26.6 C
Singapore
Tuesday, November 26, 2024
Home Blog Page 37

Thriving in Singapore | Thursday 16 November 2023

For those new to Singapore or even if you’ve been here a while, come and join us for morning tea!

ANZA New Members Morning Tea will be held at 9:30am – 11:30am, Thursday 16 November, at the Singapore Cricket Club.

Meet the ANZA team and members of the ANZA sub-groups, as well as other newcomers during this relaxed get-together. Discover how to make the most of your ANZA membership and learn about our exciting upcoming events. Uncover endless engaging activities and interest groups just waiting for you to get involved in.

This is also a brilliant opportunity to find out about important legal and financial implications of your move, including critical guardianship documents that parents need to put in place. Get informed on the latest medical need-to-knows.

The morning will wrap up with a gathering on the Gilmore Terrace, overlooking the city landscape, where you can chat with other members over a cuppa and light bites.

We promise a lovely morning and a warm welcome to ANZA. If you’re flying solo don’t be shy, the ANZA team will be there to greet you.

Non-members are welcome. Come and find out why you should join this great community.

Join in the lucky draws at both events. Stand a chance to win a Bacha gift set from our Premier Partner Select Investors, a bag full of Ego products and a dining voucher worth $125.

Best regards,
The ANZA Team

A warm thank you to our sponsors:

Loading…

Why burnout is Singapore’s next big health problem

  •  Sponsored Content 

Singapore, the Southeast Asian Business Hub, is experiencing a rise in employee burnout as a result of the global economy’s increasing difficulty in adapting to a job market that is constantly changing, with workload being a key reason.

What Is Employee Burnout?

Contrary to popular belief, burnout is not an individual problem but a problem associated with the workplace. From micromanagement and mundane work to long work hours and lack of recognition, these comprise a cluster of stressors that, more often than not, compound over time, causing employees to leave their workplaces for the next opportunity.

Let’s take a look at a list of key examples:

  • Over-supervision: Being micromanaged by managers more often than not results in employee anxiety, reducing their confidence and inability to dictate the outcome of their work.
  • Lack of autonomy: Businesses learned a valuable lesson after the pandemic ended: allowing employees some degree of independence to flourish is key to maximising productivity. These perks, such as the option to work from home or set your own hours, are essential.
  • Monotony: With the rise of AI-driven automation tools, it’s important to free employees from redundant and monotonous tasks and allow them to pursue more creative and strategic tasks that shape the future of the company.
  • Lack of work-life balance: Workers are standing firm in their demand for a better work-life balance, as evidenced by the Great Resignation, which is why it is crucial to manage staff workloads effectively and set reasonable deadlines.

The Importance of Employee Retention and How to Achieve It 

More than ever, companies are looking for efficient ways to retain their employees, either by prioritising their well-being or providing opportunities for career development. In fact, 36% of Singapore HR leaders have sought to apply creative strategies to maximise employee retention, which include strategies such as:

  • Employee upskilling programs: Providing employees with an opportunity to learn more, either through mentorship programs conducted by upper management or company-paid workshops.
  • Employee feedback sessions: Regularly gathering feedback from employees on their expectations, current outlook on management, and level of satisfaction.
  • Provision of flexible benefits: Given the rise of a multigenerational workforce, offering flexible benefits is an ingenious way to retain employees, catering to their specific healthcare and financial needs at varying levels of employment.

Your Trusted Insurance Broker

Pacific Prime CXA Singapore aims to provide businesses with access to industry-leading flexible benefits to maximise employee satisfaction. Are you looking to implement a flexible benefits program or explore more solutions, such as corporate insurance? Contact us today for a free consultation or a demo of our technology

 

 

Hotspots: Lo Quay

Lo Quay, a New Vietnamese cuisine restaurant, is the latest addition to the renowned Dandy Collection, known for culinary gems such as Firangi Superstar, Neon Pigeon, and Fat Prince.

A visit to Lo Quay, meaning “discovery” in Vietnamese, promises a foodie experience that lives up to its name. Chef Brown, a Saigon native, has created a menu that intertwines her gastronomical origins with her global exposure to other culinary cultures. Her dishes contain salty, sour, spicy, herby, and sweet elements of traditional Vietnamese dishes that are knitted with other complex and complementary ingredients of faraway cuisines.

Chef Brown’s journey started in Los Angeles, where she learnt the trade from the ground up before enrolling in the culinary program at the Art Institute of California in San Diego. From there, she joined acclaimed kitchens around the globe like Nobu and Zuma where she discovered new ingredients that are represented in her creations.

Undoubtedly, Chef Brown is part of a new wave of Vietnamese chefs reshaping their country’s cuisine through a progressive, global lens, anchored by a profound respect for its history. l particularly loved the worldly elements ranging from flavours from Southeast Asia, Middle East and Latin America peppered into her dishes

Our meal began with an array of cold appetisers: Amera Tomato, Soursop, and Shiso, Wagyu tartare with Onsen Egg and Shrimp puff (we added Caviar for an additional S$38), and Hiramasa with Pomegranate and Umezuke.

We then moved on to the warm appetisers where another round of equally delicious ingredients kept us on our toes: Pâté Choux with Scallop and Ikura, Oysters paired with Bone Marrow and Caviar, Jackfruit alongside Tomato and Tamarindo, and Obsiblue Prawn served on a bed of Sticky Rice with X.O. sauce.

Each dish was as delicious as the next, and we could have easily indulged in several rounds of these moreish bites. For me, the tartare was a particular highlight with a cured quail egg yolk, microgreens, mayonnaise, kizame wasabi (pickled wasabi stems) and fresh shallots. In the warm bite line up, I enjoyed the jackfruit: minced young jackfruit mixed with rice paddy herb (Ngo Om) sawtooth coriander, king trumpet mushroom breaded in panko and deep fried; and the deep-fried prawn covered on puffed sticky rice and topped with a chimichurri sauce was at a different level.

Depth of Pho flavours

When thinking of Vietnamese food Pho and Banh Mi come atop of that list, and the Discovery menu includes both. The humble Pho is elevated to new highs with a south-style broth inspired by Chef Brown’s own journey. While the beef base is wagyu, thus rich in healthy fats, the depth of flavours is a testament of low-and-slow traditional cooking (18 hours to get 10 litres into one litre of broth for those looking for the stats), exactly what a Pho should be.

The Banh Mi is not your everyday baguette. At Lo Quay, the chef’s version is presented in a “beef wellington” with grilled Iberico pork jowl, pork crackling, house made pork liver pate and kombu butter are wrapped in puff pastry and baked. It’s served with Maggi demi-glace and star anise pickled Japanese cucumber.

A refreshing citrusy palate cleanser was the stop-gap we needed before heading to our mains. The menu offers Lamb with peppadew and Hijiki, Whole Seabass with Honey Aji Amarillo and Fennel, Duck with a 70% chocolate-Hoisin sauce and Cippolini, and Wagyu MB7 with Kabocha and 333 demi-glace (available for an additional S$18 per person).

Our table opted for the Seabass and the Wagyu. Perfectly cooked, the Wagyu came accompanied by a Kabocha puree and an exceptional demi-glace, showcasing the French culinary influence within the Vietnamese gastronomical roots. The beautifully presented seabass is Chef Brown’s dedication to her California journey. The fish comes adorned with finely shaved fennel and a honey Aji Amarillo sauce, which reflect Chef Brown’s lasting impression of her influences from Nobu and Latin American cuisines.

We ended with the Café Phin Parfait, featuring espresso and dulcey, paying homage to traditional coffee. A fantastic way to end a great meal Inspired by Vietnamese coffee served with espresso sponge, coffee cream, caramelised kinako white chocolate, crème fraiche sauce. It is then finished with vanilla tuile

VERDICT: Overall, Lo Quay’s “Discovery” menu is a culinary adventure that bridges traditional flavours with global gastronomic influences, all deeply inspired by Chef Brown’s culinary journey. It’s a restaurant that deserves a place on your list for special occasions or indulgent treats. In addition to the “Discovery” menu, we opted for a wine pairing to complement the experience (the menu is priced at S$138++, and the wine pairing is available for S$98++).

88 Amoy St, 069907. lo-quay.com

 

Tour: Jurong Lakeside Garden by Kayak & Foot | Wednesday 15th November 2023

Come and spend a morning exploring the heartlands at the beautiful Jurong Lakeside Garden. Opened in 2019, care was taken to conserve the existing natural biodiversity during development, and you will see this during this tour.

Our outing will start at one of the most Instagramable Starbucks in Singapore, before we take to the lake to explore some of the gardens by kayak. Grab a glimpse of the Chinese and Japanese Gardens (currently under development) from the water, while you explore this picturesque lake.

After drying off, we will take a walk around the Lakeside Garden, taking in many of the highlights, including the Grasslands, Rasau Walk, the Canyon and the Forest Ramble. We will take a look at the Lone Tree sculpture, enjoy the vast array of flora and have a chance to chat to some locals working in their allotment gardens along the way. Fingers crossed, we may even see some local wildlife including otters, monitor lizards, herons, kingfishers, dragonflies and butterflies.

Our tour will conclude with an optional casual meal close to the park (at own cost).

*There will not be a professional guide for this outing.

Price includes: Kayak hire

Date: Wednesday 15th November 2023

Time : 09:30am – 12.30pm

Meet: 09.20am – Jurong Lake Gardens at Starbucks, 106 Yuan Ching Road, #01-01 Lakeside House, 619616. Nearest MRT : Lakeside

Cost: $15 ANZA Member, $20 Non-Member

Additional Notes: Please wear activewear for this tour, covered footwear and no jeans.  Wear a hat and sunscreen and bring some water.  You may wish to bring a change of clothes and a towel – it is possible you might get wet while kayaking.  We will finish with an optional, casual meal close to the park (at own cost). Please bring some cash if you plan to join us.

Fitness Level: High – Substantial walking/exertion required in the heat. Expect to be on your feet for most of this tour with infrequent rest stops.

Loading…

Halloween parties, events & spooky spots in Singapore

Singapore is set to come alive this Halloween with ghostly parties, freaky events and fab-oooh-lous extravaganzas across the island. Enjoy the festivities with friends, family, or solo if you dare! And if you don’t fancy heading to a pre-arranged do, just head to some of Singapore’s most haunted spots. Witching you a happy Halloween!

Family activities

Horror Nights 11 at Universal Studios

Halloween Horror Nights returns to Universal Studios Singapore for some freaky fun. Five haunted houses, three scare zones, two live shows and great dining options await. Macabre creatures wander around scare zones, and the All of Us Are Dead haunted house, in collaboration with Netflix, is particularly spooktacular. For an immersive dining experience, take a seat at. The three-course ‘King Yama’s Feast in Die-ning in Hell’ meal ($148) at the Hollywood China Arcade comes with a side of entertainment that’ll make your blood run cold.
Now until 4 November. Universal Studios Singapore, Resorts World Sentosa, 8 Sentosa Gateway, 098269. sentosa.com.sg

Silent Disco Party at Marina Bay Sands SkyPark

Get spooked in silence at this Silent Disco Party at Marina Bay Sands SkyPark Observation Deck. Expect three DJs spinning dance, pop and rock beats under the full moon – of course. Flick between the different sounds – the more terrifying your dance moves, the better!
28 October 2023, 10pm – 2am. Marina Bay Sands SkyPark Observation Deck, Level 56, Tower 3, 10 Bayfront Avenue, 018956. Click here for tickets

Haw Par Villa 

Haw Par Villa is scary at any time of year, but it gets even more so during Halloween in Singapore. On 28 and 29 October, enter if you dare from 7pm till midnight. The park will be lit up with lighting and projections, and there’ll also be a Shaman’s Market at The Sixth Milestone. Stop by for arts and crafts, workshops, tarot readings and a Halloween-themed puzzle hunt.
27 – 29 October 2023. Haw Par Villa, 262 Pasir Panjang Rd, 118628. hawparvilla.sg

Haunted houses

Harrowing Halloween 3 – Singapore Discovery Centre

If your school days were ghastly, you might get some serious flashbacks at Harrowing Halloween, which comes in the shape of a haunted school this year. Creepy corridors, eerie characters, and holographic experiences take place at this haunted house, labyrinth, carnival, interactive scare zone, and escape room. On 21, 28 and 29 October, there’s also a puzzle-mystery.
Now until 29 October 2023, 7 – 11pm. Singapore Discovery Centre, 510 Upper Jurong Road, 638365. defencecollectivesg.com/harrowing-halloween-3

Halloween Scream Fest 2023

Prepare for a hellish interactive experience that will test your courage. This haunted house is a carefully curated nightmare that combines fear, adrenaline, and excitement for a heart-pounding time. Away from the house, you’ll find plenty of Instagram-worthy scenes, stalls, and dining booths to keep you suitably scared.
26 – 29 October, 10.30am – 10pm. D’Marquee Downtown East, 1 Pasir Ris Close, 519599. Click here for more

Music extravaganzas

Candlelight Halloween: Best Soundtracks of Tim Burton

Thankfully, there’s nothing distressing about the tunes played at this magical concert – part of the Candlelight series. Enjoy the mysterious sounds of Tim Burton films being played on stage from productions like The Addams Family, The Nightmare Before Christmas, Sweeney Todd, Beetlejuice, Alice in Wonderland, and loads more.
31 October 2023, 7pm or 9pm, Chijmes Hall, #01-28, 30 Victoria Street, 187996. Purchase tickets here

Zouk Presents: A Night to Die For

Zouk is hosting a murder mystery party this Halloween: the Prom Queen’s come to a sticky end and the Prom King has slipped into the night. Meanwhile, a lady in a red kimono is on the run. (Side note: why are they always wearing a red kimono?!). Clues are everywhere, including in the meal. Once the crime is cracked, detectives get to dance the night away.
27 & 28 October 2023, 10pm – 4am; 01-05 to #02-06, 3C River Valley Road, 179022. zoukclub.com/prom-ting-a-murder

Slassy x The Illustrious Blacks & Cirque Le Soir at CE LA VI

CE LA VI goes all out for Halloween. On Friday 27 October there’s brilliant acts and performances by local drag queens with a backdrop of funk, jazz and disco tunes by DJ act The Illustrious Blacks. Come Saturday 28 October, theatrical troupe Cirque Le Soir entertain with eccentric acts like fire-eaters and contortionists.
Slassy x The Illustrious Blacks, 27 October 2023, 10pm – 4am; Cirque Le Soir, 28 October, 10pm – 4am. Ce La Vi, Marina Bay Sands Hotel, Tower 3, 1 Bayfront Avenue, 018971

Out & about…

We’ve all heard stories, reports, and urban legends about Singapore being haunted – but where are the island’s most creepy spots? From derelict hospitals to swimming pools, check out our round-up here.

10 minutes with Cheryl Ou, The Social Space

Photo: Flavien Prioreau and Zoe Kovacs

Tell us about The Social Space …
It’s a one-stop-lifestyle destination offering a café, fair-trade retail area, event and workshop space, meeting rooms and co-working space. We just opened our second outlet in DUO Galleria, Bugis, in addition to our first venue in Kreta Ayer Road.

Is this your first social enterprise?
I’m also the co-founder of The Nail Social, a nail salon that opened in 2014. Both businesses aim to provide a platform for those facing employment difficulties. We employ single mothers, youth-at-risk, ex-offenders, ex-drug addicts, persons with special needs, learning disabilities or physical disabilities, as well as those recovering from mental health issues. 

How challenging is this?
It makes managing the dynamics more demanding, but it also exposes our staff to the needs of others, and how to be more understanding and patient. Most staff at The Social Space have no experience of working in F&B. However, when onboard, many of them realise they’re a lot more capable than they thought and this boosts their self-confidence.

You stock lovely local brands …
Our retail space is strictly curated and dedicated to only featuring sustainable brands that have a positive impact on underserved communities as well as the environment. We go through a very detailed screening process for potential vendors to find out more about their mission, values and ethos. Brands include Riau Candle Co, Yeni Draws, Talking Toes, Refind, Happiness Initiative, and more.

How hard is it to find high-quality sustainable brands?
I think the public perception of socially conscious products and services is that they’re sub-standard and low quality. But the reality is that social enterprises have really upped their game and today products are comparable, if not better, than similar commercial brands in the market. 

How do your pop-ups work?
We rotate a dedicated pop-up space at our outlets to give emerging sustainable brands a chance to showcase products without having to commit to expensive rentals. Our current partner is Thryft (thryft.asia) who stock used books and clothes. 

What happens to profits from The Social Space?
A good portion of our revenue (not just profits) goes towards the community and our profit margins are a lot lower than a typical commercial business. We also hold regular fundraising campaigns by donating a percentage of café and retail sales (not profits) to a charitiable cause. For example, in 2018 we donated over S$20,000 to Red Cross Australia to support their fight against the bushfires. 

How would you like The Social Space to grow?
Right now, we’re planning a third space to offer more employment opportunities. The beneficiaries we’ve met don’t want to rely on the government or donors for financial support. By empowering them with vocational skills, stable employment and income, they can be independent and support themselves and their family. 

How can ANZA members contribute?
Come and visit as a paying customer and spread the word about us – there is strength in community! We hope consumers will realise that they have the power to make a difference simply by making a conscious decision to support social enterprises and businesses that give back. 

 thesocialspace.co

instagram.com/thesocialspace.sg

 facebook.com/thesocialspacesg

How your dentist can help you sleep better

  •  Sponsored Content 

We spend a third of our lives asleep, but do we know what is happening in our bodies while sleeping? When you awake, do you feel rested? Or do you wake with headaches, muscle tension and overwhelming fatigue?

Snoring is one of the most common signs of a sleep breathing disorder such as Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA), but only 50% of these patients snore. Grinding the teeth may be another sign.

Recent research has spotlighted the increasing prevalence of OSA, establishing it as a global public health challenge. OSA stretches across ages, genders, and backgrounds beyond its benign reputation as a “snorer’s disorder.” Over 936 million individuals worldwide suffer from OSA, with most cases remaining undiagnosed. This pandemic disrupts sleep and is linked closely to developing several serious medical conditions for the individual.

 Concealed Dangers of Undiagnosed OSA

The consequences of untreated OSA extend well beyond disturbed sleep. Often disregarded as simple snoring or daytime exhaustion, this condition can serve as an alarm for significant health crises. Cardiovascular concerns such as hypertension, heart disease, and stroke are exacerbated by the persistent strain OSA exerts on the heart and body.

Moreover, cognitive decline, diabetes, and mood disorders such as anxiety and depression may have roots in untreated OSA. In Australia, the % of motor vehicle accidents caused by lack of sleep is 23%. More concerning is the number of undiagnosed individuals in occupations requiring concentration and alertness, such as drivers, childcare and health workers.

The Significance of Early Detection and Prevention

OSA frequently emerges during childhood due to breathing-related issues that influence the development of jaw and facial bone structures, simultaneously impacting airway development. Addressing these concerns in their infancy can deter the progression of OSA into adulthood. Dental Sleep Medicine is a discipline revolutionising the approach to sleep-related issues with a proven link between dental health and sleep quality.

Dr Elaine Ng, a dental sleep medicine practitioner at Smilefocus, is critical in evaluating and identifying patients at risk of sleep-disordered breathing. She provides comprehensive evaluations, oro-facial examinations and assessments following strict, evidence-based guidelines for patients requiring OSA screening. Dr Ng conducts thorough patient assessments and clinical examinations by scrutinising oral structure and facial growth patterns – potential OSA cases are identified. Early detection empowers patients to seek intervention.

Sleep-breathing disorders

The good news is that sleep-breathing disorders are treatable and can be prevented from worsening if detected early. Collaboratively, a multidisciplinary team encompassing sleep dentists and sleep physicians such as ENT specialists, respiratory specialists, neurologists, orthodontists, oral surgeons, speech pathologists, and psychologists. Together, they orchestrate comprehensive care that addresses every aspect of the patient’s health, facial growth, and sleep quality needs.

Dr Ng collaborates closely with otolaryngologists (ENT specialists) and utilises innovative and cutting-edge solutions. These may involve oral appliances optimising airway function, enhancing sleep quality and overall wellness, and long-term monitoring. This multidisciplinary approach between dental and medical specialists guarantees that patients receive tailored solutions.

Revitalising Lives 

The impact of Dental Sleep Medicine goes beyond mitigating sleep disorders; it improves patient quality of life. Individuals who once wrestled with restless nights, choking episodes, and daytime fatigue are awakened to a revitalised life.

Enhanced sleep quality propels energy levels, sharpens cognitive function, strengthens the immune and endocrine systems and elevates moods. Furthermore, reducing snoring and sleep apnea incidents alleviates stress on the cardiovascular system. Dental sleep practitioners remind us of the vital connection between oral health, facial growth, and sleep quality.

If someone you know is in need of treatment, encourage them to take the first steps today in getting diagnosed.

Article by: Dr Elaine Ng BDS (Singapore). 

For further information contact Smile Focus at the link here.

 

Australian property tax considerations for expats

  •  Sponsored Content 

It’s the great Australian dream to own property, however, don’t let the excitement be diluted through ineffective tax planning. There are several key factors to consider before purchasing a property.

What are your future plans for the property?

Whether the property is to be used solely as an investment property, partly as an investment property and partly as a holiday home or whether it will become your future main residence can all impact how the property should be held, how to finance the property and what future records need to be kept for tax reporting purposes.

Investment properties and/or holiday homes can be held in one’s personal name or a structure, however a property that is to be used as a future main residence should be retained in one’s personal name to enable access to a future partial exemption from capital gains tax on sale.

Expenses associated with a property used privately either in full or in part are ineligible for a tax deduction (either in full or in part).  Including borrowing expenses and interest on mortgages.

Whose name should the property be held in?

If your job puts you at a higher risk of being sued or the nature of the property results in a higher risk of being sued, holding the property in a trust as opposed to in your personal name can alleviate this risk.

Estate planning considerations can also impact whether a property should be held in one’s personal names or a trust.

If the property is to be negatively geared and in the future you will be living in Australia earning a high salary, holding the property in your personal name can provide benefits.  In contrast, if the property is to be positively geared, the flexibility of a trust may prove more beneficial when considering the applicable Australian tax rate that can apply.

If not an Australian citizen or permanent resident visa holder, are there any other taxes to be aware of?

Some states apply higher stamp duty charges and land tax charges to property owners from certain nationalities.  This may result in purchasing in a different State or Territory in Australia or choosing to hold the property in the name of the Australian spouse (where relevant).

How should I fund the purchase of the property?

When considering how much to borrow to purchase a property versus how much equity to invest considerations of the opportunity cost of the use of the cash should be thought out.  Interest rates and the deductibility of the interest can also impact this decision.

 

In Summary

 Ilana Kramarov and the Select Investors team work closely with, and support, expatriates with their financial wellbeing, through integrated tax and wealth planning during their time in Singapore and beyond. If you would like to learn more about the Australian property market, and further discuss Australian property tax planning, please contact Ilana via email ilana@selectinvestorsaustralia.sg.

 

 

 

 

 

This information has been prepared in good faith, is in the nature of general comment only, and neither purports, nor is intended, to be advice on any particular matter.  You should not act or rely upon any matter or information contained in or implied without taking appropriate professional advice which relates specifically to your particular circumstances.  Select Investors (Australia) Pty Ltd expressly disclaim all and any liability to any person (whether a reader or not) who acts or fails to act as a consequence of reliance upon the whole or any part of this information.

 

Good innings for ANZA Cricket

Big Day Out

Talk about big weekends! The Denis Amar 6’s (named after two exceptionally kind Singapore cricketers who’ve passed away) were held recently at the Indian Association / Ceylon Sports grounds. The two-day event featured 20 teams of six, including local teams SCC, Mariners, Spirits, Misfits and touring teams from Kuwait, Manilla, Australia and KL all vying for the Cup, Bowl and Tequila Cup.   

This year ANZA placed two teams in the competition: Retros and Biscuits. Both teams did really well, although Retros had to face the unbeatable Kuwaiti team and Biscuits worked hard for wins in their round robins. The best performances came from Akash Dogra in the first match where he smashed his way to 25 Retired of 8 balls. Guy Hudson took over in the remaining matches with some very big hits and a mind-blowing strike rate. Alpesh Puna batted exceptionally for Retro’s, winning some games single-handedly.   

Both teams progressed to the finals with Biscuits in the hunt for the big Cup and Retro’s for the plate. Unfortunately as they were on form, the rain came. In the end, with time restrictions and touring sides the day went down to a bowl off. Steve Anderson was ANZA’s secret weapon, pinging the stumps and getting Biscuits to the final before the Kuwaiti boys (who’d been practicing whilst we had been liquoring up with Margaritas). Unsurprisingly, the opposition knocked out middle and it was all over.

ANZA “Player of Players” Soumak Bose above (far right)

Of course, when you have 6’s, Margaritas, beers and 100+ cricketers and friends around, there is always fun to be had. This year’s Big Day Out and the “ANZA Player of Players” was awarded to Soumak Bose, the speedstar with multiple 3’s and good contributions on and off the field. The ultimate club player!

Hosts With The Most

With the shortage of sporting grounds and in particular cricket grounds in Singapore, it’s a rare and enjoyable pleasure to host a touring side. Renwick CC from Marlborough in NZ were an exceptionally nice group of players, some of whom are captains within the NZ wine industry and veterans of the sport.   

Renwick lost the toss and were sent in against what was a surprising full strength ANZA side for a Friday. For the first 15 overs, Renwick CC, dealing with an unusual ground and synthetic pitch, battled to 2/69 with Guy Hudson taking some difficult catches and putting them on the back foot. ANZA blasted their way to 3-91 in their 15. Badgey in his first knock for the club retired on 35 n.o including 4-4 and 2-6’s.   

During the second half, restrictive bowling and some good fielding continued. Renwick CC closed on all out for 176. ANZA chased this down with Guy retiring and some furious batting from the rest of the team to start the beers flowing after the 24th over. Top bowling shout-outs go to Anton, Steve Anderon, Soumak and Dave Vu!

Wine Time

A few of us had the privilege of sharing a wine tasting at Petersons Wines Singapore with David Prentice of Brookside Energy (brookside-energy.com.au), sponsors of ANZA Cricket. Joe gave us an incredible history and description of the fine wines produced by Petersons and the evening was enjoyed by all. We looked particularly smashing in our Brookside evening kit! 

Hotspots: Griglia

Think Italian food, think pizza, pasta, and perhaps a stuffed crust? Griglia Open Fire Italian Kitchen is a contemporary Italian restaurant that goes beyond the stereotypes of traditional staples and serves dishes of bucolic charm and irresistable simplicity. 

Situated on Craig Road and opened by the people behind Zafferano, Griglia has been sitting pretty on this Chinatown stretch since 2021. The refreshed menu keeps it up to date in an area that’s fast becoming one of the hottest on the island. 

Griglia gets its name from the term ‘grigliata‘, in reference to the outdoor grill that’s often used for al fresco meals in Italy.Positioned at the back of the restaurant in an open kitchen concept, the specially customised cast iron charcoal grill is fired up and flaming when we arrive.

Dishes marry the rich flavours and heritage of Italy through grilled meats, fish, vegetables, salads and – of course – homecooked pasta. What’s lovely is that dishes are fresh, wholesome and joyously uncomplicated, the star of the show in some cases being a specific type of vegetable or glug of exceptional olive oil, complemented by a stellar mix of herbs, salts, and seasoning. 

Letting quality ingredients speak for themselves is depicted in Griglia’s spin on small plates: we try Confit Tomatoes – plump tommies on Spiced Bread with a swipe of Avocado; Beef Tartare, a pop-in-your-mouth ball of beef, Confit Egg and Parmigiano; and Rustic Bread which tastes other-worldly dipped in Piennolo Tomato Sauce from Naples and Apulian Extra Virgin Olive Oil. 

Secret weapon

Even good old Eggplant is next-level here. Miniscule layers of eggplant, Roma tomatoes and ligurian basil rest on top of a ‘Caciocavallo’ fondue. This results in a delicate taste that’s both sweet and smoky, and we wish it came in larger portions.

Cheese features highly on this updated menu. Melted stracchino entwined with bottorga and hazelnut makes for a refreshing Romanesco, whereas Bone Marrow comes with salsa verde, radish crostini and parmesan crust. Pappardelle is served with tender, braised pork jowl and crisp guanciale, and is a crowd favourite.

Our two mains are such showstoppers that the table is totally divided as to a winner. Dry Aged Porterhouse ‘Fiorentina’ steak is cooked with rosemary to a beautiful medium-rare, producing a robust and tender flavour. In contrast, the Whole Mediterranean Seabass Fillet is light, succulent and melt-in-your-mouth delicious. 

Beef Tartare and Capri In A Cake

Side dishes of Baby Potatoes, Kale and Charcoal Grilled Baby Corn served with Brown Butter Sabayon (ideal for dipping), create a lux farm-to-table countryside vibe. The rustic feel continues through the chic interior which features exposed brick walls, comfy leather banquette seating and a mix of high and low casual tables.

For dessert we managed a bulging Cappuccinomisu: a cappuccino tiramisu
with buffalo mascarpone and port wine, topped with a fluffy foam. Capri In A Cake certainly lived up to its name: this soft Italian cake oozed intense lemon curd, fresh Amalfi lemon juice, a creamy vanilla gelato, and Italian olive oil on the side. We can vouch that both sweets are best enjoyed with a cheeky glass of Limoncello. Well, when in Rome …

VERDICT: Pass up your standard Italian pizza for clean-feeling food that leaves you nourished with fresh produce kissed by hot flames and Italian heritage. Great for groups of friends and families looking for a slice of Italian sunshine. 

Griglia
 37 Craig Rd, #01-01, 089675
 griglia.sg

1...363738...259Page 37 of 259
© Copyright 2017-2024 - ANZA