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What started as a humble deli in Richmond has become a sandwich empire with stores in South Melbourne, Fitzroy and the CBD. But the original location is still our top pick. Come for the nostalgic appeal of a neighbourhood milk bar, stay for the finger-licking sandwiches – the Beef and Pickles is a salty, gooey, crispy combo of slow-cooked brisket, sauerkraut and pickles, while the Fried Chicken is an elevated version of a McChicken with an addictive dill-infused secret sauce. Pair your sandwich with a coffee and glazed donut from the hole-in-the-wall counter and join the diehard locals savouring one of Melbourne’s must-try foodie experiences.
There’s no cooler chef on the island right now than Mirko Febbrile, a native of the Puglia region in southern Italy. His passion for food (and good times) is infectious, and in the 11 years he’s spent in Singapore, Febbrile has helmed the kitchen at lauded restaurant Braci (and helped them gain a Michelin star), created a pasta hawker collaboration that sold out during lockdown, and launched his first restaurant, Fico, in 2023 to instant acclaim.
The casual Italian restaurant at East Coast Park is the epitome of la dolce vita, and it has inspired fevered queues. While it’s still wise to book ahead, it’s easier to try the sumptuous focaccina (Italian flatbread), delicious handmade pasta and classic Puglian street food without a reservation by going to the restaurant’s side kiosk. The Fico team also offers Rent-A-Picnic bundles that come with picnic baskets and mats – perfect for a low-key date by the coast.
In late 2024, Febbrile unveiled Somma in a soaring space atop New Bahru, a new lifestyle enclave occupying a former high school campus. Somma in Italian means “sum”, and this restaurant is an expression of Febbrile’s deep interest in food, art, fashion and culture while also challenging the traditions of fine dining. Discover where this culinary star eats when he’s off duty.
Chef Mirko Febbrile’s newest dining establishment is Somma, located in New Bahru, a lifestyle enclave off River Valley Road in Singapore
What is your favourite local dish in Singapore?
Definitely – and absolutely – laksa. When I first arrived in Singapore, I wasn’t that great with spicy food. Even barbecue-flavoured potato chips were too spicy for me! While my spice tolerance still needs a lot of work, I’ve since learned how to eat dishes like lontong (rice cake), fish curry and a mildly spicy tom yum. And no matter what, I’d still gladly brave the spice when it comes to a bowl of laksa.
I’ve tried many versions, from what they say is the oldest version at Katong Laksa (307 Changi Road), dry ones, to the version I personally find the best and so comforting: Sungei Road Laksa (27 Jalan Berseh #01-100). They cook their gravy on charcoal and use only the most beautiful, sweet, raw blood cockles. Legendary! The queue can get really long, but it’s worth the wait. Trust me – one bowl isn’t enough! I recommend this to everyone I know, and anyone who wants to be my friend has to try this incredible dish.
Can you let us in on a hidden culinary gem in Singapore?
I’ve never seen a bar like Fura in Singapore, which focuses on sustainable dining, using ingredients that have a low carbon footprint and are naturally available in excess. Founded by power couple Christina Rasmussen and Sasha Wijidessa, the pair have done a clever job at weaving unexpected ingredients into their drink and food menu, such as a jellyfish-infused gin and insect protein made from locusts, an invasive species in many countries.
It’s definitely not for the faint of heart, but their strong ethos and bold concept really inspires me to bring something new to the table. We met in Copenhagen when I was working at Noma, and I consider them one of my closest friends and few of the beautiful souls I know.
Set amidst the leafy charm of Duxton Hill, Thirty9 is a cosy Italian-Mediterranean eatery that combines rustic flavours with a contemporary edge. Spearheaded by seasoned chef Eriz Trozza, the menu showcases traditional dishes like hand-rolled fusilli alla Napoletana, a hearty blend of pork and beef ragout, and the pizza genovese, which comes topped with plump red prawns, potato and sundried tomato. Owner Peter Stilli has personally curated an exceptional wine list, featuring global selections such as the Vinattieri Masserone merlot from Switzerland, which pairs beautifully with the succulent Costata Di Manzo beef tomahawk. End the evening on a sweet note with their amaretto-infused tiramisu – a firm favourite among diners.
Set high above the Indian Ocean on Bali’s Bukit Peninsula is the breezy Ungasan Clifftop Resort, an exclusive getaway with sweeping views. Hidden in the quiet Ungasan village area, the resort offers high-end luxury with an intimate, personalised experience designed for ultimate relaxation.
Choose your sanctuary from a collection of spacious villas and one-bedroom suites, each laid out with privacy in mind. Unlike most resorts centred around one common pool, at the Ungasan, each suite shares a private pool and surrounding gardens with no more than four others. Guests booking three or more bedrooms will get the entire villa grounds to themselves – this is recommended for families or small groups looking for more peace and quiet.
As far as dining goes, the Ungasan has enough delicious options on the grounds, so you don’t have to leave the resort if you don’t feel like it. At Waatu, the Ungasan’s laidback yakitori and open-flamed grill, award-winning Australian chef James Viles brings the heat. The menu uses no gas or electricity – only open flames – to cook seasonal, locally sourced produce. If you are not in the mood to leave your private abode, order in-villa dining, whether for an Instagram-worthy floating breakfast or a juicy, customisable BBQ dinner.
If you’re looking for low-key beachside relaxation during your time in Bali, the famous Sundays Beach Club is right on site. Catch the short elevator ride down to one of the prettiest beaches in Bali and choose between splashing around in azure waters, sipping on a coconut, paddling a sea kayak, enjoying the bonfire, or all of the above.
Singapore Airlines (SIA) customers flying in Business Class have a new amenity kit to look forward to starting on 24 December 2024. Made possible through an exclusive partnership with New York-based slow perfumery brand Le Labo Fragrances, it comprises three products – hand pomade, face mist and lip balm – all thoughtfully curated and placed in an exclusive pouch.
SIA is known for its exceptional service and this partnership elevates the in-flight experience for its Business Class customers, blending SIA’s signature hospitality with Le Labo Fragrances’ artisanal craftsmanship.
The Le Labo Fragrances amenity kit is exclusively available for Business Class customers on flights above six hours and is provided upon request.
Founded in New York’s Nolita neighbourhood in 2006, its original flagship lab is still on 233 Elizabeth Street and its boutique in Singapore is at Ngee Ann City shopping centre. Le Labo Fragrances has built a loyal following with its artisanal approach to perfumery. Known for its hand-blended, made-to-order fragrances, its offerings range from perfumes and face, body and hair care items, to a home collection including candles. For SIA, the partnership with Le Labo Fragrances offers an opportunity to align its premium service with the perfume brand’s ethos of personalised craftsmanship – a value increasingly sought after by discerning travellers.
Designed for sophistication
The amenity kit is available exclusively for Business Class customers travelling with SIA on flights above six hours and is provided upon request. Le Labo Fragrances was closely involved in its direction and design, ensuring that each one is created with as much passion and dedication as its own thoughtfully handcrafted fragrances.
Stored in a waxed cotton canvas pouch inspired by Le Labo Fragrances’ iconic lab aprons, the new Business Class amenity kit’s design reflects the perfume brand’s minimalist aesthetic. Over time, the canvas develops unique textures and hues, making each pouch a personal keepsake, and can be used as a travel document holder.
The waxed cotton canvas pouch is inspired by Le Labo Fragrances’ iconic lab aprons.The amenity kit consists of lip balm, face mist and hand pomade.
The contents of the amenity kit – Le Labo Fragrances’ hand pomade in Basil, face mist in Basil and lip balm – are formulated with premium vegan ingredients like shea butter, sweet almond oil, olive oil, aloe vera and rosemary extract.
These formulations echo the brand’s dedication to high-quality ingredients, while the products themselves enhance the travel experience.
Bringing personalised luxury to global audiences
The collaboration with Le Labo Fragrances is another example of SIA’s dedication to cater to a global clientele while incorporating values of craftsmanship. It’s an organic alignment which appeals to travellers who value authenticity, particularly those who are increasingly drawn to experiences that feel personal and unique.
This partnership represents more than an amenity kit refresh, it illuminates where premium travel is headed – the desire for intentional and thoughtful experiences. Through this partnership with Le Labo Fragrances, SIA isn’t just offering customers products that will pamper them during their flight, but essentials that will continue to serve them throughout their entire journey.
