Arab Street comes alive at night, especially on weekends, transforming into a vibrant, energetic enclave full of music, laughter, and the irresistible aroma of Middle Eastern spices wafting through the air. The street is a haven for Middle Eastern eateries, boutique shops, and cultural knick-knacks. 

It's been a while since I last indulged in Middle Eastern cuisine, so we decided to spice things up (literally) and explore what Capadoccia had to offer. 

• Meze Tabagi: This appetizer platter came with a selection of dips and a light, mildly toasted lavash bread that was creamy and perfect for sharing.

• Grilled Meat Assortment: Perfectly spiced and grilled to juicy perfection. The accompanying rice was fragrant and flavorful, making every bite hearty and delicious.

• Turkish Pizza (Pide): A delightful twist from the usual pizza, with a crispy thin crust and savory toppings.

• Falafel: Crunchy on the outside, moist on the inside - just as it should be. 

• Kunefe: This dessert deserves a special mention. It's still a viral favorite for a reason! The crispy pastry with gooey cheese and sweet syrup was incredibly addictive. Now I fully understand the hype.

• Location: 600 North Bridge Road, Parkview Square, Singapore
• Best Times to Visit: Afternoon tea or early evening
• Dress Code: Smart casual recommended
• Tip: Make a reservation, especially for weekends

Italian cuisine has always been one of my top three favorites, so I'm constantly on the lookout for restaurants that serve up real, home-style Italian food - without the sky-high prices. In a city like Singapore, where Italian restaurants are plentiful but often pricey, Limoncello Pizza & Grill at Robertson Quay stands out as a delightful exception.

As a pizza lover, the Limoncello Pizza was an immediate standout. The dough transported me straight back to Italy- it had that perfect chewiness and ideal thickness. Not too thin to be crispy throughout, and not too thick to feel doughy. It strikes a beautiful balance, just like the pizzas I’ve enjoyed in Milan and Rome.

Despite the challenging market for local food establishments in Singapore, it's refreshing to see new food specialties making their way to our shores. One of the latest arrivals creating a buzz is Standard Bun, a popular Korean brand known for its unique and indulgent filled buns. They’ve recently launched a pop-up store at Suntec City, running from June 4 to August 3, to test the waters of Singapore's vibrant food scene. 

What’s in the Box?

Standard Bun offers a tempting variety of flavors, and I grabbed a box of 8 distinct buns to sample:

• Salt Mocha Bun
• Coconut Bun
• Red Velvet Cookie Bun
• Earl Grey Cream Bun
• Matcha Cookie Bun
• Milk Cream Bun
• Melon Cream Bun
• Potato Cheese Bun

Each bun is handmade with a soft, chewy base and generously filled with flavored creams or toppings - an indulgence that promises both variety and excitement.

Top Flavors Worth the Hype

Both of these offered unexpected delight. The Melon Cream Bun burst with fruity freshness, while the Earl Grey Cream Bun had a refined citrusy aroma that lingered from first bite to finish — ideal for tea lovers seeking a twist in their treats.

While most of Standard Bun’s flavors lean sweet, they do venture into savory territory. The Potato Cheese Bun was surprisingly enjoyable — creamy, cheesy, and rich with a pleasant lingering aftertaste. However, the base dough seems more naturally suited to sweet flavor profiles, making the savory offerings feel a bit selective and polarizing. 

Standard Bun brings a welcome and whimsical addition to Singapore’s bakery scene. While not every bun is a knockout, the overall experience — from variety to novelty to presentation — is undeniably fun. If you're curious or just in the mood to treat yourself, this pop-up is worth checking out before it disappears in August.