When we say a person ‘chut pattern’, it talks about someone full of antics. Perhaps this can be used to describe food in the same vein.

‘Ordinary’ food won’t make the cut in an Instagram world. The more photogenic, the more elements it has, the more hipster, the better.

Here are 10 Food In Singapore, Pattern More Than Badminton.

Over The Top Milkshakes
Available Cake Spade (Tanjong Pagar)

If the Over The Top Milkshakes claim to be Number 2 in ’Chut Pattern’, no other food would dare fight to be Number 1 at the moment.

This is milkshake + cake + wafer cookies + sprinkles + cream + Nutella + huge fluffy cloud of candy floss… on an ice cream cone, which has more sprinkles on it. Ordinary milkshakes won’t do anymore.

Wait, how do we even start drinking?

Candy floss on anything
Available Revelry (Lor Kilat)

While we are on the topic of candy floss, candy floss on soft serve, candy floss on coffee, and candy floss on waffles. Want to make your food instagrammable? Add candy floss.

It is not only humans who have the liberty to act cute, waffles too.

Cakes In Flowerpot
Available Banana Tree (Keong Siak)

Cakes on plates is normal. Must eat them in a pot, complete with ‘soil’ and flower (can get some from Daiso. Banana Tree’s flowers are from Korea FYI). It makes you feel, emm, beautiful.

Syringes on Cakes
Available Udders Pancake

Oh my tian. When the cake is feeling sick, and medications don’t work, it is time for a jab. *Jab

Syringes on Bingsu
Available Chick and Ken (Lor Telok)

O.k.a.y. This is when the bingsu is also sick, and 2 days of MC won’t work. The bowl is in more than serious condition, and therefore needs 3 jabs. *Jab* *Jab* *Jab* (Keep your eyes from rolling because…)

Ice Cream Rolls
Available 21 Cube Artisan Ice Cream (Scape)

Ice cream on a cone or cup? Nah, not hipster enough. Must ‘fry’, then eat the rolled versions. Old school ice cream uncle will shake his head in disbelief.

Ice Cream In Macarons
Available House Of Robert Timms

These are called sandwiches by the way. I know right? Surprisingly tasty. LOL.

Chicken Rice Sushi
Available Lepark (People’s Park)

The local Hainanese chicken rice rolled into a sushi, complete with cucumber and chill sauce. This sushi tastes just like, well, Chicken Rice!

Selfie Coffee
Available Selfie Coffee (Haji Lane)

Your friend will NEVER take your coffee by mistake again, because it has your face printed on it. One of those times you can actually proudly say, “My selfie taste so good.”

Burning Pineapple
Available Lokkee (Plaza Singapura)

Because serving meat on a plate is not enough. Because serving meat in a pineapple is not enough. Because only serving meat in a pineapple on fire is enough.

And just one more… Chio Bu Coke Can

Cos we need a can of Coke to remind others of our beauty.

Maybe one day…

Other Related Entries
10 Reasons I Like Snapchat
10 Nutella Desserts You Find In Singapore
10 Best Shibuya Toast In Singapore
10 Thai Iced Milk Tea Desserts
8 Hainanese Chicken Rice Based Food

* Compiled by Daniel Ang @DanielFoodDiary all in the name of fun. Don’t so serious okay?

The post ‘Chut Pattern’ Already. 10 Food In Singapore Pattern More Than Badminton appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

Who would have known? A French cuisine inspired café specialising in mussel dishes, which might have stayed too true to its name though.

A few weeks ago, the café at Goldhill Shopping Centre (same row as Udders had a Thai-Western fusion concept, but became fickle-minded – the concept and several items on the menu have changed within weeks of operation.

On its menu consist of some French food items – Escargots ($9.90 for half a dozen), French Onion Soup ($10.90), Poulet Rotisserie ($12.90), Duck Breast with orange blueberry sauce ($16.90) and Foie Gras Burger ($18.90).

For a mussel-based café, I was anticipating for more varieties, but there were only four – Creamy Mussels, Marinara Mussels, Old School garlic-herb based and Laksa Mussels (all $12.90 each).

I was most intrigued by the idea of Laksa Mussels, and had envisioned this to be hugely appetising.

My first reaction was I took the first spoonful was, “Why so weird one?”

It wasn’t the typical laksa gravy base, rather milky, neither robust nor intense. I was in a don’t-want-to-waste-food mood, and gradually came to accept the dish. Would I have this again? Maybe no. But it has potential.

When I ordered a Foie Gras salad ($12.90), I was expecting a sizable bowl of greens. The presentation might have indicated otherwise – a pan-seared foie gras dish, and the salad was by-the-way.

Both drinks ordered, Iced Red Velvet Latte and Thai Iced Tea Latte tasted ‘syrupy’, but the former was at least satisfactory.

I like the concept, and do think there are enough mussel lovers out there to warrant a café like this, but dishes would need fine-tuning. Will give them some time before coming back again.

The Fickle Mussel
173 Thomson Road Goldhill Shopping Centre, Singapore 307623 (Novena MRT)
Tel: +65 8498 7828
Opening Hours: 10am – 10pm

Other Related Entries
The Clueless Goat (Thomson Road)
Krave Cafe (Bali Lane)
Kaw Kaw SG (Bugis)
Garcon (Tanjong Pagar)
Park Bench Deli (Telok Ayer Street)

The post The Fickle Mussel – Cafe Specialising In Mussels At Thomson appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

The popular Tsui Wah Restaurant announced that its Wellington Street Central flagship outlet will be “closed temporary”, after 17 years of operations.

Its last day will be this Friday night September 11. Though the post didn’t mention specially when it would be back again, they are likely to take a few months’ break for renovation works. (Read: 5 Must Try Dishes at Tsui Wah Restaurant 翠華餐廳 )

For fans in Hong Kong, there will be a complimentary tea time meal from 3 – 5pm on the 11th, and tickets will be distributed from 11:30am onwards.

According to its Facebook post, diners are encouraged to contribute any sum of money for that meal, and all proceeds for the day will be donated to help Alzheimer patients.

This is following a report on retail sector slowdown and rising costs for F&B in Hong Kong, with restaurants struggling with high wages, high rental and high ingredient costs.

Tsui Wah has increased menu prices to offset rising costs. For example, a cup of HK milk tea now costs HK$21 (US$1.29), up 10%.

On a personal note, this particular branch of Tsui Wah at Central is one I frequent most often any time of the day – for breakfast before gym, for an afternoon tea between shopping, and late night suppers.

“Let’s meet a Tsui Wah Zhong Wan”. It has become a frequent meet-up spot for friends who happen to be in Hong Kong at the same time.

While prices have gone up, standards seem to have gone down?

Will still wait for you to return.

Tsui Wah Restaurant翠華餐廳
中環威靈頓街15-19號地下至二樓
G/F.-2/F.,15-19 Wellington St., Central, Hong Kong
Tel : 2525 6338

Other Related Entries
5 Best Hong Kong Cafes
Tsui Wah Restaurant 翠華餐廳 (Hong Kong)
Australian Dairy Company (Hong Kong)
Star Café (Hong Kong)
Capital Café 華星冰室 (Hong Kong)

The post Tsui Wah 翠華餐廳 At Central To Be “Closed Temporary” Till Further Notice appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

After years of not picking up a paint brush, I went for my first art jamming session. It was therapeutic.

More on that later. Arteastiq, known to merge a boutique tea house and social painting studio in the same space, has opened its second outlet at Plaza Singapura.

Some of my friends call Arteastiq the ‘tai tai’ café, where you got for high tea, dainty bites and sweet treats, while lazing around in comfy huge sofa seats. “Enjoy the good life,” they say.

Admittedly, I have been to the Mandarin Gallery branch a few times, and it was always some female friends who would ‘jio’ (ask) me there.

This meal at PS, there were four of us at the table – two females and two males. I couldn’t help noticing the main courses were divided into two parts of “Ladies Affairs” and “Gentleman’s Dinner”.

The revamped menu was conceived with the idea that ladies would prefer lighter items, and gentlemen enjoy more straight-forward and robust dishes like Striploin steak. (They obviously haven’t seen some of my female friends who can chomp down a slab more heartily than I do.)

The dishes are a collaborative result of three chefs – Chef Jason Vito, Chef Benson Tong, and Chef Jack Tan, who incorporate inspirations of their travels into the recipes.

Ladies Affairs
Anyway, this is all in the name of fun. Make a quick guess what dishes “Louisiana Love”, “Grains of Oasis” and “The Royal Princess” are.

(Try, try…)

Okay. They are Chicken and Waffles ($22), Scallop Barley Risotto ($25), and Salmon Wellington ($38 for 2) respectively. Could never have gotten it correct, especially the last one.

Arteastiq’s Chicken and Waffles ($22) had an Asian twist. The buttermilk chicken was pan-fried, then tossed with red onions, cashew nuts and Thai mayonnaise. So rather than a slab of chicken, you get pieces on top on the waffles.

If you are also wondering why the waffles would taste healthier than the usual, a whole-wheat version is used.

Gentleman’s Dinner
Interestingly, the guys at the table did fancy items from this side of the menu better.

Wonder who names the dishes though. They seem culturally-inspired – The French Connection (Black Angus Striploin $30), Latin Lover (Baked Mexican Pork Bean Stew $25) and Beijing’s Dynasty (Duck Confit Pancake $28).

The mouthful-sounding The Prince Of Monte Carlo Short Ribs Croque Monsieur ($29) was our favourite dish of all we tried. (Technically, this can be called a ‘madame’ as it is topped with a fried egg.)

Beneath the crispy brioche was meltingly tender short ribs in a rich sauce, complemented with rocket and can’t-take-your-fingers-off sweet potato fries.

When the Boston Love Boat ($29) arrived at the table, I had the inclination to why the seafood and saffron stew dish was called a ‘boat’. Its size was unexpected.

Enveloped by a crispy fluffy crust like a soup bowl, there were treasures to be found within – generous fresh chunks of seafood.

The Sweeter Sides Of Love
The premium tea selection and desserts are the strengths of Arteastiq comparatively.

On hot days like these, we particularly found delight in the iced tea with gelato pairing which was like a breath of refreshing, such as Lychee Yang ($12) where you get cold oolong tea topped with lychee tea gelato. Kind of apt as the imperial consort Yang Guifei was known for her insatiable liking for lychees.

Or Admiral Cheng ($12), iced ginger spice tea with MAO SHAN WANG gelato. Named possibly because he travelled south quite often during his voyages.

Art Jamming
I have walked past Arteastiq quite a few times, and finally decided to express on a canvas. So the piece of the right (5 loaves and 2 fishes) is my work. What would my art teacher have said? Haha.

The process is straight-forward and fun.

For $48 per 3 hour session (or $180 for 5 sessions), you will be given a 50×50 canvas, with unlimited acrylic paint, a set of brushes and palette to exercise your creative. Plus one free beverage to sip as you paint.

I have observed that some of the other jammers went alone (and they painted really good stuff), some went in groups (and laughed at one another’s ‘creativity). Great opportunity to bond with friends. Otherwise, just get yourself lost in the moment. The calming needed in a busy lifestyle.

Arteastiq Boutique Tea House
Plaza Singapura, #03-70/72 68 Orchard Road, Singapore 238839
For Boutique Tea House reservations: 6336 0951
For enquiries and reservations for Social Painting: 6336 0952
Opening Hours: 10am – 10pm Daily
https://www.facebook.com/ArteastiqSingapore

Arteastiq, The Tea Boutique House (Flagship)
Mandarin Gallery, #04-14/15
333 Orchard Road, Singapore 238867

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

The post Arteastiq – Boutique Tea House With Art Jamming At Plaza Singapura appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

What defines a Japanese cafe? Those in this list are a combination of cafes that originate from Japan, feature Japanese style food and desserts, and are helmed by Japanese chefs.

Another distinctive feature – Japanese cafes are comparatively quieter than their counterparts. You almost seldom hear Japanese having loud conversations in coffee places, that makes them a relatively comfortable place to read a book and have a matcha latte.

10 Japanese Cafes In Singapore おいしいです

Café & Meal MUJI Paragon
Orchard Paragon, 290 Orchard Road #04-36 Singapore 238859 (Orchard MRT)
Tel: +65 6735 0123
Opening Hours: 10am – 9:30pm (Mon-Sun), Full menu available only after 11am, Last order 9:45pm

Lifestyle Japanese brand MUJI has finally opened its first “Café & Meal MUJI” in Singapore at L4 Paragon Orchard. Die-hard MUJI fans will be sooooooo excited.

After shopping for those ‘no-brand’ home accessories, you can rest your legs at the café for some Caramel Pudding ($4.90) and Roasted Tea Pudding. There are electrical sockets if you need to work on your laptop.

For a filling meal, Japanese style ‘cai peng’ is available. A selection of 1 hot and 2 cold deli with choice of white rice or bread is at $12.90, while the 2 hot and 2 cold combination is at $16.90. An additional $1 can be topped up for Ten Grain Rice – Niigata Koshihikari Japanese white rice mixed with multi-grains. The dishes taste, em, healthy. (Read: Café & Meal MUJI Paragon Orchard)

Doutor Coffee 株式会社ドトールコーヒー
Marina Bay Financial Centre Tower 3, #01-05, 12 Marina Boulevard Singapore 018982
Opening Hours: 7:30am – 9:30am (Mon-Fri), 8:30am – 4:30pm (Sat-Sun)

I suspect not many know there is actually Doutor Coffee in Singapore. Doutor is a popular Japanese retail company specialising in coffee roasting and coffee cafes, with over 1200 outlets around the world. My favourite branch being the one at Ginza.

CBD executives would come for breakfast with options of Ham & Egg Sandwich ($7.80), Pancakes with Choco Banana ($6.80) and localised Kaya Toast with Azuki or Egg ($4.80).

In between meetings, I like to wind down at a quiet corner here. Free WIFI is also available. Its Crepe Cake and Matcha desserts are great for a relaxing afternoon bite.

Hashida Garo
333A Orchard Road #04-16 Mandarin Gallery, Singapore 238897
Tel: +65 91593177
Opening Hours: 10am – 10pm

Hashido Garo is the second venture by Chef Kenjiro ‘Hatch’ Hashida from Hashida Sushi, specialising in traditional Japanese sweets wagashi and Japanese tea. Try the Japanese sweets, which include Yuzu, Matcha and Hojicha Macarons ($3.50) each, Chocolate Yokan ($5), Hokkaido Cheese Cake ($3), and Kobosu Sorbet ($5).

You almost feel kind of stressed / out of place / calmed / relaxing here (option depends on your mood and perspective) Its highlight is the traditional tea ceremony, where the master would prepare top quality matcha ($30) in a U-shaped performance stage.

That is right. A sip down is $5 or so. But this is art. This is culture. (Read: Hashida Garo Mandarin Gallery)

Patties & Wiches
391 Orchard Road Takashimaya Shopping Centre #03-10A Ngee Ann City, Singapore 238872 (5-10 min walk from Orchard MRT)
Opening Hours: 9.30am – 9.30pm (Mon-Sun)

We can imagine Japanese tai tais loving the space here. Patties & Wiches (the shop’s name comes from burger-patties and sand-wiches) serves an agglomeration of Japanese pastries from various Japanese F&Bs in Singapore such as Asanoya Bakery and Chef Yamashita. Plus a Western twist.

The highlights include a $55 Wagyu Burger, Chef Yamashita’s Mont Blanc, and the must-try Fumi Araya Chou-Pop ($3) which comes in 5 different flavours. I may have liked this place better if there are more unique bakes, also because I have always tried those from Yamashita. (Read: Patties & Wiches Orchard)

Watanabe Coffee
350 Orchard Road Shaw Centre, Swiss Cottage Estate, Singapore 238868 (Orchard Road MRT)
Opening Hours: 11am – 10pm (Mon-Sun)

After Patties & Wiches, Japanese tai tais can take a stroll down to Shaw Centre for Watanabe Coffee. This is the second branch of Wa Café’s, which has been a well-kept ‘secret’ at the basement of Chinatown Point.

We were excited about their selection of matcha (finely grounded green tea leaves) desserts and drinks: Matcha and Ogura Shibuya Toast ($16.80), Japanese Matcha Parfait ($13.80), Matcha Pudding ($8.20), Matcha Shake ($9), Matcha Latte ($7.80) and Matcha Roll Cake ($8.20). The original branch seems better in terms of food and service though. (Read: Watanabe Coffee Orchard)

Hoshino Coffee
Capitol Piazza 15 Stamford Road, B2-55, Singapore 178906 (City Hall MRT)
Tel: +65 6384 5131
Opening Hours: 1030am – 10:30pm (Last orders 9:45pm)
Other branches at Plaza Singapura, Suntec City, Ion Orchard

Hoshino Coffee is already quite popular in Japan, specialising in hand-dripped coffee and fluffy soufflé pancakes. It is also sister companies with Doutor Coffee at MBFC and spaghetti place Youmenya Goemon.

This is one of those Japanese cafes that get divided views – some like its selection of Western-Japanese food, while others have feedback about the long waiting time and service.

Among some of my favourite to order include the Hoshino Pot-Baked Curry Rice ($15), Lobster Bisque Spaghetti ($16) and Tonkatsu Curry Rice ($17). An order of the Pancake Souffle Style with Matcha and Ogura Bean Paste will take that long as they are freshly made on the spot. Accordingly their oven can only produce a few at a single time. Must be patient loh. (Read: Hoshino Coffee Capitol Piazza)

Okada Coffee
100 AM, 100 Tras Street, #03-23, Singapore 079027 (Tanjong Pagar MRT)
Opening Hours: 10:30am – 10pm

One of those super under-the-radar Japanese cafes in Singapore. Okada Coffee’s base is in Kumamoto Japan, with a history since 1945.

Therefore, the interior can feel and look somewhat dated with its dark brown furnishing. The specialty is in its fresh roasted, ground, brewed coffee. Some blends can combine up to seven different beans. Japanese style meals such as Hamburg Steak, Tonkatsu and Curry Rice are available. Cakes looked somewhat dry though.

Nigiro Café Singapore
3 Temasek Boulevard, Suntec City North Wing #03-315, Singapore 038983 (Promenade MRT)
Tel: +65 6238 1669
Opening Hours: 11am – 10.30pm

Café Nigiro is a Japanese Italian café, its name being ‘origin’ spelt backwards. Serious.

This is the very first café concept by Chef Kensuke Sakai who once competed on Japan’s Iron Chef. Its signature dishes include Grilled Shrimp-Caesar Salad ($9.50 half size, $20 full size), Eggs Benedict ($16), NIGIRO Hamburg Steak ($24) and Deux Fromage Cake ($8.50).

Though the café is at Suntec City, finding it can be somewhat of a challenge. You first need to find Eat At Seven on Level 3, and walk all the way to the end. The good news is, the café is rather quiet. (Read: Nigiro Café Suntec City)

Nana’s Green Tea Café
The Atrium @ Orchard, Plaza Singapura 68 Orchard Road #03-80/82 Singapore 238839 (Dhoby Ghaut MRT) Tel: +65 6684 4312
Opening Hours: 11am – 10pm

With more than 30 branches in Japan, Nana Green Tea is sometimes termed as the “Japanese Starbucks”.

Although Nana’s Green Tea is known to be a café, it also sells several main courses such as dons, udons and sushi rolls, with a more localised menu quite unlike the ones in Japan.

Desserts such as its Matcha Anmitsu ($8.80), are definitely its strength. It may not blow you away but makes a decent afternoon tea-time treat, with its azuki red bean paste smooth and satisfying.

St. Marc Bakery & Bar
Parkland Green @ ECP 920, East Coast Parkway #01-09/10, Singapore 449875
Tel: +65 6342 1786
Opening Hours: 11am – 10pm (Tue – Fri), 9am to 10pm (Sat – Sun), Closed Mon
Other branches at Raffles City Shopping Centre, Vivocity, Marina Square

Japanese dessert Café Saint Marc has a few star items – Choro Cro pastry, Little Fuji and Geisha Waffle Cone. No doubt, I am a fan.

Few would know they opened a restaurant concept with much larger space at Parkland Green, East Coast Parkway. Dining at a Japanese café by the beach sounds like a great weekend activity. However, while The East Coast St. Marc may provide a fuller menu, the experience at other branches felt better. (Read: St Marc Bakery & Bar Parkland Green)

Other Japanese cafes in Singapore include: Wa Cafe, Dolce Tokyo, Dulcet & Studio, Maccha House, Tsujiri Tea House, Chef Yamashita, Flor Patisserie, Asanoya Bakery. Will complete the list when I find another 10. To be continued…

Other Related Entries
20 Matcha Desserts In Singapore
Watanabe Coffee (Orchard Road)
Café & Meal MUJI (Paragon Orchard)
Hoshino Coffee (Capitol Piazza)
Patties & Wiches (Orchard)

The post 10 Japanese Cafes In Singapore おいしいです appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

I know you are hot. I am hot too. So here are 15 Cooling Desserts In Singapore for you to enjoy this Cooling-Off Day.

For those going to vote tomorrow, Keep Calm and Eat Cheng Tng. Do what you think is right, and be confident that our country will have a better future.

J Cone
Available AmaSoy (Ion Orchard)

My female friend laughed and laughed and laughed while eating the J Cone. “This reminds me of…” (You imagine what you imagine.)

Not a pretty sight when you are doing that at Ion Orchard, struggling with eating a giant yellow J shaped cone.

It is filled with VANILLA soft serve. And so.

Italian Gelato
Available Giovanni L (Fort Canning Arts Centre)

I walked up 15 minutes under the hot sun from the MRT station (FB page says 5 minutes) to Fort Canning Arts Centre to get a cone of gelato to cool down. #TrueStory

Liquid Nitrogen Ice Cream
Available Ice Queen (One Raffles Place)

Rapid freezing from liquid nitrogen produces an ice cream with particularly small ice crystals which in turn produces a smoother texture. Apart from that, using liquid nitrogen eradicates the need for excessive chemical additives such as stabilizers and emulsifiers.

By the way, the R.I.P. is not meant to curse any one (or party). This is their Death By Chocolate Ice Cream lah. (Get it?)

Mochi Ice Cream
Available Kane Mochi (Bugis+)

Cute ice cream in chewy mochi. You would have imagined this came from Japan.

Thailand actually. 55555.

Japanese Parfait
Available Karafuru (Jalan Klapa)

Japanese style parfait presented on an elegant white plate with sakura soufflé, vanilla pudding, Japanese dango balls (yeah to these) and inhouse-made butter sakura langue de chat. The entirety inspired by spring times in Japan.

You start feeling beautiful even before eating.

Korean Bingsu
Available Nunsongyee (Bugis)

The millennials pay $16 for a Korean bingsu and instagram that. They get many Likes.

The older generation pay $2.50-$3 for ice kachang and complain it is expensive. They have no-where to show their Dislikes.

Times have changed.

Ice Kachang
Available at various hawker centres

This Ice Kachang from Annie’s by the way, famous for their roasted peanuts on ice shavings. The stall supposedly moved to Golden Mile.

But, the thing about some hawker stalls in Singapore (like the laksas and tau hways), you really can’t tell which is ‘real’ or ‘original’ nowadays.

Thai style Coconut Ice Cream
Available Pong Gelato (Scape)

We have eaten this at JJ Chatuchak Market all this while and nobody said anything. Suddenly, it has become fashionable to eat coconut ice cream in a coconut husk.

Still not too bad.

Singapore gets real coconuts all the time, and suddenly it has become fashionable to drink coconut water too. Interesting how the world works.

Sng Bao
Available The Sng Bao Society

Childhood favourite. Ice popsicles in that plastic.

This used to cost me 20 cents. Now it is $3. INFLATION ahhhhhhh.

Nostalgia has become so hipster you must have it.

Taiwanese Glass Jelly
Available Blackball (Star Vista)

Blackball is said to be Taiwan’s No.1 grass jelly desert chain, with natural ingredients flown fresh from Guanxi (that’s why more expensive lah.)

Some people still think it is owned by ex-MediaCorp actor Zhang Yao Dong.

Cheng Tng
Available Ye Lai Xiang (Bedok Corner Food Centre)

Passed down 3 generations, 11 different ingredients, one of the best Cheng Tng around. Good stuff cannot bluff.

Mango Pomelo Dessert
Available Ah Chew Desserts (Bugis Liang Seah Street, Novena)

A lot of my female friends love Ah Chew (the shop, not the owner) because they claim the desserts will make them mei-mei. (I didn’t see the effects though.)

My favourite dessert there is the Yang Zhi Gan Lu aka Mango Pomelo Dessert. The sweetness of the ripe, juicy mango chunks is complimented by the refreshing, citrus pomelo pulps that burst at every mouthful.

Taiwanese Snow Ice
Available Mei Heong Yuen (Chinatown Point, Ion Orchard)

Local dessert store selling Taiwanese Snow Ice. This is innovation. Business opportunities.

Mei Heong Yuen Dessert was known for their peanut paste as it was connected to the iconic Farmer Brand groundnuts.

Their take on the Taiwanese snow ice proved to be a hit, with its smooth textures and localised flavours, such as the Chendol.

Frozen Yogurt
Available Milk & Honey (City Square Mall)

Spain has llao llao. Singapore has Milk & Honey.

While llao llao continues to attract queues (though shorter ones) in Singapore, we can also be proud of this home-grown artisan yogurt shop, serving yogurt parfaits topped with handcrafted toppings.

Most of their added ingredients such as macarons, cake pieces and brownies are made in-house by a patisserie chef.

Ice Cream Popsicle
Available Neh Neh Pop (161 Middle Road)

The name so notti.

This is actually a double coated ice-cream popsicle – strawberry ripple ice cream, white chocolate dip, and strawberry Pocky on the outside. Considered quite chut pattern also.

One is not enough.

Other Related Entries
10 Food In Singapore Pattern More Than Badminton
8 Hainanese Chicken Rice Based Food
8 Must Try Zi Char Places In Singapore
5 Atas Coffeeshops & Foodcourts In Singapore
The Taste Of Fengshan

The post 15 Cooling Desserts In Singapore For Cooling-Off Day appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

With already 200 new cafes in Singapore this year, it is inevitable that many cafes will fall through the cracks. Churn Creamery is one of them. (A reminder to café owners to invest in some time and effort in publicity, and the occasional Facebook photo do not count.)

Churn Creamery took over Restore Living Café at 124 Tanjong Pagar, and is located right opposite another ice cream café 5 The Moments.

Is there enough traffic to support two similar ice cream cafes within the same vicinity?

The offerings are artisanal gelatos, along with waffles, brownies and profiteroles. Flavours include Pineapple Sorbet, Matcha, Moscato Peach, Banana Nutella, Black Sesame, Valrhona Manjari, Strawberry Cheesecake.

At least not the typical types.

I have some reservations about its pricing though – $5.80 for a single premium scoop, and $6.80 for supreme scoop, possibly one of the highest priced homemade ice cream around.

Contrastingly, a Waffle with single scoop gelato is priced at $7.80. Technically the waffle is just $2 extra.

Instead of a cup, do request for the gelato to be placed in a chocolate-filled cone. Be prepared for a surprise towards the end of eating (and possible get a tissue read).

I actually liked Churn Creamery’s gelato. Tried the Matcha, Nutella Banana and Strawberry Cheesecake.

This is one of those which texture and taste manage to hit middle ground – velvety smooth and dense, distinct flavour though not intense, sweet but not over.

The waffles served in 4 quarters are the crispy type, not too bad as well.

Hope Churn Creamery will do well, and I reckon they are just in need of more publicity and distinctive unique flavours.

Churn Creamery
124 Tanjong Pagar Road Singapore 088533 (Tanjong Pagar MRT)
Opening Hours: 12pm – 11pm

Other Related Entries
5 The Moments (Tanjong Pagar)
Supermilk (Tai Seng)
Ice Cream Shack (Bt Merah Central)
Dessert Project (Havelock Road)
Seriously Ice Cream (Everton Park)

The post Churn Creamery – Ice Cream With Chocolate Filled Cone appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

JQ Chef Café, not JYP from Korea, JP Morgan or JJ Lin. JQ is the initial for Chef Johnny Quek, ex-chef at the World’s First Full Butler Sky Dining at Singapore Flyer, who has opened a cafe at Toa Payoh Central.

Not many cafes in Singapore are named after their owner, unless they are confident of the chef’s branding.

Bringing his team over, Chef Johnny Quek has taken over the space once occupied by Les Patisseries (which has shifted to Upper Thomson).

JQ Chef Cafe has such a similar shopfront as Les Patisseries, we actually walked past the cafe twice initially without realising there was a change.

The “déjà vu” interior with the same chalkboard menu, same furniture, same vibes.

Their offering is straightforward – 3 items on the brunch menu (serving from 11.30am – 2.30pm daily), 3 pasta dishes and some cakes.

Looking at the 3 brunch items: Eggs Benedict ($11.90), Eggs Royale ($11.90), Big Breakfast ($13.90), our initial thought was… em, boring? Same-same.

Both the taste and presentation of the Eggs Royale ($11.90) were surprising good, perfectly poached eggs with runny yolk set on top generous slices of smoked salmon.

The brioche used was soft and fluffy, added with crunchy and refreshing greens. with hollandaise sauce that eluded a subtle citrusy touch.

The Waffalo ($9.90) is the combination of 2 words: Waffle + Marshmallow.

Waffle was crispy and airy and came with 2 scoops of chocolate and vanilla bean ice cream, 2 Peppero sticks and torched marshmallow (Manhattan Fish Market style) before serving. A pretty decent waffle for its price.

The Tiramisu ($7), Chocolat Truffle ($7), Cheese Cake Brownie ($7) and Tarte Au Citron ($6) on display looked familiar – supplied by Les Patisseries until their kitchen is more stabilised at a later date.

The addition of another café in the heartlands is definitely heartwarming, especially from a chef who has experience in the upmarket F&B sector and able to serve quality and yet affordable food to the residents.

JQ Chef Cafe
Block 186 Toa Payoh Central #01-428, Singapore 310186 (Toa Payoh MRT)
Opening Hours: 11.30am – 4pm, 5pm – 10pm (Mon-Fri), 11.30am – 10pm (Sat-Sun)
https://www.facebook.com/jqchefcafe

Other Related Entries
Cafes At Ang Mo Kio
Pacamara Boutique Coffee Roasters (Upper Thomson)
CoolPlay Soft Serve (Toa Payoh)
The Frosted Chick (Thomson Road)
Double Scoops (Ang Mo Kio)

* Written by Daniel’s Food Diary Cafe Correspondent Nicholas Tan @stormscape.

The post JQ Chef Cafe – Singapore Flyer’s Chef Opens Café at Toa Payoh Central appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

Di Tanjong Katong, airnya biru. Di situ tempatnya dara jelita…. Heard of this song? Loosely translated, it means you can find pretty maidens by the sea.

Can I add that Tanjong Katong is quite THE food enclave?

In this stretch spanning about 3 bus stops where you can literally walk down (and salivate as you take that walk), you get a good mix of restaurants, cafes, local eateries and a village food court.

The only troublesome thing is parking (most people chose the open air carpark next to the food village) and the lack of an MRT station nearby.

But but but, Eng’s Wanton Noodles, Punggol Nasi Lemak, Ng Ah Sio Bak Kut Teh, Tianfu Steamboat, Bar Bar Black Sheep, ice cream parlours Little Ice Cream Kafe (LICK) and Bing Bing, and these 5 New Cafes along Tanjong Katong Road should be good enough reasons for you to make that trip down. (New < 1 year old)

The Laneway Market
266 Tanjong Katong Road, Singapore 437053
Tel: +65 67198832
Opening Hours: 4pm – 9:30pm (Tues), 11am – 9:3pm (Wed-Fri), 10am – 9:30pm (Sat-Sun), Closed Mon
https://www.facebook.com/thelanewaymarket

The Laneway Market is strong in their cakes, the team also being the owners of Kreme Couture Bakery (their bakes are also supplied to some other cakes), set up by former students of At-Sunrice Global Chef Academy.

If you need to find the café, you literally have to walk into a laneway.

I liked the general vibes of the space – clean with wood accents, contemporary looking, a space for counter seating, with tables outside for a relaxing afternoon chat.

The Laneway Market team attempts to bring in different elements to form a dish. Thus, you will be able to find a couple of Japanese infused dishes such as Salt Cod and Soba ($22), Hon Dashi Risotto ($21), Miso Aglio e Olio ($17) and Gambas Soba ($16). Quite a selection of food including brunch items. For them looking for a more complete café experience.

Do.Main Bakery
226 Tanjong Katong Road, Singapore 437015
Tel: +65 63481406
Opening Hours: 8am – 9pm (Tues-Thurs), 8am-10:30pm (Fri-Sat), 8am – 9pm (Sun)
https://www.facebook.com/pages/DoMain-Bakery/603547476434072

Do.Main is a combination of two words – dough and main which means ‘hands’ in French. With a French baker Chef Frédéric Deshayes helming the kitchen, the bakery is inspired by the patisseries of Paris and the rustic cafés of Montmartre.

Also available is an Afternoon Tea Set for 2 pax ($32) which include a selection of pastries, sandwiches, 2 savouries, coffee or tea. There were some good stuff in that mix (though not all), particularity the financier and broken eggs. Considered quite value for money.

Nunsongyee 눈송이
232 Tanjong Katong Road Singapore 437020
Opening Hours: 12pm – 10pm (Sun-Thurs), 12pm – 11pm (Fri-Sat)

Bingsu in the east. This outlet at Tanjong Katong (next to Punggol Nasi Lemak) is Nunsongyee’s first franchise. The menu is the same as the original, serving Snow Flake Bingsu, Toast, Rice Cake, Coffee and Tea.

There are some reasons why their bingsu taste better than some of the rest. Shaved milk is used, while we have experienced many which used either shaved ice, or a combination of milk and water. If in incorrect proportions, the shavings could have coarser texture.

Many have asked me to recommend a flavour, since I have tried almost everything on its menu. To be politically correct, it is really up to you. The safest choice I guess would be the Black Sesame Bingsu ($18.90), though if you want something more adventurous, try the Snow White Bingsu ($18.80) with cheese and macadamia nuts in the mixture.

Toothsome Café
368 Tanjong Katong Rd, Singapore 437125
Tel: +65 9823 5048
Opening Hours: 8am – 8pm (Mon, Tues, Thurs), 8am – 10:30pm (Fri), 10:30am-10:30pm (Sat), 10:30am-8pm (Sun)
https://www.facebook.com/toothsomecafe

Service was friendly and helpful the one time I was here, the staff making recommendations patiently and asked for preferences. Thumbs up.

Toothsome Cafe serves Asian meets Western delights such as Laksa Prawn Pasta, Sweet Potato Fries, desserts and coffee. Cakes are baked in-house. (Good to know: The cafe just changed a management team 2 months ago.)

Amongst the cafés along this stretch, Toothsome is probably one of the least apparent in café hipsters’ radar, perhaps due to two reasons: It is at the other end of Tanjong Katong, and its name doesn’t seem to have that ‘ring’.

Wednesday Café
220 Tanjong Katong Road, Singapore 437011 (opposite Caltex and Tanjong Katong Girls School)
Tel: +65 6247 7760
Opening Hours: 1pm-10pm (Mon-Wed), 1pm – 11pm (Fri-Sat), 1pm – 10pm (Sun)
https://www.facebook.com/WednesdayCafeSg

I still do not quite get their concept, and probably attracts a specific group of café goers.

Wednesday Cafe adopts a concept unique to Singapore known as “anti-cafe,” whereby patrons pay for their time spent in the cafe instead of what they consume.

Under a cover charge ($12 for first hour, $5 for subsequent half hour), customers are entitled to an all-you-can-eat dessert bar, inclusive of coffee, tea and specialty Pink Lemonade.

There used to be two cats around, but have been taken back by their owners. Wednesday Café seems popular for private events booking (therefore also check their Facebook to check if they are opened).

Other Related Entries
20 New Cafes In Bugis
10 New Cafes At Chinatown
10 New Cafes At Tai Seng
10 New Cafes At Selegie
10 Best Shibuya Toast In Singapore

The post 5 New Cafes Along Tanjong Katong Road appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

I walked up 15 minutes under the hot sun from Dhoby Ghaut MRT station to Fort Canning Arts Centre to get a cone of gelato to cool down. #TrueStory

Giovanni L is an award-winning gelateria that originated from Germany. You may have seen some of their ice cream parlours around in Europe, with over a hundred branches in cities such as Berlin and Barcelona.

The founder Giovannie Lasagna (that same guy you see on the ice cream cup) helmed his gelato-making skills from his grandfather, and now has a repertoire of more than 100 hand-crated varieties.

Each year 2 to 3 new flavors of ice cream will be created, and ensuring something new customers can expect.

The Singapore outlet at Fort Canning Arts Centre (another at Parkway Centre) carries about 15-20 or so flavours, and oddly shares a space with Seattle chowder shop Seafood Pike Chowder, possibly brought in by the same company.

Plus point. Giovanni L sells a number of varied gelato flavours such as Eggnog, Amarena with Cherries, English Toffee, Mozart Melody with Pistachios, Spiced Chai Tea, and an intriguing Black Vanilla (yes, schwarz), along with Mango, Sicilian Pistachio and Classic Vanilla.

I had the Eggnog most recently, and felt Christmas came early. Lovely texture with a touch of chocolate and chocolate, so parents with kids should go for the safer flavours.

There was an online review on TripAdvisor that complained about Giovanni L’s “over the top prices” in Europe, costing €3,30 (SGD$5.25) for 2 scoops.

This customer has obviously not seen the Singapore prices – $4.90/$5.90 for a single scoop, $7.90/$9.90 for double scoops.

(Photo credit: Nicholas Tan @stormscape)

Its price may not be what some are willing to pay for, $5.90 for a small cup with a portion that finishes before real satisfaction sets in.

The texture is wonderful though – milky, dense, smooth, matched with unique flavours with quite an intense taste.

Giovanni L
Singapore Pinacothèque de Paris
Fort Canning Arts Centre, Singapore 179620 (Dhoby Ghaut, 15 minute walk from Park Mall towards Fort Canning Park)
Opening Hours: 10am – 8pm

Other branch: 1 Marine Parade Central #01-05 Parkway Centre, Singapore 449408
Tel: +65 6255 9898

Other Related Entries
+39 Gelato Bar (Circular Road)
Godiva (Suntec City)
Dessert Project (Havelock Road)
21 Cube Artisan Ice Cream (Scape)
Ice Cream Shack (Bt Merah Central)

The post Giovanni L – European Gelato Cafe At Fort Canning & Parkway Centre appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

“Auntie Lian, you remember me?” It was such a pleasant surprise to meet Auntie Leng again, serving customers as per normal in Putien’s new outlet at Ion Orchard.

To many, she may be just another waitress in a Chinese restaurant. To some, she is the face of Putien’s ‘Madam Leng Mooncakes’.

To me, she is that same sincere auntie with a 慈祥 (kindly) smile when we were served at a Heng Hwa coffeeshop along Kitchener Road more than a decade ago.

I remember that she would go around the different tables, helping to pour chrysanthemum tea, asking customers how the food was.

Auntie Leng looks the same. And she added, “总觉得你很面善.” (I find you very familiar.) I wanted to tell her, “Yah I know, I am much fatter now.” She is temporary deployed to Ion’s branch to help manage and train new servers.

I used to intern nearby, and have seen Putien expand from a little eatery to the well-known restaurant chain it is now.

This swanking modern Chinese restaurant is located at Level 4 in between Paradise Dynasty and Saveur Art .

Overheard next table: The queue at Paradise too long, don’t want to wait, so come to Putien. Okay…

The Heng Hwa Bee Hoon ($8.90), Lor Mee ($8.90), Mee Sua ($8.90), Stir-fried Yam ($11.90), Bamboo Herbal Prawn ($5.90), and Sweet & Sour Pork with Lychees ($12.50) are some of my must-orders since the good old days.

Once in a while, I would steer out of my typical orders and try something different.

The last I had was the Deep Fried Pig’s Trotters with Salt & Pepper ($5.90 per piece, minimum 2 pcs) which was unfortunately a regrettable choice – much too greasy and oily that I worry for my arteries. I knew it would be fatty, but not to that extent.

The Heng Hwa Bee Hoon is my favourite order. It is milled by hand in Putian (the coastal town), painstakingly dried under the sun by an old couple, which gives it a fluffy springy texture.

The bee hoon is usually cooked in pork bones and old hens stock with simple ingredients like peanuts and clams, garnished with strips of seaweed and crunchy peanut.

What you may not know is a dish unique to Ion’s Putien – Fried Heng Hwa Bee Hoon with Soy Milk 豆浆米粉, where the sun-dried beehoon is simmered together with eggs and fresh grinded soy milk.

What you get is a wetter-than-usual style, the taste of the soy milk being very subtle and lingering towards the end of every bite With that said, I will still order their normal version next time.

For friends in Taiwan, you may be seeing more Heng Hwa dishes soon, as Putien will be further expanding into Taiwan through a joint venture partnership with Wowprime Corporation.

Putien Ion Orchard
2 Orchard Turn, #04-12, ION Orchard, Singapore 238801 (Orchard MRT)
Tel: +65 6509 4296
Opening Hours:
Mon – Fri Lunch: 11:30am – 3pm (Last Order: 2:30pm), Dinner: 5:30pm – 10pm (Last Order: 9:30pm)
Sat, Sun & PH Lunch: 11:30am – 4:30pm (Last Order: 4pm), Dinner: 5:30pm – 10pm (Last Order: 9:30pm)

Other outlets at 127 Kitchener Road, Jurong Point #02-34 JP1, Marina square #02-205, NEX #02-18/19, Parkway Parade #02-13/13A, Raffles City #02-18, Resorts World Sentosa #01-203/204, Tampines Mall B1-27, VivoCity #02-131/132

Other Related Entries
Putien (Raffles City)
Paradise Dynasty (Ion Orchard)
Xin Yue Modern Chinese Restaurant (River Valley)
9Goubuli (Marina Bay Sands)
London Fat Duck (Scotts Square)

The post Putien Ion Orchard – Serving Heng Hwa Bee Hoon with Soy Milk appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

Claypot Hokkien Mee with sio bak. Ticked. This has always been on my to-eat list and I finally made my way to Kim Keat Hokkien Mee at Toa Payoh Lorong 4.

Kim Keat is about a 10 to 15 minute walk from Bradell MRT, in the same kopitiam as Ocean Curry Fish Head. The benefit of dining here is you have curry fish head, otah otah, Hokkien Mee and cakes all at one go.

I was a little apprehensive at first, hearing friends who hung around for 45 minutes before they get a whiff. I can wait, but only if it is VERY worth the time.

“How long ah, auntie?” (Oh no, shouldn’t have used auntie.)
“30 minutes…… actually 20. Okay lah, you are lucky, maybe 15 minutes.”
“Got cut chilli?”
“Excuse me? We Don’t Have.”

Conclusion. 15 to 20 minutes with about 4 other tables ordering the same thing.

There were $10 and $15 versions. You know that mentality – wait so long already, may as well order more. So we got the $15 claypot, which is slightly too much on the portion for two.

More on the taste later.

This Hokkien Mee stall got into the radar last year partly because Dr Leslie Tay of ieatishootipost wrote about how the owner who was an ex-prisoner “turned over a new opeh leaf” after being baptized; and film producer Daniel Yun published an article how the hawker (whose family used to own Heng Heng Hokkien Mee) found redemption.

Inspiring to read life changing stories.

The aroma and the sizzling sounds arrived even before the claypot noodles landed on the table.

Unlike claypot rice where we would mix everything up immediately, our chopsticks went straight to the golden brown pieces of deep fried pork belly resting of the bubbling surface.

Fans of ’zup zup’ variants of Hokkien Mee will take pleasure in Kim Keat’s version, as you scoop the somewhat salty sauce (some say overly salty) at the bottom to pour over the noodles.

Cooking good Hokkien Noodles requires great skills and time. We thought that the noodles and sauce could have been better ‘fused’ together as one. Not the best Hokkien Mee we ever had, but certainly one worth trying.

Kim Keat Hokkien Mee
Toa Payoh Lor 4, Blk 92 #01-264, Singapore 31009 (10-15 min walk from Bradell MRT)
Tel: +65 9456 0413
Opening Hours: 11:30am – 9:30pm (Mon), 11:30am – 9:30pm (Wed-Sun), Closed Tues

Other Related Entries
10 Singapore Food Bloggers And Their Fav Hawker Food
Soon Huat Bak Kut Teh (6th Avenue)
Lau Wang Claypot Delights (Serangoon)
Hong Ji Bak Kut Teh (Ang Mo Kio)
Pin Xiang Noodles(Toa Payoh Lor 4)

The post Kim Keat Hokkien Mee – Claypot Hokkien Mee With Sio Bak appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

Pick your grains, select a protein and vegetables, complete with sauce and toppings. Pay up, mix your grains and eat it. This is Grain Traders.

This sounds almost like ordering Chap Cai Png from the economical rice stall, except that this is not the usual epitome of ‘economical’.

Grain Traders understands what its target diners, the CBD crowd wants – healthy breakfast, build your own bowls, bagels, cakes, coffee all in a single place. Ticking all the right boxes at the same time.

From the team behind Kilo and Kilo at Pact, the casual joint is located at CapitaGreen Building along Market Street, next to House Of Taste HOT. Note that both Apple and Google Maps have no indication of this building, yet.

Grain Traders occupies 3 shop spaces with 2 ordering counters – one for the light bites of for coffee and bakes; the other more substantial for grain bowls.

Price of the bowls is fixed at $16 nett, more expensive than the typical salad bowls, but has incorporation of more elements.

The food is laid out in huge bowls and containers. Just like in a marketplace, you get to choose your freshest ingredients visually, and make your payment at the end of the counter.

One grain, one protein, one hot veggie, one cold veggie, one topping and one sauce to complete the bowl.

If you are not so much a rice person, quinoa, soba noodles and greens are available as the base.

Personal take: The sauce is too important an element, and will decide if the final mix is one you will enjoy.

FYI, there are choices of Tamarind Chipotle Vinaigrette, Coconut Curry, Wasabi Sauce, Beetroot Feta Yoghurt, Salsa Verde, Basil Vinaigrette, Miso Caramel and Asian Gravy.

Breakfast is served from 8am to 10.30am daily whereas lunch is only available 11am onwards.

Only 4 items are available for breakfast: Eggs ($8), Porridge ($8), Oatmeal ($8) and Bagels ($10).

We ordered the Guacamole BLT Bagel ($10) that came with bacon, tomatoes and baby spinach.

Balanced taste, not overwhelming and agreeable contrast in texture between the crispy bacon and the chewy doughnut-look-alike bagels.

The Tequila-Cured Salmon Bagel ($10) with cream cheese, red onion and alfafa sounds interesting for those who need a wake-me-up-alcohol (not too overpowering to make one drunk early in the morning though).

For those looking for takeaway coffee, the usual suspects are available: Black ($4), White ($5), Small White ($4) and additional $1 for iced, soy, mocha, decaf are available.

Coffee is supplied by Papa Palheta group, which is fast growing its own ‘conglomerate’. Its coffee is almost everywhere. (We may be exaggerating but you get the point.) The coffee was smooth with a nutty, pecan and grapefruit tone.

Black Cold Brew ($7) and White Cold Brew ($7.50) are available to combat the heat. Stocks are only replenished at the start of the week so grab it fast before it runs out.

Lunch time was a busy sight, from the cooks to the barista and to the traders (men and women in business suit) exchanging information on their latest forex trading.

We recommend going during off-peak hours if you can afford it, because some diners may take a protracted duration to pick grains and sauces, as though they are making life’s greatest decision.

Grain Traders
138 Market Street, #01-01/02/03, Singapore 048946 (Raffles Place, Telok Ayer MRT)
Opening Hours: 8am – 8pm (Mon-Fri), Closed Sat, Sun
https://www.facebook.com/graintraderssg

Other Related Entries
10 Best Salad Shops in Singapore
10 New Salad Shops In Singapore
Osteria Art (Market Street)
NUDE Seafood (MBFC)
Violet Herbs (Tras Street)

* Written by Nicholas Tan @stormscape and Daniel Ang @DanielFoodDiary. You can find them on Instagram, Snapchat and Weibo. Search via their userid now!

The post Grain Traders – Build Your Own Healthy Bowl At This CBD Cafe Joint appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

[Hong Kong] The Telegraph listed Hong Kong’s The Coffee Academics as one of the world’s best coffee shop. A mean feat considering this speciality coffee shp is considered new, launched 3 years ago in 2012.

There are 5 cafe outlets now – the flagship at Causeway Bay, Wan Chai, Tsim Sha Tsui (Harbourcity), Repulse Bay and Morrison.

My female hipster friend added Repulse Bay branch is the best, “Leng zai barista, scenery piu leong, iced drip serves in wine glass. So class….”

The first time I stepped in The Coffee Academics at Wanchai, complete with its woody industrial chic décor, I thought, “This coffee place means serious business. The name itself means serious business.”

On the flipside, the other word screams out… Hipster.

From selection of coffee origin, roasting method, blending proportion to cupping, the café attempts to provide an outstanding coffee experience, complete with well-trained baristas and state-of-the-art equipment.

I have been to this branch a few times, because Wanchai has an easier-going vibes, with a neighbourhood surrounded by indie cafes.

The choice of seats does affect the coffee-drinking mood. At the counter you can interact with the in-house baristas, though during peak hours they get too occupied and straight-forward in their communication.

My other favourite spot is the window counter seat, when you can have a viewpoint of the hurried streets, people-watch (some extremely fashionable) urbanites in Hong Kong.

There is also an adjacent cupping room where Master Baristas hold private tastings to bring coffee-lovers on a flavour education and journey.

The menu consists of small plates such as Crab and Avocado Salad (HK$78), Curry Fries with a Trio Dip of Honey Mustard, House Smoked Ketchup and Curry Mayo (HK$58) and Savory Pie (HK$48).

I remember eating a similar Uji Matcha Cake (HK$42) with smooth layers of chocolate and matcha mousse at caffe HABITU, and realised there are sister companies. Though somehow that very cake looks and tastes fresher over at HABITU.

There is an extensive selection of coffee, and the cuppa does live up to its name – balanced, velvety smooth, and specific with 30ml espresso and 65-degree steamed milk for a Mocha.

Many will like its coffee, while some may still think the cafe is too overrated or ‘hipster’ – whatever that word means now.

The Coffee Academics
35-45 Johnston Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong (Wanchai Exit A3, next to Southorn Mansion)
Tel: +852 2154 1180
Opening Hours: 8am – 10pm (Mon – Thurs), 8am – 11pm (Fri), 9am – 11pm (Sat), 9am – 9pm (Sun)
Google Maps

Other Outlets:
Causeway Bay – 38 Yiu Wa Street, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong (Flagship)
Tsim Sha Tsui – Kiosk 1, Level 2, Gateway Arcade, Harbour City, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon
Repulse Bay – Shop No. 108, Level 1, The Pulse, No.26-30 Beach Road, Repulse Bay, Southern
Morrison – The Morrison, 225 Wanchai Road, Wanchai

Other Related Entries
10 Must Go Places In Hong Kong For Sweet Treats
Via Tokyo (Hong Kong)
Angelina (Hong Kong)
Sinmei Tea 川善茶居 (Hong Kong)
Bing Sutt G.O.D Starbucks (Hong Kong)

The post The Coffee Academics – Listed As One Of The World’s Best Coffee Shop appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

Chef Hide Yamamoto opens his second Japanese restaurant in Singapore at The Quayside Robertson Quay, specialising in traditional Kappo cuisine.

Kappo? That would mean an intimate over-the-counter experience, where the chef would prepare dishes in front of the customers, served directly across the counter to the diner.

The implication is food will be served hot and fresh, with inclusion of personal interaction.

The menu at Wagokoro is served in 8- or 9-course sets. Omakase lunch is at $80++, while Dinner is priced at $158++ and $238++.

Accordingly, “All preparation of food is done right in front of the guests as the chef introduces the dishes and explains the ingredients. The only barrier between guest and chef is the counter.”

There was an element of anticipation as we observed the chef slice sashimi, deep fry the tempura and assemble the food aesthetically.

However, there was zero talking from the chef, none of that supposed interaction, while the waiter did all the explanation – which was quite adequate anyway.

Not complaining, just wonder why was the key feature of this restaurant missing.

“This is confirmed better than the previous experience.” My friend was referring to our meal with that hefty price tag at Hide Yamamoto Marina Bay Sands.

The appetizer (a duck salad), sashimi, stewed vegetables, grilled item, rice with roe, and dessert were fresh and appetizing with a light touch, reminding us of the kaiseki meals in Kyoto where we could savour the natural taste and sweetness of the various seasonal ingredients.

Ala-carte items are available for lunch. Its Tendon ($28), Fresh Fish Cake Duck Consommé Oden, and Homemade Soba ($8) are worthy of recommendation.

I was won over by the flavourful soup base of the oden, a small bowl of refined broth packed with goodness every sip, as though you can feel the warmth trickling down your body.

The original Hide Yamamoto feels more enlivening with 5 varied concepts in one place, though Wagokoro gave us a better meal experience.

Wagokoro Hide Yamamoto
The Quayside #01-04, 60 Robertson Quay, Singapore 238252
Tel: +65 6733 6315
Opening Hours: 11.30am – 2pm, 6 – 11pm (Mon – Sat). Last order for dinner 10.30pm. Closed Sun

Other Related Entries
Ginza Kuroson (Japanese)
The Sushi Bar (Ngee Ann City)
Manzoku (Purvis Street)
Ginzawa (Palais Renaissance)
Tburu (Orchard Gateway)

* Daniel’s Food Diary pays for meals reviewed, unless otherwise stated.

The post Wagokoro Hide Yamamoto – Traditional Japanese Kappo Cuisine At The Quayside appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

Hong Kong is THE go-to city for food, anything from dai pai dong, Hong Kong Cafes, dim sum restaurants to fine dining can rock your world.

Similar to the 10 Best Restaurants In Singapore guide, the following top restaurants in Hong Kong is based on Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants in 2015.

This guide took longer to compile than the Singapore’s version for obvious reason, but I still went to each and every one of these restaurants at least once, over a 3 year period. Reservations at some of these restaurants needed to be much earlier than expected.

I know this sounds crazy, but it only feels right to try ALL OF THEM before writing this down. (For a more detailed writeup, click on the link after each summary.)

If Michelin is your benchmark, the only five 3-star Michelin restaurants in Hong Kong are 8 1/2 Otto e Mezzo Bombana , L’Atelier de Joel Robuchon, Lung King Heen, Bo Innovation and Sushi Shikon (Really need to save up for this).

The 9 Best Restaurants In Hong Kong

Amber
15 Queen’s Road, The Landmark Mandarin Oriental, The Landmark, Central, Hong Kong
Tel: +852 2132 0066
Opening Hours: 7:00 am – 10:30 am, 12:00 pm – 2:30 pm, 6:30 pm – 10:30 pm Daily

Located at Landmark Mandarin Oriental near Central, Amber is at the perfect blend of the produces from East and cooking techniques from the West.

Chef Richard Ekkebus, Dutch-born and French-trained, loves a light touch to his cooking, with great emphasis placed on creative beautiful presentations.

The menu of the nine-course degustation (HK$1988) changes every three months to accommodate the seasons. Weekday lunches are also available with 3 course (HK$578) and 4 course (HK$798) meals.

Amber is easily one of my favourite Hong Kong fine dining restaurant. Without trying to exaggerate too much, I am starting to suspect that even ‘delicious’ is not enough to describe my meal there. (Read: Amber)

8½ Otto e Mezzo Bombana
Shop 202, 2/F, Alexandra House, 5-17 Des Voeux Road Central, Central, Hong Kong
中環德輔道中5-17號歷山大廈2樓202號舖
Tel: +852 2537 8859
info@ottoemezzobombana.com
Opening Hours: 12:00p – 10:00pm (Mon-Sat, Closed on Sun)

8½ Otto e Mezzo Bombana is the only Italian restaurant outside of Italy to have received 3 Michelin stars – that means it serves exceptional cuisine, and worth a special journey.

The degustation menu is at HK$1230 per person (additional HK$780 for wine pairing).

Both mains I had were exceptional – a Colorado Rack of Lamb with Artichoke Puree, Black Olive and Lamb Jus, or the choice of a Tajima Short Rib and Beef Tenderloin with red wine and plum sauce, whipped potato on side. (Read: 8 1/2 Otto e Mezzo Bombana)

Fook Lam Moon 福臨門
Shop 3, G/F, Newman House 35-45 Johnston Road, Wanchai Hong Kong (10 min walk from Wan Chai MTR)
Tel: +852 2866 0663 (Reservations required)
53-59 Kimberley Road, Tsimshatsui, Kowloon Ts/im Sha Tsui MTR, Hong Kong
Tel: +852 2366 0286
Opening Hours: Lunch 11:30am-3pm (Mon-Sat), 11am-3pm (Sun). Dinner 6-11pm Daily

Fook Lam Moon 福臨門 is known to be a popular Chinese restaurant for the rich and famous, with a status of being the ‘Cafeteria for the Wealthy’.

The regular dim sum is pricier than the usual restaurants, with each basket or dish costing between HK$50-$60. I would recommend the Baked BBQ Buns, Deep Fried Beancurd Skin with Prawns and Salted Custard Liu Sha Bao, mainly done the old-school way.

The rich has been loyal supporters, and it shows through its food quality. (Read: Fook Lam Moon 福臨門)

L’Atelier de Joel Robuchon
Shop 401, 4/F The Landmark, Central, Hong Kong (Central Station)
Tel: +852 2166 9000
reservation@robuchon.hk
Opening Hours: 12:00pm – 2:30pm, 6:30pm – 10:30pm Daily

L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon of Hong Kong is divided into two areas – an open L’Atelier and a closer intimate Le Jardin – located at The Landmark.

The Dinner Menu is priced at HK$1080, while the Discovery Menu is HK$2080 (without taxes).

I would recommend sitting at the L’Atelier counter where you can watch the chefs in full action within an open kitchen concept.

Words I would definitely use to describe the restaurant – sexy, cool, energetic, friendly, enthusiastic, and lively. Food is underwhelming though, and I felt little impressed. (Read: L’Atelier de Joel Robuchon)

Lung King Heen 龍景軒
Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong, Podium 4, 8 Finance Street, Central (Hong Kong MTR)
Tel: +852 3196 8888
www.fourseasons.com
Opening Hours: 12:00pm – 2:30 pm; 6pm – 10:30 pm

With a name that means “view of the dragon”, it almost feels that you are walking into a palace with an open dining hall offering a panorama of the Victoria Harbour. This is the world’s first Chinese restaurant and the only Cantonese restaurant in Hong Kong awarded the coveted maximum of 3 Michelin stars.

Executive Chef Chan Yan Tak does an amazing job with creating menus serving exquisite delicate dim sum, with popular items including Steamed Lobster and Scallop Dumpling, Baked Whole Abalone Puff with Diced Chicken and Steamed Shrimp and Pork Dumplings with Crab Roe.

Be prepared to pay at least 3-4 more than the usual dim sum restaurants. Reservations at least a month or two before highly recommended. (Read: Lung King Heen 龍景軒)

Tenku RyuGin
101/F, ICC, 1 Austin Road West, Kowloon
Tel: +852 2302 0222
info@ryugin.com.hk
Opening Hours: 12pm – 3pm (Private lunch only), 6pm – 9:30pm

RyuGin is one my favourite restaurants in Japan, and thus I was full of anticipation at Tenku Ryugin, overseen by Sous Chef Hidemichi Seki.

Tenku RyuGin attempts to recreate the Tokyo dining experience, located at the 101th floor of ICC with a magnificent view of Hong Kong.

Ingredients are flown daily from Japan, to complete a traditional and unique Kaiseki cuisine experience priced at HK$2180. What you can look forward to is its specialty – a -196 degree Celsius dessert with +99 degree Celsius jam on the same plate.

While food at Tenku RyuGin is still exceptional, I somehow preferred the Tokyo experience much more, which is also a less hurried affair.

Bo Innovation
Shop 13,2/f,J Residence, 60 Johnston Road,Wan Chai, Hong Kong (MTR Wan Chai Exit A3)
(Private lift entrance on 18 Ship Street)
Tel:+852 2850 8371
dine@boinnovation.com

3-star Michelin chef Alvin Leung from Bo Innovation has quite the reputation. He calls himself the “Demon Chef”, and erases all possible stereotypes of the typical chef dressed in whites. Fans of “Wok Stars” will know not to mess with him.

The space with an open kitchen does not look like a Chinese restaurant, or a 3-star Michelin one for that matter, because we may have the perception that only the ‘fine-dining’ types would get that accolade.

Set lunch was very surprisingly ‘affordable’, with a choice of 2 dim sum or classic “bo” dishes, main course and dessert for HK$430. A 13-course tasting dinner on the other hand, is at HK$1,680 w/o taxes. (Read: Bo Innovation)

The Chairman 大班樓
18 Kau U Fong, Central, Hong Kong (Central MTR Exit E2, 15 min walk, Find Lan Kwai Fong Hotel, Walk straight down and you will find the restaurant on your right)
Tel: +852 2555 2202
thechairmangroup.com, reservations@thechairmangroup.com
Opening Hours: 12pm-3pm, 6pm-11pm Daily

The Chairman Restaurant 大班樓 has gained a reputation of presenting quality Cantonese food, light and delicately, with some modern interpretation.

The kitchen takes pride in their food: Looking at small local suppliers for produce, using organic vegetables as far as possible, no MSG (kudos for a Cantonese restaurant), using homemade sauces. They own a small farm at Sheung Shui.

A tasting menu for two is HK$598 per person. If ala carte is your way, their signatures are Steamed Fresh Flowery Crab with Aged ShaoXing Wine (seasonal price), Braised Spare Ribs with Preserved Plums in Caramelized Black Vinegar (HK$198), and The Chairman’s Soy Sauce Chicken (HK$178). (Read: The Chairman Restaurant 大班樓)

Caprice
Podium 6, Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong, 8 Finance Street, Central
中環金融街8號香港四季酒店6樓
Tel: +852 3196 8860
Email: caprice.hkg@fourseasons.com
Opening Hours: 12pm – 2:30pm Lunch, 6:30pm – 10:30pm Dinner (Mon-Sun)

Caprice was known as Hong Kong’s best French restaurant, luxuriously located at one of the most high end hotels Four Seasons Hong Kong.

It is impossible to talk about Caprice without mentioning the dining area, superiorly grand and royally glamorous, classy yet not over the top, fit for Hong Kong’s rich and famous.

We chose to have the Chef’s Menu, priced at HKD$1990 without taxes and wine, making this a very expensive dinner.

Some of the dishes were aesthetically pleasing and well-executed, did not overly impress, though we were bench-making the taste with other Michelin starred restaurants. (Read: Caprice)

Other Related Entries
Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants 2015
10 Must Eat Food In Hong Kong
10 Best Dim Sum Restaurants In Hong Kong
5 Best Hong Kong Cafes
10 Must Go Places In Hong Kong For Sweet Treats

The post 9 Best Restaurants In Hong Kong (And The Price Tag) appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

Loylum must have been my 8th Thai boat noodle eatery I have visited in Singapore since March this year. I am keeping track. Am going for 10.

The Thai boat noodles aka kuai tiao ruea has been gaining traction in Singapore, with eateries promoting $1, $1.90 to $2 bowls, plus eating competitions. (So many chut pattern.) What’s not to love? Great satisfaction in a small bowl.

Loylum which means “”floating”, hails from Thailand itself and is founded since 1952.

Almost every single Thai Boat Noodle shop in Singapore uses the word “authentic”. This is debatable, because pig’s blood, a key ingredient in the dish, cannot be used in this country. And so…

Accordingly, their chef has created a secret ingredient to replace the pig’s blood, and owners claim that the taste is the same or even better. Jing lor?

The small and standard sized bowls are available, priced at $2 and $5. For comparison, you can have a look at the photo. Bowl size same same, but ingredients and noodle portion SLIGHTLY more.

Big bowl filling, small bowl try more. You decide lah.

There are four different soup bases of beef, chicken pork and vegetarian mushroom, matched with your choice of bee hoon, egg noodle, thick or thin kway teow.

I liked the pork soup base, follow by the beef best. Both were robust, packed with flavours, oily (yes) with a trace of herbal nuance.

The vegetarian option will be suitable for those who like a clearer, lighter broth.

Desserts are generally an after-thought for many small Thai eateries. Loylum surprisingly got a smooth creamy version of Thai Mango Sago ($4) that I found delight in, without that tangy syrupy savour most others would have.

Thai Iced Milk tea was just quite the opposite – too sweet, not milky enough.

My critical friends said, “Not bad, not the best.”

Pretty sums up what I feel, BUT I think since the shop has just established in Singapore, they will be able to fine-tune that in time to come.

Loylum
45 Sam Leong Road Singapore 207935 (near Kitchener Road, 5-10 min walk from Farrer Park MRT, City Square Mall, Mustafa Centre)
Tel +65 6291 3001
Opening Hours: 10am – 10pm Daily

Other Related Entries
Noodle Café (Sim Lim)
Thai Boat Noodle (Bedok Point)
Haha Thai (Ngee Ann City)
BaaMee Bangkok (Syed Alwi Road)
Porn’s Thai Boat Noodee (Kitchener Complex)

The post Loylum – $2 & $5 Thai Boat Noodles At Sam Leong Road appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

It makes sense for Atmosphere Bistro to be called ‘Atmosphere’ with a location facing the picturesque East Coast Beach and cycling pathways, unless if there is haze of course.

So when Atmosphere opens a café and bistro concept at Alexandra Central, it loses a huge part of that initial attraction.

For their second outlet, they have gone for a lush interior, with pseudo-European curtain drapes, maroon-red seats, and chandeliers, kind of reminding me of High Society Café.

I have been to Alexandra Central quite a few times precisely because the building is relatively quieter, though this is not a positive thing in the business aspect.

Some of the items available – Seafood Aglio Olio ($16.80), Chilli Pasta ($19.80), Carbonara ($15.80), Chicken Meatballs Bolognese ($16.80), Baby Bay Ribs ($21.80), Pan-seared Salmon ($20.80), Cajun Chicken ($17.80), Wagyu Burger ($19.80) and a selection of pizzas ($12.80 – $14.80).

The East Coast outlet has received some differing online reviews – some praising the environment, the others not so happy about the service and food.

I ordered a Lobster Bisque ($5.80), Buffalo Wings ($6.80 for four), Seafood Aglio Olio ($16.80) and a Pineapple Cheese Tart ($7.80).

The food falls into the acceptable range – the bisque too diluted, wings dry but tastily marinated, and pasta okay-satisfactory. Price felt it could be about a dollar or two lower for the quantity.

Food aside, I actually liked the ambience of Atmosphere Café & Bistro, and can imagine myself sitting in a quiet corner having a cuppa and lemon meringue tart. But they probably face some challenges in a lack of visibility and signature food.

Atmosphere Café & Bistro
321 Alexandra Road #02-01 Alexandra Central Singapore 159972
Tel: +65 6250 4863
Opening Hours: 11am – 10pm

Other Related Entries
The Bakehouse by Carpenter & Cook (Alexandra Central)
Otoko Ramen (Alexandra Central)
Alibabar (Alexandra Central)
The Gogi (Alexandra Central)
Bakersfield (Fusionopolis)

The post Atmosphere – New Café & Bistro At Alexandra Central appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

This reminds me of a famous advertisement line that goes “Ni Pa Hei Ma?” Are you afraid of the dark?

Black has become a sexy colour to use in food, that even fast food chains are coming out with bizarre-looking black burgers.

The black colour used in foods is usually incorporated with squid ink (common in Italian dishes), bamboo charcoal (for bakery items), or black sesame otherwise known as goma (seen in Japanese food and desserts).

Call this the instagram effect, but black food has that alluring appeal that conveys that mood of artiness.

15 Sexy Black Food In Singapore – Ni Pai Hei Ma?

Black Panna Cotta
Available Issho Izakaya – Kallang Wave Mall

Blancmange ($8.50) panna cotta pudding done the Japanese way. The dessert looked like a brilliant art piece from a top shot. Also, it is not common to see homemade black sesame used in this Italian dessert.

French trained chef, Japanese restaurant, Italian dessert – a fine synergy.

Black Burger
Available DC Comics Super Heroes Café – Marina Bay Sands

Batman’s Dark Knight Burger ($25.90), served with black charcoal burger bun, wagyu beef patty, grilled portobello mushroom. But kind of dry and disappointing. Bat-Burger, or Bad-Burger, you decide.

Black Shibuya Toast
Available Stateland Café – Bali Lane

Hello Mr TAN. Or is this Ms? This Charcoal Toast ($14.90) is aptly called “TAN”, which means ‘charcoal black’ in Chinese, not that surname.

The toast is drizzled with malt sugar, added with liquid marshmallow, salted caramel and topped with coconut ice cream and toasted nuts for a full explosion of buttery sweetness. But have to wait long long.

Black Tempura
Available Shihlin Street Food – Various locations

Squid ink Taiwanese style tempura ($3.90) sprinkled with parsley, and comes complete in a black paper bag.

Auntie told me to shout “Hei Hei Hey” to get a discount quite reluctantly. Of course, I did. And we bought laughed “Ha ha ha…” #Awkward

Things I do for 30 cents.

Black Curry
Available Kiseki – Orchard Central

I know black curry sounds and looks quite “urgh”, though you should give this sweet Japanese black curry a try if you are at the buffet.

The curry is located at some obscure corner, which you are supposed to pour over rice. But I had seen people use it as a ‘zup’ (sauce) over just about anything from noodles to fried chicken. Idea.

(Photo credit: Nicholas Tan @stormscape)

Black Bread Bowl
Available Kokomama Marketplace – Selegie

Chilli Crab in a Black Bread Bowl ($8.50) sounds promising. In our minds, The chilli crab was too spicy, the curry weird, and perhaps the Clam Chowder ($6.90) would work best.

Black Pasta
Available Monochrome Fusion Bistro – South Bridge Road

Technically, this should be black and white. Monochrome’s Aglio Olio ($25) is a combination of the more ordinary white spaghetti combined with the squid ink variant, served with a choice of mussels or prawns.

Black Rice
Available Miam Miam – Bugis Junction, Westgate, Tampines 1

While the Squid Ink Black Rice & Omu Egg ($16.50) looks nothing like the menu’s photo, this moist flavourful rice delights on every bite, complimented by fluffy eggs. Order, but be careful about appearing in front of your ate with black teeth.

Black Fideua
Available Sabio By The Sea – Quayside Isle

The Fideua is a noodle dish similar to the Spanish Paella in terms of presentation, and is hard to find in Singapore. What you get here is noodles with squid ink, squid, prawns and sea bass in a flat-frying pan.

Black Duck Buns
Available London Fat Duck – Scotts Square

Tim Ho Wan may have gathered its Michelin Star due to the famed baked pork buns, but London Fat Duck’s Black Pepper London Duck Bun ($4.80 for 3) will give a run for its money.

Light crispy on the outside, fluffy on the layer, moist sauce-y duck fillings, with a distinct savour of black pepper. Oomph!

Black Waffles
Available FatCat Ice Cream Bar – Bedok North

Is this the most instagrammed waffle in the whole of Singapore, or what? Probably is.

FatCat Ice Cream Bar’s Gourmet Charcoal Waffles is served with salted egg yolk custard sauce ($6 w/o ice cream) had many hipster café-hoppers flock all the way to Bedok North Ave 2 to get a pouring shot.

Black Macaron
Available Hashida Garo – Mandarin Gallery

My most expensive macaron ever. $12.

$12 for a macaron sounds insane, but this black beauty is filled with foie gras for a savoury-sweet divine experience. Plus, the space is very zen.

Black Pie
Available Pies & Coffee – Robertson Walk, Rochestor Mall, The Grandstand and Alexandra Retail Centre

Pies & Coffee’s Chicken Curry Charcoal Pie ($11.20) consists of chicken thigh stewed in an onion and curry-based sauce, with mashed potato & mixed salad.

Black Har Gao
Available Mouth Restaurant – China Square and Plaza Singapura

There was a period of time where multi-coloured dim sum was in the rage, therefore the birth of this 6 flavoured ‘Har Gao’ ($9.80) – squid Ink, spinach, sweet potato, pumpkin, carrot and original. The skin is slightly thick, though the prawns were fresh and crunchy.

And while we are at this, here’s some Black Squid Ink Char Siew Bao ($5 for 3 pieces), also from Mouth Restaurant.

Let me know by commenting below if you have come across any interesting black-coloured food.

Other Related Entries
10 Food In Singapore Pattern More Than Badminton
10 Favourite Thai Food + What The Dishes Mean In Thai
10 Nutella Desserts You Find In Singapore
10 Singapore Heritage Bakeries and Shops
10 Singapore Food Bloggers And Their Fav Hawker Food

The post 15 Sexy Black Food In Singapore – Ni Pa Hei Ma? appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

This is one of the infrequent times that a restaurant helmed by a Michelin chef, 3 star no doubt, goes almost too quietly under the radar. No media fanfare, no press releases received almost no ‘word-of-mouth’ bulletin from my usual foodie sources.

Strange. Because there were 1-star Michelin chefs who come to Singapore and I can almost hear drum rolls.

3-star Michelin chef Juan Amador brings Spanish–European dishes combined with Asian influences to Singapore at Goodwood Park.

There are few changes in the space and décor, previously occupied by Italian restaurant Gaia – warm colour tones, dark wood furnishing, and orange-coloured seats lining one side, and a huge mirror at the end of the dining hallway.

It did translate to dated.

The chef de cuisine is French chef Christophe Lerouy, who linked up with Juan Amadaor to open Amador restaurant in Abu Dhabi, and was named best dining restaurant.

The menu is divided into ‘Traditionnel’ and ‘Evolucion’ where you get more adventurous fusion dishes on the later.

There were Yellow Fin Tuna with Shitake and Green Curry ($18), Beef Tartar A La Chinoise ($18), and Diver Liver with Papaya ($18).

We had to try the Foie Gras Ice Cream ($18) sitting on Mango Gazpacho (soup made of raw vegetables served cold) and sprinkled with Pistachio.

The combination of sweet and savoury tastes, with creamy smooth textured foie gras worked wonderfully, like a breath of refreshing.

Prices of the ‘Surprise Menu’ are not steep considering its accolades, location and setting – 4 courses ($68), 5 courses ($88) and 6 courses ($108).

I went for a 3-course lunch ($48) though not many of the dishes were impressive as what you would have imagined.

The firm-textured Monkfish is undeniably not easy to execute well. Alma’s version of Monk Fish Cheek with saffron, mussel and artichoke fell short of expectations, was tougher to cut, and rougher to chew.

Its other Duck main course cooked with beetroot, raspberry and liquorice had a less tough day, but the crispy glossy skin was not enough to save the entire plate from its less than explosive flavours.

Some of my friends agree that the overall experience was run-of-the-mill (if you look at the spectrum of other similar restaurants in Singapore) with few stand-out dishes. There were also less than 5 customers the day we dine, which can be worrying.

Perhaps also because we came hoping for a Michelin star experience.

Alma by Juan Amador
Goodwood Park Hotel 22 Scotts Road Singapore 228221
Tel: +65 6735 9937
Opening Hours: 12pm – 2:30pm (Wed-Fri), 6pm – 10:30pm
.
Other Related Entries
Pool Grill (Marriott)
Adrift by David Myers (MBS)
Bread Street Kitchen (Marina Bay Sands)
Saveur Art (Ion Orchard)
Corner House (Botanic Gardens)

* Daniel’s Food Diary pays for food reviewed unless otherwise stated.

The post Alma by Juan Amador – Spanish European Restaurant By 3-Star Michelin Chef appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.