Maggie's @ Keong Saik Road - The Rebellious Sister of Marcy that Serves Up Boundary-Pushing Chinese Cuisine

Meet Maggie's — Marcy's mei mei, a.k.a. darling little sister. If Marcy's is all elegance and polish, Maggie's is the rebellious one who rolls up her sleeves, throws caution to the wind, and serves up a daring, boundary-pushing adventure for your taste buds.

Maggie's blends the old with the new, East with West, bold with refined. An "Almost Chinese" bistro that plays by no one's rules, Maggie's celebrates flavour that doesn't bow to tradition. Instead, it dances on the edge, leading a high-energy, flavour revolution that leaves you craving more. Led by Chef Ryan Nile Choo, the menu at Maggie's is kept concise, meant to be enjoyed in a sharing style, and will be refreshed every quarter. The current iteration of the menu is rather adventurous, featuring dishes such as cod milt, quail, and lamb tartare.

First, the space is absolutely stunning. The low ceilings and vibey red lighting set the perfect mood, blending vintage 'grandma chic' with a touch of '70s glamour. It's a space that feels both nostalgic and effortlessly cool, like stepping into a time capsule where vintage elegance meets modern edge. There are lots of little thoughtful details in the décor, so take the time to soak it all in.

"Golden Gun" Cigars 4.5/5

The first dish we tried was the "Golden Gun" Cigars ($18 for 2 pc). These feature bigeye tuna crudo mixed with olive leaves (kana chai) and wrapped in a crispy, golden skin like a spring roll. It's finished with a dusting of tomato powder and served on a bed of crème fraiche and spring onions. I loved how the olive leaves added a unique subtle, earthy note to the dish.

Golden Prawn Croque-Madame 4.8/5

Next up was the Golden Prawn Croque-Madame ($25), and wow, what an excellent flavour combination! A Tiger Prawn "Mojo" prawn paste infused with Sichuan green peppercorns for that signature mala kick is sandwiched between two thin, crispy slices of homemade focaccia. There's also a fried egg on top, and it's all tied together with a refreshing passionfruit hollandaise that adds a burst of tangy creaminess to balance out the slight mala heat.

Fufu e Pepe 4.2/5

The Fufu e Pepe ($26) was the polarising dish of the evening. Inspired by the classic Caccio e Pepe, hand-pulled La Mian is coated with a sauce made with fermented bean curd and tossed with guanciale pecorino and Jinhua ham. The flavours are deep and intense, with the Jinhua ham adding a smoky richness as well. Some might consider this dish way too pungent to enjoy. However, for those who relish adventurous, complex tastes, this is a dish worth trying.

Roasted Pomfret 4.2/5

The Roasted Pomfret ($36 half, $58 whole) can be ordered as a half or full portion and is cooked with green peppercorn salsa verde and extra virgin olive oil. The fish is fresh and delicious, with a subtle mala spiciness that adds an additional layer of flavour. However, do note that the fish isn't fully de-boned, and the dim lighting can make it tricky to navigate, so take your time to work your way through this dish.

Maggie’s 8 Treasures 4/5

For dessert, we enjoyed Maggie's 8 Treasures ($16), a combination of glutinous rice, red date gelato, red bean cloud, longans, jujubes, and peanut brittle. I liked the date ice cream and peanut brittle, but I found the glutinous rice element too heavy for dessert; it felt like a lot to digest at the end of the meal.

Maggie's is a promising newcomer to Keong Saik Road. It offers diners an innovative and exciting experience paired with a beautifully designed ambience. It's very suitable for a date or girl's night out. As they continue to refresh the menu for future runs, I hope they keep some of the standout dishes from this iteration, like the prawn croque madame, which is unforgettable!

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


Maggie's
1 Keong Saik Road
#01-04
Singapore 089109
Tel: +65 9622 6679
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Website
Nearest MRT: Outram Park (EW, NE, TE Line), Maxwell (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Thu, Sun: 530pm - 1030pm
Fri-Sat: 530pm - 1130pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Outram Park MRT station. Take Exit 4. Walk straight towards Kreta Ayer Road. Turn right onto Keong Siak Road. Walk down Keong Siak Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Maxwell MRT station. Take Exit 3. Walk straight down Neil Road to Keong Saik Road. Turn right onto Keong Saik Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 mintues. [Map]

Bonjour by Ma Cuisine @ Craig Road - Breakfast With A Parisian Vibe

The much-beloved Michelin-starred Ma Cuisine has introduced Bonjour by Ma Cuisine, capturing a Parisian bistro's casual and relaxed charm. Sharing the same space at Craig Road, the menu is crafted with classic French breakfast and lunch favourites, reimagined with a modern touch.

Poireaux Vinaigrette 4/5

For appetisers, we tried the Poireaux Vinaigrette ($15.80) and a Lyonnaise speciality, Quenelle De Brochet Sauce Nantua ($20.80). The first is a traditional French dish featuring leeks slow-cooked to tender perfection, drizzled with a tangy mustard vinaigrette, and topped with delicate mimosa egg crumbles. I love leeks, and this dish didn't disappoint — their almost creamy texture was beautifully complemented by the bright acidity of the vinaigrette and the richness of the egg crumbles, with crispy mini bread crumbles adding a satisfying contrast.

Quenelle De Brochet Sauce Nantua 5/5

The Quenelle De Brochet ($20.80) pays homage to Lyon's culinary heritage. It is similar to our fish paste but with a much softer, almost creamy texture and a subtly milky taste. The accompanying sauce, Nantua — a luxurious crayfish butter sauce enriched with cream and Cognac — adds depth of flavour while further enhancing the dish's rich, velvety mouthfeel.

Croque Madame Truffé 4/5

For a more breakfast-leaning option, the bistro's Croque Madame Truffé ($28.80) takes indulgence to the next level. Extra-crispy, thin and buttery sourdough encases truffle, Comté cheese, and ham. But what truly stole the show for me was the beautifully and meticulously executed sunny-side-up egg — its golden yolk glistening in a deep orangey hue, beckoning to be unveiled.

Linguine au Parmesan 4.5/5

Another much-raved-about dish is the handmade Linguine au Parmesan ($14.90). Tossed in a sauce made with 24-month-aged Parmigiano Reggiano, the handmade tagliatelle was cooked to the perfect doneness, allowing it to uphold the richness of the sauce while remaining surprisingly light on the palate. Personally, I would have enjoyed it even more with a crack of coarse black pepper.

Coquelet Français Rôti 4.5/5

The Coquelet Français Rôti ($19.90), a rustic French spring roast chicken seasoned with herbes de Provence, garlic, and butter, was simple but well executed. It offered crisped skin and succulent, flavourful meat.

Trou Normand 4/5

Crème Caramel 5/5

We tried the Trou Normand ($12.60) and Crème Caramel ($9.80) for desserts. The first was a scoop of apple sorbet with a shot of Calvados Château du Breuil 15 YO, delivering a boozy and refreshing kick that awakened my senses. The latter was a comforting classic, featuring a smooth, decadent custard dressed in bittersweet caramelised sugar.

To round off the experience, sip on a glass of wine or indulge in classic French apéritifs such as Kir Royal and Mimosa.

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.


Bonjour Ma Cuisine
39 Craig Road
Singapore 089677
Tel: +65 9627 1058
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Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar (EW Line), Maxwell (TE Line), Outram Park (EW, NE, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 8am - 230pm
(Closed on Sat & Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Walk to Tanjong Pagar Road. Cross the road. Walk to Craig Road. Turn left and walk down Craig Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Outram Park MRT station. Take Exit 4. Walk to Duxton Plain Park. Turn right and walk to Neil Road. Cross the road using the underpass. Take the staircase and walk to Craig Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

3) Aloght at Maxwell MRT station. Take Exit 3. Walk down Neil Road. Cross the road at the junction of Craig Road and Neil Road. Turn left onto Craig Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Nomada @ Keong Saik - Where Tradition Meets Bold Perspective, Where Every Flavour Tells A Story

A recent addition to the lively Keong Saik restaurant scene, Nómada has quickly become a buzzworthy spot, even drawing a full house on a weekday evening when we visited. Chef Gonzalo Landin, formerly of Binomio and Set of Six, brings his global culinary expertise to the table, serving Spanish cuisine with a modern, innovative twist.

The décor at Nómada showcases rustic Spanish charm with a sleek, contemporary elegance, featuring warm lighting and earthy tones. For private events, there's also a curtained-off area towards the back of the restaurant for a more intimate setting.

Upon reviewing the menu, it's clear that Chef Landin doesn't shy away from incorporating adventurous ingredients, making Nómada an exciting choice even for the seasoned foodie. If you're game to try something a little different, there's chicken liver, ox tongue and even pig ears on the menu! But don't worry if that's not for you — the à la carte format ensures everyone can choose something you'll enjoy.

Homemade Flatbread with Za’atar 4/5

We started our dinner with the Homemade Flatbread with Za'atar ($16), a starter featuring Za'atar — a traditional Middle Eastern spice blend. This aromatic mix typically combines dried oregano, thyme, sumac, and toasted sesame seeds. The flatbread was soft and pillowy, topped with goat cheese and rocket.

Grilled Oyster with Spicy Sobrasada 3/5

Next, we were served Grilled Oyster with Spicy Sobrasada (2pcs, $16), which had a vibrant presentation thanks to the sobrasada. This soft spread, made from cured pork sausage and seasoned with paprika and other spices, brings a smoky flavour to the dish. However, the combination of the spicy sobrasada and the oyster didn't particularly complement each other.

Squids, Lemon & Parsley Sauce with Squid Ink Emulsion 4.2/5

I much preferred the Squid with Lemon & Parsley Sauce and Squid Ink Emulsion ($26), where the lemon and parsley sauce really stood out. Zesty and fresh, it was so delicious that I found myself going back for more. The squid itself was sufficiently tender with a slight chewiness, the subtle taste of the squid allowing the brightness of the sauce to shine through.

Braised Short Ribs on the Bone with Cauliflower 4/5

The Braised Short Ribs on the Bone with Cauliflower ($38) was a comforting dish that delivered hearty, savoury flavours. The short ribs were cooked very well, with a fork-tender texture. However, the dish gets a bit heavy and slightly oily after a while, so it's best to share it.

Iberico Pork Chop, Apple Cider Gels and Hipsy Cabbage 4.5/5

Between the beef and pork dishes we tried, we unanimously agreed that the Iberico Pork Chop, Apple Cider Gels and Hipsy Cabbage ($38) was our preferred choice. The pork chop was juicy and tender, with a hint of pink in the centre. We also loved the apple cider gel's subtle sweetness and tanginess, which added a lovely balance to the taste of the pork. The apple cider gel is also something interesting and different from the apple sauce you usually get with pork chops.

Iberico Pluma Rice 4.8/5

I was very impressed with the Iberico Pluma Rice ($68), a paella dish served in a large, shallow pan. The rice was rich and savoury, having absorbed the full depth of the broth and seasonings. The texture of the rice was slightly chewy, offering a substantial mouthfeel and delightfully crispy bits at the bottom and sides. Cooked with Iberico Pluma, a tender cut of pork, this dish satisfied my paella cravings.

Custard & Nutmeg Tart with Salted Caramel Ice Cream 4/5

At first glance, I mistook this for a cheesecake, and perhaps it was inspired by the cheesecake and given a little twist. The Custard & Nutmeg Tart, paired with Salted Caramel Ice Cream ($16), featured a velvety custard filling, subtly spiced with nutmeg, whilst the salted caramel ice cream lent this dessert a sweet and salty creaminess.

Nómada's menu is different from traditional Spanish restaurants, with a style sure to appeal to those who enjoy bold, intense flavours. The restaurant features an open-concept kitchen, allowing diners to watch the chefs at work, though it also means you might leave with a slight smokiness on your clothes.

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


Nomada
1 Keong Saik Road
#01-05
Singapore 089109
Tel: +65 8209 7809
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Nearest MRT: Outram Park (DT, EW, TE Line), Maxwell (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 12pm - 230pm, 530pm - 1030pm
Sat: 530pm - 1030pm
(Closed on Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at Outram Park MRT station. Take Exit 4. Walk straight towards Kreta Ayer Road. Turn right onto Keong Siak Road. Walk down Keong Siak Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Maxwell MRT station. Take Exit 3. Walk straight down Neil Road to Keong Saik Road. Turn right onto Keong Saik Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 mintues. [Map]

GU:UM @ Keong Saik - Contemporary Korean Steakhouse Lunaches Refreshed Menus

GU:UM, which literally means to grill, roast, or cook over fire in Korean, is a premium Korean steakhouse by One Michelin-starred NAE:UM’s Chef Louis Han. Unlike traditional K-BBQ restaurants, GU:UM elevates the experience with top-quality meats, refined techniques, and distinct Asian influences, creating a sophisticated and modern take on Korean barbecue.

Yukhwae Jeon 5/5

We started with the Yukhwae Jeon ($32), a creative pairing of Korean beef tartare with a crispy potato pancake. This combination was nothing short of brilliant—the rich, umami-packed tartare contrasted beautifully with the crisp, starchy pancake. It’s a unique dish that I have never seen elsewhere, making it a must-order.

Mulhwae 4.5/5

The Mulhwae ($28) followed — a refreshing cold salad soup with raw fish. It’s somewhat reminiscent of ceviche, but with more intricate layers of flavor. The sharp, tangy notes of the broth were incredibly appetising and invigorating, making it a perfect dish to whet the appetite.

Surf & Turf Plattter 4.5/5

Perfect for sharing, the Surf & Turf Platter ($328) was a showstopper. It featured a variety of premium cuts from both land and sea, accompanied by grilled vegetables and side dishes. The beef and pork were grilled to perfection, exuding deep, smoky flavours that showcased their high-quality marbling. The seafood selection, including lobster and abalone, further elevated the indulgence of this luxurious platter.

To enjoy it the Korean way, wrap the meats in lettuce with a variety of condiments — a satisfying experience that enhances the flavours.

Al Bibimbap 4.2/5

For those who want something more filling, the Al Bibimbap ($34) is a delightful twist on the classic Korean mixed rice dish. This white-based bibimbap comes with chunks of lobster, seaweed flakes, and roe, adding an extra layer of umami richness. A good mix of all the ingredients ensures a harmonious balance of textures and flavours in every bite.

Hotteok 4.8/5

Even after a hearty meal, saving space for dessert is a must. The Hotteok ($18) was a standout, featuring a pan-fried Korean pancake with a chewy, almost mochi-like texture. It was exceptional when paired with the burnt honey ice cream, which added a sweet, caramelised depth to the dish.

Injeolmi Tiramisu 4.2/5

Another noteworthy dessert was the Injeolmi Tiramisu ($16), an innovative take on the classic Italian dessert. Served inside a tart shell, the Nespresso-infused tiramisu was enhanced with toasted rice cake powder, creating a unique fusion of flavours. This Korean-inspired twist on tiramisu was a fantastic way to end the meal.

GU:UM is a game-changer in Korean barbecue, seamlessly blending premium steakhouse elements with Korean culinary traditions. The Yukhwae Jeon, Surf & Turf Platter, and Hotteok were clear highlights, showcasing Chef Louis Han’s creativity and finesse. Whether you're looking for a refined dining experience or a luxurious take on Korean grilling, GU:UM is a must-visit destination for steak and barbecue lovers alike.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


GU:UM
29 Keong Saik Road
Singapore 089136
Tel: +65 8831 6308
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Website
Nearest MRT: Outram Park (EW, NE, TE Line), Maxwell (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Thu: 6pm - 11pm
Fri-Sat: 1130am - 230pm, 6pm - 11pm
Sun: 1130am - 430pm
(Closed on Mon)

Direction:
1) Alight at Outram Park MRT station. Take Exit 4. Walk straight towards Kreta Ayer Road. Turn right onto Keong Siak Road. Walk down Keong Siak Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Maxwell MRT station. Take Exit 3. Walk straight down Neil Road to Teck Lim Road. Turn right onto Teck Lim Road. Walk down Teck Lim Road to Keong Saik Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 mintues. [Map]

ANTO Pizza E Aperitivi @ Jiak Chuan Road - A Blend of Artisan Pizzas and World-Class Cocktails

Nestled among the charming heritage shophouses on Jiak Chuan Road, ANTO Pizza E Aperitivi is a restaurant helmed by renowned bartender/entrepreneur Giancarlo Mancino and Master Pizzaiolo Antonio Brancato. Here, authentic Italian pizzas meet innovative world-class cocktails, creating a unique dining experience.

Bruschette - The Classic 4.5/5

We began with Bruschette - The Classic ($16), a timeless appetiser that highlights simplicity at its best. Sourdough bread is topped with oven-baked tomatoes, garlic olive oil, and fresh basil. The vibrant sweetness of the tomatoes combined with the earthy notes of olive oil makes this a refreshing and satisfying start to the meal.

Bruscette - Cetara 4/5

Next was the Bruschette - Cetara ($20), featuring lemon zest butter, Cetara anchovies, and caper flowers. While the buttery richness felt slightly overpowering for some diners (a few were seen scraping off excess butter), the overall balance of zesty, salty, and tangy notes worked well for me.

Rocco 4.2/5

The Rocco ($24) is a Southern Italian-style pizza baked in a small pan at over 250°C for 10-12 minutes. The result is a puffed dough with a crispy exterior and fluffy interior. Topped simply with mozzarella, thinly sliced potatoes, and fresh rosemary, each bite is a delightful combination of textures and flavours.

Caponata 4/5

The Caponata ($36) is a vegan pizza topped with tomato sauce, Sicilian-style agrodolce vegetables (zucchini, aubergine, and capsicum), and homemade onion purée. While the combination isn't traditionally associated with pizza, the balance of sweet, tangy, and savoury flavours worked beautifully together.

Rustica 4.2/5

From the more inventive "Le Antonio" section of the menu, the Rustica ($38) is a standout. Created by Chef Antonio a decade ago, this pizza features tomato sauce, fresh salsiccia (fennel pork sausage), smoked Scamorza cheese, radicchio, and rosemary. The play on textures from the smoky cheese and shredded raw chicory elevate this dish, making it a creative yet comforting option.

Melanzana 4/5

Another innovative offering is the Melanzana ($38), a pizza topped with oven-baked eggplants, smoked Scamorza cheese, mint, and peperoncino oil. Specifically crafted for Singapore, the aubergine purée adds a creamy depth, while the fresh mint offers a surprising burst of flavour, giving it a refreshing touch.

Margherita Dolce Fried 3/5

The Margherita Dolce Fried ($22) offers a playful, vegan twist on the classic pizza. It features sweetened house tomato sauce, soy cream in place of mozzarella, and a mint reduction instead of basil. While the dough's texture was enjoyable, the overly sweet sauce was not to my liking, making it less appealing overall.

Classic Panettone 3.5/5

We ended the meal with the Classic Panettone ($20), served with a velvety vermouth zabaglione made using Mancino Vermouth. The dessert is reminiscent of bread pudding, offering a warm and comforting end to the meal, though it could have used a touch more excitement in flavour to leave a lasting impression.

ANTO Pizza E Aperitivi masterfully blends tradition and creativity, offering pizzas that range from classic Italian styles to bold, modern creations. While a couple of dishes missed the mark slightly, the overall experience was delightful, particularly when paired with their expertly crafted cocktails. For pizza enthusiasts and those seeking a unique pizza experience, ANTO Pizza E Aperitivi is worth a visit.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


ANTO Pizzeria E Aperitivi
2 Jiak Chuan Road
Singapore 089260
Tel: +65 9689 6869
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Maxwell (TE Line), Outram Park (DT, EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 12pm - 330pm, 6pm - 11pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Maxwell MRT station. Take Exit 3. Walk down Neil Road to Teck Lim Road. Turn right onto Teck Lim Road. Walk down Teck Lim Road and turn left onto Jiak Chuan Road. Walk down Jiak Chuan Road and walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

1) Alight at Outram Park MRT station. Take Exit 4. Walk straight towards Kreta Ayer Road. Turn right onto Keong Siak Road. Walk down Keong Siak Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]