Makan Kakis with Denise Tan: Recent Episodes
Makan Kakis with Denise Tan
Makan Kakis - Because Good friends Share Good Food!
You're invited to join Denise & her rolling panel of well-loved local culinary personalities on their weekly adventures in glorious gluttony, tempting you with local eats that can't be beat! New episodes can be heard on-air every Thursday from 11am, exclusively on GOLD 905, with repeats Friday & through the weekend. Or you can also visit the Makan Kakis Blog for all the delicious details: https://makankakiswithdenise.wordpress.com/
Hi Makan Kakis! All through August, the moth of our Nation's Birthday, I'm asking the GOLD 905 team which local dish is worth celebrating. We start this new series with the Midday Fix's Young - he recommends fried fish noodle soup and shares TWO spots where he likes to go for his fave dish!
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Hi Makan Kakis! Masterchef SG Judge & owner of Artichoke Bjorn Shen once said this was "the most amazing ayam goreng in Singapore". Since then, La Porpo has moved several times and now, at their new Redhill location, they are still serving up tongue-searing goodness - their Ayam Geprek is a firm favourite!
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Hi Makan Kakis - Love fishball noodles? Try this Malaysian-style version in Ang Mo Kio, where a Pahang family serve authentic handmade, pure yellowtail fishballs and QQ dry mee kia, amongst other yummy dishes. The consistently long queues are testament to how excellent the food is!
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Greetings, Makan Kakis! Can fried hokkien mee that's pork and lard free really taste good? Our foodie friend Sebastian Tan (Broadway Beng) shares his go-to stall in the East that is an absolute family favourite. Try for yourself and decide!
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Hi Makan Kakis, special guest violinist at the forthcoming production of Broadway Beng Twenty Poon Pipi, Lynnette Seah of Lynnette's Kitchen loves this famous Tiong Bahru chicken rice. For good reason too!
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Hi Makan Kakis! This week, we're joined by classical music powerhouse Lynnette Seah - violinist, Cultural Medallion recipient and passionate home cook behind Lynnette's Kitchen private dining. She'll be a very special guest performer at Sebastian Tan's 20th Anniversary production of Broadway Beng Twenty Poon Pipi. Both Lynnette & Sebastian join Denise for a lively chat about music & makan, where the worlds of classical music and getai collide!
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Special guest violinist at the forthcoming production of Broadway Beng Twenty Poon Pipi, Lynnette Seah of Lynnette's Kitchen shares where she goes for her favourite wanton noodles.
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Hi Makan Kakis, Chef Ace Tan of ASIN is not the first (or last) chef to recommend this Jurong Fish Head Curry institution known for their various fish dishes and Teochew porridge. Their fish, in particular, is always fresh and you can choose your preferred variety depending on the catch of the day and also choose the cooking style. Chef Ace mentions some of his favourite dishes at Zai Shun & a beverage hack too!
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We know ayam berempah, but have you tried Masterchef Singapore S2 Winner Derek Cheong's interpretation of the spiced fried chicken dish? He tells us more about what goes into the making of Berempah Bros' signature crispy chicken, unagi and more!
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Hi Makan Kakis, Asin's Chef Ace Tan is back with another yummy recommendation and this is one that comes close to his experience of Hong Kong's beef noodles, with clear soup and beef braised to perfection!
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Hi Makan Kakis, meet our new foodie friend, the chef behind Asian Progressive fine-dining restaurant Asin. Here, he shares more about the restaurant, it's evolution, philosophy and what diners can expect. And he answers my usual fantasy dinner party scenario question!
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Hi Makan Kakis, here's part of of our chat with Asin's Chef Ace Tan and here, he shares a ecent discovery - excellent Chinese dumplings in Bukit Merah Central!
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Hi Makan Kakis! This week, Chef Damian D'Silva recommends a stall in Bukit Merah Central that serves up a wholesome bowl with near-perfect elements - noodles, sauce, fishballs - that hit all the right notes.
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Hi Makan Kakis, Masterchef Singapore Season 2 Winner Derek Cheong (who has launched 2 new outlets for his fried chicken venture Berempah Bros) loves this famous Yishun chicken rice. Listen now to find out why!
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For this final instalment of our Makan Kakis in Johor Bahru series, Denise joins actor, entrepreneur & JB resident Hossan Leong for the best bites at Taman Sentosa’s nostalgic open-air hawker street -Sentosa Street Food. Brace your bellies for lots of pushcart dishes including Grandma Ong’s heritage noodles, Penang laksa and herbal roast duck so popular it sells out by sunset. Listen now! Bonus: read the full story & watch the video.
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From hybrid salted egg black pepper crab in a nostalgic kampung to “gearbox” soup at a hand-built cafe under the trees, Denise & JB resident David Ngiau discover that the best way to taste Johor Bahru is to go back in time via the Second Link. Listen now! Bonus: read the full story & watch the video.
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In this new Makan Kakis series, Mediacorp GOLD 905’s Denise Tan & OLI968's Vimala explore a popular stretch of kiosks featuring 50-year-old heritage yong tau foo at Foon Yew Laksa, and Siti Sweet Banana Enterprise's uniquely JB sambal-dipped pisang goreng, just minutes from the Causeway.
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In this new Makan Kakis series, Denise joins writer and Johor Bahru resident David Ngiau on a food trail from Larkin to Taman Melodies for authentic Minang flavours and a spot of cafe-hopping. For more beyond this podcast, watch the video and read the full story here.
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In this new Makan Kakis series in Johor Bahru, Mediacorp OLI 968’s RJ Vimala shares a favourite JB spot for authentic South Indian flavours. Ever tried of tawa briyani and tookuchatti? It was a first for Denise at Railway Briyani Station - just minutes from the Causeway! And keep listening for other eats found in this seafront area of Stulang Laut!
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In this new Makan Kakis series, I call on foodie friends who live in Johor Bahru to take me where they actually like to eat. First on speed dial was veteran of theatre, TV and Singapore’s entertainment scene, Hossan Leong. Together, we tried some of Taman Pelangi’s best eats – Jombali Village and Restoran Ah Kaw – on this cross-border food trip!
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Hey Makan Kakis! Fancy lightly seasoned steamed fish that's extremely fresh and handled with expert care? This family-run stall in Dunman is a favourite of Chef Damian D'Silva's!
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Hey Makan Kakis, the annual Geyland Serai Raya Bazaar is back with around 500 stalls, 150 of which serving up a huge variety of food - there's a good mix of trending & traditional favourites, so here are some highlights...
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It's been 5 years since Derek Cheong's culinary victory on Masterchef Singapore Season 2 & he has been BUSY! Besides running his private dining business 7 days a week, he's also running two Japanese rice bowl businesses, a trading card company and now, a new hawker stall in Beauty World featuring his take on ayam berempah!
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Hey Makan Kakis, with Chinese New Year round the corner, have you visited the Chinatown’s Festive Fair? This annual street bazaar spreads across Sago Street, Trengganu Street, Smith Street, Temple Street & Pagoda Street, with lots of seasonal products to stock up on, from decorations to clothes to of course, snacks! Denise checks out some of the tastiest treats worth trying...
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Hi Makan Kakis, Chef Damian D'Silva really enjoys the perfect combination of noodles and sauce at this wanton mee stall. Found in Upper Boon Keng Market & Food Centre, it has that traditional taste and is wallet-friendly!
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Hi Makan Kakis, our Foodie Friend and champion of local heritage cuisine is back! Masterchef Singapore Judge Damian D'Silva chats with Denise about the evolution of his brand with a new restaurant that pays tribute to his culinary inspiration, Granddad Gilmore D'Silva. Find out why it's such a proud full circle moment to open at the National Gallery and what to expect from the menu that celebrates his family's Singaporean & Eurasian roots. Plus: Chef's insights from his "long, hard road" to navigating Singapore's F&B industry.
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Hi Makan Kakis, our foodie friend, Chef-Owner of modern Thai Im Jai by Pun Im, Vincent Pang recommends this really excellent, ingredient-packed bak chor mee in Bukit Merah. This relatively new player is really up there amongst the best in Singapore!
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Hello Makan Kakis, here's the final instalment in our retrospective on the most popular makan recommendations of 2025! What were your Top 3 best eats? Chicken Rice, Banana Leaf Fish Head Curry & Goreng Pisang are on the menu!
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Hi Makan Kakis, we're taking a look back at 2025’s most popular makan recommendations and in this second instalment, we're filling up on crispy roti prata, bak chor mee worth queuing for and nasi padang that's available 24/7...
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Hi Makan Kakis, Happy New Year! As 2026 unfolds, let's take a look back at 2025’s most popular makan recommendations. Which hawker stalls and local delights had your mouths watering and your bellies bursting? Listen now for this first part of a three-part series! On today's menu: Hakka Thunder Tea Rice with fried Yong Tau Foo, nostalgic Char Kway Teow, Fried Hokkien Mee & delicate Hakka soon kueh...
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Hi Makan Kakis, in our final highlight from Mediacorp’s SG60 Makan Culture campaign, we checked out this Toa Payoh eatery which was one of the Top 3 winners in the Chilli Crab category! Sophie & Gerald from Gold 905's Breakfast Club joined in to make the feast more festive!
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Hi Makan Kakis, we continue with our new mini food series, featuring highlights from Mediacorp’s SG60 Makan Culture campaign, in which you voted for your favourite hawker dishes! This week, we're checking out one of the Top 3 winners in the Nasi Briyani category.
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Hi Makan Kakis, here's another highlight from Mediacorp’s SG60 Makan Culture campaign, in which you voted for your favourite hawker dishes. This Tiong Bahru stall was one of the Top 3 winners in the Fried Hokkien Mee category!
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Hi Makan Kakis, we continue with our new mini food series, featuring highlights from Mediacorp’s SG60 Makan Culture campaign, in which you voted for your favourite hawker dishes! This week, we're checking out one of the Top 3 winners in the Char Kway Teow category.
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Hi Makan Kakis, we’re wrapping up the year with a new mini food series, featuring highlights from Mediacorp’s SG60 Makan Culture campaign, in which you voted for your favourite hawker dishes! This week, we're checking out one of the Top 3 winners in the Roti Prata category.
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Hi Makan Kakis, this episode gives us not 1, but TWO delicious recommendations from the stars of Dream Academy's The Divorce Party, Andrew Marko & Sebastian Tan! Herbal soup and claypot rice, anyone?
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Hi Makan Kakis, the stars of Dream Academy's The Divorce Party Andrew Marko & Sebastian Tan join Denise for a fun chat about their new interactive dinner theatre production, go-to heartbreak songs, dining with dangerous animals and where they like to go to eat their feelings (herbal soup and claypot rice are on the menu) - amongst other things!
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Singapore's culinary legend - Chef, Writer & Restaurateur Violet Oon came by for a long overdue catchup and tells us more about the 2 new eateries she's opened this year. One is the grand villa-style Violet Oon Singapore on Dempsey Hill and the other is a casual, stylish & homey nook with a great price point at Temasek Shophouse - Bibik Violet Peranakan Cafe.
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Hi Makan Kakis, local culinary icon Violet Oon is known for her elegant, refined restaurants, but her dream has always to open a more casual eatery that gives you vibes of home-cooked comfort. Here. she tells us more about Bibik Violet Peranakan Cafe and the dishes that have become a hit with customers.
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Hi Makan Kakis! The go-to hawker dish of our Foodie Friend, Chef Vincent Pang of Im Jai by Pun Im, is always chicken rice and he's a fan of this one in Tanjong Pagar. Not only is it really delicious - succulent meat & tasty rice - but it also gives you great value for money!
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Giving us bang for our buck is Makan Kaki, Lyn Lee of Awfully Chocolate with not one, but two recommendations! This Joo Chiat coffeeshop houses 2 stalls worth checking out - her favourite fried kway teow with lots of wok hei & taiwan porridge with expertly executed accompanying zichar-style dishes.
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Our new Makan Kaki is a hedge fund manager turned restaurateur-chef, Vincent Pang of private dining experience Pun Im and new restaurant Im Jai at Icon Village. He shares more about his journey from Finance to F&B, signature must-try dishes at months-old Im Jai and why it'd just be a party of one on the guest list for his fantasy dinner party. Listen for who his special guest would be, why and what he'd serve!
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Fellow fish soup lovers may be familiar with this souper popular stall at Amoy Food Centre, but for the uninitiated, Chef Vincent Pang of Im Jai by Pun Im recommends Han Kee for their flavourful broth and generous portions of fish! Slurp-worthy and satisfying, this bowl of comfort is worth braving the lines for! For a shorter wait, get there early, like at 10.30am!
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As we count down to the Festival of Lights, soak up the sights, sounds and flavours of the Deepavali 2025 Night Bazaar in Little India! DJs Nithiyia and Vimala from Oli 96.8 invited Denise to check out the street food on offer and here are some delicious highlights.
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Hi Makan Kakis! Chef Dylan Ong (of restaurants The Masses & Choon Hoy Parlor) comes from a proudly Teochew family of hawkers, so he knew what he was talking about when he recommended this one-woman-operation at Albert Centre Food Centre for BRAISED DUCK RICE! Good news: after 3 months of closure for refurbishment, the food centre has finally re-opened, so you can pop by to try it for yourself!
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Hi Makan Kakis, owner of Mr Onigiri Marvin Fam is back with a firm favourite of his family's - teppanyaki with a Taiwanese twist. Think sizzling hotplates of flavourful meats with sides and your choice of pasta or rice at affordable prices from this Woodlands kopitiam stall!
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Tinoq Russel Goh and Dylan Chan (the duo behind lifestyle brand Pasir Panjang Boy) have been busy with their Peranakan-inspired private dining residency at the Heritage Room in collab with Orchard Rendezvous Hotel, but returned to recommend this delicious wanton mee. It wins nostalgia points with Tinoq who says it tastes just like the kind we grew up with in the 60s & 70s! Listen to find out why they love this Telok Blangah stall so much.
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In this second part of our chat, we find out if life imitates art - can the star of Fried Rice Paradise - the Makan Party cook? And what would Serene's fantasy dinner party be like - who's on her guest list, what food is she serving and what's on the playlist? Think home-cooked favourites, jet skis and a famous British Dame!
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Hi Makan Kakis, owner of Drips Bakery Cafe Jessica Tan returns this week to recommend one of her favourite places to go for prawn mee soup. The stock is what keeps bringing her back and if you prefer it the dry version of noodles, they are so worth the calories!
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Hi Makan Kakis, we may be familiar with the more robust Teochew-style soon kueh, but have you tried Hakka-style ones? These are delicate, thin-skinned versions made from taro and absolutely delicious! Actress Serene Chen has Hakka roots and recommends this specialty stall for all manner of comforting Hakka delicacies including abacus seeds and yam porridge!
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Hi Makan Kakis, today we chat, delightfully & deliciously, with Serene Chen who is playing Fried Rice Boss Lady Poh Bee Lean in SRT's FRIED RICE PARADISE - THE MAKAN PARTY, featuring songs by Dick Lee! She tells more about this dinner theatre production and why it's worth snapping up the last few remaining seats before the show closes this Sunday 14th September!
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Hi Makan Kakis, Drips Bakery Cafe owner Jessica Tan is back this week to recommend a childhood favourite from her beloved Tiong Bahru neighbourhood - this couple have been serving up delicious char kway teow to the community since the 1980s!
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Taufik Batisah was our very special guest this week and he popped by to tell us more about his performance at the National Day Concert (catch up on Mewatch or Mediacorp Entertainment Youtube). From singing and song writing to real estate, interior design and F&B, he also catches us up on what's driving him now (look out Singapore, the Taufik Empire is growing!). And for the Nashville-style fried chicken fans, Taufik's Chix Hot Chicken has a new, much bigger outlet. Listen now for the details! And do check out Part 2, where he recommends a good place to go for dum briyani, Makan Kakis!
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First Singapore Idol, Realtor and owner of Chix Hot Chick'n Nashville-style fried chicken, Taufik Batisah tells us why he enjoys the mutton shank dum briyani at Cahaya Timur in Changi Village!
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Hi Makan Kakis! Peranakan Chef Philip Chia returns with a favourite that's close to home - Hokkien Mee recommended by a taxi driver who got him hooked on this Clementi Avenue 2 stall that also serves up prawn noodles and char kway teow.
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Hi Makan Kakis! Our new Foodie Friend & Founder of Drips Bakery Cafe, Jessica Tan, took me on a mini tour of her Tiong Bahru, where her flagship bakery is located and recommends a place she brings her guests from out of town for excellent zichar. Por Kee Eating House is a Tiong Bahru Institution known for their wide variety of seafood dishes, champagne pork ribs and Jessica's favourite, their yam basket. Listen for more!
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Hi Makan Kakis, our new Foodie Friend, The Peranakan Chef Philip Chia really enjoys the perfect balance of chilli and vinegar at this wildly popular Ghim Moh noodle stall. Listen for all the details!
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Chef Philip Chia was the food consultant for Mediacorp's Channel 8 blockbuster Emerald Hill. Enjoy specially curated dishes inspired by the show through his Peranakan buffet, now on till 17 August at Shangri-La Hotel Singapore's The Line restaurant!
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Marvin Fam, Founder of Mr Onigiri is back with this recommendation for his family's go-to noodle place. Springy, QQ and available in white/ red/ black sauces, this Sarawak-style dish is both colourful & tasty!
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Hi Makan Kakis, this is a hidden gem in the true sense of the word - tucked away in the basement of a building perhaps better known now for its learning centres. Not far from Newton is Balmoral Plaza along Bukit Timah Road, where you'll find Shanghai Pudong Kitchen, an institution that's been serving up tasty dishes like dumplings, drunken chicken and fresh fish for more than two decades now. With thanks to Chef Ming Tan for this recommendation!
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Our new Makan Kaki, Mr Onigiri's founder Marvin Fam, highly recommends this breakfast joint located conveniently near where he lives in Seng Kang. But it's not just convenience that keeps him going back almost daily - Happy Go Nasi sees consistently long queues for their delicious economy bee hoon and rice with dishes. Be sure to add lots of sambal for a satisfying meal!
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Hi Makan Kakis, meet our new Foodie Friend, the founder & director of Japanese rice snack brand Mr Onigiri, Marvin Fam! The former engineer shares how he and his wife built up their Okinawa-style onigiri business from home-based to bricks-and-mortar stores and also the must-tries off their extensive menu.
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Hi Makan Kakis, in the second part of our chat with the founder & director of Japanese rice snack brand Mr Onigiri, Marvin Fam, he shares his fantasy dinner party scenario and shares his go-to daily breakfast place for great economy bee hoon & rice with excellent sambal!
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An exciting discovery thanks to Pasir Panjang Boy, Tinoq who raved about the soya sauce chicken at this Chinatown stall. Go for the Hong Kong style style chicken, but stay for the beef tendon noodles and a lovely chat with the friendly Chef Xie! He also cooks up off menu items for regular customers and does a mean Pork Knuckle with Nam Yu (red fermented bean curd).
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Hi Makan Kakis, this week Chef Marvas Ng of Path recommends a spot he likes to unwind at after a hard day's work. He grabs a few beers, bar snacks and relaxes at Hue Restaurant which serves up creative and delicious Thai dishes with a modern twist. Oh, and they also have tasty cocktails inspired by the flavours of Thailand too!
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Hi Makan Kakis, if you're looking for zichar faves with a twist, check this place out! As recommended by our foodie friend, Har Har Chicken!'s Lennard Yeong.
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Fuel up on fried snacks at legendary food haven - Changi Village Hawker Centre - before tackling a 22km -long section of the Eastern Coastal Loop! At Million Star Fried Banana, you'll find their best-selling Pisang Raja, dipped in their signature batter. Besides fried banana, you'll be spoilt for choice with other golden-crisp fritters - green bean, chempedak and molten nian gao sandwiched by yam & sweet potato!
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Let’s explore a scenic section of the Northeast Riverine Loop via Punggol Promenade Nature Walk & Punggol Waterway Park then reward ourselves with a hearty and wholesome meal at Hakka Leipopo in One Punggol Hawker Centre. Their nostalgic Malaysian-style thunder tea rice is unique because instead of ikan billis, they use dried shrimp (hae bee). And their deep-fried and generously stuffed yong tau foo with chilli sauce are also a must!
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This week, we’re back on the Rail Corridor—walking the southern stretch from Buona Vista to Alexandra Village Food Centre for The Old Stall Hokkien Street Famous Prawn Mee. I tried their bestselling dry-style noodles with pork ribs and prawns, coated in house-made sambal. Served on the side, a bowl of their special soup. For extra oomph, their signature chilli powder fried with hae bee is a must!
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This week, we kick off our exercise-then-eat routine at the northernmost point of mainland Singapore — the iconic Woodlands Jetty - within the Northern Explorer Loop that links 11 green spaces, including Admiralty Park and Woodlands Waterfront Park. Our quest? Nasi Padang at Pondok Selera by Nurul Hidayah - 24-hour stall in Marsiling Crescent.
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Let’s get on the taste trail and explore a kid-friendly section of the Western Adventure loop because tucked away in the North-West of Singapore is a chicken rice stall that’s well worth hunting down! Ah Boy Chicken Rice stands out for the quality and flavour of their rice. Also, there's some real mastery going on with their succulent poached chicken.
- READ: the full story at CNA Lifestyle.
- WATCH: the full video on Mediacorp GOLD905’s FB Page.
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There’s nothing better than capping off a scenic walk with a well-earned meal, so after exploring the Southern Ridges, let's check out Daliman’s Corner at Seah Im Food Centre – a family-run stall that’s been serving nostalgia on a plate for three generations, based on grandpa Daliman’s traditional recipes. Mee Rebus with Satay and Gado-gado are must-tries, with their signature peanut sauce tying everything together. Also, don't leave without enjoying a Bergedil or two!
- READ: the full story at CNA Lifestyle.
- WATCH: the full video on Mediacorp GOLD905’s FB Page.
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Welcome to a brand new season of Makan Kakis in collaboration with CNA Lifestyle!
In this new series, we’re getting on the taste trail to explore walking routes across Singapore that lead the best eats along the way. In this first episode, we’re taking a walk along the Rail Corridor that straddles the central and northern sections, heading to an Upper Bukit Timah institution for a traditional banana leaf meal.
Karu's is a family-run eatery that's been serving up their signature singapore style fish head curry since 1993.
- READ: the full story at CNA Lifestyle.
- WATCH: the full video on Mediacorp GOLD905’s FB Page.
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Hello Makan Kakis! This week, Chef Sherwin Poon of Scotts Grill returns with a nostalgic favourite he rediscovered recently. He loves this casual family restaurant for its retro decor and old-school zichar classics - in particular, creamy fish beehoon soup and saucy black bean beef hor fun.
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Hi Makan Kakis, Awfully Chocolate & Sinpopo Brand's Lyn Lee is back with another delicious recommendation - halal Turkish food the whole family can enjoy, especially must-try the kunefe dessert!
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Hi Makan Kakis! Our new Foodie Friend, actress, singer and writer/producer of her forthcoming one woman show @fortytude40, Audrey Luo is back with this irresistible recommendation! This Toa Payoh stall is known for their delicious Hainanese Chicken Rice, but the long queues are also usually there for their superb crispy fried chicken wings!
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My new foodie friends are the dynamic duo Tinoq Russell Goh and Dylan Chan, the pair behind the lifestyle brand Pasir Pangjang Boy. Today, they recommend an all-time favourite - traditional handmade sotong ball seafood soup. Listen now for all the delicious, comforting details!
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Our new Makan Kaki @extraudreynary of forthcoming show @fortytude40 stands by her claim that this is the best oyster omelette in Singapore! Listen to find out why now.
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Hello Makan Kakis! Hope you're hungry, cos here's a hearty Hainanese beef noodle treat that's trational & tasty! As recommended by the duo behind lifestyle brand The Pasir Panjang Boy & new snack range Krispilala, Tinoq & Dylan!
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Welcome to Part 2 of our chat with the duo behind lifestyle brand The Pasir Panjang Boy! Tinoq & Dylan had years of experience in the beauty and fashion industries before they decided to venture into the world of F&B. Here, we find out more about their philantropic work, hawker social enterprises & more.
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Hi Makan Kakis! Meet our new Foodie Friends & dynamic duo behind Pasir Panjang Boy, Tinoq Russell Goh and Dylan Chan! The pair are lifestyle influencers with their talented fingers in many pies, spanning beauty, fashion, travel and of course, food. In fact, they've just launched their new snack brand & they're here to tell us about these dangerously addictive tempeh crisps inspired by our local heritage food flavours!
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Hi Makan Kakis, welcome to the finale of this 3-part special, looking back at the best eats of 2024. Here are your TOP 3, featuring glutinous rice ball soup, soup kambing and chapati!
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Hi Makan Kakis, let's continue taking a little look back at 2024’s most popular makan recommendations with this 2nd part of our special. On today's menu: coffee/ stall that also serves up bespoke healthy drinks, heritage brand Nyonya glutinous rice dumplings & excellent braised duck rice.
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Hi Makan Kakis, Happy 2025! As we kick off the new year, we’re taking a little look back at 2024’s most popular makan recommendations. Which hawker stalls and local delights had your mouths watering and your bellies bursting? Listen now for this first part of a three-part series! On today's menu: vegetarian Indian food from a century-old instutution, nostalgic Hakka cuisine, Prata Tsunami & Nasi Padang!
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We have new Makan Kakis, the dynamic duo behind lifestyle brand Pasir Panjang Boy, Tinoq Russell Goh & Dylan Chan who not only have successful careers in beauty & fashion, they are also impeccable hosts and cooks, as demonstrated through their wildly successful private dining experience. We'll be hearing more about their work next year, but for now, enjoy their recommendation for this excellent claypot rice on Beach Road!
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Our Makan Kaki & co-founder of shrimp paste chicken concept Har Har Chicken, Bevin Desker is flying the flag high for his Eurasian cuisine with this recommendation. You may be familiar with spicy, zingy curry debal (also known as curry devil and usually made with chicken), but have you tried meltingly tender oxtail curry debal? It's a devilishly prepared with bacon, sausages, vegetables & vinegar for zing. Eurasian institution Quentin's is just the place to visit for your fix and even better, you can order online and have it delivered for your next festive season party!
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Hi Makan Kakis, Lyn Lee of Awfully Chocolate returns with a recommendation for excellent Indonesian food including Nasi Padang with unique dishes like green chilli beef tendon! Deep-fried street snacks like stuffed tofu, battered tempeh and bakwan sayur (veggie fritters) are also on the menu of this popular Lucky Plaza eatery that specialises in a variety of (soto) soups. Listen & download this podcast now for all the delicious details and check out the world's first chocolate raclette wheel at the new Awfully Chocolate Experience Cafe!
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Our Makan Kaki Chef Sherwin Poon of Scotts Grill is self-confessed obsessed with Hokkien Mee - it's his favourite hawker food and with years of eating and cooking (he does an inspired lobster and sakura ebi pasta at his restaurant), he is confident new-kid-on-the-block Ah Jie Hokkien Mee is one of the best around. Listen to find out why!
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Chef Marvas Ng of Path returns to share his go-to spot for bubbling claypot turtle soup - something Denise had never tried before till now! It's all about the delicate balance of herbs and turtle textures for Chef Marvas, so have a listen and go check out this turtle soup institution in Geylang!
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Co-founder of Har Har Chicken, Lennard Yeong loves these prawn noodles that are crafted with so much care. The taste is light but flavourful and after shadowing the lady behind these noodles for his CNA story, he has newfound appreciation for the dish!
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Head Chef of Scotts Grill, Sherwin Poon grew up eating this prawn mee and he loves it for its simplicity and nostalgia. But make no mistake, it's simple but really robust, umami and satisfying, thanks to the punchy chilli paste!
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How did this 26-year-old chef work his way to helming the kitchen of the brand new grill concept by The Les Amis Group? Chef Sherwin Poon speaks with wisdom and passion beyond his tender years, sharing his vision for his restaurant and staff, as well as what diners can expect at Scotts Grill. He also shares why the late basketball star Kobe Bryant would be on his fantasy dinner party guest list, importance of returning to one's roots and what cooking by his grandmother's side has taught him.
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In part 2 of our chat, Chef Sherwin Poon shares his hawker favourites and recommends a simple, but far from basic prawn noodles that he grew up eating. Adding kway teow and lots of chilli paste elevates the hae mee to beyond just simplicity in a bowl!
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Remember Vasunthara Ramasamy from Masterchef Singapore Season 2? She's kept busy with her private dining experience Cutlery Optional and she shares what we can expect from her home-based business. Along the way, we chat about a wide range of food-related topics, what fascinates her about cooking and why she wants to feed people!
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Chef Varun recommends his current favourite places to eat at in Mumbai - from Coastal cuisine, to Sri Lankan to Indo-Chinese food, he's got you covered!
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Varun Inamdar is a celebrity chef who has had many celebrity encounters himself. Here, he shares why then-US President Barak Obama literally saved his career, how he got invited into Celine Dion's hotel room and details of his fantasy dinner scenario - it boasts a star-studded guest list guaranteed to get discussions flowing!
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Chef Varun introduces us to his restaurants including his first outside of India, right here in Singapore - 27 Degrees West. He also shares his culinary influences and what we can expect at his new Orchard Road Eatery.
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Mumbai's celebrity chef, chocolate prince & Guinness World Record holder Varun Inamdar just launched first restaurant outside of India in Singapore. He joins Denise to chat about his new bistro 27 Degrees West and recommends his current Top 3 Best Places to Eat at in Mumbai, India!
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Our Makan Kaki, Executive Chef of Path Restaurant, Marvas Ng loves the unique texture and punchy kung pao flavours of this famous Geylang Lorong 9 claypot frog porridge. Even better for him, they now have a Sembawang branch, so Northerners, take note!
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Hi Makan Kakis, Chef Dylan Ong of The Masses and Choon Hoy Parlor is back with another awesome recommendation! As a true-blue Teochew boy, he's all about the clean, simple flavours of home and this is a spot he hits up for excellent Teochew-style fish porridge using fresh Batang, with a side of delectable braised duck.
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Author of author of the award-winning book, "The Food of Singapore Malays: Gastronomic Travels Through the Archipelago", Khir Johari returns to share where he likes to go for some of the best satay in Singapore - the secret is in the sauce!
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Fresh from his collaboration with with TEDxSingapore's "The Roving Library", a platform to honour and preserve our literary voices for future generations, author Khir Johari joins Denise to share his insights on Malay culture and identity through history, geography, folklore and FOOD! The author of the award-winning book, "The Food of Singapore Malays: Gastronomic Travels Through the Archipelago" explains why he believes there is right way to order and eat Nasi Padang. Oh and by the way, that might be a misnomer too. Nasi Minang is probably the more accurate term for that style of rice and dishes we love so much in Singapore. Khir also shares his fabulous guest list, menu and music for the fantasy dinner party scenario. Let's just say a Swiss Chef, an Italian Actress and Malaysian icon would be enjoying a lavish 8-course feast!
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Fresh from his collaboration with with TEDxSingapore's "The Roving Library", a platform to honour and preserve our literary voices for future generations, author Khir Johari joins Denise to share his insights on Malay culture and identity through history, geography, folklore and FOOD! Did you know Mee Rebus & Mee Siam are Singapore inventions? Also, discover virtually lost dishes like Mee Maidin & Rujuk Su'un with the author of the award-winning book, "The Food of Singapore Malays: Gastronomic Travels Through the Archipelago".
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Author & collaborator with TEDxSingapore's "The Roving Library", Khir Johari joins Denise to share his insights on why Nasi Pandang may be a misnomer for Nasi Minang. He also shares some of his favourite places in Kampong Gelam to visit for delicious Nasi Minang. As the author of the award-winning book, "The Food of Singapore Malays: Gastronomic Travels Through the Archipelago", you can rest assured he knows where the best can be found!
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This week, Denise chats with Omar Tutino & Egon Marzaioli, two of three friends behind Fortuna, a new casual Italian Trattoria & Pizzeria in Tanjong Pagar. Find out what makes Southern Italian cuisine, specifically that of Naples & Sicily, so unique and what are the must-tries off their menu. Also, what does an 80s Italian pop song and Frank Sinatra have to do with how the guys show hospitality? Have a listen now!
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Co-founder & CEO of Har Har Chicken! Bevin Desker recommends this lesser-known prata concoction that is drenched in curry, sambal and soft boiled eggs!
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Denise finds out more about this new grab-and-go shrimp paste chicken (har cheong gai) concept from co-founders Bevin Desker & Lennard Yeong. P.S. Their recipe is from another co-founder, Chef LG Han of 1-Michelin-starred restaurant Labyrinth!
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Hi Makan Kakis! This week, it's a cross-cultural and cross-culinary affair with special guests Chef Marvas Ng of Singapore’s Path and Chef Thav Phouthavong of Bangkok’s 80/20 Restaurant. Listen to find out more about the Path x 80/20 collab and for more on our chat.
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New Foodie Friend Chef Thav Phouthavong of 1-Michelin-starred 80/20 Restaurant shares a few of his favourite places to eat at in Bangkok!
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Chef Dylan Ong of The Masses and Choon Hoy Parlor is back with a recommendation worth paying attention to. This is a kway chap stall he has been frequenting for decades because of its top quality ingredients and clean taste. His parents were kway chap hawkers, so he definitely knows what he's talking about!
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Chef Melvyn Lee & Denise try traditional kueh like ondeh-ondel and rainbow lapis, plus sweet and savoury glutinous rice at Harriann's, a name synonymous with traditional kueh. From humble beginnings on a pushcart in Tiong Bahru, this family brand has grown to several branches with an extensive sweet & savoury menu that includes hot foods like their must-try laksa...
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Hi Makan Kakis, Denise's new Foodie Friend, Star Wards 2024 Best Actor Winner Jeremy Chan, returns to chat about our delicious experience at an institution that gets its name from its original location near the Rex Cinema at Mackenzie Road!
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Chef Melyn Lee & Denise check out a 3rd-gen coffee stall has modernised kopitiam culture whilst upholding their strong Hainanese tradition. At Coffee Break, you’ll find what hipster cafes are offering but in a hawker centre setting. So expect specialty coffee concoctions and unusual sandwich spreads besides more traditional breakfast offerings like kopi and kaya toast!
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We have a new Makan Kaki! Dylan Ong, the chef-owner behind French-Asian restaurant The Masses and former affordable French bistro Saveur has just opened a new eatery in tribute to his mother. Choon Hoy Parlor honours her heirloom dishes and recipes developed as a former Kway Chap hawker, but also celebrates his team's culinary heritage with a menu that ranges from nourishing soups to rojak to dry laksa to hearty meat platters. Listen to Part 2 next for Chef Dylan's Teochew Braised Duck recommendation!
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In this second part of our chat with Choon Hoy Parlor's chef-owner Dylan Ong, he reveals the ingredients to his ultimate fantasy dinner party and recommends one of his favourite places to go for his Teochew Braised Duck Rice fix!
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My Foodie Friend Chef SR Bala is no stranger to chapati as one of Singapore's most decorated Indian chefs and a Mentor-Chef on TV cooking competition King of Culinary. So it was with a small amount of trepidation that I took him to try my favourite stall in Geylang Serai. At Muhabbat Setia Hati, they do very simple menu – just chapati and accompanying curries - dal, mutton kima, mixed vegetables (sayur campur) & kari lembu (beef curry). But Chef Bala is all for comfort food – simple, yet tasty. And that’s how he described the food at – it’s like eating a home-cooked meal, with all the love and hard work poured into it, just like mum or dad would.
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This week, Chef Melvyn lee & Denise discover the sweet history of 75 Ah Balling Peanut Soup. Tang yuan, or velvety, chewy, glutinous rice balls stuffed with a variety of fillings are a winning formula for this family-run local brand!
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Biryani, briyani, biriyani, beryani. In Singapore, there are at least as many variations of the popular Indian-Muslim rice dish as there are ways to spell it and I got to experience two very different versions thanks to my Makan Kaki, content creator and Mediacorp Ria 89.7 DJ Zuhairi Idris. Find out the grandfather's stories behind these 2 heritage brand biryanis!
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Fresh from her Star Awards Best Actress win, Kym Ng joins Denise as a very special guest on Makan Kakis! On the menu? Bak Kut Teh! They learnt more about this local heritage food from two “Titans of Tea” - Ng Ah Sio & Pek Sin Choon. Listen to this podcast, read the story on CNA Lifestyle and watch Makan Kakis: Heritage Edition on demand for free via MeWatch now!
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Familiar face from TV cooking competition King Of Culinary, celebrity chef SR Bala helps Denise widen her perspective at one of Singapore’s best known vegetarian institutions. At 100-year-old Indian vegetarian restaurant Ananda Bhavan, they share unique thosai and a hearty banana leaf meal.
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My Makan Kaki Chef Melvyn Lee and I visited the East Coast Road branch of Kim Choo Kueh Chang, home of the famous Nyonya rice dumpling. There, we met third generation owner Edmond Wong, who with his brothers, is committed to taking their grandmother’s food legacy to the next level. We tried wrapping kueh chang before tasting their bestsellers...
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Our Makan Kaki Chef Melvyn Lee takes us to visit Guan Hoe Soon, Singapore's Oldest Peranakan restaurant. But did you know it has Hainanese roots? Founded in 1953 by Yap Chee Quee, the restaurant is still family owned and run.
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For my next food adventure delving into Singapore’s delicious history, my sights were set on Kampong Gelam, an area renowned for its many nasi padang restaurants.
A popular choice for time-crunched Singaporeans in need of a satisfying meal, n asi padang may be is a quick and convenient meal for diners, but it begins with long hours of preparation and cooking.
At nasi padang stalwart Sabar Menanti, the laborious commitment is anchored by a strong dedication to preserving their family’s culinary legacy. It was a happy coincidence then that my colleague and fellow foodie, Class 95 producer-presenter Catherine Robert is a friend of the third-generation owner, Iszahar Tambunan.
Listen now for beef rendang, ayam bakar and the story behind their unique name!
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Hi Makan Kakis, this week I switch things up with a new Foodie Friend, Actress Bridget Fernandez and get schooled on Eurasian cuisine, another unique South-East Asian fusion of food and cultures. Along the way, I discover the story behind devil’s curry and taste something hitherto unknown at Quentin’s, where every dish tells a colourful story.
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Continuing our series on heritage foods in Singapore, Chef Melvyn Lee and I discover traditional Cantonese pastries at 4th generation-run Tong Heng in Chinatown. There, we tried our hand at making the best egg tarts I have ever tasted. The melt-in-the-mouth pastry holds one not-so-secret ingredient!
Listen now!
Or Watch here.
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Welcome to the first episode of a new 10-part Makan Kakis series, in which my special guests and I discover heritage brands and local eateries that have been family-owned & run for generations. Chef Melvyn Lee & I kicked things off with a visit to a throwback from my childhood – Shashlik. This is a shorter version of the previous podcast, where we cut to the chase go straight to the food! For the CNA Lifestyle story, video and more, check here!
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Denise & Melvyn fill you in on this new Heritage Food focused season of your feel-good food guide, starting with a visit to Russo-Hainanese stalwart, Shashlik!
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Mandy Kee from MasterChef SGS4 joins Denise in this podcast with her recommendation for perfectly seasoned, tender braised duck rice that sees long queues at its Serangoon Gardens outlet. For good reason! Listen for all the delicious details!
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Tina Amin isn't known as the Spice Girl for nothing! She tells us where she likes to go for her breakfast Lontong fix at a stall which also serves up mee rebus, satay & more!
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Hi Makan Kakis, winner of Masterchef SGS4 Inderpal Singh returns with another yummy recommendation from his Yishun 'hood. When the craving for nasi padang hits, he loves the selection from Coba Coba, where they do great nasi ambeng and nasi lemak too!
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If you love the flavours of Cantonese-style steamed dishes, you've got to check out this stall recommended by Top 3 finalist of Masterchef SG S4, Mandy Kee. She loves the steamed fish head for its freshness, delicate flavours and super-affordable price!
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We welcome back our foodie friend and founder of one-stop online shop for all things durian, Josiah Seow of Golden Moments. This week, he tells us all about his favourite Ban Mian stall and I headed over to check it out. True to nature, besides his soupy recommendation, I ended up ordering MORE!
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Listen as our Makan Kaki, private hire driver Alice Kee recommends Denise try a unique drink concocted by Uncle Jeffrey, who runs a drinks stall next to her favourite Whampoa ban mee stall!
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Here's everything you need to know about the festive offerings from Awfully Chocolate & Sinpopo Brand!
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Hello Makan Kakis! As the monsoon season draws us towards year's end, the cooler, wetter weather calls for hearty and flavourful food that fills you with a whole lot of warmth. Our Foodie Friend Lynn Lee of Awfully Chocolate & Sinpopo Brand has just the makan recommendation to spice up your life - Hunan Cuisine at Tanjong Pagar with a must-try signature dish!
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In the Masterchef Kitchen, Inderpal Singh was known as the King of Spice, so no wonder he loves this super-spicy Ayam Geprek stall in his Yishun neighbourhood! They also do Ayam Penyet, Ikan Bakar and more! Listen now for all the delicious details!
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Winner of Masterchef Singapore Season 4 Inderpal Singh is back with great news for hungry fans! Denise catches up with him on a slightly crackly call from the jungle where he's on reservist training for the scoop on Inderpal's Greatest Hits fine-dining pop-up. Listen now for booking details and more!
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Hi Makan Kakis, love Teochew Braised Duck? This one enjoys brisk business and sees long queues, testament to their excellent meats, including braised pork belly, along with kway chap and yam rice. Have a listen to Chef Petrina Loh of Morsels, our Foodie Friend and self-confessed lover of all things braised and Teochew, as she shares her recommendation!
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Greetings Greedies! This week, our Makan Kaki Judge of Masterchf SG Damian D'Silva returns with a brilliant breakfast recommendation that's hearty, satisfying & very local! Hainan Kaya Toast at Geylang Serai Food Centre serves up a wonderful version with French Loaf.
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Hello Makan Kakis! Our new foodie friend and recent winner of Masterchef Singapore Season 4 Inderpal Singh is back with another irresistible, unbelieveable VEGETARIAN recommendation that will really hit the spot, even if you're a carnivorous fan of Hainanese Chicken Rice!
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For Masterchef Singapore Season 4 Winner Inderpal Singh, it's the fresh coconut milk and quality gula melaka that does it. This is the proud Yishun resident's must-try cendol recommendation!
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In this second part of Denise's chat with Inderal, he shares his fantasy dinner party scenario - what would be cook, who's on the guest list? Also, he tells us why if you've never watched Masterchef Singapore, why his season makes for essential viewing. Listen to the podcast now!
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The freshly-crowned culinary champion shares with Denise his best Masterchef Singapore Season 4 memories, his biggest challenge during the competition, his kitchen must-haves and what he and fellow contestant Reuben are up to for their uniquely Singaporean brunch pop-up this weekend. Oh, and can you guess what Inderpal would be if he was a local hawker dish?
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If you’re on the hunt for good vadai to try, give this a go! Once a stall in Katong, Gordon’s Vadai is now a home-based set up with the made to order, freshly fried snacks available for pick up or delivery. There are 4 different types to choose from: plain, prawn, premium & pure vegetarian. Listen now for delish deets and how to order online!
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In this final Makan Kakis & drivers instalment, Mediacorp Gold 905 DJ Denise Tan chats over chaat with occasional private hire driver Oliver Pang at Dwaraka Restaurant’s street food kiosk, just opposite Mustafa Centre. Pani puri and more eaten by the roadside, anyone?
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In this instalment of Makan Kakis, private hire driver Alice Kee introduces Denise to China Whampoa Home Made Noodle, where they use hard-to-find mani cai or sayur manis, plus 3 options for chilli pastes - red garlic, green lime and pineapple!
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Two ladies & a gent have made it to the finals of MasterChef Singapore Season 4! Denise catches up with the fierce, female foodies in the Top 3 - Mandy Kee & Tina Amin - on their journey in the culinary competition so far.
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Denise gets in line with private hire driver Vincent, who discovered unique & spicy green chilli chicken rice that’s worth queueing for at Sims Vista Food Centre, in his childhood neighbourhood...
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Try this perfect rainy day breakfast combo: Lontong and sotong! In this instalment of Makan Kakis, Mediacorp Gold 905 DJ Denise Tan visits a humble, hidden-in-plain-sight stall discovered by a chef-turned-cabbie who used to sell lontong himself.
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Through this food series, I’ve discovered that drivers certainly are a knowledgeable lot when it comes to the best eats in Singapore. My next Makan Kaki, taxi driver Delon Tuan, 38, is especially in the know because he’s also professional chef with an intriguing story and a desire for the simpler things in life. And you can't get more simple than popiah! Low Ah Hee popiah is deceptively simple, though, packed with flavour and textures that will excite your tastebuds...
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Follow this new Makan Kakis series for the best eats in Singapore, as recommended by cabbies and private hire drivers. This week, Mediacorp Gold 905 DJ Denise Tan meets a driver who shows family comes first, especially where their favourite BBQ chicken wings are concerned at Ahmad Spring. Download & listen to this podcast now!
For the full story & video, read & watch here!
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Welcome to a brand new 8-part series, in collaboration with CNA Lifestyle, featuring the best eats in Singapore, as recommended by cabbies and private hire drivers. You see, as a radio presenter, host of this feel-good food guide and resident glutton of GOLD 905, I often get recommendations on where and what to eat from listeners. Of which, a particularly vocal bunch is made up of drivers. So I figured, why not invite them to help me hunt down affordable meals that are worth the journey and most importantly, delicious? And just to spice things up, I decided to give them a little break from work and drive them instead! My first victim, er, passenger was private hire driver Ben Looi who showed me his spot for excellent vegetarian kway chap!
WATCH THE VIDEO & READ THE FULL STORY HERE!
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In lhe lead up to a new season of Masterchef Singapore, the top 18 contestants were split into 3 groups, with a judge mentoring each one. They were then challenged to create ice-creams from ingredients that were handpicked by fans. The result was 9 unique flavours including Hawthorne sorbet, Nasi Lemak & Kuih Koleh ice creams, which then were put to the vote.
Here are the 3 winning flavours which you’ll get to enjoy for free:
- Taro Cheese & Gem Biscuitsby Team Damian
- Bandung, Attap Chee & Kaffir Lime Leavesby Team Bjorn
- Salted Durian Pengatby Team Audra
Available for free to all audiences at the Gardens by the Bay and Mediacorp National Day Concerton 5 August, Saturday!
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Hi Makan Kakis, we welcome back Gek Pang, founder of Surrey Hills Grocer, who recommends a go-to comfort food that isn't fancy, but its flavour fills her with nostalgia and is a family favourite. The star of this wonton mee is the bouncy noodles. Listen to our chat & download the podcast now!
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Broadway Beng Sebastian Tan is back with another recommendation and it's a place I know well, seeing as we often go together for a hearty post-exercise dinner! This East Coast stalwart serves up classic favourites like pepper crab and sambal stingray at the renowned East Coast Lagoon Food Village, but here are some other must-tries! Have a listen/ down the new podcast and enjoy the video here!
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Hey Makan Kakis! MasterChef Singapore Season 3 finalist Sharlene Tan is back with another yummy recommendation - handmade noodles from a stall that’s not famous, but has built up a bit of a following. Their soup is particularly good!
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Sebastian Tan aka Broadway Beng is food-obsessed and truly comes from a family of foodies - his brother has a Chinese Restaurant in Stoke-on-Trent in England, his uncle runs a popular Ngoh Hiang stall in Chong Pang & he even has an aunt who's a butcher! Besides sharing how the Broadway Beng persona came about (Hokkien-speaking boy from Yishun makes it in London's West End!), Sebastian also shares his fantasy dinner party and why Meryl Streep would be his special guest!
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Hi Makan Kakis, our Foodie Friend Bonnie Yap (Assistant Head Sommelier at 67 Pall Mall) takes us back to Old Airport Road Food Centre for another must-have when she's there - Prawn Noodle Soup. This stall has a long history from its start in 1963 at Albert Street, hence it's name despite its current location! Listen to us talk about it & download the podcast now!
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Hi Makan Kakis! This week, we welcome back Lyn Lee of Sinpopo Brand & Awfully Chocolate, who once recommended a humble little stall at the Crane & Onan Roads corner coffeshop. I’ve featured Mei Wei’s delightful breakfast beehoon & chicken wings previously, but never had the pleasure of trying their lunchtime curry rice & dishes. Till now. Great news! Ever resourceful Lyn has found Mei Wei’s new location and so I had to go check it out…
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Hi Makan Kakis, our Foodie Friend Chef Petrina Loh of Morsels returns this week with a new discovery of hers, which turned out to be surprisingly delicious and held up well to delivery from stall to doorstep. Ah Kee Beef Noodle serves up a hearty, beefy extravaganza that you've got to try! Listen to the podcast now and for the ideo and more details, tap HERE!
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Hi Makan Kakis, our Foodie Friend Pang Gek Teng, founder of Surrey Hills Grocer, is back to share her favourite Hainanese Chicken Rice, which also happens to be halal. And absolutely delicious!
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In Part 1, elevated restaurant-style nasi lemak (with price to match) was on the menu. Here in Part 2, Chef Ming shares his discovery of this humble nasi lemak stall that serves up coconut rice with a little twist!
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Our regular Makan Kaki Chef Ming Tan is back & chatting with Denise about the new show he's hosting - On the Red Dot's Food Fight. On today's menu: NASI LEMAK. Here's the first of two Singapore recommendations!
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In this second part of the podcast with Chef Ming Tan of the Red Dot's Food Fight, he recommends a couple of places in Singapore that serve up excellent Nasi Lemak. One is a higher-end restaurant, the other is a humble hawker stall with a very special rice!
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Our regular Makan Kaki Chef Ming Tan is back & chatting with Denise about the new show he's hosting - On the Red Dot's Food Fight. On today's menu: NASI LEMAK. Where did it originate? And where can we find some of the best Nasi Lemak in Singapore & North of the border? We cover a lot of delicious territory here, so have a listen!
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Hey Makan Kakis, have you heard of the chicken biryani that went TikTok viral? Let me break it down for you: a pair of friends (one is a trained chef) who met at a recovery group decided to focus on sobriety by selling delicious, Muslim-friendly nasi briyani from home. The biggest selling point is the price point – just $2 per portion! So of course I had to give it a try...
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Assistant Head Sommelier at 67 Pall Mall recommends her favourite dry-type fried Hokkien prawn noodles, which boasts prawns, squid, pork belly slivers and a powerful, super-spicy chilli sauce that's zingy and umami.
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Hi Makan Kakis! We conclude our month-long celebration of International Women's Day with this final feature on inspiring females in Singapore's F&B scene.
Meet former inflight cabin crew Bonnie Yap, who went from Leading Stewardess to Assistant Head Sommelier at prestigious members-only club 67 Pall Mall (the first in Asia).
She tells us about her journey from the air to the ground and how she has made a career out of drinking and recommending wine.
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Greetings Makan Kakis! This week, as we continue to celebrate females in the F&B industry, catch up with Chef-Owner of Morsels, Petrina Loh who first appeared on my show back in 2016. As she celebrates the 10th Birthday of her restaurant this year, she shares who she'd invite, what she'd serve and what song she'd play at her fantasy dinner party. A French chef made good in the USA, lots of vegetables and U2 just might be on the menu!
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As we continue to celebrate females in the F&B industry, our Makan Kaki Chef-Owner of Morsels, Petrina Loh recommends a comforting bowl of prawn noodle soup. This one gives her old-school vibes because it tastes just like the kind she enjoyed as a child. Add lots of chilli powder and chilli padi to the umami dish and you've got a winner!
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Greetings Makan Kakis! This week, as we continue to celebrate females in the F&B industry, I catch up with a Foodie Friend whom you might already know. Chef-Owner of Morsels, Petrina Loh first appeared on my show back in 2016 and as she celebrates the 10th Birthday of her restaurant this year, let's find out what she's up to, what she's learnt along the way and future plans for Morsels. Chef Petrina also dishes advice for aspiring F&B entrepreneurs and for the ladies, why self-care and solo time is so important.
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All this month, in honour of International Women's Day, we're paying tribute to inspiring female F&B entrepreneurs and who better to highlight than my wonderful Makan Kaki Cynthea Lam of Wellness Company Super Farmers? If you haven't already, do get to know her and her business better here from our very first podcast!
Cynthea's favourite is Thai cuisine, largely in part due to growing up with her beloved helper from Thailand. So when she's craving Thai comfort foods, she heads on over to Beach Road stalwart and one-stop-shop for all things Thai, Golden Mile Complex.
Cynthea has been patronising this familiar first floor restaurant at Golden Mile Complex for a long time. Opened by a Singaporean and his Thai wife in 1985, Diandin Leluk serves up quick, convenient and simple dishes. Cynthea recommends the pork ball noodles and papaya salad, or som tam.
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Hi Makan Kakis, this week's episode is dedicated to the Chee Cheong Fun lovers! The best steamed rice flour roll has to be tender, silky and delicate, but a good roll is hard to find. Lucky for us, Masterchef Singapore Season 3 Top 4 contestant Sharlene Tan is back to share with us her secret place for excellent local-style chee cheong fun! It's not found in the shops or at a restaurant or hawker stall and will require a little effort on your part, but boy, is it worth it!
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Happy Pizza Day! And in celebration, you’ve got to check out this humble hawker stall that specializes in gourmet pizzas topped with premium ingredients, some with an Asian-inspired twist, like kimchi bacon, curry chicken, korubuta chashu & mala smoked duck...
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Our Makan Kaki, restaurateur Jason Ong of Uni Gallery & Caviar, returns with this tasty and traditional recommendation for old school charcoal steamboat that's economical, chock-full of ingredients and great for sharing...
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Hello fellow Foodies! This week, our Makan Kaki - F&B entrepreneur, consultant and host of CNA’S Food To Change The World - Chef Ming Tan is back with a recommendation for "second to none" Briyani that boasts fluffy & fragrant rice, tender and tasty meat plus a few other additions that take it to the next level...
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Hello Makan Kakis, Happy New Year! Post-festivity overindulgence behind us, here’s the perfect calming way to start the new year – a tummy-soothing bowl of hot, soupy mee hoon kueh comfort! With many thanks to our Foodie Friend & Super Farmer Cynthea Lam for this serendipitous makan recommendation. It’s just what the doctor ordered!
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Hi Makan Kakis! What a year we've had - but one thing stays constant - our shared love for food! With 2023 just round the corner, let's take a look back at 2022’s most popular makan recommendations. So which local delights got you talking and eating this year? Let’s relive all the deliciousness – here are the dishes & places that really caught your attention. Do come back next week for Part 2!
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Greetings Makan Kakis! It's a double whammy of deliciousness with not one, but two Masterchef Singapore Season 3 alumni - Winner Johnathan Chew & Top 9 contestant Raja Shagaran Mahalingamin (Raj) - back to recommend where they go for their favourite Chicken Rice. Before we get to that, catch up on their competitive culinary journeys in the Masfetrchef kitchen and if you’re feeling inspired, why not register for Season 4? Auditions are now open. Details here!
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Hey Makan Kakis, this week our Foodie Friend Le Cordon Bleu-trained chef of private dining experience Part Thai, Rishi Arora is back with another irresistible recommendation for the rojak lovers! Don't be fooled by this stall's name - Toa Payoh Rojak is actually located at Old Airport Road!
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This week, we have a very special guest on the show. Our new Makan Kaki is no stranger to eating the world, travelling the globe and documenting his adventures on his YouTube channel Migrationology. Mark Wiens was in town recently to announce his new project with HBO Go and he made time to talk food with Denise at Dempsey Road institution Samy's Curry. Listen for what he recommends from Samy's plus a few of his other must-eat local dishes...
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This week, we have a very special guest on the show. Our new Makan Kaki, Mark Wiens, is no stranger to eating the world, travelling the globe and documenting his adventures on his YouTube channel Migrationology. He was in town recently to announce his new project with HBO Go - Food Affair with Mark Wiens. Listen now for all the details on his new food series, plus he tells Denise about some of his favourite local foods, what gives him inspiration and who he'd invite to his fantasy dinner party...
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This week, Masterchef Singapore Season 1 Alumnus Sharon Gonzago joins us with an exciting new update on her post-competition journey – she has a new F&B venture called Soup Cup – her new “Modern Seafood Soup Kiosk” at the basement of Hong Leong Building. Listen for what's worth trying!
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This week, Masterchef Singapore Season 1 Alumnus Sharon Gonzago joins us with an exciting new update on her post-competition journey – she has a new F&B venture in the heart of the CBD! By the way, if you’re also a talented cook & are feeling inspired, why not register for Season 4? Auditions are now open. Details here!
Since being featured in MasterChef SG, Sharon Gonzago has been keeping very busy with culinary projects here in Singapore and in Bali, the most recent of which is Soup Cup – her new “Modern Seafood Soup Kiosk” at the basement of Hong Leong Building. Sharon tells us more about it here.
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This week, we welcome back Mum of 3, nutrition & food science teacher and the cook behind home-based Artisome Food, Sharlene Tan, who was a Top 4 contestant in Masterchef Singapore Season 3. Relive all the culinary excitement - catch up on Season 3 again and if you're feeling inspired, why not register for Season 4? Auditions are now open. Details here!
Now, when it comes to food, Sharlene's tastes lie along the lines of dishes piled with crispy lard and comfort food that doesn't have to be complicated or expensive. She looks for flavours and textures that go together and make you feel warm inside and make you happy. Case in point, one of her favourite things to eat - Yong Tau Foo. When she's in Orchard Road, she gets her fix at a cafe in Lucky Plaza...
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Our Makan Kaki, The Fabulous Baker Boy Fabulous Baker Boy, Juwanda Hassim returns with a recommendation straight from his growing-up years - a stall that sells his father's favourite mee rebus at Haig Road Food Centre...
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Back with us is MasterChef Singapore judge, Chef Damian D’Silva of Singapore heritage restaurant Rempapa. A while back, he took us to one of his favourite stalls for Cantonese-style steamed dishes - Chef Chik at Haig Road Food Centre. We return to the same food centre to visit another stall for "Chinese-style lemak laksa" that Chef Damian really enjoys!
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It's a sweet finish to our special feature on some of the best eats to spend your CDC Vouchers on and this final installment is for the chocolate lovers. Bringing a little high-end to the heartland, Mr Bucket Chocolaterie is located at the foot of an HDB block along Sin Ming Road. The brand’s exquisite chocolates originate from regional producers including Malaysia, Vietnam, India & The Philippines. Unusual flavours and collaborations with local brands help give them a little edge. Mala, Calamansi and soya sauce-flavoured chocolate bon bons, anyone?
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Fresh off his win in July, MasterChef Singapore Season 3 winner Johnathan Chew, whose grandmother once sold kway chap & braised meats, suggested that I visit a relative’s stall for laksa that was “a cut above the rest”. Intrigued by the aspiring chef’s deep familial ties to hawker food, I headed for a kopitiam in the Tiong Bahru area and found a loaded, lemak laksa worth spending your CDC Vouchers on...
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Ever on the hunt for new taste experiences, it shamed me to realise that while I’m a big fan of peppery sup kambing (mutton soup), I’ve never actually tried its decidedly more flamboyant relative, sup tulang merah. In Malay it literally means soup red bone, in reference to the brightly-coloured mutton shank stew. It’s an Indian Muslim dish that can truly be considered one hundred percent local, having been invented right here in Singapore over sixty years ago. I had heard good things about how the dish was done at Deen Tiga Rasa, so I headed over to Golden Mile Food Centre for my first-ever taste of sup tulang merah...
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This is Part 5 of our Makan Kakis x CNA Lifestyle series featuring some of the best eats to spend your CDC vouchers on.
Singaporeans love a food fad. We’ve been enthralled by Taiwanese bubble tea, Korean bingsu and Japanese souffle pancakes. But sometimes, all you want is the sweet relief of something familiar, comforting and local. When it comes to desserts, I’m in agreement with my Makan Kaki, co-owner of Seafood Restaurant Diamond Kitchen & Modern Japanese Izakaya iKO, Lambert Chen. He’s a big fan of the ice jelly at Teck Kee Hot & Cold Dessert, which has been serving residents in the Bukit Timah area for almost thirty areas, myself included...
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Hello Makan Kakis! We continue our Makan Kakis x CNA Lifestyle series featuring some of the best eats to spend your CDC vouchers on with a popular South Asian street food - the lesser known kothu prata...
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This is Part 3 of our special series featuring some of the best eats to spend your CDC Vouchers on! There’s regular ban mian and then there’s ban mian distilled through the creative minds of professional chefs with decades of experience between them. The result? Loaded handmade noodles from new kid on the block Yanan Ban Mian Noodle, which came highly recommended by my Makan Kaki, food entrepreneur Jeremy Nguee of gourmet caterer Preparazzi. Impressed by their craftsmanship, he was especially excited for me to try their “can’t be missed” ban mian... Listen now for all the delicious details!
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We continue our special series featuring the best eats to spend your CDC Vouchers on and this week, we’re going to try a hearty breakfast bean stew called ful, that has its origins in North Africa and the Middle East. It's now made its way to Singapore, with a few tweaks to suit our local palates and a name that has evolved to kacang pool. With a name like that, you know you've got to dive right into the signature dish at Kacang Pool Mustafa at Geylang Serai Food Centre...
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Our Makan Kakis x CNA Lifestyle collaboration is back! This season, we bring you a new series featuring the best eats to spend your CDC Vouchers on. In this first episode, we feature yummy curry chicken, as recommended by our foodie friend, restaurateur Lambert Chen, co-owner of Diamond Kitchen & Modern Japanese Izakaya iKO. Listen/ download the podcast, read the story and watch the video now!
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We complete this 3-part National Day series for the month of August revisiting a special feature on a creamy, spicy, local noodle favourite. Over the years, different hawkers have found fame with their own special version of laksa lemak, so whether you prefer your laksa with or without hum (cockles), or noodles eaten with a spoon instead of chopsticks, here are three places recommended by Gold 905 listeners that we think are noteworthy:
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We welcome yet another new Makan Kaki this week - Masterchef Singapore Season 2 alumni, avid home cook and the Thosai expert behind private dining outfit Culinary Optional, Spice Queen Chef Vasun Ramasamy! In this latest episode, she tells us all about her forthcoming cultural culinary collab with Chef Damian D'Silva at his restaurant Rempapa. Expect delicious, meticulously crafted thosai and chutneys at this one-day-only luncheon on Saturday 13th August!
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This week, we welcome a new Makan Kaki, Chef Marvas Ng of Path Restaurant who's getting together with another one of our Makan Kakis, Chef Damian D'Silva of Rempapa for a special National Day collaboration.The sumptuous, one-night-only Chinese dinner is on Saturday 6 August only, showcasing their interpretations of heritage and innovation. Here, Chef Marvas shares menu highlights and more about this cultural culinary celebration.
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This week, we welcome a new Makan Kaki, Chef Marvas Ng of Path Restaurant, who shares with us where to find his favourite fishball noodles... Listen NOW!
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Hi Makan Kakis, leading up to National Day, we're revisiting a special feature on top local eats in your feel-good food guide! In this first part, we feature a few places to visit for yummy chicken rice, chilli crab & rojak, so listen now!
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Hi Makan Kakis, MasterChef Singapore Top 4 contestant Sharlene Tan of Artisome Food is back with this delectably snacky recommendation - goreng pisang! Or rather, Thai-style fried banana found at Golden Mile Complex. The sweet potato balls are delicious too! Listen now for full details...
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Jonathan Chew, newly crowned winner of Masterchef Singapore Season 3, shares with us a lemak, loaded laksa that he thinks is a cut above the rest! Listen now for the rich, indulgent noodle treat and if you prefer something lighter, this stall also serves up a lovely, light Bak Chor Mee soup!
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Hi Makan Kakis! Here's Part 1 of Denise's catch up with Johnathan Chew, the winner of MasterChef Singapore Season 3! We discuss his growth throughout the season & future plans for this dentist-in-training, who has just won over $100,000 in cash and prizes, including a cookbook deal!
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Hi Makan Kakis! Here's Part 2 of Denise's catch up with Johnathan Chew, the winner of MasterChef Singapore Season 3! He answers fun questions like if he was a song, what would he be & describes his fantasy dinner party scenario - it involves optical illusion bakes and invisible cats!
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This week, we welcome the last woman standing in the Top 4 of the Masterchef Singapore Season 3 kitchen, Mum of three and Nutrition & Food Science Teacher, Sharlene Tan! Hot off her exit from the culinary competition, she joins me to talk food and what's next for her in the aftermath...
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This week, we welcome the last woman standing in the Top 4 of the Masterchef Singapore Season 3 kitchen, Mum of three and Nutrition & Food Science Teacher, Sharlene Tan! Hot off her exit from the culinary competition, she joins me to talk food and a bumper crop of makan recommendations, starting with a unique bake that marries a buttery tart shell with Teochew orh nee (yam paste)!
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MasterChef Singapore Season 3 Top 9 contestant Raj returns to share where he goes for excellent beef randang & tahu telor - surprisingly, from a restaurant chain that specialises in chicken dishes!
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Hey Makan Kakis, our Foodie Friend & Fabulous Baker Boy, Juwanda Hassim is back with some tasty relief for the relentlessly hot weather we've been having. When he's in need of some major cooling down, he heads to a little cafe a stone's throw from his own for halal, vegan & keto gelato, shakes, coolers and more. Listen now for more & more gelato or, MOMOLATO!
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This week's guest and Foodie Friend is 58-year-old Raj Shagaran Mahalingam, a creative events producer and groovy grandpa whose colourful personality is matched only by his colourful cooking creations! He certainly spiced up the MasterChef kitchen with his antics and after making it into the Top 9, he's here to share his experience of the competition.
In Part 1, Raj shares about rising after his literal fall in the kitchen that cost him a place in the Top 8, his "alien" encounter with runaway mud crabs & how joining the competition has changed his approach to cooking.
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This week's guest and Foodie Friend is 58-year-old Raj Shagaran Mahalingam, a creative events producer and groovy grandpa whose colourful personality is matched only by his colourful cooking creations! He certainly spiced up the MasterChef kitchen with his antics and after making it into the Top 9, he's here to share his experience of the competition.
In part 2, Raj reveals his favourite judge - is it Audra, Damian or Bjorn? Why he doesn't mind if you call him a cockroach - in fact his new brand launch celebrates it! Also, who he'd invite to his fantasy dinner party and what food he'd serve.
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Our Makan Kakis Lambert Chen (co-owner of Seafood Restaurant Diamond Kitchen & Modern Japanese Izakaya iKO) is back this week to tell us about his favourite place for Prawn Noodles and it’s a stall at Adam Road Food Centre that really needs no introduction...
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Denise catches up with Chef Damian D'Silva, who returns as a judge on the third and a latest season of MasterChef Season 3. Who has impressed him so far? Why does he think this is the best season yet? Listen to the podcast now!
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Our Makan Kaki Chef Damian D'Silva really loves his fish and this is one stall in Haig Road Food Centre that he thinks is excellent. Chef Chik's specialty is steamed Cantonese dishes, especially his threadfin belly...
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Our newest Makan Kaki, Cynthea Lam - wellness coach, nutritionist-in-training & founder of Super Farmers - recommends a dish straight from her schoolgirl days. St Nicholas Girls' School alumni will know exactly what she means - the legendary crispy chicken wings once sold in the school canteen are once again available to enjoy. Find out where here!
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Please meet our newest Makan Kaki, Cynthea Lam - wellness coach, nutritionist-in-training & founder of Super Farmers, a company focused on helping people to eat well and live well through food and nutrition education. It's a one-stop-shop for wellness workshops, urban farming kits (grow your own microgreens!) and restorative herbal teas brand Apoteacary. In Part 1 of this podcast, Cynthea tells us why she started Super Farmers, what we can expect from her wellness company and shares advice on common dilemmas like getting your kids to eat more veggies and getting over insomnia...
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In Part 2 of this podcast, our newest Makan Kaki, Cynthea Lam - wellness coach, nutritionist-in-training & founder of Super Farmers, answers the usual fun food-related questions, including why Thai cuisine is the biggest influence on her cooking-style, what 3 things she can't do without in the kitchen, who she'd invite and what she'd serve at her fantasy dinner party (it involves four fiesty females!)...
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Greetings Makan Kakis! We have yet another new Foodie Friend to get acquainted with this week – Business Director of Preparazzi (luxury catering & culinary concepts) and Strategic Partner of The Dempsey Project / All-Day Dining & Gourmet Grocery on Dempsey Hill – Chef Jeremy Nguee! Here, we chat more about things to enjoy at The Dempsey Project, like the everyday luxuries like olive oils, vinegars, spreads, chocolates, cheese and more on sale in their gourmet pantry. Also, Denise asks him the usual fun food questions, including his fantasy dinner party scenario - who he's inviting will surprise and delight you!
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Greetings Makan Kakis! We have yet another new Foodie Friend to get acquainted with this week – Business Director of Preparazzi (luxury catering & culinary concepts) and Strategic Partner of The Dempsey Project / All-Day Dining & Gourmet Grocery on Dempsey Hill – Chef Jeremy Nguee! Here, we chat about all the fun events to enjoy at The Dempsey Project, including culinary nights that take you around the world (Turkey, Jordan, Morocco, Egypt, India and more to come) and Italian-style Monday & Tuesday happy hour Apertivo with affordable drinks & small plates...
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Our new Makan Kaki, Strategic Partner of The Dempsey Project,Chef Jeremy Nguee recommends a childhood favourite – Chye Tow Kway (Fried Carrot Cake) you should definitely try!
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What's new at The Fabulous Baker Boy Big Love Bakery & Soul Kitchen on Aliwal Street? Check out their new outdoor dining area in the courtyard of the Aliwal Arts Centre and look out soon for new co-working space packages, where you can enjoy ample power points, free wifi and free-flow bevs as you work from the comfy cafe...
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Perfect for a tea-time snack with your favourite brew, this is one of The Fabulous Baker Boy Juwanda Hassim's top picks. Don't be fooled by the stall's name, Pancake King doesn't serve American style pancakes or European-style crepes, this popular chain is the purveyor of traditional, local-style stuffed pancakes, better known as Min Jiang Kueh...
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There's only a few more days of Ramadan left and whether you're looking for a good place to break fast, or just on the hunt for excellent local food in a surprising location, how about a visit to The Fabulous Baker Boy Big Love Bakery & Soul Kitchen on Aliwal Street? Known for his Western-style bakes, from layer cakes (42 flavours!), to sourdough breads, to croissants and pies, Chef-Owner Juwanda Hassim is just as adept at the traditional foods of his heritage. Enter his seasonal Iftar Special, which includes homemade Lontong Kering (rice cakes) served with Sambal Goreng, Kampung Vegetable Curry, Ayam Masak Merah or Beef Rendang. Followed by a 4 kueh selection and a drink...
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This week, our Makan Kaki, Judge of the forthcoming third season of Masterchef Singapore, as well as co-owner & chef of Rempapa, Damian D'Silva returns with another excellent recommendation. In his line of work, he confesses to indulging in a lot of naughty food, that's why once in a while, he craves a healthier option to feel cleansed and virtuous. For him, the perfect choice is Teochew-style fish porridge. One of his favourite stalls to visit is Ng Soon Kee Fish & Duck Porridge 黄順記魚糜・鴨糜 at Geylang East Food Centre, run by a very friendly old couple who've been in the business for more than 60 years...
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Our Makan Kaki, the guy behind premium online seafood delivery platform Ooster Bay, as well as restaurants Uni Gallery & Caviar, Jason Ong is back with another yummy recommendation and this time, it's for a quick & tasty dish conveniently found at a mall! Great World, to be exact. How appropriate, as the mall brings the flavours of the world to you, so you don't need to travel for a taste of Penang Char Kway Teow...
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This week, we welcome the return of Chef Ming Tan, who was last with us when he was guest-judging Masterchef Singapore. Lots has happened since and he's now Brand Director of The Refectory a multi-label F&B lifestyle hub which includes GLEAN Café, BRDL Bar & Restaurant and The Dining Hall. He tells us more about The refectory in this first part of our conversation. He's also currently hosting CNA's Food to Change the World (on every Monday or catch up on MeWatch).
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Hey Makan Kakis! This week, we welcome the return of Chef Ming Tan, Brand Director of The Refectory a multi-label F&B lifestyle hub & the host of CNA's Food to Change the World. Here, Chef Ming recommends a stall at Newton Food Centre that he has returned to several times for their Zha Jiang Mian (soybean paste noodles), unique Putien-style Lor Mee & dumplings...
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This week, we welcome the return of Chef Ming Tan, who's currently hosting CNA's Food to Change the World (on every Monday or catch up on MeWatch). Here, he tells us about some of the most interesting experiences he's had on the show.
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Can you imagine throwing a dinner party for Ho Chi Minh & George Orwell? Our guest Chef Ming Tan can! In this third part of our conversation, he shares with us his fantasy dinner scenario, the weirdest thing he's eaten so far and how to properly eat cheese. He also attempts to answer this: if your cooking style was an 80s pop song, what would it be? Listen now!
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This week, we meet another new Foodie Friend, one whose delicious Thai-inspired food has previously been featured here, Rishi Arora. Raised in both Singapore & Thailand, he's the Le Cordon Bleu-trained chef behind PART-THAI private dining & delivery. He's got a pretty interesting story to tell and you can listen to Part 1 of our chat now!
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This week, we meet another new Foodie Friend, one whose delicious Thai-inspired food has previously been featured here, Rishi Arora. Raised in both Singapore & Thailand, he's the Le Cordon Bleu-trained chef behind PART-THAI private dining & delivery. Listen now to this 2nd part of our chat - Rishi answers Denise's usual food-related questions!
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Hello Makan Kakis! This week, we meet another new Foodie Friend, one whose delicious Thai-inspired food has previously been featured here, Rishi Arora. Listen now to Rishi's recommendation for cool, creamy, delicious chendol!
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Hello Makan Kakis!
We have a new Foodie Friend, seasoned restaurateur, a proud lover of fresh seafood and sake, and a loving father of two, Lambert Chen (co-owner of Seafood Restaurant Diamond Kitchen & Modern Japanese Izakaya iKO).
This self-confessed avid foodie chats with us about the newly-revamped iKO and we get to know our new Makan Kaki a little better too...
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Hello Makan Kakis! We have a new Foodie Friend, Restaurateur Lambert Chen (co-owner of Seafood Restaurant Diamond Kitchen & Modern Japanese Izakaya iKO). Avid foodie is eager to share with us what he believes is the best Lor Mee stall in Singapore. The secret is in their awesome black vinegar and unique shark meat nuggets, battered and deep-friend to golden perfection. Listen to the podcast for all the delicious details now!
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Hello Makan Kakis!
We have a new Foodie Friend, seasoned restaurateur, a proud lover of fresh seafood and sake, and a loving father of two, Lambert Chen (co-owner of Seafood Restaurant Diamond Kitchen & Modern Japanese Izakaya iKO).
This self-confessed avid foodie chats with us about the newly-revamped iKO and we get to know our new Makan Kaki a little better too...
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Author, cook and our Foodie Friend Annette Tan of Fatfuku continues her exploration of her beloved Eastside neighbourhood with a hidden gem for surprisingly good Thai food. Her recent discovery (at a friend’s invitation) is at a regular, little bistro in Siglap that’s actually been around for quite a while. When it first started out, Western pub food classics were served alongside their drinks, so it really was the last place Annette expected to make such a find...
LISTEN TO THIS PODCAST NOW! And visit the Makan Kakis blog for more delicious details: https://makankakiswithdenise.wordpress.com/2022/03/10/terrific-thai-food-at-hidden-siglap-spot/
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This week, our foodie friend Chef-Partner of Rempapa, Damian D'Silva is back to tell us about this excellent stall for a late lunch. He often finds himself wandering over to Geylang Serai Market & Food Centre for a bite and there, you'll find a stall operated by a mother-and-son team, selling chapati that's to die for...
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Hello Foodie Friends! We have a new Makan Kaki - the man behind premium online seafood delivery platform Ooster Bay, as well as restaurants Uni Gallery & Caviar - Jason Ong. Today, he recommends a favourite supper destination from his 90s/ 2000s clubbing days that's still serving up excellent fried carrot cake & oyster omelette. The latter, in particular, is Jason's go-to because it's "crispy and tasty" and the oysters are fat, creamy and don't taste frozen (even if they are)...
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Hello Makan Kakis, so the most-coveted dish of 2021 on this blog was prawn noodles. It would seem you can't get enough of this beloved hawker dish, so how lucky are we that our Foodie Friend, author and chef of private dining outfit Fatfuku, Annette Tan is back to recommend one of her favourites? At East Treasure Specialty Prawn Noodle (by the same folks behind Aston's), you'll find various types of prawn noodles, from their Classic Prawn Noodles to Supreme Prawn Noodles (with prawns, pork belly slices, pork rib and pork tail), but the one Annette always goes for is their Penang Big Prawn Noodles...
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An NYT story has sparked a lot of buzz in the recent week about what makes a Singaporean curry, so your Foodie Friend is bravely wading into the discussion with this offering. Disclaimer: This recommendation is not for the definitive or best curry in Singapore. With deep respect to our rich, complex and varied local culinary heritage, this is but one of the many delicious curries out there that's worth a mention...
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Hello Makan Kakis! The Year of the Tiger is almost here and if you're looking for interesting bites for your festive feasts, go the takeaway/ delivery route with these two unique finds...
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Pressed for time? Here's a short and sweet summary of our 2-part podcast with Chef Damian D'Silva, featuring highlights from Rempapa's menu and some of Denise's favourite dishes...
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The Big Daddy of Local Heritage Cuisine is back with a new restaurant - REMPAPA! In this first part of his chat with Denise on GOLD 905, he shares some of his favourite dishes from his brunch menu, including a powerfully punchy seafood curry mee!
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The Big Daddy of Local Heritage Cuisine is back with a new restaurant - REMPAPA! In this second part of his chat with Denise on GOLD 905, he serves up highlights of his dinner menu, desserts and a special Chinese New Year menu, just in time for the festive celebrations.
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Hi Makan Kakis! This week, our foodie friend Lyn Lee of Awfully Chocolate & Sinpopo Brand returns to take us back to her beloved Katong neighbourhood for one of her favourite zi char places. So what's good to eat at Sin Hoi Sai Eating House on East Coast Road? Listen now for Lyn's recommendations!
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Our Foodie Friend Annette Tan of FatFuku Private Dining returns with a delicious collaboration with Luke's Lobster! Timed with its first-year anniversary in Singapore, Luke’s has added a third shack in Great World, after Shaw Isetan & Jewel Changi; and celebrates with a special limited edition menu of their signature rolls given a local twist by homegrown chefs. Annette tells us about her Peranakan-insired sambal achar roll here. Listen now!
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Our Makan Kaki Annette Tan (FatFuku) recommends one of her latest instagram food discoveries - @part.thai - home-based private dining experience started by Le Cordon Bleu Paris trained Chef Rishi Arora, who creates bold, punchy dishes that draw on his memories of growing up in Bangkok. Spicy Krapow Pizza and Tom Yum Spaghetti with surprise and delight you, but there's more... Listen now and visit the Makan Kakis blog for more pictures & details!
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As we head into the new year, let's first take a look back at the very best of 2021. Which were the Top 10 local delights got you talking and eating this year? Listen/ download this round up of the year's most popular makan recommendations, according to your online response!
More pictures and details here at the Makan Kakis blog.
If you like what you hear, do share the good food with your good friends and tell them about Makan Kakis on Gold 905! Here's to a 2022 bursting with the best things to eat and drink – Season’s Eatings!
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This week, our foodie friend Lyn Lee of Awfully Chocolate & Sinpopo Brand is fresh from her visit to anEast-side haunt of hers, a place that's been around for decades and was once the "hippest mall" in Katong. This historical mall is probably best known for its culinary delights, found especially in the basement food court. Many swear by the chicken rice found there, but there are many other yummy dishes to try, including Lyn's recommendations - Laksa Yong Tau Foo, Ipoh Dai Loke Mee & Fried Carrot Cake... Listen now & visit the Makan Kakis blog for more pictures & details!
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Hi Makan Kakis, this week our foodie friend Fly Entertainment CEO and owner of Bar NKD, Fry Bistro & Soi Candy Thai Noodle and Seafood Bar, Irene Ang returns with another solid makan place for us to check out. Last time she was with us, she recommended her favourite old school laksa lemak, which often sees long queues. But if you cannot wait, you must try another stall in the same Mayflower Food Centre - 3 Sisters Prawn Noodle. Irene says their specialties are also very good... Listen now & visit the Makan Kakis blog for more pictures & details!
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Hey hey Foodie Friends! If you, like our Makan Kaki Lyn Lee (of Awfully Chocolate & Sinpopo Brand), are a massive K-Drama fan, then you know what it's like to be enticed by all the food dripping off the scenes. How can you not crave for a Korean feast? When the hunger pangs hit, do try a place Lyn swears by. It's the only Korean restaurant she and her family regularly visit and here's why... Listen now & visit the Makan Kakis blog for more pictures and details!
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Catching up with our foodie friend Lyn Lee on amongst other things, the newly revamped Katong flagship store of Awfully Chocolate - it's now a bakery and cafe, featuring brunch, dinners and full-service restaurant food, alongside all the special bakes and cakes their so renowned for.
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Well-known Ah Lim (Jalan Tua Kong) Mee Pok Kway Teow Soup has six outlets in various locations across Singapore including Bugis, Tampines, Simpang Bedok and the one that started it all over twenty years ago in Siglap, on the corner of East Coast Road & Jalan Tua Kong.
Already a solid, reliable place for my all-time favourite noodle dish tah mee pok tah or bak chor mee, I considered it quite the culinary coup to discover that of all the six outlets, only the Joo Chiat Place branch has a must-try secret menu item. Dry mee hoon kueh! To clarify, mee hoon kueh is on their menu, but only the soup version. The dry version is off-menu and only available for dinner, after 5.30pm.
Listen now & visit the Makan Kakis blog for more pictures and details!
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I’ve always enjoyed a bowl of mutton soup, so when my Makan Kaki, Chef Shen Tan of Newton nasi lemak stall OG Lemak recommended I try one in my neighbourhood, I was more than keen. Until I realized it wasn’t the spicy sup kambing I had assumed. She was suggesting a mutton soup of the Chinese herbal variety, which brought flashbacks of unpleasant previous encounters with bitter TCM concoctions. However, Chef Shen proclaimed it hearty, heart-warming and not overtly herbal, so in the name of adventurous eating, I agreed to pay Hong Wen Mutton Soup a visit...
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What do legendary actor P. Ramlee & fried chicken have in common? They are the passions of one man - Mr Haswandi Hashim – converging deliciously at his stall in Jalan Besar. After my Makan Kaki Chef Bjorn Shen, judge of MasterChef Singapore and Middle-Eastern restaurant Artichoke proclaimed it “the most amazing ayam goreng in Singapore” earlier in February this year, I hurried down to confirm this and was not disappointed. A few things have changed since February and on my last visit, I finally met the man behind Chef Bjorn’s favourite fried chicken. Turns out, this ayam goreng comes with rice and sambals as colourful as the story behind it...
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Fresh off his win in cooking competition Masterchef Singapore Season 2 earlier this year in April, Derek Cheong revealed that he was a huge fan of a stall called Loyang Way Big Prawn Noodles. Known for his “mad scientist” culinary prowess and mastery over Asian flavours, I immediately sat up and paid attention. If it was good enough for a Masterchef, it was certainly worth the meandering forty minute drive from West to East to locate this far-flung stall...
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As recommended by Makan Kaki Gayle Leong of Asian Specialty Gelato Ice Ke Lim, this is her favourite lontong, found in her hood. Ole Ole Bumbu at Marine Terrace is run by a close-knit family who makes everything from scratch, so listen now for a spicy lontong treat worth cheering about... Listen now & visit the Makan Kakis blog for more pictures and details!
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I’m always game for an unusual eating experience, so when my Makan Kaki Gayle Leong of Ice Ke Lim Specialty Asian Gelato invited me to try their rojak ice cream experiment, I was ready with a big spoon and an even bigger appetite. Made in collaboration withLim Bo Fresh Fruits Rojak, a scoop of their Mean Vanilla Bean gelato was drizzled with mild rojak sauce and topped with crushed peanuts and crispy you tiao (deep fried dough fritters). The combination sounded weird, but turned out to be quite wonderful. So wonderful that I decided to return to the Joo Chiat Place stall for a taste of their unique Malaysian-style fruit rojak. I wanted to find out just who Lim Bo is and what sets his rojak apart from our local version...
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Greetings beloved Greedies! For the next few weeks, we’re doing things with a little twist and getting to know our favourite Gold 905 DJs better through their favourite eateries. Kicking things off is the man who drives you home daily, Chris Ho of the Homestretch (5-8pm). Looking for a new place to try superb Thai food at? Love the Esan cuisine of North-Eastern Thailand? Then you’re gonna love this new episode of Makan Kakis! So Chris really loves Thailand and spends a lot of his free time in the Land of a Thousand Smiles. But when he’s back in Singapore and hankering after a true taste of Thailand, then he heads right on over to this authentic Thai eatery…
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Where can you find possibly the spiciest wanton mee in Singapore? A strong contender is Dunman Food Centre’s famously fiery wanton noodles. Our Makan Kaki, Chef Shen Tan of OG Lemak tells us more about their Eunos branch. Denise checked it out & discovers the burn there is just as potent...
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Miss pasar malam snacks? No more hunting high and low for them, with this family's bricks-and-mortar stores, where crispy-on-the-outside, fluffy-on-the-inside vadai with special bullet chillies are in ample supply. GOLD 905’s Denise tells you where. Listen now & visit the Makan Kakis blog for more pictures & details!
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GOLD 905 DJ Denise Tan pays penance for overindulging with a bowl of traditional Teochew fish porridge – two types of fresh fish and a tasty stock make this Bukit Timah stall a go-to. It's also the favourite of Makan Kaki Chef Heman Tan of Moonbow at Dempsey. Listen now!
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GOLD 905 DJ Denise Tan is overcome by delicious nostalgia at the newest branch of a favourite from her youth. Famous in Commonwealth and Redhill, these traditional, hand-fried chicken wings can now be found in the West Coast for a crispy, tasty, meaty experience. Oh, and there are fried noodles and other goodies to make up a satisfying meal... Listen now & visit the Makan Kakis blog for more pictures & details!
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This week, GOLD 905 DJ Denise Tan is enchanted by Indonesian street food favourites served up by a superhero and his magic-fingered wife. Her Makan Kaki, The Fabulous Baker Boy Juwanda Hassim, recommended she check out "Batman Ayam Penyet", for crispy penyet favourites like chicken and pomfret, sup buntut (oxtail soup) and other spellbinding Surabaya specialties. Listen/ download the podcast now! Or read the story and watch the video here.
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Hi Makan Kakis, a bonus Friday podcast for you! Finally caught up with foodie friend Ownself Make Chef Shen Tan, who has 2 new delicious projects. First, her noodle collab with Raffles Courtyard (now on) and her spanking new Nasi Lemak stall at Newton Hawker Centre, OG Lemak! Listen now for all the mouthwatering details!
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The Makan Kakis x CNA Lifestyle collaboration is back! This week GOLD 905 DJ Denise Tan pays a visit to a noodle stall that became a viral sensation because of #TheIndianFishballMeeExperience. Fishball noodles and bak chor mee made by a young Indian hawker who prefers the kopitiam to corporate life? She finds out if cross-cultural Lina Fishball Noodle is worth the hype. Listen now or download this podcast and click here to watch the video!
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This week, our Makan Kaki, Fly Entertainment CEO and owner ofBar NKD, Fry Bistro & Soi Candy Thai Noodle and Seafood Bar, Irene Ang returns with a recommendation I really had to persuade her to share. This is her (until now) secret, go-to place for one of her favourite local dishes, LAKSA! Listen now for where to find this classic Chinese-style hawker centre Laksa at it's simple best. No-frills, easy on the wallet, yet very satisfying. It reminds Irene of the kind she used to enjoy in primary school - old-school, comforting and tuckshop-tasty! Listen now & visit the Makan Kakis blog for more pictures & details!
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Fresh from her judging stint on Channel 8's baking competition Creme de la Creme, our foodie friend, award-winning chocolate and dessert artist, Chef Janice Wong is back! This time, she recommends a visit to gourmet Italian restaurant & bar at the far end of Robertson Quay. There at Publico Ristorante, you can find delicious cocktails, handmade pastas and pizzas, all with a contemporary touch. Be sure to pay them a visit once dining-in is permitted! For now, ala carte items are available on their takeout menu...
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Hello Makan Kakis, get ready to indulge this week with our foodie friend, Gelato Chef & owner of Momolato, Sharon Tay. When you’re in the mood for something spicy, creamy & deeply satisfying, you’ve got to try her favourite Chinese-style Fish Head Curry! Take it from Chef Sharon, who grew up in the area enjoying the signature dish of this blink-and-you’ll-miss-it stall at Old Airport Road Food Centre. Yes, tucked away in a corner at one far end of the renowned hawker heaven, you’ll find Yi Lu Fa...
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The best thing about running a fish farm is the access to the freshest produce possible for your own eatery. Case in point, popular-amongst-chefs-and-foodies-alike, Ah Hua Kelong. This week, our Makan Kaki, Ownself Make Chef Shen Tan recommends the restaurant by her regular suppliers to her Sinfully Seafood private dining dinners.
Located in a quiet corner of the Jalan Besar area, Scaled by Ah Hua Kelong is the only fish farm owned restaurant in Singapore. this means all the fish dishes on the menu come direct from the farm to the kitchen to your table. 90% of all their other ingredients are also locally sourced, so it's worth giving this unique restaurant your support... Listen to this podcast now!
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Hi Makan Kakis, Talking Point’s Steven Chia is back with another recommendation and this time it's where he’s been enjoying the delights of zi char staple, fried hor fun. This place may be all about specialising in one noodle dish, but it's also all about variety, so whether you like surf or turf or both, Hin Fried Hor Fun delivers! Theirs is the “dry” version, blanketed in a thick gravy for maximum coverage. The starchy sauce clings lovingly to every curled, broad flat noodle piece that has first been tossed in a screamingly hot wok, for that distinct breath of smoke (wok hei). Listen now for all the delicious details!
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Hey Makan Kakis, this episode is a little different but no less delicious, and we have a new foodie friend! A week ago, Fly Entertainment CEO, entrepreneur & entertainer best known for her role as Rosie in TV’s Phua Chu Kang, Irene Ang joined me for a virtual mukbang lunch party, with food delivered from her latest F&B venture, Soi Candy Thai Noodle and Seafood Bar. In this podcast, she dishes on the delicious Thai food and why she opened a new restaurant even when business was bad due to last year’s circuit breaker. She also dishes up advice & encouragement for fellow business owners who’ve had to weather countless storms during the pandemic, plus shares on her current pet project reaching out to the homeless. Listen now or click here to watch the full video: https://www.facebook.com/gold905/videos/4134963919902802
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Hey Makan Kakis, this episode is a little different but no less delicious, and we have a new foodie friend! A week ago, Fly Entertainment CEO, entrepreneur & entertainer best known for her role as Rosie in TV’s Phua Chu Kang, Irene Ang joined me for a virtual mukbang lunch party, with food delivered from her latest F&B venture, Soi Candy Thai Noodle and Seafood Bar, serving up traditional Northern Thai cuisine with a fun twist by Chef Candy from Chiang Rai. Listen for our choice recommendations off their extensive menu!
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The Boss Lady behind bakery & bistro Little House of Dreams and Easy Food SG is back! Audrey Lee really enjoys her carrot cake, also known as Chye Tow Kueh, and particularly loves the the "white" version (sans sweet dark soya sauce) from a stall within the Let's Eat mini foodcourt at The Grandstand (the former Turf Club off Dunearn Road). She tells Denise why this chye tow kueh does it for her...
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Our new Foodie Friend, investment-banker-turned-award-winning-gelato-chef & founder of Momolato Sharon Tay absolutely adores Hainanese Curry Rice. Listen to this podcast now for her favourite place to get her curry rice fix & Denise's verdict...
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Please meet our new Foodie Friend, investment-banker-turned-award-winning-gelato-chef & founder of Momolato (cafe & gelato brand) Sharon Tay!
Momolato is short for "more and more gelato" and believe me, Sharon has dreamt up an extensive menu of unique and delicious gelato & sorbets that are eco-friendly and halal, with keto, vegan, dairy-free and no-sugar added options.
This week, get to know more about the brand, the cafe and the lady boss behind Momolato.
In Part 1 of this podcast, Sharon introduces us to Momolato and recommends some of the weird & wonderful stuff you've got to try - 1000 year Gouda cheese gelato anyone?
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Please meet our new Foodie Friend, investment-banker-turned-award-winning-gelato-chef & founder of Momolato (cafe & gelato brand) Sharon Tay!
Momolato is short for "more and more gelato" and believe me, Sharon has dreamt up an extensive menu of unique and delicious gelato & sorbets that are eco-friendly and halal, with keto, vegan, dairy-free and no-sugar added options.
This week, get to know more about the brand, the cafe and the lady boss behind Momolato.
In Part 2 of this podcast, Sharon shares a few of her favourite things with us and also, future plans for Momolato.
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Chef Heman Tan of Moonbow on Dempsey Hill reveals the first dish he ever cooked, who his culinary heroes are, heaven & hell ingredients, as well as his dream dinner party scenario...
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Our new Makan Kaki Chef Heman Tan of Moonbow on Dempsey Hill explains his Ironman moniker, his work as a ceramicist and approach to food & art at Moonbow...
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Chef Heman Tan of Moonbow on Dempsey Hill recommends his long-time favourite, Dry Pork Rib Prawn Noodles, featuring a robust, umami soup, perfectly balanced chilli, lard and generous portions of noodles, juicy pork ribs and prawns!
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PART 1 of our podcast with Juwanda Hassim - find out more about the NEW The Fabulous Baker Boy!
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This place is a favourite of Juwanda's because of their famous chaats, which are deliciously moreish tea-time treats that can also be eaten on the go, hence their popularity as Indian street snacks. Vegetarian, not too heavy on the stomach, yet bursting with flavours, colours and textures, Kailash Parbat comes highly recommended by our Makan Kaki!
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PART 2 of our podcast with The Fabulous Baker Boy Juwanda Hassim - He narrows it down to one cake and one savoury you absolutely must order online for delivery or pickup. And what other sweet treats he'll be introducing soon to his menu soon.
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Takeaway or island-wide delivery for a limited time only - the irresistible WOLF Rendang Burger & loaded Rendang Fries, Chef Shen Tan's umami-packed collaboration with Wolf Burgers...
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Chef Shen Tan updates us on F&B plans during the current Singapore Phase 2 heightened alert.
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Masterchef Singapore Judge Chef Damian D'Silva loves porridge. Specifically Teochew-style porridge - the plain, watery rice kind served steaming hot with a whole array of cooked dishes. Whenever he gets a craving, he heads to Jurong East for his porridge fix, where you'll find him ordering at least two different types of fish. Indeed, this place is renowned for their variety of species & preparation methods. Don't let their name "Zai Shun Curry Fish Head" mislead you - in a curry, fried or steamed with a selection of different marinades and sauces, their fish dishes are superb. No wonder the Michelin Bib Gourmand eatery is always packed with hungry customers from breakfast through to lunch...
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Chef & Artist Janice Wong continues her chat with Denise and reveals her all-time favourite dessert, go-to dish outside of sweets and her secret to sweet success...
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Chef & Artist Janice Wong chats with Denise about the new TV baking competition she's judging with Fann Wong & Jeanette Aw...
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Chef & Artist Janice Wong loves this restuarant because it serves up all the flavours she finds comforting in one place! Listen now to find out more about Akira Back...
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Derek recommends his go-to hawker comfort food, Laksa (the lemak kind) and also reveals his new job, post MasterChef win!
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Derek shares how he put his 3rd year engineering studies on hold to join MasterChef, who his culinary hero is, which culinary books have inspired him, the first dish he ever cooked and his ideal dinner party guest/ meal...
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He may be known for his fine-dining aesthetic and "mad scientist" style of molecular gastronomy, but MasterChef SG Winner Derek Cheong maintains he's a "Hawker Boy" at heart. Besides chicken rice, which he can eat everyday, his other go-to comfort food is the rich, coconutty laksa at this place...
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Derek talking about his reaction to his win in the MasterChef kitchen, his thoughts on the judges, the biggest lessons he's learnt along the way and what he's doing with his $15,000 cash prize (only what a "mad scientist" would buy!).
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Hello Makan Kakis! This week, we take you on a little trip down memory lane to an Oldie but Goodie - Newton Food Centre. Granted, it has gained a bit of a reputation for touting and being touristy (thanks, Crazy Rich Asians movie!) but honestly, the place still holds great charm, nostalgia and still boasts many stalls that have been serving up legit food for generations. Case in point, the go-to BBQ Seafood stall of our Foodie Friend, Audrey Lee of Little House of Dreams & EasyFood. Audrey swears by this 3rd generation stall for their BBQ sambal stingray, which she believes to be the best she's ever tasted...
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Host of Talking Point, Steven Chia, who has previously regaled us with tales of his investigations into bread, instant noodles and bubble tea, joins us to talk about FRIED CHICKEN!
Why can't Singaporeans get enough of it? Just how many varieties are out there in the market? Is there such a thing as healthy fried chicken? And what happened to Steven when he subjected himself to a Talking Point experiment to eat fried chicken everyday for 2 weeks straight?
Steve gives us a little taster of what to expect in his 2-part Talking Point special - catch it this week (15 April) & next (Thurs 22 April), 9.30pm on Channel 5 or via CNA!
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Host of Talking Point, Steven Chia, who has previously regaled us with tales of his investigations into bread, instant noodles and bubble tea, joins us to talk about FRIED CHICKEN!
Why can't Singaporeans get enough of it? Just how many varieties are out there in the market? Is there such a thing as healthy fried chicken? And what happened to Steven when he subjected himself to a Talking Point experiment to eat fried chicken everyday for 2 weeks straight?
Steve gives us a little taster of what to expect in his 2-part Talking Point special - catch it this week (15 April) & next (Thurs 22 April), 9.30pm on Channel 5 or via CNA!
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Our Makan Kaki & host of Talking Point, Steven Chia, loves Penang-style Char Kway Teow and recommends this family favourite. It's also a great place for other delicious Malaysian-style delights...
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Top 10 Contestant from MasterChef Singapore Melissa Lim has a special place that ticks all the boxes if you're looking for a premium option to enjoy, especially during special occasions. From the same people behind the L'Entrecote Steak & Fries Bistros and Sabio by the Sea, Riviera serves up great ambiance, delectable modern Mediterrean cuisine, and for Melissa, some of the most exquisite desserts...
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Usually a frequenter of hawker centres, down-to-earth Chef Damian also occasionally enjoys a casual nibble and tipple at this relaxed bar/restaurant which boasts an excellent natural wine list and really delicious food, perfect for sharing. Listen now for all the delicious details!
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Denise is given insights by Chef Damian about the difference between a successful cooking competition contestant & a successful F&B professional. Also, how would he do if he was a contestant instead of a judge?
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Denise chats with Chef Damian D'Silva about the new dishes at his restaurant Kin, created from many personal food memories, and which MasterChef SG contestants to watch out for.
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Chef Ryan Clift tells us why THIS Modern European Restaurant is one of his his current favourites. If you're looking for a fancy feast, phenomenal cooking and affordable fine-dining prices, Sommer is definitely worth booking!
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Hot off the latest episode of MasterChef Singapore, Chef Ryan Clift of Tippling Club joins Denise on the show with insights on his stint as guest judge in the culinary competition.
In part 2 of our interview, Chef Ryan talks about his fateful elimination round challenge, what makes an outstanding MasterChef and which contestant he is very impressed with...
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Hot off the latest episode of MasterChef Singapore, Chef Ryan Clift of Tippling Club joins Denise on the show with insights on his stint as guest judge in the culinary competition.
In part 1 of our interview, Chef Ryan talks about being sober in the F&B Industry, catches us up on his work at Tippling Club & V-Dining by V-Zug and his impression of MasterChef Singapore...
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Hi Makan Kakis! This week, we welcome Hotel General Manager Melissa Lim, who most recently exited the MasterChef Singapore competition. Here, she reveals her favourite MasterChef SG judge and her future culinary plans.
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Hi Makan Kakis! This week, we welcome Hotel General Manager Melissa Lim, who most recently exited the MasterChef Singapore competition.Here, she recommends her favourite Dark Soya Sauce Wanton Noodles!
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Hi Makan Kakis! This week, we welcome Hotel General Manager Melissa Lim, who most recently exited the MasterChef Singapore competition. She tells us about that fateful episode, gives us insights into the MasterChef experience and lessons she's learnt.
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Hi Makan Kakis, this week brings a double-whammy of deliciousness with not 1, but 2 makan recommendations from MasterChef Singapore judges Audra Morrice & Bjorn Shen! First, authentic, quality Nasi Padang from a restaurant that has been in Singapore since 1920. Next, the perfect pairing of rich salmon head with tangy, spicy assam pedas. Listen/ download this podcast now for all the details!
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Hi Makan Kakis! This week, it's our great pleasure to have MasterChef Australia alumni and MasterChef Singapore Judge Audra Morrice with us! Based in Sydney, Australia, Audra was in Singapore for the taping of the current season of the culinary competition and during her time here, she was also able to revisit some of her favourite makan places.
One of them holds tremendous nostalgia for her - of trips back to Singapore with her father and her sons for feasts at this Little India stalwart. Madras New Woodlands Restaurant has Tiffin, Mini Set Meals & Tea-time Specials that can't be beat. In particular, Audra adores their Appam, which she describes as "phenomenal"...
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Hi Makan Kakis! This week, it's our great pleasure to have MasterChef Australia alumni and MasterChef Singapore Judge Audra Morrice with us! In part 2 of out chat with her, she shares how she has evolved as a judge in season 2, her pet peeves when judging contestants and what kind of contestants stand out to her.
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Hi Makan Kakis! This week, it's our great pleasure to have MasterChef Australia alumni and MasterChef Singapore Judge Audra Morrice with us! Here in part 1 of our chat, she tells us what to expect from the new season of MasterChef Singapore, and whether having been a contestant herself gives her an edges over her fellow judges Bjorn Shen & Damian D'Silva.
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This week we welcome back Masterchef Singapore Judge, Chef-Owner of Artichoke & Small's, Bjorn Shen! With the brand new season of Masterchef Singapore back, Bjorn returns to catch us up on the culinary competition: What is his pet peeve as a judge? In other words, what not to do as a contestant? Best & worst things that happened in Episode 1? Which contestants to look out for in Episode 2?
Listen now for Chef Bjorn's answers!
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This week we welcome back Masterchef Singapore Judge, Chef-Owner of Artichoke & Small's, Bjorn Shen! With the brand new season of Masterchef Singapore back, Bjorn returns to catch us up on the culinary competition:
- What's new, what's stayed the same?
- If he was a contestant instead of a judge, how would he do?
Listen now for Chef Bjorn's answers!
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Hey Makan Kakis! Our foodie friend Lyn Lee of Awfully Chocolate & Sinpopo Brand joins us to recommend an incredible accompaniament to awesome Fried Hokkien Mee - SATAY. Not just your regular grilled meats on a stick, but luscious, decadent, chargoal-grilled PORK BELLY SATAY! Served side-by-side to the folks behind the famous Geylang Lorong 29 Hokkien Mee, which we've previously featured here.
Said Hokkien Mee is charcoal-fried for that deliciously smoky wok hei and the same charcoal-smokiness is front and centre In the pork belly satay, which comes with gorgeous charred marks seared in stripes across the succulent meat. What also struck Lyn was the sheer size of the pork belly satay, easily four times the size of a regular stick...
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Happy Chinese New Year! This week, Denise has something deliciously festive to recommend - suan pan zi (算盘子), or Abacus seeds, which get their name from the ancient calculating tool, the abacus (also called a counting frame). This traditional Hakka dish is a labour-intensive, time-consuming delicacy usually eaten during special occasions because its signature shape signifies wealth and prosperity. Denise recently discovered a local home-based business whose specialty is handmade abacus seeds. Madam Yam is available for delivery or pickup and ordered via instagram or facebook. It looked so good, she just had to give it a try and she was not disappointed...
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Makan Kaki Audrey Lee of Little House of Dreams & EasyFood recommends where to enjoy one of her favourite Japanese-style pastas. Full of umami & perfectly al dente, you'll be surprised to find it in a mini-mart in Havelock!
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Denise catches up with Audrey Lee, founder of Bakery & Cafe Little House of Dreams...
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Denise chats with Audrey about her latest F&B concept, EasyFood, providing ready meals for the time-pressed, that have been flash frozen and kept for when you need a quick meal in minutes. From soups to croissants to chocolate lava cake, you can buy at wholesale prices for affordable, convenient and wholesome meals for the whole family. She also recommends her favourite goodies from her cafe Little House of Dreams, for the festive season - CNY & Valentines' Day...
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Chef Shen Tan of private dining experience Ownself Make Chef & Thank Goodness It's is back for another delicious round of makan and this time, she's taking us to a Little India restaurant that serves up a wonderful Hyderabad-style Dhum Biryani. Marinated meat is layered with rice and meticulously cooked in a unique dough-sealed pot to lock in the juices and flavours, for maximum meat tenderness and rice fluffiness. Chef recommends the boneless lamb biryani & palak paneer. Listen now to find out why!
For more delicious details, check out Denise's Makan Kakis blog! Click HERE.
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Third time's a charm with a return to Gar Lok Eating House, a place we've visited twice before! Our Makan Kaki Lyn Lee of Awfully Chocolate & Sinpopo brand had such a fascinating time the first time she went for her father-in-law's favourite Hakka Beef Balls, she had to return to check out the other goodies on offer, including their hand-made Hakka Yong Tau Foo and this week's recommendation, excellent Economical Rice! De Ji Shen Cai Fan is one of the three stalls occupying the small but charming old school coffeeshop, serving up hot plates of white rice with a selection of tasty meat, seafood and vegetable dishes. Definitely more a breakfast place, be sure to get there early to guarantee first dibs on their best variety of dishes, including hand-made fish cakes and crispy Nam Yu pork belly...
For more delicious details, check out Denise's Makan Kakis blog! Click HERE.
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Our Makan Kaki, Chef Anthony Yeoh of Summer Hill French Bistro is back to share another late night discovery near his restaurant at Sunset Way. Just a short drive in the direction of Beauty World, you’ll find Mong Kok Dim Sum at Cheong Chin Nam Road, the famous stretch of eateries that open late. There, you’ll find decent dim sum and other zichar favourites available till 1.30am...
For more delicious details, check out Denise's Makan Kakis blog! Click HERE.
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Our beloved Makan Kaki, Chef Shen Tan of Ownself Make Chef is back! And this week, she reveals a sweet discovery in the East she was super excited to have stumbled across. Always eager to try something new, she sat down at this basement cafe in Siglap Centre to try a few dishes and here are a couple of her recommendations...
For more delicious details, check out Denise's Makan Kakis blog! Click HERE.
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In our usual year-end special, we look back at 2020’s most popular makan recommendations according to your online response. Most were part of Denise's circuit breaker special, featuring affordable meals for $20 or less, enough to feed 2-4 people. We stayed home, ordered in far more than usual and also tried to support our hawkers through various online platforms - truly a reflection of the pandemic year we've experienced. Listen now for 2020's TOP 10 Favourite Makan Recommendations on GOLD 905...
For videos, pictures and details, check out the Makan Kakis blog!
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As recommended by Makan Kaki Lyn Lee of Awfully Chocolate & Sinpopo Brand, GOLD 905 DJ and foodie Denise Tan returns to Gar Lok Eating House on Syed Alwi Road for another authentic Hakka dish - clean, tasty broth and big, bouncy Hakka beef balls...
TO WATCH THE VIDEO & READ THE FULL STORY, CLICK HERE!
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A conversation the other day at family lunch had the table divided over Indian flatbreads. I love the full-on flavours of prata and thosai, but some older relatives swore their allegiance to chapati, so I decided to make it my next makan mission to hunt down some of the best in Singapore. I needed to understand the appeal of something I had always thought was a bit plain, compared to its more flavourful cousins. After much research, I had narrowed my search down to just one place. Azmi Restaurant in Little India was recommended for excellent unleavened flatbread. Listen now for chapati & mutton keema!
TO WATCH THE VIDEO & READ THE FULL STORY ON CNA LIFESTYLE, CLICK HERE!
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The last thing I expected to find in the Little India area was authentic, hand-made Hakka delicacies, but following a hot tip from my Makan Kaki Lyn Lee of Awfully Chocolate & Sinpopo Brand, I went looking for a stall that’s been run by one family for more than three decades, located in a coffee shop along Syed Alwi Road. One of two side-by-side stalls run by the Chia family, customers have been flocking there for a taste of authentic Hakka yong tau foo since 1984...
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If you’re looking for something nourishing and comforting, there’s nothing quite like a bowl of chicken noodle soup, especially if a local version beckons - one that’s rich, luxurious and packed full of spicy flavour. I knew I was on to a winner after my first try of the mee soto from Yunos N Family...
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This week, it's all about a particular slice of Bukit Timah nostalgia and the tasty history of Sin Chew Satay Bee Hoon, which has roots in Bukit Timah Market & Food Centre that go back more than four decades.
They are considered one of the few remaining pioneer heritage hawkers who moved their street food stalls from along Bukit Timah canal into the food centre.
So what makes their satay bee hoon so popular that regulars, hungry for their saucy signature, often form queues before opening time.
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Denise's Makan Kakis Farah & Claudinho de Morais (behind Brazilian home business Claudinho’s Kitchen) recommended one of their favourite Nasi Padang places, tucked away in a quiet fourth-floor corner of Far East Plaza. There, you'll discovered eat, heart and family make eating at hidden gem Mansor D’Cafe feel like a home-coming. Oh, and the food (like beef rendang, sambal ikan & begedil) is absolutely delicious too!
TO WATCH THE VIDEO & READ THE FULL STORY, CLICK HERE!
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Fried chicken is, undeniably, a universal favourite. The USA has Southern fried chicken, Japan has karaage, Taiwan has Da Ji Pai (XXL chicken cutlet), South Korea has Yangnyeom chicken and Indonesia has ayam penyet. But here in Singapore, it's all about the HAR CHEONG GAI! It also happens to be the obsession of 28-year-old Tan Wee Yang, who set up Ah Tan Wings in Yishun Avenue 11 three years ago. He realised his favourite dish is usually found amongst many other items on zichar stall menus, but no one specialised in it, so he decided to create a place dedicated to shrimp paste chicken wings. From there, he's also added har cheong gai rice sets to his menu, but his outstandingly crispy, flavourful, aromatic chicken remains the star...
WATCH THE VIDEO & READ THE FULL STORY HERE!
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This dessert cafe in Tanglin Halt has a savoury secret! You might have heard of a now defunct stall at Tanglin Halt Food Centre called Aw’s Signature Minced Pork Noodles, which made a name for itself with delicious, ingredient-laden bak chor mee. But almost as quickly as it rose in popularity, it closed down, much to the disappointment of customers in the know. One of them was my Makan Kaki, Chef Shen Tan of private dining experience, Ownself Make Chef and Gastrogig’s Thank-Goodness-It’s home delivery concept. So imagine my delight when she revealed it had re-opened, albeit in a surprisingly different set-up, just a stone’s throw from its former location. She recommended that I head down to The Milky Way Homemade Ice-Cream And Coffee cafe for my bak chor mee fix, but with the added bonus of dessert...
WATCH THE VIDEO & READ THE FULL STORY HERE!
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Tired of healthy hipster grain bowls? Yearning for more comforting local flavours? Then lei cha fan, or thunder tea rice gives you the best of both worlds in one mighty tyhpoon of taste! This ancient Hakka invention of veggie-garnished grains in an astringent pour-over soup is certainly healthy, comforting and local, but because of its bitter herbal taste, traditional lei cha fan isn’t everyone’s cup of tea. Literally. Enter a crowd-pleasing version that’s been given a surprising vegan twist...
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Space: the final frontier. This is the voyage of my appetite. The mission: to explore strange new foods, to seek out new flavours and new places, to boldly go where no stomach has gone before. Glutton’s log: following a tip-off from my Makan Kaki, Chef Anthony Yeoh of Summer Hill French Bistro, contact was finally made with target. Something previously never seen or heard of before. Something deep-fried, savoury and shaped like a flying saucer. At Berseh Food Centre, I made a delicious discovery – Fuzhou oyster cakes. A traditional snack brought to Singapore from the capital of China’s Fujian Province, Chef Anthony described them as a Chinese version of French beignets or Indian Vadai...
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Denise chats with her new Makan Kaki, Mark Tay - the co-founder of Sunday Punch, purveyors of small batch, handcrafted cocktails that you can have delivered in bottles to wherever you are...
Photo via instagram: @drinksundaypunch
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As recommended by Denise's new Makan Kaki, Mark Tay of Sunday Punch: Imagine if bak kut teh (pork rib soup) and fishball noodles joined forces, with a little help from lor mee (noodles in a spiced, starchy gravy). The result is a souped-up super hybrid created by Malu Malu Wah Seng Bak Kut Noodle in Sembawang...
READ THE FULL STORY & WATCH THE VIDEO HERE!
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As recommended by Denise's Makan Kkai Hjh Maimunah is a name is synonymous with traditional Malay and Indonesian rice and dishes, or “kampung-styled cuisine” according to their own description. For sure, it’s my go-to when I’m craving a hearty, spicy rice meal. But what I didn’t know was just how delicious their desserts are, until my Makan Kaki, cooking instructor Christopher Tan enlightened me.
He’s the self-confessed “nerd baker” and award-winning author of The Way of Kueh - Savouring & Saving Singapore’s Heritage Desserts, so if there was anyone to take advice from, it would be him. He recommended I pay their Joo Chiat outlet a mid-afternoon visit, slow down and enjoy a cup of kopi with a plateful of kueh.
Faced with a mind-boggling array of kueh, there was no way I would have been able to decide what to order, but thankfully, Christopher Tan suggested I try a couple of his favourites. These two traditional kueh were similarly dressed in shiny green coats of banana leaf, but underneath they couldn’t have been more different. The steamed nagasari pisang was sweet, while the pulut panggang was savoury...
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I had been told that it was the best carrot cake in the world by my Makan Kaki, founder of The Salted Plum, Shawn Kishore. Growing up in Yishun, breakfasting over chai tow kueh became such a cherished weekend ritual for him and his brothers, that he even invited the stall auntie to his wedding! With such a glowing recommendation, I knew I was in for a very special carrot cake experience...
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I never say no to a bowl of noodles, especially one that comes with a story and characters as colourful as its ingredients. So when my Makan Kaki Xin Hui Helder-Eng, from the foodie family behind Tie Fun Wan and writer for Parched, recommended I check out this stall at a coffeeshop in New Upper Changi Road, I jumped at the chance. Two figures stood waiting for me. One, a diminutive older lady with a piercing stare and the other, a younger gentleman covered in tattoos, who was in a hurry to get back to clearing up after a busy lunch crowd. They are 80-year-old Madam Lim Kwee Kee and her grandson 28-year-old Dickson Ng. Together, they are the tag team of dough-making, the yin and yang of handmade noodles and the convergence of past, present and future...
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We're back with our Makan Kaki and now, Mooncake Maven Lyn Lee, of Awfully Chocolate, Sinpopo Brand & mooncakefair.com - listen for details on this one-stop virtual mooncake marketplace and also, the selection of mooncakes Awfully Chocolate has for the season!
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