Showing posts with label .Station: Nicoll Highway. Show all posts
Showing posts with label .Station: Nicoll Highway. Show all posts

Wednesday, September 3, 2025

Bancheria @ Concourse Skyline (Beach Road) - Where Banchan Meets Tapas, First Korean X Spanish Concept in Singapore

Chorizo Tteokbokki 1

Singapore has seen its fair share of fusion concepts, but Bancheria sets itself apart as the first Korean x Spanish dining experience. Cosy yet vibrant, the restaurant is a playful stage where tapas and banchan meet, creating bold, unexpected flavour pairings. Bancheria feels both familiar and adventurous, precisely the kind of place where you'll want to bring friends to eat, drink and explore.

Signature Bancheria Banchan Platter 1
Signature Bancheria Banchan Platter 4/5

Our meal began with the show-stopping Signature Bancheria Banchan Platter ($12 per guest), a colourful spread of nine in-house banchan. Seasonal and ever-changing, the platter promises a different mix with every visit. Highlights from our visit included the crunchy pickled mustard greens, Spanish tortilla, Jeju mandarin kimchi and spicy jamón cucumber. The platter is priced per head, must be ordered by the whole table and comes with up to three refills. This makes the perfect bite over drinks.

Bancheria Mozzeralla Balls with Kimchi Tomato Jam 1
Bancheria Mozzarella Balls with Kimchi Tomato Jam 4/5

Bancheria Paaprika Fried Chicken Wings 1
Bancheria Paaprika Fried Chicken Wings 4/5

If there's one thing Bancheria does well, it's fried food. We sampled two signature tapas: Mozzarella Balls with Kimchi Tomato Jam ($7 for 3 pcs) and Paprika Fried Chicken Wings ($12 for 2 pcs). The mozzarella balls are exactly what you'd expect - hot, stretchy cheese encased in a crisp shell, but the kimchi tomato jam takes them up a notch, cutting through the richness with a tangy-sweet bite. The chicken wings were a revelation with crispy skin and juicy meat. Totally unexpected for wings to taste this good.

Bancheria Jamon Fries with Broken Egg 1

Bancheria Jamon Fries with Broken Egg 2
Bancheria Jamon Fries with Broken Egg 3.8/5

The Bancheria Jamon Fries with Broken Egg ($18) is indulgence done right, starting with the fries themselves, which are crispy, golden and easily some of the best fries I've had in a while. The creamy broken egg ties everything together, coating each fry in a rich, velvety layer. A generous snowfall of shredded cheese adds nutty depth while the jamón brings a punch of savoury-salty flavour that keeps things exciting. This is a great alternative to the usual truffle fries.

Iberico Bulgogi & Pipparas Montadito 1
Iberico Bulgogi & Pipparas Montadito 4/5

Soy Crab Salad Montadito 1
Soy Crab Salad Montadito 3/5

Next came the Montaditos, open-faced bites served on crusty bread. The Iberico Bulgogi & Piparras ($8) was an instant favourite with tender, savoury bulgogi elevated by the kick of fresh piparras peppers. The Soy Crab Salad ($8) had generous chunks of crab, which I appreciated, though my dining partner found it a touch fishy. A squeeze of lime would have brightened the flavours and brought balance.

Chorizo Tteokbokki 2

Chorizo Tteokbokki 3
Chorizo Tteokbokki 5/5

For something heartier, the Chorizo Tteokbokki ($22) is a must-order. Chewy tteokbokki (Korean rice cakes) are coated in an addictive gochujang cream, layered with broken manchego and finished with aged sherry vinegar. The dish also hides pieces of Korean fish cake for extra texture and nostalgia. It's rich, bold and utterly satisfying that we cleaned the plate in minutes. It's no surprise this is Bancheria's bestseller; it's the dish we're already craving to return for.

Hotteok with Honey 1
Hotteok with Homemade Honey Selections 3.8/5

Churros 1
Churros with Plum & Cinnamon 3.8/5

Desserts at Bancheria are as playful as the savouries. The Hotteok ($5 per pc) arrives with a tasting flight of housemade honeys, each infused with unique flavours like orange peel, barley, corn, peppermint and even garlic. We loved the crispy pancake skin with its gooey brown sugar centre, especially paired with the orange peel honey.

The Churros ($4 per pc) are dusted with plum and cinnamon, an inventive twist that’s intriguing, though we still prefer the classic cinnamon-sugar (which is also available). A new Gochujang Chocolate Dip is in the works, which we’ll definitely be back to try. For cheesecake lovers, keep an eye out as Basque Burnt Cheesecake by Michelin-starred chef Albert Adrià will soon debut on the menu as well!

Solmija Cocktail
Solmija

House Sangria (Red)
House Sangria (Red)

Be sure to check out Bancheria's cocktails, priced at a very approachable $12. We tried the Solmija (gin, lemon, mint, omija, egg white), which is refreshing with a touch of herbaceous complexity and the House Sangria (Red), a fruit-infused wine topped with a foamy crown of red wine. Both were easy-drinking and perfect complements to the bold flavours of the food.

Restaurant

Bancheria is more than a fusion restaurant — it's a creative playground that makes you excited to see what's next. With a cosy, friendly vibe, pet-friendly outdoor seating and a menu that evolves with seasonal banchan and new creations, it's the kind of spot that rewards repeat visits. Just make sure to book ahead as tables are limited, especially on weekends.

PS: By popular demand, the full menu will be available all day on weekends starting 6 September 2025. Weekday lunch features lunch sets alongside selected tapas.

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


Bancheria
Concourse Skyline
302 Beach Road
#01-06
Singapore 199600
Tel: +65 8788 3337
Facebook
Instagram
Nearest MRT: Nicoll Highway (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon, Wed-Sun: 1130am - 9pm
(Closed on Tue)

Direction:
1) Alight at Nicoll Highway MRT station. Take Exit A. Take the overhead bridge and walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Saturday, July 12, 2025

Steak Sudaku @ Beach Road - Omi Beef Steakhouse , Importing The Prized Beef Directly From Shiga Prefecture

IMG_5514

Steak Sudaku has recently opened its second outlet along Beach Road. Specialising in Omi beef, one of Japan's top wagyu brands with over 400 years of heritage. The restaurant imports its prized beef directly from Shiga Prefecture.

IMG_5511

The menu features three types of beef cuts with varying degrees of marbling alongside other non-steak dishes that showcase the versatility of this premium ingredient. Steak options include the A5 Regular Wagyu Steak ($29.80/150g), A5 Grade Lean Wagyu Steak ($34.80/150g), and A5 Grade Marbled Omi Beef Steak ($39.80/150g). I tried both the Lean Wagyu and the Marbled Omi Beef.

IMG_5524

IMG_5536
A5 Lean Wagyu Steak 4.5/5

The A5 Lean Wagyu Steak offers a cut with a higher proportion of lean meat and finer fat particles. As it's derived from a more muscular section, the steak had a chewier bite and a meatier texture. I was pleasantly surprised by the depth of flavour in each bite, especially given that it's a leaner cut. The savoury steak sauce poured over upon serving added an umami-rich dimension to the overall profile.

IMG_5512(1)

IMG_5545
A5 Marbled Omi Beef Steak 4/5

In contrast, the A5 Marbled Omi Beef Steak, with its high-fat marbling, was sliced thinner and given a quick sear on both sides before being served on a hotplate. The thinner cut helped render the fat more effectively, resulting in a rich and flavourful bite that wasn't overwhelmingly fatty. That said, the tail end of the steak was slightly drier than the centre. Overall, the steaks were satisfying, though I felt that the black pepper seasoning and steak sauce could be toned down, allowing the natural flavours of the beef to shine.

IMG_5516

There's also an option to turn your steak into a set by topping up for Salad ($2.80), Soup ($2.80), and Rice ($3.80), all of which come with free refills. The salad, essentially sliced cabbage, was quite basic and skippable, especially since pickles were already provided at the table. The soup, made from beef trimmings simmered for three hours, felt homely and rustic in the best way, though it could benefit from less salt. The rice was plump, glossy, and enjoyable, something I would much prefer over the wedges that were served alongside the steak.

IMG_5504

Stepping into Steak Sudaku feels like walking into a small, rustic eatery in Japan. With its simple furnishings and somewhat makeshift decor, it’s a no-frills spot for diners craving a fuss-free wagyu steak experience.

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.


Steak Sudaku
Concourse Skyline
302 Beach Road
#01-09
Singapore 199600
Facebook
Instagram
Nearest MRT: Nicoll Highway (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11pm - 3pm, 5pm - 9pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Nicoll Highway MRT station. Take Exit A. Take the overhead bridge and walk to The Concourse. Continue to Concourse Skyline. Walk to destination. Journey time anbout 5 minutes. [Map]

Saturday, June 14, 2025

Si Chuan Dou Hua Restaurant @ PARKROYAL on Beach Road - À La Carte Dim Sum Buffet Featuring Over 50 dishes

IMG_5050

Si Chuan Dou Hua Restaurant at PARKROYAL on Beach Road has introduced an À La Carte Dim Sum Buffet featuring over 50 dishes, available from now till 31 August 2025. Guests can indulge in unlimited servings from an extensive menu, along with a platter of four premium creations limited to one serving per guest.

IMG_5017
Premium Creations 3/5

The Premium Creations platter comprises Steamed Prawn Dumpling with Bird's Nest, Steamed Pomegranate Seafood Dumpling, Steamed Mushroom Bun with Minced Chicken, and Steamed "Shao Mai" topped with Sea Urchin. While all three dumplings shared a similar taste profile despite the variations in ingredients, the Steamed Prawn Dumpling with Bird's Nest stood out. The Bird's Nest itself did not significantly elevate the flavour, but the dumpling had a more succulent and refined bite compared to the others.

IMG_5070
Smoked Duck and Prawn Dumpling 3/5

IMG_5066
Crab Meat and Vegetable Dumpling 3.5/5

We also tried four more dumplings. The Smoked Duck and Prawn Dumpling offered a pleasing smoky depth that differentiated it from a typical prawn dumpling, though the filling felt overly compact. The Crab Meat and Vegetable Dumpling leaned towards a generic seafood profile, but the flavour of the crab meat still came through.

IMG_5068
Black Pepper Minced Beef Dumpling 4/5

IMG_5036
Minced Meat Glutinous Rice Dumpling 4/5

Both the Black Pepper Minced Beef Dumpling and the Minced Meat Glutinous Rice Dumpling wrapped in Banana Leaf left a stronger impression. The former featured a paper-thin dough skin skillfully wrapped around a delicious minced beef filling, with the skin offering a satisfying bite. The latter was a delightful combination of sweet glutinous rice dough and savoury minced meat, further elevated by the fragrance of the banana leaf.

IMG_5055
Radish Puff Pastry 4.5/5

Among the pastries, the Radish Puff Pastry was a highlight. It had a thin, flaky crust encasing juicy radish, and the addition of white sesame seeds added a brilliant touch of aromatic nuttiness to each bite.

IMG_4991
Hot and Sour Soup 2.5/5

For soups, we tried the Hot and Sour Soup. Unfortunately, the level of heat was overwhelming.

IMG_5030
“Chong Qing” Diced Chicken with Dried Chilli 3/5

IMG_5081
Fried Crispy Iberico Pork 4/5

The buffet also features Sichuan classics such as "Chong Qing" Diced Chicken with Dried Chilli and Fried Crispy Iberico Pork, both of which remain crowd favourites.

IMG_4997
Bean Curd in Spicy Minced Meat Sauce 2.5/5

IMG_4982
Stir-fried Prawn with Dried Chilli and Cashew Nut 3.5/5

However, the Bean Curd in Spicy Minced Meat Sauce was surprisingly one-dimensional, lacking the signature numbing aroma of Sichuan pepper and missing the juiciness one would expect from the minced meat. The Stir-fried Prawn with Dried Chilli and Cashew Nut was more satisfying, with succulent prawns coated in a fragrant glaze.

IMG_5044
Sautéed Black Pepper Beef 4/5

IMG_5072(1)
Deep-fried Prawn with Wasabi 3.8/5

From the Cantonese selections, the Sautéed Black Pepper Beef offered tender slices of beef packed with bold black pepper flavour. The Deep-fried Prawn with Wasabi was well-executed, featuring a creamy wasabi sauce that struck a well-balanced note without being overpowering.

IMG_5093
Herbal Jelly

IMG_5094
Chilled Mango Sago

To end the meal, we had Chilled Mango Sago and Herbal Jelly — simple yet refreshing desserts to sum up the dim sum experience.

À La Carte Dim Sum Buffet
Fri - Sun & PH from 11.30am to 2.30pm (last order at 2.00pm)
Adults: $68++, Child (6 to 12 years): $34++

Promotions:
Father’s Day: On 14 and 15 June 2025, dad eats for FREE with a minimum of 3 paying adults (Cap at 3 dads eat free per table)
Pan Pacific DISCOVERY Members enjoy a 20% discount
DBS/POSB Bank Cardholders enjoy a 15% discount

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.


Si Chuan Dou Hua Restaurant
PARKROYAL on Beach Road
7500 Beach Road
Singapore 199591
Tel: +65 65055724
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Nicoll Highway (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 6pm, 630pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Nicoll Highway MRT station. Take Exit A. Follow the overhead walkway all the way to The Concourse building. Take the exit down to Nicoll Highway and walk towards Parkroyal Serviced Residences. Cut through towards The Plaza at Parkroyal Hotel. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]

Sunday, May 18, 2025

Belimbing @ Beach Road - A Bold New Chapter in Singapore Cuisine

Belimbing40

Helmed by Marcus Leow, a Magic Square and Naked Finn alum, Belimbing is the latest venture from the team behind The Coconut Club. Located at Beach Road, the restaurant reimagines Singapore’s culinary identity through a contemporary lens, rooted in heritage yet refreshingly progressive. With a focus on native ingredients, reinterpreted classics, and bold creativity, Belimbing presents a compelling narrative of what new-generation Singapore cuisine can be.

Belimbing2
Red Prawn in Charcoal Kueh Pie Tee Shell 4/5

We had the 4-course menu ($88) for dinner. The meal began on an elegant note with a single bite that packed layers of texture and flavour. The sweet Red Prawn paired with honeydew, leek, and fried shallots created a playful burst of umami and sweetness, all housed in a delicate charcoal kueh pie tee shell. Crisp, refreshing, and a great conversation starter.

Belimbing5
Smoked Wagyu Ox Tongue 4.5/5

The Smoked Wagyu Ox Tongue surprised with its tenderness and nuanced balance. It is thinly sliced and elevated with chinchalok, offering a briny punch, while stracciatella cheese adds richness. It was a beautiful mix of umami, creaminess, and acidity, refined yet comforting.

Belimbing9
Grilled Firefly Squid 4.2/5

Inspired by the local favourite rojak, this dish was a celebration of unexpected pairings. The Grilled Firefly Squid came with a medley of elements: pickled jambu, strawberries, young ginger, hargow caramel, dark soy, and crispy kailan. Every bite delivered complexity and surprise, bold, yet grounded in familiar flavours.

Belimbing13
Crispy Meesua 4/5

The Crispy Meesua was a delicate reinterpretation of mee sua kueh. Unlike the denser street-style versions, this was lighter and flakier, offering crunch without heaviness.

Belimbing20
Batang Otah

Belimbing21

Belimbing17
Dragon Chives, Pineapple

Accompanying it was a fragrant Batang Otah, smooth and gently spiced, perfect when spread over the crispy noodles or dipped in the fermented soybean sauce. Rounding it off was a refreshing grilled pineapple and dragon chive salad that reset the palate with every bite.

Belimbing23
Braised Angus Oxtail 4.2/5

A hearty dish full of soul, the tender Braised Angus Oxtail rested on a bed of smoked mashed potatoes soaked in green tomato beef broth. The oxtail's richness met its match in the tomato's acidity, creating depth and warmth in every spoonful.

Belimbing31
Clam Custard 4.5/5

A luxurious twist on chawanmushi, the Clam Custard boasted the full-bodied flavour of shellfish. Topped with scallops and laced with assam pedas, it delivered a comforting brininess with a spicy, tangy finish.

Belimbing36

Belimbing38
Wok-fried Nasi Ulam 4.2/5

Wrapped in banana leaf, the fragrant Wok-fried Nasi Ulam showcased aromatic herbs and spices. Each grain of rice was infused with flavour. Accompanied by seared pomfret, fish floss, and tomato chutney, it felt like a well-crafted homage to a lost kampung recipe revived with finesse.

Belimbing44

Belimbing46
Fried Chicken 4.5/5

The Fried Chicken brought back memories of Hainanese curry rice and scissor-cut rice stalls, but with refined execution. The fried chicken was juicy with a golden, crispy crust, served atop a bed of luscious yellow curry. A dollop of sauerkraut added tang and crunch, giving the dish unexpected vibrancy.

Belimbing48
Min Jiang Kueh 4.2/5

The humble Min Jiang Kueh gets a creative spin. It is stuffed with cempedak and peanut brittle. Warm, sticky, and nutty, it delivers flavour and texture in equal measure. It is a delightful play on a childhood favourite.

Belimbing52
Corn Salat 4.5/5

The Corn Salat ($16) is a beautiful reinterpretation of Nonya kueh salat. It replaces the traditional pandan layer with a creamy corn custard. Sweet yet delicate, the glutinous rice base retains its chewy bite. Served with a warm cup of corn tea, it was a thoughtful and elegant finale.

BelimbingInterior-2

Belimbing presents a thoughtful and exciting evolution of Singaporean cuisine that honours tradition while fearlessly charting new territory. With inventive flavour pairings, reimagined textures, and meticulous technique, Marcus Leow and his team tell a compelling story about local food's next chapter. If you're curious to experience what Singapore cuisine might look like in the future, Belimbing is the table to book.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Belimbing
269A Beach Road
Singapore 199546
Tel: +65 8869 7243
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Bugis (DT, EW Line), Nicoll Highway (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Sun: 12 - 330pm, 6pm - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Bugis MRT station. Take Exit B. Turn right and walk down Victoria Link to North Bridge Road. Turn left onto North Bridge Road. Walk down North Bridge Road to Haji Lane. Turn right onto Haji Lane. Walk down Haji Lane to Beach Road. Turn left onto Beach Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Bugis MRT station. Take Exit E. Walk down North Bridge Road to Haji Lane. Turn right onto Haji Lane. Walk down Haji Lane to Beach Road. Turn left onto Beach Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]

3) Alight at Nicoll Highway MRT station. Take Exit A. Take the overhead bridge and walk to Beach Road. Walk to traffic junction of Beach Road and Jalan Sultan. Cross the road and walk straigh down Beach Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]