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

Wednesday, July 16, 2025

The Tea Room and Patisserie @ St. Regis Singapore - An Elegant Summer Garden Sanctuary for Afternoon Tea

Zoom out shots-4

The St. Regis Singapore unveils The Tea Room and Patisserie, a serene retreat tucked away in a quiet corner of the hotel lobby. Inspired by the nearby Botanic Gardens, the space has been styled as an elegant summer garden sanctuary adorned in soothing hues of green and pink.

The Tea Room offers a tranquil escape for moments of indulgence and refined relaxation, complete with dainty bites and quiet, thoughtful brews. Here, afternoon tea is not just an activity but a time-honoured tradition, complete with elegant rituals and trimmings.

Copenhagen sparkling tea-2

The Summer Garden Afternoon Tea at the Tea Room reflects the botanical theme of this newly renovated space. This lovely experience is priced at $65++ per person with a glass of Copenhagen Sparkling Tea or $ 95++ per person with a glass of R de Ruinart Brut Champagne.

Tea trolley-2

The experience begins with the arrival of the tea trolley being rolled to your tableside. Here, guests may choose between a pot of tea brewed à la minute by a dedicated tea sommelier or a pot of Tanamera coffee, which uses Indonesian beans locally roasted in Singapore.

The teas are sourced from Taylors of Harrogate, renowned as the official tea supplier to the British Royal Household. Guests are encouraged to explore and smell the tea leaves before making their choice. I recommend the St Regis Singapore Blend, which is made exclusively for the hotel. This delicate blend of green and black tea features notes of white chocolate and nuts with a floral finish of rose and jasmine blossoms.

Savoury box-2
Savoury Canapés Box

Next is the arrival of a treasure box filled with a medley of four handcrafted savoury canapés, each one an expression of flavour and finesse, crafted in vibrant colours that visually delight.

Cucumber sandwich-1
Cucumber & Tomato Hummus Sandwich

St regis salmon mosaic-1
St. Regis Tea-Infused Salmon Mosaic

It is recommended to begin with the lighter Cucumber & Tomato Hummus Sandwich, followed by the St. Regis Tea-Infused Salmon Mosaic, a smoked salmon bite layered with silky cream cheese and topped with mango pearls for a touch of sweetness.

Foie gras terrine-2
Foie Gras Terrine, Shortbread, Raspberry Caviar

Goat cheese tart-1
Goat Cheese Tart, Elderflower, Chervil

Moving on to bolder flavours, indulge in the rich Foie Gras Terrine, elegantly served on a buttery shortbread base and crowned with vibrant raspberry caviar, as well as the Goat Cheese Tart accented with elderflower and chervil. For those with dietary restrictions and preferences, it’s possible to request in advance for a replacement of the items.

Prawn mousse-2
Prawn Mousse, Beetroot Cone, Avruga

Presented separately from the rest of the box is the Prawn Mousse, which comes in a vibrant pink beetroot cone. It’s tasty but best enjoyed before the cone begins to soften.

Layer 1-2
Layer 1: Pear & Chocolate Vanilla, Pistachio Financier Cake

The sweet treats are elegantly presented on a classic three-tiered stand featuring a selection of desserts. Among them is the Pear & Chocolate Vanilla entremet, with pear jelly, rich chocolate cream, and crunchy chocolate royaltine. The Pistachio Financier Cake is really delightful, showcasing a nutty pistachio base paired with strawberry confit, smooth whipped ganache, and orange compote.

Layer 2-2
Layer 2: Jasmine Citrus, Tropical Garden Tartlet

The Jasmine Citrus offers a refreshing combination of yuzu cream, mandarin confit, smooth cream cheese mousse, and delicate jasmine ganache. Finally, the Tropical Garden Tartlet bursts with vibrant tropical fruit compote layered over a luscious fruit crêmеux and vanilla cream, all nestled on a buttery almond sable crust.

Layer 3-2
Layer 3: Macaron and praline

To conclude, the last layer houses a Vanilla Macaron and a Lime Caramel Praline. While the macaron was fragrant and enjoyable, the praline was too tart for my liking.

Scones trolley-2

Another highlight of the experience is the scones trolley, offering guests unlimited servings of freshly baked scones. The selection includes the classic St Regis scone and a delightfully zesty lemon scone, which I especially enjoyed for the citrusy taste.

Scones plate-1

To complement the scones, guests will be spoilt for choice with four artisanal jams available: strawberry, blueberry, mango, and orange marmalade. Rich clotted cream is served alongside, including a special tin topped with passionfruit caviar for a unique and refreshing twist.

st regis blend cup

The Summer Garden Afternoon Tea at the Tea Room will certainly leave guests feeling royally pampered, with the impeccable service, the plush interiors and the luxury of enjoying soothing live music accompaniment by a talented harpist. The unlimited scones are also such a treat, especially with such a great selection of jams to try, but please note that no items from the afternoon tea can be taken away or packed to go, so it’s best to come ready to indulge on the spot.

Zoom out shots-1

If you don't have time for a full afternoon tea service, you can opt to visit The Patisserie, which is located just across from The Tea Room. This takeaway atelier offers freshly handcrafted whole cakes, petit gâteaux, and signature viennoiseries.

Photographed and penned by Shermine. Through her pictures and stories, she shares her journey of savouring new flavours and experiences. Note: This is an invited tasting.


The Tea Room and Patisserie
The St. Regis Singapore
29 Tanglin Road
Singapore 247911
Tel: +65 6506 6887
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Orchard Boulevard (TE Line), Orchard (NS, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 9am - 12midnight

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 4. Walk towards Wheelock Place via ION. Exit Wheelock Place and turn left towards Liat Tower. Continue onwards to Forum Shopping Mall. Walk further down to Orchard Parade Hotel. Turn left onto Tanglin Road. St Regis is just beside Tanglin Shopping Centre. Journey time about 15 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Orchard Boulevard MRT station. Take Exit 1. Turn left onto Cuscaden Road. Walk to Tomlinson Road. Turn left onto Tomlinson Road. Walk to Tanglin Road. Turn right onto Tanglin Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]

Monday, July 7, 2025

Waterfall Ristorante Italiano @ Shangri-La Singapore - Unveils a Revamped Menu Celebrating Southern Italian Flavours

WaterfallJune25-17

Waterfall Ristorante Italiano at Shangri-La Singapore has introduced a newly refreshed à la carte menu featuring over 20 new dishes inspired by the culinary traditions of Puglia, the Southern Italian hometown of Chef de Cuisine Simone Loisi. The updated offerings blend timeless Italian classics with modern techniques, providing both loyal patrons and newcomers with a vibrant take on Italian dining.

WaterfallJune25-1
Focaccia 4.2/5

We began our dinner with a warmly baked Focaccia, golden and crisp on the outside, yet moist and fluffy on the inside, with a gentle chew. The addition of olives and herbs elevated its aroma and flavour, offering a comforting and aromatic start to the meal.

WaterfallJune25-5
Frittura Di Pesce 4.5/5

From the antipasti selection, the Frittura Di Pesce was a standout, an assortment of lightly battered and perfectly fried seafood, including baby cuttlefish, octopus, and prawns. The thin, crispy coating provided just the right crunch, while a squeeze of lemon and a dollop of aioli added brightness and creaminess that tied the dish together beautifully.

WaterfallJune25-15
Orecchiette Al Ragu Di Braciole 4/5

For pasta, we opted for the Orecchiette Al Ragu Di Braciole. The small, ear-shaped pasta was cooked al dente, offering a satisfying bite. Its concave shape was ideal for holding the rich tomato-based sauce, which was deeply flavoured from slow-cooked pork, pecorino cheese, and fresh parsley. Each mouthful was a comforting balance of savoury and herbaceous notes.

WaterfallJune25-19
Rustica 4/5

From the pizza selection, we chose the Rustica. Topped with mozzarella, goat cheese, thyme, honey, walnut crumble, and dried figs, it was an impressive harmony of flavours. The savouriness of the cheese paired delightfully with the sweetness of the honey and figs, while the walnut crumble added texture and earthiness. It is a well-executed, sweet and savoury finish.

WaterfallJune25-21
Tiramisu Classico 4/5

To end the meal, we indulged in a trio of desserts: Tiramisu Classico, Cannoli Siciliano Fatto In Casa, and Torta Al Formaggio E Pistacchio.

The Tiramisu Classico was my personal favourite, featuring the classic elements of savoiardi ladyfingers, mascarpone, coffee, and cocoa powder, all perfectly balanced and executed with finesse.

WaterfallJune25-23
Cannoli Siciliano Fatto In Casa 3.8/5

The Cannoli Siciliano Fatto In Casa featured a crispy homemade shell piped with sweetened ricotta, elevated by hints of orange zest, bitter chocolate chips, and crushed pistachios. It was rich, textured, and satisfying. The Torta Al Formaggio E Pistacchio was enjoyable, with a creamy texture and nutty undertones. However, the pistachio flavour could have been more pronounced to leave a stronger impression.

WaterfallJune25-25
Totra Al Formaggio E Pistacchio 3/5

Waterfall Ristorante Italiano's refreshed menu is a warm tribute to Chef Simone Loisi's Southern Italian roots. With elevated classics, quality ingredients, and thoughtful execution of flavours, the restaurant continues to deliver an authentic yet refined Italian dining experience in an elegant resort setting.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Waterfall Ristorante Italiano
Shangri-La Hotel, Singapore
22 Orange Grove Road
Level One, Garden Wing
Singapore 258350
Tel: +65 62134398
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Orchard (NS Line, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 12pm - 230pm, 6pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 4. Walk towards Wheellock Place via ION. Exit Wheellock Place and turn left towards Liat Tower. Cross the road at the traffic light junction and turn left towards Royal Thai Embassy. Walk down to the end of Orchard Road. Turn right onto Orange Grove Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 23 minutes. [Map]

Monday, June 16, 2025

Cafe Quenino @ Artyzen Singapore - Celebrating SG60 with Local Flavours and a Nostalgic Kaya Collaboration

CafeQuenino26

In celebration of Singapore's 60th birthday, Café Quenino at Artyzen Singapore launches The Heart of SG60, a six-month culinary campaign running from May to October 2025. This gastronomic journey pays tribute to local flavours, people, and stories that define Singapore's culinary identity. Each month features guest collaborations, heritage partners, and menus that showcase Singapore's diverse food culture in a uniquely local light.

For June, Café Quenino partners with the iconic Chin Mee Chin, the beloved East Coast confectionery celebrating its 100th anniversary. For the first time, Chin Mee Chin's famed kaya is now available beyond its flagship store, thanks to this exclusive, year-long collaboration.

CafeQuenino1

A must-try from the bar is the Kaya Toastini ($26), part of the campaign's Spirit of Singapore cocktail programme curated by Senior Mixologist Sathya. Served in a nostalgic kopi cup with a slice of kaya butter toast (made with kaya from Chin Mee Chin), the cocktail blends Roberto Cavalli vodka, coffee liqueur, and kopi, striking a balance between bold, bittersweet, and creamy flavours. It's a playful yet nostalgic drink that bridges the heritage of traditional mixology with modern techniques. It is a true crowd-pleaser.

CafeQuenino6
Ora King Salmon Sashimi 4/5

The meal begins with Ora King Salmon Sashimi, delicately paired with chilli and black bean, which give a punchy umami lift to the buttery salmon. A squeeze of calamansi brightens the flavours even more. It was light, refreshing, and appetising.

CafeQuenino11
Heirloom Tomato Salad 3.5/5

Next is the Heirloom Tomato Salad, a simple yet flavourful medley of sweet heirloom tomatoes, buffalo mozzarella, basil, and shallots, finished with a black vinegar dressing. Clean and vibrant, this dish is a palate refresher with just the right acidity to balance the richness of the main courses.

CafeQuenino15
Ayam Percik 4/5

The Ayam Percik features tender chicken cooked in aromatic percik sauce paired with vibrant capsicum salsa and coconut basmati rice. The rice was a standout. It was fragrant and fluffy, garnering praise from diners. The percik sauce could be more robust and spicy to match the full-bodied profile it typically carries. A side of sambal or chilli dip would round out the dish nicely.

CafeQuenino24
Hainanese Beef Brisket 4/5

As part of the collaboration, Chin Mee Chin reimagines the traditional Hainanese Beef Brisket in a modern light. The tender, slow-braised beef is paired with Café Quenino’s silky mashed potatoes, offering a comforting and creamy base. Accompanied by pickled onions and a crisp garden salad, the dish strikes a harmonious balance between nostalgic flavours and contemporary finesse—a thoughtful nod to heritage with a refreshing twist.

CafeQuenino29
Kaya Mille-feuille 4.2/5

To end on a sweet note, the Kaya Mille-feuille is a nostalgic dessert that layers Chin Mee Chin's kaya, mango lychee, and coconut ice cream between crispy pastry. It evoked fond memories of childhood, reminiscent of kaya spread on cream crackers. It is a clever reinterpretation that respects tradition while adding new textures and flavours.

Café Quenino's "The Heart of SG60" series is more than just a dining experience. It's a celebration of memory, identity, and evolution. With Chin Mee Chin's heritage kaya now given a broader platform and new creative expressions, the campaign promises many more heartfelt stories and flavours in the months to come.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Cafe Quenino
Artyzen Singapore
9 Cuscaden Road
Level 1
Singapore 249719
Tel: +65 6371 6020
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Orchard Boulevard (TE Line), Orchard (NS, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 12 midnight

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard Boulevard MRT Station. Take Exit 1. Walk to Cuscaden Road. Turn right onto Cuscaden Road. Walk down Cuscaden Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Orchard MRT Station. Take Exit 11. Walk down Orchard Boulevard towards Four Seasons Hotel. Take the walk path beside Four Seasons Hotel to Cuscaden Road. Walk to the junction of Cuscaden Road and turn left onto Cuscaden Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]

Saturday, June 7, 2025

White Rose Cafe @ York Hotel - SG60 Heritage Dining Series 2nd Installment, "Soulful Taste of Hokkien Delights"

YorkHotelHeritage9

As part of York Hotel's SG60 Heritage Dining Series, White Rose Cafe brings back another chapter of nostalgic flavours following the success of "Timeless Teochew Flavours." Running from 1 June to 31 July 2025, the latest instalment, "Soulful Taste of Hokkien Delights", features eight time-honoured Hokkien dishes that evoke the warmth and comfort of traditional home-style cooking.

YorkHotelHeritage14

YorkHotelHeritage18

YorkHotelHeritage19
D-I-Y Hokkien Popiah Set 4/5

The D-I-Y Hokkien Popiah Set ($35 for small / $65 for large) is available for both dine-in and takeaway, making it perfect for gatherings. It comes with soft, freshly made popiah skins and a generous spread of traditional fillings comprising sweet braised turnip, prawns, crushed peanuts, Chinese sausage, shredded egg, garlic, chilli, lettuce, and bean sprouts. It's a fun, interactive experience that enhances the joy of communal dining.

YorkHotelHeritage22
Crispy Oyster Omelette 4.5/5

The Crispy Oyster Omelette ($18) was a crowd favourite. Made with sweet potato starch and egg, the dish is stir-fried till crispy and topped with plump oysters and coriander. The slightly smoky, crisp-edged omelette pairs perfectly with the house-made chilli sauce, giving that extra spicy kick.

YorkHotelHeritage13
Deep-fried Prawn Ball 4.2/5

Known affectionately as Hei Zhor, the Deep-fried Prawn Ball ($16) is a nostalgic zi char classic. Stuffed with minced pork, prawn, and crunchy water chestnut, each golden nugget delivers a savoury crunch. Served with sweet sauce, this dish is moreish and difficult to stop at one.

YorkHotelHeritage8
Braised Pork Belly Bun / Kong Bak Pau 4/5

The Kong Bak Pau ($18) features thick slices of pork belly braised until fork-tender in a dark soy, garlic, and five-spice sauce. The meat is then tucked into fluffy lotus leaf buns. While the texture was on point, the flavour could have been a touch richer and more intense for a deeper umami punch.

YorkHotelHeritage6
Braised Hokkien Mee 3.8/5

This version of Braised Hokkien Mee ($20) leans toward the traditional Fujian style, with yellow noodles braised in savoury chicken stock, along with clams, pork belly, mushrooms, napa cabbage and dried shrimp. It's hearty and comforting, evoking memories of grandma's cooking. That said, the flavour could be heavier to leave a stronger impression.

YorkHotelHeritage12
Claypot Cabbage Rice 3.8/5

The Claypot Cabbage Rice ($20) is another dish that channels homely warmth. Wok-fried rice with cabbage, pork belly, mushrooms, dried shrimp, and pork lard is served in a claypot for a satisfying crust at the base. A drizzle of fragrant shallot oil ties it all together. I would have loved more cabbage and a bolder seasoning to elevate the flavours further.

YorkHotelHeritage2
Claypot Fish Head Soup with Yam 4.2/5

The Claypot Fish Head Soup with Yam ($22) is a standout, boasting a rich, full-bodied broth. Angoli fish head is deep-fried and simmered with yam, sour plum, and cabbage in a claypot, delivering a sweet and complex flavour. It's so comforting that we suggested the restaurant turn this into a full-on steamboat dish.

YorkHotelHeritage20
Sugar-glazed Yam and Sweet Potato Sticks 3.5/5

A nostalgic dessert often seen at banquets, the Sugar-glazed Yam and Sweet Potato Sticks ($10) combines fried yam and sweet potato coated in a crunchy sugar glaze. While the texture was enjoyable, the sugar coating was uneven, leading to some overly sweet bites.

White Rose Cafe's "Soulful Taste of Hokkien Delights" is a celebration of Hokkien heritage and the warmth of traditional cooking. Available from 1 June to 31 July 2025, the dishes here are perfect for those seeking a taste of the familiar, presented with care and authenticity.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


White Rose Cafe
York Hotel
21 Mount Elizabeth
Singapore 228516
Tel: +65 67370511
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Orchard (NS Line, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am to 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 1. Walk down Scotts Road towards Goodwood Park Hotel. At Goodwood Park, turn right and walk to the end of the carpark. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]

Monday, May 19, 2025

Shang Palace @ Shangri-La Hotel Singapore - Celebrates 54th Anniversary With A Celebratory Menu

ShangPalace54Anniversary25

In celebration of its 54th anniversary, Shang Palace at Shangri-La Singapore unveils a special commemorative menu that pays tribute to its rich legacy and the golden era of Cantonese cuisine. Curated by Executive Chinese Chef Daniel Cheung, the menu channels the spirit and splendour of the 1970s, bringing back iconic dishes with a modern finesse. From now till 31 May 2025, diners can savour the Celebration Set Menu ($388++ for 4 pax) or select from 12 nostalgic à la carte dishes that honour the restaurant’s heritage.

ShangPalace54Anniversary1
Crispy-fried Milk Custard 5/5, Pan-fried Long Bean Rings Stuffed with Dace Fish Paste 4.2/5

The meal began with a classic that many Cantonese food lovers would remember fondly: Crispy-fried Milk Custard (黄金炸鲜奶). Encased in a light, golden batter, the custard within is creamy, smooth, and fragrant, melting gently on the palate. This dish, made popular by Chinese chefs during the 1980s and 90s, is a textural delight that effortlessly balances richness and delicacy.

Reminiscent of Hakka Yong Tau Foo, the Pan-fried Long Bean Rings Stuffed with Dace Fish Paste (煎鲮鱼滑酿豆角) features long beans shaped into rings, each stuffed generously with dace fish paste and pan-fried until crisp. Served with a savoury dipping sauce, the dish is both nostalgic and satisfying, earthy, hearty, and wonderfully seasoned.

ShangPalace54Anniversary8
Braised Fresh Fish Meat with Luffa Melon, Straw Mushrooms and Chrysanthemum 4.5/5

A bowl of warm comfort, the Braised Fresh Fish Meat with Luffa Melon, Straw Mushrooms and Chrysanthemum (顺德菊花生拆生鱼羹) combines fresh fish meat, tender luffa melon, straw mushrooms, and chrysanthemum petals, resulting in a light yet flavourful broth. Add a dash of vinegar and pepper to enhance its nuanced flavours. It's a humble, soul-warming dish that showcases the finesse of Shunde-style cooking.

ShangPalace54Anniversary11
Deep-fried King Prawns with Tomato Sauce 5/5

One of the standout dishes for me was the Deep-fried King Prawns (茄汁干煎虾碌) slathered in a lip-smacking tomato sauce. The prawns were massive, cooked to bouncy perfection with a delightful firm bite. But the real star was the sauce, which is a tangy, sweet, and savoury tomato glaze that beautifully coated the crustaceans. It's a timeless classic done right.

ShangPalace54Anniversary21
Poached Mustard Green with Dried Shrimp, Dried Scallop and Minced Pork in Superior Broth 4/5

As a Teochew, I was particularly excited about the Poached Mustard Green with Dried Shrimp, Dried Scallop and Minced Pork in Superior Broth (虾干上汤瑶柱肉松浸大芥菜). Mustard green can be divisive due to its bitter notes, but it was perfectly poached here, retaining a gentle crunch while mellowing its bitterness. The superior broth, enriched with dried shrimp, dried scallops, and minced pork, added a deep umami flavour. I was especially impressed by the enormous dried shrimp imported from Hong Kong. It is a rare treat that elevated the dish even more.

ShangPalace54Anniversary22
Traditional Yuan Yang Fried Rice 4/5

The Traditional Yuan Yang Fried Rice (太极鸳鸯饭) brought back a wave of nostalgia. A staple at Hong Kong wedding banquets in the 1970s, Yuan Yang Fried Rice reflects the East-meets-West influences of the era. The egg fried rice is topped with two sauces: one red, tangy, tomato-based sauce with shredded chicken and onions, and the other a creamy white sauce with prawns and peas, arranged in a symbolic yin-yang pattern. It's visually striking, comforting, and full of flavour, a perfect representation of cultural harmony.

ShangPalace54Anniversary29
Deep-fried Water Chestnut Cake 4.5/5

Light, crispy, and slightly chewy inside, the Deep-fried Water Chestnut Cake (酥炸马蹄条) was a delightful way to end the meal. It offered a gentle sweetness and a lovely contrast of textures, making it an excellent traditional dessert. To wrap things up, we were served a warm bowl of Boiled Sweetened Beancurd Skin with Gingko Nuts and Quail Egg (腐竹白果鸡蛋糖水). Smooth, nourishing, and subtly sweet, it was the perfect closing note to a beautifully curated meal.

ShangPalace54Anniversary31
Boiled Sweetened Beancurd Skin with Gingko Nuts and Quail Egg 5/5

Shang Palace's 54th Anniversary Menu is more than just a culinary offering. It's a heartfelt tribute to tradition, culture, and the passage of time. Chef Daniel Cheung has masterfully revived these dishes with care and precision, letting each plate tell a story from the restaurant's illustrious past. Whether you're a long-time fan or a newcomer, this limited-time menu is a chance to taste the legacy of one of Singapore's most iconic Cantonese dining institutions.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Shang Palace
22 Orange Grove Road
Singapore 258350
Tel: +65 6213 4473
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Orchard (NS, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 12pm - 2.30pm, 6pm - 10pm
Sat-Sun: 11am - 3pm, 6pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 4. Walk towards Wheellock Place via ION. Exit Wheellock Place and turn left towards Liat Tower. Cross the road at the traffic light junction and turn left towards Royal Thai Embassy. Walk down to the end of Orchard Road. Turn right onto Orange Grove Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 23 minutes.[Map]