MOSS CROSS TOKYO Singapore @ Capri by Fraser China Square - Debuts its First Outlet Outside Singapore

MOSS CROSS TOKYO Singapore, located in Capri by Fraser China Square, is the brand's debut outside Japan. Helmed by Executive Chef Akihiro Masuyama, boasting a wealth of experience in French cuisine, the restaurant presents traditional Japanese flavours infused with a modern French flair, showcased in its omakase menus.

Shokado-9 5/5

Two lunch menus start from $69, and two dinner menus start from $128. We had the 7-course $150 Dinner Menu alongside a 7-flight alcohol pairing ($90). Shokado-9, the dish signature to MOSS CROSS TOKYO, is presented as the First Course for all menus. The 9-course small-bite masterpiece is pieced together by arranging each dish (vary by season) according to their distinct flavour profiles. Unfolding from right to left, top to bottom, the sequencing allows diverse flavours to build up on one's palate gradually. First to awaken our palate is a chilled, tangy Tomato Raspberry Fruit Salad of Tomatoes, Fresh Raspberries and Blackberries in a Plum and Tomato Compote, followed by Seared Madai in Chef Masuyama's renowned Herb Dressing, a signature blend hailing from Tokyo. Then we moved on to a slightly spicy and creamier Chutoro Wasabi Tartar and a more vibrant Squid Shiso Sauce Orange. What came after was a delightfully sweet and rich Carrot Mousse Crab Tomato Consommé before proceeding to a savoury-sweet Corn Jelly Caviar Yuzu that exuded an intense corn sweetness.

The last column began with an interesting blend of texture and flavour - Octopus Mango Gochujang, balanced with a Red Bell Pepper Herb Rice Sushi that follows. We ended with a mouth-filling Roasted Wagyu Seaweed Sauce Avocado, featuring tender, roasted Wagyu elevated by an umami homemade seaweed sauce crafted with Marushin soy sauce from Shimane Prefecture.

Alcohol pairing: Mutsu-Hassen Prototype from Hachinohe Sake Brewery

Hyogo Oyster 4.5/5

The second course, Hyogo Oyster, is paired with a Camembert mousse and milk foam, topped with Caviar and konbu. The Camembert mousse gave the oyster a further textural boost with complementing milky notes. The dish's robust flavours are punctuated by punchy diced raw onions and tangy bursts of yuzu pearls and lime zest, adding the right amount of acidity to the overall composition.

Alcohol pairing: Matsumidori S.Tokyo Junmai Ginjo Aroma is like green apple and muscat.

Molten Crab Chawan-mushi 4.5/5

Third Course Molten Crab Chawanmushi. Done using the French technique, the spoonful of the chawanmushi was exceptionally soft and pillowy, with textural contrast lent from bits of Lily Bulb. Bisque Emulsion provided a delectable crustacean flavour to the dish.

Alcohol pairing: 2022 Sato 'L'Atypique' Orange Pinot Gris

Hokkaido Tokachi Herb-fed Beef Cutlet 5/5

Fourth Course Hokkaido Tokachi Herb-fed Beef Cutlet. Chef Akihiro Masuyama would like to showcase the lesser-known Tokachi beef in this course. While slightly less marbled than Wagyu, Tokachi beef boasts a profound and rich flavour profile, elevated by its unique diet featuring over ten types of herbs. With a slightly crisped breading of parsley and breadcrumbs, the exceptional texture of the meat was accentuated even further. The addition of Parmesan cheese sprinkle added a depth of savouriness to the accompanying homemade Worcestershire sauce.

Alcohol pairing: Wakaze Red Wine Barrel Sake

Roasted Hirame 4/5

The Fifth Course of Roasted Hirame is served with toasted Almond Flakes in Sake-Beurre Blanc with Herb Oil. While I found the fish slightly drier than desired, the sake cream sauce provided that additional richness to balance the fish.

Alcohol pairing: Folium Sauvignon Blanc 2022 This Sauvignon Blanc exhibits vibrant aromas of citrus fruits

Kyoto Wagyu Sushi, Sea Urchin 4.5/5

Sixth Course Kyoto Wagyu Sushi, Sea Urchin, Truffle Soy Sauce served with Tsugani (Crab) Miso Soup. Again, much attention was given to providing a satisfying mouthfeel. Sushi rice is marinated overnight with red wine, which helps to blend even better with the luxurious slices of tender Kyoto Wagyu and creamy sea urchin sitting atop. Bringing the elements together is a dab of truffle soy sauce spiked with more assertive Middle Eastern spices.

Alcohol pairing: Chanter Muscat Bailey A Ycarre CuveeK.

Daikon Compote Tiramisu, Mikan 5/5

Seventh Course Daikon Compote Tiramisu, Mikan. The dessert was definitely the highlight for me. A tiramisu dessert that uses daikon as the cake base. The daikon is boiled with rice to enrich its sweetness. I love the charred fresh Mikan Mandarin oranges that imparted a lot of freshness to the dish and the vibrant accompanying Mikan puree that paired perfectly with the dusting of Chinese five-spice powder and cacao powder. The airy mascarpone cheese provided that creaminess that bound everything together in harmony.

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.


MOSS CROSS TOKYO Singapore
Capri by Fraser China Square
181 South Bridge Road
#02-01
Singapore 058743
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Nearest MRT: Chinatown (DT, NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue–Sun: 12 – 3pm, 6 – 10pm
(Closed on Sun and Mon)

Direction:
1) Alight at Chinatown MRT station. Take Exit F. Walk to South Bridge Road. Cross the road and walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Downtown MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk to China Street. Cross the road and walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes [Map]

Min Jiang @ Goodwood Park - A Bountiful Feast to Usher in the Year of the Dragon

In the spirit of the Lunar New Year, Min Jiang at Goodwood Park Hotel beckons guests to a lavish feast celebrating the Year of the Dragon. The team at Goodwood Park Hotel have curated an impressive array of festive takeaways, sumptuous dine-in set menus, and delectable treats to usher in prosperity and good fortune.

Auspicious Abundance 'Lo Hei' - from Min Jiang Dempsey

We commenced with the Auspicious Abundance 'Lo Hei' from Min Jiang Dempsey. Priced at $298 for dine-in and $324.80 for takeaway, this Yu Sheng extravaganza features fresh lobster, salmon sashimi, tobiko, and abalone. Nestled amidst a kaleidoscope of greens, dragon fruit balls, and osmanthus jelly in the shape of ingots, it's a visual spectacle. Drizzled with plum sauce and fruit-based concoctions, it embodies both opulence and flavour.

Double-boiled Chicken Soup

One of the perennial highlights of any Lunar New Year celebration at Min Jiang is the exquisite soup that graces the table. This year, the culinary artisans at Min Jiang Dempsey have outdone themselves with the creation of the Double-boiled Chicken Soup with 6-head Abalones, Dragon Claw Fungus, and Dried Scallops in a Claypot—an elixir that transcends mere sustenance.

Braised Whole Spring Chicken, Whole Dace Fish and Sea Treasures in Pot.

A new addition to the festive lineup is the Braised Whole Spring Chicken, Whole Dace Fish stuffed with Liver Sausage & Black Moss, and Sea Treasures in Pot ($422.90). This dish features the distinct flavour of dace fish, celebrated in Cantonese cuisine. A rich sauce infused with aromatics complements whole abalone, dried oysters, shiitake mushrooms, fried fish maw, bean gluten, and 'Tientsin' cabbage.

Fortune Koi Fish 'Nian Gao' filled with Black Glutinous Rice

Adding a touch of sweetness to the celebrations is the Fortune Koi Fish 'Nian Gao' filled with Black Glutinous Rice ($52.80 for 8pc, Takeaway). Crafted in the shape of a Koi fish, symbolising good fortune, it presents a delightful twist with a filling of black glutinous rice.

Pandan Pineapple 'Huat' Tart

Inspired by timeless pineapple tarts, the Pandan Pineapple 'Huat' Tart is a delightful fusion of homemade pineapple chutney and pandan-flavoured almond cream encased in a crumbly tart crust. Topped with a lattice design and an auspicious white chocolate wealth pot or 發 (fa) topper, it's a treat for both the eyes and the palate.

Lucky Fortune Bamboo (Orange Pound Cake)

A centrepiece of every Lunar New Year gathering, the Lucky Fortune Bamboo ($148) pound cake steals the spotlight. Intricately crafted to emulate the lucky bamboo plant, this orange-infused pound cake, layered with orange zest and buttercream, is adorned with white chocolate bamboo stalks and ingots.

Dragon Boat of Bountiful Blessings (Marble Pound Cake)

The Dragon Boat of Bountiful Blessings (Marble Pound Cake) is a visual masterpiece. A decadent and moist butter cake, complemented by chocolate swirls, is encased within an artfully sculpted white chocolate 'dragon boat.' Adorned with dark chocolate ingots and gilded coins, it's a sight to behold and savour.

Auspicious Firecracker 'Mao Shan Wang' Durian Roll Cake

Lovers of durian are in for a treat with the Auspicious Firecracker 'Mao Shan Wang' Durian Roll Cake ($138). Luscious 'Mao Shan Wang' puree enveloped within a vibrant vermillion chiffon cake, adorned with chocolate pieces shaped as auspicious symbols, makes for a decadent and visually stunning dessert.

Card Privileges for Lunar New Year Takeaways. 20% off selected festive takeaways from 18 January to 4 February 2024, and 15% off selected festive takeaways from 5 to 24 February 2024 for Citi, DBS/POSB, HSBC, Maybank, OCBC and UOB Credit/Debit Cardmembers.

Guests may place their online orders at goodwoodparkfestive.oddle.me for delivery or self-collection. Alternatively, guests may contact Min Jiang岷江at (65) 6730 1704 / email: min_jiang@goodwoodparkhotel.com, Min Jiang at Dempsey 岷江在登布西山at (65) 6774 0122 / email: mjdempsey@goodwoodparkhotel.com, and The Deli at (65) 6730 1786 / email: deli@goodwoodparkhotel.com to place their takeaway orders for self-collection only. Availability for all Lunar New Year specials is from 18 January to 24 February 2024. Advance order of five days is required for takeaways and the last pre-order date is on 19 February 2024.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Goodwood Park Hotel
22 Scotts Road
Singapore 228221
Nearest MRT: Orchard (NS Line)

Racines @ Sofitel Singapore City Centre - Usher in the Year of the Dragon with a Line-up of Lunar New Year Delights and Set Menus

Usher in the Year of the Dragon with a line-up of Lunar New Year delights at Sofitel Singapore City Centre. Available from 1 February 2024 until 29 February 2024, revel in specially curated set menus and celebratory a la carte delights at Racines, or opt for auspicious takeaways to celebrate in the comfort of your home.

Healthy Well Being Yu Sheng 4/5

Highlights include the Healthy Well Being Yu Sheng ($128). Departing from the traditional use of salmon, this refreshing take features crunchy and sweet rock  melon. The vibrant combination of fruits and shredded vegetables marks the commencement of the new year and signifies a healthy start to the festivities.

Chef Andrew’s Magnifique Pen Cai 5/5

Chef Andrew's Magnifique Pen Cai ($328/$498) is exceptional. Ingredients include abalone, scallops, prawns, pork belly, and duck meat, combined with a sauce boasting a rich depth of flavour. The crispy pork belly, with its irresistible crackling, and the duck meat, reminiscent of smoked duck with a layer of unctuous skin, contribute to the overall indulgence of this dish.

Fried Crab Meat Ngoh Hiang 4/5

Available for takeaway, Fried Crab Meat Ngoh Hiang ($68/500g, $128/1kg) is a great add-on side dish. It was juicy with an airy crust. The fiery dipping chilli sauce served with it helped cut through its richness.

Double-boiled Chicken Soup 4.5/5

From the set menus, we tried Double-boiled Chicken Soup with Dried Scallop & Cordycep Blossom. It had a good consistency with a delectable depth of earthy flavour.

Lap Mei Fan 4/5

One of the highlights in the CNY specials includes the Lap Mei Fan, a hearty claypot dish of steamed rice with waxed meat and Chinese sausage. The rice, reminiscent of chicken rice, was flavourful on its own. While the Chinese sausage was slightly tougher than expected, combined with the waxed meat, it still resulted in a wholesome and satisfying dish.

Caramelised Black Cod Fillet with Butter Edamame & Bonito Sauce 5/5

We then indulged in the Caramelised Black Cod Fillet with Butter Edamame & Bonito Sauce. The umami-rich bonito sauce heightened the cod fillet, enhancing its buttery texture and robust flavour. The caramelised exterior added bittersweet notes and a contrasting texture, providing an exquisite touch to the cod.

Bird's Nest 4.5/5

We were treated to a nourishing bowl of Bird's Nest with Ginseng, Red Dates & Wolfberries for dessert.

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.


Racines
Sofitel Singapore City Centre
Level 5
9 Wallich Street
Singapore 078885
Tel: +65 64285000
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Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 7am - 1030am, 12pm - 3pm, 530pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn right on Peck Seah Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Shangri-La Singapore - Spring into a Soaring Lunar New Year

Embark on a bountiful Lunar New Year celebration at Shangri-La Singapore as we usher in the auspicious Year of the Dragon. Revel in the opulence of our reunion feasts and indulge in exquisite festive treats. For those preferring celebrations at home, our sumptuous gourmet takeaways promise an equally lavish experience in the comfort of your own abode.

Auspicious Dragon Yu Sheng

A true spectacle, the limited-edition Auspicious Dragon Yu Sheng is poised to leave an impression. Priced at $238++ for six and eight persons, this masterpiece, resembling a dragon, features julienne vegetables, smoked salmon, and jellyfish. A two-day advance order is required for this showstopper.

Pen Cai

The much-anticipated Pen Cai takes centre stage with the Abundance Pen Cai ($518.80 nett) for 8 persons. Overflowing with over 18 luxurious ingredients, including Abalone, Fish Maw, Whole Dace Fish, and more, it's a symbol of prosperity and abundance.

Trehalose, Peach Gum, Rose, and Coconut Milk Nian Gao

Introducing a delectable creation for the Lunar New Year festivities: the Trehalose, Peach Gum, Rose, and Coconut Milk Nian Gao ($72.80 nett, 900g). This special concoction redefines tradition by replacing conventional white or cane sugar with trehalose, presenting a healthier alternative for indulgence. Adorned with delicate rose petals on its surface, this unique Nian Gao elevates texture and symbolises reunion's joyous spirit. Immerse yourself in a fusion of health-conscious sweetness and the essence of celebratory togetherness.

Mung Bean and Dhal Nian Gao

Experience a burst of vibrant hues with the Mung Bean and Dhal Nian Gao ($37.80 nett). This delightful creation showcases a harmonious blend of yellow and green tones. Crafted with precision, a meticulous combination of glutinous rice flour and wheat flour is added to the mixture, ensuring the desired consistency and texture. The result is a visually appealing treat that promises a unique taste adventure. As the final touch, this colourful Nian Gao undergoes a meticulous steaming process, delivering a delectable fusion of tradition and innovation.

Shangri-La Yuzu Pineapple Tarts

Experience a modern twist with the Shangri-La Yuzu Pineapple Tarts ($64.80 nett, 16pc). These tarts bring a sweet and zesty finish, transforming the traditional into a contemporary delight.

We were graciously hosted at Shangri-La Singapore for an enchanting Lunar New Year dinner. The evening unfolded as a showcase of sumptuous delights, offering a glimpse into the gourmet extravaganza crafted for this Lunar New Year. Each dish, a testament to culinary artistry, promised an unforgettable journey of flavours and textures befitting the grandeur of the occasion.

Trio Appetiser Platter

We commenced with a Trio Appetiser Platter, a tantalising showcase of meticulously crafted dim sum. Among the treasures were Steamed Diced Scallop Dumplings adorned with glistening Salmon Roe, offering a burst of oceanic richness. Following suit, the Steamed Cod Fish Dumplings promised a harmonious blend of textures and flavours. As a crowning jewel, the Deep-fried Shrimp with Cheese encased in a crisp Filo Pastry revealed a delightful interplay of the crunchy exterior and succulent, cheesy interior. Each morsel was a visual feast and a symphony of delectable sensations that set the tone for the dinner ahead.

Double-boiled Chicken Broth with Fish Maw, Ginseng and Honey Locust

In the symphony of flavours, a bowl of Double-boiled Chicken Broth with Fish Maw, Ginseng, and Honey Locust emerges as a comforting elixir. The essence of Chicken intertwines with the delicate richness of Fish Maw, the earthy notes of Ginseng, and the subtle sweetness of Honey Locust. The slow double-boiling process ensures that every sip encapsulates the wholesome goodness of the ingredients, creating a nourishing and soul-soothing experience. Each spoonful is a testament to the chef's mastery in extracting the essence of nature's bounty.

Abundance Pen Cai

Served before us is a miniature of the Abundance Pen Cai. A treasure trove of sea and land, the pot overflows with opulence - 8-head Abalone, Whole Dace Fish, Fried Fish Maw, Pork Knuckle, Sweet and Sour Pan-fried Prawn, Dried Scallop, Sea Cucumber, Goose Web, Roasted Pork, Soya Sauce Chicken, Dried Oyster, Fragrant Mushroom, Radish, Taro, Chinese Cabbage, Fried Bean Curd Stick, Chestnut, and Black Moss. Each ingredient, meticulously curated and arranged, symbolises prosperity and good fortune. The rich flavours of the sea meld with the earthiness of the land, creating a harmonious symphony in this culinary orchestra. The Abundance Pen Cai is not merely a dish but a celebration of life's bountiful offerings, a feast for the senses.

Steamed Atlantic Cod Fish Fillet

The Steamed Atlantic Cod Fish Fillet, moist and buttery, melted with every bite. The appetising sour notes from the preserved vegetables brought a refreshing twist to the dish, a perfect prelude to the sweet and fragrant finish brought by the infusion of tangerine peel. This subtle yet pronounced element added a layer of sophistication, elevating the entire experience. The crystal noodle with black bean sauce complemented this seafood opus, a harmonious duet that enhanced the overall symphony. The marriage of textures and the play of sweet, sour, and umami made this dish not just a meal but a culinary performance to remember.

Fried Glutinous Rice

In a spectacular finale, our dining journey at Shangri-La Singapore reached its zenith with the Fried Glutinous Rice, which encapsulated the essence of richness and depth. The glutinous rice, layered with preserved meat, dried shrimp, conpoy, and scallops, was crowned with the luxury jewel—black caviar. Each glutinous rice grain bore the fragrant signature of preserved meat, creating a melody of flavours resonating through every bite. It left an indelible impression—a harmonious blend of flavours that provided a delicious and hearty conclusion to our Lunar New Year feast at Shangri-La Singapore.

Lunar New Year goodies are available for purchase online from 20 December 2023 to 24 February 2024. 20% Early Bird Discount is applicable for selected items and valid till 7 January 2024, and 15% discount valid till 21 January 2024. To order online, please visit https://bit.ly/shangrilacny24, call +65 6213 4511 or email festive.sls@shangri-la.com.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Shangri-La Singapore
22 Orange Grove Road
Singapore 258350
Tel: +65 67373644
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Nearest MRT: Orchard (NS Line)

Sichuan Alley @ Capitol Singapore - Dive into Contemporary Sichuanese Cuisine at Sichuan Alley’s Second Outlet in Singapore

New in Capitol Singapore is Sichuan Alley, whose flagship branch is situated at Telok Ayer. It's most known for its signature Mian Yang Rice Noodle offerings, which has yet to be found at any other local restaurants.

Here, diners can explore authentic and contemporary Sichuanese items alongside a range of unique Sichuan-inspired beverages. Flavours are rich, bold and authentic. Their interior was lovely, exuding warm and cosy vibes, perfect for big and small gatherings.

Sichuan-inspired Beverages

We took some time to look through their fun and fresh beverage list before deciding on the Cold Brew Yuzu Chrysanthemum Tea ($5.90), the Bamboo Breeze ($16) cocktail made from gin, bamboo green tea, pineapple, peach and jasmine, and the Osmanthus Rice Wine ($16).

Osmanthus Rice Wine

Our favourite among the three was the fragrant and mellowly sweet Osmanthus Rice Wine.

Mini Hotpot 4.2/5

We delved into the world of Sichuan flavours with their Mini Hotpot 成都冒菜 ($14). While it leaned on the oily side, we loved how all the ingredients nicely soaked up the spices and tingling numbness.

This was especially so for the crunchy slices of potato and celtuce, alongside prawns, black fungus, bean sprouts and cauliflower.

Yu Xiang Shredded Pork 4/5

The Yu Xiang Shredded Pork 鱼香肉丝 ($7.90) is made up of strips of tender pork, strips of celtuce and carrot, and black fungus. It's pretty appetising but a little sweeter than I'd prefer. A vegetarian version of this dish is also available.

Fried Chicken 4.5/5

I liked how Sichuan Alley's Fried Chicken 辣子鸡 ($16) is boneless, making it much more convenient to enjoy. They use chicken thighs fried to a crunch, mixed with cashew nuts, leek and addictive bits of fried garlic.

Sichuan Sour Vegetable Fish 4.5/5

By default, the Sichuan Sour Vegetable Fish 老坛酸菜鱼 ($19) comes with a number of ingredients, including sweet potato noodles, black fungus and my favourite crunchy celtuce. Though a touch oily, the sourness and spiciness were well-balanced, and the fish slices were tender.

Braised Pig Intestines with Tofu 4.8/5

If you're a fan of both mala flavours and pork intestines, the Braised Pig Intestines with Tofu 鲜豆花烧肥肠 ($17.30) will be up your alley. The fattier intestines are cleaned well, thoroughly soaking up all that lip-smacking spice. We liked how the flavour of the intestines permeates in the gravy and the soft beancurd as well. Get a bowl of white rice to accompany it, and you're good to go!

King Prawns with Vine Pepper Rice Noodle 4.2/5

Sichuan Alley's signature Mian Yang rice noodles are featured in their range of mains. We opted for the King Prawns with Vine Pepper Rice Noodle 藤椒大虾米粉 ($15.50), which is by default spicy, but there are several others, such as Braised Beef Rice Noodle and Braised Pork Ribs Rice Noodle which you can opt for in your preferred level of spice. You can imagine the rice noodles to be like mee sua, but just a bit thicker with a slight more chew. The deceptively clear vine pepper broth was tangy and comforting with its accompanying heat.

Speciality Ice Jelly 4.2/5

Our first dessert was the classic Speciality Ice Jelly 雪山红糖冰粉 ($5.50), featuring red beans, hawthorn, peanuts, rice balls, almond flakes and raisins on ice jelly with brown sugar. It had lots of texture and was refreshing.

Sweet Fermented Rice 4.2/5

I preferred the Sweet Fermented Rice 巷子桂花粉子醪糟 ($4.50) between both desserts even though it looks simpler. The bits of Osmanthus brought a lovely mild fragrance to the fermented rice, with soft glutinous rice balls.

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.


Sichuan Alley
13 Stamford Road
#B1-29/30
Singapore 178905
Tel: +65 9155 5244
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Nearest MRT: City Hall (EW, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1030am - 930pm

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