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Hong Kong travel bubble: The best places to eat
From piping hot street food and the iconic cha chaan teng (tea restaurant) to Michelin-starred establishments run by celebrity chefs, Hong Kong is undoubtedly an epicurean dream. With the recent announcement that Singapore and Hong Kong have established an air travel bubble that will soon allow for leisure travel between the two locales, there’s no better time for foodies to start planning for their next trip to the city.
Check out SilverKris’ series of Hong Kong city guides here. In this one, we recommend nine restaurants that should be on your radar.
Juicy, smoky goodness at ALTO Bar & Grill
After a long time away from Hong Kong, drink in the city’s iconic views from the 31st floor of the V Point Tower in Causeway Bay. Designed by celebrated British designer Tom Dixon, this modern grill features black furniture, green marble and blond timber flooring and offers expansive views of the city skyline through wraparound floor-to-ceiling windows. It’s not all looks, of course – the food here is consistently delicious. The dry-aged British Hereford prime tenderloin and the miso-glazed lamb rack are both popular options but if you’re feeling ravenous, try the full-flavoured 1.2kg Australian Wagyu tomahawk. Vegetarians aren’t left out either as ALTO also offers a wide selection of plant-powered dishes.
sandshospitality.com; reservations@alto.com.hk; +852 2603 7181
Grill-centric gourmet dining at Harbourside Grill
With a prime waterfront location at the Ocean Terminal, the extension of Harbour City in Tsim Sha Tsui, this upmarket restaurant is popular for birthday or anniversary celebrations. And what could be a more timely celebration than the recent two-way air travel bubble between Singapore and Hong Kong? Pop the champagne and dig into hearty grilled meats such as the US ribeye, US sirloin and the Australian lamb rack. If you prefer something a little lighter on the palate, there’s the roasted sea bass served with lobster bisque or the lightly seared scallops served with crispy pork belly.
sandshospitality.com; reservations@harboursidegrill.com.hk; +852 2619 9100
A taste of London at Duck & Waffle
From the genteel streets of Bishopsgate in London, this stalwart restaurant now graces the shores of the Fragrant Habour, more specifically the International Finance Centre in Central. Fans of this mod-British restaurant will be delighted to discover familiar favourites on the menu, including the Irish crab, spiced ox cheek doughnut and of course, the eponymous Duck and Waffle, where crispy duck confit is served atop a soft, chewy waffle. Save some space for three desserts that were created specially for the Hong Kong menu – the PBJ macaroon ice cream sandwich, the “sticky rice and mango” waffle and the warm chocolate pudding.
duckandwaffle.com.hk; reservations@duckandwaffle.com.hk; +852 2267 6338
Homespun Italian dining at FIAMMA
From Michelin-starred Chef Enrico Bartolini comes this family-style Italian restaurant that serves up comfort dishes the way Nonna would have made them. There’s the moreish burrata cheese with Taggiasca olives and heirloom tomatoes or the beef tartare with a cheesy fondue, which whets your appetite for heartier dishes such as the fresh tagliatelle pasta with wild boar ragu or the decadently rich and creamy seafood risotto. Even as you fill your bellies with delicious nosh, your dining experience is enhanced with the soothing Mediterranean interiors of patterned ceramic tiles, wall-mounted planters and plenty of natural light from the floor-to-ceiling windows.
sandshospitality.com; reservations@fiamma.com.hk; +852 2657 0800
Elevated dining at The Ritz-Carlton, Hong Kong
It’s not often that you can brag about dining at the world’s highest hotel. Occupying floors 102 to 118 of the International Commerce Centre, the luxury hotel features six outstanding dining venues, including the two-star Michelin Cantonese restaurant, Tin Lung Heen, which serves some of Hong Kong’s best traditional dim sum. Over at Michelin-starred Italian restaurant, Tosca di Angelo, tuck into Mediterranean-inspired dishes under impressively high ceilings, stately fountains and majestic chandeliers. Be sure to also check out all-day dining venue The Lounge & Bar, indulge in a sumptuous buffet spread at Café 103 or enjoy the finest selection of caviar at Almas Caviar Bar. In the evenings, unwind with a cocktail at Ozone, a rooftop bar perched 490m above sea level.
ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/china/hong-kong; rc.hkgkw.leads@ritzcarlton.com;
+852 2263 2263
Refined Burmese cuisine at Club Rangoon
Now you can travel to Hong Kong and also enjoy a taste of Myanmar. Founded by Nelson Htoo, who is passionate about bringing Burmese cuisine into the international arena, this new kid on the block serves classic Burmese dishes within a chic jade-green space lined with framed photographs of Burmese culture and traditions. Tuck into Burmese favourites such Lahpet Thoke, a refreshing tea leaf salad or the mohinga, a dish of noodles in fish soup redolent with the aroma of lemongrass and other spices. For something more robust, try the lobster curry, which comes with a generous serving of the juicy crustacean or the Burmese-style briyani. Wash it all down with a tasty concoction from their impressive cocktail list.
clubrangoon.com.hk; enquiry@clubrangoon.com.hk; +852 2503 3077
Exquisite Chinese cuisine at Spring Moon
For a special treat, book yourself into this Michelin-starred Cantonese restaurant at The Peninsula Hong Kong. The fine dining establishment is especially renowned for its top-quality dim sum that is rich in flavour yet delicate in texture. Dining here is a multi-sensory experience with unique touches such as a tea counter where tea masters are on-hand to offer recommendations from over 25 types of tea, and a behind-the-scenes look at how the Spring Moon culinary team crafts its wide array of delectable dishes. Diners will also love how the restaurant interiors have been dressed up to celebrate the Roaring Twenties, with stained glass, wood panelling and flooring, and tasteful Art Deco features.
peninsula.com/en/hong-kong/hotel-fine-dining/spring-moon-cantonesedining; dining.phk@peninsula.com; +852 2696 6760
Exclusive dining experience at Ta Pantry
If you’re looking for a completely novel dining experience in Hong Kong, consider this private dining space run by chef Esther Sham. Tucked along the Star Street neighbourhood, this 600 square-foot space has been dressed up to resemble a cosy French cottage and seats up to 20 guests along a long communal table. This intimate dining experience makes you feel like you’re having dinner in the chef’s personal home. Using only the finest seasonal ingredients, Chef Sham spins out creative dishes that are paired with gourmet wines hand-selected from top wineries around the world.
ta-pantry.com; booking@tapantry.com; +852 2521 8121
Relaxed Asian-French dining at Maison ES
Following the success of her private kitchen Ta Pantry, Chef Esther Sham opened her first full-fledged restaurant in 2015. Housed in a sun-filled, garden-themed venue designed entirely by Chef Sham, the restaurant is decorated with hand-picked vintage antiques and collectibles. The menu is just as intriguing, featuring classic European dishes given an inventive twist with Asian ingredients. Chow down on delicious creations such as Matsuba crab meat wrapped in rice paper rolls and topped with sea urchin or the sautéed Spanner crab meat tossed with linguine. For a complete dining experience, opt for the four- or six-course tasting menu.
maison-es.com; info@maison-es.com; +852 2521 8011
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from SilverKris
Hong Kong travel bubble: The best places to stay in Kowloon
*Produced by SilverKris for the following brands*
With its glittering shopping malls, vibrant night markets and diverse nightlife scene, Hong Kong is a city that pulsates with energy. With the recent announcement that Singapore and Hong Kong have established an air travel bubble that will soon allow for leisure travel between the two locales, there’s no better time to start planning your next trip to the city.
When deciding on where to stay, most travellers are often torn between Hong Kong Island or Kowloon. Both have its merits and in fact, are well-connected by several MTR connections as well as the Star Ferry. Some travellers, however, gravitate towards Kowloon, lured no doubt by its charming old architecture and authentic street food.
Check out SilverKris’ series of Hong Kong city guides here. In this guide, we highlight a list of hotels in Kowloon to consider on your next trip.
A host of options with Royal Hotels
With four properties, the Royal Hotels Hong Kong has something for everyone. The Royal Plaza Hotel above Mongkok East MTR station puts city-slickers close to the action, and offers spacious rooms and a health club when it’s time to recharge. Those with kids will love the colourful themed rooms at Tsuen Wan’s Royal View Hotel, and if your family needs more space, the Royal Park Hotel in Sha Tin boasts river views, mall proximity and an outdoor heated swimming pool. Nearby, the new ALVA HOTEL BY ROYAL is perfect for wellness travellers seeking a quiet retreat. Along with its mountain views, it has high-tech touches such as an in-room iPad and VR gym machines. The promo code HKBUBBLE gets you HK$100 in dining credit for stays of two nights or more.
royalpark.com.hk; resvn@royalpark.com.hk; +852 2694 3898
royalplaza.com.hk; resvn@royalplaza.com.hk; +852 2622 6110
royalview.com.hk/hk; reservation@royalview.com.hk; +852 3716 2888
alva.com.hk; rsvn@alva.com.hk; +852 3653 1188
Family-friendly options at New World Millennium Hong Kong Hotel
If you’re heading to Hong Kong during the school holidays, make a beeline for this 5-star hotel located in Tsim Sha Tsui. Fully renovated in December 2017, this modern 464-room hotel has nine sets of family rooms (two adjoining rooms with an entryway) and also offers flexible bedding arrangement to accommodate different needs from group bookings. Young ones will love the rooftop swimming pool while adults will appreciate the sumptuous dining options at the seven restaurants on site. The hotel has currently rolled out several promotions for travellers from Singapore, including one that comes with the third night free if you book a minimum of two nights.
newworldmillenniumhotel.com; reservations@newworldmillenniumhotel.com; +852 2313 4305
Live in the lap of luxury at The Ritz-Carlton, Hong Kong
After a long period of no travel, make your trip superlatively exciting by checking into the highest hotel in the world. Occupying floors 102 to 118 of the International Commerce Centre in Kowloon, the luxury hotel is surrounded by mesmerising views. The palatial bedrooms are all outfitted with large windows, with most overlooking the scenic Victoria Harbour or the South China Sea. Guests are also invited to pamper themselves at the hotel’s opulent spa, or swim a few laps in the indoor infinity swimming pool that features a mirrored ceiling and a high-resolution LED wall. For meals, you’ll be spoiled for choice with six stellar dining establishments available, including the one-Michelin Italian restaurant, Tosca di Angelo and two-Michelin starred Cantonese restaurant, Tin Lung Heen.
ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/china/hong-kong; rc.hkgkw.leads@ritzcarlton.com; +852 22632263
Be swept away by the glamour at W Hong Kong
Always outstanding in whichever city it graces, W is a brand synonymous with style and design. The eye-catching Hong Kong outpost is located smack in the middle of the action in Tsim Sha Tsui – ideal for travellers looking to hit up Hong Kong’s energetic dining and nightlife scene. Back in your hotel, unwind in capacious nature-themed guestrooms or enjoy a poolside cocktail on the WET® Deck. Or book yourself a relaxing treatment at the spa that overlooks the harbour from the 72nd floor. From now until 31 December, 2020, book the DINE Whatever/Whenever room package and enjoy up to HK$2,000 dining credits and breakfast for two.
w-hongkong.com; wreservations.hk@whotels.com; +852 3717 2992
Artsy stays at K11 ARTUS
Experience a whole new perspective at this ultra-luxe artistic bolthole in the heart of Hong Kong’s newest art and design district – Victoria Dockside – conveniently located close to the Arts & Cultural Centre, the Museum of Art and the Space Museum. After a day of museum-hopping, retire to your well-appointed residence, designed by celebrated designer André Fu. Each of the 287 residences offer a spaciousness rarely found in the city as well as spectacular views from your private open-air balcony. What’s more, with art and sustainability at the forefront of their ethos, the residence channels 1% of your stay to preserving and conserving fast-disappearing craftsmanship.
artus.com.hk; info@artus.
Downtown buzz at Sheraton Hong Kong Hotel & Towers
If you’re looking for the perfect base to explore Kowloon, this 782-bedroom hotel is located in the heart of Tsim Sha Tsui, with the High Speed Rail, MTR and Star Ferry just a few minutes away. Of course, you may want to stay in to luxuriate in your plush room where you can admire views of the Victoria Harbour or take a dip in the temperature-controlled pool and Jacuzzi. There are also six dining establishments available, ranging from Michelin-recommended Chinese cuisine to a dedicated oyster bar. The hotel has recently rolled out several room packages that includes perks such as dining credits as well as wine served in your room. When booking, enter “59K” as the booking code.
For full details of promotions, click here or email res.hongkong@sheraton.com or call +852 2732 6771
Time-honoured elegance at The Peninsula Hong Kong
Stepping into the ornate marble lobby of The Peninsula is to step back into a gilded era of warm, discreet and personalised service. Opened in 1928, this is one of the city’s most iconic hotels and for good reason. Guests are treated to an elevated experience, with the hotel offering airport transfers in bespoke Rolls-Royce limousines as well as the city’s only helicopter flight-seeing experience that lifts off from the hotel tower rooftop. Stalwart dining experiences at the hotel include Michelin-starred French fine dining at Gaddi’s, Michelin-starred Cantonese delicacies at Spring Moon, and more. To unwind, pop by the award-winning spa, Roman-style pool and sun terrace to enjoy gorgeous views of the harbour.
peninsula.com/en/hong-kong; phk@peninsula.com; +852 2920 2888
Authentic local experiences with Cordis, Hong Kong
For first-time visitors to Hong Kong, you’ll love the personalised approach taken by this 5-star hotel situated in the colourful neighbourhood of Mongkok. The hotel offers an array of local experiences such as complimentary Mongkok market walking tours, Tai Chi classes and even a private wine tasting workshop. Families travelling with young ones will appreciate the spacious family rooms that accommodates up to four guests as well as the fun-filled amenities for children. While your kids are kept entertained, you can relax at the award-winning Traditional Chinese Medicine-inspired Chuan Spa or grab a bite at one of the hotel’s four dining establishments, which includes Michelin-starred Cantonese restaurant Ming Court.
cordishotels.com/hongkong; cdhkg.info@cordishotels.com; +852 3552 3388
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from SilverKris
Hong Kong travel bubble: The best things to do
*Produced by SilverKris for the following brands*
With its panoramic harbour, bustling streets packed with all manner of eateries doling out mouth-watering treats and stunning natural attractions just a stone’s throw away from the city centre, Hong Kong is a destination that offers something for every visitor.
With the recent announcement that Singapore and Hong Kong have established an air travel bubble that will soon allow for leisure travel between the two locales, there’s no better time to start planning your next trip to the city.
Check out SilverKris’ series of Hong Kong city guides here. In this one, we highlight a few attractions to explore and places to shop ’til you drop.
Panoramic city views at sky100
sky100 is the perfect attraction for those who want to marvel at Hong Kong from high above. Located on the 100th floor of the International Commerce Centre, the city’s tallest building, it is the only indoor observation deck that offers 360-degree views of the territory and Victoria Harbour. Besides the breath-taking sights, you can also learn more about Hong Kong culture through exciting multimedia exhibits. Be sure to stop by Café 100, the world’s first observation deck F&B outlet operated by The Ritz-Carlton, Hong Kong, for a unique sky-high dining experience. Conveniently located near numerous rail stations and in an exciting neighbourhood, this is the ideal first stop to begin your Hong Kong journey.
sky100.com.hk; +852 2613 3888
Shop unique jewellery at Made of Pearl
Searching for a special gift or wanting to treat yourself? Whether you’re after a delicate pair of pearl earrings or an elegant statement necklace, you’ll find what you’re looking for at Made of Pearl. The Hong Kong jewellery label specialises in exquisite pearl accessories made with quality craftsmanship. Established in 2015 by a team of industry experts, the company aims to create unique traditional and modern pieces that can be worn and loved by people of different generations. All pearls are sourced from the top 10% of each global pearl harvest; gold and silver of supreme quality are imported from international sources; and precious stones are purchased directly from their countries of origin.
madeofpearl.com; info@madeofpearl.com; +852 3741 1586
Delicious baked goods at Hong Kong Bakery
For scrumptious baked goods that you can take back home with you as edible souvenirs, look no further than Hong Kong Bakery, which has several locations throughout the city, including at Tsim Sha Tsui, Causeway Bay and Jordan. The specialty here is their Little Bear Hong Kong Style cookies: crunchy bite-sized cookies that come in a colourful array of delectable flavours including original, chocolate, coffee, matcha and strawberry. The cookies are packaged in sturdy tin boxes with an adorable bear motif or iconic image of Hong Kong on the lid. Made using local ingredients wherever possible and classic French baking techniques, this is a unique treat that’s sure to please just about any palette.
hklittlebear.com; mail@littlebear.com; + 852 2366 5631
Embark on a private tour with This is Asia Tours
Want to explore Hong Kong through a local’s eyes while avoiding the tourist crowds? For an insider’s guide to the locale via a private guided tour that prioritises safety and social-distancing measures, check out This is Asia Tours. Catering for groups of up to six people, it offers intimate, tailored itineraries that will give you an in-depth perspective on the city. Singaporean foodies can head straight for the half-day food tour: potential stops along the way include having dim sum at Lin Heung Tea House and sampling traditional pastries at Kee Tsui Cake Shop. Alternatively, you can head to Lantau Island to explore the Big Buddha statue and Kwan Tai Temple. The company also offers airport transfers.
thisisasiatours.com; thisisasiatours@gmail.com ; +852 6534 4367
360° of fun at the Hong Kong Observation Wheel
For amazing views and a fun experience all rolled into one, check out the Hong Kong Observation Wheel (HKOW). Situated in the heart of Central Harbourfront, it offers breath-taking, unobstructed views of both sides of Victoria Harbour. After your ride, you can check out the other attractions at the surrounding AIA Vitality Park. Take a spin on the classic carousel; experience the vibrant wellness-focused event space where daily health and fitness activities take place; and grab a tasty bite to eat at one of the food and beverage outlets. A ride on the HKOW costs just HK$20 for adult tickets and HK$10 for child and concession tickets for a 15 minute ride – making it one of the best-value attractions in town.
hkow.hk; enquiries@hkow.hk; +852 2339 0777
Impressive jewellery at Diamond ICQ
Looking for a rock that will truly impress? Visit Diamond ICQ’s elegant showroom and browse its extensive collection of rare GIA-certified diamonds. Diamond ICQ boasts a dazzling inventory of more than 10,000 stones and thousands of designer jewellery pieces to choose from. With the help of its in-house diamond experts, you are sure to find something you love. Choose from a selection that includes classic round-shaped diamonds and elegant emerald-shaped diamonds, and begin to build the ring, necklace or earrings of your dreams. When you’re investing in a piece of jewellery that will last you a lifetime, you want it to be just right. Book an appointment with Diamond ICQ to get started.
diamondicq.com; +852 9144 0003
Massive “dance machine” on Sino Group’s harbour-front property to celebrate Christmas
Enjoying festive illuminations has been a long-standing tradition in Hong Kong. Head down to Tsim Sha Tsui East to check out an animation that is sure to spread joy to all. To mark this year’s festivities, Sino Group’s Hong Kong harbour-front shopping malls – Tsim Sha Sui Centre & Empire Centre – will turn their façades into a dynamic and eye-catching animation, creating the largest “dance machine” Hong Kong has ever seen. This will be achieved via a 4,000m² multimedia wall comprising of 82,000 LED lights. The animation will be screened in in the evening between 5 November 2020 and 1 January 2021 and can be enjoyed free of charge. Check out their website for ongoing promotions.
tsimshatsuicentre.com; +852 2721 5489
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from SilverKris
Hong Kong travel bubble: The best places to stay on Hong Kong Island
*Produced by SilverKris for the following brands*
Hong Kong has been a perennial favourite for long weekend getaways from Singapore, and for very good reasons: the stunning harbour, for one, along with amazing restaurants, bars, street food and shopping. Then there’s the heritage, the wild green spaces just minutes from the city-centre – and a bevy of luxurious hotels to hang your hat at.
It’s unsurprising then that the recent announcement of the Singapore–Hong Kong travel bubble has generated a lot of buzz in the two cities, with many jumping at the chance to spent their long overdue getaways in the Fragrant Harbour and hotels rolling out packages to welcome guests.
Check out SilverKris’ series of Hong Kong city guides here. In this one, we explore the best luxury hotels on Hong Kong Island.
A tailor-made adventure at Ovolo
Looking for an activity-packed visit without the hassle of planning? Designer boutique hotel group Ovolo has partnered with businesses across HK to offer guests unique experiences with their stays. Through the Staycay Your Way package, throw in an appointment at a hipster barber or a helicopter tour over Hong Kong Harbour when you check-in at the art-packed Ovolo Central, close to the galleries of Tai Kwun and the SoHo nightlife. At the warehouse-converted Ovolo Southside, pair expansive views of the hills with a walking tour of Aberdeen or a kickboxing class. Whatever you do, save some time to have a meal or two at the hotel – Ovolo prides itself on innovative, plant-based cuisine, and Central’s Veda and Southside’s Komune are both must-trys.
ovolohotels.com/ovolo/central; info.ocn@ovologroup.com; +852 3755 3000
ovolohotels.com/ovolo/southside; info.oss@ovologroup.com; +852 3460 8100
A hidden gem at Lanson Place Hotel
When you finally travel to Hong Kong, you’re going to want to stay a while. Causeway Bay’s Lanson Place Hotel makes an elegant home base, with a fully equipped kitchenette in each room, an on-site launderette and a Luxury Retreats Package that includes American breakfast, a cheese platter, cold cuts and sparkling wine, as well as 24-hour access to the fitness centre. It’s part of Small Luxury Hotels of The World, which means other nice touches, such as free high-speed WiFi, smartphone with unlimited 4G and IDD call to select countries, as well as toiletries by Australia’s Appelles apothecary. After shopping and eating in Causeway Bay, have a cocktail at the private 133 Lounge and Library or The Leighton courtyard and plan your next adventure.
hongkong.lansonplace.com; enquiry.lphk@lansonplace.com; +852 3477 6888
An Instagrammer’s fantasy at One-Eight-One
Soak up jaw-dropping panoramic views of Victoria Harbour from your floor-to-ceiling windows at One-Eight One. Located west of Central in the heart of Sai Wan, just steps from the HKU MTR station, this elegant hotel and serviced apartment property is well-documented on social media for its earthy tones and natural light. Step outside to snap pictures of the old-timey streetscape, or walk to other picturesque spots nearby such as the Belcher Bay Promenade and the delights of Kennedy Town. Do be sure to make it back to the hotel for the ultimate retro-chic Insta shot and Cantonese cuisine at The Tea Room. Book on their website for 10% off best flexible rate.
one-eight-one.com; enquiries@one-eight-one.com; +852 3181 1688
Stunning city-centre views at JW Marriott
Sandwiched between Central and Wan Chai, the five-star JW Marriott Hotel Hong Kong is located within the glittering Pacific Place complex, and delivers both location and stunning views – you get your choice of city, harbour or mountain vistas. Elegant rooms aside, the property offers eight restaurants on-site and 24-hour in-room dining, not to mention a 24-hour fitness centre, massage treatments and outdoor pool. The next-level Executive Rooms give you the added bonus of Executive Lounge access, with its breakfast, afternoon tea and evening cocktail services. Book a standard-rate night on the hotel website between now and the end of the year for an additional night free, for a maximum of two free nights per booking. Terms and conditions apply.
jwmarriotthongkong.com; jwmarriott.hk@marriotthotels.com; +852 2810 8366
Award-winning F&B at Island Shangri-La
Perched atop the snazzy Pacific Place complex, Island Shangri-La is a hop, skip and jump from the buzz of SoHo and the picturesque hikes of Victoria Peak. But you’d be remiss if you didn’t schedule some time at the hotel’s own award-winning F&B experiences, such as the Michelin-starred Summer Palace and Restaurant Petrus, or drinks at Lobster Bar, a regular fixture on Asia’s 50 Best Bars list. Then retreat to one of the 565 spacious rooms and soak up stunning views over Victoria Harbour. In the morning, get ready to do it all over again, with a session at the 24-hour gym or outdoor heated swimming pool. Those with Horizon Club Lounge privileges also get access to the Roof Garden on the 56th floor.
shangri-la.com/en/hongkong/islandshangrila; hongkong@shangri-la.com; +852 2877 3838
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from SilverKris
This Singapore boutique jeweller says the rules have changed
*Produced by SilverKris for Carat 55*
Though she grew up surrounded by jewellery designers, craftsmen and the finest diamonds and gemstones, it wasn’t until Zoie Teo was shopping for her own Chinese bridal set in 2012 that she first realised how limited her options were.
“There were a lot of chain stores, selling ornate, classical yellow-gold pieces that didn’t appeal to me,” the second-generation jeweller recalls. “The quality was about adequate, and the designs were generic. I knew I would never wear these pieces again after my wedding.”
Enter Carat 55, the boutique studio she launched near Singapore’s Fort Canning in 2017 to offer a seamless and enjoyable experience for millennial brides. Working with GIA-certified diamonds and craftsmen from all around the world, the studio offers affordable fine jewellery with bespoke designs. “Carat 55 designs impressive pieces that are still affordable and accessible – and appeal to the new generation of clients,” she says.
In the three years that Carat 55 has been in business, Zoie has observed the ways in which tastes and values have changed, especially among her younger twenty- and thirty-something clients. While diamonds and expensive bridal sets retain their traditional place, millennials are increasingly questioning the classic rulebook of buying and wearing fine jewellery.
“More and more couples are choosing the engagement ring together,” she says. “Brides today don’t want to be surprised. They want to choose the size, the cut, the setting. They don’t want to leave it up to their fiancés.”
And that’s just the start. Here, Zoie takes us through some of the other ways in which jewellery-shopping has evolved, and how Carat 55 rises to meet these new tastes.
There’s life after the wedding
Zoie is not alone in wanting a Chinese bridal set that she can wear for years to come. Comprised of a pair of earrings, a necklace, a ring and a bracelet, si dian jin is worn by brides all together on their wedding day or engagement ceremony. But to avoid relegating them to the memento closet, Carat 55 designs light and contemporary si dian jin that brides can mix and match for daily wear thereafter.
And though engagement rings and wedding bands are Carat 55’s bread and butter, its clients are increasingly interested marking other special occasions with jewellery. Many come in to purchase earrings and necklaces as gifts or Christmas presents. “Carat 55’s Bliss collection is especially popular for gifts,” she explains, referring to diamond-studded figures of little boys and girls. “We’ve had dads purchase them for their wives, to mark the birth of children.”
Break free of the old benchmarks
Many of Carat 55’s younger clientele are no longer swayed by the longstanding rules around wedding jewellery: that an engagement ring should be a diamond solitaire, for example, or that it should cost eight times the groom’s monthly salary. Rather than be held back by such traditions, millennial shoppers are forging their own rules.
“I have grooms who come in and say, ‘I have less than S$2,000.’ And actually there’s a lot we can offer them,” Zoie says. Carat 55 has over 200 ring designs available for viewing in-store. These designs spur ideas, and customers can refer to them when developing their bespoke pieces.
Diamonds are not the only gem
The other once-unimpeachable rule that is being questioned is that diamonds are forever. While the solitaire “rock” was once the only acceptable option for engagement rings, couples are now making different choices. “Rather than a solitaire, brides may choose impressive, bigger designs with clusters of small diamonds,” Zoie says. “That’s also how we bring the price down.”
Many couples forego diamonds all together, and opt for a different gemstone that suits their personality. “Rubies, sapphires, morganites and other gemstones come in many colours and can vary a lot in price,” she explains.
Tell your story with jewellery
Carat 55 recently had the honour of helping a young and imaginative couple create their perfect engagement ring: “We did a design with ametrine. It’s a bi-colour stone that’s a mix of citrine and amethyst,” Zoie explains. “The couple chose it because it represented both of their birth months.”
Carat 55 also works with customers who wish to give a new lease of life to a treasured family heirloom. “Sometimes people want to use an old diamond or jade bangle that belonged to their grandmother – we can help them come up with a bespoke design that’s contemporary and matches their style.
Timeless touches in daily life
As millennial shoppers evolve in terms of style and spending power, Zoie observes that more women wish to replace their statement faux accessories with bona fide jewellery, such as a simple pair of diamond studs for daily wear. Carat 55 also sells diamond earrings that can be worn in two ways: with a detachable hoop for a dressier look, or without for casual outings. “It’s just a misconception that precious jewellery is out of reach,” she says. “Our starting point is S$300 to S$500.” Besides, unlike faux accessories that need to be regularly replaced, these affordable pieces will last forever.
Whatever the occasion, the budget or the wearer’s personality, Carat 55 prides itself on its personalised service and consultations to help customers navigate their choices. To make an appointment, visit the official website.
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from SilverKris
Journey around the world with these hot new menus in Singapore
Singapore might just be a tiny little dot on the map, but let it not be said that the city-state is lacking in the food department. In fact, thanks to Singapore being a cultural melting pot, its diverse and vibrant food scene has emerged as one of the world’s most exciting.
Waves of new restaurant openings occur frequently, and at the same time, restaurants and bars who have been stalwarts in the scene are working hard to bring new and global flavours to diners, so foodies don’t miss out on epicurean adventures while travelling remains restricted.
Here are some innovative new options that will jazz up your dining experience.
1. New York – Manhattan
The new menu at Regent Singapore’s Manhattan celebrates six iconic Manhattanites who have made their mark in the arenas of music, film, fashion, the culinary world and politics, such as the late celebrated chef Anthony Bourdain, actor Robert Downey Jr, rock band The Ramones and designer Vera Wang. Comprising 18 new cocktails and six zero-proof beverages, they spotlight the intimate journeys of each of these luminaries. After Hours, for example, is a cheeky interpretation of Bourdain’s love for truffle focaccia loaded with oozy cheese. To create this, a buttered Never Never Triple Juniper Gin is mixed with Cocchi Americano and Salers Gentiane, and finished with a fried cheddar crisp. Golden Hour – a creamy, floral beverage with rockmelon osmanthus syrup, Belvedere Smogory Forest Vodka, lavender bitters, bitter orange and elderflower tonic – is a perfect representation of Vera Wang, who is known for her intricate bridal gowns.
2. Vienna – The Grand Lobby
Located in the grand dame of hotels, Raffles Singapore, this elegant tearoom is offering an afternoon tea set that is inspired by the lustrous Austrian city. From Vienna sandwiches to lobster crostini and Sachertorte, the menu here will make you feel like you travelled straight to the imperial capital with this selection of treats. Available until 16 December 2020, you can pair it with Mariage Frères premium tea or the Raffles custom-blended coffee. A curated menu of handcrafted cocktails is available, too, for an additional fee.
3. Singapore – Straits Place 1819
A new concept by the folks behind d’Good Café, the recently opened Straits Place 1819 at VivoCity celebrates Singapore’s gastronomic culture and highlights some favourites – but with a modern interpretation. The beloved bak chor mee (minced meat noodles) is given a luxurious refresh here with the addition of scallops, caviar, prawns, poached egg and the use of capellini pasta; while the classic hor fun is elevated with rib eye, toman fish and poached egg. Complete the meal with a reimagined Singapore Chendol dessert – soft azuki beans and chewy pandan jelly rest on a warm pancake in a skillet, topped with vanilla bean ice cream, crunchy coconut sable and finished with palm sugar syrup.
4. Italy – Zafferano
Prized white truffles from Alba in the Piedmont region of Italy reign supreme in this seasonal menu that will be available under December 2020. The house-made tagliolini pasta is an earthy, aromatic dish served with a luscious butter sauce and topped with lashings of Alba white truffle. Or you could opt to add white truffles to any of Zafferano’s dishes – we recommend the Sanchoku Wagyu beef striploin served with black garlic purée and mushrooms; or the creamy risotto in saffron sauce with ramsons and roasted bone marrow – at S$15++ per gram.
5. American South – 28 Hong Kong Street
The atmospheric speakeasy, currently ranked 30th on Asia’s 50 Best Bars list, is offering a new dinner service from Tuesdays to Saturdays. Available from 5pm to 7pm, the “Proper Dinner” menus go beyond basic bar snacks and are recreated with recipes by leading chefs from the United States. First up is a menu with James Beard Award-winning chef Michelle Bernstein, who is offering Southern Comfort-style cuisine from bar-grill Sweet Liberty in Miami. Tuck into a hearty Michy’s Fried Chicken with mashed potatoes, gravy and a feta watermelon salad, or a sumptuous steak with au poivre (Hollandaise sauce available on request) and green beans almondine. Wash it down with a selection of cocktails – such as the Brown Derby with Michter’s US*1 Small Batch Bourbon, grapefruit and honey – that is meant to accompany your dish.
Please check the establishments’ respective websites for opening hours before visiting, and remember to adhere to safe-distancing measures while out and about.
SEE ALSO: Celebrate World Pasta Day (25 October) by trying one of these unusual pastas
The post Journey around the world with these hot new menus in Singapore appeared first on SilverKris.
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