Saturday, July 19, 2025

Ensō Steakhouse @ CapitaGreen - Neo-Japanese and American Steakhouse with Lunch Set Menu From $58++

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Ensō Steakhouse, nestled within COTU, the region's first multi-concept dining and entertainment venue, is a Neo-Japanese and American Steakhouse that marries premium American cuts with modern Japanese grill expertise. All premium cuts are aged in-house. Their new lunch set menu is now even more comprehensive, starting from a 2-course set at $58++ and a 3-course set from $68++.

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Wagyu Beef Koshihikari Rice 4.5/5

Whetting our appetite was a hearty first course of Wagyu Beef Koshihikari Rice. The braised wagyu and maitake mushrooms were deeply steeped in umami, served over plump, pearly Koshihikari rice that complemented their textures and flavours. A slow-cooked egg with a sticky, creamy yolk brought it all together beautifully. I would gladly have it as a main if offered in a full portion.

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Hamacho Sashimi 3.5/5

Another first course, the Hamacho Sashimi, was a refreshing contrast. To complement the lighter profile of the sashimi, the dish was elevated with shredded myoga, shiso, and a fennel salad for a slightly spicy lift, as well as crispy potato. The latter adds both texture and an extra savoury dimension.

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Angus Bavette 5/5

As for mains, for dishes included in the base price of the set, the Angus Bavette (220g) is the one to go for. This loosely textured, lean cut from the cow's abdominal muscles surprised me with its depth of flavour, especially paired with a well-balanced red wine sauce. My prior memories of flank steak leaned toward blandness, but this was the complete opposite – tender and juicy, tantalising with beefy character.

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Grilled Salmon Salad 3/5

If you prefer something lighter, the Grilled Salmon Salad offers a seafood alternative. It's served with mixed greens, grilled avocado, and a bright, citrusy dressing, accompanied by crispy rice that lends a pleasant crunch. However, I found the salmon slightly 'stiff', lacking the succulence I hoped for.

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Wagyu Fat Crispy Fries

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Wagyu Beef Mac & Cheese

Sides were indulgent and worth the calories. The thick-cut Wagyu Fat Crispy Fries were fluffy on the inside, with a savoury, golden crust. The Wagyu Beef Mac & Cheese was comforting and rich, with al dente macaroni and juicy morsels of wagyu beef.

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Fuji Apple Crumble 4.5/5

Desserts were decent overall. Fuji Apple Crumble was a joyful treat featuring chunky, tender apple slices tucked beneath buttery-sweet crumbles and served warm with a scoop of Madagascan vanilla ice cream.

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Raspberry Almond Tart 3.5/5

The Raspberry Almond Tart had a lovely, well-baked crust, although I wished for a more generous amount of raspberries to bring out its fruity depth more effectively.

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Indeed, Ensō Steakhouse knows its beef well. Beyond the Angus Bavette, the lunch set includes other premium steak cuts, making it a solid choice for steak lovers seeking quality and value.

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.


Ensō Steakhouse
COTU
CapitaGreen
Levels 38
138 Market Street
Singapore 048946
Tel: +65 64164800
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Nearest MRT: Raffles Place (EW, NS Line), Telok Ayer (DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 1130am - 3pm, 530pm - 11pm
Sat: 530pm - 11pm
(Closed on Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at Raffles Place MRT station. Take Exit F. Walk down Cecil Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Telok Ayer MRT station. Take Exit C. Walk down Cross Street (against the flow of traffic). Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]

Friday, July 18, 2025

Cafe Oriental @ Amara Singapore - August Local Legends Series: KEK Seafood

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In celebration of SG60, Amara Singapore has partnered with two iconic local legends to present a unique dining experience at Cafe Oriental, blending nostalgic flavours with creative modern interpretations.

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During my visit in May, I had the opportunity to experience the collaboration with the century-old Chin Mee Chin Confectionery, featuring signature savoury dishes like Curry Chicken, Char Kway Teow, and Mee Siam, alongside sweet treats including Kaya Toast, Chocolate Cupcake, and an exclusive Durian Horn Pastry.

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From August 5 to 31, the spotlight shifts to renowned zi char brand KEK Seafood, known for its wok hei-rich classics and inventive creations. Diners can savour the collaboration during lunch (12pm to 2.30pm) and dinner (6pm to 9pm) at Cafe Oriental.

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Spicy Crab Meat Pasta 3/5

The Spicy Crab Meat Pasta offered a sweeter, milder take than what we'd personally prefer. However, it may serve newcomers to the dish well, although our pasta was slightly overcooked.

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Prawn Paste Chicken Burger 3.8/5

The local favourite 'Har Cheong Gai' can be found in the Prawn Paste Chicken Burger, served with a side of crunchy sweet potato fries. The chicken patty was thick and juicy, but it was a touch dry overall.

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Lala Pot 4/5

The Lala Pot swaps the usual clear broth for a hearty collagen base, served with thick vermicelli and a splash of brandy on the side. Clams were fresh and sweet.

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Butter Cereal Fish & Egg Fried Rice 3.5/5

The cereal fish from the Butter Cereal Fish & Egg Fried Rice was a standout, being both crispy and tender, with a distinct butter aroma. The egg fried rice, however, was dry and fell short of expectations.

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Black Pepper Angus Beef

While we don’t take beef, we heard fellow dining companions mention that the Black Pepper Angus Beef was peppery and tender.

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Marmite Pork Chop 4/5

The Marmite Pork Chop featured thick pork cuts coated in a well-balanced marmite glaze, sweet and savoury.

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Bak Kut Teh 3.8/5

Surprisingly enjoyable, the collaboration’s Bak Kut Teh had a peppery broth that was aromatic without being overpowering, paired with tender ribs.

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Spiced Chilli Prawns with Mantou 3.8/5

The sweet chilli sauce in the Spiced Chilli Prawns with Mantou was mild enough for spice-averse diners. Served with fried mantou for dipping.

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KEK Signature Moonlight Horfun 4/5

One of our KEK Seafood's must-order items is definitely the KEK Signature Moonlight Horfun. Wok-hei flavour remains distinct here, and the horfun is satisfying.

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Chocolate Cupcake, Durian Horn Pastry

We got to sample desserts from Chin Mee Chin, their Chocolate Cupcake and Durian Horn Pastry. These old-school-style bakes will satisfy those with a sweet tooth.

Reservations for KEK Seafood at Amara Singapore can be made through https://singapore.amarahotels.com/offers/local-legends-cafe-oriental-x-keng-eng-kee-seafood.

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.


Cafe Oriental
Amara Singapore
165 Tanjong Pagar Road
Singapore 088539
Tek: +65 68792626
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Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 11am - 830pm
Sun: 11am - 6pm

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