Ms Skinnyfat

A Food & Travel Blog from Singapore

Private kitchens are all the rage now and we checked out Lucky House Cantonese Private Kitchen, run by Mr Sam Wong from his corner terrace home in Upper East Coast Road. The self-taught chef prepares the traditional home-cooked dishes with local ingredients and also produce from his own garden! 2 lucky groups (8 and 12 pax) could dine at Chef Sam's each night. For $80, we had 8 dishes for sharing. And if you are part of the larger party, you'd be entertained all night by the cooking action out in the backyard. 
Chef Sam developed his repertoire of Cantonese inspired dishes over the years, since learning to cook from his paternal grandparents when he was younger.  
We started dinner with a charcoal boiled soup, boiled for 8 hours over 6 batches of charcoal. Soup for the night was a pork shoulder with arrow root and peanut soup, which is naturally flavored, with no added salt, soy sauce, or pepper. The light sweetness comes from the added sea coconut and honey dates.  
Boy was the soup creamy and delicious. We also had to stop ourselves from gorging on the tender meat.  
Next, Concubine Chicken. This chicken was braised in the claypot with Chinese wine, galangal and rose liqueur. Gosh that light floral perfume of the chicken wafted in from the kitchen and had our drooling before the dish was finally brought to the table. And that sauce would have one finish a bucket of rice, though i must say that the rice available was way mushy. 
Next, juicy Fried Prawns with Rose liqueur, which smelled a lot like cuttlefish or some fermented seafood paste. I suppose that's where the saltiness of the dish came from. I'd advise eating this wrapped up in the sweet lettuce to combat the sodium. 
Fresh fish is best eaten steamed and we had a fatty 1.9kg wild caught red grouper from Batam, drizzled with a fresh batch of shallot oil. 
The simple omelette is taken to the next level with this crayfish version. Chef cracked a whole tray of 10 eggs into this one, fried with the juicy chunks of crayfish (the heads are just for plating) and flavored with fish sauce. 
Then, the signature Lucky House roast duck, which is marinated with five-spice powder, fish sauce, soy sauce, rice wine for two days, then sun-dried for a day before it is roasted in a charcoal oven for slightly over an hour over charcoal. Chef slices the ham-like bird tableside, and we were rewarded with juicy smoked and spiced meat. 
Instead of carbs, we ended with a simple dish of fried sweet potato leaves from Chef Sam's garden.  The vegetables, simply fried with some fish sauce, was fresh, crunchy and sweet, and not at all slimy.
 
For desserts, a simple Shandong peanuts and kidney beans was served.

Is it worth paying the the money for a meal at Lucky House Cantonese Private Kitchen? Well we feel that it is, knowing and seeing the amount of work that goes into the execution of these dishes. The dishes are certainly not as refined as that of a Chinese restaurant but the gu zao wei (taste of nostalgia) would be hard to replicate in a commercial kitchen. Looking forward to the next visit here (the wait list is likely past Sep/Oct 2018 by now) as Chef Sam shared with us his moreish curry dish that doesn't use any coconut milk/cream at all. 

267 Upper East Coast Road Singapore 466413
Tel: +65 9823 7268
Weekdays: 6.30 - 10pm



We can never have enough of Japanese food and yes to SORA Japan gourmet food hall at Changi Airport Singapore Terminal 2. The 7,760 sq ft space, which seats about 300 diners, is the largest restaurant across the four terminals, and houses six Japanese restaurants. The dining options includes ramen, sashimi, okonomiyaki and Nippon-inspired desserts and beverages.
SORA is owned by ANA Trading - the trading arm of Japanese airline company, All Nippon Airways and this is the first time they are operating a food hall outside of Japan. For SORA, they have also brought in 2 restaurants that are new to Singapore, one of which is a famous Okonomiyaki chain from Osaka!
Tsuruhashi Fugetsu
The fussy me have not eaten any other okonomiyaki other than the one from Osaka, so i'm glad to be able to satisfy any craving at Tsuruhashi Fugetsu now! My choice would be the modanyaki which features fresh cabbage, an assortment of battered meat and seafood, with noodles. The mix grilled before being slathered with Worcestershire sauce and mayonnaise and topped with bonito flakes. It made me forget that i was eating carbs. And even when i did remember, i chose to ignore it. Share this one, it's HUGE. 
The Mix Yakisoba ($19) was a bit bland for me. This is pretty much like Chinese fried noodles.
A little late here but WELCOME TO THE HOOD Firebake! Can I just say that Firebake Woodfired Bakehouse and Restaurant is my favorite dining spot in the East? I've been waiting with bated breath ever since I heard that Konstantino (or Tino) is gonna open up a place to sell his kickass sourdough bread made. Plus this passionate man was building a full-scale woodfire oven just so that he can bake his breads in (how's that for passion)! Of course, you can expect that I made many rounds around their block so that I can be the first to check them out when they open.
Tino is truly an artisan who is devoted to his craft. From raw ingredients to firewood to water, everything is as non-processed, sustainable, and close to its natural state as possible. Organic flour, natural non-iodised and non-processed salt, water that has been treated using Firebake’s elaborate Nordaq Fresh water filtration system, all these pure ingredients go into the making of a perfect loaf. 
Dug this review out of archives in an attempt to keep the blog alive but anyhow.. Stamping Ground Coffee is now at Upper East Coast (previously at Club Street) to offer Easties a cozy garden vibe to enjoy your coffee or tea in. 
Is there a better way to enjoy a cuppa and croissant with the light floral notes permeating in the air?
So first, coffee. Stamping Ground Coffee supplies their Cold Brew Coffee ($6) to Gemmills and some other cafes. Taste wise, it didn't leave much of an impression, which is strange since we hear that their beans are from Papa Palheta. The Flat White (S$5) is also on the milkier spectrum.
The food selection is bistro type, with everything prepped at the counter. The Bacon Jam ($13.50) with baked eggs (more like soft boiled) and mozzarella on brioche toast was sufficiently satisfying.

That ooze was soaked up by the fluffy brioche. I would have liked it better if the bacon jam wasn't all that sweet. Still, a delicious option.  
Skip the Tuna Croissant with apples, which is easily created at home. Well, Jr's choice and if that's what he wants to eat then so be it. But you shouldn't. #okthatsall

In all, Stamping Ground Coffee House isn't quite an exciting place for coffee or food but at least it smells good (they've an on-site florist) and it's a pretty place. For better coffee in this area, head over to Dutch Colony please. #notsponsored

Stamping Ground Coffee
87 Upper East Coast Road
Singapore 455223
Mon - Thu: 9am to 6pm
Fri - Sat: 9am to 9pm
Sun: 9am to 6pm
Brawn & Brains is one of my favorite cafes in the East (Mountbatten is such a sleepy and charming area). I would squeeze myself into their little cafe just to enjoy one of their cuppas and amazing bakes (love their croissants). Well now that they relocated to around the corner from their original hole-in-the-wall, there's more reason to hang around.  
Jr was a little concerned that there wasn't going to be anything substantial but the food menu has expanded to include more sandwiches and wraps that will fill up a boy's tummy.
I couldn't peel my eyes away from the Oven Baked Molten Eggs ($9.80) which featured 2 golden globes covered with melted cheese. Cut into the soft runny eggs and let the yolks ooze onto the tortilla sheets and send the mess into your mouth. Of course the millenials in us picked this because AVOCADO. I added smoked salmon ($3.50) with this one but there's also bacon.
If you are a bread lover like we are, then you would adore the Open-Faced Toast with soft cooked eggs ($14.90). We are happy to eat the fluffy brioche on its own but who can say no to grilled bacon and eggs to go with? The side salad was a refreshing mix of pear and cucumber with loose leaves. Jr enjoyed this more than the molten eggs (more for me yay). 

For something punchier, try the Curry Chicken Wrap which encases chunky chicken marinated in curry spices and drizzled with a yogurt dressing. Expect bursts of flavors from the herbs, cheese and onions.
Embarking on an extended trip and foreseeing that you'll miss a proper Chinese meal? Well fret not! Peach Garden Chinese Restaurant has opened at Changi Airport Terminal 2 and you can enjoy a full Chinese meal (or banquet if you must) before your flight. 
The contemporary restaurant seats 180 diners, with three private rooms, perfect for that business lunch or a raucous family gathering. Pick from the a la carte dishes for individuals or communal dining, or go with the easy set lunches/dinners starting from $44/pax. 
Start with the Roasted Pork Cube ($12.80/por) with a crispy TOP and nice firm meat. The char siew ($11.80/por) is the salty bean-ish sort with a balanced sweetness and light sticky char. I enjoyed the solid meat texture but my dining companions thought the meat could be more juicy. Well, our meat craving was certainly satisfied with the Traditional Roasted London Duck ($35.80/$68) which is a must order in our opinion. The succulent meat was well marinated with Chinese spices and that thin crispy skin with a thin layer of rendered fats.. GLORIOUS. I would pay $18.80 for a small portion of this even if I were to dine alone. 
Another weekend, another staycation. This time in my eventual hood- Marine Parade/Katong! For all those poor souls living in other parts of Singapore, this is an opportunity to experience what the East has to offer you. (I've a giveaway at the end of post so read on!) I've always known that Grand Mercure Singapore Roxy is right smack in the middle of the rich Peranakan area in East Coast, but what I didn't know was that it's a gem hidden in plain sight. 
Location wise, Grand Mercure Singapore Roxy is less than 15 mins away from the city, the beach, and the airport. Try beating that really! There's certainly no lack of food, shopping, and entertainment options (only lack of stomach space), with malls (Parkway Parade and i12 Katong are just next door), local food, and East Coast Park at your doorstep.
While room space is a luxury in Singapore, the rooms at Grand Mercure Singapore Roxy boasts of a spacious 32sqm or more. The rooms are equipped with the usual services like IDD service, Cable TV, ironing board, minibar, safe deposit, complimentary coffee and tea making facilities, hairdryer, over-mattress and bathroom amenities with bathrobe and slippers.
Our super huge bathroom with tub and all!  
Grand Mercure Singapore Roxy got you covered with their full range of bath amenities.  
Staying in the executive room or suite also entitles you to complimentary WiFi, breakfast, and exclusive access to the Executive Lounge on level 17.  
All day refreshments and evening cocktails with canapés are provided at the lounge. It's a nice spot to enjoy the sea view! Well, get a few drinks and save space for a more substantial meal in the neighborhood.
If you're too lazy to head out, you should check out Breez Bistro Bar which is right by the pool on level 4. Yes it is indeed breezy in this fairly open restaurant and we were pleasantly surprised by the standard of the food. A selection of drinks are also available
This creamy and hearty mushroom soup was one of the better ones i've tasted (for real). It definitely didn't come out of a can! Plus that touch of tempura enoki for an added crisp. 
I also enjoyed the huge slab of salmon fillet that was perfectly cooked, pink in the center and crispy all around. We hear the burgers and steaks are pretty satisfying too! 
We had a special dessert brought up from the Wave Cafe located on level 1. This Salted Caramel cake was another lovely surprise with a espresso mousse hiding a crunchy salted caramel core. We polished this in no time.
Of course I had to squeeze in a session between all that eating. Thankfully the well equipped gym is open 24h. 
Executive guests are treated to breakfast at the lounge, or at the Feast@East buffet restaurant. I decided to stick to the simple but adequate breakfast selection upstairs, since it meant a more peaceful dining experience (plus that view)! 
Still peckish? Well remember that you are in the Food Mecca of Singapore! Katong Laksa; Peranakan kuehs and more at Glory or Kim Choo; local breakfast at Chin Mei Chin Confectionery; Beach Road Prawn Noodles; Ampang Yong Tau Foo; all that hawker food at Marine Parade or Marine Terrace Hawker Center... Plus all the hip cafes all within your reach- Dutch Colony, Stamping Ground, Group Therapy, Domain Bakery etc. We had a hard time deciding where to eat at, despite being Easties ourselves.

Business Travelers will be happy to know that there is also complimentary daily shuttle services to and from Singapore Changi Airport, and a shuttle service to Orchard Road!

Well here is another incentive to check out Grand Mercure Singapore Roxy! I'm giving away a 2D1N Studio Suite Weekend Stay with Buffet Breakfast and Executive lounge access for 2!

Giveaway Details:
1. Repost/Share the Instagram/FB post on Grand Mercure Singapore Roxy with hashtag #MSFxGMSR
2. Like/Follow and Tag @MsSkinnyfat and @GrandMercureSingaporeRoxy in the repost
3. Also tag someone you want to go on this staycation with! Of course tell us why you wanna win this stay! :) 

Giveaway ends midnight 28 Aug 2016! Winner will be contacted separately!

Grand Mercure Singapore Roxy
50 East Coast Road, Roxy Square, Singapore 428769
Telephone: +65 6340 5809
If you were from the earlier generations, you would have remembered those scary Hello Kitty queues at MacDonald's? Even if that was before your time, you can now experience it at the brand new Hello Kitty Orchid Garden Cafe at Changi Airport Terminal 3, 24 hours everyday! (Do you sense my excitement?) 
Well well, it's not a place that i'd recommend for food, but if you're in the queue, you probably are there because 1. You're a fan of Hello Kitty 2. You've been drugged and dragged there by your other half (my heart goes out to you). So here are some stuff that is somewhat worth some calories IMO. The Hola Nachos! ($15.90) are freshly made, flaky fried tortilla chips which are super crispy and buttery. Yes the cheddar sauce may taste like it came out of a can (and diluted), but it would be a t least be a source of comfort. Yes you can probably make better ones at home but remember you're stuck here in the cafe..
I would pick a traditional piquant punchy quesadilla over this mild like a kitty Enchanted Forest ($17.90; not on limited menu). The flavor is very Asian in fact, popiah-like with a strong taste of onions (not too caramelized). Wasabi sesame mayonnaise was added to the mix but I couldn't detect it at all. 
Need to fill your tummy? Have the Cowabunga! Wagyu! ($24). It's the only savory thing that i took an extra bite of. This is a local wagyu beef rendang cooked with a refreshing pineapple rempeh. It was spectacular, in comparison to the rest of the dishes.
I didn't use to care for my skin at all. Well when you are young, you think you're invincible and that your skin will always be perfect. So years of sun tanning had obviously caused some damage, which was improved with the Derma-RX products. Recently, I've been trying out different products in order to find a good mix to my skincare regime and was introduced to the Italian Vagheggi products at Bejeweled Singapore. Bejeweled is a one stop shop for your beauty fixes from nails, face, to your eyes and they have expanded from their 1st location at International Plaza to open a second outlet at Breadtalk IHQ in the east.
Shirlene, my beautician did a quick check on my face condition and i was recommended the White Moon facial treatment ($228/90mins) as I do have some spots that are starting to surface (SOBS) because of all the terrible sun damage in my younger days (girls, please use sunscreen and stop suntanning). This facial is touted to help even the skin tone and control melanin production, smooth the surface of the skin and acts as a barrier against pollution and free radicals. The effect, a radiant skin with more even skin tone.

We started with a cleansing foam to purify the skin, followed by the Fizzy Mask 1 and Activating solution 2 which work as a gentle peel for the brightening effect.
A smoothing concentrate solution helps to  renew and even the skin, followed by a brightening mineral mask. The effect is further enhanced with the Protective brightening emulsion which is rich in Vitamin C to provide protection against UV rays and smog. Cooling balls were used to massage the solutions into the skin.
Before
After- I still look the same without makeup!
I couldn't believe that my skin looked pretty unblemished despite the extraction. Serene was very gentle with that though. But honestly that glow! I had dinner with J after my facial and the first thing he said was how radiant my face was. Yay to all that natural goodness in the facial. 
Bejeweled also offers aesthetic eye treatments such as eyelash extension and perming, as well as nail services. I foresee I'd be coming here pretty often for my beauty fixes. 
Bejeweled
30 Tai Seng Street #02-01 
BreadTalk IHQ Singapore 534013 
Tel: +65 6443 9789 
Daily: 11.30am - 8pm

10 Anson Road #02-48 
International Plaza Singapore 079903 
Tel: +65 6222 2526 
Weekdays: 11am - 8pm 
Sat: 11am - 4.30pm 
Closed on Sunday & PH 
Percolate Coffee has been around in the East for a bit but the location at the fringe of the Bedok heartland was and still is a deterrence to repeated visits. But upon word that they make a mean cuppa with the Nylon coffee beans in the east, i dragged myself out to this sleepy corner of Singapore for a couple of shots to regain my sanity. 
The cozy shop accommodates about 30 pax, which would actually be a squeeze already. It's not a place to linger for long over brunch, since they also don't do large plates. So far i've been lucky to be able to hang around for a bit over coffee and some bites.
I had Nylon's Four Chairs blend here the last time and it was well balanced and smooth with a nutty and fruity note ($4.50 for 5oz). On my second visit, it was changed to the Lucky Stars blend (for CNY), which was milder and lighter. I always go for Nylon over Papa Palheta (also offered here), as the latter tends to be too acidic for me. Filter coffee is also available here. 
If you like croissants, then you cannot miss these from B.A.O. Christophe makes one of the best flaky and buttery French croissants in Singapore (from $3.50). Go with the classic Butter ones on its own or have it as a sandwich (from $7). And if you see the Chocolate Almond ($4.50), JUST GRAB IT. The localized Pandan Kaya Gula Melaka one didn't rock my socks though. 
Percolate also has one of the most amazing Banana Date bread that i've tasted. I have a feeling it's from the Muffinry (Drury Lane gets it from there too). For something fancier, get the breakfast loaf version shown above ($8) with mascarpone, berries, crushed almond and Hunters' Kitchenette Almond Nut Butter. 
For something slightly bigger, the Tom Yum Grilled Chicken on Ciabatta ($10) isn't a bad option with tender chicken chunks coated in a punchy  and salty tom yum mayonnaise sauce sandwiched in a fluffy ciabatta. It's a little salty and i found myself reaching for more water than I usually do after.
Percolate is a lovely spot that I'd go back to again and again, if I'm in the East that is. Worth a visit if you're around. 

136 Bedok North Avenue 3 #01-152 Singapore 460136
Mon: 10:30 am – 9:30 pm
Wed – Fri: 10:30 am – 9:30 pm
Sat – Sun: 9:00 am – 9:30 pm