The Ramen Stall is sister restaurant to The Ramen House (at Short Street near the famous Rochor Beancurd), which is probably Singapore’s only Halal ramen restaurant which serves till this late.

6AM.

6am. Win already. If you are craving for ramen or sashimi in the middle of the night to jio some friends, you know where to go.

Incidentally, The Ramen House was the very first place we featured when I was filming “The Supper Places” for The 5 Show. And if you know how television shows worked, I ate many bowls of ramen then.

While the outlet at North Bridge Road (next to Hyde & Co) is called The RAMEN Stall, the offerings are a lot more than just noodles, with a wide range of Appetizers, Sushi, Sashimi, Kushiyaki, Gohan and Desserts.

One thing to note, the Japanese dishes served are generally adapted to the local palate.

Some may go, “Not quite the same as the tonkotsu ramen”.

Instead of thick intense broths expected in most Japanese style ramen, the chicken-based soup is prepared much lighter and milder, still cooked under high heat for 20 hours to achieve the milky-texture and flavours.

No artificial flavouring, no MSG, no salt, no sugar added. The slight saltiness comes from the meat and kombu dashi, while the sweetness is due to the addition of corn and vegetables.

Also, the noodles used are long, thin and slightly curly, a thicker version of the mee kia we are accustomed to.

Perhaps, we can rightly call this the Singapore-style ramen. Here are some of The Ramen Stall’s signatures you can expect.

Volcano Ramen ($11)
There are 3 levels of spiciness to choose from, with the dollops of “red hot lava” made with red chillis and dried Indian chilli padi.

One man’s spicy is another man’s mild.

Level 3 was totally manageable for me, but that’s me. I know of people who had Level 2 and broke out in sweat.

To play it safe, take a Level 1 or 2, try the soup without the chilli first, then slowly mix it in to your preference.

Dry Ramen, with spicy or non-spicy version ($11)
Of all the ramen, the dry version was what I enjoyed most. I find that the style and bite of noodles went better with its base sauce.

I see this as a cross between the Japanese Ramen, Indonesian Bakmi and local Bak Chor Mee.

Mix up with the shoyu marinated chicken cha shu, braised egg, and the cucumber strips and spring onions would add some crunch on every bite.

The braised egg happened to be quite pleasantly-flavoured, marinated with shoyu sauce with a bright yellow liquid yolk.

Beef Ramen ($12.90)
You would find this soup tastier than the other varieties because the broth is further boiled with beef shanks for another 4 hours.

I appreciated that there was also sliced beef added for varied textures, though the beef chashu was slightly on the dry and tough side.

Kaisen Don ($16.90)
This could get many going. A generous bowl of Bara Chrashi Don of salmon, tuna, mekajiki (a type of swordfish) chunks and roe on sashimi rice.

You can judge the freshness of the raw fish from the vibrancy of its colour, and this was one oishii bowl.

Kushiyaki Bento Set ($12.90)
The prices here are generally affordable for its portion.

Take for example the Kushiyaki Set – Chicken Yakitori, a skewered Prawn, Shitake Mushroom, Quail Egg with French Bean on a long rice box for only $12.90. Not commonly found at this price.

This is one box in which you can get a filling meal, with mixtures of meat, seafood and vegetables.

Another set offered here comes with Shishamo Fish, Shitake Mushroom, Chicken Yaktori, Beef Roll with Golden Mushroom and Quail Egg.

Kushiyaki (mostly $1.60 to $2.80 per stick
There is a range of skewered and grilled meat and vegetables, from Shishamo, Prawns, Chicken Wing to Chicken parts such as heart, liver and gizzard.

The best seller is the Prawn with Roe and Mayonnaise ($3.90).

Hokkaido Chicken Strips ($8.90)
Not the typical Chicken Karaage, but strips of deep fried chicken stacked up, which would go well with the accompanying light mayonnaise.

Yoghurt Soft Serve in Original or Matcha ($3.90 for small, $5.90 for big)
Have almost missed this, and I enjoyed it so much I finished it even after the extremely heavy meal. (There is no more matcha though, nevermind next time.)

The yogurt was refreshing, made with fat-free skimmed milk, portion small for the individual. The best parts were candied nuts that they included at the sides and base, adding that sweet-pleasant crunch.

The Ramen Stall which is certified Halal serves a range of Japanese fare from fresh sashimi, grilled Kushiyaki to Teppanyaki dishes, great for group outings.

In fact, the restaurant was almost full when I visited one early weekday evening, so reservation via phone is encouraged.

Admittedly, some of the Japanese dishes are altered to suit the local palate, so do manage your expectations accordingly.

The very good news is it now opens till 6am for supper goers and friends who knock off late. Ramen, Kaisen Don and Sashimi in the wee hours of the morning are now a reality.

The Ramen Stall (Halal)
787 North Bridge Road Singapore 198755 (between Bugis and Lavender MRT, Lavender is slightly nearer)
Tel: +65 6655 0800
Opening Hours: 5pm – 6am (Mon – Fri), 12pm – 6am (Sat, Sun, PH)
https://www.facebook.com/ramenstall

* This entry is brought to you in partnership with The Ramen Stall.

The post The Ramen Stall – Japanese Restaurant Goes Halal, Opens Till 6AM! appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

Oh my, a déjà vu feeling when we first stepped into this workspace at MBFC.

A concept so similar to Grain Traders at Market Street (550m away), with coffee and bakes offerings in the morning (7.30am – 11.30am) and Chap Chye Png (pardon this) style of building your own rice bowls after 11.30am.

Not the first, won’t be the last anyway.

Grain Traders is one successful example of offering healthy breakfast and bowls, coffee and bakes all in one setting within the busy CBD itself.

Likewise for Workspace Espresso, they are conveniently located at the ground floor of Marina Bay Financial Centre Tower 3 with a substantial (and scary) human traffic flow during peak lunch hour from 11:30am – 2:00pm.

Office workers could be seen streaming in when the lunch hour approached, with more customers opting for takeaways in this 25 seaters space.

Some difference in offerings between Grain Traders and Workspace Espresso is a wider selection of bakes (up to 10 selections of cakes and muffins) and Pita Pockets ($4.50 – $12) available.

Coffee beans are supplied by Two Degrees North Coffee Co. for a quick perk-me-up, available in 2 cup sizes.

We had an uncommon flavour for the muffin – Pumpkin Cranberry ($4.50) while waiting for lunch to serve at 11.30am.

Pretty delectable and moist texture, slightly on the sweeter end with the icing sugar. The pumpkin taste could have been more pronounced though.

Huge bowls and containers were displayed at the counter during lunch hours, from carbohydrates as a base to proteins, sides and dressing.

At $13.80, we were given the choice to choose 1 base, 1 hot protein, 3 sides, 2 toppings and an optional dressing.

Add-ons were available at $2 for base, $3.50 for hot protein, $2 for sides and $1 for dressing.

We had the Blue Ocean ($16.30), one of the pre-constructed bowls with Quinoa & Dhal (base), Salmon (Hot Protein), Grilled Zucchini, Egg Dukkah, Smashed Guacamole (sides), Alfalfa sprouts, Sunflower seeds and Yuzu dressing.

We felt that the dressing played an important role in getting a good mix.

Aesthetically, the Blue Ocean turned out to be green. The guacamole stood out the most whereas the other components did not manage to stay afloat in the ocean.

The Pita Pockets were more suitable for the Grab-and-Goers, those rushing to work, meetings or the early train home.

Only 2 options were available before 11.30am, the Kick Start ($4.50) with guacamole, egg, tomato and lettuce and the Power Up ($5.50), with additional ham and cheese.

The lunch options packed in more protein such as Flank Steak ($12), Pulled Pork ($10) and Chicken Chermoula ($10).

If you are looking to Work at this Space with a cup of Espresso, note that there are limited seats. Find your way to beat the CBD lunch crowd for a healthy rice bowl.

Workspace Espresso
Marina Bay Financial Centre Tower 3, 12 Marina Boulevard, #01-08, Singapore 018982
Opening Hours: 7.30am – 8pm (Mon-Fri), Closed Sat, Sun
https://www.facebook.com/workspaceespresso

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

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A freaking glasshouse in the middle of Raffles Place, right next to the MRT station. Location so prime, you are not going to miss this.

The Providore has really gone big on this one, with an all-day dining restaurant opened 7 days a week literally in the heart of Singapore’s CBD.

Providore was initially named as the team wanted to be “one who makes provision and supplies provisions”.

It has other outlets at Mandarin Gallery, Outram, PasarBella Grandstand and Tangs, and is a considered a prominent F&B brand in Singapore.

This flagship at Raffles can be considered a café and provisions retail store, for dine-in meals and quick takeaways. There is even an outdoor terrace.

I visited twice at slightly off peak hours, but business was still brisk. Executives could be seen discussing / meeting / negotiating / gossiping over drinks (alcohol in the middle of the day).

Possibly THE current place to be seen (or not to be seen if your boss is around) in the CBD.

The menu consist of Breakfast (from 8am – 12pm), Salads (11am – 10pm), Sandwiches (11am – 3pm), Mains (12pm – 10pm), Snacks (5pm – 10pm) and pastries.

To note: prices are generally on the higher side, with the cheapest main of Pappardelle Pasta at $24.50. All salads cost $19.50 and a typical English Breakfast is priced at $20.50. This is without additional taxes yet.

I have yet to try an extensive enough number of items, but probably will in time to come.

The Lobster Mac & Cheese ($25.50) for its price turned out to be disappointing. Despite being served in a cast iron pan, the pasta was just moderately-warm.

Service staff warned, “Be careful, it’s hot.” But no, it wasn’t.

Perhaps Providore is going for a healthier take on Mac and Cheese, though a renaming to “pasta with cheese” may be more apt. It just wasn’t cheesy enough. Lobster? Small pieces here and there. Pasta? From the packet.

I returned for a salad. The Crispy Calamari with Rocket ($19.50) presented itself as quite a healthy version, and its dressing of lemon added some bright zest and taste. Good enough.

The café stocks a selection of The Providore’s private-labelled products, and offers a range of cakes and pastries for both dine-in and takeaway.

Service’s great by the way. Despite the so-so food, I think the glasshouse should continue to pack the crowds.

The Providore @ Raffles Place
7 Raffles Place Singapore 048625
Tel: +65 6533 1352
Opening Hours: 8am – 11pm (Mon – Sat), 9am – 6pm (Sun, PH)

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[Paris, France] Bonjour. People go to Parisian tearoom Angelina for two reasons – the Mont Blanc and richly thick Chocolat l’africain Hot Chocolate. But there is more to it.

I liked them enough to try at Hong Kong, Singapore, and most recently at home-ground Paris.

Confectioner Antoine Rumpelmayer founded Angelina in 1903, which he named after his daughter-in-law. It was then known to be the place to be among the Parisian aristocracy.

The outlet Rue de Rivoli seemed to be half-filled with Parisian tai-tai (the society women) who are indeed dressed for the part; and the other half tourists who are probably seeing this as a pitstop before viewing Madame Mona Lisa.

Oui, Musée du Louvre is a short 10 minute walk away (book your tickets online before going, please).

The interior design of the tearoom was done up by French architect Édouard-Jean Niermans in the Belle Époque style, elegantly gorgeous.

On one side was the dessert display counter… sweet, sweet paradise with some attractively jaw-dropping patisserie.

Some of the seasonal specials: The Joconde (€6.90, SGD$10.60) with a sandwiched by royal purple macaroon biscuits with blackcurrant and blackberries and cherry blossom tea cream; looking like a dame with a hat, the Religieuse Citron-Praliné (€6.60, SGD$10.10) of chou pastry covered in a praline heart of lemon cream; and a deep red Babylone (€6.60, SGD$10.10) with a strawberry marshmallow centre in the midst of light vanilla mousse.

Their classic Mont-Blanc has also gone through a few variants. I had the Mont-Blanc Coco-Passion (€7, SGD$10.70), coming with an added passion fruit heart and coconut whipped cream.

I noted that this particular piece had its chestnut cream vermicelli neatly ‘combed’, quite unless previous ones which had strands running incongruously.

The fruity-tangy middle added a refreshing touch, and also helped balanced out some of the sweetness.

Did overhear a tourist complain, “This (the Mont Blanc) was way too sweet.”

The famous decadent “African” Hot Chocolate is composed of three kinds of African cocoa from Niger, Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire, probably can give some a chocolate-overdrive.

This beverage is so smoothly thick, you can almost enjoy it like a dessert.

Some may find it hard to drink it from start till end (alone) without feeling an over-richness finish.

Somehow it could be the weather. Of all the times I tried the hot chocolate, this was the best experience.

Angelina also offers Breakfast items, Sandwiches, Salads and Main Courses.

The Angelina Breakfast with a selection of (€29.50, SGD$45.20) beverage, fresh fruit juices, mini viennoiseries, bread roll, fresh fruit salad and eggs was considered pricey, though not that impressive-tasting.

They were… okay. Scrambled eggs were in fact disappointingly dry and subpar.

Will I recommend a visit? Why not?

Expensive food aside, the hot chocolate and to a lesser extent the Mont Blanc are good reasons to come. Plus, the entire ambience encapsulates the spirit of a certain segment of Paris.

Angelina Paris
226 Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris France (Tuileries Station)
Tel: +33 1 42 60 82 00
Opening Hours: 7:30am – 7:00pm (Mon – Fri), 8:30am – 7:30pm (Sat – Sun)
Google Maps

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Versailles – Pavillon d’Orléans. Château de Versailles, 1st Floor at Pavillon d’Orléans, 78000 Versailles
Versailles – Petit Trianon. Parc du Château de Versailles, Petit Trianon, 78000 Versailles
Musée du Louvre, Aile Richelieu, Café Richelieu, 75001 Paris

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Before you go “These are Korean stews in a Japanese restaurant?” feeling immaterially confused, Tokyo Sundubu IS a chain from Japan opened at Suntec’s City Eat At Seven.

Eat At Seven which happens to be backed up by airline ANA, comprises of other Japanese restaurant concepts such as Maguro Donya Miuramisakikou Sushi & Dining , Menya Takeichi, and Nigiro Café.

Sundubu is a type of Korean jjigae featuring tofu cooked with a variety of ingredients such as vegetables, meat and seafood.

The dish gained popularity after a restaurant specializing in Sundubu opened in Los Angeles by a Korean immigrant.

Just treat this like a fusion of Japanese and Korean cultures.

There are a total of 24 Sundubu types offered here, from Japanese Oyster, 5-Vege, Kimchi, Seafood, Asari Clam, Kuro-Buta, Miso Butter, Cheese to Curry. Each Sundubu bowl comes with ingredients of house-made Tofu, Egg, Spring Onions, Asari Clam,

The price ranges from $15 to $30, which is complemented with a bowl of rice and namuru (vegetable side dish).

Three bases are available, of which the Japanese Miso and Salt & Ginger are spicy.

For a start, I would recommend a Level 2 “Japan Standard” of spiciness. This goes up to Level 4 of “Extra Spicy”.

I got a Health and Beauty Sundubu ($18) Level 3 “Singapore Standard” with a miso base. This comes with extra pieces of chicken and a glob of “collagen” which you mix in while sizzling hot.

When it is rainy, this is the kind of food you can crave for.

Anyway, the gochujang and miso base probably covered up the collagen taste, but the house-made tofu which contained soy milk was incredibly tasty and smooth. This was the highlight of the entire bowl.

Compared to a usual jjigae which could have that one-dimensional taste at times, this Sundubu had many layers, and felt more comforting and heartening. Even a friend who usually refrain from gochujang-added dishes, gave this a thumbs up.

The spiciness was also more subtle instead of straight-on-fiery, such that the natural tastes of the ingredients still managed to shine through.

Thin and crisp style Korean Pancake “Chijimi” ($10 – $24), an Dak Galbi ($12) – spicy stir fried chicken are also available.

Japanese? Korean? Considered this the best of both worlds.

Tokyo Sundubu
3 Temasek Boulevard, #03-312, Suntec City Mall Tower 1, Eat At Seven, Singapore 038983 (Promenade MRT)
Opening Hours: 11:30am – 3pm, 5:30pm – 10pm Daily

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[Paris, France] Choosing to eat the Ladurée macarons could mean missing out on the other independent, artisanal patisserie brands in Paris. There is only that much space.

The struggle didn’t take that long. After all, Ladurée is known to be the creator of the double-disc macaron that we are familiar with today (though another baker also claimed to have ‘invented’ it first).

In a nutshell, macaron didn’t used to be served with any fillings or special flavours. The humble pastry rose to greater fame when Louis-Ernest Ladurée’s grandson suggested putting two macaron shells together with a filling of creamy ganache. That was 1930.

The Holder family (who also owns PAUL) took over the single rue bakery in 1993, turned it into a chain and expanded the brand internationally.

The current tearoom you see at Champs-Elysées was crucial for the take-off of the Ladurée brand.

Therefore, I was there. I also read a few TripAdvisor reviews that went along the lines of “The only cafe that deserves visiting at Champs Elysees”.

Tourist tip: This outlet is a walking distance to Arc de Triomphe.

The restaurant’s menu was quite extensive, with the typical brunch items from Plain omelette, served with Ladurée French fries (€18.00), Salade Ladurée (€27.00), Club Sandwich Champs-Elysées (€19.50), Ladurée Croque-Monsieur (€20.00), and main courses.

Note: Paris IS one of the most expensive cities in the world. And it IS a very touristy spot. Be prepared to wait for say 10-20 minutes before you get a seat.

You can admire the architecture and design of this timeless hotel of the style of Napoleon III, and appreciate “the art of French living” while cramped in this dining room space. I mean it positively. Not many places can do handle cramped spaces and over-crowdedness this elegantly.

I had a Poached Egg Benedict, Ladurée style (€15.50) which had the eggs supported on cylinder-shaped crispy bread, and the waiter would swift-fully pour thick yellow Hollandaise sauce over from a holder. There was so much sauce that there should be left-overs.

Despite the poached eggs being a weeny-tad overcooked, this was one version of Eggs Benedict that I enjoyed. The creamy eggy and not too tangy-tasting sauce was one reason, the other was the blend of textures of just simple egg with light-crisp bread.

The waiter recommended the Macaron flavours I should try, “Take the Orange Blossom.” The assortment of Assortment of 4 mini macarons of your choice was priced at €10.30.

He was right, the macaron had a pleasant light fruity taste, and the shell crisp and smooth. Comparatively, I found the Strawberry Candy Guimauve sticky and rather sweet.

To my other surprise, the Croissant was agreeably fluffy and buttery, much better than the usual Parisian ones.

I would be frank to say Ladurée do not serve my favourite macarons, would have preferred something with more distinct flavours and creaminess. Personal preference anyway. What’s yours?

Ladurée Champs Elysées
75, avenue des Champs Elysées, 75008 Paris (Georges V Station)
Tel: +33 (0)1 40 75 08 75
Opening Hours: 7:30am – 11:30pm (Mon – Thurs),7:30am – 00:30am (Fri), 8:30am – 00:30am (Sat), 8:30am – 11:30pm (Sun)
Google Maps

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Bonjour. This Parisian Laduree Eggs Ben is such a bad ass with all that hollandaise sauce. Il est frais et délicieux #DFDParis

A video posted by Daniel's Food Diary (@danielfooddiary) on Feb 20, 2016 at 10:25pm PST

Click play. Show some LOVE on my Instagram page yah?

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The weather, oh, the merciless hot weather. That is why (some) bingsu cafes are surviving well in Singapore. There are so many Korean Bingsu shops which opened (and closed) within a short one year frame, it is not even funny anymore.

Did Bingki Korean Desserts enter the saturated market too late?

It is located at Tanjong Pagar Plaza (near Craig Road), a short walk from where most of the Korean barbecue shops are, and diagonally opposite Twins Korean Chicken.

I asked the Korean girl behind the cashier what their opening hours were since that was not reflected in the namecard. “24 hours every day!” In a happy mood.

“Jinjja?!”

More than 10 different bingsu varieties are available, including Red Bean ($12), Injeolmi ($13), DaBang Coffee ($16), Peach ($15), Mango ($15), Melon ($18), Watermelon ($15) and Papaya ($15).

The Green Tea Bingsu ($14) came with a scoop of ice cream decorated as a monkey (or bear?), with red bean and random ingredients of pepero, kit-kat and Hello Panda cookies. “Isn’t this Japanese?”

The shavings were fluffy, soft on the touch and sweetly-flavoured. But of course, Bingki imported some mighty bingsu machines from Korea, and the resulting texture won’t be as coarse.

Comparatively, some other bingsu cafes’ shavings are not as fine, but Bingki probably need to work on the ingredients that go into each bowl in its entirely.

The Mango Bingsu ($15) I had freshly sweet mangoes and was delicious-tasting. Still good on the second round, but some of my friends wondered about the high price tag for essentially a medium sized portion.

As far as it goes, Bingki Korean Desserts has a huge space and pleasant enough environment (depending on which seats you get – some are short, small ones).

Opened 24/7, Bingsu for dessert after a Korean feast sounds like a good idea.

Bingki Korean Desserts
Blk 7 Tanjong Pagar Plaza #01-106 Singapore 081007 (Tanjong Pagar MRT)
Tel: +65 6443 5435
Opening Hours: 24 Hours Daily

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Another Korean Bingsu Cafe. The thing you need in this weather. ☀️☀️☀️

A video posted by Daniel's Food Diary (@danielfooddiary) on Mar 21, 2016 at 6:10am PDT

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While Dear Daniel here is not too big a Hello Kitty fan, many Singaporeans will be extremely delighted to know that Singapore’s 1st Hello Kitty Café will arrive at Changi Airport this coming May.

The café will be called “Hello Kitty Orchid Garden”, with its interior and menu inspired by Singapore’s national flower.

Located at Terminal 3’s Arrival Hall Central, the cafe will be opened 24/7.

Local influence will be woven into the menu, which comprises of all-day breakfast fare and an array of Kitty-fied desserts, including gelato sundaes, waffles, pastries and tea cakes.

Fans will be tempted to take home a memento from the retail corner, where Singapore-exclusive merchandise will be launched in stages.

Anticipate a range of custom Hello Kitty-inspired tea blends, plush toys, grow-it-yourself plant kits, postcards and tea cups.

Good to know: The café is managed by the group behind Swensen’s Singapore.

Hello Kitty Orchid Garden
Arrival Hall Central #01-22, Terminal 3, Singapore Changi Airport
Opening Hours: 24 Hours Daily

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Hello Kitty. This cafe is so PINK it scares me. Sorry no kitty cutting video because I forgot to export from snapchat!

A video posted by Daniel's Food Diary (@danielfooddiary) on Jan 6, 2016 at 3:06am PST

* Photos from Hello Kitty Cafe Seoul. Check out DanielFoodDiary.com for updates nearer to the opening date.

The post Hello Kitty Orchid Garden – Singapore’s first Hello Kitty Café To Open At Changi Airport Terminal 3 appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

Yes, it’s true. PizzaExpress is finally coming here to Singapore at Scotts Square Basement 1 come July 2016.

With over 50 years of history and more than 500 restaurants across the United Kingdom, Europe, Hong Kong, India and the Middle East, this is PizzaExpress’s first foray to Singapore.

PizzaExpress specialises in handmade pizza, founded by Peter Boizot who opened its first restaurant in London’s Wardour Street after being inspired by a trip to Italy.

The secret to success, is said to be in the dough.

The local outlet will offer a mouth-watering menu of handmade pizzas, fresh salads, pastas, snacks, and gluten-free options.

It will use the same fresh quality ingredients that they are renowned for, and appears to be headed by Chef Dan Segall, previous Executive Chef at the-then KU DÉ TA Singapore, and Group Executive Chef of The Big Idea which is behind Bedrock Bar & Grill, The Pelican Seafood Bar & Grill, The Marmalade Pantry, The Marmalade Toast and Oriole Coffee.

Pizza Express
Scotts Square Basement 1, 6 Scotts Road Singapore 228209 (Orchard MRT

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[Seoul] Actually, where did all these Korean Bingsu craze come about? It can be largely attributed to Sulbing설빙 Korean Dessert Cafe. (And I figure it is only a matter of time that Sulbing comes to Singapore.)

If you head to downtown Seoul, it is almost impossible to miss a Sulbing outlet, which expanded to an enormous 490 franchise outlets in only one year.

They claim to be “the original dessert café enterprise”, and most bingsu cafes and items you see now, are in fact copied from / inspired by them.

The owner of Sulbing was first inspired by the dessert cafes in Japan, and aimed to introduce higher-end Korean desserts back home.

She started with Siru in 2010, a fusion rice cake café, and the signature Injeolmi Sulbing made of shaved milk, red bean, rice cake and milk syrup soon became a hit.

It is quite amazing, considering Sulbing was introduced quite recently in 2013.

So if you are there, you may want to try the best-selling Injeolmi Sulbing (7,000KRW, SGD$8.20, USD$6) flavored with nutty bean powder, chewy rice cake, together with sweet and soft cheese over fluffy shaved milk.

I had the Premium Mango Coco Snowflakes Sherbet (9,500KRW, SGD$11.15, USD$8.15), a massive portion of shaved milk topped with apple-mango, cheese cake, drizzled with coconut milk.

Compared to just ordinary mangoes, the apple-mangoes are said to be sweeter (indeed) and the shaved milk had a snowflake-like texture that would disintegrate in your mouth with soft sweetness.

To be fair, I thought that Singapore’s Nunsongyee is quite comparable in terms of texture, but Sulbing probably has a much larger range to choose from.

That includes the Sul-Bingo bingsu in a cup, and the Injeolmi Green Tea Sul-bingo (7,300KRW, SGD$8.60, USD$6.25) of snowflakes sherbet with green tea mousse and fresh green tea ice cream as toppings is often sold out.

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A Mango Bingsu from Sulbing 雪冰, which is found almost everywhere in Seoul. This is perhaps one of the very few items that I think Singapore has quite comparable ones. But still liked the freshness of the fruits, fine shavings and toppings of cheese cake. Of course having it at a 2 degree temperature makes a difference.

A video posted by Daniel's Food Diary (@danielfooddiary) on Jan 1, 2016 at 2:51am PST

The post Sulbing 설빙 – Where The Korean Bingsu Craze All Began appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

Shipping container style restaurants and food trucks are commonplace in other countries, and popup areas like Bangkok’s Artbox has hipsters and youths going in droves.

Singapore is probably going to see its first such concept, and in a big way at Timbre+ (or Timbre Plus).

This is going to be very exciting after it officially opens 1st April.

(Photo: Timbre+ Facebook

Timbre+ is located at 73A Ayer Rajah Crescent, JTC LaunchPad @ one-north, and some food stalls will start operation as early as 6am to cater to the nearby office crowd.

This 24,000 square feet area is going to house 35 different food places – 14 restaurant brands and 21 hawker stalls.

Most of the hawker stalls will serve a variety of local delights from repurposed graffiti-painter containers, while some of the restaurant brands dish out casual fares from (stationary) caravans – food truck style.

Some of the names you can expect include Portico Platos, The World Is Flat by Tanuki Raw, Dancing Crab, Chit Chaat Chai, Big Bern’s American Grill (Botak Jones), Kush by The Quarters and Food Anatomy.

Portico Platos
Portico with two restaurants at Alexandra and Dempsey, has quickly expanded to its 3rd with a tapas concept.

You can look forward to Portico Plato’s Signature Market Seafood Paella which is quite value-for-menu at $9 and $16 for a luncheon and full portion respectively.

Tapas include Portico Signature Truffle Fries ($12), Steamed Mussels in Chorizo Broth ($12), Charred Iberico Pork Skewers ($12) and Patatas Bravas with Black Garlic Mayo ($10). Leave some space for the Pandan Churros ($9) with home-made salted caramel and naphung honey kaya.

Teppei Daidokoro
There is no stopping of Chef Teppei Yamashita.

This concept of Daidokoro (meaning “kitchen” in Japanese) focuses on yakitori skewers with charcoal infused yakitori sauce, with a selection of chicken meatball, chicken thigh, and chicken with Japanese leek, pork belly, pork sausages, salmon belly, and quail eggs.

Of course its popular Kaisen Don topped with generous portion of sashimi will still be dished out.

Garçons
Garçons is a collaboration between Immanuel French Kitchen and Enoch’s European.

You get highlights from both kitchens such as Escargots, Pan Fried Foie Gras, French Onion Soup, Duck Rillettes, Chicken Liver Pate, Pork Belly and Pork Ragout Baked Rice Gratin.

I am already salivating thinking about their 12-Hour Belly of Pork, with that crisp outer crackling and melt-in-mouth meat. C’est délicieux.

Wong Kee
Yup, that Wong Kee from Maxwell Food Centre. Not just the usual wanton noodles.

The noodles at Huang Ji are specially created, imported from a factory at JB, with flavours of Spinach and Tomato. The orange-red tomato noodles have a refreshing sweet aftertaste.

Huang Ji’s wanton mee seem to be a cross between the Cantonese and local Singapore style, served with plump dumplings and thick stalks of kailan – I like.

Iskina Cebu
Friends from the Philippines can get a taste of home from Iskina Cebu, serving Bisdak favorites of Lechon Cebu, Spicy BellyChon, Liempo Ala Balamban and Inasal Nga Manok.

It has moved from its previous location at Geylang East.

That crackly skin and soft juicy fat… some fans say this is probably the best Lechon Cebu you can find in Singapore.

Timbre+ will officially open this Friday, 1st April 2016. Look out here for updates!

Timbre+
73A Ayer Rajah Crescent #01-32, JTC LaunchPad @ one-north Singapore 139957
Opening: 6am – 12am (Mon – Thurs), 6am – 1am (Fri – Sat), Closed Sun
Live music performances from Wednesday to Saturday nights

The post Timbre+ – 1st Container and Food Truck Food Place In Singapore. 35 Restaurant Brands & Hawker Stalls appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

The choux at Ollella reminded us of those at Les Delices opened last year with choux (pronounced as ‘shoo’) displayed on red clogs.

However, the choux at Ollella are somewhat different in terms of appearance – more colourful, vibrant, 3 dimensional, and therefore looking quite appetizing.

Opened by two sisters from Indonesia, Ollella is the combination of their names – OLLyvia and MarcELLA.

This is a collaboration with The Pourover Bar, so fret-not if you need some coffee.

Don’t play play, despite looking young, Pastry Chef Ollyvia has quite a fair bit of experience internationally.

Having worked in the kitchens of renowned Pastry Chefs Sebastien Canonne, M.O.F, En Ming Hsu and Jacquy Pfeiffer in The USA, Dimitri Fayard at The Peninsula Chicago Hotel, she continued her stint in Pierre Hermé Paris and Chocolatier Franck Kestener in Sarreguemines.

The choux (5cm in diameter) were displayed in an ascending intensity manner, from the lightest to the heaviest in flavour. Prices were reasonably charged between $4 and $5, excluding service charge.

Ollella’s flavours include Vanilla ($4),Apple Cinnamon ($4), Raspberry ($5), Lemon Meringue ($4), Matcha Azuki ($4.50), Tiramisu ($5) and lastly Dark Chocolate ($4.50), listed in terms in flavours intensity.

We were spoilt for choices and felt like trying everything.

There was a perfect solution – The Complete Choux Platter with all 7 flavours in 3cm diameter bite size ($21).

Hooray!

Top up $6 for choice of 2 teas or $13 for 2 cups of Ethopia Tchembe N2.

At a first glance, the normal size choux (5cm) may look much bigger than the mini choux (3cm), but a side by side comparison showed that the difference was actually not as significant.

Our favourite was the Tiramisu ($5) with a rich coffee soaked sponge and kahlua added. The result was intense and not overwhelming with an addictive, crunchy craqueline choux.

The contrast in texture was interesting, crispy on the outside and moist on the inside.

Each choux has 2 elements to it. Flavoured cream (eg. Lemon cream) within the choux and a topping (eg. Italian meringue) to complement the cream for the Lemon Meringue Choux.

Eating both the topping and the cream in one mouth will balance the flavour. If not, just pop the entire bite size choux into the mouth.

After all, it is more pleasurable shiok to have the entire choux to yourself.

We had high expectation for the Raspberry Choux ($5) which was the most expensive and vibrant in colours.

However sadly, the raspberries were too sour, and the bakers would need to look into sourcing fresh fruits with better consistency.

Coffee is served The Pourover Bar with coffee beans from Ninety Plus Coffee, opened by fashion blogger Karen Ashley Ng (better known as @renzze) and Raphael Ou.

A cup of handpoured coffee will vary from $8 to $45 depending on the beans. Yes, $45.

We enjoyed the Cold Brew with milk ($9) made from Ethiopia Hachira N2 with a smooth and silky texture.

Not too much of a coffee person myself, that price tag of $45 could get me 2 platters of mini choux!

But if you are a coffee person, you would probably enjoy the cosy and intimate session with the barista at the pourover counter.

Ollella and The Pourover Bar
Residence@Somme, 3 Petain Road, #01-01, Singapore 208108 (Farrer Park MRT)
Opening Hours: 12pm – 9pm (Wed-Mon), Closed Tue
https://www.facebook.com/Ollella-993784270680749/?fref=ts

Other Related Entries
Les Delices (Kreta Ayer)
Oh My Tian (Whampoa West)
The Plain Jane (Serangoon)
The Dwelling Place (Tessensohn Road)
Non Entrée Desserts (Rangoon Road)

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

The post Ollella – Colourful Choux Pastries, With Pourover Coffee From The Pourover Bar appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

モモ Momo? You will fall in love with this new drink in town.

Sweet, fruity, lovely juice made with pink… Japanese Momo.

You may have noticed the newly launched premium range MARIGOLD PEEL FRESH Select Momo juice in the local supermarkets (usually it is placed just next to the popular MARIGOLD PEEL FRESH Select Yuzu) with a distinct white and pink packaging.

Japanese peaches are also known as “Momo”, which have fuzzy pink skin with luscious white flesh. They are usually larger, softer and much more expensive than the other yellow-fleshed peaches.

In this hotter than hot weather, an iced cold Momo juice with its sweet nectary taste is indeed a cup of refreshness.

I got inspired to makes these Japanese-style Fruit Jellies after seeing them at the supermarkets. (And boy, buying a few cups can be so expensive.) These are surprisingly easy to make, and you can customise by adding different fruits of your own liking.

Japanese Momo Fruit Jelly Recipe

Ingredients
– 1 litre MARIGOLD PEEL FRESH SELECT Momo
– 1 packet Konnyaku jelly powder
– Canned or cut fruits (In this instance, I used canned peaches since Momo fruits are not yet in season.)

Directions
– Prepare ingredients of Momo juice, konnyaku jelly powder and canned fruits
– Pour the entire packet of Momo juice into the pot under medium heat.
– Gradually add in konnyaku jelly powder into a pot of boiling juice.
– Stir well until the mixture is dissolved (approx. 8 minutes)
– Place bite-sized cut pieces of fruits into mould
– Pour the konnyaku solution into the mould
– Refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours
– Serve chilled. (Can serve 8-10)

Note: Most konnyaku jelly recipes would require the addition of sugar, but I find the juice already has some sweetness and so left the sugar out.

I made them in the evening, left the jellies overnight and had them in the next morning. They make great summer desserts, and you can taste the Japanese momo fruitiness right in the jelly itself. Plus no additional colourings needed.

Konnayaku jelly has no fat, is low in calorie and rich in dietary fiber, and you will find that the texture is firmer and springier.

I have also tried another version with different fruits (peach and strawberries).

In addition, I added the fruit jelly at the bottom of the cup, and pour chilled MARIGOLD PEEL FRESH SELECT Momo juice over.

Alternate between scoops of Momo jelly and Momo juice. Oishii!

The MARIGOLD PEEL FRESH SELECT Momo juice is made from pure Japanese momo puree from the Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan. Yamanashi is known to be the largest producer of Japanese momo due to its abundant sunlight and good natural weather.

The juice is high in Vitamins A, C and E, with every sip charming you with the true taste of Japan, sweet and unforgettable.

MARIGOLD PEEL FRESH SELECT Momo is available in 1L pack at $3.25, in all hypermarkets, supermarkets, selected convenience stores, petrol marts, minimarts and provision stores.

Fall in love again.

* This entry is brought to you in partnership with MARIGOLD PEEL FRESH.

The post MARIGOLD PEEL FRESH Select Momo – The Taste Of Japanese Peaches and First Love appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

Once in a while, I like to take my mind off the buzz of the city, and dine somewhere spacious and chic. Somewhat like being on holiday within your own country.

Portico Prime is newly opened at Dempsey (near the foundation at Block 10), serving robust modern European dishes with some localised flavours.

The interior is like a cosy house of a very rich family – tall ceilings, extremely spacious, industrial chic (which actually reminded me of Eleven Madison Park at New York City), with options of dining by the open chef’s table, private rooms, or alfresco dining which is great during cooling weather conditions.

Portico Favourites High Tea (UP $48 per person, minimum 2 to dine)
The “Portico Favourites” is as its name implies, combines the most popular and recommended items from Portico’s regular customers, the kitchen team and owners, all on a single stack.

Not your typical 3-tier stand, Portico’s version is repurposed from wine racks and velcroed together with wooden boards.

The entire stand with ‘grass’ and presented with dainty treats, looked like something you would bring to a picnic. Indeed, I noticed some diners who ordered the High Tea set actually chose the outdoor alfresco dining area facing the garden, forgoing the aircon comfort.

It is the mood of ‘dining in the gardens’, I guess.

This is one super value-for-money high tea, both for its quantity and quality. Other than the layers of savouries, petit sweets, cookies, chocolates that you see on the stand, there is a starter dish and scones.

Plus, FREE FLOW Twinings (Choose one flavour from the Large-Leaf Discovery Tea Collection) or Dutch Colony Coffee.
Most of the items are made in-house, and every single thing that went inside had a purpose and not just a space-filler.

There is no scrimping of ingredients. The starter plate itself was already a treat, with Chilled truffle-scented angel hair pasta with avruga caviar and kawa ebi shrimps, a Crostini of Asian-cured salmon gravlax, and Skewer of Tiger Prawn on a compressed melon sheet, topped with tobiko roe and brandy sauce.

My personal favourite stack was the savouries, coming with Chill Crab Meat Éclair – surprisingly sweet, spicy and salty worked here; a toast with a generous slab of house-made fish otak otak (quite legit); and Salted Egg and Squid Croquette.

Eat it hot and let the fillings ooze within your mouth.

The ladies on the table loved the dainty Rose Cream, Strawberry and Lychee Tart, with its pretty-in-pink appearance and light dreamy sweetness as you pop it into your mouth.

And a true case of #FirstWorldProblems, our feedback was there was too much sweets and food. My advice is, pace yourself well, take time to chat with friends and make it an unhurried meal.

Available from Tuesday to Sunday, 3-5pm and requires a min. 2 pax to order. Limited to 30 sets per day.

The Portico Favourites is now available at an exclusive price of $38++ per pax (U.P. $48++) for readers of DanielFoodDiary.com. Quote “DanielFoodDiary” and follow @PorticoSG on Facebook or Instagram to enjoy the offer. Till 15 April 2016.

Portico Signature Menu ($88 per diner)
The 4-course Portico Signature menu gathers some of the best dishes by the young, promising (and muscular) Chef Nixon Low and his energetic kitchen team, who gives modern French food a spin of local elements. And they do it well.

The starters include a Collection of Heirloom Tomatoes and Caramelised Leek and Potato Soup; choice of Main – Pan-seared Pulau Ubin Barramundi, Locally-Farmed Chicken done 2-ways, Tochigi Prefecture Wagyu A4 Ribcap (supplement $30); and Deconstructed Blackforest as dessert.

The Tochigi Prefecture Wagyu A4 was one of the best beef I have eaten in recent times.

Though it came with a signature beef sauce, it was good on its own. The glossy piece was so meltingly soft with its rich fat, which I so lovingly chewed on and on to slowly relish its texture and flavour.

“This cow did not die in vain.”

I was more neutral towards the Barramundi, though friends had praised for its freshness and crunchy skin.

It is heartening to know that Portico supports local suppliers, with the fish sourced from a family-owned kelong at Pulau Ubin. The fresh herbs used are grown in the edible garden located in the backyard at Dempsey.

A duck confit would be seen more typically in European style bistros in Singapore, and thus was a pleasant surprise to find a chicken version. As you can tell from its appearance, the chicken leg quarter had a delicately crisp skin, contrasting with the juicy succulent meat.

Adding more variety, the confit was served together with a chicken and foie gras roulade foie, accompanied by maple-scented sweet potato puree and braised purple cabbage.

Generally, the food gives a sense of modernity of French-style cooking yet with a taste of familiarity.

You may experience that in the Deconstructed Blackforest, which I loved for sentimental reasons too – it is a favourite cake during childhood days.

The dessert was made to resemble like a flower in full bloom to go in line with the garden theme, gorgeous-looking and alluring in dark colours and royal purple. Its smoothly rich 70% dark chocolate mousse with the edible hazelnut soil was a pleasurable play on the palate.

Other than the sets, sides of Signature Truffle Fries with shaved Gruyere Cheese ($15), mains of Aglio Olio Capelini ($30).

During the weekends, a Whole Roasted Ribeye served with Yorkshire Pudding, Oven Baked Russet Potato with Sour Cream and Bacon, Sauteed Vegetables, and Sweet Onion Beef Gravy. Ladies cut (180g) for $38++, and Gentleman’s cut (250g) for $48++.

I have visited Portico Prime both during weekdays and weekends. There were families who chose to sit outside, after all it is pets friendly. Friends found that dining there make you feel that you are away from the country – in a good way.

Ambience – checked. Food – checked. It is one of the most promising recent restaurant openings.

A Portico Special Weekday 3-Course Set Lunch is available at an exclusive price of $30++ (U.P $35++), and 10% OFF Ala-Carte items for readers of DanielFoodDiary.com. Quote “DanielFoodDiary” and follow @PorticoSG on Facebook or Instagram to enjoy the offer. Till 15 April 2016.

Portico Prime
10 Dempsey Road #01-20 Singapore 247700
Opening Hours: 11:30am – 11:30pm (Tues – Sun), Closed Monday
https://www.facebook.com/portico.sg

Other restaurant concepts of Portico
Portico
991B Alexandra Road #01-10, Singapore 119970
Tel: +65 6276 7337
Opening Hours: 11:30am – 3:00pm Lunch, Last order 2:30pm; 5:30pm – 11:30pm Dinner, Last Order 10:30pm

Portico Platos
Timbre+, 73A Ayer Rajah Crescent #01-32, JTC LaunchPad @ one-north Singapore 139957

*This entry is brought to you in partnership with Portico Prime.

The post Portico Prime – The Most Gorgeous High Tea and Modern European Food In A Garden Setting appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

These are probably some of the best lunch deals near town, when you can get a filling 2 to 4 course meals at 10++, $15++ and $25++ at Clarke Quay.

Some may have the impression that Clarke Quay is only opened at night. Most of the restaurants are actually available for value for money lunches, with lunch deals going on every single day. Yes, including weekends.

The restaurants are also serving specialty dishes at a fraction of their ala carte prices as part of the promotion.

Case in point: At tcc -The Connoisseur Concerto, a pasta can cost more than $20++ on their regular menu. As part of the Clarke Quay lunch deal, you can get one of that dish, plus a soup and coffee or tea for only $25++.

Also lock the first Monday of every month into your calendars, because there will be 1 For 1 Lunch Deals at participating outlets such as Fremantle Seafood Market, Harry’s, Hot Stones Steak & Seafood, Little Saigon Restaurant & Bar, McGettigan’s and Tomo Izakaya.

No More Monday Blues!

Motorino Pizzeria
Blk A #01-01A
Tel: +65 8182 2205
Opening Hours: 11:30am – 11pm (Sun – Thurs), 11:30am – 12am (Fri – Sat)

From Williamsburg Brooklyn and finally in Singapore. Motorino is known to be one of the best pizzerias in New York City, and was even featured in the Michelin Bib Gourmand Guide! And you do know that New Yorkers are fussy over their pizzas.

Motorino’s Neapolitan-style pizzas are prepared fresh and wood-fired in a surprisingly short period of a few minutes. You better eat them while they are fresh and hot.

There were two distinct (and contrasting) features after I tried a classic Margeherita pizza: Blistered charred sides and soft chewy base, a result of using quality Italian Caputo flour.

I liked the tanginess of the toppings San Marzano tomatoes, and I would recommend adding a drizzle of organic Italian olive oil for that additional whiff of aroma.

$15++ Lunch Promo
Choice of 1 Pizza (Margherita or Marinara) and 1 Iced Tea.

Octapas, Spanish Tapas Bar
Blk D #01-08
Tel: +65 6837 2938
Opening Hours: 12pm – 1am (Sun – Thurs), 12pm – 2am (Fri, Sat, Eve PH)
Reserve Online Now – Octapas

There is always space for some delicioso Spanish tapas at Octapas, founded by the same people behind The Tapas Tree, one of the first pioneer tapas bar in Singapore.

This is the ONLY tapas bar in Singapore with a full party band every night. And the better news is they will be launching a set of new tapas items with improved recipes soon!

My favourite was easily the Espinacas con huevo, a hot stew-like sautéed Spinach and Chickpeas in cream sauce. Dig in further and you would find a runny poached egg full on of deliciousness.

Another show-stopper would be the Gambas envueltos en tocino, which has prawns wrapped around with bacon (What?!) with balsamic vinegratte and piquillo sauce. Suddenly, I feel like feasting and dancing.

$15++ 2 Course Set Lunch, Available Mon – Fri (12pm – 3pm)
Choice of any 2 Tapas from the selected Lunch Menu. Top Up to $18++ for 3 Tapas.

Catch Beer & Batter
Blk A #01-01
Tel: +65 6336 0366
Opening Hours: 12pm – 1am (Mon, Tues, Thurs), 12pm – 3pm (Fri – Sat), 12pm – 11pm (Sun)

The fish here, is literally quite a good catch.

Their beer battered fish didn’t look like the typical classical ones. These were broad and flat, deep fried to an orangey-golden using signature ale. The result was batter thin and crisp, remarkably un-greasy.

What also kept me going were the home-made sauces, especially the red-hot sauce made with chilli padi which gave quite a kick, and fries sprinkled with a touch of spicy powder. Localised fish and chips I must say.

$15+ (No service charge)
Signature Ale Batter Fish & Chips Or Pasta of the Day , Mixed Garden Green Salad with Garlic Toast, with Iced Lemon Tea.

Hutong
Blk D #01-07
Opening Hours: 12pm – 3pm, 6pm – 1am Daily
Reserve Online Now

Hutong is not quite your average Chinese restaurant. While decorated in dark-wooded Chinese dynasty style, the restaurant has a modern take on its menu, serving Northern Chinese cuisine of such as Crispy BBQ Garlic Pork, Grilled King Prawn on Skewer, Fried Rice with Beef in Hutong Style, and X.O Fried Noodle with Seafood.

The XO Seafood Fried Rice has been one of their main-stayers since opening days, in which the fragrant fried rice is cooked with a spicy-seafood based Guangdong style XO sauce with egg and fresh seafood.

Not forgetting the wok-hei which is quintessential in wok-fried dishes.

$15++ 3 Course Set Lunch, Available Mon – Fri (12 pm – 3pm)
Cream of Corn, Appetizer (Steamed Spicy Shrimp Wanton or Deep Fried Spring Roll), Choice of Main Course (XO Seafood Fried Rice, Fried Noodle with Beef in XO Sauce, Crispy Noodle with Vegetables & Mushroom) and Drink (Hot Tea or Fresh Lime Juice)

RENNthai
Blk D #01-05
Opening Hours: 12pm – 3pm, 6pm – 1am Daily
Reserve Online Now – RENNthai

Known as “traditional Thai house”, RENNthai can satisfy your Thai food cravings with street favourites of Green Curry Chicken, Black Olive Rice, Pad Thai and Tom Yum Goong.

The lightly sweet and spicy Thai Pineapple Fried Rice had a tropical touch of pineapple pieces and chicken floss.

This was added with spicy red Tom Yum Goong and two grilled chicken skewers brushed with a savoury sauce to make a comforting meal.

$15++ 2 Course Set Lunch, Available Mon – Fri (12 pm – 3pm)
Soup (Tom Yum with Chicken or Vegetarian), Choice of Main Course(Thai Pineapple Fried Rice with Chicken Satay Skewers, Black Olive Rice with Fried Fish Fillet, Green Curry with Chicken or Vegetables served with Jasmine Rice) and Drink (Iced Lime Tea or Calamansi Juice)

Muchos
Blk D #01-04
Opening Hours: 12pm – 1am Daily
Reserve Online Now – Muchos

Hola! Modern Mexican restaurant Muchos serves up more than a selection of 40 Mexican flavours from Nachos, Stuffed Jalapenos, Taco Salads, Tostadas, Fajitas and Quesadillas filled with salsa roja, sour cream and melty cheese.

For a healthy yet filling treat, get a Burrito of soft flour tortilla wrapped with spinach rice, beans, lettuce, sour cream, cheese, salsa roja and your choice of fillings of chicken or vegetable.

$15++ 3 Course Set Lunch, Available Mon – Fri (12 pm – 3pm)
Soup of the Day, Choice of Main Course (Quesadillas, Burritos and Chile Con Carne with Spinach Rice), Dessert (Ice Cream with Chopped Nuts)

Bayang
Blk A #01-05
Opening Hours: 12pm – 3pm, 6pm – 11pm (Sun – Mon), 12pm – 3pm, 6pm – 1am (Tues – Sat)
Reserve Online Now – Bayang

Bayang, which means ‘shadow’ to symbolise the Wayang kilit puppets in Indonesia, offers many traditional Balinese fare at a purplish-toned elegant setting.

While Indonesian Sumatra offers more spicy food and Javanese cuisine usually comes with a sweet taste, Balinese cuisine offers a good mixture of both, with hot and powerful spices often used.

Their version of Bakmee Ayam comes with stir-fried thin egg noodles with thinly sliced pieces of tender chicken, added with crisp spring rolls on the side.

$15++ Set Lunch, Available Mon – Fri (12pm – 3pm)
3 Course Set Lunch: Salad (Gado Gado Salad); Choice of Main Course (Bakmee Ayam with Popiah / Goreng, Nasi Goreng Indonesia with Sate Ayam, Laut Bumbu Kuning / Laut Sayur with Nasi Kuning); a Drink (Iced Lemon Tea or Fresh Lime Juice) and Dessert.

RAS The Essence Of India
Blk D #01-05A
Opening Hours: 12pm – 2:30pm Lunch, 6:30pm – 11:30pm Dinner

RAS The Essence of India stresses that Indian food is not just about rajasthani daal or kashmiri naan, and therefore brings to diners specialty dishes from various states of the sub-continent.

The set lunch on its own is indeed value-for-money, which allows you to try a bit of everything from from soup, kebabs, curry, to dal and naan.

Be careful about the creamy Chicken Curry packed full of flavours. You may just sweep the entire bowl away with those fluffy oven-baked pieces of Naan.

$15+ Set Menu (Available Mon – Fri, 12pm – 3pm)
Soup of the day, Chicken curry of the day / Paneer of the day , Dal of the day , Rice and Naan / Roti

$25++ Set Menu (Available Mon – Sun, 12pm – 3pm)
2pcs of non-veg kebab / 2pcs of veg kebab , Chicken Curry of the day / Paneer of the day, Daal of the day, Rice & Naan / Roti + Dessert of the day

tcc -The Connoisseur Concerto
Blk E #01-01
Opening Hours: 10am – 2am (Sun – Thurs), 10am – 4am (Fri – Sat)

This $25++ Lunch Hour Delights where you can enjoy tcc favourites is available EXCLUSIVELY at Clarke Quay. Wah.

Its selection is quite extensive that you may find difficulty picking just that one main. I would say go for the popular Tiger Prawn Mentaiko Spaghetti, Wagyu Beefball Baked Rice, Japanese Shoga Chicken Spaghetti or Scallop & Baby Crayfish Baked Rice.

I got swayed to pick a Baby Crayfish Spaghetti in the end, since spicy tomato cream was really my thing, and the wasabi fish roe was just the bomb.

$25++ Set Lunch, Available Mon – Fri (12pm – 3pm)
Set lunch includes one main, soup of the day and coffee or tea

Privé Clarke Quay
Blk C #01-09A
Tel: +65 6776 0777
Opening Hours: 5pm – 2am (Mon – Tues), 5pm – 3am (Wed – Fri, PH), 11:30am – 4am (Sat), 11:30am – 2am (Sun), 5pm – 4am (Eve of PH)

Privé is one of the newest kid in the block for Clarke Quay, which brings about a casual dining experience, live music every night from 8pm to late 9pm, and late night DJ driven parties from Wednesdays to Saturdays.

I enjoyed relaxing outside in the seated area (perfect spot to people watch) while having a sandwich or burger.

Some choices include their signature Grilled Chicken, Bacon and Cheese Sandwich, Pulled Pork Knuckle Panini or Bad Ass BBQ Burger with a wagyu beef patty, button mushrooms and housemade BBQ sauce.

Do make some room for the accompanying Asian Roast Beef Salad which was huge in portion, refreshing in a chilli-lime dressing.

$25++ Set Lunch (valid on Saturday & Sunday only)
Sandwich + Soup or Salad + Soft Drink

Peony Jade
Blk A #02-02
Tel: +65 6338 0305
Opening Hours: 11am – 2:30pm, 6pm – 10:30pm Daily
Reserve Online Now – Peony Jade

While Clarke Quay may be known for its Western restaurants and clubs, one of the main-stayers (since 2004) there has been Peony Jade which specialises in Szechuan and Cantonese delicacies.

So why not some Chinese food for lunch, for corporate meetings and even gatherings with colleagues?

We had a portion for 5, and it was A LOT of food. The table’s favourite was the Cappuccino Pork Spare Ribs with Roasted Almond, with coating of sweet, slight bitter coffee sauce on tender ribs which was lip-smacking worthy.

Add a comforting bowl of bouillon with generous portions of sweet crabmeat, in a starchy soupbase with golden mushroom.

$25++ 5-Course Set Lunch, Minimum of 04 pax, Valid for Dine-In Only
Selection includes : Smoked Duck with Black Peppercorn Sauce, Cappuccino Pork Spare Ribs with Roasted Almond, Crabmeat Bouillon with Golden Mushroom, Stewed Egg-plant with Minced Pork in Special Sauce, Hot Sweetened Read Bean Cream with Lotus Seed.

* Note: All lunch offers are valid from Monday to Sunday from 12pm to 3pm unless otherwise staed. Not applicable for eve of Public Holidays, Public Holidays and special occasions. Promotions not applicable with other discounts, vouchers, coupons, privileges or credit card promotions unless otherwise stated. Prices for above restaurants are subject to service charge and GST.

From now till 31 Dec 2016, CapitaStar members (Check out www.capitastar.com.sg to find out how to be a member) can earn a whooping 3x STAR$® rewards when dining at Clarke Quay from 12pm to 3pm, Monday to Friday!

For more information, visit http://www.clarkequay.com.sg/lunch

Clarke Quay
3 River Valley Rd, Singapore 179024
By River Taxi – From Raffles Place MRT Station (Standard Chartered Bank Exit)
By Bus – No. 54 from Scotts Road or 32 and 195 from City Hall MRT Station
By MRT- Clarke Quay MRT, (about 5 mins walk), City Hall MRT (about 10-15 mins walk), Raffles Place MRT (about 10-15 mins walk)
http://www.clarkequay.com.sg
https://www.facebook.com/ClarkeQuay

Other Related Entries
Clarke Quay “No More Monday Blues” Food Guide

*This entry is brought to you in partnership with Clarke Quay.

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We are all familiar with KFC’s Finger Lickin’ Good Original Recipe chicken specially prepared with the Colonel’s secret blend of 11 herbs and spices.

But you might not have heard of other unique KFC products launched from all around the world.

There are 10 items which I find interesting that I want to share. Just to name a few, Golden Egg Crunch, Chizza (make a guess what this is), Okonomiyaki Chicken and Parmesan Chicken with TRUFFLE-Flavoured Cheddar Sauce… which can be found right at home.

KFC Parmesan Chicken with Truffle-Flavoured Cheddar Sauce
Launched in Singapore

This is from Singapore?! Freshly hand-breaded in store, coated with golden breadcrumbs, crispy deep fried, then sprinkled with grated parmesan cheese. The chicken is crunchy, different from what you expect of the signature Original Recipe chicken.

There is also an accompanying TRUFFLE-flavoured creamy cheddar sauce. That is an interesting pairing to expect. (One online comment said that the sauce was “on point”.)

The sauce is actually quite aromatic and you can pour over the chicken or dip the meat into the sauce or both.

I prefer pouring just a touch of the sauce over the chicken to truly savour the chicken with this combination. Let’s goooooooo.

KFC Golden Egg Crunch
Launched in Hong Kong

This Golden Egg Crunch chicken takes a cue from the salted egg prawn dish, with chicken marinated in oriental spices, fried to a golden perfection, then coated with golden yolk sprinkles.

There is also a Golden Burger fillet burger topped with golden yolk sprinkles. The tagline is “Every bite sure ONG”, which is both funny and appropriate.

Considering Singaporeans are so into salted egg yolk, why we don’t have, yet?

Black Magic Burger
Launched in Thailand

Intriguing. “Black Magic Burger” with a soft whole-wheat burger stuffed with big crispy fried chicken and seasoned by special magic pepper sauce.

With an aromatic sauce, there is something mysterious about this product which is suspected to be cappuccino. I guessed that is how the name “Black Magic” came about.

Pulled Chicken Burrito
Launched in UK

Three burritos are added to UK’s lunchtime menu – Original Recipe, Zinger and Pulled Chicken – all of which come in a toasted tortilla with spicy rice, bean salsa, crispy lettuce and chipotle mayo.

Pulled chicken is uncommon in KFC, and something which we never expect from them.

The slow-cooked Pulled Chicken is wrapped with authentic spicy rice, beans and salsa, in a soft tortilla, then toasted.

Best of all, the burritos are good for on-the-go, highly portable and not messy to eat at all.

Koubashi Shoyu Chicken
Launched in Japan

Can I say that the fast food restaurants in Japan are always so different, and even very pleasant?

The Koubashi Shoyu Chicken has a coating of sweet Japanese soy sauce, and sprinkled with crispy bits and black sesame. So there is a crunchhhhhh on the outside, and juiciness of the inside, with the flavour of local soy sauce.

I know this is going to be oishii.

Chizza
Launched in Philippines

Chizza? That is chicken + pizza. Win already!

What you get is like a personal pizza, with boneless fried chicken breast fillet as the base ‘dough’, topped with pizza sauce, pineapples, pepperoni, onion, bell peppers, and cheese.

Basically like a pizza, but it is actually chicken.

Paper Wrapped Chicken
Launched in Malaysia

We may have seen a similar dish in a dim sum restaurant called the “zhi bao ji” – which literally means “paper-wrapped chicken”.

The quarter chicken is wrapped in parchment paper, then roasted.

The parchment paper is oil-proof, water-proof, and non-stick to seal in the juices.

The tagline for the dish is “When things are wrapped, they’re hard to resist.” So can you resist this?

Okonomiyaki Chicken
Launched in Hong Kong

You would have thought this would be launched in Osaka or something.

In Hong Kong, you get KFC fried chicken topped with mayo, bonito flakes, and sweet-tangy okonomiyaki sauce, inspired by the Japanese Okonomiyaki savory pancake.

Zinger Taco
Launched in Australia

Ay, caramba! The spicy Double Shell Zinger Tacos give customers a taste of Mexico. And it is indeed double-shelled with both hard and soft taco shells.

The signature KFC Zinger fillet is placed between lettuce, tomato salsa then packed in a crunchy hard taco shell, then wrapped in a soft shell tortilla for no mess and topped with sauce.

Corn and Philly Chicken Sandwich
Launched In Brazil

In a collaboration with Philadelphia cream cheese, KFC Brazil launched this Corn and Philly Chicken Sandwich.

The sandwich is made with a crispy-fried boneless piece of chicken thigh, topped with a special creamed corn made with Philadelphia brand cream cheese, served within a sesame seed bun.

Philly cream as a dip does sound promising too?

Zinger Double Down King
Launched In South Korea

Oh-lala. A burger with a meat patty in the middle, bacon shoved between two fried chicken cutlets and slathered in creamy sauce.

No buns, only two pieces of Zinger chicken fillets. This is quite monstrous-looking. No wonder they call it the “King”.

Drooling already but can’t get your hands on all? Kick start your checklist with the KFC Parmesan Chicken here in Singapore.

The KFC Parmesan Chicken meal is available in Singapore and priced at $7.90 for a limited time only.

It features 2 pieces of Parmesan Chicken paired with Truffle-Flavoured Cheddar Sauce, and refreshing SJORA® Mango Peach.

*Note: The Truffle-Flavoured Cheddar Sauce is made with truffle flavouring. This promotion is not available at KFC Sentosa and Singapore Zoo. Meal bundle and price differ for KFC Delivery. Please visit www.kfc.com.sg for full details of the promotion.

One more. Believe it or not, I found these Rainbow Cakes at KFC Coffee IN SINGAPORE.

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

The post 10 Unique KFC Food From Around The World, And One Of It Is From Singapore! appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

Nope, you are not reading wrong. Pompompurin Café is coming to Singapore! Shortly after the news of Hello Kitty Orchid Garden café opening at Changi Airport Terminal 3, this is another news that will delight Sanrio character fans.

Pompompurin Café is anticipated to open mid to late April at Orchard Central Level 4.

To be really honest, I am not really familiar with Pompompurin. LOL. Okay okay, but it is a good-natured golden retriever dog with a trademark brown beret on top of his head.

Purin’s interest is in collecting shoes, and hiding them. He was twice voted as Most Popular Sanrio Character in the Strawberry News, a magazine published by Sanrio.

Fans and cafe-goers can expect an authentic experience on all things Pompompurin at the cafe, including a menu of kawaii-styled food and beverages, character-themed merchandise, and Japanese service.

Food and desserts include Curry Raisu, Taco Raisu, Banana Pancake, and Mango Pargait – all with that cute Pompompurin face of course. Look out here for the latest updates!

Pompompurin Café
Orchard Central, 181 Orchard Rd, Singapore 238896 (Somerset MRT)

Other Related Entries
Hello Kitty Orchid Garden (Changi Airport T3)
Little Twin Star Cafe (Hong Kong)
Gudetama Café by Izumi Curry (Hong Kong)
Dim Sum Icon Gudetama Dim Sum (Hong Kong)
Hello Kitty Chinese Cuisine (Hong Kong)

The post Pompompurin Café Is Coming To Singapore! appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

A quarter of 2016 flashed past us, and to date there are still at least about 40-50 new cafes that has opened, though more sporadically this year.

Just in case you have missed these…
10 New Cafes In Singapore March 2016
10 New Cafes In Singapore February 2016
10 New Cafes In Singapore January 2016

10 New Cafes In Singapore April 2016 – The Waffle Places, The Cute Bingsu And The Health Food

Privé Clarke Quay
Blk C #01-09A, 3 River Valley Rd, Singapore 179024
Tel: +65 6776 0777
Opening Hours: 5pm – 2am (Mon – Tues), 5pm – 3am (Wed – Fri, PH), 11:30am – 4am (Sat), 11:30am – 2am (Sun), 5pm – 4am (Eve of PH)

Privé is one of the newest kid in the block for Clarke Quay, which brings about a casual dining experience, live music every night from 8pm to late 9pm, and late night DJ driven parties from Wednesdays to Saturdays.

I enjoyed relaxing outside in the seated area (perfect spot to people watch) while having a sandwich or burger.

Some choices include their signature Grilled Chicken, Bacon and Cheese Sandwich, Pulled Pork Knuckle Panini or Bad Ass BBQ Burger with a wagyu beef patty, button mushrooms and housemade BBQ sauce.

Bingki Korean Desserts
Blk 7 Tanjong Pagar Plaza #01-106 Singapore 081007 (Tanjong Pagar MRT)
Tel: +65 6443 5435
Opening Hours: 24 Hours Daily

The bingsu fever doesn’t end. Bingki Korean Desserts which is near the ‘Korean BBQ zone’ at Tanjong Pagar has a huge space and pleasant enough environment (depending on which seats you get – some are short, small ones).

Opened 24/7, Bingsu for dessert after a Korean feast sounds like a good idea.

More than 10 different bingsu varieties are available, including Red Bean ($12), Injeolmi ($13), DaBang Coffee ($16), Peach ($15), Mango ($15), Melon ($18), Watermelon ($15) and Papaya ($15). The shavings soft and fluffy, the portion small for its price though. Bingki (Tanjong Pagar)

Creamier
5A Lock Road, Gillman Barracks Singapore 108927 (next to Sundaram Tagore Gallery)
Opening Hours: 12pm – 10pm (Tue-Thu, Sun), 12pm – 11pm (Fri-Sat), Closed Mon

Fans of Creamier and Sunday Folks can flock down to a new location. Creamier has found a second playground at Gillman Barracks. Unlike their first outlet at Toa Payoh HDB estate that experienced a continuous human traffic, Gillman Barracks was relatively quieter and “ulu” geographically.

The menu offerings are similar, with Ice Cream ($3.30 for Single scoop/ $5.60 for Double scoops), Waffle ($6 for Plain/ $8.80 with 1 scoop/ $11.60 with 2 scoops). Creamier (Gillman Barracks)

Ollella and The Pourover Bar
Residence@Somme, 3 Petain Road, #01-01, Singapore 208108 (Farrer Park MRT)
Opening Hours: 12pm – 9pm (Wed-Mon), Closed Tue

This is cute – a choux pastry café. Opened by two sisters from Indonesia, Ollella is the combination of their names – OLLyvia and MarcELLA. Ollella’s choux flavours include Vanilla ($4),Apple Cinnamon ($4), Raspberry ($5), Lemon Meringue ($4), Matcha Azuki ($4.50), Tiramisu ($5) and lastly Dark Chocolate ($4.50), listed in terms in flavours intensity.

This is a collaboration with The Pourover Bar, so fret-not if you need some coffee. A cup of hand-poured coffee will vary from $8 to $45 depending on the beans. Yes, $45. Ollella and The Pourover Bar (Petain Road)

The Providore @ Raffles Place
7 Raffles Place Singapore 048625
Tel: +65 6533 1352
Opening Hours: 8am – 11pm (Mon – Sat), 9am – 6pm (Sun, PH)

The Providore has really gone big on this one, with an all-day dining restaurant opened 7 days a week literally in the heart of Singapore’s CBD.

This flagship at Raffles can be considered a café and provisions retail store, for dine-in meals and quick takeaways. There is even an outdoor terrace.

The menu consist of Breakfast (from 8am – 12pm), Salads (11am – 10pm), Sandwiches (11am – 3pm), Mains (12pm – 10pm), Snacks (5pm – 10pm) and pastries. Found it slightly pricey, but this is not stopping the CBD folks from packing the place. The Providore (Raffles Place)

Workspace Espresso
Marina Bay Financial Centre Tower 3, 12 Marina Boulevard, #01-08, Singapore 018982
Opening Hours: 7.30am – 8pm (Mon-Fri), Closed Sat, Sun

Seem to some other assemble-your-rice-bowl places, Workspace Espresso offers coffee and bakes offerings in the morning (7.30am – 11.30am) and Chap Chye Png (pardon this) style of building your own rice bowls after 11.30am.

Huge bowls and containers were displayed at the counter during lunch hours, from carbohydrates as a base to proteins, sides and dressing.

At $13.80, we were given the choice to choose 1 base, 1 hot protein, 3 sides, 2 toppings and an optional dressing. Add-ons were available at $2 for base, $3.50 for hot protein, $2 for sides and $1 for dressing.

Style by Style Vibes Café
Level 3, Media Gallery, MediaCorp Campus Singapore 787110
Opening Hours: 7am – 10pm (Mon – Fri), 9am – 10pm (Sat), 9am – 6pm (Sun)

Did I mention I LOVED Sharon Au during my much younger days? (Opps, Sharon, anyway…)

Local ex-host turned “Lead of styleXstyle” has another portfolio in her bag, this time with a café venture at the new MediaCorp campus. Is this going to be the MediaCorp ‘canteen’?

Try the Ondeh Ondeh ($6.90) cake, with soft and light pandan layers, with very sweet (too sweet for some) gula melaka layer.

The café to spot some stars.

Gecory
Blk 328 Clementi Ave 2, Singapore 120328
Opening Hours: 12pm – 10:30pm (Mon – Thurs), 12pm – 11pm (Fri – Sat), 12pm – 10:30pm (Sun)

Gecory = GElato, COffee, pastRY. Got it?

This humble-looking ice cream café has interesting flavours on a rotational basis, including SALTED egg gelato. A waffle with 2 scoops of gelato is at $11.20 – gelato was rich and milky, while the waffle was decent with a slight crisp.

Olivia & Co
Suntec City Mall (between Tower 1 & 2) 3 Temasek Boulevard #01-481, Singapore 038983
Opening Hours: 9am – 9pm

Opened by the team behind French restaurant OCF, Olivia & Co traces the adventures of “Olivia” around the world for Italian pasta, breakfast, waffles and Vietnamese Banh ‘Meanie’.

Craftman Specialty Coffee
173 Thomson Road Goldhill Shopping Centre, Singapore 307623 (Novena MRT)
Opening Hours: 8:30am – 9pm (Sun – Thurs), 8:30am – 10:30pm (Fri, Sat, Eve of PH)

Oh, The Fickle Mussel has closed (that’s fast) and replaced by Craftman Specialty Coffee which specialises in different types of coffees all round the world, with options to have coffee brewed by different types of method like V-60 and French Press.

This is their 3rd outlet after Siglap and Eastwood.

They seem to be popular among families staying around the area, coming here for their all day breakfast and brunch items such as 3 Tier Brioche, Croissant Sandwiches and English Muffin with Eggs.

Do have some patience as you may have to wait a while (or long while) for food during busy periods.

And one more…

Pompompurin Café
Orchard Central, 181 Orchard Rd, Singapore 238896 (Somerset MRT)

*Screams*. Nope, you are not reading wrong, Pompompurin Café is coming to Singapore, anticipated to be opening mid to late April at Orchard Central.

Fans and cafe-goers can expect an authentic experience on all things Pompompurin at the cafe, including a menu of kawaii-styled food and beverages, character-themed merchandise, and Japanese service.

Other Related Entries
10 New Cafes In Singapore March 2016
10 New & Hot Restaurants Singapore March 2016
10 New Cafes In Singapore Feb 2016
10 New & Hot Restaurants Singapore Feb 2016
10 New Cafes In Singapore January 2016

* Compiled by Daniel Ang @DanielFoodDiary and Nicholas Tan @stormscape who eats all the [NEW] stuff.

The post 10 New Cafes In Singapore April 2016 – The Waffle Places, The Cute Bingsu And The Health Food appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

We often hear of “Friday drinks” but why not Wednesday and Thursday drinks to push your weekends earlier?

Having just returned from Rome, I was quite excited that Chihuly Lounge at The Ritz Carlton, Millenia Singapore has introduced “The Aperitivo Tradition” as part of its mid-week evening promotion.

Wanting to share some of his home-favourites over here, Executive Chef Massimo Pasquarelli (who previously worked for Alain Ducasse in Paris, Monaco, London, New York and Tokyo) and his team came up with the concept and selection of antipasti.

Mamma mia! That would mean unlimited servings of antipasti paired with a selection of wines, cocktails, draft beer and soft drinks.

When people say “Facciamoci un aperitivo!” in Italy, that would imply to gather your friends (and dates) to have an aperitivo.

“Aperitivo” is an Italian tradition which started with pre-meal drinks and snacks that would help stimulate one’s appetite.

The ritual of going out for a drink before an evening meal has become so popular in Italy, that it is now a common event for people to socialise and catch up with friends. Well, the flip-side is, people become too full for dinner proper!

Chef Massimo joked that the aperitivo is especially popular among singles and men, and that Italian mother always wondered why they would not turn up on time for dinner at home.

Chihuly Lounge, named after renowned glass artist Dale Chihuly, is elegant, classy and spacious.

Over here, I would think that you are all set up for an evening of wine and dine over catch up with your BFFs, or for a group gathering of after-work drinks to wind down the evenings.

Of course it matters that the food is great too! Be sure to try the tomato bruschetta, prosciutto melon with white balsamic jelly, a refined selection of cheeses, condiments and crackers.

Here’s what to expect from “The Aperitivo Tradition”:

Antipasti Selection:

Iberico Chorizo on Toast with Pickled Onion

Tomato Bruschetta

Hickory Smoked Salmon with Caviar Cream served on Dill Potato

Prosciutto Melon with White Balsamic Jelly

Tomato Mozzarella Skewer

Mortadella and Pepper Olives

Selection of Condiments, Pickles, Olives and Crackers

Affinated Cheeses

Since the true Italian aperitivo tradition is not complete without drinks, there is also a range of classic cocktails and a selection of white and red wines.

The Beverage Selection includes Cocktails (Aperol Spritz, Americano, Negroni, Bellini), White Wines (Ruffino Pinot Grigio; Soave Classico) and Red Wines (Ponte d’Oro Capsularossa; Piccini Rosso Toscana).

If you are undecided on which cocktail to have, the dark orange Aperol could be the perfect aperitif – taking indication from its name.

Made up of 3 parts Prosecco, 2 parts Aperol, and a splash of soda, the cocktail has relatively low alcohol content, and has a refreshing bitter orange sweetness fitting for the summer weather here in Singapore.

Exclusive to readers of DanielFoodDiary.com
The rest don’t get it. Only for readers of DanielFoodDiary.com (and of course I had a taste of it first).

Small in size, but packed a punch. The lightly-toasted burger buns were soft, filled with a juicy beef patty, a creamy slice of foie gras, and chorizo marmalade, all of which enhance the flavours of the mini burger.

Make a reservation for “The Aperitivo Tradition”, quote “DanielFoodDiary” and receive a complimentary Mini Burger with Foie Gras, cheddar cheese, red onion and chorizo marmalade per diner. For a limited time period only from now to 26 May 2016.

The Aperitivo Tradition is priced at $55++ per adult, and is available on Wednesdays and Thursdays, from 6:30pm to 8:30pm.

Chihuly Lounge
Level 3, The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore
7 Raffles Avenue Singapore 039799
Tel: +65 6434 5288
rc.sinrz.restaurantreservations@ritzcarlton.com
Reservations Online – Chihuly Lounge
(Make a reservation for “The Aperitivo Tradition”, quote “DanielFoodDiary” and receive a complimentary Mini Burger with Foie Gras)

Chihuly Lounge opens daily from 9 am – 1 am
The Aperitivo Tradition is available from 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm (Wed & Thu)
Eight-Course Weekday Afternoon Tea is available from 2:30 pm – 5 pm (Mon – Fri)
Weekend Afternoon Tea Buffet is available from 2:30 pm – 5 pm (Sat & Sun)
Cocktails are available from 9 am – 1 am (Daily)
Enjoy live Latin jazz from 9:15 pm – 12 am (Tues – Sat)

* This entry is brought to you in partnership with The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore.

The post Chihuly Lounge – Free Flow Antipasti and Cocktails With “The Aperitivo Tradition” appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

There are some exciting new openings. Timbre+ which houses 35 different restaurant and hawker concepts (some food-truck) style in a single space, Redpan which is conceptualised between DP Architects and The Food Explorer Group, Captain K Seafood Tower with 9 layers of steamed ingredients, and Oscar’s with a revamped space and menu featuring a 4-metre long salad bar.

Local veteran Chef Martin Woo has started a modern izakaya Mo’mor at Tanglin; while Portico opens two concepts – Prime at Dempsey and Platos at Timbre+, led by the young Chef Nixon Low.

10 New & Hot Restaurants Singapore April 2016 – Food Trucks, Korean Seafood Tower and Sarawak Noodles (April Cafe Guide here: 10 New Cafes In Singapore April 2016)

Redpan
6 Raffles Boulevard, Marina Square #02-03/04 Singapore 039593 (City Hall MRT)
Tel: +65 6255 5850
Opening Hours: 9am – 10pm (Mon – Fri), 11am – 10pm (Sat, Sun, PH)

This is a unique collaboration, between home-grown architecture practice DP Architects (whose works include Esplanade, Resorts World Sentosa, Republic Polytechnic) and The Food Explorer Group behind Cookyn Inc and Grub.

Some of the recommended dishes include the Hae Bi Hiam (spicy dried shrimp) Pasta, Truffle Floss Fries and Char Siew Fries and the Hainanese Pork Chop.

Its dinner menu has just included some new offerings, such as “100% Natural Pork Belly” Bak Kut Teh, Beef Short Rib Satay, and Salmon Kuning – all said to be aligned to the theme of local fun dining. Redpan (Marina Square)

Portico Prime
10 Dempsey Road #01-20 Singapore 247700
Opening Hours: 11:30am – 11:30pm (Tues – Sun), Closed Monday

Portico Prime is newly opened at Dempsey (near the foundation at Block 10), serving robust modern European dishes with some localised flavours.

Other than the very popular High Tea set, go for the 4-course Portico Signature menu gathers some of the best dishes by the young, promising (and muscular) Chef Nixon Low and his energetic kitchen team, who gives modern French food a spin of local elements. And they do it well.

The starters include a Collection of Heirloom Tomatoes and Caramelised Leek and Potato Soup; choice of Main – Pan-seared Pulau Ubin Barramundi, Locally-Farmed Chicken done 2-ways, Tochigi Prefecture Wagyu A4 Ribcap (supplement $30); and Deconstructed Blackforest as dessert. Portico Prime (Dempsey Road)

A Portico Special Weekday 3-Course Set Lunch is available at an exclusive price of $30++ (U.P $35++), and 10% OFF Ala-Carte items for readers of DanielFoodDiary.com. Quote “DanielFoodDiary” and follow @PorticoSG on Facebook or Instagram to enjoy the offer. Till 15 April 2016.

Timbre+
73A Ayer Rajah Crescent #01-32, JTC LaunchPad @ one-north Singapore 139957
Opening: 6am – 12am (Mon – Thurs), 6am – 1am (Fri – Sat), Closed Sun
Live music performances from Wednesday to Saturday nights

Probably the most happening food area right now in Singapore. It’s hot – I mean both literally and popularity. This 24,000 square feet area is housing 35 different food places – 14 restaurant brands and 21 hawker stalls.

Most of the hawker stalls will serve a variety of local delights from repurposed graffiti-painter containers, while some of the restaurant brands dish out casual fares from (stationary) caravans – food truck style.

Some of the names you can expect include Portico Platos (Spanish Tapas), The World Is Flat by Tanuki Raw(revamped pizzas), Dancing Crab Shack (lobster rolls and shrimp po’boy sandwiches), Chit Chaat Chai (North Indian Street food), Big Bern’s American Grill (American food by Botak Jones), Kush (mod-sin skewers and rice bowls by The Quarters), Teppei Daidokoro (Japanese rice bowls), Iskina Cebu (food from Philippines), Dusk by Slake (Peranakan-inspired food), Garçons (Modern French food), Soon Huat (Bak Kut Teh), Two Wings (fried chicken) and Food Anatomy (layered food such as lasagna). Timbre+ (Ayer Rajah Crescent)

Face To Face
180 Kitchener Road, City Square Mall #02-23/24, Singapore 208539
Tel: +65 6509 0182
Opening Hours: 11am – 10pm

Face To Face is a well-known brand with presence in Kuala Lumpur, Johor Bahru and Selangor in Malaysia, and recently officially opened at Singapore’s City Square Mall.

Besides the signature Sarawak Noodles and Pan Mee, new creations that cater to Singaporean’s demanding taste buds are also introduced here – Curry Chicken Pan Mee, and Genki Herbal Chicken Soup Pan Mee.

Their noodles are handmade daily without any preservatives, cooked using the traditional Sarawakian age-old Jook Sing technique, served in a modern looking eatery.

Tokyo Sundubu
3 Temasek Boulevard, #03-312, Suntec City Mall Tower 1, Eat At Seven, Singapore 038983 (Promenade MRT)
Opening Hours: 11:30am – 3pm, 5:30pm – 10pm Daily

Sundubu is a type of Korean jjigae featuring tofu cooked with a variety of ingredients such as vegetables, meat and seafood. Interesting that this is found in a Japanese-concept restaurant, at Eat At Seven Suntec City.

There are a total of 24 Sundubu types offered here, from Japanese Oyster, 5-Vege, Kimchi, Seafood, Asari Clam, Kuro-Buta, Miso Butter, Cheese to Curry. Each Sundubu bowl comes with ingredients of house-made Tofu, Egg, Spring Onions, and Asari Clam.

For a warm spicy bowl of comfort. Tokyo Sundubu (Suntec)

Hokkaido Izakaya
95 Tanjong Pagar Road Singapore 088516 (next to Blue Ginger Restaurant)
Tel: +65 62217118
Opening Hours: 11:30am – 2:30pm Last Order 2pm, 6pm – 12am Last Order 11pm (Mon – Sat)
11:30am – 2:30pm Last Order 2pm, 6pm – 10:30pm Last Order 9:30pm (Sun, PH)

Hokkaido Izakaya purports serving quality Hokkaido dishes cooked with fresh ingredients specially imported from 4 cities in Hokkaido: Yakumo town, Akkeshi town, Furano town, and Kamishihoro town.

The menu featured the best-selling Kakiage Tempura Soba ($14), Sea Urchin wrapped with Wagyu Beef ($35), Milk Hotpot with Salmon ($18) and Kinki Shabu Shabu ($28), supposedly reliable choices for a fail-safe dinner.

The signature soba is prepared fresh at the restaurant, made with buckwheat flour, stock cooked using Hokkaido soba powder. Hokkaido Izakaya (Tanjong Pagar)

Oscar’s
Conrad Centennial Singapore, 2 Temasek Boulevard, Singapore 038982
Tel: +65 6432 7481
Reservation Online – Oscar’s

For fans of Oscar’s at Conrad Centennial Singapore and Sunday Brunches, the restaurant is back from a revamp and facelift with new exciting inclusions.

The Supercharged Sunday Brunch is available every Sunday from 12.30pm to 3.30pm, located on the lobby level.

Other than the live cooking stations and fresh seafood, check out the premium roast “London Duck”, suckling pig at the carving station, specially created crab recipes by their top Chefs, foie gras, new desserts decadence (crepes suzette and liquid nitrogen ice cream) and healthy blitz of juices and shakes.

Exclusive to readers of DanielFoodDiary.com – 1 dines free with every 3 paying adults. Quote “OscarsDFD” during reservation to enjoy this offer. Prior reservations required.

Mo’mor
56 Tanglin Road, #B1-01, Tanglin Post Office, Singapore 247964
Tel: +65 6463 8080
Opening Hours: 11am – 11pm (Mon – Wed), 11am – 1am (Thurs – Sat), 11am – 11pm (Sun)

Mo’mor is a contemporary izakaya with Japanese and European elements helmed by local veteran chef Martin Woo.

The dishes here celebrate the interplay of texture and flavours, which includes Charcoal Grilled Whole Japanese Squid, Australian Wagyu on Skewer, Apple Cured Salmon Sashimi, Hokkaido Scallop Tartare, Plum Tomato Ceviche, Pan Roasted Chilean Seabass, Slow Cook Charcoal Grilled Iberico Pork Collar and Matsusaka Wagyu Striploin.

Lucca’s Trattoria
11 Unity Street #01-12 Robertson Walk Singapore 237995
Tel: +65 6235 4049
Opening Hours: 12pm – 11pm (Mon – Thurs), 12pm – 1pm (Fri), 11:30am – 1am (Sat), 11:30am – 11:00pm (Sun)

Lucca’s specialises in Tuscan cuisine from Lucca, a city in Tuscany, and prides that the food served is based on what they would eat daily back home.

The pizza dough is made using special grade flour imported from Italy, ravioli handmade within the store, and fresh gelato not from powder mixes.

Quite an authentic experience, coming complete with those iconic red-white checked table cloth.

Captain K Seafood Tower
30 Prinsep Street, #01-02, Singapore 188647
Tel: +65 6255 2270
Opening Hours: 11:30am – 2:30pm, 6pm – 10pm (Mon – Sun)

Captain K inspired by the Korean style of steamboat, is attracting long queues.

Layers of seafood are stacked, cooked layer by layer from top to bottom. The logic is as the seafood is steamed, the juices are collected at the base, forming a flavourful soup base.

The soup bases come in three variations, from a classic Kombu Dashi stock, house-made kimchi stew, to Korean inspired ginseng broth.

A 9-tier recommended for 8 pax is priced at $288.90, comprising of scallops, prawns, squid, oysters, lobsters, clams, mussels, crab and finally the soup base, in that order from the top to bottom layers.

For smaller groups, 3 tiers ($52.90), 5 tiers ($98.90) and 7-tiers ($188.90) are available.

Other Related Entries
10 New & Hot Restaurants Singapore March 2016
10 New & Hot Restaurants Singapore Feb 2016
12 New & Hot Restaurants Singapore January 2016
10 New Cafes In Singapore April 2016
10 New Cafes In Singapore March 2016

The post 10 New & Hot Restaurants Singapore April 2016 – Food Trucks, Korean Seafood Tower and Sarawak Noodles appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.