Babette, Singapore

So I came back from my facial a few Saturday's ago and boy was I in for a treat! The hubster had been looking for Japanese fusion restaurants to take me to! We managed to get a booking at Babette (after trying 3 other spots) although I don't think it was necessary to make one because when we got there it wasn't even 50% full. Perhaps because of the seemingly random location. 

We took a cab to Parc Sovereign Hotel and a miscommunication between the taxi driver and ourselves led us to the wrong Parc Sovereign on Albert Street! Torn between settling for something around the area or trying to get to Tyrwhitt Road, we choose to persevere as an available taxi came round the corner.

As we pulled up to the Parc Sovereign on Tyrwhitt Road, Babette really stood out as one of those loft style dark minimalist bars which I'd love to see in the day. We could identify our table immediately as it was the only one with the "reserved" sign on it...kind of funny. As we took our seats, I felt grossly over dressed in heels and a sparkly top as the atmosphere is a more casual hipster sort of joint.

K chose Babette because we have been doing this thing where we have been enjoying the appetizers at restaurants and sharing mains between the two of us. Babette offered exactly that- great selection of appetizers. We ordered 5/10 tapas that was on the menu- over ordering for sure. And I reckon that we may have ordered more had we been with friends and K didn't have any food restrictions. 

All the tapas were generous in portions and very tasty! The price point for each tapas was between $8-$16 which worked out to be slightly more expensive then ordering 2 mains but we have greedy eyes. I would order all of them again but this time I need to enlist the help of some hungry friends! Plating was simple yet appetizing and the flavors were well balanced. 

6pcs Garlic and Salt Chicken Wings 

Grilled Asparagus with Garlic Miso Cream

Octopus Tempura with Mayonaise

The octopus tempura was all mine but again- it would have been nice to have had some friends help finish the dish. Cooked to perfection with a nice crunchy and chewiness to it. I appreciate the fact that it is not soaking in oil!

Charred Cauliflower with tangy Yuzu Sauce

K really enjoyed the cauliflower and he ate most of it. The yuzu sauce gave it a nice unique flavor with the tangy taste and creamy texture. I think there must have been ginger (I suspect its the fried stuff on top) in the dish too because my throat was protesting the next day...ridiculous allergy to ginger!

Roast Avocado with Aburi Salmon and Diced Tomatoes

I couldn't get enough of the avocado. It feels like an extremely sinful dish but I would like to be deluded and say its "healthy" fats. Whatever right? Fats is fats!

The one main that we chose was the Steak and Foie Gras Donburi to share.   The main is very similar to one of my favorite dishes and Ichiban Boshi but the one here is 10x tastier and more value for money! Honestly, as a couple, we could have just ordered 2 Donburi's and that would have made us both happy campers. The entire dish was cooked to perfection and it all (the steak, foie gras, rice and the in house special sauce) came together in a perfect little bite that melts in your mouth like chocolate. Yes, I am in love!

Steak and Foie Gras Donburi ($28)

The cocktails looked interesting but I wasn't in a drinking mood so I had a boring glass of wine and I have yet to try the desserts but this is definitely classified as a social venue for friends to eat, drink and catch up. I would definitely come back again just to try everything else that I haven't- especially their truffle fries! But I wouldn't leave without having the Steak and Foie Gras Donburi.

Babette

165 Tyrwhitt Road,

#01-03 Parc Sovereign Hotel,

Singapore 207569

Tel: +65 6341 7727

Email: info@astronauts.com.sg

Opening Hours: 11am- 11pm

Top 7 Must Have Face Masks for 2015

Ok so I hit the dreaded 3-0 right? And this sudden urge to take care of myself has overcome me! I am obsessed, and I mean OBSESSED with facial masks and skincare! Is there such thing as too many products and masks? Everyone has a different opinion. As for me, working in the beauty industry, I feel that as long as you keep your regime functional and with purpose, following the instructions on the boxes, then you shouldn't have too much of a problem.

I have been blessed with a $5 face meaning $5 products will do the job as well as a $500 product. However, with age and the influence of media, I find myself investing a little bit more in skincare depending on what their purposes are. I have something for everything. One zit will send me into a flurry of mask application activities, but at the end of the day, I have definitely been blessed with relatively good skin. 

** Please bear in mind that all the products listed worked on MY skin and results may vary. I have relatively fuss free skin and wish the same for everyone, however, please carry out a patch test when in doubt, especially when using products with a higher concentration of acid based ingredients. Using certain products on broken skin will be exceptionally painful and not recommended.

I should also highlight that all opinions on products tested are on a non biased basis as I have invested a lot of time for research and testing as well as my personal funds. In a nutshell, I am not obligated to say nice things unless it's true! Also, products that don't cut it, don't get a mention.

1) Avene Soothing Moisture Mask ($40.70)

I bought this as a pharmacy comparison. I am very sensitive to sunblock and I use the Avene water resistant 50SPF emulsion sunblock with no adverse reaction. So I thought I'd try their soothing moisture mask. It's supposed to be a hydrating mask and the only thing the tube says is leave on for 10-15 minutes. Uh ok. Then what? Apparently you are supposed to "remove access with cotton pad" and spray with the Avene thermal mist.

Well I did just that. While it was on, I didn't feel too uncomfortable, just a tiny bit sweaty on the nose. After removing it, my skin definitely felt smoother but I guess it's because the outer layer has absorbed the product.  (There is a disclaimer on the tube that says "for hydration of upper layer") Because this is a mask for sensitive skin, don't expect to feel like anything massive is going to happen. I did however notice that my skin was much more plump looking the next day.

Recommended for people with sensitive skin that requires hydration and lazy people that want to re-hydrate their skin overnight

Available at Guardian pharmacies around Singapore.


2) La Roche Posay HydraPhase Intense Masque ($42.90)

Yet another leave on mask for hydration. However, compared to the Avene Mask for sensitive skin, I much prefer the texture and the feel of this particular mask on my skin. I felt that the mask absorbed better and faster, leaving me with more flexibility to go to bed sooner without getting mask every where. I loved how my face looked super plumped and rejuvenated the next morning too.

With Hyaluronic Acid to aid recovery of fine lines and wrinkles and thermal water as its main components, my skin definitely got nicely hydrated and plump.

Recommended for those with combination skin and a busy lifestyle.

Available at Guardian pharmacies around Singapore.

3) Peter Thomas Roth Therapeutic Sulfur Mask ($71)

Upon application, it's a nice smooth texture and the smell is fairly subtle. It's supposed to be for acne but 30 seconds after application, my face started tingling and I mean really tingling - my point is if it's supposed to be for acne prone skin and my skin with no breakouts or sensitivity is tingling, then those with severe acne problems may want to be really cautious with this mask. The 10% sulfur content is higher than that of the Dr Murad clarifying mask which contains only 4%. After 10 minutes of application, the mask dried but didn't leave my face with a tight feeling. Upon removing the mask with warm water, my skin felt hydrated and supple. And I could already see the problematic parts on my chin drying up.

The kaolin and benzonite clay is supposed to dry and clear acne while the aloe soothes the skin. This mask can also be applied on the chest and back. It's rather worrisome though that the disclaimer at the end of the instructions say to "reduce frequency of application if dryness or peeling occurs". 


Recommended for a quick fix on problematic break out prone areas of the face.

Available for purchase at Sephora outlets.

4) Boscia Luminizing Black Mask ($50)

When I first read about the benefits of this product I was kind of skeptical but curiosity got the better of me and a black mask? Sounds kinda fun! My conclusions are: its definitely a fun mask to use, application is rather thick though so be generous and be all means avoid any facial hair unless you want a free wax. I did have some fun peeling the product off but I didn't not have fun removing it from my hairline due to over zealousness during application. That said, despite such a generous layer, it didn't feel too tight when it dried on my skin. Its also cool to check out whats left on the mask that used to be on your face! I did feel like my pores were cleaner after the mask was removed so that was nice. Having to be so generous with the mask, 1 tube will probably last about 5-6 applications.

Recommended for when you see too many blackheads that need cleaning

Available for purchase at Sephora outlets.

5) Bliss Triple Oxygen Instant Energizer ($88)

This is definitely high on my list of favourites! It's an amazing pick me up on your darkest mornings when your face feels so blah and you feel like you have a grey complexion! Slather on some of the mask, massage in, activate, brush your teeth and 10 minutes later- clean teeth fresh face. Yes, I love this product. I don't know if my skin is actually getting the oxygen and whatnot but I love the way it feels and the after effect. Need I say more?

Recommended for a morning feel good fix.

Available for purchase at Sephora outlets.
** After 3 different outlets, I finally found it at Sephora Suntec City

6) ONSEN Tenseless heat Mask ($600)

This particular indulgence is also another favorite of mine. Claiming to increase the skins ability to retain moisture which in turn plumps up the skins surface, diminishing fine lines and irritation- this is truly a sauna in a spa. Upon application to damp skin, the mask starts to activate and warm up. Left on for 10 minutes, it opens up the pores through the heat and deep cleanses, leaving your face ready for a good moisturizer that will close the pores and nourish the skin.

With Coral Fossil to help remove dead skin cells and promote clearer skin and Maifanshi stone which is said to contain micro nutrient element such as various minerals, the heat aspect makes this mask perfect for a good wind down from a hectic day.

Recommended as a good treat for the skin and for yourself.

Available for purchase at ONSEN Outlets in Singapore:
ONSEN Mandarin Gallery Orchard #02-20

ONSEN Marina Bay Sands #B2-K17 (near Bath & Body Works)
ONSEN Marina Bay Sands #01-06

7) Vine Vera Resveratrol Pinot Noir Phyto Silk Mask ($640)

By far the most expensive out of everything here, this is yet another hydrating mask. However, the difference is that this mask is designed to deep cleanse your pores and hydrate at the same time. The mask goes on very smoothly, quite apt to its name "phyto-silk". Within minutes, you are able to see a sort of sweating on the surface which implies a cleansing of the pores. Rinse off after 15 minutes and and follow with your serum and moisturizer.

Vitamins A, B, C and E and Chamomile Recite Flower Extract all make this a super hydrating and skin calming mask.

Recommend for a night of luxurious face treats followed by a day of fabulous face

** I usually follow up with Resveratrol Malbec DNA Biology Emulsion ($2200) but with such a hefty price tag, its honestly for those special occasions when I want to look extra amazing. This particular product deserves a post of its own!

Available for purchase at Vine Vera Outlets in Singapore:
Vine Vera Mandarin Gallery Orchard #03-07

Vine Vera Suntec City Mall #01-313 (opposite H&M)


So these are all my favorite masks for the year 2015, each of them has a different purpose, some similar but definitely caters to the different needs that a lady like myself will have. You will notice that there are 3 main categories which are off the rack Pharmacy brands, Sephora and boutique skincare. Obviously you pay a lot more for the boutique skincare experience but with that comes personalized explanation of products, custom recommendations for different skin types and sometimes, heaps of freebies.

** 6 weeks after all this research and self imposed guinea pig tactics, I went for a facial and it's the first time my facial lady has NOT said my skin was dry! She even asked me what I did! Hurrah! Of course there are other beauty secrets which may have contributed to it but I shall slowly divulge my secrets post by post!

Oh she's married now...3 Highly Misunderstood Facts about Marriage

How many times have you said that about a recently married friend? Discounting her for events and occasions that you'd usually call her along for...

I have been married now for a little over 6 months and these are some of the things that irk the shit out of me! There are the questions that come with good intentions (which I smile and answer sincerely) but there are also assumptions (which I don't take so kindly to).

Most of society assumes that when a woman becomes a wife- she becomes one half of a whole, she is enjoying her post wedding bliss, she is now dedicated to her husband, she wants to do everything with her husband, everything has to be about the husband, for the husband, with the husband! What happened to the woman as an individual!?!

What marriage feels like sometimes...

Well I have news for you people, married life doesn't change a person. That friend that you grew up with, that girl you used to know, that girl who was always there for you, is STILL that girl! If a person decides to change and changes, maybe they had a reason for doing so, maybe this change is to make themselves a better person. A person with purpose!

Here are my top 3 pet peeves post marriage:

1) Friends don't call because they assume married life is keeping you busy

My kooky friends...old, new and their other halves.
Friendship means you only gain another friend through the chosen life partners.

After marriage, I realize that friends kind of split into 2 groups- those that a) constantly say "oh she got married and got boring" and assume without calling OR b) the friend that occasionally checks in on you and remembers that you are still the same person. 

I'll be honest, I suck at keeping in touch- in general and it has nothing to do with being married. So when I started to hear from the grapevine that I got boring since I got married, it baffled me as to why and how this conundrum happened! I was the same person, I feel like my schedule got busier and I felt like I was doing a hell lot more that before! But then it clicked, I realize this friend was just giving excuses on my behalf. 

So for the friends that do check in on me once in awhile, I'll make the time! Hell, I'll even make dinner! Thanks for at least asking me if I can and not just assuming I can't. One day when I really can't make plans because I got married, I'll be sure to let you know.

L-R: The extremely busy "yogi", the disheveled chef of the night and the initiator of  most meet ups.
Love you ladies!

2) Married life = 1+1, husband goes where the wife goes and vice versa

No, this is so totally untrue! Unless you are another couple where its a 2:2 ratio or the ratios always stay in even numbers. I think the last thing any husband wants to do is sit around listening to girls chat over coffee and cakes about everything under the sun and moon! And the last thing any girl wants to do is sit around with a bunch of guys, drinking beer and watching football. I am fine with my husband doing his man thing and he also respects that I have things that I would prefer to do with my girlies. 

So friends, when you do decide to ask me out, have no fear that my husband will have to tag along unless he is invited. Neither will I breach any boundaries by asking if he is allowed to join us. If you wanted, you would have invited the both of us anyways.

I've known this girl for over 20 years now! Recently we had an opportunity to meet overseas and jumped on it!
Krabi, Feb 2015

Also, married life is lonelier than you think, it seems that the couple are now more reassured in their status that they now have more time to invest in their careers, lives and health. You know that there will be someone to share the fruits of labor in the end but the journey to success is a lonely road, and sometimes having a great support network of friends make it a little easier to bear.

3) Now we're married, let's have kids!

Oh my, where do I begin...I had to start my Chinese New Year Eve family reunion dinner with a huge disclaimer to all present that I was not pregnant, family planning was not yet in the works and for everyone to not ask! I could tell that some were disappointed but I'd rather loudly announce it than have to answer to numerous people in a few short hours.

I know that for a lot of couples, family planning after marriage seems like a natural progression, and it is! But with all due respect, I have different priorities in life. The time in which I will start to slow down and take a breather is drawing near, but until that day comes, I am busting my ass trying to create a future that can accommodate my dream lifestyle. I also have the most curious case of wander lust which seems to be incurable. Despite having served the airs for 8 years and visiting many places, I feel like there is so much more to see and I want to see it all!

All this aside, when the time comes, I will be more than happy to assume my new role in life but until then, I am still me.

L: Attending my oldest best friend wedding in Perth, Oct 2014
Top R: Our couple friends who are now lovely parents
Bottom R: Another friend I have known since 7...

In the end, I know that there are women who really do conform to the stereo typical wife material but please please, all my friends reading this, I haven't reached that stage yet, I'll be more than happy to meet you somewhere for a holiday, be your wing woman in striking off your bucket list and ever happy to just have a coffee and catch up somewhere. I am still me, maybe my priorities have gone from party girl to a more healthy "invest in myself" sort of lifestyle but that doesn't mean I don't enjoy the occasional night out on the town or a good catch up with friends. 

I am sure many girls feel the same way. So ladies, pick up your phone and call a married friend! Even if she can't make it, at least you tried and she knows that you care.