The Lobby Lounge @ Frasers House Singapore - Atelier of Tea and Spice Afternoon Tea

Revisiting the lovely Lobby Lounge with its grand chandeliers and soaring ceilings, now reintroduced as Frasers House Singapore, formerly known as the InterContinental Singapore Bugis.

Afternoon Tea Set

Their first themed concept, the Atelier of Tea and Spice Afternoon Tea, carries forward the property’s legacy of elegant hospitality while paying homage to Bugis history as a trading district, thoughtfully weaving tea and spice elements into a refined afternoon experience. This isn’t just a tiered tray of pretty bites. Right from the outset, the menu reads like a conversation between cultures and flavours, where classic European techniques meet Asian influences and spice-led creativity.

Afternoon Tea Set

Priced at $130++ for two on weekdays and $140++ for two on weekends, the three-tiered set features eleven thoughtfully curated items, complemented by free-flow sorbet and gelato from an ice cream trolley, as well as a choice of artisanal tea or coffee for each guest.

Savouries Tier

The savoury course opens with a series of bold, flavour-led creations that are thoroughly enjoyable. We had the home-cured Norwegian Salmon Vol-au-vent, brightened with kumquat and caper-egg mimosa and finished with a touch of gold dust, followed by a richly Spiced Duck Rillettes sandwich layered with toasted cumin and pickled fennel. A clean, citrus-laced Spicy Tuna Tartare, served in a crisp shell and presented on its own spoon, rounds off the trio.

Laksa Atlantic Cod Quiche

We were also served the Laksa Atlantic Cod Quiche, which cleverly translates a distinctly local flavour into a classic French format. It was delicious, with a buttery, fragrant pastry and a laksa twist that worked beautifully. Honestly, I wouldn’t mind seeing laksa quiche become a regular feature in bakery shops.

Heritage Tea Granita

A Heritage Tea Granita then resets the palate before the sweets take centre stage, where tea becomes the unifying theme. The granita itself was refreshing, though it could be elevated with fresh fruit or light toppings for added texture.

Sweet Tier

The sweets that follow are where the tea concept truly comes to life. Varieties such as oolong, English breakfast, green tea, lemongrass and chamomile are thoughtfully expressed through beautifully crafted cakes, each resembling a piece of edible art.

Oolong Tea Eclat

This bright and cheerful yellow Oolong Tea Éclat features a light, airy oolong tea-infused sponge cake layered with luscious passion fruit custard, bringing together tea and citrus.

Lychee English Breakfast Tea Cake

The Lychee English Breakfast Tea Cake is elegantly crafted to resemble a graceful pink bonsai tree, featuring layers of lychee mousse and jewel-like lychee coulis cubes for a light, fruity finish.

Green Tea & Pear Harmony

The Green Tea & Pear Harmony brings together smooth pear cream, lemon green tea pear confit and soft almond sponge in this lovely, bright green entremet.

Blue Pea Chamomile Tart

The Blue Pea Chamomile Tart is topped with sweet pineapple compote and finished with a light blue pea chamomile whip. Somewhat reminiscent of a pineapple tart in flavour, though I found the pineapple compote too overpowering when compared with the tea flavour.

Lemongrass Key Lime Teapot

The Lemongrass Key Lime Teapot was perhaps the most intriguing creation, featuring a delicate teapot lid that opens to reveal a carefully piped flower of smooth key lime custard, accented with crunchy pearls and lemongrass Chantilly for an Asian twist.

Scones

Traditional and Curcuma Longa (turmeric) Scones, served with clotted cream, strawberry jam and wildflower honey, anchor the experience in familiarity. The presentation of scones could be improved, such as wrapping them up to keep them warm, as they were a little cold by the time we finally got around to eating them.

Ice Cream and Sorbets

To finish, guests are treated to unlimited servings of Gelato and Sorbet from the trolley. On our visit, flavours included chocolate, vanilla, mixed berries and mango passionfruit, accompanied by toppings such as cookies and chocolates for a playful, indulgent touch.

If you’re looking for a memorable afternoon tea experience in Singapore, this one blends heritage storytelling with flavour exploration, finished with just the right touch of the unexpected.

Price:
• Weekday: $130 for 2 persons (additional guest $65)
• Weekend / Eve of PH: $140 for 2 persons (additional guest $70)
• Optional:
• Champagne +$28
• Signature cocktail/prosecco +$20
Includes coffee or loose-leaf tea; prices subject to service charge and taxes.

Photographed and penned by Shermine. Through her pictures and stories, she shares her journey of savouring new flavours and experiences. Note: This is an invited tasting.


The Lobby Lounge
Frasers House
Level 1
80 Middle Road
Singapore 188966
Tel: +65 68251008
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Nearest MRT: Bugis (EW, DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1-3pm, 330pm - 530pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Bugis MRT station. Take Exit C. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 5 minutes. [Map]

Les Ducs @ Ann Siang Hill - Returns with Soulful Bouillon Lunch and Fun French Dining

Tucked along the charming enclave of Ann Siang Hill, Les Ducs returns with a refreshed identity under French chef-owner Louis Pacquelin. Rather than chasing trends, the reintroduction feels grounded and sincere. It is a thoughtful expression of the chef’s culinary journey, shaped by classical French training and years spent working across Asia.

Having honed his craft under the likes of Alain Ducasse, with stints at Aux Lyonnais and BBR by Alain Ducasse at Raffles Hotel Singapore, Chef Pacquelin brings with him a strong foundation in traditional French techniques. At Les Ducs, this manifests in a menu that balances technical finesse with a relaxed, approachable spirit, what he aptly calls “Fun French Dining.”

Sourdough 4/5

Country Terrine | Duck Rilletes 3.5/5

Available Monday to Saturday, the Bouillon lunch menu draws inspiration from traditional French home cooking and brasserie classics. Designed to be fuss-free and wallet-friendly, it offers a selection of hearty dishes suited for both quick business lunches and leisurely afternoons.

We began our meal with Country Terrine | Duck Rillettes ($8), paired with toasted Sourdough ($3). The sourdough arrived crisp on the outside with a light, airy crumb, making it an ideal canvas for the rich, fatty duck rillettes. The spread was indulgent yet balanced, with a depth of flavour that spoke of careful preparation.

Snails, Garlic and Parsley Butter 3/5

The Snails with Garlic and Parsley Butter ($12) delivered on flavour, a fragrant medley of garlic and herbaceous parsley folded into a buttery base. However, the decision to serve the escargots without their shells left the dish dry. While the aromatic butter carried the dish, it missed the lusciousness typically associated with this French classic.

Steam Prawns, Cocktail Sauce 4/5

On the other hand, the Prawn Cocktail ($10) was a refreshing contrast. Featuring four plump, sweet prawns, lightly poached to retain their natural texture, the dish was elevated by a tangy, creamy cocktail sauce. It was simple yet satisfying, offering a bright and zesty palate cleanser.

Roasted Chicken Leg, Mushroom Sauce, French Fries 4.2/5

The Roasted Chicken Leg with Mushroom Sauce and French Fries ($15) stood out immediately for its value. A generously sized chicken leg arrived with beautifully crisped skin and tender, juicy meat. The accompanying mushroom cream sauce was rich and earthy, coating each bite with comforting depth. Paired with a heap of crispy, thin-cut fries perfect for soaking up the sauce, this dish punches well above its price point.

Confit Duck Leg, Saute Potatoes 4.2/5

Equally satisfying was the Confit Duck Leg with Sautéed Potatoes ($22). Prepared in the traditional method, the duck leg was slow-cooked until fork-tender, then pan-fried to finish, achieving a delicate, crisp skin. The sautéed potatoes, lightly tossed with garlic and herbs, provided a rustic and hearty accompaniment. This was classic French comfort food at its best. It is rich, savoury, and deeply satisfying without unnecessary embellishments.

Chocolat Liegeois 4/5

Desserts leaned towards simplicity but remained enjoyable. The Chocolat Liégeois ($9) comes with vanilla ice cream, rich chocolate sauce, and almonds. It is straightforward yet indulgent, delivering familiar flavours that please.

Creme Mont Blanc 4/5

More interesting was the Crème Mont Blanc ($8), a playful take on the traditional French dessert. Featuring a smooth chestnut purée with a naturally nutty sweetness, it was topped with meringue to mimic the snow-capped Mont Blanc. While lighter than its classic counterpart, it retained the essence of the original with a modern, approachable twist.

Les Ducs’ revival is less about reinvention and more about refinement. Chef Louis Pacquelin presents a menu that feels personal and grounded, combining the rigour of French culinary tradition with subtle influences from his time in Asia. The Bouillon lunch, in particular, stands out for its honest cooking and exceptional value, making it a compelling option in the Ann Siang Hill dining scene. For those seeking unpretentious French fare with a touch of soul, Les Ducs delivers a dining experience that is both comforting and quietly confident.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Les Ducs
8 Ann Siang Hill
Singapore 069788
Tel: +65 9853 4710
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Nearest MRT: Maxwell (TE Line), Chinatown (DT, NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 12pm - 3pm, 530pm - 1130pm

Direction:

1) Alight at Maxwell MRT station. Take Exit 2. Walk down South Bridge Road towards Ann Siang Road. Turn right onto Ann Siang Road. Walk down Ann Siang Road. Turn left onto Club Street. Walk to the destination. Journey time about 4 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Chinatown MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk down Pagoda Street to South Bridge Road. Cross the road and turn right. Walk down South Bridge Road. Turn left onto Ann Siang Hill and walk down Ann Siang Hill. Walk to the destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]