LUCE by Davide Giacomelli @ Intercontinental Singapore - Celebrate the Magic of A Grandeur Christmas with Celebratory Sunday Champagne Brunch

This Christmas, step into a world of opulence and grandeur at InterContinental Singapore, where the spirit of the season comes to life through a splendid array of festive offerings. LUCE by Davide Giacomelli has introduced a lavish Celebratory Sunday Champagne Brunch for the Christmas season. Commencing from the 19th of November, this brunch extravaganza unfolds every Sunday and the first Saturday of the month, promising a feast of opulence and culinary excellence. Revel in diverse offerings, including standout features like Snow Crab Legs, Traditional Roasted U.S. Tom Turkey, Saffron Risotto served in a Parmesan Cheese Wheel, and the delectable Christmas Fruit Spiced Plum Pudding.

Commence your buffet adventure with the striking showcase of seafood on ice, presenting a diverse array of the freshest catches. Indulge in delights like yabbies, tiger prawns, snow crab legs, mussels, whelks, USA oysters, and Boston lobsters to set the tone for a luxurious dining experience. Take advantage of the finest sashimi and handmade sushi, adding an international flair to your brunch. Also, diners can delight in gourmet soups and salads, initiating the merriment on a delicious note.

Relish in small bites of exquisite flavours such as the smoked salmon poke bowl, Asian-style spicy ahi tuna tartar, Gamberi in Salsa Rosa, Egg Mimosa with tuna mayonnaise, coconut chia seed pudding, and Greek Style Quinoa Salad.

The smoked salmon poke bowl offers a delightful mix of seasoned wakame, edamame beans, pickled cucumber, red radish, and baby cos lettuce, creating a harmonious blend of textures and tastes. The Asian-style spicy ahi tuna tartar brings a zingy and spicy twist, while Gamberi in Salsa Rosa introduces succulent prawns in a tantalizing pink sauce. For a touch of elegance, savour the Egg Mimosa with tuna mayonnaise. Sweeten your palate with the coconut chia seed pudding, and revel in the healthful and flavourful Greek-style quinoa salad. Each bite is a celebration of diverse and well-crafted flavours, adding a layer of sophistication to your dining experience.

Witness culinary artistry firsthand as chefs man a dedicated station crafting the exquisite Saffron Risotto in a Parmesan Cheese Wheel. The creamy and velvety saffron-infused risotto, cooked to perfection, takes on a luxurious quality. As the risotto is prepared within the Parmesan Cheese wheel, it absorbs the essence of the aged Parmesan, resulting in a flavourful and indulgent experience.

Additionally, savour the flavours of the Signature Intercontinental Laksa Noodle, which offers a burst of rich and aromatic flavours. The robust and spicy laksa broth, harmoniously blended with coconut milk, creates a luscious base for the dish.

The Christmas roasts at LUCE by Davide Giacomelli feature a trio of delectable options: Australian Angus Beef, Traditional Roasted U.S. Turkey, and Slow Charred Lamb Shoulder with mustard and rosemary. The Australian Angus Beef stands out for its superb tenderness and rich flavour. The meat is complemented by a red wine jus that adds depth and enhances the overall savoury experience.

Indulge in the wood-fired pizza offerings at LUCE by Davide Giacomelli, featuring enticing options like Pinsa Margherita, Amatriciana Pinsa, Cotto e Funghi, and Formagii e Uva. The Pinsa Margherita showcases the classic combination of fresh tomato sauce, mozzarella, and basil. At the same time, the Amatriciana Pinsa may feature flavours reminiscent of the traditional pasta dish with tomato, guanciale, and pecorino romano. Cotto e Funghi combines cooked ham and mushrooms for a savoury delight, and Formagii e Uva presents a blend of cheeses with the sweet addition of grapes. These wood-fired pizzas promise a symphony of flavours, offering a delightful journey for your taste buds.

Choose from a delectable selection of familiar Asian delights, such as the Honey-glazed Pork Char Siew, which features a delightful combination of sweet and savoury flavours. The succulent pork, coated in a glossy honey glaze, offers a perfect balance of tenderness and caramelized richness.

For something more substantial, go for the X.O. Sauce Fried Rice with tiger prawns or Penne All' Arrabiata with homemade tomato sauce and parmesan cheese.

Conclude your dining experience on a sweet note with a delectable array of desserts at the buffet. Indulge in an assortment of delights, including assorted macarons, pralines, exotic coconut cake, Heritage Chestnut Cake, Oreo Cheesecake, Luce-Misu, Crunchy Chocolate Choux Puff, Winter Berries, and Sesame Golden Ball filled with salted egg custard. Savour Christmas treats like Christmas Fruit Spiced Plum Pudding, Christmas Stollen, and Christmas Fruit Cake for a festive touch.

Enhance the sweetness with a visit to the Dark Chocolate fountain, accompanied by tempting condiments such as strawberries, rock melon, marshmallows, dried fruits, pretzels, Oreos, and peanut M&Ms.

Photos and words by Crystal. A girl who likes to eat, photograph, and write about food, and dreams about travelling around the world one day. Note: This is an invited tasting.


LUCE by Davide Giacomelli
InterContinental Singapore
Level 1
80 Middle Road
Singapore 188966
Tel: +65 68251008
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Nearest MRT: Bugis (EW Line, DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Wed-Sun: 12pm - 230pm, 6pm - 1030pm
(Closed on Mon-Tue)

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

Fu Xiao Xian (抚小鲜) @ Bugis Junction - $12.80 Customisable Individual Fish Set Meals Available with 5 Different Soup Bases

Fu Xiao Xian (抚小鲜) opened its doors in Bugis last year, offering diners their speciality of Yunnan-style cooking and pressure-steamed fish. The restaurant prides itself on not using any MSG, preservatives, additives, or artificial flavours.

Their signature dishes, such as the Paper Wrapped Fish and Fish Hotpots, are more suitable for group sharing, but the new Individual Fish Set Meals ($12.80) would satisfy those seeking a quick and convenient meal and that of solo diners. These sets, available all day, allow you to customise by choosing your preferred soup base, adding two sides, and coming complete with a bowl of rice and a beverage.

Five different soup bases are available - the Spicy Fish, Vitamin C Tomato Fish, Sauerkraut Fish, Original Bone Broth Fish and Pumpkin Lemon Fish with Sauerkraut. By default, the set uses sea bass fillet, but you can opt to top up $2 for a swap to dory fish.

For the sides, each set allows two to be added in. These include enoki mushroom, black fungus, sweet potato vermicelli, beancurd, beancurd skin, bean sprouts and potato slices.

While waiting for your food to be ready, you can head to the self-service sauce station to prepare your bowl of condiments. We were pleasantly surprised to find fresh fruits offered for all diners as well. On the day of our visit, there were oranges and slices of watermelon.

Original Bone Broth Fish 3.8/5

We decided on the Original Bone Broth Fish with sea bass fillet, potato slices and beancurd for our first set. Unfortunately, the richness of the broth was just average, and despite the generous portion of broth, the slices of fish included were cut pretty thin and came in small numbers. While tender, the slices were also a tiny bit fishy.

Pumpkin Lemon Fish with Sauerkraut 4/5

Our preferred soup base between the two we tried was the Pumpkin Lemon Fish with Sauerkraut. While the sweet pumpkin flavour was relatively subtle, the zesty lemon notes complemented the sauerkraut and the amount of spice well. We opted to add black fungus and sweet potato vermicelli, which thoroughly soaked up the broth. I would have preferred this to be much less oily though.

Deep Fried Crisp Pork 4/5

We also had a side of Deep Fried Crisp Pork ($7.80) to share. I would have liked these a lot meatier, but I liked the savoury marinate and its crunch that wasn't too oily. The seasoning was actually pretty addictive.

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.


Fu Xiao Xian
Bugis Junction
#01-88/89
200 Victoria Street
Singapore 188021
Tel: +65 8787 6791
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Nearest MRT: Bugis MRT (EW, DT Line)

Opening Hours:
11am to 10.30pm Daily

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

Man Fu Yuan @ InterContinental Singapore - Unveils A Captivating New A La Carte and Set Menu, Blending Tradition and Innovation

Chef Aaron Tan and his culinary team at Man Fu Yuan, InterContinental Singapore, have unveiled a captivating new a la carte and set menu that showcases a perfect blend of tradition and innovation. Modern interpretations and premium ingredients give classic Cantonese favourites a fresh and revitalised touch.

Crispy Soft-shell Crab and Chilled Cherry Wine Tomatoes 4/5

Our gastronomic journey began with a tantalising duo of appetisers. The Crispy Soft-shell Crab with Garlic, Chilli, and Scallion was a delightful explosion of flavours, with the "Bowrington Bridge" soft-shell crab masterfully deep-fried to crispy perfection, infused with aromatic spices. The accompanying Chilled Cherry Wine Tomatoes, marinated with Plum Sauce, provided a refreshing contrast with its sweet and tangy notes, leaving us eager for more.

Double-boiled Superior Seafood Soup, Mushroom, served in Melon Husk 4.8/5

The Double-boiled Superior Seafood Soup, Mushroom, served in Melon Husk, followed next, enchanting us with its heartwarming and nourishing essence. The velvety smooth broth, infused with the essence of the melon husk, brought forth an additional depth of flavour to the already delightful combination of seafood and mushrooms. Each spoonful of this soup was a delightful journey, warming both the soul and the palate.

Braised Indonesia Cave Bird's Nest 4.2/5

A highlight of the meal was the Braised Indonesia Cave Bird's Nest with Crabmeat, Crab Roe, and Silver Sprout in Beijing style. This dish showcased a delightful play of flavours and textures, with the subtle bird's nest blending harmoniously with the sweetness of crab meat and the richness of crab roe, all complemented by the textural crunch of silver sprouts.

Flambe Braised Crocodile Palm, Vegetables, Mushroom 4/5

The Flambe Braised Crocodile Palm, Vegetables, Mushroom was an exotic offering on the menu. The tender crocodile meat, reminiscent of chicken in taste, was flambéed to perfection, adding an exciting touch of theatrics to the dish. The herbal sauce further enhanced the experience, making it a memorable culinary adventure.

3 hours 33 mins Honey Glazed Duroc Pork Ribs, Yuzu Soya Sauce, Grated Coconut 4.8/5

A true crowd-pleaser was the 3 hours 33 mins Honey Glazed Duroc Pork Ribs, Yuzu Soya Sauce, Grated Coconut. This dish impressed with its explosive flavour profile, combining sweetness and tanginess from the yuzu soya sauce with the succulent and fall-off-the-bone Duroc pork ribs. The addition of grated coconut added a delightful twist to the dish, making it a must-try.

Braised Crab Meat with Crab Roe, Prawn, Baby Vegetables 4/5

The menu continued to delight with the Braised Crab Meat with Crab Roe, Prawn, and Baby Vegetables. This dish was a perfect example of simplicity elevated by luxurious ingredients, as the combination of braised crab meat, crab roe, and prawn elevated the dish to new heights.

Stone Bowl Rice, Kurobuta Pork Cured Meat, Egg Yolk, Tobiko 4.5/5

The Stone Bowl Rice, Kurobuta Pork Cured Meat, Egg Yolk, and Tobiko were a delightful symphony of flavours. Fragrant rice infused with kurobuta pork cured meat and topped with tobiko was enhanced with a luscious egg yolk that bound everything together, creating an aromatic finish.

Double-boiled Papaya, Coconut Cream, Peach Collagen, Hashima 4.8/5

As we approached the end of our culinary journey, we were treated to the Double-boiled Papaya, Coconut Cream, Peach Collagen, Hashima, a warm and comforting coconut soup filled with papaya, peach collagen, and hashima, offering both delicious flavours and nourishing benefits.

Black Sesame Rolls with Coconut 4/5

The meal concluded on a sweet note with the Black Sesame Rolls with Coconut. Soft and spongy, the rolls were infused with the delightful aroma of black sesame, while the coating of grated coconut added an extra layer of taste and texture.

Chef Aaron Tan and his team have undoubtedly crafted an impressive and delectable menu at Man Fu Yuan, InterContinental Singapore. Each dish showcased its culinary finesse, while the seamless blend of traditional flavours with modern touches made for an unforgettable dining experience. Whether you are a connoisseur of Cantonese cuisine or a lover of culinary artistry, this new menu promises a feast for the senses that will leave you yearning for more.

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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Website
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]

Gyosen @ Fortune Centre - A Hidden Gem Japanese Restaurant Serving Thoughtful And Beautiful Chirashi Bowls

Fortune Centre might be most known for its plethora of vegetarian options, but if you take some time to explore it a bit more, you will notice many hidden gems, such as Gyosen. It is a relatively new Japanese restaurant tucked in the corner of the 3rd floor. Take the escalator up to level 3, and you will find their cosy space on the left.

Gyosen is helmed by 2 chefs who are both highly experienced in Japanese cuisine. Their menu features appetisers, sides, various rice bowls, premium omakase options and beautiful put-together chirashi bowls, which we had.

Mentai Engawa 4.2/5

The Mentai Engawa was generously topped with rich mentai, evenly torched all around. The engawa was soft and buttery.

Chirashi Don 4.5/5

My dining companion and I had two bowls to share. The first was their signature Chirashi Don ($28.90). Unlike the usual regular sushi rice, you will find a bowl of unique mushroom-flavoured rice on the base. It's further topped with fresh seafood such as unagi, shima aji, tuna, octopus, mekajiki, amaebi and salmon. Each slice had a good thickness and was exceptionally fresh. The ikura, tobiko and furikake provided additional pops of flavour.

Barachirashi Spicy 4.2/5

We went ahead with the chefs' recommendation of opting for their Barachirashi ($26.90) with an additional Spicy Sauce ($3) made in-house. I prefer it without the spice to better appreciate the seafood's freshness and natural sweetness, but spice lovers will enjoy this a lot. The spicy sauce gave a good kick of heat! The ingredients here were equally fresh, and we loved how gorgeously decorated it was with edible flowers.

Drop a call to 8286 6959 to make your reservation before heading down.

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.


Gyosen
Fortune Centre
190 Middle Road
#03-16
Singapore 188979
Tel: +65 82866959
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Nearest MRT: Bencoolen (DT Line), Bugis (EW, DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 230pm, 6pm - 1030pm
(Closed on Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at Bencoolen MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk straight down Bencoolen Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Bugis MRT station. Take Exit C. Cross the road. Turn left and walk to Cheng Yan Place. Turn right onto Cheng Yan Place, walk to Queen Street. Cross the road at Queen Street, cut through the flats and walk to Waterloo Street. Turn left onto Waterloo Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]

Man Fu Yuan @ InterContinental Singapore - Taste Of The Yesteryears 今日事，当年情; A Celebration Of Heritage Cantonese Cuisine By Four Celebrated Masterchefs

Photo credit: InterContinental Singapore

For a limited period from 1 April to 30 April 2023, Man Fu Yuan at InterContinental Singapore presents for the first time 8 Hands collaboration between four celebrated Masterchefs, Chef Pang Lu Tin, Fok Wing Tin, Peter Tsang and Man Fu Yuan's Executive Chinese Chef Aaron Tan. The four of them have come together to present set menus for the taste of yesteryears, reimagining traditional Cantonese classics. Diners will be treated to their combined culinary expertise and a gastronomic adventure featuring premium ingredients and the best of Lee Kum Kee’s sauces.

It is an opportunity to taste the collective mastery in one single meal of much-loved traditional classics from the 1970s and 80s, presented with skills that have been honed for decades, perfected with modern techniques and laced with exquisite flair and premium ingredients.

Appetiser by Chef Pung

We started the dinner with a trio of appetisers by Chef Pung, whetting up the appetite. A beautiful trio of Chilled Spice Jelly Fish Head with Preserve Mandarin Orange, Crispy Duroc Pork Belly, and Steamed Egg White with Sea Urchin is on the plate.

Soup by Chef Fok

Soup, an indispensable part of Cantonese cuisine, is showcased in the Superior Pumpkin Soup with Soft Scallop sheet and Sharp Spinach by Chef Fok. Pumpkin is added to give colour to the superior stock and creaminess. The highlight is the soft scallop cooked using the traditional sou vibe technique. Yes, I was educated that Chinese cooking has sou vibe technique too, not only in Western cuisine.

Superior Seafood by Chef Aaron Tan

Next is the Braised 15-head South Africa 'Ji Ping' Dried Abalone, which Chef Aaron Tan perfectly cooks to achieve the 'Tang Xin', a jam-like, ramen-egg texture.

Poultry by Chef Peter

The Steamed Goose with Plum, Ginger and Chinese Wine by Chef Peter draws inspiration from the Teochew-style braised duck. Chef Peter has to substitute the goose with duck, which is still a delicacy. The whole duck is painstakingly wok cooked to seal the skin and then slow-braised with Lee Kum Kee's sauce. The result is flavoursome and tender.

Poultry by Chef Fok

Another poultry item on the menu is the Pan-seared Duck and Chicken with Water Chestnut Patty by Chef Fok. The golden brown patty is succulent and has a homely flavour that reignites many childhood memories.

Seafood by Chef Aaron

Packed with robust flavours is the Crispy Soft-shell Crab with Crispy Garlic, Dried Chilli and Scallion. The execution is similar to Hong Kong's Bi Feng Tang" style.

Rice by Chef Peter

We had the Crispy 'Guo Ba' Rice with Braised 'Guan Dong' Sea Cucumber and Abalone Sauce by Chef Peter for the rice dish. It is an elevated way of having carbo paired with premium sea cucumber cooked to a delightful bouncy texture.

Dessert by Chef Pung

The Chilled Coconut Pudding with Silky Bird's Nest by Chef Pung wrapped up our meal. It is a light yet refreshing dessert brimming with a silky bird's nest for a luxurious, sweet ending.

Sharing Menus
$88++ - $138 per person 6-course 3-5 persons

Individual Menus
$228++ per person Wine pairing $70++ per person 6-course
$398++ per person Wine pairing $88++ per person 7-course

Prices are in Singapore dollars and subject to service charge and prevailing government tax. Bookings made before 31 March 2023 will enjoy an early bird discount of 15% on the menu prices.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Man Fu Yuan
InterContinental Singapore
Level 2
80 Middle Road
Singapore 188966
Tel: +65 63387600
Facebook
Website
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]