Spain Gastro @ FOC Restaurant, Keong Saik Road, Singapore

¡Chin chin! | Spain Gastro

An evening of Spanish gastronomy at FOC Restaurant on Keong Saik Road, and definitely one for the food diary. With a menu that took us from cold and hot snacks to tapas, paellas and desserts, there was plenty to eat, share and enjoy throughout the evening.

We started with the Iberico Jamon on Toasted Bread with Tomatoes,

a classic combination and the perfect way to ease into the meal.

This was followed by Smoked Cantabrico Anchovies on Charcoal Brioche with Salted Caramel Butter, an interesting play of savoury and sweet flavours.

Sea Urchin, King Crab & Tarragon Butter on Toast

Foie Gras Terrine & Ahrenka Caviar in Crispy Phylli

Next came the more indulgent bites. The Sea Urchin, King Crab & Tarragon Butter on Toast brought together two of my favourite seafood ingredients in one bite, while the Foie Gras Terrine & Ahrenka Caviar in Crispy Phylli rounded off the cold snacks on a suitably luxurious note.

Iberico Ham Croquetas with Manchego Cream Sauce

Porcini Mushroom Croquetas with Black Truffle Sauce 

Moving on to the hot snacks, we had not one but two types of croquetas. The Iberico Ham Croquetas with Manchego Cream Sauce were rich and comforting, while the Porcini Mushroom Croquetas with Black Truffle Sauce delivered those deep, earthy flavours of mushroom and truffle.

Patatas Bravas - One of my favourites of the evening!

And of course, it would not be a Spanish feast without FOC Patatas Bravas,

served with garlic aioli and spicy bravas sauce.

Padron Peppers with Togarashi & Maldon Salt 

Then came the tapas. The Padron Peppers with Togarashi & Maldon Salt were simple yet addictive, before we moved on to something heartier with the Spanish Charcoal-Grilled Octopus with Pork Jowl & Cabbage Trinxat.

Spanish Charcoal-Grilled Octopus with Pork Jowl & Cabbage Trinxat

This was one of the showstoppers of the evening. I loved the combination of the smoky, charcoal-grilled octopus with the richness of the pork jowl, balanced by the cabbage trinxat. There was so much going on in one plate, yet everything worked beautifully together. Definitely the dish that left the strongest impression on me, and one I would happily come back for!

The King Prawns Al Ajillo with Spicy White Bean Emulsion followed, 

another seafood dish packed with bold flavours.

Boston Lobster Paella with Salmorreta

Sanchoku Wagyu & Mushrooms Paella 

And finally, the part of the evening I had been looking forward to: paella!

We had two very different versions to share. The Sanchoku Wagyu & Mushrooms Paella was rich and hearty, combining beef and mushrooms in a comforting paella, while the Boston Lobster Paella with Salmorreta brought us the oceanic goodness with lobster taking centre stage.

Dessert - Basque Cheesecake Tartlet

Dessert - FOC Lemon Pie 

After that entire spread, naturally there was still room for dessert. We ended the evening with three sweets: the Basque Cheesecake Tartlet, the refreshing FOC Lemon Pie, and the Spanish Torrija with Mascarpone Foam to complete our Spanish feast.

Spanish Torrija with Mascarpone Foam

The Spanish Torrija with Mascarpone Foam was an absolute winner for me. The torrija had this incredibly soft, pillowy texture that I loved so much, complemented beautifully by the smooth mascarpone foam. Rich and comforting yet still delicate enough for the end of such a big meal, this was the dessert I kept going back for. So, so good!

Thank you, Chef for hosting us! 

From jamon and anchovies to croquetas, octopus, prawns, paella and desserts, this was truly a table full of Spanish flavours. A lovely evening of sharing plates, good food, wine and great company at FOC.

FOC Restaurant

32 Keong Saik Rd., Singapore 089139

+65 6206 5810

Website: focrestaurant.com

Dear Diary | October 2026 Edition

Hello, October! ❤

Another month is gone in a heartbeat. Somewhere between chasing deadlines and collecting memories, October just slipped away quietly but it reminded me that I should be more appreciative of every moment in life, be it big or small.

Montigo Resorts, Batam ❤

03.10.2026 | October kickstarted with a much anticipated staycation in Batam, which turned out to be a timely sweet escape from the hazy weather in Singapore. Great hospitality, ultra-spacious 3-storey villa and beautiful weather throughout. A pretty sweet getaway, my first experience in Batam was not bad at all!

08.10.2026 | First week of October. Pleasantly filled with work lunches, coffee catch-ups and dinner dates amidst the hectic schedule. 

It's time to S-H-I-N-E! ❤

16.10.2026 | The shiny Dinner & Dance! Finally, we were back in the grand ballroom of Marina Bay Sands to celebrate yet another year of great achievements with the firm. Plenty of beautiful faces, familiar smiles and wonderful moments shared with colleagues and friends. Beyond the glitz and glamour, it was a lovely reminder that the people and friendships along the way make the journey all the more meaningful.

Calendar Coffee @ Chinatown

17.10.2026 | Back to another café-hopping episode, and this time we found ourselves at Calendar Coffee for their signature French toasts. Honestly, the dessert toast was pretty forgettable. But wow, the savoury French toast with Parma ham was a totally different story. Definitely one I’d come back for!

24.10.2026 | Goodbye to the last exam of the year, and see you again in January 2027! 

25.10.2026 | Thank you Big Fish Small Fish for having me! I still enjoy my occasional reel-recording food tasting sessions, taking some time off from the usual routine to sample delicious food, discover new flavours and simply have fun creating content again. Always a nice little break!

Omasake Lunch at Sushi Yujo, Tanjong Pagar ❤

27.10.2026 | Thank you for the amazing treat! It’s been a wonderful four years working together, and what better way to celebrate than over an amazing omakase lunch. The food was absolutely delicious, and the company made it even better. See you again soon!

28.10.2026 | Another day, another farewell. Till we meet again!

A Spanish affair at FOC Restaurant, Keong Saik Rd ❤

29.10.2026 | Great wine, bold Spanish flavours and a table full of foodie enthusiasts. What more could I ask for? Plenty of sharing, plenty of delicious food and one very happy belly. The charcoal-grilled octopus and patatas bravas stole the show for me! Thank you Spain Tourism Board for having me :) 

31.10.2026 | Homebound. Happy birthday, my little nephew! Another year older, cheekier and cuter. Hope you had the happiest celebration surrounded by lots of love, laughter and, of course, cake!

❤❤❤

Can't wait to enter into November, my birthday month!

Signing off, 

FiSh @ 31.10.2026

How to Book a Fast Boat with GiliBaliBoat

GiliBaliBoat lets you easily and quickly book a fast boat to explore the Gili Islands, Lombok, and Bali. You can compare several operators, all of which are established companies, so you’re guaranteed reliable service. Let’s find out how the booking system at GiliBaliBoat works.

Step-by-Step Guide to Booking a Fast Boat with GiliBaliBoat

Buying tickets through GiliBaliBoat is easy, and you can access all the important information you need. Many travelers are hesitant to book because some services might be fake or lead to fraudulent operators. There’s no need to worry if you use GiliBaliBoat, everything is secure, including the available operator options.

So, how can you book a ticket? Follow the step-by-step guide below:

1. Open the GiliBaliBoat Website 

Open your browser and visit the official GiliBaliBoat website at gilibaliboat.com. Any other sites are not official and do not offer genuine bookings.

2. Select Your Crossing 

On the website, you’ll be asked to enter your departure point and destination. You can choose from several active ports in Bali, Nusa Lembongan, Nusa Penida, and Lombok as your departure and destination points. Choose whether you want to book a one-way trip or a round-trip.

Continue by entering the departure date and the number of passengers. If you want to book a round-trip, you’ll need to enter the return date as well.

3. Search and Compare Operators 

Click the “Search Boats” button and wait for the page to display available crossings, along with the name of each operator. You can also check ratings, schedules, amenities, photos, boat photos, and prices.

4. Choose from the Crossing List 

Compare operators based on amenities, price, crossing duration, and departure time. You can also sort by duration, time, and price. Once you’ve made your decision, tap the “Book Now” button.

5. Complete Passenger Details 

Fill in the blank fields, including Full Name, Nationality, ID Type, and ID Number. Once everything is filled out, you can tap the “Add to Cart” button. Add additional crossings if needed using the available button.

Also fill in the blank fields in the Contact Details section, including Full Name, email, and WhatsApp number (use the country code). Check the agreement box, enter a voucher code if available, and review the order summary.

6. Complete Payment

Pay for your GiliBaliBoat fast boat booking before the displayed deadline. Select a payment method and enter the required information. Select the “Pay Now” button to instantly receive your e-ticket. The e-ticket will be sent to your inbox so you can easily check it again when needed.

You can pay by credit/debit card, QRIS, bank transfer, or over the counter. QRIS payments can be made using Indonesian e-wallets, and over-the-counter payments are available at minimarts such as Alfamart and Indomaret, which are located throughout Indonesia.

7. Redeem Your e-Ticket

At this point, you’ve secured your boat for departure. Arrive at the port on time and present your ticket to the boat operator you booked with. Your e-ticket will be exchanged for an official physical ticket to take you to your destination.

It’s best to complete your payment right away, as it will expire if you miss the specified deadline. So, that’s how the GiliBaliBoat fast boat booking process works.

Dear Diary | September 2026 Edition

Hello, September ❤ 

3 months left before 2026 comes to an end. September was a month of deadlines, study notes, late nights, and endless calendar blocks. A month of growth, learning, and more farewells than expected.

Farewell ❤ 

03.09.2026 | Farewell to my girl at work :( Nobody talks about how hard it is when colleagues become friends. This month has been filled with farewell lunches, watching people I've worked with for the past 4 years leave, one by one. Happy for their next chapter, but a little sad that this one is ending.

 

Weekend with colleagues-turned-friends ❤ 

12.09.2026 | So many things to catch up on. Happy to see everyone growing, thriving, and pursuing what they truly love. Looking forward to creating more memories and spending more time together outside of work!

Filled in the Blank ❤ 

19.09.2026 | Back to café-hopping, even amidst the chaos of work. We tried the Laksa Risotto at Filled in the Blank and it did not disappoint. Creamy, spicy, comforting, and everything I needed after a long week. While the service tested my patience, the dish was worth the wait. 

A small reminder that it is okay to slow down and enjoy the little things, no matter how busy life gets.

Happy to carry the Milo lil' peanut waffle plush sling bag around the town!

The waffle duo was just too adorable to resist. ❤

Another week, another farewell ❤ 

21.09.2026 | Saying goodbye to the person I've worked closely with over the past four years. Ending the day with a delicious Japanese feast and the beautiful Marina Bay Sands skyline in the background.

A simple mid-autumn dinner ❤ 

25.09.2026 | In between busy schedules and endless to-do lists, it was nice to slow down for a simple Mid-Autumn dinner. We started with Torisanwa's special chicken broth ramen and ended on a sweet note with the ever memorable tiramisu from L'Atelier. Simple food, good company, and a wonderful Mid-Autumn celebration :)

No shortage of mooncakes this year. Thank you for all the delicious festive treats!

Mid-autumn Celebration in Jurong Lake Garden ❤ 

26.09.2026 | A beautiful evening filled with festive cheer, stunning views of the iconic pagoda, vibrant festive decorations, and plenty of Instagram-worthy moments in Jurong Lake Gardens. Thankful for the lively atmosphere, and the chance to slow down and enjoy the beauty of the season!

Ending the month with a tax exam ❤ 

26.09.2026 | Feeling grateful for this opportunity to pursue my tax studies since August. Juggling work and monthly exams is definitely not easy, and there are days when it feels overwhelming. But growth happens outside of our comfort zone, and I'm determined to see this through. One exam at a time!

 Biggest surprise of the month - Early birthday gift! ❤❤❤ 

Thank you for the biggest surprise of the month, although my birthday is 1.5 months away. The thoughtful gesture truly caught me off guard and made an already hectic month a little brighter.

Goodbye, September. Before I knew it, you were gone. This month was filled with work, studies, farewells, and unexpected moments of kindness. While work took up most of my time and energy, leaving little room for my health and personal growth, September also reminded me to appreciate the people around me and the small moments that make the busy days worthwhile.

As we enter the final quarter of the year, it's time to make small changes, be kinder to myself, take better care of my well-being, and start prioritising the things that matter too. 

❤❤❤

Let's go into the last quarter of the year. Bring on the challenge!

Signing off, 

FiSh @ 30.09.2026

Dear Diary | August 2026 Edition

Hello, August! ❤❤❤

It's a full month of grinding. A never ending loop of work, studies and reel filming in between. 31 days flew past way too quickly now and I barely recalled what had I actually done throughout the month...

Favourite Uya @ Wheelock Place

01.08.2026 | Missing Japan already! First weekend of returning from Hokkaido and I miss the delicious unagi don I had at the Kansai Airport. Hence, Uya was the place to-go for fixing the craving of smoky, beautifully-grilled unagi. 

Weekend in KL | Hakshan & General Store Cafe

08.08.2026 | It was a long weekend in Singapore, so I returned to KL for a quick getaway with the family. And yes, I skipped the National Day fireworks this year. Honestly, spending that quiet time with my loved ones felt much better.

Typical weekend in SG | Cafe hopping and food review

15.08.2026 | One of my favourite things about weekends in Singapore is discovering great food. This weekend's adventure included dim sum at Shang Society, desserts at my go-to spot Rise Bakehouse, and a delicious Korean BBQ dinner at Bae Sik Dang. Thanks to Bae Sik Dang for the warm invite! 

21.08.2026 | Happy QiXi!

Hello, Douglas Lim in Singapore!

22.08.2026 | First ever live stand-up comedy experience, and what a way to start! Caught Malaysia's King of Comedy, Douglas Lim, live in Singapore with his Vital Stats special. A pleasant afternoon full of laughter, sharp observations, and great energy!

Sin and Savage @ Stirling View

23.08.2026 | Made a detour to Sin & Savage for their famous Biscoff doughnut, but the real surprise was the Showstopper Bagel. Packed with smoked salmon, creamy avocado and generous dill sauce, paired with warm latte, it was the kind of brunch that makes us plan our next visit before I've even left.

Kirin Ichiban's First Press Studio pop-up 

29.08.2026 | Visiting the pop-up kinda brought me back the memories of the Sapporo Beer Museum. We started with a short interactive workshop where we got to make our own wooden coaster, before exploring the art installations and unlimited beer tasting. Thanks for the fun little experience with good vibes and plenty of beer!

❤❤❤

Goodbye August. 

Till then, entering into the busiest months of the year now.

Signing off,

FiSh @ 31.08.2026

Dear Diary | July 2026 Edition

Hello, July ❤ 

Welcome to the second half of the year! ❤ July marks the month I embark on a new role at work, with greater responsibilities and excitements.  

Thank you to the version of myself 4 years ago for taking the leap and moving to Singapore, and to the version of myself 10 months ago for having the courage to change direction within the firm. 

The journey, the progress and the growth I've experienced wouldn't have been possible without the right opportunities, the right people and a little bit of stars aligning. While I'm incredibly grateful for how far I've come, I'd wish Mama is here to witness this. Wish to make her proud again...

Hello to the 1st @ Keen's Bagelry ❤ 

01.07.2026 | Celebrating the start of FY2027 with lunch buddies at work. May this be another smooth-sailing year ahead for all of us. 

Hello to the beautiful House of Tan Yeok Nee ❤ 

04.07.2026 | Built in the late 1800s by Teochew tycoon Tan Yeok Nee, this beautifully preserved mansion is one of Singapore's last surviving traditional Chinese villas. Loved how the House of Tan Yeok Nee has been thoughtfully restored, now bringing the rich history, culture, and stories of the Teochew community to life. A timeless piece of Singapore's heritage that is well worth a visit. 

Bar Kap @ House of Tan Yeok Nee ❤ 

04.07.2026 | It was a weekend for celebration, so we were at Bar Kap, a hidden bar within the historic House of Tan Yeok Nee which blends Teochew heritage with a modern cocktail and dining experience. The cool, intimate vibes make it the perfect spot to unwind. 

The Mee Kapitan was packed with flavours, the Assam Prawn struck a satisfying balance of tangy and spicy, and the TCM Drawer No. 3 cocktail was a delightful blend of coconut and gula melaka. We added a shot of rum for an extra kick, and it took the drink to a whole new level.

Unexpected gift on a chillax Sunday ❤ 

05.07.2026 | Found a new favourite! The Starbucks Croissant Bearista is just too cute that I fell in love with it the moment I saw it on social media. Every little detail was absolutely adorable, and it instantly made my day. Thank you for showering me with this gift without hesitation. I'll be cherishing this little Bearista for a long time.

Omakase dinner at Sushi Tenrai ❤ 

08.07.2026 | Weekday date night at Sushi Tenrai. We opted for the Sakura Course ($98), which began with a refreshing serving of cold somen, followed by 12 pieces of sushi and a mini negitoro ikura bowl, before ending on a sweet note with a custard egg cake. Overall, it was a pleasant and enjoyable meal, though it didn't quite leave a lasting impression on my palate.

Weekend in Joo Chiat ❤ 

11.07.2026 | Back in Joo Chiat for a day of exploring its vibrant eateries and squeezing in an impromptu photoshoot to put the new gear to the test - the Sony FE 16mm F1.8 G ultra-wide lens. A perfect excuse to wander the charming streets, chase good food, and capture a fresh perspective along the way.

We revisited two of our favourites, 328 Katong Laksa and June Coffee, both of which continue to serve up genuinely good food and coffee. Chin Mee Chin's toast, however, didn't quite live up to the hype for us and is probably one we can skip next time.

The day wrapped up nicely with a stroll through East Coast Park before a satisfying dinner. Overall, it was a delicious Saturday spent eating, exploring, and soaking in the East Coast vibes.

H O K K A I D O ❤❤❤

16.07.2026 - 25.07.2026 | A much needed getaway is finally happening! Work has had me feeling like a pressure cooker lately, one whistle away from exploding. Time to trade deadlines for greenery, noise for silence, and stress for a little nature therapy in my favourite homeland - JAPAN ❤

Biei -- Furano -- Otaru -- Toyako -- Hakodate -- Sapporo -- Chitose -- Narita ❤

There goes our 8 days exploring Hokkaido! Experiencing the vibrant colours of summer in Hokkaido has been an incredibly fulfilling journey. From scenic road trips through picturesque countryside landscapes to spontaneous discoveries of hidden gems along the way, every day brought something new and memorable. 

The freedom of having a rental car in Hokkaido led us to charming towns, breathtaking flower fields, tranquil lakes, and unexpected moments that could never have been planned. It was a journey filled with adventure, surprises, and unforgettable memories.

Beautiful Hakodate ❤

Hakodate turned out to be one of the most delightful discoveries of our Hokkaido road trip. A charming port town filled with historic churches, fresh and delicious kaisendon, the stunning Mount Hakodate night view that ranks among Japan's Top 3, and the iconic star-shaped Goryokaku Park. Every stop revealed something special, making Hakodate a place that exceeded all expectations and left a lasting impression on us.

Gonna miss all the great food we had throughout the trip!

Vibrant Sapporo City ❤

Spending just two nights in Sapporo was definitely not enough to explore everything the city has to offer. Beyond its vibrant food scene, lively shopping districts, and beautiful cityscape, there was so much more left undiscovered. 

Hokkaido has a unique charm in every season, and this summer trip has only made me want to come back again. Hopefully, I'll have the opportunity to return in a different season, whether to witness the colourful autumn foliage, the magical winter snow, or the fresh blooms of spring, and experience a completely different side of this beautiful island!

Thank you, July for the beautiful memories! ❤ 

Signing off,

FiSh 

@ 31.07.2026