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
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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]

Summer Hill @ Claymore Connect - A French Bistro Restaurant’s Unlimited Weekend Brunch Trolley

Summer Hill is a charming French bistro tucked away on the second floor of Claymore Connect, just a short stroll from Orchard MRT. While their regular menu features French staples like Wagyu Beef Bourguignon, Mussels Normandy, and French Fried Chicken, weekends bring a creative twist with their Brunch Trolley - a roaming service inspired by the "dim sum" cart, with menus that rotate every few months according to a new theme.

We dropped by on a rainy day and were greeted with a warmly lit, cosy space. The thoughtful decor and mix-and-match tableware added to the inviting atmosphere.

Brunch Trolley - Savouring Stories 3.8/5

From now until the end of May, the Brunch Trolley is themed 'Savouring Stories', with each dish inspired by iconic women writers. Priced at $79++ per person, the brunch includes unlimited servings of iced tea and all featured dishes during the dining session. Diners can opt for free-flow prosecco and wines with a top-up of $55++. The trolley service is available on specific sessions: Fridays at 12pm and Weekends at 11am and 1.30pm. During these sessions, the regular a la carte menu is paused.

Bread & Sides

Our experience started with a Bread Basket and three small side dishes: chicken liver pâté, gruyère eggs with onions, and a tomato-based ratatouille. Our server recommended that a touch of mustard brighten the overall flavours.

White Bean, Potato & Leek Soup with Olives

The White Bean, Potato & Leek Soup was next. It was warm and subtly briny due to the addition of chopped olives and olive oil drizzle.

White Clams

Then came the White Clams, served in a vibrant, spiced sauce with chilli and kaffir lime. It was a pity that the clams were relatively tiny.

Grilled Skate Wing

The Grilled Skate Wing was one of our preferred dishes. It was dressed in a slather of fragrant brown butter and lemon. We ordered seconds, and it fared better when served warm.

Charcoal-grilled Bangalow Pork Collar

We also enjoyed the tender Charcoal-grilled Bangalow Pork Collar, served with a creamy mustard-based sauce and crunchy hazelnuts. It paired nicely with the bread and the next dish, Aligot.

Aligot

Both my dining companion and I love mashed potatoes, so we were excited to dig into the Aligot, a stretchy and thick dish enriched with cheese and butter.

Red Wine Chicken, Spinach & Garlic Gratin

The savoury portions included Red Wine Chicken, Spinach, and Garlic Gratin. Though unassuming, the latter, mixed with onions, breadcrumbs, and butter, had us ordering seconds. Before dessert, the staff checked in to see if we wanted refills. All dishes are available for unlimited servings.

Snow Cone Bar

For dessert, we started at the Snow Cone Bar, where diners could customise their own icy treat with various syrups, such as peach, rose, watermelon, and toppings.

Valrhona Chocolate Almond Cake

Tarte Aux Pommes

We finished with two warm desserts: a Valrhona Chocolate Almond Cake with whipped cream and a Tarte Aux Pommes, an apple-frangipane tart with a crisp crust and custard-like centre. While the dishes were a mix of hits and misses, the attentive service and welcoming space made the experience better. It's a great way to sample the restaurant's menu in small portions, and it's best enjoyed with a group for sharing.

Make sure to make your reservations ahead of time.

Photos and words by Jo. A girl who loves her Mala (麻辣) at Da La (大辣), discovering hidden food gems and a good cup of matcha latte. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Summer Hill
Claymore Connect
442 Orchard Road
#02-17
Singapore 238879
Tel:+65 8690 5907
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Nearest MRT: Orchard (NS, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon, Wed-Sun: 1130am, 3pm, 6pm - 1030 pm
(Closed on Tue)

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 4. Walk towards Wheellock Place via ION. Exit Wheellock Place and turn left towards Liat Tower. Cross the road at the traffic light junction and turn left towards Royal Thai Embassy. Walk to Orchard Road towards the junction of Orchard Road and Claymore Road. Cross the road and turn right. Walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]

Jia He Grand Chinese Restaurant @ One Farrer Park Hotel - Jia He New Sister Restaurant With A Bold And Contemporary Concept

Jia He Grand Chinese Restaurant, the latest addition to the dining scene at One Farrer Park Hotel, continues to impress with its bold and contemporary approach to Chinese cuisine. While its sister restaurant, Jia He Chinese Restaurant (a very doors away), offers wholesome and homely dishes, Jia He Grand takes things up a notch by presenting diners with multi-sensorial creations that are as visually stunning as they are delicious.

Trio of Starters 4/5

To start our culinary journey, we indulged in a trio of starters. The Sauteed Stuffed Mushroom with Truffle Sauce delighted our taste buds with its robust earthy flavours from both the mushroom and truffle. The Century Egg with Preserved Sakura Ginger and Vintage Vinegar presented a unique combination, with sweet beancurd skin wrapping around century egg and preserved sakura ginger, creating a harmonious blend of flavours. Lastly, the Crispy Pork Belly with Preserved Bean Paste, eaten like a Korean wrap, offered a delightful contrast of textures as the romaine lettuce refreshed the palate while complementing the crispy pork belly.

Roasted Peking Duck 5/5

The meal's highlight was undoubtedly the Roasted Peking Duck ($88 Whole Duck), which I can confidently say is the best in Singapore. The duck was perfectly roasted, boasting a crispy skin that gave way to succulent and juicy meat. What truly set this dish apart was the toasted pancake wrap. Unlike the usual thin pancakes, these were soft and fluffy and enhanced the overall enjoyment of the Peking duck to a whole new level.

Signature Double-boiled Chicken and Pig Stomach Soup 4.5/5

The Signature Double-boiled Chicken and Pig Stomach Soup impressed with its flavorful broth and a piquant peppery kick that left a lasting impression. The pig stomach was expertly prepared, resulting in a tender, clean-tasting delight.

Steamed Fillet of Sea Perch with Preserved Sakura Ginger and Silky Tofu 4.2/5

For seafood lovers, the Steamed Fillet of Sea Perch with Preserved Sakura Ginger and Silky Tofu ($26/pc) offered a unique pairing of preserved sakura ginger with the firm and mildly sweet sea perch. The soy sauce added depth to the dish, complementing the fish's natural sweetness.

Flambe Beef Brisket in Whole Pineapple 4.2/5

A dish that captured both our taste buds and attention was the Flambe Beef Brisket in Whole Pineapple ($28/order). The grand entrance, with the beef brisket set ablaze at the tableside, added a touch of theatricality. Beyond the showmanship, the beef brisket was incredibly tender, and the pineapple infused the dish with an extra layer of fruity sweetness.

Stir-fried Shredded Luffa Melon with Gingko and Black Fungus 4.2/5

The Stir-fried Shredded Luffa Melon with Gingko and Black Fungus ($24/small) showcased luffa in a whole new light. The dish was perfectly prepared, offering a delightful crunch and natural sweetness. The owner even playfully remarked that it looked like stir-fried chendol, adding an element of humour to the dining experience.

Crispy Rice with Boston Lobster in Superior Broth 4/5

The Crispy Rice with Boston Lobster in Superior Broth ($42/small) was a standout dish packed with robust crustacean flavour. The combination of fluffy and crispy rice immersed in the delicious broth and the sweetness of the Boston lobster made every spoonful a pure delight.

Collagen Pork Bone and Tomato Soup with Boston Lobster and Purple Potato Noodle 3.8/5

An unexpected dish on the menu was the Collagen Pork Bone and Tomato Soup with Boston Lobster and Purple Potato Noodle ($40/pax). This luscious creation combined purple potato noodles with a refreshing and appetising tomato soup, a delightful twist I had not encountered elsewhere.

Almond Soup with Peach Resin 4.5/5

To conclude the meal on a sweet note, we savoured the Almond Soup with Peach Resin. Served warm and comforting, the soup struck a perfect balance, not overly sweet, with a smooth almond base and delightful crunch from the peach resin. This dessert satisfied our sweet tooth and offered beauty and nutritional benefits.

Jia He Grand Chinese Restaurant continues to impress with its contemporary take on Chinese cuisine, delivering innovative and visually stunning dishes. With its exceptional culinary offerings and dedication to creating a memorable dining experience, it is undoubtedly a place worth visiting for those seeking a gastronomic adventure.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Jia He Grand Chinese Restaurant
One Farrer Park Hotel
1 Farrer Park Station Road
#01-01
Singapore 217562
Tel: +65 65389688
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Nearest MRT: Farrer Park (NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 230pm, 6pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Farrer Park MRT station. Take Exit C. Turn right and walk down towards One Farrer Park Hotel. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Li Bai Cantonese Restaurant @ Sheraton Towers Singapore - Convival Celebrations With A Line-Up Of Heart-warming Reunion Feasts

Li Bai Cantonese Restaurant at Sheraton Towers Singapore celebrates the Lunar New Year with a line-up of heart-warming reunion feasts from 19 January to 19 February 2019. Delectable festive takeaway treats are also available for a grand get-together in the comfort of home.

Australian Lobster, Salmon Roe and Hamachi Yusheng Loh Hei Platter

New this year at Li Bai is the Salmon Roe and Hamachi Yusheng Loh Hei Platter ($98/$178). The specially flown in hamachi and salmon roe from Japan is served atop a melange of quintessential ingredients like pomelo, yam, sweet potato, white radish, carrot and pickled ginger. Diners can choose to add on additional ingredients such as Australian lobster ($35 per 100g). It is available for both dine-in and takeaway. What stood out for me is the crispy red and white quinoa that added that extra textures to the Yu Sheng.

Braised Bird's Nest Soup in Mini Pumpkin

Comforting and yet nourishing is the Braised Bird's Nest Soup in Mini Pumpkin. Love how it is served in a mini pumpkin bowl.

Braised Abalone and Stuffed Beancurd Skin with Sea Cucumber, Dried Oyster and Black Moss

I have always enjoyed Pen Cai because of the one pot treasure that is braised with expensive and rare  ingredients. Hence I was really delighted when I was served the Braised Abalone and Stuffed Beancurd Skin with Sea Cucumber, Dried Oyster and Black Moss. It may not be the treasure pot that I was looking forward to but it has many of the delicious ingredients which I enjoyed, done excellently.

Pan-fried Kurobuta Roll served with Crispy Noodle and Matsutake Mushroom

A dish that got me slurping to the last drop is the Pan-fried Kurobuta Roll served with Crispy Noodle and Matsutake Mushroom. I enjoyed the crispiness of the noodle as it soaked up the savoury gravy. Noteworthy is the pan-fried kurobuta roll that is stuffed with crunchy yam.

Almond Cream with Hasma, Pan-fried Nian Gao with Cane Sugar, Water Chestnut Cake

Wrapping up the dinner, we have the Almond Cream with Hasma, Pan-fried Nian Gao with Cane Sugar, Water Chestnut Cake. The traditional Nian Gao with Red Dates and Lotus Seeds ($50) and Water Chestnut Cake with Osmanthus ($50) is away for takeaway.

For dining enquiries and reservations, please call (65) 6839 5621 or email thediningroom@sheratonsingapore.com

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Li Bai Cantonese Restaurant
Sheraton Towers Singapore
39 Scotts Road
Singapore 228230
Tel: +65 67376888
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Nearest MRT: Newton (DT Line, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 1130am - 230pm, 630pm - 1030pm
Sun: 1030am - 230pm, 630pm - 1030pm

Direction: 
1) Alight at Newton MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Lunar New Year Celebration At Jiang Nan Chun (江南春), Four Seaons Hotel Singapore

For the upcoming Lunar New Year, Jiang Nan Chun (江南春) at Four Seaons Hotel Singapore has specially crafted a range of sumptuous delicacies and specialty menus for family or business festive feasting.

Prosperity Salmon Yu Sheng with Abalone, Japanese Surf Clams and Bird's Nest 4.2/5

A must in every Chinese New Year is the Yu Sheng, tossing to a prosperous and abundant Year of the Dog. Available for dine-in and takeaway at Jiang Nan Chun is the Prosperity Salmon Yu Sheng ($98/$138) with abalone, Japanese Surf Clams and Bird's Nest. Besides the usual shredded vegetables, what stood out is the crispy vermicelli and fried potato strips giving the yu sheng an extra crunch in texture complemented by the dressing of plum sauce and pineapple paste.

Trio of Starter 4/5

Next, we have a trio of starter giving u a glimpse of the offering on the menu. The platter consists of
Roasted Spanish Iberico Pork with Honey Glaze, Greenhouse Tomatoes in Plum Sauce and Poached Chicken in Chinese Wine. My favourite is the roasted spanish iberico park which is a premium version of our local char siew for its succulent texture.

Doubled-boiled Pork Ribs Soup with Sea Whelk, Maka and Dried Scallops 4.2/5

The Doubled-boiled Pork Ribs Soup ($38/pax) with Sea Whelk, Maka and Dried Scallops is a comforting and nourishing bowl of soup. The bowl of soup is packed with depth, drawn from extracting the essence of the ingredients through double boiling.

Wok-fried Boston Lobster in Black Bean Sauce 4.2/5

Most lobster dishes are usually baked or poached but the Wok-fried Boston Lobster in Black Bean Sauce ($38/pax) is a good chance from the norm. The black bean sauce goes well with the bouncy lobster meat, with a hint of smokey wok-hei.

Wok Fried Kai Lan 4.2/5 and Fried Rice 4.5/5

The Wok Fried Kai Lan with Preserved Sausages ($32 per serving) retains a nice crunch with a layer of aromatic flavour from the preserved sausages. Noteworthy is the Fried Rice with Crab Meat, Butterscotch Mushrooms and Dried Scallops ($14/pax). The fragrant and fluffy rice is elevated further by frying in abalone sauce, giving it an extra boost in flavour.

Hot Almond Cream with Egg White 4.8/5 and Coconut Nian Gao 4/5

For dessert, I had the Hot Almond Cream with Egg White and Coconut Nian Gao. I really enjoy the smooth and silky hot almond cream with egg white. Almond can be quite strong in flavour and acquire to some but this is well balanced, smoothing and comforting. 

Guests can expect an exquisite dining experience in a classy setting at Jiang Nan Chun. Celebratory set menus featuring a lavish selection of delicacies are available at $138, $168 and $218 per person for 6 courses, and range from $988 per table of 8 persons to $2088 per table of 10 persons for 8 courses. For dining reservation, guests can call +65 68317220 or email jnc.sin@fourseasons.com

Note: This is an invited tasting


Jiang Nan Chun (江南春)
Four Seasons Hotel Singapore
Second Floor
190 Orchard Boulevard
Singapore 248646
Tel: +65 68317220
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Nearest MRT: Orchard MRT (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 230pm, 6pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit E. Walk towards Wheelock Place via ION. Exit Wheelock Place and turn left towards Liat Tower. Continue walking along Orchard Road. Walk to Hilton Hotel. Go to level 2. Follow the passage way to Four Seasons Hotel. Walk to destination. Journey time is about 12 minutes. [Map]