Showing posts with label .Station: Esplanade. Show all posts
Showing posts with label .Station: Esplanade. Show all posts

Friday, May 1, 2026

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

Ladyrinth24

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.

Ladyrinth2
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.

Ladyrinth8
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.

Ladyrinth16

Ladyrinth20
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.

Ladyrinth27
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.

Ladyrinth31

Ladyrinth34
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.

Ladyrinth36
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.

Ladyrinth51
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.

Ladyrinth55
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.

Ladyrinth61
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.

Ladyrinth63

Ladyrinth69

LabyrinthIG-1

Ladyrinth73
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.

Ladyrinth80
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.

Ladyrinth90
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.

Ladyrinth84
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.

Ladyrinth93
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]

Monday, April 20, 2026

Kai Garden @ Marina Square - Celebrate 10th Anniversary with New Creations and 50% OFF Selected Dishes

Black Truffle Roasted Chicken 1

Kai Garden celebrates its 10th anniversary this year with a specially curated menu by Group Executive Chef Fung Chi Keung, showcasing both signature favourites and new creations featuring premium ingredients like crab roe and black truffle. Diners can enjoy 50% off one selected dish from the anniversary menu (with no minimum spend), making this a great time to revisit or experience the restaurant.

Steamed Crystal Dumplings w Morel Mushrooms 1

Steamed Crystal Dumplings w Morel Mushrooms 2
Steamed Crystal Dumplings w Morel Mushrooms 4/5

The Steamed Crystal Dumplings with Morel Mushrooms ($11.80) stood out for their delicate execution. The skin has a thin, almost mochi-like texture, giving it a slight chew while still feeling light. The filling is fresh and flavourful without being overpowering, allowing the earthy notes of the morel mushrooms to come through nicely.

Baked BBQ Honey Pork Pastry 1

Baked BBQ Honey Pork Pastry 2
Baked BBQ Honey Pork Pastry 4/5

A dim sum classic, the Baked BBQ Honey Pork Pastry ($9.80) delivers with its buttery, flaky crust. What I appreciated most was that the char siew filling wasn’t overly sweet, striking a nice balance that makes it easy to enjoy without feeling cloying.

Steamed Soup Dumplings w Crab Roe 2
Steamed Soup Dumplings with Crab Roe 4/5

The Steamed Soup Dumplings with Crab Roe ($12.80) may come across slightly premium, but the quality justifies it. Each dumpling is juicy, packed with umami and surprisingly not greasy. The vinegar served alongside is also worth mentioning! It’s not your typical sharp vinegar, but slightly sweet and ginger-infused, pairing beautifully with the dumplings and elevating the overall experience.

Braised Seafood Thick Soup in Stone Pot 1
Braised Seafood Thick Soup in Stone Pot 4.5/5

The Braised Seafood Thick Soup in Stone Pot ($38) is generous and indulgent, loaded with premium ingredients such as sea cucumber, fish maw, dried scallops, and even bird’s nest. It’s rich, collagen-packed and served piping hot in a stone pot, making it both comforting and luxurious. This is a classic Cantonese soup done well.

Crab Roe w Pan-Fried Hor Fun 8

Crab Roe w Pan-Fried Hor Fun 1

Crab Roe w Pan-Fried Hor Fun 6

Crab Roe w Pan-Fried Hor Fun 2
Crab Roe with Pan-Fried Hor Fun 4.5/5

Crab roe dishes seem to be having a moment, and Kai Garden’s version with Pan-Fried Hor Fun ($48) is a solid one. The rice noodles have a nice wok hei, complemented by the savoury depth of cai poh and fish sauce before being topped with a luscious crab roe sauce. I particularly liked that it’s served over a flame, keeping the sauce warm, as it can develop a slightly fishy note once cooled. Portion-wise, it’s generous and easily shareable among 3–4 diners.

Black Truffle Roasted Chicken 3

Black Truffle Roasted Chicken 2
Black Truffle Roasted Chicken 5/5

The Black Truffle Roasted Chicken ($32/half) was a pleasant surprise and a clear standout. The skin is crispy, the meat tender and juicy, and the truffle aroma is subtle. The truffle profile is not overpowering, with a slight hint of Chinese herbal notes that adds depth. A well-balanced dish that feels indulgent without being heavy.

Restaurant 2

Restaurant 1

Kai Garden’s 10th anniversary menu brings together the restaurant’s strengths, refined Cantonese classics with a touch of modern luxury through ingredients like crab roe and black truffle. While the dishes lean towards a more polished, fine-dining profile, the 50% off promotion on selected dishes makes this an especially worthwhile time to visit and try some of their highlights. If you’re planning a meal here, I’d recommend going with a group so you can try a wider variety, especially the soup, hor fun and roasted chicken.

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


Kai Garden
Marina Square
6 Raffles Boulevard
#03-128A/128B
Singapore 039594
Tel: +65 62504826
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Esplanade (CC Line), Promenade (CC, DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 1130am - 330pm, 6pm - 11pm
Sat-Sun: 11am - 4pm, 6pm - 11pm

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

2) Alight at Promenade MRT station. Take Exit A. Cross the road. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 5 minutes. [Map]


Sunday, March 22, 2026

Butcher’s Block @ Raffles Hotel Singapore - Welcomes The Season of Renewal With Spring IMUA Tasting Menu

IMG_2288

At Butcher's Block, the latest Spring IMUA tasting menu celebrates the restaurant's signature wood-fired cooking, whole animal butchery, and zero-waste philosophy. Showcasing seasonal produce alongside returning favourites, the multi-course experience is complemented by thoughtfully curated wine pairings.

IMG_2230
Big Eye Ahi Poke Tartlet

IMG_2232
Blackmore Farms Wagyu Beef Pipikaula

The meal began with the Big Eye Ahi Poke Tartlet. Crowned with premium Osetra caviar, the bite-sized snack whetted the appetite with intense savouriness and a creamy finish. Alongside were ribbons of Blackmore Farms Wagyu Beef Pipikaula, complemented by moreish Beef Fat Fried Rice that delivered deep, umami-rich notes.

IMG_2250
Grilled Green Asparagus

IMG_2254
Smoked Ahi Pâté

The next appetiser featured slices of Grilled Green Asparagus paired with lacto-fermented white asparagus. Smoky and earthy, the dish was balanced by a panna cotta at the base, made with asparagus stems, which also added a subtle creaminess to the mouthfeel. Accompanying this was a Smoked Ahi Pâté, crafted with gently smoked tuna belly. A crunchy, burnt leek churro, savoury with a hint of sweetness, formed the tart base, slathered with the pâté and topped with slices of smoked Japanese saba. Each bite delivered layers of texture and flavour, with full-bodied richness.

IMG_2268
Lomi Lomi Kombu-Cured Big Eye Ahi

The following course, Lomi Lomi Kombu-Cured Big Eye Ahi, offered a punchy, citrusy, and herbaceous flavour profile that lifted and complemented the delicately Hawaiian-cured fish.

IMG_2282
Western Plains Kalua Pork

Next came the Western Plains Kalua Pork, a colourful representation of the traditional Hawaiian dish. Rolled in savoy cabbage, the pork was succulent, carrying a bold, salty punch and a distinctive smokiness. Balancing its hearty taste were velvety sweet potato purée and luscious coconut cream, which added a gentle sweetness and rounded out the flavours.

IMG_2285

IMG_2292
Huli-Huli Dry-Aged Duck

The Huli-Huli Dry-Aged Duck is one of the restaurant's signature courses, conceptualised to showcase different parts of the Malaysia-sourced duck. For this season, the plate featured 21-day dry-aged duck breast, served alongside a duck leg foie gras terrine and a duck liver parfait tartlet topped with duck heart bushi. The level of thought and craftsmanship behind the dish was impressive. Turning the duck heart into a bushi was particularly intriguing, underscoring the restaurant's commitment to its zero-waste philosophy.

IMG_2315
Japanese Kinmedai

The next course highlighted Japanese Kinmedai, featuring a lightly grilled 3-day dry-aged fillet. It was topped with a layer of flavoursome nduja gratin made from the trimmings of the Blackmore Farms cattle that Butcher's Block brings in, and finished with a seaweed and fennel beurre blanc. The interplay of flavours was interesting, with the smoky richness of the nduja complementing the fish's heightened oceanic flavours.

IMG_2322
Blackmore Farms Full-Blood Wagyu Beef

The final main course, Blackmore Farms Full-Blood Wagyu Beef, served as a fitting finale. The dish delivered an intensely smoky Wagyu meatloaf alongside dry-aged, koji-marinated beef. Completing the plate was an indulgent potato mille-feuille fried in beef fat rendered from the same Blackmore Farms cow, tying the dish back to the restaurant's whole-animal ethos.

IMG_2335
Blooming of Spring

Blooming of Spring, a refreshing combination of compressed cucumber, cantaloupe sorbet, and Monkey's Milk, was served as a palate cleanser.

IMG_2343
Memoir

The dinner experience concluded with Memoir, a dessert inspired by the chef's personal journey. The composition brought together ponzu gelée, nori ice cream and caramel. An interesting detail about this dessert is the chef's discovery that blending nori with milk produces a flavour reminiscent of matcha, a nuance reflected in the dessert's flavour profile.

The Spring IMUA tasting menu is available from now until 30 May 2026 and is served at both lunch and dinner. For a more elevated experience, you may opt for the Dom Pérignon Prestige Pairing.

IMG_2355

Spring IMUA Tasting Menu
Lunch: S$168++ per guest
Tailored Wine Pairing: S$138++ per guest
Dinner: S$228++ per guest
Tailored Wine Pairing: S$168++ per guest
Dom Pérignon Prestige Pairing: S$408++, served for the whole table
Booking Link: https://www.sevenrooms.com/explore/butchersblock/reservations

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.


Butcher's Block
Raffles Hotel Singapore
Raffles Arcade
328 North Bridge Road
#02-02
Singapore 188719
Tel: +65 6337 1886
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: City Hall (EW, NS Line), Esplanade (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Lunch (Wed-Sat): 12pm - 230pm
Dinner (Tue-Sat): 6pm - 930pm
(Closed on Sun and Mon)

Direction:
1) Alight at City Hall MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to the junction of North Bridge Road and Bras Basah Road. Cross the road. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Esplanade MRT station. Take Exit F. Walk to Beach Road. Cross the road. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 5 minutes. [Map]

Saturday, March 21, 2026

Bulgogi Syo @ Suntec City - Limited Time Collaboration with Culinary Class Wars S2 Chef Jung

BulgogiSyoSuntec15

For a limited time, fans of Netflix's Culinary Class Wars Season 2 can experience an exciting collaboration as Chef Jung Ho-young, one of the Top 4 finalists, makes his first overseas appearance in Singapore at Bulgogi Syo. Bringing dishes straight from the show to the table, the exclusive menu also features signatures from his popular Udon Caden, offering diners a rare taste of his culinary repertoire beyond Japan.

BulgogiSyoSuntec2

BulgogiSyoSuntec7
Monkfish Liver Chawanmushi 4/5

The Monkfish Liver Chawanmushi ($10.90) is undoubtedly the most anticipated dish on the menu and one of the most talked-about creations from the show. Having witnessed Chef Jung butcher a whole monkfish during the launch event, just as seen on screen, adds to the appreciation of the dish. The flesh is charcoal-grilled with soy-based seasoning, while the liver, often dubbed the "foie gras of the sea," is braised with a kombu-infused soy glaze. These are then combined into a silky steamed egg custard, finished with yuzu skin and a hint of wasabi. While the custard is smooth and flavourful, the slight bitterness from the yuzu peel and the presence of wasabi may not appeal to everyone.

BulgogiSyoSuntec11

BulgogiSyoSuntec13
Crispy Prawn Croquette 3/5

From Udon Caden, the Creamy Prawn Croquette with Sesame Sauce ($12.90 for 2pc) delights with its crisp exterior and creamy, oozy interior reminiscent of corn cream soup. Each bite reveals juicy prawn chunks, while the accompanying house-made roasted sesame sauce adds a nutty depth that ties the dish together beautifully.

BulgogiSyoSuntec16

BulgogiSyoSuntec19
Grilled Sea Eel with Lotus Root Manju 3/5

Another highlight from Culinary Class Wars Season 2 is the Grilled Sea Eel Renkon Manju with Crab Sauce ($39.90). The eel is braised on one side and grilled on the other, resulting in a delicate yet flavourful finish. It is paired with a renkon manju, a lotus root pastry made from finely shredded lotus root, chilled and fried, and served in a luscious crab broth with sweet crab meat and a subtle ginger aroma. Accompaniments include kimchi salad, pickled radish and sotbap rice furikake. However, the eel contains many fine bones, making it less suitable for children. The lotus root manju, while unique, leans towards a soft and creamy texture that may feel somewhat one-dimensional. Diners can opt for the Grilled Codfish Renkon Manju with Crab Sauce ($29.90) as a more approachable alternative.

BulgogiSyoSuntec22
Yakibuta Skewer 3/5

BulgogiSyoSuntec24
Signature Beef Curry Udon 3.5/5

The Signature Beef Curry Udon ($19.90) is a comforting staple from Udon Caden. The udon noodles are chewy and springy, paired with a silky, mildly spiced curry filled with tender beef cubes and soft potatoes. For an additional $3, diners can add a Yakibuta Skewer, smoky, juicy pork belly glazed with caramelised shoyu tare. While the pork is well-executed, the leek pieces could be smaller for a more balanced bite.

BulgogiSyoSuntec28
Citrus-Soy Grilled Cod 3.5/5

The Citrus-Soy Grilled Cod Fish ($25.90) highlights the fish's natural sweetness. Lightly grilled and glazed with a dashi soy lemon sauce, the cod develops a caramelised exterior while remaining buttery and moist inside. Served alongside mushrooms, lotus root and vegetables, it makes for a wholesome and satisfying dish.

In all, this limited-time collaboration at Bulgogi Syo offers a unique opportunity to taste Chef Jung Ho-young's creations beyond Jeju Island. While not every dish may appeal to all palates, the experience of enjoying dishes inspired by Culinary Class Wars, brought to life by the chef himself, makes it a worthwhile visit for fans and food enthusiasts alike.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Bulgogi Syo
Suntec City
3 Temasek Boulevard
#B1-133
Singapore 038983
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Esplanade (CC Line), Promenade (CC, DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 10pm

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]