sen-ryo @ Suntec City - Popular Japanese Restaurant at Ion Orchard Opens 2nd Outlet Offering Exclusive Items

sen-ryo has recently opened its second outlet in Suntec City. While the brand continues to deliver the brand's philosophy of 'affordable luxury' with a menu much similar to its outlet at Ion, you may look forward to outlet-exclusive platters, draft sake – a rare offering – as well as new set lunches from just $15.80.

Appetiser Platter 4/5

We started our dinner with the outlet-exclusive sen-ryo Appetiser Platter ($26.80). Aesthetically pleasing with 4 seasonal creations. My favourite is the mouth-watering Wagyu Sando. The rich and savoury beef notes against the sweet buttery notes of the brioche are deeply satisfying. The Monaka-Negitoro with Bafun Uni sandwiched between 2 crisp wafers was also a delightful treat. Hyogo Oyster with Ikura will definitely excite oyster fans, but for the Spicy Tuna in Black Sesame Cone, I feel it can do more with more tuna for a better mouthfeel.

Bamboo Shoots 4.5/5 (Tasing Portion)

Tsubugai Wasabi 4/5 (Tasting Portion)

This new outlet is also specially designed to be a space for a great drinking experience, both in the interior and the menu, offering a lineup of new appetisers. Slow-cooked Bamboo Shoots ($19.80), simmered in shoyu and bonito, allowed me to enjoy the beauty of both its mildly sweet-earthy flavour and crunchy texture. Using Ice Plant, Tsubugai Wasabi ($16.80) plays on the crunch element as well, with the zest of Wasabi Root to bring a kick to its neutral flavours.

Abalone Sashimi 5/5

Ankimo Ponzu 5/5

Abalone Sashimi ($20.80) features green-lipped abalone aged for three days after steaming and marinated in shoyu. Every bite released its beautiful intricate flavours accentuated by the whole process. What intrigued me the most was the Ankimo Ponzu (monkfish liver) ($19.80). It's neither fishy nor liver-y, and I love its melt-in-your-mouth texture that spreads its deliciousness into my mouth.

Signature Sushi Platter 4/5

The outlet-exclusive sen-ryo Signature Sushi Platter ($68) was a feast for my senses, with various crafted sushi on the platter. The huge and plump Hotate topped with Seaweed jam and shredded fried leek was one of the first that caught my eye, followed by the jumbo-sized Salmon and Anago sushi. Others include sweet Botan Ebi, melt-in-your-mouth Otoro, Uni, Ika, Negitoro, Akami, Ikura, and Madai (sea bream). Sen-ryo's signature Tamagoyaki provided a sweet note to this platter.

Maguro Sashimi Trio Don 3/5

Tuna continues to the star offering in Sen-ryo. One of the popular items is the Maguro Sashimi Trio Don ($32), offering tuna sashimi with varying degrees of fattiness, paired with a fragrant bed of Koshihikari rice from Aomori Prefecture. Given the taste and the varieties offered, I enjoyed the Sushi Platter more.

Kaki Soy Nabe 2.5/5

A new addition to the Mains is Kaki Soy Nabe ($38.80), which features fresh Hyogo oysters. While the oysters looked enticing, the soy broth disappoints with a thin consistency.

Complementing the mains was a refreshing Kaisen Sashimi Salad ($17.80) that delivered a harmony of varying bites and textures lent by the Ice Plant and sashimi, with a welcoming touch of sweetness from the corn.

Premium Sashimi Platter 4.5/5 (Tasting Portion)

The Premium Sashimi Platter ($26.20) offers a premium cut of sashimi, mainly the belly portion, such as Salmon Belly and Otoro.

Peach Sorbet 3.8/5

Watermelon Sorbet 3.8/5

Our desserts were so cute! We had Peach Sorbet, and Watermelon Sorbet contained within the fruit itself. They were on the sweeter side, but they paired well with the draft sake that we had. Rumiko Kinmoto Tokubetsu Junmaishu Kijioshu, being full-bodied and strong, was recommended for dessert pairing. This premium sake is outlet-exclusive as well.

As mentioned, Sen-ryo at Suntec City amps up the dining experience with the inclusion of KEG Draft into its beverage offerings. You can choose from a menu of diverse and exquisite flavour profiles, which includes the SENSUKE KEGDRAFT Special Junmai, an elegant, unfiltered sake renowned for its melon and muscat aroma. Selections will change according to availability. You may approach the staff for personalised recommendations to accompany your meal.

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.


sen-ryo
Suntec City Mall
Tower 5
5 Temasek Boulevard
#01-434
Singapore 038985
Tel: +65 6957 7978
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Nearest MRT: Esplanade (CC Line), Promenade (CC, DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Esplanade MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Promenade MRT station. Take Exit C. Walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]

Peach Blossoms @ PARKROYAL COLLECTION Marina Bay - Discover The Evolution of Modern Chinese Cuisine by Chef Edward Chong

Peach Blossoms at PARKROYAL COLLECTION Marina Bay, under the guidance of Chef Edward Chong, has elevated Chinese cuisine to a whole new level with his innovative interpretations and exquisite presentation, earning the respect and admiration of diners.

Deep-fried 'Cigar' Roll 5/5

The dish that has been making waves on everyone's social media feeds is the Deep-fried 'Cigar' Roll. It arrives in a cigar box, and the presentation is akin to a cigar. It is a clever twist on the traditional Chinese crispy duck spring roll. The cigar is essentially a crispy roll enveloping freshly peeled snow crab, prawn mousse, foie gras, and black truffle. It is accompanied by Beijing duck sauce and Japanese sesame sauce, adding a delightful fusion of flavours.

Double-boiled Soup 4.5/5

An exceptional Double-boiled Soup is created from fresh Jeju abalone and free-range chicken. It features a rare and precious ingredient - the Sarcodon Imbricatus wild edible mushroom from China, which is known for its rich nutrients, tender flesh, and unique aroma.

Applewood-smoked Iberico Pork Belly 4.2/5

Inspired by Stephen Chow's iconic movie dish, "黯然销魂饭" (Sorrowful Rice), this creation is a deconstructed masterpiece. It includes tenderized and marinated Pork Belly slow-roasted over binchotan charcoal and smoked with applewood for a delightful fragrance. The dish is garnished with a quail egg and substitutes traditional rice with a golden, thin, crisp rice wafer.

Steamed Carrot Cake 4.5/5

The Steamed Carrot Cake, enhanced with Boston Lobster, Shiso Leaf, and Aromatic Lemongrass Sauce, is an off-menu creation that adds a luxurious and inventive twist to a traditional dish. The in-house "gan xiang" sauce elevates the silky-smooth, flavorful steamed carrot cake, complemented by charcoal-grilled Boston lobster.

Crab Roe Collagen Braised Mung Bean Noodles 5/5

My favourite from the evening is the Crab Roe Collagen Braised Mung Bean Noodles. This dish celebrates the rich flavours of crab in two delightful ways. First, there's the freshness and natural sweetness of the crab, showcased through a massive claw. Second, a seafood paste, skillfully created from crab meat, prawns, and water chestnut, coats the chewy mung bean noodles in a flavorful broth. The dish is enhanced by vinegar pearls, reminiscent of the Shanghainese tradition of savouring crab with drizzles of vinegar. And it doesn't end there – the dish is further enriched by a generous shaving of housemade crab roe, meticulously derived from seven female crabs, marinated with ten years hua diao wine, blended and slow-baked for two hours.

Chilled Peach Resin served in Philibon French Charentals Melon 4.5/5

Chilled Peach Resin, served in a Philibon French Charentals Melon, is an elegant and refreshing dessert. A cold melon soup blended with Hokkaido milk is poured into a half-carved melon, accompanied by melon balls and collagen-rich peach resin. Even the desserts at Peach Blossoms are executed with finesse.

Sweet Cart of Treasures 4.2/5

Dessert gets a unique twist with a Dessert Trolley, cleverly served from a dim sum cart. This delightful trolley offers a range of Chinese sweet treats, including Durian Sandwich, classic White Sugar Sponge Cake, fragrant Jasmine Tea Mousse, Taro Lava Puff, and delectable Salted Egg Yolk Lava Puff. Chef Edward's sweet offerings are an exquisite way to conclude a remarkable dining experience at Peach Blossoms.

Peach Blossoms at PARKROYAL COLLECTION Marina Bay offers innovative modern Chinese cuisine under Chef Edward Chong's guidance. Signature dishes include the Deep-fried 'Cigar' Roll and Double-boiled Abalone Soup with Sarcodon Imbricatus. The Applewood-smoked Iberico Pork Belly and Steamed Carrot Cake are inventive highlights. The Crab Roe Collagen Braised Mung Bean Noodles and Chilled Peach Resin in Melon are truly exceptional. A unique dessert trolley adds a delightful touch to the experience. Chef Edward's creative interpretations shine throughout the menu.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Peach Blossoms
PARKROYAL COLLECTION Marina Bay
Level 5
6 Raffles Boulevard
Singapore 039594
Tel: +65 68451118
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Nearest MRT: Esplanade (CC Line), Promenade (CC, DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 12pm - 3pm, 630pm - 1030pm
Sat-Sun: 11am - 3pm, 630pm - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Esplanade MRT station. Take Exit B. Turn right and walk down Raffles Boulevard. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Promenade MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk down Raffles Boulevard. Cross the road at Millenia Walk or Marina Square. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

TEMPT Gastrobar @ Purvis Street - 5-Sensory Gastrobar to Tantalise Your Taste Buds

TEMPT at Purvis Street is a captivating gastrobar that skillfully blends cross-culture cuisine, thanks to the talented Chef-owner Candice Leong, also known as The Gluttonous Temptress. With a focus on merging traditional techniques and modern preparation methods, TEMPT creates a delectable culinary journey that embraces the best of both worlds.

The ambience at TEMPT is nothing short of alluring, with a sultry and mischievous vibe that teases the senses. As you step in, French jazz and deep house tunes from Candice's personal playlist set the mood, creating a symphony that beautifully complements and contrasts the raw, exposed industrial interior. Located within a stunning 1893 heritage two-storey shophouse at 31 Purvis Street, TEMPT effortlessly blends historical charm with contemporary grittiness, making it a unique and delightful dining destination.

Schexy Schmalz & Churned Konbu Butter with sourdough 3.5/5

Our gastronomic adventure began with Sourdough ($16) paired with TEMPT's Schexy Schmalz, a homemade rendered pork lard with crackling and Churned Konbu Butter. Sinfully delicious, the rendered pork lard perfectly complemented the sourdough, creating a delightful indulgence.

Hokkaido Scallop Carpaccio 4/5

Next up was the Hokkaido Scallop Carpaccio ($24), accompanied by a scoop of wasabi-creme fraiche gelato and a shio koji nagaimo-jalapeno-caper salsa. The dish was light, refreshing, and expertly balanced to bring out the sweetness of the scallop.

Kangaroo Tartare 3.8/5

The Kangaroo Tartare ($28) was a standout option for those seeking an adventurous palate. The rich and intense kangaroo meat, balanced with toasted quinoa, pickled yellow beets, and shoyu garlic puree, provided an explosion of flavours that pleasantly surprised the taste buds.

Oxtail Croquettes 4/5

The Oxtail Croquettes ($18 for 3pc) were a delightful treat, boasting a crispy breadcrumb coat and a tender and flavorful oxtail meat interior. Paired with laksa leaf chimichurri, the croquettes were a harmonious blend of texture and taste.

Puffed Beef Tendons 4.2/5

The Puffed Beef Tendons ($24 for 3pc), topped with Jamon Iberico and Kaluga caviar, were a crispy delight that perfectly combined textures and flavours, offering a delightful treat for the palate.

5-Ingredient Creamy Lobster Broth 4.2/5

The 5-Ingredient Creamy Lobster Broth ($22) was a rich and intensely flavoured delight, enhanced by the aroma of curry leaves and served with lobster carpaccio (+$16), making it a must-try dish on the menu.

Gnaughty Gnudi 4.2/5

Gnaughty Gnudi ($24), gnocchi-like dumplings made with ricotta cheese and incorporating Ku Chye (garlic chives) and spinach, were a unique and pillowy-textured delight. The sage butter, semolina sauce and grated parmigiano beautifully complemented the dish.

Venison Loin 4/5

The Venison Loin ($38), cooked to a perfect pink, was paired with charred mustard greens and in-house fermented ume plum. While some found the venison slightly gamey, I enjoyed its flavour, especially when paired with the fruity notes of the fermented ume plum.

Coquelet 4.2/5

The Coquelet ($42), a whole French baby chicken deboned and stuffed with sticky rice and chestnut, showcased a fusion of Western and Asian influences. With sides like jamon and edamame, the dish was a delightful marriage of flavours.

Deep-fried  Baby Corn in Husk 2.8/5

The Deep-fried Baby Corn in Husk ($18 for 5pc), charred and crunchy, paired with konbu caramelized cream, was a visual and textural delight, even though I personally preferred sweeter corn.

Tempt's Adult "Bounty" Bar 4.2/5

To end the meal on a sweet note, we savoured Tempt's Adult "Bounty" Bar ($16), an enticing treat made with coconut cream and Malibu coconut liqueur encased in a dark chocolate shell. The dessert was like a heavenly ice cream encased in a divine dark coconut shell.

Overall, TEMPT's culinary experience was a journey of creativity and flavours, artfully curated by Chef Candice Leong. The innovative cross-cultural dishes showcased a perfect balance between authenticity and modernity, making TEMPT a captivating destination for food enthusiasts seeking a unique and memorable dining experience.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


TEMPT Gastrobar
31 Purvis Street
Singapore 188608
Tel: +65 8299 7382
Instagram
Nearest MRT: Esplanade (CC Line), Bugis (DT, EW Line), City Hall (EW, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Thu, Sat: 5.30pm - 12midnight
Fri: 12pm - 3pm, 5.30pm - 12midnight

Direction:
1) Alight at Esplanade MRT station. Take Exit G. Walk to traffic junction of Bras Basah Road and Beach Road. Cross the road and walk down Beach Road. Turn left onto Purvis Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at City Hall MRT station. Take Exit A. Cut through Raffles City Shopping Centre to traffic junction of Bras Basah Road and North Bridge Road. Cross the road and walk down North Bridge Road. Turn right onto Purvis Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 7 minutes. [Map]

3) Alight at Bugis MRT station. Take Exit C. Cut through Bugis Junction and walk to North Bridge Road. Cross the road and walk down North Bridge Road. Turn left onto Purvis Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 7 minutes. [Map]
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Portman’s Bar @ PARKROYAL COLLECTION Marina Bay - Enjoy Wellness-themed Afternoon Tea of Delectable Treats Made With Ingredients From Urban Farm

For a limited time till 30 June 2023, Portman's Bar at PARKROYAL COLLECTION Marina Bay has launched a special Wellness-themed Afternoon Tea set. The highlight of this set is not only on how the items are served in a luxurious-looking picnic basket but that the full selection of savoury and sweet treats are made with ingredients freshly harvested from the hotel's urban farm. These include fresh herbs, edible flowers and vegetables.

At $58 per pax (min. 2 pax), you can further sweeten your afternoon with a two-hour free flow of Taittinger Champagne at $68 or Prosecco at $38.

Indeed, the environment at Portman's Bar allows a time to relax, as it is surrounded by greenery and pleasant soft music in the background.

Beverages included in the set are free-flow of their coffee and chocolate options as well as a range of TWG Teas served by the pot. You can make swaps any time throughout the dining period. Other than the coffee options, I recommend skipping the Hot/Iced Chocolate and heading straight for the reliable TWG Teas.

Homemade Carrot Scone 4/5

The first item served was the Homemade Carrot Scone, with sides of clotted cream, grated carrot and orange jam to pair.

Picnic Basket

Right after the scones, we were presented with the Picnic Basket, which had seven types of savouries and four sweets delicately placed within.

Healthy Salmon Sandwich 4/5

We went for the Healthy Salmon Sandwich with sustainable salmon, cucumber and cream cheese between wholegrain bread. The bread was soft, while the salmon was fresh and lightly salted. It was a lovely piece to start with.

Nourishing Smoked Chicken Focaccia 3.8/5

Next was the Nourishing Smoked Chicken Focaccia. The smoked chicken and grilled zucchini made a good pairing. The focaccia was soft but slightly too moist on the bottom due to the dressing.

Savoury Scallop with Tomato Salsa 4.2/5

The Savoury Scallop with Tomato Salsa was a bright palate cleanser in shot glasses. There was a base of avocado, tomato salsa, scallop, and toast. The mix of savoury and tangy sweetness was refreshing.

Zesty Prawn Tartlet 4.2/5

My dining companion’s favourite was the Zesty Prawn Tartlet. The base had a nice and firm cookie-like texture, with a surprising combination of diced prawn, mango and pomelo.

Indulgent Lobster Roll 4.5/5

Aptly named the Indulgent Lobster Roll, the chunky and sweet lobster meat was dressed in mayonnaise sauce, topped with tobiko and sandwiched between buttery and lightly toasted brioche.

Mini Pie 3.8/5

While I enjoyed the creamy and earthy filling of leek, potato and sauteed mushroom in the Mini Pie, my dining companion and I felt they could be more generous. The pastry was average, lacking a crunch and buttery fragrance.

Impossible™ Meat Puff Pastry Roll 3.8/5

Similar to the Mini Pie, the puff pastry of the Impossible™ Meat Puff Pastry Roll could be better, but we quite liked the savoury Impossible™ meat filling.

Petite Mango Passion Fruit Gateaux 4.2/5

The Petite Mango Passion Fruit Gateaux was a likeable piece comprising mango, passion fruit, and Breton almond biscuits. It was not too sweet and had tangy notes.

Harmonious Panna Cotta 3.5/5

The Harmonious Panna Cotta featured vanilla and carrot-flavoured panna cotta with a candied carrot and pistachio biscotti. Unfortunately, I was not a big fan of the watery texture and how distinct the carrot notes were.

Peanut Coconut Praline Cake 4.2/5

If you are a fan of peanuts or nutty flavours, the pebble-looking Peanut Coconut Praline Cake is the one to look out for. The cake had a peanut praline emulsion that was rich but not cloying, with a surprise lemongrass jello in the centre, all built on a coconut sponge cake.

Sweet Wagon

On top of the scones and treats above, diners of the afternoon tea can also select from the Sweet Wagon, which offers an assortment of patisseries, macaroons, pralines and cookies.

Chocolate Tart 4.2/5

I recommend giving their Chocolate Tart a try. The tart base could be a tad thinner, but I loved the chocolate filling's intensity, richness and smoothness. It was not too sweet either.

Reservations should be made via phone call +65 6845 1119 or email at portmansbar.prsmb@parkroyalcollection.com. Any special dietary requests should also be made known upon reservation.

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.


Portman’s Bar
PARKROYAL COLLECTION Marina Bay
Level 4
6 Raffles Boulevard
Singapore 039594
Tel: +65 68451119
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Esplanade (CC Line), Promenade (CC Line, DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1030am - 12midnight

Direction:
1) Alight at Esplanade MRT station. Take Exit B. Turn right and walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

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