X’mas Wreath Workshop

Posted on December 16, 2021 by ShenWendys

Hey Lovelies!

We often sacrifice self-care because we are too busy trying to save everyone else. Sometimes we just need to be selfish and love ourselves more. For when we care and love ourselves, we are better able to care for and love others.

To feel better about yourself, learn a new skill. There’s reason to believe that engaging in a project can put you in a meditation state. Finishing the project, or mastering a mini skill, boosts one’s confidence.

I did just that – took the day off and attended a X’mas Wreath Workshop hosted by A Sassy Florist with a girlfriend.

It’s a mad house of fir, spruce, pine and what have you

Mia, owner of A Sassy Florist and mummy to Apple Juice (that’s the adorable shiba who loves belly rubs and head massages). This is her first time hosting wreath making workshops and it has been a sold out success. I was glad we manage to get a spot. Mia makes beautiful hand bouquets/arrangements – Omakase style or some would say avant-garde.

Mia makes wreath making look so easy but it’s not it took us two hours to make a wreath. Mia was very good at teaching us the basics, encouraging us to let our creativity run its course. She was very patient with us, guiding and helping us along the way.

It’s all about your gut feel when making your own X’mas wreath

Milestone unlocked – our beautiful creations

I’m in love with my final wreath – it looks professionally done and very expensive – full to the brim with foliage (pine, fir, spruce, eucalyptus) and elements (deco of acorn, cotton, cinnamon).

As a table display with X’mas candles – filling the house with the smell of X’mas wonderland

We both had loads of fun making our X’mas wreath and playing with Apple Juice! A wonderful experience that I would highly recommend.

Thank you for reading.

Bior Restaurant & Bar

Posted on November 21, 2021November 21, 2021 by ShenWendys

Hey lovelies!

Boat Quay is full of treasure, some of which are hidden and others are just gems in their own right. That said hidden amidst the rows of shops is a delicious Thai restaurant- Bior Restaurant & Bar (Bior).

A visit to Bior feels like an invitation into a Thai home. Minimalist interior design – chic and stylish exuding a warm welcome. On the second floor is a cozy bar where people sit and relax.

A cozy nook for those looking to escape the daily grind of life.

The food is authentic, deliciously tasty, portions are great size and reasonable prices to boot. Dishes are made from scratch in the kitchen only when you order so you can be assured it’s freshness and the quality.

From left: Thai Prawn Cake ($7.90), Green Milk Tea ($3) Crabmeat Roll ($11.90), Pork Collar ($9.90), Minced Pork Omelette ($9.90)

Love at first sip with the green milk tea – Pandan infused neither too sweet nor heavily laden with evaporated milk but instead very refreshing. Never drank such a good milk tea not even from the roadside of Bangkok!

Punchy tom yum soup ($11) packed with the right amount of spices

How to tell if it’s an authentic Thai restaurant? By trying the simplest dish – clear tom yum soup. I had the seafood clear tom yum soup – spicy enough but not an overkill of the senses, packing a right amount of spices and have a generous serving of ingredients.

Pork collar ($9.90) with their house special chilli dip which has a kick

Their pork collar is tender, juicy and melts in the mouth goes so well with their house special chilli dip which is freshly made each time.

Chef was so nice to accommodate my request for an extra serving of chilli dip – it’s damn shiok

The crabmeat roll is a seasonal special and not on the menu. The crabmeat used is Sri Lankan crabs and you can see they are not stingy, the roll is compactly filled with crabmeat! This dish is so yummy crispy on the outside, juicy and flavourful on the inside.

A meal is never complete without dessert don’t you agree? The difference between a regular chendol and a Thai chendol is that the latter comes with glutinous rice. The Thai chendol is rich but not too heavy or sweet pairs very well with the soft and sticky glutinous rice.

Service was impeccable too – the team was friendly, attentive, give good recommendations/suggestions and accommodating to requests.

I personally feel one of the joys of dining out is finding fantastic food and ambience when you least expect. If you missed the taste of Thai food I highly recommend you to try Bior Restaurant & Bar. I’ll definitely be going back again.

Do make a reservation to avoid disappointment.

Thank you for reading.

Oo La Lab ~ Be A Perfumer for the day

Posted on November 15, 2020November 15, 2020 by ShenWendys

Hey Lovelies,

I’m blessed to have received such a unique and fun birthday pressie from my buddy ~ an Eau de Parfum Workshop with Oo La Lab.

The highlight of the workshop was learning to create our own unique and bespoke scent. Along the way we learned about the art of perfumery and also found out that they are the people behind the Changi Airport and Ion Orchard signature scent.

Jon (our trainer) gave us a brief introduction to the world of perfumery. We kick started by sampling the different fragrances using the scent card booklet given to us earlier and learning the key notes in each sample. It’s interesting how some scents can jolt back forgotten memories. He informed us that fragrances consists of top, middle, base, complex plus high notes and the importance each category plays. He was very patient in answering our 101 questions.

Felt like we were back in school in the chemistry lab with 26 scent bottles and apparatuses laid out. The scents are divided into 3 categories –

Base Notes: the longevity of the scent which stays on your body/clothes comprising of sweet and musky scents the likes of “Vanilla”, “Gourmand”, “Woody”;
Middle Notes: sets the tone of the whole fragrance and includes a number of floral scents i.e. “Muguet”, “White Flowers”;
Top Notes: the one that makes your perfume instantly recognisable, though it doesn’t last as long as the base note however it is this scent that makes it memorable.

Everything looks so complicated at first glance

Now comes the challenging part – deciding which scent blends well with one another and fits your personality. Rule of thumb, is to remember the importance that creating a fragrance is subjective so don’t be tempted by others around you of their likes and dislikes. I guess that’s one of the reason why our trainer didn’t want to give suggestions on our concoction?

After much trial and error I finally picked out the scents I wanted. My bespoke fragrance consist of “Woody”, “Gourmande”, “Muguet”, “Tea”, “Fruity” and “Aquatic”. Now comes the fun part of being a chemist, doing the maths for composition then blending the chosen scents into a bottle.

Once your done they will assist in fixing the spray nozzle and cap. What makes it even more personalised is that you get to name your creation! My bottle of perfume is then nicely packed in a bag emblazoned with Oo La Lab logo, a lovely keepsake from an awesome experience!

All in all I had a great time with my buddy. This is by far one of the most unique present I have received.

An Eau de Parfum Workshop with Oo La Lab makes an ideal gift. Not only is it a great experience to have with your friends and have some fun bonding over the art of perfumery but you also get to create your own bespoke fragrance! If you are perfume enthusiast, this is an ultimate experience for you.

Thank you for reading.

The Gallery Bistro

Posted on November 14, 2020November 14, 2020 by ShenWendys

Hey Lovelies!

Sharing with you a new quaint bistro my girlfriend and I visited which have just opened – The Gallery Bistro (part of the Saveur Group). Nestled inside the grand old dame of the former Supreme Court and City Hall.

Wine & Dine with a picturesque view of the Singapore skyline, whilst taking in the afterglow of the sunset lingering on the horizon and enjoy the cool evening breeze.

As an opening special each table reservation made by quoting “Amarone” entitles you to a bottle of Amarone della Valpolicella Wine at $55 which is a steal (normal price is $136) the red wine is smooth, easy to drink and doesn’t leave an after taste. The red wine goes well with everything – truffle fries, oysters and of course steak!

Fresh, succulent, plump and smooth oysters

Food was delicious – good quality and portions are substantial. However menu selection can be improved – with more bar bites options like chicken wings, beef cubes, spam fries etc.

Tender, tasty & cooked to perfection ~ medium rare

The ambience of the restaurant has a Parisian style vibe it would have been a scene right out of “Emily in Paris” if the fairy lights could be switched on.

The restaurant manager, Pauline and her crew deserve to be complimented! Everyone is treated like a VIP! Not only were they attentive, friendly, welcoming, patient and helpful in recommending options. They always serve with a smile (ok everyone is masked up but you can tell through their eyes and their bubbly voice when they serve they are smiling from behind the masks).

Pauline and her crew – surprised me with a cake and sang me a birthday song!

An unforgettable and memorable dining experience! We will definitely be coming back again!

P.S. From 16-27.Nov they have free half dozen oysters! Checkout their Facebook or Instagram for details!

Thank you for reading and see you there!

Le Petit Chef Sheraton – Bangkok

Posted on March 4, 2020March 8, 2020 by ShenWendys

Hey Lovelies!

Last Christmas holidays was spent in my favorite city – Bangkok the land of smiles.

Having heard rave reviews we decided to have an early Christmas dinner celebration at Le Petit Chef Sheraton Bangkok. I have booked us the 6-course menu.

When we arrived we were seated at the lounge, refreshments and hor d’oeuvres were offered whilst we wait to be ushered into the dining room.

Chilled Towels are individually sealed to maintain hygiene

Hor d’oeuvres – Amuse Bouche: Goat Cheese Foie Gras mousse on duck breast with pickled kohlrabi

Dishes were prepared in fusion style with a French base recipe and an Asian twist (Thai, Japanese, Chinese, Indian) in my opinion would have been better if they stick to just one Asian style. Having so many different flavours you lose identity.

Appetitzer – Hokkaido scallop carpaccio, marinated radish, ponzu sauce, finger lime & oxalis

ShenWendys_LPC_Soup — Soup – Bouillabaisse Tom Yum

Main – Boston Half Lobster Gratinated with mornay sauce

ShenWendys_LPC_PreDessert — Pre dessert – Mango sorbet, coconut milk foam, peanuts and chocolate ginger sauce

ShenWendys_LPC_D3 — Mushu the Red Dragon is going to prepare the dessert

ShenWendys_LPC_D4 — Dessert – Rice Pudding Brûlée with saffron, cardamon

It was Natasha’s first fine dining experience, the cinematic and theatrical performance was spectacular, leaving her in awe. Seeing the animation come to live was engaging and fun.

ShenWendys_LPC_3 — Mother & daughter Pre-Christmas Dinner Celebration

Ben and her team provided an exceptional superb service we were treated like Kings and a Queens. We didn’t feel out of place at all Ben gave the narration in both Thai and English (her English was fluent and spoken with ease).

If you ask me was the price tag worth it? Well, not for the food – food was only so-so, don’t get me wrong the quality of the food is there but the way the dishes are prepared are not worth the price you are paying for. But the impeccable service we received from Ben and her team, the unique and unforgettable dining experience are all worth the price.

Thank you for reading.

Seoul Airbnb Superhost – Michelle & Jay

Posted on January 3, 2019January 3, 2019 by ShenWendys

Hey Lovelies!

I want to introduce and share with you a Superhost – Michelle & Jay.

I first stayed at Michelle’s Balcony Home apartment at Sindang Station near Dongdaemum in April 2016 when I brought my mum for holidays. A cozy studio apartment spacious enough for 2 persons. During my stay we ran into a small problem with the bathroom and she immediately sent her husband over to help us resolve.

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Fast forward 2 years later she now has about 33 homes – 10 homes on the 8th floor in one building and another 23 homes in another building (from levels 4 to 6) at the next alley all located at Myeondong area.

Last Christmas during our family vacay I stayed with Michelle again this time at one of the apartments in Myeondong. (Here’s a peek at the studio I stayed).

The location is super convenient – 3mins walk to the train station “Jonggak Line1”, Cheonggyecheon stream is at your doorstep, Myeondong, Insadong and many more other attractions are all within walking distance! That’s not all your spoilt for choice when it comes to food choices the streets downstairs are lined with restaurants from fast food like BHC to K BBQs like Mapogalaegi and Super Golden Pig.

Her studios are clean, well maintained, stylish, modern and smells nice. From the decor you can tell Michelle takes pride in decorating and designing the place to make her guests feel they are home away from home. Adding her own personal touch.

Not once but during both my trips when I asked if she could help to purchase some items online on my behalf to have it delivered to the apartment before I arrive. She agreed without hesitation.

She is always thinking on the guest’s side and provides everything you want during your stay. She’s very responsive to messaging, always there to offer assistance and advise whenever you need. Even with her expanding business she’s still so nice, humble, attentive and personal, not at all cocky.

I highly recommend anyone going to Seoul to stay at her place. Don’t take my word for it check out her listings here and judge for yourself. She always receive positive feedback.

Thank you for reading!

Maanda Thai Cuisine

Posted on December 31, 2018 by ShenWendys

Hey lovelies!

During Alegra Singapore’s opening I had the opportunity to try out some really yummy Thai food which I wanna share with you ~ Maanda Thai Cuisine.

As the saying goes we feast with our eyes first! Not only does the food look good it tastes good too very flavourful and authentic. The way the food was plated and the set-up shows how they take pride in offering nothing but the best.

The shrimp dip is to die for – goes well with everything!

The prawn cake donuts have whole prawns stuffed in them unlike the usual floury ones. Chicken wings were finger-licking good – crispy on the outside and juicy inside.

Papaya salad was refreshing a good appetiser to start off with.

I have a sweet tooth so my favourite was the emerald ruby!

Isn’t it cute they put them in shot glasses – drizzle some coconut milk and bottoms up!

When planning your next party why not cater from Maanda Thai Cuisine? I know I will.

Bon appetite! Thank you for reading.

Steakville

Posted on November 29, 2018December 1, 2018 by ShenWendys

Hi Everyone!

It’s Natasha here, Mummy let me write my own post on her web 🥰

Today I’m going to tell you about my favourite hangout – Steakville! A hidden gem a midst the print shops in Sunshine Plaza. I usually go there after my dance classes, the place is very cozy. It was love at first bite, their steak are always perfectly cooked – on point every time I visit. Drinks options are abundance, after trying out several ones my go to is Yuzu Fizz.

I tried my first medium-rare on their special Brazilian Tenderloin it was great but I still prefer my steak doneness to be medium.

My favourite go to cut on my usual visit is the Hunter’s Ribeye!!

Oh they even had Mummy’s favourite pan seared foie gras.

Now desserts I have a sweet tooth and every meal have to end with desserts. They make a fantastic Milo Cheesecake which I’m craving for right now and haven’t eaten it for the longest time ever. The crust is savoury and sweet, the Milo doesn’t overpower the taste of the cheese😋

Their cranberry macaron are not only pretty they are delicious and not overly sweet.

Can’t wait to go there again and fix my craving.

See you there!😎

Paulaner Bräuhaus Singapore – 19th Oktoberfest

Posted on October 11, 2018October 12, 2018 by ShenWendys

Hey Lovelies!

19th Oktoberfest officially began at Paulaner Bräuhaus Singapore!

Ushering in the festivities was a march-in band by Paulaner’s Nockherberger from Munich playing traditional and Bavarian music.

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This year’s concept is different from the past – its a ticketed event, tickets are sold at SGD68++ which includes a 3-course sharing platter for 2 specially curated for the Oktoberfest consisting of all their signature dishes – of course there is the juicy, tender and crispy pork knuckle!

Appetizers – Cheese sticks, pate, pretzel

Pork Knuckle, Sausages, Meatloaf, Sauerkraut, Mash Potato

Emperor’s Pancakes, Apple Strudel, Creme Brulee

The star is of course the special Oktoberfest brew only available during this period. An earthy, slightly sweet, caramelized aroma starts this beer off in a spectacular fashion. The excellent grain and biscuit-like malt profile gives a smooth yet complex taste and the low (but noticeable) hop flavor is well balanced.

Feeling stuffed and falling into a food coma? Fret not, take a shot of Ziegler’s Williams Pear – (is a schnapps/digestif which help aids digestion) and you will be fit to party the night away.

We got ourselves this year’s new limited edition mugs too! Aren’t they pretty?

What are you waiting for? Hurry on down and catch the band in action before they leave this weekend.

Eins, Zwei, Drei, G’suffa!

TORUK ~ The First Flight By Cirque du Soleil

Posted on May 27, 2018 by ShenWendys

Hi Lovelies!

Sundate was a Mother and Daughter day spent catching TORUK – The First Flight By Cirque du Soleil!

We love matching our outfits and shoes with the theme of the show makes it so much more fun don’t you think?

The show was amazing and there was a lot of interaction between the show, the cast and the audience.

The cast performed inbetween the aisles. Bringing the audience closer into the story line.

They have an app specially developed for the show so audiences can take part and be part of the show. At various parts of the show you will get notifications on what to do how cool is that? We are totally blown away!