Sky22 @ Courtyard By Marriott Singapore Novena - Best Of Both Land And Sea

For a limited promotional period on every Friday to Sunday from 13 September to 10 November 2019, Sky22 at Courtyard By Marriott Singapore Novena is offering a weekend 'Surf & Turf' buffet. The buffet features the best of both worlds where diners get to feast on a gastronomic journey of premium meats and freshest seafood.

Tuna Nicoise 4/5

Starting from the sea, we tried the Tuna Nicoise. The tuna is seared to a beautiful pink in the middle. It is paired with green beans, olive, tomatoes and quail eggs. This is all held together by the citrus dressing for a refreshing finish.

Oyster Rockefeller 4/5

A much sought-after dish in every buffet line is probably the oyster. The baked Oyster Rockefeller is topped with a creamy, buttery sauce, parsley and bread crumbs.

Singapore Laksa 4.2/5

Not to be missed at Sky22 is their signature Singapore Laksa. What I like about the bowl of laksa, is the rich dried shrimp flavour in the flavoursome broth.

Pan-seared Norwegian Salmon 4/5

The Pan-seared Norwegian Salmon is cooked to a beautiful pink in the middle. It is moist on the inside with crispy skin. The Mediterranean salsa provides the refreshing touch that brightens up the dish.

Sambal Tiger Prawns 3.5/5

I was a little disappointed with the Sambal Tiger Prawns. While the prawn is fresh with a delightful crunchy texture, I thought the sambal can be spicier.

Grilled New Zealand Lamb Rack 4.5/5

From the Sea, we moved to the land. First up is the Grilled New Zealand Lamb Rack. It didn't have the gamey taste at all. What I enjoyed most is the mango chutney rub on the lamb rack. Not only did it provide the extra textural bite, it also gives it the needed boost in flavour.

Crackling Roasted Bungalow Pork Belly 4.2/5

Another lovely meat from the carving station is the Crackling Roasted Bungalow Pork Belly with prune stuffing. The sweetness from the prune stuffing provides the balance for the succulent pork belly.

Roast Australian Grass-fed Beef Sirloin 4.5/5

The fork-tender Roast Australian Grass-fed Beef Sirloin with natural jus is another favourite from the carving station. There is no need of any sauces as the piece of meat is grilled to perfection, Each bite is an explosion of its natural flavour.

Surf & Turf lunch and dinner buffet is priced at S$68++ per adult and S$34++ per child (6 to 12 years old). To book a table or for more information, please call the restaurant at 6378 2040 or email fnb.coutyardsg@marriott.com, reserve online at http://bit.ly/Sky22_Reservations.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Sky 22
Courtyard by Marriott Singapore Novena
Level 22
99 Irrawaddy Road
Singapore 329568
Facebook
Website
Nearest MRT: Novena (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily:
630am - 1030am (breakfast)
12pm - 230pm (lunch)
3pm - 5pm (Tea)
6pm - 10pm (Dinner)

Direction: 
1) Alight at Novena MRT station. Take A or B. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

So Ramen @ Novena Square - Shiok Tonkotsu + Bonito Broth

Singaporean loves Japanese food, and there are indeed quite a number of ramen shops in Singapore. One of the lesser-known brands is So Ramen a local brand by the breadtalk group. It offers three types of noodles (Hosomen, Chijiremen and Futomen) and 5 types of broths (shoyu, miso, tonkotsu, uobushi tonkotsu, and spicy tonkotsu).

Grand Tonkotsu 4/5

The Grand Tonkotsu ($13.90) consists of Toroniku (braised pork cheek), Cha Shu and Buta Kakuni (braised pork belly in special sauce), Ni Tamago and Menma (bamboo shoot). It is quite a luxury in a bowl considering the pricing. Black onion sauce is added to the rich and hearty broth, enhancing the flavour. While the pork belly is huge, I find it on the tough side.

Toroniku Uobushi Tonkotsu Ramen 4.2/5

The soup for the Toroniku Uobushi Tonkotsu Ramen ($13.90) is double-boiled comprising tonkotsu and premium bonito. The result is more intense and richer, which really pack a punch. Not only that, it comes with tender pieces of Toroniku (braised pork cheek, Ni tamago, menma and seaweed.

Yaki Gyoza 3.5/5

I also ordered Yaki Gyoza ($4 for 6pc) to go along with the ramen. The parcel comes with marinated premium pork wrapped in translucent dumpling skin, then pan-seared to crispy perfection

Butariki Ishinabe 4/5

Besides ramen, the restaurant also offers rice item on the menu. We tried the Butariki Ishinabe ($12.90) that is served in a hot stone-pot. One can find pan-fried and barbecued pork, seaweed, raw egg, caramelised onion and sesame in it. Mix everything up to coat the pearly Koshihikari rice with the sauce and get a mouthful of different flavours and textures.


So Ramen
Novena Square
238 Thomson Road
#01-05
Singapore 307683
Tel: +65 62536066
Facebook
Website
Nearest MRT: Novena (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 10pm

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

Urbana Rooftop Bar @ Courtyard by Marriott Singapore Novena - Launches New Chillax Weekend Breakfast With A Panoramic Scenery

Nestled within level 33 of Courtyard by Marriott Singapore Novena is Urbana - one of the city's newest rooftop bar in an open-air setting framed by an infinity pool. Launching its new Chillax Weekend Breakfast menu available every Saturday and Sunday from 11am to 4pm, diners can sit back, relax and enjoy lazy, lengthy breakfast fares at this highest rooftop bar in the Novena district which offers panoramic views of the cityscapes.

Duck Confit & Waffle 4.2/5

All the breakfast specials on the new epicurean menu are prepared a la minute in the outlet's open kitchen. The first dish we had was the Duck Confit & Waffle ($18). Crispy, fluffy waffles, tender duck confit beneath crispy skin, and sealed off with white bean cassoulet and apple slaw which adds a nice crunch to the dish. Reintepreted from the classic Southern dish with duck confit, this rendition sees a perfect marriage of French elements to a traditional American dish.

Pandan Nasi Lemak Omelet 3.8/5

The Pandan Nasi Lemak Omelet ($16) comes in a generous portion of pandan flavoured nasi lemak rice wrapped in a huge thin omelet, coated with chilli just below the omelet skin to give the dish a sharp kick of spice. The tender beef brisket rendang has a nice spice aroma to it, which provides a richer flavour to the nasi lemak rice. Paired with pickled cucumber and belinjo crackers on the side to give a crunchy texture to the dish.

Urbana's Late Breakfast 4/5, Classic Egg Benedicts 4/5

The Urbana's Late Breakfast ($22) and the Classic Egg Benedict ($18) are classic breakfast dishes which is no stranger to the breakfast aficionados. The breakfast platter comes in hearty portions of pork/chicken/beef sausage, streaky bacon, homemade hash browns, herb tomatoes , waffles, sous vide egg and hollandaise sauce which is sure to satisfy all your breakfast cravings. As for the Classic Egg Benedict, no reinvention is needed and all the elements are well-executed - with poached eggs served atop ham slices on English muffins, complemented with a generous drizzle of Hollandaise sauce. Slice the eggs to reveal the oozy golden yolk, which just binds all the elements together.

Truffle Grilled Cheese 4.2/5

The Truffle Grilled Cheese ($18) hits all the right spots with tomato, avocado, cheddar, emmental and truffle brie sandwiched in between grilled sourdough bread. The melty gooey cheese flaunts a perfect combination with the crispy toasted sourdough, and with its flavours further enhanced by the strong truffle fragrance from the truffle brie.

Eggs Your Choice 4/5

The dish comes with an Eggs of your choice (we opted for scrambled eggs), on soft fluffy slabs of French toasts and crispy streaky bacon. Drizzle the maple syrup all over which adds a nice sweetness to the savoury dish.

Pork Belly 4.2/5

A special seasonal item which was off the regular menu and only available from time to time, the Pork Belly features juicy tender meat with an enjoyable crackling crisp exterior.

Complementing the Chillax Weekend Breakfast are gourmet dessert choices of liquor laced desserts of sliced cakes, jar cakes and slab cakes such as the Bailey Tiramisu, Black Forest, Pina Colada, Jar Cakes, Kirsch Cherry Brownie, Urbana Cognac Cheese Tart, Brandy Toffee Nuts Tart, Orchard Pick Normandine Tart, and more, priced from $7++ to $8++. As a special treat, for any main course ordered, all coffees are at $1 only.

All the desserts are handmade from scratch by in-house chef. Some of my favourites are the Choc Fudge ($8++), and Bailey Tiramisu ($8++). The soft layers of coffee-dipped savoiardi biscuits, creamy filling and chocolate just come together seamlessly, with a strong bailey flavour infused within the tiramisu.

Sip on cocktails from the beverage menu as you enjoy a lazy brunch afternoon at Urbana, such as the Tequila Sunrise, made of tequila, orange juice, and grenadine syrup and served unmixed in a tall glass.

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.


Urbana Rooftop Bar
Courtyard by Marriott Singapore Novena
99 Irrawaddy Road
Level 33
Singapore 329568
Tel: +65 63782060
Facebook
Website
Nearest MRT: Novena (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Sat-Sun: 11am - 4pm, 5pm - 1am

Direction: 
1) Alight at Novena MRT station. Take A or B. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Sky 22 @ Courtyard By Marriott Singapore Novena - Flavours Of Korea Buffet

For a limited period from 15 March to 28 April 2019, Sky22 at Courtyard By Marriott Singapore Novena will be offering the Flavours of Korea buffet during the weekends. The Korean themed buffed is specially curated by their new South Korea Chef Hwang In Yong (Ian) and Executive Chef John Chye. Guests will be in for a feast of Korean classics as well as popular Korean street foods.

Cabbage Kimchi

Not to be missed is the housemade Cabbage Kimchi, they are so good. It has the right balance of sourish and spiciness on top of the crunchy texture. I was hoping that I can buy some of these to take home.

Spicy Seafood Tofu Soup 3/5

While my group of diners love the Spicy Seafood Tofu Soup, I have different view. The flavour is there but I felt that it lacked the heat to match its description. I really hope it can be spicier.

Braised Short Ribs 4/5

The Braised Short Ribs on the other hand was spot on. They were well infused in the sweet sauce with fall of the bone meat. A very delightful dish to go with some steamed rice.

Kimchi Fried Rice 3/5

Unfortunately I could not taste the robustness of kimchi in the Kimchi Fried Rice. The chef definitely need to improve on the dish or it will be passed off as normal fried rice.

Braised Kimchi Pork 3.5/5

Contradicting to the kimchi fried rice, the Braised Kimchi Pork Ribs came across more flavourful with the distinct kimchi flavour. As for the braised pork, it can be more tender.

Sweet and Spicy Deep Fried Chicken Cube 4/5

I actually enjoyed snacking the Sweet and Spicy Deep Fried Chicken Cube. The chicken pieces are well coated with the sticky sweet and spicy sauce, fragrant with sesame seeds. Some of the diners felt that it is a bit dry but I actually like the slightly tough texture for that bite to chew on.

Bibimbap 4.2/5

Diners at the Korean themed buffet can also have a little fun creating their own Bibimbap at the DIY  Bibim Bar. Have some fun putting the bibimbap together. The food will always taste better when you make it yourself.

Vegetable Pancake 3.5/5

I find the Vegetable Pancake will be subjective to individual liking. If you are not into greens than you will not like it. As for me I like the fact that there was not a lot of batter on the pancake, allowing me to appreciate the greens.

Korean Sweet Pancake 4/5

Complete the feast on a sweet note with Korean desserts such as Rice Cakes, Chestnut Balls and Sweet Pancakes. For the buffet spread, on top of the Korean delights, there are also a myriad of seafood from the steam & grill seafood bar to complement the spread.

Flavours Of Korea
Date: 15 March to 28 April 2019
Time: 12pm - 230pm (Sat-Sun, except Easter), 6pm - 10pm (Fri-Sat)
Price: $56++ adult, $28++ child (6 to 12 years old)
- Add $28++ per pax for free flow house pour red & white wine, prosecco, soft drinks.
- Add $12+ per pax for free flow soft drinks and juices.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Sky 22
Courtyard by Marriott Singapore Novena
Level 22
99 Irrawaddy Road
Singapore 329568
Facebook
Website
Nearest MRT: Novena (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily:
630am - 1030am (breakfast)
12pm - 230pm (lunch)
3pm - 5pm (Tea)
6pm - 10pm (Dinner)

Direction: 
1) Alight at Novena MRT station. Take A or B. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Baan Ying @ Royal Square - The Great Baan Ying Brunch

Established since 1999 in Bangkok, Baan Ying has been known for its home-style Thai cuisine created by founder Aunty Ying. From a small humble eatery to a restaurant group in Bangkok, its first Singapore outpost in Royal Square set up last year made quite an impression with its bright and airy space. Other than bringing home-style dishes from Aunty Ying's hometown, Baan Ying shall bring to you another type of experience - The Great Baan Ying Brunch.

Salmon Steak 3.5/5

Drop by on Saturday or Sunday from 11am to 3pm, you can indulge in popular Thai favourites that include a choice of one main course along with a buffet spread of 12 to 15 delectable appetisers, sides and desserts on rotation every week. Priced at $38.80++ per adult and $19.40++ per child (four to ten years old; kids under three dine free; child price includes a complimentary fruit juice). Top up $29.80 for a free-flow of beer and wine. Out of the four mains that I get to choose from - Angus Beef Steak, Bone-in Iberico Pork Chop (approx. 250g, additional $9.80++), Pan-fried Salmon Steak and Grilled Large River Prawns, we had the Salmon Steak and Pork Chop.

Pork Rib 3.8/5

Iberico Pork Chop, that has been marinated with Aunty Ying's secret blend of Thai spices. My favourite part is definitely the portion near the rib, as I really love the luscious and flavourful fats. The lime wedges served together with the main dishes is a nice touch to cut the richness of the meats.

Thai Salad 4/5

That said, coming to a Thai restaurant, the main drawn is still the spread of the traditional Thai dishes such as salads, soups, the curries etc. One of the highlights for me is definitely the DIY Thai Salad station where I get to mix and match own ingredients such as peanuts, dried shrimp, cherry tomatoes, long beans and either, tangy green papaya (Som Tum) or green mango (Yum Mamuang) and toss them in Aunty Ying’s secret salad dressing. We were fortunate to have a staff to demonstrate for us the techniques and skills that go into making a good Som Tum. Seems tedious but with a dressing that good, I am quite sure yours will turn out just as great too!

Yum Woon Sen 3.8/5

Out of the entire spread, my favourite would be the Yum Woon Sen (Glass Noodle Salad) which was loaded with seafood. The ingredients were really fresh, especially the thick cut of fish slices.

Larb Moo Tod 3/5

Mu Tod Nga 3/5

A few bite size items that is good to accompany your beer is the mini Larb Moo Tod, deep fried spicy meat balls mixed with toasted ground rice, mixed herbs and lime. The other delectable bite is the Mu Tod Nga which is Baan Ying's very own white sesame pork, and you may find it as moreish as any fried chicken wing. It would be much better of course, if you are able to consume them while still hot as they tend to get a bit dry and tough when out for too long.

Green Curry with Chicken 3/5, Salted Egg Fried Rice 3.5/5

A few quintessential Thai dishes such as Green Curry and Tom Yum Soup are also available. There was no pineapple fried rice, but we had an equally sumptuous Salted Egg Fried Rice.

Rainbow Ruby 3/5

Yam Soup 3/5

Desserts are of comforting taste, such as Rainbow Ruby, that has colours obtained from natural ingredients such as sweet potatoes, Lord Chong (green tapioca noodles in sweet coconut milk) and Yam Soup.

Overall, although there are a few interesting Thai dishes among the buffet spread, I might have a more satisfying experience if I were to go for ala carte option. The main dishes were all right but the key to satisfy my Thai food craving would still be that few Thai style dishes that I have grown accustomed to.

Words and photos 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. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Baan Ying
Royal Square @ Novena
103 Irrawaddy Road
#02-07
Singapore 329566
Tel: +65 91117852
Facebook
Website
Nearest MRT: Novena (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 11am to 3 pm, 530pm to 10pm
Sat-Sun: 11am to 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Novena MRT station. Take Exit A or B. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 mins. [Map]