[Sad news] Closure of Daiso in VivoCity

When I first heard of the news, my first reaction was...

"This has got to be a joke, right?"

Honestly, I thought all the online news were nothing but a clickbait.

But.. It turned out that it was true. 

(Image credit to: Goodyfeed)

I was dumfounded for a full whole minute.

In case you are wondering why I am so affected by this piece of unexpected news, it is because I have a deep connection towards this particular Daiso branch.

I somehow do not wish to show this unglamorous photo and never have I expected that this would be the only picture that I can retain the memory of VivoCity's Daiso.

Yes, I used to work at Daiso during my younger days (not that I am very old now either...) - but this was taken approximately more than 8 years ago.

AND yes, the main branch that I was attached to was the soon-to-close-down Daiso at VivoCity.

During those days, I have went through moments of anger, happiness, sadness... 

Pardon the blurry photo, this was taken when technology was not that advanced then.

I made a few new friends and gained experiences as a part-time sales assistant. 

I will never forget how I was so comfortable with the store layout that I could almost memorise where the stocks were located.

I did not earn much then, but I was contented with my life. I felt productive that I was actually doing something and earning money for my parents and myself.

Now that I have fully transitioned into adulthood, my workplace was surprisingly near VivoCity and it became one of my to-go stores during lunch hours.

Whenever I organised events for my department, Daiso would always be my saviour. 

From gift ideas to decorations, Daiso has it all.

And YES, I know there are many other branches in Singapore but I guess it will never be the same for me after the one at VivoCity has closed down.

To me, it holds memories.

A companion since my student days.

It's hard to see it go, but I guess it's a Goodbye for now. :(

Thank you, VivoCity's Daiso... For being my great saviour most of the times.

[Media Food Tasting] Machida Shoten - No 1 Lekei Ramen Restaurant in Japan

It's not easy to search for authentic Japanese quality food in Singapore.

And when I do, I share on my blog with my readers to share the joy!

With thanks to Alvin from DessertingBeauty for inviting me to the media tasting, I have one more To-Go Japanese restaurant added to my list.

Located conveniently at Wisma Atria, which is just a stone's throw away from Orchard MRT station - It is not difficult to locate Machida Shoten, especially with its prominent Japanese-style decorations. 

(I was amazed to know that the brand has already opened 45 outlets in Japan!)

They offer a wide variety of appetisers and small bites as well.

Cha-Shu Croquette ($6)

Crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, the Cha-Shu Croquette is made with seasoned minced pork that will tease your taste buds into yearning for more. If you were to ask me, I would say it is definitely a good appetiser before the main dishes. Don't worry as the sizes are considered small so the portion will not be taking much of your stomach storage space! Hahaha.

Here's a close-up of the minced pork fillings: - They tasted really fresh and soft! The exterior is really crunchy to a T so do have it while its hot to do justice to it!

Disclaimer: Tempting photos ahead. Not recommended to be seen if you have an empty stomach.

Homemade Shrimp Gyoza ($9.80 / 5 pieces)

The Homemade Shrimp Gyoza features the whole tiger prawn as well as shrimp encased in a crunchy exterior.

When I flipped the gyozas over, their base appeared to look burned or overcooked - but they are actually not because that is where the crispiness was derived from! 

Yes, I really the taste - No complaints about it. The encased tiger prawns were as fresh as they could possibly be, and had a "bouncy" texture to them. Soft and crunchy at the same time, I felt that I could finish all 5 pieces by myself. (But of course I couldn't as I can't be selfish lah)

Garden Salad ($9)

And for people who love salads, Machida Shoten has it too! Temper the meat indulgence with their Garden Salad, it is drenched with homemade curry dressing as well as non-oily ova leave vinegar for a flavourful finish.

Initially, I did not think that curry dressing would even be compatible for any salad (LIKE COME ON, CURRY?!?!)

But it was an unexpected twist for me as I somehow find the taste appealing after tasting one bite of it.

Seasoned Iberico Squareribs ($14)

The Seasoned Iberico Squareribs is an indulgent offering that are first boiled till they are tender, and then seasoned with Machida Shoten's very own original sweet soya sauce. I am one who is quite picky when it comes to pork ribs, but I will give it a A grade its tenderness!

I could literally taste the sweet sauce - The pork ribs are very well-marinated and the sweetness is penetrative to the taste buds.

Spicy Shrimp Fried Rice ($10)

Note: Yes this is quite spicy (Spicy level: 3/5) but spicy enough for my liking!

The portion appears small, but actually it can be VERY filling! Each mouthful exploded with the fragrance of shrimps (Trust me, you will LOVE it if you like the taste of shrimps)

However, do note that it will not be recommended for people who are allergic to prawns/shrimps. 

Shoyu Tonkotsu Ramen ($14)



One of the must-try dishes at Machida Shoten is the chef's recommendation, Shou Tonkotsu. This is the signature Yokohama-style irked ramen, and it serves the perfect combination of soya sauce and pork bone broth. You can enjoy noodles cooked to your desired softness or hardness and even choose from 3 levels of doneness for your noodles! The noodles are then immersed in a tonkotsu and soya sauce broth. There are various add-on ingredients, from seasoned egg to cha-su just by topping up a small amount.

I would say this fares better than many other typical ramen I've eaten at other places. The noodles did not taste "too overly cooked"but in fact, it was just right. It's no wonder this is classified as a chef's recommendation! I will give it a TWO thumbs up. 

Garden Veggie Ramen ($15) *Exclusive to Singapore outlet*

When it was first served to the table, I almost thought it was another plate of salad - but look closely, it's actually ramen! It looks so colourful, right?!

It comprises of 12 different fresh vegetables in a bowl an the broth is made with 7 types of vegetables too. Fried garlic oil is added to enliven the flavour. 

Honestly, I wouldn't say this is my favourite of the lot as the taste was more to the bland side - and I would suggest you to have this first before trying other ramens of stronger flavour. 

Miso Tonkotsu Ramen ($14) *Exclusive to Singapore outlet*

Don't be fooled by the photo - THIS BOWL OF RAMEN HAS AN OVERPOWERING TASTE.

This Miso Tonkotsu Ramen fuses the goodness of miso and tonkotsu soup base, and the miso that the restaurant uses is a blend of red and white miso. The dish is then topped with sweet corn, cabbage and butter for an extra kick.

If you were to have this before the Garden Veggie Ramen, I am sure you would not be able to taste any flavour from the Garden Veggie Ramen at all.

Personally, I feel that this is too strong for me (and I am not a fan of corn); so I wouldn't exactly classify it as a favourite.

One thing that I noticed though - The portion of their ramen seems to be huge; I would recommend sharing with a friend unless you are a big eater. 

Something random -I find this sign kinda cute - it is a guide of different ways to eat your ramen!

My favourite of the lot? I would still pick the Shoyu Tonkotsu Ramen.

And here's the chef behind the scenes - Many were actually going gaga over him as he looks quite cute! A young hunk who can whip up good Japanese dishes... I am not surprised everyone finds him attractive!

I feel like such a stalker. HAHAHA.

Address:

MACHIDA SHOTEN

Wisma Atria Level 4

435 Orchard Rd

Singapore 238877

Opening Hours: Daily 11AM – 11PM

Directions: Alight at Orchard MRT Station (NS22) and exit at Exit D towards Wisma Atria B1 (do not exit to Ion Orchard). 

Take the escalator (after OCBC bank) up until level 4, where the Food Court is located. Walk past it and you will see Japan Food Town. 

At the main entrance, walk further in and Machida Shoten is the second restaurant to your left.

[Review] The Sushi Bar - HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!!

So I posted about this really AWESOME meal I had several days back on my Facebook and many of you have been waiting for the revelation. 

As promised, here's the answer: -

THE SUSHI BAR

Ok so I am not earning anything from this BUT I JUST HAVE TO post about this because the food was SO UNBELIEVABLY GOOD that I could not believe my mouth. 

So good that I invented a new word immediately known as "Mouthgasm".

The Salmon sashimi was so freaking FRESH and THICK (I repeat, THICK!!) that I literally FROZE in my seat when the first piece reached my taste buds. 

(Can you believe that this whole set cost only $11+++?!)

Other than exclaiming "OH MY GOD" over and over again, I was speechless. Wah!! The taste of full blast freshness and soft, tender salmon just sat comfortably in my mouth and every bite was SIMPLY pure bliss. No doubt about it.

I was reluctant to even swallow it down because I was really enjoying every single minute, second and millisecond of it. Where can you find such high quality shashimi in Singapore, you tell me?! I felt that I could just eat this FOREVER. 

 When I tried their other signature dishes (Miso soup, scallop, etc) as well, I soon developed goosebumps all over my body because the taste was SO awesome that I felt my spirit shot up to the sky in an instant and came back to my body. 

The super duper big bowl of generous serving.
This picture was taken before my spirit shot up to the sky:-

 The miso soup came in large bowl and every slurp made me jealous of myself because it's THAT good. I had to blink a few times to remind myself that I was NOT dreaming. Was this even real? Had I already entered heaven? God, every SINGLE dish I tried was mouth-watering and made me question the fact that such high quality of food indeed exist. I felt dizzy. Dizzy from being overwhelmed by the goodness in my mouth. I JUST CAN'T. What did I do to deserve this high feeling before 2016 ends?

 That's like the BEST food I have ever eaten in my living years. If you are thinking I am exaggerating, then TRY at least once to believe. Their food is superbly of out-of-the-world quality with GENEROUS quantity (can you imagine...THICK sashimi..) and the price is almost half of what other standard Japanese restaurants have to offer. They have got to be kidding but its just true. Do note that if you are eating their food, its NOT just food.  

YOU ARE EATING A PIECE OF FOOD THAT SEEMS TO BE FROM HEAVEN.

 This is one of their signature dishes, Wafu Spaghetti.
 

 Even if tomorrow is the end of the world, you will feel like the happiest person alive. 

 I am so happy now because the food was very rewarding after a hectic schedule, and all thanks to my dear friend Marie Lim who recommended me this place of a gem! I think I may burp from the filling food and I will love the smell of my burp. So GOOOOOOOOOOD. Mouthgasm mouthgasm.

Total damage: $81+ for 2 pax (inclusive of GST and service charge)



**I heard that advance booking is recommended, especially if you are planning to head down during peak hours (such as dinner time, etc).  They have two outlets in Singapore, 1 at Far East Plaza (which was the one that I went to for this review), and another at Ngee Ann City.

As below is the address of The Sushi Bar:-

FAR EAST PLAZA OUTLET:

14 Scotts Road ,Far East Plaza #04-28

Singapore

 NGEE ANN CITY OUTLET:

 391B Orchard Road, #05-34/35, 

Ngee Ann City, Ngee Ann City, 238874

 For reservation please SMS to 88183535 for Ngee Ann City outlet and 96536464 for Far East Plaza outlet. They DO NOT take reservation on weekends, public holiday and eve of public holiday.

Opens at 11:30am 11:30AM - 3:30PM, 5:00PM - 9:45PM

 **Okay, I repeat that this post is completely of my own opinion. Different individual may have different experiences as the taste of food is VERY subjective. I am just recommending what I think that are worth trying!

[Event] The Scent Lab by Singapore Polytechnic

This entry is going to be a very interesting one!! 

So I was invited by Singapore Polytechnic to their exclusive Scent Lab workshop; and I was REALLY looking forward to it in excitement.

I have always been fascinated with scents, perfumes, fragrances and stuff like that, so it was somehow a dream come true for me! 

Here's the very first sight that greeted me when I arrived at the place which is located at T11B.

Trust me, I was completely in awe.

It's not difficult to see why, isn't it?

Like seriously?! I couldn't believe my eyes that I was actually standing inside a school.

Everything just looks so darn professional!

Let me give you a virtual tour of the place - I have taken tons of pictures.

I know the main point of this post isn't about its interior design, but I have to say that I really love how the place is designed in such a futuristic manner.

The display of different famous perfume brands - I felt as though I was standing in some high-end retail store that only rich people are allowed. HAHAHA.

Can you recognize some of the bottles? Do you happen to be using any of them?

Aren't perfume bottles beautiful?! I would have been a huge perfume bottle collector if my house is big enough to display them like this! Haha.

I particularly LOVE, LOVE, LOVE this section.

Unfortunately, I did not really have time to explore them individually. 

Some knowledge about Room Scents and Aromatherapy: - I am a fan of Aromatherapy!

It is extremely helpful when it comes to uplifting emotions.

Look at these transparent display cases in the shape of globes! I was really speechless, lah. 

Beautiful is too much of an understatement.

While browsing through the different display sets, I spotted this particular pair of perfume - Romance II! Do you know that they are actually SP's very own creation (and they are retailing in selective stores around Singapore as well - I have seen them!)

 I remembered I was given a set of the Romance II series by SP around two years ago, and I loved it.

In case you are wondering why there are two bottles, its actually a couple  set! Cool, right?! The female version has a floral scent, and the one for men smells, well... ...masculine.

Another close-up shot: - I didn't do any editing to the picture at all and its all taken under raw lighting! 

So romantic-looking. *stares at the picture dreamily*

Wow, I realized I have not even begun to blog about the main highlight of the event and I posted so many photos already!

So here, finally I'm going to start blogging about the workshop!

Here I found myself in the lab where students from Diploma in Perfumery and Cosmetic Science would usually have their practical lessons:

(I really love, love, love the environment here! I would be a happy student if I am one now. Haha)

I took a seat at the front table together with four other participants - and was thrilled to see all the equipment that was neatly lined up on the table in front of us.

YES YES YES, we would soon be able to create our very own perfume and bring it home by the end of the workshop!

*rubs hands in glee*

Here's a bottle of "Splash"- given to me by SP before the start of the workshop. Yes, don't be fooled by its professional-looking packaging. I was told that it isn't for sale and is EXCLUSIVE as part of its 60th Anniversary. (Yes, can you believe that Singapore Polytechnic will be turning 60 soon?!)

I'm so honored to own a bottle of this, not to mention that I LOVE the smell too. 

Thank you, SP!

We were provided lab coats and were told to wear it during the workshop. I feel like a professional perfumer already. *laughs loudly*

Of course, what's a blogger without some selfies?

I am so proud of this logo that is sewn on the lab coat:

And we were advised to wear the provided goggles as well. 

And let the adventure begin!

Here's Ms.Jessie, one of the lecturers, kick-starting the workshop.

Here's Mr Koji Santoku, a former Senior Perfumer from Takasago International (a major international producer of flavors and fragrances headquatered in Japan)! Despite having huge achievements tied to his name, he is really humble. 

Fun, fun, fun! We were given various scented paper strips and had to make a guess what the smell was. We would then label them accordingly.

Well, not all were easy to guess though! I particularly loved the strips that smell like fruits.

(We were taught to bend the scented area upwards so that the smell would not be contaminated)

After a short while, we were taught to smell our own sleeves to "refresh" our noses (it's a really useful tip!!) so there wouldn't be a "jam" in our noses from all the overpowering smell.

The more floral scents provided were rose and jasmine, etc.

After gaining a basic understanding and knowledge of how perfume fragrances work, its now showtime for us - Creating our own perfume!!!!! OMG.

Never in my life would I thought I would have a chance like this; and I have ALWAYS wanted to know how perfume fragrances work.

Do you know that there are 3 different components that make up a perfume fragrance?

They are namely the top notes, middles notes and base notes.

The first sniff that you thought is a scent you like? That is probably the top note, which will wear off after a short while. You may or may not like the middle and base notes thereafter.

I would say that perfume fragrances are very subjective.

It actually takes time before you can decide if the smell is something of your favor.

We were provided different "ingredients" to mix and play around with using small sample bottles. 

After sniffing them individually and having a rough idea what kind of scent direction I was going for, I got down to work.

Urgh, how I wish my readers can smell them too just by reading this entry. LOL.

With a fruit-floral scent idea in mind, I attempted to create it.

I started off with the Apple (it smells 100% like FRESH apples) as my base note an

d slowly added in other "ingredients". I was actually quite afraid of making a wrong move that would result in a foul smell. LOL.

As CK One has a sweet smell, I decided to mix it with my Apple base so that the Apple can smell "sweeter". I added approximately 2 drops of jasmine (just to create a tinge of floral scent), 3 drops of Lilial to "neutralise" the smell and Bergamot to create that tiny "uplifting" fragrance.

#tryingtoactlikeaprofessional

It took me 3 sample bottles to get to the final smell I wanted.

It certainly wasn't an easy task creating a satisfying perfume fragrance!

And here - The final product is born! 

Here's the SGCOMPLAINQUEEN's very own fragrance.

It has a strong tinge of fresh apple scent!

The empty bottles that were used to hold our own created perfume - I love how the words "Singapore Polytechnic" are printed on them! #loyalSPfan

A random photo of yours truly while in the midst of working on my perfume:

And here's me proudly holding my masterpiece:

I would like to express my heartfelt appreciation to Singapore Polytechnic for the 

invitation to this workshop that has proven to be a real eye-opener! 

The new knowledge gained after the workshop was priceless - and it sure was an unforgettable experience for me.

Not to mention I had a ball of fun experimenting with the different fragrances as well, enabling me to understand better how perfume actually work.

I feel that the courses that Singapore Polytechnic offers are getting more and more exciting!

If you are one who has great interest in this area, you will be glad to know that SP actually has the course "Diploma in Perfumery & Cosmetic Science (DPCS)" that specializes in it!

Seriously, I would have given it a consideration if I were given the chance to choose my courses again.

If you are interested to find out more, do check out this link:

http://www.sp.edu.sg/wps/portal/vp-spws/schcls.cse.ftdip.perfumeryandcosmeticsci