Prego @ Fairmont Singapore - A Journey Through Campania Wine Dinner

PREGO at Fairmont Singapore recently hosted a six-course Campania wine dinner, A Journey Through Campania, featuring Mastroberardino wines and celebrating Campania's renowned wines and culinary traditions. Curated by Chef Davide, the six-course experience focused on the ingredient-driven simplicity and fresh Mediterranean seafood of Southern Italy.

Pizza Fritta

Bellavista Franciacorta Alma Gran Cuvée Brut

The evening began with a panipuri-shaped Pizza Fritta, a moreish bite of creamy Stracciatella with a savoury kick from anchovies, accented with lemon zest. It was paired with Bellavista Franciacorta Alma Gran Cuvée Brut, a premium Italian sparkling wine from Lombardy, crafted using the traditional bottle-fermented method similar to Champagne.

Panzanella di Mare

Mastro Campania Bianco IGT 2024

The main menu began with Panzanella di Mare, a classic Campania-style salad that offered an enjoyable interplay of textures, with chunky mixed Mediterranean seafood and crunchy Friselle bread. Tropea onions and baked Piennolo tomatoes brought sweetness, while celery and basil added freshness. I paired it with the bright, medium-bodied Mastro Campania Bianco IGT 2024.

La Genovese

Radici Fiano di Avellino DOCG 2019

My favourite of the evening was the following course, La Genovese, a family-style dish we learnt was born of scarcity, when adding a generous amount of onions to meat helped bulk up a meal. The eight-hour-cooked onion and beef ragu was unctuous, with sweet, jammy onions and beef that had fallen completely apart. The rigatoni was cooked just al dente, holding up well to the rich sauce. Balancing the course beautifully was Radici Fiano di Avellino DOCG 2019, a Campania white known for its crisp acidity.

Riso e Cozze

Mastro Rosso Campania IGT 2024

Next came Riso e Cozze. What stood out for me about this Carnaroli risotto was the heady black pepper and tomato 'Impepata' sauce, which accentuated the meaty black mussels. The risotto was a little undercooked for my liking, but the sauce's punchy flavours made for an on-point pairing with Mastro Rosso Campania IGT 2024.

Polpo alla Luciana

Radici Taurasi DOCG 2019

Concluding the savoury courses was a stunning Polpo alla Luciana, a traditional Neapolitan stew of octopus leg cooked in a vibrant tomato sauce, savoury and tart with a substantial amount of capers and olives. Because stewed octopus can be relatively mild, the punchy sauce gave the dish plenty of character, while creating a delicious contrast with the decadent, buttery mashed potatoes. Holding up to the richness of the dish was the bold and relatively intense Radici Taurasi DOCG 2019.

Il Babà

The sweet ending to the wine dinner was Il Babà, a traditional Babà soaked in Limoncello syrup, offering a bright, citrusy finish to the meal.

A Journey Through Campania was part of Prego’s wine dinner series held in collaboration with Mastroberardino. The six-course dinner was priced at S$138++ per person.

Photos and words by Si An. A homebody who is allured by travelling, loves the feel of freedom, the smell of the rain and the aroma of fine coffee and food.


Prego
Fairmont Singapore
80 Bras Basah Road
Level 1
Singapore 189560
Tel: +65 64316156
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Nearest MRT: City Hall (EW, NS Line), Esplanade (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Tue, Thu-Fri: 12pm - 230pm, 3pm - 1030pm
Wed: 12pm - 2pm
Sat-Sun: 1215pm - 230pm, 3pm - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at City Hall MRT Station. Take Exit A. Cut through Raffles City Shopping Centre and walk to the destination. Journey time is about 3 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Esplanade MRT Station. Take Exit G. Walk to destination. Journey time is about 3 minutes. [Map]

Linkus (临家) Singapore @ Suntec City - A Taste of Minnan Heritage in the Heart of Singapore

If you have ever found yourself craving the refined, ingredient-driven comfort of Minnan (Hokkien) cuisine without the flight to Fujian, a new culinary landmark has quietly taken root at Suntec City. Linkus (临家), a celebrated institution founded in Xiamen in 2004 with over two decades of heritage, has officially opened its first international outpost in Singapore.

Stepping away from the bustling mall corridors into the restaurant’s dark-wood, lantern-lit dining hall feels less like entering a typical mall eatery and more like being welcomed into a neighbour’s home—true to their name, “Linjia” (临家). Moving beyond the familiar local Hokkien favourites, Linkus invites diners to rediscover the roots of Minnan cuisine, which champions natural flavours over heavy seasoning. With accolades such as the “Golden Wutong” award under its belt, expectations are naturally high. Here’s how it fares.

Xiamen Tusundong Jelly 厦门土笋冻 4.2/5

Xiamen Tusundong Jelly 厦门土笋冻 ($3.50) may be a bold introduction for the uninitiated, but it is also one of the most culturally authentic offerings on the menu. A traditional chilled snack from Xiamen, Tusundong is crafted using marine sipunculid worms, commonly known as sand worms, harvested from coastal mudflats. The preparation is meticulous. The worms are thoroughly cleaned before being boiled, releasing natural collagen into the broth. Once cooled, the liquid sets into a clear, firm jelly with the worms suspended inside. The result is a visually intriguing dish with a cool, bouncy “QQ” texture. Each bite delivers a gentle crunch from the worms, reminiscent of bamboo clams, paired with a savoury, tangy dipping sauce that lifts the overall profile. Surprisingly refreshing and texturally fascinating, it is an adventurous start that pays off.

Original Flavour Native Pork Soup 临家土猪肉汤 4/5

The Original Flavour Native Pork Soup 临家土猪肉汤 ($12.90) is a seemingly simple dish, yet one that embodies the soul of Minnan cooking. This clear, unadorned soup highlights Linkus’ “farm-to-table” philosophy, using high-quality native pork (土猪肉) prized for its depth of flavour. Slow-boiled with patience, the broth emerges crystal clear yet deeply flavourful, carrying a natural sweetness that lingers on the palate. There are no heavy seasonings or embellishments; it’s just pure, honest cooking. The pork pieces are tender yet retain a pleasant bite, free from any gamey notes. It is comforting, restorative, and quietly impressive in its restraint.

Buddha Jumps Over the Wall in Original Broth with Shark Fin 佛跐墙原汤烧鱼翅 4.5/5

Buddha Jumps Over the Wall in Original Broth with Shark Fin 佛跐墙原汤烧鱼翅 ($58). Instead of the traditional, lavish medley associated with Buddha Jumps Over the Wall, Linkus presents a refined interpretation focused on the broth itself. Using the essence of the original dish as a base, the soup delivers a rich, collagen-laden depth without the full extravagance. The shark fin adds a delicate, slightly crisp texture, beautifully absorbing the luxurious broth. This approach allows diners to experience the iconic dish’s signature richness at a more accessible price point, while retaining its essence of indulgence and sophistication.

Braised Pork Wonton with Taiwan Daylily 台湾黄花菜煮肉燕 4.5/5

The Braised Pork Wonton with Taiwan Daylily 台湾黄花菜煮肉燕 ($22.90) showcases one of Fujian cuisine’s most prized delicacies — Rouyan (肉燕). Unlike conventional wontons, the wrapper here is crafted from a hand-pounded mixture of lean pork and sweet potato starch, resulting in a translucent, paper-thin skin with a distinctive “snappy” bite. The texture is silky yet resilient, offering a refined mouthfeel that sets it apart. Filled with seasoned pork and served in a light, savoury broth, the dish is further elevated by the addition of Taiwan daylily. The vegetable introduces a subtle floral sweetness and gentle crunch, balancing the richness of the meat. Each bite is layered, delicate, and deeply satisfying.

Quanzhou Mee Sua with Fritters 泉州舌尖面线糊 5/5

The Quanzhou Mee Sua with Fritters 泉州舌尖面线糊 ($19.90 Small) is arguably the heart and soul of the menu. This dish is a masterclass in comfort food. Unlike typical noodle soups, the mee sua here is simmered until it dissolves into a thick, velvety, almost porridge-like consistency. The result is a rich, starchy broth that is smooth, warming, and incredibly soothing. The addition of You Tiao (fried dough fritters) is essential—crisp on the outside yet airy inside, they soak up the broth while retaining structure. The interplay between the silky noodles and the crunchy fritters creates a deeply satisfying textural contrast. Simple in appearance but profound in execution, this is a must-order.

Hand-Picked Crab Meat with Amaranth 手剥蟹肉浸苋菜 4/5

The Hand-Picked Crab Meat with Amaranth 手剥蟹肉浸苋菜 ($25.90) exemplifies how humble ingredients can be elevated through thoughtful execution. The vibrant amaranth greens, known for their earthy sweetness and striking magenta hue, are gently simmered in a light broth. Topped with generous portions of hand-picked crab meat, the dish achieves a delicate balance between land and sea. The sweetness of the crab enhances the greens’ vegetal notes, while the broth remains light and clean, allowing both elements to shine. Nutritious, elegant, and comforting all at once.

Puff Pastry Curry Snow Beef Steak 酥皮咖喱雪花牛排 4.2/5

The Puff Pastry Curry Snow Beef Steak 酥皮咖喱雪花牛排 ($32.90) is a creative fusion that bridges Minnan sensibilities with Southeast Asian influence. This dish presents a marbled “snow beef” steak encased in a golden puff pastry. The pastry is light, flaky, and buttery, shattering delicately with each bite. Inside, the beef is tender and succulent, slow-cooked to a melt-in-the-mouth texture. Paired with an aromatic curry sauce, the dish delivers layers of flavour, from the richness of the beef to the warm spice of the curry, while maintaining a balanced profile. It is indulgent without being overwhelming.

Linkus (临家) brings something refreshingly different to Singapore’s dining scene, not just another Chinese restaurant, but a thoughtful revival of Minnan culinary heritage. Its strength lies in its restraint, allowing premium ingredients and time-honoured techniques to take centre stage. From the adventurous Tusundong Jelly to the deeply comforting Mee Sua, the menu offers both discovery and nostalgia. While some dishes may challenge the uninitiated, they ultimately reward with authenticity and depth. For those willing to explore beyond familiar flavours, Linkus offers a meaningful and memorable dining experience.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Linkus (临家) Singapore
Suntec City
3 Temasek Boulevard
#01-436
Singapore 038983
Tel: +65 8985 7888
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Nearest MRT: Promenade (CC, DT Line), Esplanade (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 230pm, 5pm - 930pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Promenade MRT station. Take Exit C. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Esplanade MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 6 minutes. [Map]

Baia @ Esplanade Mall - Rooftop Dining with Marina Bay Views and Mediterranean Fare Under $30

Baia at Esplanade Mall is a rooftop dining lounge bar by the ilLido Group. It has recently revamped its menu, introducing a refreshed lineup of Mediterranean dishes available for both lunch and dinner. The menu is thoughtfully structured, spanning bar bites, starters, mains, and desserts, with concise selections for each course. All food and cocktails are kept under $30, alongside a rotating three-course weekday lunch set ($28++), which further enhances its appeal for daytime dining.

Hamachi Tartare 4.5/5

We started with an elegantly plated Hamachi Tartare ($16), topped with salmon pearls. The dressing was vibrant and herbaceous, with acidity, and the saltiness of the ikura complemented the diced hamachi, creating a bright and tantalising start.

Duck Samosas 4.8/5

Moving on to richer flavours, we had the Duck Samosas ($18) with whipped foie gras and pistachios, as well as the Mezze Platter ($24). The duck filling in the samosas was deeply satisfying, reminiscent of a duck rillette. At the same time, the slightly funky whipped foie gras was velvety and luscious, adding depth and mouthfeel to each bite.

Mezze Platter 5/5

The Mezze Platter was particularly moreish, featuring six distinct dips — from whipped feta and avocado hummus to muhammara (roasted red pepper dip), baba ganoush, and tzatziki with olives and pickled peppers. Each component was vibrant and flavourful, making the platter highly addictive. The pita, aromatic and fluffy, is worth an additional order ($8) to fully enjoy the dips.

Pacific Halibut 3.8/5

For mains, the Pacific Halibut ($26) was served with pumpkin bisque and topped with maitake mushrooms. While the fish fillet was rather bland, the pumpkin bisque lent a subtle crustacean sweetness, while the maitake added a pleasant chew and earthy depth.

Grilled Octopus 4.5/5

The Grilled Octopus ($29) came glazed with a lip-smacking cowboy butter, a compound butter zingy with garlic, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and spices such as smoked paprika, cayenne, and chilli flakes. The octopus was well-executed with a nice char, and the addition of Brussels sprouts provided a delectable textural bite and balance to the dish.

Knickerbocker Glory 5/5

Dessert was a satisfying throwback in the form of a Knickerbocker Glory ($18). Originating in the 1920s, this classic layered ice cream sundae is traditionally served in a tall conical glass with a long spoon and is particularly popular in Great Britain and Ireland, I learnt. Baia’s version struck a nice balance of sweetness and fruitiness, layered with fresh cream, vanilla ice cream, mango, and raspberries, and topped with mini cheesecakes and macarons for an indulgent finish.

Baia offers a relaxing view of Marina Bay paired with a beautifully designed interior, making it well-suited for both daytime and evening dining. Their cocktail menu is also worth exploring, featuring a mix of familiar classics and creative house signatures.

Photos and words by Si An. A homebody who is allured by travelling, loves the feel of freedom, the smell of the rain and the aroma of fine coffee and food.


Baia
Esplanade Mall
Level 4
8 Raffles Avenue
Singapore 039802
Tel: +65 9173 8182
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Website
Nearest MRT: Esplanade (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Sun-Mon: 1130am - 12midnight
Tue-Thu: 1130am - 1am
Fri-Sat: 1130 - 2am

Direction:
1) Alight at Esplanade MRT station. Take Exit B or D. Walk to Raffles Avenue. Cross the road. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 8 minutes. [Map]

Labyrinth @ Esplanade Mall - Unveils a Thoughtfully Curated 12th Anniversary Menu Rooted in Produce and Heritage

Celebrating its 12th anniversary this April 2026, Restaurant Labyrinth continues to push the boundaries of modern Singapore cuisine under the direction of Chef Han Li Guang, alongside Chef de Cuisine Zee Chan and Senior Sous Chef James Ngoi. Building on last year’s “Singapore Cuisine without Borders”, the latest menu refines Chef Han’s minimalist philosophy — an exploration anchored on Produce, Heritage, and Minimalism. Rather than reconstructing or replicating tradition, the kitchen embraces the essence of familiar flavours, distilling them into dishes that are clean, precise, and quietly expressive.

Sup Tulang, Oxtail Mandu 4.2/5

The journey begins with Sup Tulang, Oxtail Mandu, a refined and thoughtful opener. The dish presents a clear, consommé-style broth that carries surprising depth, drawing inspiration from the robust flavours of sup tulang while incorporating a gentle tang reminiscent of beef sinigang. The acidity lifts the palate, preparing it for the courses ahead. Instead of the traditional bone, a delicate mandu encases slow-braised oxtail, its gelatinous richness balanced by the broth’s lightness. A piece of creamy marrow completes the composition, echoing the indulgence of the original dish in a far more elegant form.

Prata, Lamb, Raita 4.2/5

Next is Prata, Lamb, Raita, a playful take on the quintessential roti prata. Here, the familiar flatbread is transformed into a crisp, multi-layered pastry tower. Within, tender braised lamb is infused with warm spices, delivering a rich and aromatic bite. A luscious egg yolk crowns the dish, adding a silky element that ties together the crisp pastry and deeply flavoured filling.

Sawara, Roti Jala 4.5/5

The seafood course, Sawara, Roti Jala, draws inspiration from fish head curry. The use of Japanese sawara introduces a clean, buttery profile, allowing the fish to take centre stage. The curry, laced with tamarind, brings a balanced interplay of acidity and spice that cuts through the natural oiliness of the fish. Paired with soft, lacy roti jala, the dish evokes the comforting ritual of dipping bread into curry, elevated through refined textures and technique.

Zuwaigani Chilli Crab Pie 4.2/5

A highlight arrives in the form of Zuwaigani Chilli Crab Pie, a clever reinterpretation of Singapore’s iconic chilli crab. Encased in a thin, shatteringly crisp shell, the filling features sweet, delicate snow crab coated in a tangy chilli crab sauce with subtle notes of plum and pickle. By eliminating the need for shell-cracking and reimagining mantou as a light pastry, the dish delivers all the familiar flavours in a neat, indulgent bite.

Coffee Brioche 4.5/5

The Coffee Brioche follows, offering a warm, comforting interlude. Inspired by local coffee buns, the brioche is airy and buttery, topped with a crackly coffee-infused crust that adds a gentle sweetness and textural contrast. It serves as both a nostalgic nod and a transition into the subsequent courses.

Shima Aji, Stingless Bee Honey 4.5/5

The menu then shifts to lighter, more delicate expressions with Shima Aji and Stingless Bee Honey. Sliced sashimi-style and arranged like a blossoming flower, the Japanese striped jack is paired with a refreshing watermelon broth. The addition of stingless bee honey introduces floral and citrus notes, creating a natural dressing that enhances the fish’s clean sweetness while maintaining a refined balance.

Kabu, Pidan Quail Egg 5/5

Following that is the Kabu, Pidan Quail Egg, an elegant interpretation of century egg congee. The creamy base of kabu (turnip) offers a natural sweetness, lifted by subtle acidity from rice vinegar and mirin. The pidan-style quail egg provides a familiar umami depth, while accents of pickled ginger and Sarawak pepper add complexity and gentle spice.

Spaghettoni, Abalone 5/5

The Spaghettoni, Abalone showcases Chef Han’s mastery in reinterpretation, drawing from mee rebus. Al dente spaghettoni replaces traditional noodles, coated in a velvety, nutty gravy enriched with abalone liver. Thin slices of abalone contribute a delicate oceanic sweetness and a pleasing bite, resulting in a dish that is both comforting and refined.

Amadai, Inaniwa Somen 5/5

Equally compelling is the Amadai, Inaniwa Somen, inspired by Teochew fish soup. The broth, simmered from fish bones and enriched with a trio of Chinese wines, is deeply flavourful yet remarkably clean. The silky Inaniwa somen provides an elegant texture, while the tender amadai completes a dish that feels both soothing and sophisticated.

French Poulet, Chicken Rice Donabe 4.2/5

The main course, French Poulet, Chicken Rice Donabe, is a heartfelt tribute to Singapore’s national dish. The chicken is presented in two styles — poached breast and roasted thigh — highlighting both tenderness and depth of flavour. Beneath it lies a bed of Koshihikari and long-grain rice cooked in a donabe, infused with chicken fat, ginger, and pandan. The prized socarrat crust adds a layer of texture, making each bite deeply satisfying.

Jerusalem Artichoke, Black Truffle 5/5

Dessert begins with Jerusalem Artichoke, Black Truffle, a creative reimagining of orh nee. The use of artichoke instead of yam is surprisingly convincing, delivering a familiar earthy sweetness. Paired with artichoke chips, foam, shallot ice cream, and gingko nuts, the dish balances innovation with nostalgic flavours.

Kaya ‘Toast’ 4.5/5

The Kaya ‘Toast’ follows, presenting a visually deceptive take on the beloved breakfast staple. What appears to be toast is, in fact, a delicate meringue sandwiching housemade kaya and rich Bordier butter. It captures the essence of kaya toast while showcasing technical finesse.

Milo Dinosaur 4/5

Finally, the experience concludes with the Milo Dinosaur, a lighter, more refined rendition made with coconut water, offering a nostalgic yet refreshing finish. Petit fours of Kueh Bolu, airy with a subtle banana note, round off the meal on a gentle, comforting note.

Kueh Bolu 4.5/5

At 12 years on, Restaurant Labyrinth demonstrates a quiet confidence in its craft. This latest menu is not about dramatic reinvention, but a thoughtful distillation of Singapore’s culinary identity — where restraint, technique, and respect for heritage come together in harmonious balance.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Labyrinth
Esplanade Mall
8 Raffles Avenue
#02-23
Singapore 039802
Tel: +65 62234098
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Esplanade (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Wed-Thu: 630pm - 11pm
Fri-Sun: 12pm - 230pm, 630pm - 11pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Esplanade MRT station. Take Exit B or D. Walk to Raffles Avenue. Cross the road. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 8 minutes. [Map]