SG Magazine, Feb 5 by SG Magazine

w w w. s g n o w. s g | M PA S W e b s i t e o f t h e Ye a r

Your FREE independent guide to the next two weeks

Love me, love me not

SG MAGAZINE | ISSUE #694 | FEBRUARY 5, 2016

what’s on what’s new what matters

Get to know the vendors of Sungei Road’s Thieves Market before it closes in a photography series at Flaneur Gallery. See PHOTOGRAPHY , page 10, for an interview. SHOPPING

NIGHTLIFE

TRAVEL

INTERVIEW

Artsy Museum Boutiques

The Best Bars to Drink Alone

Venice Made Easy

The Projector Turns One

SG MAGAZINE FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 2016

page 3 10

photography

Sungei Road

9 People You Meet on Tinder in Singapore

6 music

9 nightlife

Madonna

5 Reasons to Party

1. The True Blue Patriot Their lead picture is the black-and-white LKY memorial logo. If you don’t swipe right on that, you really need to rethink your values.

2. The Mixed Messenger They’re not looking to hook up, so don’t even think about it, you disgusting pervert—stop staring at their make-love-to-thecamera photos.

12 neighborhood

Hidden DTL2 Food Gems

Arty Gift Stores

shopping

3. The New Age Athlete They’re looking for someone who can belay them when they go rock-climbing and take pictures of them when they do yoga in unlikely places.

16 nightlife

18 dining

Bars to Drink Alone

CNY Feasts

4. The Here-Today-Gone-Tomorrow They’re only in Singapore for 18 hours, and are looking to revolutionize your life by letting you show them around town.

5. The Lobotomized Optimist They love their life, they love their job, they love travelling, eating, cafes, good conversations, great friends, meaningful interactions, being thankful, being blessed and are looking for someone like-minded—definitely not you, Grumpypants.

20 travel

22 interview

Exploring Italy

Sharon Tan of The Projector

6. The Pathologically Platonic They’ve failed to make friends at work, at play, at home, at bars, at parties, at church. But someone told them that swiping on people’s sexy pictures is a great way to make friends. Won’t you prove them right, pretty please?

7. The Salesperson Swipe right if you want to know more about their protein shakes/ personal training classes/Mandarin lessons.

Who's in charge? Publisher & General Manager Ric Stockfis countrymanager@asia-city.com.sg Editorial Managing Editor Mrigaa Sethi editor@asia-city.com.sg Features Editor Chelsia Tan Digital News Reporter Xie Shi Min Design Associate Art Director Carmen Louise Ho Senior Designer Fishy Toh Designer Carmen Chua

Where to find us! Bangkok Asia City Media Group 9/F, Room A, Sathorn Nakorn Tower, 100 North Sathorn Road, Silom, Bangrak, Bangkok 10500 Thailand Tel: 66-2-624 9696 Fax: 66-2-237 5656 bkmagazine@asia‑city.co.th

Advertising Director, Business Development Intan Agustina advertising@asia-city.com.sg

Finance Senior Finance Associate Nai Rohmat finance@asia-city.com.sg

Senior Manager, Media & Marketing Shernan Plameras

Finance and Admin Assistant Rusydi Ya’akup

Executives, Media & Marketing Lee Wee Keong

Group Directors Chief Executive Officer Gretchen Worth gworth@asia‑city.co.th

Junior Executive, Media & Marketing Sharon Leong

8. The Wildlife Enthusiast Here’s how to gauge the measure of an alpha male—by how much they love posing with large exotic animals. You know you’re pretty much in for a wild ride with this one.

9. The Ocean of Sincerity Only like-minded, kind, compassionate, loyal, humble and thoughtful need apply, because if you don’t try, then you’ll never know.

Group Digital Director Greg Duncan gduncan@asia‑city.com.sg

Marketing Marketing Manager Silver Adrienna Ng marketing@asia-city.com.sg

On the cover photo by Mindy Tan

Who are we?

Published every two weeks (with daily updates at sgnow.sg), SG (previously I-S) delivers honest, independent and irreverent coverage of the Singapore lifestyle scene. We’ve been recommending what to do and where to go here for 21 years—and we’ve never been more excited about the city than we are right now.

The Asia City Media Group

Singapore Asia City Publishing Pte. Ltd. Block 211 Henderson Rd. #07‑02 Henderson Industrial Park Singapore 159552 Tel: 65‑6323‑2512 Fax: 65‑6323‑2779 contact@asia-city.com.sg

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Awesome events, cool new places, the very best of the next two weeks

High-end, hawker and everything inbetween: news on the drink and dining scene

Hot topics, local initiatives and ideas for making Singapore even better

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Fashion, fitness, tech and more SG Magazine is published 24 times a year by Asia City Publishing Pte Ltd., 211 Henderson Road, #07‑02, Singapore 159552. Tel: 65‑6323‑2512 • Fax: 65‑6323‑2779. Copyright ©2016 Asia City Publishing Pte Ltd. The titles “SG Magazine”, “I-S Magazine” and their associated logos or devices, and the content of SG Magazine and I-S Magazine are the property of Asia City Publishing Pte Ltd. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is strictly prohibited. SG 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 SG 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) 166/12/2015

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FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 2016 SG MAGAZINE

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Hot: Local designer boutiques Not: The retail industry It’s been a past year of foreboding reports about Singapore’s weakening retail sector, and an article in The Straits Times (Jan 21) suggested that retail sales will continue to be a challenge, even for luxury brands. But not all is lost: there are still a couple of local fashion and lifestyle ventures launching stores at slick locations in town, such as veteran fashion designer Thomas Wee, independent lifestyle store Supermama and local designer Sabrina Goh.

• Branded Content Writer • Media & Marketing Executive Green plans for Tanjong Pagar Email jobs@asia-city.com.sg

NUMEROLOGY

$1.48 The new baseline price of apps in Singapore’s iTunes store, up 20 cents from last month.

Hot: Sexy new restaurants Not: Unsexy yu sheng

lorenz.markus97

Singapore’s dining scene is still in full force with much-anticipated openings of Californian-Italian restaurant Angeleno’s and Australian finedining joint Whitegrass, helmed by the lauded Sydney chef Sam Aisbett. On the other hand, freshwater fish are now banned in all ready-to-eat fish dishes after an outbreak of Group B Streptococcus (GNS) infections linked to the consumption of raw freshwater fish. Recent reports indicated that restaurant are opting to replace raw fish and sashimi in yu sheng with cooked alternatives like smoked salmon.

Hot: Weekends in JB

Not: Traffic jams

Good news for those who commute regularly between Johor Bahru and Singapore—there are now more train trips for Shuttle Tebrau, which travels to and from JB Sentral and Woodlands. A total of 22 trips are scheduled daily, with 12 trips to Woodlands and 10 trips going towards JB Sentral. Hopefully, this will ease the pain punishing causeway congestions, which can take hours to clear.

OB INDEX JAN

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

Height that Nicoll Drive will be raised by in an effort to combat rising seas.

41%

BE GOOD

Number of Singapore companies that intend to hire more people in 2016, according to a survey by recruiters Hudson.

Rescue a feline

554 Number of dengue cases reported by the National Environment Agency between Jan 5-9, up from 458 last year.

Adopt a kitty-in-need from an adoption drive organized by Pet Lovers Centre and Cat Welfare Society on Feb 14, from 1-6pm at The Pet Safari (#01-26/27 Eastpoint Mall, 3 Simei St. 6). But if adopting a cat is not on the agenda, you can still visit these kitties or help spread the word.

Sources: The Straits Times, Channel NewsAsia

In a speech to over 500 religious and community leaders, academics and students, Minister for Home Affairs and Law K Shanmugam emphasized the importance of religious and racial harmony in Singapore amid the international threat of terrorism. He highlighted two instances of discrimination here, where a man of another race said the words “suicide bomber” to a Malay woman, and the words “Islam murderers” were found written at a bus stop in Bukit Panjang and on a toilet seat at Jurong Point following the Paris attacks last November. The Straits Times (Jan 19) also quoted the minister saying that it is important that “there is no discrimination in schools, jobs, or society as a whole. Islamophobia will tear our society apart. We have to guard against it. It is completely unacceptable.”

.8 meters

The bustling business district may be transformed into a space three times the size of Marina Bay come 2027. In a statement by Ms Fun Siew Leng, assistant chief planner at URA, the Greater Southern Waterfront area development will encompass the precinct’s port area and the project comprises green corridors and a 30-kilometer trail connecting Labrador Park to Gardens by the Bay. This rejuvenation will come after the construction of new buildings like Eon Shenton, PS100 and the 290-meter Tanjong Pagar Centre, which will be Singapore’s tallest building upon completion this year.

SG MAGAZINE FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 2016

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ADVERTORIAL

WHY IS SINGAPORE’S ULTIMATE NIGHTSPOT

last word From all-day partying to renowned DJ gigs and masterful cocktails, there’s something for everyone at this sky high club.

LEGENDARY DJS Home to one of the most diverse and versatile DJ lineups in town, the club’s consoles serve up everything from house, electronica, hip hop and Nu Disco dished out by local legends such as Joshua P, YA5TH, Brendon P and Andrew T. Not to mention the international hit parade of names like turntable maestro DJ Spinbad—the most syndicated DJ in the world— Jose Marquez, Lil’ Jon, Jazzy Jeff, Cash Money and Nakadia.

BEST VIEWS—PERIOD Rooftops and sweeping views are de rigueur in Singapore’s nightlife scene, but there’s nothing quite like the unimpeded, 360-degree, CBD vistas at CÉ LA VI’s Club Lounge. Whether you’re planning a long night out with the gang or an intimate date for two, the crazy views are sure to be a hit.

PARTY ALL-DAY EVERYDAY Partying at CÉ LA VI isn’t just an after-dark affair. The only club in Singapore that’s open seven days a week from noon till the crack of dawn, there’s always something exciting going on here. For chilled-out, dreamy tunes head down to their daily sunset sessions from 6-9pm. And it never gets repetitive either—with disco-track Mondays to groovy house and dance tune Thursdays to hip hop and urban beat Fridays, there’s a party in store for you.

WORLD DOMINATION There aren’t many local party institutions that have left their mark on the global clubbing hemisphere. Having already set up base in Hong Kong, CÉ LA VI is expanding across the world with outlets opening in party capitals like Taipei, Dubai, and the scenic beachfront nightlife enclave of Pampelonne Beach at St. Tropez, France.

EPIC COCKTAILS Helming cocktail duties at CÉ LA VI is head mixologist Knut Randhem who shakes up Asian-inspired renditions of classics like the Kiku Vesper ($24) featuring Tanqueray Ten, yuzu shochu and homemade dry sake tonic, and the Whisky Charlie Mango ($24) featuring Hakushu 12 years Japanese whisky, mango cordial, zesty lemon and fiery chilli bitters. For something extra boozy, try the Geisha ($24), with a Tanqueray Ten and sake spine jazzed up with yuzu, Nashi pears and rosemary. CÉ LA VI is located on the 57th level at SkyPark Marina Bay Sands, Tower 3, 1 Bayfront Avenue. For more information, visit www.sg.celavi.com .

NATIONAL PRIDE Nothing like global bragging rights to put you in a party mood. DJMag, the global authority on nightlife, is putting together its best 100 clubs around the world list and there’s no reason why CÉ LA VI shouldn’t be on it. Put Singapore on the world party map by casting your vote for CÉ LA VI on DJMag’s website at www.vote.top100clubs.com. #VOTECELAVI AND WIN

Stand a chance to win attractive weekly prizes like a pair of Pioneer DJ headphones, a DJ controller, Ultimate Drive Ferrari/Lambourghini rides, staycations and even a year’s worth of free guest list access at CÉ LA VI. All you have to do is follow these steps:

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

STEP 1: Cast and screenshot your vote at http://vote.top100clubs.com STEP 2: Upload your screenshot on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram. STEP 3: Tag #votecelavi and @celavisingapore (Remember to set your post or profile to public). FRIDAY, JANUARY 29, 2016 SG MAGAZINE

now

The essential guide to what's on in Singapore Send your events news to art@asia-city.com.sg, nightlife@asia-city.com.sg, stage@asia-city.com.sg

MARKET

LITERARY

1 5

Get indie at this vinyl fair If you missed the first one, The Analog Assembly is having another vinyl trade fair with some live music, too. The fair opens at 2pm with used records (that are both vinyl and otherwise) across all genres, and you’ll get to buy some off established local vinyl dealers. Sean Lam, the lead vocalist from the local band Hanging up the Moon, will perform, too. Feb 20, The Projector, 6001 Beach Road #05-00 Golden Mile Tower, www.facebook.com/theanalogassembly. Free

CONCERT

Take Russell Peters with a grain of salt

The mostly funny, sometimes annoying, but always crowd-drawing comedian will be in town as part of his Almost Famous World Tour. He’ll be doing his usual schtick of Indian accents, old-fashioned relatives, gender relations humor and taking the piss out of those sitting in the front seat. Feb 15, Suntec Convention & Exhibition Centre, 1 Raffles Blvd., www.sistic.com.sg. $108-228.

Relive your high school emo days

Explode Tinder at this boozy Mexican party

Dempsey Hill’s sexy Mexican restaurant Lucha Loco is doing another anti-Valentine’s Day party. Designed to hook you up with Mr/ Ms Right Now, Hearts Go Loco will involve complimentary tequila shots, arrow shots and Tinder match-ups. Feb 13, Lucha Loco, 15 Duxton Hill. www.luchaloco.com. Free.

FOOD

Check out the latest Australian addition to Chijmes

The F&B enclave has gotten a surprisingly high-brow new restaurant. Whitegrass is a degustation-only, modern Australian restaurant led by chef Sam Aisbett, formerly of Sydney’s Tetsuya’s and Quay. #01-26/27, 30 Victoria St., www.whitegrass.sg

After 15 years of making music, Welsh hardcore band Funeral for a Friend is calling it quits, but not before a series of concerts, including one in Singapore. Wax nostalgic over songs like "Roses for The Dead," "Juneau" and "Streetcar." Feb 19, D'Marquee, Downtown East 1 Pasir Ris Cl., www.sistic.com.sg. $108.

PARTY

ART

Have a bit of art with your shopping If you’re traipsing around Orchard Road, stop by the K+ curatorial space on Scotts Road to see Keng Lye’s Alive Without Breath II: Creature Comforts exhibition, in which the painter renders hyperrealistic goldfish and guppies in lovely but claustrophobic bowls and jars. Through Feb 6, K+ Scotts Square, 6 Scotts Rd, #0314/15., www.kplus.sg. Free

MUSIC Get misty-eyed at these 5 nostalgic concerts DIANA KRALL The lovely jazz crooner will be in town for her Wallflower World Tour. Expect classic tunes from the ‘60s and a rendition of "If I Take You Home Tonight," which was written by Sir Paul McCartney. Feb 16-17, esplanade Concert Hall, 1 Esplanade Dr.,www.sistic.com.sg. $68-500.

Tom Jones

SG MAGAZINE FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 2016

KOOL & THE GANG The 1960s soul/funk sensation is playing at a super chi-chi venue, but we’re willing to overlook that when we consider how happy our dads will be that we took them to hear “Summer Madness” and “Get Down on It”. Feb 27, Theatres at Marina Bay Sands, 10 Bayfront Ave., www. marinabaysands.com/koolandthegang. $88-168

MADONNA Hold on to your hearts, fishnets and cassette tape collections, because the Material Girl will finally be performing in Singapore. For millenials wondering why this is a big deal: she was banned from performing her Girlie Show World Tour back in 1993. The Rebel Heart World Tour is a one-night only concert and has an R18 rating. Feb 28, National Stadium, 1 Stadium Dr., www. sportshub.com.sg. $108-1,288. TAKE THAT Before Backstreet Boys and N*Sync, there was British boyband Take That and now they will be in Singapore (sans Jason Orange and Robbie Williams, boo!). This performance is part of the

HSBC Women's Championships and will be held at the Driving Range of the Sentosa Golf Club. The priciest ticket gets you a sheltered area and a free flow of beverages. Mar 5, Driving Range of the Sentosa Golf Club, 27 Bukit Manis Rd., www.sistic.com.sg. Tickets are priced from $138-148. TOM JONES Your mom will have a field day at this one—Tom Jones, famous for the quintessential date night theme songs "Sex Bomb" and "You Sexy Thing" will perform in Singapore on The Star Theatre. Mar 31, The Star Theatre 1 Vista Exchange Green, www.sistic.com.sg. $88.

ADVERTORIAL

Riverside Romance The ultimate date night will soon be upon us. Whether you’re cheesy-romantic or anti-love, here are some solid options for Valentine’s Day.

sQue

FOR DOUBLE DATES

Charlie’s Tapas & Grill Bar L’Operet ta

Boomarang Bistro & Bar

FOR FIRST DATES

Bar Bar Black Sheep Just because you’re single on Valentine’s Day doesn’t mean you should hole up at home and feel sad. Go on a fun and low-pressure first date over casual drinks and wallet-friendly bar bites. A must-try here is their all-day long happy hour menu with cocktails, Champagne, wines, bottled craft beers and beers on tap. #01-04, 86 Robertson Quay, 6836-9255, www.bbbs.com.sg

FOR WHOLESOME BRUNCHES

Boomarang Bistro & Bar If it’s early days for you and your squeeze, have a low-key, laidback brunch. This Australian gastro bar that does hearty breakfast offerings like the steak and eggs, the country bean stew and the pan-fried meatloaf. If the conversation needs a shot of energy, pick from their extensive coffee offerings courtesy of Australian specialty roaster New Farm Coffee. #01-05 60 Robertson Quay, 6738-1077, www.boomarang.com.sg

Skip the saccharine, cheesy romance and round up your best couple friends for a fun and chatter-filled day of sangria and shareable tapas at this Spanish place. Order up their grilled meats, tortillas and signature baby back pork ribs, and don’t forget to check out their happy hour deals that are available every day of the week from 11am-9pm. 32 Boat Quay, 6533-5880, www.charlies.com.sg

FOR CLASSIC ROMANCE

L’Operetta If all you want is candlelight, eye-gazing and exotic food for Valentine’s Day, we won’t hold it against you. Get a table with views of the water at this Italian stalwart, and order by-the-book love food like burrata cheese with Parma ham, sea urchin spaghetti and BWWlack Angus beef tagliata. Top off your cozy evening with a bottle (or two) from their extensive wine menu. 38 Circular Road, 6438-4792, www.operetta.sg

e Clark

Qua y

FOR A QUICK MEET-UP

sQue Round up all your single friends and peruse the 200 beers from over 80 countries at sQue. There’s also a solid cocktail and wine menu for those who prefer something lighter. If you’re feeling peckish, check out their meat and seafood platters that are great for sharing. 6 Eu Tong Sen Street, 6222-1887, www.sque.com.sg

FOR A GREAT NIGHT OUT

Clarke Quay Whether you’re freshly single or happily attached, Clarke Quay is jampacked with great places to dine and party all-year round. From riverside dining to live music bars to glitzy clubs, there’s something for everyone down by the Singapore River. 3 River Valley Rd., www.clarkequay.com.sg

BROUGHT TO YOU BY SINGAPORE RIVER ONE

SG MAGAZINE FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 2016

now SHOPPING

Pick up stylish goodies at this art market

Another edition of the popular MAAD Art Market series is happening again at the Red Dot Design Museum this month, with the usual line-up of handcrafted wares by local artists, designers, crafters and artisans. The Organisation of Illustrators Council will also be there with 50 illustrators, artists, painters and hobbyists. Feb 5, 5pm-12am. Red Dot Design Museum, 28 Maxwell Rd., www.facebook.com/ RedDotDesignMuseumSG.

ART

Ponder greatness at Objectifs What do you get when you combine a Singaporean installation artist, a fashion designer whose pieces have been worn by Lady Gaga and Mount Everest as artistic inspiration? Well, we’re not quite sure either—which is why we’re going to check out Everest by Ang Sookoon. Through Feb 21, Chapel Gallery, Objectifs, 155 Middle Rd., www.objectifs.com.sg. Free

MUSIC

Sing your favorite Bowie song

Open mic series ConTribute is focusing its next session on the recently departed Starman. If you have a favorite Bowie song you want to sing in front of strangers, drop at note to Kevin Matthews at kamcomusic@gmail.com. The rest of you, just show up and get misty-eyed. Feb 6, Artistry, 17 Jln. Pinang.

PARTY

Ring in the Year of the Monkey

Make your way down to Chinatown and usher in the Year of the Monkey with interactive games, live performance and of course, a fireworks display. Feb 7, from 9:30pm. New Bridge Rd. and Eu Tong Seng St., www. chinatownfestivals.sg.

FOOD 6 of the most drool-worthy stalls at the new Pasarbella Suntec City

Madam Saigon

MAD DOGS BAR & GRILL Meat lovers should head straight down here for their tender pork ribs, Angus ribeye ($25 for 200g), grain-fed sirloin ($18 for 200g) and pork chop ($18), and sides like creamy spinach, barbecued corn and truffle mash. If you're planning a group meal, there's the meat platter ($50), which comes with a variety of sausages and chicken. PORSENA DELI Making sad desk lunches a happier affair are hearty choices like house-made smoked beef pastrami ($14), slow-cooked pork belly banh mi ($9.50), roasted lamb shoulder ($12.50) and grilled portobello topped with jalapeno salsa and provolone cheese. An additional $3 will get you a full set, with soup or vegetables and a cookie.

Porsena Deli

AN-AN This off shoot of Vietnamese restaurant Madam Saigon dishes out a mean bowl of its special beef noodles ($9.90), which comes with beef balls and slices in a bowl of savory clear soup. There are also other renditions of pho, like spicy beef and flower crab, and more options ranging from a barbecued lemongrass porkchop, vermicelli spring rolls and green mango salad. CHOO-CHOO CHICKEN Having a stressy day at the office? A decent lunch or dinner option here is the ChooChoo set ($12.90), comprising two wings and two drumlets with a choice of seven flavors (honey soy, crispy, soy, sweet, spicy, garlic and sweet and sour) and sides like seaweed rice or potato wedges, and salad.

SG MAGAZINE FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 2016

WOLF BURGERS Forget pricey "gourmet" burgers that are less bang and more buck. The team of Carvers & Co. are offering dude food enthusiasts genuinely delicious options without masquerading as a hipster joint. The menu features The Wolf ($9.90), a classic cheese burger, with fancier varieties like the pork gochujang burger ($9.90), The Alpha ($14.90), a double patty rendition. CAJUN ON WHEELS This Creole-inspired food truck is mostly a group affair, so come with your posse and order buckets like the Olympian ($158), with Scottish Dungeon crab (700g), Sri Lankan crab (600g), prawns (300g), white clams (300g) and mussels (300g), which is served with sides like chicken spam, potatoes and corn. Pasarbella@Suntec is located at #01455 Suntec City, 3 Temasek Blvd., www. pasarbella.com. CHELSIA TAN

FILM

Watch a Taiwanese love story outdoors

The Gardens by the Bay is organizing lots V-Day activities, including film screenings of soppy classics. There’s You are the Apple of My Eye, a bittersweet Taiwanese film about first love. For something more classic, there’s the DiCaprio-Danes Romeo & Juliet, too. Feb 13 and 20, Supertree Grove, 18 Marina Gardens Dr., www.gardensbythebay.com.sg. Free.

PARTY

Go in costume for a vampire mockumentary Our favorite indie cinema turns one with a vampire/ werewolf dress-up party and a screening of zany New Zealand vampire mockumentary What We Do in the Shadows. Feb 13, The Projector 6001 Beach Road, #05-00, Golden Mile Tower., www. theprojector.sg. Free.

now Send your events news to art@asia-city.com.sg, nightlife@asia-city.com.sg, stage@asia-city.com.sg

FILM

Cozy up with bae at a drive-in movie

Citroen is having a drive-in movie night, screening French romantic comedy Priceless, starring Audrey Tautou. starring and Gad Elmaleh. There’s also a mini food fair and a Velcro photo booth, as well as a service to get your caricature done. Reserve a spot by Feb 1 and bring your significant other. Feb 13, Open field between Tanjong Rhu Road and Tanjong Rhu view, www. psiloveyou.sg. Free.

Groove to soul hits by regional indie bands

MUSIC

Soul music lovers, local and regional acts will take the stage and perform songs of this underrated music genre at Getai Soul. Acts include Charlie Lim & The Mothership, Dru Chen, Barry Likumahuwa and Najwa. Feb 20, www.facebook.com/ thegetaigroup.

DRINK

Have an odd cocktail at a new Emerald Hill bar

The Emerald Hill drinking stretch has been getting a shake-up, and the latest arrival is Odd One Out, which has taken over the Outdoors Cafe & Bar premises. The cocktail menu has stuff like the Hot Tub Time Machine ($18) with gin, vermouth and starfruit extract; and Smooth Operator ($18) with whisky, milk, peanut butter jam and creme de cacao. 180 Orchard Rd., www.facebook. com/oddoneoutsg.

STAGE

Watch a Cantonese adaptation of a French play

Part of the Hua Yi Arts Fest, God of Carnage is a Cantonese, Hong Kong adaptation of French playwright Yasmina Reza’s play, which explores global conflicts through a fight between two 11-year-old boys that escalates when parents get involved. With English subtitles. Feb 20-21, Esplanade, Theatre, 1 Esplanade Dr., www. sistic.com.sg. $38-118.

Catch a play about a dysfunctional romance

Nikki Mueller and Linden Furnell star in The Effect, in which Connie and Tristan, two students who are complete opposites, are guinea pigs in a drug trial. Monitored by two doctors who don’t get along, their attraction for each other skyrockets as the dosage of the drug increases. Feb 25-Mar 13, Victoria Theatre, 9 Empress Place, www.sistic.com.sg. $165 for a season pass.

NIGHTLIFE 5 great reasons to party this month BOB MARLEY BIRTHDAY BASH It's an all-reggae affair by DJ Nez and DJ Submerge, alongside guest acts DJ Rumshot and rapper Masia One. This tribute party will also feature a pop-up art fair on the roof featuring Rastafari-themed vinyl, crafts and merchandise for sale. Load up on hearty barbecue pub grub like the Dub Club grilled jerk chicken. Feb 5, Refuge, 79 Circular Rd., www.facebook.com/refugesg. Free entry. SORRYNOTSORRY POOL PARTY Sofitel So's HI-SO rooftop bar will be regaling party-goers with bespoke cocktails. Oliver Osborne, JNR, Louis Mack, Tye West and Haan will also be playing. HI-SO will be serving pub grub, along with cocktails, beers, wines, mojitos and champagne throughout the night ($12-150). Feb 6, Hotel Sofitel So Singapore, 35 Robinson Rd., www.sofitel.com. $10.

Sorrynotsorry Pool Party

WHITE MAGIC SUNSETS Postponed after the haze attack of late-2015, Tanjong Beach Club is having an all-Argentine party with DJ Adrian Giordano spinning '80s funk and electro-boogie, along with duo Silver City. Grab a daybed

and indulge in some beachside, daytime drinking. Feb 20, Tanjong Beach Club, www.facebook.com/tanjongbeachclub. Free entry. LION CITY BURN It's natural to feel a bit skeptical when an event says it's celebrating "the Burning Man Festival spirit in Singapore" but there are some cool things happening at this all-night party. They're promising indoor and outdoor performances spaces, 3D projections, a dubstep and techno-heavy DJ line-up, fire performances and an outdoor cinema. Feb 20, Tree Lizard, Blk 25 Dempsey Rd., $21.60, on.fb. me/1PueNiQ PANAMA Famous for their powerfully emotive summer pop tunes and indierock rifts, Panama will be dishing out balmy, care-free night drive inspired grooves, flanked by emotional piano-heavy grooves and trademark crescendos. Swing your hips to trademark electronic power ballads along with hit singles off their debut album. Mar 6, The Substation, 45 Armenian St., www.thesubstation.org $45-60.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 2016 SG MAGAZINE

now Send your events news to art@asia-city.com.sg, nightlife@asia-city.com.sg, stage@asia-city.com.sg

PHOTOGRAPHY The vendors of Sungei Road

EXPLORING

18 © Feldberyl Images

Hike through the Green Corridor before it’s too late After overwhelming response to the first two Green Corridor hikes, the Let's Hike! 11: Cherishing the Green Corridor, organized by the Ministry of Adventure, is back again. The route’s pretty much the same and starts from the Kranji MRT Station, and you’ll walk for five hours (about 22.1 kilometers) to Kampong Bahru near SGH. Come in your best hiking gear as this is not for leisure. Feb 27, Kranji MRT Station, www.facebook.com/ ministryofadventure. Free.

ART

Mindy Tan

Sungei Road's Thieves Market is slated for closure to make room for the Sungei Road MRT station. As part of the One By One Metre Space exhibition at the Flaneur Gallery, artists Adrian Tan, Debra Ong, Jennifer Ng, Ling Yang Chang and photographer Mindy Tan will present work in response to the Singapore institution. Here, she tells us more. How do you decide who to shoot? Not all the hawkers here are friendly. They have had bad encounters with people posting their images on the internet against their will. Some, they say, have given bad reviews about the place and they would rather not be featured. The golden rule at this place is to ask before taking a picture. Some decline to be photographed, but you know this is because they are shy and can be persuaded. Some decline for real reasons. For example, they do not want their friends and family to discover they are making a living peddling junk at the market. Their privacy has to be respected. Sometimes it’s simple eye-to-eye contact; if they know your intentions, they’ll simply nod and let you continue. Do you talk to your subjects? I speak to almost every one of them. If you take their picture, the common running joke is not to put their pictures online because they owe a loanshark money and they would then know where to find them. The sellers are generally friendly but to get to them you have to speak their lingo and go along with their brand of humor. They are acutely aware that when a customer looks at their phone, they’re really comparing prices on eBay. Or when someone

pretends to be shopping, the person is actually trying to sneak a picture of them. Sellers tell me they have seen all sorts of tricks before; they just pretend not to notice. Any memorable personalities? There's an energetic Teochew lady who is 99 this year, "almost a centenarian," she quips. She’s at the market everyday. There’s also a retired MRT tunnel engineer, which is pretty ironic, who sells bicycles sometimes. He cycles a return journey from his house in the East everyday to the market, as a form of exercise, and sells things to mingle with friends. He tells me his three children are graduates: one is a pilot, another has a PHD, and he used to earn up to $6,000 a month before his retirement. One man was a machine operator until his finger was accidentally chopped off during the 70s; he lost his job and began hawking at the market. There are also many mother-and-son, fatherand-son pairs who set up stalls alongside each other at the market. If you frequent the place often enough, you will notice that some of the shoppers come on a daily basis, a lot of them are extremely eloquent in Mandarin. Some are authors and artists. Sungei Road, perhaps, is a place for romantics.

The full One By One Metre Space exhibition is at the Flaneur Gallery (129 Jln. Besar, www. flaneur.sg) from now till Feb 21. SHI MIN XIE

w w w. s g n o w. s g | M PA S W e b s i t e o f t h e Ye a r

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Love me, Love me not

SG MAGAZINE | ISSUE #694 | FEBRUARY 5, 2016

what’s on what’s new what matters

Get to know the vendors of Sungei Road’s Thieves Market before it closes in a photography series at Flaneur Gallery. See PHOTOGRAPHY , page 10, for an interview.

SHOPPING

NIGHTLIFE

TRAVEL

INTERVIEW

Artsy Museum Boutiques

The Best Bars to Drink Alone

Venice Made Easy

The Projector Turns One

Cover Up SG Magazine covers celebrate local artists, photographers and illustrators and their remarkable depictions of Singapore. They look so good, we’ve even started hanging them on our walls.

To suggest someone we should feature or to partner with us on this initiative, email editor@asia-city.com.sg 10

SG MAGAZINE FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 2016

Marvel at ethereal works at STPI

Jane Lee did a residency at the Singapore Tyler Print Institute and came up with Freely Freely, a compilation of her latest work. Lee challenges what makes up a painting with her work using print and paper, to see what she can produce. Expect to see lots of nature that questions what being trapped really means. Through Mar 5, Singapore Tyler Print Institute, 41 Robertson Quay., www.stpi.com.sg. Free.

FOOD

Have a mid-week lunch treat

Saint Pierre chef Emmanuel Stroobant has set up a gourmet deli offering those grabbing lunch on-the-go clean bites, called Saint Pierre Market. On the menu are six different types of salads, whole wheat tortilla wraps, baguette sandwiches, quiches and hearty soups. There are even some gluten-free options. Saint Pierre Market, #02-11 Takashimaya Shopping Centre, 391 Orchard Rd., www. saintpierre.com.sg

FOOD

PARTY

Check out Amoy Street’s newest restaurant Alati does classic Greek food. With their seafood flown from the Aegean every week, their signature salt-baked fresh fish ($50-70), topped with a lemon caper sauce, is an especially attractive proposition. 73 Amoy St.,www.alati.sg.

Celebrate singlehood at this V-Day party Head down to the Haji Lane Street Party Vol 3. There will be '90s tunes, hip-hop, more. As for the drinks, there are Margaritas, tequilas and Coronas. Feb 13, Piedra Negra, 241 Beach Rd. and Haji Ln., Free

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city scape

Flavor Train

Dig into these hawker delights along the new Downtown Line 2. By Chelsia Tan

he opening of Singapore’s newest MRT line yields a trail of gritty eateries, tucked-away restaurants and bustling hawker centers. Here are the stops and stalls worth checking out. Pasarbella

Hillview

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It’s not a hawker gem, but the beloved 6 Joyden Canton Kitchen (#02-21 4 Hillview Rise, 6465-9988, www. joydencantonkitchen.hansfortinvest.com.sg) is finally more accessible for those who have yet to make their way down to this much raved-about restaurant. Located at HillV2 Shopping Centre, this Cantonese restaurant has signatures like fish maw and prawns with glass noodles in XO sauce, Hakka salt poached chicken and homemade bean curd coin with baby cabbage. Go early, or you might not snag a seat as reservations are only for groups of eight or more.

Buckaroo BBQ & Grill

Come 2017, this sleepy neighborhood will be transformed into a busy integrated transport hub with new F&B and retail developments, so drop by these must-try eateries before the crowds rush in. 1 Hai Xian Zhu Zhou (163 Gangsa Rd.) is the place to go for late-night supper cravings. The coffee shop stall opens from 2.30am-2pm and its Koka noodles, which come in steaming pork and seafood varieties, are extremely popular. Further down the road, 2 Buckaroo BBQ & Grill (921 Upper Bukit Timah Rd., 6754-2621, www.buckaroo.sg) is an American-style diner with delicious bar bites like spicy buffalo wings and hand-breaded onion rings served with house-made mustard sauce. 3 Chin Choon Prawn Noodle (826 Upper Bukit Timah Rd.) is usually teeming with a hungry lunch crowd and with good reason—it specializes in prawn noodles served with pork intestines, liver, kidney or tail served in black sauce or in soup. For zi char, 4 Hup Choon Eating House (794 Upper Bukit Timah Rd.) serves up a mean curry fish head and other dishes like frog steamed with chicken essence and baked salted crab. Briyani served on banana leaves are what you should get at 5 Karu’s Banana Leaf Singapore (808 Upper Bukit Timah Rd., 6762-7284, www.karusindianrestaurant. com). The Indian restaurant has an affordable menu of mains like chicken Mysore and fish curry that come with generous sides like vegetables cooked lontong-style.

Hup Choon Eating House

Karu’s Banana Leaf Singapore

SG MAGAZINE FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 2016

Omakase Burger

Sixth Avenue

Beauty World

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THE GRANDSTAND

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You may be most familiar with 11 The Grandstand (200 Turf Club Rd., 6463-4610, www.thegrandstand.com.sg), which houses Pasarbella, Omakase Burger and Dancing Crab, but 12 Song Huat Bak Kut Teh (Good Good Eating House, 24 Sixth Ave.) is worth checking out too. The chain’s bak kut teh dish, which comes with a peppery herbal broth, is best accompanied with side dishes like salted vegetables and braised tau kee, or bean curd sheets.

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DT13 ROCHOR MRT

Rochor

SELEGIE RD

This foodie enclave offers plenty of local hawker staples and unpretentious home-style eateries for a simple afterwork dinner. 7 Beauty World Centre (144 Upper Bukit Timah Rd.) has always been an institution in the area. There, popular places to eat include Dulukala Pernankan Restaurant (#04-04), which has special signatures like ayam pongteh, assam fish head and ngoh hiang; You Peng Fresh Mian Jiao Zi Guan (#04-23), known for their Shanghainese xiao long bao; Top One Home Made Noodle (#04-44) for sliced fish noodles; and confectionary shop Niang Re Gao (#04-54), which has traditional snacks like kueh lapis and ang ku kueh that sells out after lunch. Just on the opposite side of the road, 8 Al Azhar Eating Restaurant (11 Cheong Chin Nam Rd., 6466-5052) has plenty of hearty supper staples like prata, murtabak, satay and briyani. Also along the same stretch is 9 Sinma Live Bull Frog Claypot Porridge (5 Cheong Chin Nam Rd.), another popular choice for a late-night bite. Then there’s the 10 Bukit Timah Market and Food Centre (116 Upper Bukit Timah Rd.), which has popular stalls like Sin Chew Satay Beehoon (#02-162), Chwee Kueh (#02-142) and He Zhong Carrot Cake (#02-185).

BUK

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BUKIT TIMAH MARKET & FOOD CENTRE

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DT5 BEAUTY WORLD MRT

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15 Sinma Live Bull Frog Claypot Porridge

Al Azhar Eating Restaurant

Nasi Lemak Kukus

Located near Little India, Jalan Besar and Bugis, there are a couple of overlooked coffee shops and eateries hidden in this little precinct. 13 Hiap Chiang Eating House (215 Selegie Rd.) draws a following for its Teochew porridge, which come with an array dishes like steamed pomfret, braised duck and stir-fried cockles to choose from. Nearby, 14 Nasi Lemak Kukus (299 Selegie Rd., 8222-9517, www.facebook.com/ Nasi-Lemak-Kukuscom) whips up drool-inducing plates like beef rendang, sambal and fried fish with steamed coconut rice. Venture to Prinsep Street, and you’ll discover 15 MacKenzie Rex Restaurant (66 Prinsep St., 6336-1702, www.macrex.com.sg), a Halal diner that’s been around for years—their chicken rice set and zi char dishes like chili crab and sotong you char kway are just some must-tries.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 2016 SG MAGAZINE

island

The latest openings and hottest trends in Singapore

FASHION Ir’s a Wrap Look no further for a stylish Valentine’s Day gift idea. Twins Santhi and Sari Tunas are the brains and designers behind Binary Style, a site which stocks a range of chic scarves inspired by Singapore’s cityscape, history and culture. Our picks include modern designs showcasing Tiong Bahru’s architecture, cute graphics of samsui women and canoeing in MacRitchie. And if you are looking for more options, there are more prints of other regional destinations like Jakarta, Borneo and Kalimutu. From $60-75. www.binarystyle.co.

FITNESS The Sporting Life

LInternational sports retailer Decathlon has launched what it touts to be the largest store in Southeast Asia in Singapore. The 35,000 sq. ft store carries 95,000 inhouse products spanning from footwear to apparel and equipment for over 50 sports. There are several indoor testing zones for those who’d like to try their hand at tabletennis, mini golf and trampolining. You can also bring your own bike of any brand to be fixed at the store’s bicycle repair workshop. The outdoor area includes a free-for-all basketball court that’s open to public every day. From $3.90 for accessories to $599 for a mountain bike. 750A Chai Chee Rd., 6225-4773, www.decathlon.sg.

SG MAGAZINE FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 2015

COMMUNITY Fun Times

Describing themselves as the Airbnb of experiences, event hosting site Funzing lets you share your hobbies and skills with interested individuals through independently organized events. Already established in cities like London and Tel Aviv, the site models itself after the sharing economy concept, where users host events or activities—which range from walking tours, workshops, cabaret shows and workout sessions—for a fee. All you have to do is to sign up and create an event on the site, and once it’s up and running, participants can rate and review their experience. www.sg.funzing.com.

DIGITAL Flip for (Net)flix

Say what you will about the Netflix programming in Singapore, you’re probably considering signing up for a legit subscription through one of the local telcos. Starhub is offering its Fibre TV subscribers access using their set-top boxes starting in the second quarter of 2016. The cost of Netflix will be highlighted in your bill, but no word on prices yet. Singtel, on the other hand, is ready to go. After getting three or six months of free Netflix, subscribers will pay from $13.98 per month, depending on how many devices are connected. Not sure if it’s worth it? Get a free month at www.netflix.com/sg.

island

National Gallery & Co

SHOPPING

Little Shop of Curios

These six cool arty gift stores stock knick-knacks that are just as good as the exhibitions on display. By Chelsia Tan National Gallery & Co

orget tacky T-shirts and dusty old mugs—art galleries and museums here have stepped up their retail game with stylish, design-centric collectibles that are gloriously local.

ArtScience Museum

Objectifs

The museum shop features pop-up retail spaces for current exhibitions, like the Collider exhibition and the Prudential Eye Awards 2016. Besides usual souvenirs like key rings and T-shirts, there are limited edition collectibles, quirky stationery and coffee table books of the current exhibitions.

Burgeoning film and photography enthusiasts might want to make this non-profit visual arts center their new go-to. Besides offering part-time courses in photography and film making and hosting talks, film screening and exhibitions, the gallery’s shop stocks a neat variety of local and regional underground and cult films (no, you can’t get them on Netflix) and prints by emerging and established artists like Bryan van der Beek, Ernest Goh and Phillip Aldrup.

Highlights: Star Wars fans, grab the Metal Earth Star Wars series ($39), which is a DIY metal model kit. And if you’d like to add to your arty-farty coffee book collection, look out for a series of photo books ($80) featuring regional artists from this year’s Prudential Eye Awards. 6 Bayfront Ave., 6688-8888, www.marinabaysands. com/museum.html.

National Gallery Singapore No hot new arts destination in town is complete without a sleek retail and F&B concept and we wouldn’t expect anything less from Gallery & Co. A collaboration between lifestyle honcho Unlisted Collection, design agency Foreign Policy Design Group and beauty retailer Luxasia, it stocks stuff you don’t really need but absolutely must have. Throw in a cafe and bar specializing in Southeast Asian fare by chef Sufian Zain of Restaurant Ember, and it’s possibly a place you’d never want to have to leave. Highlights: If you love a good illustration, you might be tempted to grab a fun umbrella with cheery portraits of famous artists like Andy Warhol and Frida Kahlo ($29.90). Or, if you’re someone who hoards stationery, there are notebooks with flashy graphic covers ($14.90). 1 St Andrew’s Rd., 6271-7000, www.nationalgallery.sg.

National Museum of Singapore More kitchsy stationery and souvenirs with a local spin can be found at this quiet, ground-level corner of the National Museum of Singapore. While there are some items we think toe the fine line between witty and tacky (like “Nose Job” erasers by Jackson Tan and Tanny Wong), we spotted a couple of knick-knacks that make great last-minute office party gifts. Highlights: Our picks include the kancheong spider watch ($36), keyrings featuring local food like nasi lemak ($28) and the Singapore tabao lunchboxes (from $5-9). 93 Stamford Rd., 6332-3659, www.nationalmuseum.sg.

Highlights: Check out their quirky coffee table books, such as photo language title “Singaporelang—What the Singlish” by Zinkie Aw ($60), which has 40 photographs and a dictionary of colloquialisms translated into Singapore’s four main languages.

Objectifs

Supermama

155 Middle Rd., 6336-2957, www.objectifs.com.sg.

Singapore Art Museum Now housing store and artist residency studio Supermama, the SAM’s gift shop became a lot more exciting in the last few years. Still going strong on their philosophy of championing good design, it’s a place for collectors of knick-knacks featuring a strong and uniquely Singaporean slant. Skipping the cheesy “Singapore is a Fine City” T-shirts, the shop stocks fun and nolstagic collectibles. Highlights: Get the miniature Kopitiam chair ($10), the coffee bag mug ($20) and chic porcelain table ware with graphics inspired by ‘icons’ like HDB blocks and the Vanda Miss Joaquim orchid (from $36).

The Little Drom Store

71 Bras Basah Rd., www.supermama.sg.

SOTA, School of the Arts Formerly located at a tucked away corner in Ann Siang Hill, The Little Drom Store is both a gift shop, workshop and exhibition space for local artists and aspiring artisans. Almost everything here is inspired by Singapore, including their collaborations with designers and artists and if you’re heading down for the first time, the store is known for their popular old school mosaic playground series of pins. Highlights: Right now, limited edition highlights range from mash-ups with Polkaros ($24), which features a toocute take on local desserts like ice kachang and burbur cha cha and a cat character series by Audrey Jeanne ($29).

Supermama

#02-01 1 Zubir Said Dr., 6884-4651, www.thelittledromstore.com.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 2016 SG MAGAZINE

eats

The inside scoop on Singapore’s drink and dining scene

The Horse’s Mouth

BARS

Me, Myself and I Nine great bars to drink alone...and look sexy doing it. By Prabhu Silvam

Ah Sam Drink Stall

Vasco

rinking alone gets an unfair bad rep. Rather than the domain of sad, friendless losers, we think it’s actually a lost art of self-affirmation that should be practiced not at home, but in Singapore’s sexiest bars (it’s also a great chance to chat up cute bartenders). So channel your inner James Bond, Don Draper, Samantha Jones or Holly Golightly this V-Day season and go to town.

28 HongKong Street

The Auld Alliance

Sure, it's packed to the gills almost every night of the week, but one of Singapore's most famous bars (and a proud member of the World's 50 Best Bars list) has an uncanny ability to make solo drinkers feel welcome, thanks in part to the friendly crew, the beautiful crowd and all the informal milling about in between tables. Order up one of their potent and inventive signature cocktails, some of their truffle mac n' cheese balls and survey the room benevolently. 28 HongKong St., 65332001, www.28hks.com. Open Mon-Thu 5:30pm-1am; Fri-Sat 5:30pm-3am.

With plush, leather seats that line their cocktail bar, This is a great place for those who just want to nose their whisky in peace. The bar stocks well over 1,000 Scotches with a number of whiskys from Japan, the US and Ireland, Armagnac and over two dozen absinthes. #02-02A Rendezvous Hotel, 9 Bras Basah Rd., 6337-2201, www.theauldalliance.sg. Open Mon-Thu 5pm-1am; Fri-Sat 5pm2am; Sun 5pm-midnight.

Ah Sam Drink Stall No one will bother you at this hidden, retro-themed bespoke cocktail bar, tucked away above a convenience store in the otherwise raucous Boat Quay. If you come early in the evening, you might even have the place to yourself. Tell the bartender your preferred spirits and flavor profiles, and they'll whip something up for you. 60A Boat Quay, 6535-0838, www. facebook.com/AhSamColdDrinkStall. Open Mon-Thu 6pm-midnight; Fri-Sat 6pm-3am.

Antidote Hotel bars were made for drinking alone (thanks, Bill Murray circa Lost in Translation!) and you'll never look cooler than when you do it at our favorite one. If you're feeling chatty, you'll have good company at the bar with kindly head bartender Tom Hogan or Bannie Kang. Try something from their new menu full of takes on classics, The Revivals. 1/F Fairmont Singapore, 80 Bras Basah Rd., 6431-5315, www.fairmont.com. Open daily 5pm-2am.

SG MAGAZINE FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 2016

D.Bespoke

Operation Dagger

D. Bespoke With its dim interiors and dark wooden furniture, this bar is the perfect retreat if you're a recluse. So careful and theatrical is the Ginza celeb bartender Daiki Kanetaka's whole schtick, it's clear the purpose here isn't to socialize and chat with your buddies but to watch him as he struts about in white double-breasted suits and deploying surgically precise techniques while underlings hand him towels. 2 Bukit Pasoh Rd., 8141-5741, www.dbespoke.sg. Open Mon-Sat 6pm-1am.

Gibson You'll want to dress up for a date with yourself and some solid classic cocktails at this stylish and hidden speakeasy on Bukit Pasoh. The decor is upscale speakeasy, with marble top tables, a geometric stained glass bar facade and retro-chic glassware. The house cocktail, The Gibson ($24), is a smooth mix of Hendrick’s, Monkey 47 and Dolin vermouth. It comes with a house-pickled onion, of course, along with a quail's egg and smoked radish. Come early to have the place to yourself. 20 Bukit Pasoh Road., 9114 8385, www. gibsonbar.sg. Open Tue-Sun 5pm-late.

THe Auld Alliance

The Horse's Mouth Imagine you're an Asian action movie star brooding over your next big plan at this underground bar (it even comes with a secret entrance through a ramn bar). Whether it's using sake or other Japanese ingredients, the muted space is a backdrop for inventive concoctions. The interiors are subtle and discreet with splashes of color coming from the origami-like cascades by the wall. And if you're feeling hungry, order a bowl from Uma Uma Ramen upstairs. #B1-39 Forum The Shopping Mall, 583 Orchard Rd., 6235-1088, www. horsemouthbar.com. Mon-Thu 6pmmidnight; Fri-Sat 6pm-1am.

If you just want to be left alone, this is the place. Unlike other speakeasies in town, Oxwell and Co.’s hush-hush basement cocktail bar is serious about its secrecy. Their website is decidedly minimalist, and their Facebook page has no pictures or updates. All the more reason to feel extra cool when you’re down at the bare-walled, concrete-floored space, knocking back kooky cocktails from their omakase flight. #B1-01 7 Ann Siang Hill, 6438-4057, www.operationdagger.com. Open TueSat 6pm-late.

Vasco Pretend you're Gabriel Garcia Marquez and hunker down for 100 years of solitude at this South American bar, with leather booths, hanging copper lamps and a focus on mezcal, cachaca, rum, pisco and tequila. The best time to come here would be before dinner where you'll get to enjoy cheekily-named cocktails like the Cusco Puta with pisco, strawberry, capsicum, chili and lime, alongside caipirinhas and pisco sours. Things get busy later at night, in case you feel like looking up from your drink and chatting someone up. 42 Hongkong St., 8799-7085, www.vascosingapore.com. Open Mon-Sat 5pm-1am.

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FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 2016 SG MAGAZINE

eats

Lime at Parkroyal on Pickering

NEW MENUS

Huat a Spread 10 fancy Chinese New Year feasts to book now. By Chelsia Tan Crystal Jade Golden Palace

Empress

t’s time to gather your friends and family for a toast to a brand new start with over-the-top food offerings. Here are some indulgent options ranging from button-busting buffets to special fine dining sets.

HEARTY BUFFETS

POSH DINNERS

TRADITIONAL FAVORITES

Cherry Garden at Mandarin Oriental Singapore

Hide Yamamoto

Crystal Jade Golden Palace

Splash your bonus on an upscale sevencourse European-Japanese fusion dinner. The spare-no-expense menu (from $129 per person) comprises signatures like homemade soba noodles with caviar, grilled red grouper and small cheese risotto, chawanmushi truffle egg flan with sea urchin and snow crab and grilled Japanese sirloin. From Feb 5-14. #02-05 Casino Atrium 2, Marina Bay Sands, 10 Bayfront Ave., 6688-7098, www.hideyamamotosg.com.

Eschewing the typical sashimi yu sheng, the fine dining branch of the Crystal Jade chain serves up a slightly different version with Mexican abalone and red pomegranate ($88 for small, $138 for large). There are other Chinese New Year highlights, steamed fish maw with shrimp paste ($22) and The Trio Treasures, a platter of braised duck, roasted suckling pig and foie gram ($16 per person). From Jan 25-Feb 22. #05-22 Paragon, 290 Orchard Rd., 6734-6866, www.crystaljade.com.

Le Bistrot du Sommelier

Empress

From $98 per person, this a-la-carte buffet-style spread lets you choose from an extensive menu of dim sum, specials, soups and desserts like roasted crackling pork, drunken chicken with rose wine and organic black bean pudding with sesame ice cream. From Feb 1-22, 12-2:30pm. Mandarin Oriental Singapore, 5 Raffles Ave., 6885-3500, www.mandarinoriental.com.

Halia Invite your extended family to a buffet spread at this chic dining fixture in Singapore Botanic Gardens. Starting from $98 per person, the CNY Buffet Package caters to a gathering of at least 40 people, with EastWest dishes like wok-fried striploin beef, Norwegian salmon with salted black bean and turmeric. From Feb 1-22. Ginger Garden, Singapore Botanic Gardens, 1 Cluny Rd., 8444-1148, www.thehalia.com.

Lime at Parkroyal on Pickering Chinese New Year highlights range from pan-fried nian gao, Peking duck, char siew and roasted pork belly, and foie gras torchon flambeed with Cognac, which can all be had from $58 per person for lunch or $88 per person for dinner. Opt for a table booking of four or more (available from Feb 6-9) and you get a complimentary yusheng platter and a surprise dish with a choice of steamed red garoupa or hak lok King prawn. From Feb 6-14. Parkroyal on Pickering, 3 Upper Pickering St., 6809-8899, www.parkroyalhotels.com.

SG MAGAZINE FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 2016

If you want a breather from the traditional Chinese menus, here’s an Asian spin to authentic French cuisine this festive season. There are meat-heavy dishes like charcuteries maison of duck rillettes and foie gras terrine, and an over-roasted Angus prime beef, all starting from $788 for a party of six to eight. For the requisite tossing of yu sheng, the Prosperity salad with cured salmon and sliced beetroot is also available. From Feb 8-20. 53 Armenian St., 6333-1982, www.lebistrotdusommelier.com.

Yan Ting at St. Regis Singapore Chef Tony Wun Shun has come up with Lunar New Year specialties like braised pig’s trotters with fermented bean curd ($32), stewed pig’s tongue with black moss ($42) and stewed lamb belly and preserved duck ($68). There are, of course, set menus available from $118 per person for a sixcourse dinner. Through Feb 22. 1/F The St. Regis Singapore, 29 Tanglin Rd., 6506-6887, www.yantingrestaurant.com.

This new 86-seater modern Chinese restaurant at the revamped wing of the Asian Civilisations Museum is dishing out two Chinese New Year set menus for lunch ($68 per person) and dinner ($118 per person), with items like Australian abalone, sauteed King prawns and a Double Happiness roast meat platter. The sets are only available to a group of four and more, but if you’re planning an intimate gathering, there’s still the a-la-carte menu with highlights like peng cai going at $42 per person. From Jan 23-Feb 22. #01-03 Asian Civilisations Museum, 1 Empress Place, 6238-8733, www.acm.org.sg.

Hai Tien Lo at Pan Pacific Singapore There are four set menus ranging from $168 (for two) to $188 (for eight) and choices which vary depending on the sets include typical Chinese fare like Buddha Jumps Over the Wall, braised whole abalone with sea cucumber and barbecued whole suckling pig. You can also choose to add on a peng cai dish, available in two varieties—the

Hai Tien Lo at Pan Pacific Hotel

Yan Ting at St. Regis Singapore

Classic Auspicious Treasure Pot ($238 for six and $398 for 10), with ingredients like whole chicken, whole abalone and sea cucumber; and the Premium Wealth Treasure Pot ($368 for six and $628 for 10), with whole abalone, pork knuckle, roast duck and more. From Jan 25-Feb 22. Pan Pacific Singapore, 7 Raffles Blvd., 6826-8240, www.panpacific.com.

Xi Yan Private Dining Diners can choose between six different lunch and dinner sets, which feature new dishes like lobster with crab roe and egg white, pork cheek with pomelo salad and walnut paste with bird’s nest. Prices start from $88 per person for a six-course lunch, which includes items like cinnamon ribs with osmanthus to $188 per person for a ninecourse dinner comprising mains like roasted chicken with glutinous rice and grouper in seafood soup. From Jan 25-Feb 25. 38A Craig Rd., 6220-3546, www.xiyan.com.sg.

3rd edition coming to your plate in March SG Magazine’s fun and fabulous guide to over 200 casual eateries in town, covers more than two dozen types of cuisine

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www.toptables.sg FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 2016 SG MAGAZINE w w w.

topta

bles.s

escapes

Holidays, hotels and insider travel news

Context Travel

ITALY

Waterworld

4 alternative ways to explore Venice. By Ric Stockfis SUP in Venice

Aman Canal Grande

Venissa

inding your way around Venice is an experience in itself: narrow streets that stop short in canals; bridges seemingly forever under repair; tourists flooding the squares in high season, water flooding them the rest of the time; gondolas as outrageously expensive as ever. Even tracking down an address is a work of art. So anything that makes the process of navigating Italy’s most magical city easier or more fun is to be celebrated. Here are four interesting and alternative ways to get around.

Through your phone or tablet

With a group of history enthusiasts

With a paddle

By getting away from it all

Figuring out which stunning old palazzo you’re looking at isn’t easy. Pulling out a guidebook, and keeping it dry, isn’t much fun either. The Venice Canal Grande app (www.itunes.apple.com), launched last year for iPhone and iPad, features a stunning single panorama of the entire 3km length and all 300 buildings along the city’s main waterway, divided into left and right-hand side. Each building is displayed in full color, with historical information, and you can jump to a particular section of the Canal by clicking on the map. It’s available in Italian and English for €2.99 ($4.60).

Generations of visitors to Venice have worried about falling in the water, but a new tour company gets you closer than ever. SUP in Venice (www.supinvenice. com) offers two hour stand-up paddle-boarding tours of the city, for experienced SUPers. You’ll need to be able to stop the board, turn a sharp 90° angle and cope with waves and currents—entering the water is strictly prohibited, so this isn’t a place to come learn from scratch. If you’re comfortable with the basics though, it’s a fantastic way to get a new, leisurely perspective on the city. Pricing starts from €50 ($80) for a group of 4, up to €70 ($110) for a solo tour, plus 22% tax.

Hiring a guide isn’t exactly a novel idea, but the range of curated experiences on offer is increasingly impressive. Context Travel (www.contexttravel.com), whose small group tours are led by highly-qualified MA or PhD-level docents, offer an array of specialist itineraries, including a four-hour boat tour of the lagoon, where you’ll learn about the science behind its construction, visit seagrass meadows and explore the site of the yet-to-becompleted flood barriers (from $170 for a group tour); a walking tour examining the history of the city during the plague (from $125); and a Shylock-themed tour of the old Jewish ghetto neighborhood of Canareggio (from $125).

There are more than 100 islands in the Venetian lagoon, many of them abandoned and uninhabited, others delightfully rural, where the pace of life is a world apart from La Serenissima. Some of them are already wellestablished on the tourist trail: Murano for glass-blowing, Burano for its brightly-colored houses, and Torcello, once more powerful than Venice itself, now somewhere people come to marvel at its decline over drinks at Hemingway hangout Locanda Cipriani. Mazzorbo, a tiny island near to Burano, also draws serious foodies to Venissa (www.venissa. it), a new-ish gourmet spot inside a 16th century walled

compound. But hopping on a vaporetto (water bus) to some of the other outlying islands is a great way to escape the tourist hordes. Sant’Erasmo, known as the market garden of Venice, is home to the acclaimed winery of Orto di Venezia (www.ortodivenezia.com) as well as Bar Tedeschi, a popular summer party spot overlooking the beach. Vaporetto 1 takes you from central Venice to the Lido in 15 minutes, and while you‘ll certainly want to soak in the ‘60s glam vibe, particularly during the annual Film Festival, it’s also worth taking a bus out to Alberoni at the tip of the island, for great beaches and locally grown food at Le Garzette (www. legarzette.it). A ferry from here goes on to Pellestrina, a narrow island home to three traditional fishing villages and Da Celeste (www.daceleste.it), one of the best seafood restaurants on any of the islands.

ESSENTIALS GETTING THERE Etihad (www.etihad.com) and Alitalia (www.alitalia.com) can get you there, with a layover in Abu Dhabi, for around $1,150 return.

GRAND OPENING Aman Canal Grande Venice

SG MAGAZINE FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 2016

Overview: Opened in mid-2013, and made famous when George and Amal Clooney chose to spend their wedding night in one of the 24 suites, this luxury spot on the banks of the Grand Canal is surely among the world’s most lavish places to bed down. Housed in one of only eight palazzo monumentali in Venice, and still owned by descendants of the original family, it’s tucked away (no signs) in the city’s smallest district, San Polo, a few minutes from the Rialto Bridge.

Rave: Nothing says high life quite like arriving by boat to your hotel’s private dock and stepping directly into a reception hall of soaring ceilings and sweeping staircases. Most of the staff are Venetian and have lots of helpful tips to share, and the property also organizes expert guided itineraries. But it’s the private riverside garden—a rarity in Venice—that makes this Aman a truly special spot, either for an alfresco breakfast or for dinner (in the summer months) at Japanese restaurant Naoki.

Design: It’s a living embodiment of 450 years of history. Embossed 16th century gold leather lines the walls of the library. Stairways open into enormous salons, hung with huge chandeliers from ceilings adorned with frescoes by 18th-century masters. Neo-Renaissance and rococo styling blend with the understated Aman style of silk curtains, white furnishings and soft lighting, courtesy of hotel design legend Jean-Michel Gathy (who worked on Amanwana in Indonesia and the pool at Marina Bay Sands).

Rant: Because it’s a private house with an emphasis firmly on discretion, chances are you won’t get to meet or talk with other guests. But then, that may be exactly why some people choose to stay. Price: From €1,045 ($1,605) for a double. Not cheap, but rates stay the same year-round, making it a better deal than the Cipriani in high season. www.amanresorts.com RIC STOCKFIS

escapes

Berberè

ITALY

Southside

3 reasons Oltrarno is currently the hippest hood in Florence. By Ric Stockfis Arno River

View of Oltrarno from Hotel Continentale

espite its proximity to the tourist trails of central Florence, the neighborhood of Oltrarno, on the southern side of the city’s famous waterway, sees far fewer visitors. For a long time, this residential district of crumbling palazzos and quiet medieval squares had something of a sketchy reputation—aside from its key sites, the Pitti Palace, Boboli Gardens and stunning city views from Piazzale Michaelangelo, it simply wasn’t somewhere most visitors would venture. That’s all changed in the last year or two though, with the resurgence of the area’s traditional artisan workshops, the arrival of some exciting new dining concepts, and a seemingly endless procession of street parties, mini-festivals and open-air concerts. It’s all been helped along by a municipal clean-up campaign and restrictions on cars and, while there’s been some push-back against this rapid gentrification, it’s still a primarily local scene, making it a refreshing alternative to the obvious and often overrun city sights.

Hipster hangouts sit side by side with traditional trattorias

Oltrarno is chock-full of charming, authentic eateries. Among the best are l’Brindellone (Piazza Piattellina 10-11/ r, +39 0 5521-7879), famous for its Bistecca Fiorentina (you’ll need to book a table in advance), and Trattoria Giovanni (Via Sant’Agostino 38/r, www.trattoriagiovanni.net), whose rustic Tuscan lunch-set (two courses, plus bread, wine and coffee) for just €11 ($17) takes some beating. But in keeping with the spirit of revival that’s swept through the neighborhood, there’s a bunch of more modern spots worth checking out, too: Berberè (www.berberepizza.it/en/ portfolio/berbere-firenze), a famed Bolognan craft beer and pizza joint, opened in Piazza dei Nerli in late 2014; semi-vegan slow food is on offer at Vivanda (Via Santa Monaca 7, www. vivandafirenze.it); there are some great burgers and pulled pork sandwiches at hip spot Meat Market (Via Sant’Agostino 23, www.facebook.com/santagostino23); while new-arrival Gesto (Borgo S. Frediano 27/r, www.gestofailtuo.it) is all about ecosustainability, with orders written on chalkboards that are then used to serve your food. One of the city’s best gelaterias, La Carraia (Piazza Nazario Sauro 25/r, www.lacarraiagroup.eu) is also on this side of the river.

Street after street of artisanal awesomeness

Long the haunt of traditional craftsmen, Oltrarno is a fascinating place to explore on foot, and many of the workshops are enjoying a new lease of life as the area has been re-energized. Via Romana, which runs alongside the Boboli Gardens, is packed with shops selling handmade cards, stationery, jewelry and more: Tabescè (Via Romana 39/r, www.facebook.com/ tabesce) is among the highlights. At the end of the same street, the ancient Roman city gate, Porta Romana, was recently reopened to visitors after a decade out of action. The “made in Italy” tradition goes a lot further back than these new arrivals, however. A short walk from coffeeshop Caffe degli Artigiani (Via dello Sprone 16/r) in the charming Piazza della Passera you can find amazingly restored artwork,

antiques and sculptures at Bartolozzi e Maioli (Via dei Vellutini 5/r), traditional bookbinding and paper crafting at Enrico Giannini (Via Velluti 10/r), and a wood-sculpting workshop right next door (Via Velluti 8/r). Wherever you head within the warren of lanes there’s a master craftsperson at work, from bronze-makers (Duccio and Lamberto Banchi, Via dei Serragli 10/r), trompe l’oeil specialists (Stefano Ficalbi, Via Romana 49/r) and intricate jewelry and metalwork (Alessandro Dari, Via San Niccolo 115/r, www. alessandrodari.com) to high-end, handcrafted shoes (Stefano Bemer, Via di S. Niccolò 2) www.stefanobemersrl.com ). Note that many of these workshops follow traditional opening hours: 9am-12.30pm, 3.30-7pm, Mon-Fri.

The lively, unpretentious after-hours scene can’t be beat

Stefano Bemer and his shoes are further along the river, in the San Niccolo section of Oltrarno—where bars like Zoe’s (Via dei Renai 13/r, www.facebook.com/zoebarfirenze ) and neighboring Negroni gets packed out with the afterwork crowd, perfect for escaping the tourist hordes after your obligatory sunset selfie from Piazzale Michaelangelo just up the hill. Elsewhere there are newcomers like The Speakeasy 23 (Via San Niccolò 23, www.facebook.com/speakeasyfirenze), an easygoing bar serving up craft beer, wine and delicious deli items, to a backdrop of live music. Piazza Santo Spirito, home to a beautiful pre-Renaissance church, is the heart and soul of Oltrarno—like the ’hood itself, it’s a boho beauty that’s still a little rough around the edges. On the second Sunday of the month it hosts a fun flea market, there’s an organic market every third Sunday, and in the summer months there’s a concert or other event on almost every night. Volume (Piazza Santo Spirito 5/r, www.volume.fi.it) is a great place for an aperitivo: part-library, part-gallery, this café-bar is one of the hippest spots in town. Nearby Piazza della Passera also gets lively at night, playing host to an annual series of concerts, outdoor movie screenings and poetry slams in September. Also fun in the summer: Lungarno Cellini, the rather run-down city beach and beach bar along the banks of the Arno.

ESSENTIALS WHERE TO STAY We stayed at Hotel Continentale (www. designhotels.com/hotels/italy/florence/ continentale), a beautiful 43-room spot in a 14th century building right beside the Ponte Vecchio, mere seconds from Oltrarno. For sheer location it’s hard to imagine anywhere better: overlooking the Arno (rooftop bar “La Terrazza” gets deservedly busy around sunset) and five minutes’ walk to the Uffizi and central Florence. Part of the Ferragamo-owned Lungarno Collection (though considerably more affordable than some of their sister properties), their modern take on luxury is a far cry from the city’s traditional pensione, with sleek rooms and spacious suites, and touches of contemporary design cool wherever you look, from black-clad receptionists (service was a real highlight of our stay) and throwback pictures of Florence in the ’50s and ’60s, to solid wooden desks styled like 19th century steamer trunks. Hardly a traditional Tuscan experience, but pretty great value for somewhere so slick and central. There’s no in-house dining (as if you need it with Florence on your doorstep), but an impressive breakfast spread is served just across the road at Gallery Hotel Art. There’s also an in-house spa, a fitness center with sauna, as well as running maps available at reception for exploring the hills behind Oltrarno. Rates start from $268/night, excluding tax, as part of Design Hotels’ three nights for the price of two package GETTING THERE KLM (www.klm.com/sg) and Air France (www. airfrance.sg) both offer return flights for around $1,000-$1,200 return, with a short stopover in either Amsterdam or Paris. NEED TO KNOW Florence’s street numbering system can be confusing. Residential and business addresses are separately numbered, so the same number can appear twice on one street: the trick is to look for the color: red addresses (where the number is marked with an R) are for businesses, residential addresses are black or blue.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 2016 SG MAGAZINE

last word

Sharon Tan Singapore’s hot favorite indie cinema The Projector (www. theprojector.sg) is officially turning one this month, and it has come a very long way since the initial days of its Indiegogo campaign, thanks in large part to the kamikaze efforts of its manager Sharon Tan (left) who first dreamed up the space with her sister, Karen. Here, she tells Mrigaa Sethi what it’s like running the cinema, her favorite movies, and her favorite places to eat in the area.

Growing up was slow yet fast. I definitely didn’t know what I wanted to be when I grew up. A lot of time was spent asleep. I remember napping a lot after school in the warm, breezy afternoons.

One of our main motivations was to make Golden Theatre relevant to people again like it was in the past—as a movie theater at its core, but now with the added flexibility of accommodating other creative, unconventional uses.

Having lived in London, we missed the alternative films and film-going experience that independent cinemas there offered, where people can take their time to enjoy an evening at the cinema “We wonder if people and with friends at the foyer bar, instead will come watch what of being trapped in another generic shopping mall.

My favorite movies as a kid were Mary Poppins and The Sound of Music. My mum bought us the VHS tape—maybe she really liked Julie Andrews.

Time has whizzed by at The Projector. I recently revisited some of my posts on our Indiegogo crowdfunding page in 2014 updating we think our funders on our progress, and it seems like an eternity ago. I can still recall that strange mix of excited optimism and uncertainty—or perhaps fear—that I woke up to every day when it all began. We are still using a makeshift trolley as our box office. It was put together a year ago by our cleaner, using some planks of wood that our cinema’s projectors were delivered in, so it has some special significance for us. [I didn’t think] that my mum would watch practically every film we screened. The Singapore film scene is pretty vibrant: there are lots of film festivals, but you do need to make an effort to keep track of what’s going on. I used to diligently check out NMS, SAM and The Substation’s film program, but now that I’m running a cinema, I have no time—the irony! The Projector first started when my sister and I saw the space and fell in love with it. A friend, Gavin, who is our curator and film buyer, also got excited by the prospect. People don’t understand why we chose Golden Mile Tower to set up a cinema. Apparently it is “not a good location”.

THAT’S WHAT SHE SAID

SG MAGAZINE FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 2016

by Kathy Macleod

is good.”

We also enjoy organizing bad movie bingo, live music scored to silent films, cult movie dress-up nights and shout-a-longs. We want to show that a cinema space can be so much more! Local film-goers are a fairly curious sort, but don’t particularly like taking risks or trying out a new genre of film, especially if it doesn’t have accolades or recognizable actors.

Having said that, Taxi Tehran, of an atypical film genre— not really a documentary nor a conventional narrative—has been our bestselling film for more than half a year now. So maybe I should eat my words! The film I’ve seen more times than any other is Pina—I love watching dance. The music, movement, urban settings and cinematography came together so beautifully in this film. It was also especially moving and heartfelt because of the dancers’ personal relationships with Pina Bausch. I never get tired of re-watching it.

Waking Life is my favorite Richard Linklater film. It’s a great film to watch while lying in bed, letting the drifting monologues and music by the Tosca Tango Orchestra wash over you. What keeps me up at night? A damn good movie! Paying rent and bills! Working on accounts and admin! Such a pain! Our film programming is mostly about affordability. People—ourselves included—are always surprised at how expensive it can be to obtain the rights to screen a film. Another thing is taking risks—sometimes we wonder if people will come watch what we think is good. And sometimes we scratch our heads trying to understand how censorship works in Singapore. I’m also happy to share that domestic workers now enjoy concession prices on tickets all week. If I weren’t at The Projector, I would be taking a long stroll with a quiet state of mind and be completely uncontactable. If we’re talking about other work interests, I would be delving into something related to urban studies. A day in my life consists of being generally being responsive to a barrage of emails and texts that never seem to end. I work at the box office selling tickets at least twice a week—a great reduction from what used to be every day when we started out. Mrs Pho [is my go-to] lunch spot in the area. Everything is delicious. Sometimes I indulge in the plump cockles with lardy bits! I also like Crimson Cow in the basement of Golden Mile Tower—mac and cheese, homely spag bol, mega-sized chicken burger and other western comfort food at good prices and with friendly owners.

Happy Valentines’ Day

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