Cuisine Better Days Chicken Rice (饱家味国) @ People's Park Centre - Young Female Hawker, Natalie Opens Her Own Chicken Rice Shop

Natalie, the face behind the beloved Ah Five Hainanese Chicken Rice in Ang Mo Kio, has carved her name in the local food scene. Her journey started as a young, determined hawker alongside her family, where their Hainanese Chicken Rice swiftly gained fame for its delightful flavours. This family legacy, rooted in her father's cherished recipe from a renowned chicken rice brand, was soon embraced by media and food enthusiasts alike.

Fast forward to the present, Natalie embarks on her solo adventure, opening her very own chicken rice shop - Cuisine Better Days Chicken Rice, nestled in People's Park Centre. The spotlight remains on her as she single-handedly orchestrates the entire show - from cooking to cashier duties, waiting tables, and even keeping the space spotless — a true testament to her dedication and hard work.

Hainanese Chicken Rice 4.5/5

Consistency remains paramount to Natalie's craft. She continues her tradition of using premium grade A kampong chicken, just as she did at Ah Five Hainanese Chicken Rice. This choice imparts a remarkable tenderness and succulence to her poached chicken. What sets it apart is the subtly sweeter taste compared to the typical broiler chicken.

While some things remain the same, Natalie introduces a new twist in the form of her chilli sauce. Sporting an intensified punch of pungency and spice, this sauce carries an exhilarating kick that appeals to those fond of bold flavours. However, those averse to intense spiciness might want to tread cautiously.

Still, on the journey of refining her craft, one area where Natalie is working towards consistency is her rice. On my initial visit, the rice was an aromatic, fluffy delight. However, my second outing witnessed a slight variation, with a tad more moisture and a somewhat muted fragrance.

Natalie's passion is evident in her future plans to expand the menu. She intends to incorporate a diverse selection of Hainanese dishes and sides, thus transforming her offering into a complete culinary experience. This evolution guarantees more options for diners seeking a wholesome and delightful meal, ensuring that Cuisine Better Days Chicken Rice is destined to remain a name to reckon with.


Cuisine Better Days Chicken Rice (饱家味国)
People's Park Centre
#01-01
101 Upper Cross Street
Singapore 058357
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Nearest MRT: Chinatown (DT, NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 12pm - 9pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Chinatown MRT station. Take Exit D. Turn left and walk to the back of People's Park Centre facing State Courts building. At the back of People's Park Centre, turn right and walk down the  walkway. Walk to the end of walkway, along the stretch of shops to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Park Backerei @ ICON Village - Singapore's First Traditional and Authentic German Brezel Bakery

Park Backerei, Singapore's first German pretzel bakery, has established its abode at ICON Village in Tanjong Pagar. Founded by Dennis von Berlepsch and his wife, Jane Lee Richard, the bakery showcases an artisanal array of freshly handcrafted German pretzels, lye-dipped bread, and pastries, encapsulating the authentic flavours of Germany.

The star of the show undoubtedly is the hand-shaped Swabian-style Pretzels ($3.90), originating from Southwest Germany. Distinguished by its slender ends and plump midsection, these pretzels offer a unique twist on the classic. Unlike the denser versions I've encountered previously, Park Backerei's iteration presents a moist and fluffy texture that doesn't weigh you down. Each bite beckons another, making it hard to resist. For those seeking a lighter indulgence, the Mini Pretzel ($2.50) offers a petite option for a satisfying afternoon snack.

Venturing into savoury territory, the Cheese Pretzel ($4.50) and Mini Cheese Pretzel ($2.80) offer a delightful twist - infusing Park Backerei's exceptional pretzel with cheddar cheese results in a delectable interplay of textures. The exterior achieves a lovely golden-brown crunch while maintaining a soft interior.

However, the bakery's prowess doesn't stop at pretzels. The Karamel Igel ($4.40) stands as a testament to their creativity, featuring a pretzel bun adorably shaped like a hedgehog, complete with a sumptuous homemade caramel spread. Expanding their horizons, Park Backerei introduces a range of tantalising stuffed bagels and sandwiches, all crafted from their proprietary pretzel dough recipe.

For savoury bagel enthusiasts, the Jalapeño Cheddar ($7.90) and Caprese Pesto ($7.90) present captivating options. The latter entwines aromatic basil pesto, sun-dried tomatoes, mozzarella, and parmesan cheeses for a lively flavour palette. On the sweet side, the Speculoos Apple ($7.50) bagel shines with its indulgent combination of caramelised apples, diced apples for texture, and a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Diverse sandwiches further enrich the bakery's offerings. Inspired by German flavours, the Sausage Kraut ($15.90) brings forth smoked bratwurst and crispy fried onions, complemented by a tangy apple-caraway sauerkraut and piquant mustard aioli.

A vegetarian delight, the Brie ($14.90) is a blend of brie, caramelised onions, thinly sliced apples, and salted caramel pecans, creating a captivating fusion of textures.

Adding to the excitement, Park Backerei embraces the Oktoberfest spirit with an exclusive Oktoberfest Package ($88). Available for delivery and takeaway from 15 September to 29 October 2023, this package includes six Plain Pretzels and an assortment of sausages, such as Thuringer Snail Sausage, Nürnberger Sausage, and Smoked Bratwursts, alongside a side of tart apple sauerkraut. This celebration of flavours and traditions is a fitting homage to Germany's world-renowned beer festival.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Park Backerei
ICON Village
12 Gopeng Street
#01-41/42/52/53
Singapore 078877
Tel: +65 87562029
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Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 8am - 7pm
Sat-Sun: 8am - 2pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn left and walk down Peck Seah Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]