I-S Magazine Nov 22

NOVEMBER 22 - DECEMBER 12, 2013

# 6 4 1 | I N S I D E S I N G A P O R E | www.is-magazine.com

The Grinch’s Guide to December HOLIDAY SHOPPING GUIDE–FREE INSIDE!

Singapore's best retail outlets, from hard-to-find brands to home-grown talent

page 3 Find Page 3 online at is.gd/page3

November Reigns 6

Cover Story Time for the latest instalment of our occasional (and only occasionally funny) news quiz.

How closely have you been paying attention to what’s been going on this month?

Alternative advent picks

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trAveL

DINING

Our money’s on Macau

Eat your way around Italy

Which Internet-famous Singaporean with a superhero name has been jailed on theft and drug charges?

1. Batman bin Suparman 2. Downey bin Ironman 3. Daredevil

21 teCH

Uber vs. Grab Taxi

Why have HDB and URA been rejecting applications to turn Tiong Bahru shop premises into eateries?

1. They think 427 cupcake vendors is enough 2. They’re worried about cats choking on artisan coffee grounds 3. Residents are complaining about noise and traffic

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SHOPPING

GIGS

Art

Local Autumn/ Winter releases

Laneway’s Danny Rogers

Ho Tzu Nyen’s PYTHAGORAS

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39

NIGHtLIFe

LASt WOrD

ZoukOut highlights

Bjorn Low

Who's in charge?

Where to find us!

Country Manager Andrew Hiransomboon countrymanager@asia‑city.com.sg

Marketing Manager Silver Adrienna Ng Marketing Executive Lia roslan

Editorial Director ric Stockfis editor@asia‑city.com.sg

Advertising Director Bernadine reddy salesdirector@asia‑city.com.sg

Associate Editor terry Ong Sub‑editor Lauren Jade Hill Staff Writer ‑ Style Editor Crystal Lee

The Asia City Media Group

Senior Sales Executive Carmen Low Media Executives Denise Lim, Stephanie Zheng

Custom Content Editor Clara Lim Custom Content Writer Samantha David Editorial Assistant Khairul Amri

ACMG Digital Digital Product Manager Nancy Ide

Art Director Intan Agustina Senior Designer Beverly Chong Designers Carmen Louise Ho, Fishy toh Multimedia Designer ‑ Photographer Mossy Chew Wenzhi Contributing Photographer François Hervy Design Intern Celeste Chooi

Group Directors Chief Executive Officer Gretchen Worth gworth@asia‑city.co.th Group Digital Director Greg Duncan gduncan@asia‑city.com.sg

Bangkok Asia City Publishing (Thailand) Ltd 22/F, Silom Center 2 Silom Road, Bangkok 10500 Tel: 02‑624‑9696 Fax: 02‑237‑5656 bkmagazine@asia‑city.co.th Shanghai shonline@asia‑city.com.cn Kuala Lumpur Pacific Tourism Communications Sdn Bhd Lot 2.44‑2.45, 2nd Floor, Wisma Cosway, Jalan Raja Chulan, 50200 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Tel: 60‑3‑2144‑4886 Fax: 60‑3‑2141‑1911

Singapore Asia City Publishing Pte. Ltd. Block 211 Henderson Rd. #14‑03 Henderson Industrial Park Singapore 159552 Tel: 65‑6323‑2512 Fax: 65‑6323‑2779 ismag@asia‑city.com.sg

WINNER

Editor of the Year

I‑S Magazine is published 24 times a year by Asia City Publishing Pte Ltd., 211 Henderson Road, #14‑03, Singapore 159552.

Tel: 65‑6323‑2512 Fax: 65‑6323‑2779. Copyright ©2013 Asia City Publishing Pte Ltd. The title “I‑S Magazine,” its associated logos or devices, and the content of I‑S Magazine are the property of Asia City Publishing Pte Ltd. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is strictly prohibited.

I‑S Magazine may not be distributed without the express written consent of Asia City Publishing Pte Ltd. Contact the Publisher for ad rates and specifications. All advertising in I‑S Magazine must comply with the Publisher’s terms of business, copies of which are available upon request. Printed by KHL Printing Co. Pte. Ltd., 57 Loyang Drive, Singapore 508968. ISSN 0218‑8872 MCI (P) 136/12/2012

Yong Vui Kong recently became the first drug trafficker on death row to what?

1. Record a number one album 2. Swim to Ubin 3. Escape the gallows after changes were made to the Misuse of Drugs Act Which of the following was not the subject of a Facebook-led campaign in recent weeks?

1. Blocking pro-adultery website Ashley Madison from launching in Singapore 2. Setting up more eateries in Tiong Bahru 3. Repealing the ban on women wearing the hijab in the workplace Which new domain names have local firms been seeking to register?

1. .welcomeforeigners; .freedomofspeech; .gayrights 2 .temasek; .changiairport; .starhub 3. .risingrent; .landscarcity; .militaryparanoia A new sanctuary for what was opened in Jalan Lekar last week?

1. Rescued wildlife 2. Old Zouk ravers 3. Unpopular PAP officials

Distributed by

Cover by Mossy Chew Wenzhi

Finance Manager Sally Kang Accountant Mark Anthony Habel Admin Executive Goh ting Yu

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@is_magazine FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2013 I-S MAGAZINe

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UP FRONT Giveaways

The gig’s on us This week, we’re giving away a pair of tickets to NILE RODGERS and CHIC - Live In Singapore on Tue, Dec 3 at Kallang Theatre (worth $202)

To enter, go to is-magazine. com/giveaways, register and tell us why you deserve to win.

The Bookie

Ashley Madison Extramarital dating website Banned by local media authorities Over 21 million members Not helping marriages

American singer-songwriter Criticised for lip-synching Two relationships and one divorce Acting career beyond help

Be Good Numbers Game Concerned with issues plaguing impoverished communities around the world? Join ONE Singapore, a non-profit group dedicated to the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), in raising awareness of the cause by becoming a voluntary and community sector networker.

You can help by conducting self-initiated networking sessions with local charities and organizations that have common aims.

The organization also hopes for networkers to rub shoulders with influential figures to form a board of advisors as a guiding role. The role can be done in your own time from home and minimal training is needed. Find out more by signing up at www.onesingapore.org/ volunteer/ or drop an email to info@onesingapore.org to make general enquiries.

MTV generation

We

Charting the ups and downs of Singapore's openness, tolerance and freedom of expression.

This week you will mainly love your city for its...

OcTOber

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SG

Fall in shark’s fin consumption

Marina Bay Sands (MBS) has finally agreed to allow their workers membership to the Attractions, Resorts and Entertainment Union (AREU) with the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU). While this has been hailed as “a significant breakthrough”, some exclusions still exist, as the terms of agreement do not provide for collective bargaining and negotiations over salary. Still, there’s plenty to cheer about—the MOU will look into issues such as skills upgrading and providing more social and recreational benefits for the welfare of more than 80% of the MBS employees eligible for membership.

It seems the movement against shark fin consumption here is making inroads. According to estimates provided by the Marine and Land Products Association, domestic sales and wholesale prices of the goodfor-nothing delicacy have fallen by a third and 40 percent respectively.

Hotels and major restaurants have also acknowledged a year-to-year decrease in demand, signaling a small win for animal rights activists here, like Shark Savers Singapore who have long endeavored to change mindsets towards this practice.

Ashlee Simpson

The odds: Draw 1:1 They’re both in bad taste

XkCD www.xkcd.com

OB Index

Quote of the Week

“Stop feigning ignorance and serve the people.”

– Cyber activists Anonymous, in a video message issued to the Singapore government, warning that they would carry out cyber-hacking attacks on government sites, if recently introduced MDA guidelines for news reporting portals aren’t rolled back. PM Lee’s website was later said to have been compromised.

Numerology 61%

80km/h

percentage of Singaporeans who view the state of their job prospects in the coming 12 months as good or excellent according to a recent Nielsen survey.

new speed limit for the Kallang-Paya Lebar Expressway (KPE) in December

29,404 number of speeding violations in 2012

600 number of employers who have denied workers their basic employment rights, according to figures released by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM).

3,000

0 number of Housing Development Board (HDB) flats in Joo Chiat after the demolition of the last four blocks, making it the first all-private-property constituency

inspections done by MOM in the employment survey

5,000 Number of revelers for Oktoberfest at Keppel Bay Marina last month

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Sources: Asia One, The New Paper, channel News Asia, The Straits Times, Today.

I-S MAGAZINE FRIDAY, NOvEMBER 22, 2013

CALENDAR Essential Events November 22 - December 12 SEE This

DO This

U Guys Quirky pop-up The U Factory is a must-visit if you like arty magazines, artisanal coffee, craft beer, food trucks, local artists, indie bookstores… the list goes on. Pro tip: Don’t miss the laksa bar. See Stuff, page 34.

DON’T Miss

My Fair Lady

Super Troopers

Pop by the Affordable Art Fair before it all ends on Nov 24. Even if you’re not in a market for a new piece of art, there’s lots to see—and smell—with programs like Edible Art Movement’s installation Cirque du Scent.

See Art, page 32.

Techno dominates at the final two sessions of Super 0 Season, with DJs like Daniel Bell (Nov 23) and Tobias Thomas (Nov 30) at the helm. See 60 Seconds, page 34.

CALENDAR FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 22

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 24

The vault unveils its new digs at boat Quay with a free flow Prosecco party with canapés, Italian wines to try and funky music.

7pm. 23 Circular Rd., 6222-5001, www.thevault.com.sg. $48.

Catch docu Herb & Dorothy, on how Herbert and Dorothy vogel went from an unassuming clerklibrarian couple to an art collecting powerhouse with over 2,000 works in their tiny apartment. 2pm. The Arts House, 1 old Parliament Lane, 6332-6900, www.theartshouse.com. sg. $12.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 23 Well-respected Cultural medallion recipients Ivan Heng, Mohamed Latiff Mohamed and Tsung Yeh talk art at the Cultural medallion Speaker Series. 2pm. The Pod, National Library, 100 victoria St., 6332-3255, www.nlb.gov.sg. Free. beer pong crazy people face off at overeasy’s very first King Pong challenge. Things are about to get messy. See Nightlife, page 36.

brainy current affairs mag The economist throws the second The World in 2014 Gala Dinner (really a conference) in Singapore. expect lots of mental stimulation at this one. 5:30pm. The Fullerton Hotel, 1 Fullerton Sq., 6733-8388.

US$615 upwards, from www. economistinsights.com.

ThURSDAY, NOVEMBER 28

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 26 Yet another pop-up hits town.

This time, we’ll be previewing practical canvas rucksacks—perfect for travel—at Parisian bag label Côte&Ciel’s pop-up store launch.

2/F, Wheelock Place, 501 orchard Rd. Invite-only.

Celebrate Thanksgiving with neverending turkey plates, great beer and better company at Brewerkz Thanksgiving buffet ($60). #0105/06 Riverside Point, 30 merchant Rd., 6438-7438, www.brewerkz. com.sg.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 30

Cutting-edge dance fest CONTACT opens with Kim Jae Duk’s whirlwind mr. Sign (Nov 29-30). other highlights include global powerhouses’ performances at Seasoned Artistry (Dec 5-6) and open mic-style m1 open Stage (Dec 8). For more info and ticketing details, log on to www. the-contact.org.

Highlander Bar & Restaurant throws a big bash for their 7th birthday with a carnival theme and—are you listening?—free flow of 100(!) whiskey labels. 6pm. #0111 The Foundry, 3b River valley Rd., 6235-9528, www.highlanderasia. com. Invite-only.

The exclusive Naughty-cal Party sees a gamut of performances all afternoon, leading up to the finale of the miss Scuba pageant. Cocktails and dinner inclusive. Quayside Fish bar & bistro, #01-11 Quayside Isle, 31 ocean Way, 6268-8633. Invite-only.

For more exciting events in December, see Cover Story, page 6.

highlander Bar & Restaurant

FRIDAY, NovembeR 22, 2013 I-S MAGAZINE

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COVER STORY

New School Yule

T

owards the end of the year, it feels like you have to do everything: Feast! Party! Don’t be single! Spend loads of money on presents! Be merry! And while some people genuinely love Christmas—the jingles, the overeating, the rampant commercialism—it can get a bit nauseating for the rest of us. So we’ve compiled this calendar of 25 better ways to spend the festive season.

Beach Boys

DEC 01

Yes, you can get through December without overdosing on Christmas. Do it one day at a time with Clara Lim.

One of the perks of living in this tropical heat is that it’s beach weather even in December, making it inexcusable not to go to The Seaside Show, helmed by the boys behind the Sunday at the Training Shed parties. It’s not quite as try-hard as some of the other beach parties around town (the gleaming, bronzed bods at Tanjong Beach Club come to mind), so just come in your lazy weekend gear, drink some ice cold beers and enjoy the music. 3-11pm. Myra’s Beach Club, 1390 East Coast Parkway, 6443-3005, www.sideshow.sg. Free.

It’s also the last day of the inaugural Singapore Art Book Fair, spearheaded by Books Actually and creative collective Hjgher.

If you haven’t got your fill of art and design lit, don’t wait. Gillman Barracks, 37/38/39 Malan Rd., www.singaporeartbookfair.com.

DEC 02

Sacred Cow

Get seriously fancy at Japanese beef specialist Fat Cow as it rolls out its month-long omakase dining special ($180 per person). Yes, it’s decadent, but it’s better to splurge once on something really good—we’re talking premium tuna and lots of wagyu—than to eat ten boring turkey dinners. Add champers ($100 upwards) for that VIP experience. Through Dec 31. #01-01/02 Camden Medical Center, 1 Orchard Blvd., 6735-0308, www.fat-cow.com.sg.

For more festive dining deals, log on to is.gd/christmasdining.

DEC 03

That's Entertainment

Underrated 1960s screwball comedy Le Grand Amour is a must-see for its fantasy sequences and hilarious gags that wryly poke fun at bourgeois complacency and the male psyche. The star of the show is brilliant French comic and filmmaker Pierre Étaix, whose work has been lauded by David Lynch. Gallery Theatre, National Museum of Singapore, 93 Stamford Rd., 6332-3659, www.national museum.sg. $8 from Sistic.

Nile Rodgers of legendary disco/R&B band Chic (though young’uns probably know of him, too, from his recent work on Daft Punk hits like “Get Lucky”) plays at Kallang Theater in what promises to be a seamless set. 8pm. 1 Stadium Walk, 6348-7907, www.lamcproductions.com. $68-148 from Sistic.

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I-S MAGAZINE FRIDAY, NovembeR 22, 2013

DEC 04

Scratch and Sniff

In the market for a new fragrance but want one to call your own? Learn how to make custom blends at Nose Who Knows’ two-day Perfume Discovery workshop, which walks you through the basics of perfume structure, types of materials used and how they’re made. Through Dec 5, 6pm-9pm. Escentials, #03-02/05 Paragon, 290 Orchard Rd., 6737-2478, www.nosewhoknows.com. $290.

DEC 05

All that Jazz

The same crew that brought kick ass old school hip hop parties to tow n last year, with guests like Ali Shaheed Muham mad from A Tribe Called Quest and DJ/pro ducer/B-boy Tony Touch, are back. Headlin ing the party this time is hip hop and R&B legend DJ Jazzy Jeff, best known for bein g part of the duo with Will Smith in the ‘80s . He’ll play a live set with DJ Skillz, Kristia n Hernandez, Complex and more. Email info @ heavyboogie.com to RSVP. 9pm .

Pangaea, #B2-05 South Crystal Pavilion, Marina Bay Sands, 2 Bayfront Ave., 6688-7448.

FRIDAY, NovembeR 22, 2013 I-S MAGAZINE

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COVER STORY DEC 06

Maternal Instinct

DEC 07

New group show Motherland opens, with works by local artists Mike Chang, Sherman Ong and Robert Zhao, pushing the boundaries of what “home” means to them. Through Dec 22. Chan Hampe Galleries, #01-20/21, Raffles Hotel Arcade, 328 North Bridge Rd., 6338-1962, www. chanhampegalleries.com. Free.

All Sat

It’s the weekend, but you might want to conserve energy for ZoukOut (see entry for Dec 14). So adopt a more liver-friendly approach and spend the day at Timbre’s Saturday Social BBQ party instead, with lots of kick back and plenty of grilled meats and veggies and cold craft beers to wash it all down. Timbre @ Gillman, #01-05 Gillman Barracks, 9A Lock Rd., 6694-4201, www.timbregroup.asia.

Or practise your moves at The Black Swan’s upstairs lounge Powder Room as they throw their very first shindig with nu-disco tunes from DJ Zimmer. 9pm. 19 Cecil St., 8181-3305, www.theblackswan.com.sg.

DEC 11 DEC 10 DEC 09

Tour de France

If you somehow missed the 2011 Woody Allen picture Midnight in Paris, Alliance Francaise is screening it again.

Although bumbling romantic Owen Wilson isn’t as hilariously neurotic as Allen, lit. and culture geeks will love (admittedly one-dimensional) caricatures like Ernest Hemingway, Gertrude Stein and Salvador Dali in this fun confection which took home the Oscar for Best Original Screenplay two years ago. 8pm. 1 Sarkies Rd., 6737-8422, www.alliancefrancaise. org.sg. $7.20 from Sistic.

STOCKING STUFFER This skull ice cube mold ($22.95) from CB2 (Peranakan Place Complex, 178A Orchard Rd., 6732-5333, www. cb2.com) is great for someone who appreciates fine spirits but isn’t too fuddy-duddy about alcohol. Get a couple of these and you’ve practically invited yourself over for Old Fashioneds.

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I-S MAGAZINE FRIDAY, NovembeR 22, 2013

Beat around the Bush

Orchard Road may be a logistical nightmare at this time of the year, but Public Garden is worth the visit. If you must give presents, better your money goes to indie retailers rather than faceless fast fashion conglomerates. Pick up all the little stocking stuffers you need at Public Garden, like vintage gear from Be My Old School, silk scarves from Fyall and jewelry from By Invite Only. 1-7pm, Nov 23, 24, 30; Dec 1, 7-8, 1415. 16/F TripleOne Somerset, 111 Somerset Rd., www.public-garden.com.For more flea goodness, head to is.gd/christmasbazaars.

Spine Tingler The Woman in Black debuts in Singapore.

Based on the Susan Hill novella of the same name, this creepy play about the haunted Eel Marsh House has run for over 20 years in London’s West End, so expect some classic thrills and spills.

Through Dec 14, 8pm. Kallang Theater, 1 Stadium Walk, 6348-7907, www.abaproductions.com. $48-128 from Sistic.

Happy Holidays

Chase away the Monday blahs with craft brews at The Great Beer Experiment.

Experiment It’s hard not to feel a tiny bit of festive cheer after downing spicy, warming seasonal beers like Mikkeller Santa’s Little Helper ($15.50) and Delirium Christmas ($13). Stall 46 Pasarbella, The Grandstand, 200 Turf Club Rd., 6469-7291, www.facebook.com/ TheGreatBeerExperiment.

DEC 08

DEC 12

Hyde Out

One of our favorite new bars is Jekyll & Hyde, a brilliant collab between the folks from nail salon Manicurious and exBar Stories bartender Jeff Ho; come from 6-9pm and you can get your drink on while getting a mani/pedi. Jazz music in the background and a bar that’s well-stocked with artisanal gins pretty much seal the deal. 49 Tras St., 6222-3349, www.49tras.st.

CQ Life After 5 IS Magazine 11 November - FA HIGH RES PDF.pdf

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COVER STORY DEC 13

Maad Men One of our favorite monthly party-slash-arts markets MAAD Pyjamas is on again. Art! Live music! Beer!

Need we say more? Red Dot Design Museum, 28 Maxwell Rd., 6534-7194, www.maad.sg.

Catch the world’s top DJs at two-night beach do ZoukOut. Actually—who are we kidding—we’re there to look at people who look way better than we do in bathing suits (It’s not a Singaporean institution for nothing). See Scenestealer, page 36, for more.

DEC 14

Beat It

If you’re not on Sentosa getting sand in your bits, there’s Syndicate Subsessions back on the mainland. Dance to fresh tracks from Cherry Chan and local kids done good Octover, who’ve already been covered by the Wall Street Journal and Pitch fork. 8pm. The Substation, 45 Armenian St., 6337-7800, www.synd icate.sg. $20.

DEC 15

Rise of the Mongols

Having performed all over the world at events like the BBC Proms in the UK and the Sarawak Rainforest Music Festival, Mongolian throat singing ensemble Khusugtun perform at the Esplanade’s Khöömii concert. Each vocalist can sing at least two distinct musical notes at the same time— so it’s not quite your usual acapella performance.

5pm. Esplanade Recital Studio, 1 Esplanade Dr., 6828-8377, www.esplanade.com. $30 from Sistic.

DEC 16

Body Rock

Despite its title, art exhibition Ghost: The Body at the Turn of the Century is really concerned with the corporeal, turning Sculpture Square into a sort of living record of how the body has played important roles in local counter-culture. Spend a manic Monday contemplating multimedia works by artists like Lee Wen and photographer John Clang here.

Through Dec 31,, 11am-7pm. 155 Middle Rd., 6333-1055, www. sculpturesq.com.sg. Free.

DEC 17

Smooth Sailing It’s your last chance to take part in the River Boat Pub Crawl, which is always good fun (watch out for the “rules”—break them and you’ll have to down your drink). Just try not to fall off the boat. 7pm.

United Overseas Bank (UOB), 80 Raffles Place, 9640-5611, www. singapore-river.com. $30.

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I-S MAGAZINE FRIDAY, NovembeR 22, 2013

COVER STORY DEC 18

DEC 20

Sister Act

The opening show of Alfian Sa’at’s play Kakak Kau Punya Laki (literally “The Husband of Your Sister”), about the eccentric eldest sister of a clutch of five, Maslindah, who acts like a catlady and whom everyone has pegged as a confirmed spinster, but surprises her skeptical family by falling in love.

Through Dec 22. Esplanade Theater Studio, 1 Esplanade Dr., 6828-8377, www.esplanade.com. $35 from Sistic.

DEC 22

DEC 19

BODY ISSUES

Prevent Christmas bloat or fatigue with these pro tips from Designed Fitness (see page 21) founder Erik Gunawan.

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The one super-Christmassy thing we suggest you do this month is to make us greedy hogs some cupcakes.

But you stand to gain, too—we’ll taste, test and write about your creations, and the truly outstanding ones will get a showdown at the end of the Christmas Cupcake Challenge. Bring at least two cupcakes of each flavor (you can make as many as you like) to our office on any weekday, 10am-6pm. #14-03, 211 Henderson Rd.

Think Big

Yet another pop-up? Yawn—but wait, The U Factory is a huge, crazy mashup with a food truck, live music, indie magazines and local art works to gaze at (or buy), workshops, retail spaces, a cocktail bar and a laksa bar. Not enough?

Get some more scene cred by being spotted at the Monocle store, where you can buy Monocle-branded, er, tea trays and things. Gillman Barracks, 37/38/39 Malan Rd., www.theufactory.com.

I-S MAGAZINE FRIDAY, NovembeR 22, 2013

Wake and Bake

Designs on You

Silly season officially begins, with approximately two unproductive work weeks ahead, so book a staycation and just hide out until regular programming resumes.

(Bonus: avoid family squabbles, too.) The recently revamped Naumi Hotel is stunning, with lots of natural wood, glass and LED lights; a rooftop infinity pool; even Andy Warhol- and Coco Chanel-themed suites.

41 Seah St., 6403-6000, www.naumihotel. com. Room rates start at $370/night.

For more ideas, log on to is.gd/ christmasstaycations.

DEC 21

Picture This

The second edition of Lomography Blue Hour Sessions sees homegrown musicians MUON and Bani Haykal team up with visual designers TMRRW, Kristal Melson and SUSEJ for a night of zines and experimental live music. 7pm. Lomography Gallery Store, 295 South Bridge Rd., 62238850, www.lomography.com.sg. Free.

DEC 24 DEC 23

Bite Me

Pamper Prep

A spa within a shipping container may sound like nonsense from a hipster meme-generator, but Nimble/Knead is totally legit. Their Tropical Christmas promo (Nov 23Dec 31) pairs Balinese massage with a Javanese lulur body scrub, herbal compress or ginger rub (packages from $93). Pure bliss. #01-28 66 Eng Watt St., 6438-3933, www. nimbleknead.com. More indulgent treatments at is.gd/christmasspa.

Sure, you can eat turkey like everyone else on the eve, but we’d buck tradition for tastier fowl like quail (deep fried with sumac and served with chilli jam, $8.50) and duck (rillettes, with black truffle, foie gras and roasted grapes to eat with crackers, $19.50) at A for Arbite. Don’t leave without ordering their cookies and cream “cheesecake” ($8)—one of our 50 Things to Eat this year! #01-01 28 Aliwal St., 8321-2252, www.arbite.com.sg.

DEC 25

The Gift of Giving

Get out of bed and do a little for someone else, because there’s hardly a better day for it (WWJD, right?). Volunteer at a people’s home or animal shelter—they’re probably understaffed on Christmas Day—or pick a cause and find out what you can do for them. Even more of a no-brainer: donate all that unwanted stuff lying around the house on FoodBank (www.foodbank.sg) or Pass It On (www. passiton.org.sg) and make other people really happy. n

WORK aROUND YOUR plaNS. “Parties, family commitments and vacations will probably affect your exercise program, so be resourceful. Create a home workout routine—crunches and push-ups are good— for when you can’t make it to the gym.”

DIETS WIll ONlY maKE YOU mISERaBlE.

DON’T GIvE YOURSElF TOO mUCh GRIEF.

“Think of all the cake and Champagne you’ll have to say no to. Be realistic when it comes to your fitness goals—it’s fine to just aim at maintaining your current weight throughout the holidays.”

“So what if you had a threehour Christmas brunch?

Just balance things out with a smaller and healthier meal next time you eat.”

pUT IT ON ICal. “Schedule regular workouts like you would a meeting or event—and stick to it!

If you’re pressed for time, up the intensity of your session to make each minute count. Remember that your confidence will show if you’ve been keeping at it, and people are attracted to that. Who doesn’t want to be the center of attention?”

A Gourmet Christ mas

BROUGHT TO YOU BY CHIJMES

Whatever type of holiday feast you fancy this festive season, find the perfect dining spot at CHIJMES.

C

HIJMES may be over 150 years old, but the grand old dame is looking better than ever with a new-and-improved façade, where part of the boundary wall along Victoria Street has been lowered. The driveway has been refurbished and there’s now a beautiful glass ceiling over the courtyard to provide shelter on rainy days. If you haven’t visited in a while, the holiday season is the perfect time to return, as its range of exquisite F&B establishments put out a smorgasbord of festive offerings. Besides, there’s nowhere quite like a former chapel to soak-up the Christmas spirit while you chill out, have fun and enjoy an intimate get-together with family and friends.

MORE TO LOVE Don’t miss out on these excellent places either.

CHEF DE TABLE #01-29, 6338-4898, www.chefdetable.com.sg HOG’S BREATH CAFÉ AUSTRALIA’S STEAK HOUSE #01-26/27, 6338-1387, www.hogsbreath.com.sg

Harry’s Bar

BOBBY’S TAPROOM. GRILL.RIBS

Seoul Restaurant Korean BBQ

fresh greens at the salad bar, when your taste buds need a break from all that meat.

#B1-03, 6337-5477, www.bobbys.com.sg CLUB LAVA Renowned for its signature #B1-07/08, 6339-6696, www.

BBQ baby back ribs, this longfacebook.com/clublavasg standing American-themed This 300-capacity club with restaurant boasts a vast menu a plush, sophisticated setting of classic comfort food items, and vibrant, lively including Buffalo-wings, ambiance serves up pizza and seafood a variety of bar platters. Dessert fans bites, such as will be pleased kebabs, pizza with sweet and burgers. plates like Plus, there the signature are over chocolate 100 varieties volcano.

Bobby’s Taproom Grill Ribs of alcoholic From the beverages on fully-equipped its impressive drinks bar are old and new world menu, so there’s wines, as well as all-time plenty to favorite cocktails for kicking choose from. back after hours.

CARNIVORE

#01-29A, 6334-9332 www.carnivore.com.sg This is no place for light bites: Carnivore’s got meat, and lots of it. One of the best options is the delicious beef tenderloin with bacon, but if beef’s not really your thing, try any of the 13 other rotisserie-roasted items available, like the succulent chicken heart and lamb leg.

There’s also fish, as well as

Club Lava

or minted lamb, as well as traditional Spanish tapas like pan-fried scallops wrapped in Serrano ham. The bar has 60 wine labels, with 20 of them available by the glass.

GYU-KAKU

#01-01/02/03/03A, 6333-4001, www.gyu-kaku.com.sg A sleek and posh place for business meetings, catching up with friends, or for romancing your loved one over burning hot coals, this upscale yakiniku specialist offers a wide variety of flavourful marinated meats for grilling, like wagyu beef and kurobuta pork, alongside fresh seafood and vegetable options.

INSOMNIA BAR & RESTAURANT #01-21/22/23, 6338-6883, www.liverockmusic247.com

Gyu-Kaku

for its comprehensive list of drinks from beers to cocktails.

SEOUL RESTAURANT KOREAN BBQ

#02-01A, 6338-8548, www.seoul.com.sg The smoke-sizzled barbecued meats available at this joint, cooked over premium-grade charcoal pits, will transport you straight to Seoul.

Highlights from the extensive menu include the soy sauce marinated boneless beef short rib, marinated pork collar and succulent scallop, to fire away on the iron grill.

As with most Korean eateries, you’ll be served a bevy of banchan (small side dishes) to go along with your deliciously charred meat.

LA CAVE WINE BAR #B1-10, 6337-9717 LEI GARDEN RESTAURANT #01-24, 6339-3822, www.leigardenrestaurant.com PIZZERIA GIARDINO #01-30, 6338-8711, www.esmirada.com SENOR TACO #01-18/19/20, 6337-1377, www.senortaco.sg

TO MARKET, TO MARKET Check out the exciting Christmas bazaars held at the CHIJMES Lawn on the following dates:

HARRY’S BAR

#B1-06, 63349150/51, www.harrys.com.sg FANDANGO No stranger to good TAPAS AND food, Harry’s serves hearty WINE BAR Carnivore Western mains like braised #01-17, 6333-3450, lamb shank, pizza, pasta, www.fandango.com.sg burgers and sandwich options At this great wining and alongside a mouth-watering dining spot, you can expect range of bar bites, like chicken a diverse range of tapas wings and chili nachos. What’s inspired by cuisines from more, happy hours run till around the world, such as 8pm daily, value for money pork with green mango

JAPANESE DINING SUN #02-01, 6336-3166, www.sundining.com.sg

Nov 29-30, Dec 6-14, Dec 20-21

CHIJMES is located at 30 Victoria Street, 6337-7810, www.chijmes.com.sg.

Follow us on instagram

@chijmes_sg Fandango Tapas and Wine Bar

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2013 I-S MAGAZINE

13

Tel: 6883 2572

9 Raffles Boulevard È #01- 01 Millenia Walk www.paulaner-brauhaus.com/singapore info@paulaner.com.sg È Tel: 6883 2572

Join us!

We are currently accepting applications for the following staff positions:

• SENIOR ACCOUNTANT / ACCOUNTANT • JUNIOR WRITER Editorial and Marketing Interns (unpaid)

To apply, send your resume and a cover letter with salary requirements to editor@asia-city.com.sg.

14

I-S MAGAZINE FRIDAY, novembeR 22, 2013

travel

Macau Golf and Country Club

Chapel of St. Francis Xavier

Little Mac

check out the numerous al fresco dining spots at Coloane Village for something a little cheaper. The highlight? Undoubtedly Lord Stow’s Bakery (1 Rua Da Tassara, Coloane Town Square, +853 2888-2534, www.lordstow. com), the original creator of the internationally famous pastry, Portuguese egg tarts.

2. Get on your feet

A world away from Macau’s fast-paced, high-stakes main drag, sleepy Coloane is a real hidden gem. By Khairul Amri

C

onnected to the better-known island of Taipa by the glitzy Cotai strip (where the fights and the gambling all take place) is Coloane, a one-time pirate outpost that still sees far fewer visitors than the rest of Macau. So far, give or take the odd go-kart track, this charming island (which is actually bigger than Taipa) has resisted the aggressive development happening elsewhere in the territory. You don’t really need more than a day to see the sights, but it’s well worth a detour from the main tourist track. Here are five ways to make the most of your time there.

1. Eat local

In Coloane, food is the order of the day—you’ll find great Macanese dishes (a fusion of Chinese and Portuguese cuisine), like the African chicken and lacassa soup. For some premium Macanese grub, Restaurante Fernando (9 Praia de Hac Sa, Coloane, +853 2888-2531, www. fernando-restaurant.com) stands out with its fine European style décor and fantastic location (at Hac Sa Beach). Alternatively,

your game here—you’ll be asked to leave if you don’t meet the time limit or achieve a score of nine shots or less on the first hole.

4. Hit the beaches

Both the southern and eastern shores of Coloane boast better beaches than you’ll find anywhere else in Macau. Cheoc-Van in the south is more popular due to its golden sand, water activities (if you fancy jet-skiing or sailing) and safer swimming facilities, but the easterly, black sand Hac Sa is equally well-suited to a lazy afternoon before gearing up for a big night back in Macau proper.

Essentials WhErE to StAy While it’s definitely worth spending a night at Pousada de Colane, it’s not a great base for further exploration. holiday Inn Sands Cotai Central (Senhora De Esperanzca S/N Taipa, Macau, www.ihg.com), right on the Cotai strip, with easy access to both peninsular Macau and Coloane, is as convenient as they come.

Rooms start from $286.

5. Bed down Dried fish

Coloane village is the kind of quiet colonial leftover that rewards patient exploration on foot, with cobbled streets leading you to historic treasures such as the Chapel of St. Francis Xavier, built in 1928, and Tam Kung Temple. After exploring the alleys, head towards the drive that overlooks the small sea passage separating Macau and China for a stunning view. And don’t forget to pay a visit to Coloane Pier, where old huts stand beside shops selling dried seafood—reminiscent of the town’s past as an active fishing village.

It’s a little run-down these days, but the 28 room Pousada de Coloane (“pousada” is Portuguese for inn or guesthouse) is wonderfully evocative of bygone glories. Think blue and white tiled walls, antique wooden furnishings, home-style Portuguese food and great views of Cheoc-Van beach from the breakfast terrace. Rooms start from around $320. Praia de Cheoc-Van, +853 2888-2144, www.hotelpcoloane.com.mo. n

GEttING thErE Direct flights with tigerair (www. tigerair.com) start from around $136 and take about four hours. thai Airways (www.thaiairways. com.sg) flies directly to Macau and starts from around $804.

ExChANGE rAtE 10 MOP = $1.60

VISA Singaporeans traveling in and out of Chinese territories do not require a visa for up to 30 days.

3. Live life to the fore

You may have played golf on plenty of other courses around the world but, we suspect, none quite like this one. The acclaimed Ocean Driving Range at the Macau Golf and Country Club (Estrada de Hac Sa, IIha de Coloane, +853 2887-1188, www.mgccmacau.com) lets you take a swing into the South China Sea, with caddies standing by on boats ready to fish out the balls. You’d better be on top of

Hac Sa beach

Portuguese egg tart FRIDAY, novembeR 22, 2013 I-S MAGAZINE

15

travel Send your travel news and promotions to travel@asia-city.com.sg

ESCAPE ROUTES

with lauren Jade Hill

Sheraton Hua Hin Pranburi Villas

CHINA

Up the Wall

frequented by Thai royalty, consists of individual villas, each with their own private pool, walled garden and butler service.

Guests can stay in a pool villa at 50% of the usual price. Rates are from THb 8,000 ($318) and are valid for stays through to March 31 2014. book your villa stay at www. sheratonhuahinpranburi. com.

bored of beijing? Why not check out neighboring Tianjin instead, where plush hotel The Ritz Carlton Tianjin (No. 167 Dagubei Road, Heping District, Tianjin, +86 22 5857-8888) has just opened with room rates from $260 per night. The hotel has four dining options to choose from, and is ideally located close to the scenic banks of the M AL AYSIA Haihe River as well as the distinctive architecture of ‘Five Avenues’ and the Central business district, making the location convenient for tourists and Concert-goers, add business travellers alike. For this to your calendar.

The Ritz Carlton further exploration, you can visit The upcoming Future Tianjin The Great Wall at Huangya Pass Music Festival Asia and Pan mountain, which offers happening March views of The Great Wall. Find out 13-15, 2014 in Kuala Lumpur, more at www.ritzcarlton.com. will feature a great line-up that

Back to the Future

FLIGHTS

Get Krabi Asia’s best rock-climbing destination just got a whole lot more accessible with AirAsia’s new direct SingaporeKrabi route commencing November 25, with fares starting at $231 return. Flights will depart at 1:20pm and arrive at 1:50pm in Krabi. book your seat at www.airasia.com.

includes Deadmau5, Paul van Dyk, macklemore and Ryan Lewis, as well as eric Prydz’s first appearance in Asia and the return of Armin van buuren’s A State of Trance 650: New Horizons. Read more about it at www.facebook.com/futuremusicasia STAYC ATION

Go West(in)

Closer to home, The Westin Singapore (12 marina view, Asia Square Tower 2, 6922-6888) just launched with an exciting line-up of special opening promotions and packages.

AirAsia THAIL AND offers include festive dining at The Westin’s signature restaurant Seasonal Tastes, high-up on level 32, new year’s celebrations Recently rebranded Sheraton at gastro bar Cook & Brew on level Hua Hin Pranburi Villas, a 55 33, and uplifting treatments at The villa property, is celebrating with Heavenly Spa by The Westin. For a special opening package. The details of their offers, go to www. luxury resort, which is apparently starwoodhotels.com/westin.

Royal Treatment

Looking to get away?

Sign up at www.is-magazine.com/user/register#newsletter to get Escape Routes delivered to your mailbox every Tuesday.

16

I-S MAGAZINE FRIDAY, NovembeR 22, 2013

island

FASHION + FITNESS + TECH + HOME | GEt MorE out of SINGAporE

grooming Mane Issues

A Little Birdie Now’s the best time to get your hands on some art as Affordable Art fair (through Nov 24. F1 Pit Building, 1 Republic Blvd., 6220-5682, www. affordableartfair.com/singapore) rolls around. But if you don’t fancy rubbing shoulders with the art-hungry public, stay home and shop at the Bower Birds (www.thebbirds.com), a local online gallery-store that markets and prints the contemporary works of various Asian artists, including Japan’s Yoko Furusho, our very own Angeline Oei and Darjeeka. Prices start from only $30, plus there are framing options to save you the hassle of getting it done elsewhere.

Design agency and barbering collective Heist (www.heist.com.sg) got so much attention for its namesake grooming business that its creative arm took to the shadows for a while. Now, the barber has been repositioned as the panic room (www.panicroom.com. sg), a one-stop shop that sells hair and shaving products ($3 upwards) online at its web-store, and while its barbers now stationed at Birds & Co. (62 Neil Rd., 6222-9195, www.facebook.com/BirdsCo), a quaint multi-label, multi-concept shop by the BooksActually folks.

tech Lucky 13 The LG G2 currently leads the pack with a sound processor, impressive camera and screen resolution.

Underneath the hood there’s a 2.26 GHZ quad-core processor backed by 2GB of RAM. The 5.2 inch screen sports a full HD resolution of 1080 x 1920 pixels and is armed with a 13 megapixel camera. Flip the phone over and you’ll find the buttons on the back—apparently a more natural fit for your fingers. $898 from Singtel shop, #01-50/50A Bugis Junction, 200 Victoria St., www.singtel.com.

beauty Queen and Country

Atkinsons of London, the 200-year-old British perfumery that scented the Royal Court of England and the country’s aristocrats back in the day, has arrived on our shores with its iconic bear mascot in tow. Head to robinsons orchard (#01-14 The Centrepoint, 176 Orchard Rd., 6733-0888, www.robinsons.com.sg) for a whiff of the five distinctive scents—namely 24 Bond Street, The British Bouquet, The Odd Fellow’s Bouquet, Fashion Decree and The Nuptial Bouquet—all of which aptly encompass the brand’s eccentric yet elegant style. Prices start at $128.

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I-S MAGAZINE FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2013

island

fashion + fitness + tech + home

Fall in Line

Fashion

No leather jackets, woolly jumpers or neck warmers for these standout Autumn/Winter collections by some of Singapore’s hottest designers. By Crystal Lee

WOMENSWEAR

A Fair to Remember

Year‑end bazaars to snag unique gifts and wardrobe refreshers.

Boutiques in Good Company

hansel

Youyou

DANISh ChrIStMAS BAZAAr

hansel

In Good Company (IGC)

YouYou

Jo Soh’s quirky label turns 10 this season and the designer is celebrating this milestone with a quintessentially Singaporean collection. Full of kitschy charm, it features prints of handdrawn HDB buildings set against a backdrop of happy hues like sky blue and sunset yellow. Classic, feminine cuts and lightweight fabrics keeps clothes practical. $99 upwards at #02-14 Mandarin Gallery, 68365367, www.ilovehansel.com.

The tailored-minimalist aesthetic has been the defining look for IGC since the beginning but, this time, the label’s founders-designers have gone a step further with new fabric treatments. Hemlines and edges are cleaner, thanks to a bonding technique that gives soft cottons structure without adding bulk. $89 upwards at the IGC pop‑up store, TANGS Orchard, 310 Orchard Rd., 67375500, www.ingoodcompany.asia.

One-year-old local label Youyou’s third collection for fall is, fittingly, named light. Breezy, luxurious fabrics are pleated and twisted and ruffled to inject volume to boxy silhouettes, while pastel colors and shimmering fabric complete the overall feminine look. Not too big on color? Play it safe with their comfy, black and white staples. $59 upwards at threadbare & Squirrel, 660 North Bridge Rd., 6396-6738, www.iloveyouyou.com.

Reckless Erika

Coupé-cousu

Foon Foono

reckless Ericka

Coupé‑cousu

Visual artist Foon, who has been crafting leather bags since 2011, is now onto menswear, and his recently launched first collection is steered in a different direction. While there are echoes of a sharp, fuss-free aesthetic like his pared-down accessories, the new collection steals the show with surreal prints of sea creatures on its T-shirts. $89 upwards at Matchbox, #02-20 Orchard Central, 181 Orchard Rd., 6884-4396, www.foonoart. blogspot.com.

The color palette for Reckless Ericka’s latest collection may be subdued, however the clothes are anything but. Inspired by the film The Grey and Japanese animation Princess Mononoke, the label’s signature suiting is given a softer, quirky spin with rope details, drapes and a slightly exaggerated silhouette. Just perfect for the fashionforward dandy. $139 upwards at the reckless Shop, #02-08/09 Orchard Central, 181 Orchard Rd., 6338-8246, www.recklessericka.com.

Head honchos Alex Yeo and Xie Shangqian put the fun back into classic tailoring with geometric patterns like herringbone and polka dots, cast in gradient hues from bright to dark on shirts. Completing the look are dress pants and blazers, some of which even feature edgy patchworks. $79 upwards at PArCo next NEXt, 2/F Millenia Walk, 9 Raffles Blvd., 6595-9100, www. coupecousu.com.

MENSWEAR

Foon Foono

Nov 23‑24, 11am. Danish Seamen’s Church, 10 Pender rd., 6274‑6344, www.dkchurch.com.

Enjoy a taste of the best from Denmark at this festive fair, which offers traditional Danish specialties, Christmas cookies, holiday decorations and lifestyle wares.

BoutIquES At GALLErY hotEL Nov 27‑28, 9am. Gallery hotel, 1 Nanson rd., 6849‑8686, www. facebook.com/ BoutiquesSingapore.

This eclectic and impressive weekend bazaar with an easy-going vibe sees over 60 vendors pedalling an eclectic array of gifts, fashion, home decor and antiques.

CLArkE quAY trADErS’ MArkEt: ChrIStMAS MArkEt Dec 20‑21, 5pm. 3 river Valley rd., 6337‑3292, www.forfleasake.com.

Held after hours, this Christmas edition of Clarke Quay’s monthly bazaar is in collaboration with Red Cross and features gift wrapping services, free candies, carolling and fund-raising by Salvation Army to put you in a festive mood. Crystal Lee For more year-end bazaars, go to is.gd/ christmasbazaars

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2013 I‑S MAGAZINE

19

island

fashion + fitness + tech + home oPEn sToRE

STYLE NOTES

Rivets

With Crystal Lee

Get the Guide

the buzz: Bicycle accessories outlet, Rivets, is the first Brooks England concept store to open in the region. the vibe: This is ‘rustic industrial’ chic done the right and sophisticated way. Situated on the second floor above sister outlet Tokyobike, this boutique store boasts a small cozy space, with leather bike saddles lining the walls of one section, and stylish bags in the other. the goods: Brooks’ leather saddles are highly sought-after by cyclists (prices starting at $148) for their design and comfort. Tough as they might feel at first, the leather softens and eventually molds to the contours of your body over time.

Whether you’re a leisure rider or competitive cyclist, there are different saddle types to suit. The bestseller is the versatile B17, which has been on the market

for over 100 years. You’ll also find a range of hardy, waterproof Brooks bags ($200 upwards) and other essential accessories like grips ($108 upwards) and saddle bags ($107 upwards) in store. You have to pay (less than $10) to have your spanking new accessories installed onto your bike, though Tokyobike owners enjoy this service for free.

Why you’ll be back: No one wants to ride a bike fitted with a saddle that’s a pain in the ass.

2F, 38 haji Lane, 6295‑1980, www.facebook.com/rivetssg. open tue‑Fri 1pm‑8pm, Sat‑Sun noon‑8pm. SAMANTHA DAVID

Free with this issue is our first-ever top Shops guide, a handy little booklet covering more than 100 of the city’s best stores worthy of your yearend bonus. If your copy is missing, don’t fret—download the e-version at is.asia‑city.com/store.

so there’s still chance to grab hard-to-find brands like Injury and Handwritten.

Nail It

Local label Depression (#03-05A Cineleisure Orchard, 8 Grange Rd., 98892179, www.depression.com.

Top shops sg) has teamed up with home-grown brand Gummi Nails (www.gumminails. com) for a holiday edition of nail wraps, featuring Bye Bye Black Sheep an eccentric couple (a Another indie multi-label store man and woman for bites the dust: the Society each hand) and fun, of Black Sheep (#B1-64 The monochromatic prints.

Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands, Each kit ($16) comes with 10 Bayfront Ave., 6688-7223, 20 pieces in different www.societyofblacksheep.com) sizes, a nail file and a is closing its Marina Bay Sands cuticle stick. Available at boutique end of this month, with Depression’s store or at plans to move into a new space Gummi Nails’ website. at 218 River Valley Road in March 2014. In the meantime, the Black Sheep folks are putting up at Carrie k. Atelier (136 Bukit Timah Rd., 6735-4036, www.carriekrocks. com) for two months till Dec 31,

hot Chocolate Fashion conglomerate I.t. and Wing tai retail is onto their second i.t

The society of Black sheep

store (#02-11 Bugis Junction, 200 Victoria St., 6338-5958, www.itlabels.com.sg), which stocks cult Hong Kong label Chocoolate (www. chocoolate.hk). If you’ve never heard of the brand, expect minimalist styles with a casual, streetwear nod, like on-trend varsity jackets, lots of tees with quirky prints and unfussy silhouettes ($50 upwards). clee@asia‑city.com.sg

Chocoolate

Celebrate the season with festive

feasts

Savour exquisite Christmas culinary delights together with family, friends and loved ones at our award-winning restaurants and bar Edge, Keyaki, Hai Tien Lo, Pacific Marketplace, Poolside and Atrium.

Alternatively, if you are celebrating at home, our gourmet deli offers take-away festive options such as honey glazed ham, roast beef, roast turkey, log cakes, pralines and other traditional Christmas treats.

For dining reservations and enquiries, please speak with us at +65 6826 8240 or email celebrate.sin@panpacific.com. Buy your festive goodies online now at pacificmarketplace.sg.

Hotels and Resorts I Bali Dhaka Jakarta Manila Ningbo Perth Seattle Singapore Suzhou Vancouver Whistler Xiamen New openings: Tianjin (2014) Serviced Suites

1 20ad_170x254_v5.indd I-S MAGAZINE FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2013

I Bangkok Ningbo Singapore

11/12/13 6:02 PM

oPEn DooR

FiTnEss

Designed Fitness the buzz: This new boutique gym offering functional, private workouts recently opened at a nondescript location in Smith Street. It’s led by principal (and only) trainer Erik Gunawan. the vibe: If you’re all about focus, you’ll be stoked to find the peace and tranquility of the space conducive to a no-nonsense fullhour session. Gunawan’s demeanor makes you feel at ease (he’s jovial and enthusiastic) with yourself to go all out during the workout. the goods: The towering exercise machine that dominates the space provides a functional and comprehensive workout and even includes gymnastic still rings and a punching bag. Of course, you have the standard dumb-bell rack and a bench for presses. Gunawan’s traditional sessions are strictly one-on-one ($140

for a session; $1,320 for 11 sessions) strength. The entire space is yours with no disturbances from anyone.

Why you’ll be back: The exercise regimen is intense—the afterburn effect lasts for hours—and it’s not cheap, but Gunawan’s affability and flexibility with timing will make it worthwhile.

20A Smith St., 9660‑4610, www.facebook.com/DesignedFitness. open daily 7am‑10pm. KHAIRUL AMRI

BUY sPY The weather here’s too hot for a woolly jumper— but the new Diana F+ Chamonix ($178, from lomography.com and Lomography Gallery Store, #01-01, 295 South Bridge Rd., 62238850) certainly won’t mind the heat. Launched specially for Christmas, the cult analog camera, hailed for capturing dreamy, color-saturated and lo-fi images, comes dressed in Scandinavian winter patterns and makes the perfect stocking stuffer for shutterbugs.

Taxi!

TECh

Cab and chauffeur apps are all the rage right now—we pit two of them (both available for ioS and Android) head‑to‑head.

uber

www.uber.com

Grab taxi

www.grabtaxi.com.sg

ride: 3 choices—Mercedes E Class, Toyota Alphard and BMW 5 Series.

ride: Various models in the fleet but currently very limited.

Price: Flat base fare of $7 + $0.85 (less than 18km/h) or $2.27 (more than 18km/h) per kilometer.

Price: Prices just like regular cabs (and no booking fee during an indefinite beta period).

Pros: $20 free credit upon registration; comfort guaranteed; established in over 50 cities.

Pros: Connects you directly to driver’s personal smartphone; geo-tagging lets you track friends and family.

Cons: Pricey starting rate; coverage outside of downtown isn’t great.

Cons: Tipping feature that might make drivers choose who to pick up; still in beta version so not all that reliable yet; super limited fleet; only in four cities.

Verdict: Uber. It might be steep for some but at least they have a bigger and better quality fleet. khairul Amri

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2013 I‑S MAGAZINE

21

DINING TASTE TREK

Get the Boot

al Internation Edition!

Regional Italian cuisine is all the rage in Singapore, with new restaurants and revamped favorites offering lesser known recipes from the food-loving nation. By Chin Hui Wen Veneto Piedmont Executive chef at Hilton Singapore (581 Orchard Rd., 67372233, www. singapore.hilton.com) Fabrizio Aceti, who hails from Piedmont says, “Christmas is very close to my heart, since Checkers Brasserie I am away from my family, I’d like to share a taste of home with my guests in Singapore.”

For the Christmas buffets (Dec 2425; from $175) at Checkers Brasserie, he'll put out northern Italian dishes like gnocchi Castelmagno, utilizing produce from the region.

Lombardy Warming family favorites from chef Carlo Marengoni’s hometown Bergamo in Lombardy are on offer at Trattoria Gallo D'Oro (#01-03 Central Mall, 7 Magazine Rd., Trattoria Gallo D'Oro 6438-8131, www.gallodoro. com.sg). The landlocked region is best known for meaty, rich recipes with plenty of lard and butter, so loosen your belt and dig into the house specialty of veal ravioli stuffed with bacon and sage ($20).

Emilia Romagna OTTO Locanda (#0103, 32 Maxwell Rd., 6224-0978, www. ottolocanda.com.sg) recently introduced OTTO Locanda regional set dinners ($58). Through to the end of November the focus is Emilia Romagna, with four courses of dishes like parmesan risotto (the region’s most famous cheese).

Liguria Chef Kentaro Torii of Forlino (#02-06 One Fullerton, 1 Fullerton Rd., 68776995, www.forlino. com) says, “The most Forlino underrated cuisine has got to be from Liguria.”

The chef’s tagliolini verdi ($28), green tagliolini with basil pesto (a specialty sauce from the area), showcases the flavors of the north-western region.

Puglia The “heel” of bootshaped Italy is the south-eastern region Puglia, home to OTTO Locanda’s (see Emilia Romagna, above) head Marco Violano chef Marco Violano who cooks up specialties like frittelle alla pugliese ($18), ham wrapped scamorza cheese served with dough fritters.

Tuscany There are plenty of restaurants dedicated to the food of central Italian region Tuscany, but our favorites are Burlamacco Ristorante (77A Amoy St., 6220Burlamacco Ristorante 1763, www.burlamacco. com.sg), which puts out a mean beef tripe stew ($18)—a speciality from the regional capital Florence—and Bistecca Tuscan Steakhouse (25 Mohamed Sultan Rd., 6735-6739, www.bistecca.com.sg) for their gargantuan Fiorentina ($178), a hefty 1-1.2kg T-bone steak of (marble score six) Aussie Wagyu.

Also, inITALY Bar Ristorante (38 Craig Rd., 6423-0918, www.initaly.asia) does a comforting version of lesser known Tuscan specialty gran bollito misto ($28), a pot of boiled beef, veal and veal tongue, as well as pork and chicken.

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I‑S MAGAZINE FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2013

Chef Denis Lucchi of Buona Terra (Chateau Tcc, 29A Scotts Rd., 67330209, www.scotts29. com) has launched a Buona Terra series of Gastronomic Tour dinners, each featuring a different regional cuisine. The next event spotlights the food of coastal Veneto, on January 14, with a five-course meal featuring traditional recipes like fegato alla veneziana, calf liver and polenta.

Also check out Cicheti (52 Kandahar St., 6292-5012, www.cicheti.com), a brand new Venetian snack bar serving classic bites like spicy prawns.

Sicily

Sardinia Retro glam newcomer Sopra Cucina & Bar (#01-02 Pan Pacific Orchard, 10 Claymore Rd., 6737-3253, www.sopracucina. com)—tucked away at the back of fivestar hotel Pan Pacific Orchard, right by Orchard Towers—is a pioneer in putting out Sardinian specialities, including fregola pasta and carasu bread. For a good overview of what the cuisine has to offer, there’s a four-course degustation menu ($98).

Sopra Cucina & Bar

Sicilian restaurant Gattopardo Italian Grill & Pizzabar’s (Hotel Fort Canning, 11 Canning Walk, 6338-5498, www.

Gattopardo Italian gattopardo.com.sg) Grill & Pizzabar last day at its current location is December 31—so get there quick. Helmed by Sicilian native Lino Sauro, the restaurant puts out dishes like angel hair pasta with sea urchin ($38), a classic from the seafood-loving island. Alternatively, visit their new address (34 Tras St.), when it reopens in January. n

OPEn DOOR

LuNCH BOx Bistecca Tuscan Steakhouse

WOLF

The deal: Priced at $38 for three courses and $45 for four courses, this Italian steak specialist offers a generously-sized lunch set, featuring not just steak, but also fish and vegetarian options.

The buzz: The latest project

by The Prive Group serves food influenced by Fergus Henderson’s well-regarded nose-to-tail restaurant St. John in London.

Why it’s worth it: Even big eaters won’t go hungry here. You might start the meal with filling pastas such as orecchiette with turnip sprouts and housemade sausage, then move on to mains like well-marbled hanging tender (200g) with lots of of potatoes and sautéed broccoli. Sweets are equally indulgent—take

The vibe: It looks pretty staid at first (with lots of dark wood and leather seats), but exposed pipes and funky murals—including one of a wolf chiselled into the wall to reveal raw bricks—give the place a cool urban edge. The eclectic music selection (we actually heard the Seinfeld theme song) adds to its subtly offbeat vibe.

your pick from the full dessert menu— including chocolate-y profiteroles.

25 Mohamed Sultan Rd., 6735‑6739, www.bistecca.com.sg. Available Mon‑Fri noon‑2pm.

CHIN HuI WEN

The food: Helmed by chef Alysia Chan, the kitchen puts out offal options such as grilled beef hearts with haricot verts and stout dressing ($25) and crispy sweetbread and mushroom risotto ($34) in addition to more mainstream steaks and fish mains, plus, affordable lunch specials like the beef cheek burger ($32). There’s also a nose-to-tail degustation menu utilizing the entire animal, course-by-course, in the works.

Official Partners

The drinks: Pick from 150 wines (from $17) from all over the world. There are fresh whites to offset the richness of the meal, as well as full bodied reds, which stand up to even the most pungent recipes.

2014 Dining Guide Pre-order now at register@asia-city.com.sg

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

Why you’ll be back: It’s the only place in town to get a good range of Westernstyle offal and off cuts. The midday specials and central location make it a great option for work lunches too.

Tired of heavy, fruit-laden Christmas cake? An alternative this season is the new Carré Pain d’Epices ($8; $30/box of four) now available at Grand Hyatt Singapore (10 Scotts Rd., 67381234, www.singapore.grand.hyatt.com). The versatile French honey spice bread is light enough for breakfast, but also makes a satisfying dessert (it pairs well with foie gras and cheese, too.) Pick from four flavors: original, mango, ginger and chocolate chip.

18 Gemmill Lane, 6557‑2224, www.wolf.com.sg. Open Mon‑Sat 11:30am‑ 3pm, 6pm‑midnight. CHIN HuI WEN

The Garden

COME HUNGRY, LEAVE HAPPY A casual and relaxed dining spot at the top of Mount Faber – where food junkies get together over east-meets-west dishes.

The Dining Room

CELEBRATE THE FESTIVE SEASON with spud-cial festive menus!

From 2 – 31 December 2013

Indulge in the tasty temptations served at the alfresco Garden or air-conditioned Dining Room while enjoying the scenic harbour, running cable car line and Sentosa view.

10

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be via

(excludes Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve)

Entry

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Operating Hours: Sun to Wed: 11am to 11pm | Thu: 11am to 12.30am Fri & Sat & Eve of Public Holiday: 11am to 2am

M

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with a mininum spend of $30

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Free valet parking

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Calling all food junkies email customerservice@mountfaber.com.sg or call 6377 9688 today!

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Bahr

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www.mountfaber.com.sg | 109 Mount Faber Road, Singapore 099203 (Level 2)

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2013 I‑S MAGAZINE

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DINING

Sign up for our weekly food & drink newsletter at is.gd/TheDish to get the Dish delivered to your mailbox every week.

NEW AND NOTED With Chin Hui Wen Park, 6225-9931, www.facebook.com/ TheProvisionShop), the Garibaldi Group just launched Morsi & Sorsi (51 Telok Ayer St.)—offering up paninis—the good folks at Les Amis have sandwich spot Pack’d (#B1-169/170 Suntec City Mall, 3 Temasek Blvd., 6884-7717).

Lower East Side Taqueria

Buy and Cell New wine club The French Cellar (www.thefrenchcellar.sg) offers two bottles of French wine (selected by noted sommelier Nicolas Rebut)—delivered straight to subscribers every month (from $79)—such as sauternes caprice de bastor lamontagne.

Up to the Plate More wine can be found at Those Little Things (38 Martin Rd., 8598-9807), a new tapas joint specializing in boutique

The Provision Shop

and organic Old World wines (from $6), to go with snacks like garlic prawns ($15). For more unconventional small plates, Ochin Tapas Bistro (#01-03, 2 Marne Rd., 6294-9636, www.facebook. com/OchinTapasBistro) does Peranakan small plates.

Daily Bread Major players on the fine dining scene are dressing down their latest concepts, offering casual everyday eats. Loh Lik Peng (Esquina, Pollen) has salad bar The Provision Shop (#01-79, Blk 3 Everton

Alfresco Restaurants These joints with charming open air areas are just the place to dine on breezy evenings.

Alkaff Mansion Ristorante 10 Telok Blangah Green, 6510-3068, www.alkaff.com.sg.

GRUB 510 Ang Mo Kio Ave. 1, 6459-5743, grub. com.sg.

Latin Lover

Lower East Side Taqueria See New and Noted.

The Latin food trend shows no sign of waning with new entries like Lower East Side Taqueria (19 East Coast Rd., 9824-4009, www.lowereastsidesg.com) and Hombre Cantina (53 Boat Quay, 6438-6708) now open.

Madame Patisserie #01-76, 76 Boat Quay, 6536-7028.

Cup Sized Also ever popular are cupcakes. Newbie Fluff Bakery (12 Jalan Pisang) puts out halal cupcakes (from $4) in flavors like nutella red velvet. If you can bake up a mean batch of your own, enter our Christmas Cupcake Challenge (is.gd/ cupcakechallenge) on through the end of the year.

Tamarind Hill 30 Labrador Villa Rd., 6278-6364, www.tamarindrestaurants.com.

TWO FACE Pizza & Taproom #01-48, 56 Eng Hoon St., 6536-0024, www.facebook.com/ twofacepizza.

The Green Door 13A Dempsey Rd., 6479-5945, www. theprivegroup.com. sg/thegreendoor.

Wild Oats 11 upper Wilkie Rd., 6858-2087, www.wildrocket.com.sg.

Chin Hui Wen

The Green Door

SCHEMA INTERNATIONAL EMBASSY OF BRAZIL SINGAPORE

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I‑S MAGAZINE FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2013

dining

bRouGht to You bY

ADveRtoRIAl

CUT

The White Rabbit

L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon

Gourmet Greats

Q&A olivier bendel

If you need to impress someone (even if it’s yourself) over a meal, it’d better be at somewhere that’s got all the bases covered. We’re talking the kind of mind-blowing experience that goes beyond just tasty food, attentive service and nice décor. Check out these Singapore experience Awards finalists for some fine examples.

CUT

bESt For cELEb-SpottING

What it’s like: Culinary superstar Wolfgang Puck’s first Asian outpost is a contemporary steakhouse, all industrial-cool and adorned with glamor shots of celebs like Brad Pitt and Adele.

What to eat: Does it even need to be said? Steaks like the 300-day grain fed Australian Angus and U.S.D.A. Prime Illinois Corn Fed are incredibly satisfying with house-made sauces such as their signature Argentinean chimichurri.

What to drink: Like everyone else in town, there’s a respectable wine list here of about 700 labels, but what really shouldn’t be missed are their fantastic handcrafted cocktails.

Did you know? Most of the restaurant’s playlist was personally selected by Wolfgang Puck. #B1-71 Galleria Level, The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands, 10 Bayfront Ave., 6688-8517, www.wolfgangpuck.com.

JAAN

bESt For Sky-HIGH vIEWS

What it’s like: Swiss hospitality meets fine modern French food at this classy spot atop the skyscraping Swissôtel. Oh, and the view isn’t too shabby either.

What to eat: Order from the Jardin Gourmet menu, which is dedicated to elevating vegetables from so-so side dishes to the stars of the show. Chef de cuisine Julien Royer enjoys tweaking his usually subtle cooking to better suit the Singaporean palate, tending towards full-bodied and intense flavors.

What to drink: Any of the nearly 500 Old and New World wines.

Did you know? No stranger to ethical eating, Royer grew up on a farm and was taught as a boy to raise animals humanely.

70/F Equinox Complex, Swissôtel The Stamford, Singapore, 2 Stamford Rd., 6837-3322, www.jaan.com.sg.

JAAN

L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon bESt For IMAGINAtIvE INDuLGENcE

L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon

What it’s like: With 28 Michelin stars under his belt, French chef Joël Robuchon is the world’s most decorated chef, and it certainly shows here. It’s got a real VIP feel, though the highlight is undoubtedly the stunning indoor garden and dining space with a huge tree and lush foliage.

What to eat: Go for the 14-course degustation menu, obviously. This seemingly endless procession of fine creations has been described by critics as “magic”.

What to drink: They boast over 1,200(!) labels in their massive wine cellar. There’s also a tea trolley with an equally amazing 27 tea varieties available.

Did you know? You just might catch the chef taking notes while chatting with patrons; the restaurant maintains an extensive guest database and briefs the staff daily on who’s coming. Kitchen tours are also available upon request.

Hotel Michael, Resorts World Sentosa, 8 Sentosa Gateway, 6577-7888, www.joel-robuchon.net.

The White Rabbit

bESt For WHIMSIcAL WoNDErS

What it’s like: Located in a converted Ebenezer chapel on Dempsey Hill is this fairytale-inspired restaurant which doubles up as a party space with the occasional guest act (look out for their NYE party with DJ Viceroy).

What to eat: Ultra-luxe takes on European classics. Think wagyu beef carpaccio, lobster bisque with half a Maine lobster in it, roasted black truffle chicken and white chocolate soufflé made with Valrhona Opalys white chocolate.

What to drink: On top of some 120 wine labels and a list of reinvented classic cocktails, they also have coffee and tea from local specialists Papa Palheta and Tea Bone Zen Mind.

Did you know? They’re happy to flambé a Crêpe Suzette or torch a Baked Alaska right at the table for your viewing pleasure. Just ask.

39C Harding Rd., 6473-9965, www.thewhiterabbit.com.sg. n

With a string of eateries to his name, ranging from the swish Forlino and celeb chef “diner” &MADE to the always buzzing Sabio and L’Entrecote on Duxton Hill, this restaurateur clearly has a keen eye for what it takes to impress patrons. We fired a few quick questions at him.

What kind of experience do you craft for your customers?

The rules have changed! Restaurants are not only places where you come to eat, but also unforgettable experiences to live. People are not only looking for good cuisine but also for a whole experience.

Is that a trend around the world?

People want to be entertained and stimulated rather than just pampered.

While spoiling was often a top priority, this is no longer the case. New expectations have emerged for more active holidays and experiential journeys.

They are not new in Europe and North America, but have still to mature in Asia.

What advice would you give to a restaurateur who’s just starting out?

“Don’t start!” Jokes aside, you have to be sure that the concept is strong and is something Singaporeans will be receptive towards. One needs to consider not just the recipes and quality of food, but also the ambience of the restaurant, how the design echoes the food, the service and the entire brand image.

Being able to maintain the standard and sustain the business is key.

Address book &MADE #01-04/05/06 Pacific Plaza, 9 Scotts Rd. www.andmade.sg | Forlino #02-06 One Fullerton, 1 Fullerton Rd., www.forlino. com | L’Entrecote 36 Duxton Hill, 66907561, www. lentrecote.sg | Sabio 5 Duxton Hill, 6690 7562, www.sabio.sg

For the full lowdown on this year’s Awards finalists and recipients, head to is.gd/sea2013.

FRIDAY, NovembeR 22, 2013 I-S MAGAZINE

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DINING Open Door

Drink

Restaurant HOME The buzz: Award-winning Chinese chef Tan Yong Hua—who has 20 years of cooking experience—helms the kitchen at this low key 90-seat restaurant in the residential Bukit Timah neighborhood.

Bitter flavors are oft neglected but are the key to some truly great cocktails.

Here are four drinks that use them to brilliant effect.

The vibe: It’s a basic space that feels very much like an extension of the chef’s own dining room. There are pictures of chef with happy customers on the walls, in addition to Chinese calligraphy and ornaments.

The food: Chef Tan’s a sticker for old school heritage eats and prepares specialties like Peking duck barbecued with lychee wood (from $38), homey braised duo vermicelli with pork knuckle ($20) and braised chicken with black fungus in hot stone pot ($20), the latter a throwback to the ‘70s. He makes almost everything from scratch, including some super smooth homemade egg bean curd with shrimp paste ($18).

Amaro Smash

Nin Jiom Old Fashioned

Comprising smashed pineapple and amaro montenegro served up in a big glass with lots of crushed ice, this modern cocktail is a great palate cleanser.

Adrian Ling, founder of Pidgin Kitchen & Bar says, “Fernet branca and angostura bitters impart a refreshing mix of herbal and botanical nuances to this unique spin on the Old Fashioned,” giving it a fresh new twist.

$14 at #01-02 Pan Pacific Orchard, 10 Claymore Rd., 6737-3253, www.facebook.com/SopraCucina.

Ca Phe Sua Da #2 The drinks: Asian beverages such as Chinese wine (from $78) and sake (from $70) as well as beers like Tsing Tao ($8), pair well with the robust straightforward dishes.

Why you’ll be back: If you live in the area, there’s nowhere better to dig into a comforting Chinese meal.

Plus, they champion now nearly impossible-to-find classic recipes that are worth the trek.

Mikel Mulraney, Mixologist at Ding Dong says, “Bitters and amaro add depth of flavor and bring all the ingredients in a drink together.” He uses Vietnamese coffee, VSOP cognac, amaro and agave nectar in this potent bittersweet digestif. $21 at Ding Dong, 23 Ann Siang Rd., 6557-0189, www. dingdong.com.sg.

392 Upper Bukit Timah Rd., 6465-1698, www.restauranthome.com.sg.

Open daily noon-3pm, 6-11pm. Chin Hui Wen Amaro Smash

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I‑S MAGAZINE FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2013

Amaro & Bitters

$20 at Pidgin Kitchen, #01-04 7 Dempsey Rd., 6475-0080, www.pidgin.sg.

Topless In Church Of this drink comprising Speyside single malt, sugar, orange zest and Mozart dark chocolate bitters, Zachariah Elias, the bartender at Suprette says, “The bitters strongly invoke the aroma and nuances of cocoa, free from the cloying sweetness of chocolate liqueurs.” $20 at Suprette, G/F Kam Leng, 383 Jalan Besar, 62988962, www.suprette.com.

Chin Hui Wen

RESTAURANT REVIEWS Levant HHHHH Middle Eastern. 8 Greenwood Ave., 8169-3376, www.levant.com.sg.

It isn’t easy to make it in the Greenwood dining enclave. Sure, the neighborhood may look suburban and welcoming, but the competition is cut throat. Many new entries barely last a year and since 2012, the area has seen around 10 closures. To survive, restaurants must be casual enough for a midweek dinner (most diners live in the area) but sophisticated too (those upper middle class folks know their food). Levant, however, looks like it has a fighting chance. This Middle Eastern restaurant is homey yet exotic. It’s a cozy space featuring brick-lined walls and pretty mosaic tile-covered tables, all bathed in warm light. They have a special niche—Lebanese, Persian and Arabic food—on the shop-house stretch (where Japanese food and European cuisine is already well represented). And the grub is well priced too. The affordable set lunch goes for just $15 (soup, kebab, rice, dessert and coffee), while the main menu is full of simple soul satisfying dishes. Check out the soup of the day ($7.50)— when we visited it was a sinus-clearing ginger broth—and the speciality grills.

We’d come back for the juicy swish tawooq ($28), grilled chicken with saffron, and the halabi kebab ($29), tender minced lamb. From the appetizers, the watery hummus ($10) and bland stuffed vine leaves ($15) were lackluster, so skip those. Otherwise, Levant’s a really solid joint for a satisfying—and far from boring—meal. Open Tue-Sun noon-3pm; Fri-Sun 5:30-11:30pm. $$

Table 24 HHHHH New American. 24 Temple St., 6225-9925, www.table24.sg.

This restaurant really oversells itself, calling the experience “an unpretentious take on fine-dining”. It’s nothing of the sort. The space is cute enough—housed in an old Chinatown shop-house, the walls are festooned with retro radios, pots and pans, and vintage concert posters. They even host live local music acts. But fine-dining it is not. Service is well meaning but unpolished (they needed us to repeat our orders a couple of times). The crowd’s an odd mix of Mando-pop crazed teens (it seemed the only topic of dinner conversation) and sweaty tourists, all dressed in t-shirts and shorts. The food is ambitious but largely falls flat. From the shrimp and grits ($12)—flaccid shrimp and lumpy cornmeal—to the coconut flan ($9), which tastes fine but is hideously plated with disparate elements like peanut cookie crumble, soggy lemongrass poached pear and a lone basil leaf (none of which added anything to the dessert). The only saving grace is that the wine’s cheap (from $9/glass, and you get 15% off that after 9pm on weeknights) and some of the food— like the zataar crusted swordfish belly ($16)—is actually decent and pretty affordable (once you wipe away the nonsensical condiments and toppings).

Think of it as a café: A worthy option if you’re looking for a reprieve from sticky crowded Temple Street, where you can sit with a cool drink. Just don’t go expecting fireworks. Open Mon-Thu 5-11pm; Fri-Sat 5pm-midnight. $$

Recently Reviewed by I-S Le Petit Navire “The sort of place we’d return to for an easy relaxing meal any day of the week." HHHHH The Market Grill “The perfect go-to when you’re craving comfort food.” HHHHH Candlenut “The food won’t provide the comfort of your grandma’s cooking.” HHHHH Izy “The food’s great no matter what you order, but don’t miss the perfectly fried chicken karaage.” HHHHH Ratings ★ Forget it ★★ Only if you're stuck in the neighborhood ★★★ A pleasant dining experience ★★★★ More than just great food, tell your friends ★★★★★ Not to be missed

Price Guide Less than $40 $ $$ $40-$80 $80-120 $$$ $$$$ $120-200 $$$$$ $200 and up

Price per person, including one drink, appetizer, main course and dessert.

Prices do not include bottles of wine unless stated.

New restaurants are not reviewed within three months of their opening.

Reviews are based on actual visits to the establishments listed, without the knowledge of the restaurants. Reviews are included at the discretion of the editors and are not paid for by the individual restaurants.

Read all our reviews at is-magazine.com/restaurants

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2013 I‑S MAGAZINE

27

Need to know Theater & Arts The Arts House > 6332-6919

www.substation.org

www.theartshouse.com.sg

Ticketbooth > 6296-2929

Esplanade Box Office > 6828-8377

Cinema Ticketing Hotlines

www.esplanade.com

Fort Canning Park > 6332-1302

chart the weeks ahead

The Substation > 6337-7535

www.nparks.gov.sg

Gatecrash > 6100-2005 www.gatecrash.com.sg

National Museum of Singapore > 6332-5642

www.ticketbooth.com.sg

Cathay > 6337-8181 www.cathay.com.sg

Eng Wah > 6836-9074

www.ewcinemas.com.sg

Filmgarde > 6344-5997 www.filmgarde.com.sg

www.nationalmuseum.sg

Golden Village > 1900-912-1234

Singapore Art Museum > 6332-3222

Shaw > 6738-0555

www.singart.com

www.gv.com.sg www.shaw.sg

Sistic > 6348-5555 www.sistic.com.sg

DON'T Miss

DO This

Rodger That

One-man hit maker and co-founder of CHIC, Nile Rodgers, will bring the house down in a non-stop music set.

See Stage, page 29.

Table Service Do yourself a favor and shop early for Christmas gifts at the Boutiques Flea Market.

See Sales & Fairs, page 36.

SEE This

Hang Ups

The cerebral and fascinating The Suit is one of the year's best plays.

See Stage, page 30.

SCENESTEALER A French Kiss in Singapore This French musical revue is a sprightly concoction of music, dance and sketch by director Nathalie Ribette and dancerchoreographer George Chan, headlined by two of our funniest actors, Hossan Leong and Robin Goh. We spoke to the actors about putting two and two together.

How “Singaporean” is this musical revue?

Hossan Leong: Personally, I feel there's no need to find the "Singaporean" in this show because each song finds you. The audience will identify with each piece on a personal level, finding pieces of their lives in the lyrics.

You can be from any country, any culture and still be part of this musical journey.

Robin Goh

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I-S MAGAZINE FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2013

Robin Goh: Besides the fact that three of the cast members are Singaporean, not much.

Of course, having Hossan Leong ups the Singaporean quotient considerably.

Are we similar to the French in any way?

HL: We love food. And if you speak Mandarin, we have similar vowel sounds.

RG: We are as alike as any human beings would be. We all have to eat.

Did you guys ever pick up the language?

HL: I started learning French back in 1988 because it was part of an electronics course that I was doing. Bizarre, right?

RG: I learned it in school, which is also pretty much where I left it.

What’s the biggest challenge doing the show?

HL: Trying not to make each other laugh.

RG: Being heard. The other three actors are very loud.

What do you like about French kissing?

HL: The emotion that's behind the kiss.

It's very important. Otherwise, a kiss is just a kiss.

RG: It's wet. Enough said.

A French Kiss in Singapore is on Nov 27Dec 8, 4pm, 8pm. School of the Arts Drama Theatre, 1 Zubir Said Dr., 6252-4482. $35-69 from Sistic.

KHAIRUL AMRI Hossan Leong

STAgE » ART Email event news to stage@asia-city.com.sg and art@asia-city.com.sg

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MUSIC musicals I-S PICK

Russia-Singapore Jazz Symphonia Russian jazz greats Igor Butman and Vadim Eilenkrig collaborate with some of the best musicians in Singapore and perform arrangements written and orchestrated by world famous composer Enri Lolashvilli. Nov 29, 8pm. SOTA Concert Hall, School of the Arts Singapore, 1 Zubir Said Dr., 6594-8411. $70-80 from Sistic.

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Starlight Express The energetic musical tale of love, rivalry and hope

by Andrew Lloyd Webber makes its debut in Singapore. Expect lots of 3D effects and daredevil stunts.

Through Nov 24, 7:30pm. MasterCard Theatres at Marina Bay Sands, B1/F The Shoppes @ Marina Bay Sands, 10 Bayfront Ave., 6688-8868. $65-195.

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classical Viva Verdi! To celebrate Giuseppe Verdi’s bicentenary, this recital features a selection of the Italian master composer’s most famous arias and songs from his operas, all performed by a roster of talented opera singers in Singapore. Nov 28, 8pm. Esplanade Recital Studio, 1 Esplanade Dr., 6828-8377. $32 from Sistic.

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I-S PICK> Gala: Lang Lang Live! Piano superstar Lang Lang plays Prokofiev’s Third Piano Concerto at this gala concert with Singapore Symphony Orchestra. Nov 28, 7:30pm. Esplanade Concert Hall, 1 Esplanade Dr. Call 63485555 for more info. $50-335 from Sistic.

I Want to Break Free Local chamber ensemble re: mix performs iconic works such as the final movements of Beethoven’s Symphony No. 5 to the classic Queen anthem “I Want to Break Free”. Dec 7, 7:30pm.

Esplanade Recital Studio, 1 Esplanade Dr., 6828-8377. $25 from Sistic.

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I-S PICK> Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir The internationally regarded choir presents a performance that includes motets

by Johann Sebastian Bach and Johannes Brahms. Dec 13, 7:30pm.

Esplanade Concert Hall, 1 Esplanade Dr., 6828-8377. $28-88.

concerts

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ONE OK ROCK 2013 Headbang your way through Japanese band ONE OK ROCK’s high energy rock, emo and heavy metal performance.

Nov 22, 8pm. The Coliseum™, Resorts World® Sentosa, 8 Sentosa Gateway, 6577-8888. $78 from Sistic.

SCENESTEALER Danny Rogers The fourth installment of the highly-anticipated indie music festival St. Jerome’s Laneway Festival returns in January next year with yet another smashing lineup including acts like Chvrches, Daughter, Jamie XX and The Jezabels. We spoke to festival founder Danny Rogers on what goes on behind the scenes.

What’s so special about Laneway?

It is the coolest music gig on earth. And our sites are always incredible.

Any other territories planed for expansion?

Our plan for Asia is to make Singapore a destination festival and develop that brand. We see Laneway as being a future Coachella type event for the region.

Laneway in Detroit went great in September. What did you think of that?

It was one of the greatest musical experiences of my life to host our event over there with one of the year’s most exciting line ups and see the local people embrace us. It was like the first Laneway in Singapore, which also goes down as a career highlight.

SCENE & HEARD with Terry Ong

Night Moves After its successful stint at Dempsey, Ryan Clift’s Tippling Club has finalized its new location in three units of shophouses at 34-38 Tanjong Pagar Road near the CBD. To open in December, Clift’s signature gastronomic fare and cocktails will remain intact (though the cocktail menu is being completely overhauled); with the new space comprising a bar, dining room and a private dining room on the second floor. For clubbers, the folks at St. James Power Station are in talks to open new dance space Club Toxic. Although details are still being firmed up, rumor has it that it might open by the end of this month. Stay tuned for more info.

Step To This Meanwhile, dance fans of the arty kind can look forward to Singapore Dance Theatre’s (www.singaporedancetheatre.com) exciting list of performances scheduled for next year. One of our most hardworking arts groups (they’re certainly one of the few that plans that far ahead), highlights include a reworking of Romeo and Juliet in March, another edition of Ballet Under the Stars at Fort Canning Park in July and the epic Don Quixote in December.

For Art’s Sake More exciting news for the year ahead.

With art blockbuster Art Stage (www. artstagesingapore.com) taking place in Jan 16-19, major galleries and museums will also be putting up on special exhibitions, talks and tours throughout the month in Art Stage conjunction with Art Week (Jan 13-19).

To help you navigate through the smorgasbord of events, we’ll be putting together a special guide that will be available free with the January 10 issue of I-S, featuring the lowdown on all the major shows happening during the period, as well as interviews with industry experts and first-hand previews you won’t read anywhere else.

Any fears about Laneway Danny Rogers losing its identity?

Not yet. We are getting a global name so we do need to be careful.

Where do you see Laneway in 10 years?

Small, boutique and highly personal. A true customer service experience and possibly multiple days at no larger than 15,000 per day.

What do you have to say to the critics of Laneway?

Thank you, critics. All opinions help us try and make our event better. There will always be doubters no matter what you do but passion and belief always override any fear of failure.

St. Jerome’s Laneway Festival is on Jan 25 2014, 11am. The Meadows, Gardens by the Bay, 18 Marina Gardens Dr., 6420-6841, www.singapore.lanewayfestival.com. $150 from Sistic. KHAIRUL AMRI

I-S PICK

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Lenka Live in Singapore 2013 Known for songs like ‘The Show’ and ‘Everything at Once’ (the Windows 8 TV jingle), Aussie songbird Lenka performs her sweet hits at the Esplanade. Nov 26, 8pm. Esplanade Theatre, 1 Esplanade Dr., 6828-8377. $48-98.

Biggest challenge about organizing a concert of this magnitude?

Communicating with all markets constantly and keeping everyone on the same page.

#03-01 Shaw Towers, 100 Beach Rd., 6292-0930. $48-108 from Sistic.

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Four Tet Brilliant DJ-producer Four Tet plays a live set at (where else?) Zouk. Expect a big dose of abstract post-rock to challenge your aural boundaries.

Nov 28, 9pm. Zouk, 17 Jiak Kim St., 6738-2988. $40-50.

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Glenn Fredly Live in Concert The acclaimed Indonesian crooner returns for another night of smooth tracks in both English and Indonesian. Nov 29, 8pm. The Star Performing Arts Centre, 1 Vista Exchange Green, 6636-0055. $58-128 from Sistic.

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Marcos Valle Music legend Marcos Valle, best known for his massive 1968 hit “Summer Samba (So Nice)”, plays his seductive brand of funk, samba and bossa nova. Nov 30, 8pm. Esplanade Theatre, 1 Esplanade Dr., 6828-8377. $48-128 from Sistic.

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I-S PICK> Nile Rodgers and CHIC Live In Singapore Legendary disco outfit CHIC featuring Nile Rodgers will showcase their grooves for one night of non-stop evergreen dance hits. Dec 3, 8pm.

Kallang Theatre, 1 Stadium Walk, 6348-7907. $78-148 from Sistic.

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Dashboard Confessional Live (Solo Acoustic) The indie rock outfit from Florida, famous for hits such as “Stolen” and “These Bones”, will return for an intimate session with fans where they will even take song requests from the audience.

Dec 4, 8:30pm. Shine Auditorium,

We Came As Romans & Crown the Empire Catch the metal-core bands in a double-bill performance featuring hits like “Hope” and “Lead Me Out of the Dark”. Dec 11, 8pm. The Coliseum™, Resorts World® Sentosa, 8 Sentosa Gateway, 6577-8888. $78-108 from Sistic.

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Khöömii - Throat Singers of Mongolia by Khusugtun Mongolian throat singing ensemble Khusugtun, who can each sing at least two notes concurrently, perform folk songs a capella and with traditional instruments like the yatga zither.

Dec 14, 7:30pm; Dec 15, 5pm.

Esplanade Recital Studio, 1 Esplanade Dr., 6828-8377. $30 from Sistic.

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An Evening with Laura Fygi Sultry jazz and bossa nova crooner Laura Fygi performs favorites like “Fly Me to the Moon” and “Corcovado”. Dec 18, 8pm. Resorts World Sentosa, 8 Sentosa Gateway, 6577-8888. $78-198 from Sistic.

gigs

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The Sultan Jazz Club presents Junji Delfino and her Quartet The acclaimed jazz crooner from the Philippines takes the stage for a night of smooth sounds with a small ensemble. Nov 23, 9pm.

The Sultan Jazz Club, 2/F The Sultan, 101 Jalan Sultan, 6723-7117. $25.

music. Nov 23, 7pm. Free. .

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The Sultan Jazz Club presents Cuban Duo Cuban pianist Harold López-Nussa and her brother, drummer Ruy Adrián López-Nussa, bring their unique brand of jazz to fans. Nov 26, 9pm. The Sultan Jazz Club, 2/F The Sultan, 101 Jalan Sultan, 6723-7117. Free.

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Hot Damn! This night of mostly live dance music sees local band Fiber Optik and other artists plus a DJ playing lots of funk, disco and hip hop. Nov 29, 9pm. Home Club, #B1-01/06 The Riverwalk, 20 Upper Circular Rd., 6538-2928. $15 one drink included.

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The Sultan Jazz Club presents Tropic Green A seven-piece jazz band with members formed from all over the world who play original compositions by Susan Harmer. Nov 29, 9pm. The Sultan Jazz Club, 2/F The Sultan, 101 Jalan Sultan, 6723-7117. $25.

music festivals

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11th International Guitar Festival 2013 Back for the 11th edition, the week-long festival will feature three tiers: an international guitar competition, seminars and workshops by renowned guitarists and also a repertoire of their greatest works.

Dec 9-15, 9am. RELC International Hotel, 30 Orange Grove Road, 6885-7888. $40-530 from Sistic.

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I-S PICK> Lomography Blue Hour Sessions Something special’s brewing at the Lomography store.

Local bands Tiramisu, .gif and 7nightsatsea team up with visual artists fFurious, M-D-R-N, SSYSTM and Allison Marie Low for a night of EPs, zines, photos and live

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2013 I-S MAGAZINE

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STAgE » ART

dance

STAgE comedy

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The World’s Greatest Comedy Hypnotist - Alan Bates Catch legendary funnyman Alan Bates as he hypnotizes audience members and makes them perform hilarious antics. Nov 28-30, 8pm. Aquanova Restaurant & Bar, #01-03 Blk. C Clarke Quay, 3 River Valley Rd., 6305-6768. $48-58 from Sistic.

I-S PICK

Singapore International Salsa Festival 2013 Learn the tricks of the trade from 20 international and local salsa names through this series of over 35 workshops, classes and performances. Passes available on the website. Through Nov 24, 8pm. *SCAPE, 2 Orchard Link. Call 9671-8985 for more info. $199-599.

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Swan Lake by Bolshoi Ballet The acclaimed Bolshoi Ballet makes a stop in Singapore to perform Tchaikovsky’s magnificent Swan Lake. Expect amazing sets and costumes on top of the dancers’ technical prowess. Nov 23-24, 2pm; Through Nov 24, 8pm. Esplanade Theatre, 1 Esplanade Dr., 6828-8377. $60-250 from Sistic.

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The Comedy Club Comedy talents Emo Philips, Paco Erhard, Gina Yashere and Kipleigh Brown stand up for your amusement. Dec 4, 8:30pm. Blu Jaz, 11 Bali Lane, 6292-3800. $15.

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I-S PICK> The Suit Originally staged in French, this drama of betrayal and antipathy is set in a South African township during Apartheid. Nov 23, 4pm; Through Nov 25, 8pm. DBS Arts Centre - Home of SRT, 20 Merbau Rd. Call 6733-8166 for more info. $38-108 from Sistic.

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Hedda Gabler This Henrik Ibsen classic gets a new rendition in the hands of Australian director Stefanos Rassios.

Nov 27-29, 8pm. LASALLE College of the Arts, 1 McNally St., 6496-5000.

Free (registration required).

ART last chance

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I-S PICK> Authority Sex Money Chinese artist Nan Qi reinvents traditional Chinese ink painting with interesting techniques like dot pointilism and 3D effects.

Through Nov 23. Art Plural Gallery, 38 Armenian St., 6636-8360. Free.

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Affordable Art Fair 2013 The fourth edition of this special art fair returns with galleries from all over the world offering an extensive range of contemporary art like prints and paintings all priced from $100 to $10,000. Through Nov 24, 12pm. F1 Pit Building, 1 Republic Blvd.

Call 6220-5682 for more info. $12 from Sistic.

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continuing

Die Blaue Blume Locally-based German artist Philipp Aldrup exhibits photos of urban micro-landscapes of soil, rocks and traces of life, with live performances by musical guests Awk Wah (Nov 22), PIBLOKTO (Dec 1) and Shaun San (Dec 9).

Through Dec 8. Artistry, 17 Jalan Pinang, 6298-2420. Free.

9:39 PM

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I-S MAGAZINE FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2013

ART » fooD & DRINkS » STUff

STATE of THE ART Ho Tzu Nyen

Presenting a selection of dining delights

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Ho Tzu Nyen at PHYTAGORAS

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For more dining privileges, visit amexnetwork.com.sg Terms & Conditions: For the most updated list of dining partners, please visit amexnetwork.com.sg. American Express Selects privileges are valid until 31 December 2013, unless otherwise stated. Privileges are available when payment is made with an American Express Card issued directly by American Express International, Inc. Singapore, American Express Corporate Cards and American Express Cards issued by other banks or network partners. These privileges cannot be exchanged for cash or used in conjunction with other promotional programmes, offers, discount cards, special packages or vouchers. Privileges are not applicable on eve of Public Holidays and Public Holidays, unless otherwise stated. Merchants are solely responsible for the fulfilment of all privileges. American Express International, Inc. and the business establishments reserve the right to change the terms and conditions at any time without prior notice. For full terms and conditions, please visit amexnetwork.com.sg. Information herein is correct at the time of print. American Express International, Inc., Incorporated with limited liability in the state of Delaware, USA with a place of business at 10 Marina Boulevard #15-00, Marina Bay Financial Centre Tower 2, Singapore 018983.

Multi-media artist Ho Tzu Nyen’s latest solo show PYTHAGORAS at Michael Janssen Gallery in Gillman Barracks is a compelling hodgepodge of video art, installation and music. He tells us about the inspiration behind the show.

How did you come up with the name?

PYTHAGORAS was supposedly the first philosopher, but he was also the founder of a religion, where the disciples had to listen to their master's teachings from behind a screen or a veil of curtains so that one was able to focus entirely on just the voice without any visual distraction.

This was the starting point, or the organizational principle for this exhibition.

How was it conceptualized?

The show is essentially built around four works. The first is a 2009 piece called “NEWTON” (named after the scientist), the second is a six-minute fragment which I extracted from my 2009 work called “EARTH”, and

which I renamed MILTON (after the poet of Paradise Lost). The third is a 2013 piece called “GOULD” (after the pianist), and the fourth is the new video work made for this exhibition, called “PYTHAGORAS”, which involves the projection of curtains onto a set of automated curtains. Then I worked on creating a system which allows me to show all four works in a single space, choreographed in such a way that they resonate and react with one another.

Tell us more about the video piece.

I find curtains to be highly fascinating objects. They are screens that veil but are, at the same time, screens for the projection of desires. They make known the presence of wind, passing through openings and cracks. But I'm also obsessed with the voice—voices in the head, voices hidden behind veils, disembodied voices, voices of authority and trickery.

What fascinates you as an artist?

I'm interested in sensations that can't be named.

PYTHAGORAS is on through Dec 15. Michael Janssen Gallery, #02-21 Gillman Barracks, 9 Lock Rd., 6734-8948, www.galeriemichaeljanssen.de. Free. TERRY ONG

I-S PICK

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I-S PICK> Hotel New Osorezan Japanese artist Umeda Tetsuya explores the fundamentals of nature, sound, light and energy with a series of performance, sound and installation works utilizing modern day consumer products. Through Dec 8. Ota Fine Arts (Gillman Barracks), #01-23 Gillman Barracks, 47 Malan Rd., 6694-3071. Free.

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A Way of Life : Photographs from the Leica Collection Outstanding photography exhibition featuring original prints by the legendary Henri Cartier-Bresson, Constantine Manos, René Burri and Klavdij Sluban, among many others. Through Dec 31. Asian Civilisations Museum, 1 Empress Place, 6332-7798. Free.

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The Face of Facebook Chinese artist Zhu Jia explores the lives of his fellow artists through a series of video works and photographs.

Through Dec 9. Shanghart Gallery (Gillman Barracks), #02-22, 9 Lock Rd., 6734-9537. Free.

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I-S MAGAZINE FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2013

VERSUS – Indonesian Contemporary Art Indonesian artists Made Wianta, I Made Djirna and Heri Dono explore the country’s various culural references and sensibilities in the modern age. Through Dec 22. Mizuma Gallery (Gillman Barracks), #01-34, 22 Lock Rd., 6570-2505. Free.

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Excess This joint exhibition between Chinese artist Fu Lei and American artist Dane Patterson explores the excess of sensuality and desire conveyed through various depictions of the female figure.

Through Dec 27. Art Plural Gallery, 38 Armenian St., 6636-8360. Free.

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Ghost: The Body at the Turn of the Century Drawing inspiration from Eric Khoo’s film Pain, this exhibition poses questions about the representation of the human body in art. Through Dec 31. Sculpture Square, 155 Middle Rd., 6333-1055. Free. www.sculpturesq.com.sg.

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Email event news to art@asia-city.com.sg and food@asia-city.com.sg

To Be a Lady Female artists from all over the world explore what it means to be a woman today, including names like renowned photographer Annie Liebovitz and local painter Jane Lee. Through Jan 5 2014. Sundaram Tagore Gallery Singapore (Gillman Barracks), #01-05 Gillman Barracks, 5 Lock Rd., 6694-3378. Free.

fooD AND DRINk I-S PICK

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I-S PICK> The Last Thing You See Lauded local artist-photographer Robert Zhao Renhui’s latest show centers on nature, where he explores the transient and the material through gorgeous imageries.

Through Jan 5 2014. 2902 Gallery, #02-02, 222 Queen St., 6339-8685. Free.

I-S PICK

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Surreal Reality Impressionistic blackand-white photographs by American Rodney Smith, whose famous piece from 1995, “Don Jumping Over Hay Rool”, is a testament to his wonderful compositions and craft. Through Jan 5 2014. Fost Gallery (Gillman Barracks), #01-02, 1 Lock Rd., 6694 3080. Free.

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Twenty Plots For Things To Come This hypnotic video work by Italy’s Anthony Marcellini and Singapore’s Heman Chong draws from thousands of images from the online collection banks of science museums around the world. Through Jan 26 2014. Fost Gallery (Gillman Barracks), #01-02, 1 Lock Rd., 6694 3080. Free.

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I-S PICK> Singapore Biennale 2013 This year’s much-anticipated edition of the Singapore Biennale brings together the best and most thought-provoking pieces from around Southeast Asia and farther afield. Through Feb 16 2014, 10am.

Bras Basah Bugis Precinct. Free.

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I-S PICK> Works 2003-2013 Master Italian artist Oliviero Rainaldi’s first solo show in Asia, focusing on the metaphysical nature of the human figure. He explores the theme through drawings, paintings and sculptures in different materials, including bronze, plaster, gold, marble and glass. Through Feb 16 2014.

Partners & Mucciaccia (Gillman Barracks), #02-10, 6 Lock Rd., 6694-3727. Free.

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I-S PICK> In Search of Raffles’ Light Prolific local artist Charles Lim’s latest work is an interdisciplinary project which mobilizes everyday objects, museum artefacts, archival texts and maps, photographs, paintings and prints. Through Apr 27 2014. NUS Museums, University Cultural Centre, National University of Singapore, 50 Kent Ridge Crescent, 6516-8817. Free.

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I-S PICK> Not Against Interpretation: Untitled The exhibition features untitled works drawn from the National Heritage Board’s collection of drawings, paintings, prints and sculptures by notable local contemporary artists Cheo Chai Hiang, Chua Ek Kay, Tang Da Wu, Tang Mun Kit and Zai Kuning, among many others. Through Apr 1 2014, 10am. Singapore Art Museum, 71 Bras Basah Rd., 6332-3222. $5-10.

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4 X FOUR This pop-up space is offering food from four acclaimed restaurants: The Hand and Flowers (London), Can Fabes (Barcelona), Mozaic (Bali) and Bo Innovation (Hong Kong), plus art installations by talented local artists.

Through Nov 23. Marina Bay Waterfront, Marina Blvd., 6736-1458, www.4xfour. sg. $88.

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British Club Christmas Bazaar: Newby Teas of London Teas by award-winning British artisanal tea brand Newby will be on offer at this pop-up. Sample black tea, green tea, white tea and tisanes priced from $10. Nov 26-27, 10am. The British Club, 73 Bukit Tinggi Rd., 6467-4311. $10-100.

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Bread, Bread, Bread At this hands-on baking session, find out how to make bagels, ciabatta and apple strawberry kuchen. Nov 27, 3pm. ToTT Cooking Studio 2, 896 Dunearn Rd., 6219-7077. $148.

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Chateau Asia’s Annual Champagne Tasting At this yearly event, taste five fine Champages such as Jacquesson N736 NV, Billecart Salmon and Ruinart Blanc de Blancs. Nov 28, 7pm. Tower Club, 9 Raffles Place, 6737-3388. $95-115.

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I-S PICK> Asian Masters 2013 A monthlong festival of food-centric events that run the gamut from workshops to tastings to gala dinners. Though Nov 30. Various venues Call 6319-1888 for more info. $25-1,000.

SpoRTS running

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Swissôtel Vertical Marathon 2013 Make your way to the top, literally, at this annual vertical race up Swissôtel The Stamford. (That’s 226 meters, to be exact.) Nov 24, 6:40am.

Swissôtel The Stamford, Singapore, 2 Stamford Rd. Call 9474-1803 for more info. $45-55.

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Illumi Run 2013 The first of its kind non-competitive night running event in Asia held in a carnivalesque atmosphere featuring glow water that awaits runners as they pass through different zones. Dec 7, 8pm. F1 Pit Building, 1 Republic Blvd., 6884-6940. $58-68.

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Standard Chartered Marathon Singapore 2013 A major highlight of the local sports calendar, Singapore’s marquee running event comes with with races for individuals, teams, the wheelchair-bound and kids, making it a truly inclusive celebration of sport. Dec 1, 5am. Call 6643-9191 for more info. $20-360.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2013 I-S MAGAZINE

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STUff » NIgHTLIfE Email event news to stuff@asia-city.com.sg and nightlife@asia-city.com.sg

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3 WAYS

All free!

MR25 Ultra Marathon 2013 For the MR25 Ultra Marathon, take home a finisher T-shirt and a certificate when you complete a minimum of five 10.2 km laps. Participants who complete the most laps in 12 hours win. Dec 29, 7am.

MacRitchie Reservoir, Lornie Rd. $20-65.

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sports events

To never miss an issue 1 PICK up I-S at over 200 venues

= new venues

60 SECoNDS Tobias Thomas

iFS White Collar Boxing Singapore The White Collar Boxing programme trains ordinary office workers for 12 weeks, after which they’ll participate in a threeround showdown. You’ll get to see the results of that training on this exciting night. Nov 29. Raffles City Convention Centre, 2 Stamford Rd., 6787-2288.

I-S PICK

German dance label Kompakt’s latest poster boy will be making his debut in town with a glitch techno set at the Super O Season pop-up gig. He talks to us about girls and God. The last time I got seriously drunk.. it was probably at my birthday party. Not seriously drunk, but just a little bit. It’s part of the job.

When I am sober, I.. am probably playing soccer. Or I´m asleep.

Dance music is.. a culture more than a business.

Girls are.. diamonds’ best friends.

Kith Café @ Robertson Quay

ARAB STREET/KAMPONG GLAM · Artistry Cafe · Working Title · BEACH ROAD · espressoLab Singapore · Blu Jaz · WineBos · The Plaza L1 Office Lobby Reception · O’Briens Irish Sandwich Bars · BOAT QUAY · Enoteca L’Operetta · Harry’s @ Boat Quay · The Arts House at Old Parliament · Timbre @ The Arts House · London · BUGIS · Hood Bar and Cafe · Essensuals

by Toni & Guy @ Bugis · K Suites @ iluma · Stuttgart Blackforest Boutique S-Cafe · CHINATOWN · The Chamber · The Muffinry · The Vault · CITY HALL · The Soup Spoon @ Suntec City · The Soup Spoon @ Raffles City Shopping Centre · Addictions Café & Remedy Bar @ Marina Square · Barossa @ Esplanade · The Coffee bean & Tea Leaf @ Suntec City · True Fitness @ Suntec City · Café Cartel @ Marina Square · Coffee Club @ Millenia Walk · Outback Steak House · Paulaner Brauhaus · Timbre @ The Substation · Ice Cold B’s · Brotzeit @ Raffles City · Coffee Club @ Raffles City Shopping · MICA Office Lobby Reception · Peek! Store · The Substation · Bobby’s @ Chijmes · Hog’s Breath Café · Front Row · Loof · Dome Café @ Singapore Art Museum · CLARKE QUAY · Brewerkz · Ricciotti @ The Riverwalk · Wings · The Central L1 Customer Service · Crazy Elephant · Mad for Garlic · Fern & Kiwi · DEMPSEY · Taphouse

by Brewerkz · Jones The Grocer · White Rabbit · 22 Dempsey · Don Quijote · House, Barracks & Camp · Dome Café @ Dempsey · Red Dot Brewhouse · DHOBY GHAUT · kith Café @ park Mall · Dubliner Irish Bar · EAST · The Tuckshop · City Square Mall Customer Service Counter · Loysel’s Toy ·

Smoothie King @ MBFC

HARBOURFRONT · Prive Bakery Café · Brotzeit @ Vivo City · Coffee Club @ Harbourfront Centre · Sky The Fitness Lifestyle · HOLLAND VILLAGE · Mu Parlour · The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf @ Holland Village · Barossa @ Holland V · Harry’s @ Holland Village · NYDC @ Holland Village · Wala Wala · Fosters - An English Rose Café · MARINA BAY · Carnivore Brazilian Churrascaria @ Marina Bay Sands · Foodology · Erwin’s Gastrobar · The Exchange · The Coffee Bean @ Marina Bay Sands · Bazin · Salad Stop @ MBFC · Smoothie king @ MBfC · The Bank Bar & Bistro · MOHAMED SULTAN / ROBERTSON QUAY · kith Café @ Watermark · Robertsons Quay Harry’s @ Pier Robertson · Blow+Bar · Wine Connection Cheese Bar @ Robertson Walk · Wine Connection Tapas Bar & Bistro @ Robertson Walk · Toby’s Estate · Bar Bar Black Sheep · En Grill and Bar · EM By the River · Singapore Repertory Theatre · NOVENA · Kitchenette · Novena Square Shopping Mall · Lavaedge Restaurant and Bar · ORCHARD · ION Concierge counter · The Marmalade Pantry · Balaclava · Coffee Club @ Paragon · Dome Café @ Paragon · PS.Cafe @ Paragon · The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf @ Paragon Shopping Centre · Dome Café @ Shaw House · TAB · Skinny Pizza @ Wheelock Place · Sky Pilates · Essensuals by Toni & Guy @ Orchard Central · Hansel · Lawry’s The Prime Rib · Leftfoot @ Cineleisure · Rockstar by Soon Lee · RAFFLES PLACE · Catalunya · The Coffee Bean @ The Sail · Coffee Club @ One Raffles Quay · 1-Altitude · Coffee Club @ Raffles Place Square · The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf - Republic Plaza · Chevron

2 eBook: every issue delivered to your inbox

House · True Fitness @ Chevron House · Dome Café @ UOB Plaza 1 · O’Briens Irish Sandwich Bars · Salad Stop @ One George Street · Sansui Sumiyaki & Bar · Boathouse · Black@Hitachi Tower · Kinki · Capital Square · Pacific Coffee Company @ Reddot Traffic · The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf @ CPF Building · Simply Sandwich · Gloria Jean’s Coffees @ Twenty Anson · RIVER VALLEY · Zouk · Bangkok Jam · The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf @ Great World City · True Fitness @ Great World City · La Villa · SENTOSA · kith Café @ Sentosa Cove · Hard Rock Café RWS · The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf @ Palawan Beach · Tanjong Beach Club · Azzura · Wave House Sentosa · Skyloft · SOMERSET · Smoothie King @ 313 · Actually · Editor’s Market@Somerset · Dean & Deluca · Ice Cold Beer · No. 5 Emerald Hill · Oriole Café & Bar · Goethe-Institut · Brotzeit @ 313@Somerset · Jibiru · KPO Café Bar · Porterhouse Butcher Bar · Toni & Guy @ Mandarin Gallery · TANGLIN · The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf @ Forum Galleria · K Suites @ Orchard Parade Hotel · Hard Rock Café · TANJONG PAGAR · Kyo · Impact MMA · 137 Telok Ayer Street Level 1 Reception · The Ogilvy Centre · Boulevard · Red Dot Design Museum · The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf @ International Plaza · The Coffee bean & Tea Leaf @ Fuji Xerox Tower · Broth · Latteria Mozzarella Bar · Sprmrkt · TIONG BAHRU · Tiong Bahru Bakery · Coq & Balls · Forty Hands · Books Actually · WEST · Skyve Elementary Bistro & Bar · Salad Stop @ Fusionopolis · One Rochester · B @ Rochester · Nosh · Alliance Francaise

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I-S MAGAZINE FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2013

is-magazine.com/app

I’d like to work with.. friends.

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REBEL Fighting Championship Catch the first of a series of mixed martial arts tournaments featuring Singaporean Muay Thai gold medalist, Syafiq ‘The Slasher’, the Korean Top Team and other up-and-coming names of world-class fighters. Dec 21, 7pm.

Singapore Indoor Stadium, 2 Stadium Walk, 6344-2660. $38-298 from Sistic.

STUff

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I’d like to sleep with.. common people.

Dance music is relevant because.. it makes people move.

Thomas spins Nov 30.

Super O Season: The Return is on Nov 23, 30, Annex @ The Mill, 5 Jalan Kilang, www.supero.sg. $25-35 on the website and at the door.

TERRY ONG

Etiquette III – Truth or Dare The third installment of EtiquetteSG’s bi-annual multidisciplinary exhibition features art, writing, film and music created by women while addressing gender as a subject of discourse and using art as a tool for critical and creative conversations. Nov 22-29, 12pm. The Substation Gallery, 45 Armenian St., 6337-7535. Free.

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50 Years of TV: Experience the Magic In commemoration of half a century of television broadcasting in Singapore, this month-long festival will be an experiential showcase of television with outdoor screenings, concerts, workshops and historical tours. Nov 23-Dec 21. National Museum of Singapore, 93 Stamford Rd., 6332-5642. Free. .

TED x Singapore The upcoming TED session will focus on the latest global inventions, with inventors and designers from the US and Korea. Dec 7, 10am. Venue to be annouced.

I-S PICK> The U Factory This pop-up with feature food and drinks (including a unique laksa bar) by Maison Ikkoku, Preparazzi, The Travelling Cow and Underscore, as well as a marketplace of lifestyle products, and art exhibitions. Through Jan 31 2014. Gillman Barracks, 9 Lock Rd.

Fly By Night Video Challenge The 10th edition of the annual 48-hour video challenge brings together film enthusiasts to submit a short video and vie for the top prize. Dec 6-8. Objectifs, 56A Arab St., 6293-9782. $25.

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classes & workshops

3 The I-S App: For iPad Exclusive contents, extended features, exciting giveaways!

is-magazine.com/user#newsletter

God is.. something deep inside.

Kith Café @ Park Mall

I-S PICK> Business Rocks! A product of the marriage between business and revelry, Business Rocks! sees invited speakers from prominent fields giving their insights with talks along with drinks at the bar. No better way to smoothen the networking process. Nov 26, 7:30pm.

Blu Jaz, 11 Bali Lane, 6292-3800. $25.

competitions

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sales & fairs

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I-S PICK> Boutiques Flea Market (Christmas edition) Get ready to do some serious shopping as one of our favorite flea market series returns for a curated Christmas edition. Nov 27-28, 9am. The Gallery Hotel, 1 Nanson Road, 6849-8686. Free.

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Sole Superior A mass gathering of sneaker and streetwear enthusiasts that will see merchandize displays, a charity raffle and talks from notable members representing brands and designers. Nov 30, 1pm. Zouk, 17 Jiak Kim St., 6738-2988. $15.

STUff » NIgHTLIfE Email event news to stuff@asia-city.com.sg and nightlife@asia-city.com.sg

SCENESTEALER ZoukOut

oN THE BAR Karaoke Bars

4

Get a headstart on your Christmas carols (or if you simply want to sing your broken heart out) at these upmarket KTV joints.

It’s that time of the year again where we’ll be readying our sexiest (and thinnest) beachwear as we gear up for Zoukout. No surprises here—a hot lineup with a great mix of both international and local acts that will have you partying on the beach for two straight days. Here are our favorite seven from this year’s lineup:

Danny Avila Another young gun to look out for, Spain’s Avila’s scorching sets are a must for those seeking the latest trance anthems.

Afrojack Trance and techno is always a favorite with the crowd. Times are yet to be confirmed, but if previous years were anything to go by, this headliner who ranked number 9 on DJ Mag’s Top 100 DJs list will play from 3am till the sun comes up.

Seth Troxler The purveyor of house and techno will drop his always infectious and trendy prog-houe tunes, inspired from his stint at the BBC Radio One.

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Afrojack plays Dec 13.

Danny Avila plays Dec 14.

Seth Troxler plays Dec 14.

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Example A live act this one, with the critically lauded Brit rappersinger-songwriter performing alongside spinmeister DJ Wire.

This is the kind of collaboration that’s been missing from the bigger tents so far.

Example performs Dec 13.

Alesso The young Swede’s interpretation of summer dance anthems are almost legendary in the circuit, having worked with the likes of Armin van Buuren and Tiesto.

5

Tang Music Box

Solomun The Singapore debut of underground figure turned superstar producer Solomun is another reason to hit the sand. The latest name in progressive and disco-house was recently named DJ of the Year by Mixmag, and it’s his meticulously constructed dance mixes that we’re really looking forward to.

K Suites Yep, this is still the go-to place for a posh night out. You can do more than just channel your inner Mariah at K Box's swanky boutique karaoke suites, with more than 20 rooms in each outlet. Here you chill out at the cool bar counter or lounge area, swigging cocktails and beer. Plus the place also has a gourmet menu and various package deals.

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Solomun plays Dec 14.

Kölsch A live techno DJ set in the vein of Richie Hawtin and Sven Vath. Kolsch’s debut here, off the back of a rich discography under different monikers on the Kompakt label, is a good place to start if you’re all about IDM (Intelligent Dance Music).

#02-01 Orchard Parade Hotel, 1 Tanglin Rd., 6354-3113; #03-20 Bugis+, 201 Victoria St., 62433113, www.ksuites.com.sg. Open Mon-Fri 11am-3am; Sat-Sun 11am-4am.

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Kolsch plays Dec 14.

Alesso plays Dec 14.

Tang Music Box

ZoukOut is on Dec 13-14, 8pm. Siloso Beach, Sentosa. $98 (one-day pass)-168 (two-day pass) from Sistic. For the full lineup, log onto www.zoukout.com. TERRY ONG

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MAAD Pyjamas This monthly arts market by the MAAD collective features original artworks, quirky finds by local artists and creatives as well as performances by homegrown musicians.

Artery Bar will also be providing beers for the thirsty. Dec 13, 5pm. Red Dot Design Museum, Red Dot Traffic, 28 Maxwell Rd. Call 6534-7194 for more info. Free.

I-S PICK

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Bay Market Expect jazz music, artisanal food and scenic views on top of the usual offerings at this flea market along Marina Bay. Dec 14-15, 4pm; Jan 18 2014-19 2014, 4pm.

Marina Bay Event Square, Marina Bayfront, 2 Raffles Link. Free.

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Public Garden Beloved flea market Public Garden goes big this festive season with a pop-up market of over 120 vendors

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I-S MAGAZINE FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2013

hawking interesting wares at the 16th floor of TripleOne Somerset.

Look forward to Swedish silk scarves from FYOLL, jewelry from By Invite Only, 3D printed goods by Tinkr and lots of vintage goodies. Nov 23-24, 1pm; Nov 30-Dec 1, 1pm; Dec 7-8, 1pm; Dec 14-15, 1pm. Free.

NIgHTLIfE dj gigs I-S PICK

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The Fair Hilton Hotel’s ballroom will be packed with stalls offering a dizzying array of exclusive gifts, fashion pieces, home décor, beauty and health products, art, furniture, soft furnishings, carpets, jewelry, and handcrafted merchandise. Dec 3, 4, 10am. Hilton Singapore, 581 Orchard Road. Call 6235-3608 for info.

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Sunday Artists Market (SAM) The Vault’s Sunday Artists Market promises a charming selection of art, home, lifestyle and fashion wares. There are also live showcases by Artkhalytis and Mila Troncoso, as well as grooming services by tattoo parlour/barber Hounds of the Baskervilles and hair accessory brand Plumed. Dec 8, 1pm. The Vault, 23 Circular Rd. Call 6222-5001 for more info. Free.

HQ Karaoke & Bar

The latest addition to Clarke Quay promises to give K Suites a run for its money. With over 25 karaoke rooms on offer, it is one of the city’s biggest yet.

Each room is decorated with a Chinois-theme in mind, with elements drawn from Hong

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EP!C presents Nicky Romero Catch Dutch DJ Nicky Romero, who's already making a splash in the worldwide EDM scene with hits like “I Could Be the One” with golden boy Avicii. Nov 22,

Kong and Old Shanghai. We love the fact that all rooms are equipped with a BMB sound system, one of the best we’ve tried out so far. #02-03/04 The Foundry, Blk. B Clarke Quay, 3B River valley Rd., 6338-6659, www.tangmusicbox. com.sg. Open Mon-Thu 2pm4am; Fri-Sat 2pm-6am; Sun 1pm-3am.

HQ Karaoke & Bar Swathed in hot pink set against black sofas and bedecked with huge chandeliers, it has become a fabulous open concept hangout frequented by models and celebrities. This one’s different from the rest with its open bar concept (no individual rooms here, you just have to sing along with the rest of them), but that’s the whole fun of it.

95 Club St., 6423-4695, www. facebook.com/HQkaraokebar.

Open Mon-Wed 5:30pm-1am; Thu-Sat 5:30pm-3am. TERRY ONG

Got an idea for On the Bar? Email us at nightlife@asia-city.com.sg

10pm. Zouk, 17 Jiak Kim St., 67382988. $25-32 two drinks included.

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I-S PICK> Para//el x Pacha INSANE present Monika Kruse Zouk's alt-dance night Para//el teams up with Pacha Ibiza's INSANE party series to bring in German techno goddess Monika Kruse. Nov 22, 10pm. Zouk, 17 Jiak Kim St., 6738-2988. $25-32 two drinks included.

+65 ft. SpectraSoul UK drum & bass duo SpectraSoul were a massive hit when they played Home Club last year, and now they're back to deliver even more throbbing tracks from their acclaimed album Delay No More.

Nov 23, 10pm. Home Club, #B101/06 The Riverwalk, 20 Upper Circular Rd., 6538-2928. $20 one drink included.

K Suites

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Re:United A night of pure house music by veteran DJs James T of DANCEnMUSIC, Tony Tay and David Estarita. Nov 22, 9pm. Home Club, #B1-01/06 The Riverwalk, 20 Upper Circular Rd., 6538-2928. $15 one drink included.

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I-S PICK> The Black Swan Presents Zimmer Nu-disco wunderkind Zimmer helms the decks at The Black Swan's Powder Room on the second level, dishing out plenty of feel-good tunes and rump-shaking basslines.

Dec 7, 9pm. The Black Swan, 19 Cecil St., 8181-3305. Free.

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Nu Zoo feat. Domo & Dozo DJs Domo and Dozo dish out nu disco and house tunes at The Vault's brand new digs. Dec 7, 10pm. The Vault, 23 Circular Rd., 6222-5001. Free.

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nightlife events King Pong Think you can handle your drink? Join in OverEasy's very first beer pong smackdown for a shot at the championship title. Nov 23.

Overeasy Bar & Diner, #01-06 One Fullerton, 1 Fullerton Rd., 6423-0701.

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I-S PICK> The Seaside Show Sideshow takes the party to the east with this beach shindig: sun, sand, surf, good food, cold beers and the boys' signature beats. Dec 1, 3pm. Myra’s Beach Club, 1390 East Coast Parkway, 6443-3005. Free.

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I-S PICK> Red Bull x The Vault Street Fest Expect a hell-raising night of funk, soul and hip hop sounds as The Vault takes the party onto the street. Dec 6, 10pm. The Vault, 23 Circular Rd., 6222-5001. Free.

LAST WORD freewill astrology

Week of November 22 © 2013 Rob Brezsny

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22-Dec 21): When you procrastinate, you avoid doing an important task. Instead, you goof off, doing something fun or simply puttering around wasting time. But what if there were a higher form of procrastination? What if you could avoid an important task by doing other tasks that were somewhat less important but still quite valuable? Here’s what that might look like for you right now: You could postpone your search for the key to everything by throwing yourself into a project that will give you the key to one small part of everything.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22-Jan 19): In his utopian novel Looking Backward, American author Edward Bellamy wrote a passage that I suspect applies to you right now: “It is under what may be called unnatural, in the sense of extraordinary, circumstances that people behave most naturally, for the reason that such circumstances banish artificiality.”

Think of the relief and release that await you, Capricorn: an end to pretending, a dissolution of deception, the fall of fakery. As you weave you way through extraordinary circumstances, you will be moved to act with brave authenticity. Take full advantage.

AQUARIUS (Jan 20-Feb 18): “I have your back” is an American expression that could also be rendered as “I’m right behind you, ready to help and defend you” or “I’m ready to support you whenever you’ve got a problem.”

Is there anyone in the world who feels that way about you? If not, now would be an excellent time to work on getting such an ally. Cosmic conditions are ripe for bringing greater levels of assistance and collaboration into your life.

And if you already do have confederates of that caliber, I suggest you take this opportunity to deepen your symbiotic connection even further.

PISCES (Feb 19-Mar 20): Over a hundred countries around the world celebrate a holiday called Independence Day, memorializing a time when they broke away from another nation and formed a separate state. I encourage you to create your own personal version of this festival. It could commemorate a breakthrough moment in the past when you escaped an oppressive situation, a turning point when you achieved a higher level of autonomy, or a taboo-busting transition when you started expressing your own thoughts and making your own decisions with more authority. By the way, a fresh opportunity to take this kind of action is available to you. Any day now might be a good time to declare a new Independence Day. ARIES (Mar 21-Apr 19): There’s something resembling a big red snake slithering around in your mind these days. I don’t mean that literally, of course. I’m talking about a big red imaginary snake. But it’s still quite potent.

While it’s not poisonous, neither is it a pure embodiment of sweetness and light. Whether it ends up having a disorienting or benevolent influence on your life all depends on how you handle your relationship with it. I suggest you treat it with respect but also let it know that you’re the boss. Give it guidelines and a clear mandate so that it serves your noble ambitions and not your chaotic desires. If you do that, your big red snake will heal and uplift you.

TAURUS (Apr 20-May 20): “In my astrological opinion, almost nothing can keep you from getting the love you need in the coming days. Here’s the only potential problem: You might have a mistaken or incomplete understanding about the love you need, and that could interfere with you recognizing and welcoming the real thing. So here’s my prescription: Keep an open mind about the true nature of the love that you actually need most, and stay alert for the perhaps unexpected ways it might make itself available.

GEMINI (May 21-Jun 20): “People fall so in love with their pain, they can’t leave it behind,” asserts novelist Chuck Palahniuk. Your assignment, Gemini, is to work your ass off to fall out of love with your pain. As if you were talking to a child, explain to your subconscious mind that the suffering it has gotten so accustomed to has outlived its usefulness.

Tell your deep self that you no longer want the ancient ache to be a cornerstone of your

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I-S MAGAZINE FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2013

identity. To aid the banishment, I recommend that you conduct a ritual of severing. Tie one side of a ribbon to a symbol of your pain and tie the other side around your waist. Then cut the ribbon in half and bury the symbol in the dirt.

CANCER (Jun 21-Jul 22): “You can look at a picture for a week and never think of it again,” said painter Joan Miró. “You can also look at a picture for a second and think of it all your life,” he added. The coming days are likely to bring you none of the former kind of experiences and several of the latter, Cancerian.

It’s a numinous time in your long-term cycle: a phase when you’re likely to encounter beauty that enchants you and mysteries that titillate your sense of wonder for a long time.

In other words, the eternal is coming to visit you in very concrete ways. How do you like your epiphanies? Hot and wild? Cool and soaring? Comical and lyrical? Hot and soaring and comical and wild and cool and lyrical?

LEO (Jul 23-Aug 22): There’s a new genre of erotic literature: dinosaur porn. E-books like In the Velociraptor’s Nest and Ravished by the Triceratops tell tall tales about encounters between people and prehistoric reptiles. I don’t recommend you read this stuff, though.

While I do believe that now is a good time to add new twists to your sexual repertoire and explore the frontiers of pleasure, I think you should remain rooted in the real world, even in your fantasy life. It’s also important to be safe as you experiment. You really don’t want to explore the frontiers of pleasure with cold-blooded beasts. Either travel alone or else round up a warm-blooded compassion specialist who has a few skills in the arts of intimacy.

VIRGO (Aug 23-Sep 22): The saxifrage is a small plant with white flowers. It grows best in subarctic regions and cooler parts of the Northern Hemisphere. The word “saxifrage” is derived from the Latin word saxifraga, whose literal meaning is “stone-breaker.” Indeed, the plant does often appear in the clefts of stones and boulders. In his poem “A Sort of a Song,” William Carlos Williams celebrates its strength: “Saxifrage is my flower that splits the rocks.” I nominate this darling little dynamo to be your metaphorical power object of the week, Virgo. May it inspire you to crack through blocks and barriers with subtle force.

LIBRA (Sep 23-Oct 22): You’re not being swept along in a flood of meaningless distractions and irrelevant information and trivial wishes, right? I’m hoping that you have a sixth sense about which few stimuli are useful and meaningful to you, and which thousands of stimuli are not. But if you are experiencing a bit of trouble staying well-grounded in the midst of the frenzied babble, now would be a good time to take strenuous action. The universe will conspire to help you become extra stable and secure if you resolve to eliminate as much nonsense from your life as you can.

SCORPIO (Oct 23-Nov 21): Sweetness is good. Sweetness is desirable. To be healthy, you need to give and receive sweetness on a regular basis. But you can’t flourish on sweetness alone. In fact, too much of it may be oppressive or numbing. I’m speaking both literally and metaphorically: To be balanced you need all of the other tastes, including saltiness, sourness, bitterness, and savoriness.

From what I understand, you are headed into a phase when you’ll thrive on more bitterness and savoriness than usual. To get an idea of what I mean, meditate on what the emotional equivalents might be for bitter tastes like coffee, beer, and olives, and for savory tastes like mushrooms, cheese, spinach, and green tea.

Bjorn Low

WHAT’S NEW AT Online

As one of the founders of urban farm consultancy Edible Gardens, here’s a man used to going against the grain. He talks to Chin Hui Wen about following your dreams and leading the simple life.

The rat race makes life meaningless. I reckon if I can grow my own food and produce my own power in alternative ways, I won’t have to work in the corporate world.

Mother Nature is a great teacher and I’m humbled by her daily.

One Straw Revolution is a book by Masanobu Fukuoka, a Japanese farmer and philosopher who practised his craft for a lifetime, living a simple life, while inspiring people the world over.

I lived in a Mongolian yurt in 2010 with no electricity, and a less than helpful wood burning stove, in the middle of Wales, surrounded by rolling hills and sheep. We had little but somehow life was good My ultimate aim is to one day own my own farm, small enough that I can manage without machinery and yet big enough so I produce enough food for my family and to lead a simple life.

competition that really creates a positive vibe in the dining scene.

The biggest thing we lack is the freshness of produce as everything is flown or shipped in.

I truly miss cooking and eating with the seasons. It’s nonexistent here as we have access to all types of food year round.

I always practice impermanence

My first real job was in an interactive agency called BLUE as a suit.

The food scene is thriving, lots of great chefs opening up new joints around town. There is a strong sense of

I lived with a few archaeologists in Wales and worked on a few excavation and restoration projects.

That was fun though I wouldn’t have made it my career.

There are always surprises good and bad that await you in the garden.

Everything fell into place, though I was your average kid who didn’t do too well in school, and was a pretty late bloomer.

I believe that treating people well and generating goodwill is the currency of the future and my values center around that.

www.is-magazine.com

We got drunk most Fridays, mostly to drown our shitty week with pints of beer. Life was pretty good.

As a kid, I wanted to be an archaeologist. It didn’t go too well as there was no career plan or course I could take to be one in Singapore, and our museum didn’t help much.

So I ditched that.

To stay positive, I always practice impermanence.

“Stay in your old job cause you need the security,” is the worst advice I’ve ever gotten.

Wine Words

Andrew O’Brien, the general manager for Treasury Wine Estates, demystifies the language we use to describe wine. is.gd/winewords

Starry Eyed

“Take the risk and follow your dreams,” is the best advice I’ve ever gotten.

Be appreciative of the food that you eat because a lot of hard work and sweat went into growing that!

I love mee pok ta because you can’t get anything that resembles it anywhere else in the world except in Singapore.

Education is the key to the world, but once you open that door to the real world, you realize that it’s merely a guide in your life journey.

Broadway legend Arlene Phillips, the woman behind the choreography of Starlight Express, on being a perfectionist and dancing. is.gd/starlightexpress

Fly High

I got my name from my aunt.

She said, “Oh, I can’t remember why but it has to be either Bjorn Borg or Bjorn from ABBA.” I would like to be remembered as “that urban farmer.”

Luxury watchmaker Breitling opens its first flagship store in Singapore and Southeast Asia at Palais Renaissance. is.gd/breitling

I-S Magazine is distributed every 2nd and 4th Friday. Look for the next issue of I-S on Dec 13.

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FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2013 I-S MAGAZINE

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