LINO @ Binjai Park - Indulge in New Weekend Brunch with Free Flow Starters, Pizzas, Pastas and Desserts

Casual Italian restaurant LINO has launched its new Weekend Brunch at its Binjai Park outlet.

Weekend Brunch 3/5

Priced at $68 per pax, the brunch includes free-flow starters, pasta, pizza, and desserts, along with a choice of one main per diner. It also comes with coffee or tea, or you can opt for free-flowing prosecco with a $38 top-up per pax. Available every Saturday and Sunday for lunch only, excluding the eve of and actual public holidays, as well as festive periods.

Canadian Oysters

There are five starters in total. We began with fresh, briny Canadian Oysters, topped with a refreshing blood orange granita. This is limited to six pieces per person, with additional orders available at $10 for three.

LINO’s Egg Benedict

Next, the LINO’s Egg Benedict arrived, featuring a base of housemade fried dough, smoked bacon, a poached egg and hollandaise, alongside arugula with grated parmesan. We enjoyed the warm, crunchy dough and the savoury combination of flavours.

Smoked Salmon

The Smoked Salmon came with herb ricotta on crisp sourdough toast, topped with slices of hard-boiled egg. It was simple yet satisfying.

Gnocco Fritto

Each serving of Gnocco Fritto came as a pair of crisp pillows filled with parmesan cream and topped with a slice of prosciutto.

Italian Chopped Salad

For a lighter option, the Italian Chopped Salad offers a crunchy mix of romaine lettuce, Japanese cucumber, salami and more, dressed in a slightly creamy house dressing.

Vannamei Prawns Spaghetti

The pastas fell short for us. While the Vannamei Prawns Spaghetti featured fresh, sweet prawns, the tomato-based sauce leaned too sweet and acidic for our preference.

Vongole Linguine

The Vongole Linguine fared slightly better, though we wished the natural briny sweetness of the clams were more pronounced.

Lamb Spare Rib

Each diner gets to choose one main. We went with the Lamb Spare Rib, featuring a rack of slow-cooked Australian lamb served with sweet peas and potato cubes in a honey mustard sauce. The meat was tender, though much fattier than we would have liked. Other mains include Red Snapper, Pork Sausage and the popular Angus Beef Striploin.

Pancetta

For pizza, the Pancetta is a nice pick if you enjoy pesto. It features a basil pesto base topped with potatoes, Swiss smoked farmer bacon, mozzarella, Parmigiano Reggiano and an oozy egg. The crust is thin with a slight chew. Other options include Salame Picante, Margherita and Mixed Mushrooms.

Panna Cotta

For desserts, we tried one of each option. The Panna Cotta was smooth and jiggly, topped with honey, raspberry coulis and walnuts.

Cheesecake

The Cheesecake came with hazelnut crumble and raspberry coulis on the side.

Lemon Sorbet

Lastly, there is a selection of gelato and sorbetto in flavours such as vanilla, chocolate, strawberry and lemon. We opted for the tangy Lemon Sorbet, which made for a refreshing end to the meal.

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.


LINO
7 Binjai Park
Singapore 589821
Tel: +65 9738 0891
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Nearest MRT: King Albert Park (DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 12pm - 2.15pm, 5.30pm - 9.30pm

Direction:
1) Alight at King Albert Park MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk down Dunearn Road to Binjai Park Road. Turn left onto Binjau Park Road. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 6 minutes. [Map]

Myung Ga (명가) II Korean BBQ @ Bukit Timah Plaza - A Go-To Spot for Korean Comfort Food

Myung Ga (명가) II at Bukit Timah Plaza is a beloved Korean eatery known for its generous portions, comforting home-style dishes, and authentic flavours that bring a taste of Korea closer to home. While the restaurant's name includes "Korean BBQ," many regulars return for its extensive range of traditional Korean dishes — from hearty stews and noodles to well-executed grilled items and classic comfort food.

Banchan 4/5

Before our mains arrived, we were served a selection of complimentary banchan, which is refillable. These side dishes help set the tone for the meal and complement the mains' bold flavours nicely.

Jaeyuk Dupbap - Spicy Stir-Fried Pork Belly 4.5/5

The Jaeyuk Dupbap ($20) features tender pork belly slices stir-fried in a robust gochujang-based sauce. The flavours are well-balanced — sweet, spicy, and deeply savoury without being overly cloying. Portions are generous, and the dish is served with a bowl of rice, making it perfect for pairing with the intensely flavoured pork belly.

Haemul Sundubu - Seafood Soft Tofu Stew 4.5/5

Served piping hot, the Haemul Sundubu ($18) is comforting and hearty. The soft tofu is incredibly silky, almost melting in the mouth, while the stew is packed with rich seafood flavours that enhance the spicy base broth. A satisfying choice, especially for those who enjoy bold and warming Korean stews.

Altang - Spicy Fish Roe Stew 4.2/5

For the more adventurous diner, the Altang ($25) is a standout. This spicy fish roe stew is loaded with fish roe and milt, ingredients not commonly found on menus in Singapore. As a fan of fish roe and milt, this was a pleasant surprise and a dish that showcases the restaurant's commitment to authentic Korean flavours.

Haemul Buchu Jeon - Seafood Pancake 4/5

Another delightful dish is the Haemul Buchu Jeon ($22). The seafood pancake is crispy on the outside while remaining fluffy on the inside. Each bite is savoury and satisfying, especially when dipped into the accompanying sauce, which beautifully brings the flavours together.

Overall, Myung Ga (명가) II delivers comforting Korean fare with generous portions and authentic flavours, making it a reliable spot for both casual meals and hearty Korean cravings.


Myung Ga (명가) II Korean BBQ
Bukit Timah Plaza
1 Jalan Anak Bukit
#B1-55
Singapore 588996
Tel: +65 6469 5123
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Nearest MRT: King Albert Park (DT Line), Beauty World (DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Sun: 1130am - 330pm, 530pm - 830pm
(Closed on Mon)

Direction:
1) Alight at King Albert Park MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn left and walk down Bukit Timah Road. Cross the road at the traffic junction of Bukit Timah Road and Clementi Road. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 8 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Beauty World MRT station. Take Exit C. Walk to the traffic junction of Upper Bukit Timah Road and Jalan Jurong Kechil. Cross the road at the traffic junction. Turn right onto Upper Bukit Timah Road. Walk down Upper Bukit Timah Road. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 8 minutes. [Map]

La Pizzaiola @ Sime Darby Centre (Dunearn Road) - Authentic Italian Pizza-maker Launches New Menu Of Fresh Flavours

Since reopening in 2012, La Pizzaiola has grown to 3 outlets strong, in King Albert Park, Jalan Riang and Kalidasa. It's been most known for dishing out homely authentic Italian classics such as wood-fired pizzas baked in a traditional oven crafted in Italy.

This time, it's ready to welcome diners with its brand new menu of fresh flavours, including new salads, appetisers and pasta. Alongside the new launch, enjoy free-flow filtered sparkling, still water at $1 and wine as low as $7.

Focaccia Aglio, Burro e Mozzarella 4/5

Served as our first appetiser, the warm and toasty Focaccia Aglio, Burro e Mozzarella ($16.90) was the perfect start. The freshly baked focaccia bread is lined with chopped garlic, butter and Mozzarella Fior di Latte. The subtle aroma of garlic with oozy mozzarella worked wonderfully together. My only gripe, I wished they had added more mozzarella near the ends of the focaccia!

Sardine Fritte 4/5

In a portion of Sardine Fritte ($20.90), you have four pieces of deep-fried breaded fresh sardines with a side of salad. The thickness of the batter was just nice with tender sardine meat.

Porchetta Salad 4/5

The last of our appetisers was the Porchetta Salad ($19.90). On thinly sliced roasted pork belly dressed with mustard honey sauce, it's further topped with tomatoes, rocket salad and balsamic vinaigrette.

Pancetta Affumicata e Funghi 4.2/5

Moving on to the wood-fired pizzas. The first on our table was the Pancetta Affumicata e Funghi ($23.90), which also ended up as our favourite dish of the night. Their pizza base was thin with a slight chew on its crust. The slices of crispy bacon gave a nice saltiness to the red onions, mushrooms and Mozzarella Flor di Latte.

Calzone 3.5/5

We were a little disappointed to cut open to a watery Calzone ($22.90). I wished they had used a thicker and punchier tomato sauce to better contrast the other fillings of cooked ham, button mushrooms and Mozzarella Flor di Latte.

La Pizzaiola Speciale 3.5/5

My dining companions sang praises of the La Pizzaiola Speciale ($27.90), which had toppings of roast beef slices, shaved parmesan, arugula salad, truffle oil and Mozzarella Flor di Latte. However, they shared the same sentiments about the tomato sauce used here.

Risotto ai Funghi Porcini e Tartufo 3.8/5

The Risotto ai Funghi Porcini e Tartufo ($26.90) is risotto with porcini mushrooms and truffle oil. Unfortunately, the earthy mushrooms we expected to be prominent didn't come through, as the cheesy flavours dominated it more.

Pollo Biologico alla Diavola 3.8/5

La Pizzaiola's Pollo Biologico alla Diavola ($33.90) features roasted organic spring chicken marinated with Italian herbs and spices, served with roasted potatoes and rocket leaves. Some parts of the chicken were tough, but the rest were primarily tender with crisp skin. The herbs and spices are very strong here, something good to note if you're not a fan of such flavours.

Panna Cotta 3.8/5

Unfortunately, the Panna Cotta ($10.90) was a tad too watered down, though we enjoyed the tangy sweet berry sauce.

Tiramisu 4/5

La Pizzaiola’s rendition of the Tiramisu ($11.90) was lovely. It wasn’t overly creamy and had a distinct kick of coffee and alcohol notes.

Creme Brulee 4/5

Our unanimous favourite of the desserts was the Creme Brulee ($12.90), which had a rich custard base and a thin and crisp caramelised layer on top.

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.



La Pizzaiola
Link@896
896 Dunearn Road
#01-10
Singapore 589472
Tel: +65 64848896
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Nearest MRT: King Albert Park (DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 230pm, 530pm - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at King Albert Park. Take Exit B around the road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Gaijin @ KAP Residences Mall - Fuss-Free Japanese Soul Food

Gaijin is a casual two-storey Japanese restaurant in King Albert Park Mall, offering staples such as ramen, udon, and donburi. Where food choices are somewhat limited in the neighbourhood, among the residents and office crowd in the vicinity, Gaijin is quickly becoming a place known for its quality yet affordable Japanese comfort food.

Gaijin Karaage 3.8/5

Gaijin has a secret weapon to ensure that all its fried items are moist and succulent - that is Dr Fry. Thanks to its unique physical water molecule control technology, your fried food will stay succulent and crispy for a longer period of time, even with a reduction in the absorption of oil. The results were evident in my Gaijin Karaage ($8 for 3pc or $12 for 5 pc). These chicken thigh chunks had a light brown skin that was thin and crispy. There was a good portion of the nicely flavoured meat in every bite, rather than a mouthful of greasy fried skin and fats.

Katsu Curry Don 3.5/5

Likewise, for the Katsu Curry Don ($15), the Hokkaido Shiro Buta (snow pork) was moist and juicy with a thin, crispy skin. Given the serving size of the tonkatsu, this is quite value-for-money. However, the curry can be better. It combines the flavour profiles of two Japanese curry styles - one that’s more savoury and one that’s sweet and fruity. Although butter was added to it to bring out the flavours of the spices, I feel it wasn't as robust as I had expected it to be.

Gyudon 3.8/5

Hence, Gyudon ($14) satisfied me much more with its thinly-sliced premium Angus beef, which is chosen for its higher fat percentage. The longer these beef slices sit on your rice, the more the fats will melt into the rice underneath. The combination of the melted fats, the housemade yakiniku sauce and the juice from the sliced welsh onions made the rice really flavourful. Thus, it will take minimal effort to wipe this bowl clean.

Ebi Tempura Udon 3.5/5

The menu also covers staples such as udon and ramen. Ebi Tempura Udon ($13) uses Inaniwa udon which is relatively thinner and smoother, and its extra chewy texture works well in both cold and hot broth. The Ebi Tempura Udon serves the udon in a light dashi-based broth. The broth tasted a tad salty when I had it alone with the udon, but its higher salt content made it just right as a sauce for the accompanying tempura. The tempura set includes two black tiger prawns and assorted vegetables of the day.

Shio Tonkotsu Ramen with Kara Chilli Paste 3.5/5

It is rare to find a casual dining place that serves up decent ramen, and the Shio Tonkotsu Ramen ($12) did well with the addition of its homemade Special “Kara” chilli paste ($1). Despite the layer of homemade black garlic oil and pork fat oil floating on top of the broth, this salt-seasoned tonkotsu broth felt light on the palate after I mixed everything in, including the homemade shrimp-based chilli paste. The chilli paste provides more than just heat to the dish. A dollop of it adds depths of flavours into the broth. You will have the options from level one “mild spiciness” to level three “hot”. I reckon you can just go for level three ''hot''.

Meant to be wallet-friendly, Gaijin offers sake from Saito, Nanbubijin and more from $18 to $35 to complete the dining experience.

Words and photos 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.


Gaijin
KAP Residences Mall
9 King Albert Park
#01-40
Singapore 598332
Tel:+65 69040400
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Nearest MRT: King Albert Park (DT Line)

Opening hours:
Mon - Fri: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm - 9pm
Sat - Sun: 12pm - 9pm

Direction: 
1) Alight at King Albert Park MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to bus stop at The Sterling (Stop ID 42051). Take any bus alight next stop. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at King Albert Park MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to Bukit Timah Road. Turn left and walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]

Royal Thai Boat Noodles & Bar @ King Albert Park - Authentic Thai Food In Bukit Timah Area

I used to hang out at King Albert Park McDonald during my study at Ngee Ann Polytechnic. In fact there was some sentiment when the building which the Mcdonald was located was tore down for the now KAP residences. The new building has retail and F&B establishments on the first and second floor while the upper levels are for residential.

Mango Salad 4/5

For starter, we tried the Mango Salad ($7) which I though the portion was slightly small for the price. Putting that aside, the flavours are spot on where I can taste the characteristic of sweet, spicy and sour in Thai cuisine. Moreover, the crunchy mango and nutty peanut provided the additional textures for the salad.

Boat Noodles Pork/Beef 4.5/5

A common street food in Thailand is the Thai Boat Noodles ($3.90/$6.90). Diners have the choice of either pork of beef as well as the type of noodles here. The bowl of beef boat noodles comes in a rich and robust soup that is packed with flavours. I like it spicy so I added some chilli flakes into it for the heat and shiokness. The beef slices were tender and the beef meatballs were bouncy too. This is indeed a bowl of slurping goodness, worth me breaking out in sweat.

Hot Basil Rice with Pork $7.50

The other item we ordered is the Hot Basil Rice with Pork ($7.50). I add an addition fried egg for a dollar. Diners can also choose for chicken or beef too. For beef it is a dollar more. While the flavour again meets the mark, I think the portion needs to be fine tuned. Unless I am a rice bucket, I would appreciate the rice to be lesser which I think it probably took up 70% of the plate while the basil pork makes up the rest.

Overall I have enjoyed the food at Royal Thai Boat Noodles & Bar. The dishes I tried are really very authentic. The restaurant itself is also cozy and spacious. Service can be a little bit slow but I can't blame them, they are probably short of manpower. Last but not least, I hope they can look into their portioning, to make it more value for money to their customers.


Royal Thai Boat Noodles & Bar
9 King Albert Park
#01-01/02
Singapore 598332
Tel: +65 86989258
Facebook
Website
Nearest MRT: King Albert Park (DT line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 11am - 3pm, 5pm - 10pm
Sat-Sun: 11am - 11pm

Direction: 
1) Alight at King Albert Park MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk down Bukit Timah Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]