Udon Shin @ Takashimaya - Debuts Its First Seasonal Special in Singapore: A Bright, Summer-Ready Arrabbiata Udon

Since opening its doors in November 2025, Udon Shin Singapore has quickly garnered attention for its meticulous approach to handcrafted udon. As the brand’s first international outpost from Tokyo, expectations have been high, and with the unveiling of its very first seasonal special, the restaurant marks a meaningful milestone. Available from 16 June to 13 September 2026, the Singapore-exclusive Arrabbiata Udon celebrates both Japanese culinary sensibilities and the vibrancy of summer produce.

Arrabbiata Udon 4.5/5

The Arrabbiata Udon ($30) is a thoughtful interplay of Japanese and Italian influences, anchored by kamaage-style udon served with a rich, house-made spicy tomato sauce. Inspired by the coastal Japanese tradition of enjoying peak-season tomatoes in the warmer months, the dish showcases the natural sweetness and acidity of ripe tomatoes, which are transformed into a robust yet balanced base.

Each component adds depth and nuance. Velvety confit tomatoes intensify the fruit’s sweetness, while grated parmesan cheese lends a savoury umami richness. A drizzle of bonito-infused oil introduces a subtle smokiness, tying the flavours back to Japanese culinary roots, while micro shiso contributes a delicate herbal lift. The gentle heat from the arrabbiata-style sauce is restrained, allowing the natural flavours to shine rather than overwhelm.

Arrabbiata Udon 4.5/5

Complementing the noodles is an impressive assortment of tempura. The highlight is undoubtedly the Snow Crab Leg Tempura, two generous pieces, lightly battered to preserve the crab’s inherent sweetness and delicate texture. Alongside are four varieties of seasonal vegetable tempura, each crisp and airy, adding both contrast and variety to the dish. Altogether, the bowl delivers a vibrant harmony of tangy, savoury and subtly sweet notes, resulting in a dish that feels both refreshing and comforting, an apt reflection of the summer season it draws inspiration from.

Butter Shoyu Tamago Udon 4.2/5

I also tried the Butter Shoyu Tamago Udon ($12). In contrast, the Butter Shoyu Tamago Udon offers a more understated, homely appeal. Despite being described as a hot udon, the dish leans more toward a warm or room-temperature preparation than a piping-hot, soup-based bowl. Simplicity is key here, but it is executed with finesse. A generous knob of butter melts gently into the warm noodles, mingling with a soft-boiled egg to create a luscious, creamy coating. The freshly cracked black pepper cuts through the richness with a gentle heat. Bright green spring onions add a refreshing bite, balancing the overall profile. When mixed thoroughly, the dish transforms into a silky, indulgent bowl that is deeply satisfying despite its minimal ingredients.

With the launch of its first seasonal special, Udon Shin Singapore demonstrates its ability to innovate while staying grounded in its core philosophy of quality and seasonality. The Arrabbiata Udon stands out not just as a creative fusion dish, but as a carefully composed bowl that respects both Japanese traditions and the vibrancy of summer produce. Meanwhile, the Butter Shoyu Tamago Udon proves that simplicity, when done right, can be just as compelling. As the brand continues to establish itself in Singapore’s dining scene, this seasonal offering signals an exciting direction, one that embraces creativity without losing sight of craftsmanship.

Note: This is an invite tasting.


Udon Shin
Takashimaya Shopping Centre
#B2-32
391 Orchard Road
Singapore 238873
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Nearest MRT: Orchard (NS, TE Line), Somerset (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 3pm, 5pm - 10pm
(queue stops at 2pm and 8pm)

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 4. Follow the walkway through Wisma Atria to Takashimaya. Continue walking straight towards Ngee Ann City until you reach the destination. Journey about 8 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Somerset MRT station. Take Exit B to Orchard Road. Head west or turn left onto Orchard Road against the flow of traffic. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 10 minutes. [Map]

Akashi Japanese Restaurant @ Paragon - Buy 1 Get 2 Temaki Deal

Akashi’s popular Twilight Hour promotion runs from Monday to Friday, from 2.30pm onwards, offering a Buy 1 Get 2 deal on all signature temaki (excluding Uni Temaki). Beyond the promotion, we also sampled several of the restaurant’s signature dishes to see whether they were worth a return visit.

Temaki 5/5

We sampled six freshly made Temaki varieties — Spicy Sake, California, Chef’s Special (featuring Tuna and Uni), Salmon & Tamago, Negitoro, and Beef Steak served with a raw egg dipping sauce. Prices start from an affordable $6 and go up to $48 for the premium Uni Temaki. What impressed us most was the generous amount of fillings packed into every handroll. Unlike many temaki, where the ingredients disappear halfway through, these remained generously filled right down to the final bite.

It was honestly one of the most satisfying temaki experiences we’ve had. That said, don’t expect three handrolls to leave you completely full. With a rice-to-filling ratio of roughly 30:70, the emphasis here is clearly on quality ingredients rather than carb-heavy portions.

Nasu Awaseyaki 4.8/5

Nasu Awaseyaki ($20) features Japanese eggplant topped with homemade miso. What stood out immediately was the texture. Instead of the soft, melt-in-your-mouth consistency typically associated with eggplant, this version offered a pleasant bite and slight crunch. Encased in a light tempura-style coating, the eggplant remained juicy within, while the savoury miso topping added depth and umami. Interestingly, the combination somehow reminded us of fried bananas! It was unexpected, yet surprisingly enjoyable.

Wakadori 4.5/5

Wakadori ($18) is a pan-seared chicken dish glazed with teriyaki sauce. The chicken was executed beautifully, with crisp, golden skin giving way to tender and juicy meat. We approached this dish with modest expectations, as teriyaki sauces can often lean overly sweet. Thankfully, Akashi strikes a more balanced savoury-sweet profile. As we continued eating, the flavour became strangely familiar, reminiscent of marmite chicken but subtler and more refined. This is the kind of dish that practically begs for a bowl of steamed rice.

Kani Ramen 4.5/5

Kani Ramen ($18) is a stir-fried ramen dish topped with fresh crab meat. The flavour profile was lighter and more nuanced than expected. There was a gentle tanginess running through the dish, which initially led us to believe vinegar was involved. We later learned that the acidity actually came from Japanese sake, lending the noodles a subtle brightness without overpowering the crab’s sweetness. Portion-wise, it was just right, satisfying without feeling heavy or cloying, making it an easy dish to finish.

While the Buy 1 Get 2 Temaki promotion is undoubtedly the headline attraction, Akashi’s signature dishes proved equally capable of holding their own. The standout for us was undoubtedly the temaki, thanks to the freshness of the ingredients and the generous fillings packed into every roll.

If you’re looking for a casual Japanese dining spot that delivers quality ingredients, well-executed dishes and excellent value during off-peak hours, Akashi’s Twilight Hour promotion is certainly worth checking out.

Photos and words by Jaslyn. An avid cook who lives to eat and travel for food. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Akashi Japanese Restaurant
Pargaon
290 Orchard Road
#B1-01/02
Singapore 238859
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Nearest MRT: Orchard (NS, TE Line), Somerset (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 10pm

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 the destination. Journey time is 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 is about 12 minutes. [Map]

Bouillon Gavroche @ Mandarin Gallery - Asia’s First Traditional Parisian Bouillon

Bringing a slice of 19th-century Paris to the heart of Orchard Road, Bouillon Gavroche at Mandarin Gallery introduces Singapore to the timeless charm of the traditional French bouillon. As Asia’s first of its kind, the concept revives a historic dining culture that predates the brasserie and bistro, where hearty, honest French fare is served all day in a lively, convivial setting.

Unlike its more refined sibling, Brasserie Gavroche, this new concept embraces accessibility — both in pricing and atmosphere — offering a menu of comforting French classics designed for everyday dining. With starters from $6, mains from $16, and desserts from $6, it is a refreshing addition to the local dining scene, where quality French cuisine is often associated with heftier price tags.

Camembert Pané 4/5

The Camembert Pané ($14) is a quintessential French comfort starter. Encased in a golden, crisp breadcrumb crust, the thick wheel of Camembert reveals a luscious molten centre upon cutting. The richness of the cheese is thoughtfully balanced by a side of fresh greens, whose light acidity cuts through the indulgence. It is simple yet deeply satisfying.

Oeufs Mimosa 4/5

A staple across Parisian bouillons, the Oeufs Mimosa ($6) celebrates the beauty of simplicity. Hard-boiled eggs are halved and filled with a creamy yolk mixture bound with mayonnaise and lightly seasoned with herbs. Unpretentious and nostalgic, the dish reflects the restaurant’s ethos, humble ingredients, executed with care.

Rillettes de Saumon 4.2/5

The Rillettes de Saumon ($12) offers a delightful interplay of textures and flavours. Combining both poached and smoked salmon, the spread achieves a balance between delicate freshness and savoury depth. Lightly bound with crème fraîche and lifted with a hint of lemon zest, it remains refreshing on the palate. Paired with toasted bread, it makes for an easy yet refined starter.

Salade d’Endives 3.5/5

The Salade d’Endives ($12) is a vibrant composition of contrasting flavours and textures. Crisp endive leaves bring a gentle bitterness, complemented by the creamy saltiness of Roquefort, the crunch of toasted walnuts, and the sweetness of fresh apple slices. While refreshing, its assertive flavour profile may not appeal to all, but it serves well as a palate cleanser amid richer dishes.

Ravioles de Royan aux Épinards 4/5

The Ravioles de Royan aux Épinards ($16) showcases a regional French speciality from the Dauphiné. These delicate, bite-sized pasta parcels feature thin, silky skins that almost dissolve in the mouth, encasing a creamy cheese filling. Served atop a bed of sautéed spinach, the dish achieves a lovely balance between richness and earthy freshness.

Beef Bourguignon, Coquillettes 4.2/5

A highlight on the menu, the Beef Bourguignon, Coquillettes ($26) delivers deep, comforting flavours. The beef is braised until fork-tender in a rich red wine reduction, imbued with the sweetness of slow-cooked vegetables. Instead of the usual potatoes, it is paired with coquillettes, small elbow pasta that soaks up the robust sauce beautifully. Nostalgic and hearty, it captures the soul of traditional French home cooking.

Parmentier de Canard 4/5

The Parmentier de Canard ($22) is a rustic, comforting dish akin to a French-style shepherd’s pie. Beneath a blanket of smooth, buttery mashed potatoes lies shredded duck confit, rich and deeply flavourful. Baked to a light golden finish, it is a hearty, no-frills dish that embodies the essence of French “cuisine bourgeoise” — honest, filling, and immensely satisfying.

Profiterole 4.5/5

The Profiterole ($10) is a standout dessert. The airy choux pastry, lightly crisp on the outside, encases a swirl of vanilla soft serve. What elevates the dish is the warm, luscious chocolate sauce poured generously over the top, creating a delightful contrast of hot and cold while slowly melting the ice cream into a creamy pool.

Tarte Fine aux Pommes 4.2/5

The Tarte Fine aux Pommes ($8) is a study in restraint and precision. A thin sheet of puff pastry forms the base, baked until crisp and buttery, topped with delicately sliced apples arranged in a neat pattern. Lightly caramelised at the edges, the apples retain their natural tartness, allowing the fruit to shine without excessive sweetness.

Mousse au Chocolat 4.2/5

Ending on a classic note, the Mousse au Chocolat ($8) delivers a rich yet airy indulgence. Smooth and velvety with a slight density, it strikes a fine balance between lightness and depth, offering a satisfying chocolate finish without being overly heavy.

Bouillon Gavroche successfully captures the spirit of Parisian bouillon dining — approachable, comforting, and steeped in tradition. The menu focuses on familiar French classics executed with finesse, while the pricing makes it accessible for casual, repeat visits. In a dining landscape where French cuisine often leans towards the formal and extravagant, Bouillon Gavroche stands out with its relaxed charm and honest cooking. In this place, one can simply drop in, enjoy a hearty meal, and return time and again.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Bouillon Gavroche
Mandarin Gallery
333A Orchard Road
#01-16/17
Singapore 238897
Tel: +65 8522 0998
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Nearest MRT: Somerset (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Somerset MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk to ground level. Turn left onto Orchard Road. Walk down Orchard Road. Cross the road and walk to the destination. Journey time is about 5 minutes. [Map]

Shisen Hanten @ Hilton Orchard Singapore - An Eight-Course Expression of Spring

To mark the arrival of Spring, Michelin-starred Shisen Hanten by Chen Kentaro unveils its Chef’s Table Spring Menu 2026 — an eight-course experience ($288++) available from March through May. Rooted in the finesse of Chūka Szechwan Ryori, the menu is a thoughtful expression of the season, spotlighting the pristine produce of Japan’s spring harvest and the cuisine’s hallmark balance of sweetness, umami, and gentle spice.

Assorted Seasonal Appetiser - Japanese Hassun Style 4.2/5

The meal opens with a refined Hassun, a nod to traditional kaiseki presentation. Served across an assortment of elegant vessels, the six seasonal bites form a vibrant prelude. Highlights include the Smoked Fish, offering a subtle smokiness layered with restrained heat. Mala Barbecued Pork, tender with a hint of mala punch, and the Fresh Beancurd Skin with Crab Consommé Sauce, which impresses with its silky texture and delicate crustacean sweetness. The Abalone with Glass Noodles showcases a pleasing chew, while the Broad Beans & Scallop with Mala Egg Yolk Sauce ties the assortment together with a gentle, savoury richness.

Steamed Siu Mai & Turnip Cream Soup 4/5

The Steamed Siu Mai is elevated with prized Mangalica pork, its natural fattiness lending the dumpling a juicy, almost buttery mouthfeel. Crafted in a larger format, each bite delivers a satisfying depth of flavour. Complementing it is a chilled Japanese turnip consommé — light, clean, and subtly sweet — acting as a refreshing counterpoint that resets the palate.

Hiyama Sea Cucumber with Black Truffle 4.2/5

A standout in both technique and flavour, the Hiyama Sea Cucumber is sourced from Hokkaido and undergoes an intensive three-day rehydration process to unlock its full depth of flavour. Braised in a rich hong shao sauce, the sea cucumber attains a luxurious, gelatinous texture. It is paired with a creamy risotto made from Hokkaido rice and finished with aromatic black truffle, creating a harmonious interplay between land and sea.

Spring Asparagus 4/5

Celebrating the essence of the season, the Spring Asparagus is presented in its purest form. Lightly steamed to preserve its crunch and sweetness, the spears are paired with a bold fermented beancurd sauce that adds a savoury punch. A finishing touch of sakura salt — delicately infused with cherry blossom — lends a floral nuance that encapsulates the fleeting beauty of Spring.

A5 Wagyu Beef Spring Roll 4.5/5

The A5 Wagyu Beef Spring Roll is indulgent yet well-balanced. Featuring braised Omi beef sirloin, the filling is imbued with the complex flavours of Szechuan fermented broad bean and chilli bean pastes. The richness of the marbled beef is offset by the crunch of bamboo shoots and the subtle nuttiness of melted Comté cheese, all encased in a crisp, golden wrapper. Each bite delivers layers of texture and umami.

Mapo Tofu with Assorted Seafood 4.5/5

The meal reaches its crescendo with the Mapo Tofu with Assorted Seafood, a refined “White Mapo” interpretation. Instead of the usual robust sauce, this version leans into elegance, featuring sweet, briny notes from wild prawns, scallops, and king crab simmered in superior chicken stock. The silky tofu absorbs the broth beautifully, while a finishing splash of hot oil over Szechuan chilli powder adds aromatic heat. Accompaniments such as pickled mustard greens, peanuts, and sesame seeds introduce textural contrast. Paired with Hokkaido claypot rice, it is both comforting and deeply satisfying.

Strawberry Parfait 4.2/5

The Strawberry Parfait provides a refreshing and well-composed finale. Juicy Japanese strawberries take centre stage, layered with house-made Ma Lai Gao infused with Okinawa brown sugar, mascarpone cream, and almond tofu. The interplay of fruity brightness, creamy richness, and light sponge creates a balanced and elegant dessert.

Set within the intimate Chef’s Table setting, this seasonal menu showcases the culinary philosophy of Shisen Hanten — where precision, premium ingredients, and storytelling converge. Each course captures a moment of Spring, making this a timely and memorable dining experience. For those seeking exclusivity, the private Chef’s Table room (up to 8 guests) requires a minimum spend of $2,304++ and offers a front-row seat to this seasonal showcase before it transitions into summer.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Shisen Hanten by Chen Kentaro
Hilton Singapore Orchard
Level 35
333 Orchard Road
Singapore 238867
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Nearest MRT: Somerset (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Somerset MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk to ground level. Turn left onto Orchard Road. Walk down Orchard Road. Cross the road and walk to the destination. Journey time is about 5 minutes. [Map]

Mama Shelter @ Killiney Rd - Indulgent Mama's Happy Meal At Half-Price, $39.90 for 2 pax

Mama Shelter Singapore, located along Killiney Road, marks the iconic French lifestyle brand’s first foray into Asia, having opened its doors in the final quarter of 2025. The brand adopts a playful and welcoming approach to hospitality, with signature concepts Mama Loves You and Mama Feeds You shaping the overall experience.

Mama’s Happy Meal

One of the easiest ways to get a taste of Mama’s hospitality is through Mama’s Happy Meal. Crafted as a playful, grown-up take on a childhood favourite, this set is currently available at a special half-price offer of $39.90 for 2 persons (U.P. $79.90). Each set comes with two mains, free-flow fries, two drinks, and a tin of caviar, for a fun touch of indulgence.

Beef Burger 4.5/5

For mains, we tried two handcrafted burgers from Mama’s kitchen. The Beef Burger features double Black Angus patties, smashed and caramelised for that juicy, lip-smacking flavour. While the burger is slightly smaller, it comes loaded with sweet caramelised onions and just the right amount of gherkins for acidity. The buns held everything well without being too dense.

Fish Burger 4.8/5

The Fish Burger, made with beer-battered red snapper and Mama’s tartare sauce, was equally enjoyable. The crust was light and airy, while the fillet remained firm, moist and flaky. While caviar would pair nicely with seafood, the burger stood well on its own, with the tangy tartare sauce bringing everything together. The free-flow skin-on fries were spot on, reminiscent of Belgian-style fries, and definitely easy to keep going back for.

Cucumber Martini, Espresso Martini

For drinks, you can choose from a curated selection of draft beers, gin and tonic, wines, or non-alcoholic options. We went with the signature cocktails: the Cucumber Martini and the Espresso Martini. Both were well balanced, especially the Espresso Martini, which I appreciated as many tend to be overly sweet. If you’re planning to linger, you can continue with free-flow fries alongside your next drink at an exclusive price of $9.90 when you extend the Happy Meal.

Nasi Lemak Arancini 3.5/5

Beyond the set, we also tried the Nasi Lemak Arancini ($18), which brings a local twist. They definitely got the flavour combination right, with coconut-infused rice and a punchy sambal to go with. Should the Arancini be shaped larger, more of the pearly, coconut-infused rice would come through.

Fresh Morel Risotto 4.8/5

The Fresh Morel Risotto ($38), a seasonal item, features sautéed morels, Parmigiano Reggiano, crisp and shaved black truffle. It was a well-executed dish, with a good balance between the rice and the ingredients, and flavours that were rich yet controlled, complementing each other without overpowering one another.

Sweet Belgian Waffles 4.5/5

We ended with the Sweet Belgian Waffles ($18). Loved the caramelised exterior and how it wasn’t overly sweet, making it a satisfying finish to the meal.

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.


Mama Shelter Singapore
110 Killiney Road
Singapore 239549
Tel: +65 6050 3250
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Nearest MRT: Somerset (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Sun-Mon: 7am -10pm
Tue-Sat: 7am - 12am

Direction:
1) Alight at Somerset MRT station. Take Exit A. Cross the road. Turn left and walk to Killiney Road. Turn right onto Killney Road. Walk down Killney Road to the destination. Journey time is about 6 minutes. [Map]