Showing posts with label .Area: Raffles Place. Show all posts
Showing posts with label .Area: Raffles Place. Show all posts

Thursday, December 12, 2024

Aniba @ Battery Road - Revamped Menu and New Cocktails Lineup

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Aniba, located at Battery Road, has introduced a revamped menu showcasing inventive seafood and vegetable-forward dishes, blending Asian, Middle Eastern, and European influences. The new lineup also includes a selection of curated cocktails to complement the dining experience.

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Pani Puri 3.8/5

For starters, the Pani Puri ($9 per piece), inspired by Indian street food, was elevated with yoghurt-yuzu foam, candied mandarin peel, and a slice of hamachi. This bite-sized snack delivered a refreshing tang and creamy mouthfeel.

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Tartlet 4/5

The Tartlet ($12), a crispy shell filled with smoked trout, miso labneh, cucumber, and green peas, offered a well balance of umami and textural contrast, whetting my appetite.

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Fatayer 4/5

Fatayer ($10) came hot and cheesy, featuring a classic combination of feta, spinach and leeks, served with a punchy shot of Hamusta soup.

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House Baked Breads with Dips 4.5/5

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Eggplant 4/5

A highlight was the House Baked Breads ($18), featuring Jerusalem Bagel with Labneh and Za'atar, Kubaneh with Crushed Tomatoes and Schug, and Focaccia with Tahini and Matbucha. The Kubaneh, a soft, sesame-studded braided bread, stood out with its slight buttery sweetness, punctuated by a hint of salt. The accompanying dips, notably the herbaceous Schug and fruity-sweet Matbucha, were delicious. I recommend pairing these breads with Eggplant ($29), a dip similar to the classic Babaghanoush.

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Tabuleh 4.5/5

The warm breads were great accompaniments to the two cold dishes we had. Tabuleh ($28) was refreshing with yellowtail ceviche, bulgur, fresh herbs, and pomegranate, brought together with yoghurt and nutty tahini.

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Hamachi 4/5

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Cauliflower 4/5

A serving of vibrant tomato-capsicum salsa profiled the freshness and delightful mouthfeel of the Hamachi ($29). Other sharing plates we tried include a crowd-pleasing Cauliflower ($27), which was surprisingly indulgent with rich Parsley Pesto, Tahini and curry oil, with a hint of tartness lent by tamarind.

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Toro 4.5/5

Toro ($42) was memorable with fluffy pancake-like Lahuch Tacos, which paired perfectly with the lean tuna. The slather of creamy Jalapeño Aioli on the taco boosted an even more satisfying mouthfeel. The acidity of the pickled celery and the sharp shallots and herbs provided a good balance to its flavours.

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Cod 3/5

Under Hot selections, we had the Cod ($64), served with Smoked Freekeh and Greens Coulis. The cod was tender and flaky but slightly on the saltier side.

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Malabi 4/5

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Semolina Cake Bites 4.5/5

Desserts were delightful. Basbusa features soft Semolina Cake Bites soaked with orange blossom water. They were divine with elegant Cheesecake Chantilly and Pistachio Ganache. Malabi was a wobbly milk pudding zesty with spices compote and berries.

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.


Aniba
6 Battery Road
#05-03
Singapore 049909
Tel: +65 9668 8036
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Raffles Place (EW, NS Line)

Operating Hours:
Mon-Thu: 12pm - 3pm, 5pm - 12midnight
Fri: 12pm - 3pm; 6pm - 12am
Sat: 830pm - 2am
(Closed on Sun)

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

Friday, September 27, 2024

PS.Cafe @ One Fullerton - Celebrates its 25th Anniversary with Blast from the Past Menu

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PS.Cafe celebrates its 25th anniversary with a special "Blast from the Past" menu, available from September 1 to 30. The menu revives five of the café's most beloved dishes from over the years, priced at $25 each, with a dessert and a handcrafted cocktail for $12.50 each.

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Chicken Tau Kwa Burger 3/5

We began with the Chicken Tau Kwa Burger ($25) from the anniversary menu and the Pecorino Cauliflower Gratin ($15) from the current menu. The Chicken Tau Kwa Burger debuted in 2006 at PS.Cafe's Paragon branch features tender chicken breast sandwiched between two fried tau kwa, dressed with tangy dried chilli oil. It's a high-protein, visually appealing dish, but it tasted and felt rather functional than satisfying.

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Pecorino Cauliflower Gratin 4/5

The Pecorino Cauliflower Gratin was a delightful side, with well-roasted cauliflower florets in béchamel, seasoned with garlic and sesame crumbs. However, I felt that a bit more cheese could have added extra depth and richness.

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King Prawn Paella 3/5

Another item from the special menu, the King Prawn Paella ($25), leaned more towards a Pearl Barley risotto than a traditional paella. That said, the texture of the pearl barley, combined with chunks of chorizo and sweet corn, offered a chewier bite than the usual bomba rice, adding an enjoyable textural twist to the dish.

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Miso Black Cod 3/5

We tried the Miso Black Cod ($42) from the current menu with Grilled Pumpkin, Cha Soba, and Greens. Unfortunately, the fish itself wasn't at its best, and the miso flavour was lacking. The tasty accompanying sides made up for it.

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Lemon Steamed Pudding 2.5/5

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Double Chocolate Blackout Cake 4/5

For dessert, the special Lemon Steamed Pudding ($12.50) was a lemon steamed cake served with homemade lemon custard sauce and a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It was overly sweet for my taste. In contrast, the classic Double Chocolate Blackout Cake ($18) had a better balance of bitter-sweetness and indulgence.

For opening hours and reservations, kindly visit www.pscafe.com

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.


PS.Cafe
One Fullerton
1 Fullerton Road
#02-03B/04
Singapore 049213
Tel: +65 6708 9288
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Raffles Place (EW, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 11am - 10pm
Sat-Sun: 10am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Raffles Place MRT. Take Exit A or B. Walk to Clifford Centre and then Change Alley. Take escalator to level 2. Cross the road using the OUE Link. Turn left towards Fullerton Bay Hotel. Walk to towards the bay and destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]

Sunday, September 22, 2024

Social Bar & Bistro @ Republic Plaza - Western Fare and Handcrafted Cocktails in the Heart of CBD.

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Social Bar & Bistro at Republic Plaza offers Western fare and handcrafted cocktails in the heart of the CBD. The comprehensive menu features a range of appetisers, pastas, pizzas, and mains.

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Spanish Garlic Prawns 3.8/5

We started with two appetisers: Spanish Garlic Prawns ($18) and Chilli Crab Sliders ($18). The Spanish Garlic Prawns were delectable, served in a rich, garlicky sauce that begged to be soaked up with the accompanying toast — a perfectly appetising start to the meal.

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Chilli Crab Sliders 2.8/5

The Chilli Crab Sliders felt more like Mantou with a chilli crab dip, aside from the slice of cucumber tucked between the fried buns. The chilli crab filling was unexpectedly saucy, with a fiery kick that may appeal to those craving bold flavours.

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Smoked Salmon Salad 3/5

Catering to the health-conscious lot in the CBD, the menu offers a variety of salads available in both half and full portions. The Smoked Salmon Salad ($18) was wholesome, featuring greens, eggs, and tomatoes, though the balsamic drizzle could have been more inventive.

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Grilled Barramundi 3/5

We opted for the Angus Beef Burger ($22) and Grilled Barramundi ($24) for mains. The Grilled Barramundi was slightly dry, but the creamy mashed potatoes slightly mitigated the texture.

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Angus Beef Burger 3.8/5

The Angus Beef Burger, with its hearty 200g beef patty in a beautifully toasted buttery brioche layered with caramelised onions and cheese, was tantalising overall. Even more so with the ultra-crisp fries. A less compact and dense patty might have elevated the texture more.

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We also tried two simple but delightful cocktails — Apple Crisp ($22) and Mad for Mango ($22). Both were bourbon-based and were just $10 on ladies' night; they were a great addition to the meal.

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.


Social Bar & Bistro
Republic Plaza
9 Raffles Place
#01-01
Singapore 048619
Tel: +65 91701395
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Raffles Place (EW, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Thu: 1030am - 1030pm
Fri: 1030am - 1130pm
(Closed on Sat & Sun)

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

Wednesday, September 11, 2024

HighHouse @ One Raffles Place - Third Edition of Its Monthly Brunch Series, "Brunch Out! Arcade Appetites: Vroom Vroom."

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HighHouse at One Raffles Place hosts a monthly brunch series on the last Saturday of each month from 11.30 am to 3.30 pm. On August 29th, they held their third edition, themed around the annual F1 races: "Brunch Out! Arcade Appetites: Vroom Vroom." The brunch featured a diverse array of food stations, offering a distinctive range of dishes to suit various tastes.

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Yellowfin Tuna and Spanish Octopus Ceviche 3.8/5

The Ceviche Bar provided a light start, featuring Yellowfin Tuna and Spanish Octopus Ceviche brightened by zesty Philippine Pineapple Salsa. The combination of both seafood elements offered a satisfying textural bite, while the guacamole added creaminess and enhanced the overall mouthfeel.

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BBQ Glazed & White Pepper Sakura Pork Belly 5/5, Australian Wagyu Beef Brisket 3.8/5

The Live Carving Station was undoubtedly the most popular, offering two standout items: Oven Baked BBQ Glazed & White Pepper Sakura Pork Belly and Mexican Style Josper Grilled Australian Wagyu Beef Brisket. The pork belly shone with its ultra-tender meat and glaze that perfectly complemented its richness. The brisket, while flavorful, leaned towards the drier side. The deeply caramelised Honey Soy Brussel sprouts and grilled pineapples were pure deliciousness!

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48-month-aged Jamon Iberico De Bellota 3/5

For cheese lovers, the Cheese Counter offers a selection of fine cheese and a 48-month-aged Jamon Iberico De Bellota, an ideal pairing with the free-flowing Telmont champagne, selected wines, and cocktails included with the ticket.

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Other stations included a Steam Fish Station serving Greenland Halibut prepared en papillote, a Salad Bar, and a Dessert Counter, ensuring a wide range of palates were catered to.

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The ticket was priced at $138++ with complimentary free-flow Telmont champagne, selected wines and cocktails. Each ticket has three coupons to exchange for three dishes from the various food stations. It's a weird concept, but it probably works for those who drink a lot over the food.

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.


HighHouse
1 Raffles Place
L61-62
Singapore 048616
Tel: +65 9677 8074
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Raffles Place (EW, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Tue, Thu: 1130 am–1 am
Wed: 1130 am–2 am
Fri-Sat: 5 pm–2 am
(Closed on Sun)

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

Sunday, September 8, 2024

Brewerkz @ One Fullerton - Brand New Look and a Refreshed Menu Offering Modern European Dishes Infused with Local Flavours

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Brewerkz at One Fullerton has recently reopened with a brand-new look and a refreshed menu, offering modern European dishes infused with local flavours. The updated menu introduces a range of bar bites, small plates, and mains that cater to a diverse palate.

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Salted Egg Mermaid Fish 3.5/5

The Salted Egg Mermaid Fish, Crispy Tofu Fritters, and Baby Squid & Calamari are some new additions to the Bar Bites. The Salted Egg Mermaid Fish ($12) delivered a satisfying crunch without being overly sauced, but the salted egg flavour was a tad too subtle.

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Crispy Tofu Fritters 3.5/5

The Crispy Tofu Fritters ($12), more like tofu fries, were sprinkled with Szechuan peppercorn and sesame. While the peppercorn wasn't very pronounced, the sesame provided a savoury-sweet contrast that worked well.

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Baby Squid & Calamari 3.5/5

The Baby Squid & Calamari ($18) combined the best of both worlds with a well-seasoned batter, although the accompanying sour plum mayo dip lacked the expected sour plum notes.

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Memphis Baby Back Ribs 4.5/5

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Nasi Lemak Focaccilla 2/5

We had a couple of appetisers - Nasi Lemak Focaccilla ($22) and Memphis Babyback Ribs ($20). The Nasi Lemak Focaccilla, intended to be a hybrid of focaccia and quesadilla, turned out more like a dry quesadilla with a thin spread of rendang and hardboiled egg bits. However, the Memphis Babyback Ribs were a standout, with tender meat glazed in a smoky BBQ sauce that was finger-licking good.

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Wagyu Steak & Frites 4/5

The mains offered a more refined dining experience. The Wagyu Steak & Frites ($74) was satisfying, with a beautifully grilled Wagyu Ribeye (MBS4-5) that rendered enough fat to deliver a rich, buttery flavour, enhanced by a red wine reduction and a hint of smokiness. The chunkier Sidewalker Fries were a great complement to the steak.

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Apple Bacon Pork T-Bone 2.8/5

The Apple Bacon Pork T-Bone ($34) was served with apple bacon sauce, onion chutney, and confit potatoes. While the fruity sweetness of the apple bacon sauce helped cut through the pork's richness, the gaminess was a bit overwhelming. The buttery, soft confit potatoes, however, were indulgent and enjoyable.

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Pugliam Seafood Stew 2/5

Unfortunately, the Pugliam Seafood Stew ($36) was disappointing, presenting itself as more of a pasta-in-cream dish. It seemed hastily prepared, with orecchiette pasta, bits of fish, squid rings, sliced scallops, and prawns thrown into a weak cream sauce. The broth lacked the depth of flavour, and the prawns should have at least been deveined for the price.

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Sour Cherry Crumble 4.2/5

The highlight of the evening was the Sour Cherry Crumble ($18). It was divine, with a base of dark tart cherries topped with sweet, chunky walnut crumble and a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

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.


Brewerkz
One Fullerton
1 Fullerton Road
#01-01
Singapore 049213
Tel: +65 96431571
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Raffles Place (EW, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 12pm - 12midnight

Direction
1) Alight at Raffles Place MRT. Take Exit A or B. Walk to Clifford Centre and then Change Alley. Take escalator to level 2. Cross the road using the OUE Link. Turn left towards Fullerton Bay Hotel. Walk to towards the bay and destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]

Friday, July 26, 2024

Kaarla Wood-Fire Grill and Bar @ CapitaSpring - Pivoted From Fine Dining to Casual Australian-Japanese Restaurant

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Formerly a fine dining concept, Kaarla at 1-Arden CapitaSpring has transitioned into a casual Australian-Japanese restaurant that offers a welcoming space for communal dining over wood-fire sharing plates and classic cocktails. Diners can also look forward to regular live entertainment for a chillout evening. Despite this pivot, Kaarla continues its commitment to sustainable dining by using ethically sourced ingredients from artisanal producers and local farms, incorporating over 158 species of edible greens, herbs, and flowers from its 10,000 sq-ft urban farm.

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Yuzu Shoyu Salmon Skewers 4/5

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Deep-Fried Lotus Root Chips 4/5

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Parker Brioche 4/5

Instead of courses and a la carte dishes, the menu is now categorised into more affordably-priced sharing plates suitable for communal dining or after-work drinking sessions. To start the evening, we enjoyed some bar snacks, including crisped Deep-Fried Lotus Root Chips ($12), which were moreish with sweet-savoury furikake and dashi honey. The Parker Brioche ($10) with shio kombu butter added extra butteriness, and the Yuzu Shoyu Salmon Skewers ($15) satisfied with their fatty texture and smoky umami flavour.

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Burrata 3/5

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Coal Roasted Tiger Prawns 2.8/5

We tried the Coal Roasted Tiger Prawns ($22) and Burrata ($14) from the small plates. The burrata was lusciously soft and pillowy, complemented by a contrasting garlicky goma sauce. However, I couldn't help wondering what happened to the other half of the burrata. The prawns had good flavours imparted from sansho pepper and a tangy native tamarind jam, but they weren't as succulent as expected.

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Natural Pork Loin 4.5/5

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John Dory 2.5/5

For mains, the Natural Pork Loin ($36) was excellently done over a wood fire, served pink-tender over a bed of braised barley and garden vegetables from the farm. However, the John Dory ($46) fell short with a rubbery texture.

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Wood Roasted Pumpkin 5/5

The Wood Roasted Pumpkin ($14) was a highlight for me. Slow-roasted, it had a dense and starchy texture, with a sweetness aptly contrasted by sharp goat's feta cheese and an umami miso glaze made from its own seeds, ground and mixed with miso. Atop the feta cheese was a handful of watercress from its farm, which surprised me with a refreshing, crunchy texture.

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Cherry Ripe 4.5/5

Rounding off our meal was a divine Cherry Ripe ($18), featuring a classic combination of tart cherries and bitter dark chocolate ganache, brought together by a creamy coconut fudge.

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Garden Fizz, Old Fashioned Kaarla

Alongside the revamped menu, the drinks selection has been refined to a concise selection of four signatures (all at $22), maximising house-grown herbs and kitchen ingredients. The Garden Fizz is a citrusy drink accented with rosemary, while the Old Fashioned Kaarla exudes a much bolder flavour, concocted with Australian bush tomatoes muddled with bourbon to give a slight caramel hint.

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For the upcoming National Day, Kaarla is also one of the best options to catch the fireworks:

* Indulge in a 5-Course National Day Dinner priced at $168++ per person. (Available on July 27th, August 3rd, and 9th)
* Raise a Toast with Free-Flow Alcohol for $59++ per person on August 9th, from 6-8PM
* Join the Skyline Sparkle Party every Saturday from June 22nd to August 9th, Tickets are $30 nett per person and include one drink (choice of soft drink, juice, beer, housepour spirits, or wines).

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.


Kaarla Wood-Fire Grill & Bar
CapitaSpring
88 Market Street
#51-02
Singapore 048948
Tel: +65 8518 3763
Instagram
Facebook
Website
Nearest MRT: Raffles Place (EW, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon- Fri: 1130am - 230pm, 6pm - 11pm
Sat: 1130am - 3pm, 6pm - 11pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Raffles Place MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn right and walk to Malacca Street. Walk down Malacca Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]