Todai International Buffet

It seems to me that we are not fated to enjoy the award winning buffet spread at Carousel, just like New Year's day, the restaurant was already fully booked when I tried to make a reservation to celebrate Abby, Eco and JLo's birthday. 

On a whim, I decided to try to call Todai at the Marina Bay Sands and it was with luck that they are still able to accommodate our big group. 

I became curious when I saw a sign that says they have been in operation since 1985 since I only heard of Todai quite recently. It turns out that they started in California and this is their first venture into the Southeast Asian market and where better to open that in buffet-crazy Singapore. 

Buffet lunch is priced at 75 SGD net (2500 PHP), it is a bit pricey as the average would be around 30-50 SGD for restaurants and 50-80 SGD for hotel restaurants but I tell you, it is worth it. 

With a sitting capacity of almost 400, the place is sprawling. Tables are spaced apart at comfortable distances unlike most buffets. 

The spreads are also massive and you don't see the exact same dish being served at different areas. See how endless the dishes seem and they have several stations just like the ones below. 

The presentation and the quality of food are also superior than most. See the california maki below looking so beautiful. 

As it claims to be the "Mother of All Seafood Buffets, I have to say that it is a claim well substantiated. I couldn't believe how fresh and big the prawns and scallops were. 

They also serve freshly shucked oysters but I am not a fan of oysters so I skipped those. I focused on the snow crab legs which were deliciously sweet. 

The only area that left me a little wanting would be the dessert station. There were not a lot of choices and while I got quite excited about the macaron pyramid, it was just okay and was a little too chewy for me. 

But overall, it was one enjoyable birthday lunch, one that won't be forgotten anytime soon. Thanks again, Abby, Eco and JLo! 

Todai International Buffet

B2-01 The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands

2 Bayfront Avenue

Singapore 018972

www.todai.com.sg

Avenue Q The Musical and Swimming with Sharks in Singapore

Avenue Q The Musical

Avenue Q holds a special place in my heart being the first Atlantis Prod show that I bought with friends. Check out my gratitude post here. When I heard that Atlantis Productions is bringing the show in Singapore for a short run, I was beyond excited. I managed to find a schedule, a Wednesday night, that works for both Em-J and I and off we went to the theatre.


Only Rachel Alejandro from the original Manila cast was retained. I actually became a fan of hers when I saw her in this production, the way she was able to transition from one character to the next engaged in a cat fight is just amazing and I can say that she hasn't lost her touch.

The rest of the cast also transitioned from one character to the next seamlessly. I did miss Frenchie Dy as Christmas Eve but Anna Fegi was also good. Besting out Wicked for Best Musical, you can expect one great show and the all Filipino cast delivered. I felt proud to be Pinoy.

The play runs at the Marina Bay Sands Grand Theatre till Sunday, Oct. 7. Catch the show while its still playing and I assure you it's one of the best 2 hours you'll spend inside the theatre. We both left the theatre with a big smile on our faces.


Now, can I just also voice out what the rest of the fans are saying, a Manila repeat next, please.

Tip: Try to sit as close to the stage as possible, it's better to see the facial expressions of the cast.


Avenue Q, Singapore
Marina Bay Sands Grand Theatre
Fri, 8PM / Sat & Sun, 2PM & 8PM



Swimming With Sharks


I have been a fan of Pangdemonium since their first production and save for The Dealer's Choice, I have seen their every show so I wouldn't pass up the chance to watch Swimming With Sharks.

I haven't seen the movie so I read about the show a little and formed the conclusion that it's The Devil Wears Prada on stage with male characters. The similarity ends with the premise that a new hire is working for an evil boss. The play is much darker but still funny.

Clocking in at almost 3 hours (including the intermission), the actors' energy were boundless especially the two leads who were on stage 90% of the time. The material was tight and was never boring save for the first scene, though no fault of the show. I wanted it to immediately end as I was squirming in my seat because I can feel my tummy threatening to emit one of its "I'm hungry" loud, embarrassing gurgle. It was doubly hard because it was awfully quiet, there was no background sound being piped in and the Drama Centre is a bit cramped.

Adrian's talent has been proven many times over so it's no surprise that he delivers a strong performance, I am always amazed at how he falls into character with ease.

George Young is a major revelation. Being his first theatrical debut, his first few scenes seemed easy playing a timid newbie. But the second act required so much of him and he nailed it. I won't say what happens but I was on the edge of my seat. I am just amazed at how fast he transitions from looking like a train wreck to looking mighty fine in a manner of seconds.


Swimming With Sharks also runs till this Sunday.

Tip: The stage is multi-level, so choose a balcony seat. Seated at row C, I had a hard time seeing the actors when they were on the 2nd level as a bar directly covers their faces. On the other hand, sitting up close, you might just get a glimpse of something extra as wardrobe malfunctions can't be avoided in live theatre.


Swimming With Sharks
Drama Centre Theatre, National Library
Fri, 8PM / Sat & Sun, 3PM & 8PM

It's great that the theatre scene is alive and well in Singapore so do yourself a favor and have a little fun this weekend. Watch Avenue Q The Musical or Swimming With Sharks or better yet, both!


Now, just to squeeze this in, if you're in Manila, NINE is on its closing weekend as well. Get your tickets now!!!