Showing posts with label .Area: Bugis. Show all posts
Showing posts with label .Area: Bugis. Show all posts

Thursday, February 6, 2025

Momolato @ North Bridge Road - New Halal Dessert Cafe with Gelato, Kunafa Waffle and Savoury Options

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Momolato, a halal-certified dessert cafe, has opened its second outlet on North Bridge Road following the success of its first location in Haji Lane. The cafe now offers an expanded menu featuring plated desserts, savoury options, and signature gelato.

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The cosy 20-seater has a warm atmosphere and is adorably decorated.

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Gelato 3.8/5

Diners will be spoilt for choice at their 24 rotating Gelato flavours display. Scoops start at $5.30, with premium selections available for an additional $1. Unique flavours such as Popcorn Butterscotch and Hibiscus Apple offer intriguing options, although all that we sampled leaned toward the sweeter side.

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Warabi Mochi Coffee 3.5/5

From the beverage menu, the Warabi Mochi Coffee caught our eye. The Emerald Beast ($8.50) combines roasted Sicilian pistachio, pistachio milk, espresso, and warabi mochi, while the Shady & Nut ($7.90) features chocolate hazelnut milk, hazelnut bits, espresso, and warabi mochi. All warabi mochi used are homemade.

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Sicilian Pistachio Kunafa 4.2/5

A highlight is the newly launched Sicilian Pistachio Kunafa ($21), a plated dessert that pairs a buttermilk waffle with crisp ricotta-mozzarella kuna fa, Sicilian pistachio cream, caramelised banana, torched fig, and pistachio gelato, offering delightful textural contrasts.

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Fried Buttermilk Garlic Chicken Waffle 3.8/5

The savoury Fried Buttermilk Garlic Chicken Waffle ($16.90) features buttermilk chicken with truffle cheese sauce and maple honey, though the sauce could benefit from a thicker consistency.

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Cheddar Cheese Coin 3/5

It was a pity that our Cheddar Cheese Coin ($6.50) seemed to have less cheese added, which led to the lack of an oozy cheese stretch we were hoping for. Otherwise, the batter itself was buttery and fragrant.

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Yellow Fever 3.8/5

The Yellow Fever ($16) blends mango pudding, coconut cream, and mangoes in syrup, topped with coconut gelato, reminiscent of tropical desserts like mango sticky rice and mango sago.

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Korean Strawberry Cheesecake 3/5

Fans of mochi can look out for their mochi-centred desserts, such as the Korean Strawberry Cheesecake ($12). It has deep-fried mochi wrapped around Korean strawberry cheesecake gelato and drizzled with strawberry sauce. While the chewy mochi was enjoyable, the drizzle felt overly sweet and slightly artificial. We would also have liked the cheesecake flavour to be more distinct.

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Not Plain Jane 3.8/5

Finally, the Not Plain Jane ($12). This thin crepe is filled with fresh vanilla cream and topped with strawberries and French vanilla bean gelato. The sweetness here was well-balanced.

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.


Momolato
723 North Bridge Road
Singapore 198691
Tel: +65 9679 7268
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Bugis (EW, DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Thu, Sun: 11am - 11pm
Fri-Sat: 11am - 1am
(Closed on Mon)

Direction:
1) Alight at Bugis MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk straight down Victoria Street to Jalan Pinang. Turn right onto Jalan Pinang. Walk down Jalan Pinang to North Bridge Road. Turn left onto North Bridge Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]

Monday, January 20, 2025

Meow BBQ @ Bugis+ - CNY Exclusive Meow BBQ 2025 Can Platter

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Usher in the Chinese New Year with lively energy and festivities at Meow Barbecue, a popular Chinese cat-themed barbecue restaurant known for its cute meat platters designed to look like cat food cans. Gather your friends and indulge in a festive feast specially crafted to celebrate the Year of the Snake.

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Prosperity Yu Sheng

Since it's Chinese New Year, Meow Barbecue has launched a ⁠Prosperity Yu Sheng with little abalones. It's available at both the Bugis+ and VivoCity outlets until 9 Feb, so you can lo hei with friends and family when you come here for your next barbecue feast.

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CNY-exclusive Meow BBQ 2025 Can Platter

Of course, the highlight of the evening was the CNY-exclusive Meow BBQ 2025 Can Platter. This festive platter opens up with fanfare to reveal six cuts of meat and signatures, perfect for grilling and sharing (suggested 2-3 pax). From 13 Jan to 9 Feb, the Lucky Snake Can Platter is available at a special price of $88++ (U.P. $128) at both Bugis+ and VivoCity outlets.

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The platter consists of:

•⁠ ⁠Thick Cut Iberico Pork Belly (120g)
•⁠ ⁠Wagyu Beef Short Ribs (120g)
•⁠ ⁠Thick Cut Pork Collar (120g)
•⁠ ⁠Meow Signature Spicy Chicken with Szechuan Pepper (150g)
•⁠ ⁠Diamond Cut Marinated Beef Ribs (120g)
•⁠ ⁠Rose Ox Tongue (100g)


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The platter offers a variety of delicious barbecue options, and the meat quality is satisfying. I was particularly intrigued by the signature spicy chicken with Szechuan pepper. Its bold, flavourful kick was delicious; I've not had BBQ chicken like this before. We also got to try ox tongue, which was a first for some at the table. You may opt to DIY or request that the staff help you grill the meat.

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With every Lucky Snake Can Platter purchased, customers are entitled to a chance to try their luck at Meow Barbecue's Chinese New Year Hong Bao Wall, a sure-win lucky draw offering a chance to win real gold, along with other exclusive prizes, including a cute pair of chopsticks and bowls adorned with adorable cat-themed designs, a limited-edition Meow Barbecue Exclusive 2025 Calendar, dining vouchers and other festive goodies!

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Customers also stand a chance to participate in the lucky draw for every $150++ spent and twice the chance if they spend $300++ on a single receipt.

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We also tried the Pork Belly with Kimchi and Cheese, prepared by layering kimchi and cheese onto the pork belly, then folding and grilling it — almost like a grilled cheese sandwich! The result is a mouthwatering pocket of melty cheese, and kimchi enveloped in tender pork belly. The staff then sliced it into portions for us to enjoy. This was something quite unique and enjoyable.

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We also participated in the Cheese Pull Challenge: Get 50% off every Cheese Corn (U.P. $6.80) ordered by simply tagging @meow_bbq on Instagram or Meow Barbecue on Facebook. Pull the cheese to 50cm or more to enjoy it for free! Honestly, the dish is rather simple, just consisting of melted cheese and corn. However, if you’re looking to have some fun, this could be an entertaining game to play at the table. Roll it well before stretching to ensure that you can get it above 50cm. In fact, our table stretched it to over a metre!

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Signature Caramel Pudding, Strawberry Cat Paw Jelly Pudding

For dessert, we had their Signature Caramel Pudding and Strawberry Cat Paw Jelly Pudding. I preferred the Caramel Pudding, which had a lovely custard texture and flavour. The Strawberry Jelly, though undeniably cute, was way too sweet for my taste.

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Meow Barbecue has a playful and quirky vibe, with feline-themed décor and friendly staff that adds to the overall fun experience. The grilled meat served is fresh and tasty, and the prices are rather reasonable, making it a good choice for gatherings the next time those BBQ cravings strike!

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


Meow BBQ
Bugis+
201 Victoria Street
#01-17
Singapore 188067
Tel: +65 80384659
Facebook
Instagram
Nearest MRT: Bugis(EW Line, DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Thu: 1130am - 1030pm
Fri-Sat: 1130am - 12midnight
Sun: 1130am - 1130pm

Direction: 
1) Alight at Bugis MRT station. Take Exit C. Cross the road. Turn left and walk down Victoria Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Monday, January 6, 2025

5 On 25 @ Andaz Singapore - Usher in the Year of the Snake with Auspicious Lunar New Year Dishes, Refined Set Menus and New Takeaway Goodies

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Ushering in the Year of the Snake, 5 ON 25 at Andaz Singapore introduces an array of auspicious Lunar New Year dishes, refined set menus, and festive takeaway goodies, available from 13 January to 12 February 2025. Curated by Executive Chef Martin Satow, Head Chinese Chef Lim Hong Lih, and their culinary team, the offerings highlight thoughtfully sourced ingredients while staying true to authentic Cantonese flavours.

5 ON 25 Signature Yusheng ($88/$148 Dine-in/Takeaway) features luscious slices of house-smoked sustainable Ora King Salmon from New Zealand, crispy fried yam, candied nuts, and a tangy plum dressing. For an indulgent upgrade, add-ons are available: Sustainable Canadian Lobster Meat ($78), Sustainable Surf Clam ($28), Crispy Whitebait ($20), and Crispy Salted Egg Yolk Fish Skin ($20).

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Dim Sum 4.5/5

Highlights from the special Dim Sum lunch menu include the Truffle, Pumpkin & Water Chestnut Dumpling, Shrimp & Crab Dumpling, Crispy Taro Fritter with Chicken Sustainable Prawns & Mushroom. Both dumplings boasted soft, chewy skins with juicy fillings, while the taro fritter had a light, airy crust that paired beautifully with the creamy taro and well-seasoned interior.

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Buddha Jumps Over The Wall 4.5/5

Buddha Jumps Over The Wall is a nourishing soup prepared with a dash of premium yellow rice wine from Mansong Wine Estate and simmered over low heat. Packed with tender herbal chicken, abalone, fish maw, sea cucumber and dried scallops, it was comforting and flavourful with depth and richness.

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Stuffed Morel Mushrooms 3.5/5

Available during lunch and dinner, Stuffed Morel Mushrooms ($68) is a limited-time special. Filled with sustainable shrimp mousse and water chestnuts, the presence of Yunnan black truffle enhanced the earthy flavour of the mushrooms. Chinese yam and edamame complemented the dish with added texture and flavour.

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Mapo Tofu 2.8/5

5 ON 25's rendition of Mapo Tofu combined two colours of beancurd and was elevated with sea cumber and fish maw. While its firmer tofu and a much more pronounced peppercorn flavour deviated from traditional map tofu with firm beancurd, it offered a different experience of enjoying the dish.

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Turbot 4.5/5

Live seafood selections offer farmed Turbot. We had it steamed Hong Kong style, showcasing the fish at its best with buttery texture and delicate sweetness.

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Master Stock Braised Barley-Fed Beef Short Rib & Baby Abalone 4.5/5

Master Stock Braised Barley-Fed Beef Short Rib & Baby Abalone was noteworthy. It featured fork-tender short ribs that were unctuous and flavorful, coated in a savoury, sweet, and malty sauce.

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Wu Liang Ye Flambéed Claypot Baked Jasmine Rice 4/5

The Wu Liang Ye Flambéed Claypot Baked Jasmine Rice was a showstopper with its dramatic tableside flambé presentation. Topped with braised jade tiger abalone, Cantonese cured sausage, Romanesco and rice crisp, every bite was an interplay of flavours and textures, and the amount of moreish scorched rice crust achieved made it even more satisfying.

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Mandarin Entremet 4.5/5

Dessert was well-considered and exquisite — Mandarin Entremet ($16), which delighted with airy pineapple sponge cake, light vanilla mousse, glutinous rice, and black rock sugar.

Six set lunch and dinner menus are available from $98 per person, served in the main dining hall or private dining suites – Emerald (up to 12 guests, minimum spend of $1,800) and Ruby (up to eight guests, minimum spend of $1,200).

For restaurant reservations and takeaway orders, please call + 65 6408 1228 or visit https://www.hyatt.com/andaz/sinaz-andaz-singapore/dining/5-on-25.

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.


5 On 25
Andaz Singapore
5 Fraser Street
Level 25
Singapore 189354
Tel: +65 64081228
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Bugis (DT Line, EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Sun: 12pm - 230pm, 6-1030pm

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

Friday, January 3, 2025

VITIS Wine Bar and Bistro @ DUO Galleria - Pairing Modern Asian Dishes with Asian Wines

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VITIS Wine Bar and Bistro, located at DUO Galleria, is an original concept that celebrates the richness and diversity of Asian wines and winemakers. Founded by seasoned sommelier Gary Low, who has worked in Michelin-starred establishments like JAAN by Kirk Westaway and Burnt Ends, VITIS boasts an exclusive collection of wines sourced from unique Asian terroirs. Executive Chef Kenneth Lin helms the culinary offerings, which are crafted to pair seamlessly with the wine selection, offering modern interpretations of beloved Asian flavours and classics.

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Our experience began with the GranMonte Cremant Methode Traditionelle Extra Brut, a sparkling wine from Thailand. This wine paired well with a selection of starters with a rich mouthfeel.

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Oyster with Ponzu

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Chutoro Tartlet 4.5/5, Deep-Fried Pig’s Tail 4/5

The Oyster with Ponzu offered a fresh, briny bite with a citrusy lift, while the Chutoro Tartlet combined unctuous tuna enriched with cured egg yolk with the subtle tang of kumquat. The Deep-Fried Pig's Tail with garlic vinaigrette was moreish with a satisfying crunch and a slightly gelatinous texture.

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Grilled Sumi Ika 4/5

Among the small plates, the Grilled Sumi Ika ($28) stood out both visually and in its execution. The tender, chewy squid stuffed with glutinous rice offered a delightful interplay of textures, further elevated by the nutty depth of a peanut and Kecap salsa.

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Thai-Style Eggplant Salad 4.5/5

Equally appetising was the piquant Thai-Style Eggplant Salad ($18). The tender eggplant soldiers absorbed the vibrant flavours of the Thai green chilli sauce, while the addition of the creamy ajitama provided a perfect balance to the dish's spice and acidity, creating a harmonious blend of bold and mellow notes.

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'HAE-MEE' Mussels 4/5

For large plates, the 'HAE-MEE' Mussels ($28) redefined the classic mussels dish with a robust prawn bisque. It was accompanied by sourdough bread meant for soaking up the umami-packed broth.

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Assam Glazed Ribs 4.5/5

The Assam Glazed Ribs ($26) were equally exceptional. It featured fork-tender meat coated in a tangy, sweet Assam Kicap Manis glaze. The surprise addition of a Rojak Salad added a refreshing contrast and a unique character to this dish.

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Both dishes paired beautifully with a bold Silver Heights Family Red, enhancing their robust flavours.

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Deconstructed Valrhona Chocolate Cake 4.5/5

Dessert was a Deconstructed Valrhona Chocolate Cake ($18) paired with lychee and chocolate crumble. This 'cake' was incredibly rich with a velvety texture, an indulgent treat to conclude the meal.

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The VITIS cellar features exclusive collections of bottles like the Long Dai Cabernet Blend 2019 from China’s Shandong region, often referred to as "The China Lafite," and the Fratelli Vitae Chardonnay 2016 from India. Other notable selections include Thailand’s GranMonte Sakuna Rosé 2023 and Taiwan’s Weightstone Blanc des Blancs Extra Brut 2020, showcasing the diverse terroirs of Asia. Additionally, the collection highlights wines crafted by Asian winemakers who have made their mark globally.

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.


VITIS Wine Bar and Bistro
DUO Galleria
7 Fraser Street
#01-46/47
Singapore 189356
Tel: +65 8823 3993
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Bugis (DT, EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 12pm - 215pm, 5pm - 1015pm
Sat: 5pm - 1015pm
(Closed on Sun)

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

Sunday, October 13, 2024

OUD Restaurant @ Kandahar Street - Woodfire-grilled Delights Nestled in a Charming Shophouse Celebrates First Anniversary

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OUD Restaurant is thrilled to announce the celebration of its first anniversary! Nestled in a charming shophouse, OUD showcases the talent of local chefs Indra and Ridz, who bring their unique culinary flair to the menu, having previously trained in Michelin establishments. The restaurant is proudly halal-friendly, ensuring that everyone can enjoy their offerings. It specialises in woodfire-grilled delights fired up by house speciality citrus wood. OUD offers a casual, inviting atmosphere where diners can enjoy dishes infused with rich, smoky flavours.

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To start, we were served some of their bread with smoked butter, which was enjoyable. However, the butter was still slightly cold instead of at room temperature, making it a bit difficult to spread smoothly on the bread. We had to wait a little while for it to soften.

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Caviar Cornets 3.5/5

The Caviar Cornets ($11 per piece) are made with a thin spring roll skin, then filled with smoked cream cheese and topped with Sturgeon caviar. It's a tasty appetiser but could benefit from more complexity.

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Fire-grilled Unagi 3.8/5

Next, we were served Fire-grilled Unagi ($10 per piece) featuring barbecue-glazed unagi slices on rice puff. The rice puff was nicely textured, with a satisfying crunch on the outside that gave way to a surprisingly chewy, mochi-like interior.

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K.F.C, Krispy Fried Cauliflower 4/5

Then came the creatively titled K.F.C (Krispy Fried Cauliflower) ($12), which had florets of cauliflower battered and fried to a golden crisp, delivering a satisfying crunch with every bite. It's also coated with a tasty sauce and is quite a nice snack appetiser.

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OUD Fries 4/5

The OUD Fries ($15 for 3pc) is a signature dish featuring layered crispy potatoes topped with a choice of beef tartare, salmon tartare, or tuna tartare. I preferred the salmon and tuna tartare as I found the flavour of the beef tartare a bit overpowering. The crispy potatoes themselves were well-executed, providing a solid base for the toppings.

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Grilled Octopus 2.8/5

We then had Grilled Octopus ($26) with romesco sauce, beef chorizo butter, and smoked paprika. The octopus was nicely charred. However, the plentiful sauce caused the octopus to become 'wet', and the crispy exterior was quickly lost. I also found the beef chorizo butter to be quite strong in flavour, which overshadowed the more delicate taste of the octopus.

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Firegrill Chicken Skewers 4.5/5

I much preferred the Firegrill Chicken Skewers ($26), which was perfectly grilled to achieve a delightful tenderness and smokey char. Accompanying the skewers is a vibrant coriander sauce that adds a refreshing herbaceous note. The dish is also served with an onion herb salad, bringing a crisp texture and freshness to the plate. The combination of the juicy chicken, zesty sauce, and lively salad created a well-rounded dish that feels light and satisfying.

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Atlantic Miso Cod Fish 4.2/5

The next dish, Atlantic Miso Cod Fish ($38), was also very much to my liking. The cod is marinated in miso and roasted in corn husks, and the fish is perfectly done for a soft, buttery texture. The miso marinade enhanced the natural sweetness of the cod, creating a balance between savoury and slightly sweet notes.

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Squid Ink Seafood Paella 3.8/5

The Squid Ink Seafood Paella ($48) is quite impressively presented with large fire-roasted prawns and bits of octopus. The rice is evenly coated with the squid ink, imparting a slightly earthy and umami-rich quality. Regarding the texture, it could be due to how the paella was individually portioned. Still, I didn't encounter any of the characteristic crispy bits I usually get from a paella. The texture was creamier, like risotto, for my plate, at least.

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Pressed Lamb Belly 4/5

The Pressed Lamb Belly ($38) features a prime cut that has been skilfully prepared and flavoured with a distinctive glaze of chives, curry, and sesame seeds. This combination enhances the succulent qualities of the lamb. The lamb belly is juicy and melt-in-your-mouth soft, with a generous amount of fat. This dish not only highlights the richness of the lamb but also introduces intriguing layers of taste. It's best enjoyed as a sharing dish, as the high-fat content can become quite rich after a while.

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Oudfire Mushrooms 3.8/5

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Honey Roasted Baby Carrots 3.8/5

Accompanying the main plates were some sides of Oudfire Mushrooms ($16) and Honey Roasted Baby Carrots ($12). The grilling of the mushrooms brought out their earthy flavours, and the carrots' sweetness was enhanced by the caramelisation from roasting. The price point is on the high side though for a side dish.

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Mango Sorbet 4.5/5

I was wowed by the presentation of the Mango Sorbet ($18), which was served in the hollowed-out skin of a mango itself. This creative touch made the whole dessert very aesthetic. The sorbet itself was deliciously smooth, with a perfect balance that wasn't overly sweet or sour. The addition of finger limes introduced a burst of citrusy brightness, while the fresh honey mangoes provided a lovely sweetness and texture that complemented the sorbet beautifully. After a lot of grilled dishes, this was a refreshing treat for my taste buds.

Some final thoughts about my experience are that OUD excels at woodfire grilling for tender and juicy meat dishes. However, it's worth noting that the open-concept kitchen means you might find the aroma of smoke lingering in your clothes and hair after your visit. Still, it is an inclusive, halal-friendly option to check out if dining with friends with dietary requirements.

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.


OUD Restaurant
48 Kandahar Street
Singapore 198899
Tel: +65 9727 3048
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Bugis (EW, DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Thu: 1130am - 3pm, 6pm -10pm
Sat-Sun: 1130am - 3pm, 6pm - 11pm
(Closed on Fri)

Direction:
1) Alight at Bugis MRT station. Take Eixt B or E. Walk to North Bridge Road. Walk down North Bridge Road to traffic junction of North Bridge Road and Ophir Road. Cross the road. Walk to Haji Lane. Turn right onto Haji Lane. Walk down Haji Lane. Walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]