JAAN may have retained its Michelin two-star standing but Chef Kirk Westaway still isn't resting on his laurels. His annual summer menu revamp is an anticipated affair and his new menu is about the ensnaring of summer's vibrancy; the inclusion of ingredients that exemplify that Outkast "So Fresh, So Clean" vibe.
We begin with the amuse-bouche—a series of British-inspired snacks. A Smoked Ocean Trout, which is a baked bread roll stuffed with smoked trout and topped with pike roe and crème fraîche; the Baby Tomato Tart showcases tomberries—tiny, carefully skinned tomatoes (I'd imagine the commis chef hunched over, eyes narrowed and gently peeling off the skins)—nestled on a tartlet with burrata, basil pesto and a crisp fried basil leaf. There's the signature Cheddar Pancake, a buckwheat pancake orb filled with smoked cheddar that was sourced from a farm, a stone thrown away (if you have strong arms) from Chef's Westaway's childhood home. No notes there.
It's the Goose Mousse that we wanna call attention to. It's a combo of chicken liver parfait with onion marmalade, layered chestnut mushrooms and alyssum flowers. It looks unassuming but on the first bite, there are flavours that fulminate into joyous chewing; I was forlorn that it was over.
We continue with our perennial favourite, JAAN's Charred Leek and Potato Soup. It's a hearty broth that transports you to a fireplace in the winter, even though I've experienced sitting by the hearth during a snowstorm; that's how potent this dish is. (As a sidenote, if they even remove this dish from the menu, I. WILL. RIOT.)
The bread course (of course, there's a bread course) has a twin offering of homemade dark rye bâtard loaf (bâtard is French for oval-shaped, you child) and crispy sourdough brioche and served with butter accented with lemon thyme leaves.
King Crab is the first main. Shredded crab meat with diced baby cucumbers and a quenelle of yoghurt sorbet with dehydrated tomato skin underneath them. Chilled tomato sauce is poured onto the dish. There's a nuttiness to the Wild Turbot dish. Cooked in brown butter, the turbot is presented with a barbecued capsicum purée and garnished with cured lemon and capers. The Langoustine is another delight; it's served with a courgette violin, which we discovered is a kind of marrow. There's also courgette risotto, a lemon purée and finished with parsley, chives and chervil, which we also discover is a kind of parsley; a French parsley. The learning never stops at JAAN.
The Guinea Fowl is... something. From the name of the dish, we expected something bird-like. What we are presented with is... is a terrine. There are layers of brined guinea fowl, confit and minced mushrooms. It took a while to get used to this because as I'm parsing through the dish, my monkey brain thinks "bird" but I'm getting a gelatinous mouthfeel.
Coincidentally, an Earl Grey Palate Cleanser was next. Made of pomelo, sweet clementine and pink grapefruit and capped with an Earl Grey sorbet and bay leaf-infused frozen milk, it cleared the way for either a decadent Chocolate—layers of roasted hazelnuts, chocolate and a caramel parfait—and Summer Peach, a mix of fresh peaches and nectarines, verbena and peach sorbet. As usual, this lovely lunchtime concludes with the Final Sweets, a line of Apple Jam, Coffee Chocolate, Strawberry Custard Tart and Chef Westaway's rendition of the classic Devon Cream Tea.
Were we satiated? Very much so. We took in as much of the sky-high view as of the new lunch menu. With an expanded waistline and an elevated mood, our heads were filled with Chef Westaway's summer... even in this Singapore heat.
JAAN is located at Swissôtel The Stamford Singapore, 2 Stamford Rd, Level 70, Singapore 178882
Yes, we are facing the consequences of our actions—global warming. The heat is becoming unbearable, making it daunting to venture outside our homes. Dressing appropriately in this climate poses a challenge; layering clothes would probably risk suffering from a heatstroke.
Walking in this heat has become increasingly frustrating, with perspiration soaking us within moments. Moreover, the intense sun makes it difficult to keep our eyes open. How can we stay fashionable in this weather?
If your clothes aren’t hitting the mark, you can always elevate your outfits with accessories. We understand that jewellery might not be the most practical choice, so we focused on a more functional accessory: sunglasses. Your peepers stay protected and sunglasses also add a stylish edge to your look.
Classy and minimal with a touch of edge, the Gentle Monster Loti 01 sunglasses exude an effortlessly cool vibe. These versatile sunglasses complement almost any look. They feature a cat-eye silhouette with a black acetate frame. The softly curved top and balanced lines of the bottom create a chic, lightweight design. The sunglasses also have voluminous temples with silver metal details and black lenses offering 99.9 per cent UV protection.
This pair takes the classic square silhouette to another level. Bold yet understated, they serve as the statement piece in your minimalist wardrobe. Their size and unique black and grey hue add a touch of sophistication to any outfit. Suitable for any weather, these sunglasses can withstand rain or shine—just remember to dry them immediately if they get wet.
Of course, this list has to include Oakley. As one of the most iconic eyewear brands, they are essential. If you're into Opium core fashion, the Silver Encoder Ellipse sunglasses are a must-have for your wardrobe. Innovative and forward-thinking, this pair boldly elevates style with its unique Encoder lens shape.
Equipped with Detachable anti-slip Unobtainium (no, really; someone at Oakley really likes Avatar) rubber nose pads and earsocks for a secure, no-slip grip, these sunglasses showcase Oakley's commitment to both style and functionality. Their PhysioMorphic Geometry design methodology ensures a close fit to the face, optimising coverage, offering a wider field of view and enhancing frame retention and impact protection.
What is Opium core without Rick Owens? The iconic brand blends dystopian themes with grunge, gothic punk, French culture, and rock avant-garde, making it essential for achieving the Opium core aesthetic. This pair of wraparound-style sunglasses features a nylon frame and black lenses, adding an alluring and mysterious vibe to your look. They also offer 100 per cent UVA/UVB protection, Category 3 rating, and integrated nose pads. While layering is a key element of this genre, it can be challenging in this hot weather. With the Black Ryder Sunglasses, it will help you exude the look effortlessly.
If you're into the office siren look, the Brown EQ100 sunglasses are the perfect accessory to complete your outfit, embodying the corporate core aesthetic. This rectangular, semi-rimless pair offers the best of both worlds with slightly tinted yellow lenses that can be worn indoors. They also feature an anti-glare and scratch-resistant coating, 100 per cent UVA/UVB protection, integrated nose pads, and graphic hardware at the temples.
For a more understated look, consider the Prada Silver Logo sunglasses. Featuring thin metal frames, these sunglasses offer greater versatility and complement any outfit colour. The gradient grey lenses, subtly etched with the Prada logo, provide a sophisticated touch. They offer 100% UVA/UVB protection and include adjustable rubber nose pads, making them a great option for those with a lower nose bridge.
Embrace the retro-futuristic style with these sunglasses from A Better Feeling. Featuring sharp angles, minimal decoration, and matte metallic tones, each pair is hand-manufactured from lightweight, functional materials such as stainless steel, titanium, and acetate. These sunglasses possess a sleek silver tone, polarised beige lenses, 100% UV protection, adjustable rubber nose pads, and an engraved logo at the temples.
"The Goggle" sunglasses are handcrafted from recycled stainless steel, inspired by the iconic eyewear of Tokyo's vibrant 1990s scene. Combining retro appeal with futuristic influences like Steampunk goggles, these sunglasses make you look like a character straight out of a science fiction movie, embodying the retro-futuristic look to its core.
While this pair may appear simple at first glance, a closer inspection reveals intricate spring details on the temples. If you appreciate subtle yet refined touches, this pair is perfect for you. Highlights include blue lenses and a "Gaultier" engraved bridge. Beyond its stylish appeal, it features a category 3 UVA and UVB filter with anti-glare treatment, ensuring both fashion and function.
The Santos de Cartier sunglasses feature a metal frame with a smooth and brushed golden finish, a rectangular shape, and green lenses. These aviators perfectly complement the vintage "grandpa" look you’re aiming for. Additionally, the iconic Santos screws, borrowed from the renowned watch of the same name, add a distinctive touch.
So, the next time someone asks, "Why is it so hot?" just tell them it's because they are standing next to you.
As the summer sun beckons, it's time to bask in its warm embrace and enjoy outdoor adventures. But before you step out, there's one crucial item you can't afford to miss (especially if you're in Singapore): sunscreen.
With countless options on the market, finding the perfect sunscreen can be overwhelming. We break down a number of options that have recently been released, but before that, here are a number of things to take note of when looking for a sunscreen to suit your needs:
The Mineral Unseen Sunscreen is the iconic original Unseen Suncreen in a sheer mineral formula. The formulation is weightless, sheer, and scentless with a natural finish that glides smoothly onto the skin. But if you're looking for something to put on the go instead, the Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen Stick is quite the unbeatable option. It's literally the best-selling invisible Unseen Sunscreen in a portable, easy-to-apply stick.
Broad-spectrum protection: Yes
SPF: 40
Water resistance: Yes, up to 40 minutes
Skin-friendly formulation: For all skin types and non-comedogenic
The Supergoop! Mineral Unseen Sunscreen and Unseen Sunscreen Stick are available at Sephora.
The newest addition to the LANEIGE Perfect Renew range, the Perfect Renew 5D Sun Protector Essence, is more than just a sunscreen. Besides shielding skin from harmful UV rays, it revitalises the skin and even delivers cutting-edge anti-aging benefits.
Broad-spectrum protection: Yes
SPF: 50+, PA++++
Water resistance: Not water resistant
Skin-friendly formulation: Sensitive skin-friendly
The LANEIGE Perfect Renew 5D Sun Protector Essence is available at LANEIGE boutiques.
Say goodbye to complicated skincare routines and hello to easy, breezy beauty with Glow Recipe's all-in-one SPF serum stick—the Watermelon Glow Dew Balm. Inspired by the viral Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Dew Drops, just glide it on for an instant dewy glow. Not only does it hydrate and leave your skin dewy, it also evens tone and prevents hyperpigmentation.
Broad-spectrum protection: Yes
SPF: 30, PA+++
Water resistance: Yes, up to 40 minutes
Skin-friendly formulation: For all skin types
The Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Dew Balm is available at Sephora.
The Bioré UV Athlizm Protect Essence is a lightweight formula that repels sweat and water, keeping skin smooth and non-sticky, while the Bioré UV Athlizm Protect Mist is a transparent adhesive mist that forms a thin yet strong UV film, suitable for wet skin, hair, and scalp. The latter can be used upside down for easy reach to areas like the back of legs and neck. Both are designed to endure harsh sporting conditions—maintains under high temperatures of up to 40 degrees celsius and humidity levels of 75 per cent. The products stay intact even with frequent wiping and rubbing from skin or clothing during exercise, making them perfect for rigorous activities.
Broad-spectrum protection: Yes
SPF: 50+, PA++++
Water resistance: Yes, up to 40 minutes
Skin-friendly formulation: For all skin types and non-comedogenic
The Bioré UV Athlizm Protect Essence and Bioré UV Athlizm Protect Mist are available at Guardian, Welcia, Donki, and KAO official stores on Shopee and Lazada.
Fenty Skin has done it once again. The new Hydra Vizor Huez is essentially a tinted mineral SPF moisturiser that comes in 10 different shades. The best thing is that there's no chalkiness to face that can sometimes occur with some products. All it does it hydrate, protect and give off a glowy finish to your skin.
Broad-spectrum protection: Yes
SPF: 30
Water resistance: Yes
Skin-friendly formulation: For all skin types
The Hydra Huez Tinted Moisturiser Broad Spectrum Mineral SPF 30 Sunscreen is available at Sephora.
Formulated with the same Cupuaçu butter as the Sol de Janeiro's signature Brazilian Bum Bum Cream, the Rio Radiance Body Lotion locks in moisture without feeling heavy leaving the skin silky smooth. The Rio Radiance Body Spray cools and refreshes with coconut water and brightens with vitamin-C-rich Pitanga extract and niacinamide, while the Pongamia Seed extract delivers powerful antioxidants. Meanwhile, the Rio Radiance Body Oil nourishes with Patauá oil and adds a shimmering glow with Golden Mica protecting skin from environmental aggressors.
Broad-spectrum protection: Yes
SPF: 50
Water resistance: Yes, up to 40 minutes
Skin-friendly formulation: Sensitive skin-friendly
The Rio Radiance SPF Collection is available at Sephora.
Clarins blends scientific innovation with its plant-based expertise to introduce two new sunscreens: the Youth-Protecting Sun Cream and Sun Spray Lotion. The Youth-protecting Sun Cream offers moisturising and protective benefits, shielding skin from the sun's harmful effects. The lightweight Sun Spray Lotion on the other hand, keeps the skin hydrated and features a spray format for quick, easy application with an invisible finish.
Broad-spectrum protection: Yes
SPF: 50+
Water resistance: Yes
Skin-friendly formulation: For all skin types
The Clarins Youth-Protecting Sun Cream and Sun Spray Lotion are available at Clarins boutiques.
As the warmth of the Italian summer approaches, Gucci unveils a new collection, Gucci Lido—"Lido" referring to luxurious beach resorts that are plenty on the Italian coastline. The summer-ready collection pays homage to the enchanting allure of coastal living, capturing the essence of sun-kissed days and effortless, carefree moments of the season.
The Gucci Lido campaign sees creative director Sabato De Sarno teaming up with photographer Anthony Seklaoui to capture themes of escapism and spontaneity. From swimwear to breezy resortwear, the collection offers a range of pieces that seamlessly blends luxury with comfort—the makings of a perfect summer wardrobe.
The Gucci Jackie and GG Marmont bags are refreshed in straw-effect raffia and canvas for a more laid-back aesthetic while easily set to become a summer essential. Neon-hued trims add a playful spin on the classic GG canvas that range from small accessories such as cardholders to duffel bags and luggage. And to complete the Lido aesthetic, pieces dressed in neoprene and finished with cable trims take on a more literal approach.
To bring the Gucci Lido experience to life, Gucci has erected a pop-up (the only one in the world) at The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands. Located right outside the Gucci boutique on the first floor, the pop-up showcases the full range of clothing and accessories from the collection, as well as a number of exclusives.
The Gucci Lido pop-up is located at The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands, Level 1 Grand Colonnade South until 19 May 2024.
What’s better than a summer music playlist? When the weather gets warm and the days begin to blend together, you know it’s time to shift your music into high gear. After all, a good song has the power to turn any situation into a party. Even if you have to work this summer (as many of us do), flooding your headphones with a mix of pop, hip-hop, and indie-rock will carry you to 5 pm when you can actually enjoy the outdoors.
This year Esquire is ready to help get the good vibes flowing with a mix of offerings from favorites like Niall Horan, Miley Cyrus, and Lil Yachty, along with tracks from the newcomers Lola Brooke and Flow. There’s plenty more to explore so, without further adieu, here are the 10 best songs for the summer (so far). Take a listen, and prepare for brighter days.
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Lola Brooke's “Just Relax” samples the 90s hit “This or That” by Black Sheep. In her version, Brooke transforms the classic into an equally fun track for the next generation of hip-hop lovers. With an irresistible beat and clever lyrics, “Just Relax” is the perfect song to get people moving. Play at your next party and see what happens.
"Cupid" is the perfect soundtrack for a warm summer afternoon. With a saccharine beat and equally dreamy lyrics, the new track is positively irresistible. It's no wonder the new K-pop group is taking the world by storm.
Niall Horan's latest single "Meltdown" is a punchy ode to self-perseverance. When life gets tough, Horan reminds us to relax and let the universe lead the way. It's sage advice wrapped up in a groovy beat. What more could you want?
Miley Cyrus invites you to imagine your ideal romantic fantasy in "Rose Colored Lenses." Whether you're in a relationship or not, this idyllic track will make you feel like the star of a rom-com. Lyrics like, "We could stay like this forever, lost in wonderland," evoke an idyllic alternate universe where love is all you need. I don't know about you but that sounds pretty nice to me.
PinkPantheress and Ice Spice's viral hit "Boys A Liar Pt.2" is a cheeky hit that will stick with you all summer long. Do you need to vent about a flakey ex or stifiled summer fling? Put this track on and let the music-duo do the hard work for you.
This song is the musical equivalent of a glow-up. In “One That Got Away” Muna celebrates being someone their ex will always think about. The next time you find yourself lamenting a failed fling, play this track and be grateful you’ve moved on to bigger and better things.
"Running Out of Time" is a groovy departure from Lil Yachty's typical sound. Let the song's intoxicating bass carry you into a psychedelic dreamscape. It's quite the journey.
Lucy Dacus, Pheobe Bridgers, and Julien Baker teamed up to create $20, an angsty ode to belt from your car. Come for their expertly crafted melodies and stay for Bridgers screaming "I know you have $20 dollars."
Everyones favorite new girl group Flo teamed up with Hip-Hop legend Missy Elliott to create "Fly Girl." The track, which is inspired by one of Missy's own classic raps, is the perfect feel-good anthem for your next backyard barbeque. Listen to "Fly Girl" and remember anyone can be flossy with the right attitude.
"Double Fantasy" is here to prove that music made for TV shows can actually be good. The track was created for the singer's new HBO series, The Idol, but its synthesized beat practically begs for a spot on your night-out playlist. Turn this one on, and set the mood for a perfect summer night out.
