Estate @ Hilton Singapore Orchard - New Refreshed Grills & Gills Dinner Buffet

Singapore’s buffet scene has never been short of options, but Estate at Hilton Singapore Orchard has certainly raised the bar with its refreshed Grills & Gills Dinner Buffet. Celebrating the best of both land and sea, the buffet features award-winning Australian beef, premium seafood, freshly shucked French oysters and an impressive line-up of individually plated chef’s signatures.

As a first-time visitor to Estate, I was pleasantly surprised by the restaurant’s spacious layout, with different buffet stations spread across multiple rooms. Exploring each section felt like uncovering a new surprise, and we found ourselves making multiple rounds because there was simply too much we wanted to try.

Lobster

Prawns, Black Mussels, Clams, Scallops

Singaporeans are huge seafood lovers, so it’s little surprise that everyone made a beeline for the chilled seafood station. The selection includes Boston Lobster, Prawns, Black Mussels, Clams, and Scallops, all replenished throughout the evening to keep up with demand.

Oysters

Oyster lovers are in for a treat with the Freshly Shucked French Oysters from renowned producer Les Huîtres Cadoret in Brittany. Briny, creamy and fresh, the oysters are accompanied by an array of condiments including shallot mignonette, chilli soya, cocktail sauce and lemon wedges. If you prefer your oysters cooked, there’s also the Gratinated Oyster with Chimichurri, which offers a flavourful alternative.

Snow Beef Nigiri

Sushi and Sashimi

The sashimi selection features Norwegian ASC-certified salmon and tuna, alongside a nigiri bar serving salmon, maguro tuna and even snow beef nigiri. The fish was fresh, and the nigiri was enjoyable, though I felt the rice-to-topping ratio could be better balanced. The rice portions were too large, and reducing the amount of rice would also help minimise wastage.

Sanchoku Wagyu Beef Tomahawk

While the seafood spread is undoubtedly one of the buffet’s biggest draws, the meats deserve just as much attention. Estate partners with Sanchoku, winner of the 2025 Australian Wagyu Branded Beef Competition, showcasing its premium Wagyu, Angus, and Grain-Fed beef, all prized for their marbling, tenderness, and rich flavour.

Roasted Crispy Pork Belly

Braised Sanchoku Angus Beef Brisket

The carving station is where meat lovers will likely spend most of their evening. During our visit, there was Sanchoku Wagyu Beef Tomahawk, Braised Sanchoku Angus Beef Brisket, Wagyu Lamb Shortloin Saddle, Roasted Crispy Pork Belly, MSC-certified Halibut and more.

Complementing the premium meats are classic sides including truffle mashed potatoes, maple-glazed kabocha pumpkin, sautéed locally grown mushrooms and jumbo asparagus with hollandaise, making it easy to build a hearty plate.

Slow-Cooked Char-Grilled Foie Gras

One feature that elevates Estate above other hotel buffets is its collection of individually plated Chef’s Signatures, freshly prepared and served in individual portions. Among the popular dishes is the Slow-Cooked Char-Grilled Foie Gras, paired with duchess potato, kumquat chutney and balsamic glaze, balancing richness with acidity.

Char-Grilled Lamb Rack

The Char-Grilled Lamb Rack is served with a crispy polenta cake, a jumbo prawn, and rosemary jus, making for an elegant plated signature dish that combines premium ingredients with classic flavours.

River Prawns Nyonya Laksa

Spicy Prawn Noodles

At the noodle station, diners can choose between the comforting River Prawns Nyonya Laksa, hearty Spicy Prawn Noodles, or the addictive Sichuan-style Spicy Wanton.

Yakitori Donburi Bowl

Peanut Pancake

One of the more distinctive additions is the Yakitori Donburi Bowl, featuring award-winning Sanchoku Grain-Fed Beef Flank Steak or chicken served over Japanese rice with a sous vide egg and furikake. The buffet even offers freshly made Peanut Pancake as one of its plated desserts.

Local Delights

Local Delights

Salted Egg Yolk Slipper Lobster

Estate also pays homage to Singapore’s multicultural food heritage with a generous selection of local favourites. Highlights include the ever-popular Oyster Omelette, flavourful Assam Pedas Stingray, indulgent Salted Egg Yolk Slipper Lobster, wok-fried Hokkien Prawn Noodles, fragrant Tom Yum Fried Rice, Sweet & Sour Pork with Lychee, and Kung Po Chicken.

Soup

There are also two comforting soups to warm the palate: a rich and creamy Mushroom Velouté and a nourishing Lotus Root Pork Rib Soup with Red Dates and Old Cucumber.

Home Grown Salad Bar

Those looking for lighter fare will appreciate Estate’s extensive Home Grown Salad Bar, featuring greens grown locally by Hilton Singapore Orchard. Guests can customise their own salads with a wide variety of vegetables, grains, legumes, cheeses and proteins, finished with a choice of four house-made dressings.

Cold Salad Bar

Prepared salads include Grilled Chicken Caprese Chopped Salad, Prawn & Watermelon Salad with Feta, Roasted Beetroot Pumpkin & Lentil Salad, and Cold Buckwheat Soba with Edamame. Estate also supports local producer FOGO Fungi, whose gourmet mushrooms appear in several dishes.

Cheese

Meanwhile, the charcuterie section features Mortadella with Pistachio, Salami Milano, Coppa Ham and Prosciutto di Parma. At the same time, the artisanal French cheese selection comes from the renowned affineur Les Frères Marchand and is accompanied by chutneys, nuts, dried fruits, and crackers. Freshly baked breads, focaccia and sourdough complete the spread, making it an ideal stop between the heartier dishes.

Butter Chicken Biryani

The buffet’s diversity extends further with a dedicated Indian station serving Butter Chicken, Rogan Josh, Kerala Fish Meen Moilee, Hyderabadi Chicken Biryani, freshly baked naan and a selection of vegetarian curries.

Dim Sum

A small Dim Sum Corner offers steamed favourites, while families dining with young children will appreciate the dedicated Kids’ Corner featuring mac & cheese, popcorn chicken, penne pasta and cheesy wedges.

Be sure to save room for dessert because Estate concludes the experience with an entire Artisanal Dessert Room. Guests can indulge in an extensive selection of sweet treats, including Matcha Roll, Coffee Mille Crepe, Snickers Cake, American Cheesecake, Vanilla Bean Flan, Egg Tarts, Nyonya Kueh, Bailey’s Tiramisu, Sweet Potato Pudding and Lychee Martini Cake, alongside a variety of fresh seasonal fruits. Whether you enjoy rich chocolate desserts, creamy classics or lighter fruit-based sweets, there’s something to satisfy every craving.

One particularly interesting feature is Estate’s signature house blend chocolate, “Botanique en Fleurs 68%”, developed in collaboration with Cacao Barry. Made with sustainably sourced cacao, it offers delicate floral aromas balanced by bright red fruit notes.

After several rounds around the buffet, I was more than completely stuffed, yet I still found myself spotting dishes I wished I had room to try. That’s probably the best way to describe Estate’s Grills & Gills Dinner Buffet; there’s simply so much to explore.

Beyond the sheer variety, there was also a consistent focus on quality. From the award-winning Sanchoku beef and premium seafood to the thoughtfully prepared individually plated signatures, the buffet definitely had more hits than misses. It’s one of those buffet experiences where I would happily return to try everything I missed the first time. If you’re looking for a hotel buffet that delivers both quality and variety, Estate’s Grills & Gills Dinner Buffet is worth considering for your next indulgence.

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.


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

Opening Hours:
Daily: 630am - 10pm
Breakfast: 630am – 1030am
Lunch: 12pm – 230pm
Dinner: 630pm – 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]

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
Facebook
Instagram
Website
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 Shake, 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
Instagram
Website
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
Facebook
Instagram
Website
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]