Singapore – DanielFoodDiary.com

”Apa ini Apiary?”

Apiary, pronounced as “eh-pee-er-ee”, is a place where beehives are kept, honey are contained, somewhere to satisfy your sweet cravings (literally) along Neil Road.

There is something comforting to see young entrepreneurs making their lifelong dream a reality in this saturated industry of new F&B openings.

Apiary did remind us of FatCat Ice Cream Bar when it first started out.

Both owners Travis and Brian were passionate in their crafts. The latter, having experience with 2 existing cafes in the west, namely, Archipelago Creamery and Pits & Pans – both at Jurong West.

The cosy hideout would probably attract the hipsters.

A Kinfolk-type interior with white walls, woody element and window ceilings with natural lighting for #OOTD shots.

The menu is kept simple at the moment, with Ice Cream ($3.80 for single/ $7.20 for double/ $10 for triple), Waffles ($4.50 for plain/ $5.50 for charcoal), Tarts ($6), Coffee and Tea.

Coffee was prepared using The Apiary Blend which consisted of Brazil Fazenda Rodomunho, Naturals and El Salvador with a nutty, chocolatey tone and hint of honey, which was in sync with the term “Apiary”.

Here, we saw interesting ice cream flavours such as Despicable – reminded us of “Minions” (Banana, Walnut and brownies), Hojicha (roasted matcha), Bergamot Sorbet (a citrus fruit) and White Peach Sorbet.

Premium flavours are priced at an additional $0.70 and cone at an additional $1.

We had the Charcoal Waffle ($5.50) with a scoop of Thai Milk Tea and Thai Green Tea ice cream.

Looks and sounds aroi mak mak?

Unfortunately, the two flavours were as sweet as their name – Apiary. The saving grace was their smooth and creamy texture.

The charcoal waffle was a tad dry and cakey, and would need some work to get it perfect.

The sesame flavour was worth a mention. Grainy texture with a rich and robust sesame taste was delightful.

On the other hand, the white peach sorbet was pleasing on the palate with its refreshing and memorable taste.

New on its menu is Nutella topping with additional $1. While this should provide some photogenic Instagram moments, be aware of sugar overload.

While tasting from several ice cream shops across the island, we came to realise that customers nearer town and CBD would generally prefer desserts which are less sweet.

This is perhaps what Apiary can take note of as they are doing their fine-tuning.

Apiary
84 Neil Road, Singapore 088844
Opening Hours: 12pm – 10pm (Sun-Thu), 12pm – 1am (Fri-Sat)
https://www.facebook.com/apiary.sg/

* Written by Nicholas Tan @stormscape. Visit his instagram for all things [NEW].

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

Within 5 months after opening Ninja Bowl, the smooth-talking owner Darren Wee who happens to be former Power 98FM DJ, has opened his 4th F&B outlet.

That is some Ninja speed!

His Astronaut Group has gone on a roll, from Chillax Café (Serangoon Gardens), Babette (Tyrwhitt Road), Ninja Bowl (Duxton Road), to the current Ninja Cut.

A suggestion: How about Ninja Van next? (Think only guys who been through army will get this.)

Is Ninja Cut another Fruit Ninja game that requires you to swipe, slice and cut the fruits?

Oh, we only see people swiping their phones these days to throw Pokeballs instead. (All right, pardon this.)

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.

Priced between $14 and $18, additional top up is available at $2 for Ninja Rice, Soba or Garden Greens, and $3 for Quinoa.

Apart from bowls, all day brunch is available.

We spotted some interesting items such as Oceans of Mentaiko ($18) with Hokkaido scallops, New Zealand mussels and prawns and Marvellous Matcha ($16).

The Waikiki Surf ($16), which means surfing in fresh water in the Hawaiian language, came with yuzu marinated salmon poke, aburi avocado, cherry tomatoes, sakura ebi and onsen egg which is present in all the bowls.

While the generous chunks of salmon poke were fresh, bouncy and citrusy (from the yuzu marinate), the sakura ebi reminded us of hae bee hiam (dried shrimps) with a delicate spicy kick, also well balanced.

Being matcha lovers, we could not give the Marvellous Matcha ($16) a miss.

This Marvellous Matcha was filled with a green tea fondant, baked to a crisp at 200 degrees Celsius, then topped with a dollop of ricotta cheese and adorned with pretty edible flowers, shortbread crumble and homemade dango.

As the dish is created to order, it has a 15 to 20-minute waiting time.

The dessert reminded us of the Matcha Lava Cake from Babette.

Except that this is “upsized” – Matcha Lava Cake transformed into a Matcha “hotcake”.

And yesssss, it oozed like a lava cake.

While the crumble gave an additional crunch, what we loved was the yuzu peel for the refreshing taste, and the overall combination was not too jelak (rich).

Just a suggestion, the dango (Japanese rice flour ball) was pretty tough like atap seeds, perhaps a softer one would fit better?

Even though we were more or less impressed with the dishes there, and intrigued with the Pomegranate Oolong ($7) and Raspberry Nectar ($7) under the Tea section, we couldn’t hide our disappointment when we saw the cup with the tea bag.

Perhaps serving in a tea pot to keep the tea warm?

Using Ninja Bowl as an ‘experiment ground’ probably did well for the group – the food and presentation at Ninja Cut did make the cut. A Ninja Slash next?

Ninja Cut
32 Seah Street, Singapore 188388
Opening Hours: 9.30am – 7.30pm (Mon – Fri), 9am – 6pm (Sat-Sun)
https://www.facebook.com/TheNinjaCut/

* Written by Nicholas Tan @stormscape. Visit his instagram for all things [NEW].

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Night time, this space along Tan Quee Lan Street is Joo Bar – a modern Korean food bar.

A change has come up recently. Day time, Juju Coffee takes over, providing those in the vicinity with a space to chill out over cuppa.

In rental expensive Singapore, this day-night concept has worked well for some business partners. Well, provided there is relative level of trust between them.

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).

For coffee drinkers, the barista may look familiar to you, and you might have seen him at Mavrx Coffee Duxton Hill, or ‘guest-starring’ at some other coffee shops.

Talking about trust, I have tried Eugene’s coffee a couple of times, and have a level of confidence in his skills.

Beans from Allpress Espresso is used, with a blend from Guatemala, Brazil, Sumatra and Columbia.

The latte I had was bold, full bodied and what you could describe as “balance in a cup”.

I liked the Cold Brew too, though a friend thought it could be slightly less milky which I agree.

If you need some food, the Almond Croissant prepared by the Antoinette people makes a worthy pair with your coffee.

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

The post Juju Coffee – Day Time Hipster Café, Night Time Korean Food Bar At Bugis appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

You don’t get many of these around anymore. A noodle eatery focusing on just 5 types of nodles, with occasional specials.

NOW Noodles + at Novena Square 2 Level 2 offers Dry Laksa, Dry Mee Siam, Fried Mee Tai Mak with Century Egg, Heng Hwa Noodle Soup and Vegetarian Mee Goreng.

All at $9.80. No service charge. No GST.

Get a trace of home-style cooking, as though your mum prepared this for you, with many ingredients such as the rempah made from scratch.

Hard to find such places now, as many F&B would rather pick the easier-way-out with ready-made-pastes. But cannot blame them. Every new business owner will have to weigh that priority.

First timers to Novena Square 2 would probably need to navigate a maze before finding this location. But it is all fine – some indie, amazing buys around.

My friend quipped, ”All the servers here go to gym one, is it?” I suppose a good enough reason to keep the OLs coming. #justsaying

Many of my blogger friends from MissTamChiak, Camemberu and SgFoodOnFoot have gave a thumbs up to the Fried Mee Tai Mak with Century Egg.

Special. I don’t remember seeing this dish around elsewhere.

The ‘mouse noodles’ were fried with home-made belacan and generous proportion of century egg. The spiciness was really quite something, and reminded me of what my grandma would cook for a Sunday afternoon feast.

Just a minor comment: overall, I felt quite ‘heaty’ after the dish. Which will bring to my next point.
Both the Dry Laksa and Dry Mee Siam were worthy to try, especially the later which had that taste of the mee siam sold at the swimming pool canteen. Those were the days.

For the Dry Mee Siam, there were touches of spiciness and tanginess, without that overpowering taste. Evenly coated, a trace of wok hei.

On the note of ‘heatiness’, I thought that the bean sprouts on the Dry Laksa were overcooked, and lacked that juicy crunch. (Like how a plate of Pad Thai would have fresh sprouts and spring onions to balance the whole dish.)

Then I realised the entire menu might have lacked of some cooling elements… more vegetables incorporated, some salads as side (maybe achar?), homemade drinks such as lemongrass, barley or wintermelon.

All in all, the Heng Hwa Noodle Soup turned out to be my favourite, surprisingly.

Tender chicken, delicious mee sua which absorbed some of the broth, and a light yet flavoursome soup base.

NOW Noodles +
Novena Square 2 #02-65, 10 Sinaran Drive Singapore 307506
Tel: +65 6251 0177
Opening Hours: 11am – 9pm Daily

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

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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.

All in less than 4 years. (Remembering those days when I first blogged about Teppei and there was NO QUEUE, yet.)

The next concept in line is… *drum roll* Man Man Japanese Unagi Restaurant at Keong Saik Road.

After looking at our magic ball (just kidding), it is not hard to predict that queues are likely to form at this unagi specialty shop.

The funny thing is, Owner-Chef Teppei Yamashita didn’t exactly enjoy Unagi in the first place.

However, when he tried Head Chef Nakagawa’s fresh charcoal grilled Unagi, he was touched (cue tears of joy) and wanted Singaporeans to enjoy this high quality Japanese dish.

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.

The team from Man Man believes that this is one of the most affordable, if not the cheapest place in Singapore to enjoy Japanese imported Unagi.

The Unagi supply comes solely from the Mikawa Isshiki region, famous for supplying high quality freshwater eel.

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 verdict, according to my dining partner is “Very, very oishii ne!” Perfectly char-grilled unagi, matched with top-grade rice, and tantalising sauces. No fishy taste too!

There are 3 sauces to choose from – sweet, normal (the same sauce they use to grill the eels) and spicy.

Aishiteru. The tamago was also done oh-so-right, soft, fluffy, not over-cooked, almost like eating sponge cake.

You can be assured of freshness at Man Man where a tank is used to house the eels. So straight from the tank, to a live demonstration of nailing the eel, removing the intestines, skewering to grilling the pieces.

Skillful act. But don’t faint when you see blood.

There are three recommended steps to enjoy the don. First, you can enjoy Unagi itself with rice. Secondly, include the spices. Lastly, pour the dashi stock over the bowl.

As an additional note, the outside looks conducive for queuing. Haha.

I would recommend bringing umbrella, water and a portable fan. And you cannot be Man Man (try saying in Hokkien) about it. Just saying.

Man Man is scheduled to open mid-October (12th October). Look out here for the official opening date. We will queue and update this entry again.)

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), Closed Sun, PH

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

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Are you looking for the perfect night out with a) good food, b) lovely ambience, c) attentive service, coupled with a value-for-money promotion? [Check out the the promo at the end of the post.]

Female friends often ask me for suggestions for a “Girls’ Night Out” but hey, why are the guys excluded? Just joking, I do tag along SOMETIMES.

The additional criteria is that it shouldn’t be impossible to get to, with food that can keep the whole group happy. You can just imagine the long list of options we have in our chat groups.

The Lighthouse Restaurant & Rooftop Bar at The Fullerton Hotel has always been one of their favourite choices.

If you have not been there yet, the view is particularly breathtaking. Pardon the cheesiness, but it literally “Takes my breath away…”

You get an unobstructed panoramic view of the Marina Bay and the city skyline. On one side, you can observe the hustle-bustle of the CBD from afar; and on another, the iconic Singapore Flyer and Marina Bay Sands landmarks.

Did you know that The Lighthouse Restaurant & Rooftop Bar is located at the apex, the very same location where lighthouse keepers used to guide ships during historical days?

Just amazing to know that we are standing at the exact location.

Tip 1: Come right after work (assuming normal office hours), and you can just bask in the beauty of the golden hour, or in photography terms we call it the ‘magic hour’ where the skies translate into beautiful hues of purple, blue and orange.

Tip 2: Do not miss the nightly Marina Bay Light Show.

The Lighthouse Restaurant features authentic Southern Italian cuisine, prepared by Chef Carlo Marengoni with specialties and quality produce from Campania, Sardinia and Sicily.

The Rooftop Bar offers Stuzzichini (antipasti), Formaggi (selection of Italian cheeses with Chef’s Recommended Condiment) and Dolci (desserts), along with Prosecco Cocktails, Wine, Champagne and Lighthouse ‘Wonders’ – some of their own mixes.

Our group’s favourite was the Fritto Misto ($29), made of Crispy Fried Seafood with Smoked Pepper Sauce.

Who could resist a plate of mixed fry – deep fried calamari, prawns and whitebait coated in light, crispy batter dipped in house-made spicy sauce?

The Patatine Tartufate ($16) Truffles Aroma French Fries was also one of the first dishes to be cleared.

These chunky thick cut fries made of fluffy potatoes were lightly seasoned, drizzled with aromatic truffle, and so, so addictive. We couldn’t stop our fingers from reaching out.

A selection of Bruschetta is also available.

Other than classical Bruschetta ($16) topped with Tuscan tomatoes, oregano and garlic, options include Bruschetta Lardo E Rosmarino ($18) with garlic, rosemary, thin-sliced lard, and Bruschetta Burrata E Prosciutto ($23) with burrata cheese and cured ham.

My favourite was the Burrata E Prosciutto ($23) with soft burrata cheese and parma ham on toast marinated with basil, salt and olive oil.

All in all, we had a jolly good time sharing stories (and secrets) over Italian bar bites and drinks, with a view to beat. Quite amazing actually.

The Lighthouse Rooftop Bar
1 Fullerton Square, The Fullerton Hotel Singapore 049178
Opening Hours: 5:30pm – 11pm (Mon – Sun)
Click here for more details

HSBC Credit Card Promotion
Exclusively for HSBC credit cardholders, enjoy 15% off the Stuzzichini and Aperitivi menu at The Lighthouse Rooftop Bar.

The Bruschetta, Patatine Tartufate, Fritto Misto and Formaggi at discounted rates would just mean… order more food!

You can also get 15% off with your HSBC credit card at these other great bars, perfect for an unforgettable night out or a catch up with friends:
1. Fabrika at Klapsons Boutique Hotel
3. Post Bar– The Fullerton
4. Lantern – The Fullerton
5. Hombre Cantina – at Boat Quay
6. The Landing Point – The Fullerton

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

Terms & Conditions: The Offers are valid from 1 October to 30 November 2016. The Offers are for dine-in only, unless stated otherwise. Offers are valid for up to 8 persons per reservation. Prior reservation is required and subject to availability.

* This post is brought to you by HSBC Credit Cards

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Salted egg Mookata? Mookata, the traditional DIY Thai- style BBQ steamboat using a dome-shaped grill surrounded by a steamboat moat, continues to be popular among Singaporeans.

The Jus Delish Group, with existing Thai F&Bs such as Som Tam and Gin Khao, has opened a Mookata buffet concept at Orchard Central Level 8 (same floor as Som Tam). Wah, make big money already.

Talay Kata means “seafood” and “skillet” in Thai respectively.

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

Children aged between 5 and 12 years old will be charged at half the price.

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

Seasonal items include Kurobuta pork from Japan and Grade 5 marbled beef, are occasionally available at no additional cost.

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

The Salted Egg soup base is prepared using Salted Egg, Seafood Broth, Whipping Cream and Special Thai Herbs to create a savory and not too overwhelming taste.

So, it is really possible to have all Salted Egg Prawn, Salted Egg Crab, Salted Egg Crayfish after dipping the food items in the broth.

But, it is probably time to watch those calories, cholesterol levels, and expanding waistlines.

For those of you already-over with your relationships with Salted Egg, Chicken, Tom Yum and Bonito soup bases are also offered.

Apart from seafood, the usual meat selection consists of Chicken, Pork Jowl, Pork Belly, Beef and Salmon, which can get a little tough and chewy.

We would probably stick to the Talay (Seafood), especially the Crayfish and Scallops that shrunk and shriveled up within a minute on the heated skillet.

Aroi mak mak, soft and bouncy.

What we liked here is the selection of sauces and dips that reminded us of Hai Di Lao, though not with as many options.

Green Seafood sauce, Sukiyaki sauce, Peanut Sesame sauce, Sweet Chili sauce for dipping if the seasoning of the meat is too bland.

Seems like the Salted Egg trend is not over yet, with many different variations everywhere.

So Salted Egg fans, Mai Tu Liao!

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)
https://www.facebook.com/talaykata/

* Written by Nicholas Tan @stormscape. Visit his instagram for all things [NEW].

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Any 2 claypot specialties at Pan Pacific Singapore’s Hai Tien Lo for only $33.30? That is a steal.

Executive Chef Lai Tong Ping from Hai Tien Lo has curated 30 signature claypot delicacies – ie the best of the best, all in conjunction with the celebration of Pan Pacific Singapore’s 30th anniversary.

This promotion is available during dinner from Sundays to Wednesdays. (Usual price $22 to $28 per claypot.)

Claypot dishes have always been considered comforting food for me, a combination of hot sizzling goodness, and appetising comfort food that lies below that cover.

I would wait for THAT moment when the lid be lifted off, and the steam and aroma would follow through.

That is the beauty of claypot food.

This is also a great opportunity for family and friends to bond and share over a heart-warming dinner.

Here are some 5 tips to consider when dining at Hai Tien Lo for the Claypot Specialties Promotion:
1. Divide and conquer. When going in a big group, each person would pick his/her favourite. If there are duplicates, opt the second best.

2. For the meat lovers, the top 3 choices are the succulent Beef with Asparagus in Honey Pepper Sauce, Chicken with Pine Mushrooms in Szechuan Dried Chilli, and the tender Pork Shoulder with Bitter Gourd in Black Bean Sauce.

3. For the seafood lovers, go for the flavourful Grouper Fillet with Vermicelli in Chef’s Signature Homemade XO Chilli Sauce, Prawns with Aubergine and Salted Fish, and Nyonya Claypot Prawns with Superior Soya Sauce and Chilli.

4. If you are going for value-for-money (since they are all priced the same), then pick the expensive-sounding ones – Roasted Duck with Sea Cucumber in Abalone Sauce, Vermicelli with Scallops and Aubergine.

5. This, you must. Quote “DanielFoodDiary” when making reservations for the Sizzling Claypot promotion, and you enjoy one complimentary beverage per guest. Valid until 30 November 2016.

This includes house red or white wine, soft drink, juice, or Chinese tea. Good deal!

Here are some of our 10 favourites claypot dishes:

Claypot Grouper Fillet with Vermicelli in Chef’s Signature Homemade XO Chilli Sauce 醬皇斑片粉丝煲
The females on the table ALL liked this dish. “So nua, so hua… the tang hoon”. Those were expressions of “oh-lah-lah” as though they found the newest anti-aging product.

What they meant was the glass vermicelli was so silky-smooth that it melted in the mouth. I must agree the texture was not quite like the typical quality, soft and not clumpy, and an immense pleasure to savour as the strands absorbed the flavours of the XO chilli sauce.

Claypot Pork Shoulder with Bitter Gourd in Black Bean Sauce 鼓味涼瓜爽肉煲
While this claypot dish of pork shoulder slices fried with bitter gourd would seldom make it on the Instagram-worthy feed (the colour, bittergourd), it turned out to be one of the table’s favourite.

Perhaps it had something to do with that home-cooked sensation, and that the pork was succulent, and bittergourd sliced thinly so you get a mellower, less bitter taste.

Nyonya Claypot Prawns with Superior Soya Sauce and Chilli 惹味甘香生虾煲
When I go for claypot food, I want sauce.

I liked the gooey, eggy touch, plus a balance of sweet, savoury and spiciness to this Nyonya-inspired sauce. If you liked home-style dishes to accompany plain rice (additional $1.80 per bowl), go for this.

Claypot Prawns with Aubergine and Salted Fish 咸魚虾仁茄子煲
There is something about how the aubergine is cooked here – velvety soft, yet not mushy.

The prawns were chunky and crunchy, though I reckon some diners would have preferred if the shells came off more easily. Otherwise, just eat the prawns with the shells.

Claypot Roasted Duck with Sea Cucumber in Abalone Sauce 鲍汁海参火鸭煲
The value-for-money dish.

Hey, this is Roasted Duck (glistening above AND below Sea Cucumber (below absorbing the sauce) in the same claypot for this price.

The Roasted Duck with all succulence and tenderness would be worth its buck already. I was personally indifferent towards the Sea Cucumber though.

Claypot Bean Curd with Minced Beef in Szechuan Spicy Chilli Sauce 牛松麻婆豆腐煲
This is better known as “Ma Po Tofu” – the quintessential Sichuan classic of Chinese tofu stir-fried with spicy bean paste and ground pork.

Perhaps to cater to a larger audience, the sweetish base lacked of that fiery punch that I was familiar with.

Claypot Chicken with Pine Mushrooms in Szechuan Dried Chilli 川椒松菇嫩鸡煲
Like a cross between Kung Pao Chicken and La Zi Ji (Sichuan-style chicken with chillies), this Claypot Chicken dish contained the sauciness of the former, and spiciness (still mild for me) of the later.

Claypot Beef with Asparagus in Honey Pepper Sauce 蜜椒牛肉蘆筍煲
Also one of my favourites. Think it had something to do with slowly chewy and sucking (sorry, couldn’t find a more appropriate word) off the juices from of the tender beef slices coated with a sweet-honey, mildly peppery sauce.

Claypot Homemade Bean Curd with Pork Belly and Chinese Mushrooms 北菇火腩豆腐煲
Looked deceptively simple. The magic was in the delicate-softness of the homemade tofu that just disintegrated in the mouth. Have to try to believe.

Claypot Stewed Rice with Diced Duck Meat in Oyster Sauce 鸭粒福建烩饭煲
If you need your carbs to fill you up. This is not the typical dark soya sauce claypot rice, but stewed and therefore more moist and fluffy.

There you have it. Select any two claypot specialties at Hai Tien Lo for only $33.30 during dinner from Sundays to Wednesdays.

Restaurant quality food, home-styled comfort.

Terms and conditions:
– Two Claypot items at $33.30 (Usual price from $22 to $28 per claypot.)
– Promotion is only valid at Hai Tien Lo from Sundays to Wednesdays during dinner from 6:30pm to 10:30pm.
– Promotion is not valid on eve and day of public holidays as well as other special occasions determined by the hotel, unless otherwise stated.
– All prices are subject to 10% service charge and 7% GST, unless otherwise stated.

Hai Tien Lo (30 Claypot Specialties Promotion)
Pan Pacific Singapore, Level 3, 7 Raffles Blvd., Marina Square, Singapore 039595
Promotion Time: 6:30pm to 10:30pm (Sun – Wed)

Dining Reservations: Tel +65 6826 8240
Reserve Online Now – Hai Tien Lo
Email: celebrate.sin@panpacific.com
Website: www.panpacific.com/singapore

(Quote “DanielFoodDiary” during reservations to enjoy one complimentary beverage per guest. Valid for bookings for Claypot promotion during dinner from Sundays to Wednesdays until 30 November 2016. Terms and conditions apply.)

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

The post Hai Tien Lo at Pan Pacific Singapore – Sizzling Claypot Goodness, ANY 2 Dishes For $33.30! appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

Wah, “The #1 Wings in America”. Wingstop known for its buffalo wings sauced and tossed in different flavours, has opened a NEW branch at Vivocity. They are Halal-certified.

This is its 3rd outlet in Singapore after Bedok Mall and City Square Mall.

Here’s what you can look forward into: wings in a choice of 12 delicious, intense flavors including Original Hot, Cajun, Atomic, Teriyaki, Lemon Pepper, Hawaiian, Garlic Parmesan, Hickory Smoked BBQ, Louisiana Rub, Mango Habanero, Kecap Manis and Oriental Soy Pepper.

AND… a Coca-Cola Freestyle dispenser. Wingstop is probably the first quick service restaurant to have it in Singapore. More on that later.

Here are 10 reasons why you will like Wingstop:

Cooked To Order
The star of the stop, the signature Wings (6 pieces combo for $10.95) are cooked to order, sauced, tossed and served with a variety of house-made sides including Wingstop’s award winning hand-cut seasoned fries.

12 Flavours
The top-selling flavours include Louisiana Rub, Garlic Parmesan, Hickory Smoked BBQ.

A new personal favourite is the local edition Kecep Manis flavour. This is an Indonesian spicy-sweetened soy sauce, thick and syrupy in consistency, made with a unique spicy kick towards the end.

The females at the table gave a vote for the Lemon Pepper with had a distinct tangy zest, Teriyaki for its sweet-sauciness, and Oriental Soy Pepper which was almost like having wings at a zhi char stall.

Atomic For The Spice Lovers
If you are up to the challenge, try the Atomic which may set your tongue (plus lips) on fire.

A friend who couldn’t really take spicy food decided to go for it, felt the burn, gave up and teared after 2 bites, ”It really only KICKS IN after 10 seconds!“

My take: too spicy for me when eaten fresh out and hot (try it with NO water first), but worth to take a challenge (you can mix 2 flavours anyway).

At Least 2 Flavours
The good thing is, even when you order the 6 piece ($10.95 for combo), or 8 piece ($12.95 for combo), you get to choose 2 different flavours.

I further learnt that it doesn’t have to be split 3-3. 4-2, 5-1 are also fine.

That is when you can decide to have ONE Atomic chicken.

Boneless and Tender
For the, well… lazier people who do not want to tidy your fingers, Boneless and Crispy Tender versions are also available.

Mushroom Fritters
These Mushroom Fritters ($5.95) were CRAZY GOOD. White, fresh button mushrooms deep fried to a crisp. Amazingly, they were light and fluffy on the outside, and still juicy on the inside after bring left there alone for a while.

Recommendation: Dip with the honey mustard sauce.

Warning: These are VERY addictive.

Jalapeno Cheese Fries
Hand-cut fries, cooked to order, and the cheese sauce was the-yums. Again, perhaps eat these fast, otherwise the fries would turn soggy quick.

Wing Burger
Get the Terikayi Wing Burger ($9.95 with fries and soda).

Okay, while the bun was nothing to shout about, the entire combination of moist and tender meat, slathered in sauce and mayo, and sandwiched between soft buns, made a satisfying fuss-free meal.

(Note: While this is called Wing Burger, it is not exactly a wing inside.)

Rice Box
For those who want a more Asian take, Rice Box with Wings or Tenders ($9.95 for combo) is served with coleslaw.

Coca-Cola Freestyle Machine
Wingstop is probably the first quick service restaurant in Singapore to have a Coca-Cola Freestyle Machine.

This touchscreen-operated dispenser allows you to choose from more than 80 different beverages! Almost 70 of these drinks are new to the market. You can even mix and match to your liking.

Cherry Vanilla Coca Cola, Fanta Cherry, Strawberry Sprite Zero, Lemon Tonic Schweppes… really anything goes.

This, I haven’t drank in a while. Coca-Cola Vanilla.

Special Promo: One For One Combo
Wingstop Vivocity is having an Opening Special. Buy one combo, get another combo at 50% off. Till 22nd Oct, applicable to individual combos only.

Take 5
This is for real. This Saturday 8th October 11am – 3pm, fans will be able to get 5 FREE WINGS and a cup of Coca-Cola freestyle drink at Wingstop Vivocity! No purchase needed.

Don’t say bojio!

Wingstop Singapore
VivoCity #02-143, 1 Harbourfront Walk, Singapore 098585
Opening Hours: 11:00am – 10:00pm (Mon – Fri), 10:30am – 10:00pm

Other branches:
Bedok Mall #B1-53
City Square Mall #B1-33/34/K15
Suntec City #B1-108 (Opening Soon)

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

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Thai noodle places in Singapore DO NOT escape my eyes. 55555. Kin Cow has opened at Chinatown Point Level 2.

This is for fans who love traditional kuay teow neua or Thai Beef Noodles, together with premium, imported beef from Australia and the US. (Related: 7 Best Thai Boat Noodles In Singapore)

“‘Kin Khao’”, means “eat rice” in Thai, also a commonly used Thai expression to imply “to eat”. “Kin Cow” is a clever play of the words, to “eat cow”.

Accordingly, this is an ‘off-spring’ of Sud Yod Kuay Teow Reua with 6 outlets in Thailand. So instead of a shanty roadside shop, you get to eat your Thai Beef Noodles in air-conditioned comfort.

It is said to use a recipe which has been passed down through many generations.

Here’s how Kin Cow work. The bowls are priced according to the cuts you choose: Brisket ($10.90), Short Rib ($12.90), Sirloin ($14.90), Ribeye ($17.90), Wagyu ($22.90) and an additional Beef Ball Bowls ($10.90).

All the bowls come with additional of beef balls, and a choice of rice or noodles, soup or dry style.

The carbs include Thai Thin Rice Noodles (Kway Teow Sen Lek), Glass Noodles (Woon Sen), Mee Rice Noodles (Sen Mee), Chinese Egg Noodles (Mee Kia) and Thai Jasmine Rice.

I had the Sirloin Bowl ($14.90) and generally liked the robustness of the soup base, without being too oily. A light touch of ‘herb-iness, clean and flavoursome.

Even though pig’s blood is not allowed in Singapore, the shop managed to bring out 80% of that taste. Beef Balls, almost on point.

However, the egg noodles used didn’t feel ‘right’ – not the typical Thai style, and could have been cooked more springy.

The beef was thinly sliced. Pros and cons. If cooked right, you would appreciate the tenderness without the beefiness being too heavy on the palate.

However, without the right experience, beef could easily be over-cooked.

I noted that my slices stuck to a clump. Pull a slice up, and the rest would follow. The neighbouring table experienced the same.

All in all, great soup base. I would definitely return again. And I reckon they could get the crowd coming in if they could improve on the finer details.

Kin Cow
Chinatown Point #02-34 Singapore 059413
Opening Hours: 11:30am – 3:00pm Last Order 2:30pm, 6:00pm – 10:00pm Last Order 9:00pm (Tues – Fri), 11:30am – 10:00pm Last Order 9:00pm (Sat – Sun), Closed Mon

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

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Italian chocolate and gelato brand Venchi opens another outlet at Marina Bay Sands. The other branch is at Takashimaya basement Ngee Ann City.

Venchi is said to avoid industrial bases when producing their ice-cream, using fresh ingredients and quality fruits and chocolate.

One of the ways to look out for good gelato is when the colour is more natural, closer to the ingredients used. Not artificially and vividly coloured.

I couldn’t help but notice the price was quite steep (yes, I know this is MBS) – $8.90 for a regular cup, $10.50 for a large cup, $49.50 for a 1kg take away.

Whipped cream and grains at additional $1.

Flavours supposedly including Cuor Di Cacao, Hazelnut, Pistachio, Azteco, Cremino Venchi, Lemon, Cappuccino, Strawberries and Vanilla.

However, there was only Dark Chocolate and Lemon left (wah, business so good?) so I couldn’t try more.

Dark Chocolate was still deep, slightly bitter and intensely flavoured, one of the better ones around. Lemon was all right (could be less icy) and was a suitable contrast.

Also, serving size was smaller than usual.

So loved the taste, not so over the moon with the price and portion.

Venchi Singapore
Marina Bay Sands Unit B2 – K015, The Shopper N.2 Bayfront Avenue Singapore 018972 (near Toast Box, Din Tai Fung, The Skating Rink side)
Opening Hours: 11:00am – 11:00pm (Sun – Thurs), 11:00am – 11:30pm (Fri – Sat)

Other outlet:
Takashimaya Basement 2, 391 Orchard Road, Singapore 238873
Opening Hours: 10am – 10pm

The post Venchi – Italian Chocolates And Gelato At Marina Bay Sands appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

Diners unfamiliar with this brand might have difficulty pronouncing this café-bistro’s name initially – SPRMRKT.

It represents a “supermarket”, a concept that supposedly merges food, retail and art in a single space.

SPRMRKT (from McCallum Street) has opened both SPRMRKT Daily (Level 1) and SPRMRKT Kitchen & Bar (Level 2) concepts at Robertson Quay, sharing the same building as the Singapore Tyler Print Institute STPI.

The café downstairs has the chill-vibes. Get some brunch items and cafes, and choose to eat alfresco-dining style by the… well… river in the distance.

As observed, the locals stayed indoors for air-con comfort, while the ang mohs loved the outdoorsy vibes.

I tried both tables during two separate visits. The outside was cooling enough, and you could do some people-watching.

Contrastingly, I found the lower stools inside not overly comfortable to sit long, but there were artisanal produce and home ware by local suppliers right in front that could tempt you to buy them.

The menu consisted sections of All Day Breakfast, Salads, Soups, Fish & Meat, Wraps and Burgers, Pastas and Sides.

The brunch items do not depart too far away from the typical – The English Breakfast of two eggs any style and other ingredients ($25), Sausages and Mash ($17), Eggs Benedict, Granola & Fruit ($12) and Oven Baked Eggs ($21).

Mains included Blackened Fish and Chips ($18), Slow Braised Lamb Shank ($26), Grilled Atlantic Salmon ($24), Sous-Vide Cooked Chicken Breast with Bacon ($20), Twice Cooked Baby Back Ribs ($22), and Steak and Fries ($28).

Why are ‘black-fishes’ appearing in so many places? I don’t get it.

Instead of charcoal, SPRMRKT used squid ink in the batter, though I am not sure how this colour would actually elevate the taste. Accompanying sweet potato fries were the-yums.

I like the recommended Pulled Pork Burger ($18). It was a good-fun size that didn’t get overly messy. The mixture of hickory smoked BBQ sauce and sweetness of pickled beets gave that additional layered taste. Buns were soft too.

Oven Baked Eggs ($21) were not too bad, cooked using a home-made tomato sauce. I wished there was more of that tanginess and thicker consistency though.

Coffee is from Nylon Coffee Roasters, while tea is from Smitten Specialty Tea.

I do not expect the ‘trend-setters’ springing up here any time soon, as the menu may be too safe and predictable for their liking.

Otherwise, vibes were lovely. And hey, SPRMRKT Daily opens from 7am to 11pm daily. Not difficult to find somewhere that opens such long hours.

SPRMRKT Daily
Singapore Tyler Print Institute #01-01, 41 Robertson Quay Singapore 238236
Tel: +65 9736 4032.
Opening Hours: 7am – 11pm (Mon-Sun)

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While there are already many cafés along the Orchard Road belt, my friends still ask the same-old questions of, “Where to go for coffee in town ah?”

That means, exclude the usual mass market brands.

D’Good Café was my recommendation, and it turned out to be not too bad a choice.

Regular café-hoppers should be familiar with the brand, established in 2012 at a 2-storey shophouse in Holland Village.

The owner Mike Chin mentioned that the café was born after he “received a blueprint from God to run a coffee business” while he was at a prayer mountain in Seoul.

This blueprint included the idea of a Custom Blend Coffee and recipe for their signature Maple Sea Salt Cheesecake. Wow.

The 65-seater café at Takashimaya S.C., Ngee Ann City houses two concepts – a London Tube and an English Garden. Apart from coffee, the café is dedicated to specialty tea.

I liked the garden-looking exterior with (fake) roses and swing-like chairs on the outside. Good for some mini tai-tai social gatherings. (I used the word “mini” that could loosely imply a number of meanings in this context.)

Food wise, expect mains such as Ling Cod Fish and Chips ($22.00), The Scotch Egg ($13.00) and Poached Fresh Lobster pasta ($22.00), D’Lobster Roll ($22.00), Portobello Eggs Benedict ($14.50) and Maple Sea Salt Cheesecake ($9.00 per slice).

My friends and I generally found the food above the usual ‘town-standard’ (opps).

We liked the Poached Fresh Lobster Pasta, cooked al dente with chunky lobster meat, except a tad oily. The Cod Fish and Chips were lightly battered, moist on the inside, best paired with some of those malt vinegar on the side.

I wished that the bread of the D’Lobster Roll could be softer and more buttery, but overall still an mouth-watering item. We topped up to change the fries into onion rings for an additional $2, and probably the best decision of the meal.

D’Good has also included Deutsch Skillet Pancakes, also known as Dutch Baby pancakes, with both savoury and sweet options.

There were some elements of experimentation and gimmickry – for Instagram, I suppose.

There was this $15 ($15!) Spiral Galaxy drink. The mocktail is a concoction of green tea and grape juice with glitters. Maybe it will take you to space.

We all thought that the beverage tasted like… Pokka Green Tea! Em, in a good way, I suppose.

As one of the investors to the cafe is actor Chew Chor Meng, MediaCorp artistes supposedly get a discount when they dine here. No wonder we have spotted some celebs having their brunch here.

Some wore shades having their salads (what else), and some still looked gorgeous in person. ”Lao Chio…”, my friend said.

D’Good Café
391 Orchard Road #B1-56 Takashimaya S.C., Ngee Ann City Singapore 238872
Tel: +65 6694 1411
Opening Hours: 10am – 10pm (Mon – Sun)

Holland Village
273 Holland Avenue #02-01/02 Singapore 278992
Tel: +65 6219 9807
Opening Hours: 10am – 10pm (Sun – Thurs), 10am – 11pm (Fri – Sat)

* Daniel’s Food Diary pays for food reviewed unless otherwise stated. I was given a discount the 2nd time I was there when I got recognised. LOL

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It has less than 2 years since we first wrote about Nunsongyee at Burghley Drive (ikr, very far and ulu), one of the first Korean bingsu café in Singapore to serve shaved milk bingsu.

Friends commented that this first Nunsongyee outlet was considered inaccessible. But thereafter, more (I mean countless) Korean bingsu cafes opened everywhere.

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

It seems like Nunsaram is going head-on with Nunsongyee (who started the Korean bingsu craze) by drawing the crowd in the vicinity.

Good news for the night owls. This Serangoon Gardens outlet opens till midnight from Sunday to Thursday, and 2am on Fridays and Saturdays. (Or after Steam Box?)

So shiok to enjoy a bowl of cold desserts in an air-conditioned place after eating at the hot and stuffy Chomp Chomp Food Centre across the street.

Nunsaram 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.

Both the Chestnut Bingsu and Sweet Pumpkin Bingsu caught our attention, flavours that are considered uncommon elsewhere.

The Bingsu desserts are sold in 2 sizes: 645ml ($9.90 – $13.90) and 840ml at an additional $3.

Interestingly, the bingsu bowl are in metallic gold, different from the black ceramics bowls in their main outlet.

More classy, more ‘Korean’ perhaps?

The fine shavings of the Sweet Pumpkin Bingsu ($12.90/ $15.90) are made up of milk, soya milk and yogurt whereas the pumpkin paste is slightly sweetened and smooth.

Ooops, no pouring shot (of additional milk) needed.

Daebak! We enjoyed the combination which complemented well together, well balanced and not overpowering.

Well, we can’t say so for the Choco Bread ($8.90) topped with a scoop of chocolate ice cream, chocolate cream and chocolate sauce.

The toast was plain, dry and tough, which required much chewing. The ice cream also unfortunately tasted similar to other commercial brands out there.

“Tasted like my $1 ice cream kiap-ed with bread, except I could buy quite a few with that price tag”, my friend said.

Let’s just say we will stick to their bingsu selection in future.

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

* Written by Nicholas Tan @stormscape. Visit his instagram for all things [NEW].

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The new cafes at Neil Road are having strange names. There is Apiary which serves ice cream, and Epiphyte.

An epiphyte is a plant that grows harmlessly upon another plant or tree, and this café is conceptualised as an infusion of food, art and nature.

The owners believe that dining becomes a personal affair here, and they try to appeal to the 5 senses. (It is true, there was a light fragrance of jasmine when I entered the shop.)

There is an indoor vertical garden (lovely orchids I must say) and art pieces from the co-owner’s personal collection.

Fitting to the theme. Swee.

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.

Though I am not a rum person, the dessert really only worked when the alcohol was added, giving that overall combination that extra flavour and depth.

I initially thought that the separate components didn’t gel together than well, both texturally (maybe too dry) and taste wise.

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, this was probably one of the best versions of “Galaxy Cake I had in Singapore.

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

With that said, the bakes are promising and can ‘fight’ with some of the bigger players in Singapore..

The Chicken with Indonesian Spices ($21) is the best-selling main so-far. Two cooking methods are involved, braising and then roasting, for a tender inside with crisped skin. The accompanying sambal verde is made from scratch.

This Pink Risotto ($22) would be a head-turner, though I recall nearby Initaly had a similar version, but in a brighter pink.

No added colourings. Just beetroot.

I liked the consistency and creaminess of the risotto, though the scallops could be to the saltier side.

Epiphyte is a promising bistro-café, both in terms of dessert and savoury offerings. I wished they could have worked that garden-theme further, to incorporate that element more into their mains.

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)

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

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Isn’t this Karafuru Desserts? The one with colourful éclairs and chio (pretty-looking) yogurt parfaits?

After closing for half a year, the team is back with a new management and a new direction. (Remember one period of time when Éclairs were quite IN?)

The café is also in the process of applying for Halal certification, so that Muslim friends will be able to enjoy these desserts soon.

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.

It seems like yesterday when I first stepped into the space that was occupied by Karafuru Desserts, with an almost intact interior.

Clean, white, minimalist, sounds like an ‘Instagram heaven’.

I think they will get this question often: So what’s the difference between Karafuru Desserts and Kumoya?

While the former focused more on Japanese inspired eclairs and yogurt parfaits, Kumoya offered both Sweet & Savory Pancakes in addition to their previous offerings.

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

Additional $0.50 will be charged for a takeaway box.

There are no more alcoholic eclairs (due to the pending Halal certification), and smaller sized eclairs are available at a wallet-friendly price.

Good for café hoppers who want to try more flavours.

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

The Yuzu and Passionfruit combination, on the other hand, was more citrusy and refreshing.

While the Yogurt Parfaits: Matcha ($15.90), Yuzu ($15.90), Sakura ($14.90) and Hazelnut ($14.90) may seem all familiar with similar toppings, the sauce is stronger, more pronounced and a tad sweeter now.

I personally found the previous incarnation too light (since they are Japanese inspired) in taste and preferred this version more though.

We appreciate the idea of having savory items here, after all, sweet food can be somewhat jelat (Rich) after awhile.

Pancakes come in both savory and sweet options, which has a striking resemblance to those at Faculty of Caffeine in Johor Bahru.

For something more filling other than desserts, there are Savory Pancakes that come in the form of Tempura Soft Shell Crab ($17.90), Karaage Chicken ($16.90) and Breakfast ($18.90) with turkey bacon, sauteed mushrooms and baked beans.

Even though the pancakes were slightly on the bland side, the golden brown crispy soft shell crab dipped in the wasabi mayo sauce for an additional punch was enjoyable.

The Sweet Pancakes were as oishii! They come in 3 flavours: Matcha ($14.90), Chocolate Banana ($14.90) and Tiramisu ($15.90).

The Matcha Pancakes with gao gao (rich) matcha financiers, dango, mizu yokan (red bean paste jelly) was pretty intense, yet without feeling overwhelming.

A significant improvement compared to their previous version.

Will the desserts at Kumoya fly you to the Kumo (clouds)? Ikimashou~

Kumoya
8 Jalan Klapa Singapore 199320
Opening Hours: 12pm – 10pm (Tue-Fri,Sun), 12pm – 10.30pm (Sat), Closed Mon
https://www.facebook.com/kumoyasingapore/

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

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Known for its fantastic view of the CBD and quality contemporary Chinese cuisine Crystal Jade Prestige at Marina Bay Financial Centre (MBFC) has been popular for its corporate lunches, dinner sets and weekend dim sum brunches.

The restaurant has recently refreshed their menu. Good excuse to make a return visit.

Some of the highlights: New specialty creations, recommended dishes from Michelin starred restaurant Crystal Jade Golden Palace, more dim sum items, and a Signature Weekend Brunch.

Here are some 10 things you can try from the NEW menu of Crystal Jade Prestige

Prestige Signature Dim Sum Platter ($10.80 for 4 items)
Let’s start with the dim sum.

Many Chinese restaurants are stepping up their game for more intricate and aesthetically attractive dim sum items, and I think Crystal Jade Prestige got that balance right.

These not only looked delightfully-good (ie instagrammable), taste was not compromised as well.

This basket of four contained Prawn & Carrot Dumpling with Black Truffle, Assorted Mushroom Dumpling, Osmanthus Dumpling with Prawn and Celery, and Water Chestnut Dumpling with Olive and Parsley.

The orange-coloured goldfish-shaped Mushroom Dumpling might remind many of Pokemon’s Magikarp (SO CUTE, I know), and my favourite of the four was the Truffle Dumpling.

Admittedly, it had a combination that I liked – bite of the prawns, crunch of the carrot and the unique savour of truffle. Almost felt as though I was having amuse-bouche from a European restaurant.

The ladies at the table enjoy the Osmanthus Dumpling for that light floral trace.

Steamed Pandan Bun with Green Tea Custard ($6.80 for 4)
My weakness and I will tell you why.

I have always been a fan of liu sha bao, even before its popularity spread in Singapore.

Now, this Crystal Jade Prestige fluffy steamed pandan buns contained MATCHA custard, which would ooze like molten lava. When I took a bite…

”Is there SALTED EGG Yolk?”

Yes, there were traces. Not too much, but enough to elevate the taste. Awesome.

Chilled Organic Tomatoes with Sesame Sauce ($10.80)
I didn’t pay much attention to this starter initially, ”Isn’t it just cherry tomatoes”

That was before I took a bite.

Then I realised that each sweet juicy cherry tomato would arrive with a pleasing burst of fragrant and savoury sesame within.

Don’t be fooled by the simplicity, as each tomato would be hollowed and injected with the special sauce.

Uncontrollably addictive. I finished half the plate alone.

Prestige Pipa Duck ($18 for reg, $28 for half, $48 for whole)
There are two new ducks to the menu – the Classic Pipa Duck and the Prestige Pipa Duck.

Preparation of these ducks were so laborious!

The chef explained that the ducks were first ‘butterflied’ ie wedged between bamboo to allow flavours of the 10-hour homemade spice blend marinate to better penetrate in.

That was not over.

The ducks would then be blanched, basted with golden maltose sugar and vinegar, air-dried for another 10 hours, before roasted to a crisp finish. WAH.

I got to think the effort was worth it. The glowing outer layer was paper-crisp, carrying with it flavours of sweet-saltiness that reminded me of the hoisin sauce used in Peking Ducks.

Between the two, I preferred the Prestige Pipa Duck which was tastier, brushed with additional coat of fermented beancurd sauce before roasting.

If you are torn with decision-making, get the best of both worlds Duo Platter ($48).

Signature Fried Rice ($20 for small, $30 for medium, $40 for large)
Pleasurable, comfort food. Fried rice.

While it seemed like this plate didn’t contain the typical meats or expensive ingredients, there were still ‘treasures’ to be found inside.

Spring onions, egg, finely-chopped salted fish… and chai po aka diced homemade pickled radish.

Stir-Fried Assorted Mushrooms with Basil In Claypot ($22 for small, $33 for medium, $44 for large)
A comforting dish, especially if you liked all sorts of mixed mushroom in a saucy combination.

Coconut Jelly with Fresh Milk in Coconut ($8.80)
A refreshing chilled dessert. After you are done with the sweet cooling fresh milk, you can further dig into the coconut flesh.

I almost thought this contained bird’s nest (but the price should have been a lot higher, LOL), till I realised that slippery ingredient was coconut jelly.

Chilled Yellow Cream Crab in Teochew Style ($11 for 100g)
The new menu has also included a couple of “Michelin Highlights” from its sister restaurant, Crystal Jade Golden Palace which has been awarded a Michelin star in the inaugural Singapore guide.

That is good news for Teochew cuisine lovers, because you will enjoy some of the signatures here.

Chilled Yellow Cream Crab is one of them, where the crustacean would be served the Teochew way – steamed, chilled, served cold, dipped in black vinegar.

Check out that decadent, rich roe. Slurp.

Sugar Coated Yam ($13)
A traditional Teochew dessert dish, where yam sticks are deep fried, coated with caramelised sugar.

Other ‘Michelin-dishes’ include Sautéed Fresh Crab Meat and Egg White ($38 for small, $57 for medium, $76 for large) and Baked Lamb Rack with Red Wine and Black Pepper ($19 per person).

Crystal Jade Prestige has also launched two 6-course Michelin Set Menus at $58 and $68 per person (min 2 persons).

The set menus include the highlights from Michelin-starred Crystal Jade Golden Palace, such as Crackling Suckling Pig Roll with Black Truffle Rice, Prestige Signature Dim Sum Platter and Pan-Fried Angus Beef Fillet.

The Crackling Suckling Pig Roll with Black Truffle Rice is a ‘rice roulade’ 饭卷 ($16.80/pc, $148/half or $288/whole) – a crunchy brown outer layer with plump grains of Japanese short-grain pearl rice densely packed inside.

After eating, you would realise the ‘skin’ is actually suckling pig crackling. The rice was flavourful, cooked with abalone sauce and infused with truffle for that aromatic whiff.

(Jadeite members, DBS/POSB cardmembers and Standard Chartered Bank cardholders enjoy $10 of the Dinner Set Menus. Till 31 Dec 2016. T&C applies.)

Crystal Jade Prestige
8A Marina Boulevard, Marina Bay Financial Centre (Ground Plaza, entrance via lift on ground floor to L2) #02-01, Singapore 018984 (Downtown MRT)
Tel: +65 6509 9493
Opening Hours: 11:30am – 3pm, 6pm – 10:30pm (Mon – Fri), 11am – 3:30pm, 6pm – 10:30pm (Sat, Sun, PH)

Other Related Entries
Crystal Jade Prestige (MBFC)

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

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

I am all for our hawker delicacies moving from humble stalls and shops into swanky commercial malls, provided if they can keep the taste more or less consistent.

Consider this one of the ways to preserve this Singapore food heritage, and for more international diners to know about the local food culture.

Bak Kut Teh is one of those foods which have found relative success, and it is not exaggerating to say there is one new BKT eatery opening up in Singapore every other week.

Ya Hua Bak Kut Teh has its humble beginnings in Outram Park estate, founded by Madam Gwee Peck Hua, with the recipe developed with sister Madam Gwee Guek Hwa.

I do go to both the Havelock Road flagship and Keppel Road branch when I need a Bak Kut Teh fix, when I have supper cravings for the pepper, clear Teochew style soup base matched with tender pork ribs.

The shiokness!

Incidentally, the children of the founders of Outram Park Ya Hua Rou Gu Cha has set up Tuan Yuan Pork Rib Soup at Tiong Bahru, which was actually not too bad an attempt.

Now, as for the restaurant at Raffles City…

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).

As diners, I don’t think we would expect a 100% when it is more mass-produced. At least 70-80% close to the original?

I am not sure if it is an attempt to suit the broth to a larger, more mass audience.

Somehow, the soup base just lacked the ‘oomph’ – not as peppery, not as robust, not as flavourful, just a mild, rather forgettable attempt.

My friend commented that the ribs were not as tender or tender as Song Fa’s, which I unfortunately had to agree at that point of time.

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.

Actually, I still found the Bak Kut Teh overall acceptable, though not as good as the original.

BUT the side dishes pulled the overall experience down.

The Fried Prawn Rolls ($7.80) were starchy in the fillings, deep fried till dry and shrivelled (you can tell from the pictures); and the Steamed Otah ($6.5) somewhat mushy and uninspiring.

So Ya Hua, I love your Bak Kut Teh, but really hope something is done to keep that taste consistent.

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 Eating House
593, Havelock Road #01-01/02, Isetan Office Building, Singapore 169641
Tel: +65 6235 7716
Opening Hours: 11am – 2am (Tues, Thurs), 11am – 3am (Wed, Fri, Sat), 11am – 10pm (Sun), Closed Sun

Outram Ya Hua Rou Gu Cha Restaurant
No 7 Keppel Road #01-05/07, PSA Tanjong Pagar Complex, Singapore 089053
Tel: +65 6222 9610
Opening Hours: 7am – 3am (Tues – Sat), 7am – 1am (Sun), Closed Mon

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

The post Ya Hua Bak Kut Teh – Goes Market At Raffles City and Takashimaya. Hope They Can Keep Standards Consistent appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

Laksa must be one of Singapore’s most iconic hawker food, and “Katong Laksa” has become synonymous with this bowl of spicy rice noodle dish.

Who’s the most original, who’s the real “Katong Laksa”… debatable, but guess it doesn’t really matter that much now.

Laksa fans and foodies in the east would have been familiar with Roxy Laksa located at East Coast Lagoon Food Village.

This “Roxy Laska” is said to be started way back in 1952 as a cart stall outside Roxy Theatre by Mr Lim Bo Seng.

Current owner Mike Lim is a 3rd generation hawker who learnt the heavily-guarded recipe from his father.

There will be two major changes coming up for Roxy Laksa.

First, the stall will relocate from its present spot at East Coast Lagoon Food Village to Timbre+.

Secondly, Mike has officially passed the rope of cooking this iconic dish to local celebrity chef Willin Low of Wild Rocket fame.

Question: Why Willin? (And why not, say, Mr Lim’s children?)

As Mike was planning for succession, his children expressed hat they did not want to take over the stall. Willin who has been a regular at the stall for 2 decades, took up apprenticeship in order to “preserve our hawker heritage”.

Willin will not be the one cooking the laksa at the new stall though. It would still be Mike. They are however, looking at “bigger plans” for Roxy Laksa, while still keeping to the original taste as far as possible.

Roxy Laksa ($4, $5) is cooked with a home-made rempah, added using coconut milk which is squeezed freshly every day, added with fresh sea prawns and not cockles.

”It is so good that you can finish up to the last drop,” Willin quipped.

It is true. I slurped the entire bowl up, till there was almost no gravy left.

Compared to other familiar versions of laksa which could be too coconut-rich, or diluted (yikes), Roxy Laksa somehow managed to get the balance just right. I liked that mouthfeel of the fine ‘sediments’ (could those be pounded dried shrimps) towards the end.

For the modern diner, this does not feel jelak (cloying).

The rice noodles had a good bite and was not starchy.

I look forward to having Roxy Laksa again. Perhaps the next time at its new location at Timbre+.

Roxy Laksa
East Coast Lagoon Food Village, 1220 East Coast Parkway, Singapore 468960
Opening Hours: 10:30am – 9pm (Mon – Fri), 8:30am – 8:30pm (Sat – Sun)
(Operational till end October. After which, the stall will move to Timbre+ first week of November.)

* This bowl of Roxy Laksa was a treat from Willin Low.

The post Roxy Laksa – Relocating From East Coast Lagoon Food Village By End Of The Month appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

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

The dessert which hails from Hong Dae is known to combine the classic Italian Tiramisu and softserve in a single cup.

Here is what the fascination is all about: The ‘tiramisu’ is served in a takeaway golden-rimmed wine glass (looks more class for Instagram), and filled with layers of ingredients.

Mascarpone cheese at the bottom, ice cream, crushed cookies, coffee liquor, cocoa powder, mascarpone, THEN soft serve, MORE cocoa powder and ended with chocolate shavings grated on the spot.

Here’s my take: Not ALL Korean franchisers which come to Singapore naturally do well. And I reckon there is a thing or two to learn from these experiences.

One in particular, had enormously long queues during the 1st two days, but the lines disappeared faster than the hype.

The other seemingly popular dessert kiosk, somewhat had a small initial build-up, but in F&B business… sustainability is more important.

I admittedly didn’t cheong (rushed) down to try the local Kiss The Tiramisu. My other friends did. So I ask, ”How ah?”

Friend 1 said his softserve was already melting even before the sauce was drizzled on. HE HAD TO BUY ANOTHER to photograph. (Things people do for Instagram.)

Friend 2 (a popular Indonesian blogger) mentioned the same, but he didn’t bother to buy the second.

Moral of the story: Not everyone gives the 2nd chance. (But some do lah. I will if I feel for the shop.) In the same way that people remember kisses. The first kiss is SO IMPORTANT.

The first time I had Kiss The Tiramisu was at 35 degree hot Siam Square Bangkok. Twirl was tall and beautiful, could last for 2 to 3 minutes under the hot sun.

The local franchisee explained that in Singapore, they use the same recipe in Korea, meaning to say a high milk content in proportion to the ice cream base powder volume. This would create a milkier texture, but the ice cream may not hold up so well in our weather.

Fast melting softserve aside…

The beauty of Kiss The Tiramisu is definitely not just about the product itself, but the process on how it is made. In Korea, you can kind of observe how it is assembled by energetic staff, which is an experience in itself.

Kiss The Tiramisu Singapore 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.

With no offence intended to either party, I thought the milky-smooth texture reminded me of Milk Cow.

Which reminded me, Honey Creme not too far away at 313 @ Somerset opened to much fan-fare. You must give credit to its PR company back then.

Opening a shop now is not just about getting a good brand. Customers have choices aplenty. Start it right, and start it tall.

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

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

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