Top 5 must-try haunts in 2010
With the advent of 2010, Amelia Guy-Meakin suggests trying something new by exploring hidden pockets of the Lion City and discovering historic hotspots, arty finds and tasty eateries, off the beaten track.
Step back in time to colonial Portsdown Road. This leafy area steers clear of the usual Singapore formality and buzzes with unfettered bohemia.
Idly resting beneath a canopy of mature trees is the Colbar (www.one-north.com.sg). Once a canteen within the former British Army Barracks, this all-time favourite haunt has been relocated but it remains a virtual time machine. Grab a beer and unwind, with the sound of whirring ceiling fans your sole distraction. Alternatively, head over to Pietrasanta's (www.ristorante-pietrasanta.com/) cosy verandah, sip an Italian red and soak up the balmy ambience. Nearby, Soprano (Tel: 6472 2100) offers what must be Singapore's most extensive pasta menu, served with well-priced wines, available in generous servings by the glass. Cross the "border" to France and breathe in the alluring aroma of molten chocolate at Laurent's Café & Chocolate Bar (www.nibschocolate.net/) and shop for handmade chocolates, or dine in to savour a casual breakfast or lunch.
On the art scene, be inspired by the magical world of Fringe Benefits Gallery (fringebenefits@singnet.com.sg) an enchanting gallery showcasing contemporary art. Hire this space to debut your own works - either individually or as a group. Or, pick-up a pencil and a paintbrush and partake in workshops and classes - children, teenagers and adults are all welcome. Alternatively, kids can also hone their creativity at the "drama club" setting of Centre Stage School of the Arts (www.centre-stage.com/).
2. Horse City
Calling a ranch hideaway to mind, Horse City sits alongside Turf City, off Dunearn Road or Eng Neo Avenue. This up-and-coming area is being refurbished, with former stables rapidly turning into cottage industry finds. If your New Year resolution is to get fit, break a sweat at Unleash Fitness (www.unleashfitnessgym.com.sg/). If downward dog is more your thing, check out Om Shiva Yoga (www.omshivayoga.com/) where small class sizes, individualised attention and flexible programmes are fast winning fans. Let the kid's race off to classes at the Brazilian Cultural Centre (www.aqcapoeira-singapore.com/), Tanglin Arts Studio (www.tanglinartsdancestudio.com), Muay Thai Boxing, Kinder Golf (sg.jelita@kindergolf.com) or the Gallop Stables riding centre (www.gallopstable.com). While you trot off to Sylvia's Secrets (www.sylviassecrets.sg/) for a bit of R&R - waxing, nails, facials and spray tanning. Afterwards, settle down for a family meal on the large, alfresco deck of French restaurant, Picotin (www.picotin.com.sg)
Revamped and ready to be explored, the Joo Chiat and Tanjong Katong area is rooted in a history of wealth and prestige. Feast in the quirkiness of this area with its tyre, bike and gadget stores of old, sitting beside new restaurants. Shophouses stand proud, brimming with colour, while the area has an almost small-town charm.
With its jazzy white walls, Naïve (99 Upper East Coast Road) vegetarian restaurant imbues modernity, at little expense. Pull up a seat and chow-down on wholesome vegetarian food, homespun with Chinese flavours. For something more traditional, head to Ubin Seafood. Hailing from Palau Ubin, this restaurant has a simple charm - expect plastic tables and chairs. Stick to island favourites such as the must-have garlic prawns and signature chilli crab. Next door, shop for South-African goodies at The Springbok Bazaar, (www.africasiatrading.com). For a creamy, authentic Katong treat head to 328 Katong Laksa on East Coast Road. If linens and polished service is more your style, check out the newly-opened Private Affairs (www.privateaffairs.com.sg), serving contemporary European cuisine in smart surrounds.
Stop by Rumah Bebe (www.rumahbebe.com) and marvel at creative Peranakan artistry. With its mosaic tiled floors and dusty edges, this cluttered little shophouse spills over with traditional delights from beaded shoes, antique kebayas and ornate jewellery to homemade curry powder. Beading courses are available.
4. Pasir Panjang
Sitting beneath Kent Ridge, in reach of the sea, is Pasir Panjang. For an outdoor dining experience, The Olive Ristorante (Tel: 6479 2989) is tucked away in a quiet corner of Labrador Park. Otherwise, head to the main drag for affordable Italian fare at Donna Carmela (Tel: 6476 3242). Owned by a Sicilian couple, this outlet is the second to open - the first is located at Greenwood Avenue. Sink into the comfy cushions, or sit high on stools with wooden barrels serving as tables in this converted black-and-white. Tuck into a salad or enjoy hearty home-style pastas and pizzas that won't break the bank.
5. Serangoon Gardens
Foodies in this area are in for a treat, as outmoded Serangoon Gardens Village has been given a facelift and will soon reopen as myVillage (www.myvillage.com.sg) - home to more than 20 delicious new food shops. Generic favourites - Coffee Bean, Udders Ice Cream and Bakerzin - will be headlining. However, Serangoon Gardens is set to be the new Holland Village and might even outclass the old haunt. With its homely ambience, this estate has appeal - especially given the nod to aesthetics, with a cluster of shophouse restaurants fringing the new mall. Keep your eyes peeled and your taste buds on standby!
Posted Jan 2010
