The Lobby Lounge @ Frasers House Singapore - Atelier of Tea and Spice Afternoon Tea

Revisiting the lovely Lobby Lounge with its grand chandeliers and soaring ceilings, now reintroduced as Frasers House Singapore, formerly known as the InterContinental Singapore Bugis.

Afternoon Tea Set

Their first themed concept, the Atelier of Tea and Spice Afternoon Tea, carries forward the property’s legacy of elegant hospitality while paying homage to Bugis history as a trading district, thoughtfully weaving tea and spice elements into a refined afternoon experience. This isn’t just a tiered tray of pretty bites. Right from the outset, the menu reads like a conversation between cultures and flavours, where classic European techniques meet Asian influences and spice-led creativity.

Afternoon Tea Set

Priced at $130++ for two on weekdays and $140++ for two on weekends, the three-tiered set features eleven thoughtfully curated items, complemented by free-flow sorbet and gelato from an ice cream trolley, as well as a choice of artisanal tea or coffee for each guest.

Savouries Tier

The savoury course opens with a series of bold, flavour-led creations that are thoroughly enjoyable. We had the home-cured Norwegian Salmon Vol-au-vent, brightened with kumquat and caper-egg mimosa and finished with a touch of gold dust, followed by a richly Spiced Duck Rillettes sandwich layered with toasted cumin and pickled fennel. A clean, citrus-laced Spicy Tuna Tartare, served in a crisp shell and presented on its own spoon, rounds off the trio.

Laksa Atlantic Cod Quiche

We were also served the Laksa Atlantic Cod Quiche, which cleverly translates a distinctly local flavour into a classic French format. It was delicious, with a buttery, fragrant pastry and a laksa twist that worked beautifully. Honestly, I wouldn’t mind seeing laksa quiche become a regular feature in bakery shops.

Heritage Tea Granita

A Heritage Tea Granita then resets the palate before the sweets take centre stage, where tea becomes the unifying theme. The granita itself was refreshing, though it could be elevated with fresh fruit or light toppings for added texture.

Sweet Tier

The sweets that follow are where the tea concept truly comes to life. Varieties such as oolong, English breakfast, green tea, lemongrass and chamomile are thoughtfully expressed through beautifully crafted cakes, each resembling a piece of edible art.

Oolong Tea Eclat

This bright and cheerful yellow Oolong Tea Éclat features a light, airy oolong tea-infused sponge cake layered with luscious passion fruit custard, bringing together tea and citrus.

Lychee English Breakfast Tea Cake

The Lychee English Breakfast Tea Cake is elegantly crafted to resemble a graceful pink bonsai tree, featuring layers of lychee mousse and jewel-like lychee coulis cubes for a light, fruity finish.

Green Tea & Pear Harmony

The Green Tea & Pear Harmony brings together smooth pear cream, lemon green tea pear confit and soft almond sponge in this lovely, bright green entremet.

Blue Pea Chamomile Tart

The Blue Pea Chamomile Tart is topped with sweet pineapple compote and finished with a light blue pea chamomile whip. Somewhat reminiscent of a pineapple tart in flavour, though I found the pineapple compote too overpowering when compared with the tea flavour.

Lemongrass Key Lime Teapot

The Lemongrass Key Lime Teapot was perhaps the most intriguing creation, featuring a delicate teapot lid that opens to reveal a carefully piped flower of smooth key lime custard, accented with crunchy pearls and lemongrass Chantilly for an Asian twist.

Scones

Traditional and Curcuma Longa (turmeric) Scones, served with clotted cream, strawberry jam and wildflower honey, anchor the experience in familiarity. The presentation of scones could be improved, such as wrapping them up to keep them warm, as they were a little cold by the time we finally got around to eating them.

Ice Cream and Sorbets

To finish, guests are treated to unlimited servings of Gelato and Sorbet from the trolley. On our visit, flavours included chocolate, vanilla, mixed berries and mango passionfruit, accompanied by toppings such as cookies and chocolates for a playful, indulgent touch.

If you’re looking for a memorable afternoon tea experience in Singapore, this one blends heritage storytelling with flavour exploration, finished with just the right touch of the unexpected.

Price:
• Weekday: $130 for 2 persons (additional guest $65)
• Weekend / Eve of PH: $140 for 2 persons (additional guest $70)
• Optional:
• Champagne +$28
• Signature cocktail/prosecco +$20
Includes coffee or loose-leaf tea; prices subject to service charge and taxes.

Photographed and penned by Shermine. Through her pictures and stories, she shares her journey of savouring new flavours and experiences. Note: This is an invited tasting.


The Lobby Lounge
Frasers House
Level 1
80 Middle Road
Singapore 188966
Tel: +65 68251008
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Nearest MRT: Bugis (EW, DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1-3pm, 330pm - 530pm

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

Niku Niku oh! Kome @ Westgate - Theatrical Live-Grilled Wagyu Hamburg Steaks

For meat lovers, Niku Niku Oh!! Kome puts the spotlight firmly on the art of Japanese hamburg steaks. First opening its doors at Resorts World Sentosa in August 2025, the concept has since expanded with a second, more spacious 40-seat outlet at Westgate.

At Niku Niku Oh!! Kome, dining is as much about experience as it is about flavour. Guests seated at the counter are treated to a theatrical showcase of live grilling, where skilled hands shape, sear and finish premium Japanese aged wagyu hamburg steaks right before their eyes. Each patty is freshly ground and hand-pounded daily on-site, resulting in a texture that is both tender and satisfyingly chunky, with juices locked within.

Original Hamburg Steak 4.5/5

We began with the Original Hamburg Steak, which sets the benchmark for what a proper hamburg should be. The patty was robustly meaty, boasting a rich, beef-forward flavour with a juicy interior that borders on molten. Adding an egg introduces a luscious creaminess, its silky yolk coating each bite and enhancing the overall mouthfeel. While the hamburg rightfully commands attention, the rice deserves equal praise. Polished in-house from husked grains, the rice is a thoughtful blend of Japanese Niji no Kirameki and Vietnamese jasmine rice. The result is a bowl of soft, fluffy grains with a gentle aroma and delicate sweetness, the perfect foil to the richly flavoured beef.

Cheese Hamburg Steak 4.5/5

Next, the Cheese Hamburg Steak takes indulgence up a notch. Cloaked in a blanket of melted cheddar and finished with freshly grated Grana Padano, the patty transforms into something reminiscent of a gourmet cheeseburger, but elevated. The cheeses lend a savoury, slightly nutty richness that deepens the wagyu’s umami, while still allowing the natural beefiness to shine through. It’s decadent without tipping into excess, making it an easy crowd-pleaser and a highlight of the meal.

Creamy Tomato Sauce Hamburg Steak 4.5/5

Rounding off the trio is the Creamy Tomato Sauce Hamburg Steak, a seasonal creation introduced alongside the Westgate opening. This rendition leans into a more “yoshoku” direction, Japanese-Western comfort fare at its finest. The sauce is a well-balanced marriage of a deep, savoury demi-glace and tangy tomato purée, enriched with a touch of cream to achieve a smooth, velvety consistency and an inviting orange hue. The interplay of sweet, savoury and mildly acidic notes keeps each bite interesting, cutting through the richness of the beef. Topped with thick slices of fresh tomato and a sprinkle of parsley, the dish gains a refreshing lift that prevents it from feeling too heavy.

With its combination of quality ingredients, meticulous preparation and engaging dining format, Niku Niku Oh!! Kome proves that the humble hamburg steak can be elevated into a deeply satisfying and memorable experience.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Niku Niku oh! Kome
Westgate
#02-07
3 Gateway Drive
Singapore 608532
Tel: +65 89084764
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Nearest MRT: Jurong East (EW, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 10am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Jurong East MRT station. Take Exit D. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 3 minutes. [Map]

Club Rangoon @ Duxton Road - A Rare Gem Showcasing Contemporary Burmese Cuisine in Singapore

Along the vibrant stretch of Duxton Road, Club Rangoon continues to stand its ground in Singapore's ever-evolving dining landscape. Having first visited shortly after its opening in August 2024, it is heartening to return nearly a year and a half later to see the restaurant not only surviving but refining its identity. In a city where dining concepts come and go with startling frequency, Club Rangoon remains a rare gem — spotlighting contemporary Burmese cuisine, a cuisine still relatively underrepresented in Singapore.

Laphet Hummus 4.2/5

The Laphet Hummus ($14) offers a thoughtful reinterpretation of a familiar staple. Infused with fermented tea leaves, the hummus carries a distinctive Burmese accent that is earthy, umami-rich, and gently herbaceous, setting it apart from its Mediterranean counterpart. The texture is luxuriously smooth, almost velvety, serving as a canvas for the nuanced flavours of laphet and tea leaf oil drizzled atop. This "gentle funk" adds intrigue without overwhelming the palate. Paired with warm, pillowy pita, it becomes an addictive starter that invites repeated scooping.

Short Rib Skewers 4.2/5

The Short Rib Skewers ($18 for 2pc) exemplify the restaurant's knack for balancing richness with brightness. Grilled to tender perfection, the beef boasts a melt-in-the-mouth texture, accented by a light smoky char. What elevates the dish is the Burmese-style chimichurri, sharper and more herbaceous than the traditional Argentinian version, cutting cleanly through the meat's fattiness. The accompanying pennywort salad lends a refreshing crunch and a slightly bitter note, rounding out the dish with finesse.

Samusa Thoke 4/5

A beloved Burmese street food classic, the Samusa Thoke ($12) is a medley of textures and flavours. Crispy potato samosas are broken apart and tossed into a warm, comforting yellow split pea soup, allowing them to soak up the broth while retaining bits of crunch. The addition of shredded cabbage and fresh mint introduces a crisp, cooling contrast, while a squeeze of lime ties everything together with a bright, zesty lift. The interplay between warm and fresh elements makes this dish both hearty and refreshing.

Ohn-No Khout Swel 4/5

The Ohn-No Khout Swel ($20) delivers a comforting bowl of coconut chicken noodle curry. Rich yet approachable, the mildly spiced broth is thick enough to coat each strand of egg noodles and envelop tender pieces of chicken. A halved boiled egg adds an extra layer of richness, while crunchy yellow rice crackers provide textural contrast. With lime and chilli on the side, diners can easily adjust the balance of acidity and heat, making it a highly customisable and satisfying main.

Wet Thar Dan Dauk 4.5/5

A standout on the menu, the Wet Thar Dan Dauk ($34) is a luxurious take on Burmese-style biryani. Fragrant basmati rice, infused with saffron and ghee, forms the base for a generous portion of slow-cooked pork knuckle. The meat is incredibly tender, with gelatinous richness that melts effortlessly on the palate. To offset this indulgence, a side of tangy green mango salad provides a refreshing acidity and crunch, ensuring each bite remains balanced and enjoyable.

Yone Pathay Thee Tofu Kyaw 4.5/5

The Yone Pathay Thee Tofu Kyaw ($22) showcases the depth of Burmese "dry curry" techniques. Featuring okra and tofu stir-fried with a robust masala blend, the dish delivers concentrated, caramelised flavours with every bite. The tofu absorbs the spices beautifully, while the okra adds a tender, slightly crisp texture. A touch of tamarind introduces a sharp, fruity acidity that cuts through the warmth of the spices, resulting in a dish that is both hearty and well-balanced.

Laphet-yay Ice Cream 4.5/5

Ending on a high note, the Laphet-yay Ice Cream ($14) is a creative homage to Burmese milk tea. Smooth and creamy, the ice cream captures the bold, slightly tannic notes of black tea, mellowed by the sweetness of condensed milk. The addition of a banana and jaggery crumble introduces a contrasting texture and a deep, caramel-like sweetness. The interplay between warm, earthy flavours and the cold creaminess of the ice cream makes for a refined yet comforting dessert.

Returning to Club Rangoon, the progression is evident. The refreshed menu feels more confident and cohesive, with flavours that are better defined and more attuned to the local palate without losing their Burmese essence. This second visit not only deepened my appreciation for the cuisine but also highlighted the restaurant's growth in bridging tradition and modernity. In many ways, Club Rangoon continues to play an important role in introducing and evolving Burmese cuisine within Singapore's dynamic food scene.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Club Rangoon
76 Duxton Road
Singapore 089535
Tel: +65 8190 8827
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Nearest MRT: Maxwell (TE Line), Tanjong Pagar (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Thu: 530pm - 11pm
Fri-Sat: 1130am - 3pm, 530pm - 12midnight

Direction:
1) Alight at Maxwell MRT station. Take Exit 3. Cross the road to Duxton Road. Walk down Duxton Road. Walk to the destination. Journey time about 3 minutes [Map]

2) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk straight to Tanjong Pagar Road. Cross the road and walk to Craig Road. Walk down Craig Road towards Duxton Road. Turn right onto Duxton Road. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 6 minutes. [Map]

PUTIEN @ Westgate - Savour the Once-a-Year Duotou Clams at PUTIEN, Featuring New Bold Creations

Known for its authentic Fujian cuisine, PUTIEN once again celebrates the return of its highly anticipated seasonal delicacy, Duotou Clams, available across all outlets until 31 July 2026. Harvested only once a year at peak quality, these prized clams from Duotou Village in Putian, Fujian, are revered for their plump, juicy texture, natural sweetness, and a clean, mineral-rich finish that lingers delicately on the palate.

What truly sets Duotou Clams apart lies in their origin. Cultivated in nutrient-rich black mudflats formed over a millennium and nourished by higher-salinity waters, the clams develop a deeper, more concentrated flavour than regular varieties. Farmed using traditional methods that date back over 600 years and harvested painstakingly by hand, often buried up to 30cm beneath the surface, each clam embodies a legacy of patience, craftsmanship, and respect for nature.

Salt-baked Duotou Clam 4.2/5

A perennial favourite, the Salt-baked Duotou Clam ($29.80) continues to impress as PUTIEN's best-selling clam dish for nine consecutive years globally. Served atop a bed of coarse sea salt, the clams are gently baked to retain their natural juices, allowing their inherent sweetness to shine. The addition of aromatic Szechuan peppercorns introduces a subtle numbing fragrance that enhances rather than overpowers, lifting the overall flavour profile. Each bite delivers a satisfying burst of briny sweetness, complemented by the clam's signature plumpness and clean finish.

Duotou Clams in Sauce 4.5/5

A new addition to this year's lineup, the Duotou Clams in Sauce ($29.80) offers a bolder, more robust expression. Cloaked in a rich, spicy, and umami-laden sauce, the dish delivers a lingering heat with a gentle numbing sensation. The sauce clings beautifully to the clams, amplifying their sweetness while adding depth and complexity. It is a well-balanced creation that showcases PUTIEN's ability to innovate while respecting the ingredient's integrity.

Diners can also take advantage of the limited-time membership promotion, "8 Delectable Dishes, Feast on 2 at a Time!", where any two Duotou clam dishes are available at a special price of $48.80 — a great opportunity to sample different interpretations of this seasonal treasure.

Sweet & Sour Pork with Lychees 4.5/5

A signature that never disappoints, the Sweet & Sour Pork with Lychees ($17.80/ $26.70) remains a must-order. The dish stands out for its remarkable consistency, arguably one of the best renditions in Singapore. The pork is tender and succulent, encased in a light, crisp batter that holds up well against the glossy sauce. Real lychees lend a natural sweetness and fruity brightness, creating a harmonious balance with the sauce's tangy notes. It is an appetising dish that hits all the right notes without being overly cloying.

Braised Luffa with Dried Scallop 4.2/5

The Braised Luffa with Dried Scallop ($16.80/ $25.20) is a comforting, understated dish that highlights the beauty of simple ingredients done right. The luffa is tender and velvety, with a slight crunch that preserves its freshness, while its natural sweetness is gently coaxed out through braising. Shredded dried scallops (conpoy) infuse the light gravy with a deep, savoury umami, adding layers of flavour without overwhelming the palate. The result is a delicate yet flavourful dish that complements heavier items on the table.

Fried Heng Hwa Bee Hoon 4.5/5

The Fried Heng Hwa Bee Hoon ($14.80/ $29.60) showcases the finesse of PUTIEN's culinary roots. Made from Xinghua rice vermicelli sourced from Putian, the noodles are traditionally sun-dried, resulting in strands that are exceptionally fine, translucent, and resilient. Despite absorbing the savoury broth, the bee hoon retains a pleasing "al dente" bite without turning mushy. Lightly seasoned yet deeply flavourful, the dish carries a subtle rice fragrance that speaks to the purity and quality of the noodles.

With both classic and contemporary interpretations, PUTIEN's Duotou Clam season celebrates heritage, craftsmanship, and ingredient-driven cooking. Available for a limited time only, it is a compelling reason to revisit the restaurant and savour one of Fujian's most treasured seasonal offerings.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


PUTIEN
Westgate
3 Gateway Drive
#03-08
Singapore 608532
Tel: +65 6254 8535
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Nearest MRT: Jurong East (EW, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Thu: 1130am - 3pm, 5pm - 10pm Fri-Sun: 1130am - 10pm

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

VUE @ OUE Bayfront - New Weekend Lunch Set Menu with Signature Dessert Trolley

Perched atop OUE Bayfront, VUE continues to impress with its refined modern European cuisine and stunning skyline views. Elevating the weekend dining scene, the restaurant has launched a new Weekend Lunch Set Menu, thoughtfully curated with a choice of four ($108++) or five courses ($128++). Each dish reflects a careful balance of artistry and finesse, culminating in a delightful finale of free-flow desserts from its signature trolley.

As with every visit, the meal began on a high note with the restaurant's complimentary milk buns. Soft, pillowy and lightly sweet, they were perfect when paired with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. It's one of those addictive starters that inevitably leads to a second helping, and understandably so.

42-Month Aged Jamón Iberico 4/5

We started our lunch with the cold appetisers, in which the 42-Month Aged Jamón Iberico delivered a deeply savoury, complex flavour profile. The long curing process lends the ham its signature intensity and nutty undertones, complemented beautifully by sweet Charentais melon. Paired with the La Coca toast, a thin, crisp Spanish flatbread, provided a delightful textural contrast, allowing the richness of the ham to shine.

Heirloom Tomatoes 4/5

The Heirloom Tomatoes offered a lighter yet equally satisfying alternative. Naturally sweet and juicy heirloom tomatoes were paired with smoked burrata, creating a luscious creamy contrast. The inclusion of tonburi, often referred to as "land caviar," added a subtle popping texture, while black olives introduced a gentle briny depth, tying the dish together harmoniously.

Wild Caught Scallop 4.2/5

Moving on to the hot appetisers, the Wild Caught Scallop stood out for its precision in execution. The wild caught scallop was pan-seared to a perfect golden crust while retaining a tender, succulent interior. Its natural sweetness was elevated by the luxurious topping of Osetra caviar, while the white chocolate miso emulsion added an unexpected yet balanced layer of sweetness and umami. The sautéed spring peas lent freshness and a slight crunch, rounding off the dish elegantly.

Grilled Baby Gem Lettuce 4/5

In contrast, the Grilled Baby Gem Lettuce showcased the restaurant's mastery of binchōtan grilling. The lightly charred outer leaves carried a gentle smokiness, while the inner core remained crisp and refreshing. The dish was brightened with an orange tahini dressing, complemented by feta cheese, walnuts and a Parmesan crisp. It delivered a pleasing interplay of smoky, creamy and crunchy textures.

Wild Forest Mushroom Risotto 4.8/5

For the risotto course, both options impressed with their depth of flavour and execution. The Wild Forest Mushroom Risotto was a comforting, earthy masterpiece. Made with a medley of premium mushrooms, including porcini and chestnut, the dish exuded deep umami richness. Each grain of rice retained a slight bite, coated in a creamy, velvety sauce enriched with aged Parmigiano Reggiano. The addition of truffle further enhanced its aromatic, woodsy profile.

Signature Uni Risotto 4.8/5

Equally indulgent was the Signature Uni Risotto (+$12). This luxurious creation highlighted the briny sweetness of Hokkaido sea urchin, folded into a creamy emulsion that beautifully coated the Japanese multi-grain rice. The grains offered a subtle textural contrast, making each mouthful more dynamic. The uni foam intensified the oceanic flavours, resulting in a deeply satisfying and decadent dish.

Spanish Octopus 4.5/5

From the grill, the Spanish Octopus demonstrated VUE's expertise with binchōtan charcoal. The octopus was cooked to a perfect tenderness, with a slight char that imparted a smoky depth without overpowering its natural sweetness. Accompanied by grilled baby gem lettuce, semi-dried tomatoes, and a pistachio chimichurri, the dish was well balanced, with the nutty, herbaceous sauce elevating the overall profile.

Stoneaxe Wagyu Rump Cap MBS 8-9 4.5/5

For the mains, the Stone Axe Wagyu Rump Cap MBS 8-9 (+$15) was a highlight for meat lovers. Also known as picanha, the cut is prized for its rich flavour and luscious fat cap, which renders beautifully over the grill. Simply seasoned to let the beef's quality shine, the meat was juicy, tender and deeply flavourful. Served with truffle mashed potatoes and heirloom cauliflower, the accompaniments complemented without overshadowing the star ingredient.

Desserts 4.2/5

Ending the meal on a sweet note, the Dessert Trolley remains a signature draw of the weekend lunch experience. Presented tableside, it offers an enticing selection of bite-sized and plated desserts that change with the seasons. From delicate pastries to indulgent sweets, the free-flow format allows diners to sample a variety of creations, making for a playful and satisfying finale.

Overall, VUE's Weekend Lunch Set Menu delivers a well-paced and thoughtfully executed dining experience. With its combination of quality ingredients, refined techniques and indulgent touches like the dessert trolley, it is an excellent choice for a leisurely weekend indulgence in the heart of the city.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


VUE
OUE Bayfront
Level 19
50 Collyer Quay
Singapore 049321
Tel: +65 8879 0923
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Nearest MRT: Raffles Place (EW, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon – Thu: 1130am - 2pm, 530pm - 1am
Fri: 1130am - 2pm, 530pm - 2am
Sat: 1130am - 430pm, 530pm - 2am
(Closed on Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at Raffles Place MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk to Clifford Centre. Cut across the building. Take the overhead bridge link across the road. Turn right at the base of the overhead bridge. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 8 minutes. [Map]