Offbeat @ Far East Square - Asian-inspired Dishes by Coq & Balls

Offbeat, located in Far East Square, introduces the latest dining concept by Coq & Balls. The food menu showcases Asian-inspired dishes, ranging from Bites and Tapas to Mains, Grills, and Roman-style pizzas.

Salmon Tartare 4/5

We started with the Salmon Tartare ($18.90), a delightful dish featuring marinated raw salmon tossed with avocado and baby radish, garnished with tobiko. To complement the creamy tartare, crispy black sesame rice crackers were provided for a textural contrast. The combination was mouthwatering, with occasional bursts of nuttiness from the black sesame crackers.

Spanish Squid 4.5/5

From the Flamed Grill section, we indulged in the Spanish Squid ($22.90) dressed with salted egg beurre blanc and sweet tare. The expertly prepared grilled squid was delicious. It boasted a firm yet tender texture and a delightful smoky flavour. While the salted egg sauce added that Asian twist, it didn't quite elevate the natural flavours of the squid as expected.

Tiger Prawn Laksa Spaghetti 3.8/5

Drop by Offbeat during lunch and enjoy their mains at a special lunchtime price, with add-ons available, such as a glass of wine for just $6. Most items are crafted with Asian flavours, such as Pulled Pork Bahn Mi and Wagyu Beef Krapao Rice Bowl. During our visit, we tried the Tiger Prawn Laksa Spaghetti ($16.90). The Laksa sauce was more complex and heady than other laksa pasta variants I've tried, slightly reminiscent of curry noodles. The prawns were succulent, pairing well with the al dente spaghetti.

Egg Quinoa Cauliflower 'fried rice' 4.8/5

While most of the lunch specials are richly flavoured, there are also lighter options such as the Egg Quinoa Cauliflower 'fried rice' ($14.90), served with roasted butternut squash pumpkin. The 'fried rice' was flavourful and satisfying, with delightful bites of fried egg, reminiscent of a traditional fried rice dish. The large chunks of pumpkin were soft and deliciously sweet, accented with a hint of smoky flavour. I also appreciated the added freshness from the greens and slices of baby radish, which enhanced the dish's overall taste.

Okonomiyaki Pinsa 3.8/5

Offbeat offers Pinsa, a Roman-style stretched pizza. We indulged in the Okonomiyaki Pinsa ($24.50), a hearty Asian fusion creation featuring bacon and prawns, topped with oozy mozzarella and finished off with a drizzle of mentaiko cream and a sprinkle of bonito flakes. The ciabatta pizza base was light and airy, perfectly complementing the rich pizza toppings. While it could get a tad salty after a while, it was a scrumptious dish meant for sharing.

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.


Offbeat by Coq & Balls
Far East Square
40 Pekin Street
#01-01
Singapore 048770
Tel: +65 6322 3835
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Nearest MRT: Telok Ayer (DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Thu: 11:30am - 11pm
Fri: 11:30am - 12:30am
Sat: 5:30pm - 12midnight
(Closed on Sun & PH)

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

Experience The Magic of 'A Christmas Tale' at The Marmalade Pantry

Step into the enchanting world of 'A Christmas Tale' at The Marmalade Pantry and discover a festive feast that promises to make your celebrations truly special this holiday season. The bistro has unveiled an impressive lineup of tantalising treats and bundles catering to intimate gatherings and larger festivities, ensuring that everyone can savour the magic of the season.

[NEW] Roasted Maple Bourbon Turkey 4/5

New stars on the menu include the Roasted Maple Bourbon Turkey ($158+, 3.6kg). This succulent turkey boasts a unique blend of flavours derived from marination in bourbon, maple syrup, apple juice, mustard, and black pepper. To ensure that every inch of meat is infused with this delectable medley, the turkey is first sous vide, then roasted to perfection. The result is a taste masterpiece bound to steal the spotlight.

[NEW] Baked Maple Gammon Ham 4.5/5

Another standout newcomer is the Baked Maple Gammon Ham ($98+, 2kg). This classic ham presents a delightful interplay of sweet and savoury. The ham is marinated and sous vide in a reduction of maple syrup, honey, apple juice, yuzu juice, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard. It's then roasted to a glorious glaze that makes every bite a flavour revelation.

[NEW] Porchetta 4/5

Porchetta ($108+, 1kg) is a dish that promises to take your taste buds on a journey. It combines the richness of unctuous meat with the irresistible crunch of crispy crackling. The pork belly is meticulously rubbed with a blend of herbs before being expertly rolled and roasted to a golden brown finish.

[NEW] Beef Short Ribs Bone-In 4.2/5

For beef fans, the Beef Short Ribs Bone-In ($108+, 1kg) is an exquisite choice. These fork-tender short ribs are seasoned with salt and pepper, browned, and then sous vide with thyme. A final searing imparts a smoky char, and they're served with roasted tomatoes for an unforgettable taste experience.

[NEW] Lemon & Dill Salmon 4.2/5

For seafood enthusiasts, the Lemon & Dill Salmon ($108+, 0.8kg) is a revelation. Norwegian salmon is meticulously cured overnight with lemon zest and dill before being slow-baked to a delightful, moist, flaky texture. A squeeze of roasted lemon adds a burst of brightness to every bite.

Roasted Harvests 4/5

Quinoa Salad with Prawns 4.2/5

Mac N' Cheese 4.5/5

The carvery delights are beautifully complemented by a selection of signature sides, including the ever-popular Mac N' Cheese ($25, 0.4kg), Quinoa Salad with Prawns ($28, 0.6kg), and Roasted Harvests ($25+, 0.6kg). These festive favourites are perfect for sharing and offer a comforting and hearty addition to your feast.

[NEW] Roasted Pumpkin 4.2/5

A new side making its debut this year is the Roasted Pumpkin ($25, 0.6kg). This dish exudes warmth and comfort, featuring the hearty flavours of roasted pumpkin delicately topped with toasted almond flakes.

[NEW] Merry Berry Cheese Log Cake 4/5

No Christmas celebration is complete without a delightful dessert. The Merry Berry Cheese Log Cake ($68+, 0.68kg) is a sweet and fruity indulgence. It features vibrant flavours of berries, including raspberry, blueberry, and strawberry, harmoniously blended with white chocolate crunch and rolled with cream cheese frosting to achieve a perfectly balanced taste.

[NEW] Nutty Noel Chocolate Log Cake 4/5

If you're a chocolate lover, the Nutty Noel Chocolate Log Cake ($68, 0.68kg) will surely satisfy your cravings. Crafted from rich 70% dark chocolate crème, chocolate macadamia crunch, and chocolate sponge, it's a luxurious and decadent treat bound to be a crowd-pleaser.

In addition to these tantalising takeaways, The Marmalade Pantry offers an unforgettable dining experience with The Yuletide Afternoon Tea. Available for dine-in, takeaway (self-collection), and delivery, this delightful tea experience is served at the Downtown outlet from 1 November 2023 to 7 January 2024, daily from 3pm to 6pm. The Anchorpoint outlet also offers this treat daily from 3pm to 6pm. An exclusive offering at The Marmalade Pantry Petite Bugis outlet from 1 November 2023 to 7 January 2024 is the Yuletide Petite Afternoon Tea Set, available for dine-in from 2pm to 5pm daily.

You can order The Marmalade Pantry's 'A Christmas Tale' festive gourmet highlights until 23 December 2023, 12pm, or while stocks last, at all outlets – The Marmalade Pantry ION, Downtown, Anchorpoint, Novena, as well as The Marmalade Pantry Petite Bugis, and through the online store. Collection is available for takeaway (self-collection) at The Marmalade Pantry Downtown and delivery from 1 to 26 December 2023. Pre-order with Mastercard® by 30 November 2023 to enjoy 15% off festive à la carte orders (not applicable for Festive Bundles) – use promo code "FESTIVE15" for online purchases. With a spend of $180 or an order of a festive bundle, you'll receive a limited edition The Marmalade Canvas Jute Tote Bag while stocks last. Each festive bundle also comes with rose gold disposable cutlery in the quantity specified for the highest serving size of the respective bundle.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


The Marmalade Pantry Downtown
Oasia Hotel Downtown
#01-01
100 Peck Seah Street
Singapore 079333
Tel: +65 63850741
Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar (EW Line)

YEN Social @ DUO Galleria - Introduces A Full Lunch Service With Set Menus

Helmed by Taiwanese yakiniku master Chef Jones Chen, YEN Social, located at Duo Galleria, is the sister concept of Michelin-rated yakiniku restaurant YEN Yakiniku - one of Singapore's pioneers in dry ageing beef and the premium Yakiniku experience. Known for its whisky dry-aged wagyu ribeye and Wagyu Taiwanese Beef Noodles, the restaurant has now incorporated a full lunch service, available from Tuesdays to Saturdays. The lunch menu also includes YEN Signature Wagyu Burger, which has made quite a reputation when it was first launched during Singapore's 2021 circuit breaker period.

Caesar Salad with Wagyu Bits & Shaved Parmesan 4/5

Under Salads & Appetisers, we started with Caesar Salad with Wagyu Bits & Shaved Parmesan ($16). By swapping the usual bacon for moreish Wagyu Bits, Chef Jones instilled his restaurant's character into this otherwise common dish.

Smoked Scallop Carpaccio with Yuzu Vinaigrette 4.5/5

We were also served this elegant plate of Smoked Scallop Carpaccio with Yuzu Vinaigrette ($14). Sashimi-grade Hokkaido scallops were smoked with cherry wood and then dressed with a citrusy yuzu oil, creating a creamier mouthfeel.

Lemon Thyme Fennel Salad with Apple-flavoured Quinoa 4/5

Lemon Thyme Fennel Salad with Apple-flavoured Quinoa ($16) was equally refreshing. The licorice flavour of the fennel, the sweetness of the raisins and the fruity quinoa built into one another, forming a well-balanced dish.

Chargrilled Seasonal Vegetables 4.5/5

Chargrilled Seasonal Vegetables ($12) were pleasing with beautifully charred seasonal vegetables, all of which are procured from sustainable sources. What's also notable is the pumpkin, which has been dry-aged for 30 days to attain a more intense flavour and tender texture.

Chargrilled Wagyu Burger 4.5/5

Wagyu Fries

Moving on to the mains, Chargrilled Wagyu Burger ($25) topped my list with a juicy and flavourful patty made with fresh minced meat, which is said to be a 100% mix of specially selected wagyu cuts. It is layered with two types of cheese, mushroom and shredded red cabbage, for a refreshing contrast. Even the milk buns to carry these ingredients are done with consideration - brushed with wagyu fat before they are toasted to build on that rich flavour. It is accompanied by Wagyu Fat Fries, which are house-made double-fried house-cut russet potatoes sprinkled with bits of wagyu fat for an extra indulgence. A more premium choice would be YEN Steak & Wagyu Fat Fries, best with a glass of house wine to complete the dining experience.

Braised Wagyu Beef Cheek 3.8/5

Another beef dish is Braised Wagyu Beef Cheek ($34), featuring Australian wagyu beef cheek braised in red wine for 48 hours. It was incredibly tender, but a tad more seasoning would help bring out its flavours more. The mashed potato served at the side was charcoal infused to add a depth of flavour.

Chargrilled Iberico Pork 4/5

Chargrilled Iberico Pork with Japanese Shisho Chimichurri 4/5

For non-beef eaters alternative, there are two other exceptional dishes, one of which is Chargrilled Iberico Pork with Japanese Shisho Chimichurri ($22). The iberico pork jowl is sous vide cooked for two hours before being chargrilled to develop its flavours. A house-made citrusy shiso chimichurri is served as the condiment to provide some zing for the dish. The accompanying fried rice was a star on its own - within the rice, you will find moreish bits of the caramelised fats rendered from the meat, which amp up the flavours in every mouthful.

Chargrilled Seafood Bucatini Pasta 4.8/5

Chargrilled Seafood Bucatini Pasta ($25) was on par with its meat counterparts. All the seafood featured - octopus, jumbo prawn, and scallops- are sashimi-grade and imported directly from Japan. As they were chargrilled before being tossed with pasta, they carried a hint of smoky flavour built into the robust homemade basil-tomato sauce, elevating the entire dish.

2-course set menus start from $25. All Steak items are served with a side of Chargrilled Vegetables and do not include fries. Lunch sharing set for 3-4 pax start from $100. Add on $5 to enjoy a choice of beverage, be it cold-pressed juice, coffee or tea.

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.


YEN Social
DUO Galleria
7 Fraser Street
#01-25/26
Singapore 189356
Tel: +65 86696788
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Nearest MRT: Bugis (DT, EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Sat: 1130am - 2pm, 6pm - 11pm
Sun-Mon: 6pm - 11pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Bugis MRT station. Take Exit E and F. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Burger & Lobster @ Raffles Hotel Singapore - Second Outlet With Wider Selection Of Lobsters, Burgers and Cocktails

Following the successful opening of Burger & Lobster at Jewel Changi Airport, it opens a second outlet at Raffles Hotel Singapore, situated at the newly reopened Raffles Arcade. The space is three times larger than the Jewel outlet with a wider selection of lobsters, burgers and cocktails. It also has an outdoor bar and an eclectic fresh seafood counter. Another great news is that guests can make reservations at the new restaurant via their website, unlike Jewel outlet whereby reservation is not allowed.

"BBQ" Whiskey Sour 4.2/5

From the bar, we started with some pre-dinner drinks. I had the "BBQ" Whiskey Sour ($22++)  which is a concoction of Wild Turkey 101 bourbon, lemon, sugar, charred lapsang souchong and egg white. It is an easy drink to kick start dinner with a hint of smokiness.

Fresh Seafood Platter 4.5/5

Great for sharing is the Fresh Seafood Platter (Medium $240++). The huge platter comes with freshly shucked oysters, half a lobster, chilled Dutch mussels, king crab legs, Vietnamese tiger prawns and octopus. All served on a bed of ice with samphire, mignonette dressing, chilli and coriander dip and fresh lemon.

Lobster Rosti 4.2/5

The Lobster Rosti ($18++) makes a perfect brunch item with its slightly crispy exterior topped with gently spiced guacamole, succulent lobster meat, red chilli and fresh lime.

Kale & Quinoa Salad 4/5

For a healthy luxury salad, one can go for the Kale & Quinoa Salad ($65++). The kale comes with quinoa avocado, dried fig, cranberry and roasted walnuts. Not to forget the bouncy texture of the lobster tail and claws. Holding all these together is the balsamic dressing, which gives the salad the needed sweetness and acidity.

Marinated Octopus 4.2/5

A dish that I would order in my return is the Marinated Octopus ($16++). Lightly pan-fried, the octopus is dressed in lemon, parsley, garlic and olive oil. Instead of char-grilled, which gives the octopus a hint of bitterness, the execution preserved the natural flavour of the octopus with a tender, bouncy texture. Give the lime a squeeze to perk up the taste profile.

Uni, Lobster and Caviar Roll 3.8/5

At Burger & Lobster Raffles Arcade, the restaurant ups its game with the Uni, Lobster and Caviar Roll ($50++). This is the ultimate combination swerved in a toasted brioche roll. Unlike the original lobster roll which comes with the rich lemon garlic sauce, this version is lightly seasoned to allow the appreciation of the luxe ingredients.

The B&L Beef Brisket Roll 4.2/5

Surprisingly, it turned out that I enjoyed The B&L Beef Brisket Roll ($25++) more than the Uni, Lobster and Caviar Roll. The buttery roll sandwiched with braised Angus beef brisket marinated in the jerky sauce and finished with Havana spiced rum is more robust in flavour. Guess I have a preference for strong flavour.

Spicy Miso Burger 4.5/5

It is not just about lobster roll at Burger & Lobster. As the name of the restaurant suggests, it serves burgers too. And they serve a damn good burger. I had the Spicy Miso Burger ($23++), and I love it. The Nebraskan beef patty glazed with spicy miso sauce is moist and juicy. It is topped with provolone cheese, lightly spiced guacamole, kale, red chilli flakes, onion and sandwiched in between their signature brioche bun.

Laksa Lobster 4.2/5

Like its flagship outlet in Singapore, there is a locally inspired dish on the menu. Over at the Raffles Arcade, there is the Laksa Lobster ($70++). The aromatic laksa sauce is legit with rice noodles, bean sprouts and crispy tofu. It is really delicious but expensive too.

Ice Cream Mochi 3.5/5 and Apple Crumble Pie 3.5/5

Wrapping up the dinner, we have the Ice Cream Mochi ($11++) and Apple Crumble Pie ($14++). I would pick the ice cream mochi over the apple crumble pie. It is like having those old school ice cream sandwiched in waffle biscuit, but with a slightly softer texture. It comes drizzled with either strawberry or chocolate sauce.

Given a choice, I prefer the new outlet at Raffles Arcade. The menu is larger with more variety. Location is more central and it accepts reservation.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Burger & Lobster
Raffles Hotel Singapore
Raffles Arcade
328 North Bridge Road
#01-25
Singapore 188719
Facebook
Website
Nearest MRT: City Hall (EW Line, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Sun-Wed: 11am - 11pm
Thu-Sat: 11am - 12midnight

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

Nature’s Nutrition @ Far East Square - Specialty Quinoa Bowls And Housemade Kombucha

Nature’s Nutrition has recently opened their second food service outlet at Far East Square serving quinoa bowls and housemade kombucha. If you are into superfood, Nature's Nutrition may be a brand that you are familiar with - A flagship brand by Nature 2000 Pte Ltd, a Singapore grown food distribution business specialising in organic superfoods and healthy packaged food, you will find their presence in major supermarkets, department stores, online platforms and organic shops. Instead of letting the packaged food stay cold on the shelf, they hope to connect with you by allowing you to experience the packaged food the company distributes.

Focusing on organic quinoa which they distribute, there are 4 types of Quinoa Bowls to choose from - Cajun Chicken ($8.90), Spicy Roasted Chicken Tikka ($9.40), Portobello Mushroom with Cheese ($9.40 ) and Baked Salmon Quinoa Bowl ($10.90), along with one base, 2 fixed toppings and 2 variable toppings. Add-ons options are available as well.

Instead of having to add on dried fruits and nuts mixture, their specialty base is already wholesome with organic quinoa, dried fruits, chia seeds, brown rice and pumpkin seeds. The fixed toppings are roasted pumpkin, which are really yummy, and romaine lettuce.

Spicy Roasted Chicken Tikka 4/5, Portobello Mushroom with Cheese 3.8/5

Our Spicy Roasted Chicken Tikka Bowl came with add on Portobello Mushroom with Cheese (+$3.00). Together with 2 variable toppings - miso butter corn and spicy broccoli, it was one big hefty bowl! The Chicken Tikka is popular for a reason - tender, juicy and moist, it was kind of unexpected coming from such concept. I would recommend pairing it with the yogurt dressing. The portobello mushroom was grilled to the right doneness. Nothing really could fail with melty cheese I guess. I didn't like the spicy broccoli at all, which soaked my grains with chilli oil.

Baked Salmon 3.8/5

We had the Baked Salmon Quinoa Bowl as well, along with marinated cherry tomatoes and soft chunks of honey glazed carrots. The salmon was quite moist and tender too. But what I really appreciate is that all toppings have been treated one way or another and not served cold, which makes any bowl warm and hearty.

Kombucha

And with just $3 more, you can enjoy a bottle of their house-brewed Kombucha made from their own organic tea series - Original Kombucha ($4.90 ala carte/$3 with bowl), Hibiscus Cinnamon Kombucha and Lemongrass & Ginger Kombucha. This pricing is by far one of the more affordable ones around. While all are equally refreshing, my personal favourite is the Lemongrass and Ginger. Other than homemade, rarely I get to enjoy a lemongrass drink without the presence of sugar.

After experiencing their quinoa bowls and kombucha made from their own packaged organic quinoa and organic tea series, and you are intrigued by them, they are available right on the spot for purchase!

Words and photos 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.


Nature’s Nutrition
Far East Square
137 Amoy Street
#01-04
Singapore 049965
Facebook
Website
Nearest MRT: Telok Ayer (DT Line)

Opening Hours
Mon - Fri: 10am - 6pm
(Closed on Sat-Sun)

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