Cafe Cartel: Satisfying that late night cravings

The most beautiful woman is nothing but a mere indifference...

But sweet cakes and savoury pastries... They are my weakness!

At times...

I would be caught daydreaming about chocolate souffles,

I would be heard praising tiramisu,

I would be slurping a bowl of red bean soup

I would be seen enjoying muffins and scones...

Ahhhh! I can never seem to get enough for desserts!

I really have a soft spot for them! They have all my attention that's for sure! So much so that some of my friends are sick and tried of my obsession! But well, it takes another dessert fan to understand this mentality...

Soo... After the dinner at Manhanttan, I decided to head down to Cafe Cartel for cakes! Or I should say I've been pressing my friends to go Cafe Cartel with me! Like seriously right? The things I do just to get my hands on some cakes! I think this has become an addiction already! 

But honestly, what better more to end off the day with a few slices of cakes to sweeten your dream? Cakes at half price after 9pm at Cafe Cartel, This is too much of a temptation for me not to miss it! I am taking that Cafe Cartel aren't going to keep their cakes and hence the promotion. All the more I shouldn't waste food!

The classic American Cheese Cake.Words are superficial just to describe the texture and taste... It's good I tell you though I find the cake to be crumbly. But that's alright... It's meant to be that way :)

Feast your eyes with this beaut! The Black Forest! 

You're sexy and you know it! Indeed you are sexy my dear...

I was disappointed to know that those cherries aren't soaked in liquor. Apart from that, it's a fine cake not to miss it!

I had my doubts with Hazelnut Chocolate. It looks pretty plain and for me, any cakes I stuffed in my mouth has to be the worth eating or else I won't have that near me! Well, I was assured by my friends that it's a fine cake and I shall give it a try on my next visit :)

You see I was hesitating if I should get the Tiramisu Cheesecake... But in the end, I realized that Cafe Cartel's rendition of Tiramisu has no alcohol content. Just another espresso soaked cheesecake... I mean what's Tiramisu without brandy? 

So I gave that a miss...

Do not order their New York Cheesecakes! You have been warned!

Coming back to Cafe Cartel's cakes. Mmmm, they are good that's for sure but don't expect too hotel's standards. Afterall, desserts are meant to be enjoy not compare! Cafe Cartel might just best place to settle your late nights dessert cravings. Though I have to say, the half price promotion sure makes you wanna order even more!

Yishun Ten S #01-04

51 Yishun Central 1, Singapore 768794

Tel: +65 6555 7550

Manhattan Fish Market

When I have craving for deep fried dories or grilled halibuts, it's either Manhattan Fish Market (MFM) or Fish & CO. 

The on going debate... Which is better? Fish & Co has more variety and bigger portions but MFM is still cheaper but let's face it. Fish & Co will always beat Manhattan! Clearly, I'm a Fish & Co FAN!!!

Ever wonder why Sardines are the silliest fish the sea...

Because they climb into tins, close the lid and leave the key outside. I thought it was pretty silly but well since it's a joke, might as well laugh it off.

Regular Dory Fish & Chip ($10.90). Classic deep fried battered fish serve with MFM's signature garlic herb sauce. At least that's what they claim. If you have to ask me, there's isn't anything special about the sauce. Chance upon their menu, you might realize that they serve regular or light. If you're baffled like some of my friends were, it's just the difference in portion. In the case of fish & chips, it means having either two pieces or one miserable piece.

How do I know it's miserable?

Because I order it? For the slight difference in price... It's much more worth getting the regular compared to the light! It wasn't enough for me! But well, since we were heading to Cafe Cartel for cakes so better to save some room for desserts right? I will share on my next post :)

Fiery Snapper & Mussels ($13.90) When I saw the photo in the menu, the snapper filets were bright redish brown but here, I am confronted by over-grilled filets... At least the mussels save the day... As least that's what my friend say.

Regular Grilled Catch of the Day, Dory ($12.90). I would agree to their statement they made...

There's nothing quite like it...

Indeed there's nothing quite like it. I meant it in a not so good way. Again, the filet was over-cooked! It's dry and it's tough. The only saving grace for this is the size of the filet. 

Our total bill for five individuals was a mere $40.32. Those vouchers sure come in handy!  I have several bad experiences at Plaza Singapura's outlet. From the constant rationales I gave to myself that they are still catching my fish, hence the long wait. To the rude and impatient staffs who seems disinterested in the customers they serve so much so that I ceased to patronize MFM for almost a year!

I am in the opinion that you aren't just providing food for your customers to satisfy their hunger. It's goes way deeper than that. It's about feeding your hungry customers, ensuring they enjoy their meals through both the food and services...

The outlet at Northpoint did it well. The staffs were willing to answer our questions and they were more attentive, refilling our cups even before they were emptied.

But still, I still prefer Fish & Co over to MFM!

Maybe it's time to pay them a visit to show you why...

Northpoint Shopping Center #02-06/07
Yishun Avenue 2, Singapore 769098
Tel: +65 6257 5507
Opening Hours: 11am-10pm daily

TCC: A connoisseur's concert

After my family's dinner at Shin Minori, we weren't really willing to go home just yet. We took one of those family walk at Robertson Quay and someone merely suggested...

Anyone up for a cup of coffee?

You could see the sparkle in our eyes! Like Hello? We just had a Japanese buffet dinner just half an hour ago? I suggested Canele Patisserie but well, they were already close for the day and so... we went over to TCC @ Robertson Quay!

Colombia Supremo ($7.90). A decent cuppa with a cookie to go by...

Toffee Chocolate Frappe ($8.00) Taste just as it's is...

It was my brother, Eddie first time to TCC. He had a hard time deciding what should he get. I strongly recommended to him the Chocolate of Wealth ($8.00). It's my personal favorite! I find myself getting this almost every time I visit TCC! Just look at the swills of chocolate fudge! As as they say... It's sinful that's for sure :)

What did I get right? Well, I wanted to try something new instead of the always having the same drink...

Marble Cheese Coffee ($8.50). Initally, I thought it was some cheesecake infused drink. I guess the marble cheese comes from the grated cheese sprinkled on the top! Coffee and cheese maybe a weird combination... but surprisingly it turned out great! You slurp some cheese amidst the coffee and they just melt in your mouth! It was a whole new experience for me!

How can we not have cakes while slurping coffee? Strawberry Yoghurt Roll ($5.80) A sponge based swiss roll with chunks of strawberries amidst a thick white yoghurt core and finish off with a layer of snow white cream. A very light cake, not overtly sweet. The strawberries were very sour though...

I find TCC's cakes to be just alright, nothing special but they are cheaper than your usual dessert cafes.

Which means I would often more than just two if I can afford that is.

The Connoisseur Concerto is one of those place I would go more often compared to other coffee chains. It maybe much more expensive than your typical starbucks coffee but the quality is far from it! Remember what you pay for is not just the drinks/desserts/main course but the ambience as well.

You see, there's not a single outlet's that has the same interior design. That's something special about the Concerto :) It's always a new experience at TCC... Only fit for a Connoisseur that is :)

The Pier @ Robertson #01-01/02
80 Mohamed Sultan Road, Singapore 239013
Tel: +65 6733 8707
Opening Hours: Sundays to Thursdays & Public Holidays: 8am-11pm
                         Fridays, Saturdays & Eve of Public Holidays: 8am-2am

Shin Minori: The Japanese feast

I hail from a family who loves buffets...

High Tea buffet...

Cantonese buffet...

International buffet...

Ice Cream buffet...

Italian buffet...

In essence, my family LOVES buffets! I mean who doesn't loves buffet? Apart from those who dreads growing fat that is but at least I don't!

It's the best way to try everything that a place can offer over a fixed price! It just excites me whenever I stroll down all the various food station, formulating a series of strategy of what I should eat more and what I should eat the most!

I don't always eat buffet due to the price tag but when I do, I am usually the last one to say "I'm done for the meal!" with a gratified smile of course. For me, I have develop a particular fondness for a special type of buffet. Japanese buffet.

Simplicity: Behind the extravagant lifestyle...

Not until recently, I realized that many of my friends had these perceptions that I'm...

A boy who loves Glamorous high tea sessions at hotels...

A boy that's forever in search for Delicious but Expensive cakes...

A boy whose lust for top graded sashimi and sushi seems endless...

A boy whom is always seen and heard commenting about his coffee and tea...

These are some impressions that I might have been giving through my interactions with them. There maybe even more I don't know. As much as I seem aloof in always seem to be in my own world, I am actually always paying attention to my surroundings.

Nothing really escapes my eyes and ears if you really want to know. Though, I do find myself in amaze whenever my friends manages to guess what's on my mind. It's as if they can read my mind! Fascinating!

Sometimes you don't have to tell me how you think and chances are I might have already know it. Nothing special if you're a student who sit through a communication class right :)

It's not the first time that I have friends telling me I'm flamboyant. I take it as they way I often portray myself to thme but often a times, not many are aware how frugal I can be...

Your typical three dishes and 1 bowl of soup. Nothing beats home-cooked food. A slice of cod fish, two pieces of chicken and a few pieces of pork chops. Simple but a bit salty I guess... Sorry my bad :P

Don't ask me why isn't there a single vegetable among the three dishes because I was lazy to head down to the wet market to buy it? The winter melon soup makes up for the lacking :) I did it eat the winter melons hor! If you must ask. Yes, I was the boy behind the kitchen preparing this simple dinner.

Behind my extravagant lifestyle, I lead a simple life...I am capable of leading a life of poverty simplicity :) It's just that I just like to lavish myself in the occasional sweet treats which to others seems too much. Well, excessive is just a matter of perception right?

Oh... I lived in a HDB not some private estates which some of you have been asking...

Like seriously do I look that rich?

I maybe extravagant/flamboyant/glamorous/pompous/pretentious/haughty. Whichever jargon you can think off. One thing is for certain. I am not pampered! I am very much independent, capable of cooking my own dinner and washing my own laundries.

I hope this clears all the assumptions people have when they think of me...

Baking fetish III: Is it worthwhile?

Almost every time after I finish baking, I would asked myself this question...

Is it all worthwhile to spend my nights baking when I should be sleeping?

If it isn't... Then what's the answer to my question...

Is it really because I've a fetish for baking? 

NOPE... Not so true... It tough maintaining such a labor intensive fetish

Is it because I enjoy washing the dishes? 

Like seriously NO! It's the toughest job! Especially when you're all beat up and exhausted!

How about messing up the entire kitchen during baking?

How about having my mum banning me from her kitchen for the rest of my life?

Today, I found the answer why...

It all started when I brought four slices of cakes which I've baked a few days ago to school. Because I promised a few of my course mates that they would be able to taste my chocolate cake on the first day of school... But because I was sick so I couldn't pass it to them :( Nevertheless, I still kept the cakes in my fridge. Hoping that I would still be able to honor my promise to them.

I didn't dared try the cakes myself because I was still pretty much ill. I had to resist watching my friends eating it! So don't asked me how it tasted like after a few days in the fridge...

Some told me that the alcohol isn't really there. Well, I added almost 2 cups of red wine into the cake batter? I guess the heat must have dissipate the alcohol content. Maybe I should have soak some cherries in wine? How's that for fruit cake?

Others say that it's great! How great? I don't know. Unless they tell me in detail...

What's left at the end of the day. I guess the picture speaks clearly just how well my cakes were...

Just like any other patissiers or any chefs, nothing brings much joy than to know that your creations little creations has been ferociously devoured! Happy boy I was! 

I hoped that all those who tried would like the cake. 

I hoped my cake recipe caters to your taste buds! 

If not, do feel free to tell me where I should improve on! 

I am always open for feedbacks to improve on my baking skills!

For those who didn't managed to try it... 

I think I know where's the problem...  

 

Well there's your problem! My BFF finished that entire slice all by herself! Tsk Tsk! How greedy :) But this just shows how nice they really are :) Once again, thanks for showing me that all the nights I spend baking is worthwhile...

Forever Hungry :)

Edward, that midnight baker...

Baking fetish II

Argghh...

I was terribly ill for the past few days. So ill that it makes the word ill looks healthy! How well to start a new year right?

Moral of the story: Red wine and Oranges don't go hand in hand...

But thank God, just hours before my food poisoning saga, I managed to relieve my baking fetish!

So what did I baked again? Remember the last time I baked chocolate cake? Some of my friends were telling me that it would be nice if I've paired chocolate with rum. Fast forward a week, I consulted a long time baker for a chocolate rum cake and...

I couldn't get a bottle of rum and so I decided to give this bottle of red wine a try. Fruity with an smooth finish to it. I am not much of a wine taster but I have to say, this one suit my taste.

Rather short I have to say considering that I divided the liquidish mixture into two different batches? The texture seemed almost akin to a chiffon cake! I was surprised to know that it was spongy and airy. I added two cups of red wine instead of just one. Why? Because I was greedy :)

It sure pays off I tell you! The red wine to chocolate content was just nice. But still 3/4 cup of cocoa powder still seems a lot. For I could barely taste the red wine even when my family say otherwise...

Mmm, maybe I am just another alcoholic addict....

This might just be my second last baking spree... I've lots and lots of work to settle, my exams are just round the corner and I've more food reviews to settle too! So what will be my last? Maybe Pineapple tarts? Since Chinese New Year is just round the corner :)

2012: Hopelessly in love

It's 2012 already?

WOW! How time really flies when you're enjoying every single moment of your life right? Knowingly, 18 days has past since I decided to start up this blog. I wish to thank all those who were supportive of me...

I remembered sending SMS to almost all of my friends, asking them if they would read this food blog. Then I have those wonderful friends who have helped me spread the word around as well too. I also thank ALL my family members and ALL my friends for ALL the countless time makan sessions! (Makan means eat in Malay) It's has been a joy eating with ALL of you!

As of today, this lovely little fruit of mine has exceeded 1000 views in just 18 days! It's a achievement I tell you! You have no idea how happy this 18 going to be 19 years old boy is! You have my greatest gratitude! Thank You!

Just hours before 2011 ended, I was feeling rather bored... I so happened to chance upon a application on Facebook. I keyed in my name as I am told and this was what I got...

When I read it, the first thing that came to my mind was this...

Seriously, is it computerized or what? It's dam true!

What exactly is hopeless romantic is right? I went to Google the term and I got this from Urban Dictionary...

This person is in love with love. They believe in fairy tales and love. They're not to be confused as stalkers or creepy because that's not what a hopeless romantic is. All hopeless romantics are... idealists, the sentimental dreamers, the imaginative and the fanciful when you get to know them. They often live with rose colored glasses on. They make love look like an art form with all the romantic things they do for their special someone...

Those who know me personally knows that I'm capable of saying mushy and corny stuffs. Like how I envision a perfect date to be? You can read a post I've written on another blog of mine here. I don't really believe in fairy tales but I do envision a happy ending...

If you're wondering... Yes, I'm in love with somebody. Awww, soo sweet! Who is that girl? Well, that's for me and her to know and for you to find out. Though I think I made it too obvious that everyone seems to be aware of it. So let's not make it too obvious here alright?

I was reflecting all the things I've done for this special someone that I got to know recently...

There's not a single thing that I'm not willing to do. If it's within my means that is...

I asked myself why am I so deeply in enchanted by this angel. I have to admit that she's physically attractive but I have gone pass that shallow stage already as much as you might not believe. Looks maybe important but it isn't everything. Just like my chocolate cake right?

She's sweet and simple minded or in my opinion, child-like. She makes me feel extremely comfortable talking to her just about everything. Her little actions never fails to amuse me. I do not stalk her be it on facebook or following her home. That's not my style of courting someone!

I know you might not read this post but if you do, I just want to say that knowing you is one of those best things that could ever happen to me. As much as I want, I dare not ask of you if we could be together. All I ever ask is for u to stay healthy and happy. I hope the feeling is mutual even though the time isn't right but that's alright I can wait :)

I've great dreams and aspirations for this blog, for myself and for the people around me too! If you might notice, I have been constantly revising each post for spelling and grammar mistakes. I am also learning and practicing my photography skills with my Sony Xperia Neo V. It's not the best but I have to start somewhere first before I can get an actual camera right?

Have a great year ahead! Do look forward to my reviews in the coming days!

Someday, I might organize a blogger makan session like the guys behind ladyironchef and IeatIshootIpost

Afterall, just like I always say...

Everything is possible over a cup of tea.

Course Outing: There's always a first.

If you do not know, I'm actually a NYP student of the Diploma in Social Sciences (Social Work). Yes, your eyes didn't fool you! SOCIAL WORK! I don't wanna go into the topic of social work here because this is a food blog!

Anyway, currently in my course, there's two classes. The years ones and the year twos. I'm in the year twos. We see each other pretty often considering that we share the same classroom? Apart from your typical hi and bye, we don't really talk. For me, I think I gave them a very bad impression. You see, I seldom smile or I seem pretty cold...

So... A few weeks ago, I had this thought running through my mind...

How wonderful it will be to make new friends all in the name of good food?

I created a event on Facebook, titled Course Outing. A simple get to know each other more session and of course, for me to seek out even more dining partners!

On 28/12/2011, a few of us met up for lunch at Everything With Fries. There's basically two main branches. The first one is located at Joo Chiat, opposite 112 Katong Mall while the other branch is located at Holland Village. They also started a fast food concept outlets at Orchard Central. I heard that Bugis is having another branch as well?

We went to the Joo Chiat outlet because I say so :) Joo Chiat is one of favourite hangout spots in Singapore.

Katong Laska, Creme Burlee, Durain Cream Puffs, Pratas, Escargots and even tiramisu! You name it and most likely you will find them in Joo Chiat!

Photo courtesy of Winsome...

Since it's called Everything with Fries, apart from desserts, everything comes literally with fries! You can choose shoestrings over straight cuts fries as well as the types of seasoning. Look at the photo above for choices. But don't expect too much from their fries. It's definitely better than you MacDonald's rendition but that's all. Nothing really special. In fact, it seems that their standard of fries has dropped since my last visit a few months ago.

I wonder why...

We took our time to read though their gigantic menus...

The One Egg Soup ($4.90). In Everything With Fries opinion, a must try. A chicken cream soup that has a tinge of sour cream to it accompanied by a large fried egg. If you ever notice, the fried egg has no yolk? That's because the yolk has been used to thicken the soup.

In our opinion, the fried egg went well with the soup but there wasn't a WOW factor. If you're trying it for the first time, well by all means go ahead. But for me, I would rather use the money to buy their cakes! Particularly their Nutella Tarts! Awesome stuffs I tell you but I didn't get it this time...

Wild New Zealand Breaded Salmon With Original Straight Cuts ($13.90). Being a salmon fan myself, I can easily tell a well cooked salmon from a not so well cooked one. They say there's a difference between farm raised and wild salmon. Unless you're a food connoisseur, you won't really tell much of a difference.

At least I can't...

From the color of the meat, I could tell that it's not fully cooked. But that's the essence of eating salmon. It's flaky but it's soft and it retains the full flavors of the fish.

Grilled Pork Chop With Curry Powder Shoestrings ($13.90). A piece of Pork Chop that is grilled to give that nutty and smoky taste is by no means an easy feat! Firstly apart from inducing the smoking taste to the meat, one has to ensure that the meat retains the moisture and tenderness while not overcooking the meat. See what I mean?

In my opinion, the miso sauce by itself is a bit sourish and salty. The purpose of the miso sauce should be to complement the flavors of the meat. A good combination and in my opinion a must try if you ever pop by.

Lamb Burger ($11.90) or I should say Lamb Burgers since four of us got the same thing :) A fat and juicy piece of lamb sitting in between two homemade bread. The tomato and onion relish adds a tinge of sweetness and sourness with every bite. The meat itself was not tough as I might have expected. Again, looks can be deceiving...

When it comes to burger, some prefer lifting the whole thing happily munch on it. Some prefer dissecting the it into smaller portions. Whichever way you decide, there's no right or wrong! What matters is we are enjoying every moment with our burger!

All in all, the price seemed to increased by a lot since my last visitation of the place. The fries doesn't taste as good before. I am guessing that the landlord might have increased their rental but still, that doesn't mean the quality should be compromised right?

After a few hours of chatting, we decided to head down to Tom's Palette for Ice Cream! I've always had a love- hate relationship with Tom. They have discounted rates for almost all students other than NYP!

It's unfair!!! But still I always find my way back... Licking ice creams after ice creams! I guess that's what happen when you fall in love...

At Tom's Palette, I would usually get myself a medium cup with 2 flavors which cost me $4. Compared to Udders and other more famous Ice Cream cafes. It is definitely worth the money when you're running low on budget!

A note to all, it's always important to try your ice creams before you buy and savour it! Especially when you get 2 flavors. Either complementing or contrasting. Don't believe me? Try it yourself then...

Darkish and intense Chocolate Sorbet paired with a sourish tangy lemon vanilia...

Salty Yuzu and Matcha. It's refreshing. It's enchanting. It's thrilling. An all time personal favorite combination!

The star of the session... Rum & Raisins. My two friends spent an hour talking about their fantasies about Rum & Raisins! It's unbelievable how Rum and Rasin be the topic of everything! So I asked my friends this question.

Edward: Would you choose Rum & Raisins or your Girlfriend?

Friend1: Mmm... Hard leh?

Friend2: Of course it girlfriend lah!

Edward: So you can bring share Rum & Rasins with your girlfriend right?

Indeed, Rum & Rasin is like any other relationship. Rum by itself is good but Raisin complements Rum to make it even better! 

A time well spent. The numbers maybe small but it's the quality of time we spend laughing and chatting that counts. Nevertheless, I look forward to having another great time again soon!

Everything With Fries
458 Joo Chiat Road, Singapore 427671
Tel: +65 6345 5034
Opening Hours: 12pm-10 pm daily
                         Fridays, Saturdays and Eve of PH: 12pm-10.30pm

Tom's Palette
Shaw Leisure Gallery #01-25
100 Beach Road, Singapore 189702
Tel: +65 6296 5239/ +65 9070 7701
Opening Hours: Mondays to Thursdays: 12pm-9.30pm
                         Fridays to Saturdays: 12pm-10pm
                         Sundays: 1pm-7pm
                         Closed on the last Sunday of the Month

Ya Hua Bak Kut Teh Eating House

I've been feeling cold recently...

Immediately I remembered this particular conversation I've saw on Youtube a few months ago...

E: Does cold exist, Professor?

P: What kind of question is this? Of course it exist. Have you never been cold?

E: In fact, cold does not exist. 

E: According to the law of physics, what we consider cold is in reality the absence of heat.

The E refers to Einsein not Edward. You can watch this video clip here.

Indeed, what we consider cold is in reality the absence of heat. So how do we introduce heat?

By eating of course but then again, eat what? The first thing that came to my mind was a bowl of piping hot and pepperish spicy Bak Kut Teh! So, with my beloved aunt's recommendation, she brought us to Ya Hua Bak Kut Teh Eating House.

It's all about having fleshy pork ribs soaking all the essence of the spicy soup. A happy boy I was, happily stripping off every bit of meat off the bone! Apparently, there's a way to make your soup more spicy or less spicy. If you want it more spicy, simply stir the soup before you drink. 

If not, just wait for the sediments to sink all the way to the bottom before dunking your spoon into it.

Duh! Common sense right?

Pig's kidney. It's soft and chewy but there's nothing really special about it if you want to know. The kidneys didn't really soak up the essence of the soup that well compared to pork ribs. Nevertheless, it was fresh.

My family has very high expectations when it comes to eating pork trotters. The fatty meat to lean meat ratio has to be perfect! We like our trotters to have slightly more lean meat to chew on while a reasonable amount of fatty meat to intensify the taste.

For those who are health conscious, well, this bowl of trotters might suit you. There's more lean meat compare to fatty meat. Just like the ribs, the meat have already soaked up all the essence of the soy broth.

In my opinion, a must have when you are having Bak Kut Teh. Fresh fried and not stale You Tiao (Deep fried dough fritter). It would seem very weird not to have them.

It's amazes how I would watch my fitter whenever intensely as I dip it into the soup. You gotta ensure that your you tiao doesn't get over soak and disintegrate. Not to mention guarding it from potential lazy bums who just wants to grab yours instead!

All in all, the dishes were rather satisfying. Apart from the dark soy sauce. I was baffled why their dark soy sauce looks like light soy sauce? My definition of a premium dark soy sauce has a dark reflective tone and it must be thick one...

They got the darkish reflection right but the thickness...

This photo clearly shows what I am telling. A premium dark soy sauce in my opinion, will coat the meat with thick sauce and not merely stains it. So when you wanna have a bowl of bak kut teh, simply drop by Isetan Office Building...

Isetan Office Building #01-01/02
593 Havelock Road, Singapore 169641
Tel: +65 6235 7716
Opening Hours: Tuesdays & Thursdays: 11am to 2am
                         Wednesdays, Fridays & Saturdays: 11am to 3am
                         Sundays: 11am to 10pm
                         Closed on Mondays

Shhh... My secret fetish

Alright Alright!
I shall confess to you!
I've a secret fetish... I LOVE TO BAKE!

Everyone knows that I'm obsessed with desserts and cakes.
But not everyone knows about my compulsion to bake!

So why disclose my sweet little fetish now?
When I actually decide to begin baking, I only wanted to bake for those people who are important to me...
My rationale was that such good stuffs should only be spread among those whom you care...

Selfish isn't it? But it was practical I tell you!
Look at the number of friends who wants me to bake and bake?
It's mental I tell you!

But after talking to someone who in my opinion, is the most important person in my life...
This important person actually made this statement that made me feel so ashamed...

I think it's a joy to let everyone try your baking! 
Desserts always have a way of making someone's day!

I totally agree with you!
I've forgotten why in the first place I love desserts!
I've seen miracles happening in my dull and boring life with the introduction of desserts!
I've made many friends whom I never could imagine!
That's the magic of desserts!

I can open your eyes...
Take you desserts by desserts...
Panna Cotta and Tiramisu...
On a magic tea session!

Yes, I'm a boy who loves high tea as well :)
Well, enough singing... I shall tempt all of you with what I've baked...

A HUGE Chocolatey Cake!
It may look burnt but don't be decieved!
That because I increased the amount of Cocoa Powder in my recipe.
Trust me, it's dense and moist and chocolatey!

Chocolate cake and a cup of hot green tea for breakfast anyone?

Never judge desserts just by it's appearance...
Looks can be deceiving!
I was taken aback just how chocolatey it was when I had my first bite...

To sum up my whole experience with the cake...
It would be like eating a really dense and moist chocolate pound cake.

A whole new cake...
That's what I bake...
A thrilling chase...
A wondrous cake...
For you and me... ;)

Yes if you were wondering where did I get the lyrics,
I adapted it from A Whole New World...

Tampines: Where family meets food

"People who stays in the east side never seem to venture out of their comfort zone.."

A statement I always hear from my friends who stays in the west or north side of Singapore...

Indeed... But those west and north friends of mine ever wonder why? Let this Tampines boy tell you then. First you have Bedok which in my opinion is the most important part of the region. We all know how famous Bedok Hawker food are right? Let's not forget about the ever popular Old Airport Hawker Center as well!

Then you have Joo Chiat and East Coast. One of those few streets left in Singapore that still retains rows after rows of shophouses. Did I tell you that some of Singapore's best cakes and sweet pastries are located at such shophouses? It's a desserts lover playground!

Of course how can I ever not mention my hometown, Tampines? With 3 shopping centers to boost and an additional 3 mega malls to shop and dine? Let's not forget Tampines Round Market and Food Center alright? One of my favourite ice cream cafe, BLIC Ice Cream Cafe is within walking distance of my house too! *Update: Blic @ Tampines has closed down. Apparently, I called them up and realised they moved to Simpang Bedok.*

See what I mean? The east is where good friends meet good food!

Since I am on the topic of Tampines, remember yesterday's post about Ikea? A few hours before my family decides to go Ikea for tea... We were actually having brunch at one of the coffeeshops within the vicinity of my house. There's actually 7 coffeeshops within the close vicinity of one another! That's one new place to try out everyday! Not for me though. I tried almost all of them.

I can easily tell you which stalls sells the best Bak Chor Mee (Minced Meat noodles). Where's the best and worth those calories western food! Where to satisfy your graving for sinful Pratas and Murtabaks!

There's one such coffeeshops around the vincity that's always crowded in the morning. It was used to be known as Ang Keong Coffeeshop, a family owned business but somehow they decided to rent it to one of those major coffeeshop chains...

Somehow, they decided to rename the coffeeshop to 826 Coffeepoint but many residents still prefer the old name Ang Keong... That's nostalgic I guess. Did I mention to you that the owner of the coffeeshop chains owns another coffeeshop also within the vicinity? What can I say other than to tell you Tampines is a food happening place!

I was observing the Indian man frying my order of plain pratas. The amount of oil he spam was... SINFUL I tell! But that's what separates a good prata from a bad.

Deep Fried Chicken Cutlet. Those who often eat with me would know I seldom order deep fried chicken...

That's because if I ever want to eat such a sinful food, I want to make sure it's worth the weight gain! It's crisp, it's flavorful and it's juicy! But no... I didn't touch a single piece of it...

Lontong! I love my lontong with lots and lots of chili! You know spice things up a little :)

 Mee Rebus... Don't forget to squeeze the lime!

Kueh Chap. A plate of  hard boilled eggs, beancurds and of course a heap of pig's innards. Disgusting right?

When I was young, I refused to have an animal's intestine down my throat? But in the process of growing up, I was curious... I wanted to know why everyone loves having pig's innards? What's the joy of eating it?

When I finally try it, I realized how much I've missed out all those years. It maybe disgusting but trust me, it takes skills and technique to wash those innards!

How can Kueh Chap be call Kuek Chap without a bowl of Kuek (Thin rice flour cakes)?

It may just shock people that my family loves to order a table full of food! Eating is such a joyous occasion!

Do note that all these happened barely 2 hours before my family went to Ikea for meatballs and cakes :P

We are forever hungry!

Tampines Street 81, Block 826
Singapore 520826