VUE @ OUE Bayfront - New Weekend Lunch Set Menu with Signature Dessert Trolley

Perched atop OUE Bayfront, VUE continues to impress with its refined modern European cuisine and stunning skyline views. Elevating the weekend dining scene, the restaurant has launched a new Weekend Lunch Set Menu, thoughtfully curated with a choice of four ($108++) or five courses ($128++). Each dish reflects a careful balance of artistry and finesse, culminating in a delightful finale of free-flow desserts from its signature trolley.

As with every visit, the meal began on a high note with the restaurant's complimentary milk buns. Soft, pillowy and lightly sweet, they were perfect when paired with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. It's one of those addictive starters that inevitably leads to a second helping, and understandably so.

42-Month Aged Jamón Iberico 4/5

We started our lunch with the cold appetisers, in which the 42-Month Aged Jamón Iberico delivered a deeply savoury, complex flavour profile. The long curing process lends the ham its signature intensity and nutty undertones, complemented beautifully by sweet Charentais melon. Paired with the La Coca toast, a thin, crisp Spanish flatbread, provided a delightful textural contrast, allowing the richness of the ham to shine.

Heirloom Tomatoes 4/5

The Heirloom Tomatoes offered a lighter yet equally satisfying alternative. Naturally sweet and juicy heirloom tomatoes were paired with smoked burrata, creating a luscious creamy contrast. The inclusion of tonburi, often referred to as "land caviar," added a subtle popping texture, while black olives introduced a gentle briny depth, tying the dish together harmoniously.

Wild Caught Scallop 4.2/5

Moving on to the hot appetisers, the Wild Caught Scallop stood out for its precision in execution. The wild caught scallop was pan-seared to a perfect golden crust while retaining a tender, succulent interior. Its natural sweetness was elevated by the luxurious topping of Osetra caviar, while the white chocolate miso emulsion added an unexpected yet balanced layer of sweetness and umami. The sautéed spring peas lent freshness and a slight crunch, rounding off the dish elegantly.

Grilled Baby Gem Lettuce 4/5

In contrast, the Grilled Baby Gem Lettuce showcased the restaurant's mastery of binchōtan grilling. The lightly charred outer leaves carried a gentle smokiness, while the inner core remained crisp and refreshing. The dish was brightened with an orange tahini dressing, complemented by feta cheese, walnuts and a Parmesan crisp. It delivered a pleasing interplay of smoky, creamy and crunchy textures.

Wild Forest Mushroom Risotto 4.8/5

For the risotto course, both options impressed with their depth of flavour and execution. The Wild Forest Mushroom Risotto was a comforting, earthy masterpiece. Made with a medley of premium mushrooms, including porcini and chestnut, the dish exuded deep umami richness. Each grain of rice retained a slight bite, coated in a creamy, velvety sauce enriched with aged Parmigiano Reggiano. The addition of truffle further enhanced its aromatic, woodsy profile.

Signature Uni Risotto 4.8/5

Equally indulgent was the Signature Uni Risotto (+$12). This luxurious creation highlighted the briny sweetness of Hokkaido sea urchin, folded into a creamy emulsion that beautifully coated the Japanese multi-grain rice. The grains offered a subtle textural contrast, making each mouthful more dynamic. The uni foam intensified the oceanic flavours, resulting in a deeply satisfying and decadent dish.

Spanish Octopus 4.5/5

From the grill, the Spanish Octopus demonstrated VUE's expertise with binchōtan charcoal. The octopus was cooked to a perfect tenderness, with a slight char that imparted a smoky depth without overpowering its natural sweetness. Accompanied by grilled baby gem lettuce, semi-dried tomatoes, and a pistachio chimichurri, the dish was well balanced, with the nutty, herbaceous sauce elevating the overall profile.

Stoneaxe Wagyu Rump Cap MBS 8-9 4.5/5

For the mains, the Stone Axe Wagyu Rump Cap MBS 8-9 (+$15) was a highlight for meat lovers. Also known as picanha, the cut is prized for its rich flavour and luscious fat cap, which renders beautifully over the grill. Simply seasoned to let the beef's quality shine, the meat was juicy, tender and deeply flavourful. Served with truffle mashed potatoes and heirloom cauliflower, the accompaniments complemented without overshadowing the star ingredient.

Desserts 4.2/5

Ending the meal on a sweet note, the Dessert Trolley remains a signature draw of the weekend lunch experience. Presented tableside, it offers an enticing selection of bite-sized and plated desserts that change with the seasons. From delicate pastries to indulgent sweets, the free-flow format allows diners to sample a variety of creations, making for a playful and satisfying finale.

Overall, VUE's Weekend Lunch Set Menu delivers a well-paced and thoughtfully executed dining experience. With its combination of quality ingredients, refined techniques and indulgent touches like the dessert trolley, it is an excellent choice for a leisurely weekend indulgence in the heart of the city.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


VUE
OUE Bayfront
Level 19
50 Collyer Quay
Singapore 049321
Tel: +65 8879 0923
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Website
Nearest MRT: Raffles Place (EW, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon – Thu: 1130am - 2pm, 530pm - 1am
Fri: 1130am - 2pm, 530pm - 2am
Sat: 1130am - 430pm, 530pm - 2am
(Closed on Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at Raffles Place MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk to Clifford Centre. Cut across the building. Take the overhead bridge link across the road. Turn right at the base of the overhead bridge. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 8 minutes. [Map]

VUE @ OUE Bayfront - A Seasonal Showcase of Stone Axe Wagyu and Akaroa Salmon

At VUE, the arrival of spring is marked by a thoughtfully curated seasonal menu created in collaboration with ORCA. Showcasing premium ingredients such as Stone Axe Wagyu and Akaroa Salmon, the menu reflects a seamless journey from source to plate. Under the direction of Executive Chef Sam Chin, the dishes highlight both technical precision and a deep respect for produce.

Canapes 4/5

Dinner commenced with an elegant platter of canapes, presenting the versatility of both Akaroa Salmon and Stone Axe Wagyu through a series of refined, bite-sized creations. Each piece demonstrated a balance of flavour and texture, setting the tone for the evening.

The Akaroa Salmon appeared in multiple forms — from the refreshing Salmon Tartare with Crispy Skin and Yuzu Pearl, to the delicately cured Salmon Gravlax with Nori Tofu Mousse and Kelp Oil, and the indulgent Salmon Rillette Choux Puff topped with Ikura.

Equally impressive were the Stone Axe Wagyu selections. The Wagyu Beef Tartare paired with Uni delivered richness and depth. At the same time, the Striploin Brochette with Lemon Nuruk Purée, Shio Kombu and Chives offered a nuanced interplay of umami and citrus. The Wagyu Beef Tongue glazed with Truffle Soy and finished with Spring Onion stood out for its tenderness and bold flavour.

Akaroa Salmon Confit 4.2/5

The Akaroa Salmon Confit further showcased why this fish is often dubbed "the wagyu of the sea". Paired with cauliflower purée, Piedmont hazelnut, and a balsamic glaze, the dish highlights the salmon's buttery, melt-in-the-mouth texture. Sourced from the pristine waters of Akaroa Harbour in New Zealand, the salmon's clean yet rich flavour profile was beautifully preserved through the confit technique, allowing its natural qualities to shine.

Stone Axe Wagyu Duo 4.2/5

The Stone Axe Wagyu Duo celebrated Australia's most prized Fullblood Wagyu. Featuring two distinct cuts — rump cap and cheek — the dish explored contrasting textures and cooking techniques. The rump cap offered a satisfying bite with pronounced marbling, while the cheek was slow-cooked to achieve a fork-tender finish. Together, they delivered a comprehensive appreciation of beef's depth and complexity.

Chitose Maize 4/5

Dessert came in the form of Chitose Maize, a light yet satisfying finale. Layers of hazelnut crunch and cereal milk mousse were paired with mugicha tea ice cream, creating a harmonious balance of nuttiness and gentle sweetness. It was a refreshing way to conclude the meal without overwhelming the palate.

Petit Four

The evening concluded with a selection of petit fours, providing a delicate and fitting end to a thoughtfully orchestrated dining experience.

'This spring menu at VUE is a testament to the strength of its partnership with ORCA. By spotlighting exceptional ingredients like Akaroa Salmon and Stone Axe Wagyu, Chef Sam Chin delivers a menu that is both produce-driven and elegantly executed — a celebration of craftsmanship, seasonality, and provenance.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


VUE
OUE Bayfront
Level 19
50 Collyer Quay
Singapore 049321
Tel: +65 8879 0923
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Raffles Place (EW, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon – Thu: 1130am - 2pm, 530pm - 1am
Fri: 1130am - 2pm, 530pm - 2am
Sat: 1130am - 430pm, 530pm - 2am
(Closed on Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at Raffles Place MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk to Clifford Centre. Cut across the building. Take the overhead bridge link across the road. Turn right at the base of the overhead bridge. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 8 minutes. [Map]

Barrel Story of Hikibi @ Cecil Street - Modern izakaya That Brings Fire, Whisky, and Craftsmanship Together Under The Artistry of Hibiki

Barrel Story of Hikibi marks a global milestone as the first Hibiki-led concept restaurant to open outside of Japan. Located in the heart of Singapore’s CBD, this modern izakaya is guided by the spirit of omotenashi — Japanese hospitality expressed through sincerity, attentiveness, and thoughtful details. Bringing together wood-fire cooking, refined flavour construction, and whisky pairing, Barrel Story of Hikibi presents a contemporary interpretation of the Japanese izakaya experience. Open for both lunch and dinner, the restaurant offers flexibility through a well-curated à la carte menu alongside set dining experiences.

Festive Yu Sheng (pre-order required) 4/5

Given the Chinese New Year period, we began with the Festive Yu Sheng, which requires advance ordering. It came as a pleasant surprise to find Yu Sheng on the menu of a modern Japanese izakaya. It was an unexpected yet festive nod to local dining culture.

Smoked Nuts and Raisin 4.5/5

The Smoked Nuts and Raisin ($8) were dangerously addictive. Infused with deep smokiness, each bite was moreish and set the tone perfectly for the meal ahead.

Prosciutto, Cream Cheese & Strawberry Maki Roll 4/5

The Prosciutto, Cream Cheese & Strawberry Maki Roll ($18 for 4 pcs) was a delightful play on contrasts. Cream cheese and strawberry are wrapped in savoury prosciutto, resulting in a harmonious balance of sweet, salty, and creamy with pleasing textural layers. A Shine Muscat variation is also available for those seeking an elevated fruit-forward option.

Suckling Pig 4.5/5

The Suckling Pig ($22) came in the form of boneless pork belly cubes, crowned with crisp crackling skin and marinated in Chinese spices. Beneath the brittle skin lies a luscious layer of fat and tender meat. Paired with Japanese mustard, the dish felt familiar yet refined, reminiscent of our local sio bak, but executed with finesse.

Tonsoku Harumaki 4.2/5

The Tonsoku Harumaki ($12/pc) offered a clever reinterpretation of a spring roll. Braised pig trotter is wrapped in spring roll skin and deep-fried till golden. It immediately brought to mind Kong Bak Pau, but reimagined in a crispy, handheld format.

Uni-corn Croquette 4.5/5

A standout dish of the night, the Uni-corn Croquette ($24 for 2 pcs) delivered on both creativity and indulgence. Encased in a crisp shell is creamy corn, topped generously with uni. It’s an unexpected yet winning combination that truly impressed my palate.

BARREL Chicken Rice 4.2/5

The BARREL Chicken Rice ($46) is a Hibiki-inspired take on Singapore’s iconic dish. Garnished with caviar and served with an in-house special sauce, this is likely the most expensive chicken rice in town. Price aside, the flavours were spot on, from the fragrant rice to the chilli and ginger sauces, all on par with a good traditional chicken rice stall.

Aburi Wagyu Donabe 4.2/5

The Aburi Wagyu Donabe ($68) featured aburi A5 wagyu, cured egg yolk, green onion, and nori atop flavoursome rice. Comforting and deeply satisfying, the charred wagyu paired beautifully with the rice for a luxurious yet soulful finish.

Soft Serve “HIBIK!” 4.5/5

We wrapped up the meal with the Soft Serve “HIBIK!” ($12), made with organic honey and Maldon salt. Soft, creamy, and lightly sweet, the dessert was elevated by Hibiki-infused honey, a subtle but elegant finale to the meal.

Barrel Story of Hikibi successfully bridges Japanese craftsmanship with local familiarity, delivering a dining experience that feels both refined and approachable. Whether you’re here for whisky pairings, inventive izakaya dishes, or a luxurious twist on comfort food, Barrel offers a compelling reason to visit.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Barrel Story of Hikibi
The Quadrant
19 Cecil Street
Singapore 049704
Tel: +65 80287100
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Raffles Place (EW, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm - 11pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Raffles Place MRT station. Take Exit F. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 5 minutes. [Map]

The Courtyard @ The Fullerton Hotel Singapore - An Exclusive Afternoon Tea Collaboration with Ami Patisserie

From 10 October to 30 November 2025, The Fullerton Hotel Singapore presents Aki 秋, an exclusive afternoon tea collaboration at The Courtyard with award-winning Chef Makoto Arami, La Liste's Pastry Talent of the Year 2025.

Afternoon Tea 4.8/5

Chef Makoto, who helms AMI Patisserie at Scotts Road, is celebrated for his masterful creations that harmoniously blend refined flavours, delicate textures, and exceptional craftsmanship. This afternoon tea experience also captures the tranquil beauty of the Japanese autumn, a season evocative of a graceful dance of change sweeping across the landscape.

Yuzu Blossom Mocktail

To begin, guests are welcomed with a Yuzu Blossom Mocktail, a blend of TWG Sakura! Sakura! Tea, yuzu juice, honey and butterfly pea flower tea, made using butterfly pea flowers freshly harvested from The Fullerton Farm. The drink's purple and yellow hues make it so pretty! Guests can also select a serving of TWG tea or Bacha coffee to accompany their food.

Savouries plate

Afternoon tea is served on a classic three-tiered stand, with a menu of five savouries, five sweets, and a plated dessert. As expected of an award-winning pastry chef, the afternoon tea set is pastry-forward, showcasing creative techniques and imaginative flavour combinations.

Sansho Miso Yaki Nasu Madeleine

We began with a delightful bite-sized treat, the Sansho Miso Yaki Nasu Madeleine, where smoky grilled eggplant meets a touch of parmesan.

Burrata Cheese and Parma Ham Sando

The Burrata Cheese and Parma Ham Sando is a spin-off of the memorable Burrata Cheese & Parma Ham Croissant that Chef Makoto also serves at AMI Patisserie. It's light yet indulgent, and creamy burrata paired with savoury ham is always a great combination.

Smoked Salmon Tarte

Tomato Tartelette

With the Smoked Salmon Tarte, what I appreciated most was the uniquely crafted tarte pastry, beautifully layered and flaky, adding a light, buttery contrast to the rich smoked salmon and capers topping. Meanwhile, the Tomato Tartelette showcases ripe tomatoes atop a crisp, savoury and golden base.

AMI Signature Caviar Choux (Nomad Caviar)

Last but certainly not least, the AMI Signature Caviar Choux is filled with creamy egg mayo and crowned with Nomad Caviar. Definitely one of my favourite bites of the afternoon!

Sweets Plate

Moving on to the sweets, some of these creations feel familiar, as Chef Makoto's signature dishes are featured on this menu. I was thrilled to taste them again, and they were as delicious as I remembered!

Black Forest Choux

My favourite amongst the sweets was the Black Forest Choux, filled with 70% chocolate ganache, kirsch cream, and a tart sour cherry compote. I love the choux's airy, light yet satisfyingly crisp exterior, as well as the rich chocolate component.

Strawberry Pistachio Tarte

Mont Blanc

The Strawberry Pistachio Tarte is as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the taste buds, topped with vibrant, sweet strawberries. Meanwhile, the Mont Blanc is an autumn essential, rich, creamy, and perfectly seasonal. For both of these tartes, there is an unexpected touch, a little cake base beneath, adding an extra layer of texture.

Caramel Banana Mousse

The Caramel Banana Mousse has a sweet and silky texture, with smooth mousse layered over a crisp base. Light yet indulgent, it offers a gentle sweetness that's perfectly balanced, with subtle caramel notes enhancing the natural richness of the banana.

Kinako and Matcha Tropézienne with Yuzu Jam

To my surprise, this afternoon tea set did not include scones. Instead, it features a Kinako and Matcha Tropézienne with Yuzu Jam. The kinako and matcha cream were delicious, and the yuzu jam added a bright, citrusy note to the bread. However, I found the bread too thick to finish entirely.

Mango Coconut Rice Pudding with Mango and Passion Fruit Sauce

Served in an elegant glass, the Mango Coconut Rice Pudding with Mango and Passion Fruit Sauce is reminiscent of summer's brightness more than autumn's, but it stands out as one of the most refined and elegant interpretations of mango sticky rice I've ever tasted.

Overall, fans of Chef Makoto will not be disappointed. The pastry craftsmanship is consistently superb, promising a most wonderful tea time experience, enjoyed within the luxurious surroundings of The Fullerton Hotel Singapore, one of the city's most iconic heritage landmarks.

To continue enjoying Chef Makoto's treats at home, two of his best-selling pastry creations —the Caramel Passion Banana Mousse Cake and the Apple Tatin Tarte —will also be available for takeaway from The Fullerton Cake Boutique, adjacent to The Courtyard.

The Courtyard, The Fullerton Hotel Singapore
10 October to 30 November 2025
S$68++ per adult, S$34++ per child (six to 11 years old)
inclusive of a Yuzu Blossom mocktail and a serving of TWG Tea or Bacha Coffee beverage

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 Courtyard
The Fullerton Hotel Singapore
1 Fullerton Square
Singapore 049178
Tel: +65 68778911
Facebook
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Nearest MRT: Raffles Place (EW Line, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Afternoon Tea Mon-Thu: 230pm - 530pm
Fri-Sun, PH: 12pm - 230pm, 330pm - 6pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Raffles Place MRT Station. Take Exit H. Turn right and walk towards the river. At the river, turn right again and walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

VIOS @ One Raffles Quay - Modern Mediterranean Grain Bowls by Blu Kouzina

VIOS at One Raffles Quay is a modern Mediterranean grain bowl spot conceptualised by the family behind Blu Kouzina. Named after the Greek word for “life”, VIOS is the brainchild of Gigi Tsakiris, daughter of Blu Kouzina’s founders. Drawing from her family’s heritage and her knowledge of food systems and nutrition, VIOS is built around providing nutritious and nourishing meals for the busy individuals in the CBD.

The Greek 4/5

Each bowl begins with a wholesome base of grains or greens, layered with proteins, seasonal vegetables, and housemade dips and sauces prepared daily without additives or seed oils. Among the eight signature creations, I tried The Greek ($18.50), featuring grass-fed meatballs on a bed of organic bulgur, accompanied by harissa dip, tzatziki, a tomato and onion mix, diced cucumber, and Greek feta. The organic bulgur was nutty with a firm bite, providing a sturdy base for the boldly flavoured harissa and meatballs, which were well-seasoned, tender, and juicy with a satisfying bite. Freshness came through from the tomato-onion mix and crisp cucumber, while the tangy tzatziki tied the elements together, rounding out the bowl with balance and cohesion. Every VIOS bowl is finished with a generous drizzle of the Tsakiris family’s extra virgin olive oil, harvested from centuries-old groves in the Messinean Basin of Greece. These ancient trees yield koroneiki olives, prized for their high polyphenol content, which delivers antioxidants, anti-inflammatory benefits, and a peppery flavour lift.

Pulled Beef Wrap 3.5/5

There are also wrap options. I tried the Pulled Beef Wrap ($17.50), which features a Greek pita filled with grass-fed beef, tzatziki, and a tomato-onion mix. The beef, braised with sundried tomato, brought a welcome depth of flavour. However, the filling was overly wet, which diluted the tzatziki and left the wrap partially soaked. Still, the pita managed to hold together and contributed a gentle wheatiness that complemented the filling.

Tomato Focaccia 4.5/5

The lineup of bakes was sumptuous. I had the Tomato Focaccia ($6.50) and the Spanakopita, both of which were wholesome and delicious. The focaccia, served warm with its base soaked in olive oil and paired with an additional amount of the Tsakiris family’s extra-virgin olive oil, was one of the most flavorful I’ve had, especially with the sundried tomatoes generously strewn across the top, intensifying every bite.

Spanakopita 4.5/5

The Spanakopita was delicious with pronounced herbaceous notes and a well-proportioned balance of flaky pastry to savoury filling.

Aegean Glow, Salt & Sol

Drinks bring an interesting twist. I tried two refreshing concoctions - Aegean Glow ($6.50), a bright blend of citrus, cinnamon, and Greek herbs; and Salt & Sol ($6.50), a piquant mix of brine, lime juice, chilli, honey, sea salt, and chilli flakes.

For those who prefer to customise, DIY Bowl options are also available. On lighter days, the soups, mezzes, and sides would make appealing alternatives, which I would love to try someday.

Photos and words by Si An. A homebody who is allured by travelling, loves the feel of freedom, the smell of the rain and the aroma of fine coffee and food.


VIOS
One Raffles Quay
South Tower
1 Raffles Quay
#01-02
Singapore 048583
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Nearest MRT: Downtown (DT Line), Raffles Place (EW, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Wed: 830am - 730pm
Thu-Fri: 730am - 730pm
(Closed on Sat & Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at Downtown MRT station. Take Exit F. Walk straight down Central Boulevard Road to Raffles Quay Road. Turn right on Raffles Quay. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Raffles Place MRT station.Take Exit I. Walk straight to Raffles Quay Road. Turn right onto Raffles Quay Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]