November is officially shopping season. Whether you’re braving the crowds on Black Friday or just being a kiasu Singaporean starting Christmas shopping early, you’ll probably find yourself spending more time at a shopping mall this period.
And while you’re going all out, make sure you’re not shopping till you drop. Remember to take a break and refuel with a meal, pastry, or beverage in between. Not sure where to dine at? We’ve curated a list of new mall-based eateries to check out once you’re done shopping.
1. Afuri Ramen – Funan
Funan is one of the trendiest places in town for shopping, with a myriad of shops, from sporting brands like Brompton Junction and Under Armour to men’s fashion labels like Benjamin Barker and Superdry. If you’re craving something warm and comforting after your shopping spree, head to Afuri Ramen. This Tokyo-based ramen chain is famous for its signature ramen with yuzu.
Not sure what to order? Go for the Yuzu Shoyu, with shoyu tare, chicken broth, bamboo shoot, frisee, chashu, egg, nori, yuzu, and thin noodles. Alternatively, the Tonkotsu Shio is also popular. It comes with shio tare, tonkotsu broth, green onion, kikurage mushroom, black garlic oil, chashu, pickled ginger, egg, sesame, and thin noodles.
For something super worth it, make it a meal by going for the Ramen Combo, where you can choose your choice of one ramen, one small plate (with options like gyoza or karaage), and one drink.
SAFRA members get 10% off the ala carte menu at both outlets in Funan and VivoCity. For more info, visit safra.sg/promotions/Afuri
107 North Bridge Road, #B1-29, Singapore 179105
2. Wunderfolks – Lot One
Confectionery Connoisseurs and Entrepreneurs Dala Thia and Vincent Tay show no signs of reining their deliciously sweet ambitions with their newest Wunderfolks outlet at Lot One!
Opened just a couple months ago back in August, this endearing Patisserie comes at a serendipitous time for those situated at the West, seeing how it pairs nicely with the grand opening of SAFRA’s seventh clubhouse at Choa Chu Kang. Expect to see most, if not all of their best-sellers, from chocolate, mixed fruits and lychee tarts ($8) to individual-size Tiramisu cakes ($12.80). Really, what better way to end a day full of sweet shopping deals with a feast of sweeter treats?
SAFRA members and Servicemen (11B) enjoy 10% off the 4-tart box (walk-in purchases only). More information can be found at safra.sg/promotions/Wunderfolks
Lot One, 21 Choa Chu Kang Ave 4, #B1-k18 Singapore 689812
3. Milan Shokudo – Junction 8
Those who love fusion food should check out Milan Shokudo, a new Japanese-Italian restaurant at Bishan Junction 8. The best part is that their mains start from just $4.90 here, boasting delicious yet affordable dining options in this popular mall.
Plus, it’s halal-certified too, so anyone can enjoy what it offers. Start with the doria dishes (Japanese rice gratin). There’s the familiar Milanese Doria ($8.90), Seafood Milanese Doria ($12.90), and a unique Beef Keema Curry Doria ($8.90). If you’re craving something a little more doughy, they also have pizza starting from $4.90, like their Takoyaki Pizza and Smoked Duck Bismark Pizza.
Other mains include hand-made pasta from $5.90 and grilled meats like Demi-Glaced Hamburg and Tomato Cheese Chicken. Don’t forget to top up for free-flow drinks at $3.90 per pax.
9 Bishan Place , Junction 8, #02-34/35 35A, Singapore 579837
4. Cai Lin Ji – Jurong Point
For a traditional Chinese breakfast, check out Jurong Point’s new Cai Lin Ji outlet. If the name sounds familiar, that’s because it’s one of Hubei province’s most established eateries, with a history dating back to 1928. And the new outlet in Jurong Point marks the eatery’s first international outlet outside of China – that’s pretty special.
Those who are familiar with the Hubei province in China have some usual suspects when they think about food there. We’re talking beef noodles, steamed buns, re gan mian (hot dry noodles), and beancurd skin rolls. We’re happy to report that the food at Jurong Point’s Cai Lin Ji comes pretty close to what you’d find in Wuhan.
Don’t leave without trying their Signature Hot Dry Noodles ($7.90), which has been named the “Top 10 Noodles in China”. It’s made with jian shui alkaline noodles for their smooth springy texture, which are then tossed in a sesame and garlic-based sauce, and served with minced meat, preserved vegetables, and spring onions.
And of course, you can’t talk about food from Hubei without mentioning the street food. Cai Lin Ji also serves up snacks such as steamed dumplings ($4.90) and the Three Delicacies Dou Pi (2 for $8.50). Trust us, you won’t be disappointed.
1 Jurong West Central 2, #03-56 Jurong Point, Singapore 648886
Haven’t had enough of the sales yet? Don’t miss these deals for SAFRA members!
5. No Horse Run – Westgate
Those who live in the West will be thrilled to know that No Horse Run just opened at Westgate. They’re known for their gelato, which comes in 18 flavours including locally-inspired ones such as Soybean Youtiao. A single scoop costs $3.90 while a double sets you back $7.50. Plus, you can top up $1 for a waffle cone. For breakfast, there’s also the Waffles with Pandan Gula Melaka Gelato ($6).
But don’t be mistaken, No Horse Run doesn’t only sell desserts. Their mains are worth trying out, too, with options such as all-day breakfast sets, pasta, and baked rice. Don’t leave without trying their Carbonara ($8.80), or the Signature No Horse Run Big Breakfast ($12.90) to give you energy before you start shopping.
3 Gateway Drive, Singapore 608532
6. Brotherbird Bakehouse – Raffles City
The famous Brotherbird Bakehouse has opened a new spot at the basement of Raffles City, marking its 4th branch islandwide. If you’re craving some of their famous croissants after spending some time shopping in the City Hall area, you know where to head to.
There are 15 different flavours available, all freshly baked on-site every hour. Try sweet croissants such as Rocher and Mango Sticky Rice ($5.40 each) which has coconut frangipane, mango jam, and mochi. If you’re more of a savoury person, there’s also Mentaiko Prawn ($7.02), stuffed with mentaiko prawn and mozzarella cheese, with an extra flaky texture resulting from its twice-baked nature.
If you’re the adventurous sort, go for the flavour of this month, the Honey Seasalt Croissant.
Not a croissant person? Don’t worry, they also have other bakes such as the Cinnamon Knots ($5.40), a unique take on the classic cinnamon bun.
252 North Bridge Road, #B1-67, Raffles City Shopping Centre, Singapore 179103
7. Nico Cafe – Wheelock Place
Whether it’s The Great Singapore Sale, 11.11, or Black Friday, it’s no secret that Orchard Road is where it’s at. If you want a peaceful oasis after a strenuous day of shopping, Nico Cafe at Wheelock Place is located in a Parisian-style garden setting.
If the setting looks familiar, that’s because it recently rebranded from the former Café de Nicole’s Flower. But its name is not the only thing that changed – it also boasts a revamped menu now. We’d recommend going there for brunch, as there are plenty of options on the menu such as the Croque Madame ($12.90) and Guacamole Tamago Sando ($11.90).
Sit outdoors and treat yourself to a brioche sandwich such as the Crispy Spiced Chicken Sando ($12.90) or the Wagyu Sando ($19.90), which has caramelised onions, gherkin, karashi mayo, and otafuku sauce. Then, end your meal with homebaked cakes ($10.90) or cookies (from $2.90), paired with beverages such as the Coffee Brulee ($8.90), a chilled black coffee topped with sweetened milk, and delicately caramelised with torched brown sugar.
501 Orchard Road, Singapore 238880
Here’s how to make the most of the sales and be a smarter shopper.
Save more with SAFRA! Enjoy special deals and discounts on dining, shopping, entertainment, travel, fitness and more from over 1,500 merchant outlets islandwide. Sign up or renew your SAFRA membership for three years at the price of 1 year ($43.20 inclusive of GST)! Plus, get your spouse and children on board to enjoy the same privileges too – 1st dependent pays $5.40/year, and it’s free for the 2nd dependent onwards. Visit safra.sg/savemore for more details.
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