Things you didn’t know about New Bahru

Make by Ginlee

Fashion house Ginlee has launched its first menswear capsule collection, but it’s keeping it on the down low. Tucked between rows of its iconic pleated womenswear are dapper men’s tops with discreet pleated collars. At the display window is a male mannequin dressed in a snazzy jacket with pleated hems and cuffs, along with trousers distinguished by surprising pleats below the knees. According to co-founder Tamir Niv, the menswear collection has “barely launched”. Currently, only the shirts are available; the jacket and trousers will be released in July. However, any fashion-forward man should consider visiting the store to place a pre-order, especially for the exceptional trousers.

Kotuwa

Restaurant Kotuwa opens its first full cocktail bar – and it’s a hoot. Inspired by Sri Lanka’s victory in the 1996 Cricket World Cup against Australia, the cocktail menu narrates this historic match, with each pivotal moment commemorated by a unique drink. For example, The Islander’s Gamble celebrates team captain Arjuna Ranatunga’s risky decision to let Australia bat first; it blends mezcal, passionfruit and curry leaves to deliver a bold and surprising flavour, mirroring the gamble itself. Other menu highlights include Uncle Percy, an uplifting rum cocktail named after a real-life super fan; and Papare Papare, a sweet arrack concoction that echoes the riotous celebratory music of Sri Lanka. 

Huevos

“Huevos” means “eggs” in Spanish. But in Mexican slang, it could also mean that pair of thingamajigs below a man’s waist. Asked why they named the Mexican restaurant Huevos, the three young Singaporean founders – Arron Poh (*see amendment note), Aloysius Chan and Nathaniel Moi – say: “We’re boys, we found the word on Google and thought it was funny, so we went with it.” Asked why the restaurant is decorated with images of Mexican wrestlers, they say: “We’re boys and boys like to fight, so we went with that.” As for the food, it’s terrific – the long queues on its opening weekend proved as much. We love the loaded nachos, fish tacos and birria beef tacos.