Kubo Woodfired Kitchen @ The Pier at Robertson - Contemporary Restaurant Offering Woodfired Filipino cuisine

Drawing inspiration from Filipino cuisine, Kubo Woodfired Kitchen at The Pier at Robertson is a contemporary restaurant that redefines familiar and little-known dishes from the northern to the southern regions of the Philippines. Named after the thatched huts commonly seen in the Philippine countryside, diners get to witness and enjoy the full view of Kubo's custom-designed and built open kitchen with a wood-burning oven, cookstove, grill and smoker. Helmed by Chef Kurt Sombero, Chef Kurt welds his Filipino heritage and culinary techniques to create a menu that aims to make Filipino cuisine more accessible.

Cassava Chips with Miso Dip 3.5/5

Honeycomb Tripe 3.8/5

Inasal Mid-Wing 4/5

We started with some Snacks - Cassava Chips with Miso Dip, Honeycomb Tripe and Inasal Mid-Wing ($12). The first two are all about the crunch and creamy dips. Served with savoury hummus, the honeycomb tripe subverts our expectations of a typical tripe dish. Its crunch factor is unbeatable. My favourite is the Inasal Mid-Wing. Tender meat laced with a layer of smokiness from the wood fire, such simplicity embodies the beauty of woodfire cooking.

Grilled Prawns 3.8/5

Next up were dishes from Appertiser, among which Grilled Prawns ($24) have received much-raved reviews since the restaurant opened last year. Served with a punchy coconut sambal, bird's eye chilli and kaffir lime, the prawn boasted a mouthwatering meaty and creamy texture.

Pork Longganissa 3.8/5

Pork Longganissa is new to the menu, a refined version of an all-day Filipino breakfast classic with flavours reminiscent of chorizo. In Kubo, Pork Longganissa is made as a hamonado (pineapple sauce) naked-pork patty marinated in soy before topping with ikura and cured egg and served with toasted bread underneath. Unfortunately, while I appreciate the thoughts that went behind this dish, its saltiness is a bit overwhelming.

Sisig 4.2/5

Sisig ($25) was a memorable dish. Originally served with rice, it is served taco style with flat bread here. There is so much to love about the rustic taste of the soft and fluffy flat bread done over the woodfire. The sizzling minced pork mixture naturally had bits of crunch from some charred bits, making it even more morbid.

Smoked Beef Tongue 4/5

Smoked Beef Tongue may look intimidating, but it tastes similar to beef brisket. It is also one of the highly recommended dishes at Kubo. Its tenderness with nicely seared exterior makes it a rare treat.

House Aged Duck 4.5/5

Turmeric Banana Leaf Rice 4/5

For mains, we had the restaurant's Signature House Aged Duck ($42) served fried and grilled, together with a new side Turmeric Banana Leaf Rice. The fried duck leg is very similar to a Duck confit, beautifully brown with fork-tender meat. The grilled portion had a much firmer texture and showcased an impressive layer of crispy golden-brown skin laced with a yummy layer of fats underneath. The accompanying sauce could do with some zest or acidity to cut the richness of this dish. The fluffy rice was homely and comforting and complemented the meat well.

Halo Halo 4/5

Leche Flan Bon Bon 3/5

For desserts, we had Halo Halo, which features the Philippines' very own Ube Sorbets (ice cream), alongside creamy coconut and torched meringue. While I enjoyed the textural play lent by the various toppings, its sweetness was too much for me. Leche Flan Bon Bon had an interesting smoked blueberry, but the flan seemed lost amongst the ingredients.

There are a couple of non-alcoholic drinks to try, such as Samalamig (coolers) like the Mango Float ($10) done in the Kubo way with roasted biscuits, mangos, smoked coconut cream and topped with a torched meringue and mango creme. Otherwise, Smoked Black Tea with Pandan Foam is an interesting option that taste akin to our local grass jelly drink.

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.


Kubo
The Pier at Robertson
80 Mohamed Sultan Road
#01-12
Singapore 239013
Tel: +65 96458436
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Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Fort Canning (DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Fri: 3pm - 10pm
Sat-Sun: 12pm - 3pm, 530pm - 10pm
(Closed on Mon)

Direction:
1) Alight at Fort Canning MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to traffic junction of Clemenceau Ave and River Valley. Cross the road. Turn left and walk down Clemenceau Ave. Turn right onto Unity Street. Then left onto Merbau Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]

Tapas 24 @ Robertson Quay - A Special Menu Welcoming Founder Chef Carles Abellan To Singapore

Since its opening in May 2021, Tapas 24 at Robertson Quay, Singapore, has received raving reviews. Tapas 24 is a Barcelonian concept that offers Spanish ingredients in traditional tapas with a twist. Chef Carles Abellan founds it with the original outlet located a stone's throw from Passeig de Gracia, a prime shopping and business area in Barcelona, Spain. Tapas 24 Robertson Quay has put together an exclusive limited-edition menu of new creations from 17 February to 27 February 2022 to celebrate Chef Carles Abellan's long-waited trip from Barcelona to Singapore.

King Crab Ensaladilla Rusa 4.5/5

The luxe version of the King Crab Ensaladilla Rusa is topped with egg yolk, tobiko and miso mayonnaise. I have not eaten anything like it before. It reminds me of our Chinese Sai Pang Xie (Stir Fry Egg White) but an elevated Western version.

McFoie Burger 5/5

This is the only place you can have the McFoie Burger in Singapore, one of the signature dishes that brought Tapas 24 to fame in Barcelona. Unfortunately, it is no longer served in Spain. The Foie patty sandwiched between grilled, soft brioche buns is served with foie gras mousse on the side. Spread the foie gras mousse onto the burger for a hot and cold, umami enjoyment.

Squid Ink Paella 3.8/5

I felt the Squid Ink Paella with slivers of cuttlefish was a bit heavy-handed for it. Though so, the Spanish saffron rice infused with squid ink is deliciously flavourful coupled with delightful bites.

Truffle Spanish Tortilla 4.8/5

Another favourite item on Chef Carles's special menu is the Truffle Spanish Tortilla. I had the potato and egg omelette in Spain but not this version with a molten interior accentuated by the truffle's earthiness. It is hearty and comforting, and most important, deliciously good.

Churros 4.5/5

Wrapping up our dinner is the Churros and Chocolate Cake. My eyes brightened when I saw the churros because they are the thin and airy type I like. It is accompanied by three different dipping sauces - Chocolate, Coffee Toffee, and Mango & Passionfruit. For the chocolate lover, you will love the chocolatey richness.

Chocolate Cake 4/5

In light of Chef Carles’ visit, the restaurant will also present a carte of exclusive ‘Carles Abellán Specials’ (17 to 27 February 2022) and 3-day only (25 February, Friday, 6pm; 26 February, Saturday, 12pm and 6pm; and 27 February, Sunday, 12pm) lunch and dinner set menus that unabashedly showcase the Chef’s inimitable personality. Reservations are for a minimum of two persons and maximum of five and may be made online at https://www.tapas24.sg/ under Reservations.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Tapas 24
60 Robertson Quay
#01-04
Singapore 238252
Tel: +65 65136810
Facebook
Website
Nearest MRT: Chinatown (DT Line, NE Line), Fort Canning (DT Line, NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Sun: 12pm - 11pm
(Closed on Mon)

Direction:
1) Alight at Chinatown MRT station. Take Exit C. Walk to bus stop opposite State Courts (Stop ID 06171). Take bus number 51 or 186. Alight 1 stop later. Cross the road and walk to Alkaff Bridge. Cross the bridge and walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Fort Canning MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to bus stop opposite UE Square (Stop ID 04329). Take bus 64 or 123. Alight 1 stop later. Cross the road and walk to Alkaff Bridge. Cross the bridge and walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]

3) Alight at Fort Canning MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to traffic junction River Valley Road and Clemenceau Ave. Cross the road and turn left onto Clemenceau Ave. Walk down Clemenceau Ave to the river. Turn right and walk down the river. Walk to destination. Journey time about 12 minutes. [Map]

Publico Ristorante @ InterContinental Robertson Quay - Christmas In The Elf Garden

This Christmas, Publico Ristorante at InterContinental Robertson Quay will be setting magical merriments in motion to bring the festive spirit back. Publico has put together a medley of delights and lavish feasts to celebrate the festive seasons from 1 December to 31 December 2021.

Publico Mulled Wine 4/5

Kick-starting the dinner, I have the Publico Mulled Wine ($25), a celebrative drink usually served during winter around Christmas. Usually, it is served hot or warm, but what I had is chilled, lighter and more refreshing.

Granchio Fritto 3.5/5

After the drink, I moved on to the Granchio Fritto ($22). The deep-fried soft shell crab with tomato aioli and tangy salsa verde rest on a bed of radicchio caesar salad. I enjoyed how the tanginess cut through the deep-fried softshell crab, giving it a freshening mouth bite.

Pizza Boscaiola 4/5

Customers can go for the wood-fired Pizza Boscaiola ($30) for something more traditional. The pizza is layered with thinly sliced house-made Porchetta and further topped with porcini mushroom mozzarella, grated parmesan and red wine glaze.

Manzo Arrosto 4.2/5

OAt every Christmas feast, it is a staple to have festive roasts. The same is at Publico too. Diners can look forward to the Manzo Arrosto ($48). The charcoal-grilled angus beef tenderloin is complemented with a harmonious mix of crispy purple potato, sweet bell pepper tartare, balsamic mustard seeds, spicy horseradish salsa and red wine jus.

Publico Tiramisu 4/5

Wrapping up the dinner is the Publico Tiramisu ($15) which comes in a pot of sweetness. It is not too rich, and I like how the sponge fingers are moist with espresso.

Publico will be launching the "Magical Elf Garden Fairies" social media contest where two lucky winners will stand a chance to win $200 worth of Publico vouchers. Just snap and post on your accounts and remember to tag us and be public so we can choose you! For more information or reservations, visit https://publico.sg/festive2021, email ciao@publico.sg or call +65 68265040.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Publico Ristorante
InterContinental Robertson Quay
Level 1
1 Nanson Road
Singapore 238909
Tel: +65 68265040
Facebook
Website
Nearest: Chinatown (DT Line, NE Line), Fort Canning (DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Thu: 12pm - 1030pm
Fri: 12pm - 11pm
Sat-Sun: 830am - 11pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Chinatown MRT station. Take Exit C. Walk to bus stop along Upper Cross Road, Opposite Subordinate Court (Stop ID 06171). Take bus number 51 or 186. Alight 2 stops later. Cross the road. Walk to Saiboo Street. Cross the river and walk to destination. Journey time about 12 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Fort Canning MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to junction of River Valley Road and Clemenceau Avenue. Cross the road. Turn left and walk to the river. At the river, turn right and walk down the river. Walk to The Quayside and turn to Nanson Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 12 minutes. [Map]

Kingdom of Belgians @ Rodyk Street - New French Gourmet Grocery And Daily Brunch

Kingdom of Belgians, located at the less bustling end of Robertson Quay, has been awaiting you to have a taste of their Belgium specialities since their opening in January last year. They have revamped the menu recently, serving our beloved brunch daily alongside their popular Belgium favourites. A new partnership has been formed as well, with fine food gourmet grocer LPB Market (formerly La Petite Boutique) to offer a new store showcasing premium French groceries available both on retail and dine in at the restaurant.

Egg Benedict with Salmon Gravlax with Brioche 4.8/5

Knowing KOB is a casual set-up by Chef-Owner Emmanuel Stroobant, there were certain expectations of the food here, and I wasn't disappointed at all. A common brunch dish such as Egg Benedict ($16) was elevated with a level of sophistication with their housemade Salmon Gravlax. Its deep orangey colour was alluring, to begin with, and its luscious texture, which was further boosted by tangy hollandaise and rich oozy egg yolk, was simply divine. Savoury and herbaceous with dill, it was perfect with the buttery and sweet brioche as the base.

Plat du Jour 4/5

A heartier brunch dish like Plat du Jour ($18) would probably have you returning to KOB. The half of a roasted spring chicken itself was pleasingly tender. I love the creamy bacon and mushroom sauce made using the juice from roasting the chicken, imbuing layers of flavour into a simple dish like this.

Blue Cheese Moules 4.2/5

Be sure to try one of their Moules ($24 for starters/$38 for main). We had the Blue Cheese Moules that came extremely pungent (in a good way!). Creamy and rich with blue cheese, there is no other way to savour the broth than sopping it with the accompanying sweet and buttery brioche.

Braised Pork-Beef Meatballs 4.8/5

And I'm so in love with their Boulet Liegeois ($24)! A Belgian classic, their Braised Pork-Beef Meatballs are served with caramelised shallot, raisins in beef jus. Like a well-made burger patty, the meatballs were very well seasoned, incredibly juicy, and its texture maintained a balance between loose and compact with the right amount of lean meat and fats. The jus was superb with flavours lent from infusing cloves and juniper berries. The addition of the shallot and raisins lent a pop of tart sweetness that cut the dish's richness.

Spiced Apple Tart 4.5

For dessert, the Spiced Apple Tart ($14.00) will make your day. The spiced caramelised apple encased within the thin, flaky shortcrust pastry was deeply infused with spices such as nutmeg, cinnamon, star anise, a lot more so than many which I ever had, which to me was even tastier.

Before heading out, perhaps you might want to grab a few gourmet items from the LPB Market. They house a rotating selection of more than 50 different types of artisanal cheeses along with other quality products, including charcuterie, fresh dairy and meat, and award-winning wines. Famed signatures include the highly popular Truffle Brie, Saucisson, Country Paté, and Salmon Rillette. Else, online shopping is also available on https://petiteboutique-sg.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. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Kingdom of Belgians
8 Rodyk Street
#01-05/06
Singapore 238216
Tel: +65 66340500
Facebook
Website
Nearest MRT: Chinatown (DT Line, NE Line), Tiong Bahru (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Sun: 10am - 1030pm
(Closed on Mon)

Direction: 
1) Alight at Chinatown MRT station. Take Exit C. Walk to bus stop along Upper Cross Road, Opposite Subordinate Court (Stop ID 06171). Take bus number 51 or 186. Alight 2 stops later. Cross the road. Walk towards the river. Cross the river. Walk to destination. Journey time about 12 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Tiong Bahru MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk to bus stop at Tiong Bahru MRT station (Stop ID 10169). Take bus 123. Alight 4 stops later. Walk towards the river. Cross the river. Walk to destination. Journey time about 14 minutes. [Map]

Wolfgang's Steakhouse @ Intercontinental Singapore Robertson Quay - Celebrates Christmas With New Festive Set Menu And Brunch Dishes

Celebrating the holidays in style, Wolfgang’s Steakhouse Singapore has unveiled a new NYC-Inspired Christmas Set Menu and Christmas Brunch, which showcases a variety of typical brunch favourites and festive additions.

Available from 24 to 27 December, the Christmas Set Menu (S$188 per pax, min 2 pax) includes a light starter of Beverly Hills Chopped Salad and Crab Cake, followed by USDA Prime Porterhouse Steak, accompanied by succulent Honey Baked Ham, Pumpkin Mashed Potato, Brussel Sprouts with Bacon, and Vichy-Style Carrots. Homemade Carrot Cake completes the feast.

Beverly Hills Chopped Salad and Crab Cake 4/5

We tried the Beverly Hills Chopped Salad and Crab Cake, which is part of the Christmas Set Menu. The crab cake is loaded with fresh crab meat and cooked to fork-tender perfection. Served with a side of chopped salad to boot.

Sleigh Bells 4/5

Before proceeding to the brunch menu, you can bring up the festive spirit with their special festive toasts such as the Sleigh Bells ($28). The beautifully decorated drink comprises a sweet combination of tequila, Cointreau, cranberry and lime. Catering to those hoping to stay sober over the season, the team have also created two special mocktails, the Jolly Zest ($18) and the Gingerbread Eggnog ($18).

Steak and Eggs 4.2/5

From the Christmas Brunch Menu, we had the Steak and Eggs ($45) consisting of 100% USDA Prime Black Angus Striploin, cherry tomatoes and creamy scrambled eggs. The juicy and succulent piece of steak is excellent on its own, even without any complementing sauce.

Wolfgang's Eggs Benedict 4.5/5

Not to be missed is the Wolfgang's Eggs Benedict ($30) - an elevated version of your usual eggs benedict which features 100% USDA Prime Black Angus Petite Filet Mignon on fluffy English muffins, and poached eggs with creamy hollandaise atop. As one of the most prized cuts of meat, the Filet Mignon is juicy and has a more tender and buttery texture as compared to the rest of the cuts. It paired perfectly with the creamy flowy eggs.

Angel Hair Pasta 4/5

Apart from the steaks, Wolfgang Steakhouse does great pasta too. We had the Angel Hair Pasta ($28) with scallop, salmon roes and caviar.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Wolfgang's Steakhouse
Intercontinental Singapore Robertson Quay
1 Nanson Road
#02-01
Singapore 238909
Tel: +65 68875885
Facebook
Website
Nearest MRT: Chinatown (DT Line, NE Line), Fort Canning (DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 1130pm

Direction: 
1) Alight at Chinatown MRT station. Take Exit C. Walk to bus stop along Upper Cross Road, Opposite Subordinate Court (Stop ID 06171). Take bus number 51 or 186. Alight 2 stops later. Cross the road. Walk to Saiboo Street. Cross the river and walk to destination. Journey time about 12 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Fort Canning MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to junction of River Valley Road and Clemenceau Avenue. Cross the road. Turn left and walk to the river. At the river, turn right and walk down the river. Walk to The Quayside and turn to Nanson Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 12 minutes. [Map]

Ginza Shinto @ Mohamed Sultan Road - A New Contemporary Japanese Sushi & Omakase Establishment by Chef Ron Newton Leo

Ginza Shinto is a newly opened contemporary Japanese Sushi and Omakase restaurant, nestled in one of the shophouses on Mohamed Sultan Road. Helmed by Chef Ron who has over 30 years of sushi counter experience under his belt, he sources produce from Toyosu Fish Market in Tokyo to the markets in Hokkaido and Osaka depending on the season’s best. As such, the omakase menus change biweekly according to the seasonality of ingredients.

Sweet Cherry Tomatoes from Japan with crisp Ice Plant 3.5/5

Our dinner started off with Sweet Cherry Tomatoes from Japan accompanied by crisp ice plant with truffle oil. The ice plant gets its moniker from its cool frosted look, with crystalline beads covering its stems and leaves. Crisp and crunchy, it went really well with the juicy and sweet Cherry Tomato. With such fresh and delicate flavours, just a sprinkle of salt may do more justice to the ingredients than drizzling them with sesame sauce and truffle oil.

Amaebi topped with Uni, fresh Ikura and Caviar 4.2/5

2nd course was Amaebi topped with Uni, fresh Ikura and Caviar. The creamy uni was like a salted butter that melted over the sweet and almost crunchy amaebi, which was further flavoured with a burst of savouriness from fresh Ikura and Caviar. The herbaceous oba leaf not only added a dimension of aroma but also helped to balance out the brininess of the ingredients.

Flame-seared Hotate wrapped with Nori, and Botan-ebi 4.8/5

The next course was Flame-seared Hotate wrapped with Nori and Botan-ebi. The plumb and sweet Botan-ebi left a lasting impression on my taste buds that night. Its counterpart hotate echoed a similar satisfying crunch.

Kanpachi, Toro and Dashi-rolled Hirame 4.2/5

For Sashimi course, we had Kanpachi, Toro and Dashi-rolled Hirame with fresh Hanaho. The toro here was one of the finest I had tried. But other than the fresh ingredients, what I appreciate is that Chef Ron actually took the effort to teach his diners how to appreciate Hanaho. I always find it a pity to see people chucking it, and oba leaves aside as simply garnishes.

Miyazaki A5 Wagyu 4.5/5

Next up we had Miyazaki A5 Wagyu with a raw quail egg yolk and homemade beef sauce (consume by mixing the egg yolk in the beef sauce before dipping the beef in). Mine had been seared to perfection, rendering just enough fats to release its flavours.

Kanpachi Aburi with Bonito Flakes 4.2/5

The Sushi course reflected Chef Ron's creative take in contemporary Japanese dining. Kanpachi Aburi with Bonito Flakes was flavourful on its own without any dipping sauce, thanks to the savoury Bonito Flakes that was made in house. This extra touch also added an interesting dimension to the bite.

Aburi Amaebi with Foie Gras 4.5/5

Next sushi was my favourite of the evening - Aburi Amaebi with Foie Gras, sprinkled with grated yuzu zest. Torching the foie gras which melted over the amaebi, what surprised me was the hint of pepperiness exuding from the foie gras spread, which sang in harmony to the sweetness of the amaebi. The Aaburi amaebi had taken on a firmer texture, which made the sushi even more luscious and mouth-filling along with the fats lent from the foie gras.

“Forget Me Not” 3.8/5

“Forget Me Not” Nigiri Sushi is one of the restaurant's signatures. Focusing on textural contrast, in between the sushi rice and the top layer of fatty negitoro and creamy uni, Chef Ron inserted a layer of mini roasted, crisp rice puffs. That not only gives that desirable crunch, but they also release a nutty aroma to the sushi. However, I find the ingredients rather separated as the ingredients were gone much faster than the sushi rice itself.

Mini Ikura Uni Don 3.8/5

We also had a Mini Ikura Uni Don. What stood out other than the fine ingredients is the rice underneath, which has mini rice puffs mixed into it to provide that nutty flavour and textural contrast. However, with Ikura as the main ingredient, it got quite saltish towards the end. In conjunction with the grand opening, there is a Lunch Special, featuring a more luxurious version - $35 Negitoro Ikura Uni Don (U.P. $55). Each rice bowl will be served with a side of chawanmushi and miso soup. The Grand Opening Special is only available for dine-in during lunch from 12 October 2020 onward, while stocks last.

Botanebi Miso Soup 3/5

Dinner ended with a bowl of Botanebi Miso Soup with seaweed, tofu & egg. It was quite saltish, but the addition of fluffy egg helped to ease that out a little.

There are three omakase menu selections for dinner with a 5-course ‘Gin’ Menu at $150, 8-course ‘Ginza’ Menu at $220 and 9-course ‘Shinto’ Menu at $300. Otherwise, you can also go for Chef’s luxe tasting menu for lunch with the 7-course Mini Kaiseki menu ($65) that comprises of an appetiser, sashimi, yakimono, mushimono, sushi, soup and dessert.

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.


Ginza Shinto
5 Mohamed Sultan Road
#01-01
Singapore 239014
Tel: +65 89388355/ +65 69708355
Facebook
Nearest MRT: Fort Canning (DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 12 - 230pm, 6 - 11pm
(Closed on Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at Fort Canning MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk down River Valley Road to Mohammed Sultan Road. Turn left onto Mohammed Sultan Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]