Known as @girleatworld on Instagram, Melissa Hie is a true global-gallivanting foodie. Born in Indonesia, raised in the US and now based in Singapore, you’ll catch her snapping local eats in her signature wide-angle shots in some of the world’s most picturesque hot spots.
Currently under lockdown in the Lion City, get to know Melissa’s favourite local haunts in Singapore:
What is your ultimate LUXE experience in Singapore?
High tea at The Capitol Kempinski Hotel! The tea room is very quiet, so you can really share heart-to-heart conversations without being distracted. Another LUXE experience I love is the Sunday brunch at Capella Hotel. They have the most amazing spread of freshly shucked oysters!
Where do you go to avoid the tourist trap?
In Singapore, I would go to Tiong Bahru or Jalan Besar for its thriving local food scene. This is where Singaporeans actually hang out.
For a work-week escape in Singapore, where do you go?
Catching a flick at The Projector, it’s a retro theatre with a killer old school vibe.
Which local restaurants are you loving at the moment?
Since lockdown, we have been indulging in a few local favourites for takeout: El Cocinero for authentic Mexican fare, sausage onion pizza from John’s Pizza and the paninis from Da Paolo. I’m also loving the brownies from BUNDT the Backyard Bakers. It’s pre-order only but so worth it.
Who are your favourite Singaporean designers?
I love companies that promote sustainability, so I’m a fan of ESSE the label, which was started by Alicia, a Singaporean friend of mine who recently relocated to New Zealand. I also got to know the work of Teresa Lim. I absolutely adore her embroidery work and handmade earrings, plus Samantha Lo, who’s bold style has been popular for a few years now.
Your current obsession?
Cooking! Since we’re staying in so much, I’ve been cooking much more than before. I was always a casual cook but the other day, I ordered meat straight from a butcher for the first time in my life from Aw’s Market in Singapore. I had requested a chicken thigh to be deboned, not realising the butcher would still send the bones with it, and ended up making a really tasty, preservative-free soup from scratch.
Follow Melissa on Instagram at @girleatworld as she indulges in local treats the world over.
In need of some armchair travel? Follow us on Instagram @luxecityguides for more pic-pretty inspo.
