Showing posts with label .Area: Scotts Road. Show all posts
Showing posts with label .Area: Scotts Road. Show all posts

Thursday, February 15, 2024

Chef Chan's Private Dine @ Scotts Road - Preserving Legacy, Crafting Excellence

ChefChanPrivateDine16

Nestled within the premises of Indocafe along Scotts Road is Chef Chan Private Dine, spearheaded by Chef Wong Hong Loong, the skilled disciple of the renowned Chef Chan Chen Hei. While it might initially seem perplexing to name a restaurant after a chef not leading the kitchen, Chef Chan Chen Hei's prestigious legacy in the Chinese culinary realm justifies this choice. The restaurant promises a repertoire of Chef Chan's classic dishes, complemented by contemporary twists under the meticulous guidance of Chef Wong Hong Loong.

ChefChanPrivateDine4
Abalone with Caviar / Maitake Mushroom "Kung Fu" Soup 4.2/5

We had the Dinner Set Menu by Loong Shi Fu, priced at $188+ per person, and the evening commenced with an amuse-bouche featuring Abalone with Caviar and a Maitake Mushroom "Kung Fu" Soup. The prized abalone, sweetened with caviar and immersed in the earthy essence of maitake mushroom, offered a tantalising prelude to the gastronomic feast.

ChefChanPrivateDine5
Golden Morsels - Foie Gras with Shrimp Paste 3.8/5

ChefChanPrivateDine10
Golden Morsels - Iberico Pork with Chive Dumpling 4/5

ChefChanPrivateDine7
Golden Morsels - Marinated Quail Leg with Five Spices 4.2/5

The Golden Morsels trio followed, presenting a symphony of flavours. The Foie Gras with Shrimp Paste, boasting a crispy exterior, danced on the palate with a delightful medley of textures. Iberico Pork with Chive Dumplings showcased juicy dumplings infused with the essence of chives, while the Marinated Quail Leg with Five Spices provided a herbal and tender interlude.

ChefChanPrivateDine12
Wellness Chicken Soup 5/5

ChefChanPrivateDine13

The Wellness Chicken Soup emerged as a highlight, a potently brewed elixir resulting from a 12-hour simmer of whole chicken with ginseng. Served in a teapot and poured theatrically into individual bowls, the rich and flavoursome soup hinted at the essence of pure chicken essence.


ChefChanPrivateDine15
Steamed Spotted Grouper with Homemade Tofu and Egg White 4/5

The Steamed Spotted Grouper, harmoniously paired with Homemade Tofu and Egg White, showcased the delicate flesh of the grouper enrobed in silky steamed egg white—an ode to the chef's artistry.

ChefChanPrivateDine18
Poached Australian Cabbage with Double Boiled Chicken Broth 4.8/5

The Poached Australian Cabbage, immersed in Double-Boiled Chicken Broth, symbolising abundance and fortune, unfolded as a visual delight. The cabbage, served blooming at the table, captured the essence of softness and sweetness.

ChefChanPrivateDine19
"Loong Shi Fu" Signature Crispy Sakura Chicken 5/5

An iconic Chef Chan's dish is the "Loong Shi Fu" Signature Crispy Sakura Chicken, which features paper-crisp skin, revealing tender and moist meat beneath. The impressive texture and flavour profile invoked the essence of a perfectly executed dish.

ChefChanPrivateDine23
Wok-Fried Kway Teow with Seasonal Fresh Crab Gravy 4.2/5

The Wok-Fried Kway Teow with Seasonal Fresh Crab Gravy emerged as a stellar dish — a fusion of silky flat rice noodles infused with "Wok Hei" and adorned with a rich crab roe gravy, complemented by crispy noodle bits for an added crunch.

ChefChanPrivateDine28
Chilled Supreme Bird's Nest with Rock Sugar 3.5/5

Rounding off the feast, the Chilled Supreme Bird's Nest with Rock Sugar provided a light and nourishing dessert. Additionally, Little Sweets comprising Mochi coated in peanut and Nian Gao with a thin crisp batter served as delightful petits fours.

ChefChanPrivateDine30
Little Sweets 4/5

ChefChanPrivateDine32

In conclusion, Chef Chan Private Dine masterfully preserves the legacy of Chef Chan Chen Hei, weaving traditional excellence with contemporary flair through Chef Wong Hong Loong's skilled hands. Each dish served unfolds as a symphony of flavours, a testament to the richness of Chinese gastronomy. The restaurant is not merely a dining establishment; it is a celebration of heritage, a gastronomic journey that intertwines the past and present in every exquisite bite. Chef Chan Private Dine undoubtedly holds a distinguished place in Singapore's vibrant F&B landscape.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Chef Chan's Private Dine
(within INDOCFE - Peranakan Dining)
35 Scotts Road
Singapore 228227
Tel: +65 6737 0895
Facebook
Instagram
Nearest MRT: Newton (DT, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Sun: 12pm - 230pm, 6pm - 930pm
(Closed on Mon)

Direction:
1) Alight at Newton MRT station. Take Exit A. On Scotts Road, turn right and walk down Scotts Road towards Orchard Road direction. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]

Monday, February 12, 2024

AMI Patisserie @ Scotts Road - Popular Online Pastry Shop Opens First Physical Concept, Crafting Fine Pastries through an ode to Japanese and French Traditions

AmiPatisserie22

AMI Patisserie, celebrated for its online prowess in crafting exquisite pastries under the skilled hands of Chef Makoto Arami, has finally materialised into a physical haven at 27 Scotts Road. The Kyoto-style wooden townhouse on the grounds of the colonial black and white bungalow marks AMI Patisserie's debut in the brick-and-mortar world.

AmiPatisserieScott-2

Upon entering, patrons are greeted by a serenely elegant Patisserie Café, offering seating for 12. This inviting space provides the perfect backdrop for intimate brunches or leisurely afternoon teas, showcasing fine a la carte sweets, savouries, and viennoiseries — all artfully prepared a la minute. The Chef's Table Discovery Experience ($118++) awaits for a deeper gastronomic affair in the exclusive 8-seat Tsudoi Dining Room.

AmiPatisserie1
Piedmont Hazelnut Financier 4.8/5

I had the privilege of embarking on the Chef's Table Discovery Menu — an exquisite 6-course culinary journey that delved into the artistry of pastry creation by Chef Makoto Arami. The Piedmont Hazelnut Financier initiated our journey. Spread with hazelnut praline and adorned with shaved roasted Piedmont hazelnuts, it provided a sweet overture to our 6-course symphony.

AmiPatisserie5
Bread Basket 4.5/5

A complimentary Bread Basket graced our table, featuring Sourdough Bread and Iwa Nori Escargot Bun. Accompanied by applewood-smoked and whipped unsalted Lescure butter, these creations showcased Chef Makoto's prowess in bread making too.

AmiPatisserie10
1st Course - Signature Choux 5/5

The Signature Choux held a special place in Chef Makoto's heart, paying homage to his father's choux recipe. This Japanese egg-filled craqueline choux, topped with crème fraîche, Schrenckii caviar, hanaho, and edible gold flakes, delivered a delightful blend of sweet and savoury flavours — a perfect harmony of crispiness and complexity.

AmiPatisserie12
2nd Course - Shizuoka Tomato Tartelette 4.8/5

The Shizuoka Tomato Tartelette drew inspiration from Chef Makoto's love for Italian flavours. Aged parmesan tartelette, topped with fromage blanc cream, fresh Amela tomatoes, basil oil, micro basil, and cornflower, harmonised Italian classics with a modern twist.

AmiPatisserie22
3rd Course - Japanese Uni Brioche 4.8/5

The Japanese Uni Brioche showcased Chef Makoto's fusion prowess, featuring brown butter brioche topped with lime cream, sea urchin, grated fresh wasabi, finger lime, and lime zest. This creation provided a burst of flavours, bursting with a firework of delights.

AmiPatisserie26
4th Course - Nasu Brulee 4.2/5

Inspired by Kyoto's Miso Dengaku, the Nasu Brulee featured bruleed eggplant custard, grilled beinasu dusted with sansho powder, and miso caramel. Paired with soy and miso ice cream, it presented a unique and complex flavour profile.

AmiPatisserie30
Palate Cleanser - La France Pear 4.2/5

A refreshing interlude came in the form of La France Pear — fresh pear topped with pear puree, chamomile gelee, and yuzu and pear granita. It is a sweet and invigorating dessert that cleanses the palate.

AmiPatisserie34
5th Course - Marble Dark Chocolate 4.2/5

The Marble Dark Chocolate was an artistic ode comprising three types of ganache, layered with plain and chocolate tuile and finished with a quenelle of Amaretto ice cream. This dessert celebrated the craftsmanship of the ceramic ware master who crafted the tableware for the Tsudoi Dining Room.

AmiPatisserie37
6th Course - Ichigo Milk 4.2/5

The Ichigo Milk, a finale featuring Amaou strawberries, showcased the 'king of Japanese strawberries.' With strawberries mixed in strawberry sauce, fromage blanc mousse, mint gelee, Hokkaido milk ice cream, strawberry granita, and edible gold flakes, it was a delightful conclusion — a light yet sweet ending to the culinary journey.

AmiPatisserie40
Oyatsu - Kumquat & Kokuto Pineapple Pie 4.5/5

To cap off the experience, the Oyatsu — Kumquat & Kokuto Pineapple Pie — offered a taste of Lunar New Year festivities. A Mille feuille puff pastry filled with almond cream, pineapple jam simmered with Okinawan kokuto black sugar, and kumquats from Miyazaki prefecture provided a sweet and symbolic ending.

In conclusion, the Chef's Table Discovery Experience at AMi Patisserie transcended a mere culinary journey — a symphony of flavours, artistry, and sentiment. Chef Makoto Arami's meticulous craftsmanship and thoughtful compositions elevate pastries to a form of culinary art, offering patrons an unforgettable and deeply personal gastronomic encounter. AMi Patisserie's physical concept place is more than a patisserie. It is a testament to the craftsmanship and passion that defines Chef Makoto Arami's culinary world.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


AMI Patisserie
27 Scotts Road
Singapore 228222
Tel:+65 8907 6146
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Newton (DT, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Patisserie Café
Tue-Fri: 1130am - 6pm
Sat-Sun, PH: 11am - 6pm
(Closed Mon-Tue from 19 Feb 2024 onwards)

Tsudoi Dining Room - Chef's Table Discovery Experience
Wed-Sat: 12pm - 3pm, 7pm - 9pm
Sun: 12pm - 6pm

Diretion:
1) Alight at Newton MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk down Scotts Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]

Wednesday, December 27, 2023

INDOCAFÉ Peranakan Dining @ Scotts Road - Reopens with New Peranakan Dishes

IMG_0731

Nestled within "The White House" along Scotts Road, the reopening of INDOCAFÉ Peranakan Dining unveils the iconic colonial-style bungalow that has been transformed into an enclave that embraces both modernity and the vibrant heritage of Peranakan culture. Its interiors blend Peranakan influences with a touch of modern sophistication, creating a cosy and inviting ambience. The new menu, curated by Penang-born Chef Heng Eng Ho, features old favourites alongside new dishes showcasing his understanding of Peranakan flavours developed over more than 20 years of culinary experience.

IMG_0681
Belinjo Crackers

We were delighted with a mouthwatering complimentary welcome snack - crunchy Belinjo Crackers with Sambal Belacan, Gula Melaka & Acar. The sambal belacan whetted my appetite, with its piquancy laced with a hint of hit, making it the perfect dip throughout the meal. I love the crunch from the acar as well.

IMG_0698

We started with the Trio Platter from its Signature Tasting Menu - Kueh Pie Tee, Ngoh Hiang, Otah Otah. Individual items are available in the ala carte menu. Within the Kueh Pie Tee ($19) is braised shredded turnip, topped with dried prawns and crabmeat. The shredded turnip retained a good crunch and aptly seasoned, and a touch of the vibrant chilli sauce lifted its flavours. Both the and were equally delightful. The Ngoh Hiang ($19) showcased an excellent proportion of pork and chopped water chestnuts, resulting in a testy, juicy meat roll. Nonya Otah Otah ($16) was tasty with chunky mackerel fish, and Nyonya herbs and spices were also quite balanced.

IMG_0706
Itek Tim (tasting portion) 4/5

We also had a soup starter - Itek Tim ($14), a salted vegetable duck leg soup. It boasted a profound tartness from pickled mustard greens, balanced with fruity sweetness imparted by tomatoes. The duck meat was cooked to tender. The soup was also elevated with shaved nutmeg for a subtle lift and a dash of brandy for a depth of flavour.

IMG_0724
INDOCAFÉ Wagyu Beef Rendang (tasting portion) 4.5/5

Moving on to the Mains. We savoured the INDOCAFÉ Wagyu Beef Rendang ($38), elevated with premium Wagyu beef cheek. The beef cheek is cooked with spices, shrimp paste, chilli and coconut milk for over three hours, followed by additions of Nyonya rempah and a medley of fresh aromatics. The beef was tender and moist, and the flavours were well-rounded without overly intense.

IMG_0721
Babi Pongteh (tasting portion) 4.5/5

INDOCAFÉ also amped its Babi Pongteh ($28) with Spanish Iberico pork. The pork is marinated to the bone with fermented soybean paste and then cooked with potatoes, aromatic spices, onion and garlic. Having Spanish Iberico pork prepared in this manner for the first time, I was pleasantly surprised by how well it was being executed. Despite the absence of the usual chunky layers of fats and skin found in a regular pork belly, the flavours and texture were not compromised.

IMG_0715
Ikan Sambal Bunga Kantan (tasting portion) 3.8/5

We also had a seafood fish - Ikan Sambal Bunga Kantan ($39). The Patagonian toothfish is deep-fried and dressed with ginger flower and Thai sweet and sour chilli sauce. It was tasty with a firm and succulent texture, although a thinner crust would have been preferable.

IMG_0718
Dry Laksa 3/5

We tried its Dry Laksa ($26) with Argentina Red Prawns. The laksa lacked the robustness and punch we expected, and the prawns were a bit mushy in texture.

IMG_0748
Sago Gula Melaka 4.5/5

Ending things on a sweet note - Sago Gula Melaka ($14) was indulgent with prime D24 durian pengat. The sticky sago pudding was lightly sweetened with gula melaka and doused with warm coconut milk, bringing the elements together into a harmonious delight.

IMG_0740
Kueh Salat 4/5

The Signature Kueh Salat ($15) was aesthetically presented, featuring a scoop of coconut ice cream adorned with desiccated coconut and crushed peanuts. While the pandan coconut custard was deliciously creamy, the glutinous rice layer could be softer to combine better with the custard. The overall sweetness was on the higher side.

IMG_0754
Kerinci

IMG_0688

To complete the dining experience, INDOCAFÉ Peranakan Dining has also incorporated artisanal coffee offerings and exclusive beverages. During our meal, we had a refreshing mimosa to complement the richness of the food. When it came to desserts, between Gesha Passiflora ($19) from Colombia and Kerinci ($11) from Indonesia, I opted for the latter, which offers tasting notes of tropical fruits, dried fruits, berries, stone fruits with a wine-like sweet finish.

IMG_0766

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.


INDOCAFÉ Peranakan Dining
35 Scotts Road
Singapore 228227
Tel: +65 9430 7307
Facebook
Instagram
Nearest MRT: Newton (DT, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Sun: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm -1030pm
(Closed on Mon)

Direction:
1) Alight at Newton MRT station. Take Exit A. On Scotts Road, turn right and walk down Scotts Road towards Orchard Road direction. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]

Friday, November 10, 2023

Lobby Bar @ Sheraton Towers Singapore - Exquisite Oriental-themed Afternoon Tea Featuring Sweet and Savoury Bites

IMG_7014

The time-limited Oriental Soirée Afternoon Tea at Lobby Bar of Sheraton Towers was one of the most memorable afternoon teas I’ve had recently. Drawing inspiration from the iconic Shanghai Tang “Chinese Garden” home collection, the set features a delightful array of savouries and sweets crafted with oriental nuances. It also continues to embrace classic afternoon tea elements such as scones and sandwiches.

IMG_5480

Available from now to 31 December 2023, the afternoon tea is priced at $88 per person and $150 per pair. Guests ordering the afternoon tea will receive an exclusive memento – limited edition Sheraton Towers Singapore x Shanghai Tang postcards and a Shanghai Tang voucher (10% off regular items and redemption of a mini room spray), available while stocks last.

IMG_7012
Welcome Drinks

For Welcome Drinks, opt for a glass of Moscato, Lychee Oolong Mocktail (+$7) or Passionfruit Mint Cocktail (+$11). I did not manage to try their house Moscato, but my dining companions were huge fans of it.

IMG_7018
Li Bai’s Special 4.8/5

We were strongly recommended to begin with two exquisite creations from the award-winning Li Bai Cantonese Restaurant - the Bird’s Nest Almond Egg White Tart and Mini Chilli Lobster Bolo Bun.

Both were stellar, with the former featuring a generous bird's nest topping and flaky tart base and the latter boasting a crusty exterior and mildly spicy filling. It's best to savour these bites freshly served while they are still warm.

IMG_7013
Silken Tofu with Shoyu Salmon Roe and Roasted Sesame Yuzu Dressing 4.2/5

We continued with the savouries and had the Silken Tofu with Shoyu Salmon Roe and Roasted Sesame Yuzu Dressing first. The tofu was smooth, while the nutty sauce was light and refreshing.

IMG_7016
Savoury 4/5

Other savoury items included the Smoked Salmon Blini with Szechuan Pepper Crème Fraîche and Smoked Caviar, Free-range Truffle Chicken Sandwich, and Duck Rillette Brioche with Hoisin Sauce. I especially enjoyed the crème fraiche in the Smoked Salmon Blini for its unique subtle peppercorn notes.

IMG_7022
Creamy Crabmeat and Peppercorn Gournay Cheese Choux 4/5

Our final savoury dish was the Creamy Crabmeat and Peppercorn Gournay Cheese Choux. Across all the savouries, I appreciated how the flavours were paired harmoniously and did not overpower.

IMG_7015
High Mountain Oolong Brûlée 4.2/5

The first sweet item we reached out for was the High Mountain Oolong Brûlée with Valrhona Caraïbe 66% and Li Bai’s Candied Cashew. It had a marriage of tea notes, nuttiness and chocolate richness.

IMG_7037
Osmanthus Black Sesame Macaron 4.8/5

The Osmanthus Black Sesame Macaron was easily crowned as my favourite piece. These shells boasted the perfect slight crunch right on the outside and a chewy texture within. The filling sandwiched between the macaron halves had the most fragrant and wonderfully nutty profile.

IMG_7020
Da Hong Pao and Kumquat Sablé Breton 4.5/5

The Da Hong Pao and Kumquat Sablé Breton had a cute ladybug sitting atop them. Here, there were distinct tea notes with a lingering floral sweetness.

IMG_7017
Ispahan Sphere 4/5

Encased in a thin white chocolate shell, I found the Ispahan Sphere a tad sweeter than I would prefer, though it still served as a decent treat.

IMG_7021
Jasmine Mango Pomelo Tartlet 4.5/5

The Jasmine Mango Pomelo Tartlet is a must-try for mango pomelo sago fans! The delicate bite offers a burst of mango sweetness in the best possible way. It’s mildly sweetened and has a generous portion of pomelo bits on the base to balance off.

IMG_7019
Scones 4/5

No afternoon tea is complete without scones. In addition to the classic Madagascar Vanilla Scone, the oriental twist is evident in their Chinese Chicken Sausage Scone. Homemade Roselle Preserve and Lemon Clotted Cream accompany these crumbly treats. Remember to complement them with a complimentary cup of coffee or TWG tea of your choice!

IMG_7023
Dessert 4/5

To conclude the afternoon, you can choose between the Oolong Tea Ice Cream or Osmanthus Sorbet. While I found both lovely regarding the fragrant tea flavours infused within, the slightly icy textures were a minor drawback.

Enjoy an exclusive 15% promotion if you are a Citibank cardmember. To make a reservation, contact Lobby Bar at +65 6839 5625, drop an email to lobbybar@sheratonsingapore.com or confirm your table via https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/sinsi-sheraton-towers-singapore/dining/.

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.


Lobby Bar
Sheraton Towers Singapore
G Floor
39 Scotts Road
Singapore 228230
Tel: +65 6839 5625
Instagram
Facebook
Website
Nearest MRT: Newton (DT, NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 12midnight
Afternoon Tea: 2pm - 5pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Newton MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn right and walk down Scotts Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]