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My friends were surprised that I suggested having KOREAN stew at TOKYO Sundubu, which has opened another branch at Raffles City. (The first is at Suntec City’s Eat at Seven.)

In case you are confused too, Sundubu is a type of Korean stew which includes tofu cooked with a variety of ingredients such as vegetables, meat and seafood.

Tokyo Sundubu takes it a step further, by including Japanese food elements such as miso, to enhance the flavours of the soup.

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

The way they get into the ladies’ hearts and bellies, is to emphasise there is COLLAGEN and CAPSAICIN (from the red peppers). Good one there.

I actually wonder how many people seriously think they can get beautiful from having collagen pots and stews.

Like the Suntec branch, there are more than 20 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.

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

You would be given a choice between spicy Salt & Ginger, spicy Japanese Miso, or Non-spicy Japanese style broth.

Here’s how you enjoy a Sunbudu dish.

First, mix the ingredients while the bowl is still sizzling hot. After finishing half the rice, add some gochujang sauce, and remaining Sunbudu over the rice.

I had a Wagyu Sundubu ($20, promotional price) which turned out to be a comforting, hearty bowl, robust in flavours.

The spiciness of a Level 3 was bearable, and I might want to choose a Level 2 in future to better appreciate the original flavours of the broth.

The highlight of the entire dish was still the high protein, low calorie, smooth house-made tofu.

Not many people know about this restaurant though, and what is sells exactly, as it is located at an obscure end at the basement. Can be a pity.

Tokyo Sundubu – Raffles City
252 North Bridge Road, #B1-16 Raffles City Singapore 179103
Tel: +65 6252 2425
Opening Hours: 11am – 10pm, last order 9:30pm Daily

Tokyo Sundubu – Suntec City
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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Chimney cake (technically not a cake), also known as “Kürtőskalács”, is a type of European pastry made using layers of dough.

The name sounds cheem. It is not referring to the rooftop structure which Santa Claus will use to deliver his gifts on Christmas Day, but it is shaped like one.

Chimney cake is made from sweet, yeast dough where a single strip is wrapped around a cone-shaped baking equipment before ‘cooking’ it till golden brown.

Additional toppings such as cinnamon sugar, peanuts or Oreo could be added on the exterior for different variants.

The menu is divided into Sweet ($3) and Savory ($3.50) Chimney cakes.

I noticed that the Europeans’ are longer and thicker (I mean the chimney cakes), whereas the ones we had here were smaller and more manageable.

Top up $1 for additional Nutella, Peanut Butter or Cream Cheese for the sweet Chimney cakes, or Chicken Ham, Turkey Bacon or Salted Egg (yes, that’s right) for the savory version.

Chimney Cake with Softserve is available at $4.50 and comes with the choice of Vanilla, Chocolate or both flavours

The waiting time is about 10 minutes as the chimney cakes are made upon order – from rolling the dough, to baking, and addition of condiments such as sugar, peanuts or Oreo.

And it struck me how much it resembled a chimney with smoke rising when the chimney cake was freshly served.

I unwind it like a spinning top before biting into the crispy exterior and a thin interior with soft and chewy bread-like texture.

The table’s favourites were the Oreo Chimney cake ($3) with Nutella spread (additional $1) and the Turkey Bacon ($3.5) for the sweet and savory options respectively.

Another interesting option is Chimney cake with Softserve ($4.50), which will probably attract the younger crowd at Scape.

The temperature contrast between the warm chimney cake and the cold softserve was a pleasant combination, though I wished that the texture of the softserve could be smoother.

Being the first Hungarian pastry specialty shop that opened in Singapore, this Chimney does hold some surprise element, like what Santa does for the kids on Christmas.

Chimney SG
Scape*, 2 Orchard Link, #02-02, Singapore 237978
Opening Hours: 11am – 9pm (Mon-Fri), 11am – 3pm, 5pm – 10pm (Sat-Sun)
https://www.facebook.com/ChimneySingapore/

* Written by Daniel’s Food Diary Cafe Correspondent Nicholas Tan @stormscape. Visit his instagram for all things [NEW].

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Kin Kin Chilli Pan Mee in Singapore has found a new competitor just down the road, on 476 MacPherson Road (somewhere near Boon Tong Kee, opposite Stamford Tyres Motor).

KL Traditional Chilli Ban Mee sounds similar to Kin Kin, and offerings are more or less the same.

Even the whole look and ingredients sounds alike, the noodle bowl added with crispy ikan billis, minced meat, meatballs (the generic machine-made type), poached egg, lastly topped with the signature homemade dry chilli flakes.

The “Top 10 dishes” at KL Traditional Chilli Ban Mee include Signature Chili Ban Mee ($5), Signature Abalone Combo Ban mee ($13), Signature Hand-Made Fresh Fishball Mee ($5), Minced Pork Mee ($5), Scallop Chili Ban Mee ($8), Abalone Chili Ban Mee ($10), Signature Hand-Made Fresh Fishball Soup ($4), Porkball Soup ($4), Fish Dumpling Soup ($4), and Signature Abalone Combo Soup ($13).

Prices are considered reasonable, taken in account the amount of ingredients.

I ordered the Signature Chili Ban Mee ($5) which was acceptably-tasty. The ikan billis fried till light and crisp brought out a more layered texture upon biting.

The highlight to me was the fried chilli flakes, which were indeed terrifically spicy, and gave a needed shiokness to the Ban Mee.

On a side note, the soup cooked with vegetables made good accompaniment – tasty, has depth, not salty.

Personal preference, I wished that the noodles could have been cooked with more springy-bite, ie more QQ.

The question that many will ask: How does this compare to say, Kin Kin or Face To Face Noodle House?

I liked the overall combination at Kin Kin better – it has more ‘taste’; and Face To Face’s noodles had a more layered seasoning and bite of the noodles.

The shop is related to the Aroy Mak Mookata next door, and thus you can order drinks such as Thai Iced Milk Tea ($2) here.

KL Traditional Chilli Ban Mee, KL 传统辣椒板面
476 MacPherson Road Singapore 368191 (Opp Stamford Tyres Motor)
Tel: +65 9052 0555 (for ordering takeaway)
Opening Hours: 11am to 7pm (last order 630pm)

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

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When I heard about a “Mercado Spanish Food Market” in Singapore, I thought about the Mercado De San Miguel at Madrid, Spain. Lively, vibrant, full of colours.

With so many rice grain, poké bowls, salads shops proliferating within Singapore’s CBD, a Spanish theme café like this should appeal to diners.

Should.

(Photo credit: Amanda Liu @hungryamanda)

Due to the placement of the signatures and menu board, I found the arrangement and organisation not intuitive enough.

I walked up to the cashier and ordered some items, and had to refer to the entrance of the eatery for the full menu for reference.

Could be frustrating if you were to walk back and forth, only to be told certain items were not available.

There are Breakfast sets priced at $8 to $10 Nett, Lunch and Dinner where you can order a created Hola Bowl ($14.50) or customised Create-Your-Own-Bowl ($16.50).

During breakfast, I ordered a Spaniard which supposedly contained baked eggs, chorizo and avocado. I was expecting something else, like baked eggs in a mini-pan or something, similar to a Shakshouka.

Then, I was presented THIS.

Needless to say, slightly disappointing.

After two lacklustre visits, I thought I should return. Because I think Mercado has the potential.

The lunch bowls were a lot better, in terms of portion, taste and presentation. When faced with a big pan of paella right at the door, I knew I had to order.

The accompany ingredients were notably tasty, from the roast chicken, cherry tomatoes, and broccoli. The paella somehow could have been catered for the healthier crowd – not as flavourful as I would have expected, but still appetizing.

If I were to pinpoint what was missing, it would be that Spanish vibrancy. Perhaps they could work in more Spanish (familiar) signatures and dishes, add some music, and bring more live to the space.

And try updating the Facebook too. Still empty for now, but for a logo.

Mercado Spanish Food Market
50 Market Street #01-23, Singapore 048940 (Raffles Place MRT)
Tel: +65 6532 2155
Opening Hours: 8am – 7:30pm (Mon – Fri), Closed Sat – Sun

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

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Fans of Descendants Of The Sun DOTS should be familiar with this café, where “Big Boss” Song Joong Ki had coffee with Song Hye-kyo in the drama series, several times. (Remember the scene when they broke up? *so sad*)

Dal.Komm Coffee has obviously worked its marketing dollars well, by being a venue sponsor of the hit series.

The good news is, the Korean cafe is going to open in Singapore!

Dal Komm which means ‘sweet’ in Korean, opened its first store in the trendy Gangnam District in Seoul in 2011, and is rapidly expanding its operations in Malaysia, China and Singapore.

What is special about this café is that it will be integrated with online music content to create a multi-purpose café, a space of music, beverages, desserts and design.

The cafe is likely to offer a variety of coffee blends – from mild, rich, deep to Dutch.

While I am not too sure if Song Joong Ki will be here for the opening (cannot afford lah), there should be a banner or standee of him somewhere.

Location is *secret* for now, but the big likelihood would be downtown Orchard at The Centrepoint. Stay tuned here for updates!

(Photos credit: Dal.Komm Singapore and Dal.Komm Malaysia Facebook)

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Some big names opening up in Singapore. Bangkok’s popular fashion place Greyhound Café, Japan’s Gudetama Café, and Korea’s Kiss The Tiramisu and Dal.Komm Coffee aka “Descendants Of The Sun” Café are some of the more prominent names coming up.

THERE ARE MORE. Look out here for updates.

12 New Cafes In Singapore November 2016 – Greyhound, Gudetama and DOTS Cafe Come To Singapore

Greyhound Café Singapore
Paragon Shopping Mall, 290 Orchard Road, Singapore 238859

Quoted by the Fortune Magazine as “the Hottest Seats in Bangkok”, Greyhound Café is the first fashion café in Bangkok offering the food concept with creative twists in a casual dining experience.

Some of the Greyhound signatures include Complicated Noodle – a self-assembling noodle dish which include fresh lettuce leaves and minced pork sauce, Fried Rice Noodle with Chicken and Dried Squid (150 baht), Spaghetti with Crab Meat with Prawn Cream Sauce, and of course the Greyhound Famous Fried Chicken Wings.

The café is stated to open at Paragon end of November.

Chimney SG
Scape*, 2 Orchard Link, #02-02, Singapore 237978
Opening Hours: 11am – 9pm (Mon-Fri), 11am – 3pm, 5pm – 10pm (Sat-Sun)

A dedicated Chimney cake shop in Singapore at Scape.

Chimney cake is made from sweet, yeast dough where a single strip is wrapped around a cone-shaped baking equipment before ‘cooking’ it till golden brown.

The menu is divided into Sweet ($3) and Savory ($3.50) Chimney cakes.

Top up $1 for additional Nutella, Peanut Butter or Cream Cheese for the sweet Chimney cakes, or Chicken Ham, Turkey Bacon or Salted Egg (yes, that’s right) for the savory version. Chimney (Scape Orchard)

Kiss The Tiramisu
277 Orchard Road #01-15 Orchard Gateway Singapore 238858 (Somerset MRT)
Opening Hours: 10:30am – 10:30pm

Popular Korean dessert shop Kiss The Tiramisu has opened at Singapore in Orchard Gateaway.

The shop is located at a rather obscure corner, next to Dazzling Café, diagonally opposite Kanshoku Ramen.

If you had to pick a choice between the Original, Banana and Berries, go for the classic flavour. It would be a safe choice, and there would be more layers and intricacies to make you feel it is more worth it. Kiss The Tiramisu Singapore (Orchard Gateway)

Soi 55
1 Shenton Way, Singapore 068803
Opening Hours: 7.30am – 5pm (Mon – Fri)

Soi 55 has earned a fan base with its first stall at Golden Shoe Raffles Place. Its second is on the 5th level of The Cathay. It has closed the hawker stall, and shifted to bigger premises at One Shenton Way.

Their best sellers include Thai Milk Tea, Thai Green Milk Tea, Thai Milk Coffee, Thai honey Lemon Tea, Thai Honey Black Tea, Thai Honey Black Tea, and Thai Honey Green Tea.

They have also added a “Paint Your Drink” series where customers can choose their preferred drink, then add different fun toppings such as Red Ruby, Blue Sapphire, Purple Sago, Blue Sago, Earl Grey Jello and Coffee Jello.

Kumoya
8 Jalan Klapa Singapore 199320
Opening Hours: 12pm – 10pm (Tue-Fri,Sun), 12pm – 10.30pm (Sat), Closed Mon

Kumoya is made up of two words: “Kumo” means fluffy, light clouds and “ya” mean house, a place where we can experience the lightness of their desserts.

The éclairs are its specialty items, offering bite-sized Petite Éclairs (7cm long) at $3 each, $8.50 for 3 pieces, $16.50 for 6 pieces, $31.50 for 12 pieces.

The table’s favourite flavours were Matcha and Café Au Lait (milk coffee) with that distinct touch and taste. Kumoya (Jalan Klapa)

Epiphyte
47 Neil Road 088827 Singapore (Near to Outram Park MRT Station)
Tel: +65 9451 8873
Opening Hours: 10am – 11pm (Mon – Thurs), 10am – 1am (Fri – Sat)

Epiphyte is conceptualised as an infusion of food, art and nature.

Their signature items and desserts include the Pink Risotto ($22), Chicken with Indonesian Spices ($21), Grilled Striploin ($27), Crab Cakes ($13), Twilight which is a ‘galaxy’ style chocolate cointreau mousse cake ($10) and Terrarium ($8, +$3 for shot of rum).

The Terrarium, a floral-garden dessert which blends with the vibes and feel, is the most widely instagrammed dessert here so far.

It was served in a whisky glass with green sponge cake, dark chocolate soil, fresh mint custard and apple compote. Epiphyte (Neil Road)

Nunsaram
12 Maju Avenue, Singapore 556690
Opening Hours: 12pm – 12am (Sun-Thu), 12pm – 2am (Fri-Sat)

Nunsaram has opened a franchise outlet beside Oblong, opposite myVillage at Serangoon Gardens.

It has one of the most extensive menus for Korean bingsu cafes in Singapore. Think 15 flavours of Bingsu, Tteokkochi (Korean rice cakes skewers), Porridge ($6.90 – $7.90), Injeolmi Toast ($5.90), Thick Bread ($8.90), Smoothies and Latte. Nunsaram (Maju Avenue)

Oh My Café
Westgate #B1-01 3 Gateway Drive Singapore 608532

Oh My Café serves up a smattering of cakes, soda beverages called “Nade” (LemoNADE, get it?), light bulb drinks, yogurt in bottles and coffee.

There is a snack shop / minimart at the back of the café, though you may actually walk and miss it. If you are suddenly in need of Korean cup noodles and groceries at Westgate, you know where to go.

Though I am not entirely sure what its main focus is, yet. Oh My Café (Westgate)

Ninja Cut
32 Seah Street, Singapore 188388
Opening Hours: 9.30am – 7.30pm (Mon – Fri), 9am – 6pm (Sat-Sun)

Opened by the folks behind Ninja Bowl at Duxton Road, Ninja Cut has taken over SELA Restaurant beside Bridge Cafe at Seah Street.

Question: How different is Ninja Cut from Ninja Bowl?

We observed some similarities in their dishes such as Salmon Poke and Tuna Tataki with slightly different toppings.

While the latter is Japanese inspired with nihon names for their bowls such as Geisha, Genki and Yasai, the former offers a larger variety of bowls that are more substantial in portion. Ninja Cut (Seah Street)

Juju Coffee
5 Tan Quee Lan Street Singapore 188094
Tel: +65 9230 0293
Opening Hours: 8:30am – 4:30pm

Juju Coffee is the day-time business of is Joo Bar, providing those in the vicinity with a space to chill out over cuppa.

The interior was adorned in black, white and copper, complemented by dark Korean pinewood furniture specially imported from Korea.

The menu from Juju Coffee is straight-forward – Espresso ($3.50), Black ($4.50), White ($5.50), Iced Black ($5.50), Iced White ($6.00) and Cold Brews ($5.50, $6.00). Juju Coffee (Tan Quee Lan Street)

Neato
10 North Canal Road Singapore 048823
Opening Hours: 9am – 7pm (Mon – Sat), Closed Sun

Neato received some buzz on Instagram for their ‘lava custard puff’, choux puffs with flavoured custard that would ooze out when cut apart.

So the recommended dessert was the Neato’s “Legendary Custard Puffs” ($4.00), in flavours of Malted milk, Earl grey, Matcha, Chocolate malt and Cream cheese maple. Neato (North Canal Road)

(Photo only for reference.)

Gudetama Café Singapore
Suntec City Mall #01-361/362/363/364, 3 Temasek Boulevard Singapore 038983

Popular Sanrio Character Gudetama will finally have its own café in Singapore. How egg-citing.

Gudetama Café Singapore will be located at Suntec City Mall #01-361, and is anticipated to open end November.
Items to be served include Breakfast In Pan with eggs (of course), toast, sausage and bacon; Waffles, Softserve and Coffee. Gudetama Café (Suntec City)

* Compiled by Daniel Ang @DanielFoodDiary and Nicholas Tan @stormscape.

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”Fasta Fasta…” This is what your boss will tell you always, or when you need to hurry your friend for the bus/train/plane.

Corny jokes aside, Fasta is a fusion pasta cafe located in South Beach Avenue, one of the first few eateries to open at this new lifestyle destination.

Fast + Pasta = Fasta. Get it?

The no-frills eatery serves interesting pasta dishes to cater to busy office-workers and casual shoppers in the vicinity.

There are two menus: Warm Bowls and Cold Bowls, and the recommended are the Scallop Wallop Pasta ($10.50), Shio Ba Mee ($9.00), Chickinaki ($9.00) and cold pastas of Smokey Quacky Ducky ($8.50) and Unbelievable ($8.00).

You choose from a range of pastas, grains, meats and sides to create your own fun Fasta bowl.

Prices are friendly – I like.

The entire premise of “innovative pasta” reminds me of Ah Bong Italian, though Fasta appears more hip, while Ah Bong seems more down-to-earth.

I liked the Scallop Wallop Pasta ($10.50) in terms of how the crab meat, diced roma tomato combine well together with the pasta. The drizzle of yuzu dressing added a surprise element towards the end of every bite.

The only drawback was the pan seared scallop, which was much too salty.

The Shio Ba Mee ($9.00) of Roasted Pork Belly and Semi-Dried Tomato with pasta was a noteworthy take.

The pork belly slices on their own were yummy – tender, succulent, good bite, and I could imagine this going well with a bowl of rice.

On pasta with a sweetish-char-siew-sauce like base…. May need some time to get used to, or can feel loaded after a few bites.

Fasta purports to serve pasta under 5 minutes.

I timed, and both ordered took about 9 minutes. It was not that big a difference, but could have some effective service recovery then.

When the server asked “How is it?”, I only answered ”Okay lor” because that was exactly how I felt that moment in time.

Good stuff, though no major surprises. Yet.

Fasta
6 Beach Road, South Beach Avenue, B1-23 Singapore 189768 (Esplanade MRT Exit F)
Opening hours: 11am – 8pm (Mon – Sat), Closed Sun

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

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Thai Iced Milk Tea shop Shop Soi 55 has gone from humble hawker stall at Golden Shoe to a dedicated Thai beverages and bites shop at One Shenton Way. WOW.

I remembered the one day during 2014 when I went down to the Golden Shoe Market intending to feature the uni-grads turned ‘hawkers’, behind the local start-up which was probably one of the first to sell Thai Iced Tea in a food centre.

The Thai beverages gained popularity with the CBD executives, and the owners eventually had to find a bigger space – at One Shenton Way (the building next to Asia Square, opposite SGX, diagonally opposite Lau Pa Sat).

Its other branch is at The Cathay. (Ang Mo Kio folks, be happy, it is coming your way soon!)

The shop is so named due to the famous Sukhumvit Soi 55 street known for its exciting nightlife and cafe culture. 55 is also pronounced as “Haha” in Thai, a sign of laughter and joy.

If you haven’t realised, their Thai Iced Milk Tea has got a level higher, both in terms of aesthetics (can customise now) and taste (further fine-tuned).

Making this probably one of the most instagrammable Thai Milk Teas in Singapore.

Here are some of the To-Order at Soi 55:

Thai Milk Tea
The signature Cha Yen ($3.30) in a large 22oz cup version, with tea leaves coming from the familiar “Number One Brand”.

Soi’s 55 version has probably been modified to suit the local taste, and therefore not as sweet.

Personal reference, I thought it could be slightly milkier, and with more of that bitter-tea taste. However, I reckon the general customer base would enjoy this current rendition. Asked around, and many friends do say Soi 55 serves one of the best versions around.

Thai Milk Tea
Just so you know, their Thai Milk Tea now comes in convenient, take-away bottled versions ($4.90).

Hot Thai Milk Tea
There are also hot versions of their Thai Milk Coffee, Thai Rose Milk Tea, Thai Green Tea, Black Tea, Lemon Tea and Honey Tea series.

Thai Green Milk Tea
“Cha Kiaw Yen” ($3.30) a favourite among many (some say they prefer this to the actual Cha Yen). The cup has a good balance of sweetness, milky-ness and tea-after taste.

Thai Honey Green Tea
After trying out so many drinks, the Thai Honey Green Tea ($3.60) probably comes in as my Top 3.

This is best after you just want a big cup of cold drink after a day of running errands, refreshing with a hint of Jasmine, doesn’t come across as heavy comparatively.

“Paint Your Drink” Series
This is Thai Milk Tea like never before. You can choose your favourite drink, and add different coloured topping (additional $0.30 to $1) – fun, personalised, colourful.

Tip: For IG, pick 2-3 toppings for the colours. To drink, take your favourite… I think the Red Ruby generally goes well with most combinations.

White Kho Kho Nut Slushie
The Kho Kho Nut Slushie ($4.90) is a relatively new product, made using fresh coconut juice (I saw the Thai service staff open up one, and pour into the blender).

Perhaps due to the hot, humid weather, I found this particularly refreshing, cooling and filling at the same time. Could work well as a drink to sip at the office desk to perk the day up.

Thai Coconut Drink
For a more straight-forward coconut drink, Soi 55 also offers a version of fresh coconut juice ($5.20) with pieces of coconut flesh within.

Great for the health conscious and gym-goers for a post workout cool down drink.

Thai Kebab
Not many people actually knows Soi 55 serves food now. Only available at the One Shenton outlet, the Thai Kebab with fillings of chicken with special Thai Green Curry sauce is quite legit.

Crisp outer layer, and warm satisfying fillings, mildly spicy. Works great as a grab-and-go meal, better than some boring sandwiches if I may say.

Soi 55 – One Shenton Way
1 Shenton Way, Singapore 068803 (Raffles Place, Downtown MRT, building behind Asia Square)
Opening Hours: 7.30am – 5pm (Mon – Fri)
https://www.facebook.com/SoiFiftyFive

Soi 55 – The Cathay
The Cathay Level 5, 2 Handy Road Singapore 229233 (Dhoby Ghaut MRT)
Opening Hours: 2pm – 9:30 pm (Mon – Thurs), 11am – 12am (Fri – Sat), 11am – 9:30pm (Sun)

* This entry is brought to you in partnership with Soi 55 and WhereWhatWow.

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Talk about Ellenborough Market Café> at Swissôtel Merchant Court, and one may go “Peranakan Food” and “Durian Pengat!”

Some friends would just speed to the dessert sections first, and dive for (almost countless) top-ups of the signature Durian Pengat during our weekend makan sessions.

If you have not been to Ellenborough Market Café in a while, you may be surprised at the new look and offerings.

[Also look out for the HSBC Credit Card Promotion at the end of the post. Buffets at Ellenborough Market Café priced at $80 for two diners!]

As they say, “The Grand Dame of Peranakan cuisine returns bolder and better.”

Having eaten here with my family a few times before, I recalled the interior to be darker and more ‘traditional’ looking.

Check out the revamped décor – the space was more spacious and contemporary-looking.

Plus, there are seats by the glass walls. That means some natural sunlight (if you come during lunch) and a distant view of Clarke Quay and the Singapore River.

The refreshed halls comprise of three zones – the main dining area in whitish-cream and turquoise accent (my current favourite colour); lofty stained glass mezzanine; and a fresh-looking Hampton-esque dining room with the show kitchen buffet lines taking centre stage.

Compared with the previous incarnation, walking around didn’t feel that cramped, and the food selection was clearly organized. Thumbs up for the face-lift.

Food-wise, newly appointed Executive Chef Louis Tay has expanded the range of international cuisine, working his ‘magic’ with recent additions of a Carving Station and European style dishes.

Other new menu highlights include Nyonya Satay Chicken and Braised Pork Belly La Mian, alongside all-time favourites including the signature Ayam Buah Keluak, Nyonya Chap Chye, Itek Sio, Opor Babi (pork cooked in coconut milk) Curry Fish Head and desserts of Pulut Hitam and Nyonya Kueh Kueh.

Here are some of the signature food items I tried from Ellenborough Market Café:

Slipper Lobsters in Black Bean Sauce
My table’s favourite. Slipper Lobsters with succulent meat, wok-fried and covered with a sweet-savoury sauce with a hint of spiciness.

Chilli Crab with Fried Man Tou
Their style of Chilli Crab happened to slant to the sweetish-side. I would personally prefer a sauce that was spicier and more egg-y, and the flesh to be chunkier.

Kueh Pie Tee
This is from the DIY Kueh Pie Tee station, where you can choose to add your preferred amount of cooked radish and toppings such as shrimps, hard-boiled eggs and peanut. A childhood favourite.

Durian Pengat
Need I write more about their signature must-have dessert?

Okay, okay. Here’s why I think diners like their Durian Pengat so much. It is smooth, rich, slight-bitter sweet, luscious, yet not pungent in smell.

The yellowish creamy dessert is also now available in these cute-sized bottles.

Good for non-durian eaters like me who want a try, but not too much (Yes, I admit I don’t like durians that much, but actually enjoy their Durian Pengat).

Nyonya Kueh Dadar
Pandan-flavoured rolled crepe, filled with grated coconut steeped in gula melaka.

The Kueh Dadar is made right in front of your eyes at the live station, ONE BY ONE. Soft skin and generous sweet fillings, it’s worth saving some stomach space for these.

Carving Station
Executive Chef Louis Tay explained that his training in European style cooking has inspired him to introduce more international flavours to this buffet.

Therefore, you would see the inclusion of hearty tasty meats such as Roast Beef, Rack of Lamb, Pork Knuckles and German sausages (note: only available during dinner, with items on rotation).

Additional highlights for November and December 2016:

BBQ Seafood Bonanza (1 – 30 Nov 2016)
Feast on barbecued seafood where you can handpick your own from a selection available on ice, then grilled à la minute.

Expect Spicy Sambal Stingray, fragrant Grilled Garlic Tiger Prawns, Nyonya Sambal Marinated Squid and Assam Pedas Local Clams.

Family Festive Feasts (1 – 31 Dec 2016)
Christmas festive treats with a local twist, think Roasted Peranakan Buah Keluak Tom Turkey with Glutinous Rice, and Roasted Pork Belly Roulade with Apple Sauce.

Time to plan those year-end buffet meals with your colleagues, family and friends!

Ellenborough Market Café
Swissôtel Merchant Court, 20 Merchant Road, Singapore 058281
Tel: +65 6239 1848
Opening Hours:
Buffet Breakfast: 6:30am – 10.30pm Daily
Buffet Lunch: 12:00pm – 2:30pm Daily
Buffet Dinner: 6:30pm – 10:00pm Daily
Buffet High Tea: 3:30pm – 5:30pm (Sat, Sun, PH)

Reservations Email: dining.merchantcourt@swissotel.com
Website: http://www.swissotel.com/hotels/singapore-merchant-court/dining/ellenborough-market-cafe

HSBC Credit Card Promotions
Exclusive at Ellenborough Market Café:
• Lunch buffet at S$80 for two (U.P. S$104).
Valid from Mondays to Sundays, from 1 October to 31 December 2016
• Dinner buffet at S$80 for two (U.P. S$124).
Valid from Tuesdays to Thursdays, from 1 October to 31 December 2016
• High-tea buffet at S$68 for two (U.P. S$84).
Valid every Saturday, Sunday and on Public Holidays, from 1 November to 31 December 2016.

Terms & Conditions: These Offers are for dine-in only, unless stated otherwise. Prior reservation is required and subject to availability.

Other HSBC buffet offers:
Holiday Inn Atrium Singapore – Atrium Restaurant
1-fo1- for “A Great Catch” Seafood Buffet Dinner
317 Outram Road, Singapore 169075
Tel: +65 6731 7172

Park Hotel Clarke Quay – Cocobolo Poolside Bar + Grill
One dines free with every two paying adults for Weekend BBQ buffet
Offer is valid from Fridays to Sundays.
1 Unity Street, Singapore 237983
Tel: +65 6593 8855

For more details on the latest HSBC dining promotions, visit www.hsbc.com.sg/dining

* This post is brought to you by HSBC Credit Cards

The post Ellenborough Market Café – Peranakan and International Food Buffet, At $80 For 2 Pax appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

The November and December periods have typically been exciting months – for F&B introducing new menus and promotions for the Christmas period, and NEW restaurant openings.

These are just some of the new restaurant openings in Singapore – Tsuta Ramen (Pacific Plaza, Orchard), Talay Thai (Clarke Quay), VLV (Clarke Quay), Red Tail (ALSO Clarke Quay), Upper Place (Wangz Hotel, Outram Road), FOC Sentosa (Tanjong Beach Walk), The Disgruntled Brasserie (Ann Siang), Phat Cat Laundary (Jiak Chuan Road, near Keong Siak), Bourbon Street (Club Street).

For the cafes entry, read 12 New Cafes In Singapore November 2016

There are many examples of local eateries and restaurants going BIG. Michelin starred stall Hong Kong Soya Sauce Chicken Rice and Noodle will be opening a restaurant at Smith Street and going international; Paradise Group relocated Seafood Paradise to swanky Marina Bay Sands; Ya Hua Bak Kut Teh opening at Raffles City and Ngee Ann City.

10 New & Hot Restaurants Singapore November 2016 – Local Restaurants Go BIG

Liao Fan Hong Kong Soya Sauce Chicken Rice and Noodle 香港油雞飯麵
78 Smith Street Singapore 059872

Liao Fan Hong Kong Soya Sauce Chicken Rice and Noodle, the “Cheapest Michelin Starred food in the world” will be partnering with Hersing Culinary for global expansion plans.

It has been announced that a NEW 80-seater quick service restaurant will open at 78 Smith Street, which will serve the same soya sauce and noodle dishes.

4 signature dishes will be served, along with some new complementary items. Chef Chan cannot confirm what those dishes are yet, as he is still working on them.

The restaurant is scheduled to open mid Nov 2016. Liao Fan Michelin Hong Kong Soya Sauce Chicken (Smith Street)

Seafood Paradise
10, Bayfront Avenue, #02-03, Level 2 Dining
The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands Singapore 018956
Tel: +65 6688 7051
Opening Hours: 11:30am – 330pm Last Order 3:00pm, 5:30pm – 11:00pm Last Order 10:30pm

Seafood Paradise was the first restaurant launched by the local Paradise Group, and has recently moved to Marina Bay Sands Level 2 dining area.

My favourite of the dishes tried was still the Singapore style Chilli Crab, boosting a thick sauce all spicy, sweet, savoury at the same time. Crab meat was fresh and succulent.

Other crowd favourites are Creamy Butter Crab topped with Coconut Crumbs and Wok-fried Bee Hoon with Sri Lankan Crab.

Otto’s Deli Fresh
Raffles @ Holland Village #02-01, 118 Holland Avenue Singapore 278990 (Holland Village MRT)
Tel +65 6694 3291
Opening Hours: 11am – 10pm Daily

The man behind Otto’s Deli Fresh Swiss-born Chef Otto Weibel, a veteran chef with more than 40 years of experience, including being Director of Kitchens at The Stamford & Fairmont in Singapore.

Located at the relatively new Raffles @ Holland Village, the chef’s own personal favourites include Grilled Fremantle Octopus Salad ($17), Bircher Muesli ($6), Beef Stroganoff Fettuccine ($17), Pressed Beef Steak Ciabatta ($20), and Braised Beef Cheeks ($26).

The deli section sells a curated selection of meats such as Japanese Kobe Beef, and Brenton Beef and Dorper Lamb from Australia; Irish Ostra Regal and NZ Kaipara oysters, and Hokkaido scallops; French and Swiss cheeses; olive oils from Greece and Portugal, amongst others.

Fasta
6 Beach Road, South Beach Avenue, B1-23 Singapore 189768 (Esplanade MRT Exit F)
Opening hours: 11am – 8pm (Mon – Sat), Closed Sun

Fasta is a fusion pasta cafe located in South Beach Avenue, one of the first few eateries to open at this new lifestyle destination.

Fast + Pasta = Fasta. Get it?

You choose from a range of pastas, grains, meats and sides to create your own fun Fasta bowl. Fasta (South Beach Avenue)

Man Man Japanese Unagi Restaurant
1 Keong Saik Road #01-01 Singapore 089109
Tel: +65 6222 0678
Opening Hours: Lunch 11:30am – 3:00pm Last order 2:30pm,
Dinner 6:00pm – 10:30pm (Mon – Sat, PH), Closed Sun

Singapore must be Chef Teppei Yamashita’s lucky land. After opening up Teppei Japanese Restaurant at Orchid Hotel serving affordable omakase sets, his food ‘empire’ has spread wide with Hanare, Syokudo, and Daidokoro concepts.

The group has just opened Man Man Japanese Unagi Restaurant at Keong Saik Road.

Chef Nakagawa, who had been working in a Mikawa Unagi shop for more than 20 years, will cut the unagi live in front of diners. I repeat, CUT THE UNAGI LIVE. In front of you.

The offerings at Man Man include Una Tama Don ($18.60+) – Unagi & Tamagoyaki on Rice; and Hitsumabushi ($26.80+) – Unagi Don with Spices & Dashi. No service charge. Only GST. Man Man (Keong Saik Road)

Talay Kata
Orchard Central, #08-04/05, Singapore 238896
Opening Hours: 11.30am – 3pm, 6pm – 10pm (Mon-Fri), 11.30am – 5pm, 6pm – 10pm (Sat-Sun)

Talay Kata means “seafood” and “skillet” in Thai respectively. This is a Mookata buffet restaurant concept at Orchard Central Level 8, same floor as Som Tam (also by the The Jus Delish Group).

Buffets are priced at $18.80 (weekday lunch), $28.80 (weekday dinner), $27.80 (weekend lunch), $33.80 (weekend dinner).

The highlight of the food selection is probably the selection of seafood: Crayfish, Shishamo, King Crab, Mud Crab and Japanese Scallops.

Talay Kata is probably the first local mookata restaurant to offer Salted Egg soup broth (simi food also salted egg yolk). Talay Kata (Orchard Central)

8 Korean BBQ
1 Scotts Road, Shaw Centre, #04-20/21, Singapore 228208
Tel: +65 9018 9212
Opening Hours: 1130am – 230pm, last order at 2pm; 530pm – 1030pm, last order at 10pm (Mon – Fri) 1130am – 1030pm (Sat – Sun)

8 Korean BBQ at Clarke Quay Central has opened another branch at Shaw Centre.

Their signature is the Hungarian Mangalitsa Pork Belly, where you can savour 8 different flavours of this pork – Original, wine, ginseng, garlic, herb, curry, miso, and red pepper paste.

Other than the 8 Colours Set ($98, good for 3-4 pax), there are the 4 Colours Set ($58, good for 2 pax), Kimcheese Fried Rice ($20) and Big Hog Plate ($45) which are recommended.

Service was prompt and personable. I tried the Army Stew ($24), which was diluted, and I think you could save some money and calories there.

Ya Hua Bak Kut Teh
Raffles City #B1-44B, 252 North Bridge Road Singapore 179103
Tel: +65 6264 7066
391 Orchard Road, Takashimaya Shopping Centre, #B2-32 Ngee Ann City, Singapore 238872

Ya Hua Bak Kut Teh is going places, recently opened downtown at both Raffles City and Takashimaya Shopping Centre basements.

The signatures are the Prime Cut Ribs ($10.50), Ribs ($7.70) with other combinations such as Kidney Soup ($7.70), Mee Sua with Minced Pork Ball ($8.80), Intestine Soup ($7.50) and Stomach Soup ($7.50).

It is inevitable that when a shop is set up in the city, the menu would be diversified to cater to families and larger groups. Bak Kut Teh was overall acceptable, though not as consistent as the original. Ya Hua Bak Kut Teh (Raffles City)

Kin Kin Chilli Pan Mee in Singapore has found a new competitor just down the road, on 476 MacPherson Road (somewhere near Boon Tong Kee, opposite Stamford Tyres Motor).

KL Traditional Chilli Ban Mee sounds similar to Kin Kin, and offerings are more or less the same.

The highlight to me was the fried chilli flakes, which were indeed terrifically spicy, and gave a needed shiokness to the Ban Mee.

Personal preference, I wished that the noodles could have been cooked with more springy-bite, ie more QQ. KL Traditional Chilli Ban Mee (MacPherson)

Yentafo Kruengsonge
Orchard Cineleisure #02-06A/B 8 Grange Road Singapore 239695
Opening Hours: 10am – 10pm

Yentafo Kruengsonge, which has 28 outlets in Bangkok and 2 in Laos, has opened their flagship store in Singapore at Orchard Cineleisure.

This is probably the first “Yen Ta Fo” pink noodle specialty shop in Singapore, a popular Thai noodle dish added with fermented soybean paste.

The signature Yentafo Kruengsonge ($6.50, $8.50) comes in dry and soup versions with 3 levels of spiciness.

* Compiled by Daniel Ang @DanielFoodDiary and Nicholas Tan @stormscape.

The post 10 New & Hot Restaurants Singapore November 2016 – Local Restaurants Go BIG appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

Tsuta 蔦 in Tokyo Japan is the world’s first and only Michelin-starred ramen eatery, and will be opening its first overseas outpost in Singapore. (Read: 10 Must-Try Ramen at Tokyo)

Location is at Pacific Plaza near Orchard Road, where there used to be a Tower Records in the good old days.

Opened by Chef-owner Yuki Onishi in 2012, Tsuta has received numerous awards, including the coveted Michelin star in the Tokyo Michelin Guide 2016.

This 18-seater Singapore outlet is said to use the same signature soy sauce and high quality ingredients as the Japanese flagship store.

While it is known as a “ramen” store, Tsuta would prefer to call its offerings, Soba.

Two basic ramen choices are available – the Shoyu Soba ($15.00) and Shio Soba ($15.00), inclusive of GST with no additional service charge.

The noodles are ordered via a vending machine, the typical Japanese way, but in a more modernized form with the option of NETS.

One of its winning elements is the soy base, created from a special blend of shoyu that includes Chef Onishi’s inhouse formulated shoyu, and a custom-brewed shoyu made in Wakayama Prefecture.

The Shoyu Soba ($15.00 for basic bowl, $22.80 for addition of char siu and ajitama egg) appears to be the crowd favourite, featuring its distinct piquant black truffle sauce.

I liked the bite of the straight long thin noodles, made from a blend of several types of whole wheat and whole grains flours.

However, I will be honest here.

When I eat a good bowl of ramen, my mood is lifted, eyes brighten up, and will likely text many friends to “Come try this!”

I wasn’t (and some of the guests I asked around) overwhelmed by the overall taste, perhaps due to loads of expectations and anticipation.

It was all right though.

Many commented that the soup was too salty, and might not suit the local palates. There is a possibility. (In fact, I am still feeling the saltiness in my tongue as I am typing this right now.)

Personally, I found the broth not hot enough to a satisfying degree, despite ordering a second bowl and eating straight away without taking any photos.

It was after I asked that I learnt that the soup was purposely cooked till slightly below boiling point, to best bring out the flavours of its ingredients.

Also, the ramen bowls themselves have been pre-heated, noting that the air-conditioned environment would bring down the temperature quickly. A good measure by the shop to ensure quality.

The rest of the ingredients, such as the char siu cooked with Canadian pork collar (chilled, not frozen), and ajitama egg, were executed well.

Between the two, most preferred the Shoyu Soba over the Shio Soba.

The Shio Soba ($15.00 for basic bowl, $22.80 for additional ingredients) comprises of a chicken-seafood blend, with additional of Okinawa sea salt and Mongolian rock salt.

This is overall lighter, more delicate in taste, and would suit those who prefer a not-so-heavy soup base.

Recommendations: Don’t take too long shooting your photos and eat straight away – they turn cold fast.

Singaporeans would be excited that we have a Michelin ramen right near our downsteps. The soba is worth a try due to its star status, but I am really not sure about queuing too long a time for this.

Tsuta Singapore
Pacific Plaza #01-01, 9 Scotts Road Singapore
Tel: +65 6734 4886
Opening Hours: 11am – 6pm, Last Order 5:30pm (Opening Launch, 6 Nov onwards)
Opening Hours: 11am – 10pm, Last Order 9:30pm (12 Nov onwards)

* This is an invited media tasting. Daniel’s Food Diary will update this post after he goes to queue and eat again.

The post Tsuta Singapore – Michelin “Truffle” Ramen In Singapore, And I Will Be Honest Here About It appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

Friends who frequent Taipei should be familiar with the popular Smoothie House at Taipei’s Yong Kang Street, famous for their snowflake ice desserts and fruit smoothies.

Super long queues every time I visit.

Smoothie House has opened its flagship outlet in Singapore at Westgate Jurong, with 5 other cafes at Paya Lebar Square, One Raffles Place, The Star Vista, NEX and Bedok Mall next to vegetarian eatery Greendot.

They have recently revamped and introduced NEW items in their menu, including a series of beverages, Napoleon Pies and Meat-Free Burgers.

[There is a Special 1-For-1 Takeaway Beverage Deal for DanielFoodDiary.com readers. Buy 1 drink and get another FREE. More details below.]

Here are some 10 of the signature and NEW items at Smoothie House Westgate:

Mango Snowflake Ice with Panna Cotta ($9.90 for sharing size)
The signature and best-selling item. The flavoured blocks of ice that would be shaved are actually all imported directly from Taiwan.

Shavings were fluffy and smooth, topped with panna cotta which was silky, clean, and light, not as rich as perhaps how the European restaurants would have done it.

Only reservations I had, was the dessert could be slightly sweet for some. Which brings me to my next point…

Tie Guan Yin Jelly Milky Snowflakes Ice ($9.90 for sharing size)
This turned out to be my new favourite flavour. The Tie Guan Yin Jelly added some hints of refreshing coolness and light bitterness, which balanced out the overall sweet-feeling.

Black sugar syrup (provided on the side), can be added if you have a sweet tooth.

Snowflake Ice ($7.90 for healthy size)
In Taipei’s outlet, the desserts are generally huge to be shared among groups of friends.

The Singapore outpost, noticing that several customers could come individually or in pairs, have also introduce a “Healthy Size” meant for one.

Varieties include Tie Guan Ying Jelly, Yogurt Berry, Mango, Strawberry, Matcha & Red Beans, Milk Mango, and Mango Mix Snowflake Ice.

Chocolate Tropical Napoleon Pie ($12.90)
A Napoleon Pie is a French puff pastry filled with cream and layered fruit preserves.

Pastry Chef Elaine Ng who has worked in Michelin-starred restaurants in New York, France and London has given a twist to the dessert. Noting that local diners may not be that in tuned with cream, she replaced some of the ingredients for a lighter touch.

The NEW Chocolate Tropical Napoleon Pie features bittersweet chocolate ganache and mango passion gel sandwiched between puff pastry, topped with caramelised hazelnuts, accompanied with fresh mango pieces and mango sorbet.

The pastry fitted well with the chocolate fillings and hazelnuts, though I had some reservations about the mango passion gel which was on the tangy side.

Royal Milk Tea Napoleon Pie ($9.90)
Like a mille-feuille meets waffles, this ‘Napoleon Pie’ is like a waffles sandwich, but includes elements of the Bubble Tea with addition of milk foam and pearls.

Meat-Free Burgers ($6.90 – $9.90)
In case you thought Smoothie House Singapore is all about desserts, there are also savouries for a filling meal.

These burger patties may look like meal, but they are made of mushroom or soya! Taste not comprised.

Varieties include Black Pepper Soya Burger ($6.90), Fresh Mix Mushroom ($7.90), Fresh Mix Mushroom Soya ($8.90), Mayo Yogurt Lion Mane ($8.90) and Rendang Lion Mane Burger ($9.90).

The “Rendang Lion Mane” is quite DA Delicious, in fact, I finished it (despite being full). The mushroom chunks in thick mildly spicy gravy was sedap (tasty), and made this burger different from the usual (boring) ones.

Sides – Black Pepper Franks, QQ Tofu, Chunky Fries ($3.90)
Sides to nibble with your drinks, and they are MEAT-FREE too, including the sausages. Almost cannot tell.

Yoghurt Macchiatos ($4.50)
In Chinese, we call these drinks ”nai gai”, which literally means “covered with milk”.

Available in flavours of Mango, Strawberry and Kiwi (the recommended), each cup contains smooth Darjeeling tea with flowery notes, topped with an airy layer of Smoothie House’s signature yoghurt-infused foam.

Have it 3 ways: Drink the foam; have the tea; or mix them all up before slurping.

Bubble Milk Tea ($3.90 – $4.90)
What took them so long? One of the NEW additions is the Bubble Milk Tea. Finally.

You would realise the taste is slightly different from the other brands, sue to the additional of aromatic black sugar syrup.

Though I have been cutting down on sugar (and thus bubble tea), I find this quite a worthy-cup due to the smooth texture, layered taste, and premium quality tea used.

Other than Bubble Tea, beverages available include Fresh Fruit Tea ($3.90), Juices ($4.50), Creative Shakes ($3.90), Taiwanese Blended Tea ($4.90) and Smoothies ($5.50).

Have your favourite Taiwanese bites, drinks and shaved iced desserts found right at home, without the need to travel over.

Smoothie House Singapore – Westgate
3 Gateway Drive, Westgate #01-08, Singapore 608532
Tel: +65 6710 5567
Opening Hours: 12pm – 11pm, Last Order 10pm
https://www.facebook.com/smoothiehousesg

Other Smoothie House Café Outlets
One Raffles Place #03-25
Opening Hours [Mon-Fri] 12pm – 10pm (last order: 9pm)
[Sat, Sun & Public Holidays] Closed
Contact: 62034923

Westgate #01-08
Opening Hours 12pm – 11pm (last order: 10pm)
Contact: 6710 5567

Star Vista #01-33
Opening Hours: 12pm-10pm (last order: 9pm)
Contact: 62623654

Nex #02-K2/K3/K4
Opening Hours: 12pm-9pm (last order: 8pm)
Contact: 90705911

Bedok Mall #B2-31/32
Opening Hours: 1pm-9pm (last order: 8pm)
Contact: 68449422

1-For-1 Drinks! Purchase 1 takeaway drink at Smoothie House Westgate and have the other FREE

Terms & Conditions:
– Applicable for Smoothie House Westgate outlet only
– Redemption period: 12pm – 10pm Monday – Friday, till 30th November
– Customer to show this blog post upon payment to enjoy the promotion
– This promotion is applicable only for take away purchase at regular retail price and the purchase must be made under a single receipt
– The value of the free drink is the lower price of the 2
– Not to be used in conjunction with other promotions, discounts or vouchers
– Smoothie House reserve the right to amend any of these terms and condition without notice

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

The post Smoothie House – NEW Napoleon Pies, Meat-Free Burgers, and 1-For-1 Drinks! appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

The Hilton Sunday Champagne Brunch just gotten more ‘high-level’ with new inclusions for this quality hotel buffet, yet maintained at the same value-for-money pricings.

[Readers of DanielFoodDiary.com will be entitled to $80 OFF the Sunday Brunch with 3 full paying adults. More details at the end of the post.]

Here is what you can expect: 8 interactive live stations: unlimited rounds of fresh seafood, charcoal grilled prime cuts, foie gras, over 30 imported cheeses (including a Raclette station), and a 6-metre long showcase of desserts from D9 Cakery!

WOW.

I vividly remember visiting the Sunday Champagne a few months back. Upon returning, I cannot help by notice that the variety, energy, and buzz have gone a few notches higher.

Here are two tips before I forget: Do not miss visit the cheese room in the corner of the room; and huge selection of the D9 dessert bar outside.

Not sure what to expect? Here are some 10 of the highlights at the Hilton Sunday Champagne Brunch:

1. Grilled Meats
Hilton’s Opus Bar & Grill is known for its prime-cuts that are aged in-house, and grilled over the open-flame charcoal grill.

THE PLACE for grilled meats.

Some of the recommendations include Barbeque Jamon Iberico Pork Ribs, US Prime Ribs, Herb Roasted Lamb Rack and Roasted Whole Sakura Chicken.

My gym-going routine made me more in-tuned to having proteins, and the roast chicken (drumstick for me) was fab with succulent, well-marinated meat.

2. Seafood Bar
I also realised that this Sunday brunch has offered a wider selection of “live’ fresh seafood.

Other than Maine Lobsters, you can expect Yabbies (not commonly seen around in buffets), Alaskan King Crabs (YES), Tiger Prawns, Half Shell Scallop, Black Mussels and Pacific Clams.

3. Oyster Station
Live-shucked oysters from Australia, Canada and France, of Fine De Claire, US Oyster, Coffin Bay Oysters.

Some of the concerns you may have could be that oysters are not replenished fast enough. Don’t worry, the quantity here was enough to go around.

4. Cheese Room
Don’t miss this section at the corner. Hilton’s cheese room boasts of one of the biggest selection in Singapore with over 30 imported cheeses from Aorangi Brie, Mimolette, Gouda, to Emmental.

Raclette Cheese, the semi-hard cow’s milk cheese first heated then scrapped off on food, is kind of the IN thing now.

Good news that it is included here.

Having Raclette Cheese ala carte in a restaurant could cost a bomb, or too heavy on the palate as you would need to commit to ordering a portion of the wheel. No such problem in a buffet restaurant, and I think this is a novel inclusion.

You can have the Raclette topped on potatoes, breads and salads, and makes whole lot of difference taste wise.

5. Foie Gras Station
Foie Gras decadence. Not just one way of cooking, but three variations: Mille-Feuille of Foie Gras and Grain Fed Tenderloin; Foie gras with Apple and passion; and Terrine of foie gras with fruit chutney.

6. Egg Station
Cooked a la minute, expect Homemade Scotch egg with Black Truffle Hollandaise Egg and Bacon Cocotte.

7. Pasta Station
Homemade Italian pasta just taste so different from dried pasta – the freshness, the bite, and rich eggy flavour.

The Tagliatelle with Sicilian Sauce was one of my personal highlights of this meal. Simple fare cooked well.

8. Gastronomy Station
This highlight when I visited was this Poached Japanese Ramen with Sous Vide 65 Degree Celsius Sakura Egg with Toasted Sesame, Seaweed, Salmon Roe and Dashi Espuma.

9. Tableside Service
Welcome drink, served tableside. How about a Bloody Mary to start off your leisure Sunday brunch?

10. D9 Cakery Desserts
This is almost literally, an icing on the cake.

The Hilton Sunday Brunch has opened up and included its D9 Cakery right outside as part of the buffet.

D9 Cakery offers an impressive six-meter showcase of decadently delicious cakes, pastries, pralines, macarons, a chocolate fountain and more.

Signature cakes in the shelves included Dulcey Coffee, Caramel Cassis, Matcha Azuki (my favourite), Red Velvet (friend’s favourite), Rainbow Cake (children’s favourite), and Lavender Cake.

For lighter bites, there are custards, flans and tarts, such as Crème Brulee, Crème Caramel, Raspberry Tart, and Lemon Meringue Tart.

Or a colourful range of shooters of Rose Madagascar, Green Tea, Citron, Dark Chocolate, Apple Pistachio, and Chestnut Cassis. Save some room for these.

Hilton Sunday Champagne Brunch Pricing
• $88++ per person with 1 welcome drink
• $108++ per person free flow of sparkling wine, selected white & red wines and beer
• $148++ per person free flow Champagne, selected white & red wines and beer
• Child: $39++ per child aged 5 to 12 years old

$80 off Hilton Singapore Sunday Brunch
Readers of DanielFoodDiary.com will be entitled to $80 OFF the Sunday Brunch (with 3 full paying adults). Limited to first 100 redemptions (so don’t wait).

Terms & Conditions
– Promo code “DFD100BRUNCH” to redeem
– SGD$80 Off with a minimum of 3 full paying adults
– Cannot be combined with other offers/discount benefit
– 1 redemption per table
– 1-day prior reservation required (to mention promo code upon reservation to enjoy offer).
Reservation Tel: +65 6730 3390
Or email sinhi_F&B@hilton.com
– Subject to availability

Hilton Singapore Sunday Champagne Brunch is available at Opus
581 Orchard Road, Hilton Singapore, Lobby Level, Singapore 238883
Reservation Tel: +65 6730 3390
sinhi_F&B@hilton.com
Sunday Brunch: 12pm – 3pm
http://www.singapore.hilton.com/restaurants

* This post is brought to you in partnership with Hilton Singapore

The post Hilton Sunday Champagne Brunch – 8 Live Stations, Raclette Cheese, 6 Metres Of Dessert Buffet [Plus $80 OFF] appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

If you haven’t been to Holland Village in a while, do not be surprised to see the new Raffles @Holland Village standing right opposite the MRT station exit.

The mall is owned by Raffles Medical Group, and houses milkshake café Patissez Singapore, Haakon Superfoods and Juice, Hoshino Coffee, Soup Restaurant and Otto’s Deli Fresh.

Otto’s Deli Fresh is still considered under the radar, but is one restaurant to look out for.

The man behind Otto’s Deli Fresh is Swiss-born Chef Otto Weibel, a veteran chef with more than 40 years of experience, including being Director of Kitchens at The Stamford & Fairmont in Singapore.

He has been mentor to several young talented chefs, and is said to have also poured his heart and soul into this 46-seater deli.

The chef’s own personal favourites include Grilled Fremantle Octopus Salad ($17), Bircher Muesli ($6), Beef Stroganoff Fettuccine ($17), Pressed Beef Steak Ciabatta ($20), and Braised Beef Cheeks ($26).

Coincidentally enough, these were some of the items I picked out from the menu without prior knowledge.

The Grilled Fremantle Octopus Salad ($17) looked deceptively simple, brought to life with a combination of light tangy, zingy dressing and chewy-tender octopus slices – so good.

I thought there could be more slices of the green apple sticks though.

While I initially wanted to go easy on the Hand Cut Fries with Salted Egg Yolk Cream sauce ($6), they were irresistible.

Without exaggerating, these were probably the best fries I have eaten this entire year, perhaps even including last.

It has been a while since I last ate fries with that real potato taste (I know, sad), and these came soft and lightly salted, with house-made creamy salted egg sauce without that artificialness.

The brown butter sauce with sour cream enveloping the Beef Stroganoff Fettuccine ($17) made this another possible crowd-pleaser.

The beef was tender and moist. If the pasta was handmade, I would have been over-the-moon.

The only let-down was the Burnt Banana Waffle ($11.50).

Nevermind the not-so-slightly presentation with the bananas looking like they form the alphabets of L and J, the waffles were unfortunately one-dimensional and could do with more crisp on the outer, more fluffiness within.

I spotted the young and talented Chef de Cuisine Rick Chow, previously from Portico Prime (no wonder the drastic change in food there.)

While Otto’s Deli Fresh may lack of that ‘hipster’ element, it presents comforting food in a seemingly straightforward way, with quality produce and execution.

Otto’s Deli Fresh
Raffles @ Holland Village #02-01, 118 Holland Avenue Singapore 278990 (Holland Village MRT)
Tel +65 6694 3291
Opening Hours: 11am – 10pm Daily

Other Related Entries
Patissez Singapore (Holland Village)

The post Otto’s Deli Fresh – Under The Radar Restaurant At Holland Village, Comforting Food At Its Best appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

My bowl of noodles is pink in colour!

Yen Ta Fo, also known as the Chinese equivalent of Yong Tau Foo or the ‘pink soup noodle’ in Thai, is characterized by Thai rice noodles soaked in a pink and mildly sweet sauce.

With 28 outlets in Bangkok and 2 stores in Laos, Singapore welcomes the first outpost of Yentafo Kruengsonge which specialises in “Yen Ta Fo” Noodles Store, at Orchard Cineleisure Level 2.

This is for those craving for some authentic “Rod-Jeb” Thai spiciness in their lives.

While the pink colour may seem all gimmicky at first, owner Madam Mallika uses natural ingredients such as fermented red tofu and cooked Thai red rice in her own recipe.

The lean menu consists of Noodles (Yen Ta Fo) dishes that comes in both soup and dry versions: Yentafo Kruengsonge with 9 ingredients ($8.50), Thai Yentafo with 5 ingredients ($6.50), Thai Tom Yum ($9), Kway Teow Kruengsonge ($8.50).

3 levels of spiciness are available for the Yen Ta Fo: “Dek-Dek” (non spicy), “Jai-Soh” (spicy) and “Rod-Jeb” (screaming spicy).

Now, which to choose…?

I preferred the “Jai-Soh” (spicy) level, which added some twist to the sweetish pink sauce and lifted the flavours of the overall ingredients.

While pig blood is unavailable in Singapore, a slightly sweet glass jelly is used as a substitute, and adds a different and pleasant element to the dish.

Though I know some found the jelly “weird”.

My overall favourite dish was the Thai Tom Yum Noodles Soup ($9) which was more than just the usual sour and spicy.

Aroi mak mak. There was a distinct refreshing and citrusy taste to the soup, every mouthful was very appetizing.

A selection of appetisers such as Salmon Skin, Sesame Wings and Rice Crisps were available, each reasonably priced between $5 and $7.

The one that stood out most was the Yum Crispy Salmon Skin ($7) served with addictive Spicy Yum Sauce.

The sound of the thin, crispy and crunchy salmon skin was memorable and still echoed in my head.

Jiak png (rice eater) lovers can choose between the Chicken Panang Curry with Rice ($8.50) and the Cai Pad Krapow ($8.50).

My table challenged ourselves to the latter which was served with the maximum level of spiciness.

Don’t play play, the first mouthful of basil chicken may seem like a child’s play but the spiciness slowly kicks in and explodes in the mouth after a minute or so.

And the burning sensation did linger for quite awhile in our mouths.

Yentafo Kruengsonge may be a new player in Singapore’s market but I believe that it will gain popularity quickly with its quality and pricing. More to come.

Yentafo Kruengsonge
Cathay Cineleisure Orchard, 8 Grange Road, #02-06A/B, Singapore 239695
Opening Hours: 10am – 10pm (Mon-Sun)
https://www.facebook.com/YentafoKruengsongeSG/

* Written by Daniel’s Food Diary Cafe Correspondent Nicholas Tan @stormscape. Visit his instagram for all things [NEW].

The post Yentafo Kruengsonge – 1st Thai “Yen Ta Fo” Noodles Store Opens At Orchard Cineleisure appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

Bye bye Rainbow Cakes. You are fast becoming the next passé fad (that’s fast), while Galaxy Cakes look set to take over the Instagram universe. (Read: 6 Best “Galaxy Drinks” In Singapore)

These magical looking Galaxy Cakes, in midnight colours of dark blue, purple with silver sparkles, are sometimes termed as “Galaxy Mirror Cakes”. Sometimes you can see your own reflections (pretty or pretty scary?), and these cakes look set to be the next IN-thing for dessert.

Comments such as ”So chio”, “So mystical” and “Simi also Galaxy” start painting the social media skies.

The rise in popularity is said to be related to Star Wars, where people would order these intergalactic cakes for themed parties.

Want to feel out of this world, here are some 6 places to get your Galaxy Cakes in Singapore

Epiphyte
47 Neil Road 088827 Singapore (Near to Outram Park MRT Station)
Tel: +65 9451 8873
Opening Hours: 10am – 11pm (Mon – Thurs), 10am – 1am (Fri – Sat)

Actually, one of the better Galaxy Cakes around, in terms of the complete package. The Twilight was like how its name implied. The cake brought my friends and I out of reality and back.

Containing Cointreau orange curd, chocolate sponge, and marbling chocolate mousse.

However, during the second visit, I thought that the glaze wasn’t as stunning, and orange a tad off-balance.

Sugarhaus
10 Jalan Serene, #01-03a, Serene Centre S(258748)
Tel: +656314 2247
Opening Hours: 12 noon – 10pm (Mon – Sun)

Galaxy with a difference. This comes with Taro.

Sugargaus’ Taro Galaxy ($8.80 per slice) comes with a stunning galaxy mirror glaze over layers of taro sponge and swiss meringue buttercream.

Though I found this slightly too sweet for my liking, so not exactly yum-yum for me.I expected that taro layer to be softer and more moist (even like orh nee), which would bring the overall taste a level up.

Plus point: their cakes are supposedly made traditionally from scratch without using any pre-mix.

(Photo credit: Nicholas Tan @stormscape)

The Bakery Chef
161 Bukit Merah Central #01-3711
Tel: +65 6273 9211
Opening Hours: 11am – 7pm (Mon – Wed), 10am – 7pm (Thurs), 10am – 9pm (Fri, Sat), 10am – 7pm (Sun)

A “Galaxy” Chocolate Guanaja cake ($6.80) with chocolate mousse and hazelnut praline base.

The Bakery Chef has also launched Galaxy drinks ($8.80) with two options of blue Chai or hibiscus, complete with silvery glittery gel inside.

Cream & Custard
46 Jalan Bukit Ho Swee #01-894, Singapore 160046
Tel: +65 9111 8696
Opening Hours: 11:00am – 7:00pm (Mon – Sat), Closed Sun

Cream & Custard, known for their Strawberry Watermelon Cake, has stepped up their game with the Galaxy cake.

This cake has propelled to further fame after and Insider Food video went vira.

This “Galaxy” is a chocolate base cake, made with 72% Valrhona dark chocolate blackcurrant jelly. For those who like your cakes alcoholic, you would be glad to know the centre contains rum-soaked cherry.

Slightly sour in the middle, very rich overall. I think if C&C can manage their proportions well, the Galaxy would be another best-seller.

The Lab SG
1 Jalan Pisang #01-01 Singapore
Tel: +65 6299 5681
Opening Hours: 12pm – 10pm (Mon – Sat), 1pm – 9:30pm (Sun)

Other than Galaxy Donuts, The Lab and Sinseh The Grocer next door has introduced a Dark Chocolate Galaxy Cake.

Crème Maison Bakery
50 Prinsep Street #02-01 Singapore 188680
Opening Hours: 12pm – 7pm (Mon – Sun)

Crème Maison Bakery, known for their Ondeh Ondeh, Salted Egg Matcha, Hojicha Hazelnut Praline and Thai Milk Tea Fudge cake, provides customisation with a Galaxy appearance.

The post 6 Best Galaxy Cakes In Singapore – Simi Also Galaxy, Instagrammable Mirror Cakes appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

In the dark lanes of Geylang Lor 23 (no red lanterns around), the likes of white peppery crabs are waiting to be devoured.

Dingy back alley, where round tables get laid out for all to be served, only after the sun starts to set at 5:30pm onwards.

This is also where a Singapore Michelin Bib Gourmand restaurant can be found, that even the Ang Moh inspectors take pleasure in.

JB Ah Meng originated from Singapore, and has nothing to do with Singapore’s favourite orangutan.

Accordingly, the chefs from JB Ah Meng are from across the causeway, and cook in feisty Malaysian style with wok-hei.

The recommended dishes: JB San Lou Meehoon, White Pepper Crab, Salted Egg Prawn Roll, 3 Delicacy Beancurd.

We heard a statement that “If JB Ah Meng’s White Pepper Crab is 2nd best nobody will claim to be the 1st.”

Is that even true?

After chomping down those sweet crab meat tossed in piquant kick of white pepper, we think there is some truth in that statement.

The crab could be of bigger sizes, boosting more succulent meat, but the power sauce would make you overlook that. Hate using this phrase, but those were finger-licking-good.

The JB San Lou Mee Hoon (($7/$11/$14) looked like a plate of flat mess (simi lai?) or a pancake gone wrong, but you know, the taste is quite the opposite.

Fried with shrimps, egg and vegetables at the bottom, there was a play of textures of both thin crisp and moist. Also, the darker the colour of the vermicelli, the more flavours it had absorbed.

The Salted Egg Prawn Roll ($20/$30/$40) didn’t arrive exactly how I would have imagine… ”Where’s the roll? Is this it? So little?”

BUT, this was a version where the salted egg yolk merged beautifully with the crisp batter.

The two are totally different in personally like Yang Guo meeting Little Dragon Girl, but coming together wrapping around prawns and corn kernels, that would be swept away clean fast.

JB Ah Meng has announced its closure on 15th December 2016 at its current location, and will be moving to Geylang Lor 30 in 2017.

I will probably be there. I miss the white pepper crabs so much.

JB Ah Meng
2 Lor 23 Geylang, Singapore 388353
Tel: +65 6741 2418
Opening Hours: 5:30pm – 2:30am

New Location: 534 Geylang Road Lor 30 (from 1st Jan 2017)

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

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Some food courts are not quite the same in Singapore. Picnic, an appropriate name fitting to its garden theme, has opened up at Wisma Atria. Its interior is unlike what you have ever seen before here.

Picnic is a 10,000 square feet space, with the 3 million dollar space designed like an urban park, providing 13 food trucks and stall, with food ordered “Marche” style.

Those in my generation and beyond should remember the Scotts “Picnic” (a food court which in its hey days actually serve pretty-good food), but this Picnic at Wisma has different vibes all together.

May remind some of Timbre+ and Pasar Bella.

The ID is top-notch, with different spaces designed for BIG-GROUP seatings, suitable to hang out with families and friends,. Which are getting harder to find nowadays.

Super instagrammable, and ‘videoable’, where you can dine under a canopy of (fake) trees with lights that change “according to the weather”.

I can just imagine TheSmartLocal people shooting their stuff here, doing quite a neat viral video out of it, with pretty girls prancing around the garden and all that.

In a nutshell, Picnic Singapore has…
– 13 food trucks and stalls
– International range of cuisines, including American, French, Italian and Japanese
– Its own third-wave coffee bar and bespoke cocktail bar
– Price point at $15-$25 for lunch, $20 and above for dinner
– Electronic vending machine, bills are paid on the way out
– Buzzers for self-collection of food
– 3 Seating Zones – a Flower Garden (35 pax), Picnic Area (155 pax), Beer Garden (80 pax)
– Space that can accommodate parties from 20 to 270 people
– A stage with full hook-ups for up to 6 live instruments, using BOSE sound systems

This is based on first impressions.

The design is very chio (attractive and appealing), with enough space to walk around and relax. Provided it does not get so immensely popular that the crowds throng the place (which can possibly be a nightmare).

A lot of thought is put into the entire “picnic” theme, such that a group of friends can leisurely have their meals, chit-chatting while waiting.

However, I do have some reservations.

Most of the food truck and the cashiers are congregated at one small area, creating a potential bottleneck.

Also, compared to competitor Marche where you can roam around and see your food being prepared, there is this limitation here. My guess is they are restricted due to the kitchen having to be positioned one spot.

While electronic vending machine is probably the way to go, the touch screen function may not THAT fast, thus ordering can take a while for new-comers.

This is compounded with the fact that there are no ready menus available, so the only ‘menu’ is the screen.

As long as one diner cannot make up his/her mind, keep scrolling up and down, or do not know how to use the machine, the queue will definitely be held up.

Some of the seating areas are quite far away, and having to walk to and fro to collect your food, can provide some inconvenience.

Food wise, here are some of the stalls available:
– Ezo Hokkaido East – Japanese Curry ($17.50), Tempura Tendon, Butadon ($19)
– Winner Winner Chicken Dinner – Southern Fried Chicken ($18), Korean Fried Chicken ($18), Har Cheong Gai ($19), Beer Battered Fish & Chips
– Le Coq Roti – French or Asian Roast Chicken ($50 for whole, $26 for half)
– Flour & Water – Pastas and Pizza ($14 – $19)
– Taiwan Signatures – Beef Noodles ($17), Lu Rou Fan ($14)
– Tikka Taco – Nonya Chicken Curry Prata Taco ($16), Signature Pork Belly Prata Taco ($16)
– Daebak – Ginger Soy Chicken or Spicy BBQ Pork Tacos ($16), Beef Bulgogi Ricebowl ($18)
– Rosti Haus – Japanese Rosti ($17), Korean Rosti ($18), Spanish Rosti ($18)

I had a Buta Don ($14 for lunch, $19 for dinner) from the Ezo Hokkaido Eats.

Food wise, better than the average food court, but not to be compared to a legitimate Japanese restaurant or don shop. The pork slices were marinated in quite a tasty tare sauce, but grilled till tough and fairly dry.

From the Korean Daebak stall, I ordered a Budae Jjiae Ramyeon ($19 with cheese) in which the best parts were the chicken cubes, fried before adding in. Soup was probably moderated down, and thus not as spicy as what I could have imagined.

Both other food halls at Wisma Atria has done relatively well – Food Republic (and this is probably the first in Singapore) and Japan Food Town.

Picnic should probably appeal t the younger consumers, and can be a cool place to hang out, provided it doesn’t get too crowded.

Picnic
Wisma Atria #03-15 (near the taxi stand), 435 Orchard Road Singapore 238877
Tel: +65 6734 8352
Opening Hours: 10am – 10pm (trucks start from 11am, last order 9:30pm)

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

The post Picnic Singapore – 1st Garden Themed Food Hall At Wisma Atria. ‘Chio’ With Big Space appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

[Hong Kong] The “Final Dessert “ at Alinea, one of the World’s Best Restaurants, is known for its theatrical presentation where sweets, cakes and syrup land direct on your table top.

Diners eat DIRECTLY from the table.

Atum Desserant at Hong Kong may have been inspired by the restaurant, specialising in desserts, known for its signature dish called “Improvisation” (HK$348 for two).

Located at The L Square near Causeway Bay, make your way up to Level 16 in a small elevator. The lift is likely to stop at other floors, where you can take a peek at studios, hair dressing salons and other restaurants.

Diners sit around a chef’s table. Come daytime and there would be natural sunlight with ample light for Instagram selfies.

NOBODY ate their desserts here without taking any photos. Some quite a dozen at least.

For the improvisation, you first choose a mat – white or black, where the sweets would be laid on.

The sweet petite server asked if I wanted any words on it, most would request for “Happy Birthday” I shameless asked for “Daniel’s Food Diary”. LOL

In about the next 10 minutes or so, you could watch the ‘artist’ transform the empty ‘canvas’ with ingredients of cake, meringue, pudding, panna cotta, mochi, chocolate chip, chocolate marquise, chocolate powder, loads of sauces, and a grand finale of liquid nitrogen sorbet.

Ta-dah.

Atum Desserant is not just all looks and gimmickry.

There was a fair mix of textures (some fluffy, some moist) and taste profiles from sweet, tanginess to chocolatey richness.

You could choose to eat the components separately, and mix them all around.

However, I hit my sugar limit a quarter through, and couldn’t consume anymore.

Food now, is really not just about taste, but the entire experience. For instagram and for the thrill, I would recommend coming here to look-see-look-see. Would I return again soon? Perhaps not THAT soon.

Atum Desserant
16/F The L.Square,459-461 Lockhart Road,Causeway Bay Hong Kong (Causeway Bay MTR Station, Exit C)
銅鑼灣駱克道459-461號The L. Square 16樓
Tel: +852 2956 1411
Opening Hours: 2:45pm – 12am (Mon – Thurs), 1pm – 12am (Fri – Sun)
https://www.facebook.com/pg/ATUMDesserant/

The post Atum Desserant – Eat Desserts From Your Table Mat, Hong Kong’s Creative Dessert Space appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

After making several appearance at various food fairs in Singapore, KOKI Tamagoyaki opened the first permanent Tamagoyaki kiosk in Singapore at the basement of Raffles City Shopping Centre.

Hurray! No more playing hide and seek and trying to track down their next appearance.

Their signature item is the Tamagoyaki (also known as “Japanese Rolled Omelette”) that comes in 3 different fillings: DashiMaki ($3.50), Cheese ($4.50) and Mentaiko ($5.80).

For a more substantial meal, Flame- grilled Unagi ($10.50), Braised Japanese Cha Shu ($9.90), Tonkatsu ($9.20) and Charred Terriyaki Chicken ($9.40) are available.

We were distracted by their desserts on display, known as Shuu aka Choux Puffs (due to its pronunciation).

4 flavours were available: Matcha, Coffee, Black Sesame and Bourbon Vanilla, each priced at $4.30.

While the Shuu reminded us of the ones we had at NEATO due to the similar price point, the former was much more intricate with a more delicate taste.

Each Shuu is piped with a generous (overflowing) amount of custard filling within a thin layer of crispy croquant, giving it a uniquely addictive crunch.

Food-porn literally if we bite into the ball (I mean choux puff) roughly, resulting in fluid (custard) spurting everywhere.

Ok too much details.

Our favourite was the Black Sesame Shuu, filled with 100% pure “Atari Goma” paste with a rich and smoky taste.

The sweetness was just right and did not overpower the black sesame with a sesame-filled crunchy choux crust.

Oishii!

The Coffee Shuu was another one of our favourites, with ‘Trablit’ coffee powder dusted croquant top and smooth bittersweet coffee custard that complemented well together.

While the Matcha Shuu made using premium “Gyomuyo Maccha” may seem the prettiest with the green shade, the custard was a tad too sweet.

The choux puffs were one of the best we had tried so far with distinct textural contrast between the smooth and creamy custard and crunchy croquant layer.

We looked forward to try their savory Tamagoyaki items next.

KOKI Tamagoyaki
Raffles City Shopping Centre, 252 North Bridge Road, #B1-54, Singapore 179103
Opening Hours: 10am – 10pm (Mon-Sun)
https://www.facebook.com/koki.tamagoyaki/

* Written by Daniel’s Food Diary Cafe Correspondent Nicholas Tan @stormscape. Visit his instagram for all things [NEW].

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