Showing posts with label Pastry. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Pastry. Show all posts

Saturday, February 24, 2024

Lobby Lounge @ Conrad Centennial Singapore - The Return of the Strawberry Afternoon Tea Featuring Amaou Strawberries

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As January heralds in the peak season of Amaou Strawberries of Fukuoka, Conrad Centennial Singapore's Lobby Lounge has recently relaunched its exclusive Strawberry Afternoon Tea. Also known as the "King of Japanese Strawberries," delight in Amaou's sweetness from now till 31 March 2024. The specially curated menu features fresh Amaou Strawberries sourced from Fukuoka, farmed under stringent guidelines to preserve their exceptional flavour and deep red hue appearance, and includes exquisitely crafted strawberry-centric delights for a complete Amaou experience.

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Start your afternoon tea with Air Flown Japanese Strawberry with Valrhona Chocolate Dip while the chocolate is still warm. The classic pairing of chocolate and strawberries will create a perfect prelude to a relaxing afternoon. The Amaou strawberries, given their exceptional flavour, are just as indulgent on their own.

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Whipped Brie

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Fresh Strawberry Balsamic Bruschetta

The savoury items were delectable, with a well-considered blending of savoury ingredients and the sweet, fruity, fresh profile of strawberries. My favourite items were the Fresh Strawberry Balsamic Bruschetta and Whipped Brie. The bruschetta was layered with Citrus Cream Cheese, topped with sliced strawberries and seared duck, and sweetened with Cantaloupe Gel. The latter, featuring whipped brie, was topped with Balsamic Strawberry, Fruit Chutney, and Kiwis. The contrasting flavour notes and creamy mouthfeel amped up the lusciousness of the strawberries.

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Strawberry, Mango, Scallop Tart

Strawberry, Mango, Scallop Tart was interesting with saltish Pickles and sweet Candied Orange. Again, the juxtaposition of the sweet and savoury notes of the ingredients was delicious, and in addition to that, this dainty pink tart was packed with textural crunch as well. The strawberry tart itself emanated a delightful whiff of strawberry aroma each time I took a bite of the tart.

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Salmon Rillettes

Besides strawberries, Salmon Rillettes also highlights the use of Sustainable Caviar - Avruga caviar, distinguished by the Marine Stewardship Council's "Chain of Custody" certification.

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Strawberry Meringata

Moving on to the sweets, the Strawberry Meringata was well-received by diners. A balance of creamy, fruity freshness and crunchy elements was put together using decadent double vanilla cream and tangy marinated strawberry spiked with crisped slow-baked Meringue.

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Strawberry Shortcake

Strawberry Shortcake is a classic done right with softy and fluffy sponge cakes layered with Fresh Strawberries and Hokkaido Whipping Cream.

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Strawberry Mint

Strawberry Mint was gorgeous in a bright red hue - this strawberry treat was filled with Fresh Strawberry Mint Compote encased within a layer of Vanilla Whip.

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Tahitian Vanilla Whip

Tahitian Vanilla Whip, Strawberry Compôte is pretty with Strawberry Marmalade, Vanilla Ganache. Its sweetness was a bit too much for me.

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Scones

Homemade Strawberry Scone and Raisin Scone didn't disappoint. It wasn't too buttery, with just a hint of sweetness. Hence, the accompanying clotted cream and Homemade Wild Strawberry Jam were the ideal spread for them.

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The Strawberry Afternoon Tea is served at Lobby Lounge daily from 8 January 2024 to 31 March 2024 in two seating: from 1 pm to 3 pm and 3:30 pm to 5:30 pm, priced at $50++ per person on weekdays and $52++ per person on weekends, inclusive of a two-hour free flow of tea and coffee, with an option to include 2 hours of unlimited Prosecco at $28++. For more information or to make reservations at Lobby Lounge, please visit the website or call +65 6432 7483 / 7357.

Photos and 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.


Lobby Lounge
Conrad Centennial Singapore
2 Temasek Blvd
Singapore 038982
Tel: +65 6432 7483 / 7357
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Nearest MRT: Promenade (CC, DT Line)

Opening Hours:
First seating: 1pm to 3pm
Second seating: 3:30pm to 5:30pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Promenade MRT station. Take Exit B. Continue walking along Temasek Avenue to destination Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Wednesday, November 15, 2023

Le Matin Patisserie @ ION Orchard - Expanded Menu of French Fare with Crab Waffles, Brown Butter Artichoke Wedges, Soufflé Au Chocolat and More

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Le Matin Patisserie first unveiled its new permanent space in ION Orchard earlier in February this year and has now launched an expanded menu of French fare that is available every Wednesday to Sunday, for brunch from 11am to 2.30pm and dinner from 6pm to 9pm.

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The exciting new selections continue to tap on Chef-Owner Mohamed Al-Matin's vast expertise in fine pastries and French techniques, putting together options from entrées, mains, sides to desserts.

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Salade 4/5

For a light start, consider the Salade ($12). This dish features a combination of fresh baby spinach and arugula, along with roasted and fresh beets, mixed citrus, and pine nuts.

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Brown Butter Artichoke Wedges 4.2/5

Despite its unassuming appearance, the Brown Butter Artichoke Wedges ($16) proved to be addictive. Crafted with nutty confit Jerusalem artichoke, it comes with a refreshing dip of lemon thyme aioli.

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Bread & Butter 4.2/5

I absolutely adored the Bread & Butter ($9) dish, especially the earthy and rich fermented porcini butter served alongside two soft cubes of whole-wheat milk buns.

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Crab Waffles 4.5/5

Seafood enthusiasts should not miss the Crab Waffles ($20.90). The heart-shaped crunchy waffles are made with seafood butter and dusted with nori for an added layer of fragrance. Spread on the chilled crab tartare and smoked taramasalata dip for a luxurious bite that is rich in umami, creaminess, and herbaceous notes all at once.

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Fish & Chips 4.5/5

The Fish & Chips ($35.90) also left a lasting impression. Enjoy the entire battered Haddock fillet, which was not only fresh and substantial but also accompanied by an edamame mash, yuzu tartare, and thinly crusted fried potatoes. The edamame mash was a novel twist done well.

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Lemon Thyme Madeleines 4.2/5

These delightful Lemon Thyme Madeleines ($12.90) are baked to order, offering a fresh and petite-sized treat that pairs perfectly with your tea or coffee. Infused with the bright flavours of lemon and thyme, they make for a delightful sharing side, especially when dipped in the herby fir syrup cream.

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The texture may become denser as it cools. Hence, I recommend enjoying it warm for the best experience!

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Soufflé Au Chocolat 4.5/5

The 20-minute bake time for the Soufflé Au Chocolat ($18.90) was well worth the wait. Featuring a fluffy, soft dark chocolate soufflé, hazelnut praline, and reduced milk ice cream, it promises an indulgent treat.

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Mangosteen & Lychee Granita 4.5/5

For a more refreshing option, the delicately crafted Mangosteen & Lychee Granita ($14.90) is the one to go for. It features a unique and harmonious combination of mangosteen sorbet, lychee granita and lemongrass bubbles.

Photos and words by Jo. A girl who loves her Mala (麻辣) at Da La (大辣), discovering hidden food gems and a good cup of matcha latte. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Le Matin Patisserie
ION Orchard
B2-49
2 Orchard Turn
Singapore 238801
Tel: +65 6509 8801
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Nearest MRT: Orchard MRT (NE, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 10am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 4. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Saturday, August 26, 2023

Park Backerei @ ICON Village - Singapore's First Traditional and Authentic German Brezel Bakery

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Park Backerei, Singapore's first German pretzel bakery, has established its abode at ICON Village in Tanjong Pagar. Founded by Dennis von Berlepsch and his wife, Jane Lee Richard, the bakery showcases an artisanal array of freshly handcrafted German pretzels, lye-dipped bread, and pastries, encapsulating the authentic flavours of Germany.

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The star of the show undoubtedly is the hand-shaped Swabian-style Pretzels ($3.90), originating from Southwest Germany. Distinguished by its slender ends and plump midsection, these pretzels offer a unique twist on the classic. Unlike the denser versions I've encountered previously, Park Backerei's iteration presents a moist and fluffy texture that doesn't weigh you down. Each bite beckons another, making it hard to resist. For those seeking a lighter indulgence, the Mini Pretzel ($2.50) offers a petite option for a satisfying afternoon snack.

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Venturing into savoury territory, the Cheese Pretzel ($4.50) and Mini Cheese Pretzel ($2.80) offer a delightful twist - infusing Park Backerei's exceptional pretzel with cheddar cheese results in a delectable interplay of textures. The exterior achieves a lovely golden-brown crunch while maintaining a soft interior.

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However, the bakery's prowess doesn't stop at pretzels. The Karamel Igel ($4.40) stands as a testament to their creativity, featuring a pretzel bun adorably shaped like a hedgehog, complete with a sumptuous homemade caramel spread. Expanding their horizons, Park Backerei introduces a range of tantalising stuffed bagels and sandwiches, all crafted from their proprietary pretzel dough recipe.

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For savoury bagel enthusiasts, the Jalapeño Cheddar ($7.90) and Caprese Pesto ($7.90) present captivating options. The latter entwines aromatic basil pesto, sun-dried tomatoes, mozzarella, and parmesan cheeses for a lively flavour palette. On the sweet side, the Speculoos Apple ($7.50) bagel shines with its indulgent combination of caramelised apples, diced apples for texture, and a sprinkle of cinnamon.

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Diverse sandwiches further enrich the bakery's offerings. Inspired by German flavours, the Sausage Kraut ($15.90) brings forth smoked bratwurst and crispy fried onions, complemented by a tangy apple-caraway sauerkraut and piquant mustard aioli.

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A vegetarian delight, the Brie ($14.90) is a blend of brie, caramelised onions, thinly sliced apples, and salted caramel pecans, creating a captivating fusion of textures.

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Adding to the excitement, Park Backerei embraces the Oktoberfest spirit with an exclusive Oktoberfest Package ($88). Available for delivery and takeaway from 15 September to 29 October 2023, this package includes six Plain Pretzels and an assortment of sausages, such as Thuringer Snail Sausage, Nürnberger Sausage, and Smoked Bratwursts, alongside a side of tart apple sauerkraut. This celebration of flavours and traditions is a fitting homage to Germany's world-renowned beer festival.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Park Backerei
ICON Village
12 Gopeng Street
#01-41/42/52/53
Singapore 078877
Tel: +65 87562029
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Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 8am - 7pm
Sat-Sun: 8am - 2pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn left and walk down Peck Seah Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Friday, July 14, 2023

Shang Palace @ Shangri-La Singapore - The Epicure Shangri-La at Shang Palace 6-Course Menu

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Shang Palace at Shangri-La Singapore is joining the global campaign "Find Your Shangri-La" with their special 6-course menu, "The Epicure Shangri-La at Shang Palace". Priced at $188++ per person, this exclusive menu is available until 13 August 2023, promising a memorable dining experience.

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Suckling Pig, Chilled Abalone, Sauteed Sliced Sea Conch, Baked Kagoshima Wagyu Beef Pastry

We were presented with a quartet of appetizers to kick off the meal. The beautifully plated dishes showcased a variety of cooking methods, including the succulent Suckling Pig topped with Black Caviar, the refreshing Chilled Abalone, the flavourful Sauteed Sliced Sea Conch, and the indulgent Baked Kagoshima Wagyu Beef Pastry. Each appetizer was a delightful combination of textures and flavours, offering a glimpse into the culinary craftsmanship of Shang Palace.

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Double-boiled Chicken Soup with Fish Maw, Wolfberry and Chinese Yam

The Double-boiled Chicken Soup with Fish Maw, Wolfberry, and Chinese Yam followed. It is a comforting bowl of broth that has been simmered for hours. Packed with depth and richness, the soup was a testament to the skilful art of double-boiling, resulting in a clear yet flavorful concoction that warmed both the heart and soul.

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Poached Spotted Garoupa Fillet with Crispy Bean Crumb and Black Truffle Slices

Next, we were presented with the Poached Spotted Garoupa Fillet with Crispy Bean Crumb and Black Truffle Slices. The fish was perfectly steamed, resulting in a tender and flaky texture. Topped with crispy bean crumbs, shaved black truffle, and spring onion, each bite offered a harmonious blend of flavours and textures that left us wanting more.

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Braised Spanish Kurobuta Pork Belly with Plum Sauce accompanied with Japanese Plum Wine

The Braised Spanish Kurobuta Pork Belly with Plum Sauce, accompanied by a glass of Japanese Plum Wine, was a true highlight. The Kurobuta pork belly, known for its tenderness and juiciness, was perfectly braised in a savoury plum sauce. The rich flavours of the pork were beautifully complemented by the tangy sweetness of the plum wine, creating a memorable combination that delighted the taste buds.

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Stewed Red Leg Prawn with Lemongrass and Garlic served in Claypot

The Stewed Red Leg Prawn with Lemongrass and Garlic served in a Claypot was a true delight for seafood lovers. The prawns were expertly cooked, with a firm and succulent texture. The fragrant lemongrass and garlic sauce added a burst of flavour, while the claypot presentation ensured that the dish stayed piping hot throughout the meal.

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Chilled Mango Cream Pudding, Baked Peanut Pastry, Chilled Osmanthus Wolfberry Jelly

To conclude the exquisite 6-course experience, we savoured a trio of desserts. The Chilled Mango Cream Pudding with Pomelo, Baked Peanut Pastry, and Chilled Osmanthus Wolfberry Jelly offered a sweet and refreshing finale. The highlight was undoubtedly the baked peanut pastry, which left a lasting impression and had us eagerly anticipating its potential appearance during the upcoming Chinese New Year festivities.

Overall, "The Epicure Shangri-La at Shang Palace" 6-course menu at Shang Palace was a testament to the culinary expertise and attention to detail that has made this establishment a true gem in the Singapore dining scene. From the impeccable flavours to the elegant presentation, each dish showcased the artistry and dedication of the talented team at Shang Palace. This dining experience is not to be missed for those seeking a gastronomic journey embodying Shangri-La's essence.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Shang Palace
Shangri-La Hotel
22 Orange Grove Road
Lobby Level
Singapore 258350
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Nearest MRT: Orchard Road (NS Line, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 12pm - 230pm, 6pm - 1000pm
Sat, Sun & PH: 11am - 3pm, 6pm - 1000pm

Direction:
Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 4. Walk towards Wheelock Place via ION. Exit Wheelock Place and turn left towards Liat Tower. Continue onwards to Forum Shopping Mall. Walk further down to Orchard Parade Hotel. At Orchard Parade Hotel traffic junction, cross the road. Walk towards Orchard Hotel. Continue walking on Orange Grove Road until destination. Journey time about 30 minutes. [Map]

Saturday, March 25, 2023

Angelina @ Marina Bay Sands Singapore - New Menu From The Iconic Parisian Tearoom And Patisserie

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Iconic Parisian tearoom and patisserie, Angelina sits right above the Canal at The Shoppes in Marina Bay Sands. It offers diners a quaint dining atmosphere and a menu of savoury and sweets alongside its signature and world-famous L'Africain Hot Chocolate.

Diners can now expect a new menu of brunch (available from 11am to 2.30pm), starters, hot mains and desserts specially crafted in France. We sampled a number of their new dishes across the menu.

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Oven-Baked Camembert 4/5

The Oven-Baked Camembert ($36.90) is well portioned to feed 2-3 pax. A whole camembert is oven-baked for 10 minutes to attain an oozy and molten texture. On the side, you will find a garden salad tossed with sliced apples, dried figs and roasted nuts, and toasted sourdough drizzled with balsamic dressing.

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Oven-Baked Escargot 4/5

Another new starter that diners can look out for is the Oven-Baked Escargot ($23.50). A portion has six escargots, each coated with cream spinach, before being braided in parmesan garlic crumbs and baked to a golden brown top.

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Club Sandwich 3.8/5

We enjoyed the fluffy and crisp toast used in the Club Sandwich ($27.80), which had a centre of chicken mayo and hard-boiled egg, topped with bacon and sun-dried tomato paste. You can opt for french fries or baby romaine lettuce salad as your side here. Our only gripe was that the chicken mayo portion could be much more substantial.

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Fantasy of Grilled Seafood Aglio Olio 4.2/5

First of our mains was the Fantasy of Grilled Seafood Aglio Olio ($36.50). The al dente spaghetti is tossed in garlic, bird's eye chilli, parsley and extra virgin olive oil before being served with juicy Hokkaido scallops, a king prawn and mussel. The refreshing lemon cream foam adds a zesty touch and tempers the spice from the bird's eye chilli.

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Smokey Atlantic Salmon Fillet 3.5/5

While it was beautifully presented by being unveiled from a glass dome of smoke, we found the Smokey Atlantic Salmon Fillet ($38.80) average tasting. The smokiness was nicely infused in the salmon, but considering the price tag, the overall dish with the accompanying shimeiji mushrooms, green pea puree, and raspberry coulis didn't surprise us as much.

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French Duck Confit 4/5

On the other hand, the French Duck Confit ($32.90) impressed me. After being cured in fat and roasted for 5 hours in the oven at a low temperature, it resulted in flavourful fork-tender meat. The duck sat on mashed potato with caramelised onions and a bright honey orange reduction on the side.

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Black Angus Sirloin Steak

My dining companions tried the Black Angus Sirloin Steak ($43.90), which uses 190g of US sirloin steak with sides of ratatouille, charcoal mashed potato and black pepper sauce. They found it decently flavourful and tender.

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Passion Ananas 3/5

One of Angelina's new seasonal desserts is the Passion Ananas ($17). It has coconut, pineapple-passionfruit compote layered with coconut-pineapple-lime mousse on a soft lime biscuit. It was sweet with a distinct tangy kick of passionfruit notes.

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Trocadero Pistachio 3/5

The second of its seasonal desserts, flown in directly from France, is the Trocadero Pistachio ($17). This piece features everything pistachio, with pistachio dacquoise and pistachio cream, solidified in pistachio paste and further coated with chopped pistachio. We appreciated how the elements were put together, but there was an almond-like aftertaste that I was not a fan of.

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Paris Brest 3.5/5

The Paris Brest ($17) was our favourite dessert, though we still found it a tad pricey. If you are a fan of Ferrero Rocher, this may be up your alley. I prefer a crispier choux pastry for texture contrast, but otherwise, there's nothing to dislike about the nutty combination of praline mousseline cream, hazelnut crunch, caramelised hazelnut and hazelnut paste. It's rich without being cloying.

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Mont Blanc 3/5

We ended our dinner with Angelina's signature dessert, the Mont Blanc ($18). It has a centre of meringue, chestnut puree and souffle whipped cream and a piped exterior of chestnut cream vermicelli. Unfortunately, my dining companions and I agreed that this was too sweet for our liking.

Overall, the ambience here at Angelina was lovely, but the prices were definitely steep. We enjoyed their savoury dishes significantly more than the sweets.

Photos and words by Jo. A girl who loves her Mala (麻辣) at Da La (大辣), discovering hidden food gems and a good cup of matcha latte. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Angelina
Marina Bay Sands The Shoppes
Canal Level
#B2-89A
2 Bayfront Avenue
Singapore 018972
Tel: +65 66887236
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Nearest MRT: Bayfront MRT (CC Line, DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Sun-Thu: 1030am to 11pm
Fri, Sat, PH Eve and PH: 1030am to 1130pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Bayfront MRT station. Take Exit D. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]