Showing posts with label Media Invite. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Media Invite. Show all posts

Monday, March 18, 2024

Eden Restaurant @ Pullman Singapore Orchard - Vibrant Asian Flavours with Contemporary Interpretations by New Executive Chef Martin Tan

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Eden Restaurant at Pullman Singapore Orchard has recently unveiled an updated menu thoughtfully designed by its newly appointed Executive Chef, Chef Martin Tan. This refreshed culinary offering spans from inviting small plates and bao buns to more substantial sharing platters, maintaining the vibrancy of Asian flavours with contemporary interpretations.

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Sticky Pork Belly 4.5/5

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Kam Heong Grilled Octopus 3.5/5

We had Kam Heong Grilled Octopus ($32) and Sticky Pork Belly Bao Bun ($18/2 pcs) to start. The latter exceeded expectations, providing a more satisfying experience. The pork belly showcased an ideal balance of fats and meat, achieving a tender texture that was spot on. Its braised flavour was quite on point, particularly when combined with the layer of salted vegetables within the bun. On the other hand, while the grilled octopus was skillfully prepared, the subtle Kam Heong glaze failed to make a distinct statement in the overall dish.

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River Prawns, Scallop, Local Farmed Mussels 4/5

On the menu are two wok dishes for sharing. We had the bright-looking River Prawns, Scallop, Local Farmed Mussels ($44) in Tangy Coconut Gravy, served with a Charcoal You Tiao. The standout element was the vibrant coconut gravy, boasting a delightful acidity that enticed us to savour each spoonful. While the prawns and scallops were expertly seared, a slightly firmer texture of the prawns would have enhanced the overall experience.

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Pan-Fried Black Cod 4.8/5

For mains, Pan-Fried Black Cod ($42) with Thunder Tea. As a Hakka, I must commend the fine execution of the Thunder Tea, particularly with the addition of roasted peanuts — a hallmark of a traditional Thunder Rice Tea dish. The innovative pairing of the tea with cod fish was a delightful surprise, as the tea's astringency and the cod's richness complemented each other flawlessly. The cod, adorned with crisped skin, added an extra layer of deliciousness to the dish.

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Hae Bee Hiam Australian Lamb Rack 3/5

On the other hand, the Hae Bee Hiam Australian Lamb Rack ($48) could have been more impressive. The standout feature for me was the tangy Sesame-Fermented Sauce, which skillfully complements the inherent gamey taste of the lamb. However, the expected presence of the Hae Bee Hiam glaze was somewhat lacking. Perhaps sous vide preparation wasn't the ideal way to achieve precise doneness, and the overall texture of the lamb left a bit to be desired.

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Coconut Frozen Parfait 3/5, Osmanthus Chia Seed Jelly 3/5

For desserts, we had Coconut Frozen Parfait ($16) with Pineapple Nage and Osmanthus Chia Seed Jelly ($16). The parfait was interesting, with a sprinkle of pink peppercorn, which lent a peppery fragrance and nuanced flavour. However, using riper and juicier pineapples instead of our unripened ones would have elevated its tastiness. The latter was refreshing with Kaffir Lime and Mango cubes thought a reduction in sweetness would have been ideal.

Photograph and written by Si An. A girl who is allured by travelling, loves the feel of freedom, smell of the rain and the aroma of fine coffee and food.


Eden Restaurant
Pullman Singapore Orchard
Level 4
270 Orchard Road
Singapore 238857
Tel: +65 6603 8888
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Somerset (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Sun-Wed & PH: 6:30am - 11pm
Thu-Sat 7 Eve of PH: 6:30am - 12midnight
Sun - Wed & Public Holiday: 630am - 11pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Somerset MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk to Orchard Road. Turn left and walk down Orchard Road. Walk to traffic junction of Orchard Road and Orchard Link. Cross the road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]

Saturday, March 16, 2024

Tilly's @ Keong Saik Road - Bringing Authentic Irish Gastro Pub Experience to Singapore

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Irish Chef Andrew Walsh, known for his Michelin-starred restaurant CURE, introduces an authentic Irish gastro pub experience to Singapore with the newly opened Tilly's. Formerly located in East Coast, Tilly's has found its new home at Keong Saik, taking over Butcher Boy Bar & Grill. The revamped Tilly's presents a refreshed menu of signature Irish gastro pub fare and Chef Andrew's favourite comfort food, inspired by his roots and home kitchen.

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Natural Irish Oysters with Black Vinegar Mignonette 4/5

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Natural Irish Oysters with Kilpatrick Sauce 4.2/5

We kicked off our meal at Tilly's with the Natural Irish Oysters, paired with Black Vinegar Mignonette ($3/pc) and Kilpatrick Sauce ($4/pc). Sourced from Chef Andrew's hometown of Achill Island, County Mayo, these oysters deliver a fresh taste of the sea. The Black Vinegar Mignonette provides a tangy twist, while the Kilpatrick Sauce offers a classic Irish blend of barbecue, tomato, and tabasco.

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Irish Oyster Omelette 4/5

An innovative take on the local oyster omelette, the Irish Oyster Omelette features fresh oysters topped with tarragon, avruga caviar, and a medley of chives, apple, and celery remoulade torched to perfection.

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Irish Soda Bread 3.5/5

The traditional Irish Soda Bread ($14) makes an appearance, accompanied by a spread of grilled cheddar cheese rarebit and mustard, imparting a delightful smoky flavour.

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Beetroot Cured Salmon with Potato Flat Bread 3.8/5

The Beetroot Cured Salmon ($26) showcases plump Irish salmon, delicately cured in beetroot and accompanied by apple celeriac remoulade. Served alongside potato flatbread, diners can enjoy it as an open-faced sandwich by placing the beetroot-cured salmon on it, creating a harmonious blend of flavours and textures.

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Wagyu Beef Cheek & Guinness Pot Pie 4.2/5

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Colcannon Mash

Elevating the classic pot pie, the Wagyu Beef Cheek & Guinness Pot Pie ($36) features tender wagyu cooked in Guinness beer paired with creamy Colcannon Mash — a comforting Irish staple.

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Tilly's Wagyu Burger 4/5

A highlight not to be missed is Tilly's Wagyu Burger ($32), which boasts a juicy wagyu patty topped with Irish cheddar cheese and bacon and served with crispy fries. Throughout March 2024, enjoy the burger at half price in celebration of St. Patrick's Day.

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Signature Sticky Toffee Pudding 4.2/5

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Grilled Tipperary Brie Cheese 3.8/5

Indulge in the Signature Sticky Toffee Pudding ($16) for a sweet conclusion, accompanied by a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Opt for the Grilled Tipperary Brie Cheese ($18) paired with apricot jam, truffle honey, and crackers for a delightful mix of sweet and savoury.

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Join in the St. Patrick's Day festivities at Tilly's with special March promotions, including daily 50% off Tilly's Wagyu Burger and Natural Irish Oysters from $3 per piece.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Tilly's
31 Keong Saik Road
Singapore 089138
Tel: +65 8752 9578
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Outram Park (EW, NE, TE Line), Maxwell (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Thu: 4pm - 12midnight
Fri-Sun: 12pm - 12midnight

Direction:
1) Alight at Outram Park MRT station. Take Exit 4. Walk to Kreta Ayer Road. Turn right onto Kreta Ayer Road. Walk down Kreta Ayer Road and turn right onto Keong Saik Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Maxwell MRT station. Take Exit 3. Walk down Neil Road. Turn right onto Keong Saik Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Friday, March 15, 2024

Tiffin Room @ Raffles Hotel - Return of The Wondrous Flavours of Holi

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Tiffin Room at Raffles Hotel is once again presenting Holi Festival Specialities, exclusively crafted by award-winning Chef de Cuisine Kuldeep Negi, at the historic Tiffin Room. The Wondrous Flavours of Holi will be available from 18 to 31 March 2024 for both lunch and dinner.

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Stuffed Yellow Lentil Dumplings 3.5/5

Our dinner began with Chef Kuldeep's Welcome Dahi Gujia (Stuffed Yellow Lentil Dumplings With Sweet Yogurt, Tamarind And Spicy Mint Chutney), a beloved North Indian snack, involves lentils ground and shaped into a half-moon gujiya, generously adorned with yoghurt, tamarind chutney, coriander mint chutney, and an array of Indian spices. Combining the chutneys and spices resulted in an explosion of flavours - a delightful interplay of sweet, tangy, and savoury notes infused with aromatic undertones. The addition of nuts provided an enjoyable textural contrast to the chaat. Personally, I would have preferred a bit less of the tamarind chutney, as it leaned towards the sweeter side.

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Pickled Spicy Tandoori-Grilled Chicken Wrap 4/5

Next is the Achari Murgh Tikka Kathi Roll, featuring Pickled Spicy Tandoori-Grilled Chicken Wrap served with Beetroot, Radish And Onion Salad. The chicken was tender and flavourful with a heady blend of spices, which was quite nicely balanced by the herbaceous mint chutney and the side salad.

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Pan-Seared Black Cod 4.5/5

The Main Course was served in its classic tiffin set. Tawa Masala Fish was the crowd's favourite, featuring Pan-Seared Black Cod in a Special Blend Of Spices, Onion And Tomato Masala. The tangy and fruity sweetness of the masala complemented the inherent richness of the cod.

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Boneless Chicken Leg 4/5

Murgh Madras is a crowd pleaser with tender Boneless Chicken Leg in curry rich in mustard seed and spices.

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Pahadi Gosht 4.2/5

Pahadi Gosht is a rare treat that serves Himalayan-style Lamb Chop Curry with Fresh Herbs And Spices. The lamb was delightfully tender, and this more robust form of curry proved to be a good pairing with the meat's flavours.

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Yellow Lentil Curry 3.5/5

The Tiffin set also includes Shahi Dal, a curry made with Yellow Lentil with Black Beans and Red Kidney Beans. I enjoyed the textural interplay of the various beans and lentils, but I prefer a more spice-forward curry that tastes bolder.

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Tomato Mint Pulao 5/5

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Butter Naan and Laccha Parantha 5/5

Despite the curries being the main focus, the Tomato Mint Pulao, Butter Naan, and Laccha Parantha truly stole the spotlight for me. The Tomato Mint Pulao was a delight, featuring light and fluffy basmati rice infused with the fragrant essence of mint and cardamom, punctuated by sweetness from softened fresh tomatoes. Both the naan and parantha proved equally satisfying, boasting the desired texture and a rich, buttery flavour that added a layer of joy to the overall dining experience.

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Dessert 3/5

The Dessert is a platter of Makai Halwa, Gujia, and Gur Para (Sweet Corn Halwa, Traditional Sweet Dumplings Stuffed With Coconut And Dried Fruits, and Jaggery Bites). However, I found these selections a bit too heavy for a dessert course after the fairly rich dishes. Perhaps a lighter option would have provided a more balanced and refreshing conclusion to the meal.

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Options of 2 glasses and 4 glasses alcoholic beverages pairing are available as well.

Photograph and written by Si An. A girl who is allured by travelling, loves the feel of freedom, smell of the rain and the aroma of fine coffee and food.


Tiffin Room
Raffles Hotel
1 Beach Road
Singapore 189673
Tel: +65 63371886
Facebook
Website
Nearest MRT: City Hall (EW Line, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Lunch: 12pm - 145pm
Dinner: 630pm - 845pm

Direction:
1) Alight at City Hall MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to Junction of North Bridge Road and Bras Basah Road. Cross the road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Esplanade MRT station. Take Exit F. Cross the road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Thursday, March 14, 2024

AIR @ Dempsey Hill - A Sustainable Dining Experience that Pushes the Boundaries of Culinary Innovation While Rooted in Environmental Consciousness

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AIR, an acronym for Awareness, Impact, and Responsibility, represents more than just a restaurant — it's a sprawling 40,000-square-foot oasis at Dempsey Hill. Conceived by Chefs Matthew Orlando and Will Goldfarb, alongside entrepreneur Ronald Akili, this establishment serves as a hub for sustainability, featuring a circular campus encompassing a restaurant, cooking school, research space, and garden farm.

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Fermented Cassava Flatbread 3/5

Our dinner commenced with the Fermented Cassava Flatbread ($16), accompanied by whipped mushroom "XO" butter. While the bread exuded a strong, yeasty flavour that didn't quite resonate with my palate, the savoury richness of the mushroom "XO" butter provided a redeeming quality. However, the price tag seemed a tad steep, considering its standard complimentary nature in most establishments.

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Crispy Oyster Mushrooms 3.5/5

Next, the Crispy Oyster Mushrooms ($30) emerged from the kitchen. They boasted a delightful interplay of textures and flavours heightened by Sarawak pepper emulsion and pickled chillies. Despite their satisfying crispy exterior and vibrant taste profile, the pricing seemed disproportionate for what essentially amounted to deep-fried mushrooms.

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White Fish Ceviche 4/5

A refreshing interlude arrived in the form of White Fish Ceviche ($29) featuring green mango and Kenari nut milk. The dish offered a light and revitalising experience, complemented by the satisfying crunch of emping crisps — an unexpected but welcome addition reminiscent of nachos.

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The Whole Coral Grouper For Two 4.2/5

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The Whole Coral Grouper For Two ($58) took centre stage for the main course. It is filleted, and confit bathed in a pool of green onion and black garlic vinaigrette sauce. While the fish was excellently prepared, it was the accompanying Smoked Fish Rillette with Fish Bone and Garlic Lavash stole the show, adding depth and complexity to the dish.

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Re-Incarnated "Chocolate" 4/5

The Re-Incarnated "Chocolate" ($18) exemplifies the ethos of AIR, showcasing its commitment to sustainability and innovation. Crafted from by-products of common processes—cocoa husks, cascara, and coconut flesh—the dessert undergoes roasting and grinding with cocoa butter and sugar. The result? Luxurious chocolate bars boasting a rich, roasty flavour with subtle coconut undertones. This ingenious approach mirrors traditional chocolate-making methods yet eschews cocoa beans, epitomising AIR's dedication to creative, eco-conscious cuisine.

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The Whole Papaya 3.5/5

The Whole Papaya ($18) dessert represents a creative and inventive approach to utilising the entire fruit. This intriguing creation incorporates not only the papaya fruit itself but also features papaya skin granite and uses papaya seeds to impart a peppery note to the dish. While I admire the innovation behind this dessert, I feel somewhat awkward encountering the papaya seeds during consumption. Nonetheless, it's a commendable effort to reimagine traditional ingredients and minimise waste in culinary creations.

In summary, AIR at Dempsey Hill offers a sustainable dining experience that pushes the boundaries of culinary innovation while remaining rooted in environmental consciousness. While some dishes may fall short of expectations, the overarching commitment to sustainability and responsible dining shines through, making it a noteworthy destination for eco-conscious gastronomes.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


AIR
Dempsey Hill
25B Dempsey Road
Singapore 249670
Tel: +65 8228 1528
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Napier (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Wed-Sun: 530pm - 11pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Napier MRT station. Take Exit 2. Walk to bus stop at Napier Station (Stop ID 13011). Take bus number 7, 75, 77, 105, 106, 123 or 174. Alight 2 stops later. Take the stairs up to Dempsey Road. Turn left and walk to the open air carpark. Walk all the way to the end of the carpark to the entrance of AIR. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]

Tuesday, March 12, 2024

Sushi Sato @ Dempsey Hill - Introduces Approachable Fine Omakase Menu Options

Head Sushi Chef Kawana Yusuke

Sushi Sato, located within a miniature Zen garden on Dempsey Hill, has recently launched new lunch and dinner menus, offering a more affordable range to diners seeking a high-end omakase experience. The menus are specially curated by both Master Chef Yuji Sato and his Head Chef Yusuke Kawana. With traditional culinary experience spanning over 28 years and refined at top sushi restaurants in Tokyo, Chef Kawana brings to the table an exclusive Sushi Edomae ($260) menu, available solely at Chef Kawana's sushi counter within a private dining room.

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Chawanmushi with Snow Crab Sauce

The menu showcases Chef Kawana's deep appreciation and mastery of Edomae sushi. It features seasonal appetisers and 15 pieces of nigiri sushi, which concludes with soup and dessert. Our dinner started with Chawanmushi with Snow Crab Sauce, delectable with Hokkaido scallop, sweet chestnut, and a textural crunch lent from the lily bulb.

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Kue - Japanese Grouper

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Sumi Ika - Ink Squid

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Tai - Seabream

The sushi course started with milder-flavoured fish before moving into stronger or richer-tasting ones. We were first served Kue, Ika, and Tai. These selections were simply pleasing, featuring a firm texture and a sweet profile. In particular, the Ika stood out; its creamy texture heightened its delectability even further.

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Zuke Akami - Marinated Tuna

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Shima Aji - Yellowjack

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Saba - Mackerel

We then were served Marinated Tuna, Yellow Jack Shima Aji and Mackerel Kanagawa. The latter was interesting. As Mackerel has a stronger taste, it was garnished with a herb-infused blend of spring onion, ginger and shiso leaf, harmonising with the seasoned sushi rice.

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Hokkigai - Surf Clam

Next, we were presented with an exceptionally crunchy Hokkaido Miyagi Surf Clam.

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Hotaru Ika - Firefly Squid with Vinegar and Sweet Miso

In between the sushi courses, we were served a seasonal appetiser. We had the Firefly Squid Toyama with Vinegar and Sweet Miso. While the Firefly Squid were tasty with their natural umami profile, the vinegar and sweet miso sauce were a tad overpowering.

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Botan Ebi - Shrimp

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Meiji Maguro - Smoked Young Tuna

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Kohada - Gizzard Shard marinated with Salt & Vinegar

We then had Botan Ebi, Young Tuna Meiji Maguro smoked with rice straw, and Kohada marinated in salt and vinegar. My favourite was the sweet Botan ebi, which delighted with a mouthfeeling texture. The Young Tuna was slightly bland for me.

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Kawahagi - Leatherjacket and Liver

Kawahagi, a Leather jack topped with its own liver, was memorable. As now is the season when the liver is fatty, this Kawahagi was a luxurious treat. The spring onion helped to enhance its taste.

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Kinmedai - Golden Eye Snapper

What followed was King Snapper, which was charcoal torched to lace it with a smokey flavour.

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Ikura - Salmon Roe

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Ootoro - Fatty Tuna

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Bafun Uni - Short Spike Sea Urchin

Moving on to the last three sushi that carry a heartier taste - we had Ikura Salmon Roe marinated with soy sauce sake mirin, Otoro and Hokkaido Uni. The Otoro was undeniably the highlight with its luscious texture and rich flavour.

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Tamagoyaki

Before proceeding to dessert, we had a sweet-savoury and spongy Tamagoyaki made with a blend of egg, fish paste, scallop, prawn, and honey. We loved it so much that we indulged in a second piece, as the chef was kind enough to accede to our request!

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Clam Soup Canola Flower

We were served a light-tasting Clam Soup with canola flower to cleanse our palates. We appreciated the delicate seasoning, which allowed the clam's flavour to shine through.

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Amaou Strawberry, Shizoka Melon, Oita Orange

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Kinako Ice Cream

Dessert was beautiful - a platter of prized seasonal fruits Amaou Strawberry, Shizoka Melon, Oita Orange complemented with housemade Kinako Ice Cream.

Words by Si An. A girl who is allured by travelling, loves the feel of freedom, smell of the rain and the aroma of fine coffee and food. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Sushi Sato
6B Dempsey Road
Singapore 247662
Tel: +65 8380 3830
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Napier (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Sun: 12pm - 3pm, 630pm - 1030pm
(Closed on Mon)

Direction:
1) Alight at Napier MRT station. Take Exit 2. Walk to bus stop at Napier Station (Stop ID 13011). Take bus number 7, 75, 77, 105, 106, 123 or 174. Alight 2 stops later. Walk to dempsey road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]