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

Monday, June 16, 2025

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

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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]

Tuesday, April 22, 2025

Basilico @ Conrad Singapore Orchard - La Cucina Storica Featuring Traditional Recipes and Regional Specialties from Italy's Former Kingdoms

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Basilico at Conrad Singapore Orchard presents La Cucina Storica — an evolving buffet experience that pays tribute to the rich culinary roots of Italy's former kingdoms. Each edition of La Cucina Storica explores a different chapter of Italy's history, featuring traditional recipes and regional specialities. Available until 31 May 2025, the latest edition spotlights the Kingdom of Sardegna, showcasing the unique flavours of Sardegna, Liguria, Piemonte, and Val d'Aosta — regions once ruled by the House of Savoy. The buffet brings together a mouthwatering mix of classic dishes highlighting the kingdom's coastal bounty, countryside traditions, and diverse influences. Expect live stations, artisanal cheeses, and a curated selection of Italian wines and cocktails.

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Cheese Room

One of the key highlights is access to Basilico’s iconic Cheese Room, home to one of the most extensive cheese collections I’ve come across. Here, you’ll find a seasonal selection of over 40 artisanal Italian cheeses, complemented by truffle honey, nuts, assorted dried fruits, Mostarda Cremona (syrup-poached fruit), Pecorino Sardo, Robiola di Roccaverano, and a Mirto di Sardegna reduction.

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Uova alla Piemontese

Tucked away inside the Cheese Room is an easily missed gem — the Egg Station, offering Uova alla Piemontese. Think of it as a luxurious Italian-style shakshuka: eggs gently cooked in a bold, flavourful sauce made with roasted bell peppers, pancetta, and San Marzano tomatoes.

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Antipasti Station

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Fresh Cheese Selection

The Antipasti Station serves up an assortment of cold cuts including 24-month Parma ham, salame, pistachio mortadella, and Bresaola della Valle d'Aosta. A standout for me was the Fresh Cheese Selection, which featured an incredible range of burrata — from the classic to infused (truffle, pesto alla Genovese, Italian heirloom tomato) and smoked versions. There's also cow and buffalo mozzarella such as Ciambella and Bocconcini.

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Carving Station

The Carving Station is another crowd-pleaser, with a slow-roasted Porceddu (Sardinian-style suckling pig). Other roasts include grass-fed ribeye, grilled seabass, Australian lamb leg, and roasted chicken thighs.

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Pasta & Risotto Station

Over at the Pasta & Risotto Station, homestyle comfort dishes take the spotlight. I particularly enjoyed the hand-rolled Trofie Pasta with cod ragù, the rich and decadent Wagyu Beef Lasagna, and the Wild Mushroom Risotto, which was simple yet satisfying.

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Pizza section

The Pizza Section impressed as well, with dough that was exceptionally well done. The Black Truffle Focaccia was rich and indulgent with mascarpone, Robiola Tre Latti, and provolone cheese, while the Arbanella anchovies pizza delivered a rustic punch with anchovies, capers, chives, and Fior di Latte cheese.

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Cold Seafood Station

Seafood lovers will appreciate the Cold Seafood Station, which is well-stocked with live oysters, poached Boston lobster, tiger prawns, queen scallops, Taranto’s black mussels, and clams.

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Vermouth and Prosecco zabaione

To round off the meal, desserts include a delightful spread of cakes, tarts, gelato, and sorbetto. The mini rum baba was delicious. Don't miss the live Zabaione Station, where Vermouth and Prosecco zabaione are freshly whipped and served with fresh berries.

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The La Cucina Storica Weekend Brunch is available every Saturday and Sunday from 12pm to 3pm. It costs $128++ per adult and $64++ per child (6–12 years old). Free-flow beverage packages featuring Ferrari sparkling wine, Italian wines, and beers are available from $80++ per person.

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.


Basilico
Conrad Singapore Orchard
Level 2
1 Cuscaden Road
Singapore 249715
Tel: +65 67253232
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Orchard Boulevard (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Lunch:
Mon-Fri: 12 - 230pm
Brunch:
Sat-Sun: 12pm - 300pm
Dinner:
Daily: 630pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard Boulevard MRT station. Take Exit 1. Turn right and walk down Cuscaden Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 mintues. [Map]

Saturday, December 21, 2024

Quenino by Victor Liong @ Artyzen Hotels & Resorts - Rediscover a Playful Take on Southeast Asia Flavours

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Nestled within the luxurious Artyzen Singapore, Quenino by Victor Liong redefines contemporary Asian cuisine with relaxed fine dining finesse. The restaurant's latest menu, a collaboration between Chef de Cuisine Sujatha Asokan and Victor Liong, captures the essence of regional flavours with a refreshing, creative twist. I recently embarked on the Discovery Menu ($240/pax), a culinary journey that showcases the vibrancy and innovation of Asian cuisine.

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Quenino Prelude - Amuse Bouches 4.5/5

The dining experience began with the Quenino Prelude, a trio of playful and seasonal amuse bouches.

Jungle Garlic Tart: This delicate tart is infused with jungle garlic and topped with watermelon radish, offering a burst of herbaceous notes and crunch.

Indonesian Mud Crab: Luxuriously paired with the prized Malaysian T'lur Oscietra Caviar, this creation elevated the crab's sweetness with the caviar's brininess.

Rojak-Inspired Creation: This is my favourite of the trio. It features Australian baby cucumber as a vessel for lemongrass chilli, finger lime, and cashew cream — a fun and inventive nod to Southeast Asia's beloved rojak.

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Pearl Meat 4/5

The Pearl Meat was an inspired reinterpretation of Penang's Assam Laksa, reimagining its bold flavours in a refined form. The matured oyster muscle, paired with tamarind, ginger flower, and Asian tomato essence, delivered tangy and bright notes reminiscent of the beloved dish while elevating it to a sophisticated dish.

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T'Lur Oscietra Caviar 4.2/5

T'Lur Oscietra Caviar showcases the exceptional quality of Malaysian farmed caviar. This dish pairs the luxurious ingredient with dragon chive custard, scallop mousse, razor clams, and fermented chilli. The combination is a nod to the comforting flavours of chicken rice, skillfully balancing the familiar and the extravagant in a single bite.

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Marron 4.2/5

The Marron, sourced from Western Australia, was a standout. Petai coconut cream and sweet green chilli highlighted its natural sweetness, while pomelo from Ipoh added a refreshing zest. Served with flatbread to mop up the decadent sauce, this dish was an indulgent and flavourful delight.

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Palate Cleanser - Gingerflower and Peach Popsicle 4.5/5

Before transitioning to the mains, we were treated to a refreshing Gingerflower and Peach Popsicle. The sweet and sour flavours were revitalising, perfectly preparing the palate for the next courses.

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Stone Axe M9 Wagyu 4.2/5

For the mains, the Stone Axe M9 Wagyu was a showstopper. Grilled to perfection, the beef was paired with Old and New World Peppercorns, including sweet pink peppercorns and fiery green ones, for a customisable flavour experience. Inspired by local Sup Tulang (bone soup), the accompanying beef broth added a comforting and soulful touch.

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Fried Rice 4/5

Quenino's take on Fried Rice is a nostalgic ode to Southeast Asian classics like fried rice, nasi ulam and mui fan. Infused with wok hei, the rice was served with an array of condiments, including fried pork lard, tamarind lemongrass chilli, and fragrant ulam rajah. Diners were encouraged to personalise each bite, making the dish a deeply interactive and sentimental experience.

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Taro Ice Cream 3.8/5

A creative reinterpretation of bubur cha cha, the Taro Ice Cream was served with roselle jelly and house-made fermented rice wine. While I appreciated the concept, the fermented rice wine was a tad overpowering for my personal taste. A non-alcoholic version would have been a welcome alternative for those who prefer milder flavours.

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Petite Fours 4.5/5

The meal concluded with a whimsical Petite Fours selection, inspired by childhood snacks and reimagined with sophistication.

Pong Piah-Inspired Waffle: A nostalgic caramel tamarind candy-infused treat that evoked fond memories of childhood.

Malaysian Dark Chocolate Bonbons: Infused with the warm spice of long peppers and the richness of rum and raisins, this decadent creation was a fitting end to the meal.

Quenino by Victor Liong offers an exquisite dining experience that masterfully blends contemporary Asian cuisine with playful creativity. Each dish tells a story, balancing tradition and innovation while celebrating the diverse flavours of the region. With its new menu, Quenino cements its place as a must-visit destination for food lovers seeking refined yet approachable dining in the heart of Singapore.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Quenino by Victor Liong
Artyzen Singapore
Level 4
9 Cuscaden Road
Singapore 249719
Tel: +65 6371 6030
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Orchard Boulevard (TE Line), Orchard (NS, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue: 6pm - 1030pm
Wed-Sat: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm - 1030pm
(Closed on Sun and Mon)

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]

Monday, May 27, 2024

FYSH @ The Singapore EDITION - New Communal Seafood-focused Sunday Brunch by Australian Award-winning Chef Josh Niland

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FYSH at EDITION is unlike your traditional steakhouses and Sunday Brunches. Led by Australian Award-winning Chef Josh Niland, the restaurant adopts an ethical and sustainable approach to seafood, with a menu focused on "whole fish cooking." This approach also means that at FYSH, every part of the fish is creatively incorporated into the menu as much as possible.

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The FYSH Roast experience, available exclusively for Sunday lunch from 12pm to 2.30pm, offers a communal dining experience priced from $108 per person. Diners can also opt for Flowing Champagne packages, along with complimentary free flow coffee, tea, juices, and soft drinks.

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Diners can choose between two distinct dining areas. The corridor seating offers a serene ambience surrounded by greenery and bathed in natural sunlight. In contrast, the main dining hall features dimmer lighting, creating a warmer and cosier yet elegant atmosphere.

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Our knowledgeable servers rolled the FYSH Trolley to our table, introducing the various fish and cuts that will be served during our meal. Depending on your group size, you can choose your preferred main dish, with options available for individual portions or group servings for two or four people. For a wider variety, I definitely recommend dining with a larger group.

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Charcoal Grilled Slipper Lobster 4.5/5

The brunch begins with five seafood starters. The Charcoal-Grilled Slipper Lobster stands out as a favourite for many of my dining companions and me. It's succulent and lightly seasoned, allowing its natural sweetness to shine through.

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FYSH Egg Tart 4/5

The vibrant FYSH Egg Tart was another popular starter. The burst of briny trout roe in a crisp tart shell was delightful.

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Raw Amberjack in Royal Kombu 3.8/5

The Raw Amberjack in Royal Kombu might look ordinary, but it had a surprising slice of amberjack wrapped within crunchy and thick kombu.

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Abrolhos Island Scallop 4.2/5

Accompanied the fresh Abrolhos Island Scallop was an addictive housemade XO sauce.

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Swordfish Empanadas 4/5

The curry puff-lookalike Swordfish Empanadas had an appetising swordfish filling with a bit of spiciness. Make sure to pair this with the roasted garlic yoghurt.

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Selection of Dry-Aged Wooloolaba Yellowfin Tuna 4.5/5

Next came a showstopper: the Selection of Dry-Aged Wooloolaba Yellowfin Tuna. This dish featured a dry-aged yellowfin tuna ribeye steak, merguez sausage, and glazed skirt steak, accompanied by various condiments such as parsley and shallot salad, Café de Paris butter, harissa, chimichurri, and tuna bone sauce. Not only was it a visual feast, but it also showcased FYSH's expertise in seafood and grilling. It was fun pairing it with a variety of condiments for different flavours.

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Sides of Selection of Dry-Aged Wooloolaba Yellowfin Tuna

Alongside the yellowfin tuna, we were served a refreshing Salad of Ox Heart Tomato and Stone Fruit, as well as perfectly fried and seasoned Salt & Vinegar Onion Rings and Kombu Fries.

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Butterflied Aquna Murray Cod 4.2/5

Roasted in the Josper grill, the smoky Butterflied Aquna Murray Cod was presented with a golden brown finish and surrounded with pressed roast potatoes, BBQ padron peppers, and BBQ tomato chimichurri. Recommended condiments here were herbs & shallot vinaigrette, and garlic aioli.

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Roasted & Glazed Free-Range Duck 4.2/5

If you are less into fish, the Roasted & Glazed Free-Range Duck would be the one to consider. The succulent slices of duck complemented sweet barbecued white peaches, chickpea & fennel seed panisse, sweet & sour radicchio and hazelnut & duck sauce.

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Line Caught Flounder on the Bone 4.5/5

The last of our mains was the Line Caught Flounder on the Bone with java brown clams, creamy celeriac purée and BBQ apple purée. The tender fish meat is finished with a buttery flounder bone sauce.

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Side of Line Caught Flounder on the Bone

On the side is a selection of mushrooms, black funghi and tangerine spinach.

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Apple Tarte Tatin 4/5

We moved on to desserts, starting with the Apple Tarte Tatin. This thin-crusted tart was served with celeriac custard.

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Chocolate & Murray Cod Fat Caramel 4.2/5

The Chocolate & Murray Cod Fat Caramel is a unique chocolate tart because it includes Murray cod fat caramel, which imparts a slight hint of fishiness. It may not be for everyone, but it definitely surprised us.

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Tart Trifle of Red Fruits 4/5

Put together with rose cream, rose jelly and coconut, the Tart Trifle of Red Fruits should be your choice of dessert if you have a sweet tooth and are a fan of floral flavours. It was sweet and tangy and made an excellent conclusion to our meal.

Despite the mixed reviews online, we had a lovely dining experience that showcased an emphasis on sustainability. Guests can make reservations directly at www.sevenrooms.com/reservations/fyshsingapore, and it's best to come in a group to try more dishes.

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.


FYSH at EDITION
The Singapore Edition
38 Cuscaden Road
Singapore 249731
Tel: +65 6329 5000
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Orchard Boulevard (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Breakfast: 6.30am to 10.30am
Lunch: 12pm to 2.30pm
Dinner (Monday to Thursday): 6pm to 10pm
Dinner (Friday to Sunday): 6pm to 10.30pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard Boulevard MRT Station. Take Exit 1. Turn right and walk down Cuscaden Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Orchard MRT Station. Take Exit 11. Walk down Orchard Boulevard Road towards Four Seasons Hotel. Take the walking path beside Four Seasons Hotel to the back of the hotel toward Forum Shopping Mall. Turn left onto Cuscaden Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]