Sakaba Igokochi @ NEWest - Transformation from Omakase to Izakaya Concept

Igokochi, nestled in NEWest, has recently undergone a captivating transformation. From its origins as an omakase restaurant, it now embraces the spirited essence of a Tokyo izakaya. Inspired by Shinjuku's bustling back alleys and hidden gems, Igokochi beckons with its izakaya-focused menu and bar.

Peperron Edamame 3/5

Takara MIO Sparkling Rose Sake Limited Edition 300ml

Before delving into the dining experience, we indulged in the Takara MIO Sparkling Rose Sake Limited Edition (300ml), served chilled. Accompanying this refreshing libation was the Peperron Edamame ($7). While the edamame pods were flavoured, the seasoning remained on the surface, sparing the prized beans inside.

Salmon Yukke-Style Carpaccio 4/5

The Salmon Yukke-Style Carpaccio ($13) graced our table next. Thick, luscious salmon slices bathed in a sweet and tangy chef's special sauce. Adorned with ikura, the pearls of umami goodness, it elevated the salmon's rich, fatty flavours.

Beef Tataki with Dashi Ponzu 3.8/5

Beef Tataki with Dashi Ponzu ($16) followed suit, showcasing thinly sliced, seared beef drizzled with a zesty dashi ponzu sauce. Adding green onions and fried garlic provided an aromatic and harmonious finish.

Kombu-marinated Chicken Thigh Steak 3.5/5

The Kombu-Marinated Chicken Thigh Steak ($15) showcased dry-aged chicken marinated in kombu before grilling. The result was a tender, moist, and intensely flavoured chicken. While the distinct chicken flavour might not suit every palate, it was a bold and unique creation.

Pressed Sushi 2.5/5

Despite its creative intent, the Pressed Sushi left us with mixed feelings. We opted for the Scallop Pressed Sushi ($22) adorned with ikura and green onions. Regrettably, the ratio of rice to scallop was skewed, overwhelming the delicate sashimi topping.

Japanese Style Grilled Apple 4/5

We savoured the Japanese Style Grilled Apple ($8), accompanied by red bean, mochi, and vanilla ice cream for dessert. This simple yet delightful dessert offered a sweet conclusion to our meal.

At Igokochi, the transformation from omakase to izakaya has brought forth a medley of flavours inspired by Tokyo's vibrant back alleys. While some dishes soared, others left room for further refinement, promising intriguing culinary journeys to come.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Sakaba Igokochi
NEWest
1 West Coast Drive
#01-98/99
Singapore 128020
Tel: +65 6963 9430
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Nearest MRT: Clementi (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 1130am - 11pm
(Closed on Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at Clementi MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to bus stop at Clementi MRT station (Stop ID 17171). Take bus 154 or 201. Alight 3 stops later. Walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]

Man Fu Yuan @ InterContinental Singapore - Showcasing Best of Irish Produces, Silver Hill Duck, John Stone Dry-Aged Beef and Hampshire Pork

Man Fu Yuan at InterContinental Singapore has partnered with the Irish Duck Company to present 'The Best of Irish Showcase.' From 1 October 1st to 15 November, three 6-course menus highlighting some of Ireland's finest produce will be offered for lunch and dinner. Irish Duck Company is the exclusive distributor that first brought the world-famous Silver Hill Duck to Asia, and thanks to them, we get to savour the 'wagyu of duck' right here in Singapore. They are now ready to introduce the exquisite John Stone Dry-Aged Beef and Hampshire Pork to Singapore. In the hands of Man Fu Yuan's Executive Chinese Chef Aaron Tan, these premium Irish meats to the table, highlighting their qualities with Cantonese traditional flavours and techniques.

Appetiser 4.5/5

Each of the 3 menus brings together all three of these finest Irish products in a single menu. We tried the Elegant Set Menu. We started with an appetiser featuring John Stone Irish Smoked Salmon Flower with wasabi aioli, Chilled Cherry Vine Tomatoes with crab meat and Chilled John Stone Dry-Aged Beef. The aged beef, infused with the aged-citrus honey soya sauce, intensified the already rich flavour, creating an incredibly meaty texture. The smoked salmon was just as delectable with its luscious texture and deep flavour. The exquisite crab meat added balance to the dish, introducing a sweet and refreshing note that harmonised the flavours beautifully.

Soup 4/5

The Soup course was a Braised Golden Bird's Nest with golden pumpkin superior stock. The soup had an incredible depth of flavour with a slight creamy consistency.

Wok-fried John Stone Irish Lamb Loin 3/5

The 3rd course is Hong Kong Kailan with Wok-fried John Stone Irish Lamb Loin with Sarawak black pepper sauce. The lamb loin was succulent, tender, and quite delicate on the level of gaminess. The black pepper sauce, however, was too much for me.

Braised Irish Hampshire Pork Belly 5/5

Next was Braised Irish Hampshire Pork Belly with South African 5-head Abalone. A very considered dish - a sumptuous pork belly with an ideal balance between meat and fat, resulting in an unctuous delight. To complement this decadent meat, a 5-head abalone was paired with the pork belly, tender and infused with the rich flavours of the braising sauce.

XO Chinese La Mian with Rock Lobster, Silver Hill Irish Duck 4/5

The last main was a much-anticipated dish - XO Chinese La Mian with Rock Lobster and Silver Hill Irish Duck in XO sauce. Like the previous course, pairing relatively fatty meat with lean seafood created a harmonious balance between two exquisite ingredients, enhancing the other's qualities. The XO sauce didn't work for me.

Oven-baked Mango Pudding 4/5

The dessert is Oven-baked Mango Pudding, which is extra comforting. It is served warm in the traditional way.

The Elegant Set Menu, ideal for 3 to 5 persons, is priced at $228 per person. All set menus include an optional wine-pairing option at $68++ per person.

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.


Man Fu Yuan
InterContinental Singapore
Level 2
80 Middle Road
Singapore 188966
Tel: +65 63387600
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Nearest MRT: Bugis (EW Line, DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1145am - 330pm, 630pm - 1030pm

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

Gourmet Park @ Resorts World Sentosa - Gourmet Food Truck Park Featuring Exciting Michelin-Starred Names

Gourmet Park is conveniently located just outside the main entrance of Universal Studios Singapore in Resorts World Sentosa.

This innovative food truck park concept was created to offer visitors, whether tourists or locals, a carefully curated selection of emerging food brands and Michelin-starred cuisine to savour.

The food trucks are lined on the circumference, each serving their usual signatures and/or dishes specially prepared only to be enjoyed at the park.

Other notable park highlights include the alfresco dining area, live DJ sets on weekend evenings, the intentional inclusion of vegetarian options at three trucks, and free entry for all.

Blue Lotus - Signature Chilli Pomelo Crab Meat Rice Bowl 4/5

Blue Lotus is most known for its modern Chinese creations. The first we had from them was their Signature Chilli Pomelo Crab Meat Rice Bowl ($19). Although a tad pricey, it was great to enjoy the crab meat without needing to peel, and we particularly enjoyed the heat and variety of spices packed in its chilli crab sauce.

Blue Lotus - Five Spices "Lu Rou" Kurobuta Pork Belly Rice Bowl 3.8/5

The second dish, the Five Spices "Lu Rou" Kurobuta Pork Belly Rice Bowl ($17), was decent, with chunky and well-braised pork belly on white rice.

The Kathi Roll Co - Butter Chicken Roll 4/5

At The Kathi Roll Co, dig into their range of Indian street food consisting of wraps, rolls and bowls. Our Butter Chicken Roll ($18) came with nicely spiced and tender chicken chunks, but we also found it quite pricey.

Kotuwa - Chicken Kottu 4.5/5

Kotuwa is a Michelin-starred name that focuses on traditional Sri Lankan cuisine. It was a unanimous nod of approval from all of us for their Chicken Kottu ($16). This elevated rendition of a Sri Lankan street classic features a mix of chopped roti, vegetables, chicken and a curry-like gravy. It was hearty with the perfect spice, richness and textures.

Chun Noodle Bar - Truffle Char Siu Noodle 4/5

The wanton noodles from Chun Noodle Bar are available in various renditions. We had the Truffle Char Siu Noodle ($13) that had egg noodles tossed in their housemade sauce, tender Iberico char siew and wantons.

Lavi Taco - Pulled Mushroom Taco 4.2/5

If you want a vegetarian option, check out Lavi Taco's Pulled Mushroom Taco (3 for $20 / 2 for $26). The tacos were generously filled with its well-textured mushroom filling, so much so that one of my dining companions didn't realise it was vegetarian till the end!

Luke’s Lobster - Lobster Roll 4/5

Luke's Lober's Lobster Roll ($27.60) uses lobsters from Maine, USA. Most would be familiar with them and their buttered rolls stuffed with your choice of lightly seasoned seafood.

QUEIC & Olivia Market - Olivia Cheesecake 4.8/5

Moving to desserts, I was so excited to spot QUEIC & Olivia Market's truck as they made my favourite cheesecakes! The prized Olivia Cheesecake ($14) has this amazingly oozy filling made of cream cheese and blue cheese, sat on a crunchy almond sable crust. It is so intense yet so well-balanced. I highly recommend this to all cheese lovers.

Spank My Dough - Artisanal Brioche Doughnuts 4.2/5

Grab more desserts from Spank My Dough, which specialises in Artisanal Brioche Doughnuts ($4.50 - $6.80/piece) produced in small batches daily and with piped fillings. The fluffy bombolonis are available in various flavours, including Vanilla Bean, Raspberry Cheesecake, Pistachio Cream, Blueberry Lavender Lemon and more.

With the wide variety of cuisine available here, there is something for everyone. Other brands not featured here include Blue Smoke, Coolhaus, Dickson Nasi Lemak, JAMBA, Mad Roaster, Quattro Pizza and Seafood Bar by Bleu.

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.


Gourmet Park
Resorts World Sentosa
The Bull Ring
8 Sentosa Gateway
Singapore 098269
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Nearest MRT: Harbourfront MRT (CC, NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 11am - 8pm
Sat-Sun: 11am - 9pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Harbour Front MRT station. Exit station to Vivocity Shopping Mall. Go to Sentosa Express Station at Level 3 of Vivocity. Take Sentosa Express Train to Resorts World station. Alight at Resorts World station. Walk to destination. Jourrney time about 10 mins

Oishii Bar @ Frasers Tower - Experience The Delicate Craftsmanship of Tempura Through an Omakase Set Menu

Oishii Bar at Frasers Tower started as a Japanese and Italian fusion restaurant, Oishii Ristorante before it was rebranded in February 2023. Shifting the focus to bring authentic Japanese Cuisine to the diners, Chef Shigenari Sato decided to enrich your dining experience in Oishii Bar by offering Oishii Omakase Tempura.

Oishii Bar at Frasers Tower started as a Japanese and Italian fusion restaurant, Oishii Ristorante before it was rebranded in February 2023. Shifting the focus to bring authentic Japanese Cuisine to the diners, Chef Shigenari Sato decided to enrich your dining experience in Oishii Bar by offering Oishii Omakase Tempura.

The Appetizer was excellent, aesthetically plated with four petite dishes, each showcasing one of four core ingredients - onion, tofu, abalone, and eggplant. Chef Sato skillfully utilized various ingredients with distinct umami profiles to accentuate the subtle flavours of each element - Onion with mozuku seaweed and Junsai (Watershield) Jelly, Beancurd skin with Dashi sauce, Miso Eggplant with Dashi Jelly and Abalone with abalone liver sauce.

Ebi

Kisu

Ama Dai

We managed to try 6 seafood tempuras. I appreciate how Chef Sato prepared the Kuruma Ebi Tempura, a rich aroma with sweet shrimp. Instead of dipping the crispy ebi head into the tempura sauce, Chef Sato suggested we try it simply with salt. That allowed me to really taste the lightness of his batter. Amadai was tasty with the expected crispy scale, but it wasn't the best I had thus far. Kisu was interesting. It is lean white fish, but deep drying made it plump and juicy. It is pretty moreish, akin to eating Finnish Muikku.

Mehikari

Ika

Ika tempura certainly surprised me with its beautifully creamy texture. Another standout was the Mehikari fish, also known as the greeneye fish. Despite its exotic nature, it was delicious with a delightful, fluffy texture, enhanced by the thin tempura crust.

Anago

It was my first time having Anago prepared in tempura style rather than the usual simmering method, which brought out its suppleness even more.

White Asparagus

Maitake Mushroom

Sweet Corn

The Vegetable tempuras were simply delicious. Chef Sato's tempura batter excels at the quick frying process, sealing in the tenderness and juiciness of each ingredient in a thin, crispy crust. The Sweet Corn, sourced from Hokkaido, was the most memorable among them. Its intense corn flavour and sweetness were heightened since it was in season, with an almost buttery taste. Both the Maitake Mushroom tempura and the seasonal White Asparagus were equally delectable.

Rice

The highlight of Chef Sato's Omakase Tempura was undoubtedly the rice dish. Ours was similar to a Shrimp kakiage Tendon, crowned with an egg yolk tempura. Bursting the yolk tempura open was immensely satisfying, watching its creamy yolk lava ooze onto the contents below. Finished with a drizzle of tare, the shrimp kakiage took on a slightly chewy texture, and every bite was filled with the satisfying crunch from the plump shrimps, diced to perfection for the full experience. The rice was pearly and fragrant, and the dish wouldn't be complete without it.

Dessert

Dessert showcases one of Japan's best produce - fruits! Both the melon and pear were sweet and refreshing.

Each session will be in an intimate setting, with a limit of 6 persons for Lunch and Dinner service. Hence, Reservation / Rescheduling / Cancellation needs to be done 5 days in advance.

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.


Oishii Bar
Frasers Tower
182 Cecil Street
#01-05
Singapore 069547
Tel: +65 6232 7890
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Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 1130am - 3pm, 530pm - 930pm

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

Tanyu Exclusive 探鱼 @ Jewel Changi Airport - Newly Opened Tanyu Outlet with 8 Flavours of Grilled Fish and Self-Service Ice Jelly Bar to Enjoy Till 3am

Tanyu has been one of many diners' go-to spots for Chongqing-style grilled fish since it joined the local F&B scene in 2017. Newly introduced in Jewel Changi Airport is Tanyu Exclusive, the brand's first-ever supper concept store, open to welcome diners till 3am daily!

The new space works perfectly as a supper spot or to enjoy before you catch a flight. If you dine in later in the night between 10pm and 3pm, there are special supper exclusives and an additional 15% off. All of the staff we met were very cheery and helpful, and the curated Chinese playlist enhanced the overall vibes.

Self-service Ice Jelly Bar

The unlimited Self-service Ice Jelly Bar ($2.80/pax) is definitely the first thing that would catch your eye upon stepping in. It's fun to DIY and refreshing to have through the meal.

Pick from different types of jelly to add to the shaved ice with other toppings, including osmanthus honey, peach gum, pearls, peanuts, hawthorn bits, and more. We went back for seconds and thirds for this.

Fresh Clams in Spicy Sauce 4/5

We started with a chilled appetiser, the Fresh Clams in Spicy Sauce ($9.90). The clams were average in size but picked up the mildly spicy and numbing sauce well.

Chongqing Cold Noodles with Shredded Chicken 4/5

You can opt for regular white rice to accompany the grilled fish, but Tanyu also offers noodle dishes. For a spicy option, go for the Chongqing Cold Noodles with Shredded Chicken ($8.90). While I found the noodles a little too soft, I liked the smooth texture and the appetising sauce.

Noodles with Onion Oil 3.8/5

There is Noodles with Onion Oil ($5.80) for a non-spicy choice. Similarly, it had softer noodles here, but I found the scallion oil used, unfortunately, a little too bland.

Grilled Fish with Fresh Green Pepper, with Limbo Fish 4.8/5

The highlight of our meal was the Grilled Fish with Fresh Green Pepper, with Limbo Fish ($48.90). I always appreciate how customisable a meal at Tanyu is - you can pick your choice of fish broth and add a variety of ingredients to your liking.

I recommend adding their special beancurd ($3.90), which soaked up the broth superbly well. Other ingredients ($4.50/portion) include enoki mushrooms, konjac, bamboo shoots, potato slices and more. My only qualm here was the broth's saltiness, which made it less drinkable.

Grilled Fish with Sauerkraut, with Limbo Fish 4.5/5

We had the Grilled Fish with Sauerkraut for our second fish, with Limbo Fish ($48.90). The fish in both were tender, soft and fresh, which made it easy to separate from its bones. The saltiness here was more balanced with strong tangy notes.

Golden Mushroom with Minced Garlic 4/5

Enoki mushroom and garlic fans should try the Golden Mushroom with Minced Garlic ($5.80). It's a simple dish, but the intense garlic flavours were satisfying.

Lychee Shrimp Ball 4.2/5

We were most surprised by the Lychee Shrimp Ball ($9.80). They were served piping hot and crunchy, with a juicy shrimp filling, pairing harmoniously with the tangy chilli on the side.

Grilled Lamb, Grilled Chicken 3.8/5

While the rub of herbs and spices on the Grilled Lamb ($6.90 for 3 Pieces) and Grilled Chicken ($6.90 for 3 Pieces) were decently aromatic, we found both meats too tough.

Double Taste Rice Cake 4.5/5

The Double Taste Rice Cake ($7.80 for 5 Pieces) was a hot dessert that had praises from everyone. Each had a thin crisp exterior while remaining delightfully soft and chewy within. It was perfect to enjoy with the drizzle of black sugar syrup.

Thunder Grape Drink, Tangerine Hawthorn Drink

We had huge cups of beverages to pair, namely the Thunder Grape Drink ($5.80) and Tangerine Hawthorn Drink ($5.80). Though these came in a big portion for sharing, they were both too sweet for our liking.

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.


Tanyu Exclusive 探鱼
Jewel Changi Airport
#B2-235/236
78 Airport Boulevard
Singapore 819666
Tel: +65 6513 3203
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Nearest MRT: Changi Airport MRT (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 3am

Direction:
1) Alight at Changi Airport MRT station. Take Exit A or B. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]