Wala Wala Café Bar

“On a scale of 10, Wala Wala would garner an 8. The waiters and waitresses do their job with professional efficiency, working quickly and without gripe.”
— Seow Xian Yong, student

ALL work and no play makes Jack a dull boy. You’ve heard these words before, but they seem to have become even truer in the context of today’s world. Every single day, we are consumed with deadlines, on top of our day-to-day job obligations. Even students, like Seow Xian Yong, 22, are not spared from this grim reality. Text and inteview by Benjamin Chan.

A current full-time IT & Networking degree student at MDIS, Xian Yong is plagued by project deadlines and assignment on a regular basis. Project meetings, presentations, lectures are just part and parcel of his everyday life. However, he seeks comfort in the knowledge that each passing day is another day closer to a night out at Wala Wala Café Bar.

Situated in Holland Village, Wala Wala plays host to people from all walks of life. On weekdays, the crowd is young professionals and working executives. On weekends, it’s university students winding down after a hard week in school. Good live band music, a fantastic selection of tasty finger foods and perfectly baked, thin-crust pizzas make Wala Wala one of the best places in town for a night’s out.

What would you like to recommend today?
Wala Wala ― more affectionately known to locals as Wala. One of the most popular, impossible-to-miss café bars located in the heart of the ever-popular Holland Village.

How did you discover it?
My friends and I have been shuttling back and forth between other establishments when we decided to check what Wala had to offer. The first thing that captured our attention was the pizzas, which are to die for. When we moved up to the second floor, we caught the absolutely fantastic live band, which belted timeless classics and modern songs.

What sets it apart from other establishments that offer the same thing?
What cements Wala in the hearts of many has got to be the fantastic offering on their menu. Their Buffalo Wings and Calamari Rings are, again to die for, and can be seen on the tables of many patrons. Couple that with good drinks and good music, and you have a winning combination.

Exactly how good is their service?
On a scale of 10, they would garner an 8. The waiters and waitresses do their job with professional efficiency, working quickly and without gripe. At times, however, it can be hard to grab hold of any staff given the sheer number of patrons.

Is there a good time to go there?
It’d be good to be early as it tends to get really crowded as the night wears on. Ideally 8pm would be a good time as you’d get to enjoy the “acoustic happy hour” before the main act starts at 9.30pm.

View original article for Wala Wala Cafe Bar.

iShop by Club21

“The customer service is top notch with very helpful guys and gals on standby to answer any questions that you have…” — Paddy Tan, BAK2u CEO

PADDY TAN, 30-something CEO of BAK2u, lives in the now — and by “now” we mean the Age of Internet where everyone spends more quality time with his gadgets that with his loved ones.

BAK2u, a Singaporean company whose main clients are companies based in Europe and America, specialises in mobile security. One of their products is the Verey I, a software that tracks lost cameras, iPods, iPhones, PDAs, computers, or Blackberrys and notifies their owners once the gadget has been found and used by someone else. Paddy’s company has also created applications for the iPhone which are still pending approval.

Paddy made the brave switch to Apple computers some eight years ago and has not looked back since. In Singapore, he gets his Apple fix from iShop by fashion merchandiser Club21. We couldn’t agree more. As we ourselves have realised, iShop, located at hip Orchard Cineleisure, is not just a retail space — it’s a lifestyle. Text and photos by James P. Ong

What would you like to recommend today?
iShop by Club21. This is Asia’s largest Apple Premium Reseller for super cool-looking Mac products and accessories. It’s located at Orchard Cineleisure near the Somerset MRT.

How did you discover it?
I was window shopping at Cineleisure and was drawn by the very cool remixes played in the store. Went in to have a look and found all these Apple machines in there. I was still using Windows OS then and was increasingly frustrated about all the shutdowns and crashes.

What sets it apart from other establishments that offer the same thing?
The Apple machines are all placed on the tables for you to play with, test, and basically to have fun with. The customer service is top notch with very helpful guys and gals on standby to answer any questions that you have. Also the environment and atmosphere just make you wanna visit frequently with very nice remixes play in the store. No pushy staffs, no gimmicks, just a pure showcase of why many love Apple products.

Exactly how good is their service?
If given 10 as highest, I would go 9 for it. I bought a MacBook Pro and due to a corrupted update, I sent in the machine but informed them that I need it urgently back as I’d be traveling the next day. They loaned me a MacBook for my trip.

Is there a good time to go to your recommendation?
From its website, the opening hours are 11.30am - 9.30pm

View original article about iShop by Club21.

Hachi Tei Japanese Cuisine

“It does not not charge GST nor service charge. The food is good and cheap."
— Leonard Png, blogger

MEET the talent behind the blog "The Chronicles of Leonard". His name is Leonard Png, 30, and he works as a laboratory executive at NTU.

“I blog almost everything under the sun, mostly about myself, my thoughts, the food I ate, the movie I watched, the places I went to, the events I attended, the countries I went to, the photographs I took, rants, occasionally gossips,” says Leonard.

Here, he recommends his favourite Japanese restaurant in Singapore.

What would you like to recommend today?
Hachi Tei Japanese Cuisine.

When was the last time you visited it?
19 July 2008, wanted to go on National Day but they were closed for business on public holidays.

What's unique about it?
It does not charge GST nor service charge. The food is good and cheap. You'll have a (house) heartwarming meal as the female boss will be walking around to chitchat with you, ask you how's the food. The female boss is super-duper friendly. Like dining in Taiwan.

What else do they offer?
I guess just Japanese food.

Who should we look for?
Cherine, the lady boss. Reason as per mentioned above. Hard to miss her.

Any dish which is your favourite?
My favorite is sashimi, thus i'll recommend the Sashimi Set that I ate. The sashimi is very fresh, it's served as per ordered, not watery at all. My friend said that once you had tried their Chirashi Don, you won't wanna try another place's Chirashi Don, how true, only my friend know as I yet tried it myself. Interview by Sabrina Ong

View original food review on Hachi Tei Japanese Cuisine.

Best Furniture Stores

“Lifestorey carries well-known designer brands like Kartell, Sintesis and Jongform” — Victor Loh, interior designer
By Ronald Wan

TO MOST, home is where the heart is. For interior designer Victor Loh, home is what he conceptualises, designs and believes in. Victor is an interior designer by training and the co-owner of Design Rebirth, an interior design firm. The firm’s projects include mostly residential and show flats (www.designrebirth.com). We asked Victor, who has eight years of experience in interior design, which interior design shops and showrooms he frequents:

Goodrich Global (8 Changi South Lane, #01-01 Goodrich Gallery; Tel. no: 6788 6868): Goodrich Global offers an extensive collection of wallcoverings, fabrics, carpets and laminate floorings to cater to every living space possible. The company has grown to become a leading supplier of interior wall-coverings in Southeast Asia today.Victor says, “All the wallpapers and wall coverings I use for my homes and projects come from Goodrich. They offer a comprehensive range of wallpapers in every style and material. And they are gorgeous.”

Lifestorey (#02-33D Great World City, 1 Kim Seng Promenade; Tel. no: 6732 7362): Homeowners who are design-savvy and pay attention to interior décor magazines will know a thing or two about Lifestorey. It is the go-to shop for snazzy and stylish home furnishings and accessories that help define the designer and mod look in most pretty houses. “Lifestorey carries well-known designer brands like Kartell, Sintesis and Jongform. For the latter, I always get the nice modern lounge sofa sets. You can’t go wrong when you come to Lifestorey.”

Space (9 Raffles Boulevard Millenia Walk Level 2 Tel: 6415 0000): Space specialises in furniture that are strong in design, quality and aesthetics. The company has since become the most progressive retailers of contemporary design in Southeast Asia. The showroom in Singapore carries furniture and accessories from well-known brands like Kartell, Poliform, Louis Poulsen, Fritz Hansen and Flos. In short, Space is synonymous with style and substance. Victor reveals, “I come here for the Kartell chairs and lighting as well. Space is known for famous quality products that are strong in design.”

Plaats (Temporary location on 96A Rangoon Road): Plaats functions like an intellectual movement. Or a graphic design outfit. Either way, check out their website for more abstract information (www.plaats-make.com). Victor says, “Plaats actually consists of three designer friends working together. I know them from school days and they have so much creativity and potential. The objects and products they offer are simply out of the box.”

View original article of the Best Furniture Stores in Singapore.

Kampong Glam

“Hop from one place to another every hour if you actually want to…the entire area is simply unpretentious and you can plan your entire day here…” — Amalina Mohamad, freelance TV producer

By Ronald Wan

TO CHILL out or hang out is not an easy task. Firstly, you got to beat the crowd — or, rather, get away from them. That pretty much rules out your usual malls as well as restaurants and cafes where you can hardly hear yourself or your friend anyway.

So, does getting to a secluded spot in Singapore to unwind mean either you hike in a forested area or get the best tour package out of the country? Save yourself from the jungle mosquito bites and expensive airfares. Surely there is somewhere to hang out — just ask freelance TV producer Amalina Mohamad, who has worked with several production houses such as Free State, Dua M and MediaCorp.

You see, TV producers know the best locations in town because it’s more or less part of their jobs to scour interesting locations. Here, she recommends the hip Kampong Glam neighborhood.

What are you recommending today?
Kampong Glam — a favourite location of mine, and which I visit relatively often. It has many quaint spots to hang out in and the whole vibe here is where the old meets the new.

What’s so special about it?
You can hop from one place to another every hour if you actually want to! And the best part – the entire Kampong Glam area is simply unpretentious. You can plan your entire day there.

What activities do you recommend?
Shop at Haji Lane at favourites like House of Japan (55 Haji Lane Tel: 6396 6657) and Straits Records (43 Haji Lane). Then have lunch at Kampong Café and then scour other lanes and streets like Arab, Bussorah, Baghdad and Kandahar for quirky fashionable finds from lace, stones, silk, textiles, diamantes and everything you need to make a nice dress!

There must be something else to other than shopping?
Check out the gorgeous Sultan Mosque – it’s the one with the golden dome – on Bussorah Street if you have time. Have tea or shisha at one of the many Mediterranean cafes such as Altazzag Restaurant (24 Haji Lane Tel: 6295 5024).

And when the sun sets?
End your day with a nice murtabak dinner at nearby famous eateries New Victory or Zam Zam (697 North Bridge Road Tel: 6298 6230). The atmosphere is superbly relaxing and very much away from the hustle and bustle of Orchard Road or even the nearby Bugis where there is a galaxy of cackling teenagers.

View original article on Kampong Glam.

Milly’s hair.lashes.nail shop

“Would you like long hair and long lashes?”
— Nadia (aka. nadnut), STOMP Star Blogger

Text and photos by Sabrina Ong

NOWADAYS, almost anything is possible, as long as you’re willing to pay the right price.

Described by STOMP Star Blog as a “feisty young lady", 24-year-old Star Blogger Nadia (aka. nadnut), personal blog at www.nadnut.com, is currently studying for her degree while going around taking pretty photos, telling stories about her life and the universe, and extending her hair and lashes.

I know Nadia personally, and I know for a fact that she wouldn’t be caught dead wearing the same dress twice (in a month). This tells you not just the amount of clothes she has, but also the amount of shopping she does.

That said, I wasn’t surprised at all at how fast she has grown fond of her highly recommended, often visited, “hair.lashes.nails” shop: Milly’s, located on the second floor of Far East Plaza (#02-83).

How did she discover the place?
The story begins when Emily, owner of Milly’s, approached Nadia if she’d like to try out her services. Initially, Nadia was a little apprehensive about the offer. She was expecting a catch, but soon learned that the offer was as genuine as gold. Thereafter, it became somewhat of an addiction and stayed that way.

When was the last time she visited it?
When asked for the last time she visited Milly’s, Nadia said, “I did my eyebrow threading, hair extension and gel extensions just two days ago”, which would be August 12. She added, “I even brought my mum to do eyebrow threading and lash extensions and she loved it!”

What’s unique about it?
“The shop has a wide variety of hair and lash extensions, and the pricing is very affordable,” says Nadia. “My gel extensions only cost $70, which would have cost more than $100 elsewhere!” She added, “anyone and everyone should try her out!”

What else do they offer?
Milly’s offers services such as manicures, pedicures, gel and acrylic extensions, lash extensions, eyebrow threading and hair extensions. Her price ranges from as low as $1 (per strand of hair) to a couple of hundreds, depending on what services you’re looking at. For 1 st time customers, eyebrow threading is at $5 (nett), and if you take the $380 promotional package, you get a $400 worth of credit, an additional $20 value.

Who should you look for?
Emily, the owner of Milly’s, specialises in hair and lashes and has been in this line for more than a year, even before her shop was opened on 5 th June 2008. With Milly’s now up and running, Emily rarely takes on a client herself, unless a special request is made. Most of the time, her staff does the work.

View original article on Milly's hair.lashes.nail shop.

Best Cakes In Singapore

“Usual suspects on the dessert menu include toasted macadamia caramel cheesecake and dulce de leche torte”
— Roxanne Toh, online cakeshop owner

By Ronald Wan

LIFE is a piece of cake literally for Roxanne Toh. The sprightly girl loves her cakes and pastries so much she just had to make them herself and and share with the world.

Overdoughs (www.overdoughs.com), a gourmet baked goods online business, was set up by Roxanne and her mom Janet.

With years of trying out new recipes, butter and whipped cream under her belt (or waist), Roxanne definitely knows her cake (and eats it too). So we approached the lovely gal to recommend some of her favourite cakes and pastries.

Barracks (8D Dempsey Road Tel: 6475 7787):
Usual suspects on the dessert menu include toasted macadamia caramel cheesecake and dulce de leche torte. I love others like the chai chocolate cake. But my all-time favourite is their lemon tart served in a tin box and hidden under a generous mountain of crushed hazelnuts and crumbs.

PS Café (28 Harding Road Tel: 6479 3343):
It’s a fond reminder of the cafes that line Domain Road in Melbourne, where I spent some years in. I’m a recent Key Lime Pie convert. Feel your eyes widen when you bite into the lime-green custard cradled by a firm biscuit base!

Pasticceria da Valentino’s (7 Jalan Bingka Tel: 6462 2760):
Valentino’s history stretches across three whole generations (the restaurant is adjacent to the pastry shop). Their Chantilly Cream White Chocolate Cake wins my vote for being slightly alcoholic and very pretty.

Overdoughs (www.overdoughs.com):
Can I recommend mine? (Laughs) The lemon lavender loaf (aka Ella) and zucchini muffins (aka Frankie’s Waltz) are my favourite breakfast foods, taken with a hot soy latte!

Sweet Secrets (246D Upper Thomson Road Tel: 6455 2808):
Because you can never go wrong with it! The Chocolate Royal is a personal favourite, having had it at several birthday lunches in the office. Love eating the last bits of the hazelnut crunch base when there aren’t enough seconds to go around the table.

View original article on the Best Cakes in Singapore.

Fashion Forward

“I would advise shopping at Far East Plaza because the shops there have tons of interesting designs and details that are not your usual mass-produced stuff...”
— Sheryl Rachel Tham, fashion stylist

IT'S difficult to catch Sheryl Rachel Tham on a bad hair day or in an ugly get-up.

This fashion merchandising degree student at Raffles Design Institute is conscious of what she wears and how she presents herself. Call it vanity, but we think it’s more to do with her work and passion for everything fashion, sugar and spice.

Sheryl’s cool resume includes being a freelance fashion stylist and assistant show producer for numerous fashion and beauty events for clients like Louis Vuitton, Prada, Salvatore Ferragamo, Bvlgari and Lancome Singapore Fashion Festival.

The petite gal does doesn't consider herself a fashion doyenne or one of those impossible divas. She coolly tells us that she is just a “regular girl who loves to dress up on occasion and make herself look good”.

We like her spunky attitude already and speak to her about her favourite fashion haunts in town.

Far East Plaza (14 Scotts Road): “I would advise shopping at Far East Plaza because the shops there have tons of interesting designs and details that are not your usual mass-produced stuff from places like Mango or Forever 21. Check out Level One (it looks more to me like the basement level actually) where they have a whole mix of mostly girly shops from Dotti (#01-82) to In the Closet (#01-44). To look good, the trick lies in styling and accessorising so it would make the outfit look totally different than usual. Match and pair apparel with other stuff you usually don’t pair them with scarves, necklaces, cardigans and belts. And you can find them all here at Far East.”

Marina Square (6 Raffles Boulevard): “There is a wide range of interesting shops worth checking out here. You get stuff from your usual boutiques like Lacoste (#02-129-131), Massimo Dutti (#02-158-159) and Topshop (#02-109-114). The latter has loads of interesting stuff to pick up and mix and match. For something different, head to the third level area nearer to the cinema. Lots of cool small shops here from Le 7 (#03-219), Multiple O (#03-357) to Attitude (#03-254). There are other shops like DCP (#03-362-363) where you can find cute graphic tees and even Skin (#03-332E), the glam rock label brought in by the pop singer Sun. I like coming to Marina Square because they have everything I need!”

And for something else and truly different, Sheryl recommends, “I have been travelling quite a bit and most of my cheap and nice stuff comes from my travels. A few good and cheap places to shop are Hong Kong, Bangkok and Taipei. Yes, they are out of Singapore but it’s worth it! They have loads of unique and affordable stuff. Go crazy shopping there! I would!”

View original article for Fashion Forward.

Confessions of a Beauty Queen

“My trick is choosing a foundation that is one tone darker than what's meant for my skin – to the horror of the ladies who sell the foundation..."
— Natasha Riard, 2005 Ms Singapore Universe 1st runner-up

BEAUTY doesn't come cheap. For those who have the looks (read: models, beauty pageant queens and celebrities), here's our advice: Flaunt it like there’s no tomorrow.

But what if tomorrow comes and beauty is no longer there? Until we discover the fountain of youth, we just have to rely on beauty products or makeup services.

On that note, have you ever wondered how a beauty queen maintains her flawless skin and attains that pretty glow? It’s not cosmetic surgery, as far as Natasha Riard, Ms Singapore Universe 2005 1 st Runner-Up, is concerned. Here, she shares beauty secrets, from head to toe. Text and interview by Ronald Wan

Face & Body:
“I swear by a few things! Cleanse, tone, moisturise, and slather sunblock like it's gold. I use my dermatologist-recommended facial cleanser from Avene, tone my skin with Kiehl's Yerba Mate tea toner, and moisturise with La Roche Posay (it is God's gift to women). As for sunblock, I use La Roche Posay as well. At night, I moisture my face with The Body Shop Vitamin C Intensive Night Treatment and the Vitamin E Nourishing Night Cream. I alternate my night moisturiser with La Roche Posay Hydraphase as well. I'm addicted to this brand! "

Make Up:
"I rarely wear make-up, but when I do, I swear by MAC liquid foundation. It is the only foundation I'll use. My trick is choosing a foundation that is one tone darker than what's meant for my skin – to the horror of the ladies who sell the foundation – but I promise you, you will never ever appear like a white sheet on camera or in real life ever again."

Apparel:
"I absolutely love clothes and heels from Guess?, or even Marciano. Their tops accentuate my waist and bust, and their heels are high and mighty. Apart from Guess?, I frequent Warehouse and Zara. I love rich and strong colours and these shops give just that. I never shop online. I don't know how people do that!"

Accessories/Bags:
"I’m a bag-o-holic and I can't stay away from Chanel or Ferragamo. If you're planning to get an everyday bag from Chanel, I recommend their Caviar collection because it's more sturdy and durable and you won't spend nights crying because someone scratched your lambskin Mademoiselle. Ferragamo's latest sunglasses collection is to die for. If you've been saving up for a pair of sunnies, spend it there."

Stockists:
Kiehl’s - 260 Orchard Road The Heeren Shops #01-07
Chanel - 391 Orchard Road # 01-25/26/27 Ngee Ann City Tel: 6733 5120
Salvatore Ferragamo - 290 Orchard Road Paragon #01-38 Tel: 6738 3206
Zara - 391 Orchard Road Ngee Ann City #B1-15-24 Tel: 6735 1018
Warehouse - Vivocity Harbourfront Walk #01-72 Tel: 6275 7861
Guess - 252 North Bridge Road Raffles City Shopping Centre #01-03 Tel: 6334-3121
The Body Shop - 252 North Bridge Road Raffles City Shopping Centre #01-42 Tel: 6336 2551

View original article of Confessions of a Beauty Queen.

BodyTech™ Perfectionist System by Marie France Bodyline

“Throughout the procedure, I felt very relaxed and with the attention given by the therapist, I felt assured and comfortable even while going through a –3% chill effect.”
— Sabrina Ong, 88DB.com writer

BEING overweight significantly increases your risk of heart disease, diabetes, stroke, high blood pressure, cancer...the list seems almost endless. Plus, if you do get sick or need surgery, being overweight can make any treatments riskier.

Women today face incredible pressure handling numerous responsibilities such as juggling careers and families. Maintaining one’s health and a sense of well-being is often overlooked in favour of more urgent demands on a woman’s time. Coupled with an unhealthy diet, these daily assaults to a woman’s body certainly take their toll.

So, what can people like these do to achieve their goal of looking great? Try a no-sweat fitness programme, as 88DB.com writer Sabrina Ong did.

What are you recommending today?
A new body slimming treatment, BodyTech™ Perfectionist System by Marie France Bodyline.

What made you try it?
A colleague asked me if I wanted to write about it, and so arrangements were made and I made my trip down to the outlet at International Building #08-01/02. To be frank, I didn’t know what to expect. For all I knew they’d probably throw me a pile of notes and pitch to me how great their product is. But no, instead of a long, boring, “we’re great” presentation, they insisted that I should try it out myself.

Were you impressed?
To a certain extend I’m impressed by their confidence in their product, and after trying it out, I understand why. I’ve tried other slimming programmes before and this is one of the most relaxing one of all. And it’s services… let’s just say it’s a true representation of what service should be. (And I’m not a paying customer.)

How long is the session?
The BodyTech™ Perfectionist System is a 1.5 hours programme (per treatment) that 'BTPS' addresses five common body problems (excess fat, flabby skin, wrinkles, cellulite and stretch marks) with one treatment. It eliminates fat and cellulite while improving skin tone, circulation and energy flow of the body.

What do they do to your body?
During the treatment, a small suction cup is used to work on specific accu-points along the whole body; this is supposedly to energies the body.Next, pressotherapy, where “presso cups” are used to release and dislodge fibrous skin tissue. This hastens circulation and drainage, which would result in an effective remedy for circulatory related problems such as cellulite, water retention and heavy legs. Finally, the body undergoes cryotherapy at –3%. To enhance the slimming process faster, I purchased the BodyTech™ Perfectionist Serum, a lightweight gel especially formulated through scientific research and boosted with the CafeiSilane C, BodyFit and Regestril active compounds.

Was it effective?
All this may sound technical, and I’ll be honest, it is. I’m not an expert in this mumbo jumbo and undergoing just one treatment hasn’t exactly shown me “amazing results”. What I can say is that throughout the process, I felt very relaxed and with the attention given by the therapist, I felt assured and comfortable even while going through a –3% chill effect.

Would you consider signing up?
Honestly, why not? I wouldn’t mind losing an extra pound or two at the right price. Would you? To end this, I’d like to thank Marie France Bodyline for their complimentary treatment as well as their little gift that I brought back for my “future mother-in-law”.

Shape up to desirable curves today. Call 1800-732 7877 now for a FREE trial or visit www.mariefrance.com for more information.

Orchard
360 Orchard Road #08-01/05
International Building

Bishan Central
Blk 513 Bishan Street 13 #01-502

Marina Square
6 Raffles Boulevard
#01-200 Marina Square

Jurong Point
1 Jurong West Central #02-37
Jurong Point Shopping Centre

Siglap
907 East Coast Road
#01-04 Springvale

Tampines
5 Tampines Central 6
#01-23 Telepark

Woodlands
900 South Woodlands Drive
#06-07 Woodlands Civic Centre

View original article about the BodyTech Perfectionist System by Marie France Bodyline.

Bella’s Seaweed Cold Mask

“The only time I woke up during the treatment was when a new layer of mask was placed on my face.”
— Sabrina, 88DB.com writer

WHY do women do facial? “I want to look beautiful,” says Zune. “My skin complexion is not good so I do facial hoping to improve it.” “I have very sensitive skin,” says Sara. “I want to feel pampered while improving my complexion.”

A facial is a cosmetic treatment on the face, commonly involving a variety of skin treatments, including: steam, exfoliation, extraction, creams, lotions, masks, peels, and massage. Normally performed in a beauty salon, it is also a common spa treatment.

Basically women want to be pampered and look radiant, this is why women like me go for facials. When a colleague asked me to try one at Bella, I knew I needed a treat and this was one that no woman would reject. And so arrangements were made and I headed down to the Bella shop at International Building #08-06.

What am I recommending today?
Seaweed Cold Mask by Bella. This involves a unique anti-ageing treatment utilising the natural, therapeutic properties of seaweed. The result? “An extraordinary, skin nourishing serum which precisely duplicates the body’s own intercellular fluid with moisture binding abilities,” says the brochure.

Why do you recommend it?
As a writer, I am out conducting interviews, attending events, etcetera. In short, I move around a lot, whether rain or shine. Having such a tight schedule at most times, it’s nice to just sit back, relax, and let the therapist pamper me a little with the results being a more radiant and fresh look.

How different was this treatment from other facials?
I never really liked having people squeezing my face to achieve what we believe to be “beauty”. But this was different. When I arrived, I was given tea, led to a room, got changed, and attended to like the princess that I claim to be. The service was at its best, and the treatment literally put me to sleep.

How good was it?
How many of you out there can sleep through a facial treatment? Then again, perhaps my tolerance for pain is beyond others, or I’m just too tired to react. The only time I woke up during the treatment was when a new layer of mask was placed on my face.

Bella Skin Care Client offers free consultations; for more details, log on to www.bellaskin.com. They may also be contacted at the following branches:

Hotline: 1800-732 7677

Orchard: 1800-734 0807

Marina Square: 1800-733 2662

Jurong Point: 1800-316 7767

Tampines Junction: 1800-783 6066

View original article on Bella's Seaweed Cold Mask.

Best Art Galleries In Singapore

“I really like Opera Gallery's collection. I've bought all sorts of paintings from them, from French ones to Romanian...” — Patricia Liang, Mulan Gallery owner

PATRICIA Liang has a case of art attack. The art director of Mulan Gallery, an art gallery selling resplendent contemporary sculptures and paintings, travels extensively around the world in search of good art. Take a look inside her sprawling apartment and you will find paintings dotting the walls and sculptures lining the floors. It’s as if one has walked into an art gallery or museum. Patricia is that passionate about art. Hence, we speak to the mother of two boys on her recommendations on her favourite art galleries in Singapore. Text and interview by Ronald Wan

Opera Gallery Singapore (Ngee Ann City; 321 Orchard Road #02-12H; Tel: 6735 2618): “I always buy my art from them. I really like and admire their collection here. I have bought all sorts of paintings from them from the French ones to Romanian,” says Patricia. Opera Gallery is an illustrious international gallery and the Singapore gallery is located in the heart of Orchard Road. The huge space i offers the perfect spot for art lovers to appreciate fine art in the best setting. Master artists featured here include Salvador Dali, Pierre Bonnard, Damien Hirst, Claude Monet to Eugene Boudin. Asian art is also available here such as works by Chang Xin, Kim Chang-Young and Chen Yi Fei. A professional team at the gallery will provide any information or advice to interested art collectors.

Mulan Gallery (Tanglin Shopping Centre; 19 Tanglin Road #02-33; Tel: 6738 0810): “Of course I have to recommend Mulan Gallery. We are the new kid on the art block and we are certainly making ourselves known among art lovers and even the companies with vested interests in art,” enthuses Patricia. Mulan Gallery is the latest and brand new contemporary art gallery set up in Singapore, which offers original and resplendent contemporary bronze and clay sculptures and paintings by celebrated artists worldwide, especially in Europe and China. Mulan Gallery aims to put together a diverse and esteemed portfolio of eminent and well-respected artists, including young emerging artists from all over the world. Famous artists whose works have been highly sought after by art aficionados worldwide and featured in Mulan Gallery include Jiang Huan, Zhang Hua, Fernando Suraez, Zheng Yu Kui, Yu Qing Cheng, Lu Peng and more. The gallery also aims to raise awareness and standard of contemporary art appreciation, especially in sculptures, in Singapore.

View original article of the Best Art Galleries In Singapore.

Best Spas In Singapore

“The Remede Spa at St. Regis Hotel is the first outside the US and uses luxurious high-quality Laboratories Remède products and St. Regis body signature selections...”
— Jasmine Alimin, magazine editor

FOR the ladies, some of the best indulgences (or vices, if you get a man's point of view) in life are shopping, chocolates and spas. For the third one, we strongly believe in its unadulterated power to repair the mind, body and soul. Spa treatments are the best way for one to refresh and rejuvenate, especially after a tough week at work or a day of shopping in high heels. It’s the essential must-have on a holiday, but what about back home? There are plenty spa centres to go around for our occasional pampering. We seek out Jasmine Alimin, an editor at BeautyBlackBook magazine, published by Viscion Media Group and the authority on beauty and wellness. Jasmine shares with us her favourite spa places. Text and interview by Ronald Wan

Spa Botanica (Sentosa The Sentosa Resort & Spa Tel: 6371 1318):
If you're looking for total indulgence with the frills thrown in, there's no place that can beat Spa Botanica. I've been to the premises but I haven't had the time to sample a treatment. A mud pool, meditation garden, wading pool, spa cuisine...it's all like something out of a Balinese paradise .

Lagunita Spa (Laguna National Golf & Country Club Tel: 6248 1772):
I have also found a secret place that might give you the same feeling as Spa Botanica − at half the price. Lagunita Spa is the one for me! Think charming Balinese décor and a Cleopatra milk-bath tub that can fit six people! And an outhouse that sit atop a Koi Pond – very shiok! Spa Botannica and Lagunita have pretty similar treatments. I really enjoy the Sports Massage at Lagunita and the milk bath!

Remède Spa @ St. Regis (29 Tanglin Road Tel: 6506 6896):
Another place I'm dying to visit is the new Remède Spa at St. Regis Hotel because I have heard so much good stuff about it. The Remede Spa is the first outside the United States and uses luxurious high-quality Laboratories Remède products and St. Regis body signature selections.

Jurlique Day Spa ( Wheelock Place #04-02 Tel: 6735 7177):
I'm not much of a facial girl, but everyone should try Jurlique Day Spa at least one. It's a holistic experience not to be missed. As for frequency, facials and massages are not something we do regularly because it's considered an out-of-pocket treat. If I had the money, I would go once every two months for facials and once every three for body.

View original article on the best spas in Singapore.

Wedding Photograper Sky Hu

“He knows exactly what he needs to do and what works best for the couple.”
— Dorcas Hong, HR executive

DORCAS Hong discovered wedding photographer Sky Hu when he was recommended by her makeup artist, Liren Neo. Dorcas, an HR executive who likes to spend her weekends cooking, chose Sky to take her pre-wedding photography session in Taiwan. She has not looked back since. Sky began his career as a photographer in Taiwan in 1994, and in Singapore back in 1997. He’s taken photos for magazines, print ads, fashion shoots, and portraits.

Who are you recommending today and why?
Sky Hu, the best photographer we have ever known! When Sky first showed us his work, we were totally amazed and very sure that he was the photographer we had been looking for. We signed a package with him during our first meet-up session and never regretted it! We never get bored looking at our pictures because they are all so beautiful. The best thing is that the pictures are so natural and portray who we are. We have received very good comments from our friends, and everyone who has seen our photos just loves them!

How did you discover his services?
Through Liren Neo, our excellent make-up artist, who is also Sky’s working partner.

How often do you visit him?
We visited Sky at least three times before we went to Taiwan for our pre-wedding photo shoot. We were really impressed by Sky’s professionalism as he is the one who initiated the meet-up sessions. Those sessions were not only to discuss the pre-wedding photo shoot, but also to give us an opportunity to get to know one another better so that we would feel comfortable during the shoot. How thoughtful can Sky be! I must admit the meet-up sessions really helped a lot. Well, we still meet up quite often after the photo shoot as we have become friends now!

How's the service?
Superb. Sky is a very nice, friendly and professional photographer. He knows exactly what he needs to do and what works best for the couple. He communicates a lot with us to ensure that we are comfortable with his ideas, and always listens to what we want, too. We are truly very impressed by his professionalism. You definitely have to consider Sky when searching for your wedding photographer!

Any other advice for people who intend to visit Sky?
Relax and rest assured that you will enjoy your time with Sky even if you’re meeting him for the first time. He is truly an amazing guy who is very easy to get along with. Thoughtful, friendly and professional. I am sure you will become friends even before you sign a package with him!

View more about the services offered by professional wedding photographer, Sky Hu.

Brown Sugar Café Bistro and Hamoru Japanese Restaurant

“My favourite outlet for Western comfort food burger and fish ‘n chip is Brown Sugar Café Bistro; the bento sets of Hamoru are superb and value-for-money.”
— Raymond Lim, Les Amis Group

THOSE in the food and beverage industry — especially chefs, food connoisseurs and wine sommeliers — know Raymond Lim, Group Corporate Communications manager for The Les Amis Group, which owns a gamut of award-winning restaurants and bistros like Au Jardin, Les Amis and Canele Patisserie-Chocolaterie.

Raymond, who loves “Japanese and well-executed simple Western fare” is suave, totally on the ball, and possesses a depth of knowledge about the restaurant and fine-dining scene in Singapore. And so we decided to check in with him to divulge some of his favourite dining eateries. If the man says it’s good, then it ought to be.

Among his recommendations are Brown Sugar Café Bistro, a casual and chic café that serves modern bistro fare like lobster bisque and wagyu burger. Their tantalising desserts, like the tarte tartin of pears, will warm the heart. There is a private dining room with limited seating capacity of 24 so we recommend you make reservations. Raymond also mentions Hamoru, the Japanese restaurant at Suntec’s Food Republic food court. Interview and text by Ronald Wan

What is your best comfort food place?
“My favourite outlet for Western comfort food like burger and fish ‘n chip is Brown Sugar Café Bistro along River Valley road because the owner, chef Oeiji Yuan, does a wonderful job of training his team to churn out consistently good food.”

Where can you get the best Japanese food?
“I like Koh Japanese Food’s branch in Suntec City's Food Republic [called Hamoru Japanese Restaurant]. The bento sets are superb value-for-money. You get chicken teriyaki that is grilled over a real charcoal fire, tempura that are fried upon order…all these for less than $15! Lastly, the chef helming the counter, Patrick, is the friendliest chef I have known!”

Brown Sugar Café Bistro
277 River Valley Road
Telephone no. 6333 6612

Hamoru Japanese Restaurant
Food Republic, Suntec City Convention Centre Level One
Telephone no. 6820 8569

View original article on this food review of Brown Sugar Café Bistro and Hamoru Japanese Restaurant.

Makeup Artist Liren Neo

“During our overseas shoot, she helped us in more ways than just putting on make-up…she made our experience pain-free and enjoyable.”
— Karen Liew, future bride

SOON-to-be-bride Karen Liew has done the rounds of suppliers for her upcoming wedding, and one of her finds is professional makeup artist Liren Neo. “I have found her not only a good make-up artist but also a very helpful, knowledgeable and IT-oriented person,” says Karen, who also notes Liren’s punctuality and helpfulness. “She’s an artist who never fails in her service.”

Who are you recommending today and why?
Professional makeup artist Liren Neo. She's a professional at what she does, makes recommendations to suit the client and never makes you feel obligated.

How did you discover her services?
Through bridal magazines and the Internet.

When did you deal with her?
We chose Liren for our overseas shoot in Bali. We will also hire her for the actual wedding day, as well as for the hair and make-up of three bridesmaids and the mother of the bride.

How would you describe her service?
First of all, I was impressed by Liren’s website, especially the before-and-after shots. When I met her in person for the trial, she was lovely and easy to get along with. I was after a natural but different look ─ she did just that, and also brought out the positive features of my face. Plus, she provided me with accessories to go with my gowns.

Who would you recommend her to?
If you’re doing an overseas shoot, I'd recommend Liren Neo. During our overseas shoot, she helped us in more ways than just putting on make-up. Because we're a generally camera-shy couple, she made our experience pain-free and enjoyable.

What is her price range?
Comparable to most other professional make-up artists.

Blk 58 Stirling Road (Conveniently located near Queenstown MRT Station)
#01-306
Singapore 141058
Mobile: +65 9768 6075

Find out more about Liren Neo and her makeup services.

View original article on Liren Neo.

Beijing 101 Hair Consultants

“I am very satisfied with Beijing 101. I have responsed well to the treatments as my bald patches have disappeared. I would recommend Beijing 101 to anyone suffering from the same problem.”
— Ryan Tan

RYAN TAN, 28, started losing hair two years ago. His hair loss pattern is called Alopecia Areata; people who suffer from it have one or more round bald patches, the size of a large coin on the scalp.

When Ryan was studying in England, he lost considerable hair due to heavy schoolwork load. His condition worsened when he returned to Singapore. He found it hard to re-adapt and faced difficulties in securing a job. The change in environment and increased stress caused two large bald spots to appear on his scalp.

Concerned about his hair problems, Ryan did some research for possible hair specialists and clinics. When he saw a photo of Beijing 101 celebrity endorser Ben Yeo and his thick full head of hair, he knew that was it. Beijing 101’s history of 33 years combined with the usage of 100% Chinese herbs gave Ryan the confidence to visit Beijing 101 for a free consultation.

At Beijing 101, the friendly and professional hair specialist did a thorough analysis of Ryan’s hair and scalp. A customised herbal treatment plan, combined with high-pressure oxygen therapy, was formulated for Ryan based on the result of the analysis.

The herbal treatment used premium ingredients such were Ginseng, Ling Zhi, He Shou Wu and Dang Gui. These natural herbs are effective yet gently in nature to ensure no adverse side effects. High dosage of oxygen was delivered to the scalp and injected into the hair follicles under pressure. The deeper layers of the scalp readily absorb the oxygen. Pure oxygen help to repair damaged hair follicles, increase rate of herbal absorption by the hair roots, and stimulate hair growth.

Overall appearance of Ryan’s hair improved after regular treatments. The two bald patches also grow back gradually.

“I am very satisfied with Beijing 101. I have responsed well to the treatments as my bald patches have disappeared. I would recommend Beijing 101 to anyone suffering from the same problem,” says Ryan.

Beijing 101 is available in over 60 countries including USA, England and Japan, and has won international recognition for its treatments. The ingredients used are extracted from Chinese herbs and are free chemicals. In addition, each Beijing 101 Hair Consultant is professionally trained to ensure customers can receive the best hair care.

You may contact Beijing 101 Hair Consultants via email at info@beijing101hair.com or visit any of their five branches in Singapore:

Funan Mall #B1-03A, 109 North Bridge Road (near City Hall MRT)
East Point Mall #04-01, 3 Simei St 6 (near Simei MRT)
Jurong East St 13 , Blk 135 #02-315 (near Jurong East MRT)
Hougang St 21, Blk 204 #01-97 (near Kovan MRT)
North Point #03-09, 930 Yishun Ave 2 (near Yishun MRT)

View original article on Beijing 101 Hair Consultants.

Toys N Toys, Ng’s Collections, G&B Comics

Digital artist Gary Choo recommends his favourite toy shops in Singapore

GARY Choo, a digital artist who works in one of the world's biggest studios, has always loved his toys and figurines. He counts his Iron Man figurine and all the superheroes in the Marvel and DC Comic cosmos as favourites.

Growing up, Gary was enraptured both by the wonders and magic of those toys and the morning cartoons he saw every Saturday morning. So he pursued his lifelong dream: to be that artist who draws and sketches those superheroes and characters to life. His portfolio back at Nanyang Polytechnic was just the beginning of things to come.

Now back home in Singapore after stint in the United States, this 20-something jovial chap (and geek boy) humbly recommends his favourite toy stores. May the force be with Gary! Text and interview by Ronald Wan

Tell us where you can find special collectible toys, gadgets, comics and anything a geek – such as you – desires!
Toys N Toys and Ng’s Collections at China Square Central. G & B Comics at Bras Brasah Complex.

What’s so special about these shops?
Toys N Toys and Ng’s Collections bring in awesome toy imports from Japan and Hong Kong. You can find almost any speciality toy from Die Cast Chogokins to 12-inch figures all here. You name it and they probably should have it. They also have a catalogue for you to pre-order your toys. G&B Comics at Bras Brasah is the one-stop comic shop that will satisfy your Marvel’s cravings and DC fix. They also import comic speciality statues and the latest action figures!

Do you go there often and what do you get there?
I go there bi-weekly. There’ are more than enough stuff to find something new almost every week, which keeps me coming back for more! I usually hunt for figures. My most recent purchase is a Kotobukiya 12-inch movie Ironman statue from Toys N Toys! Janga janga janga!

Toys N Toys
18 Cross Street #01-25/26 China Square Central,
Tel no: 6438 6806

Ng’s Collections
18 Cross Street #02-09 China Square Central,
Tel. no: 6536 5320

G&B Comics
Blk 231 Bras Brasah Complex #03-47,
Tel. no: 6837 2280

View original article of toy shops in Singapore.

Books Actually, Earshot Café, Page One, 25 ºCelsius

Assistant book editor Adeline Loh recommends her favourite speciality bookstores in Singapore

ONCE upon a time, in a land far far away, all Adeline Loh had were her books and all she did was to just read. We know that is fictional but at least that is what Adeline dreams of. Since young, Adeline loved her books from romance novels to Disney fairytales. Fast forward to present day, the bookworm has since graduated from the University of Melbourne with a Bachelor of Arts majoring in – you guessed it – English literature. The bibliophile, who is an assistant editor at Page One, a publishing house specialising in art and design books, shares with us on her favourite bookstores and newsstands in Singapore. Interview by Ronald Wan.

Books Actually (No. 5 Ann Siang Road; Telephone no: 6221 1170). “This is one of my favourite bookstores. You should come here for the literary gems not found in big bookstores and the discerning selection of books on poetry, critical theory, film and art. I appreciate how the owners bring in the edition of a book with the most beautiful covers because I’m quite picky on the book covers myself!”

Earshot Café (1 Old Parliament Lane; Telephone no: 6883 1019 ). Located in The Arts House, this new shop is dedicated to the local arts scene selling Singapore’s music, film and books with about 780 book titles and 130 music titles to choose from. “I like the cosy environment and the comprehensive selection of Singapore’s literature, poetry and plays,” says Adeline.

Page OneBookshop (Vivocity 1 Harbourfront Walk #02-41/42 Tel: 6272 0822). It started out as a small bookshop but has since evolved to become a brand known to be specialising in design and art books.
“Of course I have to promote this bookshop! Besides the design and art books that the bookstore is well known for, Page One actually has a very good range of Chinese books and literature as well. See it for yourself!”

25 Degree Celsius (25 Keong Saik Road #01-01 Tel: 6327 8389) For those who love to whip up a storm in the kitchen, this is the best place to get favourite recipes and advice. The assortment of cookbooks is classified by region such as Chinese, Japanese, French and Thai. You can also hang out in the café for a drink or two with your favourite read. Adeline enthuses, “I love to come here just to browse and pick up a cookbook if I’m in the mood to learn a new dish!”

View original article of Books Actually, Earshot Café, Page One, 25 ºCelsius.

Fairmont Singapore's Room 2639

“At $13,800 per night, the most expensive place to watch the F1 night race is Fairmont Singapore's presidential suite.”
— James P. Ong, 88DB.com editor

FAIRMONT Singapore's (formerly Raffles Plaza Hotel) Room 2639 is a very popular address among the very, very important people of this world. King Juan Carlos of Spain and Muhammad Ali, to name a few, have stayed there.

And with 200-odd days left before the Formula One Singtel Singapore Grand Prix, this two-bedroom presidential suite, located on the penthouse floor, is still available to the highest spender.

As of this writing, it is Singapore’s most expensive accommodation during the historic F1 week: $13,800 per night, for a minimum stay of five nights. That’s easily $69,000 in total — enough to buy you a decent Japanese-made car.

“As one of September’s races’ 11 trackside hotels, the Fairmont Singapore has been receiving numerous queries from various companies and individuals — here and abroad since the latter part of 2007,” says Mr. Ian Wilson, general manager of Fairmont Singapore and Regional Vice President, Asia of Fairmont Hotels & Resorts.

“During this time, guestrooms and suites which boast not only a panoramic vantage point of the magnificent races but also a dramatic backdrop of Singapore’s picturesque skyline are highly coveted,” he adds.

Fairmont Singapore's presidential suite comes with these other amenities: your own sauna, Miller Harris toiletries from London, a sun room, and an eagle’s view of at least three F1 tracks.

In addition, you can throw your own party and invite a gazillion of your friends — the windows are wide enough for everyone to see something. If you're still looking for accommodations during the F1 week, this is it.

Don’t forget to invite us over for cocktails.

You can reach Fairmont Singapore (80 Bras Basah Road, Singapore, 189560) through tel. no. (65) 6837 3883 or email them at reservations.singapore@fairmont.com.

View original article for Fairmont Singapore here.

Zen Guitarwerkz

“The people at Zen Guitarwerkz are warm and friendly, unlike many other bigger guitar shops around Singapore.”
— Brice Chambraud, 19, student at Ngee Ann Polytechnic

AN avid music lover, Brice Chambraud, bass guitarist for local alternative band Cardinal Avenue, often ensures that his guitars are always in tiptop conditions for jamming sessions and live performances. Both his Fender Japan precision bass and Fender American jazz bass guitars need monthly maintenance, and Brice always heads back to a particular shop to set-up his bass guitars. Interview by Mavis Ang

Who are you recommending today?
The people at Zen Guitarwerkz, who are warm and friendly unlike the other bigger guitar shops around Singapore. I went to another guitar shop recently (not mentioning any names, of course), but they were not friendly at all, and gave a very negative attitude towards me.

Many shops I’ve been to usually don’t attend to my requests very kindly. I suspect it’s because I look pretty young, and look like I can’t afford much, so maybe that’s why they don’t bother to offer good service to me.

Zen Guitarworkz is so much better because they are friendly towards every single one of their customers, and they are usually willing to go all out to help you look for your item. They don’t have the attitude like "Nah… they’re so young, why bother wasting my time on them because they won’t buy my expensive guitars like the adults can.”

How did you discover the shop?
Word of mouth, through one of my friends.

When do you visit them?
To get my bass setup so that it plays better, and occasionally when I want to browse around for smaller items.

How's the service there?
Their services is the best out of all the many, many guitar stores at Peninsula Shopping Centre. Whenever I enquire about some of their products or request them to set my bass guitar up, they would ask me (in extreme detail) exactly how I want my bass to turn out, or whether I have any other specific needs. That really impresses me because other stores usually just ask very vague questions.

How often do you go back?
Usually once a month or so, because my bass guitar only needs to be set up monthly, and I always go back to them.

Any other products of that shop that you'd like to recommend?
They have a "big brother" stall (Maestro Concept Store) located in the same building that sells really good local acoustic guitars, too

Zen Guitarwerkz is a one of Maestro Guitars’ retail outlets, specialising in electric guitar servicing, repairs, and other related accessories. Maestro Guitars first opened in Esplanade in September 2006, and now has two other outlets, Zen Guitarwerkz and Maestro Concept Store. Maestro Guitars also takes pride in offering affordable guitars which are largely handcrafted and made in Singapore.

Zen Guitarwerkz
3 Coleman Street #B1-34 Peninsula Shopping Centre
Tel: 6337 3886
Opening hours: 12:30pm to 7:30pm (Mon – Sat), 1:30pm – 6:00pm (Sun)

View original article of Zen Guitarwerkz.

Brazil Churrascaria

“Pork, lamb, fish, beef tenderloin, sausages, even chicken heart. It’s the best meat buffet!” — Karen Yeoh, 21, student at Nanyang Technological University

A HUGE foodie, Karen Yeoh’s mission in life is to taste every dish featured in Makansutra. Perhaps that’s how Karen often finds herself in the outskirts of Singapore savouring food from all kinds of countries, cuisine, and cooks with her regular food buddies. She may be petite, but deep down in this 21-year-old’s bottomless tummy pit lies an insatiable appetite for the finest food in town.

One of her recent discoveries is Brazil Churrascaria, which serves eat-all-you-can barbequed meat brought to your table. But they’re only open for dinner.

This kind of service has become a successful formula for a lot of Brazilian restaurants around the world, and it’s popular because it’s real value for your money. If you love your meat, that is. For those who’d rather eat vegetables, there’s also a salad bar.

What are you recommending today?
A Brazilian restaurant, called Brazil Churrascaria, located at Sixth Avenue.

What’s so special about it?
I like the way waiters and chefs carry the main courses around the room — instead of leaving them on a buffet table — and ask if you would like some. I’ve only been there once, but its service and overall environment did leave a deep impression on me.

Exactly how good is their service?
Majority of the staff are Caucasians with heavy accents, but no matter how many questions you ask about what kind of meat, sauce, or ingredients they are holding or ask them to repeat themselves, they continue to be approachable and serve you with a genuine smile.

How much do you have to part with?
Be prepared to part with $40 or more for a fulfilling meal, which ranges from pork, lamb, fish, steak, beef tenderloin, sausages, and even chicken heart. It’s a meat buffet — and they definitely are living up to it.

What’s the best dish you tasted?
Their beef is a must-try. Tender, tasty and juicy. According to the owner, their meat are flown in from America.

How often would you go back?
I’d like to go back at least once a month — if I had extra pocket money. It’s so good, but pricey too. The price is worth it for its high food and service standards, though.

Brazil Churrascaria
14/16 Sixth Avenue
Tel: 64631923
Opening hours: 6.30pm - 10.30pm

View original article for the food review for Brazil Churrascaria.

Ramly Burger

“They provide serviettes to customers because the owner understands that the burger is so juicy, eating it can get very messy.” — Chia Shan Na, university student

FRIENDS of Chia Shan Na swear that the 21-year-old student loves to eat anytime, any day, and that she’s tasted an extensive range of food all over the country, from coffee shops to restaurants. And she always remembers where the good stuff are.

“She also likes to steal people's food, and we always end up ordering a lot more when we have dinners with her,” adds a friend. “She likes meaty stuff and thinks vegetarians are super boring.”

In this installment of I Recommend, Ms. Chia recommends a 24-hour canteen that serves her favourite hamburger.

“I love Ramly burgers, and it’s always hard to find them around, but M. Hasan canteen at the Tanjong Pagar railway station has divine Ramly burgers!

The Ramly burger first appeared in Kuala Lumpur back in the late 1970s, invented by a man named Ramly Moknin. How different is it from Western burgers? The extras — onions, egg, cabbage, mayonnaise, Worcestershire sauce, cheese and Maggi seasoning — are wrapped around the patty using a thin layer of egg. Much like the way the Japanese do their omoraisu.

What are you recommending today?
M. Hasan canteen at the Tangong Pagar Railway station, which sells Ramly burgers.

What's so special about their Ramly burgers?
The stall owner only starts cooking after he takes your order. Although it will take about 5 to 10 mins for the burger to be ready, it is still worth the. The stall also provides serviettes to customers because the owner understands that the burger is so juicy, eating it can get very messy.

How did you discover it?
A friend recommended the place for supper since the place is open 24 hours.

How often do you crave for their burgers?
All the time.

How's the service at M. Hasan canteen?
Fast and efficient.

What's the best way to eat the burger?
Munch and gobble down the burger while it is still warm. Suck the juice and the sauce occasionally to prevent the sauce from getting onto your hands and clothes.

What’s nice to drink with it?
The burger is so good on its own, but any drink will complement it.

How often do you go back there?
At least once a month.

How many Ramly burgers can you eat in a day?
Two.

How much does it cost?
$2.50 to $3.50 (depending whether you want to add cheese or egg or both)

Other dishes there worth trying?
The stalls there sell relatively cheap and good food.

M. Hasan Canteen
Malayan Railway Tanjong Pagar Station
30 Keppel Road Singapore 089059

View original article for Ramly Burger in Singapore.

The Turquoise Room

“Arguably the best pizza in Singapore can be found at The Turquoise Room.” — James Ong, 88DB.com Editor

ALL my life I have been in the quest for the perfect pizza, perhaps because I grew up across an American pizza parlor chain and Friday nights were dedicated to trying all its flavors. This was the time when Japanese food had not yet become an international sensation, and so the idea of having carbs and protein in one slice of pizza (the equivalent of one full meal!) was sensational. Plus, we didn’t have to wash the dishes afterwards.

In Singapore, if I go to a restaurant, the first thing I ask is, “Do you have pizza on your menu?” More often than not, they don’t. So those restaurants that do serve it, and serve it well, have easily become my favourites, such as The Turquoise Room.

What are you recommending today?
The thin-crust pizzas at The Turquoise Room, particularly the Prosciutto and Parma Ham pizza which is ingeniously served with fresh rocket arugula and topped with shaved — take note, not grated — parmesan cheese.

What’s so special about it?
Eating — or if you want to be profound about it, life — is all about the yin and yang, so when you’re served a dish where you taste the contrast of hot and cold, it’s something very memorable (that said, don’t get the impression that the arugula is served straight from the chiller; it’s room temperature). The leaf’s piquant flavour also blends well with the saltiness of the prosciutto ham. Costs $22, but it’sworth every bite.

How about the place?
The Turquoise Room is hidden within the Gillman Village off Alexandra Road, which makes it perfect for afternoon trysts or an intimate getaway with friends. It is open 12 noon till late. The interiors, tables and chairs are bathed in white, and details are painted in French blue. It’s vibe spells linen-shirt, Arcopedico sandals, world music, and chilled white wine. It’s very South of France. The service is excellent; the staff are good in anticipating your need so you never so much as need to lift a finger for attention. The calamari is also intriguing, but too chewy. Their main draw is really the pizza.

How did you discover it?
I read about it in Singapore City Scoops, my lifestyle bible here. It’s published and written by insiders so chances are, the places they recommend are places where you can see (and taste) the local flavour, and not tourist traps.
Will you go back?
I’ve been back a few times whenever I crave for pizza. And it’s always top of mind when I have out-of-towners visiting. It’s a different side of Singapore that’s very urbanista.

Any other pizza places?
Trattoria Lafiandra beside the Singapore Arts Museum does good pizza, but the service borders on rude and the chef’s policy is a turn-off. He requires guests to order one entrée each if they’re not ordering starters — which is so not the philosophy behind a trattoria. I’d rather pay the extra taxi fare to go back to The Turquoise Room.

The Turquoise Room
7 Lock Road Gillman Village
Tel. No. 6473 3655

View original article for this food review on The Turquoise Room.

Reds @ Takashimaya

“My hairstylist is so good that she convinced me to chop off my frocks of 13 years!”
— Cheyanne Chan, senior sales officer

WHEN Cheyanne Chan, a senior sales officer with JobsDB.com, cut her long hair after 13 years, it wasn’t because she had been thinking about it for months. It was an impulse decision — not by her, but her stylist. “She’s dared me to explore hairstyles that I never thought would suit me,” she tells us.

The hairstylist is Anne Chea, who has been with REDS Hairdressing for nine years now. She started styling hair 14 years ago, and her regular clients include a girl who’s not even in kindergarten, an a 60-year-old plus lady.

Who are you recommending today?
My hairstylist, Anne Chea from REDS Hairdressing @ Takashimaya

Why are you recommending her?
She delivers good service and is confident of what she is doing.

How did you discover the place?
I was lucky! I just walked in randomly and found her!

How often do you go there?
Once in two months for a trim. Or just to gossip about the latest stuffs in town! *LOL!*

What makes her different from other salon stylists you've tried?
She gives a personal touch to customer service. And she’s dared me to explore hairstyles that I never thought would suit me. I would definitely give her credit for having the guts to totally change someone's look.

She is so good that...
She convinced me to chop off my frocks of 13 years. Beat that!

What time is it best to go there?
There is never a best time as she is always booked out. Do make an appoinment. A morning appointment always works best for me!

REDS Hairdressing
Takashimaya S.C. #B2-10A/11
Tel no: 6735 5711

View original article for REDS Hairdressing.

Sembawang Music

“Music CDs can be purchased convienently in most places today, but I will always return to Sembawang Music at Plaza Singapura”
— Allan Teo, arts gallery owner

ALLAN TEO likes music the way he does art. As owner of Momentous Arts gallery located off Boat Quay, he is a man who appreciates the finer things in life: music, painting, sculptures, clothes. He likes special details, as well as good service. JPO

Who are you recommending today?
This nice lady at Sembawang Music by the name of Siswanti bte Roosli. I have been to many other CD shops and the experience I get is no different from supermarkets where staff are hard to find, and when you do find one he or she might not be of much help. Sis is the main staff at the outlet.

How good is she?
Often I went there without knowing what I want to get and Sis would find out what I like and then bring out a stack of CD for me to test and listen.

Does she earn points for being extra thoughtful?
Sometimes I hear a song over the radio and would go to her, then sing her what I remember and she would most of the time know the song. Even when I find nothing I like after testing several CD, she would cordially ask me to come back again.

How did you discover the place/service?
I visit Raffles City a few times a week and Sis was originallyworking there before she was assigned to Plaza Singapura.

How often do you go there?
It depends. If I discover a new song I like, I'll head there. Sometimes I long for old songs and I would be there again.

What makes it different from other music shops?
The friendly staff. And if they do not have the stock, they will call me when it's in.

What time is it best to go there?
I'm normally there on weekdays. It gets a bit crowded after office hours.

How much does it cost?
I think the prices are pretty standard just about anywhere.

Sembawang Music
Plaza Singapura
68 Orchard Road,
Plaza Singapura, #03-05

ASICS

“The sales person spent 20 minutes explaining a product to me, and didn’t even show signs of annoyance when I walked away.”
— Yeong Mun Jun, 19, student.

THIS 19-year-old full-time student isn’t a full-time runner, but he does indulge in athletics every now and then, especially running. “I am not an avid runner, I would only buy running shoes when I need one,” he says. But that may be about to change now that he’s disco the customer-oriented Asics store. “I also realised that the Asics staff are really familiar with the store’s products, as many of them are runners and athletes themselves. Somehow I think their personal experience enables a kind of special connection and trust between the customers and the sales person,” says Yeong Mun Jun.

What set it apart from other sport shops?
“Firstly, Asics specialises in running equipment, unlike general sport shops like World of Sports and Royal Sporting House which sell a wide variety of sporting goods. Being a specialised sport store also means that the Asics’ staff have a better knowledge of running shoes compared to the sales assistants at general sport shops.”

Exactly how good is their service?
“When I first entered their store in Marina, I was not willing to spend $200 on a pair of running shoes at all, but after listening to their advice on how shoes can really affect my health and such, I was totally convinced I should invest on some running shoes.

“One of the sales assistant spent 20 minutes explaining to me the functions of various shoes, but I left the store as I still wanted to try other brand like New Balance and Nike, which were just around the corner. I felt pretty bad for wasting the staff’s time, and was even more surprised that he didn’t show any signs of annoyance. They just said a warm ‘Thank you and see you again!’

“I did return to Asics eventually, and proceeded to look around again and ask even more questions just to be sure about the product. The sales person also took the initiative to introduce other products, further explaining its functions, and started asking me some very specific questions like ‘When you run, does your heel or ball of your foot strikes the ground first.’

“That first experience with Asics left me a great impression of them, and I’ll always remember them as a very customer-oriented store.”

What advice can you give to those who visit their store?
”There are a lot of pricey shoes there, but no worries; they will not push you for more sales if they know you don't need them at all. The sale people are a friendly bunch of dudes who are more than willing to serve even the most clueless customers!”

Sets you back by?
“Running shoes cost around $200 to $250. Its a real good deal knowing that your pair of shoes would last you a couples of years depending on your running frequency. As for running apparels, they cost around $60.”

He likes Asics so much that:
“As I am not an avid runner, I would only buy running shoes when I need one. However, I would always pop by Asics whenever I am in Marina Square just to have a look around and check out the latest shoes.”

Where can you find Asics?
Establised in 1949, Asics is the acronym for Anima Sana In Corpore Sano, which means “A Sound Mind in a Sound Body” in Latin. The brand takes pride in their vision of a healthier and more positive lifestyle, and you can find this sense of well being at 6 Raffles Boulevard, Marina Square, #03-110. Opening hours are from 11am to 9.30pm daily.

View other shop recommendations.

Naumi Hotel

“Naumi Hotel’s poolside bar offers the most amazing view of the Marina Bay.” — Lazius Kaye, events venue agent

SINGAPORE is known for its many design-rich boutique hotels, with their quirky looks and individualistic styles: a barber’ s chair in the lobby of Hotel 1929, leather doors in Scarlet Hotel, a glass-bottom pool in The Majestic.
But no one has yet gone where Naumi is going: true-blue luxe. The same company that formerly owned The Imperial Hotel developed Naumi. The 10-storey building (formerly Metropole Hotel) is a stone’s throw away from the legendary Raffles Hotel and has a creeping vine on its façade.

Here, Singapore Parties founder Lazio Kaye, the person to contact when you need help in looking for and booking party and event venues, tells us about his latest discovery: Naumi’s poolside restaurant, which transforms into a bar as sunset approaches. It is open to walk-in guests. James P. Ong

What would you like to recommend today?
I recommend Naumi hotel’s poolside bar. It offers the most amazing view of the Marina Bay.

How did you discover it?
I read about it in Singapore Tatler. Naumi eventually became a venue partner of [my company] Singapore Parties.

What sets it apart from other poolside bars?
The pool is amazing, but the ambience truly is private and exclusive.

Exactly how good is their service?
Tops.

Does one need to book in advance?
They are always fully booked best contact them sooner than later.

Sets you back by how much?
It costs $4,000 book the venue exclusively for a maximum of 50 people. I can help you get them, just send an email to info@singaporeparties.com.sg.

View original article for Naumi Hotel.