![title_image](https://static.tasteem.io/uploads/4088/post/33080/content_6f9015ce-6725-4327-8fa3-5bf343e5ac81.jpeg)
 
Cover image source: [hungrygowhere](https://www.hungrygowhere.com/singapore/tung-lok-xi-he-orchard-river-valley/photo/615c1200)

Hey Steemit!

So we had a big family dinner the other night to celebrate my sister-in-law securing a job at a really good company! As a treat, they invited my family and her family as well, and my brother offered to pay for the meal! 

They chose Tung Lok, since it's my mum's favourite restaurant chain, and this time we tried the high class Tunglok XiHe Peking Duck at Orchard Central!
![e10d2a790d3a50c442e225d11caad4db.jpg](https://static.tasteem.io/uploads/image/image/167218/70caaf4e-60b8-4144-a4a2-1e68f9060d5a.jpeg)
Source: [pinterest](https://www.pinterest.fr/pin/531002612289758923/?lp=true)

It was a really fancy restaurant, and felt noticeably different compared to the regular Tung Lok branches. I'm not sure if it was the ambience or the furniture, but it felt a bit more cramped in this branch despite everything. I think that's more to do with the location in Orchard though. They have another outlet in The Grandstand located in Bukit Timah (near Sixth Avenue MRT) but I've never been so I'm not sure how the layout is over there.

The food was definitely different since peking duck is not normally offered (and it was delicious!). If you've never heard of peking duck before, is a dish from Beijing (Peking) that has been prepared since the imperial era. The meat is characterized by its thin, crisp skin, with authentic versions of the dish serving mostly the skin and little meat, sliced in front of the diners by the cook.
![1.jpg](https://static.tasteem.io/uploads/image/image/167219/70caaf4e-60b8-4144-a4a2-1e68f9060d5a.jpeg)

The meat is often eaten with spring onion, cucumber and sweet bean sauce with pancakes rolled around the fillings. Sometimes pickled radish is also inside, and other sauces (like hoisin sauce) can be used.
![2.jpg](https://static.tasteem.io/uploads/image/image/167220/70caaf4e-60b8-4144-a4a2-1e68f9060d5a.jpeg)
So to eat peking duck, you would typically take a wrap (that was steamed in the bamboo basket), and wrap the duck together with some cucumber and spring onion and put some sweet sauce as such:
![3.jpg](https://static.tasteem.io/uploads/image/image/167221/70caaf4e-60b8-4144-a4a2-1e68f9060d5a.jpeg)

It was sooo yummy! I haven't had peking duck in a long long time but this one really held up! The skin was super crispy and the meat was tender and juicy. 😋 

We ordered many other dishes as well so this peking duck was like the appetiser.
There was broccoli with juicy shiitake mushrooms:
![4.jpg](https://static.tasteem.io/uploads/image/image/167224/70caaf4e-60b8-4144-a4a2-1e68f9060d5a.jpeg)

Sweet and sour pork ribs, which I'm not typically a fan of, but this was pretty good! 
![5.jpg](https://static.tasteem.io/uploads/image/image/167225/70caaf4e-60b8-4144-a4a2-1e68f9060d5a.jpeg)

Double boiled chicken soup that was really tasty!
![7.jpg](https://static.tasteem.io/uploads/image/image/167226/70caaf4e-60b8-4144-a4a2-1e68f9060d5a.jpeg)

Poached fish with a slightly spicy sauce
![6.jpg](https://static.tasteem.io/uploads/image/image/167228/70caaf4e-60b8-4144-a4a2-1e68f9060d5a.jpeg)

Wok-fried vermicelli/bee hoon with seafood
![8.jpg](https://static.tasteem.io/uploads/image/image/167231/70caaf4e-60b8-4144-a4a2-1e68f9060d5a.jpeg)

And for dessert, chilled mango sago with coconut ice cream!

![9.jpg](https://static.tasteem.io/uploads/image/image/167233/70caaf4e-60b8-4144-a4a2-1e68f9060d5a.jpeg)

What a scrumptious meal! I was so stuffed I could barely finish my dessert! 😬 

I can imagine any meal in this restaurant is really quite pricey so it's definitely a special occasion type of thing but I'd recommend it if you want to give peking duck a try or you really like peking duck. It's undoubtedly their specialty. 

Thanks for reading!
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To find out more about me, check out my intro post [here!](https://steemit.com/introduceyourself/@taco.cat/my-first-steemit-post)

---------------------
### Restaurant Information


 TungLok XiHe Peking Duck
![score](https://static.tasteem.io/images/2Crowns_en.png)
[181 Orchard Rd, Singapore 238896](https://tasteem.io/post/33080#map)

-----------------------------------------
<center>[TacoCat's TrEats #26: Crispeking Duck! 🦆](https://tasteem.io/post/33080)
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| <center>Check out my previous post in this series!</center> |
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| <center>[TacoCat's TrEats #25: Soup for the Soul ](https://steemit.com/tasteem/@taco.cat/tasteem-e580c4)</center><center>https://steemitimages.com/640x0/https://static.tasteem.io/uploads/4088/post/30956/content_94454ac7-cf04-4724-8b2e-4a03a180878f.jpeg</center></a></center>

TacoCat's TrEats #26: Crispeking Duck!  🦆

<center>https://i0.wp.com/tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/20180519_135055.jpg?resize=1024%2C768</center> Hey Steemit!

So in the 2 previous travel posts, we went on excursions to different summer cottages in Mikkeli, Finland! The first one I went to was called <a href="https://steemit.com/archisteem/@taco.cat/tacocatstravelsfinland20visitingasummercottageinspring-x4lh74vr8c">Kenkävero</a>, and the other was called <a href="https://steemit.com/archisteem/@taco.cat/tacocatstravelsfinland21visitingwaynemanoroknotrly-n7yf8ed5py">Tertti Manor</a>. It was a very interesting experience getting to know the history and culture of what makes Finland a unique travel destination. Do check those out if you're interested!

Anyway, a friend of ours had shared an interesting event that was happening in Finland; it was a hanami event, aka cherry blossom festival!

<center><img class="wp-image-931 aligncenter" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/Capture-2.png" alt="" width="527" height="561" /></center> 

We were really excited to check it out since our favourite country is Japan and we were missing it a lot after being cooped up in Mikkeli for months on end. We haven't had the chance to see sakura in Japan yet so it was kinda ironic that we we were gonna see it in Finland but oh well!

We only saw this post about a week before the actual event so it was kinda rushed to arrange everything; transport, accommodations, etc. but somehow we managed (#MichaelScott, hehe). The actual event is held somewhere in Helsinki so we had to take a bus from Mikkeli first, which we did on Friday after our morning class.

 <img class="wp-image-932 size-full" src="https://i2.wp.com/tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/20180518_163643.jpg?resize=1024%2C768" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> On the way to the bus station we saw some really pretty tulips! Ah, the beauty of spring 😊

 <img class="size-full wp-image-933" src="https://i0.wp.com/tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/20180518_170611.jpg?resize=1024%2C768" alt="" width="3264" height="2448" /> On the bus to Hel yet again!

 <img class="size-full wp-image-934" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/20180518_214010.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> Our Airbnb was a loft and it was so cool!
<h2>19 May 2018. Saturday.</h2>
On the actual day of the event, we went to grab brunch at FAFA's, a Finnish falafel chain (thanks to Google's cheap eats). Also because I remember this from Friends:

<img class="" src="https://i.pinimg.com/originals/ba/4f/0f/ba4f0f8b7e2632507c28bdac74544059.gif" alt="Image result for friends falafel gif" width="353" height="266" /> 

The chicken falafel we bought was actually really yummy! And it was kinda huge for 1 person so we shared it.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-935" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/20180519_124531-e1555659991338.jpg" alt="" width="3024" height="4032" /> 

After that yummy meal, we took a bus to the actual event area, called Roihuvuoren! I'm pretty sure it's just a normal field and if it wasn't for events nobody would actually visit this place. 😅

From the bus stop we had to walk a little to reach the park, and we saw some small wild flowers on the way!

 <img class="wp-image-938 size-full" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/20180519_133034-e1555660368799.jpg" alt="" width="3024" height="4032" /> The grass was peppered with small yellow flowers that were so pretty!

It was really quite warm that day and very sunny, but that makes for great pictures! 😊

 <img class="wp-image-939 size-full" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/20180519_132853.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> The first doggo we saw was a shibe! What a cutie. Get ready for lots of dog pics 🐶

Pretty much the only landmark here is this UFO looking structure, so we knew we were close.

 <img class="wp-image-936 size-full" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/20180519_1329320-e1555660069447.jpg" alt="" width="3024" height="4032" /> This reminds me of some sci-fi show like Star Wars

Soon enough, we came across many many people sitting on blankets under the trees and under tentages and we saw another doggo!

 <img class="wp-image-940 size-full" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/20180519_133213.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> Aww look at his little face!

We were very surprised there was such a huge turnout and were pretty sure this was the most people we've ever seen in one place in Finland. 😅

 <img class="wp-image-941 size-full" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/20180519_133341.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> There was even some people in cosplay! How cool!

We kept looking around for the sakura trees but soon realised that these were supposed to be the sakura trees, and all the flowers had actually already wilted! Oh nooo 😥

 <img class="wp-image-961 size-full" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/20180519_135429.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> You can actually see some remnants of pink on the trees

 <img class="wp-image-962 size-full" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/20180519_135621.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> Yup unfortunately, most of the pretty petals had already fallen to the ground 🙁

It seems the flowers had actually bloomed a few days before the actual event; I'm guessing at the start of the week. However, by that weekend most of them had wilted. Sad.

These pink petals were pretty much all that was left on the trees. However, the green of the leaves really overpowered them and it was tough to distinguish the pink from afar. I'm sure they were very beautiful when they were in full bloom.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-960" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/20180519_135409.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

After walking around, we found the only sakura that were fully bloomed were on these small tree specimens.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-944" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/20180519_133637-e1555660407453.jpg" alt="" width="3024" height="4032" /> 

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-946" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/20180519_133749-e1555661629181.jpg" alt="" width="3024" height="4032" /> 

Granted, they do look beautiful, but kinda underwhelming since it was pretty much just a few branches. 
<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-947" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/20180519_133727-e1555660052423.jpg" alt="" width="3024" height="4032" /> 

There were quite a few of these "trees" around; which I suppose were different species of sakura, and many people were crowding around just to snap some photos of them. It was actually quite funny to witness. 😅

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-978" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/20180519_133813-e1555665657174.jpg" alt="" width="3024" height="4032" /> 

There was another lone tree that still had some flowers which was slightly bigger in the middle of the field that some photographers were gathered around too.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-955" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/20180519_134731.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

Using some "trick photography" I managed to get a few nice shots:

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-957" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/20180519_135033.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-959" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/20180519_135112.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

After taking lots of flowery photos, we explored the event a bit more, because there was a whole area with lots of booths and stuff; all celebrating Japanese culture!

 <img class="wp-image-950 size-full" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/20180519_133933.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> I think this is a Helsinki tourism booth.?

 <img class="wp-image-953 size-full" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/20180519_134528.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> Japanese handicrafts!

 <img class="wp-image-954 size-full" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/20180519_134608.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> Crafts with the Japanese Cultural Society!

There was sooo many people bustling around here, and doggos too!

 <img class="wp-image-948 size-full" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/20180519_133914.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> Aww cute sheebs!

 <img class="wp-image-949 size-full" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/20180519_134045.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> We saw an Akita too! What a beauty 😍

 <img class="wp-image-963 size-full" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/20180519_135801.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> There was a lady just chillin with like 3 smol doggos! And there were so many more around! 

 <img class="size-full wp-image-969" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/20180519_141049.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> Big zooom

Other than doggos, there were some Japanese sports activities too!

 <img class="wp-image-951 size-full" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/20180519_134125.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> There was a children's taekwondo class

 <img class="size-full wp-image-970" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/20180519_141311.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> Japanese archery demonstration

 <img class="size-full wp-image-975" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/20180519_142007.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> And a Kendo booth!

There was even a dance performance by some Finnish students! They didn't have costumes but it was still fun.

https://youtu.be/rWJrN3q7Hnk

Of course, there were some food trucks and vendors too!

 <img class="wp-image-965 size-full" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/20180519_140413.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> mochi booth

 <img class="size-full wp-image-968" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/20180519_140548.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> curry rice!

 <img class="wp-image-972 size-full" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/20180519_141635.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> I'm pretty sure this isn't technically a Japanese thing, but hey, food is food right.?

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-973" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/20180519_141746.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

As expected, a lot of the food and snacks were really expensive (and tbh slightly overpriced), so we didn't bother trying any. It probably doesn't taste as good as the original in Japan anyway. But I guess this is good for people to try some Japanese cuisine, since it's not really that accessible in Finland.

Even though the sakura was kinda disappointing, the event was really quite interesting! It was nice to see appreciation and celebration for Japanese culture so far away from Japan. Although a lot of people think Japan is quite distinct (with the weird commercials and stuff), I'm glad everyone all over the world can find something to enjoy about Japan. 😊

On the way out of the park, I found this nice creek! The water is so clear it reminded me of the ponds in Breath of the Wild.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-976" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/20180519_142847.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

Anyway, the day was only half done so I'll continue this adventure in the next post! Here's a teaser:

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-977" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/20180519_151120.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

Woohoo look forward to that in the next one! Thanks for reading!

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-633" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/endslate-gif3.gif" alt="" width="1550" height="380" /> 

To find out more about me, check out my intro post <a href="https://steemit.com/introduceyourself/@taco.cat/my-first-steemit-post">here!</a> <center><hr/>Posted from my blog with <a href='https://wordpress.org/plugins/steempress/'>SteemPress</a> : http://tacocat.vornix.blog/2019/04/19/tacocats-travels-finland-22-sakura-in-finland-%f0%9f%8c%b8/ <hr/>

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| <center>Check out my previous post in this series!</center> |
|:-:|
| <center>[TacoCat’s Travels (Finland) #21: Visiting Wayne Manor! (ok not rly)](https://steemit.com/archisteem/@taco.cat/tacocatstravelsfinland21visitingwaynemanoroknotrly-n7yf8ed5py)</center><center>https://steemitimages.com/640x0/http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/20180516_095552.jpg</center></a></center>

TacoCat’s Travels (Finland) #22: Sakura in Finland! 🌸

<center>http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/hb1.jpg</center> Hey Steemit!

It's been a long while because I was overseas for about a week or so! Sorry about that. Anyways, If you're unfamiliar with this series, basically I share a soundtrack and my thoughts about it, and I highly recommend listening to the song while reading! 😊

We're back at it again with a weird one this time! The song for today is from a dating sim called Hatoful Boyfriend!

<center><img class="aligncenter" src="https://steamcdn-a.akamaihd.net/steam/apps/345380/header.jpg?t=1468444256" alt="Related image" width="600" height="281" /></center> 

If you're wondering why there are birdies on the cover, you must be really new to this game; because in Hatoful Boyfriend, you get to date birdies! Yay..? 🤔

Hatoful Boyfriend is an interactive text-based visual novel that follows a branching plot line, with the player's decisions determining which of the game's multiple endings they receive. The game is set in a version of Earth populated by sapient birds, and its main story follows the player character and protagonist—the only human attending St. PigeoNation's Institute, an elite school for birds—as she finds love among her avian acquaintances.

The title Hatoful Boyfriend is actually a pun on the <a title="Wasei-eigo" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wasei-eigo">wasei-eigo</a> word hātofuru (ハートフル, "heartful", also "hurtful"), and the Japanese word hato (鳩, "pigeon", "dove"), as the game features pigeons and other birds as major characters. Yay for puns! 😄

<img src="https://stmed.net/sites/default/files/hatoful-boyfriend-hd-wallpapers-33223-6315755.jpg" alt="Image result for hatoful boyfriend wallpaper" /> 

When I first saw this game I thought it was sooo ridiculous just, why? But when I watched a whole playthrough of it I'm not exaggerating when I say it changed me. I will never underestimate Japanese dating sims ever again. There's so much story (a really feelsy story at that) underneath a seemingly weird game that most people would think is some fetish. The novel is really well-written; each character is really unique and their individual stories are so unexpected and interesting. Oh and the music is great too!

Just so you know, there are human portraits in this to show what the birdies would look like in human form (so it's not that weird):

<center><img class="aligncenter" src="https://i.pinimg.com/236x/f8/43/dd/f843ddfc54ab45a5a16ab3013dcbbc78--boyfriend-stuff-hatoful-boyfriend.jpg" alt="Related image" width="377" height="550" /></center> 

If you're interested in finding out a little bit about the backstory, here's a short video on the game's lore!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ynGhR81w-ZE

And here's the song for today!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xo8wCrwLejw

This song is called Anghel's Battle, which is kinda spoilery on its own already. I don't want to give away too much, but you'd definitely need to work quite a bit to get to this song in-game. It can only be heard during a specific scene with a secret birdie, and it plays at the end of his route. This particular birdie is probably the most unique in terms of backstory, and I was soo confused and amazed at how someone even thought of this.

Anyway, this piece is definitely one of my favourites from the OST, and one of few "rock" songs I would play on loop (cos I generally enjoy more tranquil and mellow songs). But this is so EPIC! I love the consistent rise and fall in tone and volume, as well as the stark contrast between the light piano and the electric and bass guitar, complemented by the drums. You'd notice that the loud rock parts are not overpowering the lighter and softer parts, and they're not excessively loud like most rock pieces can be. And this is exactly why I love this song. The ratio and the distribution is just perfect, and even though the 2 main parts of the song are like worlds apart, the drum beats join them together in perfect harmony. It's definitely a head-banger for sure.

<img src="https://static.zerochan.net/Hatoful.Kareshi.full.1407693.jpg" alt="Image result for hatoful boyfriend wallpaper" /> 

Hatoful Boyfriend was developed by manga artist Hato Moa's dōjin circle PigeoNation Inc., and is the successor of a Flash game of the same name she created for April Fools' Day in 2011. I bet she didn't expect to have a fully developed game (and sequel, too) when she first created that Flash game! There's even a webcomic called <a href="https://mangakakalot.com/manga/heartful_kareshi">Hatoful Kareshi</a>, which features additional short stories on the different characters interacting in school.

I would definitely recommend this game if you like visual novels and a compelling story. This game is definitely a mind blower if you're new to dating sims. If you can get past laughing at the idea of dating birds that is. Just check out this <a href="https://store.steampowered.com/app/310080/Hatoful_Boyfriend/">steam review</a>:

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-928" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/Capture-1.png" alt="" width="1046" height="821" /> 

Couldn't have said it better myself. 👏👏

Thanks for reading!

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-633" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/endslate-gif3.gif" alt="" width="1550" height="380" /> 

To find out more about me, check out my intro post <a href="https://steemit.com/introduceyourself/@taco.cat/my-first-steemit-post">here!</a> <center><hr/>Posted from my blog with <a href='https://wordpress.org/plugins/steempress/'>SteemPress</a> : http://tacocat.vornix.blog/2019/04/16/ost-of-the-day-27-hatoful-boyfriend-anghels-battle-%f0%9f%90%a6/ <hr/></center>

OST of the Day #27: Hatoful Boyfriend - Anghel's Battle 🐦

![title_image](https://static.tasteem.io/uploads/4088/post/30956/content_94454ac7-cf04-4724-8b2e-4a03a180878f.jpeg)
 
Cover image source: [timeout.com](https://www.timeout.com/singapore/restaurants/song-fa-bak-kut-teh)

Hey Steemit!

I was feeling a little under the weather the other day as I was still getting over a cold, so we decided to head to our favourite Asian soup place; Song Fa Bak Kut Teh!
![1.jpg](https://static.tasteem.io/uploads/image/image/155207/b32f45e0-d9ec-4c30-bb99-b03d4c385ed6.jpeg)
Source: [designgallery.com](http://www.designgallery.com.sg/portfolio-view/song-fa-bak-kut-teh50-jurong-gateway-road-jem/)

So if you've never had bak kut teh before, or 肉骨茶, it's basically a pork rib dish cooked in broth (that is often very peppery). The name literally translates from the Hokkien dialect as "meat bone tea", and at its simplest, consists of meaty pork ribs simmered in a complex broth of herbs and spices (including cinnamon, star anise, ginseng, fennel seeds, cloves and garlic) for hours. 
![IH5A71131.jpg](https://static.tasteem.io/uploads/image/image/155208/b32f45e0-d9ec-4c30-bb99-b03d4c385ed6.jpeg)
Source: [tidbitsmag.com](https://tidbitsmag.com/song-fa-bak-kut-teh/)

Despite its name, there is actually no tea in the dish itself; the name refers to a strong oolong Chinese tea which is usually served alongside the soup in the belief that it dilutes or dissolves the copious amount of fat consumed in this pork-laden dish. It is often served with strips of fried dough called you char kueh (or 油条 youtiao).
![2.jpg](https://static.tasteem.io/uploads/image/image/155209/b32f45e0-d9ec-4c30-bb99-b03d4c385ed6.jpeg)
Source: [livingnomads.com](https://livingnomads.com/2018/11/best-affordable-restaurants-in-singapore/bak-kut-teh-at-song-fa-bak-kut-teh22/)

It's really delicious and I absolutely looove the soup. I definitely recommend it if you're getting over a cold as well since the steam and the warm soup will help to clear sinuses. 

There are many different bak kut teh places but my go-to place is always Song Fa. They've been around for a looong time (since 1969!); from humble beginnings in a push cart in Johor Road to 9 outlets in Singapore! They even sell their own packaged hot pot soup base so you know their recipe is legit.
![8883000000254_0016_1493797191597.jpg](https://static.tasteem.io/uploads/image/image/155210/b32f45e0-d9ec-4c30-bb99-b03d4c385ed6.jpeg)
Source: [Redmart](https://redmart.com/product/songfa-bak-kut-teh-spices-64629)

The outlet I went to was the one at Changi Business Park, and it was fairly empty at that time. Then again, it was around 5+pm which is quite early for dinner I suppose. On the plus side, the service was really good and the aunties were so nice! 😊
![photo6127221622197823616.jpg](https://static.tasteem.io/uploads/image/image/155211/b32f45e0-d9ec-4c30-bb99-b03d4c385ed6.jpeg)

The interior of the restaurant is really unique as well, and totally captures the essence of Singapore in the 1960s. I think it really immerses patrons in the landscape of when Song Fa was born, and also creates the feeling of nostalgia in Singaporeans. I always feel like I'm traveling back in time when I enter a Song Fa.
![photo6129693891272747227.jpg](https://static.tasteem.io/uploads/image/image/155212/b32f45e0-d9ec-4c30-bb99-b03d4c385ed6.jpeg)
I believe every Song Fa outlet has a different design as well, so no 2 outlets are the same. However, they all possess the same old-timey aesthetic which I really enjoy.

Anyway, on to the [food](https://songfa.com.sg/pages/menu)! 
Song Fa offers many different combinations for their soup, i.e. different parts of the meat such as kidney, liver, tenderloin, spare ribs, loin ribs, etc. 
![photo6127221622197823617.jpg](https://static.tasteem.io/uploads/image/image/155213/b32f45e0-d9ec-4c30-bb99-b03d4c385ed6.jpeg)
We ordered the 2 for 1 combo, where you can have 2 different parts of meat in 1 soup. Specifically, we ordered pork tenderloin and normal pork ribs. The tenderloin doesn't come with bones so I'd recommend it if you're lazy or you have kids. 

![16914963777_fceb77852c_b.jpg](https://static.tasteem.io/uploads/image/image/155214/b32f45e0-d9ec-4c30-bb99-b03d4c385ed6.jpeg)
Source: [Chin Chai Jiak](https://chinchaijiak.wordpress.com/2015/04/15/song-fa-bak-kut-teh-seletar-mall-the-same-old-good-taste-with-a-different-look/)

They also serve various braised dishes but I don't think I've actually tried them before. I heard it's good though. My absolute favourite thing about Song Fa is definitely the soup, and the best part: it's refillable! I slurped up at least 3 bowls of soup and I felt much better (and fuller) after that meal. I'll definitely go again the next time I'm not feeling well.

Thanks for reading!
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To find out more about me, check out my intro post [here!](https://steemit.com/introduceyourself/@taco.cat/my-first-steemit-post)

---------------------
### Restaurant Information


 Song Fa Bak Kut Teh
![score](https://static.tasteem.io/images/2Crowns_en.png)
[6 Changi Business Park Avenue 1, #01-38 UE BizHub East, 486017](https://tasteem.io/post/30956#map)

-----------------------------------------
<center>[TacoCat's TrEats #25: Soup for the Soul 🍜](https://tasteem.io/post/30956)
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| <center>[TacoCat's TrEats #24: Gettin sum Dim sum!](https://steemit.com/tasteem/@taco.cat/tasteem-a23325)</center><center>https://steemitimages.com/640x0/https://static.tasteem.io/uploads/4088/post/29119/content_58c39588-207b-4947-baf5-ffb779590334.jpeg</center></a></center>

TacoCat's TrEats #25: Soup for the Soul 🍜

<center>http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/20180516_095552.jpg</center> Hey Steemit!

So in the previous <a href="https://steemit.com/archisteem/@taco.cat/tacocatstravelsfinland20visitingasummercottageinspring-x4lh74vr8c">Travel post</a> we went on a field trip to a summer cottage in Mikkeli, Finland! I mentioned that our professor arranged for us to visit 2 summer cottages so here-we-go to the second one!
<h2>16 May 2018. Wednesday.</h2>
This second cottage is called Tertti Manor and it's located a bit further away from Mikkeli's city centre and our campus compared to the previous cottage, Kenkävero.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-919" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/Capture.png" alt="" width="1632" height="980" /> 

We took a different bus this time and it was kinda like the party buses I always see on TV. It even had a stripper pole in the back!

 <img class="wp-image-917 size-full" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/20180516_110947-e1553871488842.jpg" alt="" width="3024" height="4032" /> Of course the guys would be sitting around the pole huh 😅

After about half an hour or so, we finally reached Tertti Manor! Even though it's in the name I wouldn't really call it a Manor per se. The cottage compound actually consists of 3 buildings. 1 building houses the reception and main dining hall/restaurant:

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-880" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/20180516_094213.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" />

The second building houses all the cottages/rooms:

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-867" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/20180516_084721.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" />

And the last building consists of the shop and cafeteria:

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-876" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/20180516_093952.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" />

There was also a 4th building, which I believe is where the Founders/owners live, so I doubt it's open to the general public.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-878" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/20180516_094058.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

The manager was there to greet us when we arrived and she kindly offered some of their homemade berry juice for us to try! It was delicious!

 <img class="wp-image-866 size-full" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/20180516_084441-e1553866647763.jpg" alt="" width="3024" height="4032" /> This reminds me of communion in church 😆

Anyway, as opposed to the previous tour we had, the manager allowed us to wander around by ourselves first since it wasn't too hot yet in the morning. I really appreciated that since it was getting quite warm now that spring had finally arrived.

But before that, she offered to show us their cellar!

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-868" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/20180516_090325.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

So she told us that most of the food and drinks are homemade, with their own locally grown produce. They also make and sell various wines and jams that are fermented in this very cellar! It was surprisingly cold in there, as if there was air conditioning but there was no ventilation at all! It was kinda comfortable except for a little dust.

 <img class="wp-image-869 size-full" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/20180516_090005.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> This reminds me of my cellar in Stardew Valley 😄

After that it was time to explore! Since it wasn't that hot out yet I decided to walk around outside and enjoy the fresh spring air.

There was a nice garden behind the shop &amp; cafeteria where I guess they planted various herbs and small plants. Can't be that big or cluttered or the guests wouldn't be able to relax here.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-873" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/20180516_090728.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

Then we checked out the cafeteria food!

 <img class="wp-image-874 size-full" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/20180516_091344.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> the reactions to the pricetag is pretty accurate 😅

There was so much food; I was getting kinda hungry looking at it.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-896" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/20180516_100035.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> <img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-897" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/20180516_100038.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

 <img class="wp-image-899 size-full" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/20180516_100130.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> There were various types of tea as well. No doubt the leaves were grown here I'm sure.

The tables were quite small but I guess it is a cafeteria; for small snacks and whatnot.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-898" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/20180516_100057.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

There were also some other products showcased in the cafeteria like soap, perfumes, and other bath stuff.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-921" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/20180516_100234.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

I believe this is their signature product; the berry juice that we got a taste of when we arrived!

 <img class="wp-image-920 size-full" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/20180516_100429-e1553878725429.jpg" alt="" width="3024" height="4032" /> It looks like bottled blood for some reason. I'm sure vampires would be totally fooled 😉

After that I went back outside and took a walk further down because I heard something.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-882" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/20180516_094307.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

It was doggos borking! There were a couple of dogs they kept there I think they might have been wild dogs that were tamed to work on the farm or something like that.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-883" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/20180516_094430.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

I'm not sure what breeds they are but they're so cute!

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-885" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/20180516_094601.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

 <img class="wp-image-886 size-full" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/20180516_094714-e1553871594872.jpg" alt="" width="3024" height="4032" /> This is so me when I smell of food 

While I was walking back, I saw the manager waiting outside the building with the rooms and she invited us to come check out one of the rooms that was available!

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-888" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/20180516_095123-e1553871577354.jpg" alt="" width="3024" height="4032" /> 

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-889" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/20180516_095139-e1553871560156.jpg" alt="" width="3024" height="4032" /> <img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-890" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/20180516_095150-e1553871539707.jpg" alt="" width="3024" height="4032" /> <img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-891" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/20180516_095220.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

It was actually really cosy! Pretty much a hotel room but it got cramped and hot pretty quickly with us all in it.

After that, she sat outside and talked a little bit about the history of Terrti Manor. Unfortunately, we were standing directly in the sun and it was pretty hot so I might not have been paying full attention. Woops. 😕

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-892" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/20180516_095507.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

Well thanks to the internet, I managed to dig up some info about Tertti Manor. Its history is pretty much similar to that of Kenkävero, but it much much older!

It was first documented in 1540 and was called “Hintsala rustholli” (an estate under obligation to equip a cavalryman for a war). From 1560-1850, the owners and masters were gentry, In 1896, it became a dairy school and accepted 10 girls, one of which eventually wedded the owner's son. Fast forward a few decades through the war, where it was maintained as a traditional farmhouse.

In 1978, new management focused on tourism and specialised farming. The buildings have been renovated with respect to old traditions and the garden and immediate surroundings have been restored to resemble the landscape at the end of the 19th century. And in 2001, Tertti Manor was granted the Building and Environmental Art prize of Southeastern Finland as a recognition of treasuring traditions.

 <img class="wp-image-875 size-full" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/20180516_093821.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> I'm not sure what this means but I'm sure it's an ode of some sort to the long history of Tertti Manor

Anyway, after that I decided to seek shelter and check out the main building!

 <img class="wp-image-871 size-full" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/20180516_090456.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> The pink paint is quite pleasant, I'm surprised how well maintained it is

The waiting area just before reception is so homely and lovely. It totally gives off the old cottage vibe with the eclectic furniture.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-901" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/20180516_100911.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

The first dining area! What a cosy library room.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-904" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/20180516_101019.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> <img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-903" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/20180516_101004.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

A second small dining area with a loveseat. The manager told us that many people plan proposals in this room so they've "christened" it the room for lovers.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-905" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/20180516_101030.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

This dining room is the hunting room and it's really interesting! The manager told us that many negotiations were held here in the past, and they'd be 1 party sitting on either side of the table.

 <img class="wp-image-907 size-full" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/20180516_101121-e1553871448984.jpg" alt="" width="3024" height="4032" /> I think the boar is supposed to intimidate the person sitting opposite it but I find the flock of birds to be more intimidating

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-906" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/20180516_101110-e1553871508111.jpg" alt="" width="3024" height="4032" /> 

I like that this red carpet extends throughout all the rooms. It's as if you're a real VIP!

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-910" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/20180516_101230-e1553871345132.jpg" alt="" width="3024" height="4032" /> 

This is the main dining hall. There were quite a few seats here and I think many weddings are held here as well.

 <img class="wp-image-908 size-full" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/20180516_101204.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> The bride and groom would sit at the table on the right so they're able to see all the guests

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-909" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/20180516_101217.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

There was a really nice outdoor dining area as well! I loved the tablecloth they used here. It really gives that ladies' brunch feel.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-911" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/20180516_101248-e1553871305594.jpg" alt="" width="3024" height="4032" /> 

Another small dining area for families and couples beside the kitchen area.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-912" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/20180516_101401.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> <img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-913" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/20180516_101418.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

https://i1.wp.com/tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/20180516_101440.jpg?resize=1024%2C768
Fooooood! I was pretty surprised at the wide spread they had here but I knew it couldn't have been for us, unfortunately. 😔

 <img class="wp-image-915 size-full" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/20180516_101508.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> This was the food they were serving us. It's not as glamorous but it's still something 🙂

So we had a potato vegetable patty of some sort, a caramel sweet and tea. Tbh it wasn't as good as the food at Kenkävero, and it didn't fill me up as much but it was pretty good.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-916" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/20180516_103328.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

The manager talked abit more about Tertti Manor, and we had a brief discussion about what we liked about the place. Some of my classmates also talked about what could be done to attract more visitors and such, like engaging social media to widen their market reach, etc.

I really liked the rustic feel to this place. Kenkävero's interior seemed more touristy and hotel-like in comparison to Tertti Manor, which was definitely more homely. I liked the idea of the themed rooms as well. It undoubtedly gave the place more dimension and personality, like it's more than just a hotel.

Oh I saw a couple of doggos on the way back home too! Yay!

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-918" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/20180516_155420.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

These field trips were probably the most fun we had while taking classes here in Finland! I'm so glad we took this module.

Thanks for reading!

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-633" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/endslate-gif3.gif" alt="" width="1550" height="380" /> 

To find out more about me, check out my intro post <a href="https://steemit.com/introduceyourself/@taco.cat/my-first-steemit-post">here!</a> <center><hr/>Posted from my blog with <a href='https://wordpress.org/plugins/steempress/'>SteemPress</a> : http://tacocat.vornix.blog/2019/03/29/tacocats-travels-finland-21-visiting-wayne-manor-ok-not-rly/ <hr/>

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| <center>Check out my previous post in this series!</center> |
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| <center>[TacoCat’s Travels (Finland) #20: Visiting a Summer Cottage in Spring ](https://steemit.com/archisteem/@taco.cat/tacocatstravelsfinland20visitingasummercottageinspring-x4lh74vr8c)</center><center>https://steemitimages.com/640x0/http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/20180515_100039.jpg</center></a></center>

TacoCat’s Travels (Finland) #21: Visiting Wayne Manor! (ok not rly)

<center>http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/0.jpg</center> Hey Steemit!

OSTs are really underrated but they're so good, so I thought I'd share a song a day and my thoughts about it. I highly recommend listening while reading! 😊

Speaking of underrated, we're going down memory lane once again to revisit a less-than-popular but amazing game nonetheless; Jazz Jackrabbit 2!

<center><img class="aligncenter" src="https://steemitimages.com/640x0/https://images-3.gog.com/027cd94301a48638673d996fbdfd9a5c3b1009a1d8c0c5b64a5d15c38eb5d5a7.jpg" /></center>

So I've actually written about a song from this game in a <a href="https://steemit.com/music/@taco.cat/ost-of-the-day-5-jazz-jackrabbit-2-lab-rat">previous post</a> waaaay back, but this game has so many great songs I thought it'd be remiss of me not to share another!

Just to recap if you've never seen this game before, Jazz Jackrabbit 2 is a 2D side-scrolling platformer game with shooting elements and it was produced by Epic Games. It was released in 1998 for PCs running Windows, and later for Macintosh computers. This game also features additional multiplayer options like new playable characters and the ability to play over LAN or the Internet.

<center><img class="aligncenter" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KrZI1yrxqOA/VS5rBb3HCnI/AAAAAAAATu8/75dxgevs15o/s1600/0.jpg" alt="Image result for jazz jackrabbit 2" /></center>

So I read that JJ2 actually received quite positive reviews but despite this, sales were insufficient and resulted some financial loss. As a consequence, the would-be sequel Jazz Jackrabbit 3D was unable to find a publisher, prompting the developers to abandon the project which was less than 50% complete. Man, what a shame! This game was my childhood and brings back so much nostalgia for me. It was practically the first platformer I ever played, and even the first computer game I played too!

Anyway, on to the song of the day!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5R2q_deBAnY

So this song is called Colonius, and the first time you'll hear it is in the second world (or technically Episode 2) in JJ2, called Jazz in Time. Yup we're even time traveling in-game now, so time travel-ception.?

<center><img class="aligncenter" src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/lkPSWK6jyqc/hqdefault.jpg" alt="Image result for jazz jackrabbit 2 jazz in time" /></center>

I didn't get the reference last time when I played but now I get it's supposed to be like Back to the Future, Jazz is even cosplaying at Marty McFly! #duh

The first level of this World is called Victorian Secret, which I guess inspired the level design as well. Man I remember those jumping guys with the staffs that were such a pain to aim.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c2SkVUp8ebs

Anyway I really like the feel of this song; it's so jazzy (heh Jazz-y, geddit) no doubt due to the echo-ey electronic melody that can be prominently heard throughout the song. The supporting percussion in the not so subtle background is also amazing as well. The hi-hats and drums are crisp and definitely add more weight to the song.

My favourite part of this piece is definitely the second "chorus" that comes in at 1:25 though. It only lasts about 20 seconds but what a smooth 20 seconds it is. The transition to the key change sounds so effortless yet impactful and even though it's quite a different synth sound compared to the echo-ey melody it still fits really well.

<img src="https://s2-ssl.dmcdn.net/BLlqQ/x1080-xtX.jpg" alt="Related image" /> 

The soundtrack for JJ2 was composed by Alexander Brandon, a US musician who composed music for games produced by Epic Games. He dabbles in mostly electronic music, covering genres like electronica, synthpop and pop rock.

I'm not too familiar with synthpop but I can appreciate it and I really enjoy it nonetheless. I like that all his songs form a perfect endless loop, so the background music is constant and seamless with the gameplay, and it helps immerse players in the game. There's no need for a big fanfare to start off the song; it just goes. Brandon's work on this game is amazing, and even though it's really old, I think the game and the songs still hold up to this day.

Thanks for reading!

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-633" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/endslate-gif3.gif" alt="" width="1550" height="380" /> 

To find out more about me, check out my intro post <a href="https://steemit.com/introduceyourself/@taco.cat/my-first-steemit-post">here!</a> <center><hr/>Posted from my blog with <a href='https://wordpress.org/plugins/steempress/'>SteemPress</a> : http://tacocat.vornix.blog/2019/03/21/ost-of-the-day-26-jazz/ <hr/></center>

| <center>Check out my previous post in this series!</center> |
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| <center>[OST of the Day #25: Mario & Luigi: Bowser's Inside Story - Final Battle!](https://steemit.com/entertainment/@taco.cat/ostoftheday25marioluigibowsersinsidestory-finalbattle-ixm5lpdd6g)</center><center>https://steemitimages.com/640x0/http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/ml_bowser_inside_story_by_hugo_h2p-d247pqg.png</center></a></center>

OST of the Day #26: Jazz Jackrabbit 2 - Colonius

![title_image](https://static.tasteem.io/uploads/4088/post/29119/content_58c39588-207b-4947-baf5-ffb779590334.jpeg)
 
Cover image source: [foodsafetyproductsandservices.com](http://foodsafetyproductsandservices.com/searching-for-any-scrumptious-brunch-try-china-dim-sum-food/)

Hey Steemit!

So we were really craving some dim sum the other day and had heard of this place called Dim Sum Haus from a friend and decided to check it out since we were in the area. 

It's located in Jalan Besar, just a short walk from the MRT station which is on the downtown line, thankfully, so it's at least a straight line from my house. 

![1.jpg](https://static.tasteem.io/uploads/image/image/146116/fd93d07e-b02b-4e85-a237-0b08753035c3.jpeg)

From the outside it looks kinda small but inside there are quite many seats though some people might find it a little cramped. It's not too bad if you come by during non-peak times. We had an early dinner around 5+pm or so and we were able to get a table for 2 immediately.

![9.jpg](https://static.tasteem.io/uploads/image/image/146117/fd93d07e-b02b-4e85-a237-0b08753035c3.jpeg)

Here's their [menu](http://dimsumhaus.com.sg/index.php/menu/) with accompanying pictures of the delicious food! Dont click if you have an empty stomach! 🤤

We ordered some of our usual dishes like har gow and xiao long bao:
![5.jpg](https://static.tasteem.io/uploads/image/image/146124/fd93d07e-b02b-4e85-a237-0b08753035c3.jpeg)

As well as my favourite, prawn in fried beancurd skin! 😋
![2.jpg](https://static.tasteem.io/uploads/image/image/146125/fd93d07e-b02b-4e85-a237-0b08753035c3.jpeg)
They were really generous with the prawns and the skin was really crispy! But I think I've had some better ones elsewhere. It was still yummy though!

We also ordered 2 of their unique signature dishes:
1 was called ham kim kai siew mai, which are charcoal chicken & shrimp dumplings
![3.jpg](https://static.tasteem.io/uploads/image/image/146134/fd93d07e-b02b-4e85-a237-0b08753035c3.jpeg)

Another is their pan-fried mushroom bun. Turns out it's not actually a mushroom but a bun that looks like mushroom! 
![6.jpg](https://static.tasteem.io/uploads/image/image/146135/fd93d07e-b02b-4e85-a237-0b08753035c3.jpeg)
But there's mushroom inside though! It wasn't too bad, maybe a little plain but definitely filling.
![7.jpg](https://static.tasteem.io/uploads/image/image/146136/fd93d07e-b02b-4e85-a237-0b08753035c3.jpeg)

We also bought a drink to share, their homemade honey lemon, which had too much honey for my taste.
![4.jpg](https://static.tasteem.io/uploads/image/image/146138/fd93d07e-b02b-4e85-a237-0b08753035c3.jpeg)

Even though each dish is less than $5, it can get pricey if you order too much, which frequently happens whenever eating dim sum. Luckily we ordered just enough this time!
![8.jpg](https://static.tasteem.io/uploads/image/image/146137/fd93d07e-b02b-4e85-a237-0b08753035c3.jpeg)

I've posted about dimsum previously if you wanna check it out [here](https://steemit.com/dimsum/@taco.cat/tacocatstreats14dimsumlunchatpeachgarden-rqbf512qg6)! 

Thanks for reading!
![endslate gif3.gif](https://cdn.steemitimages.com/DQmeTAz9fX8VxVeWfmAS2MvvNeVCF4ViHfG1UDbq1Qb1PdC/endslate%20gif3.gif)
To find out more about me, check out my intro post [here!](https://steemit.com/introduceyourself/@taco.cat/my-first-steemit-post)

---------------------
### Restaurant Information


 Dim Sum Haus
![score](https://static.tasteem.io/images/2Crowns_en.png)
[57 Jln Besar, Singapore 208809](https://tasteem.io/post/29119#map)

-----------------------------------------
<center>[TacoCat's TrEats #24: Gettin sum Dim sum! ](https://tasteem.io/post/29119)
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| <center>Check out my previous post in this series!</center> |
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TacoCat's TrEats #24: Gettin sum Dim sum!

<center>http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/20180515_102142.jpg</center> Hey Steemit!

I've been pretty busy applying for jobs and stuff so my posting schedule is off, unfortunately.
<h2>15 May 2018. Tuesday.</h2>
We had a time skip since the last post, since it was just us going about our regular routine; daily 3 hour classes in school, cooking at home, and going to the supermarket. Something did change though, spring had finally arrived!

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-859" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/20180513_155251.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

After 2 months of snow and ice, everything finally melted and we could ditch our coats at last! It does get kinda hot in the daytime even with short-sleeved shirts on though since it became really sunny.

We were taking a course called Destination Marketing at the time, and the only fun thing about this course was we got to go on excursions! Even though Mikkeli is not very well-known since it's a pretty small town, tourists from other parts of Finland do travel here to stay in a Finnish summer cottage and enjoy the authentic Finnish hospitality experience. Since we were studying about unique destinations, our profs arranged for us to visit 2 cottages in Mikkeli!

Our class was split into 2 groups and we went together with our teams, each going to a different cottage on these 2 days. So unfortunately, we were split up and couldn't enjoy the excursion together. Oh well. 😕

On the first day, my group had to set off slightly earlier at 8am and we went to a cottage called Kenkävero, which was just a short drive away from Mikkeli's city centre.

 <img class="size-full wp-image-810" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/20180515_084248.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> How I miss the quiet nature of Mikkeli 😌

I got on a minibus with half the class and we soon arrived at Kenkävero.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-812" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/20180515_090908.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

It had the same cottagey style I always saw in old fairytales and movies! I really liked the traditional elegance it projected.

We had the whole morning to spend here to do field research, but we were to listen to the owner give a talk first, so we headed into the main dining hall.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-813" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/20180515_102339.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

It was so beautiful! I loooved the chandelier! The whole room was so aesthetic and refined it made me feel so out of place. I was really cautious of not knocking anything or dragging the chairs since the hardwood floors amplified everything in the tranquil cottage.

Unfortunately, the owner could only speak in Finnish and the TA who came with us (the prof went with the other group, thankfully) wasn't very good at English too. So one of my classmates had to do the rough translations. The owner basically told us about the history of Kenkävero and their business there.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-815" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/20180515_094753.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

So Kenkävero was actually built by a priest over 550 years ago and it used to be a parsonage until 1969! I think that makes it one of the oldest summer cottages in Finland. It has since been refurbished and is very modern, with air-conditioning and tasteful interior decorations and furniture.

If I recall correctly, the name Kenkävero actually translates to Shoe Tax, however there is no definite information about the origin of the name; mere stories. According to a story, the former Savolians used to put their shoes on the island of Kenkävero when they went to church and take them off again when they returned from the church. It is also said that the name would originate from the time of the Nazi War, when the Savonian lords were forced to surrender in the courtyard of the parish priest of Kenkäverne. 

After the talk, we were free to roam around the entire estate until 10:30am or so.

 <img class="wp-image-816 size-full" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/20180515_094759.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> A second, more intimate dining area for families

 <img class="wp-image-817 size-full" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/20180515_094817.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> I really liked the decorations in all the rooms! It was so quaint and picturesque, like the kind you'd see in magazines.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-818" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/20180515_094823.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

They even had some props in this tea room, detailing the history of Kenkävero.

 <img class="wp-image-819 size-full" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/20180515_094905.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> It was a real typewriter! I've never touched one before so I got kinda excited.

There was also a restaurant where they served traditional homemade snacks and meals.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-821" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/20180515_094951.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

The whole place was decorated so lovely! I especially liked all the light fixtures with flowers on them.

After walking around, it was time to explore outside!

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-822" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/20180515_095042.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

 <img class="wp-image-823 size-full" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/20180515_095131.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> It was a very sunny day as you can see

We were told that they have a exhibition of Santa's cottage here so we went to check it out first. Since it's typically only open in summer, the owner had to unlock it for us.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-824" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/20180515_095210.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-825" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/20180515_095223-e1551426054433.jpg" alt="" width="3024" height="4032" /> 

Inside Santa's cottage it was really old and rustic. There was wood everywhere, and some of the props were kinda dusty (not sure if this was intentional though).

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-826" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/20180515_095638.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

 <img class="wp-image-827 size-full" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/20180515_095841.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> No idea what these are, but my classmates were joking that Santa uses bongs. 😆

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-828" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/20180515_095723.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

There wasn't much else to Santa's cottage. There was a room that was blocked off, which I guess is a room guests can stay in. But why would you stay here when you can stay at the modern and beautiful cottage just down the road? 🤔

Like the sign said, there was a garden just outside Santa's cottage. This is probably where they plant the crops they use to cook food for the guests at the restaurant.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-829" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/20180515_095501.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

Further down from the garden is the beautiful lake! If you didn't know, Finland is actually known for as the country of a thousand lakes! And Mikkeli is located within Lakeland, where most of them are located. Now that all the ice on the lakes have melted, I'm glad we get to finally enjoy the view.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-830" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/20180515_095257.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

Thank goodness for the sunny weather that day (which makes for great photos)! Lovin' that azure blue sky.

 <img class="wp-image-831 size-full" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/20180515_100039.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> The ripples on the lake are so calming 😌

 <img class="wp-image-832 size-full" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/20180515_100043.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> Here's the view of the cottage from the river

 <img class="wp-image-833 size-full" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/20180515_100048.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> Not too far away was another cottage or something. The tall structures reminded me of a factory.

 <img class="wp-image-834 size-full" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/20180515_100052.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> They also had a greenhouse, maybe to plant flowers and more delicate crops.

 <img class="wp-image-835 size-full" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/20180515_100202.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> I love the way the sun shines on the lake. This would be a beautiful spot to enjoy the sunset I'm sure.

It got kinda hot standing out in the sun after a while so my classmates cooled off by the lake while I went to find some shelter with a friend. We decided to head back and explore the shop.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-836" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/20180515_100519-e1551426091636.jpg" alt="" width="3024" height="4032" /> 

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-837" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/20180515_100536.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

It was really quiet and cooling in here and they had all kinds of stuff! Crafts, lifestyle goods, kitchen equipment, furnishings, food products, clothes, jewelry, etc. I'm pretty sure most of the stuff here is handmade.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-839" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/20180515_100654.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

 <img class="wp-image-840 size-full" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/20180515_100854.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> That apron looks cute

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-841" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/20180515_101003-e1551426120416.jpg" alt="" width="3024" height="4032" /> 

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-843" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/20180515_101137.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-844" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/20180515_101033.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

Another unique feature of Kenkävero offers is a craft studio, where they made and sold various items.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-845" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/20180515_101355.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-847" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/20180515_101502.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-849" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/20180515_101635.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

 <img class="wp-image-848 size-full" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/20180515_101558.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> There was such a wide range of teas! All from different flowers and such

Everything was very expensive since it's made in-house, so I just browsed around.

 <img class="wp-image-852 size-full" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/20180515_102215.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> This is the most flowery tree I've ever seen! 😍

Anyway, soon it was time to head back to the dining hall. I wasn't expecting it but we got snacks! Yay for free food! Even though I had toast in the morning I got kinda hungry after all that walking.

 <img class="wp-image-853 size-full" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/20180515_110054-e1551427162369.jpg" alt="" width="3024" height="4032" /> On the left is a fish pie, and the right is an apple pie! Yums! 😋

They also had a flower tea which was surprisingly delicious! I'm not really a fan of teas but I really liked this one!

 <img class="wp-image-854 size-full" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/20180515_110301-e1551427926845.jpg" alt="" width="3024" height="4032" /> You know what they say, savoury before sweet is always neat! 😄

The owner lady said we were welcome to take as much as wanted and I really wanted to try both so I went for a second round. 😄

 <img class="wp-image-855 size-full" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/20180515_111252.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> Notice the apple pie is a bit bigger since I knew it was gonna be good 😉

The food was delicious! The fish pie was surprisingly yummy and not too fishy. I really enjoyed it.

 <img class="wp-image-856 size-full" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/20180515_111129.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> The owner continued to talk about some stuff but she was speaking Finnish and everyone was busy eating and I think no one paid attention. 😅

After those scrumptious snacks, we headed back onto the minibus back to school and I headed home. This was probably the most interesting school day we've had! 😄

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-857" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/20180515_114357.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

Whew what a long post. Thanks so much for reading! Tune in next time where I visit the other summer cottage!

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-633" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/endslate-gif3.gif" alt="" width="1550" height="380" /> 

To find out more about me, check out my intro post <a href="https://steemit.com/introduceyourself/@taco.cat/my-first-steemit-post">here!</a> <center><hr/>Posted from my blog with <a href='https://wordpress.org/plugins/steempress/'>SteemPress</a> : http://tacocat.vornix.blog/2019/03/01/tacocats-travels-finland-20-visiting-a-summer-cottage-in-spring-%f0%9f%8c%bc/ <hr/>

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| <center>Check out my previous post in this series!</center> |
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| <center> TacoCat’s Travels (Finland) #19: Goin' Retro! ](https://steemit.com/archisteem/@taco.cat/tacocatstravelsfinland19goinretro-6lnwifagyx)</center><center>https://steemitimages.com/640x0/http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/20180429_005110-e1547379518575.jpg</center></a></center>

TacoCat’s Travels (Finland) #20: Visiting a Summer Cottage in Spring 🌼

<center>http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/ml_bowser_inside_story_by_hugo_h2p-d247pqg.png</center> Hey Steemit!

OSTs make up the majority of the music I listen to, and they're so underrated I just had to share them! Feel free to listen while reading. 😊

So if you haven't heard yet, the CEO of Nintendo of America, the beloved Reggie Fils-Aimé is retiring! My body was not ready for this news. I was really shocked when I first read about it since he's not that old (57 years). I didn't realise it at first but he's been the president for around 15 years! Man where has the time gone. I guess it's good that he's retiring early enough so he can still have fun with his family and friends.

Here's his farewell video! We'll miss you Reggie!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v-hWm8cg9Eo

Anyway, he's gonna be succeeded by the current Senior VP of Sales, and his name is Doug Bowser! With a name like that he'll be a great fit I'm sure! 😄

 <img src="https://www.nintendoenthusiast.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/dougbowser.jpg" alt="Image result for doug bowser" width="960" height="640" /> If he doesn't appear on stage dressed as Bowser at the next E3 or something I'll be disappointed 😆 Also I see what you did there, Bowser

To that end, I chose a song from one of my favourite Mario games of all time, Mario &amp; Luigi: Bowser's Inside Story!

<img src="https://www.mobygames.com/images/covers/l/166051-mario-luigi-bowser-s-inside-story-nintendo-ds-front-cover.jpg" alt="Related image" /> 

If you've never seen this game before, Mario &amp; Luigi: Bowser's Inside Story is a RPG developed by AlphaDream, and published by Nintendo for the Nintendo DS in 2009. It is the third game in the Mario &amp; Luigi RPG series, and made use of the interactive screens of the DS in some of its gameplay mechanics. The game was super successful (hehe geddit, cos Mario), with most fans (including myself) considering it to be the best game in the series. It sold over four million copies worldwide by April 2011, making it the best selling Mario RPG. A remake for the Nintendo 3DS, titled Mario &amp; Luigi: Bowser's Inside Story + Bowser Jr.'s Journey was released in late Dec 2018.

The game's plot involves Mario and Luigi being inhaled into the body of their long-time nemesis, Bowser. The Mario brothers learn to assist Bowser, who is unaware of their presence, as he combats Fawful, who has taken control of the Mushroom Kingdom.

<center><img class="aligncenter" src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/UwY9vsoZVJc/hqdefault.jpg" alt="Related image" width="703" height="527" /></center> 

Oh damn has it really been 10 years since this game came out! I can't really remember where I was in life when I was playing it because I'd get sooo absorbed in this game. But I do remember playing it on my old DS Lite so it must have been a loooong time. I loved everything about it; the art, the music, the new gameplay mechanics, it's such an awesome game I think I replayed it a couple of times too. That nostalgia, *sigh* I'm getting old. 😔

Anyway, the song I chose for today is the final battle theme, and spoiler alert: it's EPIC af! PLEASE take a moment and listen to this masterpiece:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FBLp-3Rw_u0

Obviously, you'd only get to listen to this song during the final battle of the game, which I'm not gonna divulge since it's a spoiler for anyone who hasn't played it. I recently heard this song while playing Smash Ultimate and I got so excited because I didn't know they put it in there! It definitely distracted me a little bit during the fight though. 😅

This song is probably the most epic one in the entire Mario franchise, imo. You can practically feel the epicness from the 7 second intro; that mix of piano and the highly prominent rolling synth notes just before the beat kicks in, and the melody soon after. The piano (with its accompanying airy support) remains at the forefront for the rest of the song but the synth harmony with the beats and the subtle arpeggio/rolling electric piano sequence in the background definitely make this piece absolutely fantastic. All 5 components just mesh so well together it can rival any orchestral soundtrack (and that's coming from an ex-orchestra performer).

<img src="https://images6.alphacoders.com/518/thumb-1920-518340.jpg" alt="Image result for bowser's inside story wallpaper" /> 

The top comment on the video explains this song really well:

<img class="alignnone wp-image-803" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/1.png" alt="" width="723" height="94" />
<center><img class="wp-image-804 aligncenter" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/2.png" alt="" width="659" height="287" /></center> 

I think Da Nintendude nailed it; when I was in the heat of the final battle I definitely remember experiencing all those emotions. The upbeat tempo of the song makes players feel motivated to win but the minor key of the piano conveys that uncertainty and fear that you might lose and get a Game Over, causing the world you know and love to fall to total destruction. Kudos to Nintendude for putting all these feels into words. 👏

Yoko Shimomura was the composer for this game and she is an absolute genius. I believe she composed songs for the entire Mario &amp; Luigi series, and she also did Street Fighter II and Kingdom Hearts! She is a true musical talent, and I am so glad I got to enjoy her work with this series. 😍

Thanks for reading!

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-633" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/endslate-gif3.gif" alt="" width="1550" height="380" /> 

To find out more about me, check out my intro post <a href="https://steemit.com/introduceyourself/@taco.cat/my-first-steemit-post">here!</a> <center><hr/>Posted from my blog with <a href='https://wordpress.org/plugins/steempress/'>SteemPress</a> : http://tacocat.vornix.blog/2019/02/23/ost-of-the-day-25-mario-luigi-bowsers-inside-story-final-battle/ <hr/></center>

| <center>Check out my previous post in this series!</center> |
|:-:|
| <center> OST of the Day #24: MapleSEA - Go Shanghai! ](https://steemit.com/chinese/@taco.cat/ostoftheday24maplesea-goshanghai-9l9mix44wo)</center><center>https://steemitimages.com/640x0/http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Maplestory-BasilMarket-Screen-222219-1.jpg</center></a></center>

OST of the Day #25: Mario & Luigi: Bowser's Inside Story - Final Battle!

![title_image](https://static.tasteem.io/uploads/4088/post/27980/content_f0664ae3-0918-4a0e-98e0-8b9348d82d4f.jpeg)
 
Hey Steemit!

Now that I'm back in Singapore again, hopefully I'll be able to keep up a more regular post schedule. 🤞

Anyway, Chinese New Year just ended a few days ago and I actually had my reunion dinner on the eve of CNY (4th Feb), with my family and relatives. However, I have already written about that particular restaurant in a [previous post](https://steemit.com/tasteem/@taco.cat/tasteem-8c9175). I had a second reunion dinner with just my family on the 9th of Feb and this time we ate at Tunglok Signatures! 

![TungLok Signatures Changi City Point _cv.jpg](https://static.tasteem.io/uploads/image/image/139652/128a668e-6ccf-40e4-b24d-a3cf5f5de193.jpeg)
Source: [OneThreeOneFour](https://img.onethreeonefour.com/TungLok%20Signatures%20Changi%20City%20Point%20_cv.jpg)

So for CNY dinners it's customary to _lo hei_ or _lao yu sheng_ before the actual dinner. Also called Prosperity Toss, _yu sheng_ is a Cantonese-style raw fish salad. It usually consists of strips of raw fish (sometimes salmon), mixed with shredded vegetables and a variety of sauces and condiments, among other ingredients. 

![2.jpg](https://static.tasteem.io/uploads/image/image/139654/128a668e-6ccf-40e4-b24d-a3cf5f5de193.jpeg)
The restaurant also served _bak kwa_ as appetisers. _Bak kwa_, or _rou gan_ is a type of jerky, typically pork but there are chicken and beef versions as well. 

So to make the salad is actually pretty simple; just throwing ingredients together on a plate, but during CNY the server has to say some New Year greetings as well, and there are specific phrases for each ingredient that is added. For example, when the fish is added, we'd say 年年有余 (nian nian you yu), which means "abundance through the year". When lime/pomelo is added, we'd say 大吉大利, meaning “good luck and smooth sailing”, and so on. 

The last step to _yu sheng_ is the tossing! This is the fun part where everyone gets up and tosses the ingredients in the air with chopsticks while saying various "auspicious wishes" out loud. It is believed that the height of the toss reflects the height of the diners' growth in fortunes, thus diners are expected to toss enthusiastically. It often becomes quite a messy affair but it's all in good fun and tradition. 
![1.jpg](https://static.tasteem.io/uploads/image/image/139653/128a668e-6ccf-40e4-b24d-a3cf5f5de193.jpeg)

I'm not that fond of salads in general, so I only eat a little bit of _yu sheng_. It didn't taste too bad, the quality of this _yu sheng_ was better than the one I had a D'Cuisines.

For the actual dinner we ordered ala carte. 
First was a soup with lotus roots and pork. It was quite thick but still pretty tasty.
![3.jpg](https://static.tasteem.io/uploads/image/image/139657/128a668e-6ccf-40e4-b24d-a3cf5f5de193.jpeg)

Next, we had broccoli and egg with crab meat! Broccoli is my favourite vegetable so I really liked this dish.
![4.jpg](https://static.tasteem.io/uploads/image/image/139658/128a668e-6ccf-40e4-b24d-a3cf5f5de193.jpeg)

Then we had deep fried prawns with wasabi mayo. I don't really like wasabi as it was kinda strong but the prawn was pretty good.
![5.jpg](https://static.tasteem.io/uploads/image/image/139659/128a668e-6ccf-40e4-b24d-a3cf5f5de193.jpeg)

We also had roast pork belly, or 燒肉 (shao rou), which is one of my mum's favourite dishes to order at Tunglok. It was so crispy and yummy! 😋
![6.jpg](https://static.tasteem.io/uploads/image/image/139660/128a668e-6ccf-40e4-b24d-a3cf5f5de193.jpeg)

Since we had roast duck during our first reunion dinner, we decided to have roast chicken this time! The skin was a little crispy and it was delicious! 
![7.jpg](https://static.tasteem.io/uploads/image/image/139661/128a668e-6ccf-40e4-b24d-a3cf5f5de193.jpeg)

The last dish was my personal favourite; ee-fu noodle, or 伊府面! I love the texture of the noodles, the mushrooms and the truffley sauce they use. It's always my go-to carb dish at Tunglok. 
![8.jpg](https://static.tasteem.io/uploads/image/image/139662/128a668e-6ccf-40e4-b24d-a3cf5f5de193.jpeg)

After all that I was completely stuffed! We couldn't order dessert since we were too full from such a scrumptious meal. 😋

Cover image source: [Tunglok Signatures](http://www.tungloksignatures.com/en/images/info-changi-city-point.jpg)

Thanks for reading!
![endslate gif3.gif](https://cdn.steemitimages.com/DQmeTAz9fX8VxVeWfmAS2MvvNeVCF4ViHfG1UDbq1Qb1PdC/endslate%20gif3.gif)
To find out more about me, check out my intro post [here!](https://steemit.com/introduceyourself/@taco.cat/my-first-steemit-post)

---------------------
### Restaurant Information


 Tunglok Signatures
![score](https://static.tasteem.io/images/2Crowns_en.png)
[5 Changi Business Park Central 1, Singapore 486038](https://tasteem.io/post/27980#map)

-----------------------------------------
<center>[TacoCat's TrEats #23: CNYummy reunion dinner! 😋](https://tasteem.io/post/27980)
This post participated in the Tasteem contest [The Palatable Beauty of Chinese Cuisine](https://tasteem.io/event/334)

 [What is Tasteem?](https://tasteem.io/about)

[![tasteem_banner.png](https://static.tasteem.io/images/tasteem_banner_en_v3.png)](https://tasteem.io)</center>

| <center>Check out my previous post in this series!</center> |
|:-:|
| <center> [TacoCat's TrEats #22: Crispiest prata in SG! ](https://steemit.com/tasteem/@taco.cat/tasteem-683ff9)</center><center>https://steemitimages.com/640x0/https://static.tasteem.io/uploads/image/image/131908/03d21151-0648-4713-833a-45fbe026097f.jpeg</center></a></center>

TacoCat's TrEats #23: CNYummy reunion dinner! 😋

<center>http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/20180429_005110-e1547379518575.jpg</center> Hey Steemit!

I'm posting this just before I go on yet another trip so there'll probably be a short hiatus on posts yet again, just a heads up.
<h3>29 April 2018. Sunday.</h3>
So at the end of the <a href="https://steemit.com/archisteem/@taco.cat/tacocatstravelsfinland-estonia18gettingspookedandcruisinghome-59ychiehnb">previous post</a>, I mentioned that we discovered there was a video game museum near to our hotel on the way back from Estonia. If you've read my <a href="https://steemit.com/introduceyourself/@taco.cat/my-first-steemit-post">intro post</a> or any of my OST posts you'd know that I'm super into gaming so I was really excited to visit this museum! It's probably one of the few museums I'd actually be interested in tbh. 😅

But first, breakfast! Yay for unintentional rhymes, amirite. 😄

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-767" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/20180429_103631-e1549789087541.jpg" alt="" width="3024" height="4032" /> 

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-673" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/20180428_110355.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

We had a delicious filling breakfast courtesy of Clarion Hotel before checking out and heading to the museum, which was about a 10 minute walk away.

The museum was actually located within a shopping centre/mega store called Verkkokauppa.com, which sells electronics and household appliances. It was a building on its own, and the Helsinki Computer &amp; Game Console Museum was on the 4th and 5th floors.

<center><img class="aligncenter" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/p/AF1QipPXUdC0K9mH6KufVO8xTc6k3XIGDZbsnCRKBLQd=w660-h440-c" alt="Related image" /></center> 

The floors weren't that big, and there was no air conditioning, I guess it's not very sustainable and they probably don't get many visitors since it's quite out of the way being located next to the port and all. But this wall was on the right of the elevator and it's pretty cool! I believe they're cover art of old PlayStation and Xbox games. And there were also these statues from Ratchet &amp; Clank, Jak &amp; Daxter, Jurassic Park (I guess.?) and COD. I had watched a Let's Play of Ratchet &amp; Clank and I really enjoyed it so it was a pleasant surprise to see them here. 😊

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-768" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/20180429_122735.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-771" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/20180429_123317.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

 <img class="wp-image-766 size-full" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/20180429_122920-e1549789064479.jpg" alt="" width="3024" height="4032" /> That's so cool of Mr. Tommiska to donate his collection to put on display here for everyone to enjoy! What a nice guy 😄

Anyway, on the first floor of the museum (which is technically the 4th floor), there were the reeeeally old computers and game consoles, stuff I wasn't really familiar with since I wasn't around back in the 80s.

 <img class="wp-image-765 size-full" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/20180429_122801-e1549788978792.jpg" alt="" width="3024" height="4032" /> Old Atari stuff!

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-769" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/20180429_122943-e1549789106292.jpg" alt="" width="3024" height="4032" /> 

It's too bad the text on the labels were in Finnish and some of the lighting in the display cases weren't even switched on so it was hard to see. I was expecting a guide or something but since it was so small I thought there'd at least be an e-guide, but there wasn't. What a shame.

Oh well, here's some info on Atari I found!
Atari is a French corporate and brand name owned by several entities since its inception in 1972, currently by Atari Interactive. The original company was called Atari Inc. and was an American video game developer and home computer company founded by Nolan Bushnell and Ted Dabney. Primarily responsible for the formation of the video arcade and modern video game industries, the company was closed and its assets split in 1984 as a direct result of the North American video game crash of 1983. Today, Atari is still known for creating one of the oldest video games, Pong, and famous retro arcade games like Asteroids and Centipede.

 <img class="wp-image-770 size-full" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/20180429_123013.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> Old Commodores! I've never actually seen one in person so it was so cool!

The very famous Commodore 64 (or C64) is an 8-bit home computer introduced in January 1982 by Commodore International. It has been listed in the Guinness World Records as the highest-selling single computer model of all time, dominating the low-end computer market for most of the 1980s.

 <img class="wp-image-772 size-full" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/20180429_123413.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> There was a TV screen next to the elevators playing old video game commercials. 1 look at that font and you know how old it is. 😅

 <img class="wp-image-799 size-full" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/photo6269381951613937784.jpg" alt="" width="960" height="1280" /> There was so much stuff I didn't recognise! I know of those old joysticks though.

After a brief look around, we went to check out the 2nd floor of the museum. There was some slightly more modern consoles here, and Nintendo stuff! So I was more excited.

 <img class="wp-image-777 size-full" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/20180429_124521.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> Another wall of cover art and statues! Too bad the PS2 wasn't switched on.

 <img class="wp-image-778 size-full" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/20180429_124644.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> Old computers! Oh damn I remember that blue iMac in my old classrooms.

 <img class="wp-image-779 size-full" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/20180429_124549-e1549789134284.jpg" alt="" width="3024" height="4032" /> The original Xbox! And some other consoles I've never heard of before

 <img class="wp-image-780 size-full" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/20180429_124611-e1549789153707.jpg" alt="" width="3024" height="4032" /> I remember seeing that small TV console on a YouTube video about R.O.B.!

&nbsp;

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-781" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/20180429_124850-e1549789169696.jpg" alt="" width="3024" height="4032" /> 

There was also a GBA display!! Oh man this really hits close to home; I remember my cousin had this exact one, and my parents bought a GBA for my eldest brother but his looked more like this:

<img src="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/41ZWZ795YML._SX342_.jpg" alt="Related image" /> 

Just FYI, the screen is really that small and it did not have a LED backlight so you had to rely on an external light source to see the screen (so we couldn't play in the car at night). AND it ran on AA batteries!

My brother and cousin also played this exact Pokemon version - LeafGreen (while I played FireRed)! Oh man, so much nostalgia. 😅

 <img class="wp-image-782 size-full" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/20180429_125034-e1549789279505.jpg" alt="" width="3024" height="4032" /> A display case full of old Nintendo consoles! 

I think that was the first time I actually saw a SNES, Super Famicom and GameCube in real life since I've never seen them in Singapore before. But looking at all these handhelds again really brings back soooo many memories (and also makes me realise how old I really am now 😔).

 <img class="wp-image-783 size-full" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/20180429_125200-e1549789298532.jpg" alt="" width="3024" height="4032" /> Old calculators..?

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-794" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/20180429_125210-e1549789623541.jpg" alt="" width="3024" height="4032" /> 

 <img class="wp-image-790 size-full" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/20180429_125144-e1549789532954.jpg" alt="" width="3024" height="4032" /> Is that a knockoff GameBoy.? 😅

 <img class="wp-image-791 size-full" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/20180429_125155-e1549789566222.jpg" alt="" width="3024" height="4032" /> Ah the original PlayStation... with GTA! 

 <img class="wp-image-792 size-full" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/20180429_125311-e1549789585987.jpg" alt="" width="3024" height="4032" /> Old SEGA consoles!

That was also the first time I saw a SEGA Genesis (or MegaDrive here in Finland) and SEGA Dreamcast, which was the rival of Nintendo's SNES and GameCube respectively.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-796" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/20180429_125649-e1549789655591.jpg" alt="" width="3024" height="4032" /> 

On this floor, the TV screen was playing old Nintendo commercials! I did not know they had a cereal to accompany their games! 😅

So there was also a roof terrace on the top floor and we went to check it out as well.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-774" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/20180429_123947.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-775" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/20180429_124121.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

Tbh it wasn't that great. Sorry for the poor quality as the weather wasn't very pleasant that day as you can see. There was this cool looking jet though.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-776" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/20180429_124218.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

Anyway after all that, we collected our luggage back at the hotel before walking back towards the main bus station in Helsinki. We had lunch in the station at our usual place, Singapore Hot Wok!

 <img class="wp-image-797 size-full" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/20180429_162320.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> This was taken moments before I devoured that deliciousness. 😋

We didn't have much time after that and soon it was time to board the bus back home!

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-798" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/20180429_170154-e1549789768585.jpg" alt="" width="3024" height="4032" /> 

And with that we've come to the end of our short weekend trip! Man, can you believe these past few posts were only just 3 days in real time. Anyway, stay tuned to my next post where we explore more of Finland!

Thanks for reading!

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-633" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/endslate-gif3.gif" alt="" width="1550" height="380" /> 

To find out more about me, check out my intro post <a href="https://steemit.com/introduceyourself/@taco.cat/my-first-steemit-post">here!</a> <center><hr/>Posted from my blog with <a href='https://wordpress.org/plugins/steempress/'>SteemPress</a> : http://tacocat.vornix.blog/2019/02/10/tacocats-travels-finland-19-goin-retro-%f0%9f%91%be/ <hr/>

[//]:# (!steemitworldmap 60.156296 lat 24.920547 long d3scr)</center>

| <center>Check out my previous post in this series!</center> |
|:-:|
| <center> [TacoCat’s Travels (Finland-Estonia) #18: Getting spooked and cruising home! ](https://steemit.com/archisteem/@taco.cat/tacocatstravelsfinland-estonia18gettingspookedandcruisinghome-59ychiehnb)</center><center>https://steemitimages.com/640x0/http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/20180428_182636-e1547380002877.jpg</center></a></center>

TacoCat’s Travels (Finland) #19: Goin' Retro! 👾

<center>http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Maplestory-BasilMarket-Screen-222219-1.jpg</center> Hey Steemit!

Happy Lunar New Year! 🍊 新年快樂！Hope you guys had some fun celebrating (if you do). It's finally the Year of the Pig which is my zodiac so yay! Hopefully this means more good fortune and stuff for me this year! 😅

<center><img class="aligncenter" src="https://i0.wp.com/happynewyearwala.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/1546948937_909_chinese-new-year-2019-images-red-envelope-tradition.jpg?resize=640%2C378" alt="Related image" /></center> 

Anyway, If you're unfamiliar with this series, basically I share a soundtrack and my thoughts about it, and I highly recommend listening to the song while reading! 😊

Since it's still Chinese New Year (it lasts 15 days, fyi), I thought I'd pick a song fitting for this feastive season.

<center><img class="aligncenter" src="http://media.playpark.net/MapleStory/uploadimages/fb_fg.PNG" alt="Image result for maplestory chinese new year" /></center> 

Yup, today we'll be reminiscing the good 'ol times in Maplestory yet again! Maple was one of the first online games I've ever played and it was also the game I wrote about in <a href="https://steemit.com/music/@taco.cat/ost-of-the-day-1-maplesea-cbd">my very first OST of the Day post</a>!

Just to recap if you're unfamiliar with this game, Maplestory is a free-to-play, 2D side-scrolling MMORPG, developed by Wizet. There were actually many different versions for specific countries and regions with their own publishers. I played the MapleSEA version which was published by Nexon and was released in 2005. Specifically I played the pre-Big Bang version so I'm not too familiar with all the newer jobs and areas.

<img src="https://goodyfeed.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/Maple0003.jpg" alt="Related image" /> 

I remember I used to spend countless hours training and gaining exp for my character and sometimes I fell asleep on my keyboard training. 😅

Maplestory had very unique regions, some of which were copies of real life locations, such as Singapore's CBD area, Malaysia's Kuala Lumpur, Taiwan's Taipei 101, etc. Today, I chose a song from the Shanghai area, called Shanghai Wai-Tan!

 <img src="http://i.imgur.com/oPl8I1z.png" alt="Related image" width="810" height="517" /> This picture is from a Maple private server which is pre-Big Bang, so if you wanna relive those sweet memories do check it out!

Here's the song of the day!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xPtgIjPQqe4

I recommend listening with headphones because you get to enjoy the sweet reverb from the starting melody. I'm not entirely sure what instrument it is exactly, but I imagine it's a kind of vibraphone. The crisp sounds from the pipa (a four-stringed plucked Chinese musical instrument) give a sharp contrast to the echoey vibraphone notes. The dizi (a Chinese flute) comes in briefly, and bells follow after that as percussion. The vibraphone comes in more strongly for the bridge (with guitar as support) and the rest of the percussion (including crash cymbals and slight maracas) build up for the climax of the song.

I really like this song because it's so upbeat despite the mellow beginning. The tempo increases quite rapidly until the first climax, and settles just a little bit in the middle through the next bridge up until the second climax. I also like that the composers combined the traditional Chinese instruments (such as the cymbals and gongs) with more modern beats and hihats towards the end. Overall, it's a pretty catchy and pleasant song, don't you think? 😊

<img src="http://i.imgur.com/6M3MJ6Z.jpg" alt="Related image" /> 

Obviously, Chinese instruments are very prominent throughout the song (and fittingly so), which is also why I chose this song. Not only because it's fitting for Chinese New Year, but also since I'm quite familiar with them, having been in a Chinese Orchestra for 4 years in high school. I guess I'm not only reminiscing the game but my musical background as well. 😄 Even though it's been a while, those years I spent playing the zhongruan were really fun and I'll always remember them fondly.

I found out there was an alternate version of this song which I guess was in an earlier version of the game. Unfortunately I didn't have a chance to listen to it in-game because it's pretty awesome! Check it out!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uZ3egkrlMZY

Sooo many people in the comments say that this song reminds them of an anime opening and I couldn't agree more! It's just got that beat that's like a classic anime song. Perhaps that's why it was changed so they wouldn't get sued from the anime production companies? I think I like this version better but I'd say the first one suits the game better. I'm glad I got to at least enjoy the song regardless, so their hard work didn't go to waste (also because it's pretty damn epic).

Hope you guys have a fantastic Chinese New Year! Thanks for reading!

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-633" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/endslate-gif3.gif" alt="" width="1550" height="380" /> 

To find out more about me, check out my intro post <a href="https://steemit.com/introduceyourself/@taco.cat/my-first-steemit-post">here!</a> <center><hr/>Posted from my blog with <a href='https://wordpress.org/plugins/steempress/'>SteemPress</a> : http://tacocat.vornix.blog/2019/02/07/ost-of-the-day-24-maplesea-go-shanghai-%f0%9f%90%b7/ <hr/></center>

| <center>Check out my previous post in this series!</center> |
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| <center> [OST of the Day #23: Phoenix Wright Ace Attorney - Trial ‍⚖️](https://steemit.com/game/@taco.cat/ostoftheday23phoenixwrightaceattorney-trial-qhvrkemvhc)</center><center>![pw aa.jpg](https://cdn.steemitimages.com/DQmPT26RGtTn1w4Z9yDSh8YWu9wz5jiuv4ZnAEuFzJtUi9b/pw%20aa.jpg)</a></center>

OST of the Day #24: MapleSEA - Go Shanghai! 🐷

![32130453620_b26fa0b8de_b.jpg](https://cdn.steemitimages.com/DQmd4YqE3abbrZvqaRJ4rPiHv5rbDEeiNi2WUCmUEA5JVF9/32130453620_b26fa0b8de_b.jpg)
 
Hey Steemit!

So I was in the West part of Singapore the other day and we had heard of a reeeally good prata place in the area and decided to check it out for ourselves!

If you're unfamiliar with roti prata or _roti canai_, it is an Indian-influenced flatbread dish found in several countries in Asia, including Malaysia, Brunei, Indonesia and Singapore. It is usually served with _dal_ or other types of curry, but can also be cooked in a range of sweet or savoury variations made with a variety of ingredients. Popular ingredients include egg, cheese, chocolate, banana, and condensed milk. Although, there have been many new "hipster" flavours popping up these days like honey and nutella.
![31697692923_744808e3f7_b.jpg](https://static.tasteem.io/uploads/image/image/131908/03d21151-0648-4713-833a-45fbe026097f.jpeg)
Source: [misstamchiak.com](https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=2ahUKEwjTuezJjJDgAhVJsI8KHYKpCCYQjhx6BAgBEAM&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.misstamchiak.com%2Fenaq%2F&psig=AOvVaw1F2I_zDdggApdClhAHJFg0&ust=1548751563078449) 

So I read that prata is not actually found in India; I'm not sure of that myself since I've never been to India before, but it is a very popular breakfast dish/snack in Malaysia. It is said that the dish was brought over from India by Indian Muslims, also known as "Mamaks" in Malaysia, and is served in mamak stalls located in both rural and urban Malaysia. My mum was born in Malaysia and I remember every time we would go over to visit my relatives we'd always eat a prata breakfast at the same restaurant (called Jalan Kayu or smt), and share a big tissue prata. 😊
![33_3_1540537923.jpg](https://static.tasteem.io/uploads/image/image/132167/03d21151-0648-4713-833a-45fbe026097f.jpeg)

So the restaurant we went to this time is called ENAQ The Prata Shop, and it was kinda out of the way near Chinese Garden. Nestled within a few blocks of public housing (HDB blocks), it may be a little difficult to locate but they do have another branch in Ghim Moh.
![85217e439e7574acfaa615a24cb70dda_1412693052.jpg](https://static.tasteem.io/uploads/image/image/132166/03d21151-0648-4713-833a-45fbe026097f.jpeg)
Source: [Hungrygowhere.com](https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=2ahUKEwjdidCRqpHgAhVXVH0KHQP1B3UQjhx6BAgBEAM&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.hungrygowhere.com%2Fsingapore%2FEnaq_Restaurant%2Freview%2Fd2c70200%2F&psig=AOvVaw2F2lfg-LuHu8TcAZ7b2GIZ&ust=1548794126879053)

The restaurant started in 2008 and quickly became famous after they received recommendations on Trip Advisor! I'm so glad they're doing well because they really do deserve it for their delicious food! 😋

So we started with 2 plain prata and 1 egg prata, with bandung (rose syrup drink with condensed milk). The plain prata was sooooo crispy! It was probably the crispiest prata I've ever eaten.
![1.jpg](https://static.tasteem.io/uploads/image/image/132168/03d21151-0648-4713-833a-45fbe026097f.jpeg)

We also ordered the prata bomb, which is prata with condensed milk inside. It was kinda sweet for my taste but with the curry it's really yummy too!
![2.jpg](https://static.tasteem.io/uploads/image/image/132169/03d21151-0648-4713-833a-45fbe026097f.jpeg)

Here's a picture of the stall inside the restaurant and the [menu](http://www.enaqprata.com.sg/menu/):
![3.jpg](https://static.tasteem.io/uploads/image/image/132170/03d21151-0648-4713-833a-45fbe026097f.jpeg)

It was a really scrumptious meal and I'd definitely go again if I'm in the area. 😃

Have you tried roti prata before? What's your favourite flavour? Let me know in the comments below!

Thanks for reading!
![endslate gif3.gif](https://cdn.steemitimages.com/DQmeTAz9fX8VxVeWfmAS2MvvNeVCF4ViHfG1UDbq1Qb1PdC/endslate%20gif3.gif)
To find out more about me, check out my intro post [here!](https://steemit.com/introduceyourself/@taco.cat/my-first-steemit-post)

---------------------
### Restaurant Information


 ENAQ The Prata Shop
![score](https://static.tasteem.io/images/2Crowns_en.png)
[303 Jurong East Street 32, Singapore 600303](https://tasteem.io/post/26622#map)

-----------------------------------------
<center>[TacoCat's TrEats #22: Crispiest prata in SG! 😋](https://tasteem.io/post/26622)
This post participated in the Tasteem contest [Your weekly choice ](https://tasteem.io/event/307)

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| <center> [TacoCat's TrEats #21: Makan at Pagi Sore!](https://steemit.com/tasteem/@taco.cat/tasteem-cfc803)</center><center>https://steemitimages.com/640x0/https://static.tasteem.io/uploads/4088/post/25990/content_edf4abf2-6a21-414e-978c-f24d64b53094.jpeg</center></a></center>

TacoCat's TrEats #22: Crispiest prata in SG! 😋

<center>http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/20180428_184029.jpg</center> Hey Steemit!

First of all, I was floored by the response from the <a href="https://steemit.com/archisteem/@taco.cat/tacocatstravelsfinland17travelingbackintimetooldtown-uic3d0s32u">previous post</a>, so thank you to all those who read, upvoted, curated and commented! You guys are awesome! 😄

Now on to the rest of our adventure in Estonia, let's-a-go! Long post incoming!

28 April 2018. Saturday. 

So after our delicious meal in PORGU restaurant, we decided to take a walk further upwards and away from the city centre to hopefully get to a good viewpoint.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-757" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/photo6226567759102322883.jpg" alt="" width="960" height="1280" /> 

We arrived in this open area, where the gate/wall separating downtown and Toompea Hill is located. The building on the left with the name <a href="https://linnamuuseum.ee/en/neitsitorn-museum-cafe/">Neitsitorn (Maiden Tower)</a> is an old defense tower from the year 1370! I read that the tower used to be a popular cafe back in early Soviet times, and now it is completely renovated and open again, and also houses a museum. If you're a history buff, I'd recommend checking it out! The museum also give tours of the 4 towers that are located here, and I saw that two of the towers were never open before to the public. I wonder why..? 🤔

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-717" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/20180428_182557.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

So apparently, one of the 2 towers, called the Short Leg Gate Tower, is one of the most haunted places in Tallinn! The other one is called the Stable Tower (Tallitorn); it used to be an infamous prison tower in medieval times and is still known for its countless ghost stories. 😱

 <img class="wp-image-718 size-full" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/20180428_182636-e1547380002877.jpg" alt="" width="3024" height="4032" /> The statue reminds me of Death

 <img class="wp-image-719 size-full" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/20180428_182702-e1547379980416.jpg" alt="" width="3024" height="4032" /> Here's a very interesting story of the Short Leg Gate Tower! I'm not sure if it's really true though... 🤔

I'm kinda skeptical when it comes to paranormal stuff, but I was still really glad that it was bright outside. Almost everything looks better in the light. 😊

After strolling up the path from the Short Leg Gate Tower, we chanced upon this magnificent building! The tops kinda reminded me of the mosques we have in Singapore but then I saw Jesus on top of the archway. 😅

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-720" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/20180428_182920.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

So this is the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, which is Tallinn's largest and grandest orthodox cupola cathedral! I read that it was built to a design by Mikhail Preobrazhensky in a typical Russian Revival style and completed in 1900, during the period when the country was part of the Russian Empire. Curiously, the cathedral was so disliked by many Estonians because it was regarded as a symbol of oppression that the Estonian authorities scheduled the cathedral for demolition in 1924, but the decision was never implemented due to lack of funds and the building's massive construction.

 <img class="wp-image-722 size-full" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/20180428_183240.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> The interior is beautiful and has such intricate details!

 <img class="size-full wp-image-723" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/20180428_184029.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> Here's a better view of the cathedral! It sure is massive.

Just opposite the cathedral is another grand building!

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-721" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/20180428_183127.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

This is Toompea Castle (or rather, a part of it)! Unfortunately, it's hard to see the full castle when you're on foot right in front of it. Here's a full view:

<img src="https://www.riigikogu.ee/wpcms/wp-content/gallery/pikk-hermann-ja-tornid-sidebar/Pikk-Hermann-ja-Eesti-lipp-Foto-Jaan-Janesmae.JPG" alt="Related image" /> 

Toompea Castle was erected on the foundations of the crumbling eastern wing of the fortress built on this site in the 13th and 14th centuries. The pink section of the castle in front with its late Baroque façade was built between 1767 and 1773. On one corner of the castle you can see Pikk Hermann tower with the blue, black and white tricolour flag waving above it. It’s commonly recognised that whoever’s flag flies on top of this tower is the ruler of Estonia.

Today, the castle is home to the Riigikogu (the Estonian parliament), and it definitely looks like a parliament house for sure. I'm glad they retained the older parts of the castle despite the great contrast in architecture styles. To me, that just shows progress in how far Estonia has come from being under the Russian Empire in the past and now enjoying their independent state.

After taking a crap ton of photos, we wound up walking to a balcony where we could see almost all of Old Town!

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-724" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/20180428_185312.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

Here's a video I took of the view!

https://youtu.be/a84zfIxwGJQ

The tallest building must be St. Olaf's Church at 159 metres! It's the building on the left that probably doesn't look as tall as the one on the right since it's further from where I was standing.

After admiring the view, we started heading back towards the main downtown area, enjoying the scenery and the slowly setting sun. 😌

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-726" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/20180428_190208.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

 <img class="wp-image-727 size-full" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/20180428_190909.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> I'm not really sure what this structure is for, but there's yet another church here!

When we arrived in the town square, guess what we saw! A corgi!! 😍

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-728" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/20180428_191243.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

 <img class="wp-image-729 size-full" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/20180428_191259.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> Look at his little stubby legs! 😄 

The corgi is my favourite dog breed, and they're so adorable! We might have gotten distracted while taking a selfie because we were admiring the corgi. 😅

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-743" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/20180428_191339.jpg" alt="" width="3264" height="2448" /> 

We started heading back towards the port, going through the more modern part of Tallinn. You could tell the architecture is extremely different from the actual Old Town.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-730" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/20180428_191609.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

The building on the left is so cool! I thought it would be the port authority building or something but apparently it's a law firm.? I wonder why they modelled it after a ship. 🤔

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-731" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/20180428_191746.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

We also spotted this interesting looking building that looks like a treehouse! Maybe it's a design firm?

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-732" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/20180428_192457.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

This is probably one of the more unique McDonald's I've seen. I like how the structure blends in with the surrounding buildings but the colour makes it stand out.

 <img class="size-full wp-image-733" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/20180428_192543.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> Oh man everyone knows not to name your food!

I like these 2 towers separating the more modern side of town from Old Town. It's literally a gateway to the future! Granted, the older side of town is still very well maintained and doesn't look dilapidated at all, which is amazing.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-736" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/20180428_194759.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

Our Finnish friends from college told us that Estonia is known for cheap alcohol, and that many people from Finland often go across the border to get beer at much cheaper prices. One of them even bought 10 cases of beer back to Finland! We don't really drink but since we were here we had to try at least 1 drink.

<img src="https://steemitimages.com/DQmU8zejDQECTbv5sisSD9amH5SHuCpx3V6z2GaoXSGJpyi/photo6302936581182433297.jpg" alt="Image result for classic long drink finland steemit" /> 

So Finland is known for <a href="https://steemit.com/travel/@seanytan/seany-s-daily-shenanigans-first-time-trying-a-long-drink">long drink</a> (lonkero), which is a mixed drink made from gin and, most commonly, grapefruit soda. Apparently this is a very famous brand in Finland so we decided to give it a try!

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-735" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/20180428_194704-e1547379812237.jpg" alt="" width="3024" height="4032" /> 

Tbh I didn't really like it. I'm not really a fan of carbonated drinks (alcohol or not) and I think the grapefruit was too bitter. I read that they have other flavours like cranberry and lime; maybe I would have liked lime better.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-737" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/20180428_211452.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

Too soon, it was sunset and we headed back to the port to catch the ferry back to Helsinki! We boarded the ferry ahead of time so we could explore more of the ship this time (I took a nap on the ride here).

We discovered even more stuff on the ship like a supermarket! We spent quite a bit of time in here just looking at all the different products and souvenirs.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-738" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/20180428_235752.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-739" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/20180429_001426.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

 <img class="wp-image-740 size-full" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/20180429_000733-e1547379668319.jpg" alt="" width="3024" height="4032" /> When your mum says she only gonna bring 1 carry-on bag. 😂

 <img class="wp-image-744 size-full" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/20180429_001158-e1547396590577.jpg" alt="" width="3024" height="4032" /> We don't see any products with cuss words in Singapore 'cos of censorship and stuff so this was kinda a surprise. But it's truth. 😎

After looking around we just sat at Burger King, had a snack and took a short nap. The ride wasn't that long but by the time we arrived at Helsinki Port it was after midnight.

On the way back to our hotel, we discovered that there's a video game museum nearby! How did we not see it last time!

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-741" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/20180429_005110-e1547379518575.jpg" alt="" width="3024" height="4032" /> 

Obviously it was closed but we decided to go check it out the next day.

Thanks for reading!

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-633" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/endslate-gif3.gif" alt="" width="1550" height="380" /> 

To find out more about me, check out my intro post <a href="https://steemit.com/introduceyourself/@taco.cat/my-first-steemit-post">here!</a> <center><hr/>Posted from my blog with <a href='https://wordpress.org/plugins/steempress/'>SteemPress</a> : http://tacocat.vornix.blog/2019/01/27/tacocats-travels-finland-estonia-18-getting-spooked-and-cruising-home-%f0%9f%91%bb/ <hr/>

[//]:# (!steemitworldmap 59.435799 lat 24.739221 long d3scr)</center>

| <center>Check out my previous post in this series!</center> |
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| <center> [TacoCat’s Travels (Finland-Estonia) #17: Traveling back in time to Old Town!](https://steemit.com/archisteem/@taco.cat/tacocatstravelsfinland17travelingbackintimetooldtown-uic3d0s32u)</center><center>https://steemitimages.com/640x0/http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/20180428_171200.jpg</center></a></center>

TacoCat’s Travels (Finland-Estonia) #18: Getting spooked and cruising home! 👻

<center>http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/phoenix_wright_aa.jpg</center> Hey Steemit!

OSTs are really underrated but they're so good, so I thought I'd share a song a day and my thoughts about it! I highly recommend listening while reading! 😊

It's been a loooong time since I posted a song from <a href="https://steemit.com/music/@taco.cat/ost-of-the-day-6-phoenix-wright-ace-attorney-objection">Ace Attorney</a>, and I've grown to love the series so much I just had to post another!

<center> <img class="" src="https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/aceattorney/images/7/77/GSJoypolis-2.png/revision/latest?cb=20151211001849" alt="Related image" width="452" height="643" /> Whoa is Edgeworth actually smiling 😮</center>

Just to recap if you're unfamiliar with this game, Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney is a visual novel adventure video game developed by Capcom. In the game, you play as Phoenix Wright, a rookie defense attorney, who attempts to have his clients declared "not guilty". The player controls Phoenix through two sets of actions: investigations and courtroom trials. During investigations you gather information and evidence from various locations, including crime scenes. During trials, you cross-examine witnesses, and answer questions from the judge, the prosecutor, and the witnesses themselves.

Now there's even an anime on the series but I've not watched it yet. If you have, let me know what you think about it in the comments! Here's a trailer if you haven't watched it either:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pxG54SFiBnk

I'm not too sure if I'll like the Japanese voice acting since the videos I watched on Youtube of the game were voice acted by the Let's Player, Lucahjin, herself (and she's really good!). Do check out her <a href="https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLRAcwizMKyhqKD0GGObftpDw6JBRKNQF_">videos</a> if you want to get into the series. I'd say it's one of her best series since she pretty much did a perfect blind run of the game. I've never actually played the games myself but I think it's more fun watching her play it blind and solving cases together with her. 😊

Anyway, on to the song of the day!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FnmEnjWy288

This song is pretty much the first song you hear in-game, after the intro cutscenes and whatnot. Upon hearing this the first time I knew I was going to love the game because this song is soooo good! It's pretty electronic with the airy synth in the background and the 8-bit melody, but I really like the contrast provided by the bass guitar and the drum beats. Combined together, it definitely makes for a slightly jazzy and catchy tune that's also pretty relaxing. This Trial song is easily one of my favourite courtroom songs in the whole series.

I just love how chill it is, despite it being Phoenix's first official trial. He's undoubtedly nervous but with Mia (his chief/mentor) by his side and this jazzy song playing, he knows he'll be alWright (hehe see what I did there).

<center><img class="aligncenter" src="http://www.gaming-age.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/AA1-screen2_bmp_jpgcopy.jpg" alt="Related image" width="485" height="291" /></center> 

The soundtrack was composed by Masakazu Sugimori and Akemi Kimura, former Capcom sound staff members and famous video game composers. They did an amazing job with the soundtrack; every single song is great and very fitting to the scene in which they're played. I like how there's such a wide variety as well, with some chill songs like this one, some upbeat and epic songs like <a href="https://youtu.be/_I34nshlOPk">Objection!</a>, and melancholy songs for the murders/backstories.

Shu Takumi did a fantastic job writing the characters in Ace Attorney. I think Miles Edgeworth is a hot fan favourite but I personally fancy Phoenix more since he's more dorky and down-to-earth (and pretty dang hawt too tbh). 😍

<center><img class="aligncenter" src="http://31.media.tumblr.com/9330fcf1122ba5bf3b30655885c67e5a/tumblr_inline_nbouvjDkr71qg36k6.jpg" alt="Related image" width="421" height="414" /></center> 

Apparently, Takumi spent little time writing a backstory for Phoenix before the game's actual story, and instead developed Phoenix's personality as he went along. He said Phoenix is himself in everything but name, with dialogue similar to what Takumi would have said in each situation in the games. (He must be quite sarcastic and funny too then. 😅) He attributed this to being a first-time writer who did not think about developing characterization before writing the story. For a first time he sure nailed it! Granted, some ideas were scrapped/altered here and there but Takumi sure has talent in writing an engaging story. I'm so glad the series did so well and he ended the trilogy so swimmingly. 😉

Check out the video below to find out more fun facts about the Ace Attorney series!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3tDyV5mpGu4

Thanks for reading!

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-633" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/endslate-gif3.gif" alt="" width="1550" height="380" /> 

To find out more about me, check out my intro post <a href="https://steemit.com/introduceyourself/@taco.cat/my-first-steemit-post">here!</a> <center><hr/>Posted from my blog with <a href='https://wordpress.org/plugins/steempress/'>SteemPress</a> : http://tacocat.vornix.blog/2019/01/22/ost-of-the-day-23-phoenix-wright-ace-attorney-trial-%f0%9f%91%a8%e2%80%8d%e2%9a%96%ef%b8%8f/ <hr/></center>

| <center>Check out my previous post in this series!</center> |
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OST of the Day #23: Phoenix Wright Ace Attorney - Trial 👨‍⚖️

![title_image](https://static.tasteem.io/uploads/4088/post/25990/content_edf4abf2-6a21-414e-978c-f24d64b53094.jpeg)
 
Hey Steemit!

My family and I recently patronised an Indonesian restaurant called Pagi Sore for my dad's birthday dinner and it was delicious! 

Here's what the restaurant looked like:
![pagi-sore-indonesian-restaurant-pte-ltd.jpg](https://static.tasteem.io/uploads/image/image/128651/03d21151-0648-4713-833a-45fbe026097f.jpeg)
Source: [hungrygowhere.sg](https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=2ahUKEwieq6zFhvXfAhWZMN4KHdB2AH8Qjhx6BAgBEAM&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.hungrygowhere.com%2Fsingapore%2Fpagi_sore_indonesian_restaurant_far_east_square%2F&psig=AOvVaw1vuYuIDOrZGEvlUX6Nmbdc&ust=1547809810840554)

![40381_sld.jpg](https://static.tasteem.io/uploads/image/image/128652/03d21151-0648-4713-833a-45fbe026097f.jpeg)
Source: [quandoo](https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=2ahUKEwjrwo6Ih_XfAhVT-WEKHZA_BwMQjhx6BAgBEAM&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.quandoo.sg%2Fplace%2Fpagi-sore-telok-ayer-7728&psig=AOvVaw1vuYuIDOrZGEvlUX6Nmbdc&ust=1547809810840554)

Apparently, Pagi Sore has been around for a very loooong time; since 1989! They started by selling _Nasi Padang_ (or _cai png_, which is rice with a variety of cooked dishes that you can choose from).

![nasi-padang-in-singapore.jpg](https://static.tasteem.io/uploads/image/image/128655/03d21151-0648-4713-833a-45fbe026097f.jpeg)
Source: [thehoneycombers.com](https://d22ir9aoo7cbf6.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2017/06/nasi-padang-in-singapore.jpg)
Now they've evolved into an À la carte styled restaurant which uses a mix of traditional Indonesian and Chinese cooking techniques. This fusion is a pretty unique way of adapting to the Singaporean taste, since about 70% of Singaporeans are Chinese. It's worked for them so far; they now have 3 outlets in Singapore - along Doxton Road, Amoy Street and Telok Ayer Street.
![160317+amoy+street.png](https://static.tasteem.io/uploads/image/image/128656/03d21151-0648-4713-833a-45fbe026097f.png)
Source: [pagi-sore.com](https://x3.sdimgs.com/sd_static/a/123148/160317+amoy+street.png?v=20170316120219)

Anyway, we met my parents at the restaurant on a Friday night and it was somewhat crowded due to a large group of people whom I assume were coworkers. Turns out they were also celebrating a birthday because they were singing extremely loudly. 😐 If you do visit the restaurant, I wouldn't recommend sitting next to the wall.

On to the food!
There were complimentary belinjo crackers for us to munch on while we waited for the food. The service was quick though, so we didn't wait long.

![9.jpg](https://static.tasteem.io/uploads/image/image/128657/03d21151-0648-4713-833a-45fbe026097f.jpeg)
Rice is served steaming hot and wrapped in pandan leaves. It's also freeflow rice so if you have a friend who eats a lot, I would recommend this place. 😄

![8.jpg](https://static.tasteem.io/uploads/image/image/128658/03d21151-0648-4713-833a-45fbe026097f.jpeg)
Beef rendang! (spicy beef stew/beef covered in spicy gravy)

![10.jpg](https://static.tasteem.io/uploads/image/image/128659/03d21151-0648-4713-833a-45fbe026097f.jpeg)
Tauhu goreng! (fried tofu with a side of peanut sauce)

![7.jpg](https://static.tasteem.io/uploads/image/image/128660/03d21151-0648-4713-833a-45fbe026097f.jpeg)
Stir fried kailan with garlic! I like how the plat is a leaf too that's a nice touch (:

![4.jpg](https://static.tasteem.io/uploads/image/image/128661/03d21151-0648-4713-833a-45fbe026097f.jpeg)
Teriyaki chicken! There's that awesome fusion cuisine offering some unique variety.

![5.jpg](https://static.tasteem.io/uploads/image/image/128662/03d21151-0648-4713-833a-45fbe026097f.jpeg)
Sambal kangkong! A classic, and also my and my mum's favourite veggie dish.

![6.jpg](https://static.tasteem.io/uploads/image/image/128663/03d21151-0648-4713-833a-45fbe026097f.jpeg)
The fried fish was delicious!! So fresh, not fishy at all, and the skin was EXTRA CRISPY! Yummy 😋

![3.jpg](https://static.tasteem.io/uploads/image/image/128664/03d21151-0648-4713-833a-45fbe026097f.jpeg)
The last thing we ordered was calamari but we were too full and couldn't finish it unfortunately. 😕

For dessert, my mum insisted we try the chendol and their signature Alpukat (avocado), so we ordered 1 each to share.

![1.jpg](https://static.tasteem.io/uploads/image/image/128665/03d21151-0648-4713-833a-45fbe026097f.jpeg)
The avocado drink! Tbh I'm not really a fan of avocado, but they mix it with gula melaka so I can imagine avocado fans enjoying this.

![2.jpg](https://static.tasteem.io/uploads/image/image/128666/03d21151-0648-4713-833a-45fbe026097f.jpeg)
Chendol! If you haven't tried it before, it contains some worm-like green rice flour jelly, coconut milk and palm sugar syrup. It's pretty sweet but the coconut milk tastes really good! I definitely enjoyed this dessert more.

After such an extensive meal I was so stuffed! Other than the noise from the other patrons our experience at Pagi Sore was excellent. I'd definitely go again, but maybe at a less crowded time.

Here's the [menu](https://x3.sdimgs.com/sd_static/a/123148/Pagi+Sore+Ala+Carte+%28Updated%29+march+17.pdf?v=20170308110801) if you want to check it out!

Thanks for reading! 
![endslate gif3.gif](https://cdn.steemitimages.com/DQmeTAz9fX8VxVeWfmAS2MvvNeVCF4ViHfG1UDbq1Qb1PdC/endslate%20gif3.gif)
To find out more about me, check out my intro post [here!](https://steemit.com/introduceyourself/@taco.cat/my-first-steemit-post)


Cover img source: [wheretoeat.com.sg](https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=2ahUKEwipkPni2PTfAhVXSX0KHWKkBEYQjhx6BAgBEAM&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwheretoeat.com.sg%2Freview%2Fpagi-sore-a-love-for-indo-flavors&psig=AOvVaw1vuYuIDOrZGEvlUX6Nmbdc&ust=1547809810840554)

---------------------
### Restaurant Information


 Pagi Sore
![score](https://static.tasteem.io/images/2Crowns_en.png)
[88 Telok Ayer St, Singapore 048470](https://tasteem.io/post/25990#map)

-----------------------------------------
<center>[TacoCat's TrEats #21: Makan at Pagi Sore! ](https://tasteem.io/post/25990)
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TacoCat's TrEats #21: Makan at Pagi Sore!

<center>http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/20180428_171200.jpg</center> Hey Steemit!

Now to finally resolve the "cliffhanger" from the previous post as we head to Estonia! (Long post ahead!)

28 April 2018. Saturday.

We started the day with a yummy breakfast buffet courtesy of Clarion Hotel in Helsinki. 😋

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-673" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/20180428_110355.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

After a very filling breakfast, we took a 15 min walk towards the Port of Helsinki because if you remember from the previous post, Estonia is just a short ferry ride away:

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-647" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/1.png" alt="" width="756" height="747" /> 

 <img class="wp-image-674 size-full" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/20180428_122709.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> Entering the port terminal

<img class="wp-image-676 size-full" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/20180428_123247.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

We were still a little early but tbh there's not much to do in the actual port itself, except grab a bite or smt

 <img class="wp-image-677 size-full" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/20180428_123316.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> I guess the Port of Helsinki is #1 in...something.?

While waiting we saw these 2 guys in very interesting suits! They were so colourful and I think a friend of their joined them with a Pacman suit and it was so cool! They really stood out in the crowd with their colourful outfits. 😄

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-678" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/20180428_124607.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

I didn't manage to get a proper pic of the ship unfortunately, but it looked something like this:

<img src="https://www.cruisemapper.com/images/ships/1889-ef1a4779fbf.jpg" alt="Related image" /> 

Anyway it was time to board the ship! Full steam ahead! (wait that's for trains isn't it 🤔)

We were kinda tired so decided to just find a nice spot to relax and chill since it was surprisingly crowded that day. The first place we entered into on the ship was this lounge area and it was pretty comfy so we made sure to secure a good spot.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-679" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/20180428_125945.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

I was taking a nap when suddenly there was loud music playing and turns out there's a live band performing on the ship itself! How cool is that! 😲 I've taken a cruise before and we didn't even have that back then.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-680" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/20180428_140859.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

The ferry was about 2 hours and after my nap we didn't have much time to explore the ship before we arrived so we just took a quick gander around. Here's the view from the ship! I'm so glad we were blessed with good weather that day. 😌

 <img class="wp-image-681 size-full" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/20180428_152732.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> Lovin that azure blue sky ☺

Turns out the ship has a ton of facilities!

 <img class="size-full wp-image-682" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/20180428_153257.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> A mini arcade!

 <img class="size-full wp-image-683" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/20180428_153237.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> And Burger King! It really is everywhere around this region huh

![photo6192600477665962515.jpg](https://cdn.steemitimages.com/DQmYqmEkQrxFnBG69hK2jEjfg22kNTHEEu3sBbJku2LFd3Z/photo6192600477665962515.jpg) 
We're here!

So the specific area we travelled to in Estonia is Tallinn, the capital, and it's known for having an Old Town, also called Vanalinn. The Old Town is divided into two areas (yes, it's really called Old Town) – the lower town and the upper town (also called Toompea). Those two towns were once separated by gates, almost like two different cities. Nowadays, the combination of the upper town on the high limestone hill and the lower town at its foot form an expressive skyline that is visible from a great distance both from land and sea. The lower town (all-linn) is one of the best preserved medieval towns in Europe, also listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997.

So that's where we were heading to today!

 <img class="wp-image-686 size-full" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/20180428_161917.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> Thank God for the glorious weather so I can take such nice landscape shots 😊

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-687" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/20180428_162303.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

We didn't know how to walk to the Old Town exactly, but once we came upon this cobblestone structure we knew we were on the right path. 😅

 <img class="wp-image-688 size-full" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/20180428_162420-e1547377807976.jpg" alt="" width="3024" height="4032" /> At the entrance to Old Town!

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-689" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/20180428_162433.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

Walking into Old Town felt like we just travelled back in time; the infrastructure was so different to our modernised roads and buildings! I can almost hear the clip-clop of horses' hooves just looking at the cobblestone roads.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-690" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/20180428_162836-e1547379405200.jpg" alt="" width="3024" height="4032" /> 

We happened upon this church since it was the tallest building around (and probably in all of Old Town tbh). It's actually called St. Olaf's Church, and looks like this from a bit further back:

<img src="https://thornews.files.wordpress.com/2014/08/st-olafs-church-tallinn-resized.jpg" alt="Related image" /> 

We went inside to take a look; luckily there was no service going on.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-691" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/20180428_163038-e1547379460782.jpg" alt="" width="3024" height="4032" /> 

The interior was pretty well maintained, and pretty grand when you're inside it since the ceiling went up veryyyy high.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-693" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/20180428_163249.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

After visiting the church, we walked around admiring the scenery and old architecture. It was pretty quiet too, and we felt so peaceful just taking a walk through the town.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-695" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/20180428_163554-e1547380052770.jpg" alt="" width="3024" height="4032" /> 

We came across a park clearing after that and took some nice nature shots! I like how trees always make for good photos; even without the colour of their leaves they're still beautiful.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-696" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/20180428_163548.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

 <img class="wp-image-697 size-full" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/20180428_163653-e1547380031455.jpg" alt="" width="3024" height="4032" /> I'm not sure what this was exactly, but it looks like some kind of turret but I dont think we could enter it

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-698" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/20180428_163805.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

 <img class="wp-image-699 size-full" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/20180428_164118.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> This looks like it could be from a movie set in the 1800s or something! I wouldn't be surprised if some movies were filmed here.

 <img class="wp-image-701 size-full" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/20180428_164633.jpg" alt="" width="3264" height="2448" /> We found a circle of rocks on the ground that reminded me of korok seeds in Breath of the Wild 😄

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-704" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/20180428_165221.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

We went onwards through this archway and found a train!

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-705" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/20180428_165343.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

It reminded me of a toy train I used to have and it was so cute! The speed was pretty slow though, I pity the cars stuck driving behind the train. 😅

 <img class="wp-image-706 size-full" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/20180428_170020.jpg" alt="" width="3264" height="2448" /> At a crossroads that both lead to the same place...kinda like life huh. #deep

And the place was the Town Square (aka Raekoja plats)! It's a large open area surrounded by shops, restaurants and bars, and this big building with the tall pointy spire is the Tallinn Town Hall! The Town Square is often used for small festivals and concerts but there was none that day. 😕

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-707" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/20180428_170244.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

We did, however see a street performer/acrobat doing a dance routine to some nice tranquil music though! So that's something.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-708" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/20180428_171127.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

I believe this is another church but it's smaller compared to St. Olaf's.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-711" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/20180428_171253-1.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

Here's a map of Tallinn we found! There are quite a lot of landmarks situated in this whole cluster which was good since we wanted to see as much as we could in the day.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-710" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/20180428_171239.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

We were getting kinda hungry so we decided to consult Google's cheap eats to find a restaurant nearby we could try, and we found a place called PORGU!

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-714" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/20180428_181851.jpg" alt="" width="3264" height="2448" /> 

It was a pretty unique restaurant since it was underground and there were quite steep stone steps going down.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-715" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/20180428_181840-e1547379785516.jpg" alt="" width="3024" height="4032" /> 

The restaurant was actually really nice and cozy! We ordered some jalapeno poppers and a chicken chop to share.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-713" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/20180428_173131-e1547379893289.jpg" alt="" width="3024" height="4032" /> <img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-712" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/20180428_174702-e1547379953729.jpg" alt="" width="3024" height="4032" /> 

The food was delicious! And it wasn't too expensive either, so yay! 😋

Anyway, this post is getting really long so I think that's all for now. Tune in next time for Part 2 of our Estonia adventure!

Thanks for reading!

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-633" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/endslate-gif3.gif" alt="" width="1550" height="380" /> 

To find out more about me, check out my intro post <a href="https://steemit.com/introduceyourself/@taco.cat/my-first-steemit-post">here!</a> <center><hr/>Posted from my blog with <a href='https://wordpress.org/plugins/steempress/'>SteemPress</a> : http://tacocat.vornix.blog/2019/01/13/tacocats-travels-finland-17-traveling-back-in-time-to-old-town/ <hr/>

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| <center> [TacoCat’s Travels (Finland) #16: Back in Hel again!](https://steemit.com/finland/@taco.cat/tacocatstravelsfinland16backinhelagain-kb42eruv9r)</center><center>https://steemitimages.com/640x0/http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/20180427_192944.jpg</center></a></center>

TacoCat’s Travels (Finland-Estonia) #17: Traveling back in time to Old Town!

<center>http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/20180530_112959.jpg</center> Hey Steemit!

OSTs make up the majority of the music I listen to, and they're so underrated I just had to share them! Feel free to listen while reading. 😊

Today I chose another game I've been playing a lot recently: Stardew Valley! If you've played this before, you'll know what a charming and wholesome game it is and how addictive it can be! It's probably one of my most played games in 2018, tied with BoTW at around 135 hours or so.

<img src="https://images2.alphacoders.com/835/thumb-1920-835736.jpg" alt="Image result for stardew valley wallpaper" /> 

Anyway, if you're not familiar with this game, Stardew Valley is an indie farming simulation RPG developed by Eric "ConcernedApe" Barone and originally published by Chucklefish. The game was initially released for Microsoft Windows in February 2016, with later ports being released for OS X, Linux, PS4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation Vita, iOS, and Android.
In Stardew Valley, the player takes the role of a character who, to get away from the hustle of an office job, takes over their deceased grandfather's dilapidated farm in a place known as Stardew Valley.

<img src="https://steamcdn-a.akamaihd.net/steam/apps/413150/ss_a3ddf22cda3bd722df77dbdd58dbec393906b654.1920x1080.jpg?t=1544807843" alt="Image result for stardew valley" /> 

It's a simple premise, but there's so much more to the game like planting crops, raising animals, mining, and making friends with the other villagers. It's similar to games like Harvest Moon and Animal Crossing, but I find it so much more addictive because there's always stuff to do! And now that there's a multiplayer mode, you can even play with friends! Currently, I have a multiplayer farm that I play with a friend and my own farm so I can explore things at my own time. It's definitely a good game to just chill, even though you're always racing against the clock, getting everything done within the day.

&nbsp;

<img src="https://www.dailydot.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Stardew-Valley-multiplayer-DD.jpg" alt="Related image" /> 

Anyway, on to the song for today!

https://youtu.be/7WuKj7a3ces?list=PLKDOdCjxOjzIFucHobwJpSK4-vAVXST90

This song is called Wild Horseradish Jam and it's from the Spring season, so it's also one of the first few songs you hear when you get past the intro cutscenes. This is easily one of my favourite songs in the game.
I like how the song just builds with more and more instruments as it goes along but the starting harmony (the plucked sequence) can be heard even with the change in melodies. The baseline is equally excellent, and contrasts well to the higher pitched sequences. All the instruments blend so well together; the woodwind melody, the light synth-like notes, the bass, and the subtle percussion consisting of triangle, tambourine and maracas.

My favourite part of the song starts at 3:03 after the clap, when there's an even deeper bass, a slightly altered melody with a higher pitch, and drum beats. It's a shame it only lasts about a minute but what a minute it is. It's a light-hearted song, but there's so much detail that goes into it, just like the game itself. 😊

<img src="https://d1ic4altzx8ueg.cloudfront.net/finder-au/wp-uploads/2017/08/stardew-valley.jpg" alt="Related image" /> 

The whole of Stardew Valley, including the soundtrack, was made by Eric Barone who goes by ConcernedApe, and I'm so glad it took off as well as it has and I got to play this gem of a game. He's truly talented and is really dedicated to his game; continuously working on updates despite announcing a new game that he's developing.

The <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/StardewValley/">Stardew community on Reddit</a> is also very helpful and wholesome and full of nice people so if you're fed up with all the n00bs on -insert game here-, definitely check out Stardew Valley!

Thanks for reading and Happy farming! 😄

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-633" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/endslate-gif3.gif" alt="" width="1550" height="380" /> 

To find out more about me, check out my intro post <a href="https://steemit.com/introduceyourself/@taco.cat/my-first-steemit-post">here!</a>

&nbsp; <center><hr/>Posted from my blog with <a href='https://wordpress.org/plugins/steempress/'>SteemPress</a> : http://tacocat.vornix.blog/2019/01/09/ost-of-the-day-22-stardew-valley-wild-horseradish-jam-%f0%9f%8c%be/ <hr/></center>

| <center>Check out my previous post in this series!</center> |
|:-:|
| <center> [OST of the Day #21: Rayman Legends - When the Wind Blows ](https://steemit.com/game/@taco.cat/ostoftheday21raymanlegends-whenthewindblows-4m6589rkim)</center><center>https://steemitimages.com/640x0/http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/rayman-legends-hd-wallpapers-33546-6243899.jpg</center></a></center>

OST of the Day #22: Stardew Valley - Wild Horseradish Jam 🌾

![SLIDER11.jpg](https://cdn.steemitimages.com/DQmNtWtapv9HV1hnxv9VkRN4JiBP2ZtavU4mijcFiYh8c8o/SLIDER11.jpg)
 
Hey Steemit!

So my parents recently found a new favourite restaurant called D'Cuisines - it's super near my house (about a 3 min drive away!), with free parking, fast service and delicious food! As my mum would say, what more could you ask for?

![file.jpg](https://static.tasteem.io/uploads/image/image/123857/7a8b649c-1dab-4074-be79-5dc48d3f9837.jpeg)
Source: [myfave.com](https://image-assets.access.myfave.gdn/attachments/2933b7450380eea3b95da3302d40d32c305c12b7/store/fill/800/500/b28f2502b1df5b6f394313a7aa1c84e561d6ffb06368e10f347f05df8fb8/file.jpg)

Anyway, they have quite a wide variety of food from both Indian & Chinese Cuisines, which I thought was very unique for a restaurant since most would just specialise in 1 cuisine. They also have a buffet menu but I haven't tried it yet.

The first time I ate there was just with my parents, and we ate _tzi char_ (a Hokkien term used in Singapore to describe a Chinese stall that provides a wide selection of common and affordable dishes which approximated home-cooked meals). 
We ordered 3 dishes to share among the 3 of us; claypot beancurd, sambal kangkong and har cheong gai (prawn paste chicken). 

![photo6152124418105649262.jpg](https://static.tasteem.io/uploads/image/image/123858/7a8b649c-1dab-4074-be79-5dc48d3f9837.jpeg)
The food was really yummy! I'd say it's on par with any other tzi char stall I've eaten at, since this was quite usual fare. However, we definitely had better service and more comfortable ambience at this restaurant than at a normal hawker centre. The price is pretty much the same either way too!

My parents were full of compliments for D'Cuisines, and I knew we would be going there a lot more after that meal, which I don't mind since it is so near anyway. However, as it is located within the SIA Sports Club, it is probably not very convenient for non-residents (around the area) or non-members.

![frontlobby.jpg](https://static.tasteem.io/uploads/image/image/123859/7a8b649c-1dab-4074-be79-5dc48d3f9837.jpeg)
Source: [maplebear.sg](http://www.maplebear.sg/images/SIA/gallery/frontlobby.jpg)

We've actually eaten there about 2 more times since the first meal, and are planning on booking a table for next month's LNY eve dinner. I can't wait to try their LNY dishes too! 😋

Thanks for reading!
![endslate gif3.gif](https://cdn.steemitimages.com/DQmeTAz9fX8VxVeWfmAS2MvvNeVCF4ViHfG1UDbq1Qb1PdC/endslate%20gif3.gif)
To find out more about me, check out my intro post [here!](https://steemit.com/introduceyourself/@taco.cat/my-first-steemit-post)

---------------------
### Restaurant Information


 D'Cuisines
![score](https://static.tasteem.io/images/2Crowns_en.png)
[726 Upper Changi Rd E, Singapore 486046](https://tasteem.io/post/25131#map)

-----------------------------------------
<center>[TacoCat's TrEats #20: Dining at D'Cuisines! ](https://tasteem.io/post/25131)
This post participated in the Tasteem contest [Your weekly choice ](https://tasteem.io/event/286)

 [What is Tasteem?](https://tasteem.io/about)

[![tasteem_banner.png](https://static.tasteem.io/images/tasteem_banner_en_v3.png)](https://tasteem.io)</center>

TacoCat's TrEats #20: Dining at D'Cuisines!

<center>http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/20180427_192944.jpg</center> 27 April 2018. Friday.

After 3 weeks of International Business Strategy classes, we were finally done with our 2nd module here! Time to celebrate with another short trip, this time out of Finland to another country called Estonia! 😄

If you're not geographically familiar with Europe (just like me), Estonia is a country in Northern Europe and borders the Baltic Sea and Gulf of Finland. The capital, Tallinn, is known for its preserved Old Town, museums and the 314m-high Tallinn TV Tower, which has an observation deck. It's actually just a short ferry ride away from Helsinki as you can see from this map:

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-647" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/1.png" alt="" width="756" height="747" /> 

So we decided to take a weekend trip before the start of our next module to Estonia! But first, since our campus is in Mikkeli we had to once again make the 3 hour trip out to Helsinki. We bought some bus tickets from Onnibus again since it was pretty affordable and convenient. If you're ever in Finland and looking for cheaper alternatives to the VR train to travel across Finland I'd recommend trying out Onnibus!

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-649" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/20180427_134439.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-650" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/20180427_135841-e1545987307716.jpg" alt="" width="3264" height="2448" /> 

3 hours later, we arrived in a very sunny Helsinki!

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-651" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/20180427_164948.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

We were kinda hungry so we decided to stop by <a href="https://steemit.com/food/@taco.cat/tacocat-s-treats-3-singaporean-food-in-helsinki">Singapore Hot Wok</a> again for some char kway teow!

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-652" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/20180427_171051.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

After our yummy meal we started heading to our hotel since we were quite a walk away from the city centre. It's okay though since it gave us the chance to explore different parts of Helsinki.
 <img class="wp-image-653 size-full" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/20180427_175714.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> It was pretty sunny but in the shady areas it was actually kinda cold! 

After about 20 min or so we made it to the hotel! Since we previously stayed at Clarion Hotel near the Helsinki Airport, we decided to try the branch in Helsinki itself. This branch was located near the port of Helsinki, which was where the ferries would depart from so it was pretty convenient for us to go to Estonia.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-654" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/20180427_181756-e1545988226356.jpg" alt="" width="3024" height="4032" /> 

Clarion hotel really doesn't disappoint! The interior is nice and comfortable, and the rooms are great too! 😌

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-663" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/20180427_182328.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-655" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/20180427_182748-e1545988254449.jpg" alt="" width="3024" height="4032" /> 

We got a regular room with twin beds and it was so nice and cozy. 😌 The view wasn't great but it's okay for a cheaper room.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-656" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/20180427_183026.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

The hotel also had a public outdoor hot tub/onsen and the usual facilities like a gym. They also had a sauna since it's a tradition in Finland.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-658" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/20180427_193258.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

After exploring the hotel, we walked around Helsinki a bit more and got some dinner.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-659" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/20180427_200451.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

For dinner we consulted Google on cheap eats and found a burrito place called Suburritos! After watching We Bare Bears I always wanted to try a burrito myself. 😄

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KJt_s3a8FqA

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-661" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/20180427_210916.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

It was a cute little restaurant and the waiter who served us was so friendly and nice! We ordered a burrito to share and it turned out to be pretty filling for me since it was stuffed with rice and beans and all kinds of stuff. I'd recommend the chicken burrito though, since the beef was pretty tough.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-660" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/20180427_204927-e1545988313832.jpg" alt="" width="3024" height="4032" /> 

After dinner, we walked around a bit more before heading back. By the time we got back it was nearly midnight and my feet were aching! 😫 Needless to say we had a very restful sleep that night. 😴

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-662" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/20180427_220645.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

Tune in to the next post where we board the ferry to Estonia!

Thanks for reading!

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-633" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/endslate-gif3.gif" alt="" width="1550" height="380" /> 

To find out more about me, check out my intro post <a href="https://steemit.com/introduceyourself/@taco.cat/my-first-steemit-post">here!</a> <center><hr/>Posted from my blog with <a href='https://wordpress.org/plugins/steempress/'>SteemPress</a> : http://tacocat.vornix.blog/2018/12/28/tacocats-travels-finland-16-back-in-hel-again/ <hr/></center>

TacoCat’s Travels (Finland) #16: Back in Hel again!

<center>http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/H2x1_WiiU_RaymanLegends_image1600w.jpg</center> Hey Steemit!

I know it's been a loooooong time, what with Steempress being down for a week, and me going on a trip to Japan for another week... I didn't want to post 2 updates in a row so, oh well.
Anyway, if you're unfamiliar with this series, basically I share a soundtrack and my thoughts about it, and I highly recommend listening to the song while reading! 😊

I bought Rayman Legends during the Steam Autumn Sale and I've played up to World 3 or so, and it's been awesome so far! If you're into platformers like me, I'd highly recommend it. 👍 If you've never heard of it before, Rayman Legends is a platform video game developed by Ubisoft Montpellier and published by Ubisoft, and was launched in 2013 for PC, Xbox 360, PS3, Wii U, in 2014 for Xbox One and PS4, and in 2017 for Nintendo Switch. It is the fifth main title in the Rayman series and the direct sequel to the 2011 game Rayman Origins.

<img src="https://www.wallpaperup.com/uploads/wallpapers/2014/02/07/248642/33615f24139d189af395b2b18b5a67dd-700.jpg" alt="Related image" /> 

I have played Rayman Origins previously on the Xbox 360 and I must say Rayman Legends is far superior. The controls and movements are smoother, the button inputs are more solid, and the design and art are phenomenal! 😍 What I really love about the Steam version is the Online Challenges. So if you have a Uplay account (which you need to have to play the game through Steam anyway), there are Daily, Weekly, and Daily Extreme Challenges you can participate in, and it will help increase your level of Awesomeness. Of course, it's also a good way to challenge your platforming skills and add a little competition to the game (especially for those playing solo like me).

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-644" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/rayman-legends-hd-wallpapers-33546-6243899.jpg" alt="" width="4800" height="2591" /> 

Anyway, on to the song of the day!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UMstAv1nSBc

<div class="pull-left"><img class="alignleft" src="https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/rayman/images/0/08/Toad_Story.jpg/revision/latest?cb=20141011213332" alt="Related image" /></div> 
This song is called When The Wind Blows, and it reminds me of the lullaby we always sing to babies: when the wind blows, the cradle will fall~ 

But anyway, this song can be heard in the first level of World 2, Toad Story! I actually first heard this song while browsing VGM playlists on YouTube and when I heard it again in the Switch Demo, I knew I had to get this game immediately. Even now, it's still one of my favourite songs in the game.

&nbsp;
&nbsp;

I just love it when string and woodwind instruments pair up; it's probably one of my favourite section pairings. This song definitely demonstrates the beauty of both types of instruments and how well they complement each other.
I like that the harp and guzheng work together to setup the melody for the woodwind, with light violins in the background. The violins later stand out during the bridge with a slight tempo up, in what is probably my favourite part of the song. You can tell there are actually quite a few instruments in this piece, including the subtle cellos, but all of them manage to retain the calming and soothing feel of the song, even with a slight tempo change in the middle.

<img src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/2665350/RL_Screenshot_Preview_3.1351185251.jpg" alt="Image result for rayman legends toad story" /> 

<div class="pull-left"><img class="alignleft" src="https://djoliba.com/3366-large_default/duduk-armenian-flute.jpg" alt="Image result for duduk" width="205" height="202" /></div> 
I had quite some difficulty deciphering the instrument used for the melody, but I believe it's called a duduk, which is an ancient double reed woodwind instrument indigenous to Armenia. Variations of the Armenian Duduk are also found in other regions of the Caucasus and the Middle East including Azerbaijan, Georgia, Russia and Turkey.

&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Initially when I listened to the song, I could've sworn the melody was played by a zhonghu, which is a Chinese string instrument, but upon listening again I can definitely tell it's a woodwind instrument. It's funny how they can sound so similar despite being totally different!

Anyway, the composers for Rayman Legends, Christophe Héral and Billy Martin did a fantastic job with this piece, and the OST as a whole! If you've seen Rayman Legends you know there are plenty of musical stages that also feature great (and goofy) songs. Do check them out <a href="https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLu6_FOgZp3egJe-02-26CGY2st7KaGwRX">here</a> as well!

Thanks for reading!

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-633" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/endslate-gif3.gif" alt="" width="1550" height="380" /> 

To find out more about me, check out my intro post <a href="https://steemit.com/introduceyourself/@taco.cat/my-first-steemit-post">here!</a> <center><hr/>Posted from my blog with <a href='https://wordpress.org/plugins/steempress/'>SteemPress</a> : http://tacocat.vornix.blog/2018/12/23/ost-of-the-day-21-rayman-legends-when-the-wind-blows-%f0%9f%8d%83/ <hr/></center>

| <center>Check out my previous post in this series!</center> |
|:-:|
| <center> [OST of the Day #20: Breath of the Wild - Main Theme](https://steemit.com/game/@taco.cat/ostoftheday20breathofthewild-maintheme-5siwut0sx6)</center><center>![z3.1.jpg](https://cdn.steemitimages.com/DQmeYoxCjTjwDkLDwz4yo8UNtikcuewA3iiphxJ5jjYVEyv/z3.1.jpg)</center></a></center>

OST of the Day #21: Rayman Legends - When the Wind Blows 🍃

<center>http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/EAT.-MEOW.-GAME.-twitch.png</center> Hey Steemit!

Apologies for not updating regularly last week, I was busy making some designs for UNIQLO's UTGP T-shirt design competition! This year's theme was Pokémon, so I was pretty excited! I participated in last year's Nintendo edition but I didn't do so well, unfortunately. In hindsight, they were kinda crappy anyway. Hopefully my design skills have improved and one of my 9 designs will be selected haha. 😅

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-631" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/Capture.png" alt="" width="2479" height="1182" /> 

Anyway, if you read my last post, I started using a new platform called <a href="https://tasteem.io/">tasteem</a>! They have weekly competitions each with a unique theme but they're all along the lines of Food such as Bakeries and Patisseries, Your Weekly Choice, and Where to eat for my blind date? It's pretty cool but I'll need some time to get used to it. If you post about food or restaurants, I'd recommend trying it out!

<center><img class="aligncenter" src="https://steemitimages.com/0x0/https://static.tasteem.io/images/tasteem_banner_en_v3.png" alt="tasteem_banner.png" /></center> 

Speaking of competitions, I recently participated in 2 gaming competitions! Coincidentally, both competitions involved the same game, Overcooked 2!

The first competition I attended was organised by ESL Asia, which is the Asian division of ESL; the world's biggest esports company. The event was held at SCAPE and it was really fun! Granted, we had never played the game before (only the first Overcooked), and it was our first time competing in a competition, but hey, at least we made it to the top 5! For first timers I'd say that's pretty good. It was still a great experience and I'm glad I participated. 😄

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-635" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/photo6064318931339946107.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="960" /> 

The more recent competition was just a few days ago, organised by Razer at COURTS Megastore! I'm sure if you play games you've heard of Razer before, and they said we'd get some Razer swag if we participated. The format was quite different from the SCAPE event, as it was 1v1 king of the hill while the SCAPE one was 2 player and 4 player coop. And it was on PC! So we had to learn the controls from scratch yet again! 😣

Fortunately for us, there weren't that many contenders in the first place and we managed to snag 2nd place! We even saw the winners of the previous event there! What a surprise! They seemed like really nice people and it was just friendly competition so we ended up just playing for fun. 😄<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-638" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/photo6057492463075043453.jpg" alt="" width="852" height="640" /> 

Super Smash Bros. Ultimate is launching in just a few days and there's another tournament coming up this weekend for it! I haven't played Smash since Brawl so I might be a little rusty but I think I'll just go check out the event anyway. I can't wait to try it out after all the trailers and Nintendo Directs!

<img src="https://i.redd.it/np0s16mi4s311.jpg" alt="Image result for smash bros ultimate wallpaper" /> 

I also bought a few new games like Overcooked! 2, Super Mario Party and Rayman Legends so if I don't update as regularly you know why!

On a final note, I realised I've been using the same endslate gif for a long time so I decided to revamp it! What a difference a splash of colour can make.

Thanks for reading!

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-633" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/endslate-gif3.gif" alt="" width="1550" height="380" /> 

To find out more about me, check out my intro post <a href="https://steemit.com/introduceyourself/@taco.cat/my-first-steemit-post">here</a>! <center><hr/>Posted from my blog with <a href='https://wordpress.org/plugins/steempress/'>SteemPress</a> : http://tacocat.vornix.blog/2018/12/03/update-tasteem-designs-games-and-more/ <hr/></center>

[Update] Tasteem, Designs, Games and more!

![title_image](https://static.tasteem.io/uploads/4088/post/23297/content_99c25afa-8286-418f-93f6-4be52ea80e5b.png)
 
Hey Steemit!

We were around Tampines the other day and went to check out the food places there to get some dinner at the (relatively) new Tampines Hub!
![Image result for tampines hub](http://enepl.com.sg/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/No-caption-1-1024x683.jpg)

There's so much stuff at Tampines Hub! In the plaza there's a big screen where they normally show movies for free (but nowadays they've been showing music videos for some reason.? ). There are also sports facilities like a swimming pool, a football field, bowling alley, yoga studio, etc. and plenty of restaurants and food stalls. It's also very family-friendly; there's always at least 2 bounce houses in the plaza, and there's a kids playground, as well as many enrichment centres (Asian parents amirite). #notsponsored 
![Image result for tampines hub](https://singaporemotherhood.com/articles/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/Our-Tampines-Hub-festive-plaza-768x512.jpg?x17934)

We've been here quite a few times before but have only ever eaten at the food court since the food there is the cheapest; they even have dishes for $2.80! (I think it's part of a government initiative) Anyway, since we weren't rushing for time we decided to try one of the many food stalls in the basement!

Last time we saw a stall called tbc and didn't know what they sold, until we finally figured out that they made burgers and sandwiches, and they're actually called Toko Burgers and Cheesesteaks!
It's actually quite confusing since we typically know tbc to mean To Be Continued or To Be Confirmed, or smt like that.
![Image result for toko burgers and cheesesteaks](https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQS2QS4rqmq13aulZM_7Cs_EhE0BW3lXG6UaMt_-qoAVOwqkTTg)
I think tbc is a fairly new chain, I've never seen it around Singapore before, and I found out they currently only have 2 outlets; 1 at Joo Chiat and this one in Tampines.

Turns out their burgers are actually pretty affordable! Their signature burger, Toko Burger, is only $6.90, which is the same as Wolf Burgers which I posted about previously. The Toko Burger is made of two hand-mixed and pressed beef patties, topped with their homemade special sauce (with 7 herbs and spices!), on a bed of fresh lettuce.
![burgers-toko1.jpg](https://cdn.steemitimages.com/DQmXdGVejNgzBUxieDzMaBjdQzGgvoykakyNKuLutDt3amc/burgers-toko1.jpg)

So we decided to order the Toko burger and a cheesesteak called the Milano, which has grilled ribeye, caramelised onions and melted mozzarella on a soft bun layered with homemade marinara.
![cheesesteaks-milano2.jpg](https://cdn.steemitimages.com/DQmUiGNjXb1zALjfe8ncPQ4bekFKHrPh5XpjSZp9G541sBy/cheesesteaks-milano2.jpg)

We were so hungry and excited to dig in when our food finally arrived!
![](http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/photo6061988284516640931.jpg)
The burger was soo yummy! The beef was grilled just right, so the edges of the beef patty were a little crispy but the inside was still juicy. The sauce was AMAZING, and blended well with the cheese and beef. Truly awesomesauce indeed. Some of the lettuce fell out of the burger, and I think some people might find the burger a little too wet because of the sauce (it became quite messy eating with my hands) but it was still delicious!
![](http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/photo6061988284516640929.jpg)
The cheesesteak was also really yummy! We had a choice of chicken or beef and we chose chicken since we just had a beef burger. I didn't realise mozzarella and marinara was such a great combo, but I guess thats why everyone loves pizza right. It really did taste like pizza in sandwich form, just with chicken. There were onions in this which I'm not really a fan of though, but it's still yummy.

We also bought cheese fries which were pretty normal, typical cheese fries, just like the kind you'd find in KFC.
![](http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/photo6061988284516640930.jpg)
After that deliciousness we were stuffed! I'd say the burger was probably the best thing we've ordered and I would definitely go back again. Maybe we'll try beef in the cheesesteak next time!

Thanks for reading!
![](http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/endslate-gif.gif)
To find out more about me, check out my intro post [here](https://steemit.com/introduceyourself/@taco.cat/my-first-steemit-post)!

Sources:
[https://enepl.com.sg/everything-one-roof-touring-tampines-hub/](https://enepl.com.sg/everything-one-roof-touring-tampines-hub/)
[https://toko.sg/](https://toko.sg/) 

 


---------------------
### Restaurant Information


 Toko Burgers and Cheesesteaks
![score](https://static.tasteem.io/images/2Crowns_en.png)
[Singapore](https://tasteem.io/post/23297#map)
[//]:# (!steemitworldmap 1.353027 lat 103.940390 long d3scr)

-----------------------------------------
<center>[TacoCat's TrEats #19: TBC (Toko Burgers and Cheesesteaks)! 🍔](https://tasteem.io/post/23297)
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TacoCat's TrEats #19: TBC (Toko Burgers and Cheesesteaks)! 🍔

<center>http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/photo6332280712576739427.jpg</center> <h2>6 April 2018. Sunday. </h2>
It's the last day of our spring break, and our last day in Helsinki before the real hel of school tomorrow. 😣 We were still pretty tired from walking so much at Suomenlinna yesterday and our train back is in the evening so we decided to take it easy today.

We moved our stuff out of the Airbnb we were staying in. The apartment was kinda small but still manageable. The building had this elevator which was interesting to see because I've only ever seen these kinds of lifts on TV shows. I didn't think they still existed! I know we definitely dont have them here in Singapore, or Japan for that matter. Maybe it's a Caucasian thing.? I guess only older buildings have them though since they're quite inconvenient. I wonder what the extra door does. 🤔

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-607" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/20180406_100510-e1543223224698.jpg" alt="" width="3024" height="4032" /> 

Anyway, we were kinda hungry so we went to get our usual cheap eats pizza from Sky Express!

<img src="http://skyexpress.fi/sky/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/sky-express-5.jpg" alt="Image result for sky express helsinki" /> 

We got the meat pizza again but this time they cut it up for both of us! I guess our small stature kinda hinted that there was no way we could finish 1 pizza each. I think their usual patrons order 1 whole pizza to themselves and a beer. I'm always so impressed that they can finish such a huge portion! 😮

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-604" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/20180406_103633.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

We saw something funny as we were eating, it was a lady seated not too far away from us who was eating the pizza from the middle! Usually you'd cut the pizza into slices right, or fold it along the crust to make a pseudo-wrap like this:

<img src="https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/0/0f/Eat-Pizza-Step-2-Version-6.jpg/aid331098-v4-728px-Eat-Pizza-Step-2-Version-6.jpg" alt="Related image" /> 

but nope, the lady was just tearing the middle of a whole pizza and leaving the crust in it's round shape. I couldn't take a picture but it was so bizarre! 😦

Anyway, we went to check out the mall (and use the washroom), and we chanced upon some real hardcore food photographers.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-608" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/20180406_114840-e1543223205323.jpg" alt="" width="3024" height="4032" /> 

I'm sure they weren't taking instagram photos 😄, and it's probably for a restaurant website or something. It was pretty cool. I remember watching a video about food photography and they have to exaggerate it a little, but there's a lot of time pressure because the hot food will get cold and stuff.

 <img class="wp-image-606 size-full" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/20180406_114229.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> The mall had a big X that reminded me of X-Men 😄

We went to take pictures at the Singaporean restaurant before heading to the train station. <a href="https://steemit.com/food/@taco.cat/tacocat-s-treats-3-singaporean-food-in-helsinki">Here</a>'s my post about it if you're interested!

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-609" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/20180406_130820.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

On the way out, I saw my very first GameStop! GameStop is a famous American video game, consumer electronics, and wireless services retailer, which only operates outside of Asia for some reason. But I've heard quite a lot of stories about them so I guess it's not a bad thing.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-610" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/20180406_131046.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

 <img class="wp-image-611 size-full" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/20180406_143349.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> Heading to the train station!

Helsinki Central Station is pretty grand, and very huge. I believe it was first built in 1862 but as as the popularity of railways grew, the station turned out to be too small and was later redesigned and reopened in 1919! What a long history!

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-617" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/08-Frontal-view-of-railway-station.jpg" alt="" width="987" height="430" /> 

It looks old on the outside but the inside is actually really clean, and very grand as well. Apparently, the station is used by approximately 400,000 people per day, of which about 200,000 are passengers. Curiously, I think that's less than the number of people who take the train in Singapore! 😂

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-612" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/20180406_143716.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

There are sooo many different trains traveling in and out of Helsinki every day, many of them like ours, were long distance trains.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-613" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/20180406_143819.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

Heading to our train!

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-614" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/20180406_144002.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

The train ride was pretty uneventful, we took a nap and before we knew it we were back at Mikkeli!

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-616" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/photo6332280712576739427.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="960" /> 

After that we just went back to our apartment, unpacked, cooked dinner, and an early night to prepare for our International Business Strategy class in the morning.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-615" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/20180406_202140.jpg" alt="" width="4032" height="3024" /> 

Thanks for reading!

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-14" src="http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/endslate-gif.gif" alt="" width="1550" height="380" /> 

To find out more about me, check out my intro post <a href="https://steemit.com/introduceyourself/@taco.cat/my-first-steemit-post">here!</a> <center><hr/>Posted from my blog with <a href='https://wordpress.org/plugins/steempress/'>SteemPress</a> : http://tacocat.vornix.blog/2018/11/26/tacocats-travels-finland-15-last-day-in-hel/ <hr/>

[//]:# (!steemitworldmap 60.169050 lat 24.932419 long d3scr)</center>

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| <center> [TacoCat’s Travels (Finland) #14: Visiting a sea fortress! ](https://steemit.com/finland/@taco.cat/tacocatstravelsfinland14visitingaseafortress-tafhzfcdtq)</center><center>https://steemitimages.com/0x0/http://tacocat.vornix.blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/20180405_183123-e1542730605222.jpg</center></a></center>