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

Monday, March 18, 2024

Eden Restaurant @ Pullman Singapore Orchard - Vibrant Asian Flavours with Contemporary Interpretations by New Executive Chef Martin Tan

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Eden Restaurant at Pullman Singapore Orchard has recently unveiled an updated menu thoughtfully designed by its newly appointed Executive Chef, Chef Martin Tan. This refreshed culinary offering spans from inviting small plates and bao buns to more substantial sharing platters, maintaining the vibrancy of Asian flavours with contemporary interpretations.

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Sticky Pork Belly 4.5/5

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Kam Heong Grilled Octopus 3.5/5

We had Kam Heong Grilled Octopus ($32) and Sticky Pork Belly Bao Bun ($18/2 pcs) to start. The latter exceeded expectations, providing a more satisfying experience. The pork belly showcased an ideal balance of fats and meat, achieving a tender texture that was spot on. Its braised flavour was quite on point, particularly when combined with the layer of salted vegetables within the bun. On the other hand, while the grilled octopus was skillfully prepared, the subtle Kam Heong glaze failed to make a distinct statement in the overall dish.

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River Prawns, Scallop, Local Farmed Mussels 4/5

On the menu are two wok dishes for sharing. We had the bright-looking River Prawns, Scallop, Local Farmed Mussels ($44) in Tangy Coconut Gravy, served with a Charcoal You Tiao. The standout element was the vibrant coconut gravy, boasting a delightful acidity that enticed us to savour each spoonful. While the prawns and scallops were expertly seared, a slightly firmer texture of the prawns would have enhanced the overall experience.

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Pan-Fried Black Cod 4.8/5

For mains, Pan-Fried Black Cod ($42) with Thunder Tea. As a Hakka, I must commend the fine execution of the Thunder Tea, particularly with the addition of roasted peanuts — a hallmark of a traditional Thunder Rice Tea dish. The innovative pairing of the tea with cod fish was a delightful surprise, as the tea's astringency and the cod's richness complemented each other flawlessly. The cod, adorned with crisped skin, added an extra layer of deliciousness to the dish.

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Hae Bee Hiam Australian Lamb Rack 3/5

On the other hand, the Hae Bee Hiam Australian Lamb Rack ($48) could have been more impressive. The standout feature for me was the tangy Sesame-Fermented Sauce, which skillfully complements the inherent gamey taste of the lamb. However, the expected presence of the Hae Bee Hiam glaze was somewhat lacking. Perhaps sous vide preparation wasn't the ideal way to achieve precise doneness, and the overall texture of the lamb left a bit to be desired.

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Coconut Frozen Parfait 3/5, Osmanthus Chia Seed Jelly 3/5

For desserts, we had Coconut Frozen Parfait ($16) with Pineapple Nage and Osmanthus Chia Seed Jelly ($16). The parfait was interesting, with a sprinkle of pink peppercorn, which lent a peppery fragrance and nuanced flavour. However, using riper and juicier pineapples instead of our unripened ones would have elevated its tastiness. The latter was refreshing with Kaffir Lime and Mango cubes thought a reduction in sweetness would have been ideal.

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.


Eden Restaurant
Pullman Singapore Orchard
Level 4
270 Orchard Road
Singapore 238857
Tel: +65 6603 8888
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Somerset (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Sun-Wed & PH: 6:30am - 11pm
Thu-Sat 7 Eve of PH: 6:30am - 12midnight
Sun - Wed & Public Holiday: 630am - 11pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Somerset MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk to Orchard Road. Turn left and walk down Orchard Road. Walk to traffic junction of Orchard Road and Orchard Link. Cross the road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]

Sunday, December 24, 2023

Kimchi Dining @ Orchard Central - Aesthetic Korean Restaurant Offering Modern Korean Dining Concept

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Kimchi Dining is a modern Korean dining concept located on the 6th floor of Orchard Central. The menu offers ala carte dishes as well as set menu for 2-pax and 4-pax. We tried the 2-pax set menu ($60/pax) that comes with appetisers and mains, 2 desserts and 2 makgeolli cocktails (tea options are also available).

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Makgeolli Bread 4/5

Our meal started with warm and comforting Makgeolli Bread, served with a generous portion of White Bean butter. The bread was mildly sweet and fluffy with a slight chewy texture.

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Kimchi Platter 3.5/5

Next came the Kimchi Platter, showcasing 6 types of house-fermented kimchi. While the portion of some of the kimchi was rather sad-looking with a couple of vegetable strands, I enjoyed the experience of being able to try their different taste profiles.

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Gaji Ganjeong 3.8/5

Then came Gaji Ganjeong. This charcoal tempura eggplant had an airy batter and was delectable with an umami-sweet honey soy dressing.

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Gamjajeon 5/5

The set includes the much highly-raved Gamjajeon. These potato pancakes are shaped into mini rosti with moreish crispy edges. Topped with sharp Parmesan cheese, radish, and tangy onion jangaiji, the various flavour nuances woven into these otherwise simple potato pancakes make them even more irresistible. The creamy Siberian onion truffle mayo gives it a satisfying, mouth-filling texture.

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Arongsatae & Dogani 4/5

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Jeju Pork Noodle 3/5

For Mains, we chose Arongsatae & Dogani and Jeju Pork Noodle. Arongsatae & Dogani is a beef heel muscle and tendon braised for over six hours. The beef itself impressed with a melt-in-your-mouth texture. As for the tendons, I appreciated their clean taste, but some were less tender than expected. The Jeju Pork Noodle, on the other hand, while it had a light and tasty Jeju-style pork broth, paled in comparison due to a rather tough pork belly.

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Black Sesame Injeolmi Sundae 3/5

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Chocolate Injeolmi Tart 3.8/5

For desserts, we had Chocolate Injeolmi Tart and Black Sesame Injeolmi Sundae. Both desserts incorporated chewy rice balls, adding a contrasting texture. I prefer the bitter-sweet notes of the chocolate tart. The sundae was a tad too sweet due to the drizzling of jujube syrup.

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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.


Kimchi Dining
Orchard Central
181 Orchard Road
#06-10
Singapore 238896
Tel:+65 9113 7090
Facebook
Instagram
Nearest MRT: Somerset (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 1130am - 3pm, 6pm 0 930pm
Sat-Sun, PH: 1130am - 930pm
(Closed on Tue)

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

Wednesday, November 29, 2023

Kuroki Japanese Yakiniku Restaurant @ Paragon Shopping Centre - Unveiling Orchard Road’s Hidden Lunch Gem

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Amidst Paragon's opulent retail and dining landscape, Kuroki Japanese Yakiniku Restaurant pleasantly surprised me with its affordable yet premium lunch sets starting from $35.

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Kuroki sets itself apart by sourcing prized cuts of beef based on availability and prime freshness. The selection ranges from A5 Iwate Wagyu to Kumamoto Wagyu and Snow-Aged Karubi from Hokkaido, promising an elevated yakiniku experience.

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Kuroki Tasting Set 4.2/5

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Opting for the Kuroki Tasting Set ($35), I discovered a well-curated ensemble featuring Kurobuta pork belly, Kurobuta pork collar, and a choice between tontoro or chicken thigh. The set, designed for a hearty lunch, didn't compromise on the quality or portion of the meats. It included an appetiser, salad, chawanmushi, rice, soup, and a delightful dessert, creating a wholesome dining experience.

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Kuroki Premium Set 4.5/5

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For the ardent beef aficionados, the Kuroki Classic Set ($48) beckons with three cuts of wagyu beef, accompanied by appetisers, salad, chawanmushi, rice, soup, and dessert. To escalate the indulgence, the Kuroki Premium Set ($58) offers four cuts of Wagyu - Wagyu Sirloin, Wagyu Prime Karubi, Wagyu Ribeye Lip, and Wagyu Short Rib, providing a symphony of textures and flavours.

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Wagyu Tongue 4.5/5

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Kimchi Soup 3/5

To enhance our dining experience, we indulged in add-ons such as the Wagyu Tongue ($22). When grilled, it exhibited a delightful crunch, adding a unique texture to the meal. While rich and robust, the Kimchi Soup ($10) veered towards being too hearty for a drinkable soup, brimming with shredded meat and kimchi.

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Wrapping up our lunch set, a scoop of ice cream sealed the meal on a sweet note. I opted for the earthy matcha flavour, while my dining partner savoured the delicate sea salt flavour.

In the heart of Orchard Road, Kuroki Japanese Yakiniku Restaurant stands out as a hidden gem, offering premium lunch sets at an unparalleled value. With a commitment to quality cuts, thoughtful sets, and add-ons for customisation, Kuroki invites diners to savour the essence of Japanese yakiniku without breaking the bank.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Kuroki
Paragon Shopping Centre
290 Orchard Road
#05-03
Singapore
Tel: +65 6339 3383
Facebook
Instagram
Nearest MRT: Somerset (NS Line), Orchard Road (NS, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 10pm
Set Lunches: 1130am - 230pm

Direction:
1. Alight at Somerset MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk to ground level. Turn left onto Orchard Road. Walk down Orchard Road. At the traffic junction of Orchard Road and Orchard Link, cross the road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 2 or 3. Proceed to the road level. Walk down Orchard Road until the junction of Orchard Road and Orchard Link. Cross the road and walk to Paragon. Journey time about 12 minutes. [Map]

Sunday, November 19, 2023

Celebrate the magic of Christmas at Hilton Orchard Singapore

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Christmas has dawned upon Hilton Orchard Singapore, and with it, a magnificent festive spread from its esteemed F&B establishments - Estate, Ginger.Lily and Osteria Mozza graced the hotel with an air of seasonal enchantment.

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Fresh Seafood Platter

Embarking on the festive celebration, we commenced with the Fresh Seafood Platter. A sumptuous assembly featuring Maine Lobster, Irish Oysters, Alaskan King Crab, and Scallops – a true indulgence for seafood aficionados, capturing the essence of the ocean in a single feast.

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Pan-Seared Foie Gras

Next, we had the Pan-Seared Foie Gras. An ode to decadence, the foie gras was artfully paired with onion and chestnut puree, dragees alsace crust, and a tantalising balsamic glaze. This symphony of flavours elevated the delicate foie gras to a sublime experience.

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Christmas Cravings

No festive celebration is complete without Christmas Cravings. A culinary voyage through the Classic Beef Wellington, Whole Roasted Turkey with bread stuffing, and the Honey Glazed Bone-in Ham, offering a trifecta of festive delights that beckon the spirit of Christmas to the table.

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Smoked Turkey and Candied Bacon Pizza

Osteria Mozza contributed to the festive revelry by creating the Smoked Turkey and Candied Bacon Pizza. Adorned with squash, cranberries, and fried sage, this festive pizza danced on the palate, marrying unique holiday flavours with the joy of traditional pizza craftsmanship.

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Grilled Sandwich

Adding a touch of warmth to the festive menu is the Grilled Sandwich, a treasure trove of flavours with layers of turkey prosciutto, Swiss cheese, pepperoncini, and pickles. The peppery zest of the pepperoncini harmoniously blended with the tangy pickles for a delightful finish.

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Raclette Cheese

A personal favourite emerged as Raclette Cheese, beckoning to be savoured with bread, ham, and pickles. The rich, melted goodness of the raclette infused each bite with a delightful blend of textures and flavours.

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Not to be overlooked are the Executive Pastry Chef's creations, offering visual delights and an exquisite array of log cakes with unique flavours distinct from the classic renditions. The festive sweet delights are tantalising for those with a penchant for confectionary delights.

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In conclusion, Hilton Orchard Singapore has woven a tapestry of festive delights that cater to the eyes and promise a culinary journey rich in flavours and creativity. This Christmas, the hotel stands as a beacon of gastronomic joy, inviting patrons to celebrate flavours that encapsulate the season's magic.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Hilton Orchard Singapore
333 Orchard Road
Singapore 238867
Tel: +65 67374411
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Somerset (NS Line)

Saturday, November 4, 2023

Homura by Kai @ Orchard Plaza - A Hidden Yakitori Omakase Inside An Unassuming Shopping Mall

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Homura by Kai, nestled discreetly on the third floor of Orchard Plaza, is a yakitori omakase haven awaiting discovery. This unassuming restaurant opens its shutters precisely at 6:30 pm, revealing a cosy space with 12 counter seats that provide a full view of the chef orchestrating his culinary magic over a charcoal pit.

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I had the 18-course Yakitori Omakase ($188), which promises an array of flavours and textures. The feast includes 3 Appetisers, 13 Skewers, 1 Signature Ramen/Soup, and a Dessert. There's also a slightly more modest 12-course Yakitori Omakase available at $138.

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Chawanmushi 4/5

We embarked on this journey with a delightful Chawanmushi. This Japanese classic presents a smooth and silky steamed egg bathed in dashi broth and adorned with a slice of chicken and a mushroom. It's a soothing prelude to the meal.

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Spanish Mackerel 4.5/5

A highlight of the evening was the Spanish Mackerel. At first glance, it might appear straightforward, but upon closer examination, it reveals two distinct textures. The top layer is slightly grilled to a delicate crisp, while the other half is served as sashimi. This clever preparation combines two different textural experiences in a single bite.

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Chicken Neck 4.2/5

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Chicken Skin 3.5/5

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Chicken Heart 4/5

We continued the journey through the diverse world of chicken skewers. The Chicken Neck surprised me with its pleasantly meaty bite, while the Chicken Skin was delightfully crispy. Chef Roy even meticulously trimmed away charred bits, ensuring no unpleasant burnt taste lingered. The Chicken Heart offered a delectably tender texture, showcasing the art of grilling different chicken parts.

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Shirako 4.5/5

Moving on, we encountered Shirako, cod fish's milt, a delicacy in season. Chef Roy coated it with a sweet sauce and grilled it over charcoal, adding a slight crispness to the exterior and a smoky aroma, all finished with a hint of sweetness.

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Zucchini 4.2/5

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Mushroom 4/5

The exploration of skewers continued with a focus on vegetables. The Zucchini, kissed by the fire and lightly seasoned with salt, brought out its natural sweetness. The Mushroom was perfectly grilled, preserving its juicy core.

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Chicken Oyster 4.5/5

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Chicken Wing 4.2/5

Next in line were the Chicken Oyster, a prized part of the chicken located on the back near the hip joint, offering a moist, juicy, and slightly silky texture. The Chicken Wing, as one might expect, was packed with flavour due to its bone-in preparation.

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Gingko Nuts 3.8/5

Gingko Nuts made an appearance, with their green hue resembling grapes, though the taste was quite different, offering hints of sweetness and nuttiness after grilling over charcoal.

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Japanese Yam 2.8/5

Japanese Yam, however, was the least favourite. The skin-on grilling left it somewhat dry, with a lingering aftertaste that might not appeal to all palates.

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Chicken Gizzard 4/5

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Chicken Cartilage 4.2/5

The Chicken Gizzard and Chicken Cartilage provided a delightful crunch, demonstrating the versatility of various chicken parts. These skewers were a testament to how even less common parts can be transformed into delectable treats.

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Chicken Liver 4/5

Chicken Liver followed, my personal favourite among chicken innards. Typically enjoyed with chicken rice, it presented a unique flavour profile after grilling, resembling pig's liver more closely than the usual boiled variety.

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Tsukune 4.5/5

The Tsukune, seasoned ground chicken formed into oval shapes, was a beloved dish in Japanese cuisine. It showcased the art of grilling and flavouring meat to create savoury and slightly sweet bite-sized portions of grilled chicken.

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Quail Egg 4/5

The omakase feast culminated with Quail Egg, grilled and seasoned with pepper. Unlike the usual tough texture of quail eggs, these retained a soft, runny centre, a testament to Homura's grilling skills.

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Ramen 3.8/5

The savoury part of the meal ended with Ramen served with an onsen egg and seaweed. The broth, light yet rich, was the perfect ending to a fantastic feast. Finally, for the grand finale, a scoop of Ice Cream, available in Matcha, Black Sesame, or Vanilla, rounded off the dining experience.

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Homura by Kai offers an exceptional yakitori omakase feast where each ingredient is expertly grilled to bring out its full flavour. The chef and service staff provide not only delicious dishes but also a warm and attentive dining experience. It was a truly enjoyable and memorable omakase dinner.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Homura by Kai
Orchard Plaza
150 Orchard Road
#03-16
Singapore 238841
Instagram
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Nearest MRT: Somerset (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 630pm - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Somerset MRT station. Take Exit D. Walk to traffic junction of Orchard Road and Killney Road. Cross the road. Walk to Orchard Plaza. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]