Ultimate Hawker Fest 2014 - Thank You

November 22nd, 2014 will always be a very special day for me. After months of preparation, the Ultimate Hawker Fest 2014 was finally underway at 11am on that morning.

Once the doors to Suntec Expo Halls 401 and 402 were opened and the crowd started to stream in, there was a palpable sense of elation and relief. We had finally done it!

Ultimate Hawker Fest 2014 - Remember The Hawkers

Although this gentleman to the right (or top) is not participating in this year's Ultimate Hawker Fest 2014, I think it is still very timely to acknowledge stalwarts like him that have contributed so much to Singapore's food and hawker heritage.

It might seem strange that on the eve of the event that I would focus more on the people than the dishes themselves that would be featured during the event.

Ultimate Hawker Fest 2014 - The Prata Place with Prata Benedict and Curry Hollandaise

I have always passed by this recognisable prata shop along Upper Thomson Road, but never had the opportunity to actually drop in to take a look. As things would have it, they are participating in this year's Ultimate Hawker Fest and I was there to sample their dish for this year's event.

Guna, who is the owner boss of this establishment, is such a jovial and passionate man when it comes to prata and food. It is almost infectious talking to him.

Ultimate Hawker Fest - Ah Hood Burgers with Chef Melvin Lim from Ramada Inn

For this year's Ultimate Hawker Fest 2014, Chef Melvin Lim, who helms Flavours at Ramada Inn, is coming up with not one, but two special versions of his signature Ah Hood Burgers.

These 2 "ultimate" burgers are actually enhanced kong ba baos in disguise. And what a fabulous disguises they are!

Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf - Christmas Treats

This post is written by Pauline Ang.

Times flies when you are busy. Christmas  quietly sneaks up behind you as you go about your ways.

The first hint of the Christmas mood this year is noticeably different from previous years. The Silver Chef, aka my hubby, was invited by Coffee Bean and Tea Leaves for the Christmas party at the Coffee Beanstro at Suntec City to indulge in this year’s Christmas treats and pastries. 

Ultimate Hawker Fest 2014 - Rong Cheng Bak Kut Teh Midview City

I have had a long affection for Rong Cheng Bak Kut Teh. The original Rong Cheng stall was started by Uncle Lim way back in 1976 and has been selling their classic Teochew bak kut teh till this day.

They were also the first to have used the dragon bone, or long gu. Since then, almost every notable Teochew bak kut teh is also selling this dragon bone.

Ultimate Hawker Fest 2014 - Crocodile King

It's not often one gets to eat crocodile cuisine here, and it's a pity the sole crocodile hawker stall in Singapore has ceased operations since September 2013.

But Tony Tee, the owner of the previous said stall and crocodile cuisine master is still intent on spreading his crocodile dishes far and wide. And it is for this reason that he has graciously agreed to come out of "retirement" to participate in this year's Ultimate Hawker Fest.

Les Patisseries - A Neighbourhood Cafe Gem

Cafes sprouting out of neighbourhood joints are becoming common these days, but there are only a few rarified ones that actually are worthy of note. And Les Patisseries happens to be one of them.

Situated near Toa Payoh Central, it is started by 3 aspiring young food owners/bakers. Making their own pastries and desserts, it is also one of those that do not rely on outsourced bakes to supplement their menu.