Three Buns Quayside @ Robertson Quay - For Weekends Brunches, Award-Winning Burgers and Cocktails by Potato Head Family

Nestled in the vibrant Robertson Quay of Singapore is Three Buns Quayside. This trendy eatery offers a menu that goes beyond the ordinary, featuring a mouthwatering selection of gourmet burgers crafted from the finest ingredients. The chic and welcoming ambience, paired with a carefully curated cocktail menu, makes Three Buns the perfect place to unwind with friends or enjoy a memorable meal by the scenic riverside.

Aperol Spritz 4/5

Kickstart the meal with their selection of brunch cocktails, or brunchtails, as they called it. One of their standout offerings is the classic Aperol Spritz ($15). This refreshing cocktail is a harmonious blend of bright and zesty flavours, making it an ideal aperitif.

Blueberry Basics 4.5/5

The brunch menu at Three Buns, available every weekend from 10am to 4pm, is a delightful fusion of classic brunch favourites and innovative twists. We tried the Blueberry Basics ($15), which features a generous stack of buttermilk pancakes, each layer light and fluffy, topped with a luscious wild blueberry compote and drizzled with organic grade A maple syrup. The pièce de résistance is the pairing with salted vanilla ice cream, a creamy and slightly savoury contrast that elevates this brunch dish to a level of pure indulgence.

Shrooms with a View 4.2/5

The Shrooms with a View ($18) centres around scrambled free-range eggs prepared to a silky and tofu-like texture, providing a unique and velvety mouthfeel. The eggs are expertly paired with sautéed diced garlic mushrooms, olive oil and zesty tomato salsa to brighten the dish with fresh and tangy notes. All this deliciousness is served atop crispy and chewy toasted sourdough, which provides a delightful contrast in textures.

Chick It Out 4/5

The Chick It Out ($20) features similar creamy scrambled free-range eggs with a unique tofu-like texture. The star of the dish is the twice-cooked sakura boneless chicken thigh that is perfectly tender and juicy. The guacamole, olive oil, and tomato salsa add a creamy, rich, and zesty note, while the crispy toasted sourdough provides a hearty base.

Jason Four Cheese 4.5/5

The Jason Four Cheese ($27) is an indulgent masterpiece for burger enthusiasts. This signature burger boasts a decadent combination of flavours and textures, starting with a double beef patty made from 100g Tasmanian Vintage Beef Patties. What sets it apart is the special blend of four premium cheeses: VSOP Aged Gouda, Cave Aged Cheddar, Brie, and Mozzarella. The blend is expertly cooked down with Brewlander IPA to enhance the cheese infusion, creating a rich and intense cheese sauce that envelops the beef patties. The burger is further layered with double ketchup and three-island mayo, providing tangy and creamy elements that balance the richness of the cheese. All of these mouthwatering components are nestled inside a toasted demi brioche bun. The Jason Four Cheese burger is a flavour explosion that is both rich and intensely flavourful, making it a must-try for those seeking a truly indulgent and satisfying burger experience at Three Buns.

Naughty Fries Jnr. 4/5

The Naughty Fries Jnr. ($10) is a delightful twist on loaded fries. They are generously coated with spiced béarnaise sauce and hot beef chilli, creating a contrast of creaminess and spiciness. The crispy fried shallots (bawang goreng) and Parmesan Reggiano cheese add crunch and richness, while the sesame seeds provide a nutty aroma. These fries have a curved potato chip-like shape perfect for scooping up the generous toppings. This dish is a flavour-packed and satisfying snack, ideal for those craving a combination of textures and bold flavours.

Photos and words by Crystal. A girl who likes to eat, photograph, and write about food, and dreams about travelling around the world one day. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Three Buns Quayside
60 Robertson Quay
Singapore 238252
Tel: +65 69097838
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Nearest MRT: Chinatown (DT, NE Line), Fort Canning (DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Thu: 5pm - 12midnight
Fri: 12pm - 12midnight
Sat: 10am - 12midnight
Sun: 10am - 10pm

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) 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 towards the river. At the river, turn right and walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]

Guo Jiang (锅匠) @ Mosque Street - Continues to Impress with New Sichuan Dishes

I recently revisited Guo Jiang (锅匠) on Mosque Street, accompanied by a couple of fellow food enthusiasts, to explore some of their new offerings. My previous visit to the restaurant had left a positive impression, so I was eagerly anticipating their latest dishes. Needless to say, my return was well-justified.

Shredded Chicken with Chilli Pepper 4.2/5

We began with the Shredded Chicken with Chilli Pepper (擂椒手撕鸡, $16.80), served refreshingly chilled. The sauce was a harmonious blend of nuttiness and creaminess, while the chilli pepper provided a satisfying crunch. The addition of century egg elevated the dish, introducing a complex and delightful flavour profile that danced on the palate.

Spicy Fish Fillet 4.2/5

Next up was the Spicy Fish Fillet (烧椒鱼片, $36.80). Distinguished from the Sichuan Sour and Spicy Poached Fish with Pickled Greens, the dish skipped the sour notes but still delivered a delightful kick from the chillies. There were fried eggs, celtuce, and tender fish slices, contributing to a balanced and flavoursome ensemble.

Chicken Chicken Frog Frog 4.5/5

An intriguing dish with a straightforward name, Chicken Chicken Frog Frog (鸡鸡娃娃, $46.80) brought a unique combination of chicken and frog legs to the table. Don't let its pale appearance fool you; this dish packs a spicy punch, courtesy of the numbing mala spiciness that ignites the taste buds.

Tomato Crystal Beef 4.8/5

Switching gears to something non-fiery, the Tomato Crystal Beef (番茄水晶牛肉, $36.80) was a delectable creation. The tomato broth was clearly concocted from fresh tomatoes, imparting the dish a refreshing blend of sweetness and tanginess. The beef was masterfully cooked to perfection, boasting a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Golden mushrooms in the broth added an extra layer of flavour and texture. Among the new additions, this dish emerged as my personal favourite.

Chicken Stew in Signature Mala Sauce with Baby Yam and Bamboo Shoots 4.8/5

Of course, we couldn't forget a beloved classic from their existing menu, the Chicken Stew in Signature Mala Sauce with Baby Yam and Bamboo Shoots (烟笋芋儿鸡, $30.80). The dish is bathed in a delightful mala sauce enriched with Sichuan peppercorns, featuring generously sized chicken pieces, each tender and succulent. The baby yam, reminiscent of soft potatoes and crunchy bamboo shoots, soaked up the spicy goodness, resulting in a satisfying and spicy culinary experience.

Guo Jiang continues to impress with its diverse and flavourful old and new offerings. Whether you're seeking fiery Sichuan delights or milder, nuanced dishes, there's something here to tickle every palate.

Note: This is an invited tasting


Guo Jiang (锅匠)
38 Mosque Street
Singapore 059516
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Tel: +65 62226838
Nearest MRT: Chinatown (DT, NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 11pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Chinatown MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to New Bridge Road. Turn right at New Bridge Road and walk to Mosque Street. Turn right onto Mosque Street and walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Sawa De' Kafe @ Chinatown - Offering both Traditional Thai Dishes And Fusion Plates

Sawa De'Kafe on Temple Street is a modern Thai bistro cafe that offers a delightful combination of well-loved Thai classics and fusion plates enriched with Thai flavours. The founders, Mr. David and his Thai wife from Chiang Rai, were former chefs during their time studying in Japan, where Japanese Western-style cafes are common and popular. Drawing inspiration from these fusion cafes, Mr David aims to offer diners a different way to enjoy Thai cuisine by creating Western-style dishes infused with Thai flavours alongside the classics, all within a cosy and comfortable environment. Overseeing the kitchen is his wife's ensuring the most authentic Thai flavours reach every table.

Mango Salad 4.8/5

Papaya Salad 4.8/5

I had the Papaya Salad ($7) and the Mango Salad ($7). Both dishes whetted my appetite with the utmost amount of peanuts and dried shrimp tossed into the shredded fruits, all brought to life with piquant Northern Thai-style sauce.

Kor Moo Yang 3.8/5

Kor Moo Yang ($15) features slices of grilled pork collar. While they weren't as tender as expected, they were quite delectable despite the visibly good amount of fats present, especially when paired with the dipping sauce.

Red Coconut Curry 5/5

Red Coconut Curry ($15) with Prawn is a dish that's impossible to discuss without salivating. It's robust and vibrant, packed with aromatics and spices. Staying true to its café concept, besides rice and glutinous rice, diners have the option to add on a Butter Croissant ($3.50) to soak up the irresistibly moreish curry. This pairing draws inspiration from the way we savour chilli crab with fried mantou.

Tom Yum Spaghetti 4/5

The menu offers a diverse range of pasta dishes infused with Thai flavours, including Green Curry, Red Curry Prawns, Basil Pork, and even Phad Thai with Spaghetti. I had the Tom Yum Spaghetti ($17). Brimming with seafood ingredients, the al dente spaghetti was zingy with a well-executed Tom Yum sauce. While most Tom Yum sauces out there tend to be relatively rich and creamy, the version here had a lighter consistency, which was much more elegant, and the heat level was just right. I particularly appreciate its bright and citrusy notes, which elevated the dish's overall taste.

Vegetarian Green Curry 3/5

Catering to the increasing demand for meatless options, most curries and pasta dishes have vegetarian alternatives. I opted for the Vegetarian Green Curry ($13), which included Konjac prawns, tofu, and brinjal. It's worth noting that a greater variety of vegetables would have been more complementary to the robust curry.

Ice Hale's Butterfly Pea Tea, Red Ruby, Green Tea Butterfly Pea Basque Cheesecake

Other than Thai desserts, there is also a range of cakes which one can enjoy with Thai beverages or coffees. Red Ruby with Jackfruit ($6) was rather average. I recommend the Green Tea Butterfly Pea Basque Cheesecake ($6), which is homemade by one of the couple's daughters and one of the best cheesecakes I have had for a long time. It was light and mildly sweet with a hint of lemony note, laced with an alluring tea fragrance. Its light bluish-green colour was aesthetically pleasing and tasted as elegant as it looked. Ice Hale's Butterfly Pea Tea ($6) was pretty with Thai pink milk, which was refreshing after all the spicy dishes.

High Tea sets are also available if you want to try more of their desserts and cakes. As Sawa De'Kafe is still relatively new, it will be adding more Western fusion dishes to the menu in the future.

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.


Sawa De'Kafe
30 Temple Street
#01-01
Singapore 058575
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Nearest MRT: Chinatown (DT, NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon, Wed: 11am - 9pm
Fri-Sun: 11am - 930pm
(Closed on Tue)

Direction:
1) Alight at Chinatown MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk down Pagoda Street. Turn right onto Trengganu Street. Walk down Trengganu Street and turn left onto Temple Street. Walk down Temple Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Cuisine Better Days Chicken Rice (饱家味国) @ People's Park Centre - Young Female Hawker, Natalie Opens Her Own Chicken Rice Shop

Natalie, the face behind the beloved Ah Five Hainanese Chicken Rice in Ang Mo Kio, has carved her name in the local food scene. Her journey started as a young, determined hawker alongside her family, where their Hainanese Chicken Rice swiftly gained fame for its delightful flavours. This family legacy, rooted in her father's cherished recipe from a renowned chicken rice brand, was soon embraced by media and food enthusiasts alike.

Fast forward to the present, Natalie embarks on her solo adventure, opening her very own chicken rice shop - Cuisine Better Days Chicken Rice, nestled in People's Park Centre. The spotlight remains on her as she single-handedly orchestrates the entire show - from cooking to cashier duties, waiting tables, and even keeping the space spotless — a true testament to her dedication and hard work.

Hainanese Chicken Rice 4.5/5

Consistency remains paramount to Natalie's craft. She continues her tradition of using premium grade A kampong chicken, just as she did at Ah Five Hainanese Chicken Rice. This choice imparts a remarkable tenderness and succulence to her poached chicken. What sets it apart is the subtly sweeter taste compared to the typical broiler chicken.

While some things remain the same, Natalie introduces a new twist in the form of her chilli sauce. Sporting an intensified punch of pungency and spice, this sauce carries an exhilarating kick that appeals to those fond of bold flavours. However, those averse to intense spiciness might want to tread cautiously.

Still, on the journey of refining her craft, one area where Natalie is working towards consistency is her rice. On my initial visit, the rice was an aromatic, fluffy delight. However, my second outing witnessed a slight variation, with a tad more moisture and a somewhat muted fragrance.

Natalie's passion is evident in her future plans to expand the menu. She intends to incorporate a diverse selection of Hainanese dishes and sides, thus transforming her offering into a complete culinary experience. This evolution guarantees more options for diners seeking a wholesome and delightful meal, ensuring that Cuisine Better Days Chicken Rice is destined to remain a name to reckon with.


Cuisine Better Days Chicken Rice (饱家味国)
People's Park Centre
#01-01
101 Upper Cross Street
Singapore 058357
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Nearest MRT: Chinatown (DT, NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 12pm - 9pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Chinatown MRT station. Take Exit D. Turn left and walk to the back of People's Park Centre facing State Courts building. At the back of People's Park Centre, turn right and walk down the  walkway. Walk to the end of walkway, along the stretch of shops to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

The Kongsee @ Genmill Lane - Mod-Sin Izakaya Conceptualised by Chef Willin Low

The Kongsee on Genmill Lane is conceptualised as a mod-sin izakaya with the vibe of an underground lounge, with Chef Willin Low as the food consultant.

Barramundi Ceviche 3.5/5

Barramundi Ceviche ($22) is a dish that was conceived against the backdrop of our local food history and culture. The Barramundi is locally sourced, treated and presented as a Latin American dish with a Southeast Asia flair. It is accompanied by some cold and warm elements for flavour and textural contrast - Pickle Onions, Fried capers, Fried Diced Eggplant, Savoury Ice Cream and mini Papadams, which serve as a vessel to bring it all together. While the concept was good, the flavours of the various elements didn't quite come together.

Kongsee Crab Cake 4/5

As our fondness for Thai food has also shaped our local food scene, the menu also offers a few Thai-inspired dishes, such as the Kongsee Crab Cake ($28), made with Wild Caught Crab in Tom Kha Kai. The flavour of the Crab Cake was reminiscent of the Thai Fish Cake, which was in harmony with the coconut soup. The soup, delectably infused with lemongrass and aromatic kaffir lime oil, added to the cohesiveness of the dish.

Iberico Satay 4.8/5

Salted Egg Prawn 4.2/5

We tried 2 of the Skewers (minimum 2 skewers) that spotlight the quality of the respective ingredients - Iberico Satay ($8) and Salted Egg Prawn ($7). The iberico secreto was grilled to perfection over binchotan, rendering its fats and attaining the right amount of char on the exterior, which fully developed the iberico's tantalising flavours. The accompanying Javanese Peanut Sauce and Pineapple Salsa showcase the restaurant's attention to detail in bringing you the dish's essence. The latter was well executed too. I could taste the Tiger Prawn's sweetness enhanced by the contrasting Salted Egg sauce. It also had a delectable firm, and meaty texture.

Ngoh Hiong Dumplings 3.5/5

Ngoh Hiong Dumplings ($8) is a rendition of our traditional Ngoh Hiong, made with a Crab and Pork mixture wrapped with Bean Curd Skin and finished with a dash of Vinegar. While the mixture was considerably juicy and the flavour was good, it lacked the crunch and sweetness in the absence of prawns and water chestnut.

Roxy Crab Laksa 4/5

Roxy Crab Laksa ($12) is a highly anticipated dish cooked with Chef Willin's Secret Recipe Laksa Broth. The broth undoubtedly captivated me with its robustness. It was pleasantly spicy with a well-balanced of flavours. Though switching prawns with Wild wild-caught crab elevates the finesse of the dish, the comfort and satisfaction of a laksa are missing.

Lamb Kut Teh 4.8/5

Lamb Kut Teh ($32) is by far the best Lamb dish I had in a long time. Whether or not you are a lamb lover, you should give it a try. The soup carried a good amount of heat lent from White Peppercorn, permeated with just a faint gaminess from the lamb. The Lamb Denver Ribs had been grilled over binchotan before serving, which elevated its succulent texture with a contrasting, slightly charred exterior. The smoky nuance inherited by ribs from the binchotan had also made them even more moreish.

Churro Waffle with Kaya Ice-Cream 4.5/5

Rounding off our mod-sin journey was a memorable Churro Waffle with Kaya Ice Cream ($12). Given that the churro was skinner than usual and bore more ridges, it had an excellent balance of crispy golden crust and a chewy, dense, but airy interior. The Homemade Kaya Ice Cream that was nestled perfectly on the churros was on point with our familiar taste of kaya and the right amount of sweetness. The Coconut Cream salted with Shio Kombu enriched the mouthfeel of the dessert and counterbalanced its overall sweetness.

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.


[CLOSED]
The Kongsee
10 & 12 Gemmill Lane
Singapore 069252
Tel: +65 8828 7664
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Nearest MRT: Telok Ayer (DT Line), Chinatown (DT, NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Wed: 530pm - 1030pm
Thu: 1130am - 3pm, 5pm - 1030pm
Fri-Sat: 1130am - 3pm, 5pm till late
(Closed on Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at Telok Ayer MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn left and walk down Cross Street towards Amoy Street. Turn left onto Amoy Street and then right onto Gemmill Lane. Walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Chinatown MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk straight down Pagoda Street. Cross the road and walk to Mohd Ali Lane. Walk to the end of Mohd Ali Lane to Club Street. Turn left onto Club Street. Walk to Gemmill Lane. Turn right onto Gemmill Lane. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]

Lime @ PARKROYAL COLLECTION Pickering - Indulge in Lime Restaurant's Festive Buffets This Holiday Season

Ring in the holiday cheer with a sumptuous spread and great company this festive season at PARKROYAL COLLECTION Pickering’s with Lime Restaurant’s delightful festive line-up available from 1 December 2022 to 2 January 2023, including the extra festive Christmas and New Year Buffets from 24 to 26 December, 31 December, and 1 to 2 January 2023.

The indulgence begins at the Seafood Bar, where you can indulge in some crustacean delights of fresh Prawns, Mussels, Gong Gongs and Oysters, as well as a selection of Sashimi and Sushi.

Festive highlights include the savoury gourmet roasts of the Roast Herb Crusted Sirloin, Traditional Roast Turkey, and Triple Glazed Ham.

The meats are best paired with a side of their seasonal vegetables, Vegetable Autumn Pie, crispy Potato Croquettes and Vegetarian Lasagne.

Fans of local flavours can head for the Chinese dishes such as the Wok-fried Asian Green with Garlic, Salt & Pepper Prawns and the Braised Pork Belly with Steamed Mantou.

Not to be missed is the Laksa, featuring a delicious spicy broth brimming with ingredients such as fish cake, quail egg, bean sprouts, taupok and crayfish.

Throughout the meal, LIME's featured chefs will also present their signature pass-around tasting dishes, including the well-loved Lobster Linguini, Prawn Cocktail, and Spicy Prawn Wonton made a la minute. Guests are also able to make requests for unlimited servings of these special dishes. We particularly enjoyed the a la minute dishes such as the briny Lobster Linguine and refreshing Prawn Cocktail, which comes loaded with cubes of juicy sweet mango and tender prawn meat.

Christmas would not be complete without Lime’s quintessential Christmas Log Cakes, such as the Christmas Chocolate Yule Log, and the festive sweet treats including the Gingerbread Latte Pudding, Minced Fruit Pie, Festive Stollen, Candied Panettone, and Christmas Fruit Cake.

An extensive selection of savoury gourmet roasts, celebration sets and delectable desserts are available for purchase at Lime on the Go via https://shop-parkroyalcollectionpickering.panpacific.com/en_SG from 15 November 2022. For dining reservations and enquiries, guests can call +65 3138 2251 or email dining.prsps@parkroyalcollection.com.

Weekday Lunch (Monday to Friday):
SGD79 (adult), SGD39.50 (child)

Weekend Brunch (Saturday and Sunday):
SGD128 (adult), SGD64 (child)

Weekday Dinner (Sunday to Thursday, excludes 25 and 26 December):
SGD108 (adult) SGD54 (child)

Weekend Dinner (Friday and Saturday, excludes 23 and 24 December):
SGD128 (adult) SGD64 (child)

Words and photos by Crystal. A girl who likes to eat, photograph, and write about food, and dreams about travelling around the world one day. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Lime
PARKROYAL on Pickering
3 Upper Pickering Street
Singapore 058289
Tel: +65 68098899
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Website
Nearest MRT: Chinatown (DT Line, NE Line), Clarke Quay (NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Festive Lunch Buffet (Mon-Fri): 12pm - 2pm
Festive Brunch Buffet (Sat-Sun): 1230pm - 3pm
Fstive Dinner Buffet (Daily): 6pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Chinatown MRT station. Take Exit E. Walk to the junction of Upper Pickering Street and New Bridge Road. Turn right and walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Clarke Quay MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk straight to the junction of Upper Pickering Street and New Bridge Road. Cross the road. Turn left and walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]