To be really honest, people around me didn’t really know the existence of Shisen Hanten at Mandarin Orchard until it was awarded 2 Michelin stars.

TWO.

That made it the highest Michelin-rated Chinese restaurant in Singapore for 2 years running.

The win came as a surprise then, as it wasn’t serving the traditionally favourite Cantonese-style dishes available in many high-end hotels here, but Sichuan dishes.

And it had a Japanese name. So there were friends who seriously thought (and still do) this was a sushi restaurant.

A little background: Shisen Hanten is Japan’s best loved chain of Szechwan restaurants. To date, it boasts of 14 branches in six cities across Japan, and debuted in Singapore in 2014 at the 35th floor of Mandarin Orchard Singapore.

This culinary legacy began in 1958 when Chinese immigrant Chen Kenmin, touted as the “Father of Szechwan Cuisine” founded Japan’s first Szechwan restaurant.

His eldest son, Chen Kenichi, a.k.a. “Szechuan Sage” and a celebrated iron chef, carried on the family tradition and expanded the business across Japan. His signature dishes emphasised the 7 basic flavours that give Szechwan food that distinct boldness, namely – sour, pungent, hot, sweet, bitter, aromatic, and salty.

Now in the spotlight and running the show is third-generation Chen Kentaro, the affable Executive Chef of Shisen Hanten by Chen Kentaro.

A rising star in Japan’s culinary scene, he brings to Singapore his grandfather’s vision to promote greater appreciation of Szechuan cuisine through their signature dishes.

In terms of décor, the high-ceilinged dining room is spacious, displaying a stunning array of chandeliers.

With beautiful furnishings and gorgeous warm lighting, the space has that chic and cosy ambiance. Fresh floral arrangements adorn the centre of the dining room.

Drapes on the windows not only add protection from the sun, but drama as well.

Tables are well-spaced to make dining comfortable for its guests, with different sizes to accommodate groups of 4 and up.

Shisen Hanten by Chef Kentaro has a la carte, dim sum, and children’s menus.

Here are Chef Kentaro’s specialties: Shisen Hanten Five Signature Appetisers ($24), Chen’s Mapo Doufu ($26) which is stir-fried tofu in hot Szechuan pepper-flavor meat sauce, Stewed Fish Fillet in Super Spicy Szechwan Chilli Pepper ($32), Chille Spicy Noodle Soup ($22), Sweet and Sour Fried Kurobuta Pork inBlack Vinegar ($38), and Sautéed Szechuan Chilli Peppers and Chicken ($32), and Lobster.

Other Chef’s recommendations include Shisen Hanten Five Signature Appetisers ($24 per pax), Shisen Hanten Signature Steamed Chicken with Sesame Sauce ($26 per pax), Chilled Spicy Steamed Chicken with Cashew Nut ($26 per pax), Szechuan Hot and Sour Seafood Soup ($15 per pax), Foie Gras Chawanmushi with Crab Roe Soup ($36 per pax), and South African 3-Head Jumbo Abalone ($238 per person).

If you’re here for the dim sum, note that it’s only available during lunch. Prices range from $6.50 (Steamed Chicken Feet with Peanut) to $16.00 (Chinese Pancake) per portion.

The stand-out dish was really the “Chen’s Mapo Dofu” ($26) stir-fried tofu in hot Szechwan pepper-flavoured meat sauce served with Hokkaido rice.

Compared to the typical Sichuan version which would be greasy, super spicy and robust, the bowl I had weaved in all the intricate flavours of savoury-spicy, yet being manageable as well.

You would get a kick out of the part-numbing spices, but it wasn’t so much that it distracted from the flavours of the rest of the ingredients.

The other stand-out dish was the Sautéed Chilli Pepper and Chicken ($32) – lightly crispy, succulent meat, not oily, and the chilli providing an addictive-hot sensitive.

Another dish I enjoyed was the Sautéed Seasonal Vegetable with Duo Mushrooms and Truffle ($30), which I would say would be decent Singapore restaurant quality.

Not all were hits, and the recommended Stewed Fish Fillet with Pickled Vegetable served in hot stone pot ($38) was largely forgettable, and Roasted London Duck could do with crispier skin.

The thing about being 2-star Michelin would be a two edged sword: it brings about fame and overseas guests; the other is diners would expect this to be A LOT better than the 1-star ones – which may not be so depending on what you order.

Shishen Hanten (Mandarin Orchard Singapore)
Mandarin Orchard Singapore, Level 35, Orchard Wing, Mandarin Orchard Singapore, 333 Orchard Road, Singapore 238867
Tel: +65 6831 6262/6266
Opening Hours:
Mon – Fri Lunch 12:00 pm – 3:00 pm, Last order 2:30pm (Mon – Fri)
Sat, Sun and PH Lunch
First Seating: 11:00am – 12:45pm (Last order: 12:30pm)
Second Seating: 1:00pm – 2:45pm (Last order: 2:30pm)
Daily
Dinner 6:00pm – 10:00pm (Last order: 9:45pm)

Other Related Entries
10 Best Dim Sum Restaurants In Singapore
Hua Ting Restaurant (Orchard Hotel)
Chef Kang’s (Mackenzie Road)
Swatow City (Singapore Recreation Club)
Crystal Jade Kitchen (Holland Village)

* Follow @DanielFoodDiary on Facebook and Instagram for more food news, food videos and travel highlights. This review was written after two meals – one hosted, one self-paid and visited anonymously.

The post Shisen Hanten by Chef Kentaro – 2 Michelin Starred Sichuan Restaurant At Mandarin Orchard, Go For The Mapo Tofu appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

Vinegar is getting bigger in Singapore. Just keep a lookout on the number of supermarkets and stores selling vinegar from Japan, Korea and Taiwan.

There are also more vinegar specialty drink stores opening up in Singapore, such as True Boss 醋頭家 at Northpoint City and Kakuida’s at Icon Village Tanjong Pagar.

Kakuidas specialises in “Kurozu”, also known as “Japanese Black vinegar” – sometimes called ‘wonder-food’ that has been perfected with 200 years of traditional brewing by kurozu masters since the Edo period (1800s).

It is created by fermenting brown rice, using a traditional process that dates back over 200 years.

Kurozu has a earthy taste as well as dark, caramel brown colour, widely consumed in Japanese for health and beauty reasons.

As for the Kakuida’s brand, it is the second largest kurozu producers in Kagoshima, with a menu in numerous restaurants and periodically served in ANA’s business class.

Over at the Singapore outlet, it offers drinks such as Homemade Kurozu Ice Lemon Tea ($3.90), Pina Colada Fruit Tea with Kurozu Konnyaku ($3.50 / $3.90), Organic Apple Kurozu ($5.50), Honey Ginger Kurozu with Orange Peel ($3.90).

The kiosk with 2 foldable tables outside looked slightly inconspicuous, and you may just walk past without noticing it.

If you need some refreshing drink with vinegar, the recommended ones are Pina Colada Fruit Tea with Kurozu Konnyaku, and Organic Apple Kurozu in which the apples used are Nagano, Japan.

As I am used to drinking other types of vinegar (such as apple cider), I was initially surprised that the drink I had didn’t have that sharp taste, and was more mellow and subtle.

To me, the highlight is the donuts coming in flavours of Original ($1.90), Chocolate ($2.20), Matcha ($2.20) and Sweet Potato ($2.20).

The donuts are made using rice flour imported from Japan, added with kurozu to enhance the flavour.

While I also couldn’t quite taste the vinegar within, I enjoyed its bouncy-soft texture.
Not quite like your American Krispy Kreme or Japanese Haritts Donuts, the sweetness and feel reminded med of a Japanese Castella Cake (not the Taiwanese fluffy kind).

Its Signature Soft-Serve with Genmaicha ($4.50) with “black vinegar” soft-serve paired with a unique topping of roasted brown rice tea, was slightly more forgettable. Perhaps it was because it was slightly too sweet for me.

Kakuida’s
12 Gopeng Street, #01-23 Icon Village, Singapore 078877 (Tanjong Pagar MRT)
Tel: +65 6260 1801
Opening Hours: 8am – 7:30pm (Mon – Fri), 8am – 5pm (Sat), Closed Sun

Other Related Entries
Haritts Donuts ハリッツ (Havelock Road)
Honey Mill (Marina One)
True Boss 醋頭家 (Northpoint City)
Bobii Frutii (Suntec City)
Hollin 赫里 (Toa Payoh)

* 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 Kakuida’s Kurozu – Japanese Vinegar Drink & Donut Shop Opens In Singapore, At Icon Village appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

[Taipei] It will be a travesty to leave Taipei without trying a cup of bubble tea, or maybe more.

Bubble tea… the name itself is refreshing. The flavorful milky drink, the fragrance of the tea leaves, right amount of fruity zest, and those chewy tapioca pearls.

Once upon a time, it would seem weird to find edible balls within a drink, but the Taiwanese have made it possible. It won’t be wrong to call the famous Taiwanese tea the national drink of the country.

Taipei, popular for its delicious street food and vibrant nightlife, has plenty of spots where you can enjoy a cup full of boba.

Here are some of the 10 bubble teas you must try in Taipei:

Chun Shui Tang 春水堂
1B1, No. 9, Songshou Rd., Xinyi Dist, Shinkong Mitsukoshi A9, Taipei
Tel: +886 2 2723 9913
Opening Hours: 11am – 9:30pm (Sun – Thurs), 11am – 10pm (Fri – Sat)

Claiming to be the first ones to create Taiwanese style pearl milk tea, Chun Shui Tang 春水堂 was founded by Liu Han-Chieh.

In early 1980s, he made a visit to Japan and liked the idea of coffee being served cold. When he came back, he decided to serve the traditional Chinese tea in a similar style.

Chun Shui Tang has 13 locations in Taipei alone. I happened to visit the one located in Shinkong Mitsukoshi in Xinyi District. The tea house has a vintage air about it that will make you feel right at home.

Unlike some more modern kiosk, Chun Shui Tea which is literally translated as “Spring Water Hall” retains its Chinese teahouse element and experience, while selling its signature icy cold tea and frothy tea latte.

I opted for the highly recommended Iced Mango Pearl Coconut Milk Tea (TWD125, SGD5.60 for small) that turned out to creamy and sweet with tender pearls.

As for the original Pearl Milk Tea (TWD85, SGD$3.80 for small), personally it was not my favourite but I can imagine why so many people would like this tea. You could taste the high quality tea leaves used, which had a lingering fragrance and pleasant slight-bitter taste.

50 Lan 50嵐
No. 48-4, Xining South Road, Wanhua District, Taipei City, Taiwan 108
Tel: +886 2 2311 5937
Opening Hours: 10am – 10pm (Mon – Sun)

Known as KOI in Singapore and several countries outside of Taiwan, the bubble tea brand is called “50 Lan”.

50 Lan started way back in 1994 as a humble beverage and fruit juice stall which also sells those giant bigger-than-your-face fried chicken cutlets

They have more than 50 branches around, and it is not difficult walk through the city streets to find a branch – with its bright yellow signage with sky blue logo.

The tea place has five categories, namely tea, jelly, milk tea, juice, and latte, through which they whip up numerous combinations. What I liked was the availability of mini-pearls, which made chewing more ‘fun’.

The top drinks are Light Oolong Tea with Bubble & Coconut Jelly (NT$30, 40), Matcha Latte with Big Bubble (NT$50, 60), Tea Macchiato (NT$40, 50), Oolong Milk Tea (NT$40, 50), Tea Latte (NT$50, 60), Light Oolong Milk Tea (NT$40, 50), and Plum & Kumquat Juice (NT$40, 50).

You can often find seasonal specials. All priced affordably.

Share Tea 歇腳亭
No. 11 Nanyang Street, Taipei, Taiwan
Tel: +886 2 2382 5377

As one of the most popular bubble tea brands in Taiwan, Share Tea has more than 90 outlets in the country with a strong base of loyal patrons.

They have been operating since 1992 and according to the tea expert, all their drinks are made from premium quality tea leaves and fresh ingredients.

Some of their branches in more central city areas, have revamped with a more upmarket look (and price). Their bubble tea staff don smart denim uniforms and there are even photo booths to cater to the Instagram generation.

Their recommended drinks include Assam Black Tea (NT$80), Ruby Black Tea (NT$90), Strawberry Mojito (NU$75), Dongding Oolong Tea (NT$75), and Whole Fruit Tea (NT$85).

If you are lost, get the Classical Pearl Milk Tea (NT$65), with the right amount of sweetness, and pearls with the perfect chewy consistency.

Ten Ren 天仁茗茶
No. 570, Sec. 5, Zhongshan N. Rd., Shilin Dist, Taipei, Taiwan
Tel: +886 2 2888 2929

Ten Ren’s Tea is a Taiwan-based company renowned for their tea and ginseng products.

Featuring full length glass doors, minimalist decor with an oriental approach and several tea characters hanging from the ceiling, the tea house follows a cultural theme of ‘peace’.

Signatures include Black/Green Milk Tea with Pearls (NT$50, 60), 913 King’s Oolong Milk Tea (NT$60), Taro Green Milk Tea (NT$70), Dark Oolong Latte (NT$90), and Orange Green Tea (NT$70, 90).

Ten Ren serves tea beverages and deserts prepared from ingredients of high quality. I find that their bubble tea has a particular tea fragrance that is very appealing, and they may not have as many exciting variants as compared to the ‘younger’ brands. Their drinks also taste the ‘healthiest’ and are not too sweet.

Chen San Ding 陳三薡
No. 2, Alley 8, Lane 316, Section 3, Luosifu Road, Zhongzheng District, Taipei City, Taiwan 100
Tel: +886 2 2367 7781
Opening Hours: 1am – 9:30pm (Mon – Sun)

Located a short distance from Gonguan Night Market, Chen San Ding claims to have the best bubble tea in the city. I am certain many do not disagree with that. Have recommended a few readers, and they all gave a thumbs’ up to this.

All right, but you will be surprised to know that Chen San Ding’s bubble tea has no tea in it. It is purely milk-based.

For NT$40 (SGD1.80), you get a cup filled with warm and sweetened boba pearls cooked in brown sugar, caramel, and cold milk with optional ice.

The tapioca pearls are cooked on the spot in brown sugar, giving them the soft texture and lingering sweetened and caramalised taste.

If you are not worried about expanding your waistline, their Ai Yu Glass Jelly, Brown Sugar Glass Jelly, Lemon with Pearls and Green Bean with Pearls are also worth a try.

SOMA 特調飲品
106, Taiwan, Taipei City, Da’an District, Lane 187, Section 1, Dunhua South Road, 23號1樓
Tel: +886 2 2772 6602
Opening Hours: 2 – 6pm, 7pm – 10pm (Mon – Sun)
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/somadrinks

Soma Tea and Mocktails is a relatively new tea brand in Taipei, slightly under-stated and classy, and quietly found itself to fame for bubble tea lovers.

The most convenient branch is at Yong Kang Street. Seats are limited though it would be nice to get a place by the window and sip on the milk tea.

Recommended drinks include Black Sesame (NT$60), White Almond Milk Tea (NT$60), High Mountain Milk Tea (NT$60), Nespresso Milk Tea (NT$90), and SOMA Essentia Milk Tea (NT$90).

Tea leaves used come from Sri Lanka, Taiwan and India.

My Black Sesame & Walnut Milk Tea was rather rich and creamy. I had chosen the smallest size and it left me completely full. I will definitely go back to try some other teas.

Jenjudan 珍煮丹
No.17, Sec. 5, Zhongxiao E. Rd., Xinyi Dist., Taipei
Opening Hours: 10am – 10pm (Mon – Sun)

Located close to MRT City Hall Station, Jenjudan is a must-try if you want a sugar rush.

Jenjudan’s bubble tea is bursting with boba pearls, creamy milk and melted dark brown sugar, a soul-refreshing, fulfilling goodness in a cup.

Based on brown sugar and milk, Jenjudan’s bubble tea was rich and heavy. The pearls were soft and tender, and a stress-reliever to chew on.

Signatures included Black Sugar with Glass Jellyu/Green Bean (NT$35), Black Sugar with Lemon (NT$40), Red Tea with Lemon (NT$45), to Chocolate Latte (NT$50, NT$70).

I tried a couple of cups and found its classic Black Sugar Milk with Pearl (NT$50, 70) the most worthy cup. (Unfortunately, they don’t seem to have an English menu and may pose some difficulty to tourists.)

One thing to keep in mind is that their teas are much more sugary than other places in the city. If you can’t handle too much sweetness, you might want to skip it.

ONE ZO 丸作食茶

丸作 is pronounced as “Wan Zo” and not “Jiu Zo” (九作). Probably the first in the world with live-making process of the pearls, the pearls are made hourly on the spot using all natural ingredients with no artificial flavouring added, right in front of everyone behind the glass panel.

You get different flavours for the pearls, such as Pink Cactus, Black Sesame, Burnt Caramel and White Pearls, and the entire pearl-making process will take about 30-45 minutes.

The Pink Cactus Pearls is said to be made from the pink cactus found in “Penghu” of Taiwan, the Pink Cactus pearls have a slightly citrusy and sourish taste, which goes well with the Fresh Fruit series of drinks.

Tip: They even have Pokémon shaped bubbles (though I am not sure if it is a seasonal special).

Yi Fang Tea 一芳水果茶
No. 13號, Minsheng Street, Ruifang District, New Taipei City, Taiwan 224
Tel: +886 2 2496 8001
Opening Hours: 10am – 9:30pm (Mon – Sun)
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yifangtea

Ideal for fruit lovers and lively personalities, Yi Fang Tea revitalizes you with its array of zesty bubble teas.

The highly popular franchise has various branches all over the world including Canada and Philippines.

This is when you want to take a break from the regular milk tea and delve into a refreshing cup of blissful fruitiness and citrus goodness.

Some of their best beverages are Passion Fruit Green Tea and a personal recommendation would be the Sugar Cane Mountain Tea.

Coco 都可
171, Section 1, Zhongxiao West Road Zhongzheng District | Kuokuang Taipei Bus Stop, Taipei 100, Taiwan
Tel: +886 2 2389 6336
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cocofreshtea.tw

Coco is one of the most popular takeout tea brands in Taiwan with over 2000 franchises worldwide.

Choose any seasonal fruit, add apples, pearls, and coconut jelly, and watch your drink being prepared.

Apart from everyone’s favorite classic bubble tea, I enjoyed the fruity tropical tea with bits of passion fruit and black tea with a whipped salted cream. According to your taste preference, you can adjust sugar and ice levels, and would suggest going for a lower level of sweetness.

Other Related Entries
Chen San Ding 陳三鼎青蛙鮮奶 (Zhongzheng District, Taipei)
Bobii Frutii 珍珠水果特調 (Dunhua South Rd, Taipei)
Chun Shui Tang 春水堂 (Zhongshan, Taipei)
Mr R Drinks 雨田先生手冲饮品吧 (Zhongxiao East Road, Taipei)

* 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 Bubble Teas In Taipei – 50 Lan, Chen San Ding, Chun Shui Tang And Other Boba Tea Goodness appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

There are new cafés in Singapore that get into the lime-light easily, a combination of playing the right marketing card and having that “instagrammable” effect.
However, there are others that go completely under the radar. (I suppose that is partly the ‘job’ of food bloggers, to introduce these less-mentioned places.)

Lowe’f which specialises in artisanal sandwiches, pastries and coffee is one of them.

The bakery cafe is located at Queen Street Singapore, a short walk from Bras Basah MRT and Art Museum.

However, it is slightly inconspicuous and so there is always a likelihood of people walking past without taking notice.

The name “Lowe’f” may not be easiest to remember, and I am not entirely sure how to pronounce it.

Turns out that it is named after the owner Don Lowe, who is of mixed heritage of ranging from English, Scottish, and Burmese.

An apostrophe `f’ is added to the end of his surname to allow it to sound like “loaf”, to represent his passion for baking.

The menu certainly looks promising. Recommend items include Citrus Cerviche Salmon, Avocado & Ikura ($15); Queen St Chicken Sandwich added with Don’s mom’s Hainanese chilli sauce ($14); Good Morning Burger ($7.5) – brioche burger bun, cage free scrambled eggs, UK aged orange cheddar, pickled shallots & coffee mayo; Lowe’f Big Brekkie ($14) which includes brioche pullman, egg confit, roasted cherry tomatoes, edamame, bacon, brown button mushrooms and choice of spicy pork sausage or smoked beef sausage.

Some of their bakes rotate, and I had the Cawa-Banga Mango Roll and Lowe’f Toast.

The former had a delicious fluffy texture matched with soft-tangy sweetness; while the other had a likeable chewy texture.

Good to know: they choose to use sourdough starters for their breads, with a higher percentage of whole wheat where they can.

There is a little homely feel to this space. The only thing I found slightly disjointed was their interior, there were some parts which fitted in with their easy-Latin music, while another section was more ‘functional’.

Am likely to head back to try out more of their bakes.

Lowe’f Artisanal Sandwiches. Pastries. Coffee
1 Queen Street Singapore 188534 (Bras Basah MRT Exit A)
Tel: +65 87674859
Opening Hours: 8am – 6pm (Mon – Fri), 8:30am – 6pm (Sat), Closed Sun

Other Related Entries
Belle-Ville (Bugis Junction)
Nouveau Cafe (Hong Leong Building)
Graze by The Backyard Bakers (West Coast)
Prodigal Café (Tai Seng)
Bearded Bella (Craig Road)

* 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 Lowe’f – Hidden Artisanal Sandwich & Pastries Cafe With Delicious Bakes, At Queens Street appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

Serangoon Garden has always been known for its famous hawker food stalls at Chomp Chomp, easy-going cafes and family-style restaurants.

myVillage which lies in the heart of Serangoon Gardens, also contains several dining options – a number of restaurants and cafes not found anywhere else. (I also discovered a hidden shop that sells all the old-school snacks that you may be looking for.)

(Click PLAY for video highlights of myVillage at Serangoon Garden.)

The mall marries light-hearted nostalgia and modern convenience, a place you can buy daily essentials, pamper yourself, relax and unwind, and of course, eat.

At myVillage, you don’t just eat – you get the most out of your meal, please your palate, and satiate your appetite.

Here are 8 FOOD Places to check out at myVillage at Serangoon Garden:

(Click PLAY for video highlights of Staple Food by Krazbikes.))

Staple Food by Krazbikes
1 Maju Avenue, #B1-23/24, myVillage @ Serangoon Garden, Singapore 556679
Tel: +65 6634 1181
Opening Hours: 11am – 10pm (Mon – Fri), 8am – 10pm (Sat, Sun, PH)

Wanna know what’s the staple at Staple Food? Fresh, wholesome ingredients made accessible for everyone.

Found at the basement of myVillage, Staple Food by Krazbikes was born out of love for healthy food that tastes great. This translates to the extra care they put in sourcing and preparing the food.

Some of the healthier choices available include Cajun Chicken Salad ($9.80); Smoked Salmon Salad ($10.80); and House Smoothie Bowls of Greek Yogurt ($12) and Acai Bowl served with house granalo, banana, strawberries and other toppings such as goji berries and chia seeds. Can’t say “No” to them.

If you are aiming for a more indulgent treat, there are also other mains and pastas dishes such as Salted Egg Yolk Soft Shell Crab Pasta ($16.80); Pan-Seared Salmon ($18.80); or Breaded Chicken Picatta ($16.80) – served with seasonal vegetables, and base of brown rice, soba noodles or sweet potato fries.

Craft Your Own Bowl
Feeling creative? Then Craft Your Own Bowl ($14.80, regular) is for you. Get a base, 4 toppings, a dressing and wholesome protein such as grilled chicken. Quite a substantial meal for the price.

Gu Thai Noodle Café
1 Maju Ave, #B1-25, myVillage @ Serangoon Gardens, Singapore 556679
Tel: +65 8338 5562
Opening Hours: 11am – 11pm Daily; Last Order 9:30pm

From the team behind Noodle Cafe at Golden Mile, Gu Thai Noodle Cafe is a winner in the comfort department.

With Thai-style warm noodle, soups, side dishes and desserts, it is the go-to place for value-for-money dishes that satisfy the hungriest of tummies (except if you are ordering just ONE Thai Boat Noodles).

Try any of their authentic Thai Boat Noodles with that distinct galangal-tasting broth. Affordable and flavourful, the Boat Noodle Soup (Small, $1.90; Large $7.50) is available with pork or beef. You can pick from any of the 5 types of noodles and 4 spice levels.

Out of the 4 spiciness levels, I would recommend the “less spicy” which was pretty manageable with a peppery spicy kick. The soup was clear and light, which pretty much went well with the rice noodles.

Other signature dishes include the Braised Pork Noodles ($8.50), Braised Beef Tendon Noodles ($8.50), and Tom Yum River Prawn Noodle ($8.50)

Duck Noodles
While the Gu Thai’s Duck Noodles ($8.50) looked like it had the same broth as the Thai Boat Noodles (the colour, the aroma), the flavours were actually more layered with some sweetness and nuttiness. The braised duck was sufficiently tender.

SIMPLEburger Inc.
1 Maju Avenue #B1-21/22, myVillage @Serangoon Garden, Singapore 556679
Tel: +65 6634 2526
Opening Hours: 10am – 10pm Daily

Imagine a hot-off-the-griddle tasty succulent patty from the finest cut of meat. Lay it on a bed of soft, warm, caramelized bun.

Next, a thick and creamy slice of cheese melts and oozes on top. Deck it with all-you-can-have fresh, cool, crisp veggies.

Fresh, tasty… SIMPLE.

If you are one of those who is hungry-on-the-run, then SIMPLEburger Inc. is your quick, accessible fix.

The menu is so simple it features only 4 types of burgers: Beef Natural ($11.00), Beef ($9.00), Pork ($9.00), and Chicken ($8.00). Similarly, there are 4 milkshake flavors ($3.00 for vanilla, $4.00 for banana, cocoa, and berry).

Assemble-Your-Own-Burger
Assemble your own burger-and-shake combo with a pork patty, plus your choice of add-ons: chopped iceberg lettuce, olives, peppers, tomatoes, pickles, salsa, spinach, beetroot, coleslaw, onions, and bacon.

The buns were pillow-soft, wrapping around rather juicy patty. To be honest, a pretty-awesome burger.

Plus it is not big or chunky, good as a grab-and-go lunch.

Hajime Tonkatsu & Ramen
1 Maju Avenue, #02-07/8/9, myVillage @ Serangoon Garden, Singapore 556679
Tel: +65 6509 9952
Opening Hours: Lunch 11:30am – 3pm (Daily),
Dinner 6pm-10pm (Mon-Fri), 5pm-10pm (Sat, Sun & PH); Last order 9:30pm

Owner Chef Tan-San started Hajime Tonkatsu & Ramen out of his passion for Japanese cuisine.

Hajime is Japanese for “beginning” and the short form for “Hajimemashite” which means “Nice to meet you!”.

He is Singapore’s first Tonkatsu Chef after mastering the art of Tonkatsu in Japan. He returned to Singapore to lead the kitchen of Tonkichi and later on became the Pioneer Chef of the famous Tampopo.

Experience his 25-year culinary mastership through signature dishes at affordable prices, like the exquisitely juicy and tender Premium Pork Loin ($21.90nett) using air-flown Japanese pork.

It is coated with freshly made breadcrumbs for that extra crunch, served with miso sauce from Nagoya and some finely shredded refreshing cabbage. Each order comes with a bowl of Niigata rice, Tonjiru soup, and ground roasted sesame.

Want more iconic dishes? Check out the Nagoya Miso Fillet ($19.50 nett), Ebi Fry Ramen ($16.90 nett) and Katsu Don ($13.90 nett).

Ebi Fry Ramen
A one-of-a-kind ramen developed and perfected after months of R&D.

Its 12-hour Tonkotsu broth is infused with a secret Sakura ebi paste made in-house. Paired with a flavourful Loin Rib Chasu and Chef Tan-San’s famous crunchy Ebi Fry, it is topped with Japanese seasoning menma, bean sprouts, greens, a dash of Japanese chili oil (la-yu), and a sprinkle of crispy Sakura ebi.

The soup which that distinct sweetness coming from the prawns, is the clear winner.

iSTEAKS Diner
1 Maju Avenue #02-03/04/05/06, myVillage @ Serangoon Garden, Singapore 556679
Tel: +65 6285 8839
Opening Hours: 11am – 11pm (Sun – Thu & PH), 11am – Midnight (Fri – Sat & Eve of PH)

If you are looking for steakhouse quality food at an affordable price, iSTEAKS Diner at myVillage is known for its no-frills Western fare.

This restaurant started from modest beginnings at a coffee shop in Serangoon. Little by little, it invested time and dedication to hone and perfect the craft of cooking steaks. Satisfied customers grew in numbers.

Eventually, it moved into a bigger space but made sure it kept its original warm service and familiar environment.

You will find in their menu a selection of steaks in various cuts and quality, and all meats are sourced from some of the finest butcheries in town.

It is not just steaks. There are soups and complementary dishes all made from scratch – freshness is something that’s taken seriously around here.

Steak House Cut
Steak House cuts available in 350g & 450g, with more than 30mm thickness.

If not, reward yourself with a special Australian Tenderloin ($45.50 for 250g) that’s 150 days and Grain Fed. If you are dining with a group, order the Australian Wagyu D-Rump ms4/5 ($99.00 for 1.2kg) good for 4. The 250g cut New Zealand Ribeye ($23.50), brimming with flavor, is another popular choice. For poultry, try the Mushroom Chicken ($10.00).

All iSTEAK grill specialties come with 2 complementary sides, from mashed potato, crunchy potato salad, baked olive rice, macaroni & cheese, coleslaw salad, and onion rings. I would recommend the country baked beans and buttered corn kernel.

Maison Kayser
1 Maju Avenue, #01-26/27/28, myVillage @ Serangoon Garden, Singapore 556679
Tel. +65 6509 8184
Opening Hours: 7:30am – 9:30pm Daily

Maison Kayser, founded by Eric Kayser in 1996, is a contemporary artisanal bakery that follows French tradition.

His bakeries are located all over the world, with one branch luring bread-lovers to myVillage. He has created new bakery concepts like corner shops, retail bakeries, bakery-café, and restaurant du Boulanger.

Here you will find handmade bread baked in-house daily, early in the morning. What makes the bread special is the use of natural leaven and selected flours. The dough patiently undergoes a long fermentation process, resting for 12 hours before baking. It is this technique that keeps the bread in utmost quality days after days.

Known for their artisanal crusty bread like Sourdough ($14.90) and Baguette ($4.00). Aside from bread, it offers viennoiseries (get the classic Croissant for $3.00), pastries, and sandwiches ($9.00).

Lemon Tart And Chocolate Éclair
Whether you prefer the tang of Lemon Tart ($6.00) or the sweetness of Chocolate Éclair ($5.50) – of spongy pâte à choux with smooth cream in the centre, you can be sure each is a Maison Kayser must-try signature item.

Its tarte au citron is great who loves a moderately zesty version, with softness and sweetness coming from the piped meringue.

Little Wimbly Lu
1 Maju Ave, #01-09/10, myVillage @ Serangoon Garden, Singapore 556679
Opening Hours: 11am – 11pm (Sun – Thurs), 11am – 12mn (Fri – Sat)
Last order 30mins before closing

This quaint café Little Wimbly Lu serves up cakes, waffles and ice cream, all made in-house in small batches.

Not only will you satisfy your saccharine cravings, you are sure to get them fresh.

The signature dessert café hoppers come for is the Waffles with Ice Cream ($7.50). For cakes, the Lemon Meringue Pie ($7.50), Speculoos Cake and Rootbeer Cake ($6.40 each) won’t disappoint.

Waffles + A Scoop of Ice Cream
Crisp-on-the-outside, fluffy-on-the-inside homemade waffles, topped with house-made ice cream – get the chocolate truffle flavour. The enjoyment factor of this dish is high.

Hang around with your friends, chit chat over freshly brewed cups of cappuccino and desserts of your choice.

Cleanse Juice Bar
1 Maju Avenue #01-08, myVillage @ Serangoon Garden, Singapore 556679
Tel: +65 9721 1321
Opening Hours: 11am – 9pm Daily

A quaint juice bar that specializes in fresh cold-pressed juices, detox cleanses, smoothies, and milkshakes.

Everything here is made fresh upon order and caters to those with busy lifestyles.

Try their signature juices like Krypto ($8.90 for 320ml), a combination of green apple, romaine, spinach, cucumber, lemon, and parsley, and Barnie ($8.90 for 320ml) which blends beet, carrot, apple, lemon, and ginger.

If you are looking for a juice cleanse place, they offer a 1-Day Basic Cleanse ($65.00) which comes with 8 assorted 320ml bottles of juice.

Or a Reboot Cleanse ($90 per day, with 8 assorted bottles) – a greener cleanse with reduced sweetness and calories.

Old School Snacks
This may sound entirely random, but Cleanse Juice Bar also offers shelves and shelves of old-school snacks and toys.

For those of you who grew up in the same era as me (*cough, cough*), this is where you can find your Kaka Corn Snack, Pop Pop, Pola Snack, and Ding Dang Chocolates. Don’t say #bojio.

myVillage at Serangoon Gardens is located at 1 Maju Avenue Singapore 556679, a short walk away from Chomp Chomp Food Centre.

To get here, simply take bus 73, 136, 315 or 317.

Or if you work nearby, go for the Lunch Shuttle Service AMK Industrial Park 2 Route (from ST Microelectronics, North Star, Seagate, to myVillage). Available every 15 minutes from 11:45 am to 2:40 pm, Monday to Friday only (excluding Public Holidays).

For those driving, enjoy free valet service every Friday evening from 6 pm to 10.30 pm and weekends and Public Holidays from 10 am to 10.30 pm. (First 1 hour: $ 2.00* incl. GST)

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

The post myVillage at Serangoon Garden – Assemble Your Own Burger, Enjoy Tonkatsu And Find Old School Snacks appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

50 eateries from Singapore have made it to the Michelin Bib Gourmand for 2018, that is a huge increase from 38 the previous year.

17 food places are first-timers into the list.

Not to be confused with the actual Michelin Guide which awards “stars”, the Bib Gourmand guide highlights restaurants offering “exceptional good food at moderate prices”, and about half in that list in Singapore are hawker stalls.

They must offer menu items priced below a maximum determined by local economic standards. In Singapore’s guide, the price is set at $45.

The surprises:
– Two restaurants made it to the list: They are Muthu’s Curry famous for its fish head curry, and The Coconut Club for Nasi Lemak. If PM Lee supported it, the chances are pretty high, yah?

– Hawker represents (especially my favourite ABC Brickworks Food Centre).

Some older hawker stalls such as Lao Fu Zi Fried Kway Teow at Old Airport Road Food Centre, Outram Park Fried Kway Teow Mee from Hong Lim Market & Food Centre, and Tiong Bahru Yi Sheng Fried Hokkien Prawn Mee finally get the Bib Gourmand nod. (But you know what it means… the queue will be much, much longer from now.)

– During its first year, the Bib Gourmand list was criticized for being “too central”. Shi Wei Da from Fengshan Market and Food Centre, and Chuan Kee Boneless Braised Duck Ghim Moh Market & Food Centre (only one stall from Ghim Moh made it?) show that the list is (slightly) more inclusive.

– A number of ‘regulars’ have fallen off the chart. They include Liang Zhao Ji 梁照記, Peony Jade, Shish Mahal Restaurant, and 328 Katong Laksa. No shocker for the last, I suppose?

– Last year’s new-comer Tsuta Ramen is also off the list. (Of course it is still possible to get a star the next week.)

50 eateries from Singapore awarded the Michelin Bib Gourmand 2018 (blue hyperlink indicates previously written reviews)
1. A Noodle Story 超好面 – Amoy Street Food Centre
Hawker Stall: Singapore-style ramen

2. Alliance Seafood 联合海鲜烧烤 – Newton Food Centre
Hawker Stall: Crabs and Seafood dishes

3. Ah Er Soup 阿2老火汤 – ABC Brickworks Food Centre
Hawker Stall: Chinese Herbal Soups

4. Balestier Road Hoover Rojak 豪华罗杂 – 90 Whampoa Dr, Whampoa Makan Place
Hawker Stall: Rojak (a type of local fruit and vegetable ‘salad’)

5. Bar-Roque Grill – 165 Tanjong Pagar Road
Restaurant: French-influenced modern rotisserie

6. Bismillah Biryani – 50 Dunlop Street
Restaurant: Biryani and Kebabs

7. Chai Chuan Tou Yang Rou Tang – Bukit Merah View Food Centre (NEW)
Hawker Stall: Mutton Soup

8. Chey Sua Carrot Cake 青山菜头粿 – 127 Lor 1 Toa Payoh
Hawker Stall: Fried Carrot Cake

9. Chuan Kee Boneless Braised Duck – Ghim Moh Market & Food Centre (NEW)
Hawker Stall: Braised Duck Rice

10. Depot Road Zhen Shan Mei Claypot Laksa 德普路真善美驰名砂煲叻沙 – Alexandra Village
Hawker Stall: Claypot Laksa

11. Eminent Frog Porridge and Seafood – Geylang Road Lor 19 (NEW)

12. Famous Sungei Road Trishaw Laksa 驰名结霜桥三轮车叻沙 – Hong Lim Food Centre
Hawker Stall: Laksa and Mee Siam

13. Fresh Taste Big Prawn Noodle – Zion Riverside Food Centre (NEW)
Hawker Stall: Prawn Noodles

14. Heng – Newton Food Centre (NEW)

15. Hong Heng Fried Sotong Prawn Mee 鸿兴炒苏东虾麵 – Tiong Bahru Food
Hawker Stall: Fried Hokkien noodles

16. Hong Kee Beef Noodle 桐记牛肉粿条 – Amoy Street Food Centre
Hawker Stall: Hainanese Beef Noodles

17. Hong Kong Yummy Soup – Alexandra Village Food Centre (NEW)
Hawker Stall: Double Boiled Soups

18. Hoo Kee Bak Chang 和记肉粽 – Amoy Street Food Centre
Hawker Stall: Rice Dumplings

19. J2 Famous Crispy Curry Puff 驰名香脆咖喱卜 – Amoy Street Food Centre
Hawker Stall: Curry and Sardine Puffs

20. Ka-Soh Restaurant 家嫂 – 2 College Road
Restaurant: Fish Soup Noodles and other Chinese dishes

21. Kok Sen Restaurant 国成球记餐室 – 30 Keong Saik Road
Restaurant (non-aircon): Zhi Char or wok-fried dishes

22. Lagnaa – 6 Upper Dickson Road
Restaurant: South and North Indian cuisines

23. Lao Fu Zi Fried Kway Teow – Old Airport Road Food Centre (NEW)

24. Lian He Ben Ji Claypot Rice – Chinatown Complex (NEW)

25. Liao Fan Hawker Chan (78 Smith Street) 了凡香港油鸡饭.面 – 78 Smith Street
Eatery: Hong Kong style Soy Chicken Rice and Noodles

26. Man Man Japanese Unagi Restaurant 鳗満 – 1 Keong Saik Road
Restaurant: Unagi specialty dishes

27. Muthu’s Curry – Little India (NEW)

28. Na Na Homemade Curry (Bukit Merah) 南南家咖哩 – 115 Bukit Merah View Market & Food Centre
Hawker Stall: Fish Head Curry, Pork Rib Curry and Mutton Curry

29. New Lucky Claypot Rice 新鸿运瓦煲饭 – 44 Holland Drive
Hawker stall: Claypot Rice

30. New Ubin Seafood 新乌敏海鲜 – 63 Hillview Avenue
Restaurant: Zhi Char or wok-fried dishes

31. Outram Park Fried Kway Teow Mee – Hong Lim Market & Food Centre

32. Rolina Traditional Hainanese Curry Puff – Tanjong Pagar
Hawker Stall: Curry Puff

33. Shi Hui Yuan 实惠园 – 159 Mei Chin Road
Hawker Stall: Ipoh style Hor Fun

34. Shi Wei Da – Fengshan Market and Food Centre (NEW)
Hawker Stall: Teochew Porridge

35. Sik Bao Sin (Desmond’s Creation) – 592 Geylang Road (NEW)
Restaurant: Cantonese Dishes

36. Sin Huat Eating House 新发餐厅 – 659 Lorong 35 Geylang
Eatery: Crabs and seafood dishes

37. Sin Kee Famous Cantonese Chicken Rice – Holland Drive
Hawker Stall: Hainanese Chicken Rice

38. Song Fa Bak Kut Teh (New Bridge Road) 松发肉骨茶(新桥路) – 11 New Bridge Road
Eatery: Pork-Rib Soup

39. Tai Wah Pork Noodle – Hong Lim Market & Food Centre (NEW)
Hawker stall: Minced Pork Noodles (Bak Chor Mee)

40. The Blue Ginger – 97 Tanjong Pagar Road
Restaurant: Peranakan food

41. The Coconut Club – Ann Siang (NEW)
Restaurant: Nasi Lemak

42. Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice 天天海南鸡饭 – Maxwell Food Center
Hawker Stall: Hainanese Chicken Rice

43. Tiong Bahru Hainanese Boneless Chicken Rice 中峇鲁海南起骨鸡饭 – Tiong Bahru Food Centre
Hawker Stall: Hainanese Chicken Rice

44. Tiong Bahru Yi Sheng Fried Hokkien Prawn Mee – ABC Brickworks Food Centre (NEW)
Hawker Stall: Fried Hokkien Mee

45. Shirokane Tori-Tama 酉玉白金 – 11 Unity Street
Restaurant: Japanese Yakitori (skewers)

46. True Blue Cuisine – 47/49 Armenian Street
Restaurant: Peranakan food

47. Whole Earth 环界 – 76 Peck Seah Street
Restaurant: Vegetarian cuisine

48. Yhingthai Palace 银泰 – 36 Purvis Street
Restaurant: Thai cuisine

49. Zaffron Kitchen (East Coast) – 137 East Coast Road
Restaurant: Modern Indian cuisine

50. Zai Shun Curry Fish Head 载顺咖喱鱼头 – 253 Jurong East Street 24 #01-205
Coffee Shop Stall: Teochew Porridge, Curry Fish Head and Steamed Fish

The official date for the launch of Singapore’s 3rd MICHELIN guide will be on 25th July 2017.

With high profile restaurants such as Restaurant Andre, Joël Robuchon Restaurant, and L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon out of the picture, there will be some excitement on whether Singapore will get a 3-starred restaurant this year.

Stay tuned.

Read: DFD Singapore Michelin Bib Gourmand Reviews

Other Related Entries
Singapore Michelin Guide 2017 – The Results
Singapore Michelin Guide 2016 – The Results
20 Michelin Bib Gourmand “Street Food” In Singapore
10 Singapore Food Bloggers And Their Fav Hawker Food
10 Must Try Zi Char Places In Singapore

* Follow @DanielFoodDiary on Facebook and Instagram for more food news, food videos and travel highlights.

The post Michelin Bib Gourmand Singapore 2018 FULL LIST – Lao Fu Zi Fried Kway Teow, Zion Road Prawn Noodles, The Coconut Club Get Into The List appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

One of Taiwan’s leading tea chain TenRen’s Tea 天仁茗茶 is coming to Singapore, and opening its first Singapore retail outlet at ChinaTown Point. (Also read: 10 Must-Try Bubble Teas In Taipei)

The opening date is set to be Saturday, 28 July 2018.

The 800-square feet store at ChinaTown Point will offer bubble tea, traditional tea drinks, as well as tea leaves, snacks and teaware.

Customers can have the choice of grab-and-go ready-made drinks or a leisurely cuppa over snacks.

One of the largest tea retailers in the world, TenRen was founded in 1953 and now operates over 2,000 stores including 1,200 in China under the Tenfu brand, as well as in Macau, Hong Kong, Vietnam, the Philippines, Indonesia, Australia and North America.

Although traditional tea is its mainstay, the group has in recent years made its mark in bubble tea in Taiwan, the birthplace of boba.

This is one of the brands I often see in Taipei. Like you see in EVERYWHERE. (For friends in Hong Kong, it is also that bubble tea shop found within the famous Eslite bookstore at Hysan Place, Causeway Bay.)

Over there, signatures include Black/Green Milk Tea with Pearls (NT$50, 60), 913 King’s Oolong Milk Tea (NT$60), Taro Green Milk Tea (NT$70), Dark Oolong Latte (NT$90), and Orange Green Tea (NT$70, 90).

I find that their bubble tea has a particular tea fragrance that is very appealing, though they may not have as many exciting variants as compared to the ‘younger’ brands. Their drinks also taste the ‘healthiest’ and are not too sweet.

TenRen Tea aims to open up to 30 outlets across Singapore in the next three years. We shall see.

TenRen Tea Singapore
Chinatown Point #01-07, 133 New Bridge Road Singapore 059413 (opposite McDonalds)

Other Related Entries
True Boss 醋頭家 (Northpoint City)
Bobii Frutii (Suntec City)
Hollin 赫里 (Toa Payoh)
Chu Tang Singapore 初堂 (Duo Galleria)
TP-Tea 茶湯會 (Changi Airport)

The post TenRen Tea 天仁茗茶 – Famous Taiwan Bubble Tea Chain Opening In Singapore, At Chinatown Point appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

Truly a Durian Paradise, with all-you-can-eat durian dishes at one single restaurant.

Back by popular demand, PARKROYAL on Pickering is bringing back their durian fiesta buffet, aptly named “Thorny Temptations” to Lime Restaurant.

This only lasts for a limited period of 4 weeks, from 27 July (Friday) to 26 August (Thursday), during dinner time between 6.30pm and 10.30pm.

(Hint: Come in a group of 4 adults and more, and you can enjoy 10% savings off the bill valid from Mondays to Thursdays.)

The kitchen team at PARKROYAL on Pickering’s Lime Restaurant helmed by Executive Chef Yap Wai Lunn, continues to expand their creativity with a more extensive selection of durian savouries.

In a theme that leads nicely up to Singapore’s National Day, the dishes are locally inspired, some with South-East Asian flavours, incorporated with premium Mao Shan Wang (Musang King).

It is not just about the sweets such as Durian Pengat and Durian Cakes – you get to experience some creations that are spicy and savoury. Serious.

Do not bat an eyelid if you see dishes such as Baked Durian Nasi Lemak, Durian Curry Chicken, Salted Egg Popcorn Chicken to a Korean-inspired favourite of Spicy Durian Rice Cake.

Curious for more? Here are some of the 12 special DURIAN dishes found at “Thorny Temptations”:

Baked Durian Nasi Lemak
Step aside, Nasi Lemak Burger.

While it is all in trend last year, the marriage between our local delight and the King of fruits sounds both fascinating and weird.

To be honest, I was initially quite skeptical and found it hard to imagine what it would be like.

However, it surprisingly turned out to be the table’s favourite dish among all other new creations. You would taste the distinctive and aromatic sambal chilli on the first mouthful, coupled with fragrant coconut rice with saltiness and crunch from the fried ikan bills and peanuts.

Topped with a layer of baked durian, that added more complexity to the dish with a layer of sweetness and creaminess, which helped balance out the spiciness.

The one dish that I can finish eating an entire portion on my own.

Spicy Durian Rice Cake
Annyeonghaseyo as I also wondered how this Singapore and Korea ‘love story’ would turn out to be.

The fusion of durian with Korean rice cake (tteokbokki) sounds like a mis-match, like a Korean guy falling in love with a Singaporean girl who doesn’t understand the language at all.

Traditionally, Korean rice cake is stir-fried in gochujang sauce, resulting in hot and spicy flavours.

Upon incorporating Mao Shan Wang durian in it, the sauce turned out to be creamier, aromatic (or pungent as some may say) with slight sweetness in it.

The enjoyment kicked in after you overcome the barrier, you could be enticed by the lingering fragrance and interesting texture that would make you go, ”Chuwahaeyo”!

Durian Salted Egg Popcorn Chicken
It can be difficult to resist the temptation of deep fried popcorn chicken, soaked in salted egg batter with chili padi and curry leaves.

Trust me, once you start popping in these crunchy, bite-sized popcorn chicken into your mouth, it is hard to stop.

This Chinese tze-char style dish turned out to be sweet and creamy with Mao Shan Wang incorporated, with grainy texture on the surface as only real salted egg was used.

Durian Curry Chicken
When Curry is mixed with Durian, a potent and “heaty” dish, bursting with flavours come into mind.

The combination did sound a bit unbelievable, but surprisingly, the spicy gravy went quite well with durian, which gave it a subtle sweetness and extra creaminess in texture.

The balance was also just right, without one flavour overpowering the other.

With fried mantou offered as its sides, dip it in like what you would usually do with Chili crab, and wipe the gravy clean.

Wok-Fried Kung Pao Pork Belly with Durian
This is one dish with minimal level of spiciness – the Kung Pao Pork Belly came with some wok-hei-ness added with a savoury kick.

The creamy durian was infused within the Kung Pao sauces, mixed with tender and chewy meat that would go really well with a bowl of fragrant white rice.

Durian Pizza
The thin crust pizza is baked with durian toppings, sprinkled with ‘Asian’ ingredients such as spring onion and shallots.

The fried shallots and spring onions included an interesting twist to the otherwise sweet combination of Durian Pizza, with a tinge of savouriness and crunch.

The slice of cucumber though seemed out of place, but it definitely relieved some of the “jelak-ness” (richness) of a durian pizza.

Spicy Shepherd’s Pie with Durian
A meat pie topped with a layer of mashed potato and durian, then baked in an oven complete with oozy fillings.

Vegetables and Citrus Quinoa with Durian Mousse
A vegetarian and lighter option with lettuce, tomatoes, olives, long beans and spring onions with a tinge of citrus-ness.

The durian flavour is subtle on this one.

Durian Wild Rice and Chicken Salad
Packed with diced chicken for the additional protein, this is a lighter alternative for those who wish to save some stomach space for the whole durians at the pop-up durian stall.

Durian with Avocado Puree and Sago
Encased within the cute little glass bottles are avocado puree with durian pulp and sago, remind me of Hong Kong’s signature mango pomelo dessert.

Smooth, light and creamy, this dessert has the lightest, faint durian flavour. (When you want a bit, and not too much.)

Durian Mousse with Gula Melaka Cream
Soft, pillowy and fluffy cake with layers of local flavours such as durian mousse and gula melaka cream.

Durian Pengat
The dessert closest to the real fruit, oh that smooth and creamy texture.

Pop-up Durian Stall
If you are a legit durian fanatic, you are in for a treat at the traditional pop-up stall happening between 7pm and 9pm.

Select from a variety of durian species on display as the culinary team opens the whole fruit before your very eyes and fill up the space with the aromatic durian fragrance that true durian lovers will appreciate.

The pop-up Durian stall is located just OUTSIDE the restaurant, so that diners can enjoy the various durian species on display, without worrying about the smell reaching inside.

Thorny Temptations
Dates: Available 27 July to 26 August 2018 (Daily)
Timing: 6.30pm – 10.30pm
Pricing: SGD98++ per adult inclusive of free flow coffee and tea
SGD49++ per child between 4 and 12 years old (Children aged 3 years old and below dine for free)

Promotion for Groups of 4
Enjoy 10% savings on the total bill when you dine in a group of four or more (Valid from Monday to Thursday). Or earn 2mpd when you pay with Mileslife.

Lime Restaurant
PARKROYAL on Pickering, 3 Upper Pickering Street, Singapore 058289
Tel: +65 6809 8899
Email: lime.prsps@parkroyalhotels.com
“Thorny Temptations” is available from 27 July to 26 August 2018, between 6:30pm and 10:30pm

For more information, head over to: http://bit.ly/thorny-temptations-durian-buffet

* This entry is brought to you in partnership with PARKROYAL on Pickering.

The post Lime – The Durian Buffet With Baked Durian Nasi Lemak, Durian Curry And Unlimited Durians, At PARKROYAL On Pickering appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

Singapore’s popular All-You-Can-Eat Korean Tteokbokki Restaurant Dookki has opened a NEW outlet at Clementi Mall.

The Korean buffet restaurant which has been attracting long queues at Suntec City, is known for its fun and sumptuous dining concept, which incorporates both Tteokkbokki Hotpot and Kimchi Fried Rice.

(Click PLAY for video highlights of Dookki Korean Tteokbokki Hotpot Buffet.)

Prices remain unbeatably affordable, at $18.80++ for adults and $10.80++ for children.

If you are a first-timer at this restaurant, you may get slightly confused at how the whole process works.

Do not worry as their friendly staff will take you through the process from mixing the sauce for their Tteokbokki pot, to transiting into the 2nd meal of Kimchi Fried Rice.

Heading down for a meal? Here are 10 things about Dookki:

1. More than 140 stores worldwide
First opened in Korea in December 2014, Dookki has more than 100 stores worldwide.

Its first outlet at Suntec City Mall East Wing B1-107 is considered Singapore’s very first Tteokbokki-specialty buffet restaurant – you would have seen the queues during peak hours; while its 2nd branch has just opened at Clementi Mall B1-30/31.

Now you know.

2. Dookki means “Two Meals” in Korean
The first meal of “Tteokbokki” begins with the Korean rice cakes along with other ingredients, to your desired level of spiciness.

The second meal is the cooking of Kimchi Fried Rice, in which you add other ingredients such as Kimchi, Seaweed, Sweet Corn, Steamed Rice and other items (which change from time to time) to the remaining sauces.

2. 8 types of Tteok (Rice Cake)
Tteokbokki means “stir-fried rice cake”, is a quintessential Korean dish which comes in many variations and has a rich history.

Dookki offers eight types of Tteok (rice cake) consisting of rice cake with sweet potato, cheese and pumpkin fillings, long shaped flour cake, potato sujebi (hand-pulled dough) , special shaped (such as heart and flower) , hollow and slim rice cake.

All the rice cakes used are air-flown from Korea.

I say go for the purple-coloured Sweet Potato which had a sweet centre, surrounded by soft and chewy rice cake. The cheese-filled ones are a favourite with children.

4. Unlimited supply of ingredients from the self-serve bar
Other than Tteok (rice cakes) that you can eat to your heart’s content, other ingredients you can add include fresh chicken (spicy and non-spicy), seafood, assorted vegetables, mushrooms, sausages, spam (yes!) boiled eggs.

A variety of fried food including Gimmari (Korean Seaweed Roll), fried chicken, fried fish cake, fried dumplings etc. is also available to be eaten as a side dish, or by cutting them into bite size pieces (the Korean way) savouring them with the Tteobbokki pot.

The one thing you should go for would be the skewered Eomuk, which you would find hugely popular at the street food carts in Korea, especially in Myeongdong.

5. Not just Korean noodles
Other than different types of Korean ramen which is the crowd-favourite, you can also expect other varieties of noodles such as Sweet Potato Noodle and Glass noodle.

6. Customise your own sauce
This is the fun part where you get to create your own sauce.

Over at the Sauce Counter, find the “Mix and Match Sauce Chart” that will guide you to create your Ttekbokki Pot Sauce according to your preference.

Whether you like it super spicy, mildly spicy or even if you have a non-spicy taste bud, you can be sure to find your preferred taste by concocting your own sauce from Dookki sauce, Tteokbokki sauce, Gungjung sauce, Flame sauce, Jajang sauce and Cream sauce.

You add the sauces as you like in the large bubbling pan, to be mixed with the ingredients. The fun is, you can try until you reach the combination that you enjoy best.

For first timers, the recommended would be equal proportion of Dookki Sauce, Tteokbokki Sauce, and Gungjung Sauce which would result in a mildly spicy base.

7. Double Cheese Ring and Snow Cheese
You can add on other ala carte items such as the Double Cheese Ring (additional $9.80++) – for some of that cheese-pull, or Snow Cheese ($6.80++).

Get it for the gram.

DIY Korean Fried Rice
Do not finish all the Tteokbokki Sauce during the first round, as you can use that and some of the remaining ingredients to concoct up your own version of Fried Rice.

Add the other ingredients such as Kimchi, Seaweed, Sweet Corn and Steamed Rice to the frying pot.

Tip: I watched how my Korean friend did it (you can see the video above) and she recommend press the rice down so that it could be slightly charred at the bottom.

Adding more Kimchi would also add a spicy and flavour taste, while seaweed can provide some of that earthy tone and saltiness.

9. Free flow Bingsu And Drinks
I love how the buffet also includes free flow soft drinks and Korean tea, so that isn’t additional hidden cost you are unaware of.

The Bingsu comes as a surprise as well. Though it was small and not that fanciful, the smooth iced shavings and chocolate sauce made a lovely sweet ending to the meal.

*The Bingsu is available on weekdays after 6pm, All day on weekends, Eve of Public Holiday and Public Holiday.

10. Value-for-money pricing
Dookki’s 90 minutes All You Can Eat Tteokbokki buffet which includes free flow soft drinks and Bingsu (available weekday evenings and weekends) is priced at:

Adult: $18.80++
Child (110-130cm): $10.80++

You can also look out for special dining deals such as a $12.80++ “60mins Student Special” during weekdays 11:30am to 5pm, or $13.80++ weekday “60 mins Lunch Special”. T&C applies.

Fun-fact: If you have watched Korean Dramas such as A Korean Odyssey, Black, The Entertainers, and Revolutionary Love, you would have noticed your favourite Korean celebrities enjoying a meal or two at Dookki.

The other thing you have to take note of is the time-limit of 90 minutes. Otherwise, this is an inexpensive and fulfilling Korean meal for get-togethers.

There is also the bonus “3rd Meal” – it is for anyone who loves Korean Ramyeon and has a deep stomach. You can grab the special Ramyeon Pot (very Kdrama) and choose from the wide variety of Ramyeon to enjoy this 3rd Meal. Made available after 6pm on weekdays, all days weekends, Eve of Public Holiday and Public Holiday.

Dookki – The Clementi Mall
3155 Commonwealth Avenue West, #B1-30/31 Singapore 129588
Tel: +65 6904 8733

Dookki – Suntec City Mall
3 Temasek Boulevard #B1-107 East Wing Singapore 038984
Tel: +65 6266 2425

Other Related Entries
Dookki Singapore (Suntec City)

* This entry is brought to you in partnership with Dookki Singapore.

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Never mind what critics say, the humble curry puff has gotten the Michelin nod.

Both J2 Famous Crispy Curry Puff from Amoy Street Food Centre and Rolina Traditional Hainanese Curry Puffs from Tanjong Pagar Food Centre has gotten into the Michelin Bib Gourmand Singapore list.

(Click PLAY for highlights of Rolina Traditional Hainanese Curry Puffs .)

Even though the two hawker stalls sell the same thing – curry puff, the styles are clearly different. One’s flaky and very crisp; the other can be described as small and compact.

As to what the Michelin inspectors are looking out for, I guess it is because there is something quite artisanal about these curry puffs – still hand-made one by one.

Beyond the trusted familiars, I first came across Rolina in 2010 when I was writing a food review, it was then hidden in a corner of Tanjong Pagar Plaza.

The location remains the same, but clearly not that hidden anymore.

Rolina had come a long way, having first started as a roadside stall outside Novena Church more than 50 years ago by owner Mr Tham.

Regulars have often mispronounced these as “Novena Curry Puffs” in the past. Novena -> Rovena -> Rolina. The name Rolina stuck.

He subsequently moved to Serangoon Gardens and then to its present spot.

Mr Tham had been perfecting his puffy craft since 17. He is beyond 70 now, in retirement mode, but I still see him from time to time in the stall. His son helms the outlet over at Serangoon Garden.

I would usually ta-bao a Chicken Curry Puff ($1.50) to eat along the way.

These are not quite like your regular favourites. The first time you would notice, are they are smaller than the average ones, say about two-thirds the size.

While they are small, they are still tightly packed with goodness – of soft cubic potatoes, chicken chunks marinated in curry paste and one sixth of a hard-boiled egg.

The two components that I enjoyed were the enticing buttery skin, and aromatic spices used with nuances of curry.

Of course they taste best fresh, still steam coming out from within.

Rolina Traditional Hainanese Curry Puffs
6 Tanjong Pagar Plaza Market and Food Centre #02-16 Singapore 082006
Tel: +65 9234 0521
Opening Hours: 9am – 2pm Daily

Branch: 49A Serangoon Garden Market & Food Centre #01-33 Singapore 555945
Opening hours: 8am – 3pm Daily

Other Related Entries
Michelin Bib Gourmand Singapore 2018
Tanjong Pagar Food Centre Hawker Guide
J2 Famous Crispy Curry Puff (Amoy)
6 Must Try Curry Puffs In Singapore

* 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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There was a part of me that wondered how my late-mum would feel, knowing that her favourite Char Kway Teow stall was awarded the Michelin Bib Gourmand. (And “Char Kway Teow” is finally given its due recognition.)

Perhaps she would have gone “Is it? Oh.”, and then life still carries on from there.

I remember those days when I both dreaded and loved going to Outram Park.

My optician was there – and he would nag at me for reading in bad lighting; and after the checkup my mum would bring me to this coffeeshop.

It was often smoky and full of soot, that it felt like the kopitiam was on fire on something.

The elder Uncle Ng always whipped up a plate of Char Kway Teow that was dark, greasy, fragrant and so flavourful, that we would still find simple joy sharing a plate of Char Kway Teow.

The entire plate was full of hum and crunchy pork lard which I would love to bits. It might have explained my obesity problems at primary school.

Being short-sighted since the age of 5, meant I ate from this stall many, many times. Until it moved to Hong Lim Food Centre.

Mr Ng Chin took over the stall from his father.

While it is not as smoky or oily than his father’s, his skills of executing a plate of Char Kway Teow with wok hei cannot be undermined.

He fries every plate individually, squeezing an exact 42 squeezes of a special mixture made of soy sauce and fish sauce.

The result is dark black rice noodles almost evenly covered with moist egg, still smoking hot when served, still with some of those crispy pork lard.

Its characteristic is its rather eggy and soft texture, lots of cockles added.

Watching him fry was a joy – always with a smile and often dancing, and you wonder how long it would continue for as his children are not likely to take over the business.

Is it “the best in Singapore”? I cannot give an answer to that, but can say that this is a taste that many of us grew up with, and would bring back pleasant, nostalgic memories.

Outram Park Fried Kway Teow Mee 欧南园炒粿條面
Hong Lim Food Centre #02-17, 531A Upper Cross Street, Singapore 051531
Opening Hours: 6pm – 3:30pm (Mon – Sat), Closed Sun, PH

Other Related Entries
Michelin Bib Gourmand Singapore 2018
Hong Lim Food Centre Hawker Guide

* 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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[New Delhi] A place where conversations on tables are as varied as the items on the menu, Café Lota is one of the most beloved places to eat in the city.

Its simple and casual atmosphere in the artistic surrounding of the Crafts Museum is both traditional, and hip.

This makes the restaurant a favourite among locals and visitors.

Café Lota was started in 2013 by the team behind Roots: Café in the Park along with Rahul Dua who has been an integral part of its success over the years.

The restaurant pays homage to homemade food, with an attempt to take the flavours and tastes a step further by using local ingredients and sticking to seasonal produce.

Café Lota in New Delhi and Roots: Café in the Park situated in Gurgaon, are amongst the most visited cafes in their respective cities.

They can get really crowded and there is usually waiting during the main eating hours of the day.

Both locations have a very natural and rustic ambience that separates them from other such establishments.

Their recognition has grown primarily through word of mouth, and although I like the more open and relaxed setting of Roots, Café Lota is equally favoured by the public.

One aspect of Café Lota that trumps over Roots is that it serves non-vegetarian dishes, however, no alcohol is served in both places.

Eating at Café Lota is all about being in the open. A lot of greenery surrounds the restaurant that further accentuates the dining experience. The tables and chairs are comfortable and modest in appearance.

Some sections of the restaurant are out in the open while others are covered with a thatched roof that allows for the light to dive in from between the cracks.

There are no air-conditioners, so if you easily feel hot and sweaty like me, then stick to visiting the restaurant in the winter months.

During summer they have coolers at various locations that keep the temperature somewhat down.

On the surface of it all, Café Lota has a menu that reads like a dream.

There is diversity to the food that changes from breakfast to lunch and dinner as the day goes on and importance is given to ingredients that are in season at the time.

Unfortunately, I found the dishes lacking in flavour and the kind of comfort that was expected of them.

The Mini Rawa Idlis, Molgapodi (Rs 265, SGD5.25) was the biggest regret – hard, dry, and indeed not that pleasant to eat.

It is not often that I return a plate, but this was one of those occasions. The management was kind enough not to charge for it.

The Railway Masala Omelette Sandwich (Rs 265, SGD5.25) was satisfactory, but resembled, in taste and looks, to any other similar omelette sandwich found elsewhere.

The Bombay Egg Bhurji (Rs 265, SGD5.25) was the best dish of the entire lot, and the bread that it came with was probably my favourite item from the whole meal.

I had gone to Café Lota with high expectations, but on that day, at that time, it failed to impress.

One of the high points about eating at Café Lota is their choice of ingredients.

Not limiting themselves to the usual items, very much in tune with the new trend, the kitchen experiments with healthy elements such as ragi, red rice, and bajra.

The café also has a small bakery section from where you can pick freshly made bread, cookies and other confectioneries.

It is the delectable combination of moderately priced homestyle food served in a chic fashion that is the backbone of Café Lota. Add to that impeccable service, and they have a winning formula on hand.

Even though my personal experience wasn’t that great, maybe because of the hot weather or a bad day in the kitchen, the fact remains that Café Lota attracts clientele from all walks of life that swear by its food.

Café Lota, New Delhi
National Crafts Museum, Gate No. 2, Bhairon Marg, Pragati Maidan, New Delhi, Delhi 110001
Tel: 078389 60787
Opening Hours: 8:00am – 9:30pm (Tue – Sun), 12:00pm – 9:30pm (Mon)
https://www.facebook.com/CafeLota
Google Maps – Café Lota

Other Related Entries
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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.

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A long queue has formed before the opening hours of 11am at Block 115 Bukit Merah View Hawker Centre, all to get their hands on a bowl of hot Mutton Soup.

Chai Chuan Tou Yang Rou Tang 柴船头羊肉汤 with more than 30 years of history, has recently been included in the Michelin Bib Gourmand, which to me was a slight surprise.

Not that the Mutton Soup is not worthy, but the Michelin inspectors are actually accepting of the not-so-conventional street food filled with innards and even lamb brain. (Maybe the inspectors have gone for the ‘safer’ options such as the Mutton Ball Soup.)

This seems to be popular food for the older generation, as the stall attracts a long line of taxi driver uncles and workers during lunch time.

Do the young even drink Mutton Soup nowadays? But we don’t even see many of such stalls around noawadays.

There was a line of about 20 to 30 people after I left. I was Number 10 in the queue, and it was about a 20 minutes’ wait or so.

The stalls serves up a variety, from mutton meat, balls, tendon, tripe to even brain, all priced affordable at $5, $6, $7 or $8.

A very friendly lady came forward to ask what you would want, ask a few questions (like whether you want additional parts, or takeaway) and shouted her order across.

The person inside could actually remember ALL OF THAT – of orders of different combinations… more tripe, no balls, less this, more of that.

I ordered a Mixed Bowl, and all of that with rice is only at $7. Plus, I hear that soup is re-fillable.

The Mutton Soup came across very pleasant, flavourful with slight aromatic herbal taste that didn’t overpower (compared to some other soups which could be just one-dimensional herbal or peppery).

The meats and parts came across as tender and soft, had slight gamey taste, best savoured with a dip of the tangy chilli (similar to what you get from a beef noodle stall).

A straw was also given for you to suck through the mutton marrow.

The only thing was, drinking the entire bowl of soup made me feel rather ‘heaty’, and having a cooling drink would have helped.

Loved it. For those with the impression Mutton Soup could be too ‘adventurous’ or strong-smelling, could give Chai Chuan Tou Mutton Soup a try.

Only thing is, it operates from 11am and often gets sold out by 2pm.

If you are there at Bukit Merah View Hawker Centre, another Michelin Bib Gourmand Singapore stall is Na Na Homemade Curry, though its queue is not half as long.

Chai Chuan Tou Yang Rou Tang 柴船头羊肉汤
Bukit Merah View Hawker Centre #01-51, 115 Bukit Merah View, Singapore 151115
Opening Hours: 11:00am – 2:30pm (Mon – Sat), Closed Sun

Other Related Entries
Michelin Bib Gourmand Singapore 2018
Na Na Homemade Curry (Bukit Merah View)
Outram Park Fried Kway Teow Mee (Hong Lim Food Centre)
Rolina Traditional Hainanese Curry Puffs (Tanjong Pagar)
Song Fa Bak Kut Teh (New Bridge Road)

* 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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This is perhaps for Japanese Pancake lovers. Riz Labo Kitchen from Omotesando Tokyo has opened at Japan Food Town Wisma Atria.

Not for long though, as this is a pop-up concept only from 21 July till 20 October 2018, 11am till 5pm daily.

The Riz Labo Kitchen Singapore is using the space occupied by Bar Nippon, and the bar which will resume their operation after 5pm.

That means, it will be a different experience to enjoy desserts in a dim, bar-like setting with high stools, poor acoustic and 20 seats in a… should I say claustrophobic area.

To me, pancakes are HAPPY food.

However, when diners enter the pancake café, the staff members were not too enthusiastic, without the usual warm Japanese greetings of “Irrashaimase…”, perhaps due to shortage of manpower.

This is even when the place is only about at 25% occupied, and is likely to be a problem when it gets crowded on a weekend.

Diners will have to be pro-active and approach the English-speaking staff to make your order when you enter the restaurant.

After which, you have to make your payment, get an order number and place it on the table.

Then, I wonder what the service charge is for.

For those intending to shoot some IG stories for your social media accounts, take note that photo and video-taking are NOT allowed on the preparation process.

Diners are only allowed to take photos of the end-product.

The menu is very concise, with only 4 pancakes available: Plain ($15), Matcha ($18), Premium Chocolate ($18) and a limited edition (only 10 per day) Strawberry Berry Ice-cream Kawaii Riz Labo Style ($20).

Unlike other pancakes, Japanese do it quite differently with a jiggly (cue Boomerang moment), fluffy, melt-in-the-mouth texture.

A distinguishing factor for Riz Labo Kitchen’s pancakes is that they are gluten free using self-cultivated rice flour (instead of wheat flour), light brown sugar, organic soy milk and rice oil.

Apart from the lack of enthusiasm in their service, their dedication and professionalism in making the ‘best’ pancakes is undeniable.

Each batch process can prepare up to 2 servings (3 pancakes per serving) and will take approximately 15 minutes.

The kitchen team seemed to be very precise with every single step, from preparing even scoops of batter to checking the temperature of the hot plates regularly at each time interval using a special equipment.

The end product: 3 stacks of evenly-sized pancakes about 4cm tall that jiggles and wobbles (for that Instagram-worthy moment).

The texture was so soft and fluffy with cotton-like characteristics like a soufflé. Taste-wise, my first impression was that of a Castella cake with distinct egg taste.

If you are comparing this to what you get in Japan, you may end up disappointed as it is just a cotton-like soufflé Castella cake.

The Matcha Pancake ($18++) comes with matcha powder sprinkled on it, a dollop of Hokkaido fresh cream, a scoop of Azuki beans and a small jar of maple syrup to drizzle on.

The small jar of maple syrup comes in handy halfway through the meal as the texture can be a little dry.

Matcha lovers will also probably be disappointed with the absence of the unique ‘green-tea-ness’.

This is only probably worth a try if you are a Japanese pancake lover, and are willing to wait since the preparation time is 15 minutes long for just 2 servings.Ganbatte ne!

Riz Labo Kitchen – Singapore
Wisma Atria Shopping Centre, Japan Food Town, 04-49, 435 Orchard Road Singapore 238877 (at Bar Nippon)
Opening Hours: 11am – 5pm (Mon – Sun)

Other Related Entries
Japan Food Town Singapore (Wisma Atria)
Henri Charpentier (Orchard Central)
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* Written by Nicholas Tan @stormscape who loves all things [NEW]. Daniel’s Food Diary pays for food reviewed unless otherwise stated.

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The Singapore Restaurant Festival is back again, allowing you to “Savour Singapore In Every Bite” and WIN attractive vouchers.

The Restaurant Association of Singapore (RAS) has brought together 63 F&B brands that offer a wide range of cuisines from Heritage, Japanese, Korean, Chinese, Western to Asian.

As part of the Singapore Food Festival, also look out for Singapore-inspired dishes seasonal specials presented by participating restaurants.

NEW-comers to the list include Bedrock Bar & Grill, Dean & Deluca, Punjab Grill, The Marmalade Pantry, Pizza Maru, Hello Kitty Orchid Garden, Pince & Pints, Fat Cow, The Flying Squirrel, Two Hana, Seoul in a Sandwich and more.

(Click PLAY for highlight of Singapore Restaurant Festival 2018.)

From now till 30 September 2018, you can also stand to win dining vouchers worth up to $500 every month when you dine at any of the participating restaurants islandwide.

There are 55 winners every month, and dining vouchers are from a range of restaurants from Jumbo Seafood ($500 x 6 winners), Peach Garden ($500 x 6 winners), Seoul Garden ($300 x 1 winner), TungLok Seafood ($300 x 1 winner) and more.

Heritage Restaurants (July)
Participating restaurants: Bali Thai, Fatty Weng Restaurant, Goldleaf Restaurant, JUMBO Seafood, Lerk Thai, LingZhi Vegetarian, Moi Lum, NG AH SIO Bak Kut Teh, Omar Shariff Authentic Indian Cuisine, PastaMania, Seoul Garden, Straits Café, The Marmalade Pantry, The Pelican, TungLok Seafood, Yum Cha.

Fatty Weng Restaurant
37 Smith Street #01-01, Singapore 058950
Tel: +65 6221 3822
Opening Hours: 11am – 11pm Daily

Home-grown Fatty Weng Restaurant is known for its tze-char favourites with wok-hei, best shared with family and friends.

Some of its featured dishes include the Deep Fried Soon Hock – lathered in a secret brown sauce, also the fish dish that earned Fatty Weng its reputation; and Singapore Style Chilli Crab.

They also serve up a slightly different rendition of the Peking Duck ($35, $58). The first part follows a more traditional method of eating the crispy skin with special sauce in pancakes; and the rest of the duck meat can be stir fried with black pepper sauce.

I would recommend its Special Pan Fried Vermicelli ($16.80, $22.80), which is served with blanched vermicelli on crisp vermicelli. Then, superior stock is poured over to soften the combination, and you can experience two styles of bee hoon when eating.

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)

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.

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

They have recently undergone a menu revamp, with new dishes such as 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.

You can also look forward to their A La Carte Buffet, 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. This feature 8 dishes in unlimited servings, and free-flow Taiwanese porridge.

TungLok Seafood – Orchard
Orchard Central #11-05 181 Orchard Road Singapore 238896 (Somerset MRT)
Tel: +65 6834 4888
Opening Hours: Lunch 11.30am – 3.00pm, Dinner 6:30pm – 11:00pm (Mon – Sat)
Lunch 10.00am – 3.00pm, Dinner 6.00pm – 11.00pm (Sun, PH)

TungLok Seafood – Upper Jurong
The Arena Country Club, 511 Upper Jurong Road Singapore 638366 (Opposite SAFTI)
Tel: +65 6262 6996
Opening Hours: Lunch 11.30am – 3pm, Dinner 6.30pm – 11.00pm (Mon – Sun)

TungLok Seafood may be the only seafood restaurant at Orchard Road where you can get some sumptuous Singapore Chilli Crabs.

This can be a consideration when you have foreign friends travelling to the country with a craving for our iconic local dish.

The TungLok Chilli Crab 辣椒螃蟹 ($6.80++ per 100g for crabs below 1kg, $7.80++ per 100g for crabs above 1kg) is best when you order deep-fried mantou to go with the gooey, eggy sauce.

Interesting to know: the sauce is wok-fried with a unique combination of tomato sauce and freshly-squeezed orange juice using thin slices of oranges. Thus, there is this fruity tinge of tangy sweetness which made the gravy more slurp-worthy.

The other popular crab dish Spicy Curry Laksa with Thick Rice Vermicelli 咖喱加沙粗米粉螃蟹 is cooked with laksa gravy, with thick rice vermicelli soaked within.

Very “shiok” (enjoyable) as you pick up those chunky claws and suck a combination of coconut-y gravy and crab juices.

Japanese Restaurants (July)
Participating restaurants: Fat Cow, O-ku Japanese Tapas Bar, The Flying Squirrel.

The Flying Squirrel
92 Amoy Street, #01-02 (enter via side alley), Singapore 069911
Tel: +65 6226 2203
Opening Hours: 11am – 3pm, 6pm – 11pm (Mon – Thurs), 11:30am – 3pm, 6pm – 12am (Fri), 6pm – 12am (Sat), Closed Sun

This modern Japanese restaurant and drinking place may require some finding, tucked away from the bustle of the CBD in an alleyway along Amoy Street (look for Aloha Poke and walk into the alley).

Indeed a hole-in-the-wall.

The menu offers familiar Japanese favourites such as fresh cuts of sashimi, handmade sushi and lunch bento sets; to more modern interpretations from Truffled Ebi Fry, Uni Shooters to Wagyu Burger Pate.

In line with the Singapore Food Festival 2018, get your hands on the Chilli Crab Maki. The sushi roll comes wrapped with soft-shell crab tempura, cucumber and house-made chilli crab roll topped with egg yolk sauce, crab meat flakes and tobiko.

Western Restaurants (August)
Participating restaurants: Bedrock Bar & Grill, Big Fish Small Fish, Cali, Chef’s Table, Commons, Dean & Deluca, Earle Swensen’s, Hello Kitty Orchid Garden, KRAFTWICH by Swissbake, Oriole Coffee + Bar, Pince & Pints Restaurant & Bar, Udders, YOUNGS Bar & Restaurant.

Pince & Pints
32-33 Duxton Road, Singapore 089497
Opening Hours: 12pm – 2:30pm, 5:30pm – 10pm (Tues – Fri), 12pm – 10pm (Sat), Closed Sun

Home-grown Pince and Pints needs little introduction, known for its iconic Lobster Roll and other signature dishes such as Chilli Lobster, Grilled Lobster, Lobster Mac & Cheese and Lobster Noodles (all $58++, $68++).

The lobsters used are wild caught and air-flown in from the Atlantic Coast, where the best lobsters are sourced from.

Also available is the Truffle Roll ($68++), in which a whole live lobster is steamed, de-shelled and juicy chunks of lobster meat are marinated with a secret mayo as well as other spices and seasoning.

Stuffed in the iconic “top split” buttered hot dog bun, this is further topped with shaved truffle and truffle caviar.

For a more local treat, get the Chilli Lobster ($58++), fried in a thick gravy similar to the Singapore Chilli Crab, but with more tart and sweetness.

Korean Restaurants (August)
Participating restaurants: 8 Korean BBQ, Pizza Maru, Seoul Garden Hotpot, Seoul In A Sandwich, Seoul Yummy, and Two Hana.

8 Korean BBQ
Clarke Quay Central, 6 Eu Tong Sen Street, 02-79/90, Singapore 059817
Opening Hours: 11:30am – 2:30pm, 5:30pm – 10:30pm (Mon – Fri), 11:30am – 10:30pm (Sat, Sun)

1 Scotts Road, #04-20/21, Shaw Centre, Singapore 228208
Tel: +65 9018 9212
Opening Hours: 11:30am – 2:30pm, 5:30pm – 10:30pm (Mon – Fri), 11:30am – 10:30pm (Sat, Sun)

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

Their signature 8 Colours Set features thick-cut Magalitsa pork belly in 8 flavours – original, wine, kalbi, garlic, herb, curry, miso, and red pepper paste.

This can feed about 4 persons comfortably, and you can get to try a flavour of everything without filling too full. I much preferred those with full-flavoured taste, like the red pepper paste and curry.

For the Singapore Restaurant Festival, the restaurant has also introduced Braised (Kong Ba) Mangalitsa Pork Belly, in which the Mangalitsa pork belly is braised in traditional soya sauce and spice for over 48 hours and then grilled to your liking.

Chinese Restaurants (September)
Participating restaurants: Chui Huay Lim Teochew Cuisine, Di Wei Teochew Restaurant, Elemen, Hill Street Coffee Shop, Hong Kong Sheng Kee Dessert, Hongguo, JPOT, Lokkee, Lou You, Mitzo, Sessions, Streats Hong Kong Café, TungLok Teahouse, TungLok XiHe Peking Duck.

Elemen元素
Millenia Walk #01-75A/76 9 Raffles Boulevard Singapore 039596
Tel: +65 6238 0511
Opening Hours: 11:30am – 4:00pm Last Order 3:00pm, 5:30pm – 10:00pm, Last Order 9:00pm (Mon – Sun)

Thomson Plaza #01-113 301 Upper Thomson Road Singapore 574408
Tel: +65 6452 0351
Opening Hours: 11:30am – 4:00pm Last Order 3:30pm, 5:30pm – 10:00pm, Last Order 9:00pm (Mon – Sun)

1 Maritime Square, #02-85, Harbourfront Centre, Singapore 099253
Tel: +65 6904 9568
Opening Hours: 11:30am – 4:00pm Last Order 3:30pm, 5:30pm – 10:00pm, Last Order 9:00pm (Mon – Sun)

Even though it is a vegetarian restaurant, the inventive menu at Elemen may just surprise you, offering Western and Asia dishes, some incorporating both styles to deliver dishes that are both appetising and presentable. There is no use of mock meat in the entire menu.

What you can expect include pasta (Black Truffle Porcini Pasta), pizzas (Milano Pizza), noodles (Braised Bailing Mushroom with Ee Fu Noodles), salads (Quinoa Salad), soups (Double Boiled Mac, Soup, Wild Mushroom Cream Soup with Truffle Oil) and desserts (Five Treasures Ai-Yu, Snow Chrysanthemum with Grass Jelly), creatively incorporating vegetables and mushrooms in place of meat.

To celebrate Singapore’s 54th birthday, Elemen has introduced a 8-course “Local-licious Set Menu”.

The special menu features well-loved Nasi Lemak and chewy Muah Chee, for refreshed renditions of classic local flavours.

Asian Restaurants (September)
Participating restaurants: Bangkok Jam, Big Street, Bowl Thai, Food Capital, Indobox Café, Katong Kitchen, Pho Street, Pho Vietnam Restaurant, Punjab Grill, Saltwater, So Pho.

Bangkok Jam
Various branches including Great World City, Plaza Singapura and Marina Square

Modern Thai restaurant Bangkok Jam is known for dishing out contemporary Thai favourites such as Thai Fish Cakes, Stuffed Chicken Wings, and Seafood Phad Thai.

Its signature is the Thai Beef Massamun Curry, of cubed beef shin stewed on slow fire with coconut milk for 2 hours, resulting in mildly spicy, fragrant and slightly thick gravy.

The restaurant chain has also introduced a Stir-fried Squid in Salted Egg Sauce dish, of fresh chewy squid cooked with crisp garlic and savoury-sweet salted egg yolk sauce.

Singapore Restaurant Festival 2018 Promotion
Follow these simple steps to stand a chance to win dining vouchers from participating restaurants:

Step 1. Eat
Dine at any participating restaurants (restaurants listed above).

Step 2. Register
Approach participating restaurant staff for registration and stamp accumulation upon bill settlement.

You will receive an SMS upon registering using your mobile number.

The SMS will contain a unique URL where you can check the number of stamps collected and chances at winning the monthly draw.

Step 3: Get the Stamps
You can get a maximum of 5 stamps awarded per dining session.
– 1 stamp for every dine in at SRF participating restaurants
– 1 stamp when you dine at featured restaurants of the month: July: Heritage & Japanese; August: Western & Korean; September: Chinese & Asian (Vietnamese, Thai, Indonesian, Indian)
– 1 stamp when you order a salted egg dish
– 2 stamps when you pay with a DBS/POSB credit or debit card

There will be 3 monthly draws over the course of the SRF during July, August, and September.

Accumulate 6 stamps to complete the e-reward card to be eligible for that month’s lucky draw for attractive dining vouchers worth up to $500.

Every month, there will be 55 winners and the prizes includes $500 Jumbo Seafood dining vouchers (6 winners), $500 Peach Garden dining vouchers (6 winners), $300 TungLok Seafood dining vouchers (1 winner), and $200 Swensen’s / Earle Swensen’s dining vouchers (8 winners).

Lucky draw winners will be announced and notified on the first week of every month.

Find out more at https://www.singaporerestaurantfestival.com/

* This entry is brought to you in partnership with Restaurant Association of Singapore.

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K-food has become increasingly popular in Singapore, and the place to satisfy all those cravings will be Tanjong Pagar, well known for many Korean eateries, from Korean BBQ, Korean Fried Chicken, JjaJangmyeon, to Bingsu.

Fans of Korean BBQ – Super Star K will be thrilled to know that they have opened a new Korean concept store called “Red Holic” diagonally across the road.

The Korean “snack house” located on 88 Tanjong Pagar Road (huat huat) specialises in popular Korean comfort food Tteokbokki (rice cake) and Giant Mandu (dumplings).

This is the place to get some Tteokbokki hot pot, giant dumplings and fritters.

Plus, prices are considered wallet-friendly. A pot of Tteokbokki (without meat option) meant for 2 to 3 diners starts from only $22.

Here are 7 Red Holic signature items to satisfy your K-food cravings:

Red Holic Beef Brisket Tteokbokki Pot 레드홀릭 차돌 떡볶이 ($28.80) or Red Holic Crispy Chicken Tteokbokki Pot 레드홀릭 치킨 떡볶이 ($27.80). Meant for 2 to 3 pax
Made in various shapes and sizes, the Korean rice cake is commonly seasoned with gochujang (chili paste) and cooked together with fish cakes, boiled eggs and pan-fried mandu.

This Red Holic Tteokbokki pot comes with an assortment of ingredients which includes fishcakes, spring onion, cabbage, rice noodles, boiled egg that are cooked right at the table.

There are three base sauce to choose from – extra sweet, original, extra spicy. For starters, they recommend going for the regular “original” sauce.

While it is meant for 2-3 persons, the food items are served in generally big, hearty portions that can also be good for bigger groups to share.

After the ingredients are simmered over fire for about 5 minutes, the special Tteokbokki sauce is mixed in evenly for everything to come to boil.

In terms of spiciness, the regular Tteokbokki pot felt just right for me, with a balance of sweetness and spiciness. Mashisoyo.

Also available is the non-spicy Crispy Chicken Carbonara ($27.80) and Beef Brisket Carbonara Tteokbokki ($28.80). The option without meat is priced at $22 because the Koreans believe that rice cakes alone can be satisfying and fulling as a meal on its own.

Hungry for more? A value-for-money Set Meal is available (for 2-3 pax) at a top-up price of $10, which will get you a bowl of Steamed Egg and 3-piece Dumpling.

Beef Brisket Jjajang Tteokbokki 차돌 짜장 떡볶이 ($28.80) or Crispy Chicken Jjajang Tteokbokki 치킨 짜장 떡볶이 ($27.80). Meant for 2 to 3 pax
Fans of jjajangmyeon (noodles with blacken sauce) will be thrilled to find this combination: Jjajang sauce with Tteokbokki, the fusion of 2 Korean elements in a single dish.

Instead of the usual sweet and savoury Jjajang sauce that we are familiar with, the Jjajang tteokpokki sauce has a unique taste with mild spiciness.

2 options are available for the choice of Tteokbokki: thick (miltteok) or skinny (noodle).

The skinny noodles resemble the usual wheat noodle used in Jjajangmyeon but with a thicker, smoother and chewier texture.

For cheese lovers, I would recommend adding some of that silky smooth Mozzarella cheese ($4), which adds more fun, savouriness and calories to the existing pot.

Mini Tteokbokki ($10.80 – $14.80). Meant for 1 pax
For solo diners or those who prefer individual portions, do not worry as single portions with Mini Tteokbokki is available.

Choose from special “Red Holic”, Jjajang (Black Bean), or Carbonara sauce with Beef Brisket or Crispy Chicken toppings.

For top ups (additional $1 – $7), there are offerings from Ramen, Chewy Noodles, Quail Eggs (x2), Mini Sausage, Busan Fish Cake, Long Rice Cake, Noodle Rice Cake, Crispy Chicken and Beef Brisket.

Giant Meat Mandu 고기 왕 만두 ($1.80 each)
Another signature street snack available other than Tteokbokki is their Dumplings that come in 3 different types: Meat, Kimchi and Fried Dumplings.

Unlike the usual Chinese dumpling or Japanese gyoza that we are familiar with, dumplings used are called “Hankki Mandu” (한끼만두) which are bigger with more substantial fillings.

Each of the meat dumplings comes with fillings such as glass noodles, pork, egg, spring onion, that provides a nice crunch and chewy texture.

Giant Kimchi Mandu 김치 왕 만두 ($1.80 each)
A truly uniquely-Korean dumpling with kimchi flavoured fillings which I find more memorable with its distinctive spiciness and sourness.

The Kimchi Dumpling is filled with glass noodle – commonly found in Korean dumplings, which provides an interesting texture.

Interesting to know: the steaming process is fast and efficient, with 10 dumplings being steamed on each rack within the high pressure steamer for 9 minutes prior to serving.

Mixed Fritters 모듬튀김 (만두+오징 어링 + 김말이 + 꼬치어묵)($11.80)
The Mix Fritters come with a quad selection of Seaweed Roll, Calamari, Fried Fish Cake and Fried Dumpling.

There are two ways of enjoying them: as a starter before the meal; or dipped into the thick Tteobokki sauce.

Red Bean Paste Bread 찐빵 ($1.50 each)
If you need some dessert at the end of the meal, the only sweet item available on the menu is a Red Bean Paste Bread with a pillow-soft and fluffy texture.

You may call this the Korean version of “tau sar bao”.

Time to gather your Tteokbokki-holic and Mandu-holic squad.

The good news is, Red Holic is a suitable place for late night supper since it opens until 2am, with hearty and comfort food for your next-group gathering.

Red Holic
88 Tanjong Pagar Road, Singapore 08850 (Tanjong Pagar MRT)
Tel: +65 6224 1064
Opening hours: 11.30am – 2am (Mon-Sat), Closed Sun
https://www.facebook.com/redholicsg/

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

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The Singapore Michelin Guide 2018 is out. There are NO 3-starred Michelin restaurants in Singapore, and 5 NEW 1-starred restaurants this year which include Burnt Ends, Jiang Nan Chun, Ma Cuisine, Nouri, and Sushi Kimura.

This is the 3rd edition of the Michelin Guide in Singapore.

A week earlier, it was announced that 50 food places in Singapore were awarded the Michelin Bib Gourmand Singapore, with 17 new entries and several hawker stall representations.

For the 2018 Singapore Michelin Guide, notable points are:

– Previous high profile entries, such as the 3-starred Joël Robuchon Restaurant; 2-starred Restaurant Andre, and L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon are out of the guide as they have closed in 2018.

– NEW 1-starred restaurants include Burnt Ends, Jiang Nan Chun, Ma Cuisine, Nouri Restaurant, and Sushi Kimura.

– Chef Ivan Brehm who previously clinched a star with The Kitchen at Bacchanalia, ‘regains’ a star with Nouri Restaurant.

– The entry of Ma Cuisine Singapore may be a surprise as it is considered very new (opened early this year). The restaurant is reported to be loosely affiliated with the Michelin-recommended establishment of the same name in Beaune, Burgundy.

– OSIA Restaurant did not get its 1-star. That means Resorts World Sentosa (RWS) which used to have 4 restaurants in the list, have none this year.

When preparing the selection, Michelin inspectors reviewed all types of cuisines and considered only the quality of the food.

All establishments are selected according to the same five criteria used by Michelin inspectors around the world. They are:
1) quality of the ingredients used
2) mastery of cooking techniques and flavors
3) projection of the chef’s personality in his cuisine
4) value for money
5) consistency – both over time and across the entire menu.
Other factors, such as place, décor, service and facilities offered, are supposedly not considered.

2 Michelin stars: Excellent cooking, worth a detour
– Les Amis (Shaw Centre)

– Odette (National Gallery Singapore)

– Shisen Hanten by Chef Kentaro (Mandarin Orchard Singapore)

– Shoukouwa (One Fullerton)

– Waku Ghin (Marina Bay Sands)

1 Michelin Star: A very good restaurant in its category

– Alma (Goodwood Park Hotel)

– Bacchanalia (HongKong Street)

– Beni (Mandarin Gallery, Orchard)

– Braci (Boat Quay)

– Burnt Ends (Teck Lim Road)

– Candlenut (Dempsey)

– Cheek By Jowl (11 Boon Tat Street)

– Chef Kang’s (25 Mackenzie Road)

– Corner House (Botanic Gardens)

– Crystal Jade Golden Palace (Paragon Orchard)

– CUT (Marina Bay Sands)

– Garibaldi (36 Purvis Street)

– Hill Street Tai Hwa Pork Noodles (Crawford Lane)

– Iggy’s (581 Orchard Road, Hilton Singapore)

– Imperial Treasure Fine Teochew Cuisine (ION Orchard)

– JAAN (Swissotel the Stamford)

– Jiang-Nan Chun (Four Seasons Hotel)

– Labyrinth (Esplanade)

– Lei Garden (CHIJMES)

– Liao Fan Hong Kong Soya Sauce Chicken Rice and Noodle (Chinatown Food Complex, Smith Street)

– Ma Cuisine (38 Craig Road)

– Meta Restaurant (9 Keong Saik Road)

– Nouri (Amoy Street)

– Putien Restaurant (Kitchener Road)

– Rhubarb Le Restaurant (Duxton Hill)

– Saint Pierre (One Fullerton)

– Shinji by Kanesaka (Carlton Hotel)

– Shinji by Kanesaka (St Regis Hotel)

– Summer Palace (Regent Singapore)

– Summer Pavilion (Ritz-Carlton, The Millenia Singapore)

– Sushi Ichi (Singapore Marriott Tang Plaza Hotel)

– Sushi Kimura (Palais Renaissance)

– The Song of India (Scotts Road)

– Whitegrass (CHIJMES)

Other Related Entries
Michelin Singapore – Restaurant Reviews
Michelin Bib Gourmand Singapore 2018
Singapore Michelin Guide 2017 – The Results
World’s 50 Best Restaurants 2018
Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants 2018
9 Best Restaurants In Singapore 2017

* Follow @DanielFoodDiary on Facebook and Instagram for more food news, food videos and travel highlights.

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The place in the East for shopping and dining.

Friends love to head over to Changi City Point (right opposite Expo MRT) to shop for sporting attire from the various factory outlets; buy IT stuff at the flagship Challenger store; and dine at the various restaurants and cafes.

Several of the dining concepts, are also unique to Changi City Point itself.

(Click PLAY for food highlights of Changi City Point.)

The good news is, 7 of these restaurants are offering 1-For-1 Main Courses for a limited period till 19 August 2018. (Plus all these main courses are affordably priced, with nothing above $20.)

All you need to do is to order a main course, and enjoy the same main course FOR FREE on your next visit.

Participating restaurants include:
– Five Izakaya Bar | #01-66/67
– MOA Tiki New Zealand Bar & Grill | #01-70/71
– Ohana Poké | #01-20
– Salad Chef | #B1-51
– Table Manners | #01-68/69
– Teppei Syokudo | #B1-50
– WOLF Burgers | #01-43

Here’s more:

Table Manners
Unit No.: #01-68/69
Tel: +65 6604 7669
Opening Hours: 11 am – 10pm (Mon – Fri), 3pm – 11pm (Sat), 11am – 8pm (Sun)

There are places worth venturing to the East for, one of them is Table Manners at Changi City Point.

Table Manners is a casual restaurant serving affordable European fare, and known for dishes such as TM Pork Ribs, Mushroom Swiss Burger, classic Fish & Chips, Steak & Cheese, Laksa Tiger Prawns Pasta, and Pescatore – mixed seafood tossed together with spaghetti in a tomato paste base.

For the sweet-tooth, there are also luscious desserts such as Sticky Date Cake, Salted Caramel Chocolate Tart, and Lemon & Lime Tart to choose from.

On a date?

You can choose to dine at the outdoor seating area of Table Manners which is set in the garden at The Oasis, contained within a pavilion. Very pretty and good for pictures.

CCP 1-For-1 Main Course Promo: Table Manners’ Carbonara ($18++)
One of Table Manners’ most popular pasta items, the classic egg-based Carbonara is now available for the 1-For-1 deal.

The pasta dish contains chunks of smoked Pancetta and shavings of Parmigiano Reggiano tossed in al dente spaghetti.

Moderately creamy, there was a faint aroma of truffle as I twirled the spaghetti which made it more enticing.

WOLF Burgers
Unit No.: #01-43
Tel: +65 6902 0486
Opening Hours: 8:30am – 10:30am (Breakfast and Speciality Coffee, coffee continues from 10:30am to 11:30am, non PH, Mon – Fri)
11:30am to 9:30pm (Full Menu, Mon – Sun)

The star of WOLF Burgers is said to be the patty – produced in house with a secret recipe, to ensure a juicy, succulent burger always.

Started from the team of Carvers & Co., the burger kiosk from Pasarbella got so popular that they opened a stand-alone shop at Changi City Point.

They are known for “The WOLF Burger”, their version of a standard Cheeseburger. Best paired with some Korean-American inspired Kimchi Cheese Fries topped with kimchi, sour cream, cheese and chives.

CCP 1-For-1 Main Course Promo: WOLF Burgers’ Mushroom Burger Set ($13.90 Nett)
There are two components that I enjoyed about the Magic Mushroom Burger: the provolone cheese which added fuller-buttery flavours with a semisoft texture; and sautéed truffle mushrooms which would ‘release’ that aroma as you take a huge bite into the burger.

The meat comes complete with a choice of any of WOLF Burger’s side dishes such crispy fries, Broccoli Salad with Goma Dressing or Truffled Mushroom Soup and a drink.

Five Izakaya
Unit No.: #01-66/67
Tel: +65 6604 8255
Opening Hours: 12pm – 12am (Mon – Sat), 3pm – 10pm (Sun)

Five Izakaya is known for its $5 food and drink specials, which is on All-Day-Every-Day.

During lunch time, the office crowd heads over for its value-for-money set lunches, with offerings of Bara Chirashi Don, Aburi almon Don, Unagi Don, Katsu Don, Curry Katsu Don, Ebi Fry Don and more, served with a hot and cold side dish.

Come nightfall, the restaurant transforms into a busy Izakaya, best for friends and colleagues to catch up over drinks and bar snacks, just like how they do it in Japan.

Expect ‘live’ music on Mondays to Fridays, and football screenings during the weekends.

CCP 1-For-1 Main Course Promo: Five Izakaya Bar’s Chicken Teriyaki Don with 2 sides ($15++)
Succulent grilled chicken thigh fillet drizzled with teriyaki sauce, topped on fluffy Japanese rice.

The set also comes with two sides with options of Salmon Sashimi, Japanese Chilled Tofu, Gyoza Fry, Chicken Karaage, and Potato Croquette. The deep-fried golden brown potato with soft fillings was my favourite. End the meal with a bowl of hot Miso soup.

MOA Tiki New Zealand Bar & Grill
Unit No.: #01-70/71
Tel: +65 6636 3353
Opening Hours: 11.30am – 12am (Mon – Sat), 5.00pm – 12am (Sun)

There are not many New Zealand themed restaurants in Singapore, and MOA offers some of the most extensive award-winning beers and wines from down under.

The team takes pride in where they source their beer and food, and serves up craft beers from Moa New Zealand and Home2.0 Lithuania.

These beers are said to be brewed in a traditional method with no pasteurization, and bottle conditioning which keep the beers fresh for a good 12 months.

In terms of food, the menu is extensive with offering of barbequed meats, thin-crusted hand-rolled pizzas, pork ribs, juicy burgers and tapas, best paired with some of their beers and wines.

CCP 1-For-1 Main Course Promo: MOA Tiki New Zealand Bar & Grill’s Set A Lunch ($15.50++)
Certainly looks like an amazing deal. The 4-course “Set A Lunch” includes a starter of Soup of the Day, main, ice cream dessert, and hot beverage with choice of coffee or tea. Valid only on weekdays from 11.30am to 3pm.

The mains include choices of Prawn Aglio Olio, MOA Beef or Chicken Burger with Fries, Fish & Chips with Fries & Coleslaw, and Sirloin Steak with Mashed Potatoes.

I don’t think you can find many Sirloin Steak in Singapore at this pricing. What you get is a substantial dish of grilled tender sirloin steak, seasoned with a touch of herbs, served with mashed potatoes and vegetables.

There is an accompanying chef’s brown sauce which you can pour over, and use as a dip.

For something lighter, you can choose the Prawn Aglio Olio with spaghetti sautéed with prawns in olive oil, chilli flakes, garlic and Allan Scott’s Sauvignon Blanc.

Ohana Poké
Unit No.: #01-20
Tel: +65 6538 3083
Opening Hours: 11:30 am – 9:00 pm (Mon – Sun)

Need something healthy? Ohana Poké bowl serves up signature poke bowls, DIY poke bowls, and sushi rolls.

To build your own Poké bowl, get a base from a choice of mixed rice, brown rice, rice or green salad, followed by a variety of poke from tuna, salmon, chicken, and tofu & mushroom.

The Tuna and Salmon comes in choices of wasabi shoyu, spicy and sesame (for salmon only), and I would say go for the “spicy” which gives a slight kick along with the fresh chunks of fish.

You can also look out for their daily specials.

CCP 1-For-1 Main Course Promo: Ohana Poké’ Small Poke Bowl ($12.80 Nett)
The Small Poke Poké allows you to mix-and-match from varied Poké, toppings and superfood.

Talking about superfood, the add-ons include one choice of avocado, tobiko (flying fish roe), ikura (salmon roe), chia seeds, crab salad or an onsen egg.

A protein packed bowl that is indeed value for its money.

Salad Chef
Unit No.: #B1-51
Tel: +65 8457 3969
Opening Hours: 8am – 8:30pm (Mon – Fri), 12pm – 7:30pm (Sat – Sun)

While Salad Chef is a small and humble salad shop, there are three things I liked about it: its variety (more than 40 items to choose from), freshness, and specialty salad dressings.

In terms of signature ingredients, those to look out for are the grilled potato, sautéed mushrooms, grilled chicken and mixed herb prawns. As for the salad dressings, the two most popular in-house dressings are Japanese Wafu and Honey Lemon dressings.

Also available are 12 “Chef-Designed Salads”, such as Chicken Avocado, Spicy Beef, Tuna Love, and Waldorf Turkey – all priced affordable from $8.50 to $15.00.

Other than salads, Salad Chef also serves up “Chef Designed Wraps” and a newly launched toast menu.

CCP 1-For-1 Main Course Promo: Salad Chef’ Caesar Salad ($11 Nett)
The most popular salad served is the simple but tasty Caesar Salad, consisting of romaine, croutons, hardboiled egg, chicken breast, parmesan cheese and bacon bits.

I found the grilled chicken breast particularly moist and tender, with its own special marinate. The croutons are also made by in-house, which are crispy with a light fragrance.

Teppei Syokudo
Unit No.: #B1-50
Tel: +65 6538 1627
Opening Hours: 11am – 9pm (Mon – Sun)

Teppei Syokudo needs little introduction, created by Chef Teppei Yamashita, known for its signature Kaisendon.

Their Kaisendon is a hit among office workers, for sashimi rice bowls included with colourful cubes of fleshy raw seafood mixed with a secret-recipe sauce, fresh vegetables, on a bed of fragrant sushi rice.

Do you know: Teppei’s Kaisendon was originally meant to be a meal for his employees. Cutting up fish into cubes from fish that was not used up during dinner, Chef Teppei would serve it with a home-made sauce at the side.

The off-the-menu special item became popular among regular diners, and has now even found fame beyond our shores with a store in Hong Kong.

CCP 1-For-1 Main Course Promo: Teppei Syokudo’s Kaisendon ($16 Nett)
Teppei’s signature Kaisendon includes 6 different types of raw seafood (Salmon, Tuna, Swordfish, Whelk, Scallop and Ikura), Teppei’s special secret sauce, on top of a bowl of fluffy Japanese rice complemented with freshly grated wasabi.

The special sauce made from Japanese soya sauce and other secret ingredients is the winner here, which complements and elevates the freshness of the fish.

With an almost equal portion of seafood and rice served, portions are generous and make a substantial and inexpensive meal.

Enjoy 1-For-1 Main Courses at Changi City Point
From now till 19 Aug (Sunday), order the promotional main course at the above selected 7 restaurants at Changi City Point, and enjoy the same main course for FREE on your next visit.

Steps for redemption as follows:
Step 1: Order the promotional main course specified at the selected restaurant.
Step 2: Scan Frasers Rewards QR code on your Frasers Rewards App when paying.
Step 3: Present your receipt and QR code at Customer Service Counter on Level 2 on the same day to redeem a coupon which entitles you to your complimentary main course the next visit.

Redemption of coupon will be valid till 30 Sept 2018. For more details, head over to http://www.changicitypoint.com.sg

Changi City Point
5 Changi Business Park Central 1 Singapore 486038 (Expo MRT)
Opening Hours: 10am – 10pm
https://www.facebook.com/fps.ChangiCityPoint

* This entry is brought to you in partnership with Changi City Point.

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A hidden gem in Yishun that specialises in BOTH Hotpot and Dry Fish Pot.

Qi Lai Feng 齐来丰鱼庄 is found at Yishun Town Square – a “third new-generation town plaza in Singapore” located opposite Northpoint City.

(Click PLAY for highlights of Qi Lai Feng 齐来丰鱼庄.)

Most Singaporean should be familiar with the Chinese Hotpot in which diners gather together over a pot of broth to cook your favourite ingredients.

The Dry Pot is less commonly seen in Singapore though.

“Qi Lai Feng” in which name represents “a bountiful harvest”, specialises in Dry Fish Pots. You can make a guess at what it would be like.

Created in Southern China during the 1970s as a quicker way to dine, the modern pot dish typically contains fish cooked dry with spices, peppers and a mixture of ingredients rather than with soup.

This is rather similar to the Dry Pot Chicken 干锅鸡 that you find in the Sichuan and Chongqing regions, though I found the fish version a lot less greasy.

Over at Qi Lai Feng, there are offerings of Spicy Fragrant “Mala”, Jade Pepper, Golden Lemon, and Fresh Tomato Fish Pots.

There are 3 levels of spiciness to choose from, with optional add-ons such as Yuba and Enoki Mushroom ($3 per set).

A small Fish Pot meant for 2 to 3 diners starts from $49/$59, while a large pot for 6 to 7 pax is priced at $89/$99, depending on the fish you choose.

Other than Dory and Mullet, I was most intrigued by the availability of a “Q Fish” on the menu, more commonly known as “Cui Yu” 脆鱼 or 脆肉鲩.

These farmed fishes that are specially imported have a distinctive texture that is crunchy, and if you ask me I would say in-between the usual fish and squid. There were parts which actually reminded me of fried calamari.

The preparation method looked more laborious then it seemed. The fish meat would be sliced thinly, wok-fried with specially-concocted broth, then poured over with boiling-hot oil to simulate a deep-frying process.

That cooking method results in fish slices that would have a slight crisp outer layer, yet still flavourful on the inside.

Qi Lai Feng’s recommendation for first timers would be the Spicy Fragrant Q Fish Pot ($59, $79, $99), where all the spices and herbs used gave the pot a savoury aroma.

Fish used was fresh, with that interesting-crunchy texture, and didn’t get overpowered by all the spices used such that you could still taste the sweet flavours.

”Calamari!”, “Crunchy”, “It doesn’t break,” were some comments when we had the fish – a first time for many of us.

Surprisingly, the base was not as numbing hot and intense (or even oily) as I imagined, and quite manageable.

Do not finish up all the fish and sauces. Towards the end of the meal, the chef would pour in extra broth to make flavourful pot of soup made of the ‘leftover’ ingredients.

This is what they call “一锅两吃”, in which the post can be eaten two ways – dry and soup. Certainly more value for the money.

If spiciness is not your thing and would like something more suitable for the entire family, choose the Golden Lemon which had a sweet and tangy sauce base; or Fresh Tomatoes which was enjoyable as a broth itself.

Moving on to the hotpot, there are options between Fresh Pork Bone Broth ($12), and Hot Pepper “Mala” Broth ($12); I would recommend the Dual Broth ($15) which has the best of both worlds.

Meat and seafood ingredients include US Fatty Beef ($14), Black Angus Beef ($22), Superior Mutton ($14), Superior Pork Belly ($12), Beef Tripe, and Fresh Prawns ($10).

I would also say go for their meats balls and paste, with servings of Cuttlefish Balls ($6), Fuzhou Fishballs with minced meat inside ($7), Fishball with Roe ($7), Prosperity Beef Paste ($10), Pork Balls ($6) and Shrimp Paste ($10).

The shrimps were pounded and slammed to create that more bouncy texture for the Shrimp Paste, delightfully sweet when cooked.

One of our finds was the Tri-Coloured Noodles ($4), both instagrammable and tasty when cooked in the rich pork bone broth.

“Hot Pot” and “Dry pot” are two must-try cuisines when traveling to China. Now, you get both – right at Yishun.

Now, who says there is not good food at Yishun?

Qi Lai Feng Grand Opening Promotion
– 27 Jul – 5 Aug: All Fish Pot 50% OFF
– 6 Aug – 12 Aug: All Fish Pot 32% OFF
– 13 Aug – 19 Aug: All Fish Pot 22% OFF
– 20 Aug – 26 Aug: All Fish Pot 12% OFF

Daily Lucky Draw Per Table – 100 Free Items Daily
1. 20 sets of FREE Fish Pot (Spicy Fragrant Dory Fish Pot)
2. 30 sets of FREE appetizers
3. 50 sets of FREE drinks

Qi Lai Feng 齐来丰鱼庄
3 Northpoint Drive, #01-02 Yishun Town Square, Singapore 768020 (Yishun MRT)
Tel: +65 6483 0100
Opening Hours: 10:30am – 9:45pm Daily
https://www.facebook.com/QiLaiFeng
https://www.instagram.com/QiLaiFengSG

* This entry is brought to you in partnership with Qi Lai Feng.

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Why do Frog Porridge and Geylang go hand in hand?

There are 3 prominent Frog Porridge shops at the red light district (known for its ‘night time activities’), including the newly-minted Michelin Bib Gourmand shop Eminent Frog Porridge at Lorong 19, G7 Sin Ma at Lorong 3, and Lion City at Lorong 9.

Other than being a good source of animal protein, frog legs are said to be able to “increase stamina” and even treat impotence in men.

Ah, I see. The relationship between Geylang and men; men and frogs. (Will sales go up even further?)

Of course when I told friends I was going to have Frog Porridge, different people had extreme reactions.

“Oh, these amphibians are disgusting ugly.” “Are you eating Kermit?” “I don’t eat them because they cause me to lose wealth.”

It really gets more complicated than this, because some cultures see frogs as rather symbolic.

I remember good old days during army when a group of us who could not pass Standing Broad Jump (the dreaded SBJ) would have Frog Porridge, because we believe eating that animal would help us jump better.

We still ended up failing anyway.

Eminent 明辉田鸡粥 serves up Frog Legs cooked in different sauces, from Gong Bao, Spring Onion, Porridge, Chinese Essence, Chinese Herb Soup, and store-exclusives Garlic & White Pepper and Special Home-made Chilli.

While 1 frog cost $8, they are known for their “buy 2 get 1 free” promotion at $16. A pot of 4 frogs is priced at $22.

Always pair it up with some of the Plain Porridge ($2, $3, $4) cooked in earthen pots.

I would recommend the Dried Chilli Gong Bao, where the tender frog legs would be simmered with chopped spring onions over high heat.

The enticing part would be the slightly-sticky dark sauce which was more sweet-savoury, with that notch of spice. I wished that there was more of the spiciness than sweetness though.

Eat it while it is hot, though the pot helps retain some of that heat within.

The recommended way would be to drizzle some of that sauce over the thick and smooth congee to balance out the flavours.

Most would say that frog legs taste like chicken. I would think perhaps the texture did remind me of chicken wings, as frog legs were softer. People do enjoy sucking the sauce off the bones.

Eminent also serves up an extensive range of zhi-char dishes such as Chilli Crabs, Salted Egg Prawns, Sambal Chicken, Sweet & Sour Pork Ribs, and Hot Plate Tofu.

Opened till 4am daily, Frog Porridge has become one of the most popular supper dishes, especially when one heads over to Geylang.

Note: Parking is almost impossible to find, and service can be long during peak hours.

Eminent Frog Porridge 明辉田鸡粥
323 Geylang Road (Lor 19), Singapore 389359
Opening Hours: 4pm – 4am Daily

Other Related Entries
Michelin Bib Gourmand Singapore 2018
Sin Huat Eating House (Geylang)
Fishball Story (Geylang)
JB Ah Meng (Geylang)

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