Big Wine Freaks @ Bukit Pasoh Road - Champagne and Wine Restaurant with Ingredient-forward Cuisine

Big Wine Freaks at Bukit Pasoh is a Champagne and wine restaurant with an outstanding wine selection that showcases labels from a new generation of star producers, natural wines from renowned French regions, and rare picks from unique micro-farms. Channelling the same electric energy as their Moscow origins, the space is brought to life by Sabrina Bignami and Alessandro Capellaro of B-Arch Architectural Bureau in Florence. It's an expressive blend of light, colour, and texture, a setting that speaks about the experience that they want to offer. Their ingredient-forward menu features a raw seafood bar, bite-sized starters, vegetables, and mains cooked over an open-fire grill.

Oysters 3.5/5

Daily from 5.30pm to 7pm is the time for Aperitivo ($58), which I believe is the best way to soak in the atmosphere of Big Wine Freaks. We were served a Cichetti Assortment comprising Oysters, Trout Gravlax, Parma Ham, Arancini, and Padron Peppers.

Parma Ham 4/5

Trout Gravlax 5/5

There was plenty to love about this assortment. It offered a satisfying balance of cold and hot starters and, more importantly, the rich mouthfeel and savouriness that pair beautifully with their wines and Champagne. Both the Parma Ham and Trout Gravlax stood out for their indulgent textures, especially the latter, with its tangy and mustardy toast and delicate ribbons of gravlax that paired perfectly with the glass of Gounel-Lassalle Esprit Voyager we had.

Padron Peppers 4.5/5

Arancini 4.5/5

The Arancini were well executed too. Encased in a crisp golden crust was a molten mixture of rice, mozzarella, and Jamon, made even more indulgent with the accompanying aioli. Rounding off the plate, the blistered Padron Peppers were juicy and vibrant, adding a fresh green bite that nicely balanced the lineup.

Octopus 3/5

The mains feature selections from the Josper Basque Grill. The Octopus ($58) was incredibly well cooked, with a texture and flavour that stood out as one of the better renditions I've had. Unfortunately, the dish was slightly let down by an oversprinkle of finishing salt.

Beef Short Rib 3/5

For the Beef Short Rib ($46), while the meat wasn't as tender as hoped, it made up for it with flavour. The caramelised, charred exterior imparted a depth and smokiness that was deeply satisfying.

Donut 4.5/5

Dessert was a pure joy. The fluffy Donuts, filled with berry jam and custard, were a delightful way to end the meal. While I would have preferred the custard to be a touch lighter, the overall experience was still indulgent and comforting.

There's also a noticeable attention to detail when it comes to presentation. Each dish is served on dinnerware by Ginori 1735, the renowned Florentine porcelain house now under the creative direction of Alessandro Michele. The wine-by-the-glass list is equally thoughtful, featuring over 40 rotating options that highlight fresh finds from their cellar. Every glass is served in exceptional stemware, featuring brands such as Zalto from Austria, Sydonios from France, and Kimura from Japan, which further elevates the overall experience.

Photos and words by Si An. A girl who is allured by travelling loves the feel of freedom, the smell of the rain and the aroma of fine coffee and food.


Big Wine Freaks
44 Bukit Pasoh Road
Singapore 089857
Tel: +65 6019 0765
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Outram Park (EW, NE, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 530pm till Late
(Closed on Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at Outram Park MRT station. Take Exit 4. Turn right and walk down Teo Hong Road. Walk to Bukit Pasoh Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Alegria @ Teck Lim Road - New Menu Brings Brazilian Flair and Filipino Soul Together

Alegria, located at the heart of Keong Saik district, specialises in Latin Asian cuisine reimagined with Asian and European influences. Their newly launched menu draws from Peruvian, Mexican, and Brazilian flavours, with unmistakable Filipino touches woven throughout.

Pão de Queijo 5/5

We started with a brilliant lineup of starters. The Pão de Queijo ($15), Brazil's iconic cheese bread, arrived warm and chewy, served with house-fermented basil butter. The herbaceous butter beautifully complemented the cheesy interior, making these morsels utterly moreish.

Coxinha 5/5

Next came the Coxinha ($16), a classic Brazilian chicken croquette and a first for me. I braced for a heavy, cheesy filling, but Alegria's version surprised me with its lightness. Encased in a crisp crust, the mashed potato dough encased a well-seasoned shredded chicken filling that had a subtle curry-like warmth. The balance of crunch, fluff and spice all come together in each bite, deliciously satisfying without being cloying.

Sisig Taco 4.5/5

Alegria truly shines with its tacos. Made fresh in-house from corn flour, the tortillas were soft, warm, and gently fluffy. The Sisig Taco ($19) offered a creative spin on the Filipino staple, topped with zesty salsa and a creamy dinakdakan sauce. While the pork belly had a tougher bite than expected, almost like fried pancetta, the flavour was spot on, savoury and vibrant.

Pescado Taco 4.5/5

The Pescado Taco ($19) showcased firm but tender and flaky Baja-style fried fish encased in a light, crisp batter. A zingy salsa and sweet charred corn brought brightness and contrast, while the chipotle mayo tied everything together with a smoky, creamy finish.

Seafood Moqueca 3.5/5

Among the mains, the Seafood Moqueca ($34) was a comforting Brazilian seafood stew, especially when paired with savoury sinangag rice. Vibrant with the flavours of capsicum and curry, the prawns were cooked just right. It was succulent and tender. However, the stew leaned noticeably sweet overall. A touch of acidity or heat helped cut through the richness and brought better balance to the dish.

Pollo Asado 5/5

The standout main was the Pollo Asado ($34), which consisted of a woodfire-grilled half chicken glazed in achiote and cilantro crema. Instead of grilling the chicken whole, it was portioned into three, allowing each piece to achieve deeper caramelisation and smoky char. Juicy and flavourful, it was elevated further by adding tangy pineapple kimchi that cut through the richness of the crispy skin.

Churros 5/5

We ended on a sweet note with Churros ($15) served with a Dulce de Leche dip. Perfectly fried, they were crispy outside and airy inside. These were among the best I've had, leaving a lasting impression.

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. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Alegria
18 Teck Lim Road
Singapore 088390
Tel: 82604742/62231553
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Outram Park (EW, NE, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Sun: 10am - 11pm
(Closed on Mon)

Direction:
1) Alight at Outram Park MRT station. Take Exit 4. Walk straight down New Bridge Road. Turn right onto Kreta Ayer Road. Walk down Kreta Ayer Road. Turn right onto Keong Saik Road. Walk down Keong Saik Road. Turn left onto Teck Lim Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]

Nomada @ Keong Saik - Where Tradition Meets Bold Perspective, Where Every Flavour Tells A Story

A recent addition to the lively Keong Saik restaurant scene, Nómada has quickly become a buzzworthy spot, even drawing a full house on a weekday evening when we visited. Chef Gonzalo Landin, formerly of Binomio and Set of Six, brings his global culinary expertise to the table, serving Spanish cuisine with a modern, innovative twist.

The décor at Nómada showcases rustic Spanish charm with a sleek, contemporary elegance, featuring warm lighting and earthy tones. For private events, there's also a curtained-off area towards the back of the restaurant for a more intimate setting.

Upon reviewing the menu, it's clear that Chef Landin doesn't shy away from incorporating adventurous ingredients, making Nómada an exciting choice even for the seasoned foodie. If you're game to try something a little different, there's chicken liver, ox tongue and even pig ears on the menu! But don't worry if that's not for you — the à la carte format ensures everyone can choose something you'll enjoy.

Homemade Flatbread with Za’atar 4/5

We started our dinner with the Homemade Flatbread with Za'atar ($16), a starter featuring Za'atar — a traditional Middle Eastern spice blend. This aromatic mix typically combines dried oregano, thyme, sumac, and toasted sesame seeds. The flatbread was soft and pillowy, topped with goat cheese and rocket.

Grilled Oyster with Spicy Sobrasada 3/5

Next, we were served Grilled Oyster with Spicy Sobrasada (2pcs, $16), which had a vibrant presentation thanks to the sobrasada. This soft spread, made from cured pork sausage and seasoned with paprika and other spices, brings a smoky flavour to the dish. However, the combination of the spicy sobrasada and the oyster didn't particularly complement each other.

Squids, Lemon & Parsley Sauce with Squid Ink Emulsion 4.2/5

I much preferred the Squid with Lemon & Parsley Sauce and Squid Ink Emulsion ($26), where the lemon and parsley sauce really stood out. Zesty and fresh, it was so delicious that I found myself going back for more. The squid itself was sufficiently tender with a slight chewiness, the subtle taste of the squid allowing the brightness of the sauce to shine through.

Braised Short Ribs on the Bone with Cauliflower 4/5

The Braised Short Ribs on the Bone with Cauliflower ($38) was a comforting dish that delivered hearty, savoury flavours. The short ribs were cooked very well, with a fork-tender texture. However, the dish gets a bit heavy and slightly oily after a while, so it's best to share it.

Iberico Pork Chop, Apple Cider Gels and Hipsy Cabbage 4.5/5

Between the beef and pork dishes we tried, we unanimously agreed that the Iberico Pork Chop, Apple Cider Gels and Hipsy Cabbage ($38) was our preferred choice. The pork chop was juicy and tender, with a hint of pink in the centre. We also loved the apple cider gel's subtle sweetness and tanginess, which added a lovely balance to the taste of the pork. The apple cider gel is also something interesting and different from the apple sauce you usually get with pork chops.

Iberico Pluma Rice 4.8/5

I was very impressed with the Iberico Pluma Rice ($68), a paella dish served in a large, shallow pan. The rice was rich and savoury, having absorbed the full depth of the broth and seasonings. The texture of the rice was slightly chewy, offering a substantial mouthfeel and delightfully crispy bits at the bottom and sides. Cooked with Iberico Pluma, a tender cut of pork, this dish satisfied my paella cravings.

Custard & Nutmeg Tart with Salted Caramel Ice Cream 4/5

At first glance, I mistook this for a cheesecake, and perhaps it was inspired by the cheesecake and given a little twist. The Custard & Nutmeg Tart, paired with Salted Caramel Ice Cream ($16), featured a velvety custard filling, subtly spiced with nutmeg, whilst the salted caramel ice cream lent this dessert a sweet and salty creaminess.

Nómada's menu is different from traditional Spanish restaurants, with a style sure to appeal to those who enjoy bold, intense flavours. The restaurant features an open-concept kitchen, allowing diners to watch the chefs at work, though it also means you might leave with a slight smokiness on your clothes.

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


Nomada
1 Keong Saik Road
#01-05
Singapore 089109
Tel: +65 8209 7809
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Outram Park (DT, EW, TE Line), Maxwell (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 12pm - 230pm, 530pm - 1030pm
Sat: 530pm - 1030pm
(Closed on Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at Outram Park MRT station. Take Exit 4. Walk straight towards Kreta Ayer Road. Turn right onto Keong Siak Road. Walk down Keong Siak Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Maxwell MRT station. Take Exit 3. Walk straight down Neil Road to Keong Saik Road. Turn right onto Keong Saik Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 mintues. [Map]

Sinchon Korean Anju & Drinks @ Neil Road - Bringing the Lively Spirit of Korea to Singapore

Nestled in the heart of Chinatown and Tanjong Pagar, Sinchon Korean Anju & Drinks brings the lively energy of Korea's iconic dining culture right to our doorstep. Inspired by the vibrant streets of Sinchon, Seoul, this casual eatery celebrates all things Korean — flavour-packed dishes, refreshing drinks, and the warmth of shared meals with Korean heritage.

Refillable Banchan 3.5/5

Sinchon offers two types of refillable Banchan, both of which are excellent palate cleansers. They are tangy, spicy, and delightfully crunchy.

Fresh Oyster 3.8/5

The Fresh Oysters ($25 for 5 pieces) were a highlight. They were served with minimal chilli toppings that enhanced rather than masked their natural brininess. The freshness was unmistakable, delivering a taste of the ocean in every bite.

Scallop Butter Grill 3.8/5

The Scallop Butter Grill ($24 for 4 pieces) was a delectable starter. The savoury melted cheese atop the tender scallops added a rich layer of flavour, making this dish a crowd-pleaser for seafood lovers.

Soy Sauce Marinated Crabs 3.8/5

Sinchon's Soy Sauce Marinated Crabs ($50 for 1 piece, $80 for 2 pieces) are marinated in-house by the owner. They boast a fresh taste with a perfect balance of saltiness. The crabs' jelly-like texture, combined with a hint of spice, creates a harmonious flavour that's truly satisfying.

We were told that the traditional way to enjoy this is with seaweed and white rice. It is a very interesting experience.

Mixed Sashimi Platter 4/5

It was our first experience with Korean Sashimi, and it was an eye-opener! Unlike Japanese sashimi's delicate, melt-in-your-mouth texture, Korean-style sashimi boasts a firmer, chewier bite, with some cuts even offering a satisfying crunch. The variety of textures alone made it an exciting dish to explore.

What's even more delightful is the versatility of how you can enjoy it. You can dip it simply in wasabi and soy sauce, wrap it in shiso leaf or lettuce with garlic and chilli for a burst of flavour, roll it in seaweed, or pair it with Korean chilli sauce for a spicy kick. Each method brings out a unique aspect of the sashimi, making it a fun and interactive dining experience.

The Mixed Sashimi Platter ($68) offers a customizable selection of premium fish, including Rockfish, Korean Halibut, and Flounder, all flown in fresh from Korea. The options vary with availability and seasonality, ensuring the freshest catch every time.

Cheese Steamed Egg 3/5

A quintessential Korean comfort dish, the Cheese Steamed Egg ($15) arrived piping hot and fluffy. While the egg was slightly overcooked, the addition of cheese offered a rich flavour. A suggestion for improvement would be to incorporate melted cheese within the egg for a smoother texture rather than placing it on top.

Japchae 3.5/5

The Japchae ($22) featured a medley of vegetables, mushrooms, fish cake, and chewy glass noodles, all brought together with fragrant sesame oil. While the flavours were milder compared to other versions, the overall dish was light and satisfying.

Kimchi Pancake 3.8/5

The Kimchi Pancake ($20) impressed with its crispy exterior and generous chunks of kimchi embedded within the batter. The pancake was light yet flavourful, offering a delightful balance of textures, tanginess and spice.

Kimchi Fried Rice 4/5

Sinchon's Kimchi Fried Rice ($15) was an undeniable favourite. It was packed with strong kimchi flavours and topped with a perfectly crispy egg with a runny yolk and seaweed garnish. This dish was so addictive that it kept us coming back for more.

Stir-Fry Chilli Pork 3.5/5

Served on a sizzling hotplate, the Stir-Fry Chilli Pork ($30) featured marinated pork chunks accompanied by fresh lettuce and big pieces of Shiso leaves, which is rarely seen in Singapore's version of this dish. While the dish was flavourful, the pork could have been more tender and spicier to elevate the experience.

Clams Stew 4/5

The Clams Stew ($40) served bubbling over a flame is on fire, literally. The spicy broth was packed with meaty clams, sweet white radish and a fiery kick that made it perfect for a rainy night. However, non-spicy eaters should approach with caution!

Mango Soju and Watermelon Soju 4/5

Refreshing and vibrant, the Mango Soju and Watermelon Soju ($18 per glass, $48 per jug) were delightful beverages to accompany the meal. The fruity Soju also come in pineapple flavour, adding a fun twist to the dining experience.

After indulging in Sinchon's diverse menu, it's clear that this spot is more than just a restaurant — it's an experience. The thoughtful attention to detail, authentic Korean flavours, and relaxed vibe make it a perfect place for food lovers and social diners alike. Come here for a slice of Seoul in Singapore.

Photos and words by Jaslyn. An avid cook who lives to eat and travel for food. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Sinchon
55 Neil Road
Singapore 088892
Tel: +65 81891538
Instagram
Nearest MRT: Maxwell (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 12pm - 11pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Maxwell MRT station. Take Exit 3. Cross the road and walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minut4es. [Map]