10 cafes with “wah, so cute!” themed desserts to try in Seoul & Incheon, South Korea
6 Delicious and Budget-Friendly Makan Spots in JB
Johor Bahru, Malaysia (JB) is a popular destination for Singaporeans looking for a quick getaway filled with delicious food. With its diverse culinary scene and hidden gems, here are 6 must-visit makan spots in JB that you should try!
#1: IT ROO CAFE
For mouthwatering Western cuisine, It Roo Cafe is the place to be. Located in JB’s historic city center, it has been serving the best chicken chop since 1961. Crowd favorites include It Roo Fried Rice (RM9.90 / SGD 3.00), Fish and Chips (RM18.50 / SGD 5.50), and the customizable Hailam Mee (RM9.90 / SGD 3.00).
Image Credits: IT Roo Cafe via fb.com
Location: 17, Jalan Dhoby, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
#2: ONN KITCHEN
Famous for its fluffy Roti Canai (RM1.50 / SGD 0.45), Onn Kitchen offers a self-service gravy station where you can choose your favorite curries. Go for the Lontong (RM8 / SGD 2.40) and Nasi Lemak with Fried Egg (RM5 / SGD 1.50) for a true taste of Malaysian cuisine.
Location: 29A, Jalan Tarom, Kampung Bahru, 80100 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
#3: RESTORAN KACANG POOL HAJI
At Restoran Kacang Pool Haji, you can enjoy one of the best kacang pool in JB. This dish features seasoned fava beans topped with a fried egg, served with toast for dipping. Try the Kacang Pool (RM7 / SGD 2.10) alongside Nasi Ambang (RM7 / SGD 2.10) or Nasi Lemak (RM2 / SGD 0.60) for a hearty breakfast.
Location: Jalan Sabar, Taman Dato Onn, 80350 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
#4: YUMMY NASI LEMAK HOUSE
As its name suggests, Yummy Nasi Lemak House specializes at nasi lemak. Have a bite of the Nasi Lemak Basic Set (RM10.50 / SGD 3.10) for its delicious sambal and coconut rice, or go for the Nasi Lemak Ayam Berempah Set (RM14.50 / SGD 4.30) for a generous piece of spice-fried chicken.
Location: 104, Jalan Dato Sulaiman, Taman Abad, 80250 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
#5: TONG GUAN NYONYA KOPITIAM
For authentic local cuisine, visit Tong Guan Nyonya Kopitiam. Don’t miss the Nyonya Mee Siam with Fish Otak (from RM14.90 / SGD 4.50) and the indulgent Nasi Lemak Seafood Special (RM24.60 / SGD 7.40). To calm your body, you may eat the hot Three Eggs Porridge (RM13 / SGD 3.90).
Location: 14, Jalan Trus, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
#6: PACHEM THAI FOOD
I recently visited Thailand, where my favorite dishes are Mango Sticky Rice and Pad Thai—both of which are simply delicious. To satisfy my cravings, Pachem Thai Food is a must-visit for Thai food lovers, offering dishes like Mango Sticky Rice (around RM12/SGD 4) and Tom Yum Soup (around RM20/SGD 6.50).
Location: 2, Jalan Dedap 15, Taman Johor Jaya, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Image Credits: facebook.com/pachemthaifood
With these 6 spots, your food adventure in JB will be both tasty and budget-friendly. Enjoy!
Disclaimer: The prices listed in this article were accurate at the time of writing, but they may change as restaurants or eateries update their pricing.
3 accommodations under $120/night near Tokyo Disneyland if you can free yourself for a weekend trip in December 2024
Looking to make some magical memories this year?
If you’re planning a weekend escape to Tokyo Disneyland this December, this article is for you.
We’ve found some accommodations close to the theme park, all under $120/night.
These stays will ensure you have a place to rest your heads after a day filled with magical adventure and wonder.
Queen-size bedroom at Combnoya near Kameido Station
Price: $97/night (for 2 persons)
Travel dates: 6 to 8 December 2024
When life calls for a getaway, answer with this queen-size bedroom near Kameido Station.
Newly built in 2022, it’s just minutes from the buzz of Tokyo.
Once inside your private room, a queen bed beckons you to sink into comfort.
The full bathroom with a bathtub means it’s time for that bubble bath you’ve been dreaming of.
Staying here puts you a mere 30-minute jaunt from the magic of Tokyo Disneyland—a perk that will delight kids and kids at heart from 1 to 99.
There are also several convenience stores dotting the vicinity.
This near-Kameido Station gem makes for a stay that’s convenient.
“Very Japanese” styled room with futon beds
Price: $109/night (for 2 persons)
Travel dates: 6 to 8 December 2024
Craving an authentic old-world Japan?
This “very Japanese” styled accommodation would be the right stay for you and your +1.
Recharge in the residential setting, retreating to your private room complete with classic futon beds.
When you’ve recharged, it’s just 6 minutes to Funabori Station for easy Tokyo exploring.
Tokyo Disneyland is within a quick 20-minute drive away anyway.
After long days spent soaking up Japanese culture, relax even more at the tattoo-friendly hot spring on-site.
With its old-world charm, this Airbnb unit whisks you back in time while keeping you plugged into the best of the city.
Aesthetically pleasing rental unit 15-minute ride to Disneyland
Price: $119/night (for 2 persons)
Travel dates: 13 to 15 December 2024
Looking for a “home base” near the Happiest Place on Earth?
This brightly-lit rental is bathed in natural light and a mere 15-minute taxi from the magic of Tokyo Disneyland.
Great for lovebirds or gal pals, it sleeps up to three (at a different rate) but is most comfortable for two.
While compact, the second-floor unit has all you need for a relaxing stay—even a projector for catching Netflix or Disney+ after the fireworks.
And at just a four-minute walk from Minami-Gyotoku Station, getting around town is a breeze.
Book now to be footsteps from fantasy!
With these affordable accommodation options near Tokyo Disneyland, you can focus on soaking up all the magic and excitement the park has to offer while staying comfortably within a decent budget. A die-hard Disney fan or just looking to enjoy a whimsical weekend escape? Make your bookings early before the dates get snapped up.
Do Dream Jobs Still Exist?
As kids, we’re often asked, “What do you want to be when you grow up?” Do you remember your answer? I wanted to be a teacher, then a doctor, and even an astronaut at one point. Childhood dreams feel boundless, shaped by those we admire such as our parents, teachers, or other figures in our communities. Back then, we rarely considered the skills or resources needed to make them a reality.
As adults, our dreams evolve, shaped by experiences and personal growth. I used to think a career meant doing something I loved, working 9 to 5, and steadily climbing the corporate ladder. Promotions and titles felt like the ultimate goal.
But today, I question whether the concept of a dream job still holds.
For most, work is about earning a living. Yet, the choice between jobs often comes down to personal interests, strengths, and factors like salary or work-life balance. While I still believe in the idea of a dream job, it’s no longer about one ideal position as it’s about finding a role that aligns with my values.
In fact, a Forward SG report shows that the Singapore Dream has shifted. Younger generations now seek meaning in their work, not just a high salary. As Prime Minister Lawrence Wong once highlighted, “The Singapore Dream is more than just about material success…it is also about fulfillment, meaning, and purpose in what we do.” This explains the rise of job-hopping, as people search for fulfillment over financial reward. The path to a dream job is rarely straightforward. It’s often a journey of self-discovery, career changes, and constant adaptation, especially after the pandemic reshaped how we view work.
If you’re seeking your dream job, here are a few tips:
1. KNOW YOUR VALUES
Find a role that aligns with what truly matters to you, whether that’s work-life balance or a fast-paced environment. Understanding your values is key to staying and persevering in the role.
2. STAY FLEXIBLE
Be open to industry shifts, freelance opportunities, and continuous learning as your dream job might evolve over time.
3. BUILD A NETWORK
A strong network and a willingness to learn will help you grow. Seek mentorship and always look for ways to improve your skills such as taking free online classes.
Image Credits: unsplash.com
In the end, no two visions of a dream job are the same. What you prioritize might not resonate with others. But that’s the beauty of it – your career path is uniquely YOURS.
4 best-rated bars in Singapore to visit for that cocktail cup
When it comes to savoring a cocktail, Singapore’s bar scene is waiting to be discovered.
Allow us to spotlight a quick list of best-rated bars with a menu of cocktails that will wow your taste buds.
Let’s roll!
Republic Bar Singapore
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Website: republicbar.com.sg
Google Rating: 4.8 (250+ reviews)
Sitting at the very top spot is Republic Bar Singapore, transporting you back to the 1960s, where each sip reveals a cocktail inspired by the decade’s most iconic breakthroughs.
Sited along Raffles Avenue, this cocktail bar showcases a menu devoted to historical anecdotes.
With cocktail prices from $25, it’s a premium experience for anyone seeking crafted cocktails with a twist.
Republic Bar Singapore offers a nostalgic night out beginning at 5.30 pm daily.
Make your reservations here: sevenrooms.com/reservations/republicsinrz
Cat Bite Club
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Website: catbiteclub.com
Google Rating: 4.8 (100+ reviews)
Cats aren’t the only ones leading double lives—Cat Bite Club, located along Duxton Road, blends the agave and rice spirits with a dose of feline-inspired mischief.
Just as our whiskered friends are a mix of silliness and unpredictability, this spirit-centric spot features agave la and rice academy tastings (available for $75 per person) with a playful, cheeky vibe to match.
Whether you’re an agave lover or a quirky concept fan, Cat Bite Club invites spirit lovers to release their inner cat lady… or cat dude.
Consider yourself warned: this place has an infectious bite that will keep you coming back for more.
Jigger & Pony
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Website: jiggerandpony.com
Google Rating: 4.7 (1.3K+ reviews)
The name says it all—Jigger & Pony is a bar with classic roots. This community space isn’t just for sipping cocktails, but for finding comfort amongst kindred spirits.
Its acclaimed bartenders have been mixing libations since 2012, making the list of ‘Asia’s 50 Best Bars’ every year since 2016.
The identity is rooted in the classic techniques and tools of cocktail-making, like the namesake jigger used for precise pours; yet the vibe is fresh, situated inside Singapore’s Amara Hotel for a sophisticated night out.
Non-alcoholic cocktails start at $22, while standard cocktails go for $28.
This is a space where people connect over mixed drinks and good company.
Make your reservations here: sevenrooms.com/reservations/jiggerpony
Manhattan
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Website: hilton.com/en/hotels/sinodci-conrad-singapore-orchard/dining/manhattan/
Google Rating: 4.7 (930K+ reviews)
Last but definitely not least, Manhattan’s dimly lit, seductive ambiance harkens back to New York’s cocktail heyday.
Ranked among the world’s best bars, it revives forgotten libations and classic recipes from the history books.
Each handcrafted cocktail is a work blended by master bartenders using premium spirits.
The menu draws inspiration from Broadway’s legendary Great White Way, with drinks as dazzling as the bright lights.
Sip a cup with a show-stopping twist, or sample barrel-aged cocktails every Monday in an exclusive tasting experience.
Manhattan invites you to lose yourself in its timeless atmosphere.
Let the good times roll as you indulge in New York’s finest craft cocktails.
And it’s a wrap from us. Make sure to raise a glass at one of these standout spots with your best buds. Here’s to discovering THAT cocktail cup. Cheers! 😉
The Fascinating Story Behind Michelin Stars & Singapore’s Best Michelin Eateries
Who would have thought that one of the world’s most prestigious restaurant rating systems began with… tires? You read that right!
As my father-in-law casually mentioned during a family hangout, Michelin Stars were originally part of a guidebook aimed at helping early car owners find reliable spots along their journeys. His revelation piqued my curiosity, leading me down an intriguing culinary rabbit hole. I began by learning about Michelin’s history and searching for other Michelin-starred restaurants in Singapore.
THE ORIGIN STORY
The Michelin Star rating system, known today for honoring culinary excellence, has a surprising origin tied to the automotive industry. In 1900, André and Édouard Michelin, founders of the Michelin tire company, launched the Michelin Guide. Their goal? To encourage more people to drive and use their tires. The guide provided essential travel information, such as maps, gas stations, mechanics, and most notably, hotel and restaurant recommendations.
As the guide evolved, so did its culinary focus. By 1926, it began awarding stars to recognize the quality of food at various establishments. A single star indicated “a very good restaurant,” and by 1931, a three-star system was introduced to reward the best of the best. Today, Michelin Stars are synonymous with the pinnacle of fine dining, with restaurants worldwide vying for recognition.
MECHANICS OF MICHELIN STARS
Michelin inspectors remain anonymous, visiting selected restaurants multiple times throughout the year. They assess various aspects, including food quality, creativity, consistency, and presentation. Restaurants can receive up to three stars:
1 Star – Very good restaurant in its category
2 Stars – Excellent cooking, worth a detour
3 Stars – Exceptional cuisine, worth a special journey
In addition to the famed stars, the Michelin Guide also includes the Bib Gourmand award, celebrating high-quality food at reasonable prices, and the Michelin Green Star, honoring sustainability efforts.
Image Credits: unsplash.com
MICHELIN STARS IN SINGAPORE
The Lion City’s inclusion in the Michelin Guide in 2016 marked a new era for our culinary scene. At the time, Singapore became the first country in Southeast Asia to have Michelin-starred restaurants and stalls, a milestone that firmly established the country as a gastronomic hub. From hawkers to fine dining, our eclectic food culture became a hotspot for Michelin-starred cuisine.
On that note, below are Michelin-starred and Bib Gourmand recommendations you must try today.
1. Hill Street Tai Hwa Pork Noodle (1 Star, Crawford Lane)
A Michelin-starred hawker stall, renowned since 2016 for its flavorful and comforting bak chor mee.
2. Meta (2 Stars, Chinatown)
Headed by Chef Sun Kim, Meta blends French techniques with Asian influences. Signature dishes include steamed Jeju abalone and Korean-inspired courses.
3. Candlenut (1 Star, Tanglin)
As the world’s first Michelin-starred Peranakan restaurant, Candlenut offers a contemporary twist on traditional Straits-Chinese dishes.
4. Alma by Juan Amador (1 Star, Orchard)
Offering a fusion of Spanish-European cuisine with Asian influences, Alma’s tasting menus highlight exquisite ingredients such as Arctic char and caviar.
5. Thevar (2 Stars, Chinatown)
Chef Thevar’s creative take on South Asian cuisine is heavily inspired by his Penang roots, offering an Indian fusion tasting menu in a modern setting.
6. Les Amis (3 Stars, Orchard)
A pinnacle of French fine dining, Les Amis is known for its impeccable service and classic dishes, offering a truly sophisticated experience.
7. Art di Daniele Sperindio (1 Star, City Hall)
This elegant Italian dining establishment focuses on Ligurian roots, presenting thoughtfully curated tasting menus that blend tradition with innovation.
8. Born (1 Star, Tanjong Pagar)
Chef Zor Tan fuses French and Chinese gastronomy, creating an unforgettable nine-course dining experience with flavors that cross borders.
9. Araya (1 Star, Tanjong Pagar)
Specializing in South American cuisine, Araya highlights native crops like corn and Chilean berries, paired with Japanese proteins for a fusion of flavors.
10. Bedok Chwee Kueh (Bib Gourmand Winner, Bedok Interchange)
It is well-known for serving steamed rice cakes topped with savory preserved radish, a beloved local dish.
Image Credits: danielfooddiary.com
With such a dynamic food scene, it’s no wonder Singapore continues to rise as a gastronomic hotspot. Whether you’re a seasoned gourmand or simply love trying new dishes, these Michelin-recommended restaurants are sure to impress!