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Ebi-Tori Menzo – Prawn & Chicken Ramen Shop From Osaka Arrives In Singapore, At South Beach

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Another ramen restaurant opens in Singapore, though this is rather under-the-radar.

Originally from Osaka, Ebi-Tori Menzo which in Japanese actually means “shrimp and chicken noodle warehouse” is a rather new dining establishment in Japan that started their business in 2016.

Their first outpost in Singapore is located at
South Beach Avenue and can be best described as a mid-sized eatery that specialises in both chicken ramen and shrimp tsukemen.

For those who not know, the difference between tsukemen and ramen, is that tsukemen is a form of “dipping noodles” which consist of the noodles eaten after being dipped in a separate bowl of soup or broth.

It is commonly consumed during summertime.

Didn’t order the Signature Ebi Tsukeme ($17.90), but it did look like it had many ingredients, from char siew, leeks, tomatoes, cress, sweet potato, and lemon.

The rich broths used are cooked slow-boiling shrimp shells, vegetables for more for a couple of hours to create that thick and creamy broth.

For those more keen on soup ramen, offerings include Shio Chicken Ramen ($15.90), Shoyu Chicken ($15.90), Ebi Ramen ($16.90), Paikou Ramen ($16.90) with options of straight noodles or flat noodles.

I went for the Ebi Ramen ($16.90) which came not quite like what I was expecting.

The broth was towards the rich side, reminding me of lobster bisque in terms of its consistency but without that distinct seafood savour.

Notice that there was a slice of baguette in the soup – to be dipped further into the soup, which was peculiar. Don’t see that often here in Singapore.

I read that the ramen was initially inspired by Italian cuisine which explained its texture.

However, I found the entire combination with the thick noodles too heavy and rich for my liking.

It wasn’t to the extent of cloying, but with the noodle proportionally too much for the soup.

Also, the soup wasn’t as hot as expected, and thus would coagulate quickly if consumed slowly under the air-con temperature. But I can understand some may like this style because it departs from the usual tonkotsu.

The Shoyu Chicken Ramen ($15.90) came in a dark-sauce reminiscent of the ”tao you bak (dark soya sauce meat) that I would find in a Teochew porridge stall.

This could potentially be different and tasty, but the base was on the saltier side and thus some may find it hard to finishing slurping as well.

Ebi Tori Menzo Singapore may represent some novel forms of tsukemen and ramen that would appeal to those who love a bit of Italian, and a bit of Japanese.

The South Beach Tower outlet is easily reachable via Esplanade MRT station, located right next to Caffe Vergnano 1892.

Ebi-Tori Menzo (South Beach)
South Beach Tower, 26 Beach Road,#B1-18 South Beach Avenue, Singapore 189767 (Esplanade MRT)
Tel: +65 98800519
Opening Hours: 11:00am – 3:00pm and 5:00pm – 10:00pm (Mon-Sat), Closed Sun

Other Related Entries
Konjiki Hototogisu Singapore (CHIJMES)
Satsuma Shimuja 薩摩思無邪 (Tanjong Pagar)
Ginza Kamo Soba Kyudaime Keisuke (Holland Village)
Men-Men Tei (Marina One)
Ramen Keisuke Champon King (International Plaza)

* Follow @DanielFoodDiary on Facebook and Instagram for more food news, food videos and travel highlights. Daniel’s Food Diary paid for food reviewed unless otherwise stated.

The post Ebi-Tori Menzo – Prawn & Chicken Ramen Shop From Osaka Arrives In Singapore, At South Beach appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.


678 Korean BBQ – One Of The Best Korean BBQ Restaurants In Sydney, Visited By Gong Yoo

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[Sydney] The reason why I was pulled here by a friend was because “Gong Yoo dined here before!”.

Unfortunately, the Goblin star could not have his BBQ in peace then as he was mobbed by fans. He could fight off zombies in his Train to Busan, but not over-zealous fans.

And unfortunately for my friend, there were zero traces of him there – as she searched high and low for his autographed photo (attempting to take a photo WITH his photo, I guess.)

There was no Gong Yoo, but at least there was Gong Cha somewhere nearby.

Located in Sydney’s Haymarket, 678 Korean BBQ is a popular restaurant owned by Kang Ho Dong, a South Korean Comedian as well as ex-wrestler.

The philosophy of its name comes from the mathematical principle that the addition of 6, 7 and 8 is 21. Hmm…

If you have not tried Korean BBQ in Sydney, I would say do give it a try and you would be in for a pleasant surprise, especially during winter days.

The popularity of the restaurant is an understatement, with our wait being close to an hour or so despite all that capacity and all those tables.

It almost felt like a good 10% of the Koreans in Sydney are in this same restaurant at the same time.

You would realise why, as the walls are adorned with photographs of famous Korean musicians, celebrities, actors and actresses.

Food lands at lightning speed on your table and all the staff seem to rush about to offer you the prompt service.

The Banchan (side dishes) all made in-house, was already impressive with more than just the usual kimchi and potato slices.

There were addictive fried fish, hot sweet potato, picked radish, some salad and get this right… steamed egg.

The selection of cuts was quite wide, from Wagyu Oyster Blade (AUD38), Wagyu Short Rib (AUD39), Thinly Sliced Wagyu Brisket (AUD22), Prime Pork Belly (AUD22), Prime Pork Jowl Cut (AUD21) and Soy Marinated Prime Pork Short Rib (AUD25).

Not the cheapest around, so be prepared to foot a slightly hefty bill.

We kind of over-ordered again, but thankfully the food was authentically Korean and meats were of good quality.

The Wagyu Beef was superbly tender – which you could eat on its own, or wrap in lettuce with some ssamjang sauce and those pickled banchan vegetables.

Its Spicy Seafood and Soft Tofu Stew (AUD16) and Soy Bean Paste Stew (AUD14) were served so pipping hot that it was bubbling all over, and was also bursting with spicy-savoury flavours.

The vibes of the place was extremely bustling and casual, like in a Korean canteen due to the very open spaces, but it was just full of chatting and laugher.

Korean restaurants back home may be loud, but people are still rather reserved.

Over at 678, the customer base was generally young Koreans and Aussies learning more about the culture. People just get so happy after a few drinks, and you could tell with endless laughter and some singing.

The succulent and flavourful meats, and interactive experience helped. Crowded and smoky it may be, I won’t mind visiting 678 again.

678 (강호동) Korean BBQ (Haymarket)
1/396 Pitt St, Haymarket NSW 2000, Australia
Tel: +61 2 9281 8997
Opening Hours: 11am – 12am
Google Maps – 678 Korean BBQ

Other Related Entries
Madang (Pitt Street, Sydney)
Danjee (Albion Place, Sydney)

* Follow @DanielFoodDiary on Facebook, Instagram and Youtube for more food news, food videos and travel highlights. Daniel’s Food Diary paid for food reviewed unless otherwise stated.

The post 678 Korean BBQ – One Of The Best Korean BBQ Restaurants In Sydney, Visited By Gong Yoo appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

1-For-1 Mains At Over 100 Restaurants In Singapore With Burpple Beyond, Including These 6 Korean Restaurants

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This is for the foodies. Especially if you are dining out in Singapore often, and looking at food places with value-for-money amazing deals.

I have been a member with Burpple since its starting days in 2012 – am a “Level 10 Burppler” now (just search user ID @DanielFoodDiary), and am proud that they have gone literally beyond to launch this new program.

Burpple Beyond.

This is a premium membership program to help users like you enjoy 1-for-1 deals at curated restaurants, cafes and bars.

As with many other people, the first question is typically, “So what’s the catch?”

I will share as much as I know here. There are basically two types of membership: All Day and Off-Peak.

The All Day membership allows you to enjoy deals all day (subject to the restaurant operational hours), at a monthly fee of $9.90 (u.p $12). You can try it for free with a 7-day trial.

Plus point: You have the flexibility to cancel the plan anytime (say you need to leave the country for a couple of months), and so there is no prior lump-sum payment whatsoever. Nothing to tie you down.

The Off-Peak membership benefits those who often dine at non-peak hours. That is free of charge (u.p $4) for now.

What’s more, you save $22 per redemption on average. So you can get your membership’s worth within your first visit. Makes a lot of sense!

The restaurants, cafes, and bars available on the programme are curated by the Burpple Team, based on factors such as quality, positive reviews and search data.

There are over 100 of them, and you can expect reputable brands such as The Sushi Bar, Char, Park Bench Deli, Firebake, The Dark Gallery, Founder Bak Kut Teh, Sacha & Sons, Vatos Urban Tacos, Aura, The Stamford Brasserie, Firebake, The Coffee Academics, aROMA Gelato, Scaled by Ah Hua Kelong, Paulaner Bräuhaus, Creamier, Uni Gallery, Fat Belly, Atmastel, Kyushu Pancake, KOOKS Creamery, WANTON – Seng’s Noodle Bar to LongQing 隆庆.

You can tell it is quite a good range, with not-too-bad names up there.


(Click PLAY for the video highlights of Burpple Beyond.)

As Korean restaurants have been rather popular of late, here are 6 must-try restaurants you should put on your list. And all of them are on Burpple Beyond.

Chir Chir Fusion Chicken Factory
313@Somerset: #B3-04/05/06 313@Somerset, 313 Orchard Rd Singapore 238895
Bugis Junction: #02-50 Bugis Junction, 200 Victoria St Singapore 188021
Chinatown Point: #01-43 Chinatown Point, 133 New Bridge Rd Singapore 059413
JEM: #04-13/14 JEM, 50 Jurong Gateway Road Singapore 608549

Hands up fans of Chimaek – now you can get your 1-for-1 mains at the Korean fried chicken specialist store, and save up to $32.90. Burpple Beyond is available at their four outlets at Orchard Road, Chinatown, Jurong East and Bugis.

Other than their Crispy, Garlicky and Spicy Fried Korean Chicken, look out for new dishes of Jjimdak – chicken in a sweet and savoury gravy; Spicy or Soy Dakgalbi, Curry Fried Chicken, and Chir Chir Spring Chicken.

The decadent cheesy main to order is the Cheese Dakgalbi, with roasted chicken thigh meat and topokki tossed in spicy Korean sauce, served in a hot plate over an open flame.

Take a piece of chicken, and enjoy the bubbling mozzarella and see how high a #cheesepull you can go.

EIGHT Korean BBQ
1 Scotts Road, #04-20/21, Shaw Centre, Singapore 228208

EIGHT Korean BBQ is known for its selection of tantalising premium BBQ meats in a sleek industrial chic setting.

Other than barbecued meats of Argentinian Beef, US Prime Beef, Ohmi Wagyu and Short Ribs, also offered are seafood items of King Prawn, Atlantic salmon and Korean Grilled Squid cooked with butter; and stews such as Beef Kimchi, Pork Belly, Seafood Bean Paste and Sardine Kimchi.

One of the most popular sets would be the Flower Pork consisting of pork neck, pork jowl, and Flower Pork Belly, included with a stew of your choice. That is A LOT of food, enough to get your money’s worth.

You can choose the flavours for your Pork Belly, and my personal favourites are the Garlic and Herbs so that you can still savour the natural goodness of the sizzling meats.

Joo Bar
5 Tan Quee Lan Street, Singapore 188094

A modern Korean brewery near Bugis that specialises in organic home brewed makgeolli with a twist on traditional Korean food.

Key highlights are its house brew makgeolli and quality Korean fare with delights such as Slow Roasted Mangalitsa Belly, Joo Bossam, Spicy Seafood Pasta, and Seafood Gochujang Risotto.

Get a 1-for-1 main (save up to $26), or 1-for-1 Anju Snack (save up to $18).

For a main that is instagrammable, get the Flaming Chick Jumeokbap – also a filling treat of spicy chicken thigh, shiitake, king oyster mushrooms, kimchi and seaweed with rice.

The “Anju Snack” is great for those looking for something lighter to go with drinks. Loved its Kimchi Spiced Wings which had crunchy double fried outer layer with powdering of kimchi spice that reminded me of an addictive snack. The meat within remained moist and juicy.

Masizzim
#B3-02 313@somerset Singapore 238895

An amalgamation of the Korean words ‘masi’ (delicious) and ‘jjim’ (steam), Masizzim specialises in meat stews – Beef, Pork, Chicken and Seafood.

The stews such as the Signature Beef Rib Stew, Spicy Seafood Beef, Chicken and Pork Rib (available in individual or double-sized sharing portions) are slow-cooked with its own proprietary secret-recipe sauce and served bubbling hot in cast-iron pots.

Choose between the non-spicy soy flavour which has a sumptuous blend of soy sauce, pineapples and Korean pear; or the spicy base made with gochujang (red pepper paste) for some tongue-tingling heat.

More #cheesepull?

Get the Honey Mustard Cheese Egg Roll, which looked simple and homely, and oozed out with stretchy mozzarella and cheddar brightened with sweet-zingy honey mustard.

Nipong Naepong (JEM)
#01-16 JEM, 50 Jurong Gateway Road, Singapore 608549

Translated as “your ppong, my ppong”, Nipong Naepong is Singapore’s first “ppong” specialty restaurant.

Finally Jjamppong noodles has become a star in its own right.

The wheat noodles used are exclusively made in Korea and imported into Singapore, because it is hard to find ‘jjolmyeon’ with that chewy, tender bite. Even the sauces and soup stocks are shipped from Seoul for both authenticity and consistency.

With a 1-for-1 main special (save up to $17.80), I would say go for the Cha Ppong with a Level 1 spice (if this is your first time), and Vongole Ppong cooked with plump clams and spiked with white wine and fragrant garlic.

NY Night Market
#01-08 Westgate, 3 Gateway Drive, Singapore 608532

While there is “NY” in its name, NY Night Market actually hails from Seoul and serves up popular Western comfort foods with a Korean spin.

With 1-for-1 mains (save up to $30.90), you can indulge in highlights such as Pasta de Dakgalbi of al dente spaghetti in super spicy sauce; 50cm Baguette loaded with bulgogi beef, shredded cheese and assorted vegetables; Cream the Curry of topokki red curry topped with whipped cream; and Waterfall Cheese Shrimp doused in cheese fondue on a sizzling hot plate.

A personal favourite is the Rosti & Beef, the golden brown rosti made from scratch using finely-shredded Russet potatoes, coupled with juicy bulgogi beef.

How does Burpple Beyond work?
Members get four 1-for-1 mains or fixed set menus at all partner restaurants, cafes, and bars.

What are the key differences between All Day and Off-Peak membership?
All Day members can redeem deals all day during the restaurant operational hours. Off-Peak members can only redeem deals during off-peak hours.

All Day membership is a monthly fee of $9.90 (u.p. $12); while Off-Peak is free of charge (u.p. $4). For a limited period only. You can also try the All Day membership for free with a 7-day trial.

When are the peak and off-peak hours?
These are pre-defined by the partner restaurants, cafes and bars, and timings can be viewed on the respective venue pages on Burpple.

Take for example Chir Chir Fusion Chicken Factory: The peak hours are lunch time 12 to 2pm and dinner time 6 to 9pm; while off-peak hours are 11am to 12pm, 2 to 6pm, and 9pm till closing.

Can I use Burpple Beyond on any day of the year?
While some other programmes may have weekend exclusions, members can enjoy deals all seven days a week within the restaurant operation hours, except on pre-defined exclusion days such as public holidays (National Day, Hari Raya Haji, Deepavali, Christmas, etc) and special occasions (Valentine’s Day Eve and Day, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day).

How many deals can I use at one visit?
One deal for every two diners, up to four deals per table of eight diners or more.

What are the restaurants on board?
There are over 100 partner restaurants, cafes and bars across Singapore, and more added will be monthly.

Current partners include The Dark Gallery (Millenia Walk and Takashimaya), FireBake, Porta, Park Bench Deli, Scissors Paper Stove, Sunday Folks, Char, Benjamin Barker Café, Creamier, The Sushi Bar (Far East Plaza), Forlino, Hai Xian Lao, Kogane Yama (Bugis Junction and JEM), KPO Café Bar, Long Chim, Mookata Traditional Thai BBQ (Bugis, Katong, ORTO), Nesuto, Sabio By The Sea, Salt Tapas & Bar, The Coffee Academics (Scotts Square and Raffles City), Uni Gallery by OosterBay, and Wheeler’s Yard.

Where do I get Burpple Beyond?
You can sign up on www.burpple.com/beyond or download the latest Burpple app on iPhone and Android here.

Good news. You can try it for free with a 7-day trial!

*This entry is brought to you in partnership with Burpple.

The post 1-For-1 Mains At Over 100 Restaurants In Singapore With Burpple Beyond, Including These 6 Korean Restaurants appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

Délifrance – 1st Ever Oozy Bo Luo Croissant In Singapore, With Flavours Of Salted Egg, Sea Salt Dark Chocolate, Hazelnut Praline

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Imagine the combination of both the classic French Croissant and Hong Kong Bo Luo buns.

Meet this East-meets-West hybrid – the Bo Luo Croissant.

Got my hands on the Délifrance Bo Luo Croissant, and am excited to share about this new pastry item.


(Click PLAY for highlights Délifrance’s Bo Luo Croissant.)

This is a combination of different textures – sweet, golden, crumbly Bo Luo crust on the outside; crispy and airy croissant texture on the inside; and also filled with premium ingredients in the centre of the pastry.

Délifrance Singapore has launched the first-ever oozy Bo Luo Croissant in Singapore, with 6 different flavours.

Think Salted Egg, Kaya & Butter, Crunchy Peanut, Hazelnut Praline, Sea Salt Dark Chocolate and Blueberry Cream Cheese.

Bo Luo Buns are a classic pastry item from Hong Kong, after seen in their bakeries and cha chaan teng (cafes), characterised by the crispy topping and buttery aroma.

While they are commonly called “pineapple buns”, there are actually no pineapples involved in the making process – it is because the crackling pattern on the top resembles the fruit.

Each oozy Bo Luo Croissant is priced at $2.80 per piece, $7.40 for 3 pieces (U.P. $8.40) and $14.80 for 6 pieces (U.P. $16.80).

Here are the 6 NEW Délifrance Bo Luo Croissants to look out for:

Salted Egg Bo Luo Croissant
The unanimous favourite among all of us, with a taste that is quite different from the Salted Egg Bursting Croissant introduced in 2016.

2 years had passed, and the salted egg craze continues.

Made using French butter and French flour from France’s Grands Moulins De Paris flour miller, the croissant has a crispy and flaky exterior crust with a 27-layers honeycomb structure on the inside.

Topped with a golden, sweet and crunchy Bo Luo crust found in Hong Kong Bo Luo Buns, it complemented well with the grainy and flowy salted egg sauce within it, similar to Hong Kong Dim Sum – Liu Sha Bao.

Check out the flow. No bluff.

Hazelnut Praline Bo Luo Croissant
Drizzled with hazelnut sauce and sprinkled with almonds and granola on the outside for an additional crust, the Hazelnut Praline Bo Luo Croissant had this smooth, creamy filling with rich nutty taste.

Overall, it has a pleasant sweet taste with a delicate hazelnut notes and toasted flavours.

Sea Salt Dark Chocolate Bo Luo Croissant
Between the Hazelnut Praline and this, the Sea Salt Dark Chocolate Bo Luo Croissant would come across as a richer version.

Great for chocolate fans with its dark chocolate filling – with that slight bitter after-note and tinge of sea salt for extra savouriness.

Kaya & Butter Bo Luo Croissant
Kaya, butter and pastry, doesn’t this combination remind us of our national breakfast?

While the Kaya & Butter Bo Luo Croissant doesn’t have a oozy centre like the Salted Egg version, the familiar, sweet and flavourful fillings do sounds like a good substitute for breakfast.

After it was heated up, the aroma of the melted butter and coconut-y kaya would be more enticing, best paired with a cup of espresso or latte.

Crunchy Peanuts Bo Luo Croissant
Fans of peanut butter will rejoice at this combination with generous amount of peanut butter and crushed peanuts within.

This is what we would call “Peanut Gao Gao”.

The Crunchy Peanuts Bo Luo Croissant packed a creamy peanut base added with crushed peanuts fillings for that added crunch.

Blueberry Cream Cheese Bo Luo Croissant
While some of the flavours seem more local skewed (such as the Kaya Butter, Crunchy Peanut and Salted Egg), the Blueberry Cream Cheese Bo Luo Croissant reminded me of a classic cheese cake.

Good to know that the cream cheese fillings weremade with real citrusy blueberries.

This Bo Luo Croissant can go well with a cup of hot or iced tea – such as their newly launched Iced Cucumber, Iced Peach, Iced Lemon or Iced Orange Blossom Tea, for a refreshing tea-time treat.

Délifrance Singapore Outlets
ARC: 460 Alexandra Road #02-42/43 Alexandra Retail Centre, Singapore 119963
CAUSEWAY POINT: 1 Woodlands Square, Causeway Point #B1-21, Singapore 738099
CLIFFORD CENTRE: 24 Raffles Place, #02-19, Singapore 048621
CHOA CHU KANG: Lot One Shoppers Mall 21 Choa Chu Kang Ave 4 #03-K14A, Singapore 689812
CORONATION PLAZA: No. 587 Bukit Timah Rd #01-01, Singapore 269707
GATEWAY WEST: 150 Beach Road, #B1-01, Singapore 189720
GLENEAGLES: 6A Napier Road #02-29/30 Gleneagles Hospital, Main Administration Block, Singapore 258500
HDB HUB: 480 Lorong 6, Toa Payoh #01-10 HDB Hub, Singapore 310480
JELITA: 293 Holland Road #02-10B, Singapore 278628
JEM: 50 Jurong Gateway #B1-K15/16 JEM, Singapore 608549
KK HOSPITAL: 100 Bukit Timah Road #01-08/09/10, Singapore 229899
MT. ELIZABETH HOSPITAL: 3 Mount Elizabeth Block B, Level 2 Next To Lift Lobby B, Singapore 228510
NUH MEDICAL CENTRE: 1 Lower Kent Ridge Road, #04-11/12 One@Kentridge, Singapore 119082
TAMPINES MALL: No 4 Tampines Central 5 #01-38 Tampines Mall, Singapore 529510
THOMSON MEDICAL CENTRE: 339 Thomson Road #01-05 Thomson Medical Centre, Singapore 307677
PARKWAY EAST: 321 Joo Chiat Place, Singapore 427990
UE SQUARE: 81 Clemenceau Avenue #01-25 United Engineer Square, Singapore 239920
WEST MALL: 1 Bukit Batok Central Link #B1-03 , Singapore 658713
WHEELOCK PLACE: #02-17/17A 501 Orchard Road, Singapore 238880

* Written by Nicholas Tan @stormscape. This post is brought to you in partnership with Délifrance Singapore.

The post Délifrance – 1st Ever Oozy Bo Luo Croissant In Singapore, With Flavours Of Salted Egg, Sea Salt Dark Chocolate, Hazelnut Praline appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

McDonald’s D24 Durian McFlurry – Oh The Smell! So Yes Or No?

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Serious, I could smell McDonald’s from a few metres away. And I am not talking about their fries or chicken nuggets, but its NEW D24 Durian McFlurry.

The aunties behind the counter chuckled, ”Ah boy, you also want the Durian McFlurry?”

”$4, please”

Wah, so expensive.

So yes, the fast food chain has released the D24 Durian McFlurry, apparently made with REAL D24 durian puree which you swirl into creamy vanilla soft-serve.

On a side note, I was shooting the kiosk for my insta stories and the store manager came rushing out, ”Is there anything you want to complain?”

He let a big sign of relief when I explained that it was for Instagram. I commented that the store was ”Very 臭”. (smelly)

He went, ”It is actually very 香.” (fragrant) Good safe.

There was this artificially bright yellow colour found within the soft serve, as I dug within hoping to find some of those puree.

There were nuances of that bitter-sweetness, though not much, and I was quickly overtaken by the sweetness.

Give it a try, but I guess once was good enough?

A cautionary note: I was having a meeting half an hour after that, and I was for certain that durian smell was still lingering in my breath. Eeeeeek.

* Follow @DanielFoodDiary on Facebook, Instagram and Youtube for more food news, food videos and travel highlights. Daniel’s Food Diary paid for food reviewed unless otherwise stated.

The post McDonald’s D24 Durian McFlurry – Oh The Smell! So Yes Or No? appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

Diva Spiced, New Delhi – Hipster Café Serving South East Asian Tapas, At Meharchand Market

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[New Delhi] Diva Spiced, backed by the culinary powerhouse that is Ritu Dalmia, is a quaint café that capitalises on the ever-growing trend of serving South East Asian food in a simple yet modern setting.

With importance given to fresh produce, the menu is curated in such a fashion that it not only captures the essence of the region but also makes a characteristic mark of its own.

Situated in the up and coming Meharchand Market, a place with a growing hipster vibe, Diva Spiced sits comfortably as a laidback destination to have a quick meal over a few drinks at any time of the day.

Ritu Dalmia, for those not in the knowing, is one of the leading chefs in the country.

Her Italian restaurant Diva, only a little drive away, is considered among the best in the city.

It is the casualness of Diva Spiced that makes it favourable. An accessible location as well as a select menu, in addition to perfect service, makes eating here a pleasant affair.

The décor is well balanced, colourful yet not eye-popping.

Asian motifs dominate one wall while the other consists of a mirror, giving the somewhat compact space a more significant feel.

The ambience further gets help from the broad front and side windows, and even though the view is nothing to write home about, ample light pours in giving the interiors a fresh look throughout the day.

Some of the foods, unfortunately, leaves a lot to be desired.

The problem with having a well-known chef in the background is that expectations are sky high, and when not met, it is easy to be disappointed.

The dishes were satisfactory, let’s be clear about that. It looked vibrant when served, and the brilliance of the ingredients came across in each bite.

However, it lacked the expected boldness of South East Asian cuisine.

Take the delicious Prawn and Kasundi Dimsums (Rs 490, SGD9.75) which were divine, but could have done with a stronger, more pungent taste of the kasundi mustard, a favourite of mine, that is a somewhat gentler version of the wasabi sauce.

Typically, I have to request Indian eateries to make the food less spicy for me.

I didn’t over here, even though the name of the restaurant has “Spiced” in it. Thankfully, the food was light on the spice scale. It wasn’t bland, and flavours were there, but then nothing stood out either.

The Grilled Chicken Teriyaki and Bean Sprout Kimchi Bao Burger (Rs 630, SGD12.50) sounds exquisite but was a little bready and tasted as any other grilled chicken sandwich one would find elsewhere.

In fact, my daughter, who was to share half of it, left it all for me after one bite.

The Pork Belly with Five Spices, Sticky Rice and Gomae (Rs 680, SGD13.50) was much better.

The Belly was cooked beautifully, but once again, it missed the mark because of the overall dryness of the dish and lack of daring flavours.

Another aspect of Diva Spiced that was unsatisfactory were the prices.

I understand that adhering to serving only fresh local food makes it hard to source ingredients which can get costly, but the quantities served are just about fair and the bill, in the end, pinches a little.

I do feel that Diva Spiced has its heart in the right place and they do demonstrate a passion for good food that many top restaurants lack.

Regarding the taste and flavour profile though, the food misses the intensity, the smell, the fearlessness that makes South East Asian cuisine so popular across the world.

Diva Spiced
79 & 80, Meharchand Market, Lodhi Road, New Delhi
Tel: 011-49051837
Opening Hours: 11:30am – 11:30pm (Mon-Sun)
https://www.facebook.com/divaspiced
Google Maps

Other Related Entries
Indian Accent (The Lodhi, New Delhi)
Bukhara (ITC Maurya, New Delhi)
Smoke House Deli (New Delhi)
AnnaMaya (New Delhi)
Jamie’s Italian (Vasant Kunj, New Delhi)

Click HERE for other Indian Food Entries

* Written by DFD’s India Correspondent @tickereatstheworld. Raghav is a travel and food writer who enjoys the thrill of discovering new places and writing about them. When he is not working, he can be found driving around his two kids from one birthday party to another.

The post Diva Spiced, New Delhi – Hipster Café Serving South East Asian Tapas, At Meharchand Market appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

10 Must-Try Sydney Cafes – For Drool-Worthy Brunch, Instagrammable Cakes, And A Good Cup Of Coffee

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[Sydney] It was only after typing this entry when I realised I missed Sydney’s cafes that much… Devon’s Sakuma, Bourke Street Bakery’s Funnel Sausage Roll, Single O’s Coffee, and of course the famed Strawberry Watermelon Cake from Black Star Pastry.

The Australians just do their coffee differently – balanced, smoothing. That feeling when it slips down your throat. I wanted to say I never had bad coffee in Sydney, but will change it to “seldom”.

The brunch food is also ever-changing, substantial, creative, and aesthetically please (cue “instagrammable”) all at the same time.

If you are heading down to Sydney, here are 10 Must-Try café. I tried to include a mixture of the famous shoo-ins, along with some under-the-radar (for foreigners) but also worth a venture. (Also read: 10 Best Cafes In Surry Hills Sydney)


(Click PLAY for video highlights of Devon Cafe).

Devon Cafe
76 Devonshire St Surry Hills NSW
Tel: 02 9211 8777
Opening Hours: 7am – 4pm (Mon – Fri), 8am – 3:30pm (Sat – Sun), 8am – 3:30pm (PH)
(Kitchen closes at 3pm)
Google Maps – Devon Cafe

Asian Fusion Food On Surry Hills, Go For The Sakuma
It is not hard to like Devon Café, which has managed to find a unique voice in an ever-evolving café scene in Sydney.

Since it opened in 2013 at Surry Hills, Devon Café which is a short 10 minutes’ walk from Central Station, continues to be packing in the crowds.

It used to have a branch at Danks, but has shifted that outlet to the more commercial district of Barangaroo.

Over at Surry Hills, you get items such as the Tropical Chia – chia pudding, almond milk, fresh dragonfruit, mandarin, passionfruit, strawberries; Eggs Blini – Buckwheat blini, poached eggs, citrus cured king salmon, salmon caviar, broccolini, maltaise sauce; Yakuza Burger – Grilled chicken, mozzarella katsu, Devon’s secret sauce, cos lettuce, pickles, milk bun, seasoned chips; and Hojicha Cookies N Cream – Hojicha cream, Hojicha sponge, Hojicha crunch, Hojicha sauce, yuzu gel and mandarin.

The famed Sakuma (AUD26) contained miso grilled king salmon, smoked eel croquette, 63 degrees egg, radish petit salad and kewpie mayonnaise. It is on the expensive side.

The chunky, fresh, smooth, well-seasoned salmon which melted in the mouth, the smoked eel croquette lightly crispy and with smoky hints, and the perfectly cooked egg. Devon Café (Surry Hills, Sydney)

Bourke Street Bakery
633 Bourke Street Surry Hills
Tel: +61 02 9699 1011 (To order for same day collection from the Surry Hills bakery, you can call +02 9699 1011.)
www.bourkestreetbakery.com.au
Opening Hours: 7:00am – 6:00pm (Mon – Fri), 7:00am – 5:00pm (Sat – Sun)

Life Changing Ginger Brulée Tart & Sausage Roll
There are few things I would describe as life-changing, and two items from the famed bakery would fit that bill – Ginger Brulée Tart and Pork & Fennel Sausage Roll.

Their legendary Ginger Brulée Tart (AUD5) had a firm tart shell, smooth and thick filling of subtle ginger twang that reminded me of Christmas, with a layer of crisp caramelised sugar topped with pistachio.

Unbelievably good.

My first Pork and Fennel Sausage Roll (AUD4.50) was eaten hours later and cold, yet I thought it was a god-sent, literally.

The minced pork filing pleasantly enhanced with funnel seas with buttery flaky pastry was utmostly delicious. Then, I went again to get my second.

Before I forget, other pastries and bakes, are also worth the try. Bourke Street Bakery (Surry Hills, Sydney)

Black Star Pastry – Newtown
277 Australia St, NEWTOWN, NSW 2042 (Newtown Station. Lines serviced: T2 Inner West & South Line.)
Tel: +61 02 9557 8656
Opening hours: 7:00am – 5:00pm Daily
Google Maps – Black Star Pastry Newtown

World Famous Strawberry Watermelon Cake
Black Star Pastry is famous for THAT ONE THING – the Strawberry Watermelon Cake, which propelled the bakery café to almost-international fame.

Not an understatement to say this cake is world-famous.

Tastefully gorgeous with a rather girly style, a layered photogenic cake termed ‘instagram-worthy’ all around, with a taste to match.

A slice of the famed Strawberry Watermelon Cake (AUD7.50) created by Christopher Thé, consists of two layers of almond dacquoise, rose-scented cream, watermelon, strawberries, pistachios and dried rose petal.

Having it was like experiencing ‘happily ever after’ or when you crush invites you for a movie when you were 17. Black Star (Newtown, Sydney)

Single O Surry Hills
60 Reservoir Street, Surry Hills, NSW Australia 2010
Google Maps
Opening hours: 6:30am – 4:00pm (Mon-Fri), 7:30am – 3:00pm (Sat), Closed Sun

The Passionate Coffee People
Single O, formerly known Single Origin Roasters.

The epitome of good coffee is passion. Said to serve the best coffee on Surry Hills, thus the long queues for takeaways, especially during morning rush hours.

Seats are limited. I sat on benches outside the café, literally a hole in the wall.

Many cafes in Australia serve banana loaf, but Single Origin Roasters’s Banana Bread With Espresso Butter (AUD5.50) had my friends buying those every single day we were there.

Did I say every single day? Single Origin Roasters (Surry Hills, Sydney)

Brewtown Newton
Address: 6-8 O’Connell St, Newtown NSW 2042, Australia
Tel: +61 02 9519 2920
Opening Hours: 8:00am – 4:00pm (Mon – Sun)
info@brewtownnewtown.com
http://www.brewtownnewtown.com

Google Maps – Brewtown Newton

Cafe In A Warehouse In Sydney, Known For Sparkling Coffee, Cruffin and Brewnut
Brewtown Newtown calls itself a “cafe, coffee roastery, and artisan bakery”.

Pioneered by two men with serious solid café credentials, Charles Cameron previously managed Single Origin Roasters and Toby’s Estate Woolloomooloo, while Simon Triggs was manager for Toby’s Estate and owns Gnome Espresso at Surry Hills.

Coffee is roasted in-house, so that the team can take more ownership and develop into a coffee wholesaler.

Other than excellent coffee, Newtown’s food is one of the reasons you should love this place.

It boasts of rich diversity in its foods that come from an area with such a melting pot of rich cultures — Asian, European, Australian. Plus the usage of fresh, local ingredient in bistro-style dishes.

Popular foods range from simple (to mind-boggling) Scrambled Eggs on Toast (AUD12) Coffee Rub Brisket, Mushrooms & Caramelised Onion on Toast with Poached Eggs (AUD18), Slow Roast Lamb Shoulder (AUD25), Soft Shell Crab Burger with Squid Ink Bun (AUD8), to Hazelnut & Callebaut Chocolate Brioche French Toast with Orange Ricotta & Fruits (AUD16). Brewtown Newtown (Newtown, Sydney)

Paramount Coffee Project
80 Commonwealth St, Surry Hills Sydney 2010
Tel: +61 02 9211 1122
Opening Hours: 7:00am – 4:00pm (Mon – Fri), 7:30am – 4:00pm (Sat), 8:00am – 4:00pm (Sun)
https://www.facebook.com/theparamountcoffeeproject
Google Maps

Industrial-Chic Cafe On Surry Hills Sydney, With Awesome Crumbed Eggs
The Paramount Coffee Project got its name as it is built into the hallway of Paramount House, a gorgeous-industrial space showcasing different styles of quality coffee.

The food matches the brilliance of the place and coffee.

You can expect the likes Pearl Barley Porridge with rhubarb, pistachio, apple and mandarin (AUD15.50); Avo on Toast (but of course) with fermented salad, vegemite sesame and cashew butter (AUD13); and Soft Baked Eggs with Habanero Salsa (AUD17.50).

For the junk lovers, there is a Buttermilk Fried Chicken Waffle (AUD21) and French Philly Cheese Sub with Southern brisket and sauerkraut (AUD18).

The Crumbed Eggs sitting on savoury mustard braised hock along with kale on toast, is a must-order. Paramount Coffee Project (Surry Hills, Sydney)

Edition Coffee Roasters
265 Liverpool Street, Darlinghurst NSW 2010
Opening Hours: 7:00am – 3:30pm (Mon – Thu), 7:00am-3:30pm, 6:00pm-10:00pm (Friday), 8:00am-3:30pm, 6:00pm-10:00pm (Sat), 8:00am-3:30pm (Sun)
info@editioncoffeeroasters.com
http://www.editioncoffeeroasters.com

Google Maps – Edition Coffee Roasters

Noma’s René Redzepi Is A Fan
Noma’s René Redzepi is also a fan of their coffee, and regularly visited them when he was having a pop-up in Sydney. Perhaps some of his inspirations have also rubbed off to the founders of Edition.

This café at Darlinghurst is a Scandinavian and Japanese inspired place, founded by brothers Daniel Jackson and Corie Sutherland.

They not only produced amazing meals, but are also known for their excellent coffee with beans roasted themselves.

The fusion of Scandinavian and Japanese style cuisine is unusual. Some of the dishes they create are quite unusual which creates buzz amongst other foodies. Edition Coffee Roasters (Darlinghurst, Sydney)

The focus is on using the freshest ingredients, keeping a small and easy to read menu and providing Sydney siders with something exciting, new and different from the traditional breakfast you might find at local cafes (e.g. eggs or avo on toast).

Cre Asion
101/21 Alberta Street, Sydney, Australia 2000 (near Surry Hills)
Tel: 02 8021 1629
Opening Hours: 8:00am – 4:00pm (Mon – Fri), 9:00am – 4:00pm (Sat)
Google Maps – Cre Asion

So Much Matcha Love In This Green Tea Café
I have never quite expected to find a ‘legit’ Japanese matcha café at this part of the world. At least not with a name called “Cre Asion”, located at a hidden alley off Alberta Street in Sydney.

Cre Asion has quickly entered my heart as one of my favourites down under, because it serves two of my desired food in a single place – matcha latte and scrambled eggs. And do them well.

It is no wonder the quality of the bakes are respectable. Owner-Chef Yu Sasaki comes from a fine dining background, having worked at Marque, Universal and French Laundry.

Offerings at Cre Asion include Sandwiches (AUD10 -12) such as Double Smoked Ham, Spinach, Gruyere and Dijon Mustard; House Made Granala (AUD8.50), and Crushed Avocado and Preserved Lemon (AUD8).

The Scrambled Eggs with Toast (AUD10) was just on a class of its own. Truly just eggs and bread. But how they could make something so look so seemingly simple taste so fluffy, gooey, layered, flavourful and smooth at the same time, beats me. Cre Asion (Alberta Street, Sydney)


(Click PLAY for video highlights of Grounds of the City.)

The Grounds of the City
500 George St, Sydney, 2000
Tel: +61 2 9699 2235
Opening Hours: 7:00am – 6:00pm (Mon – Sun)

The Go-To Cafe-Restaurant In Sydney’s CBD
The team behind the insanely popular The Grounds Of Alexandria hits another home-run with The Grounds of the City at 500 George Street.

Furnished with 1920s charm like within the Orient Express, open-plan kitchen, The Barista’s Bar… from the conception of the design to the finish, many of the furniture you see around have been custom-made.

It LOOKS expensive, and IS expensive.

A tea lady will roam the room with her trolley, with selection of ethically sourced teas (50 Sips of Grey, Moroccan Gunpowder, Lemongrass & Ginger, Nasheman Chair) and cakes baked fresh daily in The Grounds Bakery & Patisserie.

From the breakfast menu, some items you could eye on include the Freshly Baked Croissant with king crab salad, soft herbs and lemon (AUD22), Brekkie Roll of bacon, pork sausage, fried egg, avocado and tomato salsa in a brioche bun with spicy green sauce (AUD17) and Wild Mushroom Feuilleté with sheep’s curd, spinach, peas, poached eggs and hazelnuts (AUD23). The Grounds Of The City (George Street, Sydney)

Bread and Circus Wholefoods Canteen
21 Fountain St, Alexandria NSW 2015, Australia
Tel: +61 0418 214 425
Opening Hours: 7:00am – 3:00pm (Mon – Fri), 7:00am – 4:00pm (Sat – Sun)
brian@breadandcircus.com.au
www.breadandcircus.com.au

Google Maps – Bread and Circus Wholefoods Canteen

Bustling Cafe With Daily Changing Menu Of Organic Food
This is a canteen located within the industrial area of Alexandria. Breakfast, lunch and drinks, with a focus on sustainability and biodynamics. I thought of introducing something different from the rest, for those looking for organic or vegan food.

The meals are all elegantly presented, and look very fresh and clean. Lots of fresh fruits, veggies and superfoods such as quinoa.

It has a communal vibe, with six long wooden tables for visitors to sit at. You can strike up a conversation with other people that also enjoy healthy lifestyles. The menu is also designed to be shared, e.g. the salads can be mixed and matched and are served on a big plate.

Basically it is very high quality food and environmentally friendly. The ingredients are organic, eggs are free range/biodynamic, packaging is biodegradable, and it caters to vegetarians and vegans.

Other Related Entries
Artificer (Surry Hills, Sydney)
Devon Café (Surry Hills, Sydney)
Neighbourhood by Seán McManus (Surry Hills, Sydney)
Brewtown Newtown (Newtown, Sydney)
The Grounds Of The City (George Street, Sydney)

Click HERE for other SYDNEY Food Entries

* Follow @DanielFoodDiary on Facebook, Instagram and Youtube for more food news, food videos and travel highlights. Daniel’s Food Diary paid for food reviewed unless otherwise stated.

The post 10 Must-Try Sydney Cafes – For Drool-Worthy Brunch, Instagrammable Cakes, And A Good Cup Of Coffee appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

Monster Curry – Premium Roast Beef Japanese Curry Rice At $13.80, Plus 50% OFF Weekday Lunch Sets

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Japanese Curry Rice on a whopping 34cm diameter plate, piled with ingredients of Pork Katsu, Fried Fish, Pork Shabu-Shabu, Tempura Shrimp AND Cheese.

They did not call this restaurant “Monster Curry” for nothing.


(Click PLAY for highlights of Monster Curry.)

Monster Curry is a Japanese chain of restaurants that specializes in monster-sized curries at value-for-money pricing. Its signature Pork Katsu Curry for example, is priced at $13 for that size.

Be ready with your appetite when you visit any of its 12 outlets all over Singapore, with its next one opening at Velocity @ Novena on the 21st of July.

Known as the only Japanese restaurant in Singapore that serves a “demi-glace” curry sauce, the Monster Curry trademark slow-cooked sauce is rich, flavourful, and deep brown, and often paired with golden-fried pork, chicken or seafood.

Complementing this curry sauce is their hot sauce, an in-house concoction of chili padi, garlic, ginger, and celery.

You can set your preferred level of spiciness in all dishes at Monster Curry: normal, extra, very, super and monster hot! (insert fire emoji here)

Founder Raymond Ng keeps the brand fresh (and exciting!) by setting new trends for diners to enjoy Japanese cuisine.

Aside from their signature curries, Monster Curry’s constantly introduces new items in the menu such as pasta, salads, honey toasts, a wide selection of coffee art & frappes and other beverages.

Here are some of the recommendations from Monster Curry:

Roast Beef Curry Rice Set ($13.80, U.P. $22.80), *Inclusive of Iced Lemon Tea
The Great Singapore Sale special, with the Premium Roast Beef Curry Rice Set with Iced Lemon Tea at $13.80++ only.

What you get includes slices of tender roast beef on a bed of fluffy egg and rice, poured with the signature curry sauce on the side.

Now, what makes that curry special?

It is the time and skills that went into preparing it. First it has got 14 different spices and vegetables.

It is cooked close to boiling point for 6 hours at each time on an open fire for a total of 48 hours. This brings out a deep umami flavour.

Then, the sauce rests for another 24 hours. This allows acids to evaporate, resulting in a sauce that is smooth, balanced, and full-bodied.

There is saltiness and bitterness in the finished sauce, which harmoniously blends with the rice, egg and meats.

The Roast Beef Curry Rice Set promotion is only available till 31st July 2018, at all outlets except Monster Curry Junior at 313@somerset.

Monster Combo Curry Rice ($25)
You can also enjoy this meticulously-prepared curry sauce in any of their Curry Combos – talked-about for the humongous plates (of up to 34cm in diameter!) carrying a generous range of ingredients.

Recommended is the Monster Combo Curry ($25.00), large enough for 2 or perhaps even 3 diners. Or 1 very hungry person.

Half of your plate is slathered with THE curry sauce, and you get generous portions of pork katsu, fried fish, pork shabu-shabu, tempura, and cheese.

The cheese is further torched so that it melts over the slab of golden deep-fried pork.

Of all the components within, I enjoyed the fried fish most for its crispy light batter and juicy flesh within.

The Best of Both Worlds ($14)
The Best of Both Worlds ($14.00) combines Jumbo Ebi Prawns and Pork Sausages on a bed of fluffy omelet, topped with Curry and Tomato Sauce, finished off with a sprinkling of grated mozzarella.

The Tomato Sauce added the element of sweet tanginess into the mix, which made it quite refreshing.

Pork Shabu-Shabu Curry ($14)
If you prefer something lighter and not-deep-fried, recommended is the Pork Shabu-Shabu Curry which is topped with thinly sliced pork belly (usually meant for shabu shabu or sukiyaki) on runny omelette and rice.

Pork Katsu Curry Ramen ($16.80) Available at Suntec City, Jurong Point, Parkway Parade, Downtown Gallery, Bugis Junction and Tampines One outlets
The ramen comes loaded with egg, bamboo shoots, sweet corn, and fungus. The pork katsu is placed in a separate plate such that it stays crisp and will not turn soggy due to the curry.

Perfect for colder days and evenings.

Seafood Fantasy Pasta ($10.80)
I would not have expected pasta dishes in a Japanese curry shop, but now you know.

Available offerings include Pasta Feast ($10.80) cooked Aglio Olio style; Tomato Indulgence ($8.80) with chicken, mushroom, and broccoli cooked in tomato sauce; Japanese Carbonara ($8.80), Gastro Squid Ink Pasta ($10.80) and Prawny Shrooms ($10.80).

The recommended Seafood Fantasy ($10.80) was similar to a Marinara pasta, a value-for-money plate with addition of fresh seafood such as prawns, scallops and crabstick cooked in a tomato cream sauce with al dente spaghetti.

Mixed Berry Honey Toast ($10.80) Available at all Monster Curry outlets (except ION Orchard) from 2pm – 6pm
Shibuya-style Honey Toast in flavours of mixed Berries, Tangy Mango, Caramel with Marshmallows, and Chocolate Banana, topped with a scoop of Häagen-Dazs ice cream.

This Japanese dessert treat consists of cubes of buttery crisp French Toast bread, sweet fruits (blueberry and strawberries in this case), whipped cream, strawberry sauce beneath the premium ice cream.

Sweet dreams are made of this.

The branch at OUE Downtown Gallery on Shenton Way is one of its newest, housed on Level 1 between Venue by Sebastian and Express by Chatterbox.

It sports a signage “Monster Curry & Café” above a row of wine bottles, quite different from the other Monster Curry stores with its screaming red-and-yellow logo with a fire-breathing 7-headed monster.

The design is Japanese minimalist with wood and brick elements. The interiors have relaxing hues of natural wood, green, and cream.

You have different seating configuration, from bar stools, booth seats, to long couches.

It also has an exclusive Tapas Specialty menu, available daily after 5pm.

You can find more than 20 kinds of small plates like Soft Shell Crabs, Truffle Fries, Fried Camembert Cheese, Iberico Pork Rib, Pan Fried Gyoza, Grilled Salmon Belly, and Sausage Platter.

Much more than what you expect.

50% OFF Monster Curry Weekday Lunch Time Promotion (Available all outlets except OUE Downtown Gallery)
Get the Chicken Katsu Curry, Pork Katsu Curry, Jumbo Premium Ebi Salad, Big Fish Curry Sets at 50% OFF ($13.80++, U.P. $27.40).

The unbeatable deal includes Soup of the Day, Drink and Single Scoop of Häagen-Dazs Vanilla Ice Cream.

Valid from Monday to Friday, 11:00am to 5:30pm for dine-in only.

Monster Curry (OUE Downtown Gallery)
Downtown Gallery #01-03, 6A Shenton Way, Singapore 068815
Tel: +65 6221 3933
Opening Hours: 11am – 10pm Daily (except for Lunar New Year)
info@monstercurry.com.sg
www.monstercurry.com.sg
www.facebook.com/Monster Curry

Other Monster Curry outlets:
ION Orchard: 2 Orchard Turn #B4-52, Singapore 238801
Tel: +65 6509 4555

NEX Serangoon: 23 Serangoon Central #B1-08, Singapore 556083
Tel: +65 6634 2168

VivoCity: 1 Harbourfront Walk, #02-126/127/129, Singapore 098585
Tel: +65 6221 3308

Jurong Point 2: 63 Jurong West Central 3, Jurong Point 2 #03-57, Singapore 648331
Tel: +65 6316 6319

Parkway Parade: 80 Marine Parade Road #01-11, Singapore 449269
Tel: +65 6348 6171

Tampines 1: 10 Tampines Central 1, #02-09/10, Singapore 529526
Tel: +65 6509 9968

Suntec City: 3 Temasek Boulevard #02-377/378, Singapore 038983
Tel: +65 6358 2377

JEM: 50 Jurong Gateway Road, #02-06, Singapore 608549
Tel: +65 6734 2123

Bugis Junction: 200 Victoria Street #B1-04, Singapore 188021
Tel: +65 6266 1708

Northpoint City: 1 Northpoint Drive #B1-102, Singapore 768019
Tel: +65 6778 1102

Velocity@Novena Square 238 Thomson Road, #02-78/79, Singapore 307683
(opening 21st July 18 Saturday)

* This entry is brought to you in partnership with Monster Curry.

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EN Sakaba – All-You-Can-Eat Miyazaki Wagyu & Premium Queen Crab Japanese Hotpot Buffet, At Capital Tower & JEM

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How does all-you-can-eat Japanese hotpot with unlimited servings of Miyazaki Wagyu Beef, Premium Queen Crab, and Iberico Kurobota Pork sound?

EN Sakaba is a modern Izakaya offering authentic Japanese fare for lunch and dinner, and has introduced a delectable Japanese Hotpot Buffet for a limited period only.


(Click PLAY for video highlights of EN Sakaba’s Miyazaki Wagyu & Premium Queen Crab Japanese Hotpot Buffet.)

Operating 4 outlets in Singapore, its flagship store is located in the 52-storey Capital Tower in the Shenton Way-Tanjong Pagar financial district. The other 3 branches are at JEM, Clarke Quay, and Orchard Central.

This brand is anchored on 4 pillars: Izakaya. Sake. Wine. Bistro. Its concept falls somewhere between a tachinomiya (standing bar) and izakaya (bar with seats). “Sakaba” is Japanese for “bar”.

Founder & Managing Director Raymond Ng reveals and takes pride in their ingredients, which come from the finest sources direct from Japan.

All meats used in the restaurant undergo limited handling and processing during delivery so they remain fresh.

Tired of the usual and yearning for an unforgettable culinary experience? Well, you’re in for a treat.

EN Sakaba is one of the few restaurants carrying the award-winning Grade A5 Champion Miyazaki Wagyu.

For a limited time, the Japan No. 1 Miyazaki Wagyu & Premium Queen Crab Hotpot 90 Minutes Buffet is available for only $78++ (usual price $108++ per pax).

Now, that’s a steal.

A lighter version of this, without the buffet is also offered. You can have the Miyazaki Wagyu & Premium Queen Crab Hotpot Set at $58++ per pax (U.P. $88++/pax).

But now let’s zoom in at what you’re getting at Japan No. 1 Miyazaki Wagyu and Premium Queen Crab Hotpot Buffet 10 Food Items To Expect At En Sakaba’s “Japan No.1 Miyazaki Wagyu & Premium Queen Crab Hotpot Buffet:

1. Miyazaki Wagyu Beef
To earn the name “Miyazakigyu”, the wagyu beef must at least meet Grade A4.

EN Sakaba goes beyond and offers you A5 Wagyu Beef from Miyazakigyu in Japan, directly from ranch to plate.

This hand-selected beef passed 5 requirements in all key grading categories. It is the crème de la crème, winning 1st place in the 9th and 10th Japanese Competitive Exhibition of Wagyu.

(Fun fact: The Miyazaki Wagyu has once beat the beef from Kobe and Matsuzaka to become the overall winner – winning seven out of the nine contests – at Japan’s National Wagyu Award. Miyazaki Wagyu has been called “Japan’s Number One Beef” ever since.)

Just check out that beautiful cherry red colour and marbling.

Its melt-in-your-mouth texture and great dense meat taste was absolutely satisfying, so that it didn’t need any of the additional ponzu and goma sauces given.

Just a note: be careful not to overcook the beef as it just needed light swishing in the hot broth.

At first we thought that there could be just too much food, but my petite-sized female friend actually finished 3 quarters of the wagyu slices ON HER OWN.

2. Premium Queen Crab
Another highlight of this hotpot buffet is the free flow premium Queen Crab. This was my absolute favourite.

The Queen Crab claws which just needed light-boiling, had fleshy so sweet, succulent and juicy.

What was also great was that the legs were cut into sections at the joint, so that the flesh could easily be pulled out.

When cooked with the dashi bonito broth, the crab imparted delicate yet intense (I know, oxymoron?) flavours to the slurp-worthy soup.

3. Iberico Kurobuta Pork
Kurobuta (“black hog” in Japanese) comes from the Black Berkshire pig, and is renowned as the highest quality pork in the world.

This pork, often called the “Kobe beef of pork”, looks and tastes like no other. Its rich marbling, melt-in-your-mouth tenderness and nutty flavour was also divine.

Also available in unlimited servings so dig in.

4. Shabu-Shabu Assorted Vegetables
Add colour, flavour and vitamins to your stock with assorted mushrooms (shiitake, enoki, button), carrots, and bokchoy. You can add as much as you like.

5. 3 Kinds of Appetizers
You start off the buffet with a one serving of 3 Kind of Appetizers.

What you get differs as they are seasonal in varied textures and flavours but all fresh. Starting with these will ease you into the heavier courses. It could be anything from tamago, jelly fish to cucumber with plum sauce or edamame. You get the picture.

6. Aburi Miyazaki Wagyu Sushi
A portion of that marbled Miyazaki Wagyu on sushi, torched aburi-style for that extra rich and smoky flavour.

7. Sashimi Platter
The 3 Kinds Sashimi Platter (you likewise get one serving of this) features seasonal fish and seafood.

Titillate your taste buds with thick-cut salmon, tuna & prawn sashimi, charmingly presented on a bed of ice to please your eyes.

DFD Special: Quote ”DanielFoodDiary and get 5 types of sashimi instead of the usual 3.

8. Prawn & Vegetable Tempura
Just when you thought that is all… A Japanese buffet is never quite complete without some crunchy tempura.

The buffet comes with a serving (1 plate, not unlimited) of prawns and assorted vegetables (eggplant, sweet potato, pumpkin) coated with a light batter mix and deep-fried until golden.

Served with a bowl of Tentsuyu dipping sauce.

9. Japanese Porridge or Udon
The ‘beauty’ at the end of the meal is when you use the remaining hotpot stock to cook some Japanese porridge or udon.

That is when you immerse the pearl rice grains (or udon) with egg into the rich flavourful essence of the after-broth to conclude your meal.

But wait, there is one more…

10. Häagen-Dazs Ice Cream
End your feasting on a sweet note with you are a serving of Häagen-Dazs Ice Cream. Pick from Green Tea, Goma Black Sesame, Yuzu or Vanilla.

The Japan No. 1 Miyazaki Wagyu & Premium Queen Crab Hotpot Buffet is available for a limited period only, and exclusive at Capital Tower #01-10 and JEM #01-04 outlets.

Reservations at: http://www.ensakaba.com.sg/reservations

Terms and Conditions:
– For Capital Tower: Mondays to Fridays after 5pm and whole day on Saturdays.
– For Jem: Whole day from Monday to Sunday.
– Valid with minimum order for 2 pax. Please make a reservation for group party.
– Prices are subject to prevailing GST and service charge.
– Management reserves the right to amend terms and conditions without prior notice.
– Valid for dine-in and duration is maximum of 90 minutes only.

Besides the premium buffet, EN Sakaba’s menu boasts of a range of delectable a la carte dishes such as Salmon Ikura Don ($19.80), Negitoro Don ($22.00), Hotate, Uni, Ikura and Caviar Don ($33.00) and Tai Truffle Chirashi Don ($27.50).

The recommended is the En Kaisen Chirashi Don ($33.00) which contains whooping 15 kinds of sashimi such as zuwai kani, uni, caviar, negitor, ikura, aka ebi, hotate, unagi, maguro, aburi salmon and more on En’s signature pink sushi rice.

Known for its drink menu featuring 30+ types of Japanese sakes in various grade, you can appreciate the range of high-quality sakes that pairs very well with food. Sake brings out the “umami” of Japanese cuisine. As the Japanese proverb goes: “Nihonshu wa ryori wo erabanai”, which means “sake doesn’t get into fights with food”.

EN Sakaba is recommended as an after-work tippling spot, especially with its enticing Japanese tapas best such as Miyazaki Wagyu Avocado Tartar, Maguro Tataki, Iberico Pork Senbei, and Ikasumi Chanwanmushi – a special black squid ink steamed egg.

Oysters are also their latest addition to the menu, selling at $18/half a dozen (U.P. $3.50/pc).

Paired with your favourite beer or sake.

EN Sakaba @ Capital Tower
Capital Tower, 168 Robinson Road, #01-10 Singapore 068912
Tel: +65 6423 0110
Opening Hours: 11am – 11pm (Mon – Sat), Closed Sun
https://www.ensakaba.com.sg
www.facebook.com/ensakaba

EN Sakaba @ JEM
50 Jurong Gateway Road #01-04 JEM, Singapore 608549
Tel: +65 6262 0238
Opening Hours: 12pm – 11pm (Mon – Sun)

EN Sakaba @ Clarke Quay
3D River Valley Rd #01-14, Singapore 179023
Tel: +65 6264 8698
Opening Hours: 6pm – 2am (Sun – Thu), 6pm – 3am (Fri – Sat)

EN Sakaba @ Orchard Central
181 Orchard Road #01-16 Orchard Central, Singapore 238896
Tel: +65 6634 1018
Opening Hours: 12pm – 11pm (Mon – Sun)

* This entry is brought to you in partnership with EN Sakaba.

The post EN Sakaba – All-You-Can-Eat Miyazaki Wagyu & Premium Queen Crab Japanese Hotpot Buffet, At Capital Tower & JEM appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

GrillFest – 1KM Food Street By The Beach At Sentosa In July. 10 Mouth-Watering Food Stalls You Can Look Forward To

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Sentosa is at it again. The 2nd annual Sentosa GrillFest will be returning to Siloso Beach, every Friday to Sunday weekends from July 13th – 29th.

Consider this Singapore’s only food street by the beach.

Expect hundreds of food items offered by more than 20 different food vendors from established restaurants and cafes, and second-generation hawkers whipping up creative bites.

Other than a huge BBQ spread on sizzling meats and seafood, snack on luxe version of local classics like Lobster Hokkien Mee, Salted Egg Chicken with Mini Belgian Waffle and Laksa Mentai Soft Shell Crab Bowl.


(Event Photos from GrillFest 2017)

1. Experience 1km Worth of Food And Fun
For a brief time in July, Siloso Beach will turn into a 1km long stretch of food and fun.

Enjoy the sea breeze, crashing waves, and live entertainment as you stroll along the wide array of vendors.

With all the delicious smells wafting in the air, you would want to try a little bit of everything.

2. More Than 20 Dining Vendors To Choose From
There are over 20 dining vendors to choose from, including PAUL Singapore, Fat Belly, Sumo Grill Bar, Kinsa Sushi, Event Kakis, Hokey Poki, We Ke Shu, Gelatissimo, Ola Beach Club, FOC Sentosa, Angliss Singapore, Co+nut+ink, Thonglor Thai Cuisine, Wave House Sentosa, Craft ‘B, and more.

So whether you enjoy traditional Singaporean cuisine, classic Japanese-style sushi, thick slabs of barbecue, or something completely foreign and delicious – GrillFest is the place to try it all.

(Find out more below.)

3. Creative offerings from 2nd generation hawkers and young hawkerpreneurs
2nd generation hawkers and young hawkerpreneurs are upping their game in the local food offerings.

This new wave of hawkers is showing off their contemporary twists at GrillFest on traditional and international cuisines – from good ol’ Hainanese Satay, Otah Fries to Laksa Mentai Soft Shell Crab Taco.

4. ITE Showcase
This year, students from ITE College West’s School of Hospitality have paired up with GrillFest to showcase their culinary skills.

They will be cooking up a storm under the Emerald Pavilion right on the water’s edge. Sample the LAAA Pork, Steamy Salmon, Bun Cheek, and other barbecued favorites.

However, they will only be there from July 13-15, so catch the show while you can.

5. Entertainment by Local Acts
Not only will you be treated to over hundreds of food options, but the folks over at GrillFest have also arranged loads of free entertainment for you during your visit.

As the waves crash in the distance, enjoy the ambient sounds of live music from the local acts: The JumpStart, Pam Khi, The One Boy Band, and AnchorBlanc.

Roaming entertainers, like stilt-walkers and percussionists, might even serenade you under the delicate fairy lights decorating the walkways at night.

6. First Sentosa GrillFest Gourmet Discovery at Sapphire Pavilion
While exploring all the vendors at GrillFest, do not forget to stop by the Gourmet Discovery Market at Sapphire Pavilion.

This is done in collaboration with ANGLISS.

Make your selection, simply hand the raw ingredients over to the chef and watch your creation come together as a one-of-a-kind meal.

Hungry already? Here are 10 mouth-watering food stalls you can look forward to at GrillFest:

Craft’ B – Tom Yum Prawn Burger
Craft’ B serves up handcrafted burgers, including the bun and patty. Their sauces come in a variety of flavours such as tartar, bibimbap, tomyum, garlic, truffle parmesan and their signature Craft’ sauce.

Other than the Tom Yum Prawn Burger ($13), you can look forward to the Craft’ Fish burger ($10), and Bibimbap Chicken Burger ($12).

The Craft’ Beef Burger ($14) includes juicy beef patty stuffed with mozzarella, topped with smoked cheddar, caramelized onions, signature Craft’ Sauce, tomato and lettuce, served on a pretzel bun.

All burgers come with fries.

Kinsa Sushi – Wagyu Beef Bowl
Signature rice bowl served with A4 Wagyu from Japan, seared to medium and topped with an onsen egg.

Hokey Poki – Sushi Tacos
Street food is recreated with carnival bites, with this interesting Sushi Taco combi. when Sushi meets Taco. Hokey Poki has also included some local flavours such as laksa and sambal.

Wave House Sentosa – Salted Egg Chicken with Mini Belgium Waffle
Other than charcoal grill chicken with salted egg sauce on top of mini freshly baked Belgian waffle ($8), you can also get your hands on the Yakiniku Beef Rice ($10) – BBQ grilled beef strip, sautéed onion, crispy cracker, onsen egg, pickles, sesame and seaweed.

One Faber Group – Lobster Hokkien Mee
Tuck into the Lobster Hokkien Mee ($16) which has been simmered in rich and sweet prawn broth, and packs a punch.

The noodles are then stir-fried with seafood and eggs to achieve that desired smoky fragrance, and finished off with succulent baby lobster.

Don’t miss the other Halal and local favourites such as Traditional Naan Platter with Dhal ($10), Seafood Char Kway Teow ($14), and Chicken Satay with Condiments ($12 for 10 pieces).

Ola Beach Club – Hawaiian Pork Sandwich
Old Beach Club known for its sunny Hawaiian bites and citrusy cocktail, will be offering a range of items from Truffle Ahi Poke ($12), Japanese Hyogo Oysters ($30/half dozen), Grilled Home-made Chicken Sausages ($12), Grilled Iberico Pork Belly with Truffle Mash ($20), Tempura Soft-shell Garlic Prawns ($12), Grilled Hokkaido Octopus ($20), to Hawaiian Corn ($6/pc).

The Hawaiian Pork Sandwich ($12) should be a crowd-pleaser – a pulled pork sandwich, served on fluffy brioche buns, purple cabbage and secret BBQ sweet sauce. Comes with a side of golden fries.

Gelatissimo – Gelato, Milkshakes and Gelato Sandwich
Gelatissimo’s gelato contains less fat than ice-cream as it uses whole milk instead of cream. Made using secret traditional Calabrian family recipes, their artisan gelato makers churn freshly made gelato, created with natural & fresh ingredients daily.

You can get Gelato in cups and cones (from $7.50), or some of their special offerings of Sundae with assorted toppings, and whipped cream ($11.90), Gelato Milkshake ($8.90) and Gelato Sandwich ($7.90).

Co+Nut+ink
Co+Nut+ink offers refreshing coconut ice cream with a variety of toppings, from peanut shavings to sticky rice and red ruby, served in a coconut husk.

The recipe is said to be bought from a famous ice-cream vendor at Chatuchak Weekend Market in Bangkok.

All their ice cream comes with free coconut water.

Fat Belly – Mayura Signature Wagyu Tri-tip
For the beef lovers, get your hands on Fat Belly’s Stockyard 150 day Grain Fed Flat Iron Steak ($12), Mayura Signature Wagyu Marble Score 9+ Tri tip Steak ($18), Tajima Wagyu Marble Score 7-8 Rib Fingers ($12), Stockyard Wagyu Marble Score 4-5 Rib Eye Rice Bowl ($12), along with Red Wine Sangria ($15).

The recommended is the Mayura Signature Wagyu Tri-tip done medium rare, an alternative cut which was built for the barbecue – tender, has excellent marbling and a full bodied beefy flavour.

FOC Sentosa – Butifarra Sandwich with Apple and Romesco Sauce
Inspired by Barcelona’s vibrant beach culture, FOC Sentosa is known to deliver taste of the Mediterranean spirit to the beach destination – located at the east end of tranquil Palawan Beach,

They will be serving up several Spanish style tapas, including Octopus and Pork Belly Skewer ($10), Churros with Chocolate Sauce ($8), and FOC Patata Bravas ($5).

The Butifarra Sandwich and with Apple and Romesco Sauce ($8) is a traditional Catalan Sausage Sandwich with sweet-zesty apple and Romesco sauce.

GrillFest Event Details
Date: 13-15, 20-22 & 27-29 July 2018, Every Friday to Sunday
Time: 6pm – 11pm
Venue: Siloso Beach
Admission: Free*
*Island admission and car park charges apply

How to get to Sentosa GrillFest
– From VivoCity, take the Sentosa Express train to Beach Station.
– Hop on board SBS Transit’s Bus 123 and alight at Beach Station. Only the usual distance-based bus fare applies; no separate island admission fee will be charged.
– Enjoy a scenic stroll and enter Sentosa for free via the Sentosa Boardwalk. Once on the island, enjoy free rides on the Sentosa Express to Beach Station.
– Drive in or take a taxi to Beach Station.

Other Dining Options and Feasting Deals* at Sentosa
While you are at GrillFest, enjoy exclusive dining deals from the surrounding restaurants and bars around Sentosa, where hillside, beachside and quayside dining experiences await.

Trapizza, the casual Italian eatery located on Siloso Beach, has been newly-revamped with a bigger dining space for diners. In addition to its signature wood-fired, thin-crust pizzas, the enhanced menu features authentic and hearty Italian fare, desserts, as well as creative reinterpretations of classic cocktails.

Shutters at Amara Sanctuary Resort Sentosa located on the hillside of Sentosa, an all day restaurant offers modern intercontinental cuisines, with options to dine indoors or al fresco on the large outdoor terrace.

Get complimentary wine pairing at Tanjong Beach Club when you book An Intimate Dinner Under The Stars, with a minimum of 2 pax. (U.P. $34++ per person).

Stop by AJ’s Bar & Beach Dining for steak, saffron mashed potatoes, sous vide truffle eggs, and a signature rum and Blue Curacao cocktail for under $40 dollars.

At Good Old Days, enjoy the Char Kway Teow simmered in a sweet and salty pawn broth with sambal chili.

Enjoy 15% off total bill with Mastercard® when you dine at Silver Shell Café within Shangri-La’s Rasa Sentosa Resort & Spa.

Durian Pop-Up Stall 2018: Malaysian Food Street, Waterfront
06/07 – 08/08, 10am – 9pm

Whet your appetite at Durian Pop-Up Stall 2018: Malaysian Food Street, Waterfront with selection that includes the legendary Mao Shan Wang, the flavourful Golden Pheonix and delicately-flavoured Black Pearl. All durians are sold at seasonal prices.

Available from 06/07 – 08/08, 10am – 9pm.

Terms and conditions apply. More deals and information at: https://www.sentosa.com.sg/feast-deals

Sentosa GrillFest Feast at Sentosa Staycation Draw by Mastercard®
Stand a chance to win a Staycation bundle (worth over $350) with every $50 charged to your Mastercard in a single receipt, when you dine in Sentosa.

30 sets of Staycation Draw Prizes to be won! Each set includes:
• 2D1N stay with breakfast at ONE°15 Marina Sentosa Cove (Hill View Room) worth $258++
• 2x Adult Sentosa Day Fun Pass – PLAY 3, worth $96 per pair

To participate, submit original receipts (from any Sentosa F&B merchants/outlets/restaurants, including Resorts World Sentosa and Sentosa Cove) with Feast @ Sentosa Staycation Draw Slip into any of the Staycation Draw Boxes at Sentosa Station, Waterfront Station, Imbiah Station or Beach Station.

Double the chance of winning for Sentosa Islander members. Participation Period: 1 July – 12 August

Terms & Conditions apply. Find out more at: https://www.sentosa.com.sg/feast

*This entry is brought to you in partnership with Sentosa Development Corporation.

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Five Oars Coffee Roasters – Melbourne Inspired Cafe With Loads Of Brunch Items, At Tanjong Pagar

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Five Oars Coffee Roasters along Tanjong Pagar Road is said to be Melbourne-café inspired. Well, I guess that applies to the prices as well.

While there is no lack of NEW Cafés in Singapore, some are imported brands and many lack in that “instagrammable” component that will attract the hipster café hoppers to pay a visit.

Certainly Five Oars Coffee Roasters looks attractive from the onside, with effective use of greens and a square-shaped seating arranging to create an illusion of space.

Natural daylight, greens and industrial looked all checked. Expect loads of photo-taking.

However, while the interior was spacious and carried more or less that white and grey theme, it was a lot less furnished that my friend remarked, ”Looked like a canteen.” That might have sounded extreme, but you get the idea.

I suspect that many instagrammers would quickly take their food shots and #ootd outside for the light, and quickly hide inside to enjoy the aircon.

For the menu, there is an extensive list of brunch items, followed by a couple of pastas and rice bowls. The recommended items included Cured Ocean Trout ($22.50), Strawberry Avocado ($18.00), Mentaiko Mac & Cheese ($20.50); while its dinner menu offers Beef Wellington ($32.00) and Duck Gnocchi ($21.00).

However, the price is towards the expensive side. The cheapest brunch item on the menu, the Trio of Quinoa, was $16.50.

So if I am a CBD folk on a go and want a quick bite, say a sandwich or simple Avocado and Toast of reasonable price, that is currently missing.

Also, the brunch item seemed poached egg reliant, with that lack of variety – say scrambled, fried, scotch. Other than one item of Baked Eggs ($18.50) and Five Oars Breakfast ($24.00) which provides a choice of scrambled or sunny.

I ordered a Truffle Benedict ($20.00) which was luxuriously loaded with gammon ham, thick cut bacon baby spinach, broccolini and of course shaved truffle.

All in all, a decent, substantial brunch item with varied components for a more layered taste. However, for those looking to smell some of that truffle aroma might leave disappointed, but I was okay with that.

The Chicken Rosti ($16.50) sounded promising. I requested for scrambled eggs, and they were not bad – creamy and somewhat fluffy.

The potato rosti with sour cream and gruyere cheese made comforting fare, but the dry cured slow cooked chicken breast was disappointedly dry and didn’t gel well with the rest of the dish.

Cakes are sourced from one of my favourite cake cafes Nesuto.

The Rose Raspberry Opera ($8.00) though sounded good on paper and indeed had an enticing rose scent, was unfortunately too sweet and dry – perhaps due to the fridge used.

Five Oars Coffee Roasters certainly looks promising from its outlook, its coffee was great. Perhaps they can work on fine-tuning the menu and offering food that is more affordable for a more regular outing.

Five Oars Coffee Roasters
39 Tanjong Pagar Road Singapore 088462 (Tanjong Pagar MRT)
Opening Hours: 8am – 10pm (Mon – Sun)

Other Related Entries
Nesuto (Tras Street)
Merci Marcel (Club Street)
Katasumi Koohii 一隅珈琲 (Bukit Pasoh)
Clan Café (Bt Pasoh)
Columbus Coffee Co. (Upper Thomson)

* Follow @DanielFoodDiary on Facebook, Instagram and Youtube for more food news, food videos and travel highlights. Daniel’s Food Diary paid for food reviewed unless otherwise stated.

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Goldleaf Restaurant – Nostalgic Taiwanese À La Carte Porridge Buffet At $19.80++ Onwards, Found At Katong Square

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Taiwanese Porridge restaurant Goldleaf is celebrating its 47th anniversary with the launch of its first ever A La Carte Buffet, featuring 8 of its beloved classics with UNLIMITED servings.

Many also do not know that the restaurant known for its old-school, familial Taiwanese cuisine, is now situated at Katong.

Being the first Singapore restaurant to offer Taiwanese Porridge since 1971 (that is older than many of us), Goldleaf Restaurant had relocated several times, from Oxley Road at Orchard area in the 70s, to its current location at Katong Square – right next to i12 Katong.

During the early days in the Orchard area, Goldleaf Restaurant was the go-to places for many local and overseas celebrities such as Zoe Tay and Li Nanxing for their comfort food.

While most of us are familiar with Teochew Porridge, the main difference between a Teochew Porridge and Taiwanese Porridge is the addition of sweet potatoes and the classic accompanying dishes in the latter.

The Goldleaf signature dishes include Braised Pork Belly with Preserved Vegetables aka ”Mei Cai Kou Rou”, Steamed Pork Patty with Salted Fish, Omelette with Chye Poh, Sambal Kang Kung, and Cold Japanese Beancurd with Pork Floss – which are all regulars’ favourites.

All the items are cooked ala minute upon order, and thus you will be assured of freshness and piping hot dishes.

An advocate of healthy eating, Goldleaf does not use any added MSG in its dishes. Also, the sauces that accompanies the dishes are all made in-house, including the sambal sauce, original chilli sauce, Thai chilli sauce and XO sauce.

Other than free-flow Taiwanese porridge, the following 8 dishes come in unlimited servings. Here are what you can expect:

1. Kaohsiung Chili Chicken
Kaohsiung is one of the most under-rated food places in Taiwan, and Goldleaf is bringing this street-food inspired dish to diners.

The Kaohsiung Chili Chicken is one of the 2 new dishes introduced into the menu to celebrate its 47th anniversary, cooked by stir-frying with wok-hei before tossing into a blend of 8 different spices.

The dish is on the spicy side, considered ”shiok” and adding a level of fiery kick. Thankfully, complementing the plainer-tasting porridge rather well.

2. Goldleaf Double Beancurd Platter
Another one of the new items is a fusion dish with chilled Japanese Beancurd.

It may look similar, but there are loads of ingredients on that same plate – century egg imported directly from Taiwan, Singapore styled pork floss, Taiwanese style bonito flakes, and a touch of thickened soy sauce cooked from a guarded recipe.

Enjoy that comforting moment when chilled, smooth Japanese beancurd meets the piping hot Taiwanese porridge in your mouth.

3. Omelette with Chye Por
One of my favourites. Huge omelette deep-fried till golden, when cut apart would reveal that steamy quality and soft fluffiness.

There was also that enticing eggy aroma.

My grandma used to cook ”Chye Por Neng” with (egg with salted preserved radish) very often, and this gave a warm, comforting feeling of nostalgia.

The Chye Por used here is marinated in-house, adding a certain crunch to the combination.

4. Seafood Beancurd
A dish of Japanese beancurd with a combination of squid paste, abalone sauce and fresh prawns.

The star…the beancurd was first steamed before deep frying to provide that golden-brown crispy exterior, contrasting with soft, wobbly interior.

There were two components that enhanced the overall dish in terms of flavour – the distinctive seafood taste which came mainly from the squid paste, coupled with homemade chili sauce.

5. Steamed Pork Patty with Salted Fish
Tip: Make it a point to order this first, as the Steamed Pork Patty with Salted Fish is served in limited quantities daily.

That is because making the dish is labour-intensive, requiring a manual method of “throwing” the patties, without any use of tenderizer, resulting in meat pieces with that springy quality.

Topped with quality salted fish, the Pork Patty was a juicy, savoury favourite.

6. Meicai Kourou (Braised Pork Belly with Preserved Vegetables)
The sauce used for this dish uses a decade old recipe which includes a special blend of herbal ingredients imported directly from Taiwan

The “Mei Cai” (preserved vegetables) added is also stewed in-house.

My only main suggestion would be to use a thicker cut, for a better and more substantial bite.

7. Ah Ma’s Tri-Platter
If you have been a regular of Goldleaf during the good old days, you might have seen this dish long, long ago.

After 20 years, this platter is making a comeback.

It contains a trio of beancurd sticks, peanuts and fried minced pork.

Both the peanuts and beancurd sticks are soaked in a bean marinade for 5 to 6 hours for them to absorb the flavours, whereas the fried minced pork with olives adds a salty punch.

8. Tainan Olive Taiwanese Lettuce
Taiwanese lettuce, stirred fried with olives and topped with goji berries for a sweet sensation.

The Goldleaf Restaurant A La Carte Buffet is available for Lunch (Adult $19.80++/ Child $12.80++) from Monday to Friday; and Dinner (Adult $25.80++/ Child $18.80++) from Monday to Thursday.

For dinners who prefer to order Ala Carte, there are also other selections, including a number of new ones.

The items to look forward to include the popular Taiwanese street food of Oyster Vermicelli ($8.80), cooked in a special recipe for a velvety consistency.

There are also Deep-fried White Pomfret with Black Bean Sauce, Pork Ribs with Homemade Plum Sauce, Prawn Rolls, Fresh Cockles ($11.80) and Miaoli Black and White Muah Chee ($3.80), all best paired with Goldleaf’s hearty bowl of porridge.

47 years of legacy, memories of a few generations, couple of relocations and Goldleaf Restaurant manage to stand the test of time and adapt to the changing food trends.

Perhaps it is time to enjoy some good-old Taiwanese porridge with our parents and grandparents to relieve their past memories and get some family bonding.

Goldleaf Restaurant
Katong Square, 86 East Coast Road, #01-02, Singapore 428788
Opening Hours: Lunch 11am – 2.30pm, Dinner 6pm – 10pm (Mon-Sun)

A La Carte Buffet available Lunch (Mon – Fri); Dinner (Mon – Thurs)

* Written by Nicholas Tan @stormscape. This post is brought to you in partnership with Goldleaf Restaurant.

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Dim Sum Inc 翡翠点 by Crystal Jade – Roast Meats, Dim Sum And HK Noodles With Affordable Pricing, Found At Punggol Oasis Terraces

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Friends in Punggol can no longer complain that ”There is nothing to eat at Punggol” with the introduction of another dining enclave – Punggol Oasis Terraces.

If you are thinking HOW to get there, Punggol Oasis Terraces is located right opposite Oasis LRT station. It houses Punggol Polyclinic, childcare centres, retail facilities and several dining options, such as the NEW Dim Sum Inc 翡翠点.


(Click PLAY for video highlights of Dim Sum Inc 翡翠点 by Crystal Jade.)

The name Dim Sum Inc references ‘meeting point’ or ‘pit stop’, symbolising an ideal destination for a hearty meal, light bites or takeaway snacks anytime of the day.

The latest all-day dining quick service concept is introduced by none-other than the familiar, home-grown Crystal Jade.

You can view Dim Sum Inc as a quick-service Crystal Jade concept, with offerings of many of the signatures and favourites.

Dim Sum Inc is a more casual version of Crystal Jade restaurants which are often more upscale with full service. It is positioned and designed to provide quick and quality Cantonese dishes for dine-in and take-away.

The pace of Dim Sum Inc is more upbeat, but food-wise, you can trust the quality is the same.

The first outlet opened in Chinatown on Pagoda Street earlier this year, just a few steps from Chinatown MRT station.

The dining space, with a capacity of 56 pax, has touches of the brand’s turquoise-jade hue.

Interiors sport a contemporary look with light grey tiles and timber finishes. Sleek modern furnishings and lighting fixtures adorn the area.

The seating configuration is able to accommodate small groups of families and friends. You’ll notice that the dining layout closely resembles a diner rather than a Chinese restaurant.

All Day Dining Menu – Signature Dim Sum
You can expect home-style specialties, popular dim sum, succulent roast meats, Hong Kong style rice and noodles.

Starting with the family favourite dim sum, there are over 10 quintessential signatures, such as Cantonese Style Xiao Long Bao, Steamed BBQ Pork Bun, Chicken Feet with Black Bean Sauce, Baked BBQ Pork with Sesame Pastry, Shrimp & Pork Beancurd Skin Roll with Oyster Sauce, and Carrot Cake with XO Sauce.

Animal Shaped Bun ($3.80, 2 pieces)
Can’t stop going, ”So cute!”

These steamed lotus paste buns come in shapes of hedgehogs, chicks, and piglets, and would certainly be a favourite with the children.

Beneath the soft and adorable exterior, are fillings of smooth white lotus that is not too sweet.

Traditional HK Rice Roll with Sesame & Sweet Sauce ($4.20)
Smooth ”Cheong Fun” ‘drowned’ in a combination of sweet, savoury and creamy sauce, which had that distinctive earthy and nutty taste. One of my favourites here.

Assorted Trio Har Kau ($4.80, 3 pieces)
Bite-sized crystal shrimp dumplings coming in attractive colours of pink, yellow and orange.

Siew Mai with Fish Roe ($4.20, 3 pieces)
Steamed, succulent pork and shrimp dumpling topped with flying fish roe.

Salted Egg Yolk Custard Bun ($4.60, 3 pieces)
”Liu Sha Bao” bursting with sweet, slight-salty custard fillings with that touch of graininess.

Deep-fried Mango Roll ($3.20, 2 pieces)
Deep-fried panko-crusted combination of prawn and mango fruit fillings added with some creamy mayonnaise, part-savoury and part-sweet with refreshing flavours of summer.

Pork & Shrimp Dumping with hot & sour vinaigrette ($4.80, 3 pieces)
This would remind you of the ”Hong You Chao Shou”, the taste similar to Sichuanese Wontons in Chilli Sauce. The addition of vinaigrette gave it a more sour, and lifting taste.

Signature HK Roast Bowls and Noodles
Dim Sum Inc’s signature Rice and Noodle Bowls are generously-portion one-dish meals, with options of Roasted Honey BBQ Pork Noodles featuring thick-cut juicy slices of char siew; and Braised Superior Soya Sauce Chicken Noodles.

What’s good is that you will also see value-for-money prices, all priced at $9.80 or less.

There are ongoing promotions for Combo Set Meals, like the Shrimp Wanton Noodle wih Drink (Lime Juice/Honey Lemon/Soft Drink) for only $9.80; or a Sweet & Sour Pork Rice with Egg and Drink at $12.80.

Roasted Duck Rice Bowl ($9.80)
Its signature HK Roast Bowl has either rice or noodle, topped with any of these 4 – crispy roasted pork belly, roasted duck, roasted honey BBQ pork, and braised superior soya sauce chicken.

The Roasted Duck Rice Bowl came served in a bowl, with appetiser (I had spicy pickled cucumber) and lava egg. While I thought that the rice could do with slightly more sauce, the roast had flavourful paper crisp skin, and sufficiently juicy meat.

Braised Superior Soya Sauce Chicken Noodle ($8.80)
I had cravings for Soya Sauce Chicken Noodle of late, and loved the big tender chunks of chicken meat provided.

Compared to other renditions which could have been braised for a longer period and thus darker coloured, this version came across as less greasy and so you could savour more natural taste of the chicken meat.

Lean Meat with Century Egg Congee ($8.30)
Known for its comforting and velvety congee, you get options of Lean Meat with Century Egg, Shredded Chicken & Duck, Classic Ting Zai, and Sliced Glass Carp.

The congee is said to be slow-cooked using top quality rice, to result in that consistent smooth texture. Great for those searching for a light and nutritious meal in the vicinity.

Shrimp Wanton Noodle (soup) ($7.80)
For Hong Kong noodle lovers, there is a selection of Shrimp Dumpling Noodles available in both dry and soup versions, Stir-fried Hong Kong Noodles and Vegetarian Noodles.

A bowl of springy noodles in a clear broth, with plump handmade wantons and shrimp dumplings.

Mango Puree with Pomelo & Sago ($4.80)
For desserts, go for the refreshing Lime-flavoured Jelly with Aloe Vera ($3.80) or Mango Purée with Pomelo and Sago ($4.80)

Other than those mentioned, Dim Sum Inc also features a number of wok-fried dishes such as a Sauteed Beef with Ginger & Scallion Rice with Egg ($10.80), Yang Zhou Fried Rice ($9.80) and Shrimp Fried Rice ($9.80).

All wok-fried dishes are prepared a la minute to ensure freshness and quality.

It is a good spot to consider for affordable Cantonese and Hong Kong-style dishes in the Punggol area. Its unpretentious and comfortable setting, along with decent quality food, is something worth trying.

Dim Sum Inc by Crystal Jade – Punggol
Block 681 Punggol Drive, #02-36, Oasis Terraces, Singapore 820681 (Punggol Oasis LRT Station)
Tel: +65 6244 8490
Opening Hours: 11:00am – 10:00pm (Mon – Fri), 9:00am – 10:00pm (Sat, Sun, PH)
custsvc@crystaljade.com
https://www.crystaljade.com/dim-sum-inc

Dim Sum Inc by Crystal Jade – Chinatown
31 Pagoda Street Singapore 059190
Tel: +65 6224 0805
Opening Hours: 11:00am – 10:00pm Daily

* This entry is brought to you in partnership with Dim Sim Inc.

The post Dim Sum Inc 翡翠点 by Crystal Jade – Roast Meats, Dim Sum And HK Noodles With Affordable Pricing, Found At Punggol Oasis Terraces appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

Bishamon Ramen – Sapporo-style Miso Ramen Eatery Makes Its Return To Singapore At Suntec City

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Ramen eatery Bishamon has returned to Singapore after a 4-years absence.

Bishamon’s fans will remember it for its Sapporo-style miso ramen, categorised by moderately curly yellow noodles and broth cooked with three types of miso – red, white and black.

However, instead of a full shop-front, it will be sharing restaurant space with chicken ramen chain Menya Takeichi at Eat At Seven, Suntec City.

That means you can order noodles from both brands.

It signature is the Special Sapporo Miso Ramen ($15.80), topped with large slices of kurobuta pork collar cha shu, along with a medley of corn, bamboo shoots and soft-boiled eggs.

The cha shu is said to be chilled for 24 hours before it is sliced and served atop the ramen.

I was recommended the Tonkotsu Magma Ramen ($13.80), served in a hot stone bowl, with bubbling broth that suggested that it would be very spicy.

The server warned that it was a Level 5, cooked using a blend of 6 different spices.

It was definitely fiery and not for the faint-hearted. All in all still manageable, but I felt that the spices covered up the taste of the rest of the ingredients, and I couldn’t really enjoy to its fullest.

If you want something that is safer, Menya Takeichi serves up milder chicken broth ramen with thin eggy noodles.

The only thing was, despite being told that the Magma Ramen would take a while to arrive as it was served in a hot stone, the chicken ramen actually came much later than it.

Bishamon Singapore
Suntec City North Wing, 3 Temasek Boulevard #03-313 Singapore 038983
Tel: +65 6235 3386
Opening Hours: 11:30am – 3pm, 5:30pm – 10:30pm Daily

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* Follow @DanielFoodDiary on Facebook, Instagram and Youtube for more food news, food videos and travel highlights. Daniel’s Food Diary paid for food reviewed unless otherwise stated.

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Singapore Food Festival – More Than 20 Foodie Events, Including The 50 Cents Fest, McDonald’s Ha Ha Cheong Gai Chicken Burger, and Curry Day

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The Singapore Food Festival (SFF) is back.

Now in its 25th year, the main event in Singapore’s food calendar shines the spotlight on authentic local flavours and culinary talents.

Taking place from 13th to 29th July, the festival retains its theme of “Savour Singapore in Every Bite”, an invitation to festival goers to rediscover/discover Singapore’s identity through its food.

Whether you are a visitor or a local, you will get to explore the different sides of Singapore through the multi-faceted menus presented at this festival.

The festival experiences even go beyond food, with an array of culinary experiences like craft workshops, cooking demos, and theatrical experiences.

Before going into some of the highlight SFF events, what do you think your foodie profile is?

Perhaps you will fall in more than one category, but this will help you plan your SFF programmes better as it is 3 weeks of feasting. (You can download the SFF 2018 guide here and track the SFF 2018 experiences that cater to your palate.

Modernity
Are you a person who lives and breathes everything modern? Are you a fearless early adopter of new food trends like molecular gastronomy? The range of modern interpretations of familiar flavours, will appeal to you.

Culture
Look under this section if you enjoy authentic local experiences and flavours. You want to live like a local – eating what they have for breakfast, lunch and dinner on a day-to-day basis.

Art
The SFF experiences here are made for you if you appreciate various expressions of creativity, from films and paintings to food and literature. You are the type who will watch a film about sushi while eating sushi.

Tradition
If you are a person with a strong affinity for things from the past, and you believe the best way is still the traditional way, you’ll be at home at these experiences. For you, there’s “no school like the old school”.

Here are 10 highlights to look forward to at the Singapore Food Festival 2018:

STREAT
Venue: Empress Lawn 10 Empress Place Singapore 179555
Dates: 13th July 5pm – 1030pm (Fri); 14th July 12pm – 10:30pm (Sat)
Modernity

Singapore-inspired menu from Michelin chefs
STREAT, the signature event of the Singapore Food Festival, is a two-day long outdoor event and will feature exciting dishes by local culinary talents.

This year features the largest edition of STREAT to-date – think more exciting programmes, a bigger venue (at Empress Lawn), longer hours and for the first time, a dedicated bar by Asia’s #1 Manhattan.

Headlining STREAT is a four-hands pop-up restaurant helmed collaboratively by Chef Emmanuel Stroobant (from one Michelin-starred Saint Pierre) and Chef Haikal Johari (from one Michelin-starred Alma), featuring a five-course local-inspired menu.

If a sit-down dinner isn’t for you, the complementary line-up of hawkers and chefs will also be serving up traditional and modern takes on Singaporean classics. Participating establishments include Old Bibik Peranakan Kitchen, Gayatri Restaurant, Sinar Pagi Nasi Padang, CreatureS, Quarters, Xiao Ya Tou and Non Entrée Desserts.

Don’t miss the culinary workshops, local entertainments acts (like Tim de Cotta) and a retail pop-up for an engaging gastronomic outing.

Tickets:
STREAT event grounds: Free entry; payment via cashless means only
Pop-up Restaurant: $60 nett (or $55 nett for early bird bookings made before 9 July 2018)
Workshops: $20 nett per workshop (In addition, receive S$15 worth of credits to spend at STREAT for online bookings made before 12 July 2018)

Park Bench Deli x Roast Paradise and Park Bench Deli x Rumah Makan Minang
Venue: 179 Telok Ayer Street, Singapore 068627
Dates: 15th and 29th July (Both 12pm until sold out)

Local flavours at your favourite sandwich place
A western favourite with an innovative Asian twist – Park Bench Deli collaborates with Roast Paradise on July 15 to showcase well-loved traditional Singaporean meats like char siew, sandwich-style in fun and unexpected ways.

On July 29, Rumah Makan Minang takes the spotlight as Park Bench Deli puts a twist on Minang’s well-loved Indonesian classics like beef Rendang and Nasi Padang.

Native Cocktail bar will also be serving up complementary drinks made with regional produce in local flavours.

July 15 Menu
1. Roast Char Siew Banh Mi
2. Combination Roast Meat Platter
3. Prawn Keropok with Sambal Matah
4. Local-inspired Cocktails by Native Bar

July 29 Menu
1. Beef Rendang Burger
2. PBD x Minang Dream Nasi Padang Platter
3. Grilled Cheese Sandwich with Minang’s Curry Dip
4. Mocktails by Native Bar
5. Teh Tarik Uncle

Tickets:
$15-$30 (Park Bench Deli x Roast Paradise)
$15-$30 (Park Bench Deli x Makan Minang)

Celebrating Singapore Food Festival at AccorHotels
Venue: Fairmont Singapore, Swissotel Merchant Court, Sofitel Singapore Sentosa Resort & Spa, SO Sofitel Singapore, Mercure Singapore on Stevens, Grand Mercure Singapore Roxy, Mercure Singapore Buqis, Sofitel Singapore City Centre
Dates: 13th to 29th July

strong>Journey of local flavours at AccorHotels
AccorHotels celebrates SFF in a big way, with a line-up of traditional crowd-pleasers.

Participating F&B outlets include Anti:Dote, Ellenborough Market Café, Kwee Zeen, Xprience, Winestone, Jia Wei Chinese Restaurant, Royale, and Racines.

Explore Hokkien prawn noodle soup, Har Cheong (prawn paste) spring chicken served with herb potato and spinach, as well as Laksa Seafood Paella.

McDonald’s
All Stores Islandwide

Ha Ha Cheong Gai Chicken Burger, Breakfast Curry Burger, D24 Durian McFluffy
Remember last year’s Nasi Lemak Burger which resulted in a huge demand and trend?

This year fast food chain McDonald’s has whipped up a new D24 Durian McFlurry made with real D24 durian puree, swirled into their vanilla soft-serve.

The fast food chain has also launched the Ha Ha Cheong Gai Chicken Burger ($6.05) and and Ha Ha Cheong Gai Chicken Drumlets ($2.20) in conjunction with SFF.

The anticipated burger consists of a whole chicken thigh marinated with real prawn paste, coated with crispy bread crumbs and slathered with prawn paste-flavoured mayonnaise.

For their curry sauce lovers, also look out for the Breakfast Curry Burger ($4.20) available during breakfast hours.

The burger is served with patty, melted cheese, sunny side up and the signature curry sauce.

Feast at Sentosa – Sentosa Grillfest
Venue: Siloso Beach Service Road
Dates: 13th to 15th July; 20th to 22nd July; 27th to 29th July (6pm – 11pm)
Culture

1km food street by the Siloso Beach
The Sentosa Grillfest returns, transforming Siloso Beach into a 1km food street by the beach.

With more than 20 F&B kiosks, featuring Sentosa F&B operators and Singapore’s very own 2nd-generation hawkers, you will be spoilt for choice.

Explore international cuisine, BBQ delights and local treats like Jumbo Hokkien Noodles, old school calamansi with sour plum, and Salted Egg Chicken.

On 13-15 July, catch culinary talents from ITE School of Hospitality as they showcase their cooking skills on centre stage.

Another highlight is the inaugural Gourmet Market at the Sapphire Pavilion. You can pick your raw ingredients from the market, then let the onsite chefs prepare them for you.

Enjoy live musical performances and the soothing sea breeze as you savour the flavours of Singapore on the beach.

Tickets:
Free entry. Island admission and car park charges may apply

Curry Day 2018 by Old Chang Kee
Venue: Velocity@Novena Square, Indoor Atrium, 238 Thomson Road, Singapore 307683
Dates: 27th – 28th July, 11am – 9pm

Enjoy curry-themed menus and family-friendly events
Have you tried crimping your own curry puff?

Curry Day 2018 gives curry the spotlight, with a feature of all types of curry dishes and snacks, like curry puffs, curry buns and curry chicken.

And curry love goes beyond food. Try any of the curry-related activities like curry puff crimping sessions and spice art lessons for the kids.

Also, watch out for the launch of a special curry puff this SFF 2018. I am very curious myself as the organiser didn’t even tell me what it was.

Tickets:
Free Entry

Hawker Spotlight 2018
Venue: Amoy Street Food Centre, 7 Maxwell Road, Singapore 069111
Dates: Redemption period for coupons in Hawker Spotlight booklets (for public): 20th to 28th July; Booklets available from 13 July at City Gas Gallery at Cross Street and Singapore Visitors Centres (ION Orchard, Orchardgateway and Tourism Court)

Learn about delicious hawker fare at Amoy Street Food Centre
Hawker Spotlight 2018, now on its fourth edition, will feature Amoy Street Food Centre, home to many heritage hawkers.

Visit this decades-old hawker centre and discover the stories behind some of Amoy Street Food Centre’s most beloved stalls, including Ah Ter Teochew Fishball Noodles, Syed Mohammed Drinks and Quan Ji – famous for its Beef Horfun.

In celebration of the Singapore Food Festival’s 25th anniversary, you can pick up exclusive Hawker Spotlight booklets at the City Gas Gallery and Singapore Visitor Centres.

Use these to get special deals and discount coupons at Amoy Street Food Market.

A Samsui Love Story: A Food & Dance Affair
Venue: Caldwell House Alcove @ CHIJMES, 30 Victoria Street #02-04/05, Singapore 187996
Dates: 17th – 20th July (7:30pm)
Art

Experience Mod-Sin cuisine with contemporary dance
This event features a 5-course modern Singaporean meal interwoven with contemporary dance. It is a unique collaboration between Chef Nixon Low and choreographer Naomi Tan.

Expect a full-on sensory journey as you immerse yourself in this interactive dining experience.

In this intimate setting, you can follow the star-crossed story of the Samsui woman and the Satay man.

Eat your way through this enthralling story

Tickets:
Adult: S$105.00 per pax
Child (4-10 years old): S$48.00 per pax
(3-course menu, limited seats available)

The 50 Cents Fest: Colonial Singapore
Venue: Chinatown Food Street, Smith Street, Singapore 050335
Dates: 28th – 29th July (11am – 11pm)
Tradition

Enjoy delicious local food at unbeatable prices of 50 cents
Want to travel back in time through food? This is the one event many Singaporean foodies are looking forward to.

This year, The 50 Cents Fest is bigger and grander with more authentic 1930s sights and sounds.

For as little as 50 cents, you can savour authentic 1930s dishes including Kerabu Bee Hoon (tossed rice vermicelli), Fish Moilee (lightly spiced creamy fish curry dish) and Kopi Gu You (butter caramelised black coffee) and other long-lost ethnic dishes from the colonial days.

Be entertained by street acts such as Taxi Girl performances and traditional opera.

Don’t miss the virtual reality installation, where you’ll be able to walk down the streets of 1930s, relive the nostalgia, or simply discover life in the olden days.

Tickets:
Free Entry
Dishes priced from 50 cents

Time Out Balik Kampong Heritage Dinner
Venue: Folklore, 700 Beach Rd, Singapore 199598
Dates: 26th – 27th July (7pm – 10:30pm)

Showcase of Singapore’s Eurasian, Peranakan and Chinese cuisines
Time Out, Chef Damian D’Silva of Folklore Restaurant and various guest chefs including Chef Han Liguang of Labyrinth, Chef Haikal Johari of Alma and Chef Pang Kok Keong of Antoinette collaborate and take diners on a food journey through Singapore’s past, highlighting age-old recipes of fast-vanishing dishes through a multi-course dinner.

Over stories of Singapore’s food traditions, imbibe cocktail pairings which incorporate distinctively local ingredients for a nostalgic and delicious night out.

Tickets:
$150.00 nett per pax

BACK TO BASICS – Savour Your Heritage Kuehs
Venue: 1. Citizen Farm: 60 Jin Penjara, Singapore 149375
Dates: 21st July (10am – 12:30pm)

Venue 2: Cheng Sugar Candy, Factory: 12 Senoko Loop, Singapore 758149
Dates: 27th July (10am – 12pm)

Venue 3: Ah Hua Kelong: 50 Pasir, Ris Coast Industrial Park 6, Lor Halus Jetty (Meet up point to
offshore kelong)
Dates: 28th July (2pm – 4pm)

Food workshops and tours to kelongs, gardens and factories
This event brings together three local producers who will share about their produce, how to grow and care for them, and how they are used in heritage confections.

You can learn how to make a traditional kueh using ingredients from the respective local producers.

The three workshops and their themes are:
1. Edible Leaves and Flowers used in heritage confections (in collaboration with Nong)
2. Sugars used in heritage confections (in collaboration with Cheng Sugar)
3. Kueh and Jewel of the Sea – Mussels (in collaboration with Ah Hua Kelong)

Tickets:
$68.00 (Workshop 1)
$48.00 (Workshop 2)
$68.00 (Workshop 3)

The Singapore Food Festival takes place in various locations across Singapore from 13 to 29 July 2018. For more details, visit: www.singaporefoodfestival.com .

*This entry is brought to you in partnership with the Singapore Tourism Board.

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Mecca Coffee – One Of Sydney’s Top Coffee Places, With Industrial Chic And Pretty Waffles

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[Sydney] It is funny how we (our group of Singaporeans) keep heading to The Grounds Of Alexandria for coffee, but missed out Mecca Coffee just a short 10 minutes’ walk away.

Mecca Coffee is an industrial styled café located in a warehouse in Alexandria, known to be one of the best speciality coffee shops available in Sydney.

They also have other locations in Sydney, but the Alexandria shop serves as the central hub for their retail and wholesale operations.

It is also where they roast the coffee beans and people can get a glimpse of the process.

And guess what, we met the barista who was previously from Single O at Surry Hills and Neighbourhood.

Industrial styled, the space ties in with the local area which has lots of warehouses, car shops and also an auction house.

The fit-out was designed by Smith and Carmody, who have also styled some other Sydney café’s such as Excelsior Jones, Cornersmith and Brickfields.

Inside, there are chevron floor tiles and a high A-frame ceiling, as well as a wrought iron railing that goes up to the mezzanine level.

The walls are painted white, with a bit of dark brick showing through to give it a rustic/vintage look. There are large tables made from wood, and there are also vases containing native flowers on the tablets and around the café.

Look out for a garden located out the back, as well as a special room which is used for coffee training and cupping (tasting), which is held every Saturday morning.

Overall a very minimalist aesthetic with industrial influence, a comfortable place to sit and relax either on your own or with friends.

If you are a coffee lover, this is one of the best places to get your fix. They are consistent and cater to all tastes whether it is espresso, pour-over or batch brew.

They do “feature coffees” which highlight the best elements based on where the beans are sourced from.

Coffee is priced at AUD4 (SGD4.03) for the regular, AUD$4.50 (SGD4.54) for the large, and AUD4 (SGD4.03) for filter.

I must say they serve up a very good cup of cuppa – smooth and balanced, ranked among the top of those I had in Sydney.

When it comes to this point, it really boils to personal preference, and I would have liked it to be more full-bodied.

They also have a liquor licence, so you can get tap beers, wine or cocktails if you wish (after 10am).

They do have a menu of dishes like Beetroot & Avo Toast (AUD17), Breakfast Plate (AUD18), Poached Eggs on Toast (AUD12), Mushroom Ramen (AUD20) – it is actually soba noodles, and Coconut Dahl (AUD18). Dishes change according to the season.

They make everything on site from scratch using quality ingredients (except for bread + pastries, which are brought in from Brickfields and Flour and Stone).

Everything that was brought out looked really fresh and colourful, as they make use of seasonal fruits, vegetables and use ethically sourced meat and eggs.

The Fried Chicken Burger which is called the “Chook Roll” (AUD) here, is a Korean inspired burger with fried free range buttermilk chicken, kimchi, cabbage slaw and aioli.

Everything went well together, from the soft buttery bun, succulent chicken to the tangy kimchi (not the spicy kind). I only wished that the chicken was of a slightly bigger piece to match up to the bun.

I added Coffee Cured Salmon (AUD6) and Mushrooms (AUD5) to the Poached Eggs on Toast. While the former tasted fresh (I know, ironically since it is “cured”), it lacked of the coffee flavours I was looking out for.

The mushrooms were absolutely deliciously, and I would so have the “The Nourish Bowl” (AUD16) of sautéed Japanese mushrooms, warm asparagus, eggplant and 63 degree egg the next time I come.

Do not leave without having an insta-worthy and tasty Buckwheat Waffle (AUD14), which was an absolute delight both to the eyes and palate.

The texture was not the usual crisp Belgium waffle type we might be used to, and tasted interestingly cakey.

Mecca Coffee has a great atmosphere, friendly service, unpretentious industrial chic, and I will probably head back one day to try all more of their food.

Mecca Coffee
26 Bourke Road, Alexandria NSW 2015, Sydney Australia
Tel: +61 02 9698 8448
Opening Hours: 7:00am – 3:00pm (Mon – Fri), 8:00am – 3:30pm (Sat – Sun)
info@meccacoffee.com.au
http://www.meccacoffee.com.au

Google Maps – Mecca Coffee Alexandria

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Click HERE for other SYDNEY Food Entries

* Follow @DanielFoodDiary on Facebook and Instagram for more food news, food videos and travel highlights. Daniel’s Food Diary paid for food reviewed unless otherwise stated.

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Good Hope Noodle 好旺角麵家 – Michelin Bib Gourmand Wanton Mee And Congee In Mongkok, Hong Kong

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[Hong Kong] A decade and a half ago when I was visiting Hong Kong and checking out the food guides (during the early-internet days when information was still sketchy and you still depended on a guide book for travel information), Good Hope Noodles 好旺角粥麵專家 popped up in many guides as the must-eat noodles shop for tourists.

Yet somehow I’ve managed to miss trying it, despite it being on my list every single time I visited Hong Kong.

Recently, while looking for a good noodles shop at Sai Yee Street Mongkok, I was happy to find out that this 47 years old establishment is still around.
In fact they have moved and expanded to 2 outlets in Mongkok now – one in Fa Yuen Street and the other along Sai Yee Street.

Good Hope is one of the long-established players in the local wanton noodle scene amongst other well-known names like Mak’s Noodles,, Tsim Chai Kee and Ho Hung Kee.

Although not using the traditional bamboo pole method to knead the noodles but using a machine, every batch of noodles are prepared fresh at the front of the shop.

What is interesting is they also have the thicker noodles variety (similar to our mee pok) on top of the classic vermicelli-thin noodles typically served for the Cantonese-style Wanton Mee.

Standing at their entrance, you will be greeted by the smell of boiling broth as you watch how the noodles and congee are prepared from their open kitchen.

The shop is rather spacious for a Hong Kong eatery and the newly decorated shop also strayed away from looking too commercialized but retains its traditional feel.

I had the Soup Wanton Noodles (HKD37, SGD6.50) and the Dry Wanton Noodles (HKD50, SGD8.60).

Their noodles are springy and al dente. I also like that Good Hope’s noodles do not have a strong alkaline taste, unlike some other shops’.

I thought I would enjoy the dry version better as I typically don’t enjoy egg noodles in soup as they tend to get soggy but I was pleasantly surprised that their noodles soup was much tastier.

Their wantons were juicy and had a fair amount of shrimps in them.

As for their famed 炸酱面 Braised Noodle With Shredded Pork and Special Sauce (HKD37, SGD6.50), I would recommend going easy on the fermented bean paste sauce that would be served separately.

It can be tasty but also be quite strong.

The thicker noodles had a very nice springy texture to it; I see now why it came highly recommended.

I really enjoyed their silky smooth Congee with Meatballs (HKD37, SGD6.50) and it would be very hard to decide between the wanton noodles or the congee if I had the appetite for only one dish.

I like that their noodles were served in substantial portions as compared to the popular Mak’s Noodles with their shrinking bowl sizes.

Good broth, springy noodles and fresh wanton – these are the three considerations for a good bowl of wanton noodles.

For me, Good Hope’s noodles met all 3 criteria, with the 4th one being good value for money.

Good Hope Noodle 好旺角粥麵專家
123 Sai Yee Street, Mong Kok, Hong Kong
Tel: +852 2393 9036
Opening Hours: 11:00am – 12:00am Daily
Google Maps – Good Hope Noodle

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Tasty Congee & Noodle 正斗粥麵專家 (Central, HK)
Ho Hung Kee 何洪记 (Causeway Bay, Hong Kong

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* Written by DFD’s Hong Kong Correspondent @kara_the_explorer, who is the Singaporean “tai tai” living the foodie dream in Hong Kong. Daniel’s Food Diary paid for food reviewed unless otherwise stated.

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Arteastiq Boutique Tea House – Revamped Menu With Sambal Boston Lobster, Thai Milk Tea Lava Cake, Luscious Seafood High Tea

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Arteastiq at Mandarin Gallery has always been known for its elegant chi-chi ambience and eclectic range of artisanal tea selections, considered an oasis in the middle of fast-paced Orchard Road.

Friends often joke that it is where we can experience the “tai tai” life without actually being one.

That aside, it is quite the place to chill and relax down town.

It has 2 locations, both along Orchard Road – its flagship at Mandarin Gallery; and another at Plaza Singapura with a recently revamped bistro and bar concept.

If you have not been there before, the name “arteastiq” is a portmanteau of art and tea, essentially meaning “the art of teasing” or “the art of tea that makes you tick”.

The boutique boasts over 70 in-house tea selections.

On its side is Arteastiq Social Painting Studio offering Art Jamming – a popular lifestyle activity that I think can be rather therapeutic.

While it has known more for its Western style dishes and brunch items such as its Crab Cake Breakfast and Chicken & Waffle food wise, it has recently revamped its menu to include more Asian touches.

Do not be surprised to find some Salted Egg Yolk Capellini, Sambal Boston Lobster & Dry Laksa and Fish Otah Burger over there.

The All-Day Menu, created by Executive Chef Yip, features reinterpretations of continental dishes. Here are some of the Arteastiq recommendations:

Raft from Nanyang – Chilli Egg Prawn Fettuccine ($20)
The Pasta and Mains menu features a couple for more substantial mains and pasta dishes, in the likes of A Royal Princess which is Salmon Wellington ($28); French affection, a 280gm Black Angus Ribeye steak ($33); Waltz in the Wave which stands for Squid ink Spaghetti ($16); the popular Symphony from the East – Salted Egg Yolk Capellini ($23).

Don’t blame yourself if you cannot remember the names.

From the Asian Delights section, try the Chilli Egg Prawn Fettuccine ($20), a sweet-savoury pasta (the sauce is a blend of tomatoes, chili sauce, lemongrass, eggs, dried shrimp, garlic, onions and ginger) served with pan-seared Cajun prawns and mantou bun.

This is a take of the familiar local Chilli Crab with a twist, is not too spicy, and still retains the tangy-sweetness of the tomato base.

Myth of the Sea – Sambal Sea Bass & Dry Laksa ($25)
There is a section called Asian Delights which features Thai Basil Chicken ($15), and Sambal Boston Lobster & Dry Laksa ($38).

The Sambal Sea Bass & Dry Laksa ($25) a.k.a. Myth of the Sea is probably my favourite NEW dish the menu, a fillet that is oven-baked with dried shrimp sambal chili.

Its presentation would remind you of Sambal Stingray. While this version may not have that familiar smokiness, the fresh fish with its large flakes of meat and mildly spicy sauce would still be quite ”shiok”.

While I might just have preferred some rice on the side, the Dry Laksa allowed you to experienced two dishes in one.

To balance the heat, it is paired with onions, cucumbers and a small lime to add zing.

The Kebaya – Pan Roasted Chicken Satay ($22)
Even your satay coming as a slab of chicken meat, in that distinctive sweet-salty-aromatic seasoning, served with a side of creamy peanut sauce.

On the side is rice vermicelli with prawns, which can be poured over with the sauce, reminiscent of satay bee hoon.

Black Rice Salad Rolls ($13)
If you are thinking of going lighter and healthier, there is a section of salads which includes Granola Mixed Green Salad ($13), Spinach and Sweet Potato Salad ($15), and Soba Salad ($13).

Try the Black Rice Salad Rolls ($13 for 4 rolls) which is like salad on the go.

Just pop in your mouth these healthy morsels of smoked salmon with Japanese cucumber and some greens, drizzled with Shoyu dressing.

Cheese Tofu ($9)
The Cheese Tofu ($9) is a chef-recommended starter – a vegetarian appetiser, simply served with some honey, macadamia nuts, and 4 slices of toast. The texture is quite unlike anything I tried before, and would recommend spreading some on the sweet toast.

Finger Dance – Thai Milk Tea Lava Cake ($12)
Now for dessert. Finger Dance? That is a lava cake filled with Thai milk tea, served with vanilla gelato and a macaron on the side.

The Caress – Chestnut Mont Blanc Tartlet ($15)
Another must-try is the Chestnut Mont Blanc Tartlet ($15) a.k.a. The Caress.

This is art-on-a-plate, with the tart as a “mountain” beside a scoop of berry compote on chocolate “soil” and a chocolate truffle.

Earl Grey Collagen Tea (Hot) ($12)
There have been some upgrades in the menu but if you are a purist, don’t worry – the original tea menu remains intact.

Each specialty tea selection undergoes R&D to achieve that perfect taste. Talk about tea geekery. All tea blends are packed in-house and only brewed fresh upon ordering.

Other than tea, you’ll never run out of options for beverages, from chocolate, blended coffees to lattes.

I was intrigued by “Collagen Tea” (I am a guy, and that word is rather ‘foreign’ to me).

Turns out a series of teas has peach resin added to them. Peach resin or gum is frequently used in Traditional Chinese Medicine, and is said to allow collagen to be quickly absorbed into the human body.

So have a go at the Collagen Teas with flavours of Earl Grey, French Rose, Bolivian Cherry, Osmanthus Oolong, Chamomile, and Dandelion – for that refreshing taste with beautifying effects.

Lady Yang – Iced Lychee Tea with Lychee Gelato ($12)
Consort Yang Yuhuan (also known as “Yang Gui Fei”), is reputed to be one of China’s legendary beauties and also a big fan of lychees – thus the name of this tea.

This dessert tea has been one of the best sellers since Arteastiq’s opening days, which is the perfect summer drink – fruity, lightly sweeten, absolutely refreshing.

Luscious Seafood High Tea
Arteastiq’s menu is two-fold: all-day menu and high tea.

The Luscious Seafood High Tea For 2 ($98++ to $138++) is a luxurious 3-course high tea set: a seafood teasery, seafood platter and nectarous platter peppered with sweet treats of Chocolate Cone with Banana Custard, Vanilla Blueberry Tart, Chocolate Truffles with Nut, Macarons and Double Raspberry Choux Pastry.

The set also comes with 2 specialty teas of your choice.

The highlights are the Baked Boston Lobster Tail and Otah Stuffing; and Oysters baked with Cheddar Cheese and Tobiko.

Pricing for Luscious Seafood High Tea:
$98++ for 2. Comes 2 specialty Teas of your choice.
$118++ for 2. Comes 2 Glasses of Moscato and 2 specialty Teas of your choice.
$138++ for 2. Comes 2 Glasses of Champagne and 2 specialty Teas of your choice.

After than the food aspect, I find it therapeutic for an Art Jam session. You can interact with others while engaging with your own creativity through painting.

For $48++, you get a free canvas (50×50), unlimited acrylic paint + supplies, and one free beverage from Arteastiq Boutique Tea House.

Give it a try and experience the therapy of blending tea and art (Okay, not literally!).

Arteastiq – Mandarin Gallery
Mandarin Gallery, #04-14/15 333A Orchard Road, Singapore 238867 (Somerset MRT)
Tel: +65 6235 8370 (Teahouse)
+65 6235 8705 (Art Jam)
Opening Hours: 11am – 10pm (Mon – Fri), 10am – 10pm (Sat – Sun)
Reservation Online – Arteastiq (Mandarin Gallery)

Arteastiq Bistro & Bar – Plaza Singapura
68 Orchard Road Plaza Singapura #03-70/72 Singapore 238839
Tel: +65 6336 0951
Opening Hours: 11am – 10pm Daily
Reservation Online – Arteastiq Bistro & Bar (Plaza Singapura)

* This entry is brought to you in partnership with Arteastiq.

The post Arteastiq Boutique Tea House – Revamped Menu With Sambal Boston Lobster, Thai Milk Tea Lava Cake, Luscious Seafood High Tea appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

Yuzutei – 1st Yuzu Specialty Restaurant In Singapore With Yuzu Shabu Shabu & Yuzu Chirashi, At Pasir Panjang

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A restaurant serving up an entire menu (almost) full of Yuzu items: Yuzu Shabu Shabu, Chirashi Kaisen Don with Yuzu, Yuzu Gyoza and even Peppery Yuzu Ice Cream.

This gets really interesting.

Yuzutei, 柚子亭 which means Yuzu Pavilion in Japanese, offers a yuzu-centric menu which would attract yuzu fans.

It is located at level 1 of the Interlocal Centre – a development in the heart of the rejuvenated Alexandra Pasir Panjang region, and of approximately 8 minutes’ walk from the nearest Pasir Panjang MRT station.

The Hort Park is a two-minutes’ walk away.

The spacious 40-seater restaurant is decked in woody elements like most Japanese restaurants, with tall ceiling and warm lightings for cosy dining and gathering.

The owners decided to have a Yuzu-specialty restaurant due to its unique taste, health and beautifying properties.

Plus there are no other restaurants like this in Singapore.

Widely known for its multiple properties such as richness in Vitamin C, antioxidants, anti-inflammatory and boost in immune system, Yuzu has become increasingly popular in the recent years, especially in Japanese cuisines.

The Japanese citrus fruit tastes like a combination of lime and grapefruit with a distinctive sourness initially and slight bitterness in the aftertaste.

Some eateries in Singapore use another form of yuzu, such as yuzu jam or essence for flavours in their food, but Yuzutei actually imports “Kito Yuzu” from Japan.

The “Kito Yuzu” is the highest grade of yuzu, and are grown and harvested in Tokushima Prefecture, Japan, stored using technology to ensure consistent quality all year round and air-flown to Yuzutei.

Here are 10 Yuzu-inspired dishes you can find at Yuzutei:

A5 Hokkaido Snow Wagyu Yuzu Shabu Set ($53/pax)
Sugoii desu! Look at the beautiful marbling which resembled of a snowflake.

The 100g A5 Hokkaido Snow Wagyu comes with a marbling score above 10 and are farmed in Hokkaido, Japan. (With only 2 heads of cattle farmed per month, the A5 Hokkaido Snow Wagyu is subjected to availability and will be replaced with other Japan Wagyu when it’s unavailable.)

The Signature Yuzu Soup uses a chicken soup base simmered for 6 hours, cooked daily with fresh Yuzu fruits, with Yuzu juices added into to bring out the light and refreshing taste in every components of the Shabu set.

Well-complemented with the yuzu soup base, the A5 Hokkaido Snow Wagyu was soft and tender.

The light citrus-ness of the soup base also allowed one to appreciate the meat in its natural flavours.

If you are looking for additional flavours, 2 dipping sauces are provided: Ponzu (sour) and Yuzutei Special – Yuzu, Radish, Chili (spicy).

Japan Shirobuta Pork Yuzu Shabu Set ($26/pax)
If you are not a beef lover, Shirobuta Pork ($26/pax) or Seafood ($32.50/pax) are available.

Each Shabu Set comes with a Signature Yuzu Soup Base, Handmade Prawn & Shiitake Mushroom Paste, Japan Mizuna Vegetables, Assorted Vegetables, Tofu, Japanese Fish Cake and Rice.

The highlights are the Homemade Prawn Paste and Shitake Mushroom Paste which are soft, fragrant and flavourful that would make you go “oishii”!

The Shirobuta Pork comprised of both pork collar and pork belly, and are sourced directly from Kyushu in Japan, with the right amount of fattiness.

If you require a more substantial meal, add-ons such as 100g Hokkaido Snow Beef ($35), 100g A4 Japan Wagyu ($35), Homemade Prawn Paste ($7) and Shitake Mushroom Paste ($4) are available.

Ishiyaki Hot Stone Grill ($43-45)
Apart from Shabu Shabu, the sizzling Hot Stone Grill comes with options such as A5 Hokkaido Snow Wagyu Zabuton Jo-Rosu cut aka Chuck roll (100g $45, 150g $63) or A4 Japan Wagyu Steak Cut (100g $45, 150g $63), Bluefin Tuna Belly (100g $43).

Each Hot Stone Grill set is served with Yuzu Daikon, Spicy Okra (Lady Fingers) and Signature Yuzu Salt Dips.

The Spicy Okra was quite unique on its own, with a crispy and crunchy texture that reminded me of lady finger chips.

As for the meat, the Zabuton Jo-Rosu cut was slightly on the fatty side on the day of visit, which requires more effort in chewing.

Chirashi Kaisen Don ($14.90)
If you are thinking of head during lunch, more casual Japanese food items of Classic Donburi such as Salmon Mentai Don ($14), Chirashi Kaisen Don ($14.90), Unagi Don ($16), Teriyaki Chicken Don ($10); and Yuzu & Mentai Pasta are available.

The Chirashi Kaisen Don ($14.90) comes with an assortment of diced sashimi such as salmon, tuna and swordfish belly marinated with homemade vinaigrette dressing.

Something unique is the addition of tomatoes, corns, edamame, pumpkin slices, spring onions on top of fluffy, white Japanese rice with a light, citrusy and refreshing dressing, adding texture and flavours as a whole.

Garlic Vinaigrette Gyu Don ($16)
Another recommendation is the Garlic Vinaigrette Gyu Don ($16) which comes with Vinaigrette Pumpkin slices which made the combination less “jelak” (rich).

The beef slices were thin and has a tender, soft texture, while the citrusy touch added a refreshing take.

Signature Yuzu Gyoza ($7)
With limited portion a day, the Yuzu Gyoza are handmade by the chef daily before pan-frying, resulting in a crispy, golden brown appearance.

Dip into the ponzu sauce, a citrus-based sauce made using rice wine, rice vinegar, bonito fish flakes, seaweed and yuzu, for additional flavours.

Moffle Ice Cream
“Nan desu ka”? Moffle is the combination of both mochi and waffle, with a crispy edges and chewy texture.

Priced at $2 for the Moffle with Classic ice cream flavours (Single $2.50/ Double $4) such as Vanilla, Chocolate and Cookies & Cream, and Premium ice cream flavours (Single $3.50/ Double $6) such as Matcha Black Sesame and Peppery Kinoko Yuzu.

The Matcha Black Sesame has a strong, earthly and robust taste whereas the Peppery Kinoko Yuzu was pleasantly spicy and refreshing at the same time.

Mizu Shingen Mochi ($6.90)
Shaped just like an upsized agar jelly and known as Japanese Raindrop Cake, this dessert took the internet by storm in 2016 and is constructed mainly using water as the name implies – mizu.

Take a scoop of the Mizu Shingen Mochi and some Kinako Powder (roasted Japanese Soy bean), Kuromitsu syrup (Japanese sugar syrup), Peach Puree or Matcha powder served by its side to enjoy 4 different flavours.

My favourite was the matcha powder with kuromitsu syrup, which gives a combination of sweetness and bitterness.

Signature Yuzu Smoothie ($6.50)
Ice blended using Kito Yuzu, the Yuzu Smoothie is both refreshing and distinctive in yuzu taste.

Unlike other smoothie, the yuzu added was light, fruity and not too filling.

I enjoyed the homemade jelly added into the smoothie which gives it additional textures.

Yuzu Soda ($5.50)
For a lighter drink, the Yuzu Soda is available for extra fizzy sensation.

While it is still starting days for Yuzutei, they managed to have unique offerings with a yuzu-centric menu. I do think they can afford to expand their menu for even more interesting selection, especially in the dessert component.

The shabu shabu soup base, added with yuzu specially air flown from Tokushima Perfecture Japan, makes it a worthy visit.

Yuzutei
100G Pasir Panjang Road #01-01, Singapore 118523 (Nearest MRT: Pasir Panjang)
Tel: +65 9689 4092
Opening Hours: Opening hours: 11.30am – 3pm, 4pm – 10pm (Mon-Fri), 12.30pm – 10pm (Sat), Closed Sun
https://www.facebook.com/yuzuteisg/

* Written by Nicholas Tan @stormscape. This entry is brought to you in partnership with Yuzutei.

The post Yuzutei – 1st Yuzu Specialty Restaurant In Singapore With Yuzu Shabu Shabu & Yuzu Chirashi, At Pasir Panjang appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

Pluck, New Delhi – Garden To Table Modern European and Indian Cuisine, At Pullman Aerocity

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[New Delhi] One of Delhi’s most popular restaurants, Pluck’s pride is its in-house garden that forms the basis of their fresh, contemporary menu.

The casualness of the setting and family-friendly atmosphere adds a sense of childish excitement to the presentations that are delicate and reflect the essence of fine dining.

Situated next to the lobby of Pullman Aerocity, near the International Airport in New Delhi, Pluck has all-day dining options that make it accessible to different kinds of diners.

The restaurant’s claim to fame is its organic garden where many of the ingredients are carefully grown throughout the year.

In addition to this, the chefs at Pluck prefer to work with seasonal ingredients and therefore their menu changes from time to time.

Sophistication oozes from every inch of Pluck.

From the moment the visitor is greeted with a smile at the entrance to the table settings, there is an understated elegance that creates a relaxing and happy atmosphere.

The cleverness of the actual menu is quite intriguing as well. Not only does it come on a tablet, but rather than giving a description of the food, there is a small video that shows the dish during preparation.

The interiors of Pluck consist of subtle colours, beautiful lights that hang from the ceiling, and large open spaces that on a Saturday night seemed vacant, but during their legendary Sunday Brunch must get busy.

Food is the heart and soul of Pluck.

The ingredients are treated with love, and the final creations are nothing short of eatable pieces of art that come laden with exotic flavour profiles and textures.

A must-have at Pluck are their soups which are always “poured” at the table. While the Lobster Bisque (Rs 1000, SGD19.80) was heavenly, rich with lobster butter, the chef was able to give the often-mundane Mulligatawny Soup (Rs 600, SGD11.80) a new life with its de-constructed presentation, modest spiciness, and smooth consistency.

The Trilogy of Lamb (Rs 1400, SGD27.75) was brilliant, showcasing the meat in three different avatars that consisted of a kebab, a lamb chop, and a roulade, each one with a unique set of taste.

Molecular gastronomy plays a vital role in the food served at Pluck, albeit in a less dramatic fashion.

The Golgappa and Caviar (Rs 625, SGD12.40) for example had a tangy dried ginger gastrique, and for dessert, there was the self-explanatory Baked Gulab Jamun Crème Brulee (Rs 600, SGD11.80).

For those who want to explore the entire spectrum of what’s on offer, the degustation menus (starting from Rs 2700, SGD53.50) are an excellent choice and consist of Pluck’s biggest sellers.

The staff at Pluck is amicable, forthcoming, and knowledgeable about the food they serve.

They explain the intricacies of every dish ordered and this minute interaction with the staff makes eating the food all the more exciting.

Pluck is a restaurant with more than just a pretty face. Beyond the fancy façade of the electronic menu and the novelty of the in-house garden is food that is complex and quite simply a festival of flavours and techniques.

Even though many will swear by their Sunday Brunch, I feel Pluck is the place to visit when it is less crowded, time is a friend, and you are in the mood to relish food that is guaranteed to be delectably satisfying.

Pluck
Pullman New Delhi Aerocity, Asset No 02 GMR Hospitality District IGI Airport New Delhi
Tel: 011-46080808
Opening Hours: 6:30am – 11:30pm (Mon – Sun)
https://www.facebook.com/PullmanNewDelhiAerocity
Google Maps – Pluck

Other Related Entries
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The Grammar Room (Mehrauli, New Delhi)
Tian Asian Cuisine Studio (Chanakyapuri, New Delhi)
Diggin (Anand Lok, New Delhi)
Bukhara (ITC Maurya, New Delhi)

Click HERE for other Indian Food Entries

* Written by DFD’s India Correspondent @tickereatstheworld. Raghav is a travel and food writer who enjoys the thrill of discovering new places and writing about them. When he is not working, he can be found driving around his two kids from one birthday party to another.

The post Pluck, New Delhi – Garden To Table Modern European and Indian Cuisine, At Pullman Aerocity appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

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