Pura Brasa @ PLQ 1 - Expands to the East with Josper-Grilled Spanish Specialities

Barcelona-born Spanish charcoal-grill concept Pura Brasa has expanded to the East with its second Singapore outlet at PLQ 1, nine years after its international debut at Tanjong Pagar. Known for its signature Josper charcoal oven, the restaurant brings together Spanish tapas, charcoal-grilled meats and seafood, and traditional Spanish rice dishes in a casual, convivial setting.

The new outlet places a greater emphasis on tapas and sharing, making it a neighbourhood dining destination for gatherings with friends and family. Diners can look forward to 20 tapas dishes, a mix of familiar favourites and new creations, alongside PLQ-exclusive signatures that showcase the restaurant's charcoal-grilling techniques.

Limited-Time $5 Opening Specials

To celebrate the opening, Pura Brasa PLQ Mall is also offering a Limited-time $5 Opening Promotion. Available daily from 3pm during restaurant operating hours, diners can enjoy their first selected tapas dish or drink for just $5. The selection includes Ibérico Pork Collar Satay, Chicken Wings, Spanish Omelette, Croquetas, Crispy Potatoes, Baba Ganoush, Broccolini and Sweet Corn. Selected drinks, including house-pour red or white wine and Spanish pale lager Estrella Galicia, are also available under the promotion.

Chef's Abuela's Beef & Pork Meatballs 4.2/5

A comforting start to the meal, Chef's Abuela's Beef & Pork Meatballs ($18) features handmade beef and pork meatballs served with seasonal mushrooms and crispy potato cubes. The name "abuela" means grandmother in Spanish, and the dish certainly evokes the kind of homely cooking associated with a family kitchen.

The meatballs were soft and tender, with a pleasant balance of beefy and pork flavours. They were generously coated in a savoury tomato-based gravy that brought everything together without being overly heavy. The mushrooms added an earthy dimension, while the crispy potato cubes provided a contrasting texture. It was a hearty, comforting tapas dish that offered a taste of traditional Spanish home cooking.

Josper-Grilled Iberico Pork Collar Satay 4.2/5

One of the more interesting tapas offerings was the Josper-Grilled Ibérico Pork Collar Satay ($16). The Cajun-spiced pork collar skewers are grilled in the restaurant's signature Josper charcoal oven, which imparts a distinctive smoky aroma and appetising char to the meat.

The Ibérico pork collar was tender and juicy, with its natural marbling keeping the meat moist while delivering a rich, savoury flavour. The Cajun seasoning added a gentle layer of spice, while the tangy Indonesian peanut sauce provided a sweet and nutty counterpoint. Finished with crispy fried shallots, the skewers offered an enjoyable combination of smokiness, savouriness and crunch.

Josper-Grilled White Sweet Corn 4.5/5

For a vegetable-forward option, the Josper-Grilled White Sweet Corn ($19) showcases how charcoal grilling can transform a seemingly simple ingredient. The corn is grilled over high heat until lightly charred, developing a smoky aroma while retaining its natural sweetness and juicy bite.

Served with savoury Cajun butter, the corn had a richer flavour profile, with the buttery seasoning complementing the kernels' sweetness. The charred edges added another layer of flavour, making this a worthwhile sharing plate for those who enjoy grilled vegetables.

Josper-Grilled Broccolini 4/5

The Josper-Grilled Broccolini ($20) is another vegetable dish that benefits from the restaurant's charcoal-grilling technique. The broccolini is grilled until it develops a rustic char while retaining a pleasant bite, with smoky notes that enhance its natural earthy flavour.

It is served with romesco sauce and escalivada emulsion. The romesco, a classic Catalan sauce traditionally made with roasted peppers, tomatoes, nuts and garlic, brings a nutty, savoury and slightly tangy character to the dish. Together with the smoky broccolini, the sauces add depth and complexity, making this more than just a simple side of greens.

Octopus Leg 4.2/5

For seafood lovers, the Octopus Leg ($38) is a signature dish worth considering. Sourced from Galicia in Spain, the thick octopus leg is grilled in the Josper oven and served with potato puree and sweet paprika. The charcoal grilling gives the exterior a beautifully browned, savoury finish while adding a subtle smokiness. Beneath the charred surface, the octopus was tender and meaty, with a satisfying bite. The smooth potato purée provided a creamy base that complemented the octopus without overwhelming it, while the sweet paprika added a gentle warmth.

Josper-Grilled Argentinian Striploin 4.2/5

Meat lovers can opt for the Josper-Grilled Argentinian Striploin (250g $35), served with crispy fried potatoes and house-made chimichurri. Cooked at high temperatures in the charcoal oven, the striploin develops a well-seared exterior that adds a smoky, savoury character. The intense heat helps create a flavourful crust while retaining the meat's natural juices. Paired with crispy fried potatoes, the steak makes a satisfying main course, while the chimichurri brings a fresh, herbaceous, tangy contrast that cuts through the beef's richness. The combination of grilled beef, potatoes and chimichurri is straightforward but effective, highlighting the appeal of good ingredients prepared over charcoal.

Iberico Pork Paella 4.2/5

One of the highlights exclusive to the PLQ Mall outlet is the Ibérico Pork Paella ($37 Medium Size), a hearty interpretation of the Spanish rice classic that puts the restaurant's charcoal-grilling expertise front and centre. The dish features Spanish rice cooked with a deeply savoury broth and topped with Josper-grilled Ibérico pork jowl, crispy pork jowl bites and allioli. The rice absorbs the flavours of the broth while picking up a subtle smoky aroma from the grilling technique. The Ibérico pork jowl adds another dimension to the dish. With its generous marbling, the pork delivers a rich, savoury flavour, while the crispy pieces provide a satisfying contrast to the softer rice. The allioli adds a creamy, garlicky finish that ties the components together.

Burnt Basque Cheesecake 3.5/5

For dessert, the Burnt Basque Cheesecake ($12/Slice) offers a familiar but satisfying finish. Its signature deeply caramelised top gives the cheesecake a rustic appearance, with the darkened surface contributing notes of toasted sugar and a hint of smokiness. Beneath the exterior, the cheesecake has a soft, creamy texture, with a custard-like centre that contrasts with the more caramelised edges.

Catalan Cream 3.5/5

Another Spanish classic on the dessert menu is Catalan Cream ($13), the traditional Catalan counterpart to French crème brûlée. The dessert features a silky custard infused with lemon zest and cinnamon, giving it a fragrant citrus note alongside gentle warmth from the spice. The highlight is the crisp layer of caramelised sugar on top, which cracks satisfyingly under the spoon to reveal the smooth custard beneath. The bright citrus notes help balance the richness of the egg-based custard, while the caramel adds a pleasant bittersweet finish.

With its second Singapore outlet at PLQ Mall, Pura Brasa brings its Barcelona-born concept of Spanish tapas and charcoal-grilled cooking to the East. For those planning a visit, the limited-time $5 opening promotion offers an affordable way to sample selected tapas or drinks from 3pm daily. Whether you stop by for a few small plates or settle in for a more substantial meal of charcoal-grilled meats and paella, Pura Brasa PLQ Mall is a new option to consider for Spanish dining in the East.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Pura Brasa
Paya Lebar Quarter 1
1 Paya Lebar Link
#01-01
Singapore 408533
Tel: +65 96726025
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Nearest MRT: Paya Lebar (CC, EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Thu, Sun: 1130am - 11pm
Fri-Sat: 1130am - 12midnight

Direction:
1) Alight at Paya Lebar MRT Station. Take Exit E. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 3 minutes. [Map]

Butcher's Block @ Raffles Hotel Singapore - Unveils Autumn IMUA Wood-Fire Tasting Menu

Back at Butcher’s Block at Raffles Hotel Singapore, I returned to experience the new Autumn IMUA Wood-Fire Tasting Menu, priced at $178++ per person. Helmed by Chef Jordan Keao, the tasting menu showcases his culinary philosophy through the art of wood-fire cooking, whole-animal butchery and a zero-waste approach to ingredients. Drawing inspiration from his Hawaiian roots, Chef Jordan brings together premium produce, bold flavours and the primal appeal of cooking over an open fire, creating a dining experience that celebrates both craftsmanship and sustainability.

Brioche Bread 4/5

We kicked off the meal with the Brioche Bread, which has become a signature at Butcher’s Block. Soft, fluffy and delightfully pillowy, the brioche had a tender crumb that made it an inviting start to the meal. Its gentle richness and buttery aroma set the tone for the courses that followed.

Blackmore Farms Wagyu Beef Pipikaula | Beef Fat Fried Rice 4.2/5

The opening snack, Blackmore Farms Wagyu Beef Pipikaula, delivered an immediate punch of flavour. Inspired by pipikaula, a traditional Hawaiian-style dried beef preparation, Chef Jordan elevates the humble snack with premium Blackmore Farms Australian full-blood Wagyu rump. The beef is marinated in a house-made garlic shoyu blend, aged for up to two months, lightly cured and dried before being finished over the wood fire. The result is a deeply savoury piece of Wagyu with concentrated beefy flavours, a hint of smokiness and a satisfying chew. It is paired with a compact cube of crispy fried rice, prepared using rendered beef fat from the trimmings of the same Wagyu. The rice delivers a crisp exterior and a savoury richness that complements the tender beef beautifully. This small but flavour-packed bite exemplifies the restaurant’s whole-animal butchery and zero-waste philosophy.

Bluefin Tuna Poke Tartlet | Premium Osetra Caviar 4.2/5

Another bite-sized creation draws inspiration from the Hawaiian staple of poke. Premium sushi-grade Bluefin Tuna is diced and seasoned, then nestled inside an intricately patterned, crisp tartlet shell. A generous topping of premium Osetra caviar adds a luxurious finishing touch. The tuna offers a rich, buttery texture, while the delicate pastry provides a pleasing crunch. The caviar adds a refined brininess, with each pearl popping gently on the palate to enhance the tuna's natural richness. This elegant interpretation of poke transforms a familiar Hawaiian dish into a refined one-bite indulgence.

Lomi Lomi 4/5

Chef Jordan’s interpretation of Lomi Lomi reimagines the traditional Hawaiian preparation into a refreshing seafood course. Rather than the classic combination of salted salmon, tomatoes, and onions, this version features jewel-toned beet-cured Bluefin tuna and delicate smoked Kanpachi, arranged with a lightness that lets the seafood take centre stage. The beet cure lends the Bluefin tuna a striking colour and subtle earthy notes, while the smoked Kanpachi introduces a gentle smokiness that ties the dish back to the restaurant’s wood-fired cooking. At the centre is a quenelle of tomato sorbet, accompanied by clear tomato water that brings a clean, savoury acidity to the plate. A drizzle of aromatic marigold oil adds a delicate floral note, rounding out the dish with a refreshing finish. The interplay of cool seafood, bright tomato and gentle smoke makes this a lighter interlude in the tasting menu, offering a welcome contrast to the richer meat courses.

Huli-Huli Dry-Aged Duck 4.5/5

The Huli-Huli Dry-Aged Duck showcases two preparations of duck, allowing diners to appreciate different textures from the same ingredient. The duck breast is slow-roasted over the wood fire and glazed with a house-made Huli-Huli sauce, inspired by the Hawaiian tradition of turning and grilling meat over a flame. The glaze lends the duck a savoury-sweet character, complementing the rich flavour developed through dry-ageing and wood-fire cooking. Japanese curry spice adds a gentle warmth, while the kabocha purée provides a smooth, naturally sweet counterpoint to the meat. For contrast, the duck leg is prepared as a katsu. Coated in a crisp crust, it offers a satisfying crunch before giving way to tender, flavourful meat within. Serving both the roasted breast and crispy leg on one plate makes this a particularly enjoyable expression of duck's versatility.

Smoked Arctic Char 4.2/5

The Smoked Arctic Char brings a comforting fish-and-rice combination into a more refined setting. The fish is lightly seasoned to preserve its natural flavour, with smoking lending subtle depth without overwhelming its delicate character. It rests on limu congee, a nod to the Hawaiian affinity for seaweed, while a bed of cauliflower froth adds a light, creamy element. A piece of crispy fish skin provides textural contrast, and premium Osetra caviar contributes a delicate brininess that complements the seafood. The combination of tender fish, comforting congee and airy cauliflower creates a balanced course that feels both familiar and luxurious. It also shows how Chef Jordan incorporates elements of his Hawaiian heritage into a contemporary tasting menu.

Lumina Farm Lamb Trio 4.5/5

The Lumina Farm Lamb Trio celebrates three different cuts of lamb on a single plate: leg, saddle and rack. Each cut offers its own character, allowing diners to appreciate the differences in texture and flavour across the animal. Cooked over the wood fire, the lamb develops a beautifully caramelised exterior while retaining its natural juiciness. The leg offers a hearty, meaty bite, while the saddle provides a tender texture and the rack delivers a satisfying balance of meat and richness. To accompany the trio, pumpkin purée introduces a gentle sweetness that complements the lamb’s savoury notes. Mint brings a refreshing herbal lift, while crème fraîche adds a subtle tang and creamy finish. Together, the accompaniments keep the plate from feeling too heavy, allowing the lamb's flavour to remain the focus.

Pumpkin Pie 4/5

For dessert, the Pumpkin Pie takes a deconstructed approach to the familiar autumn favourite. Instead of a conventional pastry pie, the dish celebrates the natural sweetness of kabocha, or Japanese pumpkin, known for its dense flesh and nutty flavour. The pumpkin is transformed into a velvety-smooth purée, with gentle spices adding warmth and depth. Wood-fire cooking lends another layer of character, bringing out the pumpkin’s natural sweetness. Pumpkin seeds provide a nutty crunch, creating a welcome textural contrast against the smooth purée. It is a restrained yet comforting finish to the meal, allowing the seasonal ingredient to shine without relying on excessive sweetness.

The Autumn IMUA Wood-Fire Tasting Menu at Butcher’s Block offers an engaging showcase of Chef Jordan Keao’s culinary philosophy, bringing together the bold flavours of Hawaiian-inspired cooking, premium ingredients and the distinctive character of wood-fire preparation. At $178++ per person, the Autumn IMUA Wood-Fire Tasting Menu offers diners a premium tasting experience that goes beyond conventional fine dining, with the open fire playing an integral role in the flavour and identity of each course.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Butcher's Block
Raffles Hotel Singapore
Raffles Arcade
328 North Bridge Road
#02-02
Singapore 188719
Tel: +65 6337 1886
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Nearest MRT: City Hall (EW, NS Line), Esplanade (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Lunch (Wed-Sat): 12pm - 230pm
Dinner (Tue-Sat): 6pm - 930pm
(Closed on Sun and Mon)

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

2) Alight at Esplanade MRT station. Take Exit F. Walk to Beach Road. Cross the road. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 5 minutes. [Map]

Fireplace by Bedrock @ One Holland Village - Launches Refreshed Set Lunch with Wood-Fired Claypot Rice

Fireplace by Bedrock at One Holland Village has refreshed its 2-Course Set Lunch, offering diners a selection of comforting mains with a complimentary starter. Available Monday to Saturday, 11.30am to 3pm (excluding public holidays), the set lunch starts from $24. A highlight of the refreshed menu is the new Wood-Fired Claypot Rice collection, which gives the familiar local comfort dish an elevated twist with the restaurant’s signature wood-fire cooking technique.

Watermelon Feta Salad 4/5

Diners can choose between the Watermelon Feta Salad and Baby Gem as their starter. The Watermelon Feta Salad combines refreshing watermelon with cucumber, red onion, pine nuts and feta cheese, dressed in a coriander lime dressing. Light and refreshing, the salad offers a pleasant balance of sweetness, tanginess and savoury notes from the feta cheese. It was a lovely way to whet the appetite before the mains.

Baby Gem 4.2/5

The Baby Gem was another appealing starter, with fresh, crunchy lettuce topped with crispy bacon and Parmigiano Reggiano. The slight char on the baby gem added subtle smokiness, while the bacon and cheese provided a savoury punch that complemented the lettuce's natural freshness. Simple yet well-executed, this was an appetising start to the meal.

Fireplace by Bedrock introduces five variations of Wood-Fired Claypot Rice to its lunch menu, offering a contemporary take on this familiar comfort dish. The selection includes Chicken & Sausage ($24), Oxtail ($26), Burnt Ends ($26), Barramundi ($28) and Wagyu Petite Tender ($36).

Oxtail Wood-Fired Claypot Rice 3.8/5

I went for the Oxtail Wood-Fired Claypot Rice ($26). The rice is cooked first, then portioned into individual claypots and finished over the wood fire. This technique creates a golden crust at the base while imparting a subtle smoky aroma. Each claypot is then topped with the restaurant’s house-made Hot Soy Shio Kombu Butter, which melts into the rice, adding buttery richness and an extra layer of umami.

The combination of smoky rice and savoury butter made for a flavourful bowl, although I found the rice texture a little too moist for my liking. I personally prefer claypot rice with drier grains and a more pronounced crispy crust at the bottom. Nevertheless, the Wood-Fired Claypot Rice collection offers an interesting alternative for diners looking for something different from the usual grilled mains.

6-Hour Wood-Fired Pork Belly

Beyond the claypot rice selection, the menu also features other mains, including grilled meats and wood-fired burgers. For our other main, we opted for the 6-Hour Wood-Fired Pork Belly ($38).

The pork belly came with delightfully crispy skin and tender, juicy meat beneath. Smoked apple ketchup balanced the pork's richness, while pickled watermelon rind added a refreshing tang that cut through the fat. A touch of coriander rounded off the dish, bringing freshness to the overall combination. It was a satisfying option for those who prefer a hearty meat-centric main.

For those who would like to end their meal on a sweet note, diners can add the Ice Cream of the Day with Coffee or Tea for an additional $7. We tried both the vanilla and chocolate flavours, served in generous scoops with cereals for an added crunch.

The vanilla was a classic choice, while the chocolate offered a richer alternative. The contrast between the creamy ice cream and crunchy cereals made for a simple yet enjoyable dessert to round off the meal. Paired with a cup of coffee or tea, it was a pleasant way to conclude lunch.

Ice Cream of the Day + Coffee/Tea 4/5

Fireplace by Bedrock’s refreshed 2-Course Set Lunch at One Holland Village offers a range of options for a satisfying midday meal, with prices starting from $24 and a complimentary starter included. The new Wood-Fired Claypot Rice collection brings an interesting twist to a familiar local favourite. Meanwhile, the 6-Hour Wood-Fired Pork Belly stands out for its crispy skin, tender meat, and well-balanced accompaniments.

Whether you are in the mood for a comforting claypot rice, a hearty meat dish or a casual lunch with colleagues and friends, Fireplace by Bedrock offers a variety of choices in a contemporary dining setting. The optional ice cream and coffee or tea add-on is also worth considering if you have time for a leisurely lunch.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Fireplace by Bedrock
One Holland Village
7 Holland Village Way
#03-27/28
Singapore 275748
Tel: +65 9337 7491
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Nearest MRT: Holland Village (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Sun-Thu: 1130am - 3pm, 6pm - 10pm
Fri-Sat: 1130am - 3pm, 6pm - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Holland Village MRT station. Take Exit B. Turn left and walk to Lorong Liput. Turn right onto Lorong Liput. Walk down Lorong Liput. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 5 minutes. [Map]

Kai Garden @ Marina Square - FREE Signature Peking Duck with $288 Spend

I was back at Kai Garden at Marina Square with my foodie friends for dinner recently, and this time I took the opportunity to check out some of its ongoing promotions. The one that caught our attention was the Peking Duck Promotion; diners can get a FREE Signature Whole Peking Duck (U.P. $128) with a minimum spend of $288 on a single receipt. If you enjoy a good Peking Duck feast, this promotion is worth considering, especially when dining with friends or family.

Signature Crispy Peking Duck 4.5/5

The Signature Crispy Peking Duck ($128++) is one of my favourites in Singapore, featuring beautifully crisp skin and succulent duck meat. What sets it apart is the selection of five colourful wraps – Original, Pumpkin, Spinach, Bamboo Charcoal and Beetroot – paired with five dipping sauces: Traditional, Black Pepper, Sesame, Seafood and Special Mixed, allowing diners to customise each bite.

The highlight is undoubtedly the crispy skin, which delivers that satisfying crackle while retaining its rich flavour. Wrapped together with the accompanying condiments and your preferred sauce, each bite offers a balance of crispiness, savouriness and fragrance. I like having the flexibility to mix and match the wraps and sauces, creating different combinations throughout the meal.

Beyond the crispy skin, I particularly enjoy the remaining duck meat, which is chopped into pieces after the skin is shaved off. The meat is succulent and flavourful, making it just as enjoyable as the skin wrapped with the accompanying condiments. Note that you need to pre-order the Peking Duck to enjoy the promotion.

Baked BBQ Honey Pork Pastry 4.2/5

The Baked BBQ Honey Pork Pastry ($9.80) was another highlight and one of the better versions I have tried. The pastry features a rich, buttery crust with delicate, flaky layers that break apart beautifully with each bite. The exterior is tender rather than overly hard, yet sturdy enough to hold the generous filling.

Inside, the barbecue pork filling strikes a pleasing balance between sweet and savoury. The honey glaze adds fragrant sweetness without becoming cloying, while the generous portion of tender, moist barbecue pork makes every bite satisfying. The contrast between the flaky pastry and the juicy filling makes this a dim sum item I would happily order again.

Fish Maw Soup in Stone Pot 4.5/5

The Fish Maw Soup in Stone Pot is another signature offering at Kai Garden. Served bubbling hot in a preheated stone pot, the soup arrives with an enticing aroma and stays warm throughout the meal. The broth is thick and velvety, with a rich, savoury depth that suggests hours of slow simmering. Its gelatinous texture gives it a luxurious mouthfeel, while the fish maw is thick, plump, and spongy, soaking up the broth's flavours beautifully.

The soup comes with a crispy deep-fried dough stick on the side. I like dipping it directly into the hot broth, allowing the crunchy exterior to absorb the savoury soup. As it softens, the dough stick takes on the rich flavours while providing a contrasting texture to the smooth broth and tender fish maw. It is a comforting dish that is particularly enjoyable to share at the table.

Braised Radish with Fish Maw and Shark's Fin 4.8/5

Another premium Cantonese offering is the Braised Radish with Fish Maw and Shark's Fin. The dish centres on a deeply savoury superior broth. The broth is rich and aromatic, with a golden hue that reflects its concentrated flavour. The radish is particularly enjoyable, braised until tender enough to absorb the broth's essence. Rather than retaining a sharp, raw radish flavour, the chunks soften and become juicy, releasing the savoury broth with every bite. The fish maw adds a pleasingly gelatinous texture, while the delicate strands of shark's fin contribute to the dish's luxurious presentation. Together, the ingredients create a comforting Cantonese-style braise that showcases the depth of flavour achieved through slow cooking.

Stir-Fried Asparagus, Gingko Nuts, Wild Fungus 4.2/5

After the richer dishes, the Stir-Fried Asparagus, Gingko Nuts and Wild Fungus ($24) provided a welcome change of pace. The asparagus was cooked to retain its vibrant green colour and crisp bite, allowing its natural sweetness to shine through. The gingko nuts added a mild, slightly bitter note, while the wild mushrooms brought an earthy flavour to the dish. Black fungus, with its distinctive crunchy, slightly gelatinous texture, added another layer of contrast. Lightly seasoned and not overly heavy, this vegetable dish offered a refreshing balance to the table's more indulgent offerings. I appreciated the ingredients' freshness and crunch, making it a good accompaniment to the Peking Duck and braised dishes.

Signature Fried Rice 4.2/5

We rounded off the meal with the Signature Fried Rice, a familiar staple that is easy to overlook but can make a difference to the overall dining experience. The rice grains were well separated, with a texture that was moist on the inside yet relatively dry on the outside. It was not greasy, letting the rice flavours come through without feeling too heavy after the preceding dishes. What made the fried rice more interesting was the addition of rice crackers on top. These introduced a light, crispy crunch that contrasted nicely with the soft rice grains, adding texture to every spoonful. It was a satisfying way to round off our dinner.

With the Peking Duck Promotion offering a complimentary Signature Whole Peking Duck (U.P. $128) when diners spend $288 in a single receipt, it is a good opportunity for those planning a gathering over a Cantonese feast. Just remember to pre-order the Peking Duck and check the promotion's terms and conditions when making your reservation. Kai Garden at Marina Square remains a great option when you are looking for Cantonese cuisine with signature dishes to share over a meal with friends and family.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Kai Garden
Marina Square
6 Raffles Boulevard
#03-128A/128B
Singapore 039594
Tel: +65 62504826
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Nearest MRT: Esplanade (CC Line), Promenade (CC, DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 1130am - 330pm, 6pm - 11pm
Sat-Sun: 11am - 4pm, 6pm - 11pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Esplanade MRT station. Take Exit B, C, or D. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Promenade MRT station. Take Exit A. Cross the road. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 5 minutes. [Map]

Les Bouchons @ Rochester Park - Is the $68++ Unlimited Feast Worth It?

I haven't been back to Les Bouchons at Rochester Park in quite a while, so it was nice to revisit this French steakhouse tucked away in a charming heritage setting. While Les Bouchons has several outlets around Singapore, the Rochester Park outlet remains my favourite for its unique ambience. Housed in a 1940s two-storey black-and-white bungalow and surrounded by lush greenery, it offers a dining experience that feels a world away from the city's hustle and bustle.

One of the main reasons for my return was its Unlimited $68++ Promotion, which lets diners enjoy free-flow grilled meats, fries, and selected sides. Available daily for both lunch and dinner, this promotion is exclusive to the Rochester Park outlet and looks like an attractive proposition for meat lovers looking to indulge in a French steakhouse feast.

However, there is a little catch. While the promotion is unlimited, the selection is restricted to Grilled Australian Wagyu Onglet MS4/5, BBQ Half Spatchcock Chicken, Homemade Agria Potatoes French Fries, Mushroom Soup with Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Homemade BBQ Sauce and Mesclun Salad. Although the food quality is commendable, I would have appreciated more variety in beef cuts or additional grilled meat options to make the experience more exciting.

Grilled Australian Wagyu Onglet MS4/5, 4.2/5

The highlight of the unlimited feast was the Grilled Australian Wagyu Onglet MS4/5. Also known as hanger steak, the onglet is a butcher's cut prized for its robust, beefy flavour and satisfying texture. The Australian Wagyu, with its marbling score of 4/5, offered a good balance of richness without being overly fatty.

Grilled to develop a beautiful char on the exterior, the beef was tender and juicy, with a deep, beefy flavour that came through in every bite. I enjoyed the contrast between the lightly smoky, caramelised surface and the succulent meat within. For those who appreciate a good steak with plenty of character, this was a satisfying choice, especially considering that it is included in the unlimited promotion.

BBQ Half Spatchcock Chicken 4.2/5

The BBQ Half Spatchcock Chicken was another worthy addition to the feast. Flattened before grilling, the chicken developed a nicely charred exterior while retaining its natural juices. The skin carried a smoky aroma, while the meat remained succulent and flavourful.

Paired with the homemade BBQ sauce, the chicken had a pleasant balance of savoury and smoky flavours, with a touch of sweetness from the sauce. It also offered a welcome alternative to the beef, though I would have liked more grilled meat options to round out the selection.

Mushroom Soup with Extra Virgin Oil 4.5/5

Among the sides, the Mushroom Soup stood out and earned the highest rating of the unlimited selection. Rich, earthy, and comforting, the soup had a velvety consistency, with the deep, savoury flavours of mushrooms coming through beautifully. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil added a fragrant finish, lending a subtle fruity note that complemented the earthiness of the mushrooms. It was a comforting start to the meal and something I would happily return to, even outside the unlimited promotion.

Mesclun Salad 4/5

The Mesclun Salad offered a refreshing contrast to the heavier grilled meats. A mix of tender baby greens was tossed in a tangy vinaigrette, delivering a light, crisp bite that helped cut through the richness of the beef and chicken. Simple but effective, it served its purpose as a palate cleanser and added some freshness to an otherwise meat-centric meal.

Homemade Agria Potatoes French Fries 4.2/5

No steakhouse feast would be complete without a serving of fries, and the Homemade Agria Potatoes French Fries did not disappoint. Made with Agria potatoes, known for their suitability for frying, the fries came with a golden exterior and a satisfying crunch. The insides were fluffy and light, creating a pleasing textural contrast. They were enjoyable on their own or dipped into the homemade BBQ sauce, and having them available for free-flow made it easy to keep the sides coming throughout the meal.

Homemade Foie Gras Terrine 4/5

Beyond the unlimited promotion, I also ordered a few items from the à la carte menu, starting with the Homemade Foie Gras Terrine ($28). The terrine offered the rich, buttery character expected of foie gras, with a smooth, indulgent texture that melted pleasantly on the palate. It was served with onion chutney and toasted bread, which provided a welcome contrast to the richness of the duck liver. The chutney's sweetness balanced the foie gras, while the toasted bread added crunch and made each bite more enjoyable. It was a decadent appetiser that brought a touch of classic French indulgence to the meal.

Classic French Onion Soup 5/5

Another highlight was the Classic French Onion Soup ($20), served with a crouton generously topped with melted Emmental cheese. The soup had a deeply savoury broth enriched with the sweetness of slowly caramelised onions. The long cooking process allowed the onions to develop a mellow, concentrated flavour that blended beautifully with the beef stock. Each spoonful was comforting and full-bodied without losing the natural sweetness of the onions. The cheesy crouton was the finishing touch. The Emmental cheese was melted until gooey and golden, adding a nutty flavour and creamy texture to the dish. Breaking through the cheesy topping to reach the steaming broth beneath was particularly satisfying. This classic French bistro staple was executed well and was one of my favourite dishes of the meal.

Creme Brulee 4.2/5

For dessert, I had the Crème Brûlée ($15), a timeless French classic featuring silky baked custard beneath a layer of caramelised sugar. The highlight was the crisp sugar crust, which cracked satisfyingly under the spoon to reveal the smooth, creamy custard beneath. The custard had a rich vanilla flavour, while a subtle citrus note added brightness and helped balance the sweetness of the caramelised topping. It was a comforting and well-executed dessert that stayed true to the appeal of this classic French favourite.

Signature Homemade Traditional Tiramisu 4.2/5

The Signature Homemade Traditional Tiramisu ($15) rounded off the meal on a sweet note. Made with espresso and Amaretto-soaked ladyfingers layered with whipped mascarpone, it offered a lovely combination of coffee, cream and subtle almond notes. The mascarpone was smooth and airy, giving the dessert a light, cloud-like texture despite its richness. The espresso brought a pleasant bitterness that balanced the creamy layers, while the Amaretto added a gentle aromatic sweetness. It was a familiar and comforting rendition of the Italian classic, making it a pleasant way to end the meal.

Les Bouchons Rochester Park remains a charming destination for French steakhouse dining, with its heritage black-and-white bungalow and lush surroundings adding plenty of character to the experience. The Unlimited $68++ Promotion offers good value for diners who enjoy grilled beef, chicken, and classic sides, especially with the option to return for more of the included items. That said, the limited selection does take away some of the excitement of an unlimited feast. While the Grilled Australian Wagyu Onglet and BBQ Half Spatchcock Chicken were both enjoyable, I would have liked to see more beef cuts or other grilled meats on offer.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Les Bouchons Rochester
10 Rochester Park
Rochester Commons
Singapore 139221
Tel: +65 69048972
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Nearest MRT: Buona Vista (CC, EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Thu: 12pm - 230pm, 6pm - 10pm
Fri: 12pm - 230pm, 6pm - 1030pm
Sat: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm - 1030pm
Sun: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Buona Vista MRT station. Take Exit C. Take the sheltered walkway and walk towards Star Vista. Turn left onto Rochester Drive. Walk to the traffic junction of Rochester Drive and Vista Exchange Green. Turn right onto Vista Exchange Green. Walk down Vista Exchange Green and walk to the destination. Journey time is about 6 minutes. [Map]