.Food.Tasting.at.Paradise.Inn.

Posted on June 20, 2014 by ving

Couple of days back, Ving had the honor to be invited to a food tasting session at Paradise Inn at Marina Square.
Started 7 years ago, Paradise Inn is the third culinary concept initiated by Paradise Group and is currently the brand with the most number of outlets island-wide. As her brand tagline suggests, Paradise Inn aims to be an all-in-one dining concept — a restaurant, tea-house, as well as dessert place. Therefore, the focus of the menu is circled around these three main areas.

Paradise Inn‘s main menu offers nostalgic and familiar home-cooked dishes that are popular among local Chinese. One can easily call these ‘comfort food’ or ‘grandma’s dishes’. Think of them as simple, heart-warming and nothing pretentious. Like how a granny would have cooked it, the quality of the ingredients used and affordability are the main concerns when these dishes are concocted. Paradise Inn’s current revamped menu’s version is already the fourth, combining the best and most popular dishes from all the past versions. So let’s check out what awesome dishes Ving and buddy be served today!!!
Starting out with some lovely drinks… Left: Floral & Herb-infused Hot Tea (S$3.80++ per person)
Our combination was Lily Flower + Forget Me Not + Dried Longan + Chrysanthemum.
Benefits: Nourishes lungs. Relieves cough. Detoxifies the body and has beauty enhancing properties.
It smells and tastes light and floral, with notes from chrysanthemum at the end.
Nice to have it after a heavy meal!
Bonus for the presentation aspect, whereby it comes in a nice little teapot and kept warm with a burning candle at the bottom.

Right: Fruit-infused Ice Tea (S$4.20++ per glass)
We chose the Elderflower and Melon combination, which was very refreshing and suitable for Singapore’s hot weather!
It was gone in no time!

Before the mains were served, a strong supporting actor came into the scene…
Stewed Pork Belly served with Lotus Bun, S$2.60++ per piece I’m usually not a fan of pork belly, but gosh Paradise Inn sure knows how to do this dish well.
Having been simmered for hours, the meat is so tender with the right amount of fats melting in your mouth, coupled with the homemade sauce and sweet soft lotus bun.
My gosh. Every bite feels like heaven.
Can I have one more piece, please?!

Then came one of our main leads for the day…
Traditional Double-Boiled Black Chicken Ginseng Soup, S$23.90++ per pot Ingredients used:
Black Chicken + Ginseng + American Ginseng + Spare Ribs + Lean Meat + Chicken + Chicken Feet

Benefits:
Nourishes lungs. Improves blood circulation. Rejuvenates the body.
Every spoonful of it oozing with goodness! It was light and very flavorful, no doubt that it had been double-boiled for hours.
Plus it doesn’t cause your mouth to have this greasy feel at all.
I can totally have at least 3 bowls of this!

Hot-Plate Tofu with Preserved ‘Cai Xin’ and Minced Pork, S$11.90++ I’ve always been a fan of hot-plate tofu (a must-have for me during zi-char sessions).
Generous portion of bursting flavors, coupled with a big tofu that’s crispy on the outside but soft and silky on the inside.
I can literally consume the whole thing by myself! >.<

Sauteed French Beans with Dried Shrimps and Preserved Turnip, S$12.90++ Only one word to describe this dish: CRUNCHY
It was actually rather addictive to keep munching on this dish ‘cos of its crunchiness.
But of ‘cos the yumminess played a big part too!

Crisp-Fried Crystal Prawns with Salted Egg Yolk, S$18.90++ One of my all-time favourite (though very sinful) dishes in Paradise restaurants.
I first tried this in Canton Paradise, and have never gotten enough of its taste.
Was so happy to find it in Paradise Inn too!!
The richness of the salted egg yolk you can never forget, couple with big prawns crisp-fried to the right degree

. Supreme Seafood Fried Rice, S$12.90++ I’m super love fried rice, and this is what I would call the “Golden Fried Rice“.
Paradise Inn isn’t stingy with the ingredients at all, with chunky bits of fresh prawns and scallops.
Plus point which differentiates this from other fried rice:
They added in fish roe, which contributes to this slight crunchiness when u are chewing your rice.
Gosh…. I can eat this everyday.

The spread!!
Happy and satisfied (and super full) us after the treat!!
Thank you very much for the sumptuous meal, Paradise Inn!!! ^_^ *throws confetti*

.Tribute.of.Love.at.Paradise.Dynasty.

Posted on May 3, 2014 by ving

Recently, Ving had the honor to be invited to a food-tasting session at Paradise Dynasty at Vivo City.
Being the latest 5th outlet in Singapore, it spans across more than 10,000 square feet.
At any one time, it can house over 350 guests, accompanied with 7 private rooms to dine in style and privacy, as well as a spectacular view overseeing Sentosa.
It was for the 2 new Xiao Long Bao flavors which Paradise Dynasty has specially crafted, in conjunction with the celebration of Mother’s Day and Father’s Day.

Today’s meal!
No I wasn’t acting emo.
Waiting for my delish food to arrive!
Before the main leads enter the scene, let’s start off with some appetiser!

Shredded Potatoes with Capsicum 家乡凉拌土豆丝, S$4.20++
Gosh the shredded potatoes were so crunchy and refreshing when coupled with the cooling dressing!
I actually didn’t expect that, ‘cos I thought they’ll be softer and more on the flavorful side.

Scrambled Egg White with Fish and Dried Scallop 瑶柱芙蓉赛螃蟹, S$12.80++
Closer shot!
We were kindly informed by the service staff that this dish will taste even better if we add some vinegar and pepper, and stir it all together with the egg yolk.
She was so right!! It totally brought its taste up to another level.
Moreover, I have to say that the chef really knows how to whip up this dish.
You can taste the individual textures of the egg white, fish, and dried scallop, yet they all blend really well when you eat a spoonful of them together.

And now………. *drumroll*
Let’s welcome our main leads!!!

Tribute Basket of Love – Yuan Yang Xiao Long Bao, S$13.90++
Complimentary colors!
New Flavor 1: Dang Gui 当归 (Chinese Angelica Root) for Mothers
Known as women’s herb, Dang Gui has been commonly used to treat various female gynaecological disorders.
Though it is especially popular among women, men can consume it too.
Its benefits include treatment for cardiovascular issues, constipation, insomnia, and inflammation, apart from women’s reproductive issues.

New Flavor 2: Shi Quan 十全 (10 Tonics) for Fathers
Shi Quan is a Chinese herbal formula consisting of 10 different herbs, and the combination is believed to improve the general condition of the body, and alleviate symptoms of fatigue, anaemia, loss of appetite etc.

In order to fully enjoy the flavors, the trick is to eat the Dang Gui Xiao long bao before the Shi Quan.
Dang Gui has a lighter taste as compared to Shi Quan, hence eating it 1st will prevent the latter’s stronger taste from overpowering it.
Overall, the herbal taste for both flavors were just nice and they compliment each other really well.
MUST-TRY!!!

La Mian with Poached Marbled Beef in Szechuan Style 水煮肥牛肉拉面, S$13.80++
Geez why haven’t I tried this dish before for the umpteen times which I’d been to Paradise Dynasty??
It was so flavorful and appetising, yet the Szechuan taste wasn’t too overbearing, and it’s actually less spicy than what it seemed from the pictures.
The beef slices were really tender and seasoned well, plus given a generous portion.
They go very well with the QQ noodles!

La Mian in Signature Pork Bone Soup served with Deep-Fried Pork Ribs 蒜香排骨拉面, S$12.80++
The pork ribs (served separately) were so nicely deep-fried with the right amount of seasoning added, 2 big pieces of them weren’t enough for me alone!
And to think that I wasn’t a pork ribs fan to begin with!
Remember to eat them while they are still hot!
The crispiness will bring out the sun behind you! *heehee*
Happy me enjoying the pork ribs!
It’s not named the “Signature Pork Bone Soup” for nothing.
You can totally taste the full flavors from the pork bones that had seeped into the soup after long hours of slow-boiling it.
Bonus for that few slices of crunchy pig skin!
I’m sure by now you have an idea of where to bring your parents to for Mother’s Day and Father’s Day celebrations!
Where else??
Paradise Dynasty of ‘cos!!! *heehee*

Gosh…
My stomach’s orchestra’s making fanfare-esque music now, after having to post pictures of such yummy-licious dishes.
That’s it.
Time for me to go cook my dinner.

p.s.:
I’ve to say, the service at this Paradise Dynasty outlet is very good!
I would like to take this opportunity to specially mention one of their service staff, named Cui Wah.
I really like her sincerity and professionalism when serving patrons.
Managed to capture a not-very-clear shot of me with her, while she’s patiently explaining some details to me.
I hope Paradise Group will notice her good service and keep her working there for long!
(Ok maybe I should write a compliment letter for her too.)
Till next time!! Ciao!! *juggles xiao long baos*

.korean.dramas.(.part.2.).

Posted on April 19, 2014 by ving

So in my previous post, I talked about “My Love From Another Star“, one of the 3 Korean dramas I caught recently.
Today I shall touch on the 2nd drama which just ended its run couple of weeks back.

2. Emergency Couple (急诊男女), 2014
I admit.
At first I wanted to watch this drama for one simple reason.
.S.O.N.G.J.I.H.Y.O.
Hello?
She’s the dearest ACE and MONGJI in Running Man can.
How can miss her drama???
And also the cameo of her Monday Boyfriend .k.a.n.g.g.a.r.y. in Episode 6!!!
Daebak max hahaha….
After I caught the trailers for this drama, I realised it could have quite an interesting and comical plot, so all the more I don’t wanna miss it!
Here’s a brief intro of it!

Main Characters…
Song Ji-Hyo: as Oh Jin-Hee, a medical intern in the Emergency Room of a hospital. Previously a dietician, she met and fell in love with medical school student Oh Chang-Min, who came from a wealthy family of successful doctors. Despite his family’s strong opposition, they went ahead to get married in their early 20s and dropping from their respective courses. However their marriage life wasn’t happy and her inferiority complex deepens, as her husband’s family continues to look down on her. Jin-Hee and Chang-Min have fights very often, and eventually ended up in a divorce. 6 years later, they met again in the Emergency Room of the same hospital which they will both work together in for 3 months.
Choi Jin-Hyuk: as Oh Chang-Min, a medical intern in the Emergency Room of a hospital, as well as Oh Jin-Hee’s ex-husband. He gave up his medical internship previously and began working as a pharmaceutical salesman right after marrying Jin-Hee, as his family cut him off without a cent due to their strong opposition of the marriage. After their divorce, he went to the US to continue his studies in the medical school as well as to pursue his dream of being a doctor. Meeting Jin-Hee again 6 years later in the same hospital, his initial strong resentment towards her gradually progressed into having feelings for her again.
Lee Pil-Mo: as Gook Cheon-Soo, Attending Physician of the Emergency Room. He’s a no-nonsense yet very skilful doctor who is very strict on the interns (all of whom he’s in charge of leading and coaching). He initially dislikes Chang-Min for his frivolity, and thinks that Jin-Hee isn’t suitable to be a doctor. However due to various incidences later on, he changes his mind-set towards them, and subsequently develops feelings for Jin-Hee. Ex-lovers with Shim Ji-Hye, they broke up as he can’t cross his own barrier (his parents ended up in divorce) to commit to a marriage. Remains close friends with Ji-Hye throughout the years.
Choi Yeo-Jin: as Shim Ji-Hye, Assistant Professor of Surgery, who came back to South Korea from the US and to be stationed in the same hospital as Gook Cheon-Soo and be his colleague for a year. Cheon-Soo’s junior and ex-lover, she gave birth to a baby girl (not Cheon-Soo’s daughter) and became a single mum while in the US. Cheon-Soo’s only confidante who knows him very well, and even encouraged him to go after Jin-Hee even though she still likes him.
(Sources: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Emergency_Couple / http://asianwiki.com/Emergency_Couple)

Total no. of episodes: 21 (initially 20, it was extended by one episode due to the drama’s popularity)

Gosh I love this drama so much!
Apart from the comical aspect that made me laugh alot, I like the fact that there isn’t any super-villains in it (enough of all those supermelodramas).
The actors/actresses’ chemistry with one another was really good too.
Plus Miss Mong was relived in this drama (Running Man fans will know what I mean hahaha)!!
I cried quite a bit too while watching, especially the couple of episodes when Chang-Min’s father passed away.
Gawddd….. Super tear-jerker can……..

EVERYBODY GO WATCH!!!

p.s.: Nobody after watching the drama can forget this little supporting character who’s the youngest in it.
BABY GOOKIE!!!!!
HOW CAN A BABY BE SO CUTE WITH SO MUCH HAIR AND BIG EYES AND CHUBBY CHEEKS AND ADORABLE EXPRESSIONS???
You totally have to watch the drama to know what I mean.
I think even these images don’t justify enough his cuteness overload!

Choi Jin-Hyuk can’t take his arms and eyes off him!
What are you waiting for??? *heehee*

.korean.dramas.(.part.1.).

Posted on April 12, 2014 by ving

I like to watch dramas, especially those with interesting story concepts, or merely for any particular celebrity whom I adore starring in it.
I used to be hooked on Japanese dramas ‘cos they’re usually around 10 episodes only and with good storylines (short and sweet), plus there’re many Japanese actors/actresses whom I really fancy.
Our local channels love to show Japanese dramas, variety shows, and movies as well so they’re easily available.
Then, I’d more free time to watch TV too so I’d make sure I didn’t miss any episode.
“Galileo“. “Long Vacation“. “Beach Boys“. “Great Teacher Onizuka (GTO)“. “Forbidden Love“. “Beautiful Life“. “Hero“. “Crying Out Love, In The Centre Of The World“.
Just to name a few that I loved a lot.

Couple of years back, Korean wave hit us.
Initially I only caught very few Korean dramas, which can be counted with just one hand, ‘cos I’m very much still into my Japanese dramas which are less melodramatic and more chop-chop than Korean’s ‘chong-hei’ (Cantonese for ‘long-winded’) ones.
However subsequently, it seemed like only few didn’t succumb to K-wave.
I admit. I’m into it now too.

Let me share with you the 3 recent Korean dramas which I’d watched and left a deep impression on.

1. My Love From Another Star (来自星星的你), 2013-2014
Of ‘cos of ‘cos.
Who doesn’t know of this drama???
It had taken the world by storm, with Kim Soo-Hyun rising to be the new heartthrob, sweeping many females (and maybe some males too) off their feet, including fellow celebrities!
Also, the sales for fried chicken + beer combi probably went up by many many folds thanks to this drama.
There were even reports of some Chinese hardcore female fans who broke up with their boyfriends or threatened to commit suicide, ‘cos they feel that their guys aren’t as intellectual nor romantic as compared to Professor Do (what the hell)!
If you’d not known of this drama for whatever reasons, here’s a brief intro of it.

Main Characters…
Jun Ji-Hyun: as Cheon Song-Yi, a top Hallyu star who is very blunt and believes she is every man’s type, until she meet her stoic neighbour, Do Min-Joon, whom she eventually fell for.
Kim Soo-Hyun: as Do Min-Joon, an alien who landed on Earth 400 years ago in the Joseon Dynasty and possesses supernatural powers like the ability to stop time and teleport, plus able to see things before they happen and hear things that are miles away and move with great speed. He doesn’t age too, hence had to change identity every 10 years. He ended up falling for Cheon Song-Yi though he tried not to, who looks exactly like the girl whom he fell for 400 years ago and whom died while saving him.
Park Hae-Jin: as Lee Hwi-Kyung, Cheon Song-Yi’s childhood friend who has an unrequited love for her and holds onto the belief that one day she will love him back. He supports her through hick and thin as a true friend too.
Yoo In-Na: as Yoo Se-Mi, whom Cheon Song-Yi sees as a good friend since childhood. Underneath her sweet smile, she is actually very envious of Song-Yi and has a crush on Hwi-Kyung for a long time. A celebrity herself, she later became famous after Song-Yi’s downfall in the entertainment industry.
Shin Sung-Rok: as Lee Jae-Kyung, Hwi-Kyung older brother and the heir of S&C Group. The main antagonist in the drama.
(Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/My_Love_from_the_Star)

Total no. of episodes: 21

I really like this drama ‘cos it’s so funny and sad at the same time!
Funny ‘cos of Cheon Song-Yi’s attention-grabbing actions and Do Min-Joon’s interactions with her.
Sad ‘cos the last few episodes made me cry SO MUCH I always ended up getting puffy eyes.
The actors/actresses were all cast well and really blend into their respective roles.
I didn’t get enough of it! Can’t wait for the movie version to be out (if it’s really true to be happening).
Also, the clothes featured in the drama are all very fashionable, especially Jun Ji-Hyun’s!
Plus if all aliens are like Do Min-Joon, I WOULD OPEN MY ARMS WIDE AND INVITE THEM TO INVADE EARTH ANYTIME.

Go watch it if you haven’t!!!

p.s.: This drama has some nice songs. Here’s the OST list if you are interested.
I personally love Nos. 1, 2, 6, & 7.
1. “My Destiny” by LYn (Korean & English)
2. “Like A Star (별처럼)” by K.Will (Korean)
3. “You Who Came From the Stars (별에서 온 그대)” by Younha (Korean & English)
4. “Goodbye (안녕)” by Hyo Rin (Korean & English)
5. “I Love You” by JUST (Korean & English)
6. “Tears Like Today (오늘 같은 눈물이)” by Huh Gak (Korean)
7. “Every Moment of Yours (너의 모든 순간)” by Sung Si-Kyung (Korean)
8. “In Front of Your House (너의 집 앞)” by Kim Soo-Hyun (Korean)
(Source: http://wiki.d-addicts.com/You_Who_Came_From_the_Stars_OST)

p.p.s.: I recently saw that Kim Soo-hyun be holding a fan-meet in Singapore soooon!!!
Though high chance I won’t be going, just to share with you some details of it and how you can win tickets to the event (which I presume his hardcore fans already knew long ago of this haha).

2014 Kim Soo-hyun Asia Tour 1st Memories in Singapore
Date: 27th April 2014 (Sunday)
Time: 730pm
Venue: Singapore Expo Hall 1
Ticket Pricing: $238*, $188*, $138* (*excludes $3 booking fee)
Ticketing Hotline: 6348 5555 / www.sistic.com.sg

Contests to win tickets to his fan-meet.
Starhub: http://www.starhub.com/personal/promotions/contests/1016.html
Watsons Members:
Go take part now to stand a chance in winning the tickets!!!
Best of luck!!!