Mashi No Mashi @ Guoco Midtown - – Chef Hisato Hamada, founder of WAGYUMAFIA Opens 100% Wagyu Ramen Concept in Singapore

Mashi No Mashi, located at Guoco Midtown, is a ramen concept by Wagyumafia, a collective of restaurants renowned for harnessing the qualities and versatility of Japan's most famous beef through various culinary concepts. Founded by Chef Hisato Hamada, Wagyumafia prides itself on working directly with farmers and selecting only the top 1% of the finest Kobe and Ozaki beef. Since its establishment in 2019, Mashi No Mashi has been acclaimed for serving the world's first 100% Wagyu ramen.

Wagyu Tsukemen 4/5

The dish that brought Mashi No Mashi to fame is its signature Wagyu Tsukemen, featuring succulent slices of slow-cooked Ozaki beef paired with their signature noodles. The accompanying dipping broth, a 24-hour stewed Wagyu bone broth, was rich in umami and full-bodied, perfectly complementing the thicker-cut noodles with an enjoyable chewy texture. While the ramen as a whole provided a deeply satisfying mouthfeel and flavour, I found the alkaline taste of the noodles less appealing.

Ultra Wagyu Ramen 4.8/5

Ultra Wagyu Ramen ($22) is the brand's first-ever fukuoka Hakata-style ramen, and Singapore is the first outpost to permanently feature it on its menu. This beef-centric Hakata-style ramen broth is made using the finest wagyu bones, which undergo a laborious three-stage heating process to extract maximum flavour and aroma. The broth was an absolute pleasure to savour, together with the luscious pieces of wagyu char siew.

Wagyu Bak Kut Teh 4.5/5

This outlet also launched a Singapore-exclusive menu, starting with Wagyu Bak Kut Teh ($30). Served with a peppery homemade wagyu bone stock, traditional Bak Kut Teh purists may not favour this dish as much. Personally, I love this rendition, which was delightful with a heady, garlicky, and peppery broth. The texture and flavour of the meat were exceptional as well. However, with the price tag, it can definitely be more wholesome with the portions of the You Tiao and Preserved Vegetables.

Wagyu Cha Siu Donburi 4/5

There are also donburi options available, such as the Wagyu Cha Siu Donburi ($32), which showcases slices of Wagyu Cha Siu draped over Ginger Beef Akitakomachi Rice. The plump and pearly rice was so moreish mixed with flavourful minced ginger beef that it almost stole the spotlight.

Wagyu Gyoza 5/5

The Dim Sums here are highly recommended. Wagyu Gyoza ($8 for 2pc) uses 100% Ozaki Beef. Each piece was filled with four different cuts of juicy Ozaki beef and minced vegetables, achieving a succulent bite in every mouthful.

Wagyu Siu Mai 5/5

Offering a similar bite and satisfaction is Wagyu Siu Mai ($15). The texture was on point.

Sui Gyoza 4/5

The other two dim sums we tried were well executed: Black Bean Spare Ribs ($15), featuring Steamed Wagyu Spare Ribs with Black Bean and Garlic Sauce, and Sui Gyoza, boiled wagyu gyoza drizzled with tangy Japanese sansho chilli sauce. In fact, I enjoyed them much more than the traditional pork versions.

Black Bean Spare Ribs 4/5

More Singapore-exclusive dishes, such as wagyu laksa and hokkien mee, will be rolled out later in the year. An interesting beverage menu with inventive cocktails is also available, including Chef Hisato's proprietary rendition of a Singapore sling ($18).

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.


Mashi No Mashi
Guoco Midtown
124 Beach Road
#01-04
Singapore 189771
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Nearest MRT: Bugis (DT, EW Line), Esplanade (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 930pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Bugis MRT station. Take Exit D. Walk to Tan Quee Lan Street. Turn left and walk down Tan Quee Lan Street to Beach Road. At Beach Road, cross the road and walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Esplanade MRT station Take Exit F. Walk straight down Beach Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]

Rang Mahal @ Pan Pacific Singapore - Immerse in the Great Indian Celebration Feast by Award-winning Luxury Wedding Food Curator Sarita Bazaz

Rang Mahal, the esteemed Indian fine dining establishment at Pan Pacific Singapore, has rolled out The Grand Indian Celebration Feast in collaboration with Sarita Bazaz, the renowned international Indian Wedding food curator. From 12 April to 21 April 2024, patrons are invited to embark on a celebrative feast inspired by the classical Indian wedding experience.

The celebration promises to dazzle diners with its exquisite flavours and vibrant presentations, featuring a plethora of dining options, including a 5-course Thali, 7-course and 9-course degustation menus, buffet feasts, and à la carte offerings.

Weekdays 12, 15-19 Apr 2024
Lunch
- 5 course Lunch Thali
- 7 course Degustation Menu
- A La Carte Menu
Dinner
- 7 & 9 course Degustation Menu
- A La Carte Menu

Weekend 13-14 Apr, 20-21 Apr 20204
Lunch
- Wedding Feast Buffet
Dinner
- 7 & 9 course Degustation Menu
- A La Carte Menu

Khaaja Sevpuri 4.5/5

We started our dinner with a delightful basket of Papad and Kichiya accompanied by an assortment of chutneys and kachumar, setting the stage for the tantalising flavours to follow. The Khaaja Sevpuri, with its crispy layered papri adorned with Mumbai Street's special sevpuri masala, offers a burst of flavour atop its crunchy base.

Langostino Paturi 4.5/5

Experience a symphony of flavours with the Langostino Paturi, where succulent langostino is lovingly wrapped in banana leaf and pan-grilled, accentuated by a tantalising mix of mustard paste and spices that perfectly complement the sweetness of the shellfish.

Kadhi Kachori 4.5/5

Indulge in the playful Kadhi Kachori, a crispy and flaky pastry accompanied by a pour of yoghurt-based curry, offering a delightful blend of textures and flavours that dance on the palate.

Imli Sorbet 4.2/5

Refresh your palate with the sweet and tangy Imli Sorbet paired with tamarind candy. It provides a delightful interlude before the celebrative feast continues.

Thecha Biscuti 4.8/5

Savour the tender Murgh Mirchi Tikka infused with a smoky aroma, luscious Lehsuni Palak, and crispy garlic chips, which offer a harmonious balance of flavours and textures.

Himalayan Truffle Morels 5/5

Indulge in the exquisite Himalayan Truffle Morels, a rare delicacy served with aged parmesan and goat cheese, elevated by a sprinkle of truffle salt and oil, offering a rich and indulgent dining experience.

Hidden Gems 3.8/5

Delve into the unique yoghurt-based dish Hidden Gems, which unveils a treasure trove of textures and flavours. While the yoghurt may be overpowering for some, the dish offers a delightful exploration of contrasts.

Junglee Maas 4/5

Feast on the Junglee Maas, a flavorful biryani featuring succulent salmon. Though unconventional, the dish offers a tantalising blend of spices and aromas, complemented by fragrant steamed rice.

Stuffed Kulche 4.2/5

Conclude your savoury journey with Stuffed Kulche, a delightful blend of sweetness and spice paired with Amritsari Chole and Pyaz Ki Chutney. Made with maida flour and stuffed with a sweet and savoury potato mixture, these Kulche offer a tantalising burst of flavours — a fitting finale to an exquisite dining experience.

Lachhedar Jalebi, Garam Gur Chhena Payas, Paan Hand Churned Ice Cream 4.2/5

Wrap up your culinary adventure with a trio of sweets, including Lachhedar Jalebi, Garam Gur Chhena Payas, and Paan Hand Churned Ice Cream, each offering a symphony of flavours that leaves a lasting impression — a sweet conclusion to an unforgettable dining experience.

Drawing inspiration from Navaratna and Panchtatva philosophies, Sarita Bazaz has curated a dining experience that transcends the ordinary, offering a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Indian cuisine and culture. Join us at Rang Mahal and immerse yourself in The Grand Indian Celebration Feast — an epicurean journey fit for royalty.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Rang Mahal - Fine Dining Indian Restaurant
Pan Pacific Singapore
Level 3
7 Raffles Boulevard
Singapore 039595
Tel: +65 63331788
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Nearest MRT: Promenade (CC, DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 12pm - 230pm, 6pm - 10pm
(for the promotion period 12-21 April 2024)

Direction:
1) Alight at Promenade MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk straight to destinatio. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

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]

The Gyu Bar @ Stevens Road - Celebrates 6-year Milestone With An Extended Menu

This March, The Gyu Bar, situated on Stevens Road, celebrated its 6-year milestone by introducing its first menu extension. The new dishes draw inspiration from cuisines across Asia, seamlessly combining the restaurant's signature quality beef with familiar flavours from the region.

Wagyu & Mizuna ‘Salad’ 4.5/5

Inspired by the Thai Beef Salad, the Wagyu & Mizuna 'Salad' ($38) features luscious marbled Miyazaki Wagyu sirloin, lightly seared and wrapped around fresh mizuna greens. The Wagyu imparted richness to the palate, perfectly balanced by the sharp, peppery notes of the mizuna greens. What elevated this starter was the savoury and zesty salad dressing, concocted with lime, chilli, dashi, fish sauce, onion, and basil, making each bite even more mouthwatering.

Deep-fried Wagyu Cha Gio 4/5

Deep-fried Wagyu Cha Gio ($18) was inspired by Vietnamese spring roll. A layer of Kumamoto seaweed enveloping minced Kagoshima Wagyu and chopped prawns was encased within the crispy skin. The filling was juicy and flavoursome with rich, beefy notes. While it was undoubtedly tasty, using Vietnamese rice paper instead would have improved the experience.

Spicy Pumpkin Wagyu Nabe 5/5

Spicy Pumpkin Wagyu Nabe ($48) is The Gyu Bar's take on Chinese sauerkraut fish. While it lacked the piquant and spicy notes of the classic version, I thoroughly enjoyed the hotpot, which offers two indulgent pieces of wagyu slices. The broth, comforting sweet with mashed Japanese pumpkin and a slight hint of heat, was also wholesome with a combination of fresh produce, which included cabbage, enoki mushrooms and Hokkaido milk corn.

Braised Wagyu Lu Rou Fan 3/5

Braised Wagyu Lu Rou Fan ($28) is a beef rendition of Taiwanese Lu Rou Fan. The Gyu Bar replicates the dish by simmering finely chopped Miyazaki Wagyu in a fragrant herbal mix and serving it atop a bed of Hokkaido rice alongside an Okinawan onsen egg. I appreciate the blend of chewy tendons and minced meat, which gave the dish an excellent textural bite. However, while the beef topping was decadent and morish, it is not a dish that allows you to appreciate fine quality wagyu. I reckoned this dish could be made with any beef.

Stir Fried Wagyu Konnyaku Noodles 3.5/5

We also tried a healthier version of Korean Japchae - Stir Fried Wagyu Konnyaku Noodles ($28). Replacing glass noodles with springy konnyaku noodles, slices of Kagoshima Wagyu were sautéed alongside julienned carrots and shimeji mushrooms. The execution was decent, but I prefer it to be less sweet and have a more savoury profile

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.


The Gyu Bar
30 Stevens Road
#01-08
Singapore 257840
Tel: +65 67320702
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Nearest MRT: Stevens (DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Sun: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm - 11pm
(Closed on Mon)

Direction:
1) Alight at Stevens MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn left and walk to bus stop at Stevens Court (Stop ID 40229). Take bus number 105, 132, 190 or 972. Alight 2 stops later. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]

Man Fu Yuan @ InterContinental Singapore - Highly Anticipated 8-Hands Showcase Returns with ‘Echoes of Canton 粤做粤精菜: Honouring Culinary Heritage’

Man Fu Yuan returns with its second edition of the 8-Hands collaboration, themed ‘Echoes of Canton 粤做粤精菜: Honouring Culinary Heritage’ from 1 to 30 April 2024. This culinary extravaganza features four curated set menus, each comprising six delectable dishes presented by renowned Chefs Fok Wing Tin, Peter Tsang, Pung Lu Tin, alongside Man Fu Yuan’s resident Executive Chinese Chef Aaron Tan.

Appetiser 4.2/5

To tantalise our taste buds, the appetiser trio boasted Chilled Lobster with Chicken Salad, Chilled Mini Lotus Roots marinated in Orange Jus and Green Sichuan Peppercorn, and Spinach Roll with Seaweed, Tobiko, and Sriracha Aioli.

Soup 4/5

Seafood 4.2/5

The meal continued with a hearty and comforting bowl of Braised Seafood Bisque with Fish Mouth and Bamboo Pith, followed by the innovative Crispy Cod Fish Stuffed with Caviar — a fusion of Chinese ingredients presented in a Japanese sushi-inspired form, delightfully coated in a thin batter for extra crispiness.

Poultry 4.5/5

For poultry lovers, the Wok-fried Venison Cube with Ginger, Lemongrass, and Black Pepper Sauce served in Claypot offered tender venison complemented by a pungent black pepper sauce, creating a robust infusion of umami heightened by aromatic spices.

Superior Seafood 4/5

A dish tracing back to the Manchu-Han imperial feasts developed in the Qing Dynasty, the Braised 18-19 head Dried Abalone with Giant Grouper Skin showcased painstaking preparation to achieve the perfect texture of the giant grouper skin, complemented by premium abalone in a delicious sauce.

Rice 4.5/5

The meal reached its crescendo with the Wok-fried Crispy Rice with Prawns, Mushrooms, and Scallion — a delicious interpretation of Seafood Pao Fan, where the rice was wok-fried and allowed to soak up the robust seafood flavours for an exquisite dining experience.

Dessert 4.8/5

To conclude on a sweet note, the Warm Roasted Peanut Rice Cream with Superior Red Bird's Nest offered a smooth, creamy, and nutty dessert with an added texture from the bird's nest, providing the perfect finale to a memorable dining experience.

Available for both lunch and dinner, ‘Echoes of Canton 粤做粤精菜: Honouring Culinary Heritage’ offers menu prices ranging between $98++ for a lunch-only sharing menu and $158++ to $398++ per person for individual-served portions, with options for wine pairing also available at $88++.

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]

Claypot & Cooked Food Kitchen @ Chinatown Complex Food Centre - Cantonese Fare that Opens Only for 3 Hours

Claypot & Cooked Food Kitchen is a humble hawker stall nestled in a corner of Chinatown Complex Food Centre, helmed by Uncle Hong, who brings forth traditional Cantonese delicacies honed through years of experience at renowned Chinese restaurants, including the iconic Lai Wah Restaurant, established in 1963 by the legendary "Four Heavenly Kings of Singapore Cantonese Cuisine".

Braised Fish Head 4.2/5

Getting a taste of the stall's offerings requires some strategic planning due to its limited operating hours. To secure a meal, one must arrive well before lunchtime. We arrived at 9:30 am to place our order, and by 11 am, our dishes were served. Unfortunately, those who came later, around 11 am, were all turned away.

Taking the spotlight first is the Braised Fish Head ($25), an impressive dish both in portion size and flavour. The fried fish head is generously bathed in a light yet flavourful gravy, accompanied by vegetables, tofu, and taro.

Sweet and Sour Pork 4/5

Among the array of claypot delights, the signature Sweet and Sour Pork ($7) stands out. Crispy pork, cloaked in a delicate batter, is enrobed in a sweet and tangy sauce, possibly tinged with hawthorn for a unique zesty twist.

Claypot Pork Liver 4.2/5

The Claypot Pork Liver is a true gem. It boasts thick slices of pork liver cooked to perfection in a savoury brown sauce infused with the aromatic essence of ginger and scallions, sizzling in the claypot.

Sea Cucumber Stew 4/5

The Sea Cucumber Stew presents bouncy sea cucumber alongside succulent roasted pork, mushrooms, and cabbage, all bathed in a rich and flavourful sauce.

Sambal Kang Kong 4/5

For those craving a kick of heat, the Sambal Kang Kong delivers, offering crunchy kang kong stir-fried to perfection in a spicy and aromatic sambal sauce, providing a burst of flavour in every bite.

Prawn Paste Chicken 3.8/5

While the Prawn Paste Chicken doesn't quite steal the show like its counterparts, it still holds its own with its mild yet satisfying prawn paste flavour.

Salted Fish Char Siew Shrimp Fried Rice 4/5

Finally, the Salted Fish Char Siew Shrimp Fried Rice wraps up the meal with its fragrant aroma and comforting wok hei, offering a simple yet satisfying conclusion to a wonderful meal.


Claypot & Cooked Food Kitchen
Chinatown Complex Food Centre
335 Smith Street
#02-83
Singapore 050335
Nearest MRT: Chinatown (DT, NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 10:30am - 12:30pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Chinatown MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk down Pagoda Street. Turn right onto Trengganu Street and walk to the end of the street. Cross Smith Street and walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Maxwell MRT station. Take Exit 2. Walk to Sago Lane. Turn left and walk down Sago Lane. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]