Tuesday, July 11, 2017

Virgils Flying Cauldron Butterscotch Beer at Hop Shop Craft Beers & Ciders Store Singapore

ABBEY: When I saw this at a candy shop in Chicago, I didn't take my hands off it. I need to try and savor the drink they are having in Harry Potter. Not exactly the same as butterbeer but closest one. My Aunt Araceli bought it for me as a treat. Unfortunately, we forgot to bring it back to Singapore. 

My wife saw how sad I am so she checked the item online, ordered it and have it shipped to us. I was ecstatic when I opened the box. 

In the blender, we put a scoop of vanilla ice cream, then pour a bottle of butterscotch drink and some ice. The result is a white, creamy, sweet slushie; perfect for a hot weather. 

Thanks Baby Wilma.

Virgils Flying Cauldron Butterscotch Beer
from Hop Shop Craft Beers & Ciders Store Singapore 

WILL: 
I saw the sadness on Abbey's face when he realized that he forgot the Butterscotch (gift from Mommy Telec) in Ate Gail's fridge. So, the wife is to the rescue! Haha! I searched for a store here in Singapore that can deliver those "Harry Potter soda". 


I am shocked to find out that in USA a bottle costs is US$3.50 and here in Singapore it is S$3.50 too. Who says that everything here in SG is expensive? Hmp! 

So I bought 4 bottles of it. When it was delivered, I requested Abbey to open it. I saw a sparkle in his eyes, smiled onto me and hugged me tight. That is how simple (childish?) Abbey is. Haha! 

When my nephews are here, we feasted on the drink, put some of Butterscotch, ice and vanilla ice cream to the blender! Cha-na-nan! A Butterscotch Shake! Bye diet! Yikes!  

You can buy it here in SG at Hop Shop Craft Beers and Ciders Store and they will deliver it for you! 

Happy Harry Pottering!




***
Hop Shop Craft Beers & Ciders Store
(W) www.hopshop.com.sg
(H) 11.00am to 9pm
(A) 1 Jalan Anak Bukit #B1-15 Bukit Timah Plaza

Virgils Flying Cauldron - Butterscotch
A magical refreshment for wizards and unrealized wizards alike =)
Harry Potter Beer

Monday, July 10, 2017

Food Capital at Grand Copthorne Waterfront Hotel

ABBEY: We had dinner with our guests from Pinas at Food Capital @ Grand Copthorne Hotel. The buffet setup is circular. You can check the food items in one fluid circular motion. 

What caught my attention is their carving station. The beef and lamb is soft, tender and moist. I put gravy on each bite. Next is laksa. I was craving for it and didn't get disappointed with the bowl I got. Then I had some chicken tandoori, sushi and chicken lasagna. The beef stew literally melted in mouth. No chewing needed. :) 

To wash them down, I had coffee. We availed EATIGO's 50% reservation service and the price went down to S$37++ (UP S$74++).






WILL: Grand Copthorne at Clarke Quay announced its opening of newly renovated restaurant... the Food Capital. While browsing EATIGO, I am on my luck that Food Capital is on their list of 50% discount. I booked and an instant confirmation sent to my email and I received an SMS too. 

We were greeted delightfully by the concierge and guided us to our table. And from the video, it  doesn't have too many selection BUT the viands are incredibly savory. 

What I love the most is their fresh oyster. Yeah! Yeah! Every hotel buffet has it, but Grand Copthorne Hotel's Food Capital has the meatiest and oyster I have tasted. Hmmmm, other hotels, you should check out who is their supplier. Haha! Their laksa is remarkable too. Chocolate fountain is available for kids to enjoy. Coffee and tea is there to help you digest your first round meal. Haha! Do not skip their desserts, specially the eclair. 

You can have a seat beside the window for you to enjoy the sight of Singapore River. 

Enjoy the discounted buffet!



***
Food Capital at Grand Copthorne Waterfront Hotel
(W) https://www.millenniumhotels.com/en/singapore/grand-copthorne-waterfront-hotel-singapore/
(H) 6:30AM–10:30PM
(A) 392 Havelock Rd (Ground Floor)






Tuesday, July 4, 2017

ButtonsUp Mushroom Crisp (Salted Egg Flavour)

ABBEY: Buttons Up Mushroom is the entrepreneurial product of one of our friends group, Ate Che. 

Filipinos love chips (chichirya). And we all know those belong to junk food group. So how to replace them and encourage Pinoys to eat healthful food like mushroom? Mask the taste, package it good and sell. Clever right? That's how Buttons Up Mushroom is doing it. 

I tried it and I'll never know that it is mushroom if it'll be a blind test. 

It is crispy and flavorful. Be sure to grab all you can once the stock is replenished as they are selling like hotcakes.


ButtonsUp Mushroom Crisp (Salted Egg Flavour)
WILL: Abbey lovvvvvvesssss chicharon (fried pork rind) and that is his request to our dad every time someone will visit Singapore. It is unhealthy for anyone to eat that oily skin and porks' fat. 

When crispy mushrooms start to emerge in Philippine Market, Abbey is eager to taste those. BUT! Buttons Up Mushroom is always out of stock, but luckily last June, I managed to order and they arranged a free delivery at our home. We ordered 10packs (Php150 each).

My sister and friends already have tasted some of those and all I can hear is a good feedback. Now, it's our time to check it for our own. Haha. 

One bite and it is taste like pork. No hint of mushroom. This is the healthiest version of chicharon. Actually, it is perfect with rice and vinegar. Need picka-picka for your drinking session? Forget the nuts. This well complements your alcohol. 

Abbey keep on munching of those and ate most of it all. Yep! Abbey is now addicted to it. Haha! 

They have different flavors but their best seller is salted egg :) 



***
Buttons Up Mushroom Crisp (Salted Egg Flavor) 
(F)https://m.facebook.com/ButtonsUpMushroom/
(T) +639298186723



Mushroom Crisp Flavors - Php150.00
Salted Egg (BEST SELLER)
Spicy Salted Egg 
Cheese 
Tsoko Shrooms 

Oyster Mushroom Burger Patty - Php100.00
Oyster Mushroom Achara - Php60.00


Monday, July 3, 2017

Spicy Fingers Singapore Bar and Restaurant at Chijmes

ABBEY: We were invited by our friend Sophia to try what they offer at Spicy Fingers (#B1-05 Chijmes). The bar and restaurant opens from 5PM until 2AM or 4AM on weekends. 

I tried their Lechon Kawali (roasted pork and then fried) and it was superb. The skin is crispy but the inside is soft and tender. Your fork or knife will reach the plate immediately when you cut the pork. It is that soft; like cutting butter with knife. And the taste? It is delicious. It comes with salsa and sweet gravy (like Mang Tomas lechon sauce). You can have it for S$16.00 for 6 succulent cuts. 

I partnered it with mojito for 6SGD Happy Hour Price (5PM-9PM). They have shooters, cocktails and premium ones for 5, 6, 7SGD respectively. 

Unwind and relax with food, drinks and live band at Spicy Finger. As they say : Party like a rock star.






Spicy Fingers Singapore Bar and Restaurant at Chijmes
Big Bites Menu 
Spicy Fingers Singapore Bar and Restaurant at Chijmes
Wee Bites Menu

WILL: Do you know that Chijmes is one of the historic places of Singapore and one the most prestigious locations of bars in the year 2009 but due to the renovations done and some areas are closed for public, it slowly slipped out of people's mind. 

But now! Chijmes gradually taking its place to become one of the most visited places in Singapore. They packed its area with alfresco dining and the lawn's event continually magnifying in Social Media. 

We visited one of the newly built restaurant/bar at Chijmes..the Spicy Fingers. It was located at Basement 1 with a great view of the beautiful architecture of Gothic Chapel. They have a huge screen for you to watch your favourite team of football. Not entertained by that? They have band that starts at 9PM. 

Not enticed to visit Spicy Fingers? How about their Crazy Happy Hour that offers your drink? Their happy hour is from 5-9PM and price starts at $5. Oh! Do not forget to order the Lechon Kawali. The crispy skin but juicy and tender meat of a pork. 

Dinner date? They got you covered. They have big bites to offer your lady and a dessert to relinquish your body. I recommend their Baby Back Ribs. :) 

Visit Chijmes. Visit Spicy Fingers. The best place for you to shoosh the stress away. 


***
Spicy Fingers (Bar and Restaurant)
(F)https://www.facebook.com/SpicyFingersSingapore/
(H) 5PM till late 
(A) 30 Victoria Street (Chijmes) #B1 - 05

Sunday, July 2, 2017

Singapore Tour Itinerary - 4D3N Singapore Trip Planning

Hello Lovelies! 

After few people sent their queries to help them in constructing their itinerary here in Singapore, we decided to put together a sample of it based on most flight schedule they have given to us. 

Hope this would help your planning! 



Singapore Tour Itinerary - 4D3N Singapore Trip Planning - CLICK IMAGE TO ENLARGE

Singapore Tour Itinerary - 4D3N Singapore Trip Planning - CLICK IMAGE TO ENLARGE

Singapore Tour Itinerary - 4D3N Singapore Trip Planning - CLICK IMAGE TO ENLARGE 


Any questions, do not hesitate to hit us a message on our facebook page at A & W - The Couple Bloggers 





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You love our eBook? Yey! Does it help you to lessen your expense and add on value on your Singapore trip? Yes?! We are truly delighted to assist our readers. DO NOT FORGET TO SHARE! Thank you for loving us!

Wednesday, June 28, 2017

Bantam Bagels in Starbucks Chicago

ABBEY: We're a fan of Shark Tank and one of the products pitched in the show was the Bantam Bagel. It is being carried under the wings of Starbucks all across US. So we gave it a try when we went to Chicago. 

It costs USD2.95 a pair. Basically it is a bagel ball. That's all. The taste and filling (cream cheese) is the same as others.

Bantam Bagels in Starbucks Chicago 
WILL: I will never forget the taste of this Bantam Bagel. It is my number one in our "To Eat List" when we visited Chicago. Why? This made me drool when I saw sharks (Shark Tank) lingering at the taste of this bite-size bagels. 

One morning Abbey, together with Kuya Victor, went to Starbucks and bought me a bunch of those Bantam Bagel. 

The taste? It is what the same with other bagels with spreads and the only difference is the size. Now I am thinking maybe, they put extra ordinary effort when they are pitching at Shark Tank. 

You can find Bantam Bagel in the nearest Starbucks in your area. :)




***
Bantam Bagels
(W) https://www.bantambagels.com

Tuesday, June 27, 2017

A Better Florist - Singapore Flower Delivery

ABBEY: A day before the end of a typical work week and after the hustle and bustle at the office from Monday to Wednesday, my wife received a bouquet of tulips.

I know this will make her happy, delightful and feel more loved. She sent me a snap as I go back home. They're beautiful and colorful. But that is only half the story. Seeing them in actual is very relaxing and will definitely put a smile on your face. 

At home, I was surprised that it came with flower food. I placed it in a vase and see them bloom in a day. 
Additionally, you can place an order online and have it deliver it on the same day.

You live up to your name: A Better Florist. "Better", indeed. Try them and compare.


A Better Florist - Singapore Flower Delivery - The Allison Boquet
Get $10 off on your first purchase
 

WILL: Hubby is frequent in sending me flowers. Sometimes, even in a dinner date, he will brought some of those. Yeah! Yeah! I am lucky lady. ;p

These past days, I am somewhat beaten up because of, you know, day job haha! Abbey knew how frustrated, sad and tired I am. Then Abbey, with the magic help from A Better Florist lighten my Thursday!

It made me smile and as usual, butterflies in my stomach flies relentlessly. I felt adored and appreciated, and the whole office's attention is on me and the flower.  They took photos of the exquisite bouquet of tulips and send to their respective husbands and boyfriends. Ahm! Hey guys! That is ladies' way to tell you "Please send some for me too!!!". Guys!! Read between the line! Haha. 

Fresh flowers have a supernatural power over ladies. This made us smile, in-love, happy, recognized, star, beautiful, valuable and powerful. 


Guys, do not underestimate the power of surprise flower delivery. :)

I visited their website and the navigation is so simple. They have few choices unlike the other sites that you will be bombarded by add-on! Whew! With that, decision can be made easily and hassle free.

What are you waiting for? Let your wife/husband/fried/parents feel loved. 


***
A Better Florist - Singapore Flower Delivery

Want to receive 4% cashback from this acquirement? Sign up at ShopBack Singapore for FREE! 





Friday, June 23, 2017

Geylang Serai Hari Raya Bazaar 2017

ABBEY: We went to the most-talked-about Geylang Serai Bazaar a week before the Ramadhan starts. 

For main meal, I got mutton curry. The mutton is tender and the gravy is spicy, thick and delicious . It really went well with the rice. I also had takoyaki. 

We were looking for something to drink when we stumble upon Bangkok Cafe. They are selling butterscotch drink. Oh boy, it was good; cold, creamy,  and sweet. 

We didn't delve much on the "unicorn" foods. Anyway they are already hyped and being reviewed by all :)

Geylang Serai Hari Raya Bazaar 2017 - Butterscotch Shake  
Geylang Serai Hari Raya Bazaar 2017 - Rainbow Oh Fish Burger

Geylang Serai Hari Raya Bazaar 2017 - Word Menu

Geylang Serai Hari Raya Bazaar 2017 - Mutton Curry
WILL: This is one of the biggest collaboration of HALAL-Certified restaurants all over Singapore. You do not need to travel here and there just take a bite of their different offerings. 


BE WARNED! Some food is just picture perfect but the taste and quality is nadah! So here is the food/drink we lingered in and well-recommended for you to stop wasting money (like we did) in trying most of the stalls at Geylang Serai. 

Here is my top 3. 
--> This Instagram worth and yet worth splurging for, I present to you the rainbow fish burger ($8 with fries) of Word. It is better than any fishburger of any fast food chains. The fillet is tender and fishy? Haha! Don't be fooled of the rainbow bun. Maybe you will think that it is only color and bland taste? Eeeennkkk! Wrong! The bun itself is yummy! 

--> Abbey roamed around and when he came back, he have the Crispy Mushroom ($3) of Power Chicken. Its is truly crispy and there is a kick of spiciness in the end. 

--> Butterscotch Shake of Bangkok Cafe! Caught me by surprise and on the first sip, I decided to forget that night my diet. Well who cares with the numbers of calories. Haha! It is like you are drinking a cooked condensed milk. Plus the scoop of vanilla ice cream! Sugarrr Rush!! :) 

You have few more days for you to catch up this stalls! Eat considerably.



***
Geylang Serai Hari Raya Bazaar 2017 
(A) Beside Tanjong Katong Complex Singapore 
Nearest MRT: Paya Lebar Station

Thursday, June 22, 2017

Wildfire Restaurant Chicago - Steaks, Chops & Seafood

ABBEY: Our Kuya and Ate treated us to Wildfire restaurant for our wedding anniversary and Wilma's birthday. It was cold outside but you'll feel warm and homey once you got in. 

We tried their Porterhouse; a combination of New York strip and filet mignon in a single steak. A couple of minutes later and slice of meat was served. The portion is huge. The taste? Juicy, moist and flavorful. Fit for the kings and queens. 

Thank you Kuya and Ate.


Wildfire Restaurant Chicago (Steaks, Chops & Seafood) -  
Porterhouse

Wildfire Restaurant Chicago (Steaks, Chops & Seafood) - Menu
Wildfire Restaurant Chicago (Steaks, Chops & Seafood) -  
Sundae Sampler


WILL: It was our 6th wedding anniversary. Kuya Roy and Ate Abigail, the generous couple, treated as at Wildfire! 

They are correct! The steak in here is pretty humongous and delectable. The meat is "oh-so-juicy" and so tender that you do not need an effort to slice it off from its bones. One serving can fit for me and Abbey's appetite. 

Next, is dessert. To tell you, I have no more space for that meal but when I saw and got one taste of Sundae Sampler. I can't help myself. My tummy moved for accommodate this Wildfire's dessert. haha! Spell G-L-U-T-T-O-N-Y. 

Very recommendable. Thanks Ate and Kuya for our meal and driving us at that place. Till next time. :)



***
Wildfire Restaurant Chicago - Steaks, Chops & Seafood 
(W) http://wildfirerestaurant.com/chicago/
(A) 159 W. Erie Chicago, IL
(T) (312) 787-9000 
(H) Mon - Fri: 11:30am - 10:00pm / Sat: 4:00pm - 10:00pm / Sun: 4:00pm - 9:00pm / 4th of July: 4:00pm – 9:00ppm

Sunday, June 18, 2017

Jimmy John's Gourmet Sandwiches / Jersey Mike's USA - Authentic Sub Sandwich Franchise Since 1956

ABBEY :
Jimmy John's
Our first day in Downtown Chicago is almost done and we grab a bite to eat. We went to Jimmy John's (249 S State St). I got J.J.B.L.T for 6.25USD. We were surprised as the sub is cold; not what we used to have here in Singapore from other sandwich shops. That's the only difference I observed compared to Subway. 

Jersey Mike's
Jersey Mike's Subs saved us from "imminent" hunger as the shops around Cadillac Palace Theatre were closed. I ordered Jersey Mike's Famous Philly Hot Sub with free flow of drink. I like the bread the most. It is soft and fresh and the cheese goes well with it.


Jersey Mike's USA - Authentic Sub Sandwich Franchise Since 1956
Jersey Mike's Famous Philly Hot Sub
& Chicken Philly Cheese Steak 
Jersey Mike's USA - Authentic Sub Sandwich Franchise Since 1956 - Menu

Jimmy John's Gourmet Sandwiches - Menu 
Jimmy John's Gourmet Sandwiches - Pepe Sub 


WILL: Jimmy John's is our snack before we head back home on our first day "all-alone" trip in downtown Chicago.

I frowned when Abbey handed me the cold meal from the counter. With questionable squint, I asked why he gave me a cold sub. He smiled and told me that it is the norm. Blood drained to my face and I started to think how can I eat this freezing sandwich. Surprise, surprise, it was delicious. Their bun is exquisite, crunchy outside but soft and smooth in the inside. The buns' aroma is tempting too! I can eat that unusual cold sub again and again. 

The story behind Jersey Mike's is that there is no other store open for us to have a dinner before the Aladdin show starts. 

Yup! We have no other choice but to dine at Jersey Mike's located at West Monroe Street but it turned out to be radically good! Haha! 

The beef is delectably juicy but not oily. The meat is real meat! Haha! The crews were amazingly helpful. I am glad if this diner will extend up to Asia. :) 


This stores were the reason why we gained more than 5kgs in our 16days stay in Illinois. Haha! 



***
Jimmy John's Gourmet Sandwiches
(W) https://www.jimmyjohns.com/


Jersey Mike's USA - Authentic Sub Sandwich Franchise Since 1956
(W) https://www.jerseymikes.com
(H) Mon - Fri: 7am - 7pm
(A) 200 West Monroe Street Suite 120

Friday, June 16, 2017

Lincoln Park Zoo

ABBEY: Note to visitors: Lincoln Park Zoo is big and half day is not enough to cover it. You've been warned.


It was pre-spring and still cold when we went there but still we're able to see animals like mountain lion, flamingos, macaques, penguins, polar bear, and vultures. 

I was amazed by their aviary. The birds have beautiful bright colors and have lots of species. Also we're able to visit the center for African apes. 

Lincoln Park Zoo - Flamingo Island 
Lincoln Park Zoo's Lions' Den 
Lincoln Park Zoo  
Lincoln Park Zoo - Bird at Aviary



WILL: If you will google what are the free things to do in Chicago, Lincoln Zoo and Park will not be off the list. Imagine? Zoo for free? Hmmm, wondering what animals they are showcasing? Okay let's hit it one by one. 

Birds, magnificent feathers, tails, size and beaks. They are totally all unidentifiable for me. Gorillas and monkeys. King of the jungle..Lions. Zebras. Penguins, polar bears. Flamingo and many more. Ahmmm, because of cold weather some of them were in custody and not available for viewing. 

Do not follow us. Do not visit the zoo in winter or spring. Go here in summer, where the flowers are blooming and all of the animals are out ready to take all your inquisitive looks. :) 

Anyways, we still enjoyed out long walk at Lincoln Zoo :) 


***
Lincoln Park Zoo
(W) http://www.lpzoo.org
(A) 2001 North Clark Street • Chicago, IL 60614
(T) 312-742-2000

(H) September - October 10am-5pm (gates open 7am-6pm) 
November-March 10:00am-4:30pm (gates open 7am-5pm)
April-May 10am-5pm (gates open 7am-6pm)

Thursday, June 15, 2017

The Boss Baby at Muvico Rosemont 18

ABBEY: It's good that there is a good movie when we went to Chicago and we got to experience to go to a movie theater there. It was at Muvico Rosemont 18 and the movie is Boss Baby. The theater is clean and has less people as it is Sunday after lunch. Now I know why they say that theater food is a rip-off. 7 USD for a large Coke slurpee, come on. The seats are good and spacious; enough leg room for me.

Boss Baby is a funny movie and also has lessons. The antics of the baby in suit is great as well as his squad. Now that's another story how babies are born and given to a family (they arrived in taxis). Haha. I wonder where I can get that formula :)


Muvico Rosemont 18's Free SelfieW.me Photobooth

Muvico Rosemont 18
SelfieW.me Free Photo
WILL: Abbey and I want to keep on waiting on the showing of Boss Baby and it went out in movie theatres when we were in Chicago. Because of the dire curiosity to see this "Boss" baby, we gently requested Mommy Telec and Paulo to accompany us. And then, they brought us at Muvico. 

Muvico is a huge place that solely caters the moviegoers. I am not sure how many halls they have but the place is colossal. Hey Muvico! How dare you to charge a unreasonable amount of US$7 for a frozen coke? Huhu!

Okay now, let's go to Boss Baby. Now I know where are the babies from. The lesson I learned, love your sibling? No matter what?! Haha! 

Okay, okay.. that's all for now! Spread love guys! Start it at home!




***
Muvico Rosemont 18 
(A) 9701 W Bryn Mawr Ave, Rosemont, IL 60018, USA

Wednesday, June 14, 2017

Disney ALADDIN on Broadway | The Hit Broadway Musical at Cadillac Palace Theatre

ABBEY: We got so excited when we learned that Aladdin will be shown in Chicago the same time we will visit there. We booked our tickets on Wilma's natal day. After completing the payment we just realized that the show we booked is on New York. True story. But Ticketmaster helped us to refund it and booked a pair again, now in Cadillac Palace, Chicago. 

It was the first night of the production and the guests flocked at the theater and each was given a program. The place was dimly-lit but well alive. We can hear the orchestra doing their final tune up. And a couple of minutes later, the show began.

It was magical and spectacular. The actors are great especially Genie. The scene I like the most is when Genie and Aladdin met. Yes, and not when he met Jasmine. It was just intense, loud, vibrant, and elegant. The magic carpet ride will take you to pitch black skies with stars that shine like diamonds while being serenaded with "A whole new world". 

The duo Jafar and Iago gave us good laughs. Kudos to the cast, director and whole production of Aladdin.
Disney ALADDIN on Broadway | The Hit Broadway Musical at Cadillac Palace Theatre 
Cadillac Palace Theatre




WILL: A whole new world! A dazzling place I never knew... 

Watching Aladdin at Cadillac Palace is a true-to-life "a whole new world" for me and Abbey. We never dreamt that we can watch a play at US of A and so fantastic that it showed my all-time favorite Disney cartoon Aladdin. 

What is the best scene I cannot forget? When Aladdin was chased by guards, when Aladdin was inside the Cave of Wonders, Aladdin was introduced at the palace, and ahmm... can I say all? There is no dead air or boring scene. Like a child, I can watch it again and again! Haha! 

Cadillac Palace is the theatre that I saw in movies. Draping curtains, lavish ceilings and lovely carpets. It is a magnificent place and perfect for the extravagant palace of Princess Jasmine! 

Thanks Abbey for this play! Lurve it! More-more broadway shows to watch :)



***
Disney ALADDIN on Broadway | The Hit Broadway Musical
(W) http://www.aladdinthemusical.com
(T) U.S.: 866-870-2717

Cadillac Palace Theatre
(W) http://cadillac.palacetheatrechicago.com
(A) 151 W. Randolph St Chicago, IL