Showing posts with label .Station: City Hall. Show all posts
Showing posts with label .Station: City Hall. Show all posts

Sunday, June 29, 2025

Xiao Hun Mian 大師兄銷魂麵舖 (Spicy Noodle SG) @ Raffles City - Taiwan’s Famous “Soul-Stirring” Spicy Noodles Debuts in Singapore

SpicyNoodleSG23

Taiwan's renowned Xiao Hun Mian 大師兄銷魂麵舖 (Spicy Noodle) has finally landed on Singapore shores, opening its very first outlet at Raffles City Shopping Centre. With 18 outlets across Taiwan and queues that can stretch up to two hours, this noodle brand has built a cult following for its handmade noodles paired with its signature Master Chilli Oil and a drop said to stir the soul.

SpicyNoodleSG16

At the heart of the menu is the Spicy Beef Soup Set ($24.80). While the beef soup is served on the side, the real highlight is the bowl of handmade Xiao Hun Noodles, tossed in a trifecta of sauces: the house-made Master Chilli Sauce, Master Chilli Oil, and a secret noodle sauce. It may look deceptively plain, but this bowl packs an intense, addictive flavour. The noodles themselves are next-level. It was chewy, springy, and undeniably slurp-worthy. We found ourselves ordering an extra bowl of just the noodles to relive that divine texture.

SpicyNoodleSG4
Spicy Beef Soup Set 4/5

The Spicy Beef Soup, made by simmering beef bones for over 6 hours, was comforting but fell a little short on intensity. While warm and soothing, it lacked the depth and boldness we were hoping for, especially when paired with the fiery kick of the noodles.

SpicyNoodleSG22

SpicyNoodleSG8
Mild Beef Soup Set 3.8/5

For those who prefer a gentler kick, there's the Mild Beef Soup Set ($18.80). The broth is cleaner and more refreshing, making it perfect for diners who prefer a milder experience but still want to enjoy the noodle experience.

SpicyNoodleSG14
Fried Dough Fritters 3/5

The sides here are worth exploring too. The Fried Dough Fritters ($4.50), better known as you tiao in our local context, are perfect for dunking into the beef soup, much like how Singaporeans enjoy them with Bak Kut Teh.

SpicyNoodleSG15
Garlic Cucumber 3.5/5

We also enjoyed the Garlic Cucumber ($3.80), a crunchy, chilled side dish that resets the palate between bites with its tangy, garlicky notes. Another worthy companion is the Spicy Braised Spongy Tofu and Soy Chip ($4.50), which delivers both texture and umami, making it a solid accompaniment to the main noodle sets.

SpicyNoodleSG13
Spicy Braised Spongy Tofu and Soy Chip 3.8/5

Overall, Xiao Hun Mian offers a satisfying introduction to Taiwanese-style spicy noodles with standout textures and bold flavours. While the broth could use a little more punch, the noodles themselves are truly the soul of the dish, justifying the hype and long lines back in Taiwan. It's definitely worth a try for fans of beef noodles, spice lovers, and curious foodies alike.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Xiao Hun Mian 大師兄銷魂麵舖
(Spicy Noodle SG)
Raffles City
252 North Bridge Road
#B1-38 
Singapore 179103
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: City Hall (EW, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 10pm

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

Wednesday, June 25, 2025

The Masses X Chateau Dionne Collaboration - A French Lens On Southeast Asian Dishes

TheMassesChateauDionne41

For three days only, from 27 to 29 June 2025, The Masses from Singapore and Chateau Dionne from Kuala Lumpur come together in a bold collaboration that bridges classical French technique with Southeast Asia's rich tapestry of street flavours. The result: a 10-course Tasting Menu ($78.90++/pax, min. 2 diners) that plays on nostalgia while delivering fine-dining flair. A curated wine pairing ($48++/pax) with a welcome drink is also available to elevate the experience.

TheMassesChateauDionne2
Assam Laksa 4.2/5

The dinner opens with an elegant tartlet that channels the bright, punchy notes of Assam Laksa. Encased in a crisp, buttery shell is a smoky mackerel mix accented by tangy assam relish. Rojak flower and belacan powder lend aromatic and savoury depth, instantly conjuring memories of hawker classics, distilled into one complex, satisfying bite.

TheMassesChateauDionne11
Orh Luak 3.5/5

This reimagined Orh Luak arrives as a golden Oyster Beignet. Poached French Amelie oysters are creamed and encased in a fried dough shell atop sambal olek sabayon. While the concept is creative and the texture is spot on, the oyster flavour could be more assertive to anchor the dish more firmly in its inspiration.

TheMassesChateauDionne12
Lap Mei Fan 4/5

The communal Lap Mei Fan is cleverly deconstructed into a brioche snack glazed in pork lard and kicap manis. Topped with mushroom crumble and finely grated XO sausage, this compact creation is packed with umami and textural play. It is a fun, savoury number that nods to tradition while going its own way.

TheMassesChateauDionne19
Ngoh Hiang 4/5

A luxe twist on the Teochew five-spice roll, this version blends foie gras into minced pork and prawns, wrapped in bean curd skin and deep-fried till shatteringly crisp. The accompanying Lingham chilli aioli adds a tangy heat that lifts the rich filling beautifully. It is a standout reinvention.

TheMassesChateauDionne21
Yu Sheng 4/5

Here, Yu Sheng transforms into a dainty, composed plate. Cured Hamachi is paired with a bright calamansi and bird’s eye chilli granita, offering acidity and a hint of fire. Finished with pickled ginger and fried shallots, this dish is a refined interpretation of a festive classic.

TheMassesChateauDionne26
White Pepper Veloute 4.5/5

The evening's best dish is a creamy, comforting White Pepper Velouté, a homage to pig's stomach soup. Poured tableside over sliced offal, scallions and pickled radish, the broth is peppery and full-bodied. A crispy pork croquette on the side completes the soulful yet elevated experience. Brilliantly executed.

TheMassesChateauDionne29
Rojak - Hot 3/5

The Rojak is served in two ways: hot and cold version. The hot version is served on a sizzling plate with a crisp egg and aerated peanut sauce. This rendition leans more toward Gado Gado than traditional Rojak, with its warm, nutty notes and sesame cracker accompaniment.

TheMassesChateauDionne32
Rojak - Cold 4/5

For the cold counterpart, a Penang-style refresher featuring tropical fruits and vegetables (rose apple, pineapple, mango, jicama) tossed in prawn paste, crushed peanuts, and rojak flower. Tangy, sweet and crunchy, this one hits the nostalgic notes more directly.

TheMassesChateauDionne36
Hei Mee 4/5

Possibly the most avant-garde plate of the evening. a is reinterpreted as julienned squid ribbons, with a concentrated prawn head broth poured tableside. Sambal aioli and Melba toast add richness and crunch. It is a daring, cerebral dish that captures the essence of prawn noodles in an entirely unexpected way.

TheMassesChateauDionne44

TheMassesChateauDionne49
Chicken Rice 4.5/5

This dish pays reverent homage to a national icon, Chicken Rice. Salt-baked Chicken infused with angelica root and truffle rests on claypot-style garlic rice perfumed with pandan and chicken fat. The housemade chilli sauce, fermented over three days, adds complexity, while a warm chicken consommé ties the whole experience together. It is a masterclass in reinvention with respect.

TheMassesChateauDionne54
Cendol 4/5

Dessert arrives with flair. Cendol is elevated into a plated masterpiece: pandan curd, glutinous rice fritters, red beans, coconut milk, and a house-made gula Melaka ice cream. The ice cream is intensely rich, the rice fritters are chewy yet crisp, and a sprinkling of sea salt brings balance. It is a delightful finale to a diverse and well-composed menu.

TheMassesChateauDionne55

This collaboration is more than a one-off dinner. It's a dialogue between two culinary philosophies, two cities, and two perspectives on familiar food. Some dishes lean more heavily on technique, others on nostalgia, but the through-line is creativity and respect for culture. At under $80++, the 10-course menu is excellent value, making this a not-to-miss event in the June 2025 dining calendar.

The Masses X Chateau Dionne Collaborations

Dates and Seatings:
27 June, Friday: 530pm - 930pm
28 June, Saturaday: 1130am - 3pm, 530pm - 930pm
29 June, Sunday: 1130am - 3pm, 530pm - 930pm

Note: This is an invited tasting.


The Masses
Arcade @ The Capitol Kempinski
13 Stamford Road
#01-84
Singapore 178905
Tel: +65 6518 4988
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: City Hall (EW, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 1130am - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at City Hall MRT station. Take Exit B. Cross the road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Saturday, June 21, 2025

The Masses @ Arcade The Capitol Kempinski - New Rustic Farm-style Communal Brunch with Franco-Asian Twist Every Sunday

IMG_6508

Celebrate Sundays with loved ones over a new rustic farm-style communal brunch at The Masses, located in Capitol Singapore. Their Franco-Asian experience celebrates seasonal produce through a 10-dish sharing menu, priced at $68.80++ per adult and $38++ per child (6–10 years). Children 5 and below dine free with a complimentary main.

IMG_6451
Sunday Communal Brunch 4.2/5

The brunch is available every Sunday, with two seatings at 11am and 4pm, and requires a minimum of two diners with full table participation.

IMG_6476

IMG_6480
Freshly Shucked Oysters

To elevate your brunch, top up for Freshly Shucked Oysters ($30++ for 6) from their mobile oyster cart, featuring Boutrais La Sentinelle from Ireland and Amelie Super Spéciale from France.

IMG_6468

If you’re in the mood for a drink, add on free-flow prosecco at $48++, or opt for prosecco and wines on tap at $58++ per person.

IMG_6498

IMG_6504
Bread & Dips

The Bread & Dips was simple yet delicious, comprising sourdough, brioche, and baguette paired with strawberry jam, smashed avocado, and a standout umami butter rich with kombu. The butter was so addictive that I was tempted to take home a jar with me (they are available for sale). The smashed avocado, accompanied by a generous drizzle of olive oil, was perfect with the bread as well.

IMG_6466
Salade

Next was a refreshing Salade of crunchy haricot vert beans, strawberries, brillat-savarin cheese, and hazelnuts, brightened with a tangy honey mustard dressing.

IMG_6483
Cold Cuts

The Cold Cuts Platter featured an assortment of pork and chicken liver pâté, salmon rillettes, Parma ham, and hot-smoked mackerel, served with breadsticks, pickled mushrooms, pearl onions, cornichons, Pommery mustard, and cornichons. If the breadsticks are insufficient for you, you can request more bread to pair.

IMG_6513

IMG_6518
Caviar

The Caviar arrived next, accompanied by thin homemade potato chips paired with a sour cream dip featuring egg, chives, and caviar. It was lighter than we expected, and we wished there was a touch bit more salt for better balance.

IMG_6459
Tartare

For Tartare, we had slices of hay-smoked hamachi crudo paired with zesty grapefruit and orange. The balance of citrus and smokiness worked well.

IMG_6533
Seasonal Roasted Mushrooms

We were excited to learn that the restaurant collaborates with local farmers every month to offer a curated selection of seasonal dishes. During our visit, we had Seasonal Roasted Mushrooms - incredibly fresh and lightly dressed, allowing the natural, earthy flavours to come through.

IMG_6488
Egg

For the next Egg dish, diners will be presented with Scrambled Eggs topped with thinly shaved winter black truffle. It was a pity that this was a touch dry for us.

IMG_6522

IMG_6540
Signature Meat

We moved on to the Signature Meat: a Crispy Chicken Leg with tender meat finished with a luscious sauce suprême. This was one of our stars of the brunch.

IMG_6521

IMG_6543
Chef’s Special

The Chef's Special featured the Barramundi Ala Meuniere sat atop brown butter, with capers, herbs and citrus.

Before moving on to the final sweet, it's worth noting that second helpings of dishes are also available, specifically the Bread & Dips, Caviar, Tartare, and Signature Meat.

IMG_6552
Dessert

Dessert paled slightly in comparison to the savouries even though it was served nicely warm, as their Blueberry Tart with Rhubarb Jam came with a softer crust than we’d prefer.

IMG_6555

DPlease make reservations before heading down by calling 6518 4988 or visiting https://www.sevenrooms.com/reservations/themassescapitol.

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.


The Masses
Arcade @ The Capitol Kempinski
13 Stamford Road
#01-84
Singapore 178905
Tel: +65 6518 4988
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: City Hall (EW, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 1130am - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at City Hall MRT station. Take Exit B. Cross the road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Thursday, June 5, 2025

Broth & Beyond Hot Pot @ Chijmes - Yunnan Ecological Hotpot Concept, Available Till 2.30am Daily

IMG_4438

Joining the vibrant dining scene at CHIJMES is Broth & Beyond Hot Pot, a Yunnan-inspired individual hotpot concept that remains open daily until 230am.

IMG_4369

The restaurant takes pride in offering MSG and preservative-free broths and ingredients at wallet-friendly prices.

IMG_4443
Broth & Beyond Hot Pot 4/5

We opted for the Black Truffle & Eight-Mushroom Broth and the Golden Fungus Chicken Broth. Both are brewed in-house using natural ingredients, including produce flown in from Yunnan. Diners can also choose from five other exciting broths, such as 100% Pure Coconut Chicken, Spicy Broth, and Vegetarian Tom Yum, all created under the direction of their head chef.

IMG_4394

The Black Truffle & Eight-Mushroom Broth offered earthy depth with a subtle umami lift from the black truffle, all made from a base of Yunnan mushrooms and chicken fat.

IMG_4395

Meanwhile, the Golden Fungus Chicken Broth was creamy and nourishing. The individual hotpots are perfect for accommodating personal preferences.

IMG_4374

IMG_4377
Market Table

A standout feature is the Market Table, available for just $4.99 per diner, which grants access to a rotating selection of condiments, appetisers, fruits, and desserts. During our visit, the appetisers included house-made kimchi and mala king oyster mushrooms, reminiscent of another well-loved hot pot chain.

IMG_4421

IMG_4460
Yunnan Delicacy Mushroom Platter

We couldn't leave without trying their signature Yunnan Delicacy Mushroom Platter ($28.99), featuring lesser-seen varieties such as golden fungus, wine cap mushrooms, and chanterelles.

IMG_4439

IMG_4472
Seafood Platter

For seafood enthusiasts, the Seafood Platter ($43.99) had a mix of tiger prawns, scallops, abalone, mussels, and grouper slices. While pricey, we thoroughly appreciated the freshness and sweetness of the seafood in each item.

IMG_4448
Jasmine Flower Shrimp Paté

The handcrafted Jasmine Flower Shrimp Paté ($18.99) was a highlight for us. Unlike the usual prawn paste, this had a delicate floral note infused within. The cooked shrimp paste was nicely springy with a bite.

IMG_4391
Tri-Coloured Hand Crafted La Mian

For carbs, the Tri-Coloured Hand Crafted La Mian ($8.99), which had a chewy texture, was served in a portion sufficient for two to three people.

IMG_4414

IMG_4424
Fragrant Fermented Beancurd Chicken Wings 4/5

For sides, we tried out the Fragrant Fermented Beancurd Chicken Wings ($13.99), which were marinated in Yunnan spices and fermented Beancurd. They were enjoyable on their own, though they also came with tartar sauce for an optional twist.

IMG_4480

IMG_4385

IMG_4381

To end the meal, we returned to the Market Table for dessert, where we could choose from sticks of candied hawthorn or create our own DIY Ice Jelly bowl. Toppings ranged from red bean and osmanthus jelly to taro balls and adorably shaped marshmallows.

If you're looking to try Broth & Beyond, consider their lunch set menu, the Flavour Discovery Set. Starting from $29.90 and available daily from 1130am to 5pm, each set includes a broth of your choice, meat, vegetables, noodles or rice, plus access to the Market Table.

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.


Broth & Beyond
CHIJMES
30 Victoria Street
#B1-02
Singapore 187996
Tel: +65 8220 7993
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: City Hall (EW, NS Line), Bras Basah (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
11.30am to 2.30am Daily

Direction:
1) Alight at City Hall MRT station. Take Exit A. Cut across Raffles City Shopping Centre to Bras Basah Road. At the junction of Bras Basah Road and North Bridge Road, cross the road to Chijmes. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Bras Basah MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk southwards towards Victoria Road. At the junction of Bras Basah Road and Victoria Road, cross the junction to Chijmes. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]