La Table d'Emma @ Mercure ICON Singapore - Classic French Flavours with Alsatian Soul

Tucked within Mercure ICON Singapore, La Table d’Emma is the brainchild of acclaimed Chef Michael Muller, whose stellar culinary journey spans from the Michelin-starred Le Jules Verne at the Eiffel Tower to his former role as Executive Chef at JAAN. With decades of experience and having coached Singapore’s team for the prestigious Bocuse d’Or, Chef Michael now brings his refined vision and deep-rooted Alsatian heritage to life in his very own restaurant.

As the restaurant marks its first anniversary, Chef Michael celebrates with a refreshed and elevated menu, a tribute to classic French recipes reimagined with a modern twist, each dish subtly echoing the traditions and flavours of his hometown in Alsace.

Mushroom Consomme "Cappuccino" 4.8/5

A standout opener, the Mushroom Consommé "Cappuccino" ($22) instantly captivated with its intense, earthy aroma. The robust shiitake broth, crowned with button mushroom foam and grilled portobello julienne, made for one of the most memorable mushroom soups I’ve had in a long while. What elevated the experience even further was the accompanying warm cepe mushroom and parmesan brioche, a savoury delight that could easily shine on its own.

French Onion Soup en Coute 4.2/5

Next came the comforting French Onion Soup en Croute ($26), topped with a golden puff pastry lid that not only sealed in the flavours but added a satisfying crunch. The addition of emmental cheese enriched the sweet onion and beef stock, giving the classic soup an indulgent lift. The crispy pastry also served as the perfect vessel to soak up that hearty broth.

Traditional Pot-Au-Feu of My Childhood 4.2/5

The Traditional Pot-Au-Feu of My Childhood ($42) is a nostalgic dish that pays homage to Chef Michael's upbringing. The poached beef was wonderfully tender, having soaked up the essence of the aromatic vegetable stock. Paired with a generous slab of roasted bone marrow and a bright horseradish cream, this dish evoked warmth and rustic charm. The bone marrow with sourdough toast feels like a whole separate indulgence, like getting a bonus dish.

Les Bouchees A La Reine D'Emma 2.0 4.2/5

Originally created by a royal chef for the queen, the Les Bouchees A La Reine D'Emma 2.0 ($34) holds personal significance for Chef Michael, as it was the first dish he cooked for his wife, Emma. The updated version 2.0 features veal, chicken, and mushroom velouté encased in a buttery puff pastry, laced with a well-balanced white wine reduction. Rich, comforting, and elegantly presented, this was classic French fare with a loving twist.

Lobster and St Jacques French Raviole 4.5/5

This was hands down the dish of the night. The Lobster and St Jacques French Raviole ($42) impressed with its oversized, housemade ravioli generously filled with scallop mousse. The luscious tarragon-infused lobster sauce added a luxurious depth, tying the whole dish together. And just when we thought it couldn't get better, the dish came with an entire lobster tail, which is a true showstopper.

Ending on a sweet (and very Singaporean) note was the Kaya Mon Amour ($16). This creative dessert features a warm Kougelhopf, filled with housemade gula melaka kaya and chilled pandan mousseline cream, alongside a kaya parfait glacé. This fusion dessert was both nostalgic and innovative. Honestly, we wouldn't be surprised if Chef Michael opened a bakery just for this.

Kaya Mon Armour 5/5

La Table d'Emma is not just a celebration of French cuisine, but also a heartfelt reflection of Chef Michael's culinary journey, deeply infused with memories, love, and Alsatian spirit. Whether you're here for the refined Lobster Raviole, the soul-warming Pot-Au-Feu, or the unforgettable Kaya Mon Amour, there's a palpable passion in every dish. Chef Michael's cooking isn't just about flavours; it tells a story. And it's one well worth tasting.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


La Table d'Emma
8 Club Street
#01-04
Singapore 069742
Tel: +65 81018691
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Telok Ayer (DT Line), Chinatown (DT, NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 2pm, 5pm - 10pm

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

2) Alight at Chinatown MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk straight down Pagoda Street to North Bridge Road. Cross the road and walk to Mohd Ali Lane. Walk down Mohd Ali Lane. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Ensō Steakhouse @ CapitaGreen - Neo-Japanese and American Steakhouse with Lunch Set Menu From $58++

Ensō Steakhouse, nestled within COTU, the region's first multi-concept dining and entertainment venue, is a Neo-Japanese and American Steakhouse that marries premium American cuts with modern Japanese grill expertise. All premium cuts are aged in-house. Their new lunch set menu is now even more comprehensive, starting from a 2-course set at $58++ and a 3-course set from $68++.

Wagyu Beef Koshihikari Rice 4.5/5

Whetting our appetite was a hearty first course of Wagyu Beef Koshihikari Rice. The braised wagyu and maitake mushrooms were deeply steeped in umami, served over plump, pearly Koshihikari rice that complemented their textures and flavours. A slow-cooked egg with a sticky, creamy yolk brought it all together beautifully. I would gladly have it as a main if offered in a full portion.

Hamacho Sashimi 3.5/5

Another first course, the Hamacho Sashimi, was a refreshing contrast. To complement the lighter profile of the sashimi, the dish was elevated with shredded myoga, shiso, and a fennel salad for a slightly spicy lift, as well as crispy potato. The latter adds both texture and an extra savoury dimension.

Angus Bavette 5/5

As for mains, for dishes included in the base price of the set, the Angus Bavette (220g) is the one to go for. This loosely textured, lean cut from the cow's abdominal muscles surprised me with its depth of flavour, especially paired with a well-balanced red wine sauce. My prior memories of flank steak leaned toward blandness, but this was the complete opposite – tender and juicy, tantalising with beefy character.

Grilled Salmon Salad 3/5

If you prefer something lighter, the Grilled Salmon Salad offers a seafood alternative. It's served with mixed greens, grilled avocado, and a bright, citrusy dressing, accompanied by crispy rice that lends a pleasant crunch. However, I found the salmon slightly 'stiff', lacking the succulence I hoped for.

Wagyu Fat Crispy Fries

Wagyu Beef Mac & Cheese

Sides were indulgent and worth the calories. The thick-cut Wagyu Fat Crispy Fries were fluffy on the inside, with a savoury, golden crust. The Wagyu Beef Mac & Cheese was comforting and rich, with al dente macaroni and juicy morsels of wagyu beef.

Fuji Apple Crumble 4.5/5

Desserts were decent overall. Fuji Apple Crumble was a joyful treat featuring chunky, tender apple slices tucked beneath buttery-sweet crumbles and served warm with a scoop of Madagascan vanilla ice cream.

Raspberry Almond Tart 3.5/5

The Raspberry Almond Tart had a lovely, well-baked crust, although I wished for a more generous amount of raspberries to bring out its fruity depth more effectively.

Indeed, Ensō Steakhouse knows its beef well. Beyond the Angus Bavette, the lunch set includes other premium steak cuts, making it a solid choice for steak lovers seeking quality and value.

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.


Ensō Steakhouse
COTU
CapitaGreen
Levels 38
138 Market Street
Singapore 048946
Tel: +65 64164800
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Raffles Place (EW, NS Line), Telok Ayer (DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 1130am - 3pm, 530pm - 11pm
Sat: 530pm - 11pm
(Closed on Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at Raffles Place MRT station. Take Exit F. Walk down Cecil Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Telok Ayer MRT station. Take Exit C. Walk down Cross Street (against the flow of traffic). Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]

CUDO @ Stanley Street - Modern Comfort Food with Latin Soul

Located along Stanley Street, CUDO is the latest bold concept by the team behind Siri House and Moxie. Rooted in the spirit of modern Latin American cuisine, CUDO draws on bold, comforting flavours reimagined through a contemporary lens. With Chef Steve at the helm, the menu offers a vibrant medley of dishes inspired by his culinary travels and nostalgic eats, all given a fresh, creative twist.

Torched Truffadito 4.5/5

We began our dinner on a high note with the Torched Truffadito ($25). This refreshing small plate features thick slices of Japanese yellowtail, macerated in soy sauce and gently torched for a touch of smokiness. Finished with chipotle aioli, pickled cucumber, and radish, the dish is a beautiful balance of freshness, savoury, and zesty crunch.

Warm Crab Queso 4.2/5

The Warm Crab Queso ($18) is CUDO's take on a classic cheese dip, elevated with luxurious touches. The dip combines cream cheese, ricotta, sour cream, smoked mozzarella, and chilli cheddar, infused with Worcestershire, Tabasco, and white onion confit. Sakura ebi oil and crispy ebi add an umami punch, while zucchini and lump crab bring freshness and texture. It is perfect when scooped up with the accompanying fried tortillas.

Calabaza 4.2/5

A vegetarian delight, the Calabaza ($12) spotlights roasted Japanese pumpkin with a smoky chipotle aioli spiked with yuzu kosho. The sweetness of the pumpkin is complemented by pomegranate molasses, salty cotija cheese, and pistachio dust, which is a creative and flavour-packed small plate.

Disco Fries 4.5/5

Inspired by Chef Steve's time in Staten Island, the Disco Fries ($16) are indulgent, satisfying, and utterly addictive. Crisp fries are blanketed in mozzarella and cotija cheese, drenched in a beef jus-based brown gravy, and tossed with chorizo, pickled onions, and salsa Rosada. It's a glorious mash-up of American diner nostalgia with Latin vibrancy.

Chipotle Butter Prawns 4.2/5

The Chipotle Butter Prawns ($18) bring the heat and depth of flavour. Tiger prawns are rubbed with chipotle, roasted, and glazed with agave molasses before being finished with a torch. Served with house pesto and lime, each bite is smoky, sweet, and savoury with a zesty lift.

Grilled Seabass Fillet 3.8/5

The Grilled Seabass Fillet ($33) was beautifully plated with parsley-lime sauce and pineapple salsa, but the over-charred skin was slightly too bitter, distracting from the fish's freshness. While the flavour elements were sound, the execution slightly fell short of the mark.

Spaghetti Con Camarones 4.5/5

One of the showstoppers of the evening, the Spaghetti Con Camarones ($38), features squid ink pasta tossed in a luxurious Ancho bisque and topped with grilled tiger prawns. The sauce, made from sundried tomatoes, capers, white wine, ancho chilli paste, and seafood stock, packs rich, crustacean flavours balanced with tang and spice. Finished with chipotle oil, it's a must-order.

Coconut Tres Leches 4.2/5

Light yet indulgent, the Coconut Tres Leches ($14) delivers a tropical spin on the classic dessert. The housemade sponge is soaked in coconut milk, vanilla, and condensed milk, then sprayed with white rum and topped with coconut cream, toasted coconut flakes, and berry compote, making for a refreshingly sweet end to the meal.

Chocolate Tart 4.2/5

For chocolate lovers, the Chocolate Tart ($16) hits the spot. A silky chocolate mousse ganache is encased in a tart shell and garnished with cocoa pearls, housemade chilli jam, and candied nuts, creating layers of richness with a slight kick.

Toffee Plantain 4.2/5

The Toffee Plantain ($15) is a decadent finale, combining a moist plantain-banana sponge with banana mousse, vanilla ice cream, and caramelised plantain. The orange zest adds a lovely citrusy lift, rounding off a dessert that’s both comforting and refined.

CUDO impresses with its thoughtful reinterpretation of Latin American dishes, presented with flair and rooted in comfort. From inventive appetisers to bold mains and delightful desserts, it’s a welcome addition to Singapore’s modern dining scene.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


CUDO
13 Stanley Street
Singapore 068732
Tel: +65 8221 6330
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Telok Ayer (DT Line), Tanjong Pagar (EW Line)

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

Direction:
1) Alight at Telok Ayer MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn left and walk to Telok Ayer Street. Turn left onto Telok Ayer Street, walk to Boon Tat Street. Turn left onto Boon Tat Street. Turn right onto Stanley 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 Mccallum Street. Turn right onto Mccallum Street. Turn left onto Stanley Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]

Cygnet by Sean Connolly @ QT Singapore - $1 Oyster Promotion with The Purchase of Any Main Course

Tucked away in the heart of QT Singapore, Cygnet by Sean Connolly is a stylish and sophisticated dining spot that brings modern brasserie fare to the table with finesse. With its elegant yet welcoming space, Cygnet makes for a fantastic dinner destination - made even more enticing by its $1 oyster promotion, available from 5.30pm to 7.30pm, Monday to Saturday, with the purchase of any main course. There's no cap on how many you can order, so oyster lovers, rejoice.

Homemade Milk Loaf 4.5/5

We began our meal with the Homemade Milk Loaf ($6 for an extra portion), and it was hands down one of the best we've tried. Served warm and soft, with a delightfully fluffy interior, the bread was accompanied by butter and vegemite. While they usually serve it as a vegemite-butter blend, we were informed that an electrical issue during our visit meant they had to serve it separately. Nonetheless, it was a comforting and satisfying start to our meal.

Copenhagen Bla Sparkling Tea 3.8/5

For a non-alcoholic option, we were recommended the Copenhagen Blå Sparkling Tea ($18), which offers a refreshing, lightly floral profile. Reminiscent of champagne, it's a great alternative if you're avoiding alcohol but still want something elegant and complex.

Watermelon Salad 4/5

Raw Tuna Crudo 2.8/5

We sampled two cold starters: the Watermelon Salad ($24) and the Raw Tuna Crudo ($26). The former was bright and vibrant, featuring juicy watermelon chunks, feta, tomato, and a splash of Chardonnay vinegar. It was a refreshing and well-balanced starter.

Unfortunately, the Tuna Crudo didn't quite hit the mark. Despite being beautifully plated with thinly sliced tuna, pink pomelo, fennel pollen, and capers, the dish lacked seasoning and depth. The flavours felt muted and didn't quite come together.

Oysters 4/5

The Japanese Oysters were undeniably fresh and plump, served simply with lemon and a mignonette dressing. At just $1 each with any main order, this is one of the best oyster deals in town. And with no limit on the number you can order, it's a true treat for seafood lovers.

Rump Cap 4/5

Our main highlight was the Rump Cap ($48), featuring a 200g cut of F1 Picanha Wagyu from Australia. It was grilled to a beautiful medium doneness and paired with a rich red wine jus. It was flavourful, tender and satisfying.

Roasted Seabass Gnocchi 2.5/5

In contrast, the Roasted Seabass Gnocchi ($32) fell short of expectations. While the crispy skin on the seabass was well-executed, the overall dish was underwhelming. The ricotta gnocchi and fish lacked texture and seasoning, and the salsa verde topping didn't lift the flavours as hoped. It was the weakest dish of the night, though we've shared our feedback with the team and hope to see an improved version in the future.

Crème Caramel 4/5

We ended the meal on a sweet note with the Crème Caramel ($18). Silky and slightly dense, the pudding had a creamy richness with a subtle burnt caramel flavour. It wasn't overly sweet, and the Chantilly cream added a lovely lightness to the dish.

Chocolate Fondant 4/5

The Chocolate Fondant ($18) is a must for those who prefer bolder flavours. It features a gooey chocolate lava centre topped with Maraschino cherries and served with vanilla bean gelato. It is rich, indulgent, and not cloyingly sweet, just the way a good fondant should be.

Cygnet by Sean Connolly offers a promising dining experience with a few standout dishes and a stunning space that's perfect for a casual dinner or special night out. The $1 oyster deal is a major draw, and there's precise attention to quality ingredients throughout the menu. While not every dish wowed us, the highlights certainly warrant a revisit, and we look forward to seeing how the menu continues to evolve.

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


Cygnet by Sean Connolly
QT Singapore
35 Robinson Road
Singapore 068876
Tel: +65 6701 6833
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Downtown (DT Line), Shenton Way (TE Line), Telok Ayer (DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Fri: 630am - 1030am, 12pm - 3pm, 530pm - 11pm
Sat: 530pm - 11pm
(Closed on Sun and Mon)

Direction:
1) Alight at Downtown MRT station. Take Exit E. Turn left and walk down Marina View. Turn right onto Commerce Street. Walk down Commerce Street to the traffic junction Shenton Way and Tat Street. Cross the road and walk down Tat Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Shenton Way MRT station. Take Exit 6 . Cross the road and walk down Mccallum Street. Turn right onto Robinson Road. Walk down Robinson Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]

3) Alight at Telok Ayer MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn right and walk down Cross Street. Turn right onto Robinson Road. Walk down Robinson Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]

Jiak Bar @ Far East Square - A Day-to-Night Taiwanese Eatery Bringing the Spirit of “Re Chao” to China Street

Tucked away on China Street, Jiak Bar is a charming dual-concept eatery that effortlessly morphs from a casual Taiwanese lunch spot by day into a vibey izakaya-style bar by night. Inspired by Taiwan's beloved "Re Chao" culture – where small, wok-fried dishes are served at bustling local joints – Jiak Bar introduces Singapore to its take on "Xiao Chao," with comforting street-style plates and a solid lineup of cocktails and Taiwan beers perfect for winding down.

Braised Pig's Ears 3.5/5

We started with a few small bites to warm up the palate. The Braised Pig's Ears ($5.80) offered that signature crunch from the marinated and tender cartilage, a classic Taiwanese snack done well.

Golden Kimchi 4/5

Unlike its spicier Korean cousin, the Golden Kimchi ($5.80) has a refreshing balance of sweet and tangy flavours that nicely whet the appetite.

Mala Soft Bone 3/5

Another crunchy option was the Mala Soft Bone ($6.80), mildly spicy with an addictive, numbing hint of mala, offering a textural contrast from the soft cartilage.

Oyster Popcorn 3.5/5

The Oyster Popcorn ($9.80) came golden and crispy on the outside, hiding juicy, briny oysters within. Accompanied by keropok and crispy basil, it was a playful and aromatic dish, though it could use just a touch more seasoning.

Taiwanese Stir-fried Pork 4/5

One of the more comforting dishes on the menu is the Taiwanese Stir-fried Pork ($9.80), which felt like something straight out of a home kitchen. Pork belly, tofu, and greens come together in a familiar stir-fry, with a touch of heat from red chillies rounding out the dish.

Three Cup Century Egg 3.8/5

The Three Cup Century Egg ($7.80) was a standout for those who love century eggs. Deep-fried for a crispy edge, then cooked in the classic Taiwanese "three cup" style — soy sauce, sesame oil, and rice wine — this dish also featured basil and peanuts for added texture and aroma.

Naked Pepper Chicken Soup 4/5

A personal favourite was the Naked Pepper Chicken Soup ($12.80), a unique offering in the Taiwanese repertoire. The addition of clams gave the broth an oceanic sweetness, while green peppercorns added a vibrant, peppery zing. It was comforting yet bold in flavour.

Claypot Mala Tofu Stew 2.8/5

Not every dish was a hit, though. The Claypot Mala Tofu Stew ($12.80) was a miss for me. While inspired by Taiwan's classic duck blood mala stew, the tofu substitute here didn't quite capture the essence. It lacked both the expected heat and the numbing intensity of real mala.

Hsinchu Fried Vermicelli Meal 4/5

For something more filling, the Hsinchu Fried Vermicelli Meal ($7.80) was satisfying and hearty. Springy, chewy rice vermicelli came paired with a fried egg and wu xiang, making this an affordable and complete one-dish meal

Crispy Chicken Braised Meat Rice 4.2/5

Another crowd-pleaser was the Crispy Chicken Braised Meat Rice ($10.80), which arrived as a generously loaded bowl. The braised pork had the right fat-to-meat ratio for richness, paired with a whole slab of crispy chicken cutlet, braised egg, pickled cucumber, and stewed cabbage. This dish really delivered on flavour and satisfaction.

Whether you're swinging by for a comforting Taiwanese lunch or settling in for a night of drinks and nibbles, Jiak Bar manages to channel the spirit of a true Taiwanese "Re Chao" joint with a contemporary twist. While not every dish was a knockout, the playful flavours, casual vibes, and thoughtful touches throughout the menu make this a spot worth checking out — especially if you're craving a taste of Taiwan in the heart of Singapore.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Jiak Bar
Far East Square
22 China Street
#01-01
Singapore 049564
Tel: +65 9733 9157
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT:

Opening Hours:
Mon-Thu: 11am - 3pm, 5pm - 830pm
Fri-Sun: 11am - 9pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Telok Ayer MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk down Cross Street to China Street. Turn right onto China Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]