6432 7481 Mornings are busy at Oscar’s, so you’ll be seated if you come early ($43++, daily 6-10.30am). The international spread boasts sushi, sashimi, waffles and ice cream, as well as a live egg station. Best part? They’re open 24 hours, so drop by for supper too.

HSBC CARDHOLDERS ENJOY: ◆ One dines free with every three full paying diners for buffet dinner from Sunday to Thursday and one dines

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Top 10 Economical

Indian Buffets

Indian buffets present some of the best value around for curries, naans and tandoori, with these special picks from $10 nett to under $25

Annalakshmi Since 1986, this hospitable vegetarian buffet offers something no other establishment does: a pay what you want policy. Set up by the Temple of Fine Arts and staffed by volunteers from all walks of life, they dole out a wide selection of home-cooked dishes such as fragrant potato curry, mock mutton and paneer (daily 11.30am-3pm, 6.15-9.30pm). If not knowing what to pay stresses you out, budget about $15 for moderate diners. #01-04 Central Square, 20 Havelock Road.

Tel: 6339 9993

and spices), butter chicken and menthi fish (fish with fenugreek). Finish up your meal with a cup of warm and aromatic masala tea to cut through the richness of the dishes. 207 Upper Thomson Road, Yew Lian Park.

Tel: 6822 3716

Kailash Parbat With outlets in India and Singapore and having over 60 years of experience, the restaurant is famed for serving up authentic Sindhi cuisine. Offering signature items such as bhugal bhee aloo (potato and lotus stem in a tomato based masala), koki (Sindhi flat bread) and an à la minute chaat station, their lunch buffet ($12.90+, daily 11am-4pm) is a value find indeed. Located in a hotel, the ambience is a bit more upscale for entertaining. #01-03 Hotel Grand Chancellor, 3 Belilios Road. Tel: 6836 5545 image courtesy of bokhara biryani & kebab

Bayview Tandoor Get a view of Singapore skyline with your buffet for $38++, as diners here can opt to bundle in a Singapore Flyer ride after. Should you choose to just dine, the buffet ($16++, daily 11.30am-3pm; $22++, daily 6.3010.30pm) offers chicken tikka, channa masala, and fragrant basmati rice cooked with saffron and other spices. #02-01 Singapore Flyer, 30 Raffles Avenue. Tel: 6333 9142

Bokhara Biryani & Kebab [ ] Specialising in authentic dum biryani and tandoori kebabs, the dinner buffet ($18.90++, daily 7-10pm) also serves up other aromatic dishes such as mutton keema, Goan fish gravy and yellow daal. The dishes are prepared with the chefs’ own spice mixes, as they shy away from using ready made spices, MSG and preservatives. #01-02 Fortuna Hotel Building, 2 Owen Road. Tel: 8399 7795

Daawat Tandoori This long-time neighbourhood fave is well worth the trek for non-residents. Take a break from the usual tandoori and samosas at the buffet ($16+, daily 11am-11pm), and nosh on popular bhindi masala (ladies fingers

image courtesy of sitara restaurant

Riverwalk Tandoor Starting out as a catering business, Riverwalk Tandoor has been churning out Indian delicacies since 1998. Located conveniently in central Singapore, their mouthwatering buffet ($15.90++, daily 11.30am-2.30-pm; $18.90++, Mon-Thu 6.3010.30pm; $19.90, Fri-Sun 6.30-10.30pm) draws a wide range of youngsters as well as families for traditional delights such as mutton rogan josh, aloo gobi (spiced potatoes and cauliflower) and navratan korma (mixed curry vegetables). Freshly baked naans land on your table when you arrive. #B1-38 The Riverwalk, 20 Upper Circular Rd. Tel: 6536 0875

Sitara Restaurant [ ] Khansama Tandoori Castle Tucked away in the bio-medical research hub is a place for weary scientists to fuel up with great buffet lunch ($11.90++, Mon-Fri 11.30am-2.30pm). Dishes such as chicken sixty five, daal gosht (lamb with lentils) and fish amritsari (fried spiced fish) fill their chaffers, offering diners a satisfying mid day break. #01-20/21/22 Immunos Building, 8a Biomedical Grove. Tel: 6299 0300

Kohinoor Palace Their lunch buffet ($10 nett, Mon-Fri 11.30am-2.30pm) is one of the cheapest out there and serves up both vegetarian as well as non-vegetarian options. It’s homey, comforting dining over staples such as chicken tikka masala and tandoori chicken which accompany naans and basmanti rice. For a sweet finish, classic gulab jamun is a dumpling made of milk solids drizzled with sugary syrup. 3/F, 2 Tessensohn Road.

Tel: 6396 3951

Started in 1997, Sitara in Hindi refers to the morning star. At this iconic corner restaurant, pick from over 17 dishes at the value buffet ($17 nett, daily 11.45am3pm; $21 nett, daily 6.45-10pm), including freshly baked naans, rotis and a live chapati station. Those who love Indian breads will have their fill here, and to go with the carbs, a variety of vegetarian and nonvegetarian curries. 291 Serangoon Rd. Tel: 6291 3211

The Mango Tree Indian Coastal Restaurant Inspired by his trip to India, CK Chin morphed from construction manager to restaurateur to set up the original Mango Tree by the sea in 2001. In 2012, the restaurant moved to a mall but hasn’t lost its charm.

The buffet ($19++, Mon-Thu 11.30am-10.30pm; $24++, Fri 11.30am-11pm, Sat-Sun, 11.30am-10.30pm) gives a taste of coastal Indian cuisine from Goa, Kerala and Bombay, along with spicy lentil soup, made-to-order naans and a variety of fish, mutton and chicken curries. #03-11 I12 Katong, 112 East Coast Road. Tel: 6604 9661

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*Offer is valid till 22 October 2014. Call 6836 3088 or visit www.hsbc.com.sg/dining for more details.

d i n i n g

ALIVE MUSEUM

hway

South past the Singapore River is reclaimed land termed the Marina Centre. What you see now—mainstay malls Suntec City, Marina Square and Millenia Walk, the Singapore Flyer and five linked hotels—are the careful design of architects between 1986 and 1997. That’s over a decade of urban planning. This is serious mallcrawling that can clock you over 10,000 steps easily, so much so that we tackle the area in two parts.

hig

The Marina Centre triangle (part I)

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d e s t i n a t i o n

By Meredith Woo

Overview Lots of good feng shui vibes in this 20-year-old mall. The towers look like a left hand from above, the bronze fountain a ring in its "palm". The balance of metal and water bring success, with flowing water symbolising wealth. Suntec's Chinese name 新达 (xīn dá) also means "new achievement".

Retail, convention and office floor space measure over four million square feet.

Mall Developments Towers 1 and 2 will be ready in 2015. You can get from the spanking new Tower 5 to Towers 3 and 4 via the recently renovated Fountain Terrace in the basement. The floor-toceiling glass panels showcase the beautiful water displays as you dine in Food Republic (#B1-115 to 120) and many of the restaurants encircling it. What was formerly Carrefour is now a mix of telecommunications namely OPPO (#01-627 to 630) and Schmidt (#01-631/632); and sports and lifestyle brand Liv Activ (#01-623 to 626). Marché Mövenpick (#01-612 to 614) now occupies the former F&B area which used to house Don’s Pies, Han’s and other outlets. Also new is Singapore Post (#03-383) which just opened on 29 Sep, and Golden Village (#03-373, goodbye Eng Wah) which will open in November with three Gold Class cinema halls and a selfservice bistro. They’ve stopped shuttle services to City Hall MRT station due to the proximity of Promenade MRT station.

Alive Museum (Towers 3/4, #03-372) This South Korean experiential outing hails from Jeju Island and features over 80 interactive 3D art scenarios. Wash your hair under the Merlion, do breakdance handstands or tower above the Singapore Flyer. Free Wi-Fi, kids’ birthday packages (from $468) and wedding shoots too. Admission $25. Daily 10am-9pm. alivemuseum.sg Bistro-Cool/Cool De Sac w(Tower 5, #02-380/381 and #02-384) Fun fusion fare like har cheong calamari ($12) and Korean BBQ beef burger ($17) with a handmade patty are cool picks. The housemade orange beetroot slice ($7.50) with a light cream cheese frosting is a moist delight sans the artificial colouring, while the java bar’s run by consulting barista Ryan Pang of Habitat Coffee fame. Fussy tots will love the sprawling adjoining edutainment playground where they’ll nosh on baby-friendly purees (from $2), toddler fodder butternut pumpkin risotto ($4) and kid-sized mac & cheese ($6). From $10 for unlimited play time with two accompanying adults free. Mon-Fri 10am-10pm, Sat-Sun 9am-10pm. Tel: 6337 0734 (bistro) 6337 0205 (play area)

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Ginza Lion Beer Hall (Towers 3/4, #01-649/650) The opening was delayed at time of press, but this 1899 Tokyo product is bigger than its Rodyk Street outlet.

There’s Japanese fare like sea bream carpaccio and wagyu beef in a wrap, and drinks like Sapporo beer, beer cocktails, wine and house spirits.

Lockdown/coffeemin (Towers 3/4, #03-377/378) Get your adrenaline pumping with the Haunted? theme room (from $19). The real-life escape game’s a 60-minute spook fest of fumbling with clues and uncovering a school's secrets with your pals (at least you're not alone). If you opt out, chillax at coffeemin ($1/10min, $30/day) and enjoy the free Wi-Fi (tabao-ed food welcome) as you co-work, play board games, shoot pool or challenge a friend on the Xbox. Daily 11am10pm. Tel: 6238 0370

OISHII JAPAN (16-18 Oct 2014, Convention Centre Halls 404-406) 6,000 sqm of floor space (up from 4,000 sqm in 2013) is dedicated to over 200 Japanese names in F&B, kitchenware, traditional craft items, agroinnovation, food machines and more. Highlights: prefecture specialities like Sanuki olive wagyu beef, Aomori apples, Kyoto Japanese tea, Ibaraki fruit yokan, Hokkaido seafood, Kagoshima shochu, Nadagogo sake and themed areas like confectionery heaven J-Sweets and cutting-edge J-Food Tech. $4 (public, 18 Oct 11am-5pm), $20 (trade, 16-17 Oct 10am-5.30pm)

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Suntec City—five towers of shopping, eating, linked offices and MICE

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(3 TEMASEK BOULEVARD)

DETOUR (Towers 3/4, #03-340) Fancy a sleep spa ($27/30min) on a Zero Gravity Sleep bed? Also on the menu: a hydrating facial ($117/60min), full body massage ($127/60min), classic pedicure ($37/45min) and fish spa ($23/20min). They’ve also swopped out hefty packages with a membership ($77/ month). At the Tox & Detox Bar (coming soon), find cakes, snacks cold-pressed fruit juices (from $5.70) and Illy coffee (from $3.30). Daily 11am-9pm. Tel: 6733 8687

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Fountain of Wealth Check out 1998's Guinness Book of Records largest fountain in the world for daily Touch Water sessions (10am-12pm, 2-4pm, 6-7.30pm) to absorb positive 'qi' energies and nightly light displays. The mall’s flowing centrepiece is inspired by the Hindu mandala, representing unity in spirit and harmony within Singapore's multiracial society.

MILLENIA WALK

(9 RAFFLES BOULEVARD) Millenia Walk—for car-spotting and posh dining

Overview Set foot in this chic designer haven (designed by Pritzker Architectural Prize Laureate Philip Johnson) with a 280-metre-long private street with a Park and Dine concept. Chill at Singapore microbrewery Paulaner Brauhaus (#0101) or sip wines from classy stemware at Wine Universe (#01-109) while you admire supercars like flashy Lamborghinis or Ferraris. Duck inside for high ceilings, a long shopping street and flagship Harvey Norman (#02-57).

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Mall Developments Roy Lichtenstein Sculpture Plaza One wing of the mall used to house These aluminium sculptures named Six Brushstrokes were specially PARCO Marina Bay. Itadakimasu, its commissioned for Millenia Singapore in 1996. The vignettes of nature, restaurant zone, once housed six land and seascapes are a fusion of Chinese calligraphy and western authentic Japanese concepts including post-industrial art—American pop artist Lichtenstein's final wish (1923Keisuke Tokyo (now located at Suntec), 1997) was to showcase his art in Singapore.

Saboten (outlet’s now at 313 Somerset), and Nantsuttei (now at Orchard Central). Since PARCO's exit in February this year, the management Books Actually (#01-83) has been tight-lipped about the new concept, only A pop-up store till February 2015. The cubbyhole’s a warm noting that it will be a "mixed use" section which will wooden bookworm's delight. Check out The Adventures of be ready in 2015.

Fatman & Superchub ($20) by Stephanie Raphaela Ho, The Resident Tourist series ($19.90 each), stationery, tote bags, Fika Swedish Café & Bistro DVDs and other loveable trinkets. Daily 11am-8pm.

(Halal, #01-20) Savour Swedish signatures: pickled herring with Chinese Heritage Museum (#02-21) rye bread and a boiled egg ($14.90), chilled Social enterprise the Chinese Heritage Foundation's goal rosehip soup ($7.90), the Fika Plank Special is to share its knowledge with future generations. Inside ($69.90) that's a trio of BBQ ribs, mash and this cross between a museum, gallery and retail space, grilled tomato with cheese. Dive into their you'll find artefacts from a traditional Chinese wedding juicy meatballs with potatoes and lingonberry ceremony, antique cabinets and feng shui art pieces. jam ($19.50), and end with hallonkräm med Daily 11am-7pm. Tel: 6438 5698. www.chinese.org.sg mjölk ($7.90), sweet Swedish raspberry cream served with fresh cold milk. Sun-Thu MEDZS (#01-46/47/55/56) 11am-10pm, Fri-Sat 11am-11pm.

If you're a on a rainbow diet, market-style MEDZS has Tel: 6336 7234 just the cake ($6.90) for you. In addition to its signature Mediterranean fare like Spanish paella (from $17.90), rosti Gyu-Kaku Prime (#01-03) (from $6.90) and crispy duck leg ($18.90), MEDZS' Asian We know you're here for the full-blood kitchen turns out tiger prawns in pumpkin broth ($19.90), wagyu beef. There's ribeye steak spicy kampung seafood fried rice ($9.90), and Japanese ($119.90/200g) from Mayura Station crispy salmon skin salad ($8.90). Also boasts value lunch in Australia with a marbling score of 8 sets (from $8.90) and a bar that’s perfect for after-work to 9, or make a beeline for the wagyu drinks. Daily 11.30am-11pm. Tel: 6337 7507 trial platter ($129/320g) which includes Kobe wagyu tongue Tart Blanc (#01-102) and fillet, Tajima wagyu rump This unassuming speciality café is gaining a following for its cap and karubi, Rangers Valley well-built tarts (from $7) like raspberry praline and the new wagyu nakaochi and brisket, spiced espresso delight which is filled with coffee crème and Kagoshima Japanese brûlée and a gingery chocolate fudge, paired with textures wagyu chuck roll. Sides, of java jelly and espresso tuile. Don't dismiss the savouries: starch, desserts, alcohol and try their soups, sandwiches, pitas and wraps; great with other meats available. Daily artisan tea and coffee from local roasters (lunch sets from 11.30am-2.30pm, 6-10.30pm. $9.90). Mon-Fri 10.30am-9pm, Sat-Sun 11am-9.30pm.

Tel: 6337 5070 Tel: 6238 6893

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Next issue: part II on Marina Square, Esplanade and the three Link malls books actually

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Trick or treat!

Be prepared for All Hallows Eve, for staying home shall grant no reprieve, As the young make their rounds, trick or treating on your grounds. Bolt your doors and check your locks, as we review these chips and chocs; A simple guide to help decide, which to give and which to hide.

By Joel Lim, Photography Benjamin Soh ALL TREATS FROM MEIDI-YA The Treat: Montezuma's Great British Spotted Dick Pudding Bars ($6.95) Taste Test: The name stopped us in our tracks at the supermarket aisle. It turned out to be a smooth chocolate with rich raisin, though it didn't resemble anything that is remotely pudding-like.

Verdict: Jolly decent The Treat: Dolfin Au Lait Hot Masala ($8.95) Taste Test: Belgian milk chocolate blended and balanced deftly with the earthy, warm and spiced notes of masala— great with a cuppa hot tea.

Verdict: Sugar, spice and very nice

The Treat: Organic Nirvana 72% Dark Chocolate Blueberry and Acai Fruit ($8.95) Taste Test: The dried acai (a blueberry-like superfruit) and blueberry bits are not very distinguishable in this otherwise pleasant organic and fair trade Belgian bar. The organic Trinitario beans from Dominican Republic have roasted nut tones, making for a bittersweet chew.

Verdict: Superfruit makes chocolate even healthier (right?)

The Treat: TAZA Guajillo Chilli ($6.95) Taste Test: This stone-ground Mexican chocolate is beautifully packaged, and packs a good heat along with its earthy, deep cacao note. However, the sandy texture might not sit well if you like your chocolates melt-in-the-mouth smooth.

Verdict: Spice up your life The Treat: Chuao Chocolatier Potato Chip ($7.95) Taste Test: Slivers of chips are artfully swaddled in a creamy milk chocolate with a sprinkle of sea salt, hitting all the notes of sweet, salty and crunchy.

Score! Look out for other fusion signatures from this Venezuelan chocolatier based in California.

Verdict: Keep it under lock and key

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The Treat: Kingdom Milk Chocolate Rhubarb and Vanilla Centre ($5.95) Taste Test: The bar, unfortunately, lacks the sour tang of the promised rhubarb, which would have been a perfect foil to the sweet vanilla cream. The chocolate also tasted on the weak side.

Verdict: A real sweet heart

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The Treat: Guinness Burts Thick Cut ($5.65) Taste Test: Thick cut potato offers a substantial bite with the creamy, almost chocolatey flavours of the famous stout permeating each individual chip.

Almost too much of a good thing, with very divided opinions on this almost-pungent bag.

Verdict: No age restrictions

The Treat: Walkers Selection (Cheesy Beans On Toast, Hotdog With Tomato Ketchup, Ranch Raccoon) ($5.65) Taste Test: This Walkers experimental pack had flavours that pleased, with tangy Ranch Raccoon scoring the most raves.

Pity about the too-thin and sharp slices of crisps that made for messy snacking.

Verdict: Fun for parties and gatherings

The Treat: Marmite Crisps ($1.95) Taste Test: This famously divisive flavour will cast a spell on you. The crisp's smoky, yeasty taste reminds us of the Marmite porridge of our childhood, and works well in a chip that shatters beautifully with each bite.

Verdict: Keep handy for atas yet comforting snacking

The Treat: Corkers Gressingham Duck and Hoisin Sauce ($5.65) Taste Test: A meal in your mouth.

You can make out each individual component—the unmistakable flavour of savoury duck and sweet hoisin sauce.

The kettle cooked chips taste of high quality potato.

Verdict: Goes with a glass of wine

The Treat: Nabisco Chip Star Sakura Ebi ($4.70) Taste Test: The only pressed chip in our list, this one turns the flavour up to 11. Tastes reminiscent of prawn crackers with not too much salt to stop you from reaching for another... and another.

Verdict:

Might lead to mindless munching

The Treat: Kumachan Potato Chips Hotate Butter Taste ($5.20) Taste Test: A very mild taste of hotate (scallop) and butter, and an exceptional crunch makes you want to keep coming back for more.

Verdict: Lonely movie night

The Treat: Nando's Peri-Peri Grooves - Chicken ($4.25) Taste Test: Not what we expected; it lacked the signature Peri-Peri spiciness. Disappointment aside, it had a terrific crunch factor, especially for those who love ridged cuts.

Verdict: It wasn't spicy

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In good spirits What’s new in the world of gin, vodka and whisky? Don’t bottle up your feelings as we go on a bar crawl for the best base spirit, whether neat or in a cocktail.

By June Lee

Whisky

Gin

Monkey Shoulder ➽ This is a new-age Scotch ‘triple malt’ that has been reinvented for playfulness, whether you want to drink it neat, on the rocks or mixed. The ‘triple’ means a combination of three single malt whiskies matured in Bourbon casks for a mellow, vanilla roundness. It’s made from the same company as Glenfiddich, the world’s most awarded single malt.

Taste: Hints of honey, a nose of marmalade and malt, and some sprinkle of Christmas spice such as nutmeg and cloves, makes Monkey Shoulder really stand out in a cocktail.

Plays well with: Just about everything—it gives a stronger malt backbone in enhancing cocktails. For a really refreshing slug, try Something Like A Lassie ($28) at Bar Naked, with orange bitters, lime and ginger beer to activate your taste buds.

Bar hangout: Bar Naked, 95 Club Street.

Tel: 9620 6719

Bombay Sapphire East ➽ It’s Bombay Sapphire with a new recipe—adding Vietnamese black pepper and Thai lemongrass into its existing 10 botanics mix. Bombay is usually everyone’s first foray into premium gin; it’s complex because of the pure botanicals that are captured in a vapour infusion process.

Taste: You’ll notice the punch from slightly higher alcohol content along with the spicy kick from black peppercorn, mingled with the familiar fragrant, mild and citrusy Bombay Sapphire.

Plays well with: Lemon and grapefruit; citrus fruit really brings out the brightness of the spices.

Bar hangout: Canvas, 20 Upper Circular Road.

Tel: 6538 2928

Hakushu Distiller’s Reserve ➽ Looking for fresh, crisp whisky with a light peatiness?

Look to Japan, and its misty green forests. This new range combines the best characteristics of a young malt whisky along with a heavily peated aged whisky, to create a versatile, no-age statement whisky.

Taste: A herbal character uplifted with peppermint and melon on the nose, and palate-tickling yuzu on the palate, with a subtle smoke overall.

Plays well with: Mint and sparkling water, for a very refreshing highball.

Buy from: Meidi-Ya, #B1-50 Liang Court, 177 River Valley Road. Tel: 6339 1112

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Sipsmith London Dry Gin ➽ Small and crafty, this quintessentially British gin is distilled in copper stills for that round character that makes drinking so much more enjoyable. An independent company, Sipsmith takes the time to handcraft each batch of 300 bottles—the gin is made after they’ve taken the first run of spirit for their vodka.

Taste: A dry juniper palate with lemon tart zest, very rounded and mouth-filling, topped with floral notes on the nose.

Plays well with: All kinds of tonic for a perfect G&T, smooth enough for a Martini, and versatile enough to be made into the Karagin ($18) at NUVO, which incorporates Asian flavours such as coconut milk, spiced berry puree and egg white.

Bar hangout: NUVO, #02-100 Marina Square, 6 Raffles Boulevard. Tel: 6822 2098

Vodka Reyka ➽ The only vodka that’s distilled in Iceland proves to be crisp, clean and thoroughly balanced. The secret is in the Icelandic spring water that naturally undergoes lava rock filtration.

Taste: Lightly creamy, elegant, not sharp or burning the palate.

It’s full-bodied so you could drink it on its own with ice, which brings out its aniseed and vanilla flavours.

Plays well with: Yuzu or cucumber for lighter cocktails; chilli or chocolate bitters for more intensity.

Bar hangout: Sauce, #01-10/12 Esplanade Mall, 8 Raffles Avenue.

Tel: 6837 2959

Snow Leopard ➽ This philanthropic drink was created in 2006 to help conserve the endangered Himalayan snow leopard, with the aim of raising US$1 million annually.

Taste: The super-smooth finish comes from being filtered twice over charcoal, lending it a clean, peppery finish to complement the nutty, creamy vanilla tones.

Plays well with: Any classic vodka cocktail, such as a dry martini. Wintermelon tea is infused to create a subtly herbal martini, shaken and strained in the Snow Melon Martini ($25 for 2).

Bar First 100 readers to hangout: 5 present this page will Emerald Hill receive a FREE Snow Cocktail Melon Martini at Bar, 5 5 Emerald Hill Emerald Hill Cocktail Bar Road.

(1 Oct- 30 nov) Tel: 6732 0818

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Relak this corner Where Upper East Coast Road meets Bedok Road, you’ll find Bedok Food Centre— popular for supper with residents and personnel from the nearby army camp.

Photography by Yen Wong The perfect place to lepak and makan.

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Attack!!! chiong ah!!!

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Don’t BE confused! Green Sky Fried Kway Teow (#01-14) used to sublet from Soon Lee (#01-02) in 2006, but have since moved to this unit in 2013. BEST For crispy oyster omelette.

Nur Indah Kitchen (#0107): With so many stalls selling ayam penyet, our vote is for this almost 30-year-old shop which used to operate in the airport canteen.

!!!

Satay Solo (#01-09): Sometimes they have tripe satay. Otherwise try nasi rawon, an Indonesian beef soup flavoured with buah keluak, and served with serunding (spiced grated coconut), sambal cuttlefish, beef lung, and begedil (potato cake).

Finish with a famous bowl of cheng tng: the cold version’s said to be invented for thirsty army boys. Since the boss Mr Lim passed on, the stall’s now run by his elder sis.

THE Standard Has FALLEN and it’s too sweet now.

Hard-to-find lacy egg pancake roti jala is served with a generous helping of chicken curry at this goreng pisang stall (#01-12) , then feast on a toweringly tasty tahu telor and kacang phool, or spiced fava beans dip (#01-05)

Bedok Food Centre (aka Bedok Corner), 1 Bedok Road

Now can book in with a full tummy. OH NO, #RTWASTED.

zzz...

The bill TThe total (4 pax): $35.50 ➔ #01-14 Green Sky Fried Kway Teow: oyster omelette $5 ➔ #01-07 Nur Indah Kitchen: ayam penyet $4.50 ➔ #01-09 Satay Solo: 9 sticks of SATAY + Ketupat $5.50; nasi rawon $4.50 ➔ #01-12 Goreng Pisang King: goreng pisang $0.50, cempedak $0.60, green beans $0.60, roti jala with chicken curry $3.80 ➔ #01-05 Ole Ole Javiyan: Tahu Telor $4.50, KacHang Phool $3.50 ➔ #01-31 Yue Lai Xiang: big cheng tng $2.50

The score ➔ Food ➔ Ambience ➔ Value

THE VerdicT ➔ A bit ulu (remote), but worth the trip for good Malay fare like tahu telor, hard-to-find roti jala, nasi rawon and Halal-Chinese dishes like crisp oyster omelette.

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

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IKEA CHOSIGT Ice Cream Scoop Do you scrape ice cream from the tub with a spoon? Don’t be lazy; invest in a proper scoop that comes in yummy colours for perfect spheres of frozen dessert each time. These dishwasher safe utensils are made of stainless steel with a plastic handle.

THESE handy gadgets and tools MAY BE small, BUT THEY are powerful aides for the perfect MEAL and will perk up any desk lunch.

$5.90 for yellow/green/blue/pink from IKEA Tampines, 60 Tampines North Drive 2.

Tel: 6786 6868

By Meredith Woo

Trongs Quickly switch from a sticky mess of durian or honey-glazed chicken wings to your mobile phone with these handy (hurhur) finger food buddies. Awesome with pizza, BBQ ribs and nosh that stains; it’s also a great alternative to chopsticks (goodbye disposables!)

USD$19.95 (excluding shipping) for six pairs from www.trongs.com

Bamboo Har Kow Steamer Case Enjoy soft, fluffy paus, fresh siew mai and other dim sum items with this traditional steamer. Other uses: serving food or as a centrepiece, transporting pies or tarts (tie it up with a ribbon).

$2.10 (case) and $1.05 (cover) from Sia Huat, 7, 9 & 11 Temple Street. Tel: 6223 1732

Morries Barbecue Grill MS-801R Have a quick barbecue on your patio or balcony with this portable grill. It comes with an oil-drip tray, an auto-rotating and heat selector, and a 30-minute timer. You'll also find various accessories such as a grill rack, a fish grill and eight skewers—perfect for an intimate get-together.

$89 from SOSOON, www.sosoon.com.sg

Oil Thermometer "You can be good at cooking too!" the packaging for this Japanese oil thermometer declares.

Able to withstand extremes from 1˚C to 200˚C, this heat resistant implement is true to its word: you'll find a guide to the optimal temperatures for frying vegetables, tonkatsu and croquette or tempura on the back.

Comes with a plastic sheath for storage.

$2 from Nanairo, #B1-07 Liang Court, 177 River Valley Road.

Tel: 6336 5869

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Mini Pastry Scraper It's like a spatula without the handle—and versatile too. Use this palm-sized tool to get most of the batter out of your mixing bowl and into your cake tin, spread that Swiss meringue icing evenly onto your loaf cake, or swipe the crumbs from your countertop into the sink.

$3 from iwannagohome!, #02-17/19 & 0219A/20 Tanglin Mall, 163 Tanglin Road.

Tel: 6733 0983

Egg Timer Fancy that, a specialised timer which not only tells you how hard your yolk will be, but indicates it visually too. Pop this glassy ‘paperweight’ into your pot of boiling water along with your egg(s)—we couldn't take our eyes off it the first few times. Trust the Japanese to make egg-sitting so captivating.

$11 from Meidi-Ya Supermarket, #B1-50 Liang Court, 177 River Valley Road. Tel: 6339 1111

Panda Onigiri Rice-ball Making Set The panda craze has not yet left Singapore. Make Japanese rice balls frolic in a garden of greens with this onigiri set. You'll only need cooked Japanese rice and a sheet of nori (don't worry, a template for the panda’s features is provided). Great for getting the kids to fulfil their day’s carbo intake.

$18 from Ultramix on Rakuten Singapore, www.rakuten.com.sg/shop/ultramix

India has been known to produce many maths and science whiz kids, but do you know its contribution to the culinary world? Here’s some spice to add to your food trivia just in time for Deepavali.

Piccalilli is the English in terpre ta tion of In dian pickles, a spiced re lish of chopped an d pickled vege ta bles.

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The beloved curried soup in AngloChinese cuisine, mulligatawny usually contains turmeric to give a yellow hue and is thickened with lentils or rice.

Named after Manchuria, Manchow soup is actually an Indian-Chinese dish prepared with vegetables, scallions and chicken, flavoured with soy sauce, garlic and chilli peppers.

Kedgeree is the English adoption of the Indian riceand-bean or lentil dish, khichri.

Achar, our local pickled vegetables, is a localised version of the Mughlai achaar.

Chicken tikka masala—roasted chicken chunks in a mild, creamy, orange-coloured sauce—is thought to have been created

by Indian chefs living in the UK.

Lea & Perrins Worcestershire Sauce is based on an Indian recipe using tamarind.

Japanese curry despite being mildly sweet and fruity is actually inspired by its Indian cousin, brought abroad in the 1800s by the British.

Manchurian chicken does away with garam masala and replaces it with soy sauce instead.

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