Poulet @ Westgate, Singapore

Poulet's fans would be thrilled to hear that the contemporary French-themed bistro has recently opened an other outlet at Westgate. Being addicted to their signature roasted chicken dishes since my first visit at their Bugis+ outlet, I found myself going back again and again, each time bringing new parties to savour their offerings.

Similar to most of their other branches, the furnishings are modern-chic and bring little hints of the al-fresco scenery in France, completed with an open kitchen concept where anyone could see the chefs in action. Just one complain regarding the ambience - their lights are too freaking bright.

Recipe: Potato Pancakes

It's been a while since I posted any recipes on the blog, so here's one made out of mainly leftover mashed potatoes, bacon, eggs and cheddar cheese. Yeah, isn't that like the four heavenly kings of breakfast? This recipe is a revamped version of Kelly Senyei's and is simply perfect for breakfast. What's better than to clear out your leftovers and whip out this amazing dish? Well, I can't think of any.

Lei Garden @ Orchard Shopping Centre, Singapore

Hailing from the great land of dim sum, Lei Garden is a chain of high-end Cantonese restaurant that serves fine Chinese dishes and exquisitely crafted dim sum, amidst a classy and contemporary interior. Up to date, Lei Garden has two branches in Singapore - Orchard and Chjimes, both are conveniently located near the train stations. Constantly on the lookout for great dim sum, Lei Garden was a recommendation by both family and friends. Our visit on a Sunday afternoon was welcomed by long waiting lists and dozens of reservations. Fortunately, we were offered al fresco dining (just a nicer word for "outdoors") within 20-minute of waiting.

Their myriad selection of dim sums is quite standard, with the classic range of siew mai, har gau, cheong fun and a variety of steamed buns. Don't worry, picture references are provided if you read on. But for a start, their Custard Buns (S$4.30 for 3) are gastronomically AWESOME. A flowing, good combination of egg yolk custard and salted-egg enveloped in soft, fluffy buns are standard benchmarks for a good custard bun. Well, tick and tick. Custard buns are a must order here.

Know Your Chinese New Year Snacks

Chinese New Year is soon to be here once again, and what's better than all the red packets you can get (unless you are married), and all the festive goodies you could stuff in your mouth? Let see, we have bak kwa, the ever-lovely pineapple tarts and fortune cookies amongst all these glutton's sins.

But do you really know them? Well, in terms of the dreaded calories. But again, it's only once a year (yeah, keep telling yourself that and you will gain some hefty weight in no time!) and you could always exercise those extra calories off tomorrow (there's always tomorrow).

credits: linoralow.com

Eggs & Berries @ Westgate, Singapore

Being an absolute brunch lover, I am always on the hunt for good brunch places. When Eggs & Berries opened another outlet at Westgate - the newest kid in the block of West Singapore, I knew I just had to check it out. Whilst having a weird combination of eggs and berries as their brand, they definitely made their statement when inSing featured them as the top 5 brunch places in Singapore.

So what are you waiting for? Dig in to a world of lovely eggs and berries-filled pancakes here.

Saint Marc Cafe @ Vivocity, Singapore

Since its opening early this year, St. Marc has been my favourite cafe to chill out after a heavy meal. Boasting more than a whopping 300 stores in Japan alone, it mainly sells authentic Japanese pastry, bread and desserts, including their signature chococro (well, we will come to that). Oh, don't ask where is St. Marc, their beautiful glass display of desserts is sure to attract any passer-bys, and probably make them salivate as well.

At St. Marc, there's only one problem: you will be very much be spoilt for choices. For starters, Choco Banana Split is set to satisfy any cravings of your sweet tooth. Here's why you should try out this dessert: One, soft serve holds approximately 10% lesser fat than normal ice cream. Two, there's bananas, so you won't feel as bad while indulging in this dessert. Third, don't ask, just eat.