MacDonald's Surprise Alarm

First of all, I would like to apologise for the lack of updates in this recent weeks as the bombardment of a never-ending assignment list, which includes essays, presentations, tutorials, and more essays. Perhaps, that was what they meant by the "university life". Nevertheless, I make it a point to check the blog's comments and requests (hopefully) on a daily basis, so, keep the comments or whatever rolling!

Secondly, recently I stumbled on this MacDonald's "Surprise Alarm" app from the Apple store, which features.. wait for it.. wait for it.. A FREEBIE (Singaporeans like this) whenever you set a daily alarm. Note that I say - daily, because Ronald MacDonald probably know how kiasu we are and has limit us to only one free gift per day. 

Nevertheless, this freebie comes in the form of treats, videos, music tracks and more. Don't ask me what's "and more", because so far, I have only gotten a free Kelly Clarkson song (which I have long ago obtained it by illegal means), kopi and hash brown (with any purchase = chey).

(above) Cool interface, huh? The skyline change in real-time every time you slide the ring.

(below) And.. This are the freebies I was mentioning:

For more information on how to get it and Terms & Conditions (which I know no one bothers to read after the first two words), visit their official page here:

https://www.mcdonalds.com.sg/surprisealarm/

Now don't say I never share good stuff hor.

Nadaman @ Shangri-la Hotel, Singapore

With a history since 1830s, the Nadaman group of restaurants has gained renowned reputation on their exceptional culinary arts, transforming the blessings of nature into food. It was a Sunday afternoon when we figured out that we really need to unwind from our busy schedules and what we needed was nothing less than to indulge in a good Japanese meal amidst the serenity. Well, it's high-time to pamper Mum also, so why not.

At Nadaman, signature dishes are meticulously crafted by their Japan-trained chef and like any other Japanese cuisine, presentation are of the highest regards. For value, have a go at their lunch set menus (S$45-75), which includes choices like tempura, wafu steak, unajyu and sashimi. For myself, the wafu steak set lunch (S$55) proved to be extremely satisfying, completed by a good combination of seasonal appetiser, steamed egg custard, salad, pickles, rice and miso soup.

Song Fa Bak Kut Teh (松发肉骨茶) @ New Bridge Road, Singapore

Think of Bak Kuh Teh and Song Fa might just appear in most people's head. This is not surprising at all, considering that their history of selling Teochew-style Bak Kut Teh was deep rooted since 1969. From a humble assistant in a Teochew stall, Mr Yeo Eng Song established the original Song Fa Bak Kut Teh at Victoria Street, and has since passed the duty to his son, Mr Yeo Hart Pong.

Today, snaking long queues never cease to disappear during meal times, while patrons from all walks of life filled the rustic halls that depict the yesteryear of Singapore. Besides their famous pork rib dishes, they offer a variety of braised treats, fish soup and other side dishes, like peanuts and vegetables that would enhance the diner's experience.

Dinosaurs: Dawn to Extinction @ Art-science Museum, Singapore

Step back in time and journey through 600 million years - to an ancient time when dinosaurs roamed the very Earth we are standing on. With hundreds of prehistoric collections, which exists in both forms of life-sized replicas and real fossils, dinosaur-lovers from all walks of life is bound to be intrigued by the many different exhibitions they have to offer. Some noteworthy fossils include one that is found in Argentina just a few months ago!

The title of the exhibition "Dawn to Extinction" pretty much gave a good summary of what you could expect - a journey through the prehistorical periods when the mighty creatures existed, namely the Precambrian, Triassic, Jurassic, and Cretaceous. With a dino-name like Nomsaurus, it's high time to visit some of my distant relatives.

Know Your Beef

Tenderloin, rib-eye, sirloin and what's not. Do you often find yourself in a state of bewilderment whenever you glanced through a steak menu or shopping in the meat section? What and where are those parts from? How and what cooking methods could I possibly utilise to deliver a truly edible meal?

Well... Be confused no more! For I present you with this month's guide of the different cuts and parts of the cattle, their characteristics, the best method of handling, and completed with recommended recipes for you to try.

Image from channel4.com

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.