Kung Fu Yoga 功夫瑜伽 Movie Review

Chinese archeology professor Jack (Jackie Chan) teams up with beautiful Indian professor Ashmita and assistant Kyra to locate lost Magadha treasure. In a Tibetan ice cave, they find the remains of the royal army that had vanished together with the treasure, only to be ambushed by Randall (Sonu Sood), the descendent of a rebel army leader. When they free themselves, their next stop is Dubai where a diamond from the ice cave is to be auctioned. After a series of double-crosses and revelations about their past, Jack and his team travel to a mountain temple in India, using the diamond as a key to unlock the real treasure. 

Watched Kung Fu Yoga 功夫瑜伽 with JW at GV Vivocity. 

Personally, I felt that the show was simple and compact on its own. Initially, it may appear dull without much development but somewhat, the plot gradually got better. The story flow presented could have been improved as well.

Jackie Chan's fight scenes never disappoint and it was awesome as before! There were certain nice intense moment which kept me at the edge of my seat too. Great to have some humor element injected for such a show.

Though the finale ended quite abruptly, it was a fun one! Watch it yourself, I shall not be a spoiler. 

Ratings: 3.25 / 5

[Media Invite] Food Tasting tour at the Esplanade Annexe

Esplanade Annexe is a newly refurbished space at Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay that includes the Esplanade Annexe Studio (a new performance venue) and several exciting new dining outlets, alongside our familiar foodie haunts. From super foods to sinful grub and from heritage cuisine to innovative eats and comforting desserts, our line-up of food & beverage tenants at Esplanade Annexe promise something for every palate.

1. Alter Ego

 Southern Fried Chicken Sandwich

 Honey Beer

Seafood Gumbo

Alter Ego is the second self of A Poke Theory, dishing out Hawaiian poke bowls by day, craft beer & unapologetically sinful bar grub by night. Situated on Esplanade's waterfront, it's a sweet spot to knock back IPAs under the stars, to an unrivalled view of the Marina Bay. Edgy, underground and an easy go-to for a day's brunch or night's post-work drinks – unleash your alter ego in an uninterrupted space.

2. Noosh Halal Noodle Bar and Grill

 Sambal Sira Samosa

 Virgin Daiquri

Smoked Duck Lemak Chili Padi Pasta

Curry Crayfish Noodle

Beef Noodle Soup

 Ondeh Ondeh Cake

A fusion restaurant, Noosh blends modern and tradition flavours in their creation of over 20 noodle and grill dishes. Here, you’ll find all your favourite noodle dishes in the world in one place; Beef Rendang Penne, Smoked Duck Lemak Chili Padi Pasta, Chicken Floss Ramen Crackers and more. That’s not all! Enjoy a variety of desserts from Noosh’s own halal-certified bakery, such as Coconut Mango Rice, Choco Coated Strawberry, Caramel Flan Cake, Panna Cotta, Noosh Choco Cake (just to name a few), for a sweet ending to your dining experience.

3. Wah Kee Big Prawn Noodle and Bistro

Clam Soup

 Check out my previous media tasting post on Wah Kee Big Prawn Noodle and Bistro here

 

Since it was founded in 1951, Wah Kee’s signature dish has been its prawn noodles. The robust soup, gigantic prawns and firm noodles come together perfectly in one dish. Nestled in Pek Kio, Wah Kee's flagship stall has won the hearts of gourmands, including actor Chow Yun-fat from Hong Kong and popular Singapore food blogger Dr Leslie Tay. At its first restaurant at Esplanade, Wah Kee brings its lauded flavours to the civic district.

 

4. Suzette

This little shop is built upon of solid dreams, true passion and an addiction to crafting. Our desserts are familiar and comforting (it’s made to make you happy), but promise me to keep some room in your heart for the unimaginable. The possibilities will feed your soul.

5. Supply & Demand

The Italian Southeast Asian bistro and rooftop bar is a flagship restaurant by Cre8 Group, which serves appetising and affordable Italian favourites from bruschettas to hand-opened pizzas and savoury pastas. There's also a grill menu that changes often at the chefs' discretion, so there's always something new to try! The Southeast Asian flavours are inspired by travel around the region, and include popular dishes such as Burmese Tea Leaf Salad, Singapore Five Spice Rolls and Raw Thai Scallop Tiradito. Chill out at the Rooftop Bar with beers on tap (Peroni from Italy and Mac's Great White from Australia), as well as cocktails such as Pisco Sour and S&D Strawberry Shortcake. Make your reservations at least a week in advance!

Esplanade Annexe

Esplanade Mall

[Singapore Movie Review] TAKE 2 《遇见贵人》

TAKE 2 《遇见贵人》 is a comedy that depicts the lives of 4 misfits determined to turn over a new leaf. The 4 of them start a F&B business together but soon find that it is not as easy as it seems as they encounter some surprises and challenges along the way.

Watched TAKE 2 《遇见贵人》 with parents at Shaw Theatres Century. 

Personally, I thought that the story was refreshing with a focused story-line but somewhat, predictable. Initially, this film appear rather promising with the introduction of 4 misfits. It felt like I'm watching a Hong Kong film.

A pity that the plot itself was weak without a rich content. The story flow presented could have been improved as well. The many humourous scenes certainly liven me up as a viewer. However, some of such elements appear 'trying too hard' for me.  

It educated viewers to let go of the grudges, learn to accept and forgive your loved ones who does their best to turn over a new leaf. It also reminded me the importance of kinship and cherish them dearly

Not a typical Jack Neo's film but one that bring joy to the young and old this Chinese new year.

Ratings: 3 / 5

[Media Invite] Giovanni L & Seattle Pike Chowder

Ichigo Sake ($16)

Giovanni L. is an award-winning gelateria serving the finest flavors of Europe since 1961. Giovanni L. stands for the finest artisanal gelato creations with unique luscious flavours made from high quality ingredients by founder Giovanni Lasagna. Whether it is a wild or delicate concoction, his original gelato temptations are always handcrafted with tradition and passion for taste. 

 Espresso Martini $18

Fruit Salad Sundae ($14.90) 


 Sicilian Pistacio & Black Vanilla

New England Clam Chowder ($8.90)

 Crab Roll ($12.90)

Seattle Pike Chowder serves America’s most talked about chowder from The Pacific Northwest, USA. Made with top-quality seafood and fresh-from-the-market vegetables, each and every batch of chowder is handcrafted in small quantities and brought to a perfect simmer. Visitors from across the states and around the world would brave the harshest weather conditions to line up for the unforgettable Pacific Northwest flavors in every bowl of rich, delicious chowder.

Giovanni L & Seattle Pike Chowder

Parkway Centre
1 Marine Parade Central

Singapore 449408

[Media Invitation] Tomo Izakaya Launches Three New Ramen Dishes

In Japanese, Tomo (toh-moh) means ‘friend’ and izakaya comes from a combination of I (ee) and sakaya (sah-kai-ya] which means ‘to stay in a sake shop’. The origins of izakaya are the traditional taverns or pubs in old buildings frequented by Japanese salarymen who would, after a long hard day at work, unwind together with colleagues over large amounts of sake served together with light meals for them before returning home very late for dinner. Tomo Izakaya offers an extensive menu of Japanese small-plate dining which includes robatayaki, yakitori, sushi, ramen, soba, chazuke and karaage meant to be shared around. 

Tomo Izakaya has launched three ramen dishes: Tokyo Ramen; Kai Ramen; and Shake-tantan Men. Both are the brainchildren of Chef Hirotaka Murata, an expert in kaiseiki sets. With over 20 years of experience under his belt, the chef is adept at coming with Japanese mainstays that are steeped in tradition and authenticity.

Tokyo Ramen ($9)

This ramen evokes nostalgic feelings, and whisks you away to an old-world Japan. The broth is made with a medley of ingredients such as pork bone marrow, chicken bones, niboshi (Japanese dried infant sardines), bonito flakes, vegetables, Japanese dried scallop and prawns. The premium ingredients give the soup a robust and piquant flavour. Swimming in it are classic egg noodles, which are then topped with char siu made with the superior-quality Nagano pork loin. 

Kai Ramen ($14)

Equally enticing is Kai Ramen. The soup base is made using 2 types of clam: asari and hamaguri. Other ingredients used to enhance the taste of the soup include chicken bones, Japanese snapper bones and vegetables. The soup is paired with specially customised jade-green noodles. The 1st time green ramen noodles are offered in a Japanese restaurant in Singapore.

 Shake-tantan men ($12)

Finally, the Shake-tantan men is bound to delight. Salmon bone and head as well as a specially blended miso with salmon minced meat are used to make the white-coloured broth. Over a tightly controlled fire, the broth is cooked for 5 hours. The soup is then enlivened with a sesame flavour as well as spicy note of the chilli oil. Accompanying the soup are al dente ribbons of tantan mian.

These 3 new ramen dishes are available during lunch time.

Tomo Izakaya

3A River Valley Rd
Clarke Quay
#01-14
Singapore 179020

[Media Invite] Riverside Grilled Fish CNY Prosperity Set

Riverside Grilled Fish 江边城外 was founded in 2005 by two good friends who chanced upon the delicious traditional method of grilling fish and topping it off with Ma La sauces while travelling in Wushan Town, Chong Qing. Captivated by the robust and tantalising flavours of the Chong Qing recipes, the two friends set up their first shop in Beijing and soon became known for their unique Chong Qing styled grilled whole fishes made with the freshest ingredients and award-winning sauces.

Eight Treasures Soup

Whole Grilled Fish

Smoked Chicken

Herbal Prawns

Braised Mushroom with Dried Oyster

Steamed Sausage Glutinous Rice in Lotus Leaf

 Aloe Vera Pudding Fish

 Prosperity Set Meal:

$238.80++ (4 Person)

$328.80++ (6 Person)

$428.80++ (8 Person)

$488.80++ (10 Person)

Riverside Grilled Fish 江边城外

Raffles City Shopping Centre

#B1-06/07 

Singapore 179103

[Media Invitation] Miam Miam's Tower of Wealth (CNY) and Symphony of Love (Valentine's)

Miam Miam has launched its exquisite yu sheng called Tower of Wealth ($22.80 Small /$38.80 Large). Put a Japanese spin on your Chinese New Year celebration and toss to prosperity. Three marquee ingredients include the Japanese jellyfish, hotate (scallops) and wakame (seaweed). This trio works together to offer an interplay of wonderful textures and perfect combination of sweet and savoury notes.

Tower of Wealth also comprises a medley of chuka kurage, smoked salmon, crispy vegetable twirls, golden fish chip, sweet pomelo and garden nuts. Pulling all the ingredients together is the refreshing ume sauce, made with a blend of sesame oil and spices. This is an innovative yu sheng that will delight your loved ones.

 Souffle De Nuage ($16.90)

 Glazed Teriyaki Chicken Donburi ($14.90)

 Mentaiko King Crab Aglio Olio ($14.90)

Then, continue to spread love as Valentine’s Day approaches. The Symphony of Love features 4 pancakes in different flavours: vanilla, matcha, red velvet and chocolate. It is an ideal dessert to share with your significant other, family members or colleagues. Express your love for them with these sweet offerings! 

These newly launched items, The Tower of Wealth and Symphony of Love are both available for take away if you wish to enjoy it at your own comfort. Miam Miam's Tower of Wealth is available until 11 February 2017 and Symphony of Love will be available from 8 February to 28 February 2017. 

Miam Miam
Bugis Junction
#02-14
Singapore 188021

[Media Invite] IPPUDO’s first quick-service ramen bar concept in Singapore – Kuro-Obi

IPPUDO launch its 1st Kuro-Obi outlet in Asia at Marina Bay Sands, Singapore! Kuro-Obi was first unveiled in New York, and very quickly it took the city by storm. Since its launch, it has received overwhelming response from New Yorkers. The inception of the Singapore outlet marks Kuro-Obi’s first overseas foray outside of New York. 

Kuro-Obi Singapore is IPPUDO’s only concept around the world to offer 100% chicken broth - Tori-paitan, a delicate and silky chicken soup base. The ramen is served with slow-cooked chicken chashu in lieu of the traditional pork chashu to accommodate the cultural diversity of Singapore. Priced affordably, each bowl of ramen features 140 grams of noodles, which weigh 40 grams more than IPPUDO’s. The thicker noodles complement and soak up the chicken broth perfectly. 

Kuro-Obi allows its customers to customise their own ramen dishes. They can choose to tailor the texture of the noodles, soup concentration, stock richness and condiment add-ons such as garlic and onion.

Pork Bun

 Crispy Corn 

Guests can accompany the dishes with IPPUDO’s much-beloved sides with their favourite ramen. An international best seller, the Pork Bun (S$5) comes in spicy and non-spicy flavours, and stars a slab of melt-in-your-mouth chashu drenched in homemade sweet sauce. Also, the deep fried corn kernels, sprinkled with smoked paparoka powder.

Samurai Ribs

 

 Almond Jelly Noodle

A brand-new dish, the Samurai Rib (S$7/1pc, S$13/2pcs) features pork ribs rubbed with the chef’s special medley of sauce and spices. Cap off the gourmet experience with Almond Jelly Noodle (S$6), another new innovative dessert offered at the new store with jelly noodles served in a milky soup.

Ippudo X Kuro-Obi

Marina Bay Sands

#B2-54/55

Singapore 018972

[Singapore Drama Review] I want to be a Star 小咖大作战

Part-time actor who first started out as a calefare, Zhong Da Tian (Chew Chor Meng) noticed the indispensability of calefares in the media industry, which then spurred him to establish the “Da Tian Calefare Agency”, where he engages talents to take up walk-on roles in various drama productions.Da Tian’s son, Zhong Di Long (played by Shane Pow) spends most of his time idling. After being forced into an acting gig, Di Long learns that being an extra is no easy feat as it seems. Thereon, Di Long embarks on his acting career and encounters other extras - each with a different personality and goal. Will these calefares overcome all setbacks along the rocky road to success? 

Finished watching I want to be a Star 小咖大作战. Personally, I felt that this drama was nicely crafted with a focused story-line. It somewhat urge aspiring people to be courageous and strive in pursuing their dreams!

It reminded me those days being a calefare, where I had to keep myself occupy because of the long waiting time. The earnings maybe small but the very least I got to experience it myself. It encouraged viewers to persevere on but not give up even if circumstances may not seems that positive. If you are willing to work hard, you will certainly succeed one day. The cast did well in their craft!

A light-hearted series for the old and young.

View some of my acting experience entry here:

http://boyz86-simplicity.blogspot.sg/2007/09/filming-day-get-to-have-chance-to-be.html

http://boyz86-simplicity.blogspot.sg/2007/09/filming-day-ii-everything-seems-to-be.html

http://boyz86-simplicity.blogspot.sg/2008/05/will-be-in-one-of-episode-for-this-show.html

http://boyz86-simplicity.blogspot.sg/2008/04/2-went-to-be-extra-for-this-upcoming.html

You may wish to watch the entire series here

Ratings: 3.5 / 5