[Seoul] New York City’s iconic food cart chain The Halal Guys has opened in South Korea, at Itaewon – probably Seoul’s most culturally diverse district. Yeah! (Look out for Shake Shack in Seoul too.)

I first tried The Halal Guys The Halal Guys on a corner of NYC’s 53rd Street and Sixth Avenue, and was blown away by the platter with rice, pita bread, meat and that ‘magical’ sauce.

Happy that it has arrived somewhat closer to home.

The Halal Guys had humble beginnings in 1990, serving platters of chicken and gyro over rice, and became super popular with Muslim cab drivers looking for a halal food meal then.

26 years later, they moved out of the Big Apple to Seoul. The other good news, they are opened until 10pm on weekdays, and till 3am during weekends.

Located on the 2nd floor of 187 Itaewon-ro, a short walk away from Itaewon Station (Exit 2), look out for that bright yellow colour splashed across this brick-building.

Designed like a fast-concept restaurant, you order via a self-service counter, indicate your preference to the service staff, and pay. All efficient and swift.

On its menu includes Sandwich (8,900 won, SGD$10.70), Platters in sizes of small (7,900 won, SGD$9.50), regular platter (9,900 won, SGD$11.90), and New York sized (11,900 won, SGD$14.30).

Had the New York version before, and I couldn’t really finish despite sharing the meal.

For recommendations, I would suggest you go for the combo of both chicken and gyo, and both the white yogurt-based sauce and hot sauce.

Here’s the verdict: The version I had in New York was much better – the rice and meats were warmer throughout, and combination of sauces left that hot yet pleasurable effect.

Still, I liked the varied textures of orange-coloured rice contrasted with cool ice berg lettuce, plus the greens added refreshing crunch after somewhat greasier meats.

The sauces were delicious, though I wished there was more of that ‘hot-ness’ there.

The Halal Guys Seoul
187 Itaewon-ro 2nd Floor Seoul, Yongsan-gu 04350 South Korea (Itaewon Station, Line 6, Exit 2)
Opening hours: 11:00am – 11:00pm (Sun – Thurs), 11:00pm – 3:00am (Fri – Sat)
Google Maps – The Halal Guys Seoul

Other Related Entries
Shake Shack (Seoul)
Frank’s (Seoul)
O’sulloc Tea House (Seoul)
Line Friend Store & Café (Seoul)
Bongchu Jjimdak (Seoul)

The post The Halal Guys Seoul – NYC’s Iconic Food Truck Opens Restaurant At Itaewon appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

If 2016 was any indication, there will still be many NEW Cafes opening in Singapore in 2017, despite the general sentiments that the café hopping trend has taken a dip.

We will start to see many foreign brands opening up in Singapore – a way for them to diversity and test-market beyond their home country.

As consumers have gone beyond the typical cafes selling the usual waffles, egg dishes and coffee, I think the local cafes will up their game by going for more unique, seasonal items.

2017 will be a great year.

12 New Cafes In Singapore January 2017

Wildseed Cafe
3 Park Lane, Singapore 798387
(Bus Service 103 from Yishun Bus Interchange, Bus Service 117 from Sembawang Bus Interchange)
Opening Hours: 10am – 7pm (Tues – Fri), 9am – 7pm (Sat – Sun), Closed Mon

Garden Themed Café At Seletar
Foodies in Singapore, especially those in Punggol, may just find more reasons to venture up to Seletar Aerospace Park.

Once entering Wildseed Café, you may have an out-of-country experience, as it reminded me of some of the hipster cafes in Bangkok.

Lots of green potted plants, natural sunlight, concrete flooring, and a florist (Poppy) on the side which provided natural fragrance.

The café offers a Sandwich Menu which is divided into Pulled Pork ($10, $15), Braised Beef Brisket ($18, $24), Vegetarian ($18, $24) and Seafood ($18) series. Wildseef Café (Seletar)

Teepee Bar & Restaurant
31 Hong Kong Street #01-02 Singapore 059670
Tel: +65 6225 0025
Opening Hours: 8am – very, very late (Mon – Sat)

Hidden Burgers and Rice Bowl Place At Hong Kong Street
Teepee offers honest-good coffee, burgers and rice bowls.

On its menu includes small plates of Croquette ($8), Pork Buns ($9), Parma Ham Crostini ($12), Freshly Shucked Oysters ($24 for 6 pieces), Burgers which included Umami Swiss, Buttermilk Spicy Chicken, Bacon & 3 Cheeses, Spiced Beef with Kimchi ($16 – $19), and Rice Bowls ($16 – $24).

What would keep me coming back would be the Shakerato ($6.50), a mix of espresso, tonic water and citrusy juice. A refreshing beverage which reminded me of travels in Sydney and Melbourne. Teepee Restaurant & Bar (Hong Kong Street)

Marble
6 Everton Park #01-18, Singapore 080006 (Near Outram MRT)
Opening Hours: 11:45am – 5pm, 6pm – 9pm (Tue – Sat), 11:45am – 3pm (Sun), Closed Mon
https://www.facebook.com/marblebistro/

Marble Themed Bistro Hidden At Everton Park
Marble, is the latest eatery to have found itself a home at Everton Park. Like the name suggests, one can expect the place to be equipped with white-washed walls and marble table tops.

The team wanted to have a tapas-style dining concept, where you can order different small plates for sharing.

Their vision is to bridge the gap between fine and casual dining, and hence created this place which serves affordable, quality food creations at a more causal environment.

Unlike your ordinary Fish & Chip ($8), Marble serves Aburi Unagi on triple-cooked chips, garnished with furikake and tobiko. Marble (Everton Park)

Food Anatomy
Tanjong Pagar Centre, #B2-04, 1 Wallich Street, Singapore 757492 (Near Tanjong Pagar MRT)
Opening Hours: 7.30am-10pm (Mon-Fri), 11am-10pm (Sat-Sun) (may close earlier on Sundays)
https://www.facebook.com/foodanatomy.sg

Kawaii Cubes Of Nasi Lemak, Laksa Pasta, Beef Rendang
Almost too pretty to eat, these deconstructed savoury cake-sized items from Food Anatomy are Instagram-able down to each colourful layer.

Catering directly to the calorie-counting OL crowd at Tanjong Pagar Centre (just outside the MRT gantry), I find the prices surprisingly affordable too.

Prices are 2 cubes for $6.80, 3 cubes for $9.90, 18 cubes for $39 or 24 cubes for $75. You have the option to replace cubes for salads; and they cost slightly cheaper during breakfast.

The Nasi Lemak – complete with chili and ikan bilis topping – was beautifully constructed with otah, coconut rice and egg. A sumptuous and fragrant treat which could be a hit if marketed properly. Food Anatomy (Tanjong Pagar Centre)

The Matcha Project X Copper Espresso
THE SAIL @ Marina Bay, 2 Marina Boulevard, #B1-08C, Singapore 018987
Opening Hours: 8am – 6pm (Mon-Fri), Closed Sat, Sun
https://www.facebook.com/thematchaproject.sg/

Matcha, Houjicha, Genmaicha Specialty Café
Matcha fans (like me) will go cray cray at the idea of an entire cafe selling Matcha, Houjicha and Genmaicha food and drinks.

The Matcha Project X Copper Espresso is opened by the folks behind November 8 (which renamed to Five By Five, then Nook & Cranny Cafe).

Serving as a takeaway cafe with minimum seats (with only 2 in a corner) within The Sail @ Marina Bay, The Matcha Project features a menu of tea beverages.

Non-milk drinks include Matcha Shot ($5/$6.50), Matcha (Green Tea)/Houjicha (Roasted Japanese Green Tea)/Genmaicha (Roasted Japanese Brown Rice) Americano ($5) and milk-based drinks such as Matcha/Houjicha/Genmaicha Latte ($5.50) and Military Latte ($6). The Matcha Project (THE SAIL @ Marina Bay)

Kosnica SG
61 Duxton Road Singapore 089525
Tel: +65 6904 4086
Opening Hours: 12pm – 10pm (Mon – Thurs), 12pm – 11pm (Fri – Sat), Closed Sun

Waffles and Gelato Café At Duxton
Kosnica SG serves a variety of “Premium Gelato” with flavours of Golden Vanilla, Cookies & Cream, Mao Shan Wang, Blueberry Yogurt, Strawberry Cheesecake, Earl Grey and Figs, Matcha Green Tea with Azuki Beans, Sea Salt Caramel with Almonds, and Hazelnut Chocolate Rocher.

A single scoop goes for $5.50, while a double is a $10.00.

The variety of waffles includes Buttermilk, Red Velvet and Matcha Waffles ($11.00, $15.50 with single scoop, $20.00 with double scoops). Kosnica SG (Duxton)

The Coffee Academïcs – Raffles City
252 North Bridge Road, Raffles City Shopping Centre #B1-12 Singapore 179103 (City Hall MRT)
Opening Hours: 9am – 9pm (Mon – Sun)

2nd Outlet In Singapore At Raffles City
The Coffee Academïcs has opened its 2nd Singapore outlet, called “Nitro Pitstop” at Raffles City, just next to Tiong Bahru Bakery.

The one beverage to look forward to would be the Nitro Coffee ($10), infused with TCA cold brew through a pressurized valve with tiny openings.

The menu looks different, and there are some dishes exclusively available to only the Raffles City branch.

Brunch items include the standard Academic Breakfast ($25), Mixed Seeds and Fresh Fruit Museli ($22), The Mess ($20), and Chicken Poultry Terrine ($25). The Coffee Academics (Raffles City)

Creamery Boutique Singapore
#01-03, 139 Tyrwhitt Road, Singapore 207557
Opening Hours: 11am – 9pm (Mon-Sun)
https://www.facebook.com/creamerysg

Popular Lava Cookie Cafe From Thailand Opens In Singapore
The café space taken up by Creamery Boutique Ice Cream is at Tyrwhitt Road, opposite Chye Seng Huat, previously occupied by Anythingz Café and Dose!

Using the same recipe from their main outlet in Bangkok, the menu comprises of Lava Cookies ($8.90): Choc-A-Lot, Matcha and Red Devil, Classic Brownie ($7.90), Ice Cream ($3.80 for single, $6.20 for double, $8.90 for triple scoops).

Their main differentiating factor from other ice cream cafes will be their Lava Cookies – think Lava Cake in cookie form. Creamery Boutique Ice Cream (Tyrwhitt Road)

Old Hen Kitchen
127 Owen Road, Singapore 218931
Opening Hours: 12pm – 9pm (Mon, Wed-Fri), 10am – 6.30pm (Sat-Sun), Closed Tue
https://www.facebook.com/oldhencoffee/

Old Hen Coffee Bar Opens Another Nest At Owen Road
Old Hen Coffee Bar at Rangoon Road, the pioneer of the Cold Brew Coffee wave in Singapore, has opened their second nest along Owen Road, a 5 minutes walk from their first outlet.

Fear not Cold Brew fans, the new outlet has the same selection of Cold Brews in their signature beer bottles (no need to specially dabao from the first outlet).

Black ($6), White ($6.50), Cold Dark Cocoa ($6.50) and Cold Matcha Milk ($7).

Their mains include Roasted Tomato & Pancetta Soup ($8.50), Portobello Aglio Olio ($16.50), Salmon & Soba ($19) and Fish & Chips ($19). Old Hen Kitchen (Owen Road)

An Acai Affair
101 East Coast Road, Singapore 428796
Opening Hours: 12pm – 10pm (Sun-Thu), 12pm – 11.30pm (Fri-Sat)
https://www.facebook.com/anacaiaffair/

Acai Specialty Shop Opens At Katong
The menu consists of Signature Acai Bowl – Tropical Coconut Bowl ($6.90) served in a non-edible coconut husk which reminded us of Pong Gelato, Acai Fruit Bowl ($5.90 Small/ $8.90 Medium/ $13.90 Large) and DIY versions ($6.40 Small/ $9.40 Medium/ $14.40 Large) that cost $0.50 more than the respective signature bowl sizes.

The main differentiating factor is a choice of sauce (honey/ cookie butter/ peanut butter) for topped on their healthy bowl of superfood.

With limited seating area (4 chairs indoors and 10 chairs outdoors), takeaways are recommended. An Acai Affair (East Coast Road)

Out of the Cake Box
Our Tampines Hub, #B1-43 (Between Old Chang Kee and Polar Puffs), 51 Tampines Ave 4, Singapore 529684 (Near Tampines MRT)
Opening Hours: 10:00am – 10:00pm Daily
https://www.facebook.com/outofthecakebox

Surprising Mango Sticky Rice, Chendol and Watermelon Cakes
You may just miss this unassuming cake shop Out of the Cake Box at the basement of the new Our Tampines Hub at Tampines Ave 4.

With desserts like Chendol Fudge, Mango Sticky Rice, Watermelon Cake, White Rabbit (yeah, that nostalgic sweet), Rose Lychee, Matcha Yuzu Cheesecake— not only are they creative, they may please picky sweet-tooth looking for a unique dessert fix.

Note: There is no proper seating area here, but you can use the chairs and tables at the common area.

The Ding Ding Man
1G Yio Chu Kang Road, Singapore 545513 (Near Serangoon MRT, Buses: 80, 81, 81, 101, 107, 107M, 136, 153)
Opening Hours: 10am – 10pm (Wed – Mon), Closed Tue
https://www.facebook.com/TheDingDingMan/

Industrial Chic Hipster Cafe Arrives At Yio Chu Kang
Their loud graffiti signage and rustic interior design caught my attention while I was walking home on a late night, and went ”What is this??”

In collaboration with Gentlemen’s Coffee Company, the café uses “Handlebar” coffee blend.

It has a nutty and chocolaty taste profile – my familiar type of coffee blend which is also commonly used in other cafes.

Note that The Ding Ding Man is currently only serving drinks like coffee and craft beers. Full launch of the place will be expected in early 2017. The Ding Ding Man (Yio Chu Kang)

Other Related Entries
100 NEW Cafes in Singapore 2016
12 New Cafes In Singapore December 2016
12 New Cafes In Singapore November 2016
10 New Cafes In Singapore October 2016
10 New Cafes In Singapore September 2016
10 New Cafes In Singapore August 2016

The post 12 New Cafes In Singapore January 2017 – More ‘Ulu’ Cafes And Unique Food appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

New Year. New resolutions (the same repeats). New restaurants for 2017.

For the dining scene in Singapore, it should be a year of established brands diversifying into other concepts (some can be quite unrelated), more overseas restaurants coming down, and some attempting to get the Michelin stars. Expect more shocking results.

Food wise, health food and instagrammable items – although can be quite unrelated, should continue to flourish.

10 New & Hot Restaurants Singapore January 2017

(Click PLAY to watch highlights.)

Wheeler’s Estate
2 Park Lane, Seletar Aerospace Park Singapore 798386
(From Punggol MRT: Make your way to the bus stop at Punggol Temporary Interchange, Punggol Place. Board bus 117 and alight at Seletar Aerospace Drive, just right before The Oval.)
Tel: +65 9025 4198
Opening Hours: 11am – 10pm (Tues – Thurs), 11am – 10:30pm (Fri, Eve of PH), 8am – 10:30pm (Sat, Sun, PH)

Wheeler’s Yard Opens Instagrammable Restaurant At Ulu Seletar
Wheeler’s Yard, which must have been one of Singapore’s most instagrammable café, has opened Wheeler’s Estate.

It comprises of 6 components – Restaurant, Café, Bar, Events, Picnic and Cycling.

Food seems to be on the pricier side – Beef Short Rib ($59), Tequila and Lime Pork Spare Ribs ($45), Peruvian BBQ Style ($32), Surf and Turf ($45), Estate Corzetti Pasta ($20), T-Bone Steak ($90 for 500g) and Scotch Filler ($39 for 300g).

While price of food is on the higher side, I find this a comfortable, attractive place that is not overly pretentious to have a good-day’s conversation with family and friends.

Roost
Centrepoint B1-17/18/19, 176 Orchard Road Singapore 238843
Tel: +65 6909 0411
Opening Hours: 11:00am – 9:00pm Mon – Sun

Chicken Rice Specialty Shop At Orchard, The Centrepoint
The 1500 sq ft, 60-seater casual dining Roost offers popular local and Asian delights, with its main feature on Singapore’s national dish – Chicken Rice.

The special thing to note is that Roost cooks and serves chicken used the world’s first patented automated poultry cooking machine – the Singapore-made iKook.

Not sure which to pick? Get the Yin Yang Chicken Rice ($8.90) which contains a platter of both.

The Chicken Sushi ($4.90) probably needed a side serving of chilli, and Singapore White Bee Hoon ($7.90) as what my friend would term…. ”Food court standard LOR.”

Ippoh Tempura Bar by Ginza Ippoh
Block 17B Dempsey Road Singapore 249676
Tel: 1800 304 3388 (local calls only)
Opening Hours: 12.00pm – 2.30pm, 6:00pm – 9:30pm (Sun – Thurs)
12:00pm – 2:30pm, 6:00pm – 10:30pm (Fri, Sat, Eve of PH, PH)

Osaka’s Famous Tempura Restaurant
Osaka’s oldest premium tempura restaurant Ippoh has opened its first casual concept restaurant-bar at Singapore.

Located at Dempsey (next to Candlenut), Ippoh Tempura Bar is serving Osaka style tempura known to be light, crisp and delicately battered.

For lunch, set menu options are priced from $60 to $100. For dinner, the set menu options are priced from $140 to $200.

The basic $60 Lunch set will include an amuse, 8 pieces of tempura, kakiage with rice and miso soup, and a dessert. For example, green tea ice cream.

Yuki Onna
No. 3/4 Amoy Street (Far East Square) Singapore 048775
Opening Hours: 11:30am – 2:30pm, 5:30pm – 10:00pm (Mon – Fri), Closed Sat, Sun

Truffle Beef Yakiniku at Far East Square
Yuki Onna is the sister outlet to Ice Queen (now located at the basement of One Raffles Place).

Some of their signatures are the Truffle Beef Yakiniku, Cold Truffle Somen with Hotate, Pork Belly Don as well as Chirashi Don. Their Japanese inspired poke bowls are also popular with health conscious regulars.

They will soon be launching a dinner menu as well as an All Day Happy Hour Menu which will feature affordable drinks. You can also look forward to special deals like uni on toast for $2 per piece from 5pm onwards.

Pololi Singapore
51 Telok Ayer Street, Singapore 048441 (Near Telok Ayer MRT)
Opening Hours: 11:30am – 3pm (Mon – Tue), 11:30am – 6pm (Wed – Thu), 11:30am – 10pm (Fri), Closed Sat & Sun
https://www.facebook.com/pololisg/

1st Hawaiian Poke Shack From Hong Kong
Say ”Aloha” to Pololi. The pioneer poke shack to spread the love of Hawaiian poke bowl concept in Hong Kong, is now available in Singapore. (Read: 5 Best Poké Bowls In Singapore)

Their poke bowl comes in two sizes – Kama’aina ($17.99), regular size with 180g of fish and Keiki ($15.99), small size with 150g of fish.

I spotted a familiar marinade which I have tried before from Pololi in Hong Kong and dived straight for the Thai Sweet Chilli with much assurance.

Tangy blend of sweet and spicy with a hint of coriander, simply appetizing for the palate with goes well with simple, white rice.

O.BBa Jjajang
77 Tanjong Pagar Road, Singapore 088484
Opening Hours: 11.30am – 7am (Mon-Sat), 11.30am – 2am (Sun)

Probably One Of The Best JjaJangMyeon In Singapore
O.BBa Jjajang’s signature dish is the Jajangmyeon ($10 Lunch/ $12 Dinner), served with fermented black soybean paste in homemade noodles, diced pork, onions and shredded cucumber.

Slurp. Probably one of the best jjajangmyeon I had in Singapore!

While most of the JjajangMyeon in Singapore had a strong black bean taste with a grainy texture, the version here had a slight sweetness in the black bean sauce (“zhup”).

Different from the salty Chinese-styled Zha Jiang Mia, the sauce was somehow both appetising and addictive.

SBCD Korean Tofu House 북창동 순두부
7 Walich Street #B1-01,02 Tanjong Pagar Centre Singapore 078884
Tel: 6386 6441
Opening Hours: 11:30am – 10:00pm

Korean Soontofu Restaurant At Tanjong Pagar Centre
Soontofu is a type of jjigae (Korean stew), consisting of freshly curdled tofu, ingredients of meat or seafood, egg and gochujang served in a hot stone pot with white rice on the side.

The restaurant specialises in tofu stews ($18.90 – $29.90), and mains such as Pot Bulgogi ($25.90), Spicy BBQ Pork ($25.90), Spicy Grilled Chicken ($25.90), Hot Stone Bibimbap ($19.90), Spicy Octopus ($29.90) and Pork Belly Tofu Bossam ($32.90).

Dishes tried were predictable, decent fare, served in air-con comfort with more space.
Wishing for more “rustic-ness” in terms of the taste, and greater affordability in terms of pricing.

Tuk Tuk Cha
Suntec City #B1-173/174, 3 Temasek Boulevard Singapore 039593 (5-10 min walk from Promenade MRT)
Opening Hours: 8am – 10pm (Mon – Sun)
https://www.facebook.com/tuktukchasg/

Have Chinese La Mian with Thai Milk Tea
This is the first collaboration between Love Mee with their Chinese La Mian (noodles) and Tua Tuk Cha’s Thai Milk Tea and desserts.

The La Mian selection includes a total of 9 dishes priced between $5.80 and $10.80.

For the recommended dishes, they are mostly fusion of Thai and Chinese flavours – Tom Yum Seafood La Mian ($10.80), Claypot Mee Sua ($8.80) with a choice of Mala or Hot & Sour and Beef La Mian ($7.80).

Commonground
Our Tampines Hub, #01-103, 51 Tampines Ave 4, Singapore 529684 (Near Tampines MRT)
Tel: +65 6386 6917
Opening Hours: 10:00am – 10:00pm (Mon – Thurs), 10:00m – 12:00am (Fri), 8:00am – 12:00am (Sat), 8:00am – 10:00pm (Sun)
https://www.facebook.com/commongroundsingapore

Brunch Hideout In The East
“Wah, so many things?” I exclaimed while flipping through the pages with everything from pizzas, platters, meats, sandwiches to brunch food.

Born from the Commonwealth Retail Concepts group (who is also behind Swissbake, Kraftwich, PastaMania), it is no wonder that Commonground has the resources to whip up this well-curated selection at reasonably friendly prices. Retail gourmet space portopantry is next door.

My take is, Commonground is probably gunning for the family-dollars, as seen from the number of sharing-platters available.

I guess with a selection this huge and with many other favourites like Smoked Salmon and Salted Eggs Benedict ($12) and Carbonara Linguine with Soft Boiled Egg ($14) listed, one will came to expect a certain level of finesse to their food.

Tenderfresh Classic
Our Tampines Hub, #01-102, 25 Tampines Street 82, Singapore 528988 (Near Tampines MRT) Opening Hours: 10:00am – 10:00pm Daily
https://www.facebook.com/tenderfresh.sg

Fried Chicken Shop Opens Halal Family Restaurant at Our Tampines Hub
If you are looking for hearty Western classics coupled with the nostalgic taste of Tenderfresh crispy chicken, this relatively new concept at Our Tampines Hub has a huge variety waiting for you.

With surprising twists like Seafood Salted Egg Pot and Laksa Prawn Spaghetti, there is probably something for the whole family.

I was also confident that they would get their signature fried chicken right – and was fortunately proven correct.

Their Lucky Set (2 pieces of chicken, $7.50) was enhanced by the delicious sambal chilli that is available if you ask the staff for it.

Other Related Entries
10 New & Hot Restaurants Singapore December 2016
12 New & Hot Restaurants Singapore November 2016
10 New & Hot Restaurants Singapore October 2016
10 New & Hot Restaurants Singapore September 2016
10 New & Hot Restaurants Singapore July 2016
10 New & Hot Restaurants Singapore June 2016

The post 10 New & Hot Restaurants Singapore January 2017 – ‘Healthy’ Items And Instagrammable Food To Expect This Year appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

Friends working around the CBD can look forward to some Truffle Beef Yakiniku and Chirashi Rice Bowls at Yuki Onna Far East Square

“Yuki Onna” is literally translated as “snow woman” which is also a spirit or yōkai in Japanese folklore. Kowai?!

Thankfully, there is nothing scary about Yuki Onna. The restaurant describes itself as “a quaint izakaya dishing up Japanese-inspired comfort food in the heart of CBD”.

It is also the sister outlet to Ice Queen, which some of you may remember as the shop selling liquid nitrogen ice cream at the basement of One Raffles Place.

The intention is to sell ice creams at Yuki Onna as well, but until manpower issues are worked out, patrons will have to do with the current selection of mainly donburi.

Some of Yuki Onna’s signatures include Truffle Beef Yakiniku Don ($16.90), Pork Belly Don ($13.90), Chirashi Don ($16.90), as well as Cold Truffle Somen with Hotate ($14.90)

We were told that the Japanese-inspired poke bowls were popular with the health conscious regulars too.

There is also the option of MYOB – Make Your Own Bowl ($7.90 – $19.90). Just tick tick tick all your favorites (salad base, fish, carbs and toppings) on the order chit provided.

Add on small sides like Ikura Onsen Tamago ($2), Oden ($2.90) or Salmon Sashimi ($4.80) to make the meal even more substantial.

Isn’t this Teppei?

My dining companion wondered aloud as he looked at his bowl of Bara Chirashi Don ($14.90) topped with salmon, tuna, hamachi, tobiko, ikura and tamagoyaki.

Can’t help comparing the two, I guess.

Overall, the bowl felt it needed more sauce of some kind – I reckon the CBD folks might have preferred something lighter and healthier, thus the decision.

Although the assortment of fishes was adequately fresh, the pieces would need more boost on the marinate for a more satisfying meal.

The Truffle Beef Yakiniku & Foie Gras ($23) was one of the pricier rice bowls on the menu. We replaced rice for quinoa (+$1), but similarly, the “superfood” could do with more seasoning to become super in taste.

I also noted that the next table of OLs left their rice almost untouched. Let’s just hope it was for diet reasons.

Quality of the beef and foie gras might not be of the most premium kind, but at least it was cooked just about right without being overdone.

The offerings at Yuki Onna seem to be rather well-received, judging by the lunch crowd during our visit.

What it needs is perhaps a stronger identity to differentiate itself from the other rice bowl places, since there are so many of them in close proximity.

There are already plans to launch a dinner menu, as well as an All Day Happy Hour Menu which will feature very affordable drinks (Think Sapporo Draft full pint for only $6.80). Diners can also look forward to special deals like Uni on Toast for $2 per piece from 5pm onwards.

Yuki Onna
No. 3/4 Amoy Street (Far East Square) Singapore 048775
Opening Hours: 11:30am – 2:30pm, 5:30pm – 10:00pm (Mon – Fri), Closed Sat, Sun

Other Related Entries
Senate Coffee (Pickering Street)
WHEAT (Raffles City)
A Poké Theory (Telok Ayer)
Grain Traders (Tanjong Pagar)
Plentyfull (Millenia Walk)

* Written by guest writer Nicole Poi @pinkypiggu who loves all things pink. Further input and photos by Daniel Ang @DanielFoodDiary Daniel’s Food Diary pays for food reviewed unless otherwise stated.

The post Yuki Onna – Truffle Beef Yakiniku and Chirashi Rice Bowls At Far East Square appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

[Seoul] Common Ground 커먼그라운드 is Korea’s first pop-up area built with shipping containers, and you may be first attracted by the large containers in that particular shade of blue.

Well, making this a literal Instagram and OOTD heaven.

(Click PLAY for video highlights of Common Ground.)

The market is located near the Konkuk University, which makes it an attraction of sorts to youths in the vicinity.

It is not difficult to spot travellers and students alike, armed with selfie sticks, shooting wefies and videos to upload (Some of them are indeed masters in posing.)

Yeah, that kind of place. Container markets are IN.

Common Ground is made up of 200 large containers, approximately 5300 square meters in scale, with space for fashion shops, food brands and exhibitions.

The ‘buildings’ are divided into
– Street Market
– Market Hall
– Terrace Market
– Market Ground
– Food Truck Market

The mood was relatively vibrant, as visitors were mostly in an easy-going, jovial mode. A DJ was keeping the energy up within a booth in the Market Hall.

On its 3rd floor terrace, restaurants sprawl along the sides of the alley.

The restaurants and cafes you can find here are 한양중식 (Modern Chinese), Abiko Curry (Japanese curry dishes from Osaka), Algeria Coffee (coffee bar), Beyond Asia (modern Asian food), Able (farm to table concept), Analog Kitchen (buckwheat noodles), Japubs (fusion Japanese cuisine), 소녀방앗간 (Korean rice dishes), Grill Thai (noodle and steak), Dore Dore (coffee and cakes) and The Booth (beer place)

If you feel like having something light snack, you can also head down to the food trucks on the market ground.

There are 4 food trucks at the exterior area which includes Bold (meat bowls and buns), Space Bar (seasonal desserts and light alcohol beverages), The Coast (casual seafood), and Kimchi Bus (kimchi-based dishes).

In terms of male fashion clothing and accessories, unfortunately, not many shops were carrying them. Items were also more suited for a particular age bracket, say between 16 to 25.

Judging from the photos, I would have imagined that the space would have been much larger.

If you are thinking of heading over to Common Ground, and incorporate some time for cuppa (without a full meal), you could possibly be done in about an hour or so.

Common Ground 커먼그라운드
200, Achasan-ro, Gwangjin-gu, Seoul (Konkuk University Exit 6, Line 2 or 7)
서울특별시 광진구 아차산로 200 (자양동)
Tel: +82 2 467 2747
Opening Hours: 11:00am – 10:00pm (Certain F&B on the 3rd floors close at 2:00am)
www.common-ground.co.kr (Korean language only)
Google Maps – Common Ground

Other Related Entries
Hello Kitty Cafe (Seoul)
Gwang Jang Market (Seoul)
Sulbing (Seoul)
Take Out Drawing (Seoul)
Shake Shack (Seoul)

The post Common Ground Korea – Instagrammable Container Market With Food & Shopping For Youths In Seoul appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

”Will we see Song Joong-ki here one day?” Fans will know that their Oppa’s hometown is at Daejeon (where this restaurant is named after), located less than an hour bullet train ride from Seoul.

The external outlook of DaeJon House at Havelock II Mall is designed like a traditional Korean house, while the interior brings us nostalgic memories of the 1980s Korea.

Yellowish newspaper clippings and movie posters (that were way older than me), postage stamps pasted on the walls and a payphone that will no longer ring were used to decorate the restaurant.

Unlike most Korean restaurants, there are only 2 ban-chan (appetizers) – kimchi and pickled radish served.

The main focus is on their signature dishes: Korean Beef Noodles ($12.90) that comes in with Spicy or Non- spicy soup broth, Army Noodles ($12.90), Army Stew ($24.90/ $34.90) and Spicy/Non- spicy Korean Beef Hot-Pot ($24.90/ $34.90).

Each of their signature dishes are served in beef-bones broth, simmered over 6 hours to bring out the natural flavours.

Korean Beef Noodles, also known as Beef Jjamppong, is a common Korean-Chinese dish, usually served as a takeaway dish in Korea.

Topped with vegetables, a huge prawn and beef slices were added onto the QQ, springy handmade Korean noodles, soaked in beef-bones broth.

What I liked: The pieces of beef were thinly sliced, tender and thus easy to chew.

I preferred the spicy version with a non-overwhelming kick, compared to the non-spicy version with a saltier broth with a conspicuous meaty savour

The Budae Jjigae (Army Stew) comes in 2 sizes for sharing ($24.90 for Medium/ $34.90 for Large).

A single portion known as Army Noodles ($12.90) is also available.

Using the same beef bone broth as a soup base, topped with tofu, sausage, tteopokki, spam and kimchi, it made the perfect dish for a cold, rainy day.

Since Beef Jjamppong is part of the Korean-Chinese cuisine, Tangsuyuk ($16.90), also known as Korean Sweet & Sour Pork, can be found here.

While the pork pieces were thinly sliced, I enjoyed the exterior with a very crispy texture that gave out a loud crunching sound with every bite.

On a side note, I wished that they could be more generous with the sweet and sour sauce.

While DaeJon’s focus might be on their signature dishes made using the beef-bones broth, both their Kimchi Pancake and Seafood Pancake ($10.90) were worth a mention.

The sides were crispy and yet, with the right thickness, not too starchy.

While we are familiar with the usual Korean food offerings such as Korean Fried Chicken, Bingsu and Bibimbap, we are seeing more Chinese-Korean food restaurants lately.

Glad that Daejon House is off to a promising start with their specialised Beef Champong.

DaeJon House
Havelock II, 2 Havelock Road, #01-03, Singapore 059763
Opening Hours: 10am – 10pm (Mon-Sun)
https://www.facebook.com/Daejonhouse/

Other Related Entries
O.BBa Jjajang (Tanjong Pagar Road)
SBCD Korean Tofu House (Tanjong Pagar Centre)
Seoul Jjimdak (City Square Mall)
Andong Zzimdak (Raffles City)
Masizzim Singapore (313 Somerset)

* Written by Nicholas Tan @stormscape who loves all things [NEW]. Daniel’s Food Diary pays for food reviewed unless otherwise stated.

The post DaeJon House 대전집 – Korean Beef Noodles Specialty Restaurant Opens At Havelock II Mall appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

Along with New Year resolutions related to weight-loss and healthier eating, you will see even more Poké Bowls shops sprouting around. Especially in the CBD Raffles Place, Tanjong Pagar areas.

Poké (poh-keh) Bowls have been a staple in the Hawaiian islands, and became a food trend in major US cities, and Singapore in recent times. Poké is the Hawaiian verb for “section” or “to slice or cut”.

If you are confused between Poké Bowls and Bara Chirashi don, the main difference is, the cubed raw sashimi fish used are seasoned in varied, colourful ways, topped on grains or greens.

As to why they have become so popular, it is largely because they are healthy, delicious, filling, and unique with varied sauces. Some shops also allow customisation, and even have quinoa and green options (not so ‘traditional’ anymore).

Here are some of the 8 Poké Bowls you can find in Singapore:

Aloha Poké
Marina Bay Link Mall, 8A Marina Boulevard, #B2-46, Singapore 018984
Opening Hours: 11:30am – 8pm (Mon – Fri), 11:30am – 2:30pm (Sat)

92 Amoy Street, Singapore 069911 (Telok Ayer MRT)
Tel: +65 6221 6165
Opening Hours: 11.30am – 2.30pm, 5.30pm – 11pm (Mon-Sat, Closed Sun)

The pioneer of Poke Bowls in Singapore
The first player’s advantage. Aloha Poké is probably the ones who started the Poké Bowl trend in Singapore itself.

There are three standard sizes of Poké bowls – the Lil’ Swell ($11.90) that comes with 1 scoop of 75g Poké, Standard Nalu ($15.90) with 2 scoops of 150g Poke and Big Kahuna ($19.90) with 3 scoops of 225g Poké.

As for the poké, you can pick either Raw Ahi Tuna or Raw Salmon in three different flavours – original, wasabi mayo or spicy. Sometimes there are seasonal specials.

Complete your poké bowl with a base of white rice, brown rice, a mix of both, or salad only, followed by two complimentary add-ons and one complimentary superfood.

If in doubt, get the Standard Nalu Salmon ($15.90) which contains chunky cubes of salmon with zesty sweet fruits such as mangoes, served on crunchy lettuce over a bed of rice.

I ordered a Spicy version before, and its fieriness kicked almost every bite. Can be satisfying, but may be distracting for those who enjoy simple plainness in your healthy lunch. Still one of my favourite bowls around. Aloha Poké (Amoy Street)

A Poké Theory
27 Boon Tat Street, Singapore 069623
Opening Hours: 8am – 6pm (Mon-Fri), 9am – 3m (Sat), Closed Sun

Poké Bowls And Superfood Smoothie Bowls
Unlike Aloha Poké with both Signature and Customised Poké bowls, A Poké Theory’s is fully customised according to our preferences.

First, we will choose one of the 3 options as the base: Sushi Rice, Lemon Herb Quinoa or Romaine Lettuce.

Next, we will choose from 4 different flavoured cuts: Shoyu Tuna, Spicy Garlic Sesame Tuna, Spicy Mayo Salmon or Avocado Miso Salmon.

A regular bowl (100g) of tuna will cost $11.50 and salmon at $12.50, whereas a large bowl (150g) of tuna will cost $15 and salmon at $16.50.

Our favourite was the Avocado Miso Salmon with a creamy texture, topped with sushi rice. Oishii. Becoming very popular among the CBD folks. A Poke Theory (Boon Tat Street)

Alter Ego
8 Raffles Avenue #01-13D, Esplanade Mall, Singapore 039802
Tel: +65 6327 9301
Opening Hours: 11am – 1am (Mon-Thu), 11am – 2am (Fri), 10am – 2am (Sat), 10am – 1am (Sun), Poké bowls served from 11am – 8pm

The Evil Twin of A Poké Theory
Instead of customizing your own, the Poké bowls here are all pre-set with the familiar A Poké Theory’s marinade; Shoyu, Spicy Garlic Sesame, Avocado Miso and Spicy Mayo.

The marinade pairing with type of fish used were also swapped – i.e., A Poké Theory uses Shoyu on Tuna and Alter Ego uses Shoyu on Salmon.

I generally preferred the Spicy Garlic Sesame ($16) over the Dynamite ($15), as you would still taste of the natural freshness of the fish, rather than the seasoning overpowering everything else.

On a side note, I also wondered about the size and shallowness of the bowl, as ingredients kept falling out as I dug inside. Alter Ego (Esplanade)

Katto
1 Fusionopolis Place, Galaxis Building, #01-21/22, Singapore 138522
Opening Hours: 11am – 8pm (Mon – Fri), 11am – 2pm (Sat), Closed Sun

Poké Bowls With Asian, Singaporean Flavours
Katto is a quick-service restaurant which serves these Poké Bowls (or boxes) with some fun flavours, think Chicken Rice Chilli Salmon, Creamy Goma Tuna, Tangy Thai Tuna, Classic Shoyu Salmon and California Unrolled Salmon.

There are 6 flavours of Sashimi for you to choose from, 6 different vegetable supplements, and 3 bases of white rice, brown rice or salad.

The one thing I noted was its pricing, more affordable than shops nearer the CBD.

A Mini Size which contains one portion of 70 grams fish, one base of 250 grams of white rice, brown rice or salad base, and a vegetable side is quite affordably priced at $7.90. I found the portion filling enough (but that’s me).

The Main Size with has an additional serving of fish and side cost $12.90. The rice is of the same grammage.

Good to know that a salad base is available for both size, and you can also choose a half-half option for your base. An affordable choice for lunch-goers. Katto (Galaxis)

Ninja Bowl
15 Duxton Road Singapore 089481
Tel: +65 6222 8055
Opening Hours: 9:30am – 7:30pm (Mon – Fri), 9am – 6pm (Sat – Sun)

Japanese Inspired Rice Bowls
Ninja Bowl does not specialise in Poke Bowls per se, but Japanese inspired rice bowls.

Their Yasai Bowl ($16) is a quite a value-for-money lunch option with generous servings of salmon poke, along with mixed sultans, onsen egg and tomatoes.

You can add on $2 for ‘Ninja Rice’ – a blend of vinegared Japanese pearl rice and brown rice, as its base, or $3 for quinoa.

I like the rice bowl which gave the feeling of being both healthy and tasty at the same time. They have salad options as well. The gym-going, need-protein people should love this. Ninja Bowl (Duxton Road)

Sprout
41 Duxton Road Singapore 089505
Tel: +65 5221 1227
Opening Hours: 10am – 8:30pm (Mon – Fri), 11am – 7pm (Sat)

Not the traditional Poké Bowls
Just a few shops away from Ninja Bowl is Sprout, serving Salad Bowls such as Ahi Poke Bowl, Beef & Broccoli Bowl and Korean Chicken Bowl.

Their version of Ahi Poke Bowl is different from the rest, with yellowfin tuna neatly arranged with creamy avocados, added with other ingredients of pineapple, rocket, red onion, Japanese cucumber with scallions.

Instead of rice, the bowl is served with warm quinoa which was actually quite tasty. (And I thought there was some wasabi-like aftertaste in the sauce used.)

Rollie Ollie
Suntec City Mall Pasarbella #01-K42, North Wing 3 Temasek Blvd Singapore 038983
Tel: +65 8188 1531
Opening Hours: 10am – 10pm

Sushi Rolls and Poke Bowls
An Asian fusion kiosk with a touch of California style. The Poke Bowls are only available at their Suntec outlet, not Star Vista.

First, pick your rice preference – sushi, brown or tea infused rice.

Then add the Poke which are available in some Asian and fun flavours such as Wild About Wasabi ($14.95, $17.95), Seoul Surfer which includes Korean spicy sauce ($13.95, $16.95), Thai Twist ($13.95, $16.95) and Yuzu Bliss ($14.95, $17.95).

Pololi Singapore
51 Telok Ayer Street, Singapore 048441 (Near Telok Ayer MRT)
Opening Hours: 11:30am – 3pm (Mon – Tue), 11:30am – 6pm (Wed – Thu), 11:30am – 10pm (Fri), Closed Sat & Sun

1st Hawaiian Poke Shack From Hong Kong Opens In Singapore
The pioneer poke shack to spread the love of Hawaiian poke bowl concept in Hong Kong, is now available in Singapore.

Their poke bowls come in two sizes – Kama’aina ($17.99), regular size with 180g of fish and Keiki ($15.99), small size with 150g of fish.

Here’s how it works: First, select the base option from white rice, brown rice or salad.

Next, pick the choice of poke from the variety of flavors which changes on a daily basis.

The shop does not explicitly list down their flavors, but some of the flavors I came across were Traditional Spicy, Yuzu Shoyu, Thai Sweet Chili, and Wasabi Mayo. Not the typical ones. Pololi (Telok Ayer Street)

Other Related Entries
12 Unique & Healthy Salads Places In Singapore’s CBD
10 Healthy Food Places & Cafes Found Within Singapore’s CBD
Aloha Poké (Marina Bay)
Katto (Galaxis)
A Poke Theory (Boon Tat Street)

The post 8 Poké Bowls In Singapore – Where To Find Healthy, Delicious, Filling Poké Bowls appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

Japanese soft cream buns Hattendo has arrived in Singapore, with a Hattendo Singapore Café at Tanjong Pagar Centre (right opposite Japan Rail Cafe).

Just how good they are? I was initially half-sceptical, expecting them to taste well, not bad… but…

After that the first bite, I went ”Wow wee” and didn’t regret getting a few at one go.

There are five flavours to choose from, from Custard, Fresh Cream, Azuki (sweet red bean paste), Matcha and Chocolate. The most popular flavours are the Custard and Fresh Cream.

They all go at $2.50 for a piece. I say, get the drink set which is a steal at $5.00 in total with a beverage.

The cold cream bun by Hattendo looked so unsuspectingly simple, like a plain white round dough smaller than a child’s fist.

Although this would remind some of a choux puff, the layer of fluffiness was “not a puff”, but had a bread-cake texture, soft like an expensive good quality pillow.

Beyond the soft outer layer was tantalising smooth fresh cream.

The inside was cold, smooth and mellow, in the right proportion of sweetness and viscosity.

The Azuki fillings are made with Hokkaido-grown qualified Azuki sweet beans, simmered carefully for a pleasing flavour.

I also liked the Matcha, which used a Fukuoka brand powdered green tea for light bitterness in the cream.

The bread-making, cream preparation, and wrapping are all done by hand. Accordingly, the cream buns are so soft they will be torn if wrapped by a machine.

Special mention of its coffee too, which uses an original blend created by Itsuki Coffee, a specialty coffee shop on Miyajima, Hiroshima Prefecture.

Hattendo Singapore Cafe
Tanjong Pagar Centre #01-05, 7 Wallich Street Singapore 078884
Opening Hours: 10am – 9pm (Mon – Fri), 11am – 8pm (Sat – Sun, PH)

Other Related Entries
Japan Rail Cafe (Tanjong Pagar Centre)
LeTAO Singapore (ION Orchard)
Gudetama Café (Suntec City)
Henri Charpentier (Orchard Central)
BAKE Cheese Tart (ION Orchard)

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

The post Hattendo – Famous Japanese Soft Cream Buns In Singapore. So Soft And Smooth appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

[Seoul] A Cruffin is a cross between croissant and a muffin, with a flaky texture of a croissant and flavour of a muffin.

Cruffins are said to be created by Mr. Holmes Bakehouse. Of course there are many versions about its origins.

After I asked on Instagram for food recommendations in Seoul, quite a number were nominating THIS PLACE, not some Korean restaurant.

The young Koreans are apparently very fond of Mr. Holmes Bakehouse in Seoul, located at Apgujeong-ro 10-gil of Gangnam-gu.

It is after all Mr. Holmes Bakehouse first overseas outlet outside of San Francisco. The name comes from the owner’s mother’s cats by the way – one’s called Sherlock, the other Holmes.

No detectives needed, as finding this bakery café wasn’t too difficult with Google Maps.

It was a short walk from Sinsa Station, and the journey was a largely pleasant one, peppered with other indie cafes and popular shops for youths.

Like its SF counterpart, bakers in Seoul had to go through two months of training in San Francisco.

Many Korean girls and couples were seem posing with pastries under the neon sign ”I got Baked in Seoul”, rather iconic for its Instagram purpose. (Go search the geotag photos on IG to see what I mean.)

Cruffins are limited to two per customer, and changes flavour every single day – anything from earl grey, passion fruit, white choco, mango, hazelnut & dark choco, and mint choco. (seem similar to how Dominique Ansel Bakery market their cronuts.)

I had Cruffins in Australia, but wasn’t exactly over the moon over them.

These Cherry-flavoured ones in Seoul (5,500 Won, SGD$6.60) however, changed my impression upon hearing that cracking sound when cut apart.

They seemed to get it right with the flakiness, fluffy inner texture and smooth creamy filling with noticeable savour of cherries (yet not artificial tasting).

Okay. My main qualm about pastries and cakes from America is the sweetness level, but this didn’t go overboard at all.

The other must-get was the Brioche Donut (3,600 Won, SGD$4.30) – a sugared pillow-soft donut filled with rich pastry cream in the middle.

Here’s the fun thing: You get Vanilla or a “Random Filling”, which can be anything from vanilla cheesecake, passion fruit curd, caramelized banana and strawberry cream.

If you have space, get a Croissant dipped in flavours of Matcha, Ferrero Rocher, and Ham & Cheese. Slightly on the dry side, but better than the average.

Mr. Holmes Bakehouse Seoul
34, Apgujeong-ro 10-gil Gangnam-gu Seoul (Sinsa Station Exit 8, Line 3)
Opening hours: 10am – 10pm (Mon – Fri), 10am – 11pm (Sat – Sun)
Google Maps – Mr. Holmes Bakehouse Seoul

Other Related Entries
Shake Shack (Seoul)
Frank’s (Seoul)
O’sulloc Tea House (Seoul)
Take Out Drawing (Seoul)
Bills (Seoul)

The post Mr. Holmes Bakehouse Seoul – Must Have Cruffin And Brioche Donut. They Are Limited appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

Already searching for Chinese New Year food for family and friends?

Tough one, I know. So when I saw this CNY Prosperity Party Box called “Wang Wang” 旺旺 from Four Seasons Catering, I thought, “This is interesting”.

Our impression of catered food could be still in the “traditional” view of warmer trays piled up with the typical items.

That is when buffet setting can be deemed time consuming for some, and then food has to be quickly finished when the keepers arrive again.

The 旺旺 Prosperity Party Box is not quite the norm.

Priced at $288 (for 10 pax, $308.16 with GST, here’s how it works: The boxes are delivered (or self-collected) in a set, complete with full utensils, biodegradable plates ware and disposable mat and recycle bags. (Great for the lazy people. Haha.)

Step 1: Carry
Step 2: Open
Step 3: Spread the food out
Step 4: EAT

It has a uniquely design packaging which comes in a set of five ang-pao red-coloured boxes, somewhat with the length of a pizza container, tied up with a fixed red ribbon.

You can also purchase it and deliver it to the venue as a gift set to a house gathering.

Portion wise, the food is good for a group of 8-10 pax. Only 100 sets are available, and it is HALAL.

If you are wondering what the contents are, the main highlight includes Smoked Salmon Yu Sheng with in house chef concocted Kumquat Dressing (this item is placed out of the box in a round container), Salted Egg Slipper Lobster, Triple Golden Snacks, and Seafood Bee Hoon with shredded scallop

The 旺旺 Prosperity Party Box consists of:

Prosperous Smoked Salmon Yu Sheng with Kumquat Dressing
The must-have for any CNY gatherings, for everyone to Huat-Huat while enjoying this ‘Chinese Salad’.

The Kumquat dressing is specially concocted in-house, giving the yusheng a sweet-meets-zesty finish.

Triple Golden Snacks
Probably will be a hit with kids (and those young at heart). This tray includes crispy fried Prawn Twister, Golden Pumpkin Croquette, Prosperous Lava Sesame Ball with Golden Salted Egg Yolk (Mine didn’t flow, and you probably need to microwave for 30 seconds or so to get that oozy effect.)

Golden Salted Egg Slipper Lobster
So generous. 10 pieces of chunky slipper lobster, coated in the favourite IN-sauce of golden salted egg yolk.

Steamed Chicken with Chinese Chicken Sausage & Red Dates
One of those dishes that tasted like Chinese home-cooked food, in a good way. As the chicken meat was steamed, the chunks still remained the juiciness and tenderness even though it was packed for a while.

Golden Fish with Pineapple Sauce
Deep fried fish slices coated with sticky tangy-sweet pineapple sauce.

Braised Flower Mushroom with Broccoli
Surprisingly, the broccoli was in the ‘right’ green colour (and not yellow-green which would be an indication of over-cooking), and the braised mushrooms had a soft bite.

Seafood Bee Hoon with Shredded Scallop
The white char bee hoon that is flavourful on every strand.

Yam Paste with Golden Pumpkin Puree
The Teochew favourite ‘Orh Nee’ dessert in cup-form – sweet mashed pumpkin puree on top, yam paste on the bottom. Eat them separate or mix them all up.

I am imagine who this will be suitable for: If you are organising a party for a small group, want to get a range of food the fuss-free way, dining with a group who is game to try something fun, or having a cosy gathering (with some space constraints).

This is for you.

Citi Cardmembers Exclusive:
a. Self-Collect Orders: Enjoy 15% off 旺旺Party Box (Prosperity Party Box) from 5 Jan – 11 Feb 2017.
b. Delivery Orders: Enjoy 10% off 旺旺Party Box (Prosperity Party Box) from 5 Jan – 11 Feb 2017. Terms & conditions apply. While stocks last as there are only 100 sets available.

Other notes:
Delivery:
– Delivery is available from 7am to 7pm. Additional surcharge and minimum order amount applies for timing before 7am or after 7pm.
– Four Seasons Catering is opened on eve of Chinese New Year 27 Jan 2017 & last delivery to address at 1pm.

Transportation Charges:
– Transportation charge of $40.00 ($42.80 W/GST) applies from 02 Jan to 26 Jan 2017 and 05 Feb to 12 Feb 2017. Charges are waived for orders of 60 pax & above.
– Transportation charge of $50.00 ($53.50 W/GST) applies from 27 Jan to 04 Feb 2017.

Surcharges for CBD Areas:
– Additional Surcharge of $10.00 ($10.70 W/GST) applies for CBD area and Orchard areas (First 2 digits of the postal code: 01,03, 04, 05, 06, 07, 08, 22 & 23).

For more information, head over to: http://www.fourseasons.com.sg/menu/chinese-new-year-2017/prosperity-party-box/

Four Seasons Catering
Tel: +65 6383 3003
Opening Hours: 9am – 6pm (Mon – Sun)
Email: sales@fourseasons.com.sg
https://www.facebook.com/fourseasonscateringpteltd

* This post is brought to you in partnership with Four Seasons Catering.

The post Four Seasons Catering – CNY Prosperity Party Box, Good For 10, Halal and Fuss-Free appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

Sharing the same compound with OVAS Home Gallery at Kaki Bukit, one may simply walk pass without noticing the presence of a café located within this furniture showroom.

Upon entering the gallery café, I was wowed by the array of art pieces and wooden artifacts on display.
On a side note, everything (including the table to dine on) is available for sale.

For art lovers, do make sure you get up to the second level which is an art gallery which houses various works of promising artists around Asia. This is in collaboration with Art WeMe which specialises in Asian contemporary art.

While I do not think I am the best art appreciator, I still took the opportunity to take a walk upstairs to educate myself while waiting for food to be served.

Art OVAS, the café arm of OVAS Home Gallery serves only light bites such as Wraps ($7), Pies (6) Salad ($7 – $9), Coffee and Desserts such as Cakes ($7), Muffins ($5) and Brownies ($5).

Their all-day set menu is considered value for its money, as $18 can get you a main, soup and coffee.

While my expectations weren’t high for the food is probably prepped elsewhere due to the absence of kitchen, the Beef Lasagna ($9) turned out to be not bad, and was decent for its price.

It contained generous amount of minced beef fillings topped with a layer of cheese and tangy tomato puree.

The Soup of the Day ($5) was a passable bowl of Clam Chowder, thick and creamy with occasional spoons of mini clams. (However, there was an uncanny resemblance to my usual clam chowder fix at Long John Silvers. Opps.)

The Chocolate Lava Cake was also a safe choice, with overflowing molten chocolate when cut opened.

Even though the food menu at Art OVAS didn’t really stand out, I enjoyed the overall ambience of dining in a showroom surrounded with specially crafted decoration pieces

A suitable location for doing some quiet work while sipping a cup of coffee.

While the concept of café within gallery is not entirely new, it is still a good strategy to attract some foot traffic to the Kaki Bukit industrial area.

Who knows, you may just also purchase a three thousand dollar worth of Acacia Wood table for the New Year.

Art OVAS (within OVAS Home Gallery)
1 Kaki Bukit Road 1 #01-11, Enterprise One, Singapore 415934
Opening Hours: 10:30am – 7:30pm (Mon – Sat), 10:30am – 7:00pm (Sun)

Other Related Entries
Knots Living (Paya Lebar)
The Ding Ding Man (Yio Chu Kang Road)
South Union Park (Kembangan)
Scoop Therapy (East Coast Road)
Brothers in Fine Food BFF (Tampines Ave 3)

* Written by Lewis Tan @juicyfingers, a self-proclaimed coffee addict. Daniel’s Food Diary pays for food reviewed unless otherwise stated.

The post Art OVAS – An Art Café Well Hidden At Kaki Bukit appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

[Taipei, Taiwan] A café by the name of “Ruins”, opened for only a couple of hours during the weekends, (no Instagram account) and hard to find.

I made our way there anyway.

There is an emergence of coffee roasters in more obscure areas in Taipei, such as Fujin Tree 353. Ruins Coffee Roaster was recommended by a food instagrammer friend from Taiwan, as it apparently has quite a *secret* following.

Located south of Taipei, 小廢墟咖啡 is a 20 mins stroll from Muzha Station, located across a river from one of Taipei’s leading university, National Chengchi University.

Ruins Coffee Roaster is hidden behind a lamp post, along a stretch of almost ruined shophouses, and you may inadvertently walk pass without noticing its frontage. Here it is.

Do not be put off by the distance!

It is one hell (or heaven) of a find in Taipei. I found it an opportunity to take a more relaxing and reflective holiday, taking a scenic walk down the river banks.

Upon reaching the café, you can perch yourself on a comfy seat, while looking at these masters brew their coffee.

Ruins terms themselves as a “Café Junkie X Leisure Café”.

Like most coffee roasters in Taipei, expect just coffee to be served with a wide range of Single Origin (all 11 of them) and Cold Brew. Lattes and hand drips are from TWD 130 (SGD$5.50) – TWD 200 (SGD$9).

Good to know: They have rotating guests baristas, including famous names.

For non-caffeine hipsters, fret not, Ruins Coffee Roaster is also known to offers a selection of hard-to-find craft beers.

The café has recently found a resident baker to complement their brews.

The cakes go for around TWD 130 (SGD$5.50) a slice. The most popular dessert was the light and fluffy Strawberry Chiffon, though I also spotted an interest Maple Syrup Bacon Cupcake.

The interior and several pieces of furniture and decor are repurposed from ruins, literally ”Let the ruins come to life”.

Have a cup of their in-house roasted aromatic coffee al fresco style at their backyard, take a flight of stair up to their loft overlooking the café, or rest at the front for some people-watching.

An additional travel tip: After the coffee, you can climb up the hill for this breath-taking view of Taipei 101.

Ruins Coffee Roaster 小廢墟咖啡
No. 242, Section 3, Muzha Rd, Wenshan District, Taipei City, Taiwan 116
台北市木柵路三段242號
Tel: +886 2 2234 0024
Opening Hours: 3:00pm – 9:00pm (Sat – Sun), Closed Mon – Fri
Google Maps – Ruins Coffee Roaster 小廢墟咖啡

Other Related Entries
Fujin Tree 353 富錦樹咖啡 (Taipei)

* Written by Guest Writer @Shauneeie, edited by @DanielFoodDiary Looking for the best places to eat? Let @Shauneeie help you.

The post Ruins Coffee Roaster 小廢墟咖啡 – The Ruins Come To Life At Taipei’s Best Kept Secret Café appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

Hong Kong popular nitrogen ice cream shop Lab Made will be opening in Singapore.

Although Lab Made was founded only in recent 2012, it has quickly become one of Hong Kong’s most popular ice cream brands.

Their location in Singapore however, remains a secret.

While the usual commercial ice cream requires a longer time of at least 10 minutes to freeze, Lab Made uses a fraction at 60 seconds.

Their ice cream is made to order, and you can watch the (gimmicky) nitrogen gas dispense.

My main reservation is, liquid nitrogen has been in Singapore since 2013/14 (or even before), though the general popularity hasn’t been overwhelming.

Some other liquid nitrogen shops, has come and gone (Remember Just Like It?).

The good thing about Lab Made is the Hong Kong outlets change flavours every fortnight, introducing interesting flavours from Apply Crumble, Mango and Coconut Rice, Crunchy Sea Salt Gelato with Caramel Sauce, Pandan Cake with Coconut, Red Jujube, Goji and Black Sugar, to Super Lemon Meringue Pie.

Suitable for young customers always on a search for something different.

Look out here for updates of Lab Made’s Singapore outlet.

Other Related Entries
Meet & Melt (Scape)
Popbar (Plaza Singapura)
Kiss The Tiramisu Singapore (Orchard Gateway)
Venchi (Marina Bay Sands)
Apiary (Neil Road)

The post Lab Made Singapore – Popular Hong Kong Nitrogen Ice Cream Shop Opening In Singapore appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

Thankfully, Mexican restaurants are gaining some popularity in Singapore. It was tough to find some decent burrito, taco and torta just a few years back (No, nachos in a pack don’t count.)

Barrio by Mexout has earned some positive reviews for its healthy meets fresh Mexican flavours at 313 @ Somerset. They have just opened another outlet at Vivocity.

To be honest, I don’t particularly crave for Mexican food, but find Barrio a convenient place to grab a bite without feeling overly guilty about the calories and carbs.

Barrio, which is Spanish for ‘neighbourhood’, terms itself a taqueria (read: taco stand) and crudo bar – for friends to mingle and share food.

It offers a range of starters such as Barbacoa Quesadillas ($13.40), Fish Ceviche ($13.90) and Spicy Chilli Cheese Fries ($12.90), Tortas (Mexican burgers, $14.90 – $16.90) and larger plated dishes of marinated Flank Steak and pan-roasted Snapper.

Mex Out favourites such as Burrito Wraps and Rice Bowls ($13.40 – $14.80), Tacos ($12.90 – $15.90) and Salads ($11.90 – $15.90) are also available.

Coffee blends are roasted by Sarnies Cafe. Not forgetting some refreshing margarita and sangrias if you need a drink in the middle of the day.

Since I am heading to the gym more often (need to lose weight lah), something like the Protein Salad ($15.90) would scream at me.

Liked the generous serving of char grilled chicken, and it didn’t taste too boring a salad with addition of corn salsa and black beans.

The scoop of fresh creamy guacamole helped too, made in-house – mashed avocado and seasoned with lime, salt, and small amounts of red onions, jalapeno peppers, tomato and cilantro.

My typical impression of Mexican food was that it could get too heavy and greasy.

I think at Barrio has purposefully upped the freshness and greens factor. On the flipside, some diners may find that some in their items may lack in the ‘sauciness’, and meat in flavours. Give and take.

Barrio By Mex Out Viviocity
Vivocity #01-116, 1 Harbourfront Walk Singapore 098585 (Harbourfront MRT)
Tel: +65 6265 6260
Opening Hours: 11am – 11pm (Sun – Thurs), 11am – 12am (Fri – Sat)

Barrio By Mex Out 313@Somerset
313@Somerset #01-14/15, 313 Orchard Road Singapore 238895
Tel: +65 6634 2102
Opening Hours: 11am – 10:30pm (Sun – Thurs), 11am – 11:30pm (Fri), 9am – 11:30pm (Sat), 9am – 10:30pm (Sun)

Other Related Entries
Baja Fresh (Rendezvous Hotel)

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

The post Barrio by Mex Out – Fresh Mexican Flavours At Vivocity and 313@Somerset appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

[Seoul] For those looking for one the best Army Stew in Seoul, Mukshidonna 먹쉬돈나 in Myeongdong, is simply known as Mukshi Myeongdong now.

While Mukshidonna is commonly known to serve delicious Budae Jjigae, they have branded themselves as a “Toppoki” restaurant. Their most popular outlet is at Samcheong Dong.

Toppoki / Tteokbokki is a type of cylinder-shaped boiled rice cake, and is a quintessential Korean traditional street food.

Finding this restaurant in Myeongdong can be tricky for first timers, as there is no clear signage. I would suggest looking out for Din Tai Fung first, then look at 2nd storey of the next building.

Your treasure is there.

Mukshi would literally mean ‘eat’ and ‘rest’, and Mukshimyeongdong would just serve that one dish in a hot stove with various toppings.

Here’s how to order:
– Choose from one of the 5 main bases of Seafood, Vegetables, Ham & Sausage, Bulgogi Beef, or Cheese. (6,500 Won, SGD$7.80 per person)
– Add one type of noodles from Korean Vermicelli, Ramen, Korean Noodles or Udon (1,000 Won, SGD$1.20)
– Pick a topping or more which includes Boiled Egg, Tempura, Oden, Grilled Dumpling, Seaweed Roll, Or Ham (1,000 Won, SGD$1.20)

If you are keen, you can also add a topping of cheese, or fried rice at the end (2,000 Won, SGD$2.40) where rice will be cooked together with the remaining sauces.

Perhaps there was the factor of ‘Winter’, this turned out to be an enjoyable, comforting pot (despite that half of the ingredients that went in were the ‘cheap’ type).

I won’t know how best to describe this to a foreigner, but its base sauce was part-sweet-spicy with a mixture of Korean Gochujang sauce (red pepper paste) and baked beans, semi-thick like a stew.

The cheese added a touch of saltiness, and enveloped the springy instant noodles. There is something about Korean instant noodles which had the added bouncy quality.

Its signature rice cake, were light and chewy, unlike the average ones you find on the street which could be more elastic on the texture.

Mukshimyeongdong (Mukshidonna Myeongdong) 먹쉬돈나
12, Myeongdong 3-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul 04534, South Korea
서울특별시 Jung-gu, 명동1가 59-25
Tel: +82 2 754 0405
Opening Hours: 11:00am – 8:30pm Daily
Google Maps – Mukshi Myeongdong

Other Related Entries
Myeongdong Kyoja (Seoul)
Maple Tree House (Seoul)
O’sulloc Tea House (Seoul)
Line Friend Store & Café (Seoul)
Bongchu Jjimdak (Seoul)

The post Mukshidonna Myeongdong 먹쉬돈나 – Tasty Tteokbokki In An Army Stew Pot appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

Crystal Jade has several brands under its umbrella. In terms of fine dining concepts, there are Crystal Jade Palace Restaurant (Ngee Ann City), Michelin-starred Golden Palace (Paragon), Prestige (Marina Bay Financial Centre), and Dining IN (Vivocity).

It is not difficult to understand why families like to dine at Crystal Jade Dining IN.

Beyond the entrance, is a red lit-up walkway to lead you to this restaurant with a scenic view of the waterfront and Sentosa right across.

(Click PLAY to watch Crystal Jade Dining IN’s highlights.)

Tall ceilings, spacious area, vibrant energy.

The name “Dining IN” itself is inspired by the dining table, for families to have memorable social gatherings and dining experiences.

A touch of modern meets traditional Cantonese style restaurant, serving both classic and innovative dishes.

Some of the highlights include Baked Crab Shell stuffed with Seafood Paste, Pan-fried Kurobuta Pork Chop with Teriyaki Sauce, Deep-fried Duck Meat in Taro Puff, Spicy Seafood Fried Rice, Sautéed Beef Cube in Black Pepper Sauce, Sautéed Chicken & Chinese Ham with Cabbage, Fried Rice wrapped in Lotus Leaf, and Sautéed Coral Trout Fillet with Shallot Ginger in Hot Stone Pot.

Tip: A regular will also know to get the service staff to recommend some dishes off the menu.

Here are some highlights from Crystal Jade Dining IN:

Braised Ee-fu Noodle with Boston Lobster In Wild Mushroom Sauce & Truffle Oil ($35 per pax)
An east-meets-west dish. The Boston lobster came dressed in beautiful red color, with chunky fleshy meat.

The truffle oil added a faint whiff to the noodles, and thankfully didn’t overpower.

Compared to the usual Ee-fu noodles which typically more seasoned and sauced, this dish took a lighter touch, allowing you to better savour the goodness of the main star – the lobster and its sweet flesh.

Baked Crab Shell Stuffed With Seafood Paste ($13.80 per pax)
Possibly my favourite dish of the meal, one I would return for.

Crab shell stuffed with seafood paste which includes fresh lump crabmeat.

Use a fork or spoon to scoop up the paste of creamy texture, spot those shreds of crab meat, and hold that scoop in your mouth for that explosion of flavours.

Deep Fried Spare Rib with Vinegar ($20.80 for reg)
Another interpretation of the classic Chinese dish of ““sugar and vinegar spare ribs”.

This version uses Zhenjiang vinegar, a rice-based dark, sweetish vinegar. The sharpness of the vinegar was balanced with the sweetness of sugar, and also provided the ribs with a smoky coat.

Ribs were tender too.

Steamed Sea Perch Fillet with Beancurd and Preserved Vegetable ($18 per pax)
This steamed dish, while looking simple and healthy, could grow on you. Clean and tasty, my favourite component was surprisingly the smooth tofu.

Signature Fried Rice ($36 for S, $54 for M)
Spring onions, egg, finely-chopped salted fish… and chai po aka diced homemade pickled radish. Pleasurable, comfort food of fried rice.

Snow Lotus Seed with Almond Cream ($6.80)
A refreshing bowl of white goodness makes a delightful end to the meal, which is also not too sweet.

Crystal Jade Dining IN
1 Harbourfront Walk #01-112 VivoCity Singapore 098585 (Harbourfront MRT)
Opening Hours: 11:30am – 3:00pm, 6:00 – 10:30pm (Mon – Fri)
10:30am – 4:00pm, 6:00pm – 10:30pm (Sat-Sun, Eve of PH, PH)

Chinese New Year Dining 2017
Chinese New Year Dining at Crystal Jade restaurants (selected restaurants) will start from 16 January 2017 to 12 February 2017.

(Click PLAY for Crystal Jade’s Chinese New Year 2017 Highlights.)

A comprehensive range of elaborate set menus showcasing premium ingredients and produce are served at all four fine-dining restaurants starting from $98 per person at Crystal Jade Prestige, $118 per person at Crystal Jade Dining IN and Crystal Jade Golden Palace and $488 for 4 persons at Crystal Jade Palace Restaurant.

Menus with various pax options and vegetarian set menus are available as well.

Takeaway orders can be made online at www.crystaljade.com These are some of the Crystal Jade 2017 CNY highlights:

Prosperous Health Yu Sheng With Chinese Herbal Ingredients ($118 for large, $78 for small)
Crystal Jade Prestige’s nourishing Yu Sheng features fresh Chinese herbal ingredients that impart flavour and texture to the colourful combination.

What you get include strips of refreshing Chinese yam, sweet lily bulb petals, organic salad vegetables, marinated jellyfish among others – all tossed in an appetising Japanese sesame-based dressing with Chinese vinegar, as well as plum sauce and lemon sauce for a touch of sweetness and tang.

Available at Crystal Jade Prestige for dine-in and takeaway. One day advance order is required, limited quantities available.

Reunion Baby Abalone Yu Sheng ($68.80 for large, $42.80 for small)
Classic Crystal Jade Yu Sheng with abalone slices. You can also opt for sliced sashimi at the same price.

Available at Crystal Jade La Mian Xiao Long Bao / Jiangnan and Crystal Jade Kitchen for takeaway and dine-in.

Prosperity Abalone Treasure Pot ($248 for 5 pax, $428 for 10 pax)
Prepared with sixteen choice ingredients such as fish maw, fresh prawns, oysters, dried mushrooms and ten-head abalone, this hearty generous pot of wholesome goodness is a definite show-stopper on any reunion table.

Available at Crystal Jade Kitchen, Crystal Jade Jiangnan/La Mian Xiao Long Bao outlets for takeaway and dine-in.

Other Related Entries
Crystal Jade Prestige (Marina Bay Financial Centre)

* This entry is brought to you in partnership with Crystal Jade Group.

The post Crystal Jade Dining IN – Signature Dishes and Chinese New Year 2017 Highlights appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

The time for #NewYearResolutions to work in. The determination (or constant struggle) to #EatClean, #LoseWeight has caused a proliferation of salads places in Singapore’s CBD.

The Daily Cut at the basement of One Raffles Place, with a newly opened branch at Tanjong Pagar Centre is probably one of the most popular salad shops in the vicinity.

Come 11:45am, minutes before ‘official’ lunch time, a long long line will start to form.

They are known for their protein-filled salads, generous portions, with pricing for a Regular bowl at $12 (or Petite at $9, Large at $15, X-Large for $18).

This is a clear favourite among gym goers and office executives. You can tell, (tight) fitting office wear, a shoe bag on the other arm.

(Photo taken during off-peak.)

I sat there at the corner, watched the queue, and wondered about my not-so-trained-biceps and 6-become-1 abs.

The system and buying process is straight forward and swift. I encourage new-comers to quickly fill up your order-chit while waiting, and NOT wait till you reach the cashier.

– Choose from 4 sizes of Petite ($9), Regular ($12), Large ($15), or X-Large ($18).
– Proteins include Chicken, Tilapia, Tofu, Rib Eye Steak (+$1), Salmon (+$2) or look out for a Seasonal Special on the board.
– Get a Carb base of Brown Rice, Whole-Wheat Pasta, Romaine Lettuce, Sweet Potato, Baby Spinach ($1).
– Then tick off the supplements, toppings and choice of dressing.

I thought the price point for its portion could be one of its main draw, and they did give a substantial slab of salmon or steak when I had my orders.

Dressings are important to me. They can make something mundane spring to life. For regulars, they do have a wider choice from bitter lemon, honey-curry, sesame-peanut to mango-habanero. Not the usual stuff.

For its target audience of busy working executives in a constant rush, The Daily Cut understands the need to be speedy. The system of printing of orders on stickers pasted on salad boxes, seemed to have minimised errors of wrong ingredients.

Although the queue is long, most would have waited for an average of 10 minutes or so.

Sometimes you get beefy guys scooping salads for you (owner Jonathan Yang inclusive) which may have attracted like-minded customers. They are plenty of gyms in the vicinity.

While there are varied salad shops, I think what makes some stand out is their freshness of ingredients, and uniqueness. The Daily Cut is obviously clear about its target customers, and does it proteins well.

The Daily Cut
Tanjong Pagar Centre, 7 Wallich Street, #B2-16 Singapore 078884
Tel: +65 6386 6160
Opening Hours: 11:00am – 8:30pm (Mon – Fri), 11am – 3:30pmm (Sat, Sun, PH)

1 Raffles Place, #B1-31, One Raffles Place Singapore 048616 (Raffles Place MRT)
Opening Hours: 11am – 2:30pm, 6pm – 8:30pm (Mon – Fri), 11am – 3:30pm (Sat – Sun, PH)

Galaxis, 1 Fusionopolis Place #01-28/29 Singapore 1385
Opening Hours: 11am – 7:30pm (Mon – Fri), Closed Sat, Sun, PH

Other Related Entries
12 Unique & Healthy Salads Places In Singapore’s CBD
8 Poké Bowls In Singapore
WHEAT (Raffles City)
Grain Traders (Tanjong Pagar)
Plentyfull (Millenia Walk)

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

The post The Daily Cut – Protein Rich Salad Shop Opens At Tanjong Pagar Centre appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

[Seoul] Travelers to Korea rave about their street food all the time – the Tteokbokki, Odeng, Hotteok and the likes.

The one other ‘Korean Street Food’ that has captured the attention, is the unassuming Korean Street Toast 계란 토스트.

(Click PLAY for the video of the making of a Korean Street Toast.

One of the most prominent and popular brands in Seoul is “Isaac Toast”.

Its outlet at Myeongdong (Myeongdong Station Exit 5, near Days Hotel) attracts constant long queues, with tourists going for the Bulgalbi MVP (3,200 Won, SGD$3.80), Bacon Best (2,800 Won, SGD$3.30) and Ham Special (2,400 Won, SGD$2.90).

During the last trip, I took a short turn past Issac Toast, and found an ajumma serving similar toasts in a street side stall near Uniqlo (the biggest Uniqlo in Seoul) and decided to give it a go.

Boy oh boy, it was ”Daebak!”

Firstly, what makes a normal egg, ham and cheese toast different from the rest?

The Korean street version includes lots of thinly shredded vegetable, drizzles a special spicy-sweet sauce, and some will sprinkle sugar towards the end.

This street stall served “Usually + Ham + Cheese” at 3,500 Won (SGD$4.20), which I found out later that “Usually” would mean eggs, butter, and shredded vegetables of cabbage and carrots.

I was a joy to watch the hawker prepare her sandwiches. While it looked like a fuss-free, easy-to-prepare to-go breakfast, she did take about 8 – 10 minutes to get a set of 10 toasts ready.

While she used the same flat pan, she constantly flipped the eggs and soft bread up and down, such that they would be cooked just right.

During the final steps, she would top up with even more vegetables, then finish with red sauce and a forceful sprinkling of sugar.

Some might have thought this was just an ordinary ham and cheese toast, but the fluffiness of the egg, the refreshing crunch of the vegetables, and light sweetness made all that difference.

Certainly a sandwich beyond the rest, and this seals as one of my future must-have breakfast should I make a trip back again. Hopefully, very soon.

Other Related Entries
Common Ground (Seoul)
The Halal Guys (Seoul)
Sulbing (Seoul)
Gwang Jang Market (Seoul)
Kyochon Chicken (Seoul)

The post Korean Street Toast – Fluffy Egg Toast With Cabbage And That Special Sauce appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

In Korean, Hansul means to bottoms up or drink up.

The name of Hansul Korean Dining Bar at 21 Tanjong Pagar Road is befitting, offering a wide selection of over 60 kinds of Makgeolli, Cheongju, Soju and Cocktails from different parts of Korea.

After Kimchi and Guksu Noodle House at Suntec City, (handsome) owner Haden Hee (whom we see more regularly in MediaCorp dramas) is on a roll with another Korean-concept restaurant.

The entire stretch of eateries along Tanjong Pagar road is predominantly serving Korean food, from fried chicken, bingsu to BBQ.

How Hansul differentiates itself from the rest, is by using mini Hwaro Grill (stone pot and charcoal) available on each table to barbecue skewers.

The signature of grilled skewers comes in 2 skewers each. However, a minimum purchase of 5 items is required.

Priced between $2 and $8, my favourite was the Pork Belly Wrapped with Cheese Rice Cakes ($4), and Mackerel ($6).

Mashisoyo! The BBQ-ed meat eluded an aromatic smoky and earthy scent, partly due to the charcoal in the Hwaro Grill.

Another item worth mentioning was the Signature Boneless Chicken Wing ($6.90/ piece, minimum 2 pieces) stuffed with seasoned glutinous rice, then drizzled with a mix of sweet and spicy Gojuchang chili sauce.

I liked the idea of keeping our fingers clean as we could swallow (almost) the entire wing.

The chewy texture of the glutinous rice was flavourful, whereas the Gojuchang chili sauce was not-overpowering.

Honey Butter Chicken AND Cheese?!? Isn’t it the best of both worlds?

The 2 trending items on Korean menu on this Honey Butter Chicken Bumbuk ($24) could probably make fans go crazy… not.

Deep fried boneless chicken sandwiched between snow honey butter flakes and potato wedges with melting mozzarella cheese over a flame sounds divine.

Yet sadly, the taste of the mozzarella cheese overpowered that of the honey butter chicken.

Perhaps a little tweaking of the balance would help to elevate the taste.

The Budae Jjigae ($25) also known as “Korean Army Stew” had a different presentation compared to the conventional way of having all the ingredients laid out in the pot.

Instead, the ingredients were served in dim sum baskets, before adding them slowly to the broth. Ah, gimmicky.

The stew was filled with spam, sausage, ham, kimchi dumpling, baked beans, sliced rice cakes and vegetables.

I feedback that the broth was on the salty side, and was told this was done to complement the alcohols.

As their menu boasts a wide repertoire of alcohol selection, I settled with a safe choice – a cocktail makgeolli ($19) that comes in interesting flavours such as Banana, Peach, Korean Black Raspberry and Korean Omija (5 flavour fruit with salty, sweet, spur, spicy, bitter taste).

짠 (Jjan)! The Peach Makgeolli was light, fruity, sweet, and made the ladies at my table happy.

For first timers to Hansul Korean Dining Bar, I would recommended sticking to the signatures – the grilled skewers.

Hansul Korean Dining Bar
21 Tanjong Pagar Road, #01-05, Singapore 088444
Opening Hours: 5pm – 3am (Tue-Thu), 5pm – 4am (Fri-Sun), Closed Mon
https://www.facebook.com/hansulbar/

Other Related Entries
Daejon House (Havelock II Mall)
O.BBa Jjajang (Tanjong Pagar Road)
SBCD Korean Tofu House (Tanjong Pagar Centre)
Seoul Jjimdak (City Square Mall)
Andong Zzimdak (Raffles City)

* Written by Nicholas Tan @stormscape who loves all things [NEW]. Daniel’s Food Diary pays for food reviewed unless otherwise stated.

The post Hansul Korean Dining Bar – Experience Hwaro Charcoal Grill In Singapore appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

YCK people can perhaps shed some tears of joy, thanks to another “cakery” addition in the neighborhood. Like finally.

Despite being only a few weeks old, Salt and Delight may be familiar to pastry lovers, as owner / patisserie chef Gwen has been serving her range of Entremet cakes online since 2015.

So what exactly is Entremet?

Quoting Wikipedia: Entremet is a multi-layered mousse-based cake with various complimentary flavors and varying textural contrasts.

Ah, yes. The interesting blend of cake flavors, was what first caught my attention from this little unpretentious cake store.

The signature Pistachio Pear Entremet ($7.50 for slice, $87 for whole) was notably pleasant, and somewhat unexpected.

It had a balance combination of mousse, sponge and pear slices with light pistachio fragrance, but taste wise, reminded me of… almond jelly?

Perhaps too deep for me to comprehend.

For a safer bet, the Chocolate Earl Grey ($7.50 for slice) could be the better option.

Rich in dark chocolate mousse and sponge, I would actually consider this a great chocolate cake. BUT, since it was so created and named, the earl grey flavor could have been more obvious.

The most oriental-sounding Matcha Mandarin Orange ($7.50 for slice) ended up as my favorite pick.

Despite its peculiar combination, it had a complimentary blend of matcha bitterness with citrusy sweet orange fragrance.

Other than the fanciful Entremets, I would recommend Gwen’s rendition of Banana Cake ($20 for whole, $3 for slice).

Moist, fluffy and not overly sweet. My type of comforting breakfast option which I can do 2 – 3 slices at a go.

Apart from being a proficient patisserie chef, Gwen is also a trained barista who knows her coffee well and serves “Obelisk” blend from Two Degrees North Coffee Co.

While my impression of Two Degrees North Coffee Co.’s blend is often on the acidic side, “Obelisk” blend was much more acceptable with its chocolatey note and slight acidity.

Despite the minor misses, I am still looking forward to see what other unique Entremet flavors which Salt and Delight can come up with, since such exquisite dessert is a not such a common find in the neighborhood.

Salt and Delight
9 Yio Chu Kang Road #01-02, Space@Kovan, Singapore 545523
Tel: +65 6909 0140
Opening Hours: 11am – 7pm (Tue – Sat), 2pm – 6pm (Sun), Closed Mon
https://www.facebook.com/saltndelight/

Other Related Entries
Butterknife Folk (River Valley Road)
Out Of The Cakebox (Our Tampines Hub)
Cake Spade (Tanjong Pagar)
The Jelly Hearts (Raffles Place)
Lamb Cupcakery (Marina Bay Link Mall)

* Written by Lewis Tan @juicyfingers, a self-proclaimed coffee addict. Daniel’s Food Diary pays for food reviewed unless otherwise stated.

The post Salt and Delight – French Entremet Patisserie Shop Opens At Yio Chu Kang appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.