I’m fairly certain that I have the same issue as everyone else, whereby I cook up a storm – think chicken pot pie with a side of crispy cheesy garlic bread, and all the works. But what I’m left with is, as they say, worse than the storm itself; a mountain-high pile of dirty dishes in the sink, a greasy air-fryer, and a stain-filled stovetop, all of which are simply yelling, “THIS IS TOO MUCH HARD WORK!”
So believe me when I say that I. feel. you. Doing the dishes has and never will be on my list of “chores I’m surprisingly okay with”.
Recently, though, I adopted the age-old “clean as you go” technique, and I have to admit that glancing over at the empty kitchen sink, just as I’m about to finish cooking my three-course dinner, is beyond satisfying.
Yesterday, CapitaLand Mall Trust announced that the new Funan mall has successfully obtained its Temporary Occupation Permit (TOP), and is well on track for its opening in Q2 2019.
The mall will be teeming with smart features that shoppers can easily access through the CapitaStar members’ app.
Here are some cool tech (and lifestyle) amenities you can look forward to.
Driving to the mall only to find the carpark packed to the brim is one of the most aggravating first-world problems to exist – only next to forgetting where you’ve parked your car – but it’s a problem nevertheless.
At the new Funan mall, you can easily reserve a parking space on the app prior to your arrival to ease all your worries.
On top of that, you’ll be able to both find your car and pay for parking fees through the mobile app.
There’s no shame in losing your car in a multi-storey sea of vehicles; we’ve all been there, done that.
But therein certainly lies a mountain of frustration, especially when you’ve got a group of impatient peers who are just as clueless as you are.
This is where the CapitaStar members app comes in handy again: all you have to do is refer to it, and voila! Problems, begone. Four-wheel drive, be-found.
Operated by Edible Garden City, the scenic rooftop urban farm, spanning an expansive 4,000 sq ft, is a feature that nature enthusiasts will appreciate.
There are plans for community workshops here, too!
As Singapore’s first shopping centre to incorporate cycling lanes, Funan will be bringing cycling amenities to life, including cafes and shower facilities for cyclists to enjoy after their workout.
Cyclists can access these lanes through the ground floor of the building. Perhaps one day, I’ll be able to ride my bike in Pokemon games through buildings, too.
On top of that, English premium folding bike brand Brompton Bicycle will be opening their first Singapore flagship store here – cyclists can test out these bikes along the cycling lane, before deciding on their purchase!
To provide shoppers with a hands-free shopping experience, the mall has even deployed automated guided vehicles (AGV) as well as a robotic arm for its 24-hour drive-thru click-and-collect service.
How it works: Simply put in a request at Funan’s automated concierge service; an AGV will pick up your purchases from the store and deposit them at a click-and-collect box at Basement 2.
*Cue Queen song: Is this real life or is this sci-fi movie?*
Designed by millennials for millennials, it’s no wonder lyf Funan Singapore boasts such a futuristic yet cosy interiors.
With several studio and business suite units to offer, the co-living property will also consist of social zones and flexible co-working spaces, where residents can connect.
These spaces can even be utilised to host activities such as innovation talks, music jamming sessions, and workshops.
Meanwhile, the gaming area features arcade machines and a gif booth.
At the social kitchen, guests can prepare home-cooked meals while mingling with other residents, sharing personal recipes and the like.
The new Funan mall will have an extensive line-up of craft workshops where shoppers can learn new skills and discover hobbies.
Terrarium making, modern calligraphy, and sewing are just a few of the endless possibilities.
The futuristic mall will also have an experiential section where shoppers can gain access to the open studios.
All you’ll have to do is book the studios beforehand, as per usual, via the CapitaStar members’ app.
If you have a soft spot for local boutiques, you can look forward to tenants like Carrie K. and Love Bonito.
Funan mall will have what every film hobbyist demands: Golden Village.
But if you take a stronger liking to live entertainment, fret not as you’re in luck, too.
You’ll be able to catch some unmissable theatrical performances here, by Wild Rice.
Last but not least, if you’re one to experiment with new foods and dining experiences, this one’s for you.
Spa Espirit Group on level 7 will offer an enticing menu coupled with a farm-to-table dining experience that’s hard to come by in our garden city.
This article was first published on Home & Decor Singapore.
Dapper menswear brand Benjamin Barker has opened their own cafe, to much fanfare.
The stylish establishment is teeming with hearty delights, like their Mr BB ($19), a classic Angus beef burger, and the aromatic Truffle Scented Mushroom & Egg Pizza ($22).
They’ve also introduced a touch of local flavour with the Laksa Pizza ($22) with all the works – squids, clams, quail eggs and, even, fish cake. And, the strong and creamy White Cold Brew ($8) is the perfect accompaniment to a (much-needed) #OOTD shot at the cafe.
#01-01/02 Cineleisure, 8 Grange Road. Tel: 6732 2123
What better way to beat the Singapore heat than with an Icy Merlion Popsicle ($4.80)?
Artisanal ice cream shop, LeeU SG, prides itself on creating icy delights fashioned into iconic landmarks and local experiences.
Think Esplanade Ice Cream ($11.80), a vibrant green ‘sculpture’ made of durian, and a citrusy The Zouk-Out Cure ($6.80).
The vibrant Unicorn Float ($8) is also the perfect prop to adorn photos with.
#02-07 Esplanade, 1 Esplanade Drive. Tel: 9489 7433
Serving value-for-money Japanese food in a casual environment, The Sushi Bar opens up its third outlet at Tampines 1.
Here, new dishes emerge every now and then, so there’s always something to look forward to.
Sashimi lovers should go for the Kaisen Chirashi Don ($26.90), while the Salmon Aburi Roll ($16.90) is great for larger groups.
Complete the meal with the light Dassai 50 sake (from $44.90), which possesses a delicate fruity aroma.
#04-09 Tampines 1, 10 Tampines Central 1. Tel: 8877 3535
Serving up healthy yet comforting Asian-inspired dishes, Straits Clan’s inviting lobby lounge, Clan Cafe, has finally opened its doors.
Try the Kakiage grain bowl ($15), a wholesome combination of crunchy kakiage, mushrooms, eggplant, murasaki imo, kale and mixed grains.
Clan Cafe also offers a range of specially developed tea blends ($8) that help to soothe concerns ailments like digestion, anxiety and detoxification.
31 Bukit Pasoh Rd. Tel: 6320 9180
PABLO’s second outlet has recently opened at NEX, so now’s the perfect time to pay it a visit.
Exclusive to PABLO mini cafe is the Mini Kaya Tart ($4.20), that is filled with creamy kaya and topped with roasted coconut flakes.
Apart from cheese tarts, the cafe will also be offering variety of boxed confectioneries, soft-serve ice cream, smoothies, and other beverages.
#02-05/06 NEX, 23 Serangoon Central. Tel: 6509 0350
If indulging in affordable Japanese food is your idea of paradise, then Hokkaido-Ya is the place for you.
The crowd-pleasing Hokkaido Beef Ramen ($15.90) sounds heavy, but its portion does not overwhelm – served with medium-rare Hokkaido beef and a bed of springy ramen noodles, the dish is topped with an egg and bean sprouts.
Diners can also garnish their soups as they please, with condiments like spring onions and togarashi chilli powder.
For a more decadent option, pick the Truffle Salmon Don ($10.90), a satisfying salmon sashimi rice bowl, drizzled with just the right amount of truffle oil.
#02-153 VivoCity, 1 Harbourfront Walk. Tel: 6376 8387
This article was written for BiTES magazine.
