Michelle Yee

What better way to show the foodies in your life how much they mean to you by plying them with all the things they love. From a limited-release Christmas gin to a gourmet food hamper chock-full of scrumptious treats, this gift guide features all the things that every foodie desires. Happy shopping.  RECOMMENDED: The ultimate guide to Christmas in Singapore

A Christmas feast is never complete without the classic turkey with stuffing, leg of ham, roast beef and of course, dessert. Whether you’re celebrating at  home or heading to a friend’s place this year, make the celebration extra special and memorable with a spectacular log cake that tastes as good as it looks. Here are some of our top picks this year. RECOMMENDED The best Christmas meals and festive menus and The best Christmas takeaways in Singapore

Whether you are craving authentic local food or seeking a gastronomic experience in a modern restaurant, Chinatown, with its diverse food offerings, is bound to have something for everyone. From hawker stalls, and Michelin-starred restaurants to chic cafes and cool bars, foodies can embark on a food trail through the bustling streets of Ann Siang Hill, Club Street, Amoy Street, Duxton Hill and Keong Saik Road to explore all the scrumptious treats that Chinatown has to offer.

As the year draws to a close, make time to catch up with friends and loved ones, and what better way to do so than over a great meal? If you need ideas on where to go or what to have, our November round-up has you covered. From a hearty Irish Sunday Roast to exquisitely presented South American cuisine and premium wagyu cuts from Japan, these new establishments are bound to inspire and excite.  RECOMMENDED: The 50 best restaurants in Singapore you must try and the 50 best bars in Singapore

Fresh off their Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2023 debut where they placed No. 64, The Elephant Room has more exciting news to share – they’ve just relocated to a brand new space along Tanjong Pagar Road, offering an imaginative cocktail menu that imbibers will definitely want to try. “Over the past four years, we have successfully established ourselves as a cocktail bar inspired by Indian culture. The Elephant Room 2.0 marks the start of the next chapter of our journey, where my team and I are focused on delivering an elevated bar experience that is immersive, sensorial and imaginative,” Yugnes Susela, co-founder of The Elephant Room shares.  Boasting almost twice the size of its previous space, the 45-seater bar offers plenty of room for guests to mingle comfortably, whether at the bar counter or in one of the cosy booth seats.  A notable feature in the new space is the spice corner, lined with an array of Indian spices. Featuring cardamom, clove, black pepper, vetiver and more, it offers guests a sensorial experience as Yugnes and his team share more about how they use these spices to make their own liquors and infusions. Photograph: The Elephant RoomYugnes Susela, co-founder of The Elephant Room “Every guest who comes through our doors will be introduced to the spice corner where they can see, smell, touch and learn more about the different spices we use in our cocktails. These spices are all from India, which not many people have heard about – some have really unique flavour and

When it comes to exercise, it is often all too easy to start a routine. The real challenge lies in sticking to it consistently. Like us, you may have tried adhering to a workout programme – running, weights training and so on – you follow it for a week or two and then you start to find the routine a drag. You are not alone. What we’ve discovered is that finding an activity or sport that you enjoy is key to ensuring you commit to working out consistently. If you are keen to lead a more active and healthy lifestyle but know that running or visiting a regular gym is not for you, here are some fun and exciting activities that you can try to help you stay trim and fit. RECOMMENDED: The best HIIT gyms and studios to work out in Singapore and the best mixed martial arts gyms and boxing studios in Singapore

Situated on the eastern fringe of the city centre, flanked by Toa Payoh, Paya Lebar, Eunos, and Geylang, Aljunied is a charming neighbourhood sprawling with housing estates, eateries and cultural landmarks. A fun fact: Aljunied Road was officially named in 1926 after Syed Omar bin Ali Aljunied, a wealthy merchant and philanthropist who previously owned a large plot of agricultural land in the area.  As one of Singapore’s oldest areas, Aljunied is undoubtedly steeped in history. During the Japanese Occupation, the Japanese air force built hangars here to repair aeroplane engines as the area was teeming with coconut trees, which provided exceptional camouflage for the hangars. Today, people from other parts of the island continue to flock here, mostly for the exceptional dining experiences, offered by long-standing establishments like Hung Huat Cakes and Pastries, Penang Seafood Restaurant and more. RECOMMENDED: The ultimate guide to Jurong and The ultimate guide to Ubi

Apart from this year's highly anticipated music concerts featuring some of the hottest bands in current times, we are equally excited to shed light on some of Singapore’s best upcoming orchestral music performances. Personally, the experience of attending an orchestral concert is an unrivalled delight – you enter a cosily cushioned cave, where a whiff of carpet fills the air and envelopes you in a sense of comfort. You scan the room in search of your seat, anticipating an hour or two long auditory journey that will transport you to distant melodic realms. What’s there not to love? In this piece, we delve into the rich tapestry of classical music and band pieces, paying homage to the symphonies, concertos, and enchanting compositions that have stood the test of time. We’ve also included a kid-friendly performance that will allow young families to introduce their little ones to the wonderful world of music. With skilled musicians breathing life into each note, it is guaranteed that you’re in for a unique and unforgettable musical experience. Now, read on for some orchestral musical treats that you really shouldn't sleep on.  READ MORE The best live music venues in Singapore and Dive into the world of Singaporean fashion designer Andrew Gn at Asian Civilisations Museum’s latest exhibition  

If you grew up in Singapore in the 90s’, you would remember visiting one or all of these iconic spots with your family and friends. From digging into the indulgent Irish cream mudpie from NYDC to buying the latest pop albums from HMV, these dining establishments and shops were a huge part of millennials’ growing up years. May this list of dearly departed venues offer you an opportunity to reminisce the good old days. RECOMMENDED: Things Singaporeans take for granted (but shouldn't) and Dumb questions Singaporeans get asked all the time

Situated in the north-eastern region of Singapore, Yio Chu Kang may not be as renowned as compared to its illustrious neighbours like Ang Mo Kio, Thomson and Yishun, but this area is within close proximity to numerous hidden gems including a museum that houses over 700 reptiles, a nature park that serves as a conservatory to endangered creatures like the Samba deer and the Sunda pangolin, and a plethora of unrivalled dining spots. Whether you are seeking a respite from the city or looking to embark on a learning journey, Yio Chu Kang has something for everyone.  RECOMMENDED: The ultimate guide to Jurong and The ultimate guide to Dempsey Hill

Jurong Industrial Estate – and consequently Jurong New Town – has been the beating heart of Singapore’s manufacturing sector since the 1960s. But it’s not all factories, ports and shipyards. Composed of Jurong East, Jurong West, Boon Lay and Pioneer, the area was once a swampland home to mudskippers, horseshoe crabs and – as rumour has it – crocs. Now, it’s known as Orchard Road in the West thanks to numerous shopping and dining options to die for. That’s not forgetting the pockets of lush greenery for all to enjoy. RECOMMENDED: The best parks in Singapore and the best hiking trails in Singapore

Located between Toa Payoh and Sennett Estate, Potong Pasir is one of the rare few estates left in Singapore that is seemingly void of mega malls and tall buildings. In fact, residents living in the neighbourhood often cite the estate’s laidback kampong charm as one of the main reasons why they love living in the area. Other plus points include its convenient location in the central region of Singapore and its close proximity to a slew of amenities as well as to nature and greenery. Here are some places to explore when you are in the hood.  RECOMMENDED: The ultimate guide to City Hall and The ultimate guide to Yishun

Located right beside the historic Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum, this under-the-radar café is the perfect spot to hang out with friends over well-executed brunch fare and coffee. The Food Peeps Coffee and Deli offers an extensive menu comprising brunch favourites with a twist like rendang on toast ($15) and 3-cheese rosemary waffle ($16), and heartier items like creamy chicken pesto ($16). There are also plenty of healthy options available like the acai bowl ($11) and grilled halloumi & mushroom salad ($15). While the coffee is good, their speciality iced drinks, especially the sea salt litchi lemonade ($6), are perfect thirst quenchers for the afternoon heat.

If you appreciate a bowl of good pho, check out this unassuming eatery located at Fook Hai Building on the corner of Upper Hokkien Street and South Bridge Road. Run by a lady chef who hails from Ho Chi Minh, May Pho Culture serves authentic Vietnamese dishes that are so good that even Vietnamese locals endorse them. We tried the beef tenderloin pho ($17.90) and it’s safe to say that it was  one of the best phos we’ve ever had – the soup was herby, robust and full of flavour, while the beef was juicy, tender and cooked to perfect doneness. For pocket-friendly options, try the beef brisket pho ($12.90) or the chicken supreme pho ($11.90). The fresh spring rolls ($9.90) are equally impressive, chock-full of pork slices, shrimp and rice noodles.

For quality brunch fare at pocket-friendly prices, Afterwords is the place to be. Spacious and inviting, the 50-seater spot serves excellent coffee brewed from beans by Common Man Coffee Roasters, as well as ice cream from the famed Fatcat Ice Cream Bar. For those craving something savoury, there is a variety of brunch options like the everything on a waffle ($16), comprising crisp and fragrant pandan waffle topped with scrambled eggs and sausages. Alternatively, the chix in a waffle ($11), featuring fried chicken and sunny-side-up egg sandwiched in a half-waffle, is a hearty and comforting treat that will satisfy even the most discerning taste buds. If you prefer to stick to sweet options, for the love of French toast ($15) is a must-try, consisting coffee-infused brioche French toast served with berry compote, almond flakes and maple syrup. You can request to add a scoop of ice cream at an additional cost – the espresso and dark chocolate are crowd favourites that pair perfectly with the toast.

Located on bustling Pagoda Street, Fortune Court is a 38-seater Cantonese restaurant run by a group of former staff from Peony Jade who lost their jobs when the Clarke Quay outlet shuttered during the pandemic. Serving refined Cantonese cuisine prepared with premium ingredients, the dishes are similar to the ones served at Peony Jade, such as the eggplant with floss appetiser ($9.80), the XO lobster ee fu noodles ($58.80 for small), and the egg white conpoy with crab meat ($18.80 for small). Their dishes are designed for sharing, so come in a larger group to try more signature dishes like the white pepper crab (seasonal price). Prepared using Sri Lankan crabs, the meat is fresh, plump and sweet. Diners can choose to have their crabs cooked in other ways like steamed with garlic and egg white or tossed with sauces like salted egg.

Established in 1929, Spring Court is the oldest family-run restaurant in Singapore. First opened at Great World Amusement Park as Wing Choon Yuen, it is now run by third-generation owner Mike Ho in a four-storey heritage shophouse along Upper Cross Street. Instead of classic Cantonese cuisine, the establishment serves Singaporean-Chinese food, which Ho explains is a touch more spicy, “Our food reflects the tastes of Singaporeans who are accustomed to Indian and Malay flavours, and the different Chinese dialect groups like the Hokkiens and Teochews.” Notable dishes to try include the traditional popiah ($8.50), yam ring with mixed vegetables and prawns ($42), Singapore’s chilli crab in claypot (seasonal price), and the crab meat roll with chicken liver and salted egg ($15.80 per roll). We recommend saving some space for dim sum, which is masterfully prepared by chefs who have been with the restaurant for over two decades.   

Meat lovers will want to bookmark this no-frills Korean BBQ buffet spot along Kreta Ayer Road that offers free flow quality meats and sides at only $34.90 per person. We like how the establishment uses charcoal grills instead of gasoline ones, lending a distinctive smoky flavour to the meats. There is an extensive selection of meats that diners can choose from including beef brisket, beef bulgogi, spicy pork belly, shoulder loin and more. If you still have space for more meat, try the pig trotters ($47) – the meat, cooked for hours in a pot of homemade braise sauce, is moist, fork tender and full of flavour. As with every Korean meal, the buffet includes free-flow side dishes like kimchi, seasoned spinach, and seasoned bean sprouts among others.

  Launched by duo Vincent Tay and Dale Thia, Wunderfolks started out as a home-based business after the circuit breaker in 2020, offering impeccable homemade tarts that taste as good as they look. Since then, the business has grown to include four stores islandwide and their menu now offers a wider selection of pastries including viennoiseries, croissants, choux and other seasonal bakes. All their tarts are handmade from scratch – from the dough to the tart shell and filling, everything is made in-house with the best quality ingredients. The result is a scrumptious golden-brown crusted tart that features a beautiful crumbly texture and buttery flavour. Try their best seller, the mixed fruit tart ($45), filled with creme patissiere and topped with peach slices, grapes, strawberries and blueberries. If you can’t decide between the chocolate or fruit tart, go for the signature duo flavour ($45), offering the best of both – half fruit and half chocolate.

Traditional bakeries that offer nostalgic flavours are few and far between in Singapore, so Hung Huat Cakes and Pastries, tucked away in Sims Vista Hawker Centre, is a real gem. Run by husband-and-wife duo Mr. Sim Heng Hung and Madam Liau Cheok Wan and their son Mr. Sim Wei Jie, the shop offers handcrafted treats like tau sar piah, sun cake, lao po bing (wife cake), Teochew crispy yam mooncake and more – all made fresh daily. Notable favourites among regulars include the tau sar piah, featuring generous portions of either sweet or salted mung bean filling, encased with a scrumptious flaky crust; as well as the Teochew crispy yam mooncake, boasting a layered and flaky crust that crumbles easily with every bite, revealing a delightful filling of smooth and fragrant yam paste made from scratch. Be sure to grab a box of the black sesame mochi, a traditional Teochew steamed mooncake that is not easily found these days as they are quite tedious to make.

A place of worship for the god Shiva – a deity known as the master of fertility, poison and medicine, this 173-year-old temple was originally located in Potong Pasir from where it was moved three more times before settling in its present location in front of Paya Lebar MRT station. Designed by a group of renowned North and South Indian architects, the temple is built from thousands of pieces of hand-carved marble and limestone and features intricate hand-carved details on its dome-like ceiling. Apart from its magnificent architecture, there is plenty more to see and discover within the temple – you’ll find ancient wisdom of Hinduism represented through an array of paintings and traditional artworks.

The 8th Floor Ceramics Studio is helmed by renowned Singaporean artist Alvin Tan Yuan Kiat. Providing a comprehensive wheel-throwing course designed for beginners, it's a great place to start your journey with pottery. Comprising 20 sessions (three hours each) in total, the course is split into two parts: Phase I: Domestic Objects – Beginners and Phase II: Decorative Objects. Upon completion of all hands-on sessions, participants will have a good understanding of how to turn clay into ceramics, and they will also acquire the skills required to produce functional and beautiful ceramic wares.

Foo Hai Ch’an Monastery is touted as one of the most stunning Buddhist monasteries in Singapore. It was founded in 1935 by Taiwan-born and Japan-ordained venerable Hong Zong who popularised Buddhism in Singapore. The monastery is truly an architectural marvel to behold, home to statues, Bodhi trees and Buddha relics that are of religious significance. Some notable structures to look out for include the two vajra warriors also known as General Heng and Ha, situated at the main entrance; and the spectacular 9.9m tall statue of bodhisattva Guanyin (a deity who has attained the highest level of enlightenment). Don’t miss the five-story pagoda, featuring decorated statues of Buddha in various styles.

Run by chef-owner Kelvin Low who has over a decade of culinary experience under his belt, this no-frills dining establishment serves restaurant-quality charcoal-grilled Western fare at pocket-friendly prices. Being an avid meat lover, Kelvin is very particular about the cuts and quality of the meat he uses and is constantly experimenting with different ways to cook them to bring out its best flavours. Some signatures to try include the beef brisket ($7), pork belly ($6) and beef cheek ($15). The pasta is also a hit and goes well with the meats, especially the aglio olio ($4.90), cooked to al dente perfection. Check out their ‘Specials’ menu which offers lots of good options depending on what’s available – some items to look forward to include the rack of Lamb ($88) and Kurobuta pork steak ($16.50).