Latest news with #TaufikBatisah
CNA
08-08-2025
- Entertainment
- CNA
Customers who want to eat the spiciest fried chicken at Taufik Batisah's restaurant must sign an indemnity form
Singaporean singer-entrepreneur Taufik Batisah's popular Nashville-style spicy chicken joint, Chix Hot Chicken, has opened a second outlet at Prinsep Street. The new spot sticks to the same fiery chicken concept, but now seats up to 100 diners, compared to the no-frills 60-seater at Kampong Glam. It's also a lot more stylish and boasts a few new dishes exclusive to this outlet. While the original eatery has a humble chicken shack vibe, the Prinsep branch turns things up a notch with neon lights, checkered floors and brightly coloured walls. 'We were going for a futuristic Americana diner type of vibe, hence the loud colours and pop art. The disco ball was the icing on the cake – we just wanted it to be funky and fun,' chirped Taufik. When asked why he waited seven years to open a new outlet, Taufik exclaimed: 'Rental is very expensive! 'It took us a while to find the best that accommodates our crowd, especially students and the younger generation.' Prinsep Street makes a "strategic location', with arts schools like SOTA and NAFA nearby, he added. 'I wouldn't suggest [working in] F&B to anyone. Rental break-even is very tough,' said Taufik. 'When I told my Malaysian and Indonesian friends [about our rental costs], they said 'Are you nuts?'' Factoring in both rising rent and food costs, he declared: 'We've tried our best to keep up with inflation – we haven't changed the S$9.99 weekday lunch set promo (the popular set includes a chicken burger, fries and drink) since 2018.' Taufik Batisah, 43, together with co-owners Bober Ismail, 38, and Zad, 44, first launched the eatery at Jalan Pisang in Kampong Glam in 2018, specialising in Nashville-style fried chicken. The new Prinsep Street outlet, which opened in February 2025, marks their next big step. Taufik shared: 'Bober and I have been best friends since 2004. We met at our neighbourhood gym in Jurong.' Bober revealed that they invested a six-figure sum into the new outlet. They declined to disclose the new outlet's revenue or profits. He said that Chix managed to achieve profitability at the first outlet, though it took time to get there. 'It was challenging at the start, to introduce a new concept in Singapore but we kept going,' Bober added. 'I love fried chicken. I can eat fried chicken every day,' Taufik cheekily remarked. The Indian-Malay singer says that his wife often teases him: 'You're not very Indian or Malay if Western food is your comfort food.' Taufik shared: '[My role is to bring] people down to Chix. I come by both outlets whenever I can, to talk to our customers and get feedback on how we can improve.' Chix's halal chicken from Malaysia is brined in buttermilk before being dredged in seasoned flour, fried till crisp, then massaged with a reddish dry rub of ground cayenne peppers and other 'secret ingredients'. The menu at this new outlet is similar to the OG one, with the exception of a few new items. Expect Chix's fried chicken in six levels of spiciness – level six featuring the world's spiciest pepper, the Carolina Reaper. Three chicken wings cost S$13.90 while three chicken tenders cost S$14.90, with a top-up for spice level four onwards (from S$0.99 to S$1.99 for Atomic). What kind of damage can you expect from the Atomic heat level? Bober explained: 'It can cause a range of intense physical reactions due to its high concentration of capsaicin (it hits 2 million on the Scoville chart, which measures how hot a chilli is). While it can trigger a release of endorphins, leading to a temporary 'high', it can also cause significant pain, digestive issues or diarrhoea.' Whoa. And that's why customers must sign an indemnity form before attempting the Atomic option. 'We've had about seven ambulances called,' shared Bober. 'One guy tried to impress his girlfriend and went for the Atomic level chicken. He started tearing up, lying down on the floor and passed out.' So they sent him to the hospital. Evidently, said customer turned out fine. He was spotted back at Chix months later, this time fully upright and steering clear of the Atomic chicken. With up to 30 customers ordering the Atomic chicken each month according to Bober, they see customers vomiting outside the restaurant countless times. 'While we may not see customers having diarrhoea in our toilets, most of them usually vomit outside the shop,' he quipped. Taufik himself got all teary-eyed at level five ('Insane') of Chix's hot chicken in TikTok video. He barely managed the Atomic chicken, with tears streaming down his face and jokingly telling his wife that he'd gladly give her his leftovers. What's Taufik's go-to burger? The Chix Cordon Bleu burger at medium spice level. 'So I can enjoy my burger. But if I'm feeling adventurous, I'll go for hot,' he said. 'We kept 80 per cent of our menu the same as the original outlet's and 20 per cent new so that each branch will have something that the other doesn't,' added Bober. The Prinsep joint also offers all the existing promotions, including weekday S$9.99 lunch sets and S$5 milkshakes every Wednesday, along with a new exclusive student deal: Two burgers for S$11.99, available here only. The new food options include three burgers. The Miss Alabama features chicken thigh rubbed in a barbecue spice blend, smothered in the American state's popular white barbecue sauce that often contains apple cider and mayo. At Chix, they've added a hint of black truffle to keep things different. The Smokin' Cajun burger comes with the same crunchy chicken fillet dusted in a smoky spice rub and a drizzle of Cajun sauce that's inspired by viral US fried chicken chain Raising Cane's – made with ketchup, mayonnaise and spices. If you prefer it sweet and saucy, the Sweet Barbecue burger stars fried chicken glazed in smoky-sweet 'cue sauce with gochujang, topped with Chix's signature pink sauce (a blend of chipotle, garlic and mayo). Wash it down with the all-new milkshake flavour: Cookies & Cream (S$8.90). Taufik has big plans for Chix Hot Chicken beyond just the food. He hopes to transform the Prinsep Street outlet into a platform for young creatives to showcase their talents. 'We plan to host open mic and stand-up comedy nights,' he said, noting the proximity of nearby art schools. And the star plans to sing here too: 'We may have a [performance] at the new outlet to celebrate our opening, maybe alongside another hot chicken challenge (whoever finishes three Atomic-level chicken tenders the fastest wins)' at year's end. Beyond that, Taufik will have collaborations with other well-loved local brands. 'It's about supporting each other's businesses,' he said. 'That's how we create longevity.' That's why Chix at Prinsep Street is teaming up with Penny University and Paparch later this month. Expect a coffee cart by Penny University (the popular cafe is at Jalan Klapa), plus creamy cheesecakes from Paparch (a popular takeaway cake shop from City Gate). The property agent-cum-co-owner of interior design company Ivory Cove recently announced his first (and possibly last) solo concert, One Last Dance, this October at The Star Theatre. Tickets to his 5,000-seat concert are already sold out, with prices ranging from S$78 to S$228 each. 'The entertainment industry has served me well, but [my] popularity is going to eventually die off and simmer down,' he said candidly. 'It's important to diversify our work and [ways to] earn income.' Venturing into F&B has always been one of his goals. 'It's one of the businesses I've always wanted to pursue,' mused Taufik.
Yahoo
07-08-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
YAHOO POLL: Which National Day song holds the highest note in your heart?
Every August, Singapore transforms into a karaoke nation, belting out National Day Parade (NDP) songs with unrivalled gusto. But let's be honest, some tunes get us waving flags harder than others. Whether you're all about "Home", jamming to "Where I Belong", or secretly loving "Reach Out for the Skies", it's time to crown the ultimate NDP anthem. For their enduring popularity, patriotic resonance and singalong appeal, the 10 most iconic NDP hits are listed alphabetically below, as a refresher. In the interest of full disclosure, this war written with a playlist of NDP songs blasting in the background for the feels. Count On Me, Singapore (1986) – Clement Chow Infectiously upbeat and rousing, this song is a call for solidarity and perseverance, remaining popular at community, school and NDP celebrations. Home (1998) – Kit Chan Universally cited as the most beloved NDP song; 'Home' is emotionally powerful with lyrics about belonging that resonate deeply with Singaporeans of all ages. Frequently played in schools and national events, it is considered the NDP anthem. One People, One Nation, One Singapore (1990) – Various Artists This anthem's simple, direct message of multiracial harmony and unity remains iconic for its role in the nation's 25th anniversary. Reach Out for the Skies (2005) – Taufik Batisah & Rui En A favourite among younger audiences and students, catchy with uplifting lyrics encouraging Singaporeans to pursue their dreams. Stand Up for Singapore (1984) – Hugh Harrison The archetypal singalong, 'Stand Up for Singapore' is cited as the song that set the template for future NDP anthems and is still taught in schools. The Road Ahead (2021) – Linying, Sezairi, Shabir, Shye Popular for its contemporary sound, collaborative vocals, and relevance in the pandemic context, this song inspires forward-looking optimism. We are Singapore (1987, 2018 Remake) – Original & Charlie Lim & others Quintessential anthem of unity and resilience, capturing the spirit of the nation's progress and featuring memorable choruses. The revamped 2018 version injected modern relevance. We Will Get There (2002) – Stefanie Sun A soaring melody with themes of hope and perseverance, it became especially poignant during challenging times and rallied the national spirit. Where I Belong (2001) – Tanya Chua Iconic for its heartfelt lyrics about identity and home, performed by local pop star Tanya Chua, and still widely sung more than two decades later. What Do You See? (2009) – Electrico Stood out for its pop-rock style, modernisation of the NDP sound and themes of optimism from a new generation's perspective. Why these songs are considered the best These NDP songs are are frequently ranked in media lists, cited by generations of Singaporeans and maintain airplay at National Day festivities every year. These hits blend catchy melodies, relatable lyrics, and mass singalong appeal, cementing them as cultural touchstones for patriotism and unity. Many feature meaningful themes: the importance of home, resilience, diversity and a collective future, all crucial to the Singapore story. Other polls YAHOO POLL: Should Singapore say yes to Malaysia's request for 4am buses? YAHOO POLL: Has Fantastic Four revived the MCU for you? YAHOO POLL: Will you take Wegovy to lose weight? So, this poll isn't just for the proud patriots: it's for everyone who's ever been caught humming "Count On Me, Singapore" in the shower. Think you know which National Day song reigns supreme? Or do you think the classics get way too much airtime? Your vote could settle legendary kopitiam debates once and for all. Ready to make your voice heard? No autotune required? No lyrics memorisation needed, just honest opinions. Click, vote, and share the fun! Which National Day song holds the highest note in your heart? Have your say and take the poll. Let us know in the comments if we missed out any. Related A guide to National Day in Singapore 2025: Best spots to watch fireworks, heartland celebrations, and more 'Stand Up For Singapore' is favourite National Day song in poll 10 best NDP songs to listen whenever you are in a National Day mood What's your favourite National Day tradition?
CNA
04-08-2025
- Entertainment
- CNA
SG60 edition of Gardens by the Bay and Mediacorp National Day Concert draws crowd of 35,000
The Gardens by the Bay and Mediacorp National Day Concert 2025 drew a lively crowd of nearly 35,000 on Sunday (Aug 3) at The Meadow, who came together to celebrate Singapore's SG60 milestone. With the theme 'Ties That Bloom', this seventh edition of the concert showcased music, memories and national pride by bringing together generations of Singaporeans through heartfelt performances, nostalgic classics and community camaraderie, hosted by Gurmit Singh, Yasminne Cheng, Zhin Sadali and Nithiyia Rao. Singer Hady Mirza opened the night with Ties That Bloom, the theme song for this year's National Day Concert, while Kit Chan and Charlie Lim joined voices for Here We Are, the official NDP 2025 theme song. Chan later returned for an emotional rendition of crowd favourite Home, accompanied by deaf interpreter Faaiqah Alkaff, in a powerful moment of inclusivity. Other highlights of the evening included sisters Tay Kewei and Tay Kexin singing Hopelessly Devoted To You, performing together for the first time in over 15 years, as well as a set by Rahimah Rahim, her sister Rozie Rahim and granddaughter ALY, who lit up the stage with I'm So Excited. Shazza entertained the crowd together with a cappella group Studio 33B, Alemay Fernandez showcased her jazzy charm, Taufik Batisah serenaded the audience with nostalgic tunes, while rapper Yung Raja delivered a high-energy performance. The evening culminated in a mass recitation of the pledge, led by guest-of-honour President Tharman Shanmugaratnam and Ms Jane Ittogi, followed by a dazzling all-artistes medley of NDP classics like Where I Belong, Stand Up For Singapore and We Are Singapore under a sky full of fireworks. Missed the show? Catch the full concert on mewatch, Channel 5 and the Mediacorp Entertainment YouTube Channel on Aug 16 from 7.30pm to 9.00pm.
CNA
01-08-2025
- Entertainment
- CNA
Mediacorp celebrates SG60 with exciting events and programmes including a concert featuring Kit Chan and Taufik Batisah
Mediacorp is celebrating Singapore's birthday with a vibrant lineup of events, programmes and initiatives that reflect who we are, where we've come from and where we're headed. One of the highlights is the Gardens by the Bay and Mediacorp National Day concert happening on Sunday (Aug 3) at The Meadow from 4.30pm. Concertgoers can expect a fun, family-friendly evening packed with carnival activities, dazzling fireworks and performances by Singapore's beloved local artistes, including Kit Chan, Taufik Batisah, Hady Mirza and Yung Raja. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Mediacorp (@mediacorp) If you can't make it in person, catch the concert on Aug 16 at 7.30pm on mewatch, Mediacorp Entertainment on YouTube and Channel 5. The celebration continues through Mediacorp's SG60 content slate, spotlighting stories that honour our resilience, heritage and growing identity. One such programme is the heartwarming English documentary series On The Red Dot: Museum of U & Me, featuring hosts Gurmit Singh and Oon Shu An as they explore personal stories behind everyday objects found in Singapore homes. Another is the CNA docuseries Shaping Tomorrow, which showcases local brands shaping Singapore's future. Sports fans can catch two world-class events airing on mewatch and Channel 5. First up, the World Aquatics Championships – Singapore 2025, which runs until Aug 3. Then, there's the Toyota World Para Swimming Championships – Singapore 2025, which takes place from Sep 21 to 27 and will feature over 600 top para swimmers from more than 60 nations, including our very own world champion, Yip Pin Xiu. If you're a foodie, check out the results of the SG60 makan culture campaign to find out which are the top spots for your favourite local dishes. You just might find your new favourite chicken rice or prata joint.
Straits Times
31-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Straits Times
Show Picks: SG60 concert, Timbre's 20th birthday, Leslie Low for The Substation's 35th anniversary
Sign up now: Get ST's newsletters delivered to your inbox Singaporean singer Kit Chan is one of the performers at the SG60 edition of the annual Gardens by the Bay and Mediacorp National Day Concert. Gardens by the Bay and Mediacorp National Day Concert The SG60 edition of the annual Gardens by the Bay and Mediacorp National Day Concert will showcase performances by home-grown talents, including Mandopop star Kit Chan, Singapore Idol's first winner Taufik Batisah and singer-songwriter Charlie Lim. Hosted by Gurmit Singh, Nithiya Rao, Yasminne Cheng and Zhin Sadali, the show will also feature a performance by second Singapore Idol winner Hady Mirza. He will perform the concert's theme song, Ties That Bloom, which he composed. Sisters Tay Kewei and Tay Kexin will perform together for the first time. Other on-stage family affairs will include Cultural Medallion recipient Rahimah Rahim, her sister Rozie Rahim and granddaughter Aly; singer JJ Neo and her mother, host Lucy Chow; as well as married couple Annetha Ayyavoo and Mark Sara. Other music acts include Love 972 DJ Chua Lee Lian, jazz singer Alemay Fernandez, pop singer Shazza and The Purple Symphony, an orchestra comprising musicians with and without disabilities. Visitors can savour local favourites like laksa and popiah at a food street, relive childhood fun with classic games such as eraser battles and pick-up sticks, and join activities like satay keychain workshops. The concert will air on mewatch, Channel 5 and Mediacorp Entertainment on YouTube on Aug 16 at 7.30pm. Where: The Meadow, Gardens by the Bay, 18 Marina Gardens Drive MRT: Bayfront/Gardens by the Bay When: Aug 3, doors open at 4.30pm Admission: Free Info: For more information, go to Top stories Swipe. Select. Stay informed. Singapore SMRT's finances hit by 2024 EWL disruption; profit after tax for trains division dips 8% Asia US-Malaysia tariff deal set for Aug 1 after Trump-Anwar phone call Business Deepening S'pore-Latin America ties a matter of urgency amid global trade uncertainty: Alvin Tan Singapore Underground pipe leak likely reason for water supply issues during Toa Payoh fire: Town council Multimedia 60 years, 60 items: A National Day game challenge Life Milo tees, kaya toast pimple patches, crockery: Here are the SG60 merch to collect Singapore Driver in 2024 Tampines crash that killed 2 set to plead guilty in October Singapore 'Switching careers just as I became a dad was risky, but I had to do it for my family' Timbre Group's 20th Anniversary Celebration Jack Ho (left) and Rai Kannu of singing duo Jack & Rai are one of the acts celebrating Timbre Group's 20th anniversary. ST PHOTO: KEVIN LIM Local food and beverage, music and events company Timbre Group is celebrating its 20th anniversary with a series of shows at its Timbre+ @ One North outlet. The line-up features stalwarts of the live music scene, many of whom had their early gigs at Timbre. These include Jack & Rai, who will reunite with their band EIC, reggae veterans Bushmen and singer-songwriter Awi Rafael. Timbre started out as a live music bar at The Substation in 2005 and, over the years, grew to become a food and beverage and lifestyle chain. It recently announced two new venues, Timbre+ Hillview and Timbre Signatures Cafe @ Siglap. Its co-founder and chief executive Danny Loong says in a statement: 'This 20th anniversary isn't just a celebration of the past. It's a tribute to resilience, reinvention and everyone who believed in Timbre. 'We're entering this new chapter with even more heart, launching new spaces, nurturing new talent and continuing to serve our community the way we know best – through food, music, and soul. After all, music is food for the soul, a belief that has always guided Timbre, and one we continue to live by today.' Where: Timbre+ @ One North, 73A Ayer Rajah Crescent, JTC LaunchPad @ one-north MRT: one-north When: Various dates and times, until Aug 23. For details, go to Admission: Free Passing – Leslie Low in Concert for The Substation's 35th Year The Substation celebrates its 35th with a solo show by Singapore singer-songwriter Leslie Low, who is also celebrating his 35th year in music. PHOTO: ARTSCIENCE MUSEUM The Substation celebrates its 35th anniversary as an independent arts development company with a solo concert by Singaporean singer-songwriter Leslie Low. Low is also marking his 35th year in music with this performance. One of the most celebrated names in the local alternative music scene, Low is known for his past work with acclaimed bands such as Humpback Oak and The Observatory. The set list in this 80-minute show will comprise songs from his solo discography, which includes his first album A Walking Purgatory (1999) and his latest release, Chimera (2024). He is also set to play some unreleased tracks. The gig will also feature fellow seasoned acts from the indie scene, Sean Lam (Concave Scream, Hanging Up the Moon) and Alexius Cai (Piblokto).
