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Business Times
2 days ago
- Business
- Business Times
New S$30 million members-only club Vanta to open in MacDonald House
[SINGAPORE] New members-only club, Vanta, will open in MacDonald House in December, after a S$30 million renovation. The club, which will span 16,000 square feet across two levels in the national monument, is initially targeting 1,000 members, with plans to gradually expand to 2,000. Touting itself as 'Singapore's most influential private members club, designed for the city's most discerning elites, visionary industry leaders and global influencers', its facilities will include a main salon, mezzanine, private dining rooms and a state-of-the-art golf simulator. Michelin-starred Canadian chef and TV personality, Alvin Leung (also known as 'Demon Chef') of Hong Kong's Bo Innovation, will curate the club's culinary programme. Meanwhile, a whisky, wine and sake programme featuring tastings of spirits, masterclasses with distillers and sommeliers and an immersive exploration of sakes is set to be a cornerstone of the club's identity. In addition, Vanta will hold art exhibitions, talks and cultural salons. Michelin-starred Canadian chef and TV personality, Alvin Leung, will curate the club's culinary programme. ILLUSTRATION: VANTA The club's chief executive officer, Wayne Lin, is a Chinese national with two decades of experience in the food and beverage (F&B), luxury hospitality and entertainment sectors in Chinese cities like Shenzhen and Guangdong, said Joanna Seet, Vanta's chief marketing officer. 'We've designed this club for individuals who are actively shaping conversations and leading change across industries,' said Lin. 'It will be a place where connoisseurs, especially those with a passion for whisky, wine and sake, can connect, collaborate and define what's next for business and culture.' A NEWSLETTER FOR YOU Friday, 2 pm Lifestyle Our picks of the latest dining, travel and leisure options to treat yourself. Sign Up Sign Up Vanta's chief operating officer is Singaporean Andrew Carver, who launched nightclubs including Throne in Singapore and Kuala Lumpur, and Dom in Marina Bay Sands and Johor Bahru. 'While his roots are in nightlife, Andrew now contributes his operational expertise to helping elevate every aspect of the Vanta club experience,' Seet told The Business Times in response to queries. 'Vanta is positioned first and foremost as a luxury private social club, distinctly different from a nightlife concept.' Seet said the club will be centred on people and meaningful programming in a 'refined environment' for professional networking, cultural engagement and world-class dining. Vanta's partnership and business development director is Alex Chew, co-founder of members-only club, Madison Rooms, which opened at Coleman Street in 2016 but went into liquidation in 2019. Chew, whom Seet says has been instrumental in shaping Vanta's F&B programme, is also the former owner of one-Michelin-starred The Kitchen at Bacchanalia. The club has a joining fee of S$6,000, which will be waived during pre-opening, plus an annual fee of S$6,800. There are no monthly fees. Seet said Vanta's community will be 'carefully curated' to ensure a balanced mix of 'influential leaders' across all industries. Vanta's entry into the local members-only club scene comes on the heels of the collapse last month of another club, 1880. Since then, both Mandala Club and 67 Pall Mall have announced expansion plans, while the landlord and staff of the former 1880 will reopen it under a new name next month. Operators say private clubs are profitable businesses, with the debt-laden 1880's failure attributed to its aggressive expansion to Hong Kong and Bali.
Tatler Asia
27-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Tatler Asia
11 Asian chefs who didn't start in the kitchen
2. Patrick Go (Philippines) The youthful face behind Manila's Your Local didn't initially plan to be a chef. Patrick Go studied at De La Salle University and worked in banking before enrolling in Norbert Gandler's International School for Culinary Arts and Hotel Management. After working with local greats like Chefs Florabel Co, Jessie Sincioco and Colin McKay, Go rose through the ranks at Black Sheep, eventually transforming it into a progressive Chinese-Filipino concept. Today, he runs the popular Legaspi Village haunt Your Local and continues to collaborate with renowned chefs across Asia. In case you missed it: The (Prudent) reemergence of Chef Patrick G as Makati restaurant Your Local's new chef 3. Alvin Leung (Hong Kong/Canada) Alvin Leung is the poster child for second-act chefs. Before becoming a Michelin-starred restaurateur and judge on MasterChef Canada , he worked as an audio engineer. With no formal culinary training, Leung bought a speakeasy in Hong Kong on a whim and turned it into Bo Innovation—where foie gras meets xiao long bao in experimental, sometimes explosive ways. His trademark 'X-treme Chinese' cuisine combines science, swagger and tradition. No wonder he's known as the 'Demon Chef'. See more: Chef Alvin Leung continues to remain the master of reinvention and deconstruction 4. Vicky Lau (Hong Kong) Vicky Lau began her career as a graphic designer, discovering food through visual storytelling—but one pastry class was all it took to spark a transformation. Today, at Tate Dining Room, she creates poetic French-Chinese tasting menus, each dish imbued with emotion and elegance. Her design sensibility hasn't faded—it's simply been translated to a culinary canvas. Don't miss: Chef Vicky Lau of Michelin-starred restaurant Tate Dining Room on the importance of adaptability and community in Hong Kong's fine-dining landscape 5. Malcolm Lee (Singapore) Malcolm Lee once imagined a life in finance, having studied business at Singapore Management University. But homesickness and heritage led him to the kitchen. Without formal culinary education, he delved into his family's Peranakan recipes and founded Candlenut—the world's first Michelin-starred Nyonya restaurant. His refined take on traditional flavours has made him a powerful advocate for preserving Singapore's culinary culture. 6. Bee Satongun (Thailand) Unlike other chefs who didn't start in the kitchen, Bee Satongun was already in the industry, albeit holding a secretarial job. However, she never set foot in a culinary school. She learned by absorbing her mother's cooking and poring through ancient Thai manuscripts. At Paste, she resurrects old royal Thai recipes with a modernist edge, earning critical recognition and global acclaim for dishes that are both scholarly and soul-stirring. In case you missed it: Chef Bongkoch 'Bee' Satongun of Paste in Bangkok on preserving Thailand's traditional cuisine 7. Ming Tsai (USA/China) Ming Tsai took the traditional route—at first. He earned a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering from Yale and a master's from Cornell. But summers at Le Cordon Bleu, pastry training in Paris and sushi apprenticeships in Osaka proved irresistible. He launched Blue Ginger in 1998, winning a James Beard Award for its East-West cuisine. Today, he heads Blue Dragon, champions plant-based eating through MingsBings, and stars in multiple Emmy-winning food shows. 8. Peter Cuong Franklin (Vietnam) Peter Cuong Franklin's life reads like a novel. Born in Da Lat, he fled Vietnam in 1975, later earning a finance degree from Yale and working as an investment banker. A pivot to food brought him to Le Cordon Bleu and eventually to opening Chôm Chôm in Hong Kong. In 2017, he launched Anan Saigon, a bold Vietnamese dining concept that's made waves globally. His journey from Wall Street to world-class kitchens is both inspiring and deeply personal. 9. Anh Sung‑jae (South Korea) After moving to California at 12, Anh Sung-jae joined the US Army as a mechanic, later deploying to Iraq. Post-service, he trained at Le Cordon Bleu and worked at elite kitchens including The French Laundry and Benu. In 2015, he opened Mosu in San Francisco, relocating it to Seoul in 2017 and opening a second location in Hong Kong in 2022. Eight years after it opened, Mosu Seoul earned its third Michelin star. Anh's journey from battlefield to fine dining is a testament to precision, creativity and discipline. In case you missed it: Meet Anh Sung-jae, the Korean chef behind Michelin three-star restaurant Mosu and judge on Netflix's hit show 'Culinary Class Wars' 10. Stephanie Wong (Hong Kong) Stephanie Wong spent nearly a decade at HSBC before making the leap to culinary school in Paris. She trained at the Alain Ducasse culinary institute and gained experience at Hostellerie de Plaisance and Hong Kong's Amber. Now, she runs Roots Eatery, a delivery-focused concept rooted in local produce and simple, original fare. Who knew a ledger could be a creative springboard to the kitchen? In case you missed it: Roots Eatery's Stephanie Wong on her Hong Kong street food memories 11. Angelo Comsti (Philippines) Angelo Comsti's path to the kitchen included stints as a writer, editor and food stylist. After earning a marketing degree and studying at the Universidad Complutense de Madrid, he formalised his culinary skills at Le Cordon Bleu Australia. Today, he's a champion of Filipino cuisine, leading restaurants and penning food columns that highlight local traditions and innovations. His multidisciplinary approach reflects a deep passion for storytelling through food.
What's On
23-06-2025
- Entertainment
- What's On
9 of the best offers for the upcoming long weekend in Dubai
Don't sit around this long weekend in Dubai, there's so much to do even if you're keeping the purse strings tight. We've gathered the best offers around the city for you to get the most for your money for the Islamic New Year break. Food and drinks offers for the long weekend in Dubai Party at O Beach Dubai Every Friday, O Beach Dubai turns up the volume with La Fiesta, an all-day, all-night pool party packed with house beats, old-school anthems, and electric energy. From sun-soaked lounging to sunset sets and moonlit dancing, it's your ultimate weekend fix. Location: O Beach Dubai, Palm Jumeirah Dates: Every Friday Time: From 11am, DJ sets from 6pm Offer: Dhs295 drinks package (7–10pm free flowing beverages) Contact: +971 528580464 Saturday Brunch at Demon Duck, Banyan Tree Dubai Ignite your Saturdays with an unforgettable brunch at Demon Duck by Alvin Leung, nestled within Banyan Tree Dubai. Explore a daring Pan-Asian menu full of bold flavours, perfectly paired with your choice of beverages. Plus, it's all set in a stylish, lively atmosphere. Location: Demon Duck, Banyan Tree Dubai, Bluewaters Island Date & Time: Every Saturday, 1pm to 4pm Packages: Dhs349 with soft beverages, Dhs499 with house beverages, Dhs599 with prosecco Contact: +971 4 556 6466 guestservice-dubai@ Mezze and Raki Nights at Blue Door Gather your friends for an evening of warm hospitality and flavourful sharing at Blue Door. Enjoy an abundant spread of authentic Turkish mezze, from creamy hummus to charcoal-grilled eggplant and marinated octopus. The food pairs perfectly with raki for a fun night of connection and conversation. Book here. Location: Blue Door, Delano Dubai, Bluewaters Island Date & Time: Daily from 5pm Offer: Dhs390 for two people Contact: @bluedoorbydelano Staycation deals for the long weekend in Dubai Address Hotels + Resorts across Dubai Located in the heart of Dubai's most vibrant neighborhoods, Address Hotels + Resorts offers elegant urban retreats with unmatched city access. This summer, enjoy 10% off your stay across select properties and receive two complimentary tickets to iconic Emaar attractions such as Dubai Aquarium, KidZania, or Skyview Observatory. U By Emaar members enjoy additional exclusive perks too. Location: Address Downtown, Address Dubai Mall, Palace Downtown, Address Creek Harbour, Palace Creek Harbour Dates: Until September 30, 2025 Offer: 10% off stays and 2 attraction tickets Contact: Raffles The Palm Dubai Escape to timeless elegance at Raffles The Palm Dubai, where classic charm meets refined luxury on the tranquil shores of Palm Jumeirah. UAE and GCC residents can enjoy an exclusive Summer Retreat with luxurious benefits and savings. Location: Raffles The Palm Dubai, Palm Jumeirah Dates: Summer 2025 Offer Includes: Daily breakfast– Complimentary stay for two children under 12– 20% off two-night stays– 20% off food & beverage (excluding Piatti by the Beach) – 30% off spa treatments (60 minutes or more) Contact: +971 4 248 8888 | Spa offers for the long weekend in Dubai The Spa at Address Hotels + Resorts Celebrate the Islamic New Year long weekend with Serenity Season at The Spa, an invitation to unwind in elegant tranquility. Available across Address and Palace Hotels, this summer wellness offer includes up to 20% off curated spa treatments and retail products. From signature massages to rejuvenating facials and traditional hammam rituals, each experience is designed to restore and renew. See more info here. Location: Various Address & Palace Hotels across Dubai Dates: Until September 30, 2025 Offer: Up to 20% off treatments and retail Contact: Rejuvenate at Fairmont The Palm Treat yourself to the ultimate day of wellness with Fairmont The Palm's indulgent relaxation package. For Dhs650 per person, enjoy a 60-minute massage of your choice, a nourishing lunch at ZEST (choose 3 items and a beverage), and complimentary access to the tranquil Thermal Oasis. It's the perfect blend of serenity and self-care, for a really good price. Location: Fairmont The Palm, Palm Jumeirah Dates: Ongoing Offer: Dhs650 per person for 60-minute massage, lunch at ZEST, and access to Thermal Oasis Contact: +971 4 457 3545 | Activity offers for the long weekend in Dubai GLITCH Celebrate the long weekend, and GLITCH's second anniversary, with unbeatable family fun in the heart of Deira. From June 27 to 29, guests spending just Dhs10 will earn 200 points to redeem on arcade and VR games anytime within six months. Laser tag and bowling are also just Dhs10 per person. These deals are available only from 10am to 12pm, so arrive early to catch the action. Location: GLITCH, Level 2, Al Ghurair Centre, Deira, Dubai Dates: June 27 to 29 (10am–12pm only) Offer: Dhs10 laser tag & bowling + 200 gaming points with Dhs10 spend Contact: BattleKart For those of you who feel the need for speed, head to BattleKart for a dose of electric karting, video games and augmented reality. You'll get to drive around different circuits and try different game modes which are all projected directly onto the floor allowing you to interact with the scenery and other players. For June, the first game is Dhs160, the second game Dhs130 and the third game Dhs100. Book here. Location: Dubai Investment Park Offer Prices from Dhs160 Timing: Mon to Thurs 2pm to 12am, Fri and Sat 1pm to 2am and Sun 1pm to 12am Contact: 0 58 588 0116
Daily Mail
06-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
MasterChef Australia fans shocked by horrifying footage of 'mean' and 'harsh' Canadian judges screaming at contestants
MasterChef Australia fans have been left puzzled by resurfaced footage of judges from the Canadian franchise shouting at their wide-eyed contestants after spitting out their food. The YouTube channel MasterChef global recently re-uploaded footage of Canadian judges Michael Bonacini, Claudio Aprile, and Alvin Leung giving their season one contestants a brutal roasting. The judging trio, who have helmed the Canadian series since 2014, are known for their demanding and sometimes intense critiques, particularly by blue-haired chef Alvin. At the start of the clip, Alvin grimaces in disgust after he takes a bite out of contestant Megan Toth's smelt quiche. He proceeds to chew the bite loudly and then throw his fork down in disgust, before storming out. From A-list scandals and red carpet mishaps to exclusive pictures and viral moments, subscribe to the DailyMail's new showbiz newsletter to stay in the loop. 'That is why I only watch [MasterChef] Australia,' one viewer commented as the footage was shared to Reddit for discussion. 'Nice judges and nice contestants. No shouting and no chest thumping.' In stark contrast to the unfavourable comparisons of Married at First Sight Australia to the 'tamer' UK and US formats — Channel Ten's MasterChef has been hailed by viewers as a beacon of positivity. As the clip continues, judge Claudio joins his colleague in spitting out a bite of the second dish into a napkin. 'This looks like I want to watch the show from my couch fish cakes,' he tells a male contestant. 'That's a garnish? It looks like compost!' Alvin, who is a renowned Canadian chef known for his "X-Treme Chinese" cuisine and often referred to as "The Demon Chef", was even harsher. 'Why would you puree a beautiful fish like that and turn it into mush?' he asked the same contestant, before completely losing his temper. At the start of the clip, Alvin is seen grimacing in disgust after he takes a bite out of contestant Megan Toth's smelt quiche. He proceeds to throw his fork down in disgust, before storming out 'Is this a joke? This is MasterChef Canada,' he said, before shouting, 'and you give me this?!' Alvin is the owner of Bo Innovation in Hong Kong, a three-Michelin-starred restaurant. Viewers flocked to Reddit to compare the Australian and UK MasterChef judges to their North American counterparts. 'MasterChef Aus still has drama. MasterChef UK has the least. And USA is...' one wrote. 'Yeah, most of the other versions overdramatise the judging, and encourage the judges to be total d***s,' another agreed before providing an example. 'MasterChef US: "Holy s***, this is horrible, and your dead mother would be ashamed at the way you've butchered her recipe." [Tosses plate across the room]. 'MasterChef AU: "Well, you're asparagus is pretty on point, and I liked the use of saffron, but you've got to be more careful about your seasoning and you're cooking times. This definitely wasn't your best." [Gives crying contestant a hug].' 'It's why I only watch the Australian version anymore,' they concluded. Viewers flocked to Reddit to compare the Australian and UK MasterChef judges to their North American counterparts While MasterChef Australia fans have sometimes complained that judges Andy Allen, Poh Ling Yeow, Jean-Christophe Novelli, and Sofia Levin 'baby' the contestants or 'are too nice' - viewers agreed this is preferable compared to the shouting in Canada's version. 'The judges on MasterChef AU are genuinely some of the kindest. Even when a dish doesn't turn out well, they still manage to give feedback in such a polite and empathetic way,' another viewer added. 'And It's not just the current set of judges, even in the earlier seasons they always maintained that warmth and encouragement. In contrast, MasterChef Canada feels so much harsher. 'From this clip, the judges come across so blunt and rude. I get that presentation might be lacking in some dishes, but the way the criticism is delivered its just feels unnecessarily harsh. 'Honestly, it makes the whole viewing experience feel tense rather than enjoyable. I don't think I will ever enjoy watching this Masterchef Canada. 'It just takes the joy out of it.' 'I'm in Canada and I love watching the Australian feed because it's so wholesome,' another agreed. 'The Canadian version is so mean. The judges are mean and they push the contestants to fight against each other. There's a lot of bullying.' 'The US version is just as hideous if not worse ... honestly unwatchable. Again, the Australians have made this programme the best version possible,' praised another MC Australia fan. Canadian viewers said that while chef Alvin has improved his temperament and judging style over time, they despised how their format appeared to copy the 'hideous' approach of the US version.
What's On
21-05-2025
- Entertainment
- What's On
6 of the best restaurants in Dubai this weekend: May 23 to 25
Not your average 'where should we eat'… Dubai's dining scene doesn't take days off, but this week? It's really doing the most: New openings, new menus, unexpected chef collabs, lowkey glam pop-ups, and nights that don't end at dessert. These are 6 of the best restaurants in Dubai this weekend that deserve a spot on your radar (and in your camera roll). Banyan Tree Dubai: the culinary masters eight-hands dinner What: A two-night eight-hands dinner series with four standout chefs across two iconic Banyan Tree Dubai venues. Chef Alvin Leung (Demon Duck), Chefs Taka & Hisa (TakaHisa), and Executive Chef Jonathan Bouthiaux join forces for a rare multi-course collab blending Japanese precision, Chinese richness, and French technique. Vibe: Refined, intimate luxury. Menu: An eight-course experience featuring signature creations from each chef. Think Slow-Roasted Demon Duck, premium Wagyu, pristine sushi, and globally inspired dishes threaded with personal touch. Demon Duck dinner Priced at Dhs650/Dhs1,200 with wine pairing, TakaHisa dinner priced at Dhs3000. When: Saturday 24 May at Demon Duck, and Sunday 25 May at TakaHisa. Where: Demon Duck/TakaHisa, Banyan Tree Dubai, Bluewaters Island @banyantreedxb. Book here China Tang Dubai What: The iconic London-born Cantonese restaurant makes its Middle East debut at The Lana Promenade. Vibe: Opulent, Art Deco glamour meets 1930s Shanghai. Think mirrored ceilings, stained glass, intricate wallpaper, and a moody, elegant cocktail bar. Everything – down to the tea – is well thought-out. Food: A refined take on Cantonese cuisine by Chef Li Zhenjun. Signature dishes include Xiao Long Bao, Sir David's Hot & Sour Soup, Whole Lobster with E-Fu Noodles, and the famous Beijing Duck – roasted in a custom oven and carved tableside. New Dubai exclusives include Foie Gras Cherries, Da Hong Pao Lamb Cutlets, and Honey-Glazed Beef Char Siu. When: Open daily from 12pm to 11pm Where: The Lana Promenade, Dorchester Collection, Marasi Bay Marina @chinatang_dubai ROKA Dubai What: A laid-back Japanese-style family brunch with live stations, signature robata dishes, and a full-on kids' zone. Vibe: Grown-up chill with a side of family-friendly energy – DJ on deck, toys on hand. Menu: The menu features maki, nigiri, soups, robata grills, and plated mains – with a premium upgrade option featuring that famous black cod and beef fillet When: Every Saturday, 12.30pm to 4pm Where: ROKA, The Opus by Omniyat, Level 1, Business Bay @rokadubaiofficial ALAYA: flavours of Sayf What: A limited-edition summer menu featuring Middle Eastern and Mediterranean dishes. Vibe: DIFC glam with marble. Menu: Dhs250 per person gets you cold and hot starters, one main, sides, and dessert. Think: creamy muhammara, crisp fattoush, za'atar calamari, grilled chicken, kofte, and maqlouba rice. End with apricot tart or pistachio ice cream with pomegranate. When: Daily, 4pm to 8pm Where: ALAYA, DIFC @alayadubai AURA Skypool x Chiva-Som: A wellness takeover in the sky What: The world's highest 360° infinity pool partners with Thai wellness destination Chiva-Som for a three-day immersive wellness experience. Vibe: chic, relaxed atmosphere high above Dubai, with stunning 360 views. Highlights: Lunch in the Sky: A Taste of Chiva-Som A wellness-inspired three-course menu crafted by Chiva-Som's Chef Touch Vongsatitsart and AURA's Chef Craig Best, priced at Dhs225 per person, Dhs175 for free-flowing rosé A wellness-inspired three-course menu crafted by Chiva-Som's Chef Touch Vongsatitsart and AURA's Chef Craig Best, priced at Dhs225 per person, Dhs175 for free-flowing rosé Sunrise Yoga + Breakfast Hatha yoga and breathwork led by AURA's Emilse and Chiva-Som's Kamlesh, followed by a nourishing breakfast, price at Dhs280 When: May 22 – 24 Where: AURA Skypool, Palm Jumeirah @ Also read 7 best restaurants in Dubai to make you feel like you're on holiday Your bar twin: Some of the best bars in Dubai for every personality Hakkasan Dubai What: One Michelin star Hakkasan Dubai introduces the Pearl tasting menu and a new cocktail selection, featuring modern Cantonese cuisine, seasonal influences, and creative mixology. Vibe: Sleek, sophisticated, modern luxury feel with intimate lighting. Menu: Standouts include the pearl tasting menu golden 'Yuan Bao' dumpling with king crab and caviar, Abalone & Sea Cucumber Dumpling with prawn and peppercorn vinaigrette, Stir-Fry Fresh Water Scampi over crisp mantou, Braised Australian Wagyu Short Rib with salted plum & pineapple, Hokkaido Scallop Fried Trio Rice, and Sauteed White Asparagus with morel mushroom and vegan XO sauce. Cocktails include Hakkasan Tea Ceremony: Jasmine vodka, pear liqueur, peach, almond, Hakka 2.0: Lychee, sake, coconut, and, Forget Me Not: Mango-infused gin with house-made pepper liqueur. When: Available now, daily, 6pm to 11.30pm. Where: Hakkasan Dubai, Atlantis The Palm @hakkasandubai Images: Supplied/Instagram
