Majestic Bay @ Gardens By The Bay - New Chinese Executive Chef With A New Line Of Signature Dishes

Majestic Bay at Gardens By The Bay welcomes new Chinese Executive Chef Chee Hin Yew. Chef Chee is not new to Singapore. He has been working along side Chef-Owner Yong Bing Ngen for the past sixteen years. In conjunction with the new appointment, Chef Chee has also created a new line of signature dishes.

Catch of the Day in Two Ways 3.5/5

First is the Catch of the Day in Two Ways ($80). A display of Yin and Yang with deep fried bites of the fish on one side and the lightly pan fried slices on the other side. I prefer the non deep fried so for the original flavour of the fish.

Lobster in Homemade Champagne Sauce 4/5

I actually quite enjoy the Lobster in Homemade Champagne Sauce ($50). The tangy combination of a fruity champagne sauce seems to bring out the sweetness of the lobster meat even more.

Crispy Prawns in Satay Peanut Sauce 4.2/5

Initially sceptical but I was won over with I bit into the Crispy Prawns in Satay Peanut Sauce ($28). The nutty sauce goes well with the crunchy prawn. Not to forget the little parcel at the side, which is wrapped with glutinous rice, best to have it with the satay sauce.

Crispy Sea Prawns in Light Soya Sauce and Smashed Garlic 4.2/5

Another prawn dish I tried is the Crispy Sea Prawns in Light Soya Sauce and Smashed Garlic ($30). Coated in the mouth watering savoury sauce, this is further accentuated by the smashed garlic giving it a beautiful aroma.

Baby Pork Belly Ribs, Jiangsu Style 4.2/5

For the Baby Pork Belly Ribs, Jiangsu Style ($24), I like how the chef uses the acidity of the Zhejiang vinegar to cut through the richness of the sweet sauce, striking a balance for the tender and pork belly ribs.

Sauteed Mud Crab with Basil Leaves in White Wine Sauce 4/5

I remembered Majestic Bay for its coffee crab when it first opened. The dish is still available on the menu. However this time round, I am treated to another new creation, the Sauteed Mud Crab with Basil Leaves in White Wine Sauce ($68). It is a East-West fusion, using the basil leaves for aroma and the creamy white wine sauce to lift the flavours of the fresh crab meat.

Malaysia Free Range Chicken Rice, Claypot Style 4.5/5

A new signature at Majestic Bay is the Malaysia Free Range Chicken Rice, Claypot Style ($32). This is only limited to 4 portions everyday. So do order in advance. Instead of the traditional claypot rice with Chinese sausage and dark soy sauce, this is replaced with the new take of the iconic Hainanese Chicken Rice. The juicy chicken and fragrant rice is cooked and served in an earthen bowl. It even comes with the tangy chicken rice chilli sauce and ginger.

Chendol Siew Dai 4.5/5

I really like the new take of our traditional chendol dessert which is rather sweet. The version at Majestic Bay, the Chendol Siew Dai ($4.80) is a lighter and upgraded version. It comes in a concoction of coocnut milk, shaved ice, sweet beans, attap chee (sea coconut), jackfruit, almond jelly and most importantly the chendol.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Majestic Bay Seafood Restaurant
Gardens by the Bay
Flower Dome
18 Marina Gardens Drive
#01-10
Singapore 018953
Tel: +65 66046604
Facebook
Website
Nearest MRT: Bayfront (CC Line, DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 1145am - 230pm, 545pm - 930pm (last order)
Sat, Sun & PH: 1130am - 230pm, 545pm - 930pm (last order)

Direction:
1) Alight at Bayfront MRT station. Take Exit B. Follow the underground link way. Exit and cross the Dragonfly Bridge into Gardens by the bay. Turn left and keep walking straight cutting through the Malay Garden, Chinese Garden and Indian Garden towards the flower dome. At the ticketing counters, take the escalator on the right side. Head down the escalator and the restaurant is on the left.  Journey time about 15 minutes. [Map]

Sea & Blue @ Marina Bay Sands - Feast Of More Than 100 Dishes

If you are a fan of Korean food, you would have probably already heard of Sea & Blue, a continental and korean buffet restaurant at The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands. Other than an extensive curation of popular Korean dishes and desserts, there are over 100 food selections ranging from fresh seafood, roasts, western highlights, Japanese fare to our local favourites.

A rather unique choice of name which extends to its theme and interiors. As you walk in, you will notice the ship that docks on the oceanic ceiling. I thought I would only see this kind of thematic restaurant in a theme park! There are a total of ten hot and cold stations at Sea & Blue, coupled with live cooking and carving stations– Korean, Barbecue, Deep-Fried, Hot Dishes & Noodles, Seafood, Salads + Fruit, Pizza & Pasta, Wine & Beer, Beverages, and Dessert Bar

Korean
I head straight to the Korean section. I was delighted to see assorted Pajeon (pancake) freshly pan fried on the spot. It's so difficult to get individual portion when dining at Korean restaurants. I got to satisfy my cravings for Japchae and Kimchi Fried Rice too! I had fun building my own Bimbimbap bowl with the array of toppings available such as beansprouts, seaweed, omelette and topped it up with spicy bulgogi available at the side as one of the Korean staples. If you would like yours to be more professionally done, simply ask the Korean chef stationed within to help you with it. Other DIY items includes Guksu (hot noodles).

Barbecue
This is where the fun begins especially if you are dining with a big group of friends and families. Within the Korean section, you will find the must-have Korean barbecue. Indulge in its top-grade Pork Belly or Short Ribs in either a spicy gojuchang (red chilli paste) marinade or unseasoned. The way to enjoy the sizzling meats in a Korean manner is to cradle the meat with crisp fresh lettuce, wrap it with some cucumber sticks and some other crunchy vegetables before stuffing in the goodness. You can get all that fresh greens just right opposite at the salads & fruits section.

Salads & Fruits
I have never seen a salad counter that looks so pristine, yet exuberant and inviting, almost like a walk-in chiller with the cold air rising. Around the counter is the fruits section, where I got a Watermelon cooler topped with fruits to go with my BBQ meat.

Seafood & Sushi
Being an underwater themed restaurant, it does deliver good quality seafood. You get to choose and have your Canadian Oysters shucked on the spot. Also available are the Cold Prawns, chilled Scallops on the half shell and Snowcrab Legs on ice. My favourite is still the sashimi which I had along with really delicious salmon aburi rolls and unagi roll as well as Gimbap (Korean rice rolls). The sushi here are notable, unlike those boring and stale maki sitting at some other buffet counters. The chef creates bites size sushi that allow you to enjoy more.

Hot Dishes & Noodles
Apart from sushi, roasts are the stars here as well. On the carving board, the slab of Oven Roasted Ribeye Striploin is the mainstayer, with one other daily special. Further to its right, another trying to grab my attention the Suckling Pig. What took me by surprise is the grilled Salmon - the skin was evenly crisp all over and the meat was pink, extremely moist and tender. It is easily one of the best I ever had. I like the Kurobuta Pork as well, which even comes with charred pineapples. There are also local dishes such as chilli crabs, salted egg prawns and roast duck.

Dessert Bar
Similar to most buffets, petite cakes and pralines are available. What I find more enticing are the Tarts, Bingsoo, Gyeongdan (Korean rice cake) filled with red bean paste and Yakbab (Korean glutinous rice balls with honey and dried fruits). The Bingsoo is really light and fluffy, just right after a heavy meal. I kind of miss the Sour Cherry Tart and regret not trying its Apple Tart. Milk. Soft-Serve is also available if you ain't a pastry person.

Sea & Blue has much room to move around which makes buffet dining here quite enjoyable. It can seat up to 350 pax with several private rooms and a function room complete with AV equipment for bigger events.

Prices at Sea & Blue are between $42++ to $64++ for adults during lunch, and $58++ to $68++ for dinner. Children dine at $22++ to $26++ at lunch and $26++ at dinner.

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.


Sea & Blue 
The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands
2 Bayfront Avenue
Canal Level, B2-01/01A
Singapore 018972
Tel: +65 66887165
Facebook
Website
Nearest MRT: Bayfront (CC Line, DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Lunch
Daily: 1130am - 3pm
Dinner
Mon-Thu: 530pm, 10pm
Fri-Sun, PH: 530pm - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Bayfront MRT station. Take Exit D. Walk to Hermes at Level 1. Take the lift beside it to level 2. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Canton Paradise @ Marina Bay Sands - Delighting Diners With Their Sixth Outlet

Paradise Group's chain of restaurants have become a household brand with different concepts in almost every corner of Singapore. Little did I know that they have actually become the biggest Chinese restaurant brand in Singapore. Paradise Group has recently expanded their footprint with the opening of the sixth Canton Paradise outlet at The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands.

Crispy Fried Fish Skin with Salted Egg Yolk 4.5/5

We started with some light snack while waiting for the rest of our food to be served. The Crispy Fried Fish Skin with Salted Egg Yolk ($9.80) is indeed very good and additive. I could not stop myself from going back for more.

Baked BBQ Pork Pastry 4.2/5

Crispy BBQ Honey Pork Bun 4.2/5

If you like BBQ pork, there is the Baked BBQ Pork Pastry ($6.80 for 3pc) and Crispy BBQ Honey Pork Pork Bun ($2.40/pc minimum 2pc). One is flaky while the other is fluffy. I enjoyed the crispy BBQ honey pork pork bun more cos of its texture, as if like having bread.

Baked Cheese Tart 3/5

Made popular by the Japanese, I was rather surprise to find the Baked Cheese Tart ($6.80 for 3pc) on the menu. I have not tried the other cheese tarts so I could not make a comparison but based on my personal opinion. I thought it was more milky than cheesy. Would have prefer the the cheese flavour to be more prominent

Steamed Molten Salted Egg Yolk Custard Piggy Bun 4.2/5

Cuteness to the max is the Steamed Molten Salted Egg Yolk Custard Piggy Bun ($6.80 for 3pc). Young and old will enjoy the fluffy bun with the rich and creamy molten salted egg yolk filling, oozing out from it.

Steamed White Chocolate with Walnut Charcoal Bun 3.8/5

An unique creation at Canton Paradise is the Steamed White Chocolate with Walnut Charcoal Bun ($2.90/pc). This is a sweet take of the traditional savoury bun. I would advice to have the bun together with the walnut in it or it may come across too sweet.

Sweet Red Bean Pastry In A Bag 4/5

Have you forgotten your handbag and left it on the plate? The Sweet Red Bean Pastry In A Bag ($6.80 for 3pc) is shaped like a little bag. The combination of the sweet red bean paste and flaky pastry was well balanced, not overly sweet with the sesame seeds giving it a aromatic finishing.

Doubled Boiled Superior Chicken Soup with Penny Bun 4/5

The Double Boiled Superior Chicken Soup with Penny Bun ($14.80) is boiled for around 8 hours for a nourishing and tasty broth with tender kampong chicken thigh and crunchy penny bun mushroom.

Steamed Rice Rolls with Preserved Turnip Filling 4.5/5

Usually steamed rice rolls are stuffed with shrimps or BBQ pork but here it is stuffed with preserved turnip. The Steamed Rice Rolls with Preserved Turnip Filling ($5.20) which is inspired from the local snack chwee kueh, turns out pretty good. The sweetness of the preserved turnip wrapped with the silky smooth rice rolls, made freshly upon order is best eaten by drenching it with the special soy sauce made from the first draw soy sauce.

Handmade Meatball Congee 4/5

Not to be missed at Canton Paradise is their congee which is cooked to velvety smooth, using a mix of Japanese pearl and Thailand jasmine rice. From the array of Hong Kong style congees, we had the Handmade Meatball Congee ($9.80). The meatball consists of a mixture of pork meat, pork fats and bits of prawn meat for a nice bouncy texture.

Dried Sakura Shrimps with Scallion Oil Tofu 4.5/5

Unlike other tofu, the Dried Sakura Shrimps with Scallion Oil Tofu ($13.80) is made using mineral water which leads to an extremely smooth texture. Topped with dried sakura shrimps for a delectable contrast in texture.

BBQ Pork Belly with Honey Sauce 4/5

The BBQ Pork Belly with Honey Sauce ($22.80) is kind of unique here. It tasted like a cross between char siew and Dong Po Rou. A sweet caramelized exterior encompassed the moist and tender meat with a thin layer of gelatine for an additional bite.

Steamed Kampong Chicken in Canton Style 4/5

A simple but yet delectable dish on the menu is the Steamed Kampong Chicken in Canton Style ($13.80). It is done in Shunde style, marinated with simple condiments that accentuate the flavours of the poultry.

Dried Shrimps Noodles Dry 4.2/5

A must try at Canton Paradise is their noodle dishes. The noodle is specially imported weekly from Hong Kong. We had the Dried Shrimps Noodle Dry ($8.80) which is dusted with the the dried shrimp roe, giving it a pleasing crunch that contrast the springy and eggy flavoured noodle.

Durian Pudding 3/5

Capping of the meal is the Durian Pudding ($5.60) which has a smooth and creamy texture. I would prefer the flavour to be more piquant though.

Canton Paradise is current having a Yum Cha promotion where diners can enjoy 50% discount on dim sum, congee and noodles (exclude noodles with with roast items) when they dine in at any 6 Canton Paradise outlets on weekdays (exclude eve of/and public holiday), 3pm to 5pm. Terms and Conditions applied. Please refer to Canton Paradise for more details.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Canton Paradise
The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands
2 Bayfront Avenue
#01-02
Singapore 018972
Tel: +65 66887052
Facebook
Website
Nearest MRT: Bayfront (CC Line, DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Thu: 1030am - 1030pm
Fri-Sun, Eve of PH & PH: 1030am - 11pm

Direction: 
1) Alight at Bayfront MRT station. Take Exit D. Walk towards bay front at Level 1. Facing the bay front, turn right and walk to the end. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Sen Of Japan @ Marina Bay Sands - Modernised Japanese Cuisine by Ex Head Chef Of NOBU

Sen of Japan is a casual dining Japanese restaurant and bar located at Level 1 of Marina Bay Sand Shoppes. Their menu features modernised Japanese cuisine, crafted by Chef Nakano Hiromi who used to head the famous NOBU at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Las Vegas.

The elongated layout of the restaurant gives a fairly intimate setting and in particular, I like the long chef's counter that occupies the body of the restaurant. Housed in a semi glass structure, while waiting for the food, do take a while to look out and enjoy the world slowing down in the evening.

Ikura Uni Chawanmushi 3.8/5 & miso soup 3/5

We started off with some warm dishes in the Ikura Uni Chawanmushi ($13) and House Miso Soup ($5.50). The Japanese egg custard adorned by the glistering salmon roe was beautiful. If you like roe, this is like popping ocean liqueur. The luxurious Uni was gone before I knew it, so do make an effort to slowly savour. I love the dash of truffle oil which releases a nice earthy aroma and flavour in the warmth. On hindsight, I should have ordered their Chawanmushi with shaved truffle instead as the taste of the fresh roe tend to overwhelm the mellow eggy flavour.

Sweet Miso Eggplant 4.2/5

Their manager Ellie recommended us to try the Sweet Miso Eggplant ($9.50). Sauteed and glazed with a layer of home-made miso, this humble dish is indeed not to be missed. The best portion is of course the charred parts. Together with the savoury-sweet flavour of the miso, they teased my taste buds in a illusive manner. Known as nasu dengaku in Japan, it's no wonder that this simple but yet delectable dish is one of their staples. As mentioned by Ellie, this is a very authentic dish but rarely available elsewhere. So you must really try it!

Wagyu Tataki 4/5

Special Carpaccio 4/5

Their raw bar special is good to go with any drinks. Wagyu Tataki ($18) showcases the clean and quick Japanese cooking that brings out the fresh flavours of the ingredients. The seared wagyu striploin though in very thin slices, was full bodied and meaty in my mouth. Likewise it is the same for their Special Carpaccio ($16.50). A quick sear with sesame olive oil seemed to have locked in the flavours and fats. Every piece had a deep, satisfying melt-in-your mouth texture. It released a fatty sweetness into my mouth which was neutralised by the tangy yuzu soy dressing.

Sashimi Platter 4.2/5

'Sen' in Japanese means 'Fresh', which they strongly believe the source of ingredients is the key of it. You can certainly taste that in their Sashimi platter 10 pcs ($42).

Salmon Aburi Roll 3/5

From the various social media posts, their Salmon Aburi Roll ($20.50) is apparently one of the most popular choices among diners. I tried it but it didn't wow me as much. It didn't disappoint with its melt-in-your-mouth sensation accentuated by their special cheese sauce. However, I wish I could taste more of the light avocado and the sweet, fatty salmon. Too rich a dressing seems to be an issue I have in most aburi salmon roll.

Prawn Tempura, Salmon & Prawn Roll 3.8/5

What was surprisingly good was their Prawn Tempura, Salmon & Prawn Roll ($18.50), another brilliant recommendation from Ellie. It was a refreshing departure from the salmon aburi roll or any other rolls which I have tried. I could taste the crispy tempura, the sweet and crunchy prawn, juicy mango, as well as the fatty torched salmon. The heat lent from the spicy garlic ponzu sauce & curry sauce at the side enters with a right punch.

Braised Pork Belly 4.5/5

For mains, their Braised Pork Belly ($29.50) looks so enticing on the menu that it made me forgo my favourite fish cheeks to give it a try. What a gorgeous piece of pork belly with visible define layers of fats and meat. Despite looking so sturdy and solid, the meat fell apart as the fork came down onto it. One taste of the juicy and flavourful meat glazed with the rich egg yolk was a bliss!

Inaniwa 4/5

Their Inaniwa ($16.50) is specially imported from Japan. Silky smooth and refreshing, the handmade white noodles are eaten with the special dashi broth with soy. This is perfect for our summer climate.

Green Tea Brulee 4/5

A variety of Japanese ice creams are available for desserts. The most recommended is their Green Tea Brulee ($15) topped with black sesame ice cream. It is a combination of both very popular Japanese ingredients - matcha and black sesame. Creamy yet not cloying, the balance of flavours resembles a cup of well seeped tea.

Among the F&B choices at Marina Bay Sands, Sen of Japan seems to stand out with an aura of zen-ness. I would love to sit at their chef's table someday!

Written and photography 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.


Sen of Japan
Marina Bay Sands
2 Bayfront Avenue
#01-86
Singapore 018972
Website
Nearest MRT: Bayfront (CC Line, DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 11pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Bayfront MRT station. Take Exit D. Walk to Hermes at Level 1. Take the lift beside it to level 2. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Savour 2016 @ Bayfront Avenue - 10 Dishes Worth Spending Your Money AtSavour 2016

Savour 2016 is back again this year from 12 to 15 May 2016 at Bayfront Avenue, next to Marina Bay Sands Exhibition Centre. Unlike previous years, the entry this year is FREE! This year the event will also be focusing on our local talents and homegrown emerging chefs, dishing out their dishes at the 10 gourmet stalls located around the compound.

The 10 gourmet stalls offer up to 30 different dishes with pricing ranging from $6 to $12. It may not be possible to eat your way through all the stalls. Even if you can, your wallet may hurts. Hence here is a list of dishes that I think you should spend your dollar on.

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Labyrinth

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Siew Yoke Umami Rice 4.5/5

Siew Yoke Umami Rice ($12).  Roasted Pork Belly, Crispy Nori, Japanese Umami Rice.

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Saveur Art

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Angel Hair Lobster Pasta 4.2/5

Angel Hair Lobster Pasta ($12). Lobster, Angel Hair Pasta, Fish Roe, Crispy Ebi.

Egg Confit 4/5

Egg Confit ($6). Egg, Truffled Potato, Mousseline, Macadamia Nuts, Brown Butter.

Tropical Passion Fruit Sorbet 4/5

Tropical Passion Fruit Sorbet ($6). Passion Fruit Sorbet, Mango Curd, Roasted Penja Pineapples, Coconut Sable, Cream.

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R&D

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R&D's Fried Chicken 4/5

R&D's Fried Chicken ($6). 12 Spice Dredge, Gong Bo Sauce.

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Cato

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Salted Egg Black Cod 4/5

Salted Egg Black Cod ($12). Pan Seared Black Cod, Salted Egg Veloute, Fennel Salad.

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Salt Tapas & Bar

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Tempura Fish Taco 4/5

Taco of Tempura Fish ($6). Tempura Fish, White Cabbage, Pineapple Salsa, Wasabi Mayo, Tobiko, Spring Onions.

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Bar A Thym

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Iberico Pork Jowl 4.5/5

Iberico Pork Jowl ($12). Pork Jowl, Tatsoi, Pickled Pear, Hazelnut Dressing.

Wagyu Striploin 4.2/5

Wagyu Striploin ($12). Striploin, Mushrooms, Beans and Truffles.

Valrhona Chocolate Mousse 4.5/5

Valrhona Chocolate Mousse ($6). Chocolate Mousse, Passion Fruit, Almond Crumble.

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L'Espace Martell

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The venue can be quite hot especially in the day. So do remember to check out the various beverage stalls around the venue. Not to be missed is the Martell booth for the refreshing cogna cocktail to cool off from the heat.

Do also look out for Savour Wines happening on 8 - 11 September 2016 and Savour Christmas 17 - 20 November 2016.


Savour 2016
Date: 12 - 15 May 2016
Venue: Bayfront Aveune (next to Marina Bay Sands Exhibition Centre)
Nearest MRT: Bayfront MRT (exit A)
Website