Is National Day and patriotism getting too big a dose for you this season? Hop aboard with as we go on a tantalising food tour!

Spice it up at Lagnaa

Everything in Lagnaa has a dash of chilli and a strong infusion of herbs. But what’s unique is that patrons are required to remove their shoes at the entrance and sit on the floor behind low, wooden round tables.

The soothing yellow walls, cushions scattered around and the soft twang of Indian music heightens your North Indian dining experience.

The congenial owner, Kaesavan, fondly known as K7, attends to each customer with care. If it’s your first time in an Indian restaurant, he’ll explain the menu at length. What you need to know is that Lagnaa is known for its curry fondue. The pot of bubbling curry is accompanied by a basket of fresh and fragrant Naan ($4) of your choice (there’s garlic, cheese and original).

Other authentic North Indian dishes you must try are the Chicken Masala ($8), Fish Tikka ($10) and handmade Papadums (free flow!). If things get too spicy, douse the flames with aromatic Masala tea ($4.50).

The numbing spiciness and heady scent of herbs are highly addictive and the small portions will leave you wishing for more.

UrbanWire gives Lagnaa4.5 out of 5 stars.

Lagnaa is located at 6 Upper Dickson Road

Tel: 6296 1215

Sip tea at Tea Cosy by Eclectic Attic

Next to Spotlight in Plaza Singapura lies a quirky bistro that sells not only sustenance but also vintage accessories and furniture

You’ll find yourself extremely conscious of every spill because the furniture you’re using is accompanied by a hefty price tag. Yes, you can buy the exquisite things you’re sitting on, if you fancy second-hand furniture.

While the food at Tea Cosy is just fair, the lush purple curtains and pretty tables make the lukewarm fruit tea ($4.50) and slightly dry scones taste that much better.

Tea Cosy does, however, serve up a decent set meal of Garden Salad, Chicken Pasta with Spicy Pesto Sauce and dessert for $12.95. Their prawn cocktail ($6.95) is surprisingly fresh with juicy, translucent prawns. If you’re thinking of lunching like a royal, order the rich Foie Gras Starter.

Surrounded by elaborate drapery and intricate cake stands, you might fool yourself into thinking you’re having a hoity-toity English tea with Lord so and so, right in the middle of a concrete jungle.

Prices range from $3.95 for Good Ol’ Teas to $12.95 for a set meal.

Teac Cosy by Eclectic Attic is located at Plaza Singapura #05-10

Tel: 6836 9736

Do the Samba at Carnivore

Believing that you’re in Brazil is easy as waiters slide and saunter around in step with the relaxing bossa nova music.

Those with weak stomachs, small appetites and little sense of fun shouldn’t bother visiting Carnivore.

If that doesn’t describe you, samba your seat and prepare for a churrasco (South Brazilian barbecue) buffet of beef rump, lamb fillet, chicken drumstick with cheese and pork sausages.

Carnivore certainly caters to the adventurous meat lover with delicacies like crocodile meat, wild boar and chicken heart. The wild boar is a little tough but still delectable because of the flavourful marinade.

Begin small with the huge selection at the salad bar. Chat a little or sip a beverage between slabs of meat, lest you fill up too soon.

The culinary experience can be a bit pricey, starting from $25 for a buffet lunch,
so make sure to go with a big appetite to get your money’s worth!

UrbanWire gives Carnivore5 out of 5 stars

Buffet lunch costs $25+++ on weekdays and $29+++ on weekends.

Carnivore is located at Vivocity.

Tel: 6376 9939