Coucou @ Craig Road - New Look and Menu Elevated With Additional Swiss Classics

Coucou, the Swiss Restaurant located at Craig Road, has recently unveiled a refreshed new look and menu. The revamped cosy interior brings to our sunny island the ambience of a snug alpine cabin in the Swiss mountains, making it a cosy spot to gather over bubbling hot cheese fondue.

Malakoff 4.5/5

Part of the mainstays, Malakoff features a golden, deep-fried dome of Gruyère cheese with a crispy exterior and gooey, molten centre. It is a Swiss speciality, unique to only three villages in the "La Côte" region. Served with vinegary Dijon Mustard to cut its richness, Swiss mercenaries once enjoyed this treat with local white wine. Over here at Coucou, a curated list of wines is offered.

Fondue Moitié Moitié 4/5

A staple for almost every table at Coucou, Fondue Moitié Moitié is a decadent pot of melted Vacherin Fribourgeois and Gruyére, served with crusty bread. Sides such as potatoes and pickles for add-ons are available.

La Fameuse Salade Coucou 4/5

It is recommended to have some La Fameuse Salade Coucou alongside to complement its richness - a curly chopped salad tossed with housemade 'Grand Père' dressing, a recipe passed down from the co-owner Yves' grandfather.

Le Tartare De Boeuf 4/5

Coucou offers a Le Tartare De Boeuf prepared tableside. The beef tartare is mixed with Sbrinz Cheese, Rucola salad, chopped onions, chilli and mustard. A sampling is given to ensure that the spice and tang levels are suited to your preference. I had mine with more mustard for an extra kick of tang.

L'iconique Emince De Veau Zurichoise 4.5/5

The Traditional Zurich Style Veal Ragout with Rosti is a crowd-pleaser for mains. The mushroom sauce was comforting and flavoursome, and the rosti was fluffy with crispy sides. While some of the sliced veal were slightly dry, the delightful creamy mushroom sauce compensated for it.

Pave De Bar Au Safran 4.5/5

The Sea Bass Fillet is a lighter option. The moist and flaky fish paired aptly with a subtle floral saffron sauce. The sauce had an excellent consistency, adding a gentle yet flavorful note to the delicate sweetness of the fish.

Tartrelette Au Citron De Mrs Chin 4/5

Dessert was a Lemon Tart with raspberry and its top brûlée. The tart shell was buttery and delicious, and I appreciate how the bitter caramelised notes and the tart raspberry balanced the sweetness of the curd.

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.


Coucou
9 Craig Road
#01-01
Singapore 089669
Tel: +65 9642 1624/+65 6226 0060
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Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar (EW Line), Maxwell (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Sun - Thurs:12pm - 230 pm, 6pm - 11pm

Direction: 
1) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to Orchid Hotel. Walk to Tanjong Pagar Road. Cross the road and walk to Craig Road. Continue on Craig Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Maxwell MRT station. Take Exit 3. Cross the road and walk to Duxton Road. Walk down Duxton Road. Turn right onto Craig Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Umami 10 @ Telok Ayer Street - A Refined Japanese-European Fusion, Tapas-Style Experience

Located in the vibrant Telok Ayer district, Umami 10 delivers an elevated dining experience, blending the artistry of Japanese cuisine with refined European influences. Designed around a tapas-style concept, it offers a curated menu of inventive small plates, all served in an inviting setting perfect for savouring fine food, wine, and sake.

Premium Hyogo Oysters 4.2/5

The Premium Hyogo Oysters ($36) set the tone for the meal. Plump, juicy, and boasting a clean, briny flavour. The creamy oysters are elevated with uni and ikura toppings, delivering an exquisite taste of the sea in every bite.

Truffle Pitan Tofu 4.2/5

A standout dish was the Truffle Pitan Tofu ($20). This luxurious creation combines silky tofu with a rich, creamy century egg sauce, delivering a bold and savoury depth. Snow crab meat adds a delicate sweetness, while ikura pearls provide bursts of umami flavour. A subtle hint of truffle oil ties everything together with its earthy aroma, making it a must-try.

Cod Fish Shirako 4/5

The Cod Fish Shirako ($28) is a seasonal delicacy that should not be missed. The creamy texture and mild sweetness of the shirako are perfectly complemented by the house-made sauce, creating a delicate yet indulgent dish.

Gold Charcoal Karaage 4.2/5

The visually striking Gold Charcoal Karaage ($19) is as delicious as it is eye-catching. The chicken is coated in charcoal powder and finished with edible gold, delivering a crispy exterior and a tender, juicy interior. It's a perfect balance of flavour and texture, making it a treat for both the eyes and the palate.

Wagyu Boneless Short Ribs 4.2/5

The Wagyu Boneless Short Ribs ($35) are braised for 12 hours in a red wine blend, resulting in an incredibly tender, melt-in-the-mouth texture. The buttery flavour of the wagyu is enhanced by the richness of the braising liquid, offering a luxurious bite that's worth savouring.

Garlic Fried Rice 4.2/5

The Garlic Fried Rice ($20) is comfort food at its finest. Fluffy Japanese rice is cooked to perfection, with prawns adding a touch of sweetness. The garlicky and eggy fragrance is well-balanced, making it an irresistibly satisfying dish that complements the richer items on the menu.

Three Liqueur Tiramisu 4.2/5

To end on a sweet note, the Three Liqueur Tiramisu ($18) is a bold twist on the classic Italian dessert. The blend of three distinct liqueurs brings depth and complexity to the dish, striking the perfect balance between sweetness and subtle warmth from the alcohol. It's a decadent and satisfying finale to the meal.

Umami 10 impresses diners with its innovative Japanese-European fusion dishes, offering them an unforgettable dining experience in the heart of Telok Ayer. From indulgent small plates to exquisite seasonal offerings, each dish reflects a perfect harmony of flavours and textures. Pair it with their curated selection of sake or wine, and you have a dining destination that's perfect for both intimate meals and celebratory occasions.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Umami 10
163 Telok Ayer Street
Singapore 068616
Tel: +65 65135789
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Nearest MRT: Telok Ayer (DT Line), Tanjong Pagar (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 1130am - 230pm, 530pm - 1030pm
Sat: 530pm - 1030pm
(Closed on Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at Telok Ayer MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn left onto Telok Ayer Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Take Exit G. Turn left onto Telok Ayer Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes.  [Map]

Marcy's @ Duxton Road - A Seafood-focused Restaurant with an Eclectic Fusion of Styles Combining Modern Sophistication

Having previously enjoyed a lovely date night at Marcy's Restaurant, I was eager to return and try their refreshed menu, along with a special festive offering that they have prepared for the season. A seafood restaurant at its core, Marcy's has earned a well-deserved reputation for delectable dishes perfect for sharing. We found the portions to be quite generous too! Every dish is thoughtfully crafted with high-quality ingredients from delicate seafood bites to hearty indulgent mains.

I also absolutely love the ambience at Marcy's, an eclectic fusion of styles combining modern sophistication with the intimate charm of a speakeasy. Think dim lighting, rich textures, and unique, quirky design elements that come together to create a luxurious and stylish space.

Pacific Amberjack Tiradito 4.2/5

The first dish we sampled was the Pacific Amberjack Tiradito ($29), showcasing thick slices of raw amberjack (yellowtail) with sundream tomatoes and Avruga caviar for a touch of luxury. The tomatoes' slight tartness perfectly complemented the fish's clean, sweet flavour. A drizzle of fish sauce added some depth of flavour for a nice balance of freshness and complexity.

Crab Toast 4.2/5

The next dish was a special request of mine — Marcy's Crab Toast ($26) — since I have fond memories of how yummy it was the last time I had it. This dish features a good amount of tender, sweet crab meat in a rich anchovy mascarpone. The brioche toast itself is also crisped up in umami butter. It's definitely on the rich side, but since we were sharing the dish, I found it to be a delicious slice of indulgence.

Hasselback Frites 4/5

Another dish of comfort food arrived in the form of Hasselback Frites ($18). The top half of the potatoes are thinly sliced and deep-fried, whilst the bottom is left untouched for a soft, fluffy finish. These frites were topped with a tangy Patagonian prawn cocktail and olive tartar, offering a contrast in flavour and texture. As a self-professed potato lover, whilst I didn’t notice a very large difference in texture between the crispy top and the soft bottom of the potato, I still found this to be a satisfying dish.

Rock Lobster Wellington 4.5/5

We were treated to a beautifully crafted seasonal special for our main course: the Rock Lobster Wellington. This exquisite dish featured succulent rock lobster, tender salmon, and savoury mushroom and spinach duxelles. The sweet, delicate lobster and buttery salmon created a luxurious filling, perfectly balanced by the earthy depth of the duxelles. All of this was wrapped in a golden, flaky puff pastry, baked to perfection. The dish was finished with a light marigold hollandaise and enhanced by a special seaweed caviar (supplement required). A well-executed seafood take on the traditional Wellington.

Pavlova 3.8/5

By this point, we were absolutely stuffed, but there was no way we could leave without trying one of Marcy’s "happy ending" desserts. We had the Pavlova which featured a light, crispy meringue on top, and a rich, creamy base layer of cheesecake. The smoothness of the cheesecake complemented the airy crunch of the meringue, and the dessert was finished with fruits, adding a burst of colour and freshness to every bite. It is however, a little on the sweet side.

You will find that Marcy's is a popular choice for both couples enjoying a romantic date night and groups of friends celebrating special occasions. From the first bite to the last, Marcy's feels special and comfortable, ensuring it's a meal to remember.

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


Marcy's
39-40 Duxton Road
Singapore 089503
Tel: +65 9012 3747
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Nearest MRT: Maxwell (TE Line), Tanjong Pagar (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Thu: 530pm - 11pm
Fri-Sat: 530pm - 12midnight
Sun: 530pm - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Maxwell MRT station. Take Exit 3. Cross the road to Duxton Road. Walk down Duxton Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes [Map]

2) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk straight to Tanjong Pagar Road. Cross the road and walk to Craig Road. Walk down Craig Road towards Duxton Road. Turn right onto Duxton Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]

Ju Kyu Singapore @ Telok Ayer Street - Modern Japanese Restobar Catering to Various Occasions Booasting an Eclectic Menu

Located in Telok Ayer, Ju Kyu offers a modern Japanese dining experience within an enigmatic space adorned with sakura blossoms and vibrant Japanese motifs. The restaurant caters to various occasions, boasting a full menu ranging from skewers to tapas, small plates, rice dishes, noodles, mains, and desserts. Handcrafted cocktails with a Japanese twist are also one of the key offerings of Jyu Kyu.

Skewers 3.8/5

Grilled over Bincho-tan charcoal in a traditional Japanese Konro, Jyu Kyu's skewers are a highlight of the menu. We enjoyed a selection that included Pork Belly Enoki ($5.50), Beef Striploin ($6.50), Asparagus ($4.50), and Grilled Corn ($6.50). Each item had a well-executed caramelisation, but the Pork Belly Enoki stood out for its juicy, flavorful bite. The Grilled Corn, dusted with house spices, had great flavour but could have benefitted from a plumper corn cob.

Chargrilled Squid 3.8/5

The Chargrilled Squid ($22), grilled with care and served with sambal chilli and lime, had a lovely balance of flavours, though the squid could have been juicier for a more satisfying bite.

Chawanmushi 4/5

Cold Tofu 4.5/5

We tried the Cold Tofu ($14) from the tapas selection and Chawanmushi ($7.80). The marinated tofu was topped with ikura and furikake, with the marination seemingly infused with century egg, adding an excellent funky depth. The Chawanmushi, brimming with ikura, also surprised us with its generous fillings of salmon and mushrooms.

Uni & Crab Cracker 4/5

For a unique small plate, the Uni & Crab Cracker ($26) offered a mix of creamy crab rillettes and uni, topped with ikura and served on crispy rice paper puffs. The coriander infusion was subtle, but the contrast between the creamy filling and the crunchy base was delightful.

Unagi & Eggplant Rice 4.5/5

Under the Rice selection, the Unagi & Eggplant Rice ($26) was a standout, combining smoky, caramelized teriyaki eggplant with perfectly grilled eel. The smokiness of the eggplant added a surprising depth to the otherwise familiar unagi rice bowl, elevating the dish with texture and flavour.

Pork Belly Tonkotsu Ramen 4.8/5

A surprise hit was the Pork Belly Tonkotsu Ramen ($26). Despite not being a ramen speciality shop, Jyu Kyu delivered a bowl of rich, creamy pork broth hearty with tender chashu served slightly charred, a beautifully marinated ajitsuke tamago, and nicely cooked noodles.

Miso Black Cod 3.8/5

For Mains, we tried the Miso Black Cod ($34), served with spinach goma-ae was decent but felt like it could use a bit more refinement. While the pairing with goma-ae was thoughtful, the dish didn't quite reach the same heights as other mains.

Ju Kyu's beautifully decorated interior, featuring sakura-filled ceiling and Japanese illustrations, provides the perfect backdrop for a drink or two. Their curated cocktail menu offers aesthetically pleasing beverages that excite your eyes and palate.

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.


Ju Kyu
198 Telok Ayer Street
Singapore 068637
Tel:: +65 8819 8000
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Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar (EW Line), Telok Ayer (DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Thu: 1130am - 230pm, 5pm - 11pm
Fri: 1130am - 230pm, 5pm - 1130pm
Sat: 5pm - 1130pm
(Closed on Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Take Exit G. Turn left and walk down Telok Ayer Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Telok Ayer MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn left and walk to Telok Ayer Street. Turn left onto Telok Ayer Street. Walk down Telok Ayer Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Kulto @ Amoy Street - Bringing Vibrant Spanish Flavours to Singapore

Kulto, located along Amoy Street, has garnered a loyal following for its authentic Spanish fare, surviving even the challenges of COVID-19 in Singapore's highly competitive food scene. Having heard much about the restaurant, I had the opportunity to visit recently and try a selection of their dishes. It was a meal that transported my taste buds to Spain, right in the heart of Singapore.

Jamon Iberico Croquettes and Truffle Mushroom Croquettes 4/5

We started with the Jamon Iberico Croquettes and Truffle Mushroom Croquettes, and they set the tone for the rest of the evening. Deep-fried to a perfect golden brown, each croquette boasted a crisp exterior while the inside was irresistibly creamy and pillowy. The savoury Jamon Iberico and earthy truffle mushroom filling made for delightful bites — simple yet packed with flavour.

Iberico Pork Belly with Piquillo Peppers & Caramelized Onion Pintxos 4/5

Next, we tried the Iberico Pork Belly with Piquillo Peppers & Caramelized Onion Pintxos. A slab of chargrilled Iberico pork belly was served atop a piece of toasted bread, and the pork itself was rich and flavourful. The caramelized onions added a perfect sweetness, cutting through the richness of the pork and creating a balanced and satisfying bite.

Salmon Tartare, Crispy Avocado & Almond Cream 4.5/5

A standout dish of the evening was the Salmon Tartare, Crispy Avocado & Almond Cream ($26). At first, the combination seemed unusual, but it turned out to be a unique pairing that worked surprisingly well. The freshness of the salmon paired beautifully with the creamy avocado, while the almond cream brought everything together with its rich, nutty flavour. It is a harmonious and inventive dish that I'd happily order again.

Roasted Cauliflower with Garlic Chilli Sauce, Hummus & Hazelnuts 4.8/5

I'm a fan of roasted cauliflower, having tried an excellent rendition at Kulto's sister restaurant. When I saw the Roasted Cauliflower ($24) on Kulto's menu, it was a must-order for me. This version did not disappoint — the spicy kick from the garlic chilli sauce elevated the charred and crunchy cauliflower. The creamy hummus and the delightful crunch of hazelnuts further enhanced the dish, adding multiple layers of texture and flavour.

Iberico Pork Rib Eye with Celeriac Puree & Broccolini 250g 4.5/5

For the main protein, we opted for the Iberico Pork Rib Eye with Celeriac Puree & Broccolini ($38). The pork rib eye was perfectly cooked, with a beautiful char on the outside, yet tender and juicy on the inside. The accompanying celeriac puree was smooth and earthy, complementing the pork, while the broccolini added a touch of freshness to round off the dish. It is a hearty and satisfying choice for those who enjoy robust flavours.

Squid Ink Paella 4.5/5

A highlight of Kulto's menu is their Squid Ink Paella, which comes in two sizes ($55 for a small portion, $75 for a larger one). Looking around the dining room, it was clear this dish was a crowd favourite, with many tables opting for it. The squid ink-infused rice was rich with the briny essence of the sea, and the dish was loaded with seafood, including seabass, mussels, clams, and squid. Every bite bursts with flavour, making it a must-try if you're a paella fan.

Kulto Cheesecake 5/5

To wrap up the meal, we indulged in the Kulto Cheesecake ($16). This dessert was a showstopper. Creamy and cheesy with a beautifully caramelized top, it had just the right amount of richness. The biscuity base added a satisfying crunch, while the accompanying raspberry ice cream helped cut through the cheesecake's richness. It was the perfect way to end the meal and is a definite must-have for any visit to Kulto.

Kulto impresses with its vibrant and flavourful Spanish fare, offering a variety of dishes that showcase the best of Spanish cuisine with a modern twist. The restaurant's cosy and laid-back ambience adds to the overall dining experience, making it a great spot to enjoy with friends and family. Whether you're in the mood for a rich Squid Ink Paella or looking to end your meal on a sweet note with their creamy Kulto Cheesecake, this Amoy Street gem delivers in every way.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Kulto
87 Amoy Street
Singapore 069906
Tel: +65 96205626
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Nearest MRT: Telok Ayer (DT Line), Tanjong Pagar (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 12pm - 230pm, 530pm - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Telok Ayer MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn left and walk down Cross Street towards Amoy Street. Turn left onto Amoy Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Take Exit G. Follow the covered walkway to the junction of Mccallum Street, Telok Ayer and Amoy Street. Turn left at the junction onto Amoy Street. Continue on Amoy Street to the end of the road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]

1864 The Bar @ Sofitel Singapore City Centre - "A Midsummer Night’s Dream Afternoon Tea", Afternoon Tea Experience Inspired by William Shakespeare's Beloved Comedy

Sofitel Singapore City Centre proudly presents the Midsummer Night's Dream Afternoon Tea, inspired by the mystical Athenian Forest from Shakespeare's iconic play. Located in the elegant lobby lounge 1864, this enchanting experience offers a feast for the senses.

The presentation is truly a sight to behold. A forest-inspired masterpiece, intricately designed, is wheeled right to your table on a trolley, setting the stage for a unique afternoon tea. The display, filled with 5 savoury bites and 8 sweet treats, is as delightful to the eyes as to the taste buds.

Nearly everything is edible — from the chocolate "soil" and "pebbles" to the charming butterfly and ladybug embellishments. Even the vibrant green "moss," made from dehydrated sponge cake, is an edible wonder. The only thing not meant for consumption is the wooden tree that serves as the centrepiece. Each bite feels like part of a treasure hunt, with the delicious treats scattered across the display, waiting to be discovered. Every taste is a delightful surprise!

Guests will also be treated to a curated tea mocktail, which offers a refreshing, tangy twist that pairs perfectly with the small bites. In addition, you can choose from a selection of handcrafted barista brews or TWG Tea to complement your experience.

Dreamy Sycamore

Spellbound Pebbles and Midnight Monarch in Love

Mystical Tree Moss and The Magical Toadstool

Night’s Bite – Matcha Scones with Forest Berry Jam and Clotted Cream

Orb of Dew

Mischief Spiced Toast

Priced at $138++ per set for 2 people, this exclusive experience is available from 1st September to 31st October. A special Halloween edition will be made available from 26th to 31st Oct. Due to the intricate preparation required, only 5 sets are available daily. Reservations are highly recommended to secure your spot - https://www.sofitel-singapore-citycentre.com/offers/a-midsummer-nights-dream-afternoon-tea/

DBS/OCBC/Citi card members enjoy 30% off.

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


1864 The BAr
Sofitel Singapore City Centre
Fifth Floor
9 Wallich Street
Singapore 078885
Tel: +65 6428 5000
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Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
High Tea: 2pm - 5pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn right on Peck Seah Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]