L’Espresso @ Goodwood Park Hotel - Afternoon Tea Buffet with English Classics and European Delights

From now until the end of April, L'Espresso at Goodwood Park Hotel presents an Afternoon Tea Buffet featuring English Classics and European Delights. You can indulge in a delectable array of European-themed sweets and savouries alongside traditional English Classics, which include quintessential sandwiches, a live Carving Station, and more. L'Espresso also introduces its latest Scone Bar, offering a delightful selection of freshly baked scones in assorted flavours.

Seafood Croquettes

Prawn Twister

Golden Crispy Battered Fish Fillet

The Hot Delights section is where you will find all the scrumptious fried morsels, such as Golden Crispy Battered Fish Fillet, Seafood Croquettes, and Prawn Twister. Each item is served with its respective pairing sauce — Tartar Sauce & Malt Vinegar for the English touch, Rémoulade for a French flair, and Roasted Garlic Aioli for a taste of Spain.

Spanish-style Chicken Drumettes

Pork Schnitzel

Grilled Bratwurst with Sauerkraut

For some meatier delicacies, there are Spanish-style Chicken Drumettes, Swiss-style Pork Schnitzel with Cheese, and Grilled Bratwurst with Sauerkraut. The Pork Schnitzel, reminiscent of the one I enjoyed in Vienna, was a delightful surprise. It was well executed - perfectly flat as it should be, with a tender texture that made each bite pleasurable.

Sourdough Pizza Margherita

Not forgetting the Italian touch, you can savour the Sourdough Pizza Margherita, where the simplicity of the ingredients accentuates the sourdough crust's airy texture.

Beef Bourguignon

One of the standout offerings was this French Beef Bourguignon. It was hearty and flavoursome, featuring tender beef cubes alongside chunks of moreish courgettes and soft, sweet carrots.

Croffle Herb-roasted NZ Beef Tenderloin

The Chef Action Station is also a key highlight of this buffet, offering freshly made Croffle topped with Herb-roasted NZ Beef Tenderloin. While the tenderloin was commendable, some inconsistencies were noted. My first plate was delighting with thin slices of beef tenderloin, yet the second serving was disappointing with an overdone tenderloin and a thicker cut.

Prawn Cocktail with Fresh Mango

Under the Sandwiches section, selections include Finger Sandwiches, Open-Faced Sandwiches and Croissant Sandwiches. Similar to hot delights, you get both a touch of English and European flavours — Prawn Cocktail with Fresh Mango & Lime Zest (English), Ham & Swiss Cheese (Swiss), Bocadillo de Atún (Tuna & Egg) (Spanish) and Basil Pesto Caprese (Italian).

Herb & Garlic Cheese Tartlet with Cranberry Compote, Smoked Salmon Bruschetta with Mascarpone

The Open Sandwiches offers dainty Herb & Garlic Cheese Tartlet with Cranberry Compote and Smoked Salmon Bruschetta with Mascarpone. I like how each small bite was so packed with mouthfeel and flavours.

Salmon Gravlax

Charcuterie

I visited this section the most for the luscious slices of Salmon Gravlax. The chilled section also offers a selection of Charcuterie with Pickles & Mustard.

Plain, Raisin, Coffee, Apricot, Pistachio & Maple Pecan Scone

As mentioned, a brand new Scone Bar has been added to the buffet menu, presenting an assortment of scones with new flavours such as Coffee, Apricot, Pistachio, and Maple Pecan alongside classics like Plain and Raisin. The Plain remained my top choice, followed by Maple Pecan for the additional nuttiness, which worked well with the wide selection of condiments, which even includes Lemon Curd and Caramel Banana, among others.

Tarta De Manzana

Desserts

I enjoyed the wide variety of desserts from various parts of Europe. The German Donauwellen (Marble Cake) was yummy with tart cherries embedded. The Spanish Tarta De Manzana (Apple Tart) is a must-try, boasting a layer of beautiful custard base topped with apples. Equally satisfying was the Swiss Apricot Cake, which highlighted the flavours of the summer fruit.

Limited-time Chef Specials will be available only twice during Monday to Thursday seatings and once during each seating from Friday to Sunday and Public Holidays. What was served during my visit was Creamy Chicken Pot Pie with Puff Pastry and Peppermint & Strawberry Lollipop.

Afternoon Tea Buffet with English Classics and European Delights
8 March – 30 April 2024
Mon-Thu: 2pm - 5:30pm ($65 per adult/ $39 per child)
Fri-Sun & PH: 12pm - 2:30pm, 3pm - 5:30pm ($68 per adult/ $40.80 per child)

Photograph and written 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.


L'Espresso
Goodwood Park Hotel
22 Scotts Road
Singapore 228221
Tel: +65 67301746
Facebook
Website
Nearest MRT: Orchard (NS Line, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Thu: 2pm - 5:30pm 
Fri-Sun & PH: 12pm - 2:30pm, 3pm - 5:30pm (

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 1. Walk down Scotts Road to destination. Journey time about 12 minutes. [Map]

Kai Kai Sushi & Grill @ Wisma Atria - Newest Brainchild of Chef Yamashita Teppei Replaces Koh Grill & Sushi Bar, Offering Range of Japanese Fare

Kai Kai Sushi & Grill now sits where Koh Grill & Sushi Bar used to be in Wisma Atria, bringing diners a comprehensive menu of Japanese dishes ranging from classic sashimi and sushi to yakitori and teppan.

The new casual restaurant is helmed by Chef Yamashita Teppei, most known for its various Japanese F&B concepts on our island, such as Teppei Japanese Restaurant and Man Man Japanese Unagi Restaurant (now known as Unagi Tei). Here at his newest brainchild, Chef hopes to bring affordable yet quality Japanese fare to diners.

We sampled several items, with some in bite-sized portions. The prices listed are for the full portions.

Pitan Tofu 4/5

Pitan Tofu ($5) is always one of my must-orders when it's on the menu. Kai Kai's rendition is decent, with a slightly nutty sesame sauce base and a generous topping of chopped century egg and tobiko. I would have preferred a more robust century egg flavour in its sauce for that extra oomph.

Kai Kai Hanabi Roll 4/5

You will find a selection of different sushi rolls on the menu, one being the Kai Kai Hanabi Roll ($18.80). I found the sauce slightly too sweet, but this one is for fans of salmon as they offer it 2-ways here - raw in the middle and lightly aburi-ed on top.

Negitoro Sushi 3.8/5

The Negitoro Sushi ($6) roll had the classic combination of minced tuna and chopped spring onions in its centre, with crunchy tempura bits for extra texture. The tuna portion could be much better, for a better ratio to the tempura bits.

Nama Kaki 4/5

Next was the Nama Kaki, which had a plump and fresh oyster drizzled with a mildly tangy ponzu vinegar sauce.

3-Kind Sashimi Moriawase 4/5

We got to see Chef Yamashita Teppei do a bluefin tuna block-cutting demonstration, leading to our next dish, the 3-Kind Sashimi Moriawase ($15). We sampled slices of otoro, chutoro and maguro.

While they weren’t the best quality of cuts, they were still thick and fresh.

Buta Enoki Yakitori 3.5/5

The Buta Enoki Yakitori ($4) had enoki mushrooms wrapped with pork belly. While I enjoyed the grill on it, it was tougher and blander than I expected it to be. I prefer a stronger seasoning on this.

Yaki Hotate 4/5

Served in its shell with a wedge of lemon, the Yaki Hotate ($12) carried a nice slight char. The plump scallop remained juicy despite the grill.

Sukiyaki 3.5/5

While the pork slices were tender, we found the rest of the elements in the Sukiyaki ($16.80) more mediocre. The base could be a touch less salty as well.

Kani Toro Donburi 4.2/5

From the selection of mains, I decided on the Kani Toro Donburi ($17). It was clearly created for crab lovers, with crab meat, crab leg and soft shell crab with toppings of ikura and tobiko. The original size and portion will also include an onsen egg! The crab meat used was fresh and sweet.

Kai Kai Castle Bento 3.8/5

The Kai Kai Castle Bento ($18.90) was served in a multi-tiered bento box shaped like a Japanese castle. Each tier featured different items, namely tamago and unagi, assorted sashimi, and a bed of rice with chopped tuna belly, tempura bites, flying fish roe and ikura.

Unfortunately, its taste paled compared to its look, with average cuts on the sashimi. I must say that it's still considerably decent for the variety at this price.

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.


Kai Kai Sushi & Grill
Food Republic Wisma Atria
#04-21
435 Orchard Road
Singapore 238877
Instagram
Nearest MRT: Orchard (NS, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 3. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Wan Hao Chinese Restaurant (萬豪軒) @ Singapore Marriott Tang Plaza Hotel - Usher In The Year of the Dragon with A Reunion of Bountiful Blessings

As the Wood Dragon graces us with its presence, Singapore Marriott Tang Plaza Hotel invites you to embrace the Lunar New Year at the esteemed Wan Hao Chinese Restaurant. Renowned for its culinary finesse, Wan Hao presents specially curated set menus, exquisite a la carte dishes, and a delectable range of takeaway treasures, promising an auspicious start to the Year of the Dragon.

Wan Hao Prosperity Yu Sheng with Bayberry Dressing

The Wan Hao Prosperity Yu Sheng with Bayberry Dressing kicked off the celebration — an opulent rendition featuring rock lobster, scallop, Irish smoked salmon, yellowfin tuna, caviar, and salmon roe. The bayberry dressing, meticulously crafted from the best harvest between March and June, adds a refreshing touch with its sweet and tart notes. Toss to abundance and prosperity with this vibrant and flavourful Yu Sheng.

Wan Hao Bird's Nest Eight Treasure Pot

Diverging from the traditional Pen Cai, Wan Hao presents the Bird's Nest Eight Treasure Pot — a collagen-rich concoction brimming with indulgence. Laden with Bird's Nest, 5-Head Australia Abalone, Fish Maw, African Premium Sea Cucumber, Black Moss Dace Fish Bean Curd Skin Bag, Live Prawn, Pork Tendon, Free-Range Chicken, and Japanese Shiitake Mushroom, this modern interpretation symbolizes harmony and prosperity. A lighter, healthier twist on a Lunar New Year classic. Roast

Duo Style Turbot Fish

Fish, a symbol of abundance, takes centre stage with the Sauteed Turbot Fish Fillet. It is served with fresh lily bulb, pan-fried lotus root stuffed with minced dace fish, and barbeque sauce. The dish captures the essence of prosperity and good fortune. It is a delightful addition to the Lunar New Year set menus.

Braised Lobster with Passion Fruit Custard Sauce

The Braised Lobster with Passion Fruit Custard Sauce is a symphony of sweet and tangy flavours. The succulent lobster, coated in a luscious custard sauce, creates a harmonious balance that delights the palate.

Claypot Rice with Chinese Sausage and Cured Duck in Superior Soya Sauce

The Claypot Rice with Chinese Sausage and Cured Duck in Superior Soya Sauce is a highlight that resonates with simplicity and comfort. The richness of preserved meats infuses the fluffy rice, and a drizzle of superior soya sauce elevates the aroma — a bowl of pure comfort that captures the essence of traditional Lunar New Year feasting.

Osmanthus with Water Chestnut Jelly and Wolfberry, Golden Pandan Nian Gao Tart

Dessert unveils a trio of delights—Osmanthus with Water Chestnut Jelly and Wolfberry, Double-boiled Bird's Nest with Whole Coconut and Rock Sugar, and the star of the show, the Golden Pandan Nian Gao Tart with Gula Melaka & Grated Coconut. Wan Hao's perennial favourite, Nian Gao Tart, takes centre stage this year with a golden pandan twist that garners raving approval. The tart is a delightful creation that deserves applause and, perhaps, a standing ovation.

Double-boiled Bird's Nest with Whole Coconut and Rock Sugar

Available from 4 January to 24 February 2024, toss up good fortune with an exquisite 6 or 8-Course Lunar New Year Chinese Set Menu – prices start from $138.80++ per person. For gourmet takeaway treasures, guests can pre-order online beginning on 26 December 2023 at https://celebratorydelights.com/cny or visit our Lunar New Year booth at the hotel's forecourt starting 4 January 2024.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Wan Hao Chinese Restaurant (萬豪軒)
Singapore Marriott Tang Plaza Hotel
320 Orchard Road
Singapore 238865
Tel: +65 6831 4605
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Orchard MRT (NE, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11.30am - 3pm, 6pm - 10pm

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

Min Jiang @ Goodwood Park - A Bountiful Feast to Usher in the Year of the Dragon

In the spirit of the Lunar New Year, Min Jiang at Goodwood Park Hotel beckons guests to a lavish feast celebrating the Year of the Dragon. The team at Goodwood Park Hotel have curated an impressive array of festive takeaways, sumptuous dine-in set menus, and delectable treats to usher in prosperity and good fortune.

Auspicious Abundance 'Lo Hei' - from Min Jiang Dempsey

We commenced with the Auspicious Abundance 'Lo Hei' from Min Jiang Dempsey. Priced at $298 for dine-in and $324.80 for takeaway, this Yu Sheng extravaganza features fresh lobster, salmon sashimi, tobiko, and abalone. Nestled amidst a kaleidoscope of greens, dragon fruit balls, and osmanthus jelly in the shape of ingots, it's a visual spectacle. Drizzled with plum sauce and fruit-based concoctions, it embodies both opulence and flavour.

Double-boiled Chicken Soup

One of the perennial highlights of any Lunar New Year celebration at Min Jiang is the exquisite soup that graces the table. This year, the culinary artisans at Min Jiang Dempsey have outdone themselves with the creation of the Double-boiled Chicken Soup with 6-head Abalones, Dragon Claw Fungus, and Dried Scallops in a Claypot—an elixir that transcends mere sustenance.

Braised Whole Spring Chicken, Whole Dace Fish and Sea Treasures in Pot.

A new addition to the festive lineup is the Braised Whole Spring Chicken, Whole Dace Fish stuffed with Liver Sausage & Black Moss, and Sea Treasures in Pot ($422.90). This dish features the distinct flavour of dace fish, celebrated in Cantonese cuisine. A rich sauce infused with aromatics complements whole abalone, dried oysters, shiitake mushrooms, fried fish maw, bean gluten, and 'Tientsin' cabbage.

Fortune Koi Fish 'Nian Gao' filled with Black Glutinous Rice

Adding a touch of sweetness to the celebrations is the Fortune Koi Fish 'Nian Gao' filled with Black Glutinous Rice ($52.80 for 8pc, Takeaway). Crafted in the shape of a Koi fish, symbolising good fortune, it presents a delightful twist with a filling of black glutinous rice.

Pandan Pineapple 'Huat' Tart

Inspired by timeless pineapple tarts, the Pandan Pineapple 'Huat' Tart is a delightful fusion of homemade pineapple chutney and pandan-flavoured almond cream encased in a crumbly tart crust. Topped with a lattice design and an auspicious white chocolate wealth pot or 發 (fa) topper, it's a treat for both the eyes and the palate.

Lucky Fortune Bamboo (Orange Pound Cake)

A centrepiece of every Lunar New Year gathering, the Lucky Fortune Bamboo ($148) pound cake steals the spotlight. Intricately crafted to emulate the lucky bamboo plant, this orange-infused pound cake, layered with orange zest and buttercream, is adorned with white chocolate bamboo stalks and ingots.

Dragon Boat of Bountiful Blessings (Marble Pound Cake)

The Dragon Boat of Bountiful Blessings (Marble Pound Cake) is a visual masterpiece. A decadent and moist butter cake, complemented by chocolate swirls, is encased within an artfully sculpted white chocolate 'dragon boat.' Adorned with dark chocolate ingots and gilded coins, it's a sight to behold and savour.

Auspicious Firecracker 'Mao Shan Wang' Durian Roll Cake

Lovers of durian are in for a treat with the Auspicious Firecracker 'Mao Shan Wang' Durian Roll Cake ($138). Luscious 'Mao Shan Wang' puree enveloped within a vibrant vermillion chiffon cake, adorned with chocolate pieces shaped as auspicious symbols, makes for a decadent and visually stunning dessert.

Card Privileges for Lunar New Year Takeaways. 20% off selected festive takeaways from 18 January to 4 February 2024, and 15% off selected festive takeaways from 5 to 24 February 2024 for Citi, DBS/POSB, HSBC, Maybank, OCBC and UOB Credit/Debit Cardmembers.

Guests may place their online orders at goodwoodparkfestive.oddle.me for delivery or self-collection. Alternatively, guests may contact Min Jiang岷江at (65) 6730 1704 / email: min_jiang@goodwoodparkhotel.com, Min Jiang at Dempsey 岷江在登布西山at (65) 6774 0122 / email: mjdempsey@goodwoodparkhotel.com, and The Deli at (65) 6730 1786 / email: deli@goodwoodparkhotel.com to place their takeaway orders for self-collection only. Availability for all Lunar New Year specials is from 18 January to 24 February 2024. Advance order of five days is required for takeaways and the last pre-order date is on 19 February 2024.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Goodwood Park Hotel
22 Scotts Road
Singapore 228221
Nearest MRT: Orchard (NS Line)