Spruce Petite @ East Coast Road - Up Its Game with A New Revamped Menu

We visited Spruce Petite in May when it was just a couple of months old. Recently, they have revamped their menu based on diner feedback, showcasing their dedication to continuous improvement — a quality we greatly appreciate in a sincere F&B establishment. Additionally, they now offer an impressive array of cocktails.

Mala King Mushroom Skewers 4.5/5

We began our meal with their featured bar bites, each priced at just $12. The Mala King Mushroom Skewers were perfectly grilled and dusted in a fragrant mala spice mix that delivered a numbing, spicy kick. We loved how the mushrooms retained their juiciness, leaving us eager for more.

Korean Style Chicken Wingettes 4/5

The next bar bite we tried was the Korean Style Chicken Wingettes, which left a lasting impression. Despite being coated in a spicy sauce, the wingettes remained crispy. The sauce struck a perfect balance between sweet and spicy, enhancing the overall flavour.

Yakitori Skewers 3/5

The last bar bite we sampled was the Yakitori Skewers, featuring tender chunks of chicken that were nicely charred. However, we found the marinade a bit on the sweet side for our taste. Despite this, the skewers were still enjoyable and great with a drink or two.

Chili Soft Shell Crab 3.8/5

They also offer two specials on the bar bites menu. We tried the Chilli Soft Shell Crab ($24), featuring crispy fried soft-shell crab in a sweet chilli sauce reminiscent of Singapore's national chilli crab. A unique twist to this dish is the inclusion of an onsen egg, rather than having the egg cooked into the sauce as in traditional chilli crab. We craved for some bread or mantou to mop up the delightful dish. Another special item on the menu is the Fresh Oysters ($20 for 6pcs), available exclusively on Saturdays and Sundays.

Ribeye Steak 4/5

For mains, we started with the Ribeye Steak ($28) served with black pepper sauce, which truly satisfied our steak cravings. We requested it medium rare, and it was served just as we liked it - nicely grilled to perfection. The steak was impeccably seasoned and incredibly tender, offering a melt-in-your-mouth experience. Accompanying the steak were flavourful potato pieces and a side of juicy tomatoes, which complemented the dish wonderfully.

Classic Fish & Chips 4/5

Next, we tried the Classic Fish & Chips ($18), a classic that did not disappoint. The fish was beautifully battered and fried to a golden crisp, while the inside remained tender and flaky. Paired with perfectly cooked, crispy fries and a tangy tartar sauce, it was a delightful dish to share or have on your own.

Classic Beef Burger 4/5

Lastly, the Classic Beef Burger ($14) was served with golden crispy fries. A juicy grilled beef patty nestled between soft, toasted buns was complemented by crisp lettuce, tomato, and a thick slice of cheddar cheese. This classic never goes wrong and is perfect any time of day.

Fire Dragon 3.8/5 (top left), Harley Quinn 3.5/5 (top right), Malaysian Assam Laksa 4/5 (bottom)

Adding to the revamped menu is a cocktail menu featuring a curated selection of speciality cocktails priced at $18 each or 3 for $45. Among them is the distinctive Malaysian Assam Laksa, boasting a fragrant blend of spices with a gentle kick of heat, offering a truly unique flavour experience unlike anything else we've tasted. For a refreshing option, the Fire Dragon delights with its fresh dragon fruit juice base. Lastly, the visually stunning Harley Quinn, inspired by the Suicide Squad, is captivated by its beauty but leans towards a sweeter profile.

Godfather 3.8/5

We also savoured the Godfather, a pleasantly delightful concoction featuring whiskey with a pronounced sweet almond flavour profile. Lastly, the X-rated Margarita, crafted with Jose Cuervo Tequila, perfectly complements its salted glass rim, offering a sophisticated and balanced taste experience.

You can also make your own cocktail for $28 and choose your flavour and type of alcohol. Just let the mixologist know and be surprised!

Weekend Specials: Enjoy 2 hours of free-flow Oysters, Wine and Prosecco at $40++ per pax from 12pm.

Starting from 30th June, Spruce Petite is launching a brunch menu every Saturday and Sunday from 10am-2pm featuring Pancake with Blueberry Jam ($8), Crispy Bread with Sous Vide Egg ($8), Avocado Toasties ($12), Ham & Cheese Toasties ($12) and English Breakfast Set ($18)

Photos and words by Jaslyn. An avid cook who lives to eat and travel for food. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Spruce Petite
19 East Coast Road
Singapore 428746
Tel: +65 9068 9249
Instagram
Nearest MRT: Dakota (CC Line), Marine Parade (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Thu: 3pm - 11pm
Fri: 3pm - 12midnight
Sat-Sun: 10am - 11pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Dakota MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to bus stop at block 99 (Stop ID 81181). Take bus number 10 or 32. Alight 6 stops later. Walk to destination. Journey time about 15 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Marine Parade MRT station. Take Exit 2. Walk to Brooke Road. Turn right onto Brooke Road. Walk down Brooke Road to East Coast Road. Cross the road, turn left and walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes.  [Map]

Spruce Petite @ East Coast Road - Pet Friendly Restaurant with All Day Brunch

Spruce Petite is the latest addition to the vibrant dining scene on East Coast Road, offering a unique dual experience. During the day, it serves as a pet-friendly restaurant with an all-day brunch menu. By night, it transforms into a gastropub, providing a delightful selection of bar bites complemented by an extensive beverage list that includes wine, spirits, and cocktails.

Kok Kok Satay 3.5/5

We began our meal with the Kok Kok Satay ($10), whimsically named for its playful twist on traditional chicken satay. The chicken skewers were grilled to a tender perfection with a slight char on the exterior. However, the lack of smokiness hinted that they were likely grilled over an electric grill rather than charcoal. Despite this, the accompanying peanut sauce was spot on, adding a rich, savoury complement to the satay.

Garlic Butter Prawn Aglio Olio Pasta 3/5

Next, we tried the Garlic Butter Prawn Aglio Olio Pasta ($16). This dish, featuring spaghetti cooked with garlic, olive oil, and chilli padi, delivered a satisfying spicy kick. While it was a safe and decent choice, it could have been more extraordinary. It's a reliable option if you're in the mood for a classic pasta dish.

Pork Benny 3.5/5

From the brunch menu, we sampled the Pork Benny ($15). This dish combines marinated slow-cooked pulled pork and sous vide egg, resting atop a homemade English muffin and dressed in hollandaise sauce. The different components came together harmoniously, creating a hearty and satisfying meal that left a positive impression.

Beef Sausage & Potato Rosti 3.8/5

Another brunch item we tried was the Beef Sausage & Potato Rosti ($15). The highlight of this dish was the potato rosti, which boasted a crispy exterior and was topped with a perfectly poached egg, all tied together by a drizzle of hollandaise sauce. The smoked beef sausage was equally delicious, making this a standout item on the brunch menu.

Spruce Petite adds a refreshing dynamic to East Coast Road's versatile offerings. Whether you're looking for a pet-friendly brunch spot or a lively gastropub experience in the evening, this new establishment has something for everyone. While not uniformly exceptional, the dishes provide reliable and satisfying options, with some standout items worth trying. I understand they will revamp their menu soon, so do look out for that.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Spruce Petite
19 East Coast Road
Singapore 428746
Tel: +65 9068 9249
Instagram
Nearest MRT: Dakota (CC Line), Marine Parade (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Thu: 3pm - 11pm
Fri: 3pm - 12midnight
Sat-Sun: 1030am - 11pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Dakota MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to bus stop at block 99 (Stop ID 81181). Take bus number 10 or 32. Alight 6 stops later. Walk to destination. Journey time about 15 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Marine Parade MRT station. Take Exit 2. Walk to Brooke Road. Turn right onto Brooke Road. Walk down Brooke Road to East Coast Road. Cross the road, turn left and walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes.  [Map]

Bites & Brews @ Joo Chiat - A Delightful Addition to the Charming Neighbourhood

Nestled in the charming Joo Chiat neighbourhood, Bites & Brews offers a relaxed, resort-like atmosphere perfect for enjoying a variety of brunch favourites and crowd-pleasing dinner selections.

Gold & Purple Hummus with Za'atar Flat Bread 4.2/5

We began our meal with the Gold & Purple Hummus with Za'atar Flat Bread ($18). The flatbread was soft and fluffy and infused with the aromatic flavours of za'atar, making it delightful even on its own. The experience was further elevated by the accompanying hummus, honey, and harissa roasted eggplant, which provided multiple dimensions and ways to enjoy this appetiser.

Lemongrass Steak Salad 4.2/5

The Lemongrass Steak Salad ($25) was substantial enough to serve as a meal on its own. The plate was a vibrant mix of watercress, edamame, quinoa, cherry tomatoes, pumpkin, water chestnuts, and pomegranate, all tossed in a light and appetising Asian dressing. This salad offered a satisfying and hearty meal topped with beautifully grilled, tender steak.

Mapo Tofu Lasagna 4.5/5

The Mapo Tofu Lasagna ($21) showcased Bites & Brews' innovative approach to fusion cuisine. This dish replaces the traditional ground meat with Sichuan meat and tofu ragu, creating a more piquant and exciting flavour profile amidst the layers of pasta sheets. It's a brilliant twist that adds a spicy kick to a classic Italian favourite.

Spicy "Pina Colada" Red Snapper 3/5

However, the Spicy "Pina Colada" Red Snapper ($45) fell short of expectations. The fish was stuffed with Chinese cabbage, kaffir lime, and ginger, but it was unfortunately overcooked and slightly dry. Additionally, the oversteaming may have caused the bitterness of the lemon to infuse into the fish flesh, resulting in a bitter aftertaste. On the bright side, with its tangy pickled flavour, the stuffed cabbage was refreshing and delicious, providing a silver lining to the dish.

Bites & Brews brings a delightful variety of innovative dishes and classic favourites to Joo Chiat, wrapped in a laid-back, resort-like ambience. While there were some hits and misses, the creativity and execution of the dishes, especially the Gold & Purple Hummus and the Mapo Tofu Lasagna, showcase the restaurant's potential. Whether you're there for brunch or dinner, Bites & Brews offers a promising new spot to enjoy a relaxed meal with friends or family.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Bites & Brews
15 Crane Road
Singapore 429360
Tel: +65 8815 9615
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Dakota (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Thu: 10am - 4pm, 5pm - 10pm
Fri-Sat: 11am - 4pm, 5pm - 12midnight
Sun: 10am - 4pm, 5pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Dakota MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to bus stop at block 99 (Stop ID 81181). Take bus 16 or 33. Alight 3 stops later. Walk towards Carpmael Road. Turn left onto Carpmael Road. Walk down Carpmael Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 12 minutes. [Map]

808 Eating House @ Joo Chiat Road - New Brunch Collaboration with Tiong Hoe Specialty Coffee

We first stepped into 808 Eating House for Province Restaurant's omakase experience. Province was tucked away at the back, where we needed to walk through 808 Eating House to reach. The latter caught our attention, and I made a mental note to return to try their dishes.

Situated in the quaint Joo Chiat neighbourhood, this Asian restaurant specialises in fusion-style local creations, blending a diverse range of culinary influences. Their brunch and dinner menus feature sharing snacks, mains, sides, and desserts. In collaboration with Tiong Hoe Specialty Coffee, customers can now indulge in delicious food over a cup of aromatic coffee.

Duck Fat Financiers 4.5/5

I was most intrigued by the Duck Fat Financiers ($10), especially after learning that they're currently one of the most popular sharing snacks on the menu. While the financiers were slightly dense, they had a decent fluffy texture.

Pairing them with the chicken liver mousse was a delightful combination. The mousse was rich, buttery, and had a perfect balance of salty and sweet flavours.

Pickled Quail Eggs 4.2/5

We also ordered the Pickled Quail Eggs ($6), about a dollar each. They were thoroughly marinated, delivering an immediate kick of black vinegar with a hint of coriander fragrance lingering in the background.

Charcoal Grilled Kaya Toast 4.2/5

Are you looking for a unique twist on your classic kaya toast? Try the Charcoal Grilled Kaya Toast ($8), where the chefs have elevated the dish with a special housemade kaya that's creamy and rich in coconut flavour. It strikes a good balance of sweetness, and the toast is crunchy. However, if you're not a fan of coconut, you might want to skip this option.

Chicken Curry Rice 4.8/5

I absolutely adored the Chicken Curry Rice ($18). Our server highly recommended this, and I definitely understand why. The dish features fluffy Hom Mali rice topped with prawn-coconut floss, chicken skin crumbles, and chives, accompanied by a fragrant pour of Hainanese curry and a side of crispy chicken thigh.

While I wished they were more generous with the curry, it still won me. The curry was mildly coconutty yet flavorful, with a delightful lingering spice.

Cold Bee Hoon 4/5

The Cold Bee Hoon ($7) reminded us of cold-tossed somen. It used rice vermicelli, shallot oil, shio kombu, sakura ebi and chives. While the flavours were present, I found it too moist as a whole.

Ice Cream Sandwich 3.8/5

Among the three dessert options, we decided on the Ice Cream Sandwich ($13) with black sesame parfait, coconut caramel, mushroom crumble and mint. We didn't notice that it used parfait instead of regular ice cream, and we were less of a fan of the slightly oily mouthfeel.

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.


808 Eating House
153 Joo Chiat Road
Singapore 427431
Tel: +65 8946 8089
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Dakota (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Wed-Fri: 12pm - 3pm, 5pm - 11pm
Sat-Sun: 8am - 3pm, 5pm - 11pm
(Closed on Mon and Tue)

Direction:
1) Alight at Dakota MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to bus stop at block 99 (Stop ID 81181). Take bus 33. Alight 5 stops later. Walk across the open-air carpark. Walk to destination. Journey time about 12 minutes. [Map]

The Feather Blade @ East Coast Road - Second Outlet with a Brand New Seafood Bar Alongside Store-exclusive Surf & Turf Dishes

The Feather Blade Steakhouse, renowned for its commitment to alternative cuts of beef, ventures into the East Coast with its second outlet. This new establishment introduces a seafood bar, showcasing delectable treasures from the sea, and debuts store-exclusive surf and turf dishes. In the spirit of melding the boldest flavours from the land with the sweetest offerings from the sea, The Feather Blade Steakhouse aims to provide a unique surf and turf steakhouse experience that resonates with Singaporeans' love for both steak and seafood.

Oysters 4/5

From the Seafood Bar, we indulged in Fresh Oysters from France, each pair paired with distinct accompaniments. The Salsa Taquera ($7.80/pair) offered a burst of flavours, while the Ponzu Ikura ($12/pair) elevated the oysters with a delightful zing.

Shrimp Cocktail 4/5

Another tempting creation from the seafood bar was the Shrimp Cocktail ($18.50 for 3pc). The prawns, poached to perfection and served chilled, retained their freshness and crunch. Accompanied by a sweet and tangy house cocktail sauce, it was a delightful symphony of flavours.

Scallop 4/5

Continuing our seafood experience, the Hokkaido Scallop Carpaccio ($16), served with a shiso lime glaze, the sweet scallop received a zesty finishing touch, accentuated by the briny burst of salmon roe.

White Corn 4/5

The menu includes a vegetable delight - White Corn ($8.50). Charred to perfection, the corn was remarkably sweet, with a hint of smokiness. The smoked paprika oil added a touch of spiciness, while the tarragon cream provided a creamy balance.

Aubergine 3.8/5

The Aubergine ($7.50) from Australia presented a unique pairing. While the eggplant was mild, the dish exploded with flavours from the feta cheese, miso glaze, and balsamico. Cashew nuts sprinkled on top added an extra layer of texture contrast.

Bincho Feather Blade 3.5/5

For the pièce de résistance, we savoured the Bincho Feather Blade ($28 for 200g). Grilled with a sweet and savoury house glaze over Bincotan, this signature steak might not be the most tender cut, but it compensates with a smoky richness in flavour.

Fries 4/5

Accompanying our main course was the Triple Cooked Wagyu Beef Fat Fries ($7.90). Crispy, fluffy, and imbued with the fragrance of wagyu beef fat, these fries were a delight. The dill sour cream dip added a refreshing twist, or, for an extra indulgence, you could opt for the ikura dip.

Swordfish Sando 4.5/5

A surprising gem was the Swordfish Sando ($32). Featuring swordfish belly with smoked katsu sauce sandwiched between toasted Japanese milk bread, it played an optical illusion akin to a pork sando. However, the swordfish's taste and tenderness set it apart, making it a remarkable dish.

Pistachio Tiramisu 3/5

The dessert, Pistachio Tiramisu, was a moist creation with a creamy pool of pistachio sauce drenching it, and pistachio nuts adding a delightful texture. Unfortunately, the pistachio flavour was somewhat subdued, leaving room for improvement.

In conclusion, The Feather Blade Steakhouse's East Coast outlet has successfully brought a unique blend of land and sea to the whole experience. With its alternative cuts of beef and the addition of a seafood bar, it continues to redefine the steakhouse experience, offering a symphony of flavours that will surely resonate with steak and seafood enthusiasts alike.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


The Feather Blade | Steak & Seafood Bar
225 East Coast Road
Singapore 428922
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Dakota (CC Line), Marine Parade (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon: 530pm - 11pm
Tue-Fri: 12pm - 330pm, 530pm - 11pm
Sat-Sun: 1130am - 11pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Dakota MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to bus stop at block 99 (Stop ID 81181). Take bus number 10 or 32. Alight 7 stops later. Walk to destination. Journey time about 18 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Marine Parade MRT station. Take Exit 4. Walk to Chapel Road. Turn left onto Chapel Road. Walk down Chapel Road to East Coast Road. Cross the road at East Coast Road. Turn right and walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]

Merci Marcel @ Katong - All-day Dining of Comfort Food with a French Flair in Merci Marcel’s 4th Outlet in Singapore

Merci Marcel's 4th outlet sits in the heart of Katong, their first venture into the East. Located in Santa Grand Hotel, the casual French restaurant is decked out in a fun new colonial and contemporary interior.

Early birds will be happy to have another spot to enjoy as they open every day from 8am into the night. Diners can expect a French tapas menu alongside speciality coffee, curated cocktails and French wines.

Drinks

A centrepiece of this new outlet is the snazzy bar offering unique and vibrant selections of cocktails.

Salmon Crudo 4/5

To start, we had the Salmon Crudo ($20), which had salmon tartare on tangy pickled enoki with a dressing of cucumber gazpacho to be enjoyed with bread. I personally expected a bit more of this, but the clean flavour profile may suit if you're looking for something light.

Roasted Feta 4/5

The Roasted Feta ($16) is a decent sharing plate, with the slab of cheese served on a bed of poached pear, with slices of fresh pair, rosemary and a drizzle of honey and rosemary.

Ravioles de Royans 4.5/5

Merci Marcel's Ravioles de Royans ($20 for Small, $32 for Large) has been one of their most loved dishes since its opening. The adorable bites of French dumpling pasta are filled with Tête de Moine cheese, served with a creamy sauce and further topped with cheese florets.

It may look unassuming, but it gets more addictive with each bite. We loved how flavourful it was with the unadulterated taste of cheese, without being overwhelming.

French Mac & Cheese 4.5/5

Fans of mac & cheese got to try their rendition of French Mac & Cheese ($25). The creamy and lightly seasoned cheese macaroni is held within a buttery, flaky pastry, paired with ham chiffonnade and cheese crisps. Surprisingly, it wasn't as heavy as we thought, and we thoroughly enjoyed the variety of textures.

Marcel’s Waffle Iron Style “Croiffle” 4/5

The Marcel's Waffle Iron Style "Croiffle" ($11) was recommended by our server as her favourite on the menu for desserts. There's caramel, bananas and a scoop of vanilla ice cream to accompany the croiffle. While the combination was likeable, I preferred the croiffle to be served more warmly.

Chocolate & Whisky Pie 4.2/5

We ended our night with the Chocolate & Whisky Pie ($13). The crisp shortcrust pastry and mildly sweet yet rich chocolate filling will easily satisfy any chocolate lovers.

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.


Merci Marcel
171 East Coast Road
Singapore 428877
Tel: +65 6015 0906
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Dakota MRT (CC Line), Marine Parade (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Sat: 8am - 12midnight
Sun-Mon: 8am - 11pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Dakota MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to bus stop at block 99 (Stop ID 81181). Take bus number 10 or 32. Alight 7 stops later. Walk to destination. Journey time about 18 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Marine Parade MRT station. Take Exit 4. Walk to Sea Avenue. Turn left onto Sea Avenue. Walk down Sea Avenue to East Coast Road. Cross the road at East Coast Road. Turn right and walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]