28 May 2017
Machida Shoten, the Number 1 Lekei Ramen Resturant in Japan
I got excited upon hearing that Machida Shoten already has 43 outlets all over Japan after it was founded in Jan 2008 and Singapore's outlet being the first that was out of Japan!
A series of new dishes was unveiled, made only exclusive to Singapore's outlet. I wasn't surprised when I found that some of these dishes had Chinese influences, probably to adapt to the local palette.
The Burdock Tempura (S$7.80) came about as a perfect snack for itchy-mouths while waiting for mains to arrive. Thinly sliced, perfectly crispy yet not excessively oily.
Cha-Shu Croquette (S$6.00) was one of the dishes that has Chinese influence. In fact it was seasoned meatballs that was tender and moist, deep fried till a brown crust was formed. Popping these Croquettes into my mouth would be an easy task, but not stopping at 1.
Garden Salad (S$9.00) would be a perfect option for health enthusiasts since the vegetables hardly undergone much heat, remaining kind of raw. Drenched it with the homemade curry dressing as well as the non-oily oba leaf vinegar for a flavourful finish! Loving the sliced deep fried lotus root as well!
The Seasoned Iberico Spareribs (S$14.00) that was boiled till easily fall-of-the-bone, seasoned with Machida Shoten's original sweet soy sauce reminded me of another Chinese zi char dish. The light sweetness yet not overpowering the meat was unbelievably tasty.
Spicy Shrimp Fried Rice (S$10.00) would be an option for rice lovers if they prefer rice over ramen. Close resemblence to sambal fried rice, probably also due to it reddish hues, it was prepared with about 12 different ingredients. Try their Homemade Shrimp Gyoza (S$9.80 / 5 pcs) if you would want more seafood intake.
Machida Shoten has a reputation for its 'iekei' ramen, meaning 'home' in Japanese. It evokes a sense of warmth and homliness from its offerings. The highlights for that day would probably be either one of the 3 bowls of ramen since my table of foodies have distributed views.
The chef's recommendation mentioned was Shoyu Tonkotsu (S$14). It was a combination of soya sauce and pork bone broth. Miso Tonkotsu Ramen (S$14) was actually my personal favourite as the broth was tonkotsu based with a blend of red and white miso. I loved the crunch from all those corns as well as a piece of butter that added kick to the already thick and robust broth. The Garden Veggie Ramen (S$15) had a close resemblance to the Garden Salad. Its broth was the lightest among the 3 since it was made with from just vegetables.
I also bet the ladies would find the chef an eye-candy!
Thank you Brandcellar for the invite.
Japan Food Town
435 Orchard Road
#04-40 Wisma Atria Shopping Centre
Singapore 238877
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| Burdock Tempura (S$7.80) |
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| Cha-Shu Croquette (S$6.00) |
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| Garden Salad (S$9.00) |
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| Seasoned Iberico Spareribs (S$14.00) |
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| Spicy Shrimp Fried Rice (S$10.00) |
18 May 2017
Papa Poika, a English-inspired Male Barbershop at Paragon, Orchard
Papa Poika is a brand new English-inspired Male Barbershop at Paragon, under the renowned Japanese Komars Group that also brought in EC House, Ramen Champion, LA Barbershop and more.
Everyone knows the meaning of Papa, which is 'father' while Poika means 'son' in Finnish. This barbershop lies an interesting concept behind its name. It is a shop where both father and son could enjoy a bonding session while having a haircut since the mother and daughter would be busy shopping around Paragon, Orchard. (Note: Daughters could also have their hair cut here.)
I had the privilege to enjoy a haircut by the gentleman who handled my hair with precision while my friend Kenny had his done by another stylist. Basically all the hairstylists at Papa Poika had over 10 years of experience in both adults and kids haircut. Expect a personal and cosy experience as well since at any one time, the shop only attends to three adults and a kid in regards to the type of services from Precision Haircut (S$44), to Full Beard Shave (S$32) or the less commonly heard of Ear Cleaning (S$23), that uses a series of special tools without any infliction of pain.
The type of hairstyles would lean towards the 'manly' / musculine kind since Papa Poika's concept of making their customers looking like a refined gentleman after its services imply. Even the shampoo used had a hint of musculinity from its minty aeroma which could rinse off your wax/gel from your hair in a single wash. For normal shampoos, usually it would be best to rinse twice to thoroughly cleanse your hair.
Check out those unique wash basins that are located in front, as well as a lego wall with a huge ''tree'' where kids would keep themselves entertertain while their dads have thier haircut in peace.
FREE handmade lollipop for every Prince Dry Cut (kids's haircut 0-12 years old) & FREE hand towel for every Precision Haircut. While stocks last!
Thanks Kenny for jioing me along for this! You may also want to check out his blog post here.
Address: 290 Orchard Road #05-30A Paragon
Singapore 238859
Operating Hours : 11am-8.30pm
Contact: +65 6235 4312
11 May 2017
Dessert Story launches Taiwan's famous peanut candy ice cream roll
I was so thrilled upon hearing that I could once again savour Taiwan's famous peanut candy ice cream roll without the hassle of travelling to Taiwan! The last time I tried and fell in love with this simple yet unique dessert was about 5 years back.
Looking just like a popiah but in dessert form, the staff would start the preparation by shaving from the huge block of caramelised peanut candy which was directly imported from Taiwan. Speaking about authenticity, even the wooden shaving blocks used to shave were from Taiwan!
With the addition of coriander leaves that some people might be skeptical of at first, ended up proving to be an aromatic lifter to the overall flavor and taste. Last but not least to be added would be the 3 scoops of either the refreshing coconut ice cream or the oriental yam ice cream. (S$3.50 for single flavor and S$3.90 for a mixed flavor of coconut and yam)
Anyway, besides the peanut candy ice cream roll, Dessert Story would also have 2 new offerings available on its menu. The duo ice flavors consisting of mango and coconut or the strawberry and yogurt. Both being finely textured and refreshing, perfect thirst quencher I would say.
Do check out the video to view how this yummy dessert is prepared! The dessert would only be available till the end of May.
3 May 2017
DBS PayLah! Palooza - Singapore’s first QR code payment-led bazaar
Speaking of digitisation where technology plays a part in contributing to the convenience factor in our daily life, DBS has done it again! Ever since the launch of DBS FasTrack, an app to reduce the long waiting lines of participating brands, DBS will be collaborating with the organisers of Artbox once again for the first ever QR Code flea market! The event is jointly organised with SCAPE in support of Singapore’s Smart Nation drive.
You read it right, you go cashless since you can basically scan and pay for everything at the event via QR code with DBS PayLah! Just make sure you have PayLah! downloaded into your mobile device before you head down.
Here are some of the outlets you might expect at DBS PayLah! Palooza:
Fay Terrarium
I could not take my eyes off these cute little terrariums by Fay Terrarium! From simple and minimalist designs that is suitable for office environment to cute or romantic ones that could be used as a home decoration. They do workshops as well!!
I could not take my eyes off these cute little terrariums by Fay Terrarium! From simple and minimalist designs that is suitable for office environment to cute or romantic ones that could be used as a home decoration. They do workshops as well!!
93ArtMarket
From a series of customisable crayons such such this spaceship form Starwars to artistic hand-painted coasters to 100% cotton t-shirt hand dyed using the Shibori technique, also known as the tie and dye technique. 93ArtMarket's products definitely do attract eyeballs.
From a series of customisable crayons such such this spaceship form Starwars to artistic hand-painted coasters to 100% cotton t-shirt hand dyed using the Shibori technique, also known as the tie and dye technique. 93ArtMarket's products definitely do attract eyeballs.
Pine43
Pine43 is an ongoing collective project across New York and Singapore to inspire artful living. Despite the limited range of products, Pine43's bags are minimalist yet classy, mainly in monochrome-nude colours. I definitely would never ever place my groceries into any of these bags.
Pine43 is an ongoing collective project across New York and Singapore to inspire artful living. Despite the limited range of products, Pine43's bags are minimalist yet classy, mainly in monochrome-nude colours. I definitely would never ever place my groceries into any of these bags.
Sotnwable
Doodles or graphical art? These creations are usually in limited quantity since no 2 drawings could exactly be the same! From notebooks to posters to cards, the designs ranges from cute to abstract to graffiti-looking.
Doodles or graphical art? These creations are usually in limited quantity since no 2 drawings could exactly be the same! From notebooks to posters to cards, the designs ranges from cute to abstract to graffiti-looking.
Minimalyst
As its name suggest, Minimalyst's fashion accessories revolve around affordable yet stylish designs. From earrings to bracelets to necklaces that comes in designs that could easily match any of your outfits any day, anytime.
As its name suggest, Minimalyst's fashion accessories revolve around affordable yet stylish designs. From earrings to bracelets to necklaces that comes in designs that could easily match any of your outfits any day, anytime.
DopeTactics
The goal of the company is to bring life to the clothes you wear and to make you stand out from the rest. The inspiration of their designs are mainly street wear style where clothes are more trendy and rugged.
The goal of the company is to bring life to the clothes you wear and to make you stand out from the rest. The inspiration of their designs are mainly street wear style where clothes are more trendy and rugged.
BarangShop
A whole lot of supplies as well as leather craft goods ranging from wallets to sandals to key rings. Not only does BarangShop sells handcrafted products, they conduct leather craft workshops as well. Not only that, DIY motorised toys kits are also available!
A whole lot of supplies as well as leather craft goods ranging from wallets to sandals to key rings. Not only does BarangShop sells handcrafted products, they conduct leather craft workshops as well. Not only that, DIY motorised toys kits are also available!
WildButterco
The owner's idea of Wild Butter Co. is to bring back the origins of nut and peanut butters where it has substantial amount of health benefits. They stick to using quality ingredients and natural sweeteners.
I would love to spread my loaf with a thick serving of their matcha spread!!
The owner's idea of Wild Butter Co. is to bring back the origins of nut and peanut butters where it has substantial amount of health benefits. They stick to using quality ingredients and natural sweeteners.
I would love to spread my loaf with a thick serving of their matcha spread!!
Imageenation
Imageenation is a lifestyle design community aimed at showcasing the artistic talent of the Asia Pacific. They carry a huge variety of products from different brands that cater to both the young and old, from handmade bibs to facial masks.
Imageenation is a lifestyle design community aimed at showcasing the artistic talent of the Asia Pacific. They carry a huge variety of products from different brands that cater to both the young and old, from handmade bibs to facial masks.
ThreeOneTwoFive
Started off as a hobby making elastic bracelets out of pony beads and now involving other materials such as raw gemstones and precious metals. ThreeOneTwoFive's jewelleries are on of a kind and the owner hopes to turn the business into a social enterprise which offers opportunities for women to better their lives.
Started off as a hobby making elastic bracelets out of pony beads and now involving other materials such as raw gemstones and precious metals. ThreeOneTwoFive's jewelleries are on of a kind and the owner hopes to turn the business into a social enterprise which offers opportunities for women to better their lives.
Bw Apparel
https://bw-apparel.com/
Bw Apparel meant “Black White Apparel” in short. It was chosen because the founders wanted to emphasise on the idea of contrast which is the state of being strikingly different from something of close association.
https://bw-apparel.com/
KelseyLabel
Flaunt your curves with an attitude as you dress in KelseyLabel's Label. You are spoilt for choice due to a range of dresses, tops, bottoms, jumpsuits as well as outerwear, perfect for casual, office wear of even to attend parties.
Flaunt your curves with an attitude as you dress in KelseyLabel's Label. You are spoilt for choice due to a range of dresses, tops, bottoms, jumpsuits as well as outerwear, perfect for casual, office wear of even to attend parties.
APinkShade
Shop your way through a series of bags and dresses that would be available for sale!
Shop your way through a series of bags and dresses that would be available for sale!
ShamlessSG
Every product has a background and story as to how they come upon it or source it in their travels. A range of gemstones and crystals bracelets and rings are design as they believe in each properties such as physical and emotional healing, etc.
Every product has a background and story as to how they come upon it or source it in their travels. A range of gemstones and crystals bracelets and rings are design as they believe in each properties such as physical and emotional healing, etc.
RisottoChips
A perfect snack that is still uncommon yet? Or probably a perfect snack to go with beer on a TGIF night as you spend your time lazing around?
A perfect snack that is still uncommon yet? Or probably a perfect snack to go with beer on a TGIF night as you spend your time lazing around?
After I spend my time painshakingly compiling all the tenants that would be displaying their products at DBS PayLah! Palooza, would you be heading over?? If yes, check out the details below!!
Event: DBS PayLah! Palooza, jointly organised with SCAPE
Date: 5 to 7 May 2017
Time: 1pm to 9pm
Venue: SCAPE Playspace
Download PayLah! now and enter promo code “PAYLAH505” and get S$5 to spend at the event!
Do hashtag #dbspaylah #dbspaylahpalooza #paylahpalooza when you visit!
(Image Credits: All images are from each respective web pages or social media platform.)
(Image Credits: All images are from each respective web pages or social media platform.)
29 Apr 2017
Latest Bio Sculpture Treatment at Shou Slimming
Another virgin experience ticked off my list as I had undergone a session of the latest Bio Sculpture Treatment at Shou Slimming. Shou Slimming have 3 outlets in Singapore and the one I went was located at Velocity, Novena Square. The post will probably be a detailed process of my personal experience since I have been wanting to get rid of those annoying fats located around my lower abdomen. I want to correct others perception that being skinny does not necessary mean no ''spare tyre''. Having one made it even more shameful for me to even admit.
The Bio Sculpture Treatment started off with me stripping and changing into a disposable underwear provided and lying with my belly exposed to the slightly warm red light hue. As explained by my therapist, the treatment involved the use of FIR (Far Infrared Ray) technology to target localised fatty deposits as well as to stimulate the body's natural cellular stimulation while aiding in detoxification.
There were a total of 3 different types of Nano serums used in this Bio Sculpture Treatment. The therapist did explained to me each serum's purpose in mandarin before using each of them. As shown, the first 2 serums were used under the red hue, followed by a 10-15 mins long belly massage/torture. I have attached a video that I have recorded for reference below. It was rather painful as my belly was constantly being pressed downwards (from middle and sides) for optimum results I supposed.
The third serum used to spread across my belly was cold and gel-like. One of them could possibly be the Bio Clay which has the function to seal in the effects of speeding up overall fat-burning, skin tightening as well as to encourage overall hormonal balance.
Shortly after the 3 serums, the treatment proceeded on with a cold bandage reeking strongly of herbal extracts. My therapist did warn me in regards to the smelly smell beforehand, but I somehow loved the ččÆ (herbal medicine) smell instead!
After the mummification process of my belly was completed, a device of metallic studs was belted across the herbal bandage. These vibratory stud were explained to target important vital points for effective slimming results. A 'pain-test' (intensity level) was performed to ensure that I wasn't in too much of a discomfort since it could be painful to some. My advice would be to withstand the discomfort and go with the normal settings suggested by your therapist for optimum results. The timed session lasted for about 45 mins as the device would vibrate aggressively on specific areas from time to time.
I tried taking a nap to pass time but unlike facial, I could not. The last 'Beep' sounded and my treatment has ended. From the pictures, my belly area was slightly red after the treatment and it took some time to subside. The entire treatment duration was about 1 hr 15 mins.
For the following 2 days, my belly was aching just like after doing 1000 situps the previous day. (Not that I could do that amount since I could barely hit 40.) Thankfully the pain subsided on the third day and my normally tight pants actually had a bit of leeway! Hopefully I do not fill this space up too quickly within the next few days.
In celebration of the launch of Shou Slimming Bio Sculpture Treatment, a first time trial session would cost $89. It is available at all Shou Slimming outlets.
Shou Slimming also does a body analysis for every treatment to access individuals needs.
Find out more information from their web page here.
Thank you Brand Cellar and Shou Slimming for the invite.
1 Apr 2017
Skip Queues During Rush Hour With DBS FasTrack
Singaporeans are probably not the most patient breed of people on this planet. Yes, including myself who often whine about the queue after barely 10 minutes. It was from this problem that sparked DBS to come out with this new innovative mobile solution payment that would make our lives so much easier.
Check out this short video about DBS FasTrack, acted by Sylvia Chan from Night Owl Cinematics!
So bascially the idea of not needing to queue at all would definitely appeal to most of us. Right now,
there are already a few brands making use of DBS FasTrack app to reduce the long waiting lines. These brands include:
1) Old Tea Hut
2) Five Star Resturant
3) Old Kim Guan (OKG Express)
4) Koufu
5) Boon Tong Kee
More brands are set to launch their apps as well. They include Li Xin Teochew Fishball, Tiong Bahru Bakery, Wolf Burger, Miam Miam, Qi Ji, Aloha Poke and Food City @ Midpoint Orchard!
DBS FasTrack is available for download in IOS and Android.
Time to bring DBS FasTrack to the test!
Bascially each brands had an app under their name. Download the ones that would deem relevant to you and follow the simple steps to purchase. An estimated waiting time would be shown and a notification will appear to inform you once your purchase is ready.
I basically paid by DBS PayLah!, an innovative mobile wallet app that allows customers to transfer money instantly and conveniently to one another.
''Let DBS handle the transections while allowing the merchants to focus on their craft, which is to produce quality food.''
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| Img from DBS |
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| Img from DBS |
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| Img from DBS |
From actual case study results of Old Tea Hut
Old Tea Hut
-Increased in productivity and sales
(Increased 15% in sales with existing manpower)
-Reduces cash and change handling
Customers
-Reduced queueing
-Cashless Payment
With DBS FasTrack app, both the participating brand as well as their customers stand to gain in terms of effeciency and convenience. Definiely suitable since our lunch break is only an hour or less in this fast pace country.
Koufu at 100 AM mall in Tanjong Pagar and Square 2 in Novena have already started utilizing DBS FasTrack, making them the first food court in Singapore where you can pre-order your food! Koufu even have plans to expand its usage across all other outlets islandwide!
To celebrate DBS FasTrack official launch, enjoy 10% off ala carte orders via the Koufu app!
Koufu at 100 AM mall in Tanjong Pagar and Square 2 in Novena have already started utilizing DBS FasTrack, making them the first food court in Singapore where you can pre-order your food! Koufu even have plans to expand its usage across all other outlets islandwide!
To celebrate DBS FasTrack official launch, enjoy 10% off ala carte orders via the Koufu app!