The soccer team you stayed up late last night to cheer on won the match; unfortunately, you feel like a loser this morning from lack of proper sleep. Tired, lazy, and lacking in concentration—you are in need of energy, like, NOW, so your Donald Trump-like boss doesn’t fire you. But which one to grab for? This week we perform a taste test of nine of the top energy drinks on the market to help you decide which is the right one for you.

.357 Magnum Plus with Vitamin C (150ml, B10) This drink seems to suit foreigners the best because it has a more mellow style and is good for those who cannot stand super sweetness hitting their tongue. Moreover, it has the most natural smell among all the energy drinks. The typical Thai tongue may find it bitter, though, or perhaps too bland.

Carabao Dang (150ml, B10) Much more likeable than the whisky flavored Carabao, it is less sweet and fragrant than the others. Overall this drink is a bit fruity with an overtone of vitamin goodness. Unfortunately, something about it is a bit off, though.

Carabao XO: Whisky Flavor (150ml, B12) This interesting flavor choice definitely caught our interest, but after taking a single whiff we knew someone had made a terrible mistake. It smells like a whisky or vodka Red Bull left overnight and gone bad. One of us even wondered whether a cockroach might have died in there. Surprisingly, even though the smell is horrible, there is absolutely nothing wrong with its taste. Therefore, if you do not have a nose or can’t smell for some other reason, this one should be fine for you.

Lipovitan-D (100ml, B11.50) This drink really depends on your taste. Half of us had a positive comment about its pleasant flavor, which starts off sour but has a proper, sweet aftertaste and good smell. Unfortunately, the other half of us asked why I gave them cough medicine instead of the energy drink. You might have to try it yourself to see which camp you lie in.

M-150 (150ml, B10) With or without their inescapable product image capaign, M-150 is unacceptably sweet and very artificial tasting. It is like an over-syrupy cha yen (cold Thai-style tea) with fake orange juice flavoring. In general, the taste is not distinctive enough from the others for us to promote it, unless you just want to try to look cool by aligning yourself with their seven-digit advertising campaign.

M-Max (180ml, B15) Despite being the newest entry on the market, M-Max proves itself to be our pick against all others. It is carbonated but pleasant and agreeable when drunk on its own. Drinking M-Max with fruit punch creates a tasty sensensation. It may have a slight chemical smell, but you will surely be satisfied and energized by it.

Shark Cool Bite (250ml, B24) This shark is carbonated like a soft drink and has a light yellow color. The taste is enjoyably sour, but nothing special. We might suggest to the manufacturers to change their name to “Ordinary Fish Bite” instead, which reflects their product more accurately.

Theoplax-L (100ml, B10) Theoplax is like liquid candy with a fruity flavor. It starts off sweet, gets sour in the middle and then has a slightly bitter ending. For partygoers, it surely goes well with vodka, but whether or not it works well as a morning-coffee replacement is debatable.

White Shark (150ml, B10) It is an appealing mix of sweet yet sour taste, though it lacks some of the smootheness of its competitors. Overall, most of our tasters thought it was average and didn’t have enough character of its own.

Whether it’s pizza, pasta, or provolone, we’ve all had Italian food in some form or another. As one of the most popular cuisines in the world, it's surprising that few people other than discerning foodies and true-blooded Italians really know the difference between regional cuisines found in Italy. Much like how in Thailand, khao soi is distinctively Northern and khao niew is distinctively Southern, regional cuisines in Italy differ because of geographic makeup, influences from neighboring countries and traditions.

The country of Italy as we know it has only been around since its recent unification in 1861—the Italian language spoken today not in common use until after World War II. Consequently, it still remains a colorful patchwork of diversity that spans 20 regions. The country’s varying geography provides a broad range of climates and environments which have flourished into autonomous cultures with distinct cuisines.

Clear differences between Northern and Southern Italian cuisine are in the type of fat and style of pasta used in their cooking. “The Northwest uses more butter and cream because of its influence from France. The Northeast is poorer and uses more polenta, soft cheeses like ricotta and more seafood from the coast. In the mountain regions, the influences are from Austria and Germany and they have dishes such as gnocchi, canneloni, speck and cold cuts,” says Chef Gianni Favro of Gianni Ristorante.

The Central region is known for some of the best meats, fish and vegetables due to its ideal environment of low mountains, rich farming tradition and proximity to the coast. Though Central Italian fare appears simple, the flavors are bold. “All the bread there is made without salt because the taste of the food is very strong,” says Chef Angelo Rottoli of Beccofino.

In Southern Italy, the food is lighter, spicier and healthier due to its Mediterranean influences. Olive oil is used instead of butter; tomatoes, buffalo mozzerella and seafood also characterize the region. “Mediterreanean food has a lot of vegetables, seafood and cured meats such as pork. Not so much red meat is used,” says Chef Marco Cammarata of Bel Guardo.

The A Tavola! Italian Food Festival, which runs June 2-11, is a great chance to experience the different flavors of Italy’s regional foods. Bangkok’s top Italian chefs will be representing different regions with special menus at their restaurants using freshly imported ingredients from Italy. The price per head is B1,200++ at all participating restataurants and includes a glass of sparkling wine and a cup of coffee. We spoke with each chef to find out what diners can expect and shouldn’t miss during the festival.

NORTH

Chef Antonio Facchinetti

Region: Lombardy/Emilia Romagna
What to expect: Imported olive oil from Liguria, porcini mushrooms, Taleggio cheese, salami di Felino.
Don’t miss: Polenta negra (polenta made with mushroom, chestnut flour and buckwheat) with porcini mushrooms, caso‘la (stew of cabbage, pork ribs and sausage), la torta sbrisolona (a dry crumbly cake made from polenta, flour, butter and eggs), pasta asoncelli (pasta with pork, a local cheese, butter and sage).
La Villa—131 Thonglor Soi 9 (Paidee-Madee), 02-712-9991. Open daily 11:30am-2pm, 6:30-11:30pm

Chef Gianmaria Zanotti

Region: Piedmont/Liguria
What to expect: Assorted seasonal vegetables, Marzolino truffle, white asparagus, pigeon and Castelmagno cheese.
Don’t miss: Fish and meat main courses, risotto, tagliolini and fresh mushrooms and bonet (a traditional Piedmont dessert made with amaretto cookies, almond and caramel).
Zanotti—21/2 Soi Saladeang, 02-636-0002. Open daily 11:30am-2pm, 6-10:30pm.

Chef Gianni Favro

Region: Tri-Veneto
What to expect: Hams and cold cuts from San Daniele and Sauris, “cheese from the mountains, crabs and shellfish from the coast,” rare olive oil from Carso, dry Borlotti beans, yellow and white polenta, dry baccala (dried salted cod) and meats from the Pianura Padana.
Don’t miss: Sopa coada (baked pigeon, bread and cheese soup), risotto with baby artichoke, baccala alla vicentina (dried salted cod cooked in milk and served with polenta) and brodetto (seafood soup).
Gianni Ristorante­­­­­­­—34/1 Soi Tonson, 02-252-1619. Open daily noon-2pm, 6-10pm.

CENTRAL

Chef Andreas Bonifacio

Region: Emilia Romanga, Marche, Abruzzo
What to expect: Olives from Marche, Parmesan and Parma ham from Emilia Romanga.
Don’t miss: Olive ascolane (stuffed olives that are breaded and deep fried), tortellini with Parma ham and Scamorza cheese sauce.
Fallabella—100 Ratchadamri Rd., 02-252-5131. Open daily 11:30am-2pm, 6-11pm.

Chef Angelo Rottoli

Region: Tuscany
What to expect: Appetizers of Tuscan salami, lardo collanata (seasoned and aged pork fat), pasta papparadelle (a wide fettuccine) and white duck from Tuscany.
Don’t miss: Pan forte biscuits served with coffee, Peccorino Tuscano.
Beccofino—146 Thonglor Soi 4, 02-393-1881. Open daily 11:30am –2:30pm, 6:30-10:30pm.

SOUTH

Chef Fabio Colautti

Region: Campania/Calabria
What to expect: Spicy fresh Italian sausage, buffalo mozzerella and spicy salami from Calabria.
Dishes not to miss: Tuna with capsicum and cherry tomatoes with fennel ragu, spicy chocolate tart.
Giusto—16 Soi Sukhumvit 23. 02-258-4321. Open daily 11:30am-2pm, 5:30-11pm. Wine bar: 5:30-midnight.

Chef Frederik Farina

Region: Sicily
What to expect: Cured leg of wild Nebrodi pork, cured ham, Ragusano, Peccorino Calcagno and Primosale Peccorrino, capers from Salina and Sicilian olive oil.
Don’t miss: Pasta con le sarde (pasta with sardines, spring fennel saffron), Sicilian cheese plate with white bread.
Spasso—494 Ratchadamri Rd., 02-254-1234. Open daliy noon-2pm, 6-11pm.

Chef Giovanni Speciale

Region: Puglia and Molise
What to expect: Burrata cheese (a cheese made from “pulled” skin of stretched mozzerella) and homemade pasta made from durum wheat flour.
Don’t miss: Orecchiette with cime de rabe (small ear­ shaped pasta with broccoli rabe, garlic, chili and anchovies), cavatelli (small shell pasta), grilled mixed Mediterrean seafood, smoked swordfish.
Biscotti—155 Ratchadamri Rd., 02-251-6127. Open daily 6-10:30pm.

Chef Marco Cammarata

Region: Calabria
What to expect: Fresh anchovies, swordfish, red onions from Tropea, grey oyster mushrooms.
Don’t miss: Anchovies in scapece (fresh anchovies marinated in salt, sugar and lemon) with fennel and blood orange salad, Licurdia red onion soup with spicy crostini, swordfish grilled with stir-fried capsicum and potatoes with black olive salsa. 
Bel Guardo—G/F, Siam Paragon, Rama 1 Rd. Open daily 11:30am-11pm. n

Wear snappy Casio watches on your wrist. Both metal-strap (B5,900) and rubber-strap (B4,200) versions are sharp. Every model bears the FIFA and World Cup signs.

Nike Air Force 1 is not just a great basketball shoe anymore. With stabilizing ankle strap and herringbone outsole, these puppies are equipped for the pitch and come in various colors related to nations’ football squads. Move quickly, though, there’re only 25 pairs available in each color. B3,800

Rip music from the Voices From The FIFA World Cup CD into your iPod. Listen to this year’s 22 official World Cup songs and keep the football-fever in your blood. B399

Funny Trexis-Coca Cola “We All Speak Football” series, with 25 models created specially for the World Cup by artists around the globe. B590, B12,000 for a complete set of 25.

Wanna kill your thirst after hours of watching great matches? Opt for Coca-Cola Special Edition in sleek gold can, ooh! B50

Show the world your favorite team…on your feet with Belgian Dirk Bikkembergs World Cup specials. B9,950

		Ride On: stylish basics can be had at Esprit, as selected apparel is up to 50 percent off.
		Bag It: Ladies will have no trouble finding a handbag to call their own at Furla, with selected models going at half the usual price.
		Shoe In: If you’ve always wanted to own a beautiful pair of heels from Nue, now’s the time. Selected models are going for half the price during the sale.
		Wrap Easy: This beautiful Kenzo scarf, along with other selected men’s and women’s wear from the fashion boutique, is 50 percent off.
		Shine On: Live it up when you put on these luxurious interchangeable jewelry rings from Charlotte Atelier. Most selections are up to 40 percent off, making them more affordable than ever.
		All Tied Up: Get a hold of some stylish men’s ties at Etro, which is selling them for up to 50 percent off their original prices.
		Animal Instinct: Shop till you drop at Fox, where selected trendy men’s and women’s wear is 50 percent off.
		Who’s the Boss?: This bold and striking black bag from Hugo Boss, among many other selections from the brand, is good to go at half the price.
		Look Sharp: Stock up on cool, made-to-measure business shirts from CYC The Custom Shop, as they are now going for $79 each, down from their original price of $109.
		Pretty in Pink: This funky pink blouse from Liz Claiborne is just $39.90, while other selections from the brand are up to 70 percent off their original price.
		Move with It: Get comfy at only $19.90 when you slip on this Pretty Fit sandal. Other footwear designs from the label are up to 70 percent off their original price.

Address Book:

Charlotte Atelier #02-10A Ngee Ann City, 391 Orchard Rd., 6733-7616.
CYC The Custom Shop 01-21 Republic Plaza II, 9 Raffles Place, 6538-0522.
Esprit 3/F, Isetan, Wisma Atria, 435 Orchard Rd., 6734-2396.
Etro #01-30 Paragon, 290 Orchard Rd., 6737-5108.
Fox #02-209/210/211 Marina Square, 6 Raffles Blvd., 6336-4842.
Furla #02-12 Ngee Ann City, 391 Orchard Rd., 6737-8560.
Hugo Boss #03-02/04 Ngee Ann City, 391 Orchard Rd., 6737-2552.
Kenzo #01-08/09 Paragon, 290 Orchard Rd., 6733-0925.
Liz Claiborne #02-07 Scotts Shopping Centre, 6 Scotts Rd., 6738-8830.
Nue #03-31/32 Paragon, 290 Orchard Rd., 6836-7677.
Pretty Fit #B1-40A Wisma Atria, 435 Orchard Rd., 6836-3580.

Brunch is such a great invention for those of us who can’t be bothered to leave our lovely beds for the most boring meal of the day, breakfast. Thankfully, a number of outlets around town now understand our needs and are making some intriguing offers.

Aldo’s

The Fare: This Mediterranean bistro serves standard brunch items. Appetizers come all the way from Europe: cold cuts and cheeses from France and Italy and Norwegian smoked salmon with homemade blinis. Eggs come in six styles, though you can have only one at a time. Served with potatoes and choice of pork sausage or crispy bacon. The set also includes bread, pastries and jams, fresh fruit and yogurt, soup and a drink.

The Deal: B550. Sun 11am-2pm.

The Scene: Sophisticated and luxurious with a nice view at poolside. The outdoor salas are fantastic.

The Site: 187 Sathorn Rd., 02-676-6969

Chesa Swiss

The Fare: Sorry, no fondue. The well-known Swiss dish is overshadowed by 26 choices at their buffet brunch created by Chef Thomas Nowa. Some of their highlights are traditional Swiss cheese, Raclette “wheel cheese” with baby potatoes, Rosti (Swiss “hash browns”), baked ham, Swiss macaroni, barley soup with vegetables, and Caesar salad made the Swiss way with Sprinz cheese. Dessert varies. You can try all 26 items but you have to finish them in four hours.

The Deal: B950. Sun 11am-3pm.

The Scene: Simple and homey with friendly service.

The Site: 5 Sukhumvit Soi 20, 02-261-6650

Coyote On Convent

The Fare: Mexican style with a heavy American Southwest influence (Tex-Mex). The brunch set limits you to one drink and one main course, but is served for seven hours, so there’s no rush to wake up. There are eight mains to choose from, including the basic El Americano (two eggs, Mexican potatoes and choice of chorizo sausage, smoked ham or smoked bacon), Eggs Benedict, Waffle Benedicto (jumbo waffle topped with spinach, poached eggs and smoked ham, then smothered in Hollandaise sauce) or Waffle Mariana (salmon instead of ham). A basket of corn and Jalapeno muffins comes with your main course. For a drink, select Sangria, House Margarita, Bloody Maria or fruit juice.

The Deal: B395. Sat-Sun 11am-6pm.

The Scene: Bright orange theme and Mexican style decoration.

The Site: 1/2 Sivadon Bldg., Convent Rd., 02-631-2325

Crepes & Co

The Fare: Crepes wins for the longest Sunday brunch at 15 hours. Its brunch set offers breakfast style dishes all day long: various kinds of bread, yogurt, a choice of cereals or muesli or khao tom, and salad, fruit, two eggs any style with toast, pancakes, side dishes and drinks. They have about 100 different selections of tea.

The Deal: B450. Sun 9am-midnight

The Scene: Warm and cozy in a friendly house with a garden.

The Site: 18/1 Sukhumvit Soi 12, 02-653-3990/-1

Fogo Vivo Brazilian Churrascaria & Bar

The Fare: Their buffet brunch is the same as their lunch menu, but a pasta station is added. The Brazilian bistro is generous with a wide selection. They have 15 types of salad, 9 dressings and of course the unique Churrascaria meats they are famous for, including tenderloin, veal, pork ribs, duck breast, salmon and homemade sausage. Side dishes, soups and desserts are also included.

The Deal: B620. Sun 11:30am-5pm

The Scene: Modern with cool mood lighting, contemporary furniture and lots of wood accents.

The Site: Basement & G/F, 973 Ploenchit Rd., 02-656-0384

La Gritta

The Fare: Contemporary Italian buffet. Many favorite Italian dishes appear here: pasta, spaghetti, pizza and seafood. Soup, dessert and drink are included.

The Deal: B490. Sun 11:30am-3pm

The Scene: Elegant with modish furniture.

The Site: Sukhumvit Soi 19, 02-255-7350

Wyndham Thai

The Fare: The elegant Thai/western restaurant has no set brunch deal, but does have a typical a la carte brunch menu: egg dishes (B190-250), pastas (B160-320), sandwiches (B120-150), yogurt (B120), fruit juice (B120), coffee (B120-220) and tea (B100-110). Wyndham Thai’s strength is high quality imported fish and meat. Unfortunately, no Thai dishes are included on their brunch menu.

The Deal: Prices vary from B120-320. Sat-Sun noon-4pm

The Scene: Chic Asian décor.

The Site: G/F Somerset Lake No 41, Sukhumvit Soi 16, 02-258-1783

Bamboo Bar

The venerable Bamboo Bar has been around for ages and for years was the Bangkok jazz bar, filled with connoisseurs as well as the see-and-be-seen crowd. The prices put it out of the reach of many mortals, but the music in this cozy L-shaped bar is first-rate and the drinks are expertly poured.
G/F, The Oriental Bangkok, 48 Oriental Ave., New Rd., 02-659-9000. Open Sun-Thu 11-1am and Fri-Sat 1-2am.

Brown Sugar

This bar and music venue stands alone in Sarasin Rd.; while the youngsters tinker with their formats and decor, Brown Sugar has stood the test of time. With a decent selection of wine and so-so food, the in-house bands are the real reason most customers keep coming back.
231/20 Sarasin Rd., 02-250-1826. Open daily 5pm-1am. BTS Ratchadamri.

Jazzanova

A group of young executives with jazz dancing in their hearts set this place up for young, monied customers to mingle. Despite the size and décor, which are typical of a Bangkok pub (Victorian style), the place offers very good wine and food. The bands are excellent but irregular as they play there on a voluntary basis.
1/18, Sukhumvit Soi 24, 02-262-0909. Open daily 6pm-1am. BTS Phrom Phong.

The Living Room

Not just another outlet in a five-star hotel, this place jumps with jazz fans, especially on the weekend. Seating is comfortable, service is friendly and the acoustics are above average. Occasional home to ageing legends like Eldee Young. Worth checking out.
1/F The Sheraton Grande, 250 Sukhumvit Rd., 02-653-0333. Open Sun-Thu 10am-midnight and Fri-Sat 11-1:30am. BTS Asoke.

Saxophone

A legendary jazz pub in Bangkok. Thailand’s top performers have played and listened to others play here. Not much in the way of style or atmosphere, but the music still rules.
3/8 Victory Monument, Phayathai, 02-246-5472. Open daily 6pm-1am. BTS Victory Monument.

ThreeSixty

Brand-new lounge located on the 32nd floor of the Millenium Hilton with a 360o view to kill for. If you don’t mind the prices or being stranded on the other side of the river, this is a good place to enjoy your wine and live lite jazz nightly.
32/F, Millennium Hilton, 123 Charoennakorn Rd., Klongsan, 02-442-2000. Open daily 5pm-1am.

(Left to right)
Brushed metal case from Playground!, B195
Turquoise business card wallet with colored elastic bands from Taxidermy, B325
Black textured metal case from

(Left to right)
Turquoise leather business card holder from Taxidermy, B455
Chinese metal case from Playground!, B350
Aqua and yellow business card wallet from Zacc, B890

(Left to right)
Black stictched leather wallet with black elastic band from KW, B286
Green leather business card envelope from Libreria, B1,690
Double-sided aluminum cardholder from Present Time, B295

(Left to right)
Caramel brown leather business card holder from Libreria, B1,590
Light brown leather business card wallet from Libreria, not yet available
Dark red business card holder from Libreria, B1,950

Directions

Libreria, The Siam Society, 131 Sukumvit Soi 21 (Asoke), 02-661-6480. Open Tue-Sat 9am-6pm, Sun noon-5pm.

BKJ Fai.com, Zacc, KW from Playground!, 818, Sukhumvit 55 (Thonglor), 02-714-7888. Open daily 10am-11pm.

Present Time from Qconcept, 3/F Siam Paragon, 991 Rama 1 Rd., 02-610-9540. Open daily 10am-10pm.

Taxidermy from S318, 218/5-6 Siam Square Soi 1, 02-658-4387-8. Open daily noon-9pm.

Compared to other Chalachol salons around town, ‘Sak by Chalachol (2/F, Siam Paragon, Rama 1 Rd., 02-610-9850/-3) is by far the brightest and most open—thanks to clear ceiling-to-floor glass panes that allow you to see everything inside. The touch screen system greets you at the door, urging you to define your needs before entering. The salon is divided into two parts, a cutting and style zone and a chemical and coloring zone. Proclaimed the best Chalachol ever, ‘Sak uses nano-molecule water that treats your head and hair with care, and also uses a non-stop air-cleansing system. Their senior stylist was directly imported from the States (though she is Thai) and specializes in coloring. Prices are good, too, from B1,100 for men and B1,300 for women. For a cut with Khun Somsak, book two weeks in advance and have B2,500 on hand. Well, that’s cheaper than we expected.

Tom Laycut Professional (2/F, Penny’s Balcony, Soi Thong Lor, Sukhumvit Rd., 02-392-3519) at pretty Penny’s Balcony on Thong Lor needs little introduction as it’s one of the most popular salon chains in Thailand. Decked out in black and white modern design with raw cement walls and geometric mirrors and chairs, their well trained hair-stylists can make any day a good hair day for you, starting at just B350.

If your hair’s been damaged from too many coloring sessions, the white and red Naomi Hair Solution (Room I, 307 Sukhumvit Soi 39, Wattana, 02-662-0736/0783/0259) on the ground floor of Ozono is one of the best options. This is one of the 50 Shisedo Professional appointed salons for its exclusive hair solution system originally from Japan that promises better hair conditions, than other ordinary hair salons. The treatment starts at B1,500 for short hair and B2,000 for long hair.

The boom in our spa industry has seen a spate of places that cater to women with indulgent pampering services. But, for the intrepid male, it seems like there are very few spa services catering specifically to men. Here are some of the places where a guy can get a good massage, body scrub or even a facial, in a suitably masculine environment, without being annoyed by all those frilly girly extras.

The Hidden Place

40 Tras St., 6224-3835.
Tucked away in the Tanjong Pagar area, The Hidden Place is a perfect sanctuary to rejuvenate mind, body and spirit. Facials, body scrubs, masks, reflexology and depilation (hair removal) treatments are available for all skin types. The signature body massage ($88 for 60 minutes, $108 for 90 minutes) incorporates a moisturizer- base of sunflower, avocado and wheat germ with several essential oils for a soothing aromatherapy treatment. For a bit of everything, indulge in the THP Signature Body Deluxe II ($208)—a three and a half-hour pampering that includes body scrub, body mask and massage, as well as a foot rub. Relaxation doesn’t end with the treatment—there are alfresco bathrooms and the lounge is a lovely place to chill out in before stepping back out into the real world. Open Tue-Fri 11am-10pm; Sat-Sun 10am-10pm.

Synergy

4/F, Living Space, 17 Hong Kong St., 6534-0340.
At 10,000 square feet, Synergy, formerly known as Private Space, is one of Singapore’s largest spas devoted to men. Signature treatments include the fusion massage ($85 for 60 minutes, $125 for 90 minutes)—encompassing shiatsu, Swedish, Thai and sports massage techniques—and the heat wave back treatment ($45), which uses beeswax, essential oils and vitamin E to improve blood circulation and relieve tension. New treatments are developed every month—check out the newly launched Hawaiian Lomi Lomi ($125 for 60 minutes, $155 for 90 minutes), a full-body massage using an ancient technique to soothe nerves and melt away stress. The steam room is a great place to relax in between cold and hot treatments or head to the Car Wash, a state-of-the-art hydrotherapy suite, to relieve those aching muscles. Open daily 11am-11pm.

For HIM Men’s Spa

#01-104/105 Roxy Square Shopping Centre II, 50 East Coast Rd., 6337-8333; #06-02 Pacific Plaza, 9 Scotts Rd., 6339-8333.
This one-stop spot for the busy man offers facial, slimming and spa services. Guests can be pampered with a two and a half-hour spa session ($300) that includes a body scrub, massage, a cream or mud wrap along with a trip to the steam bath or a dip in the Jacuzzi. For something a little less traditional, try the healing bamboo spa session ($350), which uses bamboo to relieve muscle tension and increase circulation. Signature treatments like microdermabrasion ($180) and intense pulsed light skin rejuvenation ($350) can be a little pricey, but state-of-the-art equipment is used to rid skin of blemishes or combat cellulite. Good news for first-time customers: Try these treatments for just $18. Open Mon-Fri 11am-9pm, Sat 10am-7pm.

Thomas D’Esthetique

#03-01 Excelsior Hotel & Shopping Centre, 5 Coleman St., 6337-6858.
A welcome retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle, Thomas D’Esthetique has treatments ranging from electrotherapy and exfoliation to facials and massages. The hair removal therapy is especially popular—tame gnarly hairs with a waxing treatment (from $40) or a Brazilian wax (from $50), or ask about the various methods of permanent hair removal. For those looking to recover from baking in our brutal sun, try the enzyme facial treatment ($95), which uses vitamin C and other healing ingredients to improve skin tone and texture. Open Mon-Fri 10am-8:30pm.

Spa Oasis

#01-704, Blk 844, Eunos Ville, Sims Ave., 6741-1967.
Though not an exclusively men-only spa, there are still specialized men’s treatments available here. Their signature men’s facial is the deep purifying face treatment ($80) which combats oiliness, prevents shaving irritation and unwanted in-grown hairs. It comes with an invigorating scalp massage to relieve accumulated tension. There’s also the Gentlemen’s De-Stress Body Glow ($60), a full body exfoliation and massage of 40 minutes to help unwind from the stresses of everyday life. Open Tue-Fri 11am-9pm; Sat-Sun 10am-6pm.

Sense Studio

48D, Mosque St., 6247-7433.
Taking traditional Chinese medicine’s five-element concept of wood, fire, earth, metal and water, Sense Studio’s five element facial ($65) seeks to determine the root cause of skin problems. A first-time application of a clay mask and a subsequent analysis reveal the problematic skin areas. Selected facial masks suited for each individual’s skin condition and problems are subsequently applied. Round off the Sense experience with a 35-minute five element hair spa treatment ($40) for a healthy and shiny scalp. Open daily 12:30-10:30pm.

Urban Homme

#01-14 The Amara, 165 Tanjong Pagar Rd., 6227-6626.
Urban Homme has a wide range of services available, from spa treatments to facials and slimming services. However, it is more of a skin and weight control establishment than a spa. Tone up that beer gut with the beer belly trimming program ($185) or bring a healthy glow to stressed out, lackluster complexions with a 90-minute aroma essence face massage ($220). There are spa services available, though, such as the aromatherapy spa body massage ($120), a full-body Swedish massage. Open Mon-Fri 10am-9pm; Sat-Sun 10am-6pm.

I scream, you scream, it seems we all scream for gelato these days. The Italian dessert has found a home on our shores with several gelaterias having set up shop here. With around a third of the fat of ice cream, there was no need to ration ourselves as we hit the streets to bring you our assessment of our city’s gelato. Bellissimo!

Gelatissimo

#01-01 Shaw House, 350 Orchard Rd., 6736-1618.
$4.20 for one flavor, $5.60 for two, $6.90 for three, $16.80 for 0.5L, $24.90 for 1L.

Flavors: 32 flavors. Bestsellers include mango, classic chocolate, forest berries and Veronese chocolate. Check out the new green apple and rum ’n’ raisin.

Taste: All recipes originate from the headquarters in Sydney, and gelato “kits” are assembled fresh daily. No cream is used in any flavor. The passionfruit and lychee are refreshing with bits of fruit, and the chocolate is quite creamy without being too heavy.

Seating: There are four tables, but being right in front of Shaw House, it can get quite crowded.

Overall: This outlet is halal and in a good location for a post-movie treat. The gelato is quite tasty and flavors are plentiful, but it’s a little on the expensive side.

Ricciotti

#B1-49/50 Riverwalk, 20 Upper Circular Rd., 6533-9060.
$3 per scoop, $10 for 0.5L, $15 for 0.75L, $25 for 1.25L.

Flavors:16 flavors plus two newbies every month—look out for extra virgin olive oil (you read that correctly) and tarragon for May. Signature must-tries include chocolate chip cream, vanilla, and gianduja chocolate.

Taste: Executive Pastry Chef Stefano Deiuri makes the gelato fresh every day for Ricciotti as well as for sister restaurants Garibaldi and Menotti. Each gelato has an individual recipe rather than the same base.

Seating: The café seats 35 with alfresco seating facing the Singapore River.

Overall: With new flavors inspired by fine Italian dining and never skimping on ingredients, Ricciotti is one of the better places to go for authentic Italian gelato.

Frutta La Viva

34 Wattan Rise, 6463-8986.
$2.90 for regular size, $3.90 for large, $9 for small takeaway box, $17.20 for large box.

Flavors: 16-20 flavors at any given time. Signature flavors include mango, strawberry and hazelnut.

Taste: With recipes for about 45 flavors, these are rotated often. It’s made fresh daily and no cream is used. The watermelon and banana flavors taste natural and light, and the strawberry is just tart enough with bits of fruit.

Seating: There is indoor seating for about 15 people.

Overall: Go for the fruit flavors—light and refreshing, they really hit the spot on a hot day.

Fresco

#B1-31 Century Square, 2 Tampines Central 5, 6789-2321.
$3 for small size, $4 for medium, $5 for large, $10 for small takeaway box, $18 for large box.

Flavors: 16 flavors, with different flavors rotating every week. Bestsellers include forest berries and caramel chocolate fudge. Also locally inspired flavors like dragonfruit, honey chrysanthemum and black sesame.

Taste: Owner Lisa Lim takes traditional Italian recipes and gives them a little tweak. Her rum ’n’ raisin really knocks you back, and the dragonfruit is light and refreshing. Flavors are strong and distinct in the tiramisu and Donatella rock—inspired by the Ferrero Rocher chocolates. Waffle cones and bowls are also homemade.

Seating: There is no seating available.

Overall: Health-conscious customers will be pleased to know this gelato is made with low-fat milk and less sugar. Students can look out for discounts on Tuesdays.

Venezia Gelato

Guthrie House, 1 Fifth Ave., 6468-3656.
$2.80 for one flavor, $3.90 for two flavors, $4.90 for three flavors, $8 for 500ml, $11.80 for 750ml, $14.50 for 1L, $21.50 for 1.5L.

Flavors: Each outlet has between 20-22 flavors at any time but Asian flavors such as young coconut, durian and black sesame sit alongside more European flavors such as yogurt.

Taste: Gelato here is made fresh daily using traditional recipes and high quality ingredients. To suit local palates, the flavors are less sweet than a standard ice cream, the texture smooth and the flavors subtle rather than overpowering.

Seating: Because Venezia Gelato is also a cafeteria, there’s plenty of seating available.

Overall: This institution has been around for over six years and has spawned nine outlets. Get there early as most of the gelato is sold out by the end of the day.

Estivo Gelateria

26 Greenwood Ave., 6469-6763.
$3.20 for small size, $4.30 for large, $11 for 650ml.

Flavors: 19 flavors at any given time. Bestsellers include dark chocolate and mango. Coffee, mint chocolate chip and hazelnut are also very popular.

Taste: Using only fresh milk and a little cream in the recipes, the gelato is quite creamy without being too heavy. The fruit flavors are a little uneven, as some use fresh fruit and juice while others use candied and pureed fruit.

Seating: Can seat 24 comfortably and there is also an outdoor seating area for 12-14 people.

Overall: A good place to sit and relax if you’re in the neighborhood, especially if you’re hankering for harder-to-find flavors like butterscotch, Horlicks, kiwi and grapefruit.

Bravissimo

#B1-K5 The Paragon, 290 Orchard Rd., 6747-9200.
$3.20 for one flavor, $4.30 for two flavors, $5.40 for three flavors, $9.40 for 650ml, $17.60 for 1.3L.

Flavors: From over 30 flavors, 28 are available at any given time. There are plenty of Italian favorites like tiramisu, caramel, pistachio and hazelnut. There are also three sugar-free flavors for diabetics.

Taste: Using less sugar than the traditional Italian recipes, the flavors of the gelato are nevertheless very fullsome and authentic. Only fresh fruit is used for the fruit flavors, so some are seasonal such as strawberry, durian and raspberry.

Seating: All five outlets are takeaway counters only. Seating is in the pipeline.

Overall: With outlets in convenient town locations, this is a good place to go for a yummy treat in between all the shopping.